Couples as Co-owners Panel

Posted 1 month ago      Author: 3 Pie Squared Marketing Team

Meet Our Guest

Jessica Harrison

Joshua Harrison

Jes Pape and Chris Robinson

Tasneem Ramey

Building an ABA Business as a Couple

Stephen and April Smith, founders of 3 Pie Squared, built, scaled, and exited a seven-figure ABA practice before dedicating their work to helping other owners do the same. In this Valentine’s Day special episode, Stephen and April explore what really happens when couples build ABA businesses together.

They are joined by a select panel of couples in business together in the ABA industry:

  • Jes Pape & Chris Robinson – AByay
  • Jessica Harrison & Joshua Harrison – ENC ABA
  • Tasneem Ramey – Summit Collaborative Care

Through personal reflections and conversations with other owner couples,...

    this episode highlights the operational, financial, and relational disciplines required to grow a practice while protecting both the business and the marriage.

    Conflict as a Growth Mechanism

    April reflects on the early years of their business and the belief that minimal conflict meant things were working well. Over time, they recognized that constructive conflict is part of healthy growth. Avoiding difficult conversations can delay necessary adjustments.

    Clear role definition supports healthy discussion. Couples who define ownership across hiring, finances, compliance, and daily operations reduce ambiguity — whereas defined lanes make accountability clearer and prevent unnecessary tension.

    Managing Stress and Boundaries

    Several couples described how business stress gradually affected their home life. When both partners operate in the same company, particularly from home, work can dominate personal space.

    Intentional boundaries help contain this. Scheduled business conversations, deliberate downtime, and conscious transitions at the end of the workday create separation. Protecting time away from operational issues preserves emotional bandwidth.

    Pacing and Sustainability

    The early stages of a business often demand intense effort. April emphasizes the importance of pacing, especially for married founders. Growth requires stamina. Overextension in the beginning can create strain that compounds over time.

    Sustainable scaling depends on infrastructure, delegation, and realistic planning. Long-term success requires measured growth rather than constant acceleration.

    Financial Awareness and Hidden Costs

    Money management is central to stability. The episode highlights how underestimated costs can impact both the business and the relationship. Administrative systems, billing inefficiencies, compliance requirements, and credentialing delays all carry financial implications.

    Structured financial reviews, clear compensation agreements, and realistic projections provide stability. Transparency reduces tension and strengthens trust.

    Have a Question for Stephen and April?

    Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432

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