Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science

by Paul Gavoni, Dr. Adam Ventura

Emotion Informs, but Behavior Transforms. Emotional intelligence was groundbreaking in its time, offering valuable tools for self-awareness and managing emotions. However, while EI is crucial, it often doesn’t address the root causes of performance challenges. People may take action based on emotional awareness, but they frequently don’t achieve the intended results because they don't truly understand the deeper factors driving behavior and performance. This gap can lead to frustration, as even well-intentioned actions fall short of producing lasting change.

Adaptive Intelligence builds on the foundation of emotional intelligence by going deeper—focusing not just on emotions, but on understanding why we and others do the things we do, and why we often fail to take effective action when it’s needed. Grounded in the science of behavior and evolutionary theory, Adaptive Intelligence provides a practical, evidence-based framework for aligning behavior with core values, overcoming obstacles, creating lasting change, and producing measurable results.

In this book, behavior analysts Dr. Paul Gavoni, USA Today and Wall Street Journal best-selling author, and Dr. Adam Ventura introduce the Behavior Alignment Compass, a powerful tool designed to help you navigate both self and organizational leadership. By understanding the true drivers behind your actions and aligning them with your values, you can break through personal and professional barriers, accelerate growth, and achieve the results you've been striving for.
What sets Adaptive Intelligence apart is how these scientific principles are brought to life through compelling, real-world stories. These stories help you apply the framework to real-life challenges, translating theory into action. With decades of combined experience, the authors provide actionable strategies, proven tools, and a clear roadmap to help you overcome challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and inspire meaningful change in yourself and others.

If you are looking to overcome performance roadblocks, improve personal and team effectiveness, or create lasting change in your leadership style, Adaptive Intelligence offers the tools and insights you need to achieve measurable results. Unlock your potential to lead with purpose, drive growth, and make every decision count with the Behavior Alignment Compass and Adaptive Intelligence.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2025

About the author

An expert in human performance, coaching, and organizational leadership, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni is a behavior scientist who has worked in education and human services for over two decades. In this capacity, he served the needs of children and adults in a variety of positions including: COO, Director of School Improvement, Leadership Director, Professor, Assistant Principal, School Turnaround Manager, Clinical Coordinator, Therapist, and Behavior Analyst. As Vice President of Organizational Leadership at Brett DiNovi & Associates, Dr. Gavoni is
passionate about applying Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) strategies to establishpositive and engaging environments that bring out the best in people.

Beyond his work in education and human services, Dr. Gavoni is also a former fighter and highly respected coach in combat sports. Coach "Paulie Gloves," as he is known in the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) community, has trained world champions and UFC vets using technologies rooted in the behavioral sciences. Coach Paulie has been featured in the books Beast: Blood, Struggle, and Dreams at the Heart of Mixed Martial Arts, A Fighter's Way, and the feature article Ring to Cage: How four former boxers help mold MMA's finest. He is also an author who has written extensively for a variety of online magazines such as Bloody Elbow, Scifighting, Last Word on Sports, and Bloody Elbow where his Fight Science series continues to bring behavior science to MMA.

Known for his authenticity and practical approaches, Dr. Gavoni is a sought-out speaker at a variety Educational, Sport, and Behavior Analytic Conferences. Co-author of Behavioral Karma: The 5 Scientific Laws of Life & Leadership; Quick Wins! Accelerating School Transformation through Science, Engagement, and Leadership; Deliberate Coaching: A Toolbox for Accelerating Teacher Performance; and MMA Science: A Training, Coaching, Belt Ranking Guide. His current book in development is titled QUICK Responses to Misbehavior for Reducing Misbehavior and Suspensions. Dr. Gavoni is proud to introduce ABA & OBM to a massive audience through his numerous publications.