NASW Social Work Talks

In the debut episode of the Power of Social Work Podcast, and as part of Social Work Talks Careers in Social Work Series, the NASW New York Chapter sits down with German Sanchez, MA, LCSW, RDT, Board President, alongside Policy Coordinators Amanda Rodriguez (Pressly), M.S. and Gideon Mosse. German shares his journey from military service in the Army National Guard to becoming a behavioral health officer and clinical supervisor, highlighting how personal experiences shaped his path into social work. The conversation dives into the realities of earning an LCSW, navigating burnout, and finding purpose in a demanding field. Through powerful client stories and real-world advocacy insights, this episode explores what sets social workers apart—meeting people where they are, working from a systems perspective, and driving meaningful change both in individual lives and across communities. The team also breaks down the critical role of advocacy, the work happening behind the scenes at NASWNY, and how social workers can use their collective voice to influence policy, improve working conditions, and strengthen the profession. Whether you're a student, seasoned professional, or considering a career in social work, this episode is a compelling look at the impact and power of the field.

Kelley Kitley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience. In this episode Kelley discusses, What Every Social Worker Must Know About Motherhood, Stress, Alcohol Use and Practical Ways to Help. She and our host, Makeeba Royal, NASW Senior Practice Associate for Behavioral Health, chat about the significance of viewing alcohol consumption and use from a different lens -- and the value of a holistic approach to care and therapy.

Joslyn Berndt founded the innovative CARES program in collaboration with the University of Texas Steve Hicks School of Social Work in 2017. In this new episode of Social Work Talks, we sit down with her to discuss the program, which houses social workers in an investment business and empowers them to foster productive and personalized landlord-resident communication, especially in times of crisis.

In this powerful episode of Social Work Talks, filmmaker and actor Steven Grayhm discusses his film SHEEPDOG, now streaming online. Grayhm directed, produced, and starred in the film, which explores the mental health challenges facing veterans and the importance of connection, care, and community. During the conversation recorded when the film was still in theaters, he highlights a staggering reality: nearly 5 million veterans in the United States have not accessed available VA care. Enter NASW Member Dr. Tara Consolino, DSW, LMSW, who heads Darkling Psychotherapeutic Services, PLLC, and served as a consultant on SHEEPDOG. The film's social worker character, played by Oscar‑nominated Virginia Madsen, is inspired by her real‑world work helping veterans heal. She and Grayhm share how much the film has touched so many people.

In this episode of Social Work Talks, moderator Mel Wilson is joined by Nina Schlegel and Daniel Faber both of the Global Center for Climate Justice to discuss how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalized communities across the United States. The conversation explores the impact of climate change denialism, voter disenfranchisement, and environmental injustice on communities of color, including Native American communities, as well as rural and inner-city populations—and why climate justice is a critical social work issue.

In this powerful episode we chat with , palliative care social worker Dr. Arden O'Donnell, PhD, MPH, LICSW, APHSW-C about what it means to live—and die—according to our values. Dr. O'Donnell shares insights from over a decade of work supporting patients and families facing serious illness. The conversation examines the vital role of palliative care social workers in helping people navigate complex medical decisions, communicate their wishes, and maintain dignity at the end of life. Through real-world experience and reflection, Dr. O'Donnell discusses why early, honest conversations matter and how dying can be a conscious, meaningful part of living.

In this engaging discussion, Anna Stindt, a seasoned mental health director from the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, and Diara Jackson, an advocate for youth development in Central Maryland, explore the integration of social work within the YMCA. They share their inspiring journeys into social work and highlight how they leverage their skills to boost community well-being and youth development. From innovative partnerships to successful youth programs, they illustrate the profound impact social workers can have. Their stories emphasize the importance of creativity and adaptability in nontraditional social work roles.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Lauri Goldkind, a professor at Fordham and an expert in technology's role in social work, explores the intersection of AI and social work practice. She addresses the hesitance within the field to embrace technology, discussing the historical use of digital tools and the rise of chatbots for support. Lauri argues that AI can complement human therapists, highlighting research on chatbot effectiveness. Ethical considerations and gaps in training for social workers are also emphasized, paving the way for a future where technology and social work coalesce.

The NASW's Social Work Talks Podcast is embarking on a NEW occasional series on careers within the Social Work Profession! In our inaugural episode we chat with NASW Maryland Executive Director Karessa Proctor, BSW, MSW. Proctor shares her journey into macro social work and the impact of her chapter's advocacy. Under her leadership, the NASW–Maryland chapter, is one of the fastest growing for social work students and draws social workers in the micro, mezzo, macro, and international fields. We discussed why she chose macro social work and how her chapter advanced two major laws signed by Governor Wes Moore: the Social Work Licensure Compact and the Supporting Older Adults with Resources (SOAR) Act. Tune in to learn how macro social workers shape policy, strengthen communities, and expand opportunities across the profession. Tune in wherever your listen to podcasts!

NASW Social Work Talks podcast episode 131 - Menopause and Mental Health with Lauren Tetenbaum LICSW, Author of the book, Millennial Menopause: Preparing for Perimenopause, Menopause, and Life's Next Period