NASW Social Work Talks

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.

Join the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the YMCA for an inspiring conversation about the vital role social workers play in strengthening communities. We explore how the YMCA's mission aligns with the social work profession to promote well-being, mental health, and youth development. Hear stories from the field, learn about innovative programs, and discover the many ways social workers are making an impact at the Y. Our host, April Ferguson, NASW's Senior Practice Associate for Children and Adolescents, chats with our featured guests, Anna Stindt, MSW, APSW – Mental Health Director, La Crosse Area Family YMCA and Diara Jackson, LCSW-C Senior Executive Director, Social and Emotional Learning, Youth Development & Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Y in Central Maryland.

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

The First Gen Madrina: Bridging Professional Growth Emotional Wellness & Financial Empowerment | With Sara Diaz, LCSW, Founder of The First Gen Madrina, LLC and Podcast Sara Diaz, LCSW, founder of The First Gen Madrina, LLC, joins us to explore the unique experiences of first-generation students and professionals. In this episode, Sara discusses the intersection of financial empowerment, mental wellness, and professional development—particularly for first-generation communities. Sara also leads The Madrina Network, https://thefirstgenmadrina.com/, an online coaching and community space specifically designed to support social workers navigating transitions or seeking purpose in their work.

In this special episode for Mental Health Awareness Month, we will delve into the intersection of mental health awareness and social work practice, providing insights into self-care strategies in today's challenging climate. Nick Szubiak, LCSW is the Founder of NSI Strategies, an organization that provides support to integrated healthcare environments.

In this episode of Social Work Talks, we discuss cannabis use and the impact it has on pregnancy and help social workers bring awareness to women who are pregnant and using cannabis. Joining us today is Dr. Roger Zoorob, the Richard M. Kleberg, senior Professor and chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. And we have Dr. Mary Velasquez, Centennial Professor and Leadership for Community Professional and Corporate Excellence, and Director of the Health Behavior Research and Training Institute at the University of Texas at Austin, Steve Hicks School of Social Work.

Grief and trauma are universal experiences and, as social workers, we know these issues will show up in our work, no matter our practice area. Grief is an inevitable part of life—but trauma can make the grieving process much more complex. That's where the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing comes in. With decades of experience, they provide critical support to individuals and communities navigating the intersection of grief and trauma. Since 1975, the Wendt Center has been a lifeline for people in the Greater Washington area, helping them rebuild a sense of safety and hope after loss, illness, violence, or other trauma. Nationally recognized for their expertise, they offer specialized support to children, adults, families, and communities, helping them heal from life's most challenging experiences. In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Sellevaag, LICSW, who leads the Wendt Center's Training Institute, to discuss how mental health professionals and allied workers can increase their capacity and confidence to support those impacted by grief and trauma. Don't miss this insightful conversation on a critical topic that touches us all.

In NASW's latest episode of Social Work Talks, sponsored by Illinois Department of DCFS, we converse with the Maryland Office of Public Defenders about their Office of Reentry Services. With the help of social workers on staff, it focuses on helping incarcerated individuals re-enter society—and provides them with resources so they can get a fresh start in becoming productive members of their communities. This is thanks to the help of the Second Chance Act. Tune in, learn, and share.