This podcast explores the application of Empowered Humanity Theory (EHT) within social work practice, emphasizing its alignment with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics. Developed as a neuroscience-informed framework, EHT cultivates three core attitudes—Value-Centered Identity, the Dignity Lens, and a Compassionate-Inquisitive Mindset—supported by daily practices that build awareness, equanimity, compassion, and recognition of common humanity.

Social workers face high exposure to trauma, ethical complexity, compassion fatigue, and emotionally charged cases. EHT provides tools for self-regulation and co-regulation, enabling practitioners to remain grounded in values during crises. By filtering decisions through chosen values, honoring the dignity of every client, and replacing judgment with curiosity, social workers strengthen therapeutic alliances and reduce bias.

The NASW Code of Ethics emphasizes service, dignity and worth of the person, social justice, integrity, and the importance of human relationships. EHT reinforces these values by anchoring practice in compassion, reframing social justice through dignity, aligning identity with integrity, and fostering curiosity and presence in relationships. Ultimately, EHT offers social workers a practical, dignity-based framework to sustain resilience, prevent burnout, and embody ethical principles in daily practice.

Takeaways

* The empowered humanity theory strengthens wellbeing.

* It cultivates three core attitudes.

* A valued-centered identity is crucial for personal growth.

* Filtering thoughts through core values aids decision-making.

* Gratitude, dignity, and humor are essential core values.

* Living authentically means aligning actions with values.

* External labels should not dictate our identity.

* Guidance comes from within, not from societal expectations.

* Personal difficulties can be navigated through core values.

* Striving for wholeness from the inside out is key.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on November 21, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning social worker audience, while also appealing to parents and other helping professionals.

Social workers and others seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

* Credits:

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the Pro Social podcast, Matthew Watson and Dr. David Derozotes explore the significance of dialogue in social work, particularly in clinical practice. They discuss how dialogue can bridge differences, foster relationships, and create inclusive communities. The conversation delves into the skills required for effective dialogue, the importance of ground rules, and the application of psychological paradigms in dialogue practice. Dr. Derozotes shares insights on internal dialogue, the dynamics of couples and family therapy, and the role of dialogue in addressing societal issues. The episode concludes with creative approaches to enhance dialogue and the potential for dialogue to transform communities.

Takeaways

* Dialogue is essential in clinical social work practice.

* Dialogue can bridge differences and foster relationships.

* The skills of dialogue are applicable across micro, meso, and macro levels.

* Facilitating dialogue requires creating a safe and inclusive space.

* Ground rules are crucial for effective dialogue.

* Listening for understanding is more important than speaking.

* Dialogue can be both a means and an end in therapeutic settings.

* Internal dialogue influences our external interactions.

* Creative approaches can enhance dialogue effectiveness.

* Dialogue can help address societal issues and promote peace.

Chapters

* 00:00 Introduction to Dialogue in Social Work

* 03:33 The Importance of Dialogue in Clinical Practice

* 06:30 Bridging Differences through Dialogue

* 09:32 Understanding Dialogue Practice

* 12:30 Dialogue as a Means of Co-Creation

* 15:33 Engagement and Assessment in Dialogue

* 18:26 Applying Psychological Paradigms to Dialogue

* 21:28 Internal Dialogue and Self-Reflection

* 24:27 Dialogue in Couples and Family Therapy

* 27:24 Group Dialogue and Community Building

* 30:38 Ground Rules for Effective Dialogue

* 34:22 Creating Inclusive Communities in Education

* 38:30 Ground Rules for Effective Dialogue

* 40:29 The Art of Sharing Perspectives

* 44:27 Navigating Hierarchies in Dialogue

* 47:25 Dialogue as a Tool for Peace

* 49:51 Real-Life Examples of Dialogue Transformations

* 53:17 Creative Approaches to Break the Ice

Dr. David Derezotes relevant works:

* Derezotes, D.S. (2025). Climate change in person, community, planet. San Diego. Cognella.

* Derezotes, D.S. (2022). Inclusive social work practice. San Diego, Cognella .

* Derezotes, D.S. (2020). The Eternity dialogue: Understanding global transformation. San Diego, CA: Cognella.

* Derezotes, D.S.(2014), Transforming historical trauma through dialogue. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Two Films reference in the podcast:

* Another Side of Peace — a 2004 documentary that follows Roni Hirshenzon (an Israeli father who lost two sons) and his work with Palestinian partners leading dialogue and reconciliation efforts

* “Two Rivers” (featured in the Toward Right Relationship program) — a short documentary used in reconciliation workshops that follows a rural community undertaking steps toward right relationship with local Indigenous peoples (this project is based in the Pacific Northwest; the Friends Peace Teams page describes the film and its use). If you recall a small-town, community-workshop kind of film, this might be it — though it’s described on the Friends Peace Teams resource and is centered in Washington state rather than Oregon.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on November 6, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning social worker audience, while also appealing to parents and other helping professionals.

Social workers and others seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

* Credits:

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

In this podcast, Nicole Runyon, a Master Licensed Social Worker and parenting coach in Michigan, presents the challenges faced by the I-Generation, particularly focusing on the mental health crisis among this population. She identifies the three D’s: disorder, dysfunction, and disconnection, and emphasizes that the mental health symptoms observed in this cohort are often misunderstood messages indicating deeper issues. Runyon critiques the current mental health system’s inability to effectively address these challenges. She also presents parenting styles and approaches that change across time according to a child’s developmental needs. She concludes with some strong recommendations for parents to facilitate social, emotional, and intellectual development in their children.

Takeaways

* We are experiencing a crisis with our children today.

* The current cohort of kids is referred to as the I-Generation, which includes children from Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

* Three concerning risks among Gen Z are referred to as the 3 D’s: disorder, dysfunction, and disconnection.

* 40% of Gen Z has a mental health diagnosis.

* Mental health symptoms are messages from the youth.

* Behaviors labeled as problems are often misunderstood.

* The mental health system is not working for Gen Z.

* We need to listen to the canaries in the coal mine.

* Understanding youth behavior is crucial for effective intervention.

* A new approach is needed to address these mental health challenges.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on November 6, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning social worker audience, while also appealing to parents and other helping professionals.

Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

Credits:

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the ProSocial podcast, hosts Matthew Watson and Zander Keig engage with Jacob Winkler, a group therapist, to explore the concept of political resilience and the role of process groups in fostering honest communication. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional engagement, navigating difficult conversations, and the theoretical foundations of group therapy. Jacob shares insights on how to handle conflict, the significance of humanizing differences, and the challenges of uncertainty in discussions. The episode emphasizes the need for social workers to develop political resilience and the ethical considerations in promoting dialogue across diverse viewpoints. This conversation delves into the complexities of group therapy, exploring themes of self-awareness, the integration of light and darkness within individuals, and the dynamics of attraction and boundaries in group settings. The speakers discuss the importance of navigating chaos, fostering political and viewpoint diversity, and the ethical considerations of expression in therapeutic environments. They reflect on personal experiences and the transformative power of group therapy in promoting emotional growth and resilience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pro Social Workers and Political Resilience

02:51 Jacob Winkler’s Background and Process Groups

05:47 The Importance of Emotional Engagement in Groups

08:45 Navigating Political Conversations in Group Settings

11:31 Defining Success in Political Resilience

14:26 Theoretical Foundations of Group Therapy

17:23 Handling Conflict and Emotional Responses

20:14 Humanizing Political Differences

23:20 Promoting Viewpoint Diversity in Social Work

37:12 Navigating Conflict in Professional Settings

40:22 The Nature of Group Dynamics

43:02 Understanding Who is Drawn to Process Groups

45:39 The Role of Leadership in Group Settings

48:26 Exploring the Balance of Light and Dark

51:29 The Importance of Acknowledging Our Shadows

54:39 Self-Awareness and Its Impact on Relationships

58:00 The Complexity of Truth and Honesty

01:01:14 The Challenge of Chaos in Group Settings

01:05:50 The Lifelong Journey of Personal Growth

01:07:43 The Interplay Between Group Work and Personal Relationships

01:11:30 Exploring Group Dynamics in Couples Therapy

01:14:36 Navigating Flirtation and Rejection

01:17:19 The Boundaries of Expression in Group Dynamics

01:19:20 Embracing the Child Within: Disinhibition in Groups

01:21:07 Political Views and Emotional Reactions in Group Settings

01:23:49 The Role of Group Leaders in Fostering Authenticity

01:27:16 Creating Safe Spaces for Social Workers

01:29:18 Expanding Emotional Range for Pluralism

01:31:07 Braver Angels and the Power of Dialogue

01:34:49 Theoretical Orientations in Group Therapy

01:37:23 Finding Local Group Therapy Resources

01:39:34 The Messiness of Social Work and Authentic Dialogue

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on October 7, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice.

Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

Credits:

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the Pro Social Podcast, Matt Watson, Zander Keig, and Amanda Smith delve into the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its application in social work. They discuss the importance of dialectical thinking in navigating emotional complexities, the significance of validation in relationships, and the necessity of self-care for social workers. The conversation emphasizes the relevance of DBT skills in managing conflict and fostering understanding in diverse social work settings, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and effective approach to social work practice. DBT has great potential to to promote dialogue across differences and integrate competing principles and viewpoints.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dialectical Social Work

02:50 Amanda’s Journey in Mental Health

05:50 Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

08:36 The Evolution of DBT and Its Applications

11:43 Dialectical Thinking and Its Relevance

14:35 Clinical Assumptions in DBT

17:48 Applying DBT Principles to Social Work

20:39 The Importance of Support for Social Workers

23:20 Navigating Dialectics in Conversations

26:41 Finding the Middle Path in Conflicts

29:11 Respect and Understanding in Social Work

32:13 Social Justice and Dialectical Thinking

46:36 The Importance of Open Dialogue

49:03 Validation in Social Work

55:19 Strategies for Effective Validation

01:00:24 Navigating Conflict and Differences

01:08:14 The Role of Validation in Problem Solving

01:10:20 Understanding Validation and Its Misconceptions

01:13:43 Coping with Emotional Dysregulation

01:18:04 Finding Support as Social Workers

01:21:22 Self-Determination in Social Work Practice

Takeaways

DBT is an evidence-based treatment effective for various populations.

Dialectical thinking helps navigate complex emotional situations.

Social workers need to practice self-care to be effective.

Validation does not equal agreement; it acknowledges others’ perspectives.

Conflict is a natural part of social work; managing it is essential.

Practicing DBT skills can enhance emotional regulation.

Social workers should seek support from colleagues and supervisors.

Understanding different perspectives fosters healthier relationships.

Self-determination is crucial for both clients and social workers.

Dialectical thinking can help in navigating social justice issues.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on October 14, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice.

Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

Credits:

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the Pro Social Podcast, Matt Watson and Paul Stayback discuss the intersection of social work, gun violence, and mental health. They explore the challenges of engaging with firearms owners in therapy, the importance of viewpoint diversity in social work, and the need for nuanced conversations about gun control and safety. Paul shares his journey into social work, his experiences with veterans, and the cultural barriers that prevent effective dialogue around firearms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and humanizing different perspectives to foster productive discussions and ultimately enhance community safety.

Takeaways

* Social work needs to embrace viewpoint diversity.

* Gun violence is a complex societal issue, not just a gun issue.

* Cultural competency is essential for engaging firearms owners.

* Mental health issues should not lead to blanket judgments about rights.

* Nuanced conversations are necessary for effective dialogue.

* Social workers must meet clients where they are, without judgment.

* Finding common ground on safety can bridge divides.

* Engaging with firearms owners requires understanding their culture.

* The media often oversimplifies complex issues like gun violence.

* Social workers can advocate for responsible gun ownership practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pro Social Workers and Paul Stayback

02:16 Paul’s Journey into Social Work

04:24 Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health

07:39 Gun Violence and Societal Outrage

09:11 The Role of Social Workers in Gun Control Conversations

10:54 Thought Diversity in Social Work

15:05 Engaging Across Differences

19:44 Finding Common Ground on Gun Safety

22:39 Articulating Both Sides of Gun Control

29:27 Regulating Gun Ownership

37:17 The Inevitability of Gun Ownership

39:22 Mental Health and Gun Ownership

49:37 Cultural Competency in Mental Health

58:39 Engaging Firearms Owners in Therapy

01:08:43 Addressing Gun Violence and Societal Issues

Intro and Outro Music: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the Pro Social Workers podcast, social workers discuss their experiences with social work orthodoxy, focusing on the importance of viewpoint diversity in social work education and practice. The conversation highlights personal stories of cancellation, censorship, and the challenges faced in academia when navigating gender ideology and political beliefs. The speakers emphasize the need for open inquiry and constructive disagreement in social work, advocating for a more inclusive approach that respects diverse perspectives.

Takeaways

* The importance of freedom and reason in social work.

* Personal experiences of cancellation and censorship in social work.

* Viewpoint diversity is essential for effective social work education.

* Challenges faced by social workers in adhering to orthodoxy.

* The impact of political beliefs on social work practice.

* The need for open inquiry and constructive disagreement in academia.

* Navigating gender ideology in social work settings.

* The role of social work ethics in promoting diversity.

* The significance of personal narratives in understanding social work challenges.

* The call for a more inclusive approach in social work education.

Chapters

* 00:00 Introduction to Social Work Orthodoxy

* 09:49 Personal Experiences with Social Work Orthodoxy

* 19:31 The Role of Viewpoint Diversity in Social Work

* 29:37 Challenges in Academia and Social Work Education

* 39:13 Navigating Gender Ideology in Social Work

* 49:10 Conclusion and Reflections on Pro-Social Work

Intro and Outro Music: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Summary

In this episode of the ProSocial Workers podcast, hosts Matthew Watson and Dr. Nafees Alam discuss the importance of ideological diversity in social work, the challenges of polarization, and the need for open dialogue across differing viewpoints. They explore the NASW Code of Ethics and how it incorporates political beliefs, emphasizing the necessity of creating brave spaces for discussion. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives in social work practice, while also addressing the ethical responsibilities of social workers to meet clients where they are, regardless of their political affiliations.

Takeaways

* Political belief is included in the NASW Code of Ethics.

* 62% of Americans say they have political views they're afraid to share.

* We need to shift from safe spaces to brave spaces.

* Education is supposed to be fun, not boring.

* We should marry the questions and date the answers.

* We need to win with grace as well as lose with grace.

* Diversity of thought makes conversations riveting.

* Assuming the best in people is pro-social.

* Every conversation should be approached in good faith.

* We need to humanize people with differences.

Chapters

* 00:00 Challenges in Promoting Viewpoint Diversity

* 01:51 Ideological Diversity in Higher Education

* 13:14 Exploring Cultural Stereotypes in a Brave Space

* 16:05 The Shift from Safe Spaces to Brave Spaces

* 19:55 Understanding Perspectives: The Point-Counterpoint Philosophy

* 22:37 Polarization in Society: Causes and Solutions

* 26:22 Marrying Questions, Dating Answers: A New Approach

* 28:57 Voter ID Debate: Asking the Right Questions

* 33:29 Winning and Losing with Grace in Conversations

* 37:46 The Role of Ideological Diversity in Social Work

* 49:21 Being Pro-Social: Creating Inclusive Environments

Intro and Outro Music: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

A livestream about transgender sports policies. The panelists, Social Work Professor Nafees Alam, Psychotherapist Stella O'Malley, and author and Social Worker Zander Keig, discuss the nuance and complexities of balancing competitive fairness with inclusivity. They explore scientific research, share their relevant lived experiences, examine multiple perspectives, and consider policy frameworks that aim to protect the dignity and opportunities of all athletes. Concerns about competitive equity and transgender rights are explored with respect and a commitment to liberal values.

Podcast notes:

Point / Counterpoint: Transgender Sport Participation Policy, Matt Moore and Nafees Alam The Third Space: A Nonconformist's Guide to the Universe, Zander Keig

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

A recent doctoral dissertation found that a strong majority of social work educators identify as politically progressive and support the Democratic party (Stoeffler et al., 2023). Therefore, the authors suggest social workers should embrace progressive values. Yet the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics (2021) makes several references to honoring and protecting political and religious diversity. Is there room for political and viewpoint diversity in social work education and practice? Join Dr. Elizabeth Spievak and Matthew Watson, LCSW as they review and critique the journal article that summarizes the dissertation. Elizabeth and Matt discuss ideology in the field of social work. They also discuss the social work code of ethics and potential conflicts created by the preponderance of progressive faculty and elaborate on the importance of diversity of thought in both social work education and social work itself. This discussion was recorded on June 19, 2024.

Dr. Stephen Stoeffler, the primary author and researcher, then graciously joined them on August 1, 2024 for a collegial discussion to address their concerns about the potential harm associated with viewpoint orthodoxy in social work practice. Dr. Stoeffler was asked about provisions for protecting religious and political views, and how social work faculty can avoid alienating their less progressive students at a time when the field needs more good candidates. Dr. Stoeffler expressed an openness and commitment to viewpoint diversity in social work classrooms and practice. He also reiterated his beliefs that the field's alignment with the progressive left is appropriate and that social work education should maintain that focus. All agreed that these are the kind of difficult conversations we need in the fields of social work and social work education.

Portions of his discussion are included at the end of their discussion. Course participants may listen to the entire interview with Dr. Stoeffler if so desired, however it is not required listening for course credit. Here is the link to the full interview: https://youtu.be/f1MNjjb2EdI

Should social workers embrace a particular viewpoint or ideology? Can social workers humanize others who hold different viewpoints and dialogue across differences to promote peaceful pluralism? Listen and decide for yourself. Although contributors may have started from different viewpoints, their dialogue ultimately produced consensus: There is room for viewpoint diversity in social work education and practice.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers' fiscal sponsor.

The viewpoints shared are personal to the presenters and do not represent the official positions of their employer(s) or affiliated organizations.

It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice.

All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/