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Season 9 is officially a wrap! In this reflective episode, we share what it took to create this season — the highs, the challenges behind the scenes and the lessons we learned as social workers, educators and podcast hosts.  From navigating burnout to building community, we talk about how each episode mirrored real-life shifts in the field of social work.  Whether you’re new to the profession or a seasoned social worker of color, there’s something here for you.  Thanks for riding with us — see you in Season 10!

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

In this episode, we sit down with Chankia Berry, a Veterinary Social Worker at Tuskegee University, to explore the growing field of veterinary social work. If you’ve ever wondered how social workers support veterinary professionals, grieving pet owners, and students facing compassion fatigue, this conversation opens the door. Tune in to learn how social work skills apply beyond traditional settings — and discover a career path you may not have considered.

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Melissa Ifill, LCSW, for an honest, eye-opening conversation about social work burnout—what it really looks like, how we often contribute to it ourselves and what it takes to start breaking the cycle.

We explore the signs of burnout in social workers, why it's so common in helping professions and how critical self-reflection and boundary setting are in sustaining a long-term, healthy career in social work—especially for Black and BIPOC social workers.

If you’ve ever felt emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed or like you're giving from an empty cup, this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• What burnout actually feels like in practice
• How social workers unintentionally reinforce burnout culture
• Real strategies for reclaiming your energy and your purpose

Don’t forget to check out Melissa Ifill’s work:
📲 IG: @melissaifilllcsw
🌐 Websites: melissaifill.com and reflecting-joy.com

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

In this follow-up to our powerful conversation with Queen E, we continue exploring the real-life experiences of an early career social worker navigating the challenges, questions and growth that come with stepping into the field.

This episode sheds light on the support new social workers truly need—from guidance during supervision to navigating burnout, boundaries and belonging. It’s also a call to action for experienced social workers: how can we mentor, uplift and create space for the next generation, especially for Black and marginalized social workers entering the profession?

We’re grateful to everyone who reached out after Part 1—we heard you, and we knew this story needed more time.

Whether you're just starting your social work journey or have been in the field for years, this conversation offers insight, reflection and real talk you won’t want to miss.

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

Knowing when and how to seek mental health support for children can be one of the hardest decisions for any parent, guardian or caregiver.  In this episode of the Queens of Social Work podcast, we’re joined by Queen Tiyanna and Queen Tabatha — both experienced clinical social workers who specialize in working with children, adolescents and families.

Together, we discuss the early warning signs that a child or teen may need therapy, how mental health struggles often show up differently than you expect and practical ways to get your child the support they need.

Whether you’re wondering if your child might benefit from therapy or you’re a social worker helping families navigate this journey, this episode offers real-world guidance, compassion and critical insights you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to better understand the signs, reduce stigma and take next steps toward emotional wellness for the children in your life.

Please follow Tiyanna on ig @Tspeaksnyc and Tabatha on ig @ the4airproject.

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Queens of Social Work podcast, we sit down with Queen E to explore what it’s really like to be an early career social worker in today’s field.  If you’re a new social worker (with 0–5 years of experience) or supporting those just entering the profession, this conversation is for you.

We dive into the challenges, realities and victories that early career social workers face — from navigating unsupportive work environments to finding confidence and community in social work practice.

As you listen, reflect on these questions:

•What support systems are essential for new social workers?

•How can experienced social workers and supervisors better mentor the next generation?

Whether you’re just starting your journey or guiding others in theirs, this episode offers real-world insights, encouragement, and practical advice for thriving in social work.

Tune in to learn more about the early career social worker experience and how we can build a stronger, more supportive social work community.

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

Is your social work career working for you?  In this episode, we sit down with Dr. O from Through My Lens Consulting to unpack the idea of careerism in social work.  We discuss what it looks like to intentionally build your career path, shift your mindset and prioritize personal growth as a social worker—especially in systems that weren’t designed with us in mind.

If you’ve ever wondered how to grow beyond burnout and into purpose-driven practice, this one’s for you.

Follow Dr. O on Instagram: @throughmylenseconsulting

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

New here?  Start with this episode!  In this conversation, we (the Queens!) reintroduce ourselves, share our backgrounds as Afro-Caribbean American social workers and talk about why we created this space for social workers of color.  Whether you’re new or a long-time listener, this is the perfect episode to understand what we’re all about—real talk, community care and centering the voices of Black social workers.

We’re honored to grow with you. Thanks for being part of the journey!

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

Welcome to Season 9 of The Queens of Social Work Podcast!  We’re back and ready to explore what’s happening in the world of social work—especially for social workers of color navigating challenging systems and seeking community, growth and support.   This season, we’ll bring you conversations that reflect the real-life experiences of Black social workers, career insights and powerful storytelling.

We want to hear from you!  Take our quick listener survey below to let us know what topics matter most to you.

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.

Send us a text

Season 8 has officially come to an end and we couldn’t be more grateful for your continued support!  In this wrap-up episode, we reflect on the incredible journey of this season.  From tackling hot topics and highlighting the unique experiences of social workers of color to featuring inspiring guests, Season 8 was filled with learning, growth and powerful conversations.

Join us as we look back on standout moments, including discussions on reproductive mental health, financial literacy for social workers, the Interstate Compact and more.  We also share personal insights about celebrating milestones, navigating change and setting goals for the future—both in our professional lives as social workers and in our personal journeys.

Thank you for rocking with us for eight amazing seasons!  Be sure to tune in for Season 9, where we’ll continue to provide education, inspiration and a safe space for social workers to thrive.  Don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast to help us reach more social workers like you.  Happy Holidays and see you in Season 9!

Support the show

→ DON'T MISS THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE QUEENS OF SOCIAL WORK PODCAST! Follow us on your preferred podcast platform (Apple, Spotify, etc.) and share your thoughts in a review.

→ WE VALUE YOUR INPUT. Take our 1-question survey and shape future episodes.

→ DONATE TODAY to be a part of positive change for social workers of color.

→ LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION? Follow us on Instagram @queensofsocialwork

→ TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL! Follow our LinkedIn page for professional insights.

→ UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE RESOURCES. Visit our website and join our email list to receive your FREE Travel Social Work Guide.