Talking about Community and Connection in Social Work w/ Cristino N. Chavez Jr., LMSW, CTP

Why Don't We Talk About This?

#Fitness #Society #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Paula McMillan-Perez, LCSW #LCSW #Paula McMillan-Perez #Podcasting Education #Social Work #Normal #Reduce Stigma #Silence The Shame #Progress With Paula

33:58

On June 25th 2025, in collaboration with Open Folk, we presented our first ever live interview event in Los Angeles. As Open Folk put it: "In These Lines is a live event where three artists each bring one song — not just to perform, but to explore. They sit down with Sofia Loporcaro, host of Before The Chorus, to talk about where the song came from, what it meant to write it, and what it still holds. Then they play it. Just the song, and the truth behind it." Find Open Folk on Instagram: @openfolkla Find Gaby on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0K9pSmFx0kWESA9jqx8aCW?si=Wz4RUP88Qlm_RKs7QTLvWQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gaby-moreno/472697737 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaby_moreno/ Find Lily on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p0ksmwMDQlAM24TWKu4Ua?si=Bmdg-uIUTHu-zRUc_dqL3g On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lily-kershaw/526884610 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilykershaw/ Find James on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3u50TPoLvMBXNT1KrLa3iT?si=OoLoq7ZTRZyUiytQcz0FsQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-spaite/905076868 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesspaite/ Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sign up for our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.beforethechorus.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforethechoruspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@soundslikesofia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About the podcast: Welcome to Before the Chorus , where we go beyond the sounds of our favourite songs to hear the stories of the artists who wrote them. Before a song is released, a record is produced, or a chorus is written, the musicians that write them think. A lot. They live. A lot. And they feel. A LOT. Hosted by award-winning interviewer Sofia Loporcaro, Before the Chorus explores the genuine human experiences behind the music. Sofia’s deep knowledge of music and personal journey with mental health help her connect with artists on a meaningful level. This is a space where fans connect with artists, and listeners from all walks of life feel seen through the stories that shape the music we love. About the host: Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning interviewer and radio host who’s spent over 8 years helping musicians share their stories. She’s hosted shows for Amazing Radio, and Transmission Roundhouse. Now on Before the Chorus, she’s had the chance to host guests like Glass Animals, Feist, Madison Cunningham, Mick Jenkins, & Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Shea Couleé. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 49:34

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Cristino, a first-generation Salvadorian social worker, discusses his diverse roles, including forensic social worker and PhD student among others he currently holds. He emphasizes the evolving use of social media as a tool for connection and information dissemination. In addition, he critiques the social work licensing exams, arguing they perpetuate inequality and hinder entry into the profession as well as highlights the need for systemic change and the importance of social workers in leadership roles. Cristino shares a call to action, emphasizing the ongoing revolution in social work and the need for continuous transformation.
Guest Bio:
Cristino N. Chavez Jr. (he/him/his) is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and currently holds several roles including forensic social worker, adjunct professor at NYU Silver School of Social Work, board member, and an immigration court mental health consultant. Cristino received his BA in Psychology at SUNY Old Westbury and MSW at Adelphi University. Cristino is currently a doctoral student at Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work, on his journey toward earning his Ph.D. in Social Welfare. His research, teaching, and practice focuses on criminal & juvenile justice, immigration, and social policy.
Contact/Socials:
Email: cncsw.consulting@gmail.com
Instagram: @cnc_lmsw
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/cnc_lmsw

130 episodes

Talking about Community and Connection in Social Work w/ Cristino N. Chavez Jr., LMSW, CTP

Why Don't We Talk About This?

published about a year ago

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130 episodes

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Why Don't We Talk About This?

1
Talking about Men's Infertility w/ Steven Miller, APSW 1:11:10

3 days ago1:11:10

1:11:10

Send us a text Steven discusses his work with the Men's Helpline, a nonprofit supporting men through infertility and pregnancy loss. He highlights the lack of resources and support for men experiencing infertility, noting that one in six couples struggle with infertility. Steven emphasizes the importance of mental health support and advocates for increased awareness and access to fertility treatments. He shares personal experiences and the challenges of navigating infertility, including the financial burden and societal stigmas. Our conversation underscores the need for more inclusive and comprehensive support systems for men and women dealing with infertility. In this episode, you will hear: + personal experience with infertility + challenges and misconceptions in men’s mental health + impact of infertility on relationships and family dynamics + support systems and coping mechanisms + advocacy and awareness as well as access and equity + access and equity in fertility treatment + cultural and religious perspectives Guest Bio: Steven J. Miller, APSW, is a therapist and advocate specializing in reproductive mental health, with a focus on infertility and pregnancy loss. He serves as the Research and Development Chair at Men’s Helpline and hosts The MILES Podcast, which spotlights men's fertility experiences. Steven has over 15 years of social work experience and provides therapy through Synapse Solutions and Corazon Counseling. He contributes to national and state-level advocacy through the American Society of Reproductive Medicine and the Building Families Alliance–Wisconsin. With clinical insight and lived empathy, Steven is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those often overlooked and expanding support for individuals facing reproductive challenges. Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Leveraging Your Skills with Christina Broderick-Royes, LSW 46:13

9 days ago46:13

46:13

Send us a text Check out the latest episode of “Why Don’t We Talk About this Podcast?! with my fantastic guest, Christina Broderick-Royes, LSW! Christina shares her journey from pre-med to social work, highlighting her experience in non-profits and higher education. She emphasized the importance of data in business, sharing such metrics as impacting 6,000 individuals and issuing 189 digital badges. Christina stressed the need for social workers to embrace entrepreneurship, overcome scarcity mindsets, and leverage their skills. She advised on hiring support for tasks that hinder growth, citing her own experience with marketing and administrative support. Christina also underscored the significance of mentorship, accountability, and quick action in achieving business success. In this episode, you will hear: + transition to entrepreneurship and business growth + challenges and learning curves + mentorship and support systems + overcoming perfectionism and taking action + balancing business and personal life Episode Resources: "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks Harvard Business Review - "10 Must Reads on Strategy" Guest Bio: Christina Broderick-Royes is a social worker turned entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, published author, and adjunct professor. She is the founder of Intention Elevation, a consulting company that helps organizations and entrepreneurs design transformative mental health and leadership initiatives rooted in strategy, clarity, and impact. Christina has worked with over 70 organizations nationwide, blending her clinical expertise with sharp strategic thinking to support historically marginalized communities. Whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or retreats, she equips leaders with the tools to grow, lead, and sustain change. Her work bridges purpose and profit—proving that social work skills can build powerful, scalable businesses. Contact/Socials: Email: christina@intentionelevation.com Instagram: @chrissie.broderick LinkedIn: Christina Broderick-Royes, LSW Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Emotional Support Co-Workers 28:11

16 days ago28:11

28:11

Send us a text Paula discusses the concept of emotional support coworkers, highlighting their role in providing active listening, empathy, and encouragement during challenging times. She emphasizes the importance of emotional support in reducing stress, boosting mood, and fostering resilience. Paula notes that emotional support can positively impact mental and physical health, job performance, and satisfaction. She advises on themes associated with offering help appropriately as well as addresses the challenges of receiving support and the benefits of professional help when needed. In this episode, you will hear: Understanding Emotional Support Coworkers Benefits of Emotional Support at Work How to Provide Emotional Support Challenges of Being an Emotional Support Coworker The Role of Emotional Support in Personal Growth Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Personal Storytelling with Jenn Lederer 52:23

30 days ago52:23

52:23

Send us a text Jenn shares her journey of pivoting her business after a last-minute workshop cancellation in Prague in 2022. She developed a comedian's formula to teach people how to connect and storytell, which significantly impacted her career. Jenn emphasized the importance of creativity in problem-solving and the need for human connection in an increasingly AI-dominated world. She also discussed the challenges of balancing work and personal life, the role of storytelling in business, and the significance of authenticity and community in personal and professional growth. In this episode, you will hear: + the art of pivoting and adapting + creativity in problem solving + the impact of AI on communication and creativity + power of storytelling in business + intersection of comedy and personal growth + importance of connection and community Bio: Award-winning comedian, speaker & consultant with a thing for synthesizing ideas through storytelling. Jenn’s work has been featured by SiriusXM, Forbes.com, The Huffington Post, Inspiring Lives Magazine, on stages at YALE, Twitter and Google Headquarters in NYC and comedy clubs throughout New York City and Europe. Performing all over the country, internationally and virtually, too! Jenn emcees and leads workshops and keynotes helping audiences learn how to answer the one question everyone hates (but can’t avoid) “What do you do?” using the “comedian’s formula” for educating, connecting and amusing your audience. Jenn’s experience spans 15+ years and at least 8 different avenues in the creative industry that include earning a BA in Dance from Point Park University, co-writing an off-off-Broadway musical, co-writing an album, owning and running a Talent Management company representing actors for film, TV and theater, Motivational Speaking, Business Coaching, Storytelling Consulting and comedy. Contact/Socials: Website - https://www.JennLederer.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennlederer/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jennlederer Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Relationships in the Beauty Industry with The Nail Teach 43:08

5 weeks ago43:08

43:08

Send us a text Keisha discusses the evolving dynamics of client relationships in the beauty industry. She highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for clients, which often leads to deeper personal connections. Keisha emphasizes the value of building trust and rapport, noting that clients often return for the experience and personal connection rather than just the service. She also addresses the challenges of mentorship in the industry, stressing the need for genuine experience and expertise over social media influence. Keisha underscores the significance of personal relationships and the emotional support provided by beauty professionals. In this episode, you will hear: + the role of beauty salons in community building + impact of personal relationships on client loyalty + mentorship and support in the beauty industry + value of creating a positive experience + impact of personal relationships on professional success + role of social media and influence in the beauty industry Guest Bio: Keisha aka The Nail Teach is a nail technician who has been in the beauty business for 25+ years! A NYS licensed Teacher of the Nail Technology program, Nail Tech Influencer, Educator on Social Media, and Content Creator. Contact/Socials: Instagram - Keishanails Email - TheNailTeach@gmail.com Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheNailTeach/ Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Menopause with Satori Shakoor 55:33

6 weeks ago55:33

55:33

Send us a text Satori discusses the lived experiences that inspired her forthcoming film "Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale," releasing June 12 on various platforms (Apple Tv+, Amazon Prime, Google Play). She highlights the often-unspoken challenges of menopause, including hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia, and the lack of medical training and support for women experiencing these symptoms. Satori emphasizes the importance of community and open dialogue about menopause to address misdiagnoses and improve women's health. She also touches on the cultural and socioeconomic differences in menopause experiences and the need for better representation and advocacy for women's health issues. In this episode, you will hear: + understanding menopause and its symptoms + personal journey and the birth of a film + impact of menopause on personal and professional life + challenges and advocacy for menopause awareness + cultural and socioeconomic differences in menopause experiences + role of storytelling in healing and empowerment + menopause and gender identity + advocacy and support for women’s health Guest Bio: Satori Shakoor is a dynamic storyteller, multi-disciplinary artist, and social entrepreneur known for her bold and transformative work in the arts. A 2017 Kresge Literary Arts Fellow, Satori began her career as a recording and touring vocalist with George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic as one of the Brides of Funkenstein before expanding into acting, comedy, and television writing. She is the creator and Executive Producer of The Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers®, an award-winning storytelling platform that fosters healing and community connection. Satori’s storytelling prowess has been showcased on global stages, including The Moth, PBS, and NPR, while she also serves as host of Detroit Performs Live for Detroit PBS. With her solo, standup storytelling concert film, Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale, she breaks outdated stigmas around aging and womanhood, bringing humor, truth, and empowerment to center stage. A sought-after facilitator and speaker, Satori has worked with major institutions like Duke University, the University of Michigan, and even the United Nations. Her work continues to inspire and transform communities, using the power of storytelling to connect humanity and spark meaningful dialogue. Contact/Socials: Website - www.satorishakoor.com Website - www.twistedtellers.org Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Navigating Neurospicy with Sandra N. Crespo, LICSW 54:51

8 weeks ago54:51

54:51

Send us a text Sandra discusses her journey with ADHD, diagnosed at age 38, and the concept of being "neuro spicy." She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, advocacy, and understanding one's brain to manage ADHD effectively. Sandra highlights the need for accommodations in professional settings, such as performance improvement plans (PIPs), and advocates for universal design learning (UDL) to create inclusive workspaces. She stresses the significance of rest and self-care, and encourages individuals to pay attention to their needs and advocate for themselves to thrive professionally and personally. In this episode, you will hear: understanding the term “neurospicy” navigating professional roles and ADHD diagnosis leadership and advocacy in social work obstacles navigating professional spaces advocating for accommodations in the workplace role of culture and community in support Guest Bio: Sandra N. Crespo, LICSW, known as The NeuroSpicy Social Worker, is a clinical leader, speaker, and advocate transforming how we view neurodiversity in leadership. As Clinic Director for Transformations Care Network, she drives operational innovation, integrates Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles from academia into workplace practices, and cultivates inclusive, high-performing teams. A specialist in coaching Latinx and neurodivergent professionals, Sandra blends metacognitive strategies and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) into leadership development to foster emotional resilience and strategic growth. She is the creator of the J.A.R. Framework, a model that reframes invisible impact to strengthen leadership effectiveness. A contributing author to Latinx in Social Work Vol. 3 and a sought-after speaker, Sandra’s work challenges outdated narratives and celebrates cognitive diversity as a catalyst for success. Through her platform, The NeuroSpicy Social Worker, and her doctoral research at Simmons University, she is redefining leadership for a more equitable future. Contact/Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theneurospicysw/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandracrespo/ Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Political Social Work with Victor Manalo, Ph.D, MSW 1:06:09

9 weeks ago1:06:09

1:06:09

Send us a text Victor discusses his journey from macro social work to advocating for social workers' involvement in politics. He emphasized the importance of local government and his role in Higher Education. Additionally, he shares that his “Why?” regarding running for president elect of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is to address membership decline and improve chapter support. Victor highlights the need for social workers to balance micro and macro practice, engage in community advocacy, and foster respectful relationships with elected officials. In this episode, you will hear: + role of political social workers + challenges and misconceptions within social work + balancing macro and micro practice + journey with NASW and vision + power of listening and compassion Guest Bio: Victor earned a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. For over 25 years, he has taught policy, political practice, and community organizing in the School of Social Work at California State University, Los Angeles. Victor has been an active member of NASW since 1991. Victor is a former Mayor and Councilman for the City of Artesia, California, Chairman of the Artesia Planning Commission, Commissioner for the Los Angeles County Behavioral Health Commission, and local government consultant. Contact/Socials: Email: victor@victormanalo.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.macro.social.worker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-manalo Website: www.VictorManalo.com Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors with Jose Alvear, LCSW 49:38

10 weeks ago49:38

49:38

Send us a text Jose speaks about his personal and professional experience with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) like hair pulling and skin picking. He highlights 4-5% of the population suffers from BFRBs, with nail biting affecting 20-30%. Alviar emphasized the importance of reducing shame and increasing awareness, noting that BFRBs are now recognized in the DSM-5 for the first time. Jose also shares his experience transitioning from patient to clinician and the role of peer support in recovery as well as the scarcity of trained clinicians, with only a few hundred in the U.S. He encourages those affected to seek help and join supportive communities, a driving factor in starting his own podcast about BFRBs. In this episode, you will hear: + impact of BFRBs on various domains + confusion between BFRBs Self-Harm + peer support and recovery + challenges associated with revealing BFRBs to loved ones + accessibility of support and treatment Guest Bio: Jose Alvear is a licensed clinical social worker in NYC who treats people with all types of body-focused repetitive behaviors. Jose went from a skin picking patient to BFRB advocate to clinician in order to help raise awareness of these disorders. He currently co-hosts the BFRB Podcast. Contact: Website - http://www.bfrbpodcast.com Podcast - http://www.bfrbpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about the Power of Pets 27:15

11 weeks ago27:15

27:15

Send us a text Paula shares some the mental health benefits of owning or engaging with pets, highlighting Mental Health Awareness Month. She shares her personal experience with her rescue service dog, Fonzie, a tripawed cancer survivor, highlighting how pets can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase daily exercise. As well as some additional ways that animals have the ability to uplift us. establish routines, provide unconditional love, and foster social connections. She also addresses the practical aspects of pet ownership, including financial and time commitments, and suggests alternative ways to engage with pets, such as volunteering at shelters or fostering to soak up the benefits that animals have to offer. In this episode, you will hear: + physical and mental benefits of pets + establishing routines and bonding + mindfulness and presence + stress relief and social connection + unconditional love and companionship + cultural and practical considerations Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Embracing Accountability and Increasing Authenticity with Stephanie Piazza, MSW(c) 45:44

12 weeks ago45:44

45:44

Send us a text Stephanie, a Nuyorican (a Puerto Rican located in New York City-in this case, The Bronx), trauma-born Capricorn, mother of three and first year MSW student/intern, discuss her journey from being a soldier in the U.S Army from deployment in Iraq and beyond to today. She highlights the pivotal role of therapy in her recovery and speaks of her struggles associated with self-sabotage. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and accountability noting the lack of support available for veteran transitioning to civilian life. Stephanie uplifts the need for more peer support and representation in mental health services, especially for women of color. In this episode, you will hear: + challenges access mental health services in the military + resilience and accountability in mental health + combined experiences of military life with a mental health diagnosis + impact of deployment on veterans + role of social work in supporting veterans + importance of representation and authenticity in social work Guest Bio: Stephanie Piazza is a dedicated Social Work Intern, Veteran, and proud Mother who brings a unique, trauma-informed perspective to her practice. A Capricorn by nature, Stephanie is grounded, resilient, and deeply curious about human behavior—consistently exploring how people act, feel, and think. With humor as a vital tool in her work and life, she strives to build authentic connections with others. Stephanie is committed to using her lived experience and empathic abilities to empower individuals, helping them recognize their inherent strength, beauty, and potential. Contact/Socials Instagram :@madamep82 Facebook : Stephanie Lee Piazza (tread carefully) Email : stphnpiazza@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Working with Your Partner with JR Perez 53:18

13 weeks ago53:18

53:18

Send us a text JR Perez discusses the challenges and benefits of working together with Paula in business. They highlight the learning curve of running Personalize Your Coaching and Personalize Your Therapy, which started in 2018 and 2023, respectively. Paula shares her struggles with imposter syndrome and the need for a CEO mindset. JR emphasizes the importance of clear communication, setting boundaries, and understanding each other's roles. He also explains the financial aspects of business, including the impact of business structure and the necessity of hiring experts. They also discuss the importance of maintaining work-life balance and the value of having a supportive team. In this episode, you will hear: + challenges of working together + navigating business and personal relationships + learning and adapting in business + building a professional network Guest Bio: JR Perez is a dynamic individual with a passion for both podcasting and pop culture. As the Executive Producer of the hit podcast "Why Don't We Talk About This?", he brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to the show. Through his leadership, the podcast has gained a dedicated following, tackling thought-provoking topics that encourage open conversations. Beyond his podcasting prowess, JR is a devoted action figure collector and an avid professional wrestling fan. In all aspects of his life, JR Perez brings enthusiasm, expertise, and a genuine desire to connect with others. Contact/Socials: Instagram: jayareperezrtb Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Grace 24:07

14 weeks ago24:07

24:07

Send us a text Paula speaks about the concept of grace, exploring its importance beyond religious context and added use during the early days of the pandemic. She identifying ways that grace can be defined and practiced differently based on individual beliefs and values. Paula shares personal experience, including her own challenges and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring personal limitations while urging listeners to reflect on ways they can incorporate grace into their lives. In this episode, you will hear: defining grace and is relevance personal and professional insights on grace challenges associated with extending grace in modern life practical examples impact on mental health and well-being Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Immigrant Scarcity Mindset with Carolyn O'Neal, LCSW 45:29

15 weeks ago45:29

45:29

Send us a text Carolyn explores the concept of scarcity mindset, particularly within immigrant communities. She and Paula share personal experiences associated with financial struggles and the cultural emphasis on resourcefulness over buying new items. Carolyn recounts her mother's journey from factory work to a stable career, highlighting the generational differences in work ethic and professional growth. Emphasis is also placed on the significance of unlearning scarcity mindset and teaching gratitude to the next generation. In this episode, you will hear: + scarcity mindset and its impact + generational gaps and cultural differences + balancing cultural expectations and personal goals + financial sacrifices and emotional needs + work ethic and personal growth Guest Bio: Carolyn's social work journey began since a young age while growing up in the Bronx. She was a recipient of the UFT scholarship and attended SUNY New Paltz. Her passions for social work led her to Child Protective services in New Jersey where she was able to finalize 33 forever families in the 6 years she worked there. Her heart came back to the Bronx to intern at the Bronx YMCA while completing her final year Fordham Univesity. Working in the heart of the South Bronx has led to completion of hours towards the LCSW. She was also the recipient of the United Health Corps Loan Forgiveness scholarship. Carolyn is also a SIFI instructor and Youth Mental Health Aid certified instructor. Contact: Email : c.oneal22@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @whydontwetalkabouthispod…

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Talking about Social Rest 33:54

16 weeks ago33:54