Laughing Through The Struggles

podcast artwork

Podcast by Beth and George

Laughing Through The Struggles

We're two social workers—Beth and George—sharing our experiences, debunking myths about our profession, and providing a glimpse into what child welfare really involves. From advocating for families to tackling the misconceptions about our roles, we're here to bring you insights sprinkled with humor and real-life stories. Whether you're in the field, a parent, or just curious about what we do, there's something for you. We promise not to bore you with the technicalities but instead engage you with genuine conversations that reflect our love and challenges in this journey. So, come along as we lay it all out, exploring 15 years of being in social work, the ups, the downs, and everything in between. We're excited to connect with you and share this wild ride through laughter, passion, and the occasional WTF moments. Thanks for tuning in, and remember, we're not for everybody, but if you're here, you're definitely in for a treat!
Listen onApple Podcasts
Listen onSpotify
Listen onDeezer

Latest episodes

episode artwork

26 May 2025

A Headbang and Shoestrings

On Laughing through the Struggles, co-hosts Beth and George bring to light the often overlooked need for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in child welfare. The conversation revolves around systemic issues delaying access to this vital service, which is crucial for children on the autism spectrum. Highlighting Sarah Woods’ expertise in ABA therapy, they discuss potential solutions for integrating such support into care facilities despite bureaucratic red tape. This insightful episode incorporates humor and the hosts’ personal anecdotes, providing a balanced perspective on the urgent need for policy reform in social services.

00:00

58:38

episode artwork

12 May 2025

No Diddy Though!!!!

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth and George discuss the often uncomfortable yet significant aspect of handling inappropriate comments from clients and sometimes even professionals in the social work field. The duo explores various scenarios, sharing personal anecdotes and discussing strategies for maintaining professionalism. They emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and safety, reminding listeners to speak up if they ever feel uncomfortable. Through humor and candid conversation, Beth and George aim to provide both insight and support for social workers navigating these tricky situations.

00:00

44:49

episode artwork

06 May 2025

Self-Care, Take Care

In this episode, hosts Beth and George delve into the intricacies of managing self-care within the demanding field of social work. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries and the common struggle to prioritize personal health. Reflections on generational work habits reveal how societal expectations have shifted over time, influencing work-life balance. The hosts engage in humorous banter, underlining the necessity of laughter as an essential tool for coping with stress. Through personal anecdotes, they demonstrate how self-care isn't just a luxury, but a critical component for sustaining effectiveness in their profession.

00:00

57:51

episode artwork

28 April 2025

I Believe The Children Are The Future

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth and George highlight the importance of including youth in child welfare decisions, particularly concerning case planning and permanency. They discuss the often-overlooked voices of children in care, emphasizing the need to involve them in deciding their futures. The conversation reflects on laws that require youth involvement and the challenges faced in engaging them. Beth and George also debunk adoption fantasies, revealing uncomfortable truths about the system that often resembles 'shopping' for children, and the importance of creating supportive environments for these youth.

00:00

47:56

episode artwork

07 April 2025

This ones for you.....

In the podcast 'Laughing through the Struggles,' social workers Beth and George navigate the turbulent seas of child welfare. The hosts discuss the unpredictable nature of their field, from long work hours and travel distances to handling unexpected events that fall beyond their control. This episode sheds light on how committed social workers manage emotional challenges, emphasizing thoughtful responses and personal boundaries. With authentic storytelling and humor, the hosts invite listeners to understand the pressures they face, focusing on accountability and the essence of being a compassionate worker in a demanding profession.

00:00

59:21

episode artwork

31 March 2025

Depoy Hearings, CANTS, and Light Skinned Pizza

This episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles' explores how child welfare investigations can tangibly affect the lives of those involved. Beth and George dispel myths around employers being automatically informed of DCFS cases, and they navigate the nuances of how personal and professional lives intersect in these situations. By answering listener questions, they uncover the reality of background checks, retention periods, and the emotional weight families carry. While handling serious subject matter, Beth and George maintain their signature mix of empathy and humor, proving that social work is never a one-note field.

00:00

55:31