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 onPandora
Listen oniHeartRadio
Listen onDeezer

Latest episodes

episode artwork

04 May 2026

Don't Keep It From Me...Give It To Me......

In this episode, hosts Beth and George humorously dissect the complex hiring process within the child welfare system. They cover the transition from traditional routine interviews to post-COVID practices that prioritize quantity over quality. With their combined experience, they reveal frustrations, such as the lack of accountability within state departments and the lengthy, often ineffective, application processes. The hosts discuss personal challenges and the reality of working in child welfare, highlighting the need for genuine passion and commitment. Listeners gain insights into the unpredictable yet rewarding world of supporting families and navigating child welfare's unique intricacies.

00:00

01:03:04

episode artwork

11 April 2026

The Numbers Don't Lie....

Beth and George offer a candid exploration of child welfare through their podcast, where laughter and serious discourse coexist. They unravel intriguing foster care statistics and gender and racial dynamics, shedding light on the discrepancies between policy and practice. With humor and sincerity, this episode encourages listeners to view social work from a different lens, breaking down complex issues into relatable conversations. This engaging episode stands out for its balance of empathy, wisdom, and humor.

Sources:

fosterlove.com

tableau-public.acf.gov/views/afcrs_dashboard_main_page/mainpage

00:00

01:03:19

episode artwork

29 March 2026

I'm Ret To Go......

In this episode, Beth and George dive into the topsy-turvy world of child welfare, sharing experiences that range from heartbreaking to hilarious. They discuss the struggles families face, including those kids labeled 'beyond ready' yet trapped in a system with no available foster care placements. These hosts boldly confront the bureaucratic barriers delaying children's discharge from residential facilities. Through candid discussions, they reveal the harsh realities of a system where kids ready for adoption are marketed in a manner akin to 'shopping', thus shedding light on their plight. Despite the heavy topics, they find humor and kindness in their day-to-day work.

00:00

58:51

episode artwork

15 March 2026

50 Shades Of F'd Up...

Beth and George navigate the intricate world of child welfare, shedding light on the essence of maintaining wardship post-18. They stress how important '18+ orders' are for young people who may not have the mental ability to make smart choices on their own. Despite the challenges, these orders help to create a bridge to adult services, providing a necessary safety net. The duo employs their signature humor and candidness to convey the unpredictable nature of social work and foster care, ensuring even the most serious topics are sprinkled with laughter and authenticity.

00:00

01:14:34

episode artwork

02 March 2026

Stipulating To The Stipulation.......

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George deliver a blend of humor and hard truths from their experiences as social workers in child welfare. As they celebrate Social Worker Appreciation Month, the podcast highlights how societal misperceptions and legal missteps can have devastating effects on families. Through personal anecdotes and industry insights, Beth and George challenge stereotypes, explore ethical dilemmas, and share personal stories, including two unsettling cases where newborns were wrongfully taken from their parents. A must-listen for those in the field, curious listeners, or anyone who loves a good mix of tears and chuckles.

00:00

55:28

episode artwork

16 February 2026

Gear Grinding And Leg Catches

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George tackle the hilarity and headaches of child welfare work. They delve into the chaos of child and family team meetings, with George voicing his frustrations over repetitive policy misunderstandings. Amid light-hearted banter about microphone mishaps and humorous leg catch stories, Beth shares her approach to dealing with procedural challenges. The conversation touches on systemic issues within agencies, the importance of adhering to policies, and the comedic moments that often arise in the unpredictable landscape of social work. Listeners are invited to laugh and learn from these experienced professionals.

00:00

01:14:43