Laughing Through The Struggles

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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!
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Latest episodes

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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.

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01:14:34

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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.

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55:28

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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.

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01:14:43

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20 January 2026

New Year New Worker......

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George explore the intersection of procrastination and productivity in the field of child welfare. They share relatable anecdotes about last-minute delivery under pressure and the constant push and pull between proactive and reactive measures in social work. Through candid conversations and humor, Beth and George offer listeners a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of supporting families, tackling paperwork, and finding balance amidst chaos. Whether you're new to social work or a seasoned professional, this episode provides a hearty mix of insights, laughter, and real-world challenges.

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48:46

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12 January 2026

Stressors Coming Down On Me PT.2

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles', Beth and George delve into the real-life challenges faced by social workers in the child welfare field. Through their candid discussion, they highlight the critical issue of coping mechanisms, from unhealthy addictions to setting effective boundaries. The duo shares harrowing stories, including a co-worker who turned to meth amidst personal turmoil, to underscore the stressors inherent in their roles. Yet, they find time for laughter, reflecting on personal anecdotes, and emphasizing the importance of self-care in managing the emotional toll of their work.

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56:27

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30 December 2025

Stressors Coming Down On Me Pt1............

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George bring humor to the intense world of child welfare as they discuss their favorite Christmas movies and the unique stressors they face on the job, especially during the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes about managing the constant deadlines and unforeseen challenges that arise, emphasizing the importance of self-care and laughter. This episode is a tribute to a long-time colleague who faced a medical crisis, casting a spotlight on the mental strain social workers endure and the camaraderie that helps them persevere.

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56:40