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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03 June 2026

Her Son Calls You Black Daddy……….

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George share their experiences balancing a podcast about child welfare with their busy personal and professional lives. From discussing sweet mango sticky Rice Krispie treats to recounting Beth's jam-packed schedule filled with cheerleading and music booster duties, the duo navigates both the humor and the hindrances of managing multiple commitments. Amid laughs and lighthearted banter, they reflect on the challenges of growing their podcast audience and the technical difficulties that come with it. Despite the obstacles, their dedication to making an impact through storytelling shines through.

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56:53

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25 May 2026

What We Doing?…….

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth and George, two seasoned social workers, navigate the chaotic world of child welfare. They discuss the ups and downs of their profession, touching on leadership changes and the impacts of directives that sometimes clash with the realities on the ground. Through candid conversation and humor, they share stories of unexpected office encounters and the complexities of being a caseworker in a challenging environment. Whether talking about retired colleagues or questionable administrative decisions, they provide an unfiltered glimpse into the world of child welfare.

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53:31

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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.

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01:03:04

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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

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01:03:19

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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.

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58:51

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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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