Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant Jirzia Blackman, LCSW-S and founder of Rhapsody Counseling & Wellness, for a powerful conversation about the twists, turns, and triumphs that have shaped her career. Jirzia opens up about the moments that challenged her, the mentors who guided her, and the clarity she gained as she learned to trust her own path. Her journey is a reminder that where you begin is rarely where you end up—and that growth often happens in the unexp...

Send us a text In this episode, we dust off the case files and share some of the wild and wonderful moments from our past. Warning: side effects may include chuckling, nodding in solidarity, and the occasional eye-roll. Join us as we laugh, learn, and maybe cringe a little at past cases. Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created th...

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the growing intersection of consulting and coaching within social work—two approaches that are transforming how professionals lead, support clients, and sustain their own growth. We discuss this topic with one of our colleagues whose been on the show before Dr. Latanya Tolan aka Queen L. She discusses her work and how she encourages other Social Workers to stretch themselves and go for their dreams. Whether you’re a seasoned social work...

Send us a text We had to bring Angela Thompson—aka Queen A—back for Part 2 of our series on travel social work! Her first episode was a hit, and we knew listeners would want more. This time, she shares the latest insights from the field, diving into what it really means to take your skills on the road: adapting to new communities, navigating shifting systems, and finding purpose in mobility. Whether you’re curious about the lifestyle or ready to pack your bags, this conversation delivers fres...

Send us a text In this episode, we talk to Queen K from Akcess Granted. We dive into the journey of applying for college—a process that can feel overwhelming, especially for first-generation students and those navigating systemic barriers. Through candid conversation and practical advice, we highlight how social workers, mentors, and community advocates can play a vital role in guiding students toward higher education. Whether you’re a student preparing to apply, a parent supporti...

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Queen M—better known as The MSW Coach—to unpack the realities of today’s job market. With her signature warmth and expertise, she puts us at ease while sharing practical strategies for navigating the search for meaningful employment. From boosting confidence to sharpening your job-hunting approach, Queen M offers insights every social worker and professional can use. Follow her on Instagram: @the_mswcoach !! Social workers of color face ...

Send us a text 🎙️ Episode Description: Welcome to Season 10! The Queens are back and better than ever! 👑✨ In this teaser, Queen P and Queen H celebrate a major milestone—Season 10 of the Queens of Social Work Podcast. From our very first conversation about the realities of life in the field to now, it’s been a journey filled with laughter, learning, and lifting up the voices of Black social workers everywhere. In this episode, we reflect on how far we’ve come, share what’s been in...

Send us a text Season 9 is officially a wrap! In this reflective episode, we share what it took to create this season — the highs, the challenges behind the scenes and the lessons we learned as social workers, educators and podcast hosts. From navigating burnout to building community, we talk about how each episode mirrored real-life shifts in the field of social work. Whether you’re new to the profession or a seasoned social worker of color, there’s something here for you. ...

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Chankia Berry, a Veterinary Social Worker at Tuskegee University, to explore the growing field of veterinary social work. If you’ve ever wondered how social workers support veterinary professionals, grieving pet owners, and students facing compassion fatigue, this conversation opens the door. Tune in to learn how social work skills apply beyond traditional settings — and discover a career path you may not have considered. Social workers of co...

Send us a text In this powerful episode, we sit down with Melissa Ifill, LCSW, for an honest, eye-opening conversation about social work burnout—what it really looks like, how we often contribute to it ourselves and what it takes to start breaking the cycle. We explore the signs of burnout in social workers, why it's so common in helping professions and how critical self-reflection and boundary setting are in sustaining a long-term, healthy career in social work—especially for Black and BIP...

Send us a text In this follow-up to our powerful conversation with Queen E, we continue exploring the real-life experiences of an early career social worker navigating the challenges, questions and growth that come with stepping into the field. This episode sheds light on the support new social workers truly need—from guidance during supervision to navigating burnout, boundaries and belonging. It’s also a call to action for experienced social workers: how can we mentor, uplift and create sp...

Send us a text Knowing when and how to seek mental health support for children can be one of the hardest decisions for any parent, guardian or caregiver. In this episode of the Queens of Social Work podcast, we’re joined by Queen Tiyanna and Queen Tabatha — both experienced clinical social workers who specialize in working with children, adolescents and families. Together, we discuss the early warning signs that a child or teen may need therapy, how mental health struggles often show ...

Send us a text In this episode of the Queens of Social Work podcast, we sit down with Queen E to explore what it’s really like to be an early career social worker in today’s field. If you’re a new social worker (with 0–5 years of experience) or supporting those just entering the profession, this conversation is for you. We dive into the challenges, realities and victories that early career social workers face — from navigating unsupportive work environments to finding confidence and c...

Send us a text Is your social work career working for you? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. O from Through My Lens Consulting to unpack the idea of careerism in social work. We discuss what it looks like to intentionally build your career path, shift your mindset and prioritize personal growth as a social worker—especially in systems that weren’t designed with us in mind. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow beyond burnout and into purpose-driven practice, this one’s for you...

Send us a text New here? Start with this episode! In this conversation, we (the Queens!) reintroduce ourselves, share our backgrounds as Afro-Caribbean American social workers and talk about why we created this space for social workers of color. Whether you’re new or a long-time listener, this is the perfect episode to understand what we’re all about—real talk, community care and centering the voices of Black social workers. We’re honored to grow with you. Thanks for being...

Send us a text Welcome to Season 9 of The Queens of Social Work Podcast! We’re back and ready to explore what’s happening in the world of social work—especially for social workers of color navigating challenging systems and seeking community, growth and support. This season, we’ll bring you conversations that reflect the real-life experiences of Black social workers, career insights and powerful storytelling. We want to hear from you! Take our quick listener survey below ...

Send us a text Season 8 has officially come to an end and we couldn’t be more grateful for your continued support! In this wrap-up episode, we reflect on the incredible journey of this season. From tackling hot topics and highlighting the unique experiences of social workers of color to featuring inspiring guests, Season 8 was filled with learning, growth and powerful conversations. Join us as we look back on standout moments, including discussions on reproductive mental health, ...

Send us a text In this special holiday episode, we’re wrapping up Season 8 with a reflective and inspiring discussion. Join us as we celebrate Queen H’s milestone birthday and dive into the realities of turning 40 as women and social workers. We explore how aging impacts our personal and professional lives, from career challenges to prioritizing self-care and mental health. We also touch on important topics like the recent election, navigating societal expectations and embracing ...

Send us a text It’s hard to believe we’ve reached December—what a year it’s been! But let’s be real: Millennials have been saying “we’re TIYAAD” for decades, and for good reason. In this episode, we dive into the unique stressors facing Millennials today, from global events to systemic challenges and how these pressures impact mental health and well-being. We also explore how the field of social work has evolved over the years, comparing the practices of yesteryear with the reali...

Send us a text Did you know that Financial Social Work is a growing field? It makes perfect sense—money is deeply emotional, as Queen A reminds us: “90% of all spending is emotional and 10% is logical.” In this episode, we dive into the unique and impactful world of Financial Social Work. We chat with Ashlin Price, a sought-after speaker, financial literacy consultant and expert in addressing behaviors related to finances. Ashlin holds a Master’s in Social Work from the Uni...