NASW Social Work Talks

Joslyn Berndt founded the innovative CARES program in collaboration with the University of Texas Steve Hicks School of Social Work in 2017. In this new episode of Social Work Talks, we sit down with her to discuss the program, which houses social workers in an investment business and empowers them to foster productive and personalized landlord-resident communication, especially in times of crisis.

In this powerful episode of Social Work Talks, filmmaker and actor Steven Grayhm discusses his film SHEEPDOG, now streaming online. Grayhm directed, produced, and starred in the film, which explores the mental health challenges facing veterans and the importance of connection, care, and community. During the conversation recorded when the film was still in theaters, he highlights a staggering reality: nearly 5 million veterans in the United States have not accessed available VA care. Enter NASW Member Dr. Tara Consolino, DSW, LMSW, who heads Darkling Psychotherapeutic Services, PLLC, and served as a consultant on SHEEPDOG. The film's social worker character, played by Oscar‑nominated Virginia Madsen, is inspired by her real‑world work helping veterans heal. She and Grayhm share how much the film has touched so many people.

In this episode of Social Work Talks, moderator Mel Wilson is joined by Nina Schlegel and Daniel Faber both of the Global Center for Climate Justice to discuss how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable and marginalized communities across the United States. The conversation explores the impact of climate change denialism, voter disenfranchisement, and environmental injustice on communities of color, including Native American communities, as well as rural and inner-city populations—and why climate justice is a critical social work issue.

In this powerful episode we chat with , palliative care social worker Dr. Arden O'Donnell, PhD, MPH, LICSW, APHSW-C about what it means to live—and die—according to our values. Dr. O'Donnell shares insights from over a decade of work supporting patients and families facing serious illness. The conversation examines the vital role of palliative care social workers in helping people navigate complex medical decisions, communicate their wishes, and maintain dignity at the end of life. Through real-world experience and reflection, Dr. O'Donnell discusses why early, honest conversations matter and how dying can be a conscious, meaningful part of living.

Join the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the YMCA for an inspiring conversation about the vital role social workers play in strengthening communities. We explore how the YMCA's mission aligns with the social work profession to promote well-being, mental health, and youth development. Hear stories from the field, learn about innovative programs, and discover the many ways social workers are making an impact at the Y. Our host, April Ferguson, NASW's Senior Practice Associate for Children and Adolescents, chats with our featured guests, Anna Stindt, MSW, APSW – Mental Health Director, La Crosse Area Family YMCA and Diara Jackson, LCSW-C Senior Executive Director, Social and Emotional Learning, Youth Development & Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Y in Central Maryland.