The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast
Your Story. My Story. Our Story The Critical Social Worker podcast unfolds unique stories and diverse perspectives to foster critical dialogue, empathy, and understanding for all listeners. Through storytelling grounded in social work values, we aim to change ourselves and the world, one story at a time.
Episodes
Monday Apr 22, 2024
Monday Apr 22, 2024
In this thought-provoking episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, Christian Ace engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Paul Michael Garrett about dissent and decolonization in social work. Recorded live from the heart of social work education in Galway, Ireland, the episode delves into critical themes shaping the future of the profession.
Dr. Paul Michael Garrett, a renowned social work educator and writer, brings his extensive expertise to the discussion, shedding light on the challenges and importance of dissent in a profession often at risk of falling into compliance. With a keen focus on decolonization, Dr. Garrett emphasizes the need to stretch reading lists, critically analyze canonical figures, and listen to the diverse experiences of students to promote dissenting social work.
Throughout the conversation, the concept of neoliberalism and its impact on social work practice emerges, highlighting the urgent need for collective action and solidarity among social workers. Dr. Garrett advocates for trade unions as crucial support systems for social workers engaged in dissent, underscoring the importance of building networks and alliances within the profession.
The episode also addresses the incorporation of decolonization into social work education, stressing the significance of learning from perspectives outside of Eurocentric frameworks. Dr. Garrett challenges social work educators to create more inclusive learning environments by embracing diverse voices and critically examining existing power structures.
As the conversation unfolds, the challenges of online education and the overprofessionalization of social work are explored, alongside the imperative of addressing the systemic issues of colonization and capitalism embedded within the profession. Dr. Garrett calls for critical activism and progressive responses to confront these challenges head-on, emphasizing the role of social work in promoting social justice and equity.
In conclusion, Episode 51 serves as a rallying cry for social workers to embrace dissent, decolonize their practice, and actively engage in transformative change. Through critical reflection and collective action, social work can fulfill its promise as a force for positive social transformation.
Join the conversation and explore the transformative power of dissent and decolonization in social work with Dr. Paul Michael Garrett.
Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dissenting-Social-Work-Critical-Resistance-ebook/dp/B08SXZ7XYQ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BEG9X02MXG7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EQf4MCDEUfoIvzh2yD7TFh4R4hRBMMmf7Y86mNMesBvdaNgJWIPnIUPj6rTymQNei6nBVd_4DEt3XvwMcEe47-IxyMz3gSfy3ce9cTV2lVE0of3TVc9_ouTjSCGxKYuRUOuGZDqpUW1DmHKtf1axREa4zuWVliPMZXvTsX7tXrG_PKZwrA7oeN3oHIRWyfmGfKnCkaH7lLeHbvHjmKPmUSB4qiBh2_AtZ4iD8o5QERs.ZTXsYtMOcmCuHyuM1-KZyYfzV4EXxXrwnguPTMfUkjI&dib_tag=se&keywords=paul+michael+garrett&qid=1713826283&sprefix=paul+michael+garrett%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1
Article Link: https://academic.oup.com/bjsw/advance-article/doi/10.1093/bjsw/bcae018/7615071article/doi/10.1093/bjsw/bcae018/7615071
Sunday Apr 21, 2024
Sunday Apr 21, 2024
In the 50th episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, Christian Ace Stettler is joined by guests G Ford and Chris Flores for a conversation recorded live from the Kaimana Beach Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii. In a serendipitous encounter, Hawaiian Elder Maui Loa joins the dialogue, adding a wealth of knowledge and wisdom for listeners to reflect upon.
G, working in dialysis, and Chris, specializing in forensic case management, share powerful stories of making a significant impact in their clients' lives. They emphasize the importance of listening, respect, and finding humor in difficult situations, highlighting the challenges faced in their respective fields and the importance of self-care.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as the speakers explore the topic of gaining trust in Indigenous areas. They discuss their experiences and strategies for building trust with Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of relating to people on their level, honesty, and respect for their culture. The guests also touch on the challenges faced by Indigenous communities and the need for social change.
The episode covers various topics, including the impact of restrictions on selling art on the streets, the role of education in personal growth, the power of social media, and finding a balance between technology and nature. Throughout, the importance of connection, balance, and mindfulness in navigating life is underscored.
As the conversation comes to a close, expressions of gratitude and appreciation are shared for the wisdom and experiences shared by the guests and Hawaiian Elder Maui Loa. Episode 50 serves as a reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of fostering empathy, understanding, and unity in our communities.
Sunday Apr 21, 2024
Sunday Apr 21, 2024
In this episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, Alicia Stettler, LCSW, and host Christian Ace Stettler engage in a powerful conversation about their experiences in Hawaii and their commitment to speaking up against injustice.
Alicia, originally from the U.K. with roots in Jamaica and Hawaii, brings a unique perspective to the discussion as a co-founder of A Conscious Party and a conceptualizer of Revolutionary Yoga. As a full-time mother and clinician (LCSW) for SEARHC in Alaska, she emphasizes the importance of regulating one's energy when working with clients who have experienced trauma.
Throughout the conversation, Alicia and Christian touch on various topics, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for understanding and unity. They advocate for peace, empathy, and the rejection of division, highlighting the importance of learning, listening, and gathering together.
The concept of the circle emerges as a central theme, both in the context of revolutionary yoga therapy and in promoting unity and revolutionizing minds. Alicia and Christian emphasize the power of sitting in a circle, patiently listening to diverse perspectives, and understanding different experiences.
Key takeaways from the episode include the importance of speaking up against injustice, choosing battles wisely, and recognizing the individual experiences within racial categories. Unity and the rejection of division are seen as essential for progress and peace in society, with gathering together and listening to each other as key components of achieving unity.
As the episode comes to a close, Alicia and Christian highlight the significance of revolutionary yoga therapy, mindfulness, nourishment, and promoting love and peace as integral aspects of revolutionary social work.
Overall, Episode 49 serves as a reminder of the power of dialogue, empathy, and collective action in addressing social injustices and promoting unity and peace in our ourselves and our communities.
Saturday Mar 30, 2024
Saturday Mar 30, 2024
In this compelling conversation, Alan Dettlaff, a leading figure in the abolitionist movement within social work, provides profound insights into the challenges and aspirations of this transformative approach.
Dettlaff introduces us to the UpEnd Movement, a revolutionary initiative dedicated to dismantling the child welfare system, viewed as a mechanism of family policing that perpetuates inequality. He eloquently articulates the broader abolitionist mission to dismantle oppressive systems, including prisons, policing, and the child welfare system, to pave the way for a more just and equitable society.
Throughout the dialogue, Dettlaff confronts the profession's historical roots in social control and emphasizes the urgent need for social work education to engage in critical conversations about racism, oppression, and abolitionist approaches. He challenges social workers to grapple with the silence and fear that inhibit speaking out against injustice, particularly concerning the genocide in Palestine.
The conversation navigates through various themes, from the impact of racism on child welfare to the structural issues leading to family separations. Dettlaff underscores the importance of empowering parents facing child welfare investigations and advocates for a future where oppressive systems are replaced with structures prioritizing equity and justice.
In a series of thought-provoking sound bites, Dettlaff challenges social workers to question the status quo, advocate for systemic change, and center the voices of marginalized communities in their practice.
Overall, this conversation with Alan Dettlaff serves as a clarion call for social workers to embrace abolitionist principles, challenge oppressive systems, and strive towards a future grounded in equity, justice, and collective liberation.
Takeaways:
The Up End Movement is an abolitionist organization focused on abolishing the child welfare system, which is seen as a family policing system that perpetuates inequality.
The abolition movement aims to end systems that maintain oppression and contribute to inequality, such as prisons, policing, and the child welfare system.
Social work as a profession has a history of social control and needs to critically examine its role in maintaining oppression and inequality.
Social work education should engage in critical conversations about racism, oppression, and the need for abolitionist approaches.
The profession of social work is at a crossroads, with some social workers advocating for a more radical future while others resist change.
Social work students play a crucial role in pushing for a more radical and abolitionist future for the profession.
The profession needs to address the silence and fear that prevent social workers from speaking out against injustice, including the genocide in Palestine. It is crucial to challenge oppressive systems and speak out against injustice in social work and the child welfare system.
Racism has a significant impact on child welfare, and it is essential to address the structural issues that lead to family separations.
Parents facing child welfare investigations should be aware of their rights and seek legal assistance to counter the power of the system. T
he future of social work lies in imagining a society without oppressive systems and working towards building new structures that prioritize equity and justice.
Sunday Mar 24, 2024
Sunday Mar 24, 2024
In this transformative episode of The Critical Social Worker, host Christian Ace Stettler engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Abyd Quinn Aziz, a Reader/Professor in Social Work at Cardiff University and a revolutionary force in the field.
Abyd's journey from grassroots advocacy to academic leadership serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to challenging the status quo in social work. Throughout the discussion ,Abyd shares profound insights and experiences, shedding light on various aspects of social work practice and academia.
Key topics explored include:
Intersection of Ramadan and Social Justice: Abyd discusses the significance of fasting and self-reflection during Ramadan, and its connection to social justice and activism.
Navigating Cultural Differences: The conversation explores the challenges of providing culturally sensitive social work services, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds.
Expanding the Definition of Social Work: The dialogue considers embracing community-based initiatives and adopting an abolitionist framework in social work practice, challenging traditional paradigms and fostering equitable outcomes.
Anti-Racism and Decolonization: Abyd's commitment to anti-racism and decolonization permeates the dialogue, inspiring listeners to confront systemic injustices and imagine a more just and inclusive society.
Throughout the episode, Abyd's warmth, wisdom, and revolutionary spirit shine through, underscoring the transformative power of friendship and shared learning. The engagement and contributions of the audience further enrich the dialogue, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives and insights.
his episode reminds us to reflect on the importance of mindfulness and consideration in intercultural interactions, challenging us to be more respectful and considerate in future conversations.
Join us in honoring the revolutionary work of Abyd Quinn Aziz and embark on a journey of critical inquiry and social transformation. Let's continue to challenge the norms, dismantle oppressive systems, and pave the way for a more just and equitable future in social work and beyond.
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Episode 46: Decolonizing Service | A Journey with Josie Heyano, LMSW
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
In this powerful episode of The Critical Social Worker, host Christian Ace Stettler engages in a transformative conversation with Josie Heyano, a Deg Xinag Athabascan woman from Alaska, and a revolutionary social worker.
Highlights:
Colonial Legacies and Decolonizing Service: Josie shares her insights and experiences in decolonizing practices within service organizations to better serve Alaska Native and Indigenous people. The conversation looks deep into the challenges of navigating colonial legacies and the imperative of centering Indigenous voices in social work practice.
Intersections of MMIP and Human Trafficking: Josie sheds light on the intersections of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) and human trafficking, emphasizing the urgent need for regionally-specific prevention programs and community collaboration to address these pressing issues.
Commitment to Transformative Change: Throughout the dialogue, Josie's unwavering commitment to transformative change and advocacy for marginalized communities shines brightly. Her dedication to reshaping the social work landscape exemplifies the essence of revolutionary social work.
Audience Engagement and Contributions: The episode is enriched by active audience participation, fostering a dynamic and inclusive dialogue. Viewers actively contribute to the conversation, offering insights and reflections that deepen our collective understanding of the issues at hand.
Empowerment Through Storytelling: Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, Josie empowers listeners to embrace their role as agents of change and advocates for justice. Her narrative serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring social workers and advocates alike.
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Episode 45: The Power of Curious Inquiry | A Dialogue with Dr. Benjamin Lukey
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
In Episode 45 of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast host Christian Ace Stettler welcomes Dr. Benjamin Lukey, a professor of philosophy at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and a pivotal figure in the Philosophy for Children (P4C) Hawai‘i initiative. This engaging dialogue dives deep into the transformative power of curious inquiry and its significant impact on students, educators, and the educational system at large.
Listeners will gain insight into the development of students involved in P4C, noting their increased openness, appreciation for diverse perspectives, and enhanced collective thinking skills. The episode also addresses the challenges of sensitive topics in educational settings, the balance between empathy and accountability, and the creation of safe, supportive environments.
Throughout the episode, Christian and Dr. Lukey share personal anecdotes from their experiences with children, discussing the importance of movies, TV shows, and books in sparking philosophical conversations and fostering an environment ripe for dialogue. Dr. Lukey details his journey into dialogic education, emphasizing the crucial role of wonder, the beginner's mind, and the detailed process of implementing P4C in schools. The conversation covers the entire P4C inquiry process—from creating a focused community to reflection—highlighting the adaptability needed to cater to different community needs and readiness levels.
Listeners will gain insight into the development of students involved in P4C, noting their increased openness, appreciation for diverse perspectives, and enhanced collective thinking skills. The episode also addresses the challenges of sensitive topics in educational settings, the balance between empathy and accountability, and the creation of safe, supportive environments.
Furthermore, the discussion extends to the role of creative arts in education, the importance of inclusion in special education, and strategies for creating inclusive communication spaces. Christian and Dr. Lukey explore the balance between time and accountability, the tension between traditional schooling and talking circles, and the critical decision-making process regarding the best education options for children.
This episode is a must-watch for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the potential of philosophy to shape young minds and transform educational practices. It serves as a call to action for like-minded educators to collaborate, experiment, and embrace new approaches to education, ensuring a more inclusive, thoughtful, and impactful learning experience for all.
Tune in to The Power of Curious Inquiry | A Dialogue with Dr. Benjamin Lukey for a deep dive into the heart of philosophy for children and its pivotal role in shaping the future of education.
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
In another episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler had the pleasure of talking story with Dr. Amana Mbise, professor of social work at the University of Alaska Anchorage. They talked about a wealth of different revolutionary topics and enjoyed the robust participation from the audience.
Personal Journey:
Dr. Mbise's narrative began in Tanzania, through Chicago and then at the University of Dar es Salaam, tracing his impactful journey through Denmark, and back to the United States finally landing at the University of Alaska Anchorage. His story is a testament to the power of education and dedication in making a tangible difference in communities worldwide.
Global Health Initiatives:
Listeners gained insights into Dr. Mbise's significant contributions to global health, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS and malaria. His experiences have not only shaped his approach to health challenges but also underscored the importance of a unified global response.
Refugee Integration and Community Development:
The episode delved into Dr. Mbise's efforts in supporting refugee communities in both Tanzania and the U.S. He shared successful integration practices that foster community development and ensure that refugees can build new lives with dignity and respect.
Labor Exploitation and Human Trafficking:
A pressing segment of the conversation focused on Dr. Mbise's research into labor exploitation in Alaska and the battle against human trafficking in Tanzania. His work sheds light on these dark aspects of globalization and the critical need for vigilance and action.
The Black Experience in Alaska:
Dr. Mbise unveiled findings from the first health needs assessment of Black Alaskans, offering critical insights into the health status, needs, and strengths of this community, highlighting the unique challenges they face in a cold frontier. Social Work Education: The discussion also covered Dr. Mbise's teaching philosophy and methods, reflecting his vision for the future of social work education. He emphasized the importance of focusing on migration, human trafficking, and health equity to prepare students for the challenges of our time.
Language and Audience Engagement:
An unexpected yet enriching focus of the episode was the discussion on language from various perspectives, including its role in identity, communication barriers, and as a tool for integration. The live format fostered a high level of audience engagement, with listeners contributing through chat and call-ins, adding depth to the dialogue on social work's role in bridging communities and enhancing global health initiatives.
This episode was not just a narrative of Dr. Mbise's cross-continental journey but an exploration of the intricate issues at the intersection of migration, health, and social work. The lively interaction with the audience added a dynamic layer to the conversation, making it a memorable and insightful experience for all involved.
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Episode 43: Paths to Wellness | A Dialogue on Healing with Michon Whiterose
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
Saturday Feb 17, 2024
In the another episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler connected with Michon Whiterose, a LCSW deeply rooted in Ahtna Athabascan heritage, for a dialogue that spanned a wide array of topics central to wellness, storytelling, and the intricate dance of navigating life's challenges.
Here's a brief overview of the key takeaways and highlights from their discussion:
TikTok as a Storytelling Platform: Michon shared her insights on the emerging role of TikTok and digital media as powerful tools for storytelling, offering new ways to connect and share personal narratives.
Digital Storytelling and Healing: The conversation explored the significance of digital storytelling in healing and personal growth, highlighting its potential to reach wide audiences and create meaningful connections.
Personal Experiences and Parenting: Michon opened up about her personal journey, discussing how her experiences have shaped her parenting style and her mission to break generational cycles for a healthier family dynamic.
The Impact of Perfectionism: Discussing the often detrimental role of perfectionism in relationships and personal well-being, Michon emphasized the importance of embracing imperfection and learning from it.
Navigating Childhood Trauma: The dialogue delved into strategies for dealing with childhood trauma, underscoring the importance of self-care and seeking support when needed.
Self-Care in Indigenous Communities: Michon discussed the unique challenges and approaches to self-care within Indigenous communities, stressing the interconnectedness of community wellness and individual healing.
Reconnecting with Indigenous Values: Highlighting the power of Indigenous values in fostering a sense of belonging and identity, the conversation touched upon the transformative process of reconnecting with one's roots.
The Role of Autoethnographies: The importance of valuing storytelling and autoethnographies in higher education, particularly from Indigenous authors, was emphasized as a way to enrich academic discourse and understanding.
Challenges in Clinical Social Work: Michon reflected on the challenges of maintaining self-care while working in the demanding field of clinical social work, sharing insights on finding balance and safeguarding personal wellness.
Using Self-Disclosure in Therapy: The discussion covered the use of self-disclosure in therapeutic settings, exploring its potential to build trust and foster deeper connections between therapists and clients.
Creating New Traditions: Michon spoke about the importance of creating new traditions and connections with personal culture, weaving together the past and present to forge a path forward.
Empathy and Setting Boundaries: The conversation also addressed the challenges faced by empaths, including the need for setting boundaries and trusting oneself to protect personal energy and well-being.
Listening to Your Inner Voice: Michon stressed the significance of listening to one's inner voice and trusting personal feelings as guides to making healthier life choices. The Power of Podcasts:
Expressing gratitude for the platform, Michon and Christian discussed how podcasts serve as a valuable source of learning, inspiration, and connection.
Revolutionary Social Work: The episode concluded with a discussion on revolutionary social work, advocating for challenging the status quo and embracing personal growth as a catalyst for broader societal change.
Sunday Feb 11, 2024
Sunday Feb 11, 2024
In the latest episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler had the privilege of engaging in a profound conversation with Ilarion Merculieff, a revered Unangan Elder known for his dedication to advocating for Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship. Despite facing technical challenges, the episode unfolded as a deeply insightful dialogue, shedding light on the transformative power of heart wisdom and the significance of talking circles.
Episode Highlights:
Ilarion Merculieff's Background: Merculieff shared his unique upbringing on St. Paul Island, emphasizing the importance of his traditional Unangan education in shaping his worldview and approach to life.
Heart Wisdom vs. Mind Logic: A central theme of the conversation was the contrast between leading from the heart, as opposed to the mind, with Merculieff advocating for a heart-centered approach to addressing both personal and global challenges.
The Role of Talking Circles: Merculieff highlighted the effectiveness of talking circles in creating a space for empathy, understanding, and consensus-building, pointing to their potential in transforming societal and interpersonal dynamics.
Kinship with Nature: The dialogue touched on the deep connection between humans and the natural world, with Merculieff sharing personal anecdotes that underscored the interconnectedness of all life. T
echnology and Connectivity: Reflecting on the dual nature of technology as both a tool for connection and a potential barrier to deeper interpersonal relationships, the conversation explored the balance needed in leveraging technological advancements.
Listener Engagement: The episode encouraged listeners to reflect on their own relationships with nature and consider how Indigenous wisdom can inform and enrich their understanding of the world.
Despite the episode's abrupt ending due to technical difficulties, the warmth and depth of the conversation left listeners with much to ponder about the importance of heart wisdom, the power of talking circles, and the potential for transformative change when we embrace these ancient practices in our modern lives.
Christian Ace Stettler: Host, The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast
Welcome to the journey of revolutionary storytelling with me, Christian Ace Stettler, your guide and host through The Critical Social Worker Podcast. I am a revolutionary professor of social work at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where I not only teach but continue to learn and expand my understanding of myself and the world.
My academic journey began at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where I completed my bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Currently, I am deepening my commitment to Indigenous knowledge and methodologies as a PhD student in Indigenous Studies. My research is passionately and curiously centered on exploring dialogic talking circles and their potential to foster critical consciousness within the multicultural classroom.
Beyond academia, my life is richly filled with the joys of family, as a dedicated husband and father to three wonderful children. They are my core, reminding me daily of the importance of kinship, love, and responsibility. I am an advocate for maintaining a balanced life; I do my best to live and model a healthy lifestyle. My days are energized by regular exercise, while my downtime is spent with a good book or lost in the beats of reggae and various other music genres that speak to the soul. Although I came into this world in what is known as the state of Utah, my heart lies in Hawaii and Alaska where I feel at home.
I identify deeply with radical, critical, and revolutionary ideologies, all of which fuel my commitment to challenging the status quo and advocating for profound social change. Through The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, I aim to share stories, insights, and dialogues that not only question the world around us but also ignite the spark for transformation within each of us.
Join me in this ongoing conversation, as we together explore the depths of social work, education, justice, and what it means to be truly revolutionary.
Mission Statement:
The Critical Social Worker podcast unfolds unique stories and diverse perspectives to foster critical dialogue, empathy, and understanding for all listeners. Through storytelling grounded in social work values, we aim to change ourselves and the world, one story at a time.
Principles:
- Foster critical dialogue, reflection, and critical consciousness.
- Use storytelling as a form of education.
- Critically challenge the status quo.
- Focus on critical thinking, not partisan politics.
- (Re)define and uphold social work values.
- Encourage empathy and understanding.
- Build community and connection.
- Highlight Indigenous ideas and experiences.
- Facilitate transformative experiences.
- Elevate consciousness.
- Cultivate and nurture kinship.
- Change our world(s).