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
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.
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
In another episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, we had the privilege of diving into the life, work and thoughts of Gabriel Igaugaq Tegoseak, a figure who embodies the spirit of the Arctic through his dedication to environmentalism, activism, and the sustenance of traditional subsistence living. Born and raised in Utqiaġvik (formerly known as Barrow), Alaska, Gabe shared his profound connection to the land, his people's heritage, and the critical role of indigenous knowledge in environmental stewardship.
Through our dialogue, Gabe illuminated the importance of merging traditional Iñupiat values with modern scientific approaches to ensure the longevity and protection of the Arctic's unique ecosystem. His work with notable organizations, including the Alaska Federation of Natives, First Alaskan Institute, and the Siļaliņamiut - Arctic Just Transition Coalition, underscores a life dedicated to advocating for sustainable practices that honor the land and its people.
The episode took us on a journey through Gabe's personal experiences, from the challenges and beauty of living in one of the coldest parts of Alaska to the rich cultural practices that have sustained his community for generations. Gabe's story is a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and empathy, challenging us to critically reflect on our relationship with the environment and the importance of indigenous leadership in the fight against climate change.
As we concluded our conversation, it became clear that Gabe's activism is not just about safeguarding the Arctic but also about inspiring others to recognize the value of tradition, the urgency of environmental protection, and the potential for collective action to enact transformative change.
This episode is an invitation to all of us to engage in critical dialogue, rethink our environmental impact, and support indigenous-led efforts to preserve the natural world for future generations. Join us in reflecting on this powerful episode and consider how we, too, can contribute to a more empathetic, understanding, and sustainable world. Be part of the conversation and the solution. Be revolutionary.
Takeaways
Extreme weather conditions in Alaska can impact daily life and travel.
Indigenous cultures have a deep connection with the natural environment and view it as kin.
Balancing indigenous values with the Western worldview can be challenging but necessary for personal growth and cultural preservation.
Colonization has had a significant impact on indigenous cultures, and it is important to acknowledge and address the resulting challenges.
Moving forward requires education, understanding, and finding harmony between Western and indigenous cultures. Navigating identity and racism can be challenging, especially for individuals who straddle multiple cultures.
Self-affirmation and finding balance between different cultural influences can help in developing a strong sense of identity.
Indigenous traditions and language revival can provide healing and strength during difficult times.
Racial profiling is a reality that many people of color face, and it is important to address and challenge these biases.
Stereotypes and prejudices can create a burden for individuals to prove themselves and break free from societal expectations.
Adapting and rising above racism requires patience, resilience, and a commitment to being the bigger person. Creating openness and changing the environment can be achieved through emotions and how we treat ourselves and others.
Helping children stay connected with nature and the natural rhythms of life is important for their mental health and well-being. Gabe Tegoseak is recognized as a revolutionary social worker who challenges the status quo and works towards a more just world.
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Friday Feb 02, 2024
In a new episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, our host Christian Ace Stettler welcomes Dr. Lesther Papa, an assistant professor of psychology at San José State University. Their conversation traverses Dr. Papa's multicultural background, his journey through academia, and his commitment to addressing microaggressions and fostering multicultural healing.
Microaggressions and Multicultural Insights: Dr. Papa takes us into the nuanced world of microaggressions, explaining their impact on marginalized communities. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, he underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing these subtle forms of discrimination. Dr. Papa emphasizes the role of storytelling in building empathy and understanding across diverse groups.
A Personal Journey to Psychology: From his roots in Kauai and experiences as the child of Filipino immigrants, Dr. Papa shares his path to psychology. His story highlights the challenges and triumphs he encountered, reflecting on the importance of education instilled by his parents and the pivotal moments that guided him toward his passion for psychology and mental health counseling.
Educational Aspirations and Professional Pathways: The conversation also touches on Dr. Papa's academic journey, from overcoming obstacles in higher education to pursuing his PhD. He discusses the significance of research, mentorship, and hands-on experience in shaping his career, offering advice to listeners on navigating their educational and professional endeavors.
Fostering Empathy and Connection: Dr. Papa's teaching philosophy and his approach to connecting with students are explored, showcasing his commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. He shares strategies for engaging students and encouraging them to embrace their identities and experiences as strengths.
Reflections on Identity, Culture, and Social Work: Christian and Lesther reflect on the broader implications of their discussion for social work and multicultural understanding. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging and valuing individual differences while working towards collective solidarity and support.
Honoring Memories and Moving Forward: The episode concludes with a tribute to shared experiences and the individuals who have influenced their journeys. Lesther and Christian highlight the importance of carrying forward the lessons learned and the memories cherished, as they continue to advocate for change and understanding in their respective fields.
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Friday Feb 02, 2024
Episode 39 of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast: Healing Dialogues | Perspectives on Social Work and Healing with Shara Ruffin, LCSW
In this episode, host Christian Ace Stettler welcomed Shara Ruffin, LCSW, to share her insights into the realms of grief, personality disorders, anxiety, family trauma, and much more. Recorded live on Saturday, January 20th 2024, the episode went deep into critical dialogues about the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and storytelling in the field of social work.
Key Highlights:
Resilience and Adaptation: Despite technical difficulties at the start, the conversation flourished, illustrating the resilience and adaptability inherent in podcasting and, more broadly, in the practice of social work.
Expertise and Experience: Shara, with her rich background in clinical social work and psychotherapy, discussed her specializations, including compassion fatigue, military counseling, mindfulness meditation, ADHD, anxiety, and her role as a Board Certified Tele-mental Health Provider.
The Power of Storytelling: The episode emphasized the importance of storytelling, not only as a therapeutic tool but also as a means of fostering a deeper understanding of complex social and psychological issues.
Audience Engagement: Highlighting the interactive nature of the podcast, the audience actively participated through the chat box and call-ins, contributing to the dialogue and sharing personal experiences and questions.
Overcoming Challenges: Shara shared her personal journey, including the challenges she faced with ADHD and the strategies she employed to overcome them, offering hope and practical advice to listeners who might be facing similar struggles.
Professional Growth: The conversation touched upon the importance of good supervision in social work, the role of mentorship, and the need for cultural competence and self-awareness among practitioners.
Community and Empathy: The episode underscored the significance of building community, fostering connections, and cultivating empathy towards oneself and others, echoing the podcast's mission to change the world one story at a time.
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Episode 38: Empowerment as Practice | Marya Wright’s Vision for Social Work
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
In an insightful episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler engaged in a meaningful dialogue with Marya Wright, a clinical social worker and educator known for her revolutionary approach to child welfare and systemic reform. The discussion focused on the need for trust, understanding, and comprehensive change within the child welfare system, emphasizing the importance of empowering system-impacted families and addressing implicit biases.
Key Takeaways:
Building Trust in Child Welfare: The conversation underscored the deep-seated lack of trust that the black community holds towards the child welfare system, spotlighting the necessity for systemic change and a more empathetic, culturally informed approach to rebuilding this trust.
Addressing Implicit Bias: Marya and Christian discussed how implicit bias significantly affects decision-making in child welfare, leading to disparities that impact children and families. They highlighted the urgent need for awareness and corrective measures within the system.
Revolutionary Approach to Social Work: Marya shared her perspective on what it means to be a revolutionary social worker, advocating for relentless change and challenging the status quo in child welfare. Her approach involves empowering clients through knowledge, honesty, and mutual respect.
Culture and Community in Social Work: The importance of understanding and respecting various cultures and backgrounds in building a supportive community was a central theme. Marya emphasized the value of togetherness and cultural competence in effective social work practice.
Empowering System-Impacted Families: The episode highlighted Marya's commitment to empowering families affected by the child welfare system. She shared insights on collaboration, autonomy, choice, and navigating conflicts, all while maintaining honesty and striving for real, lasting change.
This episode provided listeners with a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in child welfare, seen through the lens of a professional deeply committed to making a difference. Marya Wright's experiences and insights offer valuable lessons and inspiration for all seeking to make a positive impact in social work and beyond.
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Episode 37: Bridging Activism and Therapy | A Dialogue with Vikki Reynolds
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
In an engaging episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler and student co-host Doris welcomed Vikki Reynolds for a deep dive into the interplay between activism and therapy. This conversation provided insightful reflections on how therapists and activists can work together towards social justice and understanding.
Key Takeaways:
Solidarity Ethics in Therapy: The discussion emphasized the importance of integrating solidarity ethics into therapy, creating a space that is inclusive and empowering while acknowledging the unique struggles of marginalized groups.
Political Violence and Torture: Vikki highlighted the critical role of therapists and activists in addressing political violence and torture, advocating for therapy as a form of political witnessing and a means to heal from and resist such traumas.
Enraged Grief and Right to Anger: The conversation explored the concepts of enraged grief and the legitimate right to anger in the face of systemic oppression, emphasizing the need for therapeutic practices to validate and channel these emotions constructively.
Addressing Racism and Bias: The need for ongoing education on oppression, bias, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in therapy and activism was a focal point, particularly in dismantling stereotypes and combating racism within social work.
Israel-Palestine and Indigenous Issues: The episode featured a nuanced discussion on complex international issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict and the broader theme of indigenous rights and territories, underscoring the importance of understanding and actively engaging in these areas as part of ethical dialogue and activism.
Sunday Dec 10, 2023
Sunday Dec 10, 2023
In a deeply insightful episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler had a profound conversation with Linda Thai, delving into themes of darkness and light, trauma, healing, and connection. Recorded on Wednesday, November 22nd, in the heart of an Alaskan winter, this episode illuminated various facets of human experience, resilience, and growth.
Key Takeaways:
Ebracing the Dark Night of the Soul: Linda Thai shared her thoughts on facing life's challenging phases, often termed as 'the dark night of the soul,' and the transformative lessons they bring. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and navigating through these periods for personal growth and healing.
Connecting with Wildlife and Our Inner Animalism: The conversation explored our deep connection with nature and wildlife, underlining how embracing our inherent 'animalism' can lead to a more integrated and authentic self.
Finding Comfort in Alaska's Environment: Linda discussed the unique experience of living in Alaska, focusing on adapting to and finding comfort in its extreme climate and landscape, and how this influences one's sense of self and place.
A Relational Approach to Education and Social Work: Linda's perspective on integrating relational approaches in education and social work highlighted the importance of building secure, empathetic connections for effective teaching and healing practices.
Trauma and its Somatic Impact: The conversation delved into how trauma manifests in the body and affects our behavior and relationships. Linda's expertise in the somatics of trauma offered insights into developing healthy aggression, boundaries, and addressing annihilation energy.
Reconnecting with Ancestry and Stories: The significance of ancestral connections and the power of stories in understanding our past and shaping our present and future was a key part of the dialogue.
Gratitude and the Spirit of Thanksgiving: The episode concluded with a focus on gratitude, its role in healing, and the significance of embracing the present moment.
Christian reflected on the recent correspondence he received regarding his discussions on Israel/Palestine, expressing appreciation for the respectful and engaging conversations. He emphasized his commitment to continuing these discussions for broader understanding.
As the coldest day of the year at -20 degrees set the backdrop for this episode, the warmth of the conversation with Linda Thai offered listeners a sense of comfort, understanding, and inspiration. This episode is available for listening on various podcast platforms, inviting listeners to join in this journey of embracing life's challenges and finding strength in the dark and light moments alike.
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
Episode 35: Revolutionizing Social Work | A Reasoning Session with Causha
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
In a compelling episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler and guest Causha delved into profound discussions about grief and healing in social work, the situation in Palestine, and transformative approaches in social justice. The episode, recorded on Sunday, November 19th, 2023, offered listeners a blend of personal insights, professional expertise, and deep reflections on critical social issues.
Key Takeaways:
Grief and Healing in Social Work: The episode opened with an exploration of the integral role of grief in social work. Causha shared profound insights on the necessity of acknowledging and processing grief, not only for social workers but also in the lives of those they serve. The discussion highlighted grief as both a personal and collective journey, significantly impacting the practice and ethos of social work.
The Palestine Situation: Stettler and Causha tackled the complex and sensitive issue of the ongoing conflict in Palestine. The conversation covered the social, political, and humanitarian facets of the crisis, reflecting on how these grave circumstances intersect with the core values and ethics of social work.
Revolutionizing Social Work Practices: Causha spoke passionately about innovative approaches to social work, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being and equitable resource access. They argued for an evolution in social work practice to better address the diverse and changing needs of communities.
Personal Journey Towards Balance: The dialogue also ventured into Causha's personal journey, focusing on their commitment to health, well-being, and a deep-rooted connection with nature and community. This personal narrative shed light on how individual experiences can profoundly influence professional practices in social work and activism.
Embracing Diverse Perspectives: A significant aspect of the episode was the emphasis on incorporating a wide range of voices and experiences in social work. Causha's unique approach, grounded in social justice and healing-centered methods, provided an enlightening perspective on the necessity of inclusive and empathetic practices in the field.
This episode of "The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast" was not just informative but also emotionally resonant, offering listeners a multifaceted understanding of current social work challenges, the impact of grief, and the importance of innovative thinking in the profession.
Listeners can access this and other episodes on various podcast platforms and stay connected with the series by following UAF Social Work on Facebook and @aconsciousparty on Instagram. The podcast continues to be a platform for deep understanding, empathy, and revolutionary change in the field of social work.
Saturday Nov 25, 2023
Episode 34 Stories of Revolution: Unveiling the Struggle with Haki Kweli Shakur
Saturday Nov 25, 2023
Saturday Nov 25, 2023
Title: Episode 34 Stories of Revolution: Unveiling the Struggle with Haki Kweli Shakur
Recorded on: Wednesday, November 15th, 2023, at 10 am Alaska Time
Host: Christian Ace Stettler, with student co-host David Shelton
In this profound and extended episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler and co-host David Shelton engaged in an in-depth conversation with Haki Kweli Shakur. This episode proved to be a deep dive into topics of revolutionary import, covering areas from the ongoing genocide in Gaza to the systemic issue of anti-Blackness within social work.
Episode Highlights:
Genocide in Gaza: The episode took a deep and critical look at the current situation in Gaza, exploring the complexities and human impact of the ongoing conflict. Haki's perspective provided a unique lens through which to understand the broader implications of this geopolitical crisis.
Anti-Blackness in Social Work: A critical discussion unfolded about the prevalence of anti-Blackness within the field of social work. The dialogue touched on how systemic racism shapes social work practices and the urgent need for transformative change in the profession.
Political Prisoners: The conversation shifted to a heartfelt discussion on the lives and struggles of several political prisoners. Special focus was given to Dr. Mutulu Shakur, Assata Shakur, Delbert Africa, and the MOVE 9, as well as Leonard Peltier and H. Rap Brown (also known as Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin). Their stories illuminated the broader issues of racial injustice and the criminal justice system.
Other Revolutionary Topics: The episode didn’t shy away from exploring various other revolutionary subjects, providing a comprehensive overview of struggles and resistances in different contexts.
The episode was not only the longest in the series but also one of the most intense and enlightening. The depth of the conversation and the range of topics covered provided listeners with a comprehensive understanding of current revolutionary movements and the critical issues at their cores.
As always, the goal of The Critical Social Worker podcast is to foster critical dialogue, empathy, and understanding. This episode with Haki Kweli Shakur undoubtedly pushed the boundaries of these objectives, offering listeners a transformative experience and deeper insights into revolutionary struggles and resistance.
Listeners can catch this episode and others on their favorite podcast platforms and stay engaged with the ongoing conversation by following the UAF Social Work page on Facebook and @aconsciousparty on Instagram. Join us in this journey of understanding and change, one story at a time.
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Episode 33 Recap: Revolutionizing Child Protection with Dr. Ian Hyslop
On Thursday, November 9th, 2023, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the complex world of child protection policy and practice with Dr. Ian Hyslop. Hosted by Christian Ace Stettler, professor of social work at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, this episode of The Critical Social Worker podcast offered a profound exploration of the intersections between social work, policy, and structural social inequalities.
Key Takeaways:
Dissecting Structural Inequalities: Dr. Hyslop provided expert insights into the intricate relationship between social work and societal disparities, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of these dynamics.
Progressive Practice in Policy: Drawing from his rich background in law and social work, Dr. Hyslop shared his perspectives on fostering progressive policies within liberal capitalist states, offering a roadmap for impactful change.
Child Protection Reform: Through a lively discussion, we explored Dr. Hyslop's passionate work in reforming child protection policy and practice. His insights, particularly from his recent book, shed light on the necessity for holistic and transformative approaches in this field.
Lessons from Aotearoa New Zealand: We delved into the unique political history of child protection in New Zealand, with Dr. Hyslop highlighting the lessons it offers for global reform efforts and the importance of contextualizing these issues within local cultures and histories.
About Dr. Ian Hyslop: As a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland, Dr. Hyslop's lifetime commitment to understanding and addressing the political dimensions of social work, coupled with his extensive experience in statutory social work and academic research, provided a profound depth to our discussion.
Final Thoughts: It was an absolute pleasure speaking with Dr. Hyslop. His insights not only illuminated the intricacies of child protection systems but also inspired our listeners to think critically about the role of social work in addressing structural inequalities and advocating for meaningful policy changes.
🔗 If you missed the live session, don't worry! Catch the recorded episode on your favorite podcast platforms. Stay connected with The Critical Social Worker podcast by following the UAF Social Work page on Facebook and @aconsciousparty on Instagram. Join us as we continue to explore and discuss the significant topics that shape the fabric of social work and policy development.
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).