📅 Release Date: November 18th, 2024 🎧 Hosts: Professor Christian Ace Stettler 🎙️ Guests: G Ford and Mark Shimkus In this live-recorded episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, host Christian Ace Stettler dives into a thought-provoking conversation with veterans and social workers G Ford and Mark Shimkus. Both former students of Christian’s, G and Mark share how their military service shapes their approach to social work, the challenges they’ve faced in transitioning from service to civilian life, and the critical importance of inclusivity in the profession amidst a polarized political landscape. Together, they reflect on the journey to becoming Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), the transformative power of talking circles in fostering critical consciousness, and the need to decolonize education to promote anti-racism and personal growth. The conversation also highlights the role of respect—within the military, civilian life, and social work practice—and how it can bridge divides and strengthen communities. About the Guests: G Ford: A Marine veteran with an MSW from Hawaii Pacific University, G works in dialysis social work and is completing his LCSW supervision. His journey to social work included roles as a mobilization officer focused on suicide prevention and family support, and as a leader who helped design morale programs that boosted efficiency and well-being for soldiers. Mark Shimkus: With an extensive background in the Army, including creating morale and welfare programs, Mark is now pursuing a specialty in military and trauma-focused social work at the University of Kentucky. His experience in community outreach and service with tribal communities and the Office of Child Services reflects his deep commitment to advocacy and support. Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV-tPqlRqpXDWuI-NOOtbNeitLPYkGIQ8 Revolutionary Shorts Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLV-tPqlRqpXAGPDy0ZKBrdSKYPKMEztPa Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@RevolutionarySocialWork/sub_confirmation=1 Timestamps: 00:00 Theme Song and Introduction 00:35 Guest Introductions 05:38 The Journey to LCSW: Challenges and Insights 10:32 The Importance of Understanding the Exam Process 15:34 Balancing Education and Personal Life in Social Work 20:41 The Role of Talking Circles in Social Work Education 27:45 Decolonizing Education and Anti-Racism Practices 29:08 Transformative Education and Anti-Racism 31:57 Military Culture and Integration 36:33 Navigating Social Work and Military Experience 37:31 Mental Health in the Military 54:02 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 01:02:46 Valuable Lessons from Military Experience 01:09:22 The Value of Respect in Social Work 01:13:41 Navigating Political Divides in Social Work 01:20:24 The Role of Social Workers in a Divided Society 01:35:52 Military Influence on Social Work Careers Questions for Dialogue and Reflection: How can social work promote inclusivity across political divides? What lessons can military service bring to social work practice? How can talking circles support transformative education? #SocialWork #LCSW #Veterans #TalkingCircles #MentalHealth #MilitaryCulture #AntiRacism #Inclusivity #Respect #CriticalConsciousness © A Conscious Party