Laughing Through The Struggles

Don't Keep It From Me...Give It To Me......

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:58:49 GMT

In this episode, hosts Beth and George humorously dissect the complex hiring process within the child welfare system. They cover the transition from traditional routine interviews to post-COVID practices that prioritize quantity over quality. With their combined experience, they reveal frustrations, such as the lack of accountability within state departments and the lengthy, often ineffective, application processes. The hosts discuss personal challenges and the reality of working in child welfare, highlighting the need for genuine passion and commitment. Listeners gain insights into the unpredictable yet rewarding world of supporting families and navigating child welfare's unique intricacies.

The Numbers Don't Lie....

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 22:12:29 GMT

Beth and George offer a candid exploration of child welfare through their podcast, where laughter and serious discourse coexist. They unravel intriguing foster care statistics and gender and racial dynamics, shedding light on the discrepancies between policy and practice. With humor and sincerity, this episode encourages listeners to view social work from a different lens, breaking down complex issues into relatable conversations. This engaging episode stands out for its balance of empathy, wisdom, and humor.

Sources:

fosterlove.com

tableau-public.acf.gov/views/afcrs_dashboard_main_page/mainpage

I'm Ret To Go......

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:23:42 GMT

In this episode, Beth and George dive into the topsy-turvy world of child welfare, sharing experiences that range from heartbreaking to hilarious. They discuss the struggles families face, including those kids labeled 'beyond ready' yet trapped in a system with no available foster care placements. These hosts boldly confront the bureaucratic barriers delaying children's discharge from residential facilities. Through candid discussions, they reveal the harsh realities of a system where kids ready for adoption are marketed in a manner akin to 'shopping', thus shedding light on their plight. Despite the heavy topics, they find humor and kindness in their day-to-day work.

50 Shades Of F'd Up...

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:42:51 GMT

Beth and George navigate the intricate world of child welfare, shedding light on the essence of maintaining wardship post-18. They stress how important '18+ orders' are for young people who may not have the mental ability to make smart choices on their own. Despite the challenges, these orders help to create a bridge to adult services, providing a necessary safety net. The duo employs their signature humor and candidness to convey the unpredictable nature of social work and foster care, ensuring even the most serious topics are sprinkled with laughter and authenticity.

Stipulating To The Stipulation.......

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:03:26 GMT

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George deliver a blend of humor and hard truths from their experiences as social workers in child welfare. As they celebrate Social Worker Appreciation Month, the podcast highlights how societal misperceptions and legal missteps can have devastating effects on families. Through personal anecdotes and industry insights, Beth and George challenge stereotypes, explore ethical dilemmas, and share personal stories, including two unsettling cases where newborns were wrongfully taken from their parents. A must-listen for those in the field, curious listeners, or anyone who loves a good mix of tears and chuckles.

Gear Grinding And Leg Catches

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:00:09 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George tackle the hilarity and headaches of child welfare work. They delve into the chaos of child and family team meetings, with George voicing his frustrations over repetitive policy misunderstandings. Amid light-hearted banter about microphone mishaps and humorous leg catch stories, Beth shares her approach to dealing with procedural challenges. The conversation touches on systemic issues within agencies, the importance of adhering to policies, and the comedic moments that often arise in the unpredictable landscape of social work. Listeners are invited to laugh and learn from these experienced professionals.

New Year New Worker......

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:56:13 GMT

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George explore the intersection of procrastination and productivity in the field of child welfare. They share relatable anecdotes about last-minute delivery under pressure and the constant push and pull between proactive and reactive measures in social work. Through candid conversations and humor, Beth and George offer listeners a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of supporting families, tackling paperwork, and finding balance amidst chaos. Whether you're new to social work or a seasoned professional, this episode provides a hearty mix of insights, laughter, and real-world challenges.

Stressors Coming Down On Me PT.2

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:01:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles', Beth and George delve into the real-life challenges faced by social workers in the child welfare field. Through their candid discussion, they highlight the critical issue of coping mechanisms, from unhealthy addictions to setting effective boundaries. The duo shares harrowing stories, including a co-worker who turned to meth amidst personal turmoil, to underscore the stressors inherent in their roles. Yet, they find time for laughter, reflecting on personal anecdotes, and emphasizing the importance of self-care in managing the emotional toll of their work.

Stressors Coming Down On Me Pt1............

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 17:50:12 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George bring humor to the intense world of child welfare as they discuss their favorite Christmas movies and the unique stressors they face on the job, especially during the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes about managing the constant deadlines and unforeseen challenges that arise, emphasizing the importance of self-care and laughter. This episode is a tribute to a long-time colleague who faced a medical crisis, casting a spotlight on the mental strain social workers endure and the camaraderie that helps them persevere.

I'm Locked Out..They Won't Let Me In.....

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:00:01 GMT

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, Beth and George tackle the complex issue of lockouts in child welfare. They provide insights into how these situations arise, discussing the influence of the foster care crisis and the role of juvenile courts. With a mix of humor and serious discussion, the hosts explore the challenges facing social workers and families, highlighting the nuances between necessary safety measures and parental abdication. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of how lockouts are becoming a more frequent, yet contentious, aspect of child welfare cases.

A.D.V.O.C.A.T.E Find Out What It Means To Me

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:02:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth, George, and their guest Thane Hunt delve into the intricacies of social work and child welfare. Thane shares his journey from being a police officer to an advocate for individuals with disabilities. The hosts discuss how disability services focus on empowering clients by aligning with the independent living philosophy, emphasizing everyone's unique potential. Thane also highlights the significance of understanding success varies from one person to another. Furthermore, the conversation reveals the critical challenges faced in communication, especially where language and disability create barriers. Ultimately, they underline the importance of personalized approaches in fostering positive outcomes.

Lets Play Catch Me Up

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 15:32:14 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George dive into the highs and lows of child welfare work. They discuss the challenges of navigating data dashboards, the evolving standards of care, and the often frustrating world of case management. With humor and honesty, they address the discrepancies in monitoring between DCFS and private agencies and the difficulties faced by caseworkers in achieving measurable success. Meanwhile, George shares his efforts to surprise Beth for her birthday, showcasing the delicate balance between personal and professional life in the field of social work.

The Great Battle Of Poverty Vs. Neglect.......

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 19:48:28 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles,' Beth and George, seasoned social workers, discuss the misconception of equating poverty with child neglect. They share personal anecdotes and highlight the importance of understanding the economic challenges families face. With humor and frankness, they advocate for supportive community approaches over judgmental ones, stressing that the economics of a household should not automatically raise red flags in child welfare investigations. Offering practical advice, they encourage listeners to lend a helping hand discreetly, emphasizing that simple gestures of kindness can significantly impact struggling families.

Father Where Art Thou...........

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:03:01 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George dive into the complexities of father involvement in the child welfare system. They explore systemic biases that favor mothers while marginalizing fathers, despite research indicating positive outcomes from actively involving dads. A heartfelt story highlights a dad's dedicated fight to reclaim his children against legal and familial barriers. The episode emphasizes the need for social workers to challenge stereotypes and engage both parents in the process, advocating for unity and better emotional and social wellbeing for children.

Rate Me 1-4......

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:02:08 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George explore the complex realities and absurdities of child welfare. They discuss the new safe model, the redesign of their work protocol, and the ideal versus actual implementation of policies. Amid amusing anecdotes and serious discussions, they critique issues like the flawed distribution of foster care placements and the restricted access to alternative therapies for youth. Their candid conversation reveals both the frustrations and rewards of their social work, as they seek to bring families' voices into the conversation, despite systemic barriers.

And The Award Goes Too....

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:04:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' hosts Beth and George, two seasoned social workers, discuss the complexities of child welfare. They share anecdotes from their professional experiences, touching on themes of respect and understanding, especially regarding interactions with foster parents. Beth recounts a challenging colleague she once worked with, emphasizing the importance of forming one's own opinions rather than relying on others' biases. Meanwhile, both hosts open up about the stress and anxiety of returning from vacations to daunting email inboxes. The episode blends humor and heartfelt reflections, capturing the unpredictable world of child welfare.

Catch Me Up.....

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Beth and George, both seasoned social workers, dive into the ups and downs of child welfare. They blend personal anecdotes and humor to discuss the challenges of attending school activities as reluctant participants and the humorous side of losing one’s voice. The duo also highlights recent restructuring in their department, focusing on strategy and quality improvement. The episode offers a fresh perspective on child welfare, ensuring listeners experience both the heartfelt and humorous sides of social work, making it accessible to both professionals and those simply curious about the field.

Home Visits

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:37:39 GMT

In this episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George delve into their day-to-day experiences as child welfare social workers. They share stories of home visits, navigating everything from roach encounters to the more severe realities of neglect. The conversation turns serious as George discusses a tragic case involving a two-year-old found unresponsive, contrasting the lighter anecdotes with genuine challenges faced in their field. The duo combines humor with heartfelt storytelling, offering listeners a candid glimpse into the unpredictable world of child welfare, providing both education and entertainment.

Siloed Systems and other Sugar Honey Iced Tea......

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:29:04 GMT

In this episode, Beth and George delve into the challenges of siloed communication within child welfare agencies. They highlight the frustrations of inconsistent policies and procedures, exacerbated by leadership egos. With nearly 30 years of combined experience, the hosts share personal stories and observations, illuminating the systemic issues that hinder effective collaboration. The conversation touches on the difficulties of transitioning young adults into suitable services and the roadblocks presented by current policy frameworks. Despite the weighty topics, Beth and George infuse the discussion with humor, offering an engaging and insightful exploration of social work dynamics.

What in the Scooby Doo?!

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:53:30 GMT

In this podcast episode, hosts Beth and George explore recent headlines about child protection interventions in different states, with a specific focus on Iowa. An Iowa camp, reportedly designed for children's rehabilitation from substance abuse, saw 88 minors taken into protective custody. While media have sensationalized this as a church camp raid, the hosts question the portrayal and stress the importance of understanding the camp's true nature as a rehabilitation facility. They criticize media for clickbait tactics and emphasize the need for evidence in legal interventions, questioning the lack of transparency from authorities amid ongoing investigations.

Georgia Tann We Hardly Knew Ye!!

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:05:00 GMT

In this riveting podcast episode, hosts Beth and George dive into a shocking chapter of social work's past. Uncovering the story of Georgia Tann, a woman who operated under the guise of a social worker in the early 1900s, they explore her notorious role in orchestrating illegal adoptions through the Tennessee Children's Home Society. Beth's genuine outrage and emotional recount of learning about Tann's actions draw listeners into a gripping tale of power abuse and injustice. This episode not only reveals a lesser-known aspect of social work history but serves as a reminder of the field's evolving ethics.

My Height Falls Short, But ABA Doesn't

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 14:03:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing Through the Struggles,' Beth and George are joined by their first guest, Sarah Woods, a board-certified behavior analyst. Sarah discusses her career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), motivated by her personal experiences with autism in her family. The podcast delves into Sarah's advocacy for children and the use of behavior modification techniques beyond just autism care. Together, they explore the intertwined paths of personal experiences and professional life, touching on themes of resilience and transformation amidst challenges. The conversation, sprinkled with humor, provides insights into child welfare and behavioral therapy.

Any Questions for Sarah: sarahwoods@visionsllc.org

Questions and Stories: laughandstruggle@gmail.com

Instagram: lttsbg

Facebook: Laughing Through The Struggles Podcast

A Headbang and Shoestrings

Mon, 26 May 2025 15:32:17 GMT

On Laughing through the Struggles, co-hosts Beth and George bring to light the often overlooked need for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in child welfare. The conversation revolves around systemic issues delaying access to this vital service, which is crucial for children on the autism spectrum. Highlighting Sarah Woods’ expertise in ABA therapy, they discuss potential solutions for integrating such support into care facilities despite bureaucratic red tape. This insightful episode incorporates humor and the hosts’ personal anecdotes, providing a balanced perspective on the urgent need for policy reform in social services.

No Diddy Though!!!!

Mon, 12 May 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth and George discuss the often uncomfortable yet significant aspect of handling inappropriate comments from clients and sometimes even professionals in the social work field. The duo explores various scenarios, sharing personal anecdotes and discussing strategies for maintaining professionalism. They emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and safety, reminding listeners to speak up if they ever feel uncomfortable. Through humor and candid conversation, Beth and George aim to provide both insight and support for social workers navigating these tricky situations.

Self-Care, Take Care

Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:04 GMT

In this episode, hosts Beth and George delve into the intricacies of managing self-care within the demanding field of social work. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries and the common struggle to prioritize personal health. Reflections on generational work habits reveal how societal expectations have shifted over time, influencing work-life balance. The hosts engage in humorous banter, underlining the necessity of laughter as an essential tool for coping with stress. Through personal anecdotes, they demonstrate how self-care isn't just a luxury, but a critical component for sustaining effectiveness in their profession.

I Believe The Children Are The Future

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:24:17 GMT

In this episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles,' Beth and George highlight the importance of including youth in child welfare decisions, particularly concerning case planning and permanency. They discuss the often-overlooked voices of children in care, emphasizing the need to involve them in deciding their futures. The conversation reflects on laws that require youth involvement and the challenges faced in engaging them. Beth and George also debunk adoption fantasies, revealing uncomfortable truths about the system that often resembles 'shopping' for children, and the importance of creating supportive environments for these youth.

This ones for you.....

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 17:13:39 GMT

In the podcast 'Laughing through the Struggles,' social workers Beth and George navigate the turbulent seas of child welfare. The hosts discuss the unpredictable nature of their field, from long work hours and travel distances to handling unexpected events that fall beyond their control. This episode sheds light on how committed social workers manage emotional challenges, emphasizing thoughtful responses and personal boundaries. With authentic storytelling and humor, the hosts invite listeners to understand the pressures they face, focusing on accountability and the essence of being a compassionate worker in a demanding profession.

Depoy Hearings, CANTS, and Light Skinned Pizza

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 18:46:00 GMT

This episode of 'Laughing through the Struggles' explores how child welfare investigations can tangibly affect the lives of those involved. Beth and George dispel myths around employers being automatically informed of DCFS cases, and they navigate the nuances of how personal and professional lives intersect in these situations. By answering listener questions, they uncover the reality of background checks, retention periods, and the emotional weight families carry. While handling serious subject matter, Beth and George maintain their signature mix of empathy and humor, proving that social work is never a one-note field.

Overworked and Undervalued

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Beth and George explore the intricate lives of social workers, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by overwhelming caseloads. With a touch of humor, they talk about their personal experiences in the field and the necessity of building strong relationships with foster parents as a means to manage workload. The conversation sheds light on the complex dynamics of casework, such as the impact of frequent caseworker changes on successful child reunifications. They stress the ongoing struggle to meet the standards set by the BH consent decree, underscoring the critical need for systemic reforms and compassionate engagement in child welfare.

I'm Weak from the Week

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

This episode of Laughing through the Struggles explores the intersection of laughter and the demanding world of child welfare through the experiences of hosts Beth and George. They recount their week dealing with SIP meetings and the complexities of getting children specialized services. The discussion touches on systemic issues, such as regional disparities in service availability, and the inevitable paperwork battles in social work. While tackling serious topics, Beth and George maintain an upbeat tone, sharing the humorous side of these challenges and highlighting their resilience and commitment to supporting children and families.

For all questions: laughandstruggle@gmail.com

There is a meeting for that.......

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode, hosts Beth and George delve into the intricacies of child and family team meetings (CFTMs) and their crucial role in child welfare. They discuss the importance of inviting the right people to the table, including families, natural supports, and formal resources, to ensure comprehensive support for children. The hosts also lament the challenges faced by social workers due to tracking overload and inconsistency in meeting practices. Despite these hurdles, they emphasize the potential of CFTMs to drive case success when implemented correctly, making a case for quality over quantity in social work processes.

You Have The Right To.....

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In a lively discussion, Beth and George explore the intricacies of client rights and the challenges of implementing fair and unbiased social work practices. They navigate the sometimes rocky terrain of personal biases, particularly in sensitive areas such as domestic violence, and underscore the importance of self-awareness in their roles. Through personal anecdotes and humor, they reveal how social workers often juggle professional demands with personal experiences, highlighting the necessity of maintaining professionalism while ensuring client respect and confidentiality are upheld. Any stories email: laughandstruggle@gmail.com

These opinions are our own and not those of an agency or employer. We also do not provide legal advice..

That's not a Barrier...Now This is a Barrier

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In this relatable podcast, hosts Beth and George discuss the difficulties they face in the field of child welfare. They highlight the lack of foster homes, the bureaucracy drowning caseworkers, and the contradictions within policies and procedures as the main barriers. Despite these challenges, they express a sincere commitment to their profession and the difference they make in children's lives.

My First Day! Saving The World!

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Beth and George recount the days of their initiation into the world of child welfare. Amidst the hilarity of simple things, they encounter the harsh realities of the field—stern glares, tough questions, all on their very first day. Despite these challenges, the hosts treasure the rewarding experience of watching struggling families turn their lives around.

email: laughandstruggle@gmail.com

That's an Investigation

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In an episode of Laughing through the Struggles, hosts Beth and George delve into the complexities of child welfare investigations. They shed light on call protocols, investigative search criteria, and the reality of the decision-making process. The duo emphasizes that, contrary to common perception, investigations do not automatically lead to child removal and that there are steps to mitigate safety issues.

Nah! That's snot it

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In today's episode we talk about some myths surrounding DCFS!!! Listen as we debunk some misconceptions people think are true.

email: laughandstruggle@gmail.com

Come and Knock on Our Door

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Hey there! Welcome to the first episode of "Laughing Through the Struggles with Beth and George". Join us as we dive into the world of child welfare and social work, where laughter and learning go hand in hand. This is a passion project we've been dreaming about, and it's finally happening!

We're two social workers—Beth and George—sharing our experiences, debunking myths about our profession, and providing a glimpse into what child welfare really involves. From advocating for families to tackling the misconceptions about our roles, we're here to bring you insights sprinkled with humor and real-life stories.

Whether you're in the field, a parent, or just curious about what we do, there's something for you. We promise not to bore you with the technicalities but instead engage you with genuine conversations that reflect our love and challenges in this journey.

So, come along as we lay it all out, exploring 15 years of being in social work, the ups, the downs, and everything in between. We're excited to connect with you and share this wild ride through laughter, passion, and the occasional WTF moments.

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, we're not for everybody, but if you're here, you're definitely in for a treat!

email: laughandstruggle@gmail.com