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The Melanated Social Work Podcast

Melanated Social Work·Hosted by Josh McNeil, Marvin Toliver, Michael Grinnell and Jesse Wiltey·51 episodes

EducationSelf ImprovementHealthFitnessMentalSocietyCultureFour-host conversationsBIPOC mental healthSocial workTherapy and liberationGuest interviewsCompleted series

The Melanated Social Work Podcast is hosted by four men of color within the field of social work; Josh McNeil, Marvin Toliver, Michael Grinnell, and Jesse Wiltey. Join us as we discuss social work, mental health, politics, music, liberation and many other topics.

Why listen

The Melanated Social Work Podcast brings four men of color in social work, Josh McNeil, Marvin Toliver, Michael Grinnell, and Jesse Wiltey, into honest conversations about therapy, liberation, politics, music, and community care. It mixes host roundtables with interviews featuring therapists, activists, educators, artists, and culture workers, so listeners get both professional insight and lived experience. It is especially strong for people who want mental health conversations grounded in Black, Indigenous, and people of color perspectives.

Episodes

1 hr 18 min
Sep 5, 2022Episode 5
End of the Road

This is the very last episode of the Melanated Social Work Podcast! Tap in to hear about our experience doing therapy together, coming to the decision to move on from Melanated Social Work, and what's next for each of us.

57 min
Aug 8, 2022Episode 4
with Bilal Baig: Sort Of

On this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of interviewing the phenomenal Bilal Baig. Tap in to here about their series Sort Of on HBO, how the show came to be, and their upcoming projects.

51 min
Feb 14, 2022Episode 3
with Lama Rod Owens: Love and Rage

On this episode of the Melanated Social Work Podcast, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with Lama Rod Owens. Tap in to hear about his healing journey through meditation, finding a community through meditation, and how he has utilized meditation to process anger.

1 hr 8 min
Jan 24, 2022Episode 2
with Monique Castro: Indigenous Circle of Wellness

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with Monique Castro, the founder and therapist at the Indigenous Circle of Wellness (ICW). Tap in to hear about how ICW came to fruition in response to the need of the community to have healing spaces centered on indigenous practices.

1 hr 14 min
Jan 11, 2022Episode 1
with Reggie Walker: The Real with Reggie

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the pleasure to connect with Reggie Walker (former NFL player, mental health and sexual assault survivor advocate, and author), to discuss his experience navigating the NFL, his healing journey, and his book The Game Within the Game.

52 min
Oct 18, 2021Episode 18
with Ruth J. Beard: NABSW

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work get to connect with Ruth J. Beard, a founding member of the NABSW.

1 hr 12 min
1 hr 2 min
Sep 6, 2021Episode 16
Colorism Part 1

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social begin to breakdown colorism as part of multiple episode series. They discuss their early experiences with colorism, how this has impacted their own identities, and the apprehension for men to explore colorism.

1 hr 22 min
Aug 16, 2021Episode 15
with Dr. Jennifer Mullan: Decolonizing Therapy

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work, had the honor of connecting with Dr. Jennifer Mullan. Tap in to hear about her journey into the work, how she started the Decolonizing Therapy IG page, as well as hear about her dope offerings.

1 hr 16 min
Aug 2, 2021Episode 14
Minoritea Report

On this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of hosting the amazing Aunteas of the Minoritea Report Podcast. Tap in to find out about their podcast and enjoy the vibe. Make sure to check out their podcast too! We're featured on their episode dropping 8/2/21.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minoritea-report/id1458662102Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FCmGoy0Noc9Qk6fnvQaL3

1 hr 10 min
Jul 19, 2021Episode 13
with adrienne maree brown: Emergent Strategy

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of speaking with renowned author adrienne mare brown. Tap in to her about how the work of Emergent Strategy relates back to our work as social workers and healers.

1 hr 8 min
May 17, 2021Episode 12
with Sonya Renee Taylor: The Body is Not an Apology

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with international award winning poet, author, activist, and radical thought leader, Sonya Renee Taylor. Tap in to hear about her book, The Body is Not an Apology, what does it mean to cultivate radical self love, and how it connects to healing work and therapy. recorded on 4/15/21

1 hr 20 min
May 3, 2021Episode 11
with Ericka Hart: We Hart Ericka

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with sex educator, activist, and writer, Ericka Hart. Tap in to hear about her experience as a sex educator, hear about a recent incident involving the Columbia School of Social Work, and a discussion about changing the system of higher education.recorded on 4/1/21

1 hr 24 min
Apr 19, 2021Episode 10
with Brittani Williams: Hip Hop Therapy

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of connecting with Brittani Williams, LCSW, therapist, emcee,  and educator. Listen to hear about her journey into social work, how she's brought hip hop into her therapy practice, and the process of starting her own private practice.

57 min
Apr 5, 2021Episode 9
with Dr. Tanya Sharpe: Social Work Views from the 6

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with Dr. Tanya Sharpe, the founder and director of The Centre for Research and Innovation for Black Survivors of Homicide Victims (The CRIB). Listen to hear about her journey into social work, what brought her to Canada, and the groundbreaking work that she is doing with The CRIB.

1 hr 3 min
Mar 31, 2021Episode 8
The Caucasity of Social Work Pt. 2

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work continue to discuss a recent incident of white supremacist microaggressions. If you haven't done so already, please listen to Part 1 of this conversation.

1 hr 9 min
Mar 19, 2021Episode 7
The Caucasity of Social Work Pt. 1

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work reflect on their experience over the last year providing consultation and facilitation, and discuss a recent incident of white supremacist microaggressions. Stay tuned for the Part 2 follow up!

1 hr 19 min
Mar 15, 2021Episode 6
with Khalida Sethi & Sonalee Rashatwar: Radical Therapy

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of connecting with Khalida Sethi and Sonalee Rashatwar of the Radical Therapy Center in Philadelphia, PA. Hear about their journey in the field, how the Radical Therapy Center was founded, and explore what is politicized therapy.

55 min
Mar 1, 2021Episode 5
The Joi of Social Work

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work connect with Joi Britt and hear about her experience growing up in New York and being "regular Black", her renowned podcast The Joi of Social Work, and her process of developing her private practice.

56 min
Feb 15, 2021Episode 4
with Dr. Jean Latting: Leading Consciously

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work had the privilege of connecting with social work pioneer, Dr. Jean Latting. We got to hear about her journey into social work, her experiences as a Black professor, and what it means to lead consciously.

1 hr 37 min
Feb 1, 2021Episode 3
with Stic: Revolutionary But Gangsta

On this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the privilege of choppin it up with Stic of the legendary hip hop duo Dead Prez. Stic discussed his journey growing up, the influences that brought him toward his healing path, and his new upcoming fit hop film A Beautiful Run.Follow Stic on IG: @sticSupport RBG Fit Club: https://rbgfitclub.com/RBG Fit Club Podcast: https://rbgfitclub.com/pages/rbg-fitclub-podcast

1 hr 13 min
Jan 18, 2021Episode 2
Fuck 45

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work process the fuckery that occurred at the nation's capital on Jan 6th. The caucasity...

1 hr 9 min
Jan 15, 2021Episode 1
with Julio Rivera: Touchdown Julio

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work interview the CEO and Founder of the Liberate app. Tap in to hear about his experience within the tech industry, how he came to develop the liberate app, and the importance of developing spaces centered on Black healing.Download Liberate for iOS and android

50 min
Dec 31, 2020Episode 19
2020 Wrap-up Part 2

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work share some of their reflections from 2020. This is part 2 of 2 parts.

55 min
Dec 31, 2020Episode 18
2020 Wrap-up Part 1

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work share some of their reflections from 2020. This is part 1 of 2 parts.

1 hr 1 min
Dec 21, 2020Episode 17
Let's Play On with Xavier de Guzman

On this episode of podcast, the folks of Melanated Social Work tap in with Xavi de Guzman, actor and star of the ABC series Take Two and the CW series The 100.  We discussed his upbringing in Canada, his experience within the industry as a Filipino, and his foundation, the Play On Foundation, which is dedicated to neurological research and brain aneurism prevention.https://www.letsplayon.org/

1 hr 11 min
Dec 7, 2020Episode 16
Mic Check-in with Melody Thornton

In this episode of the podcast, the folks of Melanated Social Work interview grammy nominated vocalist Melody Thorton (formerly of The Pussycat Dolls). We discussed some of her experiences of colorism within the music industry, her journey toward healing, and her most recent project, Lioness Eyes.

1 hr 23 min
Oct 19, 2020Episode 15
Talkin' with Tish Guerin

In this episode of The Melanated Social Work Podcast, we have the honor of interviewing Tish Guerin, MSW, LCSW, LISW, BC-TMH.  Hear about her journey building her private practice, becoming the first full time in-house team clinician for the NFL, and her thoughts about the NASW. Make sure to check out her instagram page and website!IG: @therealdopetherapistwebsite: https://www.therealdopetherapist.com/

54 min
Sep 28, 2020Episode 14
with Michaela Hatton: Doin the Real Social Work

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work sit down with Michaela Hatton, BSW (IG: @michaelahatton) and hear about her experience being arrested on June 14, 2020 while making some good trouble in Richmond, VA. Please make sure to donate directly to Michaela to support the work that she is doing.Cash App: $michaela1998Venmo: @michaelahatton

1 hr 32 min
Sep 7, 2020Episode 13
Choppin it up with the NASW

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work sit down with Mit Joyner, President of the NASW, and Dawn Hobdy, Vice President of Ethics, Diversity and Inclusion at the NASW. We discuss the current priorities of the NASW, how they are hoping to address anti-blackness within the field, and whether or not folks should become members.

1 hr 19 min
Aug 24, 2020Episode 12
Reimagining with Rachel Cargle

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of sitting down to chat with Rachel Cargle. Check out the episode to hear about her experience as a public academic, her perspective on anti-racism work within social work, and how declaring her highest values has cultivated her self-care.

48 min
Aug 12, 2020Episode 11
with Kim Young: Dope and Black Social Work Things

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of being joined by Kim Young, MSW, LCSW (IG: @dopeblack_socialworker). We discuss her path toward becoming an LCSW, being a revolutionary before a therapist, and why she was recently blocked on Instagram by the NASW. Make sure to check out her website: www.dopeblacksocialworker.com

1 hr 30 min
Jul 21, 2020Episode 10
with Tigist Kebede: Melanated Melbourne

On this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of being joined by Tigist Kebede (IG: @thecolouredtherapist) of Melbourne, Australia. We explored the experience of anti-blackness in Australia and how this connects back to the Movement for Black Lives in the US. In addition, we discussed Australia's response to COVID-19 and the racial disparities in their response. Please make sure that you donate to support Tigist and the work she's doing! (Paypal: www.paypal.me/thecolouredtherapist)

1 hr 33 min
Jul 13, 2020Episode 9
White Supremacy at Work Pt. 2

By request, this episode is a follow up to "Episode 2: Microaggressions and White Supremacy at Work". In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss how white supremacy is coming up in the workplace and explore what is anti-racist social work.

1 hr 21 min
Jun 30, 2020Episode 8
Q&A with Recent MSW Grads

On June 25th, 2020, the folks of Melanated Social Work hosted a live Q&A for the class of 2020 MSW graduates. This episode is portions of the live recording.

58 min
Jun 1, 2020Episode 7
Justice for George Floyd

The folks of Melanated Social Work process their thoughts and feelings together about the the recent murder of George Floyd and outpouring of community response.

1 hr 17 min
May 11, 2020Episode 6
Relationships & COVID-19

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work respond to your questions about relationships and discuss how to maintain a healthy relationship during shelter in place.

56 min
Apr 20, 2020Episode 5
Real Talk with Feminista Jones

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work have the honor of interviewing the phenomenal activist, author, journalist, and podcast host (the list of accolades goes on and on), Feminista Jones! Tap in to hear her thoughts on "white people whisperers", experiences within the non-profit industrial complex, and discuss her book Reclaiming Our Space: How Black Feminists Are Changing the World from the Tweets to the Streets.

40 min
Apr 7, 2020Episode 4
with Soco Rey: Therapy that's Chill AF

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work interview Soco Rey of Soco Rey Therapy in Inglewood, CA. Hear about her journey of becoming a therapist, starting and running her own practice, and why Soco Rey Therapy is chill AF.

1 hr 13 min
Mar 24, 2020Episode 3
Physical Distancing & Social Solidarity

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss the impact of COVID-19, how they're coping during this difficult time, and answer a question from a listener. (Note: This episode was recorded on March 19th, 2020)

1 hr 7 min
Mar 2, 2020Episode 2
Toxic Masculinity Part 2

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work revisit the conversation about the passing of Kobe Bryant, discuss toxic masculinity and the documentary about the life of Aaron Hernandez, and answer a question from the listeners. Also, stay on the look out for more announcements about our Live Podcast in Philadelphia happening in April!

1 hr 2 min
Feb 3, 2020Episode 1
Toxic Masculinity Part 1

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss the recent passing of Kobe Bryant, break down masculinity and toxic masculinity, and answer a question from the listeners. Stay on the look out for the Part 2 of this episode where we continue to discuss toxic masculinity and the recent documentary about the life of Aaron Hernandez.

53 min
Dec 30, 2019Episode 9
2019 Wrap Up

2019 is almost a wrap! In this episode the folks of Melanated Social Work chop it up about some of the biggest events of 2019, their favorite movies and albums of the year, and their reflections on the year as a whole.

1 hr 9 min
Nov 25, 2019Episode 8
Boundaries & Good Practice?

In episode 8, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss navigating boundaries within therapy, running into clients within the community, and the therapeutic use of disclosure. (We also answer a listener question at the end of the episode!)

50 min
Oct 27, 2019Episode 7
with Sonalee Rashatwar: Fatphobia, Colonialism & White Supremacy

In this episode, we had the honor of interviewing the amazing Sonalee Rashatwar! She offered up education on fatphobia, described how she combats fatphobia as a clinician and radical educator, and helped break down how fatphobia is linked to colonialism and white supremacy. Also, make sure to check out her Instagram account, @thefatsextherapist.

55 min
Sep 23, 2019Episode 6
You Got Questions? We Got Answers

Listeners' choice! By popular demand, the folks of Melanated Social Work explore some of the questions that you've sent in. In this episode, hear tips for finding a good therapist, approaches for networking within the mental health field, the first CDs we ever bought (yes you read right - we use to buy our music on CDs), and many other topics.

53 min
Aug 23, 2019Episode 5
Mass Shootings and Mental Health

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss the impact of the numerous recent mass shootings and how we are processing these difficult times.

47 min
Aug 1, 2019Episode 4
Gentrification, Masculinity, and The Last Black Man in SF

In this episode, the fellows of Melanated Social Work discuss their reception of the film The Last Black Man in San Francisco and explore the mental health impacts of gentrification, and the connection between community, identity and masculinity.

47 min
Jun 24, 2019Episode 3
Therapists Talk Therapy

In this episode of the Melanated Social Work Podcast, Josh, Michael, Marvin, and Jesse discuss their perspectives on therapists participating in therapy. They also break down some of the stigma associated with receiving mental health services and how we can work to dismantle this.

32 min
May 17, 2019Episode 2
Microaggressions and White Supremacy at Work

In this episode, the folks of Melanated Social Work discuss experiences of microaggressions and white supremacy at work, as well as, how they've taken care of themselves and each other in the process.