The Socially Engaged Podcast

Bordering on Change: Community, Research, and Health Equity with Dr. Eva Moya

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Eva Moya, Chair and Professor of Social Work at the University of Texas at El Paso, to explore her remarkable career spanning more than four decades in border health, community engaged research, and social work education. A native of the U.S.–Mexico border, Dr. Moya shares how her lived experience shaped her commitment to health equity, transnational social work, and participatory research. She discusses how research informs community programs and policy, the importance of partnering with communities, and offers powerful guidance for social workers across micro, mezzo, and macro practice settings.

Thriving, Not Just Surviving: College Success, Mental Health, and the SEW Balance Method with Lepa Modie, MSW, LCSW

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we sit down with Lepa Modie, MSW, LCSW, Founder and CEO of SEW Solutions LLC and author of Well Sh*t Now What: Your Survival Guide for College Success. Lepa shares her journey as a therapist, the development of the SEW Balance Method, and her experience building a successful practice. She also reflects on writing her book, how her MSW education shaped her career, and offers wisdom for social workers, students, and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to thrive, not just survive.

Beyond the Stacks: Social Work, Libraries, and Community Care with Dr. Beth Wahler

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we speak with Dr. Beth Wahler, social worker, researcher, educator, and consultant, about her groundbreaking work helping libraries address complex community and staff challenges through social work informed solutions. Dr. Wahler shares her experience as an academic leader, her international research journey, and why research, needs assessments, and evaluation are essential tools for effective community practice. She also discusses strategies for reducing staff stress and trauma, developing strong library leadership, and encouraging social workers to embrace research and consulting as impactful career paths.

Healing, Justice, and the Journey Within featuring Justin Perry, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we sit down with Justin Perry, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, social worker, therapist, supervisor, speaker, and advocate, to explore his journey through clinical social work, private practice, leadership, and community activism. Justin shares insights from his work supporting clients navigating trauma, addiction, and relational challenges. He discusses what inspired him to start Perry Counseling, Healing, and Recovery, the role social workers play in social justice movements, and the importance of modeling healing and resilience both in and beyond the therapy room. He also offers heartfelt encouragement for students and practitioners pursuing micro, mezzo, or macro social work, and answers the ultimate sports question: Why is Duke vs. UNC the most iconic sports rivalry? This is an episode filled with candor, clarity, and inspiration.

Leading with Purpose: Mental Health Advocacy with Ericka Ellis Stewart

In this episode of The Socially Engaged Podcast, we sit down with Ericka Ellis Stewart, Acting Executive Director of Mental Health America of Central Carolinas. Ericka shares her journey as a mental health advocate and nonprofit leader working to expand access, reduce stigma, and strengthen community based mental health supports across the region. Drawing from her dual perspective as both a practitioner and a graduate student, Ericka discusses her leadership role within a mental health nonprofit, the critical programs and services offered by Mental Health America of Central Carolinas, and how her MSW education is actively shaping her approach to advocacy, administration, and community engaged work. She reflects on the highlights and challenges of nonprofit leadership, the importance of prevention and early intervention, and offers encouragement for social workers and students navigating micro, mezzo, and macro practice. This episode highlights the powerful intersection of education, leadership, and community care, and what it means to lead with purpose in the mental health space.