• 15 minutes 15 seconds
    Bringing Yourself: Use of Self in Social Work Practice - Solo Drop

    I've been away from this space longer than planned. 

    Life and loss asked something of me that I needed to honour first.

    I'm back. And the episode I'm returning with feels right.

    This is a solo episode. Personal. Reflective. And I hope, useful.

    I talk about a period in my career when I became the kind of manager I wouldn't have wanted for myself, not because I didn't care, but because nobody had given me the tools to lead differently.

    I talk about what use of self actually means in practice, not as theory, but as lived experience.

    I talk about why this concept is not neutral. For Black practitioners and leaders, bringing yourself has always carried a different weight.

    And I talk about what organisations must create, not as a luxury, but as a condition for people to do this Work sustainably.

    The Work is relational. Leadership is relational. And it begins with you.


    20 May 2026, 6:00 pm
  • 38 minutes 29 seconds
    Lifting as You Climb - Odeth Richardson

    Lifting as you climb: a conversation with Odeth Richardson


    Head of Service for Occupational Therapy, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust & Chair, Royal College of Occupational Therapists

    What does it look like to lead with purpose, replenish yourself honestly, and commit to leaving a profession better than you found it? In this episode of Social Workers Matter, Sylvia sits down with the remarkable Odeth Richardson, a trailblazing occupational therapist, published poet, and senior leader, for a conversation that is as warm and wise as it is professionally rich.

    From her childhood in Jamaica, where staying occupied with chores and daily activities was simply a way of life, to becoming the first Black Chair of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Odeth's journey is one of accidental leadership, intentional mentorship, and hard-won self-knowledge.

    IN THIS EPISODE

    What occupational therapy actually is, and why it's one of the most powerful tools for reducing inequality.

    The mentor who changed everything, and how Odeth now pays that forward.

    Stepping down to step up, the courageous decision to prioritise self-care over duty.

    Leading 36,000 occupational therapists across four nations, and doing it as a proud introvert.

    Poetry, baking, dancing — how Odeth truly replenishes herself

    The book, celebrating 'Caribbean perspectives in occupational therapy', has been three years in the making

    A live reading of Odeth's poem Like a Phoenix, inspired by Maya Angelou

    One of the most moving moments in this episode comes when Odeth reflects on stepping down as Chair of the Race Equality Staff Network after a decade of service. It wasn't failure, it was wisdom. She recognised that an empty cup cannot nourish others, and that the self-compassion she championed for colleagues had to begin with herself. It's a lesson that will resonate deeply with anyone working in the caring professions.

    Odeth also speaks candidly about the uneven distribution of stretch opportunities in the NHS, and why equity in development matters as much as equity in hiring. Her commitment to mentoring, whether through the Elizabeth Casson Trust, the Caribbean Writers Network, or her role as trustee at the Great North Children's Hospital Foundation, speaks to a leader who understands that legacy is built in people, not positions.

    GUEST

    Odeth Richardson

    Head of Service for OT, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne Hospitals · Chair, Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Poet, Author of 'Reflections of an Island Girl'.

    If this episode moved you, share it with a colleague. And if you're a social worker, OT, or anyone working in health and care who sometimes forgets to fill their own cup, this one's for you.

    Reflections of an Island Girl by Odeth Richardson is available at Amazon here

    https://amzn.eu/d/07Fv7TGV


    22 April 2026, 6:00 pm
  • 45 minutes 55 seconds
    Caribbean Perspectives in Occupational Therapy in the UK

    Caribbean Perspectives in Occupational Therapy in the UK is a pioneering resource that brings cultural specificity into occupational therapy practice, centring the experiences and needs of Caribbean communities living in the UK. It is notably authored by occupational therapists of Caribbean heritage themselves, lending the work an authenticity and lived-experience grounding that sets it apart.

    The publication draws on biographical narratives and case studies to explore how cultural identity, heritage, and lived experience shape health outcomes and occupational engagement for Caribbean people in the UK. By weaving personal stories alongside practical applications, it bridges theory and real-world practice in an accessible way.

    A core theme running through the work is health inequalities — acknowledging the systemic and structural barriers that Caribbean communities face in healthcare settings and equipping occupational therapists with tools to address them more effectively. Alongside this, it champions cultural humility as a professional stance, encouraging practitioners to reflect critically on their own assumptions and to engage with clients in a respectful, curiosity-driven way rather than through a one-size-fits-all approach.

    The resource also emphasises social inclusion, recognising that meaningful participation in everyday life — the heart of occupational therapy — cannot be understood without attending to cultural context. At the same time, it celebrates the richness and vibrancy of Caribbean culture, framing it not merely as a backdrop to disadvantage but as a source of strength, identity, and resilience.

    For practitioners, the text offers concrete, actionable insights for continuing professional development, making it a valuable tool for both individual therapists and organisations working toward more culturally responsive and equitable care.

    In this SWM episode, we're joined by some of the great minds and committed colleagues, Dr Blaine Robin, Odeth Richardson, Jennie Alexander and Melisa Henry.  As the book's launch date draws closer, we will meet other contributors to this much-needed text.



    Caribbean Perspectives on Occupational Therapy in the United Kingdom: An Essential Practice Guide and Study Manual
    https://amzn.eu/d/04b1tnTr


    25 February 2026, 7:00 pm
  • 50 minutes 36 seconds
    A Different Valentines Message from Amja Unabashedly

    A Valentine’s Day to Social Workers

    In this powerful Valentine’s Day episode, Amja shares her transformative Self-Soothing Creative Steps (SSCS) framework—a lifeline born from her own journey through domestic abuse and a beacon for those who pour themselves into caring for others.

    The framework’s four pillars—support, self-love, spirituality, and security—challenge the extractive culture that demands women / social workers prove their worth through constant depletion. Amja speaks to a truth many recognise: the expectation, especially for Black women, to prioritise everyone else while neglecting themselves leads to burnout that serves no one.

    What makes this conversation revolutionary is its refusal to accept martyrdom as virtue. Asking for support isn’t weakness; setting boundaries isn’t selfishness. These are acts of preservation that enable sustainable, meaningful work. Amja’s background as both a service user and a consultant gives her unique insight into how organisational culture can either nurture or drain its people.

    The discussion addresses generational shifts in workplace expectations, in which younger professionals increasingly reject disrespectful treatment and demand compensation that reflects their value. This isn’t entitlement—it’s overdue recognition that caring professions deserve adequate resources and respect.

    Through art-led activities like “Let the Pen Speak,” Amja creates spaces for difficult conversations about harm and well-being. Her work reminds us that self-expression and reflection aren’t luxuries but necessities for those holding others’ pain daily.

    As AI threatens to further dehumanise work, this episode offers a counterpoint: What if technology freed us to bring more creativity, emotion, and humanity to our roles? What if organisations aligned their principles with employees’ well-being rather than extraction?

    This Valentine’s Day, Amja’s message resonates: true service begins with serving yourself. Only then can you offer others genuine, sustainable care.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​


    www.amjaunabashedly.com
    [email protected]
    "Let Art Be Your Becoming"


    10 February 2026, 2:00 pm
  • 1 hour 10 minutes
    I'm a new original - Antonia (Amja) Lee In Conversation

    Welcome to this new episode of Social Workers Matter, my guest today is Antonia Amja Lee  where creativity meets resilience and empowerment! Join us as we dive into Amja’s inspiring journey —a self-taught artist and motivational speaker who has transformed her life through art after overcoming the shadows of domestic abuse. In today’s episode, Amja introduces her innovative framework, the Self-Soothing Creative Steps, and shares how creativity can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and advocacy.

    Prepare to be moved as Amja discusses how her artwork resonates deeply with audiences, tackling profound themes of self-love, cultural beauty standards, and Black identity. She reveals the transformative power of visual art to express complex ideas and foster understanding in our communities. 

    We explore her remarkable transition from focusing on trauma to embracing joy as a vital tool for healing and advocacy. Interestingly, discover her experiences in boxing and her current project, "Journey to the Ring," which honours stories of empowerment through creativity and movement.

    In this episode, Amja discusses:

    - Art as a Trauma Recovery Tool

    - Mindfulness and Personal Growth

    - The Power of Art to Connect and Inspire

    - Meaning and Audience Collaboration in Art

    - Black Artistry and Identity

    - Authentic Black Storytelling Through Art

    - Reclaiming Power Through Joy

    - Creative Empowerment Through Movement

    Amja's passion and joy are infectious, and her unwavering belief in her mission shines through every word. So, get ready to be inspired as we welcome Amja Lee—her love and light are sure to ignite your creative spirit!

    https://1drv.ms/b/c/6ae3883c84b04dc2/IQAAJLNZIG8TQbloh6SghJfaAXIl9rLnTTat1i6hymuDCashttps

    mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=f0b9e36446&attid=0.0.1&permmsgid=msg-f:1848875935329232224&th=19a886de0f112560&view=att&zw&disp=inline


    www.amjaunabashedly.com     
    [email protected]
    "Let Art Be Your Becoming"



    19 November 2025, 7:00 pm
  • 1 hour 11 minutes
    In Conversation with Professor Prospera Tedam SFHEA

    In Conversation with Professor Prospera Tedam SFHEA
     
    Join me for an inspiring conversation with the remarkable Professor Prospera Tedam, from the School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice at University College Dublin.  Professor Tedam takes us on a journey through her career spanning both academia and frontline practice, sharing insights which are sure to resonate with social work professionals, students, and those passionate about social justice.
     
    Professor Tedam opens up about her fascinating five-year experience working in the United Arab Emirates, offering her perspectives on how social work practice translates across different cultural contexts and what she learned from this vital experience.
     
    Professor Tedam is passionate about school social work as a specialism. She discusses:

    •  The tremendous value this field brings to children and their families
    •  How school-based social work creates impact in the lives of vulnerable children
    •  Why school placements offer enriching and invaluable learning experiences for social work students

    Professor Tedam created the MANDELA Model, which was designed to support and enhance the experiences of student social workers, with particular sensitivity toward Black and minoritised students who are not well served. Hear the story behind its creation and how it’s making a difference in social work education.
     
    Professor Tedam teases exciting upcoming research outcomes, scheduled for release in 2026.   
     
     
     
    Find Professor Tedam’s work available here:

    https://people.ucd.ie/prospera.tedam/publications



    5 November 2025, 7:00 pm
  • 1 hour 27 minutes
    A Promise-Driven Leader Dr. Andrea J. Boudreaux MPH, FACHE

    In conversation with Dr Andrea J. Boudreaux, a seasoned physician with a wealth of experience, she shares her insights on the pressing challenges within the U.S. healthcare system. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into themes like trust, resilience, and the urgent need for change.

    Dr Boudreaux doesn’t shy away from discussing the stark realities of a broken system that often fails marginalised communities. Yet, amidst the challenges, she remains hopeful, embodying the spirit of a promise-driven leader. Her candid reflections on both her professional journey and personal experiences reveal the complexities of healthcare and the radical transformations needed to make it equitable for all.

    Get ready to be inspired as we explore how to navigate despair with determination and the importance of never giving up on creating a better future for healthcare. Listen to discover how one leader’s vision can spark change in an entire system!




    15 October 2025, 6:00 pm
  • 53 minutes 14 seconds
    Hugh Mayers

    This is episode 101 of SWM, and Psychotherapist Hugh Mayers is our special guest. In our conversation, Hugh shares details about his career, and we take a deeper dive into his interesting work with young men at HM Prison Feltham following a difficult period, as well as his work with several school Pupil Referral Units and his meaningful therapeutic work with young Black boys.

    Hugh can be found on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and X, he hosts his own community radio talk show @https://erccommunityradio.co.uk/ to reach out to him directly, at [email protected]


    8 October 2025, 6:00 pm
  • 55 minutes 44 seconds
    Celebrating 100 Episodes

    Celebrating 100 episodes of SWM, whoop whoop!  💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽🎤

    Here is the interview my friend and colleague, the lovely Sharon Jennings, did with me when the 5th Anniversary arrived.  

     

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 September 2025, 6:05 pm
  • 52 minutes 55 seconds
    'We are giving Back' - Safeguarding in the Caribbean

    'We are giving Back' - Safeguarding in the Caribbean

    D. Aleski Brandy-Williams and his Team

    D. Aleski Brandy-Williams is a qualified Social worker and the CEO of Brandy-Williams Ltd. He is the author of the book 'My Journey to Becoming a Black Male Social Worker.'

    In this podcast, we discuss his career, how he found social work, the value he places on contextual safeguarding practice and, importantly, a colossal undertaking he and his team have embarked upon in St Kitts and Nevis.

     

    www.brandy-williams.co.uk

    https://gofund.me/676e5aa0

     

     

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    13 August 2025, 6:05 pm
  • 1 hour 7 minutes
    Effective Professional & Personal Judgement

    In this insightful episode of "Social Workers Matter," Dr. Sylvia B. Smith engages with Denise Harvey and Arlene P. Weekes as they share their recent collaboration on the book "Effective Personal and Professional Judgment in Social Work."   

    Throughout the episode, the authors explore the complexities of decision-making in social work and the broader application of the concepts in other sectors.   

    Listeners will learn about the significance of Arlene’s decision-making tool, Effective Personal & Professional Judgement, aka EPPJ, and the plans to create a comprehensive training package for individuals and organisations.

    Denise and Arlene also share their enthusiasm about promoting the book in various settings, including universities and international entrepreneurial training programs.  

    As the episode wraps up, the focus shifts to promoting the model, with discussions on utilising social media and training opportunities to reach a wider audience. The episode not only highlights the journey of these inspiring women but also encourages the audience to reflect on their own decision-making processes and the value of adaptability in their careers.

    Tune in for a rich blend of personal stories, professional insights, and practical strategies to elevate social work practices.

    For your copy, use this link https://eppj.org/about-eppj/#publications

     

     

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    25 June 2025, 6:05 pm
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