Episode #23: Unearthing the Human Core with Zenia: A Little Zen, Storytelling, and Forest Therapy

Thank you for tuning in to another thought-provoking episode of The Critical Social Worker podcast, where we advance critical dialogue, empathy, and understanding through the art of revolutionary storytelling.  In our recent Episode #23, we were thrilled to host Zenia, the dynamic Founder and Clinical Director of A Little Zen. Located in the Greater Toronto Area, Zenia’s institution champions holistic counseling and psychotherapy. As a Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher, Mindfulness Coach, and Storyteller, Zenia delivered a wealth of enlightening insights, drawing from her extensive experiences. We dived deep into the intricacies of stress, trauma, and their effects on daily life.  Our host, Professor Christian Ace Stettler, was joined by the eager Ana Fulcher, an aspiring junior social work student, who acted as our student co-host for this episode. Together, they guided Zenia through a series of stimulating discussions. They explored a range of topics from the revitalizing benefits of forest therapy sessions to the critical issue of the over-professionalization of social work. At the episode's core was a contemplation on the transformative power of storytelling in forming bonds and fostering lasting change.  For those who joined us live on Saturday, September 16th, we deeply appreciate your participation. The episode, recorded across multiple time zones, is available for replay on Podbean, YouTube, Facebook, and more.  True to our commitment to community engagement and dialogue, our live audience was given the opportunity to actively participate in the conversation. Many shared their perspectives and posed questions, contributing to the depth and richness of the dialogue.  This episode of The Critical Social Worker podcast was adeptly produced by A Conscious Party and generously backed by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Department of Social Work.  Stay with us as we persist in our journey to reshape our world(s), one story at a time.