Why we became social workers (and why we stayed)

Every social worker has a story about how they got here. Some of us take winding paths through other careers, while others stumble into social work almost by accident.In this first episode of our 10-part collaboration series, I sit down with Ashton Hayes (host of Becoming an AMHSW) to share our journeys into social work.We talk about:The meandering, non-linear paths that led us into social workHow travel, life experience, and curiosity shaped our choicesThe breadth of social work, from policy to practice, and everything in betweenWhy the profession can be so hard to define, yet so rewardingThe challenges of explaining what we do, and how training shapes our careersThis isn’t the neat checklist version of becoming a social worker. It’s about real experiences, twists and turns, and the values that pulled us into the work.Got something you'd like to hear on the podcast? 🎙️ Got a question or something on your mind? Send it through. You can write it or email a voice memo to [email protected], and it might be featured in a future episode of Inside Social Work.Your curiosity could help shape a conversation that resonates with the wider community.Want to be a guest? Submit a speaker request here http://marievakakis.com.au/be-a-podcast-guest/Got an anonymous question? Submit it here:https://forms.gle/wg7Lk61xde9Lge976Mentioned in this episode:5 Days to Career Clarity in Social WorkReflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence. Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move? https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work 5 Days to Career Clarity in Social WorkReflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence. Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move? https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work