The Relational Turn: Stories of Connection and Change

Relational PublishingGuests: Sally St. George, Dan Wulff, and Ron Chenail In this episode, the editors reflect on how social constructionist and dialogic ideas shape their work as scholars, therapists, teachers, and journal editors. They discuss mentoring authors through valuing rather than evaluating, using respectful language, supporting global scholars, and how relational publishing influences teaching, leadership, and everyday interactions within and beyond academia.

From Zero to Hero: Relational Practice in EducationIn this episode, we explore the collaboration between educator Ingebjorg Maeland and social constructionist scholar Ken Gergen, and the development of a school grounded in appreciative inquiry and relational practices. They reflect on the school’s initial challenges, their first meeting, and Ken’s impressions during his visit. The conversation highlights how appreciative inquiry shaped decision-making, school culture, and everyday practices, including tools like the road map. Ken connects these experiences to his broader theory of relational process. The episode also discusses the school’s successes, growing recognition, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as they envision the future of relational, collaborative education.

Embodying Social Construction with Sheila McNamee and FriendsIn this episode with Sheila McNamee and Friends, we explored social constructionism as a living, relational practice rather than only a theory or research approach. The discussion highlighted the importance of community, relational spaces, and communities of care, drawing on examples from Brazil, where social constructionist ideas are embodied in everyday practices. We questioned individualistic models of therapy, emphasizing collective and political dimensions of healing. In this conversation, Sheila and her friends are inviting us to bring social injustices and political realities into the therapy room, guided by an ethics of presence and multiplicity. Throughout, we reflected on creativity, solidarity, and the practice of being with others in difficult circumstances.

The Relational Turn — Episode 2Reimagining Child Protection: Constructing Different Realities Through International Dialogue with Harlene AndersonIn this episode, Monica Sesma and Rocio Chaveste are joined by Harlene Anderson, Helma Van Der Hoeven, Otto Sestak, and Khadija Al-Sarhi for a rich international conversation on rethinking child protection through collaborative and relational practices. Together, they explore how dialogue can shift entrenched assumptions, open space for multiple perspectives, and construct new possibilities for youth, families, practitioners, and communities.This conversation offers a hopeful and community-rooted reimagining of child protection, one that honors connection, relationships, and shared meaning-making across cultures and contexts.

Beyond Substances: Conversations that Connect, Heal, andTransformIn this inaugural episode, Monica Sesma and Rocio Chavestesit down with Pavel Nepustil and Adela Pankova to explore a radical reimagining of how we understand drug use, addiction, and healing. What happens when we shift from individual counseling to family and network-based therapy? How does change unfold when two therapists, including one with livedexperience of addiction, join the conversation? And what transformations become possible when psychotherapy moves beyond the clinic and into peoples' homes?Together, our guests offer an inspiring look at relational,community-rooted approaches that honor connection, dignity, and collective healing.Tune in and join The Relational Turn.