From Passion to Profession

In this Pride Month episode, Dr. Richard Brandon-Friedman, Assistant Professor at the IU School of Social Work, shares how his clinical work and research support LGBTQ, and especially gender diverse, youth and their families. The conversation explores identity development, family dynamics, and what future social workers need to know to create affirming, effective spaces for care. Key Highlights Gr...

In this inspiring Social Work Month conversation, Micah sits down with Kirsten Root, a school social worker, IU Indy MSW alum, and candidate for the Indiana State Senate. Kirsten shares how her early career with the Department of Child Services and her current work in middle school social work shaped her understanding of systems‑level gaps—and ultimately drove her to pursue public office. She open...

In this Social Work Month episode, Micah sits down with Stephan Viehweg to explore the world of infant and early childhood mental health. Stephan shares how his passion for supporting young children began, why early development matters for lifelong success, and how social workers can play a crucial role in advocating for infants who cannot advocate for themselves. The conversation highlights the c...

In this episode of From Passion to Profession , host Micah Horne sits down with Dr. Heather Savage—social worker, community leader, and Central Region Outreach Manager at the Indiana Youth Institute. Dr. Savage shares her journey from child welfare to nonprofit leadership, her passion for mentoring new social workers, and the story behind founding Let Them Talk , a nonprofit dedicated to creating...

In this episode of IU School of Social Work’s From Passion to Profession , host Micah Horne talks with Talha Kahf, an MSW student whose passion for social justice is deeply rooted in faith, culture, and lived experience. Talha shares his perspective on why advocacy feels like breathing, the importance of addressing toxic masculinity within social work, and how his art, The Wooden Ghazal , blends c...