Blessing the Human Family: Iuri Melo on Hope and Healing Through Social Work

In this episode of the Remember Me Series, we shine a light on the incredible work happening through the Central Alabama Aging Consortium’s Gateway to Community Living program.Host Renita Ray Davis sits down with Erica Dixson, Transition Coordinator and longtime advocate for older adults, people with disabilities, and those navigating mental health and substance use challenges. A proud graduate of Alabama A&M University, Erica has spent nearly 30 years helping Alabamians transition from nursing facilities back into their homes and communities with dignity and care.Together they explore: ✨ What Gateway to Community Living means in practice ✨ How decades of social work experience shaped Erica’s approach to advocacy ✨ A real-life story that captures the heart of this program ✨ Why community-based care is transforming the landscape of aging in Alabama💜 Join Us: Register now for the upcoming Remember Me: Dementia in the African American Community screening and community gathering hosted by the Central Alabama Aging Consortium. 🎟️ [Register here ➜ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1588469818989?aff=oddtdtcreator]To learn more about CAAC’s programs and how they support older adults, caregivers, and families across Alabama, visit www.caaclink.org.Find more of Renita's offerings here:👉 https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?👉 https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5✨ Goddess of Social Work Earrings – Etsy:👉 https://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, we continue our Remember Me Series, highlighting the extraordinary yet often unseen work of aging and caregiving services in Alabama.I sit down with DeLane Poague, Dementia Friendly Alabama Project Coordinator at the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC). Raised in the small community of Fleahop, Alabama, and a graduate of Auburn University, DeLane has dedicated her career to serving others—from foster care and Meals on Wheels to long-term care and dementia support. Since 2021, she has led the Dementia Friendly Alabama initiative, working to build communities across the state where people living with dementia, their caregivers, and care partners can truly live and thrive.Together we explore: 🌿 DeLane’s journey from Fleahop to leading Dementia Friendly Alabama 🌿 What it means to create a truly dementia-friendly community 🌿 Programs like Memory Cafés and Resource Wallet Cards that change lives 🌿 The hopes she holds for the upcoming Remember Me documentary screening and gathering 🌿 How working the land on her family farm mirrors the patient, steady work of building community careDeLane’s story is a reminder that transformation begins at the roots — with care, creativity, and people committed to ensuring every person is seen and supported.🔗 Learn more about Dementia Friendly Alabama and CAAC: Home - CAAC🗓️ Register for the Remember Me event on November 1st: [Event registration link]Find more of Renita's offerings here: 👉 https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers? 👉 https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5✨ Goddess of Social Work Earrings – Etsy: 👉 https://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, we continue our Remember Me Series, highlighting the extraordinary yet often unseen work of aging and caregiving services in Alabama.I sit down with Meghan Germek, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC). Born and raised in Odenville, Alabama, Meghan carries forward the legacy of strong women who shaped her upbringing. With a background spanning nursing home social work, youth services, and mental health outreach, she now leads community engagement efforts—connecting people with vital resources through health fairs, radio appearances, and public events.Together we explore: 🌿 Meghan’s journey into social work and the values that shaped her path 🌿 What community outreach looks like on the ground ~ and why it matters 🌿 The joys and challenges of being on the frontlines of public engagement 🌿 Her hopes for the upcoming Remember Me documentary screening and community gathering 🌿 The message she would whisper to her younger self as she stepped into the field of social workMeghan’s story is a powerful reminder that systems are only as strong as the people within them ~ and that outreach, at its core, is about ensuring everyone feels seen, supported, and worthy of care🔗 Learn more about CAAC and Ombudsman services here:CAAC link🗓️ Register for the Remember Me event on November 1st:Event registration linkFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, I sit down with Iuri Melo, LCSW, therapist, father of five, author, and co-founder of SchoolPulse, a nationwide support service reaching over 300 schools in 25+ states.Born out of heartbreak after a wave of teen suicides in his community, SchoolPulse now delivers weekly encouragement, growth-mindset tools, and mental health resources directly to students, parents, and educators. Together, Iuri and I explore:✨ The story behind SchoolPulse and how it offers hope through consistent care ✨ What it means to “bless the human family” in divided times ✨ How parenthood, authorship, and Adventure Based Therapy have shaped his mission ✨ The real-world impact of showing up with kindness, psychology, and presenceIuri’s journey is a powerful reminder that one consistent voice of care can change lives.🔗 Learn more about SchoolPulse, Iuri’s books and his weekly messages below. 2 MINUTE VIDEO that quickly summarizes SchoolPulse and how schools deploy its incredible strategiesHere is a link to all of luri's extraordinary VIDEOS.Here is a link to the most comprehensive MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE PAGE in the country, created and delivered to every school, parent, and student.Links to luri's books:Know Thy Selfie - t.ly/juUMBMind Over Grey Matter - t.ly/SxNUUFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressions

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, I sit down with Cheryl Craig, Long-Term Care Ombudsman at the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC).Together we explore: 🌿 Cheryl’s journey into advocacy and how she became an Ombudsman 🌿 What an Ombudsman does — and why this role is so vital for elders and their families 🌿 The realities of navigating complex systems in long-term care 🌿 A story that reminded Cheryl why this work matters, even when it’s hard 🌿 Her hopes for those attending the Remember Me documentary screening and community gathering on November 1stCheryl’s reflections remind us that advocacy is not just policy or paperwork — it’s giving voice to those who may otherwise go unheard, and standing beside elders with dignity and compassion.🔗 Learn more about CAAC and Ombudsman services here: CAAC link 🗓️ Register for the Remember Me event on November 1st: Event registration linkFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, I sit down with Camille Jackson of the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC) to explore her journey into the helping professions and the vital role of the Elderly & Disabled Waiver program.Together we talk about: 🌿 The childhood inspirations and early influences that shaped Camille’s path into service 🌿 How she came to work with in-home services and Medicaid waiver programs 🌿 A closer look at the Elderly & Disabled Waiver program — who it serves, and what makes it unique 🌿 The essential services that make a difference every day: homemaker support, adult day health, respite care, and more 🌿 The moments and stories that remind Camille why this work matters, even when it’s hard 🌿 Her hopes for the upcoming Remember Me documentary screening and community gathering on November 1stThis conversation is a reminder that service is more than a program — it’s a commitment to dignity, connection, and resilience for our elders and their caregivers.🔗 Learn more about CAAC and Camille’s programs:CAAC Link 🗓️ Register for the Remember Me event on November 1st: Event registration linkFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, host Renita Ray Davis continues the SWAG Awards Series, celebrating honorees and nominees of the Social Work Appreciation of Greatness (SWAG) Awards, founded by Sharise Nance, LCSW. These awards honor social workers who embody Service, Wellness, Advocacy, and Growth.Renita sits down with Johnnie Geathers, a Licensed Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in mental health, community engagement, and advocacy. Johnnie is the creator and host of JG Mental Health Fridays on YouTube, a platform dedicated to teaching coping skills and practical strategies for everyday mental well-being. He is also a sought-after speaker, proud member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., and recipient of multiple honors, including the 2020 SWAG Award, the Pitt Social Work Rising Star Alumni Award, and the 2022 New Pittsburgh Courier FAB 40 Award.Together, they talk about: 🌿 The story behind JG Mental Health Fridays and the impact it’s making 🌿 The balance between professional work, community service, and public visibility 🌿 The personal meaning behind his SWAG Award recognition 🌿 How fraternity life and leadership shaped his advocacy 🌿 Advice for social workers looking to combine professional expertise with creative outreachJohnnie’s story is a powerful reminder that creativity and community go hand in hand — shaping advocacy and amplifying voices across generations.Find more about Johnnie here (including his website, YouTube channel and more):http://www.linktree.com/jgeathersFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, host Renita Ray Davis sits down with Whitney Anderson, coordinator at the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC), to explore her journey into service and her commitment to helping older adults navigate complex systems of care.With nearly 20 years of experience in Medicare, Medicaid, and medical billing, Whitney now leads three key programs — SHIP (State Health Insurance Program), MIPPA (Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act), and SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol). Each program plays a vital role in ensuring seniors have access to clarity, protection, and the resources they need to thrive.In this conversation, we talk about: 🌿 Whitney’s path into the helping professions and eventually into Medicare-related programming 🌿 The unique impact of SHIP, MIPPA, and SMP in the lives of older adults 🌿 The importance of advocating for seniors navigating complex and sometimes overwhelming systems 🌿 Stories that remind Whitney why this work matters so deeply 🌿 Her hopes for participants attending the upcoming Remember Me documentary screening and community gathering on November 1stWhitney’s story is a reminder that advocacy can take many forms — and that guiding people toward clarity and access is a sacred form of service …along your social work journey.Register for the Remember Me screening and community gathering here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/remember-me-documentary-community-gathering-tickets-1588469818989?aff=oddtdtcreatorLearn more about CAAC here:Home - CAACFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, we continue our Remember Me Series with Melissa Stellhorn, Nutrition Coordinator at the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC).Melissa shares her journey into the helping professions, from her early volunteer work at the YMCA to her passion for supporting older adults through CAAC’s Elderly Nutrition Program. We discuss the impact of senior centers on community, dignity, and connection, and how something as simple as a shared meal can transform lives.Join us as we explore how CAAC is nourishing both body and spirit, and hear what Melissa hopes people will take away from the upcoming Remember Me documentary screening on November 1st.Register for the Remember Me screening and community gathering here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/remember-me-documentary-community-gathering-tickets-1588469818989?aff=oddtdtcreatorLearn more about CAAC here:Home - CAACFind more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings

In this episode of the Goddesses of Social Work Podcast, host Renita Ray Davis sits down with Tenessa Shepherd, LICSW, a newly licensed independent clinical social worker with 10 years of experience across child welfare, adult and child mental health, inpatient psychiatric care, and her current work in substance use disorder treatment.A proud mom of two girls and an Alabama native with family roots in North Carolina, Tenessa shares openly about the twists, turns, and triumphs that shaped her path to licensure, including what it really took to pass the clinical exam and the communities that supported her along the way.We talk about: 🌿 Moving from foster care and adoption work to inpatient psych and substance use treatment 🌿 The journey toward passing the clinical exam, and what shifted this time 🌿 The power of community and connection for social workers 🌿 The belief about social work that has changed most over her first decade 🌿 The advice she’d give her younger self just starting outTenessa’s story is a reminder that growth is rarely linear; it’s intentional, courageous, and unfolds step by step …along your social work journey.Find more of Renita's offerings here:https://linktr.ee/illuminatedexpressionsInterested in Mastering Your Therapeutic Techniques for Dementia Caregivers?https://gamma.app/docs/Interested-in-Mastering-Your-Therapeutic-Techniques-for-Dementia--7fnyf5ydeq70qd5Goddess of Social Work Earrings - Etsyhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/1183285270/goddess-of-social-work-earrings