Social Work Scrapbook

This week, we’re not just talking about a prison break — we’re talking about the emotional escapes we all try to make when our needs go unmet.

In this episode of Heart of the Case, I’m breaking down the wild (and weirdly relatable?) 2015 escape from Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, New York — where two inmates charmed their way into a prison worker's heart and out of a maximum-security prison.

But here’s the twist: thi...

Spring is here, but let’s be real—new beginnings don’t always feel refreshing. Maybe you’re stuck in a rut, drained by all the doomsday chatter, or just feeling meh about where you are. In this episode of Heart of the Case, we’re diving deep into the power of shifting your mindset, flipping negative “what ifs” into positives, and protecting your peace in a chaotic world.

You’ll learn how to break free from feeling idle, set firm bu...

Selena was more than just the Queen of Tejano Music—she was a trailblazer, an icon, and a beloved figure whose life was tragically cut short by someone she trusted. In this episode of *Heart of the Case*, we break down the devastating story of Selena’s murder, exploring **the dangers of unchecked obsession, manipulation, and toxic workplace relationships.**💔 Why did Yolanda Saldívar become so obsessed?🚩 What red flags did Selena ...

🚨 Did I accidentally manifest my entire social work career? Looking back, every choice I made—internships, mentors, even the books I obsessed over—lined up too perfectly for it to be a coincidence. But if manifestation is real, what does that mean for my next career move? 🤯

In this episode of Heart of the Case, I’m breaking down how I unknowingly manifested my school social work career 12 years ago and what that means for where I’...

When school isn’t a safe place, where can students turn? In this episode of Heart of the Case, we’re diving into the heartbreaking story of Jocelynn Rojo, an 11-year-old Texas student whose experiences with bullying, threats of ICE involvement, and a school system that failed to protect her led to an unimaginable tragedy.

We’ll explore what we know about Jocelynn’s school experience, the warning signs that were ignored, and how poli...

🚨 Have you ever felt like you met the perfect person—only to watch them transform into a nightmare?In this gripping episode of Heart of the Case, we dive deep into love bombing, narcissistic abuse, and the dangerous cycle that traps victims in toxic relationships. My guest, Melissa Fulgeri, bravely shares her personal experience of being manipulated, controlled, and ultimately breaking free from the grasp of a narcissist.🔍 In thi...

When does love stop feeling like love? In this episode of Heart of the Case, we take a deep dive into the heartbreaking story of Gabby Petito and the warning signs hidden in her relationship with Brian Laundrie. From their whirlwind engagement to the tragic road trip that ended in her murder, we explore the emotional toll of coercive control, dating violence, and how fear often hides in plain sight. Was Gabby trapped in a cycle of ...

🌟 Everyone is You Pushed Out 🌟

Are your thoughts shaping your reality more than you think? In this episode ofHeart of the Case, we’re diving deep into theEveryone is You Pushed Out concept, breaking it down with real-life examples, funny metaphors, and actionable steps to help you transform your relationships and mindset.

Whether you’re dealing with toxic coworkers, dating struggles, or just trying to stay sane in today’s world, th...

Love, passion, obsession… and murder. This Valentine’s Day, Heart of the Case dives into the chilling story of Jodi Arias and Travis Alexander, a relationship fueled by intense emotions, blurred boundaries, and a deadly obsession. Was Jodi struggling with deep-seated mental health issues? Could the warning signs have predicted the brutal crime that shocked the nation?

Join me as we explore the psychology behind toxic love, the dang...

In this episode of Heart of the Case, I reflect on the emotional weight of Inauguration Day and the arrival of a new president, unpacking what these moments mean for personal and collective growth. Join me as I explore the power of slowing down instead of chasing New Year’s resolutions, finding positivity amidst change, and recognizing the signs that you need to hit pause. Learn practical tips for embracing rest, staying hopeful du...

In this gripping episode of Heart of the Case, we explore the heartbreaking story of Amanda Todd, a 15-year-old girl from Canada whose viral YouTube video revealed the devastating impact of cyberbullying and online harassment. Amanda’s story is a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking online and the urgent need to protect teens in today’s digital world.

Join me as we uncover the events leading to Amanda’s tragic passing, the rele...

In this episode of Heart of the Case, we shift from the unsettling true crime case of JonBenét Ramsey to a heartfelt conversation about navigating our kids’ safety and privacy in the digital age. As parents, sharing family memories online—whether on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube—can feel like walking a tightrope between preserving precious moments and protecting our children from unseen risks.

I’ll share my own journey as a mom w...

Today, we’re diving into one of the most infamous cases in modern history: the unsolved murder of JonBenét Ramsey. This case doesn’t just haunt the true crime world—it asks us as social workers and parents to grapple with big questions about safety, family dynamics, and the systems that respond when something goes horribly wrong.

And what if we looked beyond the media frenzy and into the family dynamics, the societal pressures, an...

In this episode, I share how my experience as a social worker has shaped the way I parent—sometimes for better, sometimes for more anxious! From navigating fears rooted in worst-case scenarios to finding the balance between protection and independence, I dive into real stories, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections. You’ll hear: ✨ How I shifted from overprotective parenting to trust-based parenting ✨ 4 actionable tips for buil...

In this powerful episode of Heart of the Case, we explore the tragic story of Gabriel Fernandez, an 8-year-old boy whose unimaginable abuse and untimely death shook the nation. Join host Lauren, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mom, as she delves into Gabriel’s life, the horrific abuse he endured, and the systemic failures that allowed his suffering to continue.

From the warning signs that were ignored to the critical role of ...