In this episode of The Daddy Durock Show, I sit down with Michael Jackson, LLMSW—a passionate social worker whose decade-long career has spanned foster care, traumatic brain injury support, palliative care, NGRI populations, and so much more.

In honor of Social Work Awareness Month and this year’s theme, "Compassion in Action," we talk about what it really looks like to serve with heart, lead with purpose, and fight for the dignity of those who are often overlooked.

Michael shares his journey from growing up to studying at Alabama State University and the University of Alabama, to now advocating for mental health, mentoring youth, and breaking systemic barriers in the field.

We discuss:

• How personal experiences shaped his path to social work
• The unique challenges of working with diverse and underserved populations
• Why mentorship is critical to helping at-risk youth find self-worth
• The emotional demands of the profession and how to stay grounded
• His hopes for the future of social work—and the legacy he wants to leave behind

Whether you're a social worker, parent, mentor, or simply someone who cares about community impact, this episode will inspire you to lead with intention and keep doing the work.

🎧 Available now on Castbox and all major streaming platforms

#TheDaddyDurockShow #SocialWorkAwarenessMonth #CompassionInAction #MichaelJacksonLLMSW #SocialWorkersMatter #CommunityHealing #MentalHealthSupport #YouthMentorship #HelpingProfessionals #BlackSocialWorkers #LegacyWork #TherapyAndAdvocacy #ShowUpWithPurpose #DignityDrivenCare

In this groundbreaking episode of The Daddy Durock Show, Dr. Mercedes Samudio, LCSW—author, parent coach, and creator of Shame-Proof Parenting—joins the conversation as the first woman featured on the show.

From national appearances on Good Morning America to her work with families navigating complex emotional dynamics, Dr. Samudio brings truth, heart, and wisdom to the mic. Together, we explore how shame shows up in parenting, how generational patterns can be unlearned, and why compassion—not perfection—is the foundation of healing.

We discuss:

• The story behind Shame-Proof Parenting
• How to navigate parenthood with authenticity and dignity
• What it takes to be seen—and to hold space for others
• Breaking cultural cycles of silence around mental health
• Her journey as a clinician, public voice, and legacy builder

This episode is a must-listen for parents, therapists, and anyone ready to do the inner work to show up with love, presence, and purpose.

🎧 Now streaming on Castbox and all major platforms.

#TheDaddyDurockShow #MercedesSamudio #ShameProofParenting #ParentingWithCompassion #SocialWorkAwarenessMonth #MentalHealthMatters #TherapistsWhoLead #ParentCoach #BreakingCycles #LegacyWork #CompassionInAction #FirstWomanGuest #TherapyIsNotTaboo

"The Power of Social Work" with Darius Payne, LMSW

Social workers are more than case managers— they are advocates, healers, and change-makers.

In this episode of The Daddy Durock Show, I sit down with Darius Payne, LMSW, to discuss the real impact of social work in today’s world.

💡 What we’re diving into:

✅ The power of mental health advocacy

✅ Breaking systemic barriers in social work

✅ How social work is shaping the future of mental health and equity

🔥 “Social work isn’t just a job—it’s a movement.” – Darius Payne, LMSW

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!

📲 Tap the link in bio to listen.

💬 Tag a social worker who inspires you! Drop a 🎙️ if you’re tuning in!

#TheDaddyDurockShow #SocialWorkAwarenessMonth #ThePowerOfSocialWork #BlackMenInSocialWork #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityHealing #BreakingBarriers #Podcast

Social Work Awareness Month Special!

In this episode of The Daddy Durock Show, I sit down with my little brother, Eugene Durrah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Equity Services & MHSA Manager for Solano County Behavioral Health. We’re pulling back the curtain on what it truly means to be a Black man in social work, the challenges of mental health access, and how we can empower underserved communities.

• What inspired Eugene to pursue social work
• The impact of culturally competent therapy
• Addressing economic and racial disparities in mental health

The strength-based approach to client empowerment

Advice for the next generation of social workers

"This work isn’t just about therapy—it’s about breaking cycles and creating access." – Eugene Durrah

🎧 Stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube!

📩 Let’s continue the conversation—drop your thoughts or questions in the comments!

#TheDaddyDurockShow #SocialWorkAwarenessMonth #BlackMenInSocialWork #MentalHealthForAll #BreakingBarriers #Podcast #TherapyMatters #CommunityHealing

In this special episode of The Daddy Durock Show, we celebrate Social Work Awareness Month with Calvin Thompson, EdS, LCSW, a dedicated social worker and private practice therapist.

With this year’s theme, “Compassion in Action,” we dive into Calvin’s journey—from growing up in South Central to becoming a leader in the field of social work. He shares raw insights on breaking stigmas, navigating mental health in underserved communities, and what it really means to show up for others.

We also explore:

✔️ His path to social work and the defining moments that shaped his career

✔️ The emotional resilience needed to serve communities in crisis

✔️ Breaking cycles of trauma and supporting Black men in therapy

✔️ The importance of mentorship and empowering the next generation

Calvin’s story is real, relatable, and inspiring—whether you're in social work, seeking purpose, or just trying to be a better leader in your own life.

🔊 Tune in now on Castbox and all major streaming platforms.

#TheDaddyDurockShow #SocialWorkAwarenessMonth #CompassionInAction #MentalHealthMatters

In this episode of The Daddy Durock Show, Dr. D sits down with Eric Colbert, a fellow Compton native who's not only a college graduate and mentor but also a dedicated college coach with over 20 years of experience.

In our episode, "Above the Rim: A College Coach from the City of Compton," we dive deep into Eric's life before college, the influential role models who shaped his journey, and how Coach E is now giving back by mentoring the next generation.

Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about growth, community, and the impact of positive role models. We'd love to hear your thoughts after you listen!

#TheDaddyDurockShow #Podcast #Compton #Mentorship #Inspiration #ListenNow #NotLikeUs

On the next episode of The Daddy Durock Show, join Dr. D, a licensed psychologist hailing from the West Side of Compton, as he sits down for an engaging and inspiring conversation with Dr. Ramar Henderson, a tenure-track professor at California State University, Los Angeles. In this episode titled "Instead of Banging on Wax, We Are Banging Advanced Level Degrees," Dr. Henderson shares his remarkable journey from Carson, California, to earning his PhD in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Dr. Henderson opens up about the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, offering a candid look at the determination and resilience required to achieve academic excellence. They discuss the importance of higher education, particularly for individuals from underrepresented communities, and how advanced degrees can open doors to new opportunities and create pathways to success.

Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of Dr. Henderson's experiences navigating the complexities of the academic world, balancing personal and professional commitments, and the mentors and role models who supported him throughout his journey. Additionally, Dr. Henderson shares about his initiative, "The Barber Shop Talks," a service opportunity he started to foster meaningful conversations and mentorship within the community.

This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for aspiring students, educators, and anyone interested in the transformative power of education. Dr. Henderson's story serves as a powerful testament to the impact of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.

Tune in to The Daddy Durock Show for an enlightening and motivational discussion that highlights the significance of pursuing advanced degrees and the positive ripple effects they can have on individuals and communities. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by Dr. Henderson's journey and learn how education can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.

Join us on this episode of The Daddy Durock Show as Dr. D sits down with Mr. Von Brickhouse to explore the crucial role of mentorship in today's world. They delve deep into how mentorship can be a transformative experience, shaping careers, personal growth, and community dynamics. Mr. Von Brickhouse shares his personal journey, revealing how mentors have influenced his path and the ways in which he now gives back by mentoring others.

Dr. D and Mr. Von Brickhouse discuss the various forms mentorship can take, from formal programs to spontaneous, informal guidance, and highlight real-life success stories that illustrate the profound impact a mentor can have. They also provide practical tips for finding the right mentor, becoming a good mentee, and overcoming common challenges in mentor-mentee relationships.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the mutual benefits of mentorship, including improved skills, expanded networks, and increased confidence. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal development, career advancement, or simply understanding the power of human connection and support.

Tune in to The Daddy Durock Show for an enlightening and inspiring dialogue that underscores the significance of mentorship in achieving personal and professional success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how to harness the power of mentorship to enrich your life and the lives of those around you.