In this episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, brought to you by UAF Social Work, Professor Ace sits down with Gary T. “Tre” Taylor — licensed clinical social worker, author, and assistant professor at Virginia State University. A family man and social work futurist, Tre brings over a decade of experience working with Black men and families while pushing the profession toward innovation, justice, and authenticity.Together they discuss Black men’s mental health, representation in social work, self-care, and storytelling as advocacy. Tre shares insights from his academic and clinical journey, reflects on diversity and connection in social work education, and challenges practitioners to take care of themselves as they care for others.About Gary “Tre” TaylorGary T. “Tre” Taylor, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker, author, and assistant professor in the Department of Social Work at Virginia State University, where he teaches in the MSW program. With over twelve years of experience in mental health, Tre has worked extensively with Black men and women, emphasizing authenticity, cultural grounding, and liberation in practice.A family man and social work futurist, Tre’s work bridges clinical practice, education, and innovation — from racial equity and community wellness to social entrepreneurship and technology for social change. He provides clinical supervision to social work professionals across Virginia and continues to publish, speak, and consult nationally on topics including Black men’s mental health, representation in the field, and the evolving future of social work.Key ThemesSelf-care as a revolutionary act in social workBlack men’s mental health and community healingAuthenticity and representation in professional identityStorytelling as a tool for mental-health advocacyBalancing family, teaching, and clinical practiceReimagining social work education for justice and connectionChapters00:00 – Intro01:30 – Introduction to Gary “Tre” Taylor’s Journey04:58 – Exploring Virginia’s Complex History08:10 – The Perception of Social Workers in the Black Community10:56 – The Importance of Diversity in Social Work13:26 – Balancing Multiple Roles and Responsibilities15:56 – Navigating the DSW vs. PhD Debate28:48 – Capstone Project Overview29:57 – Journey into Rural Mental Health31:48 – Experiences in Rural Education33:09 – Navigating Academia as Non-PhD Faculty36:32 – Teaching Philosophy and Student Engagement38:22 – Addressing Disconnection in Online Education40:23 – Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety48:08 – Authenticity in Professional Spaces53:46 – Recognizing Powerful Spirits in Social Work55:11 – Authenticity and Connection in Social Work56:27 – Challenging Masculinity and Authenticity58:40 – Navigating Information Overload in Social Work01:02:38 – The Role of Storytelling in Social Work01:05:07 – The Importance of Self-Care in Social WorkContact: [email protected]© UAF Social Work

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