About Us
From Podcast to Practice: Building a Community for Social Change
While teaching full time at a university social work program in Florida, Shimon Cohen recognized a gap in the stories being told about the profession. Social workers on the frontlines of justice work—those building community, challenging systems, and reimagining what care could look like—often went unheard in traditional settings. He envisioned a podcast that would center these voices: a space to elevate real stories of social change and highlight practitioners pushing boundaries in their work.
In March 2018, Shimon released the first episode of Doin' The Work: Frontline Stories of Social Change, launching what would soon become a trusted platform for learning, connection, and critical reflection. As the audience grew, so did the vision. Listeners weren't just turning in—they were asking for more. They wanted deeper engagement with the content and the opportunity to learn directly from the people featured on the show.
That demand sparker the expansion of Doin' The Work into continuing education. Today, the platform offers both podcast episodes and CE-eligible courses designed for social workers, counselors, therapists, and helping professionals who are committed to anti-oppressive practice, equity, and liberation. Our content in rooted in real-world liberation, shared by a deep belief in justice, and guided by practitioners doin' the work every day.
Meet Our Team

Shimon Cohen, LCSW
Founder, CE Director, Host & Instructor
Shimon Cohen (he/him) is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and the creator of Doin' The Work. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice and social work education, Shimon brings a deep commitment to racial justice and liberatory practice. He holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and has worked across various settings, including schools, nonprofits, and universities.
Shimon launched Doin' The Work in 2018 to spotlight the voices of social workers and helping professionals advancing social change in their communities. In additional to producing and hosting the podcast, he develops and teaches continuing education content that reflects the values at the heart of the show. Shimon also serves as the Board President of EduExito, Inc., a nonprofit supporting education in rural areas of the Dominican Republic. He lives with his wife, two daughters, and their dog.

Charla Yearwood, LCSW
Social Work Consultant & Instructor
Charla Cannon Yearwood (she/her) is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and speaker committed to justice-driven mental health care. She is the founder of Connected in Community and has over 15 years of experience in the field. Charla integrates liberation psychology, trauma-informed care, and social justice frameworks into her therapy, teaching, and research.
Her work centers the healing and empowerment of marginalized communities, particularly Black clients and others impacted by systemic harm. She brings her clinical insight and values-aligned approach to the continuing education courses featured through Doin' The Work, helping other professionals deepen their skills in anti-oppressive and affirming care. Outside of work, Charla enjoys life with her husband, two children, and their growing crew of pets.

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Check out our new course!

Move beyond surface-level cultural competency and commit to actively inclusive, anti-oppressive clinical work.
On-demand Recorded Course
ASWB ACE approved
1.25 CE Credits
$50