Today we’d like to introduce you to Brionna Kirkendoll.
Hi Brionna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my journey in social work after earning my master’s degree from the University of Southern California here in Los Angeles. During graduate school, I became even more inspired by the potential to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. My career started in school social work, where I worked closely with students and their families, helping them navigate challenges inside and outside the classroom. From there, I transitioned into therapy, providing a space for individuals to process their emotions, heal, and build resilience. Now, as a full-time medical social worker, I’ve broadened my scope, supporting patients and their families as they navigate complex healthcare systems. In addition to this role, I also provide private practice therapy, specializing in working with children and teens.
Throughout these experiences, I’ve witnessed social workers’ incredible dedication across various settings. But I’ve also noticed a recurring theme—social workers often pour so much into others that they struggle to care for themselves. This realization is what led me to create Social Workers Link.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like many passion projects, Social Workers Link started with a vision—but not a full roadmap. One of the first challenges was simply getting the word out: helping people understand what the group was, why it mattered, and how it could support them. In a field where burnout is real and time is limited, convincing busy professionals to engage in a new community takes time and trust.
Another challenge was learning as I went. I wasn’t backed by a big organization or team—it was just me, trying to create something meaningful. From managing logistics and engagement to navigating social media and handling moments of doubt, there were definitely bumps along the way. I’m even learning that it’s okay to ask my social work colleagues for help in getting this off the ground.
But every challenge has taught me something. It’s pushed me to stay connected to why I started this in the first place: to create a space where social workers feel seen, heard, and supported. Seeing people open up, share their experiences, and build meaningful connections has made every struggle feel worth it. The road hasn’t been smooth—but it’s been real. And I think that’s what makes the journey powerful.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Social Workers Link is a growing, purpose-driven community created for social workers to connect, collaborate, and support one another. It was born from a simple but powerful idea: social workers are always showing up for others, but who’s showing up for them? We specialize in building community. Whether you’re just starting or have years in the field, Social Workers Link offers a safe, inclusive space to share experiences, exchange resources, ask questions, and find both encouragement and inspiration. From job opportunities and mentorship to emotional support and peer learning, our focus is on meaningful connections. This isn’t just a network—it’s a place where social workers can feel seen, supported, and reminded that they’re not alone in this work.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
When I think about risk-taking, I don’t always see it in the traditional sense—like making bold, dramatic moves. For me, risk has often looked quieter but just as real: putting an idea out into the world without knowing how it’ll be received, speaking up even when it feels uncomfortable, or choosing to invest time and energy into something that might not “succeed” in the usual sense.
Starting Social Workers Link was definitely one of the biggest risks I’ve taken. I didn’t have a roadmap, a team, or guaranteed outcomes. I just had a vision and the hope that others would find value in what I was trying to build. There were moments of doubt—wondering if people would show up, if the message would resonate, or if I had what it took to sustain it. But I’ve come to see risk as a necessary part of growth. It’s uncomfortable, yes—but it’s also where new ideas, deeper connections, and real change live. And in social work, we take risks all the time: advocating for clients in tough systems, challenging the status quo, showing up with vulnerability. So while I might not always feel like a risk-taker, I’ve learned to lean into the discomfort when something truly matters.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Socialworkerslink
Image Credits
@bluecreativeco_
