Summary
In this episode of the ProSocial podcast, hosts Matthew Watson and Zander Keig engage with Jacob Winkler, a group therapist, to explore the concept of political resilience and the role of process groups in fostering honest communication. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional engagement, navigating difficult conversations, and the theoretical foundations of group therapy. Jacob shares insights on how to handle conflict, the significance of humanizing differences, and the challenges of uncertainty in discussions. The episode emphasizes the need for social workers to develop political resilience and the ethical considerations in promoting dialogue across diverse viewpoints. This conversation delves into the complexities of group therapy, exploring themes of self-awareness, the integration of light and darkness within individuals, and the dynamics of attraction and boundaries in group settings. The speakers discuss the importance of navigating chaos, fostering political and viewpoint diversity, and the ethical considerations of expression in therapeutic environments. They reflect on personal experiences and the transformative power of group therapy in promoting emotional growth and resilience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pro Social Workers and Political Resilience
02:51 Jacob Winkler’s Background and Process Groups
05:47 The Importance of Emotional Engagement in Groups
08:45 Navigating Political Conversations in Group Settings
11:31 Defining Success in Political Resilience
14:26 Theoretical Foundations of Group Therapy
17:23 Handling Conflict and Emotional Responses
20:14 Humanizing Political Differences
23:20 Promoting Viewpoint Diversity in Social Work
37:12 Navigating Conflict in Professional Settings
40:22 The Nature of Group Dynamics
43:02 Understanding Who is Drawn to Process Groups
45:39 The Role of Leadership in Group Settings
48:26 Exploring the Balance of Light and Dark
51:29 The Importance of Acknowledging Our Shadows
54:39 Self-Awareness and Its Impact on Relationships
58:00 The Complexity of Truth and Honesty
01:01:14 The Challenge of Chaos in Group Settings
01:05:50 The Lifelong Journey of Personal Growth
01:07:43 The Interplay Between Group Work and Personal Relationships
01:11:30 Exploring Group Dynamics in Couples Therapy
01:14:36 Navigating Flirtation and Rejection
01:17:19 The Boundaries of Expression in Group Dynamics
01:19:20 Embracing the Child Within: Disinhibition in Groups
01:21:07 Political Views and Emotional Reactions in Group Settings
01:23:49 The Role of Group Leaders in Fostering Authenticity
01:27:16 Creating Safe Spaces for Social Workers
01:29:18 Expanding Emotional Range for Pluralism
01:31:07 Braver Angels and the Power of Dialogue
01:34:49 Theoretical Orientations in Group Therapy
01:37:23 Finding Local Group Therapy Resources
01:39:34 The Messiness of Social Work and Authentic Dialogue
ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.
This course was recorded on October 7, 2025.
It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice.
Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com
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Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0
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