Will Francis, Executive Director, National Association of Social Workers, Texas and Louisiana Chapters

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Will Francis, Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers across Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, shares insights from his journey across frontline social work, government relations, and executive leadership. He reflects on how firsthand exposure to client challenges led him toward advocacy and ultimately into guiding one of the region’s key professional social work associations. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the importance of collaboration across disciplines, communities, and political perspectives, emphasizing that meaningful systems change in behavioral health and social policy only happens when diverse stakeholders come together.Will also explores some of the most pressing issues facing the social work profession today, including workforce reclassification efforts, access to education and professional funding, and the growing role—and limits—of AI in therapeutic spaces. He discusses the balance between innovation and ethical boundaries in mental health care, the ongoing fight for human rights and behavioral health equity, and the importance of self-care in emotionally demanding work. Closing the discussion, he underscores the need for steady, values-driven leadership in uncertain times and shares why staying grounded in community, purpose, and long-term thinking is essential for those working to strengthen both the profession and the systems it serves.