Radical Presence: Life, Loss, and Listening with Fernando Pinedo

In this episode, Vanessa sits down with Fernando Pinedo, a hospice worker and MSW colleague from CSULB. Fernando opens up about his personal journey shaped by familia, resilience, and the powerful influence of medical social workers who helped guide him into the social work profession. He speaks candidly about the importance of being emotionally present—for both clients and peers—and how honest conversations serve as a healing outlet in his life and work.