About Me

I’m Joseph Wernau, LMSW, a macro social work advocate and founder of The Macro Lens. I chose social work because I believe macro practice is one of the most effective ways to create lasting, positive systemic change. I have worked with schools, nonprofits, child welfare, state agencies, and community initiatives. Each experience showed me how systems shape people’s lives, for better and for worse.

Along the way, I noticed something missing. While clinical resources for social workers are everywhere, resources for those passionate about macro practice are scarce. Too often, our profession drifts toward direct practice, leaving fewer tools and spaces for those of us committed to advocacy, policy, program development, and systems change.

To address that gap, I created The Macro Lens. Here you’ll find articles, tools, and reflections designed to support social workers who want to move beyond service delivery and step into systemic leadership. This vision is grounded in my own work, from leading trainings and building data systems for child advocacy to facilitating partnerships between community organizations to expand opportunities for families. These experiences continue to shape my belief that social workers are uniquely equipped to drive systemic change.

At the end of the day, The Macro Lens is about building community. Social work is stronger when we share ideas, challenge assumptions, and imagine better systems together. My hope is that this space gives you both encouragement and useful tools for that journey. I’m glad you’re here, and I look forward to learning, sharing, and growing alongside you.

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Read more about my story in My Why. Be sure to check out Our Mission to find out more about The Macro Lens. Looking for resources? Check out our macro social work resources page for everything you need to start changing systems.