The podcast episodes discuss various aspects of social services, including the provision of services for the homeless population, the strain on social services due to factors such as immigration and budget cuts, and the role of social services in supporting vulnerable groups like children and families.

For example, the episode 'The Containment Plan (rebroadcast)' examines the controversial 'containment plan' in Skid Row, Los Angeles, which concentrates social services and resources for the homeless population in a designated area. The episode 'How Do You Solve a Problem Like Homelessness?' also discusses the provision of social services, such as shelters and affordable housing, as a potential solution to homelessness.

The episodes also touch on the impact of social services and government programs on broader societal issues, such as the challenges faced by cities in providing support to migrants and the role of social services in addressing childhood trauma and exploitation.