NCSEA On Location

On today’s episode of On Location, host Tim Lightner sits down with Tom Joseph (Vice President and Managing Partner) and Rachel Mackey (Senior Associate), both of Paragon Government Relations to discuss the vital partnership between Paragon and NCSEA in navigating the landscape of Capitol Hill. The conversation highlights recent legislative milestones, passport denial legislation and ongoing bipartisan efforts surrounding the Parents Act. Our guests also delve into the impact of federal hearings on child supportpolicy, the nuances of funding for employment and training services, and proposed updates to access and visitation grants. Additionally, the episode covers the potential effects of government shutdowns and pending human servicesbudget cuts on state and tribal programs. Join us as we explore the strategic policy work being done to improve the lives of the families served by child support professionals nationwide.

On this episode of On Location, host Scott Eder sits down with Daniel Garcia, a lead child support worker in Salem, Oregon, to discuss the unique challenges and innovations within the state’s child support program. The conversation explores specialized teams for incarcerated parents and students, alongside the grit required to manage complex interstate cases with empathy. Tune in to learn how Oregon caseworkers balance high caseloads with a commitment to mental health and family stability.

This episode of On Location honors Lisa Skenandore withSystems and Methods, Inc., as the 2025 WICSEC Honorary Lifetime Member Awardee.  Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams hosts a conversation with Lisa, where she describes her sources of inspiration and motivation that have contributed to her incredible career journey spanning more than 25 years. Lisa’s commitment to the child support community and her invaluable contributions to WICSEC led to her Honorary Lifetime Member award recognition this year. 

Join Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams as she continues the OnLocation podcast series on the 2025 WICSEC awards.  Pat explores the topics of leadership, motivation and sources of inspiration with Kamilah Miller, Director of UIFSA ChildSupport Division, Office of the DeKalb County District, State of Georgia Division of Child Support Services.  Kamilah’s contributions and achievements have been recognized through the WICSEC Leadership Achievement Award in 2025.  We hope you’ll enjoy listening as Kamilah describes herjourney, her team’s success and how they strive to assist families navigating the unique aspects of UIFSA in the child support program.

This episode of NCSEA On Location focuses on tribal child support with a spotlight on the Oneida Nation. Host Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) speaks with guests Taylor Smith, an Enforcement Case Manager, and Ben Archiquette, a Child Support Enforcement Specialist, both of whom work for the Oneida Nation's child support program. They discuss how the program, which services families within the reservation boundaries near Green Bay and Appleton, WI, uses a smaller caseload and community-driven, hands-on approach to build better relationships and provide culturally relevant support that differs from county and state systems.  This episode offers insight into how their team supports parents, interacts with the community, and works to create the best outcome for everyone involved.

Welcome to another episode of NCSEA On Location with Pat O'Donnell of Young Williams. We are delighted to celebrate the 2025 WICSEC Rock Star Achievement Awardee, an individual recognized for significant non-supervisory contributions that improve the lives of children and promote a more effective child support program. Join Pat as she speaks with Alexandra Popescu (Oregon Division of Child Support) about her journey, policy work in Oregon, involvement with national associations, and her award.

Collaborations are critical to the success of the child support program and the ADMYRE (Advocating for My Relationships) Program illustrates the positive and lasting impact these partnerships have on families.  Hosted by Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams, listen as Kylie Claycomb of the Iowa Child Support Program and Rhonda Evans of Iowa State University describe how they are reaching youth and young adults to help them understand how to establish boundaries between healthy and unhealthy relationships.  In recognition of their work, WICSEC has recognized this program as their 2025 Working Together Awardees.  Congratulations Kylie and Rhonda!

Join NCSEA On Location hosts Tim Lightner (eWorld Enterprise Solutions) and DeAnna Rice (CaliforniaDepartment of Child Support Services) as they introduce Brianna Nesbitt, the new NCSEA Manager of Professional Development and Communication, who shares her academic journey and her first impressions of the 2025 NCSEA Leadership Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia. She discusses her professional goals for her new role, including how members can support her and what her first projects will be. Brianna also reveals fun personal details, such as her black belt in HapKiDo, her love for Chicago, and attending over 500 concerts.

 In the second part of the conversation, join host Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) as he continues the conversation with Minnesota’s David Ramroop, a child support worker with the Ramsey County Attorney's Office; and James Wittling, a child support professional from Washington County. They discuss their experiences with public assistance and child support work. David shares his personal experience growing up with public assistance, noting that it helped him understand and connect with the families he now serves, emphasizing that it's okay to ask for help. Both caseworkers agree that successful "enforcement" is better viewed as helping all parties—the non-custodial parent, the custodial parent, and most importantly, the child—often involving modification of support based on a change in circumstance. James highlights the complexity and challenges of Interstate child support cases, stressing the importance of patience, meticulous detail, and better communication among states, while acknowledging the efforts to improve with digital tools like the federal child support portal. Ultimately, they both stress a message to the public: they are people who want to serve and build relationships, urging clients to be present, attend hearings, and not be afraid to ask questions.

On today’s episode of NCSEA On Location, host Scott Eder explores the county-driven child support program in Minnesota. He is joined by David Ramroop, a child support worker with the Ramsey County Attorney's Office, who shares his personal motivation and comprehensive approach to his enforcement caseload. He is joined by James Wittling, a child support professional from Washington County specializing in complex Interstate cases that cross state lines. The conversation emphasizes the importance of relationship building, client empathy, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles inherent in Minnesota's localized structure. Bothunderscore the need for continuous client education to dispel common public misconceptions and ensure all parties understand their rights and responsibilities within the child support system.  This is part 1 of a 2-part episode.

On this episode of NCSEA On Location, Lisa Westfall (Franklin County Child Support) and Pamela Jenkins (North Carolina Child Support Services) discuss the impact of natural disasters on child support services. Pamela shares how North Carolina responded to Hurricane Helene, whichcaused massive flooding and over 200 deaths in western North Carolina. Although there wasn't a comprehensive plan in place beforehand, the state and affected counties jumped into action immediately after the storm. The state is stilldealing with challenges like a court backlog and one county office that is rebuilding all of its files from scratch because they were destroyed in the flooding and there was no electronic backup. Pamela’s advice to other states is to have a disaster plan in place, tailor it to local risks, and practice itannually.  Listen, to learn more.

On today’s program, join Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) as he returns, for the second of a two-part conversation with professionals from California’s child support programs.  Join the conversation in progress with Rick Alvarado, Joy Adkins, Debra Houston and JoAnna Bojorquez.  They talk about what changes their perspectives on their work, when things worked as intended and made a real difference for a family, times that they were able to step in and improve what theywere working on, and more.  Listen to some of the real-life experiences each has to offer, as they share on today’s On Location episode. 

On today’s program, join Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) as he is joined by four professionals from California’s childsupport programs, for the first of a two-part conversation.  With Scott are  Rick Alvarado, Joy Adkins, Debra Houston andJoAnna Bojorquez.  They talk about what it’s like to provide child support services in the state of California from a front-line view and assisting the clients that they are serving.  Hear about some of the challenges that they face in the office, dispelling the stereotypes of child support, as well as what really matters.

On Location brings you a conversation with representatives of the NCSEA 2025 Innovative Partnership and Collaboration Award.  Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Frankin County Child Support Enforcement Services talk with Rhonda Evans and Kate Goudy of Iowa State University who describe the ADMYRE Program they have developed in collaboration with the State of Iowa Child Support Program. The ADMYRE Program (Advocating for My Relationships) is a teen dating violence awareness program that addresses the critical issue of dating violence through immersive storytelling simulations and a hands-on debrief. This innovative program educates middle school, high school and college students, identifying healthy relationship attributes in a way that resonates with them and is impactful long after their participation has concluded.  Congratulations to the ADMYRE Program Team!

Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Services  continue to  highlight the NCSEA awardees, Antolette Vinson.

Antolette Vinson, Child Support Specialist Supervisor, Division of Child Support Services, Georgia Department of Human Services, is the NCSEA 2025 Emerging Leader Awardee.  Having assumed supervisory responsibilities 2 years ago, Antolette describes her leadership style, what she has learned, what has surprised her and how her work and that of her team positively impact Georgia families every day.  Her initiatives with the Chatham County Jail and other community outreach activities help deliver services to parents “where they are”.  Her energy and enthusiasm are infectious.  Listen to learn more.

On today’s program, Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Services are pleased to highlight another NCSEA awardee, Emerging Leader Awardee, Shannon Longino.    ShannonLongino, Outreach Manager for the Division of Child SupportServices, Georgia Department of Human Services, is the NCSEA 2025 Program Awareness Awardee.   Listen as Shannon describes the Georgia Fatherhood Program, how she and her team connect with both non-custodial and custodial parents to raise awareness, through a well-orchestrated communications strategy, of the services available to them as well as other stakeholders who contribute to the operation and impact of this program.  Shannon’s passion for her work is evident as she describes the more than 11,000 children that have benefitted from this program.

Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Frankin County Child Support Enforcement Services were very excited about talking with Phyllis Nance, the NCSEA 2025 Outstanding Leader Awardee.  Phyllis currently serves as the Director of the Alameda County, California Department of Child Support Services.  Over her 40+ year career journey, Phyllis has “seen it all” – from the origination of the modern child support program through today’s focus on empowering families to be the best they can be for their children.  Her influence and her impact in Alameda County aswell as CSDA and NCSEA through her many volunteer responsibilities are inspiring.  Listen to learn more. 

Join Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo ofFrankin County Child Support Enforcement Services for a very special episode of On Location where we honor the legacy of Ann Marie Ruskin through the Ann Marie Ruskin Child Support Leadership Award.   Ann Marie, former Executive Director of NCSEA, was a trailblazer whose work profoundly impacted child support professionals across the nation.  Our guests a re Diane Potts, the inaugural Ann Marie Ruskin Child Support Leadership Awardee and very specialguest, Glenn Ruskin, Ann Marie’s husband and partner for more than 45 years.  Diane is the Co-Founder of the Center for Child Support Policy. As she talks about her journey, you’ll hear she has dedicated her career to improving government human services programs so that they may better serve children and families.  Additionally, she has been an impactful and tireless volunteer contributor for NCSEA over many years.  Glenn shares precious memories of Ann Marie and reminds us of her commitment to NCSEA, her dedication to child support policy evolution and ensuring child supportprofessionals have access to ongoing professional development opportunities.  Diane and Glenn bring to life why the child support community is so very special.

Join Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Services as they talk with the NCSEA 2025 Scholarship Awardees.  Joining Pat and Brandi from Illinois are Tatiana Christopher, the Emerging Leader Scholarship Awardee, Candis Hayes, the Judge Ross Scholarship Awardee hailing from Georgia and Elise Topliss of Colorado, the Howard G. Baldwin Memorial Scholarship Awardee.  Each awardee shares their motivations and commitment to improving the lives of children and families within their respective child support programs.  Listen to learn more about each of their accomplishments and pick up a few tips about what to do and where to eat when in Atlanta.  See you there!

Today, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) heads downvirtually, to the Peach State, Georgia, where he sits down with Janet Jones, a frontline caseworker with the Georgia Division of Child Support Services.  Janet brings heart, hustle and a whole lot of wisdom to the child support program. They speak about what child support looks like on the ground in Georgia, the challenges, the successes, and the real human stories behind the numbers.  Learn a little bit more about and how: long she’s been working in child support, and the roles she has held.

On today’s podcast, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) sitsdown with James Younge (Manager, Networking for Jobs Program, Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division). They continue a conversation on re-entry from incarceration for child support paying parents. James is a Philadelphia native and graduate of Howard University (BA). He has worked in Philadelphia County’s Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division for 15 years, serving as an intergovernmental affairs conference officer, acting trial commissioner, and manager of the Networking Jobs Program. You may have read James’ article in the April 2025 NCSEA Child Support CommuniQue:  “Preparing for Success.”  Join Scott and James as they talk more about re-entry and child support.

On today’s podcast, Brandi Gallebo (Franklin County, Ohio Child Support Enforcement Agency) welcomes a guest to talk about  artificial intelligence in health and human services.  Brandi welcomes Shanita Harrison (Deputy Chief Administration Officer, New Mexico Health Care Authority).  Learn about Shanita’s tenure in Health and Human Services, her transition to IT, and what her goals are for the residents of New Mexico.  This episode is a follow-up to the April 2025NCSEA web talk:  Embracing AI in Health and Human Services. Whether you attended the web talk then, or are hearing the information for the first time, sit back and listen as the conversation continues.

As a bonus today, come listen to person-on-the-street interviews from the 24th Annual National Tribal Child Support Association Training Conference - Soaring Together: Elevating Tribal Families to New Heights.  The NTCSA annual training conference took place this year in beautiful Albuquerque, New Mexico from June 15th to June 19th.  Listen as attendees speak about their time and engagement for this premier conference.

On today’s program, On Location brings you a conversationwith Mary Ann Wellbank who has made such significant contributions to the child support program and NCSEA. Hosted by Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams, Mary Ann shares her perspectives on the importance of the “human connections” as we engage with program participants such as active listening, empathy and self-awareness. Mary Ann shares her rich and diverse experiences reminding us to “not assume” but to “actively engage”.

On this week’s program, Tim Lightner (eWorld Enterprise Solutions Inc.) welcomes Michael Hyzy (CGI Technologies and Solutions Inc.) to the On Location studio.  Michael shares about himself, his career, and about his passions.  Listen as he talks about artificial intelligence, where it came from, where it is used in our everyday lives, and what the future looks like with AI.  He also discusses where AI and human services can intersect, and how child support may benefit from using artificial intelligence.  Hear Michael give some practical tips on how to start getting involved in using AI to get more acquainted. 

On this episode of On Location, and the continued caseworker series, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) heads to the Peace Garden State to talk with Mischelle Hagerty, Administrator of the Establishment and Financial Units for the North Dakota Child Support program. With over 34 years of experience, Mischelle walks us through the evolution of her career, the shift from regional to centralized units, and how new ideas are shaping the future of child support services in her state. Tune in if you want to be reminded whatdedication looks like and how child support workers make a difference.

On this episode of On Location, and the continued caseworker series, Scott Eder sits down with Helen Miles, a Child Support Professional with over 31 years of experience at the Calhoun County Friend of the Court in Michigan. Helen shares her journey through the evolving landscape of child support, from managing caseloads and leading teams to contributing to statewide initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for Michigan families. Whether you are new to child support, or a seasoned professional, Helen's reflections and sharp wit offer both practical wisdom and heart.

On today’s program, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) continues talking with dedicated professionals who navigate complex cases, balance legal and emotional challenges and make a real difference in families lives every day.  Listen as Scott hosts an engaging conversation with Gretchen Smith (Deputy Director of Establishment for Westmoreland County Domestic Relations in Pennsylvania).  Gretchen shares how she got started in child support, and worked her way up the ranks from caseworker, to Deputy Director of Establishment.  She talks about making a difference in the lives of individuals, and the appreciation and gratitude received from parents when they receive payments; and also some challenges and rewards of the job.

What's it really like to be a child support caseworker anyway? In this episode, host Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) sits down with Ohioan Amber Arter (Support Officer at CSEA, Franklin County Child Support) where she works to ensure families receive the support and resources they need. She is dedicated to helping parents understand their cases and achieve the best possible outcomes for their children.  Get an inside look at the day-to-day challenges and successes of being directly involved with child support casework. Amber shares how she got into the field, what keeps her motivated, self-care, and a window into how Ohio is serving families. 

 And by the way, today’s episode is the 200th episode of NCSEA On Location! 

On today’s program, Pat O’Donnell (of YoungWilliams) continues a very special topic, with another very special group of women on the podcast.  Join On Location as we conclude our salute to Women’s History Month highlighting women who continue to make significant contributions to the child support program.  Pat talks with Konitra Jack (Child Support Enforcement Director, Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services) and Erin Frisch (Michigan’s Title IV-D Director and Director of the Office of Child Support).  Konitra and Erin share who inspires and energizes them personally and professionally, and more.  This episode comes to you from Louisianna, Michigan and Illinois.

On today’s program, Pat O’Donnell (of YoungWilliams) brings a very special topic, and a very special group of women to the podcast.  Some of our listeners may be fully aware of Women's History Month, or maybe you are just getting acquainted with this celebration that happens every March. On Location comes to you today from Wyoming, Connecticut, and Wisconsin.  Featured today are women that have made significant contributions to the child support program. Welcomed to the podcast are Janelle Bergener, (Project Manager for the Wyoming Department of Family Services), Katie Kenney (Senior Manager for Professional Development with the National Child Support Engagement Association), and Connie Chesnick (the Administrator of the Division of Family and Economic Security in the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families and President -Elect of NCSEA).  Listen as each share their pathways, their careers and so much more.

On today’s program, Tim Lightner (eWorld Enterprise Solutions) has the privilege to talk with Lilly James, Director of the Child Support Enforcement Program for the Nez Perce Tribal Court.  Lilly was a featured plenary speaker at the 2025 NCSEA Policy Forum in Washington DC and spoke on “Holistic Family Supports:  Integrating Comprehensive Supports for Thriving Families.”  Listen as she talks about the Nez Perce program, where it’s located, who it serves, and some highlights of the program.  Hear Lilly talk about how she got involved in the child support program.  She also speaks to how the tribal program is committed to holistic supports, which are rooted in Nez Perce traditions emphasizing interconnectedness. 

Join us for this year’s NCSEA Policy Forum, happening Jan.30th –Feb. 1st in Washington, DC! Hosted by Mariellen Keely, this episode features special guests and Policy Forum Co-Chairs, Trish Skophammer and Carla West. Trish, Director of Child Support Services in Ramsey County, MN, brings over 27 years of experience in child support evolution. Carla, Division Director for Human Services in North Carolina, shares insights from her 28-year career spanning multiple states and roles.

With the theme "Holistic Changes: Continuing to Build a Program That Serves Families," the forum will explore innovative strategies, impactful policies, and the future of child support services.

🎯 Highlights include:

-Sessions on child support guidelines and rethinking enforcement tools.

-An interactive Roman Coliseum-style debate.

-Networking with leaders and peers in the field.

-Whether in person or virtual, don’t miss your chance to be in the room where it happens! 💡

#NCSEA2025 #SupportVAKids #PolicyForum#ChildSupportLeadership

We're gearing up for the 2025 NCSEA Policy Forum, happening January 30th - February 1st in Washington, D.C., where child support professionals will come together to tackle key issues shaping our field.  🎤 In our latest podcast episode, Katie Kenney, Senior Manager for Professional Development at NCSEA, gave us a sneak peek at what’s in store! From thought-provoking discussions on holistic changes in child support policy to the debut of the Roman Forum of Child Support, this year’s conference promises to be insightful, interactive, and impactful.

📅 ICYMI: Registration is still open for virtual attendees until January 27th! Visit ncsea.org for details.

💡 What are you most excited about at #NCSEA2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments! ⬇️

On today’s episode of On Location, Patti Garofalo (Child Support practice Director with NTT Data) hosts a stellar line up to talk about connecting and engaging with legislators and other government officials.  Her guests today include Ryann Levering-White, Traci Berry, Kate Cooper Richardson, Carla West and Lyndsy Irwin.  They share their own personal experiences and give insight and inspiration as to what has been helpful for them to advocate for the child support program.  It’s that time of year, not only with a new year for 2025; it’s also that time to start planning to meet and educate your legislatures for what your program needs. 

Happy Holidays from the On Location Team!  This week’s episode brings you additional holiday cheer and 2025 wishes from child support professionals from North Carolina, Missouri, California, Arizona and New York.  Hosted by Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams, listen as our guests describe their “favorite traditions” and movies during this festive time of year.    Hear their hopes for the child support program over this coming year.   

Happy Holidays from the On Location Team!  This week’s episode brings you holiday cheer and hopes for the new year from child support professionals from Alaska, Wisconsin, California, and Michigan.  Hosted by Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams, listen as our guests describe their “favorite things” during this festive time of year.

Join Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) as he sits down with Dr. Sameon West (Community Liaison for Onslow County Child Support) to explore the unique challenges military families face while navigating the child support system. Dr. West shares insights from his work on base in Jacksonville, North Carolina, offering stories of courage, education, and support systems available to custodial and non-custodial parties alike. This episode helps child support professionals better understand how to serve those who have served our nation.

On today’s program, NCSEA On Location is proud to showcase the achievements of the Western Intergovernmental Child Support Engagement Council’s 2024 Awardees recognized during the recent WICSEC Conference in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Veronica Riley of Veronica Riley Consulting and Training, joined by special guest WICSEC President April Klatt, engage in a lively discussion with Rock Star Awardee– Donald “Donny” Archer (Shasta County, California), Leadership Achievement Awardee – Karen Coleman (Oregon Child Support Program), and Working Together Awardee – Ventura County Fatherhood Summit (Ventura County, California) represented by Kiara Nowlin.  The Platinum Program Awardee, Cherokee Nation represented by Sara Quetone, was unable to join us, and we hope to highlight their program for you in a future broadcast. Each awardee shares their thoughts and best practices as we celebrate the outstanding impacts they have made within the child support community.