Advertise on podcast: NCSEA On Location

In this episode of NCSEA On Location, host Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) is joined by Tanguler Gray, Michele Christello, Alexandra Popescu, and John Hurst to preview the upcoming NCSEA U at the 2027 Policy Forum. The guests break down what attendees can expect from this premier leadership development event, including instructor highlights, core session themes, and how the program seamlessly flows right into the main Policy Forum. Hear expert tips on crafting a competitive application, securing supervisor approval, and why you or a colleague should join this invaluable professional growth experience. For more information: NCSEA U | NCSEA To apply: 2027 NCSEA U Policy Forum Application Survey

Step behind the scenes of NCSEA conferences in this episode of NCSEA On Location, hosted by Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting). Interim Executive Director Beth Knight and Professional Development and Communications Manager Brianna Nesbitt reveal the high-stakes, behind-the-scenes world of the association's conference "Command Center." Also joining are LaTrese Wallace (NCSEA Senior Manager of Fundraising and Partnerships) and Amalia Paul (NCSEA Senior Coordinator of Association Services). From managing unexpected last-minute room swaps and frantic venue logistics to handling personal emergencies on the fly, this conversation uncovers the dedication required to deliver a seamless attendee experience. Tune in to discover the unseen teamwork, caffeine-fueled mornings, and meticulous coordination that keep NCSEA events running effortlessly.

On this week’s episode, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) sits down with Awendela Williams of the Penobscot Nation Child Support Agency to discuss the important role tribal child support programs play in serving families and strengthening communities. The conversation explores what makes tribal child support unique, the value of strong partnerships, the realities of working in a close-knit community, and the impact that thoughtful collaboration and kindness can have for children and families. Awendela Williams is a proud member of the Penobscot Nation. She has lived on the Penobscot Nation Reservation for most of her life. She has a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Maine, at Orono. She has been working for the Penobscot Nation Child Support Agency for 19 years and is the PNCSA Program Coordinator.

On this episode of On Location, Scott Eder (Courtland Consulting) hosts Dr. Alan-Michael Graves (Senior Director of Teaching and Capacity Building with the Good Plus Foundation). Hear insights from Dr. Graves, where the discussion emphasizes training social service and child support personnel to engage fathers through a cultural and family-centered lens. Ultimately moving from adversarial practices toward collaborative systems that work with fathers to strengthen co-parenting, financial stability, and emotional involvement. This podcast explores the delicate balance between supporting the child support system and advocating for fathers' rights to ensure the ultimate well-being of children. If you are an NCSEA member, please also check out Dr. Graves’ article in the July, 2026 CSQ titled “The Balancing Act”. If you’re not a member, it may be the time to become a member. Please check out how to become a member at www.ncsea.org/membership.

What does Pete the Cat (the children’s book) and the child support program have in common? Quite a lot! On today’s edition of On Location, join Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams as she hosts a discussion with Stanislaus County Child Support Services Director Marissa de Almeida, Executive Operational Manager Karen Lumpkin and Operations Manager Joe Silva as they describe how they are meeting families where they are … in their children’s classrooms and building advocacy for child support services within the educational community, parents and children. Their creativity and determination to make a positive difference really shines through as they describe the impact they’ve made so far and their plans for the future of the program.

Welcome back to another edition of NCSEA On Location, recorded live with hosts and guests spanning from New York to Alaska! In this episode, host Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) sits down with Bill Woods, President of the National Tribal Child Support Association as well as staff attorney for the Three Affiliated Tribes, and April Lauzon, President of the National Association of Tribal Child Support Directors, and Program Manager at St. Regis Mohawk Tribe in New York. Together, they discuss the crucial impact of Title IV-D tribal child support programs, highlighting how tribes exercise sovereignty to serve families and children through culturally grounded approaches. They dive into national outreach efforts and ongoing endeavors to expand IV-D tribal programs across the country. Tune in as they share their ultimate goal of broadening these life-changing services and increasing federally recognized tribal child support programs. Home Page - NTCSA - National Tribal Child Support AssociationHome Page - NTCSA - National Tribal Child Support Association National Association of Tribal Child Support Directors – National Association of Tribal Child Support DirectorsTRIBAL CHILD SUPPORT PROGRAM START-UP APPLICATION GUIDE

In this episode of On Location, join Pat O’Donnell of YoungWilliams and Brandi Gallebo of Franklin County (Ohio) Child Support Enforcement Services as they host a conversation with Regina Cruise and Marquese Howard of Riverside County, CA highlighting their “year-round” focus on Child Support Awareness and Child Support Awareness Month (CSAM) outreach campaigns. Their efforts in collaboration with their sister child support agencies and their many community partners provide ongoing education and support to families regarding child support services as well as referrals to other assistive services. Their team and their program make such a positive impact within their community. Listen now for more!

On this episode of NCSEA On Location, hosts Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) and DeAnna Rice (CA Department of Child Support Services) facilitate a candid conversation centered on the passing of the gavel—the transition ofleadership from outgoing NCSEA President Connie Chesnik (Administrator, Division of Family and Economic Security at the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families) to incoming President Ethan McKinney (Vice President forBusiness Development and Corporate Strategy at Protech Solutions, Inc.). Together, Connie and Ethan reflect on their journeys within the child support community, the milestones and surprises of the past year, and the strategic vision for the year ahead.

Join Pat O’Donnell (YoungWilliams) and Brandi Gallebo (Frankin County Child Support Enforcement Services) as they host today’s podcast edition.  NCSEA on Location is proud to present a conversation with the 2026 Ann Marie Ruskin Child Support Leadership awardee, Dr. Trish Skophammer.  During her distinguished career, Trish has dedicated her energy, time and commitment to the development of policy change recommendations which have made such a positive impact on the lives of countless families throughout the country. A tireless NCSEA volunteer, Trish leads by example, mentors aspiring leaders, and has mastered the art of being in multiple places at the same time.  Listen as Trish describes her career journey, both its rewards and opportunities in the future.

On this episode of On Location, Pat O’Donnell (YoungWilliams) sits down with Chris Tran (Director of the Alaska Child Support Program) to discuss a huge win: going from concept to a fully operational statewide system in under three years. Chris spotlights the incredible teamwork behind the scenes and the lasting impact this work will have on families across the state. Listen to a conversation about leadership, teamwork, and turning ambitious vision into reality.

Welcome back to another edition of NCSEA On Location.  Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) is joined today by NCSEA President Connie Chesnik (Administrator, Division of Family and Economic Security at the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families), along with Past-Presidents Charles Smith (Vice President of Business Development atGreenCourt Legal Technologies in Texas) and Jim Fleming (Director, Child Support Section at the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services). Together, we are diving into the landmark April 1st Child Support Briefingsheld for House Ways & Means and Senate Finance committee staffers in Washington, D.C. Stay tuned as they discuss the months of planning behind the event, the key legislative priorities presented, and our guests' key takeaways from reading the room.  To become an NCSEA individual member, visit Individual Membership | NCSEA, If you are an NCSEA member, you can view the NCSEA legislative proposals at Legislative-Update.June-2026.pdf.

On this week’s episode of On Location, join Pat O’Donnell(YoungWilliams) and Brandi Gallebo (Franklin County Child Support) as they focus on the achievements of the NCSEA Leadership Symposium Scholarship Awardees: Tamekia Hart, Leslie Mills and Danielle Noe. Each of the awardees have a truly diverse set of responsibilities which make contributions to the success of the child support program in quite different ways. Stay tuned as Tamekia describes her career transition into the child support program and how she inspires her team. Leslie describes the outstanding performance accomplished within her team and their impactful outreach efforts. Danielle shares the “secret sauce” leading to success in her team’s effectiveness in parent locate services and working intergovernmental child support cases. Their passion for excellence as well as their personal commitment shines through in these conversations.

Welcome back to another episode of NCSEA On Location, coming to you from California and Alaska! I’m your host, Tim Lightner, and today we are diving into NCSEA Connects—a vital professional development and networking opportunity for child support professionals. Joining us to discuss its history, impact, and exciting expansion are Laura Van Buskirk (current Director of Placer County Department of Child Support Services, and Kathie Bohacek, Assistant Director of San Joaquin County Department of Child Support Services). Laura and Kathie explore what makes these interactive groups so unique and how you can get involved -- with three brand-new groups launching!  NCSEA Connects | NCSEA

Today’s episode of On Location explores the critical importance of self-care and overall wellness for child support professionals. Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) welcomes guest Matt Sautter (Founder & Principal, Basepoint Solutions Group).  Matt shares practical tips and insights drawing from his front-line and human services experience, delving into the daily stress, internal battles, and risk of burnout workersface in complex systems, such as child support. Together, the discussion highlights tangible strategies for employees and management alike—such as work flexibility and aligning with holistic family well-being—to create healthier work environments and to better serve families.  The NCSEA Child Support CommuniQue (CSQ) is a quarterly publication that is a benefit to NCSEA members. If you would like to learn more about membership, please visit our website at https://www.ncsea.org/membership/.

On this week’s episode of On Location, join Tammy Pearson(YoungWilliams) as she hosts the co-chairs of the  NCSEA U Committee, Michele Christello (IV-D Director of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Child Support Services Division) and John Hurst (Government Services Consultant with GreenCourt Technologies).  They dive into the history, impact, and selection process behind NCSEA U, an elite educational initiative established in 2013 for leaders and emerging leaders in the child support community. Listeners will learn exactly what the selection committee looks for in candidates—highlighting the immense power of a sincere, well-crafted application—and how the program has shaped over four hundred professionals across fifteen total cohorts. The discussion also previews the upcoming classes with thirty attendees at the Leadership Symposium in Louisville, KY, outlining both the classroom expectations and the virtual pre- and post-sessions. Finally, the episode offers invaluable, practical advice for future applicants on how to strengthen their profiles and successfully articulate their value for the next round of applications. And if you have not registered for the 2026 NCSEA Leadership Symposium in Louisville, Kentucky, we would encourage you to register and attend.  It’s going to be a greatopportunity for professional development and networking with other child support professionals. Simply go to the Leadership Symposium website to find information on how to register.