News from The Hill: Updates with Tom Joseph and Rachel Mackey of Paragon Government Relations

News from The Hill: Updates with Tom Joseph and Rachel Mackey of Paragon Government Relations

Author: NCSEA February 25, 2026 Duration: 37:57

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.



Ever wonder what happens when you pull a microphone out at a conference or a community meeting? That's the spirit of NCSEA On Location. Instead of polished studio sessions, this podcast captures conversations where they naturally happen-in hallways after a panel, at international gatherings, or in quiet corners of bustling events. You'll hear directly from Human Services professionals, from caseworkers to policy architects, along with advocates and community stakeholders who are deeply involved in the system. The discussions are immediate and grounded, offering a raw, unfiltered look at the challenges and innovations in public service. Each episode feels like you’ve stepped into a meaningful, spontaneous dialogue, one that continues long after the formal agenda ends. The authentic atmosphere is even complemented by original music from Joe Mamlin, whose granted compositions frame these real-world recordings. Brought to you by NCSEA, this series is for anyone curious about the human stories behind government services, preferring the sound of genuine exchange over a rehearsed script. Tune in to a podcast that truly travels, bringing you voices from the field exactly as they were heard on the ground.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

NCSEA On Location
Podcast Episodes
Meet Brianna Nesbitt, NCSEA’s Professional Development Manager [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:26
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 Developmen…
Disaster Preparedness with North Carolina Child Support Services [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:22
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 sha…
A Front Row Seat to California’s Child Support Programs (Pt. 2) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:58
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…
A Front Row Seat to California’s Child Support Programs (Pt. 1) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:14
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…