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
A Conversation About Tennessee’s Child Support Reentry Program [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:11
On today’s episode, Tammy Pearson (YoungWilliams) hosts Patti Wood (Director of Operations, Child Support Field Services and Family Assistance and Child Support Contracts for the State of Tennessee, Department of Human S…
A Look Back in History - The First Episode Revisited [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:57
Today's episode was recorded on location in Washington DC in February of 2018 at the NCSEA Policy Forum. Joe Mamlin and Lori Rumage-Cain host, and bring back to share that very first On Location program — a conversation…