The Power of Connection: Fresh Groups, Real Conversations

The Power of Connection: Fresh Groups, Real Conversations

Author: NCSEA July 29, 2026 Duration: 31:10

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


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: 50

NCSEA On Location
Podcast Episodes
Beyond Self-Care: Wellness for Child Support Workers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:35
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, Bas…
Inside NCSEA U: Building the Next Generation of Child Support Leaders [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:21
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 Se…
Across Country Boundaries: Understanding Important Nuances [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:04
On this episode of On Location, join host David Kilgore (CGITechnologies and Solutions) and guests Kristen Donadee (IV-D Director, California Department of Child Support Services) and Hannah Roots (Attorney at Law). They…
The NCSEA 2026 Leadership Symposium Preview Exclusive [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:26
On this week’s NCSEA On Location, Tim Lightner (Courtland Consulting) is joined by Kelly Micka (Information Technology Senior Manager, NTT DATA Services), Connie Chesnik (NCSEA President; Administrator, Division of Famil…