Let’s Talk: an Illinois Child Welfare Podcast

Welcome to Let’s Talk: an Illinois Child Welfare Podcast, a podcast of the Office of Research and Child Well-Being to educate, provide updates and support the implementation of best practice within Illinois Department Children and Family Services. Let’s Talk: an Illinois Child Welfare Podcast is hosted by Michelle Moreno and LaTanya Riggs. Our goal is to provide valuable information that will strengthen well-being, the use of best practice within the field, and increase awareness of programs and practices. We’re glad you tuned in with us today. Let’s Talk!

Michelle Moreno, MPA (bilingual English/Spanish) Michelle is currently an Implementation Site Director for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. She holds a master’s degree in public administration with over 20 years’ experience in the implementation of strong Systems of Care in Indiana, Florida, and Illinois. Michelle is a strong advocate for the implementation of High-Fidelity Wraparound and the system reforms needed to achieve improved safety, permanency and well-being for children and families.

La Tanya Riggs, MSW is a native of Detroit, MI, and a tea lover.  La Tanya embarked on her child welfare career nearly twenty years ago and held various roles in case management and supervision.  She is currently an Implementation Site Director within the Office of Research and Child Wellbeing.  La Tanya is passionate about empowering and supporting children, youth, families, and the dedicated field staff in their journey towards positive transformation and stability.

Episode 1. Motivational Interviewing

Episode and transcript coming October 21!

Welcome to Let’s Talk, the podcast that explores Motivational Interviewing in the context of working with children and families. Join us as we define Motivational Interviewing, discuss its benefits in working with families, and provide strategies to avoid common pitfalls. Discover how this evidence-based approach can enhance communication, build trust, and foster positive change within families and even our own personal lives. Click the link and Let’s Talk because change begins with a conversation.

Episode 2. Righting Reflex Trap

Episode and transcript coming November 4!

Welcome to Let’s Talk!  In this episode, we will discuss how to avoid falling into the “Righting Reflex Trap”. This is when we begin with providing solutions immediately when we see what is wrong and when working with children and families this approach can hinder the process of change.  Tune in as La Tanya and Michelle provide information on how to empower families by fostering effective communication and collaboration to avoid this trap.

Episode 3. Avoiding the Expert Trap

Episode and transcript coming November 18!

Welcome to Let’s Talk! In this episode, Michelle and La Tanya delve into the topic Avoiding the Expert Trap when working with children and families. We will discuss how using Motivational Interviewing skills help to avoid this common trap and shift your perspective to becoming a partner and empowering families to take the lead in their own change journeys.

Episode 4. Question-and-Answer Trap

Episode and transcript coming December 2!

Join La Tanya and Michelle on Let’s Talk as we explore the Question-and-Answer Trap.  We will discuss how to use Motivational Interviewing skills to avoid this trap and provide effective ways to gather information, understand needs, and create a comfortable and safe environment. Click the link, tune in and enhance your Motivational Interviewing skills while working with children and families!

Episode 5. Motivational Interviewing: Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion, and Evocation

Episode and transcript coming December 16!

On this episode of Let’s Talk, Michelle and La Tanya explore the spirit of Motivational Interviewing: Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion, and Evocation or for short P.A.C.E.. Join the conversation and invite your peers as we share valuable MI tips and tools for incorporating the spirit of MI when working with children and families. So, click the link and Let’s Talk and embrace the spirit of MI together!

Dr. Verletta A. Saxon is the Deputy of Research and Child Well-Being at the Illinois Department of Children and Families (DCFS) and a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC) who is passionate about well-being, well-becoming and resilience. Dr. Saxon believes that children, youth, and adults have the power to transform their lives when they build and develop relationships, have a sense of belonging, and use their strengths to achieve their goals. Dr. Saxon’s bold mission is to be a well-being ambassador that supports lifelong learning and assist others as they gain purpose and power in their individual lives.

Episode 6. Reflective Listening in Motivational Interviewing

Join La Tanya, Michelle, and special guest Dr. Verletta Saxon on Let’s Talk as they explore the transformative power of reflective listening in Motivational Interviewing. Experience the profound impact of being truly heard and understood, while cultivating a strong partnership with children and families. Don’t miss this enlightening interview – click the link and join the conversation today!

Episode and transcript coming January 6!

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is providing the content of this podcast. The podcast is used for public service training purposes only. It is neither legal interpretation nor a statement of DCFS policy. It does not replace professional advice.  Reference to any specific product, service, or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by DCFS. The views or opinions expressed by employees, contractors, guests, trainers/facilitators, are their own and do not necessarily reflect the view of DCFS or any of their officials. Their appearance on the podcast does not imply an endorsement of the views or opinions expressed or any entity they represent.