Welcome to the Coffee Break podcast, where hosts, Child Support Chief Attorney, Bruce Wagner and Child Support Deputy Director, Nathan Hartel talk about topics that will help you understand the Child Support program just a little easier by bringing you coffee break sips of Child Support knowledge.

This Coffee Break episode is a special one, as it is the finale to Season Two.  But that’s not the only thing that makes this episode special; the hosts have a special announcement: your Coffee Break host, Bruce has announced his retirement from DCSS! (1:20) This is Bruce’s final podcast with Coffee Break; but don’t worry, the Coffee Break’s will continue in Season 3, with Nathan as a solo host, along with special guests.

As this podcast serves as a farewell and thank you to Bruce, it also served as a final opportunity to interview Bruce and have him share some of his best insight regarding the Child Support program. This interview also served as a reminder as to why the podcast was created, and that is to showcase what the customer experience with DCSS should be. (3:30)

A little about your host, Bruce Wagner: did you know he was a math teacher? Yes, Mr. Wagner, high school teacher. (7:00) Who would have known he would later hold a career as a Child Support Attorney with the District Attorney’s division?

Bruce talks about the greatest changes that occurred in the Child Support program within the transition of DCSS separating from the D.A.’s division, into its own entity under the Human Services division. (8:15) Through the lifespan of DCSS, the focus has changed into what can be done to help the parents/caretakers meet the requirements of their Child Support order. (9:50)

The most important piece of information that Bruce can provide is this, “Child Support is not a science, it is an art. The most important aspect is to be honest, caring, and willing to work together, not only with the other parent/caretaker, but with the Child Support representatives, focusing on what is best for the child(ren); being heard and valued.” (15:40)

Part of this approach to focus on what is best for the child(ren), also takes place in court. The Child Support attorneys do not advocate for either parent/caretaker. The attorneys present information to the commissioner, to narrow down the issue for a more efficient process. Child Support attorneys are impartial and work with both parents. (19:00)

And as the final farewell, Bruce speaks on the most rewarding part of the Child Support program: providing quality service, being as fair as possible, and doing whatever DCSS can do to get an appropriate court order that will work for the parents and help improve the lives of the child(ren). This is not only in Riverside, but it is a focus for Child Support departments statewide. (23:50)

Now, Mr. Wagner’s cup of coffee is empty, and he has no more refills. Best retirement wishes! Now as should our listeners, Bruce will subscribe as a Coffee Break podcast listener, and looks forward to listening to future episodes with many guests to the show in Season 3. Subscribe and stay tuned.