Northern Illinois University
Department of Psychology
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

In this episode of Let’s Talk, La Tanya Riggs and Michelle Moreno kick off the new season by exploring the meaning of change and how it shapes the work of child welfare professionals. Using insights from Motivational Interviewing (MI) and the stages of change, they discuss the emotional reactions people often have when faced with shifting behaviors, routines, or expectations—whether it’s something as small as a detour on the way to work or as significant as a family making difficult decisions.

Through thoughtful reflection, examples, and supporting quotes, the hosts highlight how change is a process, not a single moment, and how MI skills can help practitioners recognize where families are in that process while honoring their autonomy. This episode sets the stage for a season focused on understanding and guiding change with empathy, patience, and respect.

Listeners are invited to reflect on how change shows up in their work this week and to share their experiences or questions with the ORCW team.

Listen to episode 1 on Spotify

In this episode of Let’s Talk, a podcast from the DCFS Office of Research and Child Well-Being, Michelle Moreno and La Tanya Riggs explore one of the most common — and most human — parts of the change process: ambivalence. Building on the previous episode about navigating change, they break down why people often feel torn between wanting things to be different and wanting them to stay the same.

Through everyday examples and practical insights, Michelle and La Tanya explain how Motivational Interviewing (MI) can help professionals support families who are stuck in this “tug of war.” They walk through the OARS skills — open‑ended questions, affirmations, reflections, and summaries — and show how each tool can guide individuals from uncertainty toward meaningful action.

The hosts remind us that ambivalence is normal, learning is ongoing, and growth is possible. As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Listen to episode 2 on Spotify

In this episode of Let’s Talk, the DCFS Office of Research and Child Well-Being continues its exploration of Motivational Interviewing (MI) by focusing on an important part of the change process: Sustain Talk. Building on the previous discussion about ambivalence, hosts Michelle Moreno and La Tanya Riggs explain how Sustain Talk shows up as doubts, fears, or hesitations — the “struggle” that often appears when individuals face change.

La Tanya breaks down what Sustain Talk sounds like, from “I don’t think I can do that right now” to “I’ve tried that before.” Michelle explains how MI tools such as open‑ended questions and reflections can help guide families through these moments without arguing, persuading, or shutting down the conversation. Together, they demonstrate how these skills encourage understanding, uncover root causes, and support the path toward Change Talk.

As Frederick Douglass wisely stated, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” Sustain Talk is not a barrier — it’s a natural step in the journey.

Listen to episode 3 on Spotify