Hot Topics!

A Step Ahead Tutoring Services

Welcome to the "Hot Topics!" podcast, brought to you by A Step Ahead Tutoring Services. Join us for engaging discussions on important subjects like education, employment, physical health, and mental health. Hosted by Gabrielle Crichlow, the owner and director of A Step Ahead Tutoring Services, each episode features an interview format with guests from various backgrounds who share their insights to illuminate these topics.  At "Hot Topics!", we focus on creating a culture of learning and self-improvement because we believe in being better than we were yesterday. We avoid pointless gossip and prioritize meaningful conversations that inspire our audience.  New episodes are released every Wednesday at 5:00 am EST. Tune in to "Hot Topics!" and be part of the conversation! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.

  1. A Child's Eye View: Perspectives on Divorce and Separation

    5D AGO

    A Child's Eye View: Perspectives on Divorce and Separation

    Welcome to Hot Topics! Our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, and guest Jacintha Field discuss how children perceive divorce and separation at various developmental stages, mainly between 5 and 12 years old. This episode emphasizes the importance of empathy from parents, exploring how understanding and validating children's feelings can facilitate open conversations about divorce or separation. Parents will learn practical strategies to help communicate effectively and support their children through this challenging time. Who is Jacintha Field? Jacintha Field is a family and child counsellor, art therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids, a global platform helping children aged 5–12 build resilience, self-regulation, and mindfulness. After navigating separation, single parenting, and her own healing journey, including 9 years of sobriety, Jacintha retrained in art therapy and counselling to support her son through big emotions. What began as a private practice grew into a mission to reach kids everywhere through gamified tools and athlete-led storytelling. Featured in Mamamia, Kidspot, Thrive Global, Wellbeing Magazine, and more, she is passionate about shifting the question from “What’s wrong with this child?” to “What’s happening underneath?” You can find Jacintha: On the web: https://www.happysoulskids.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacinthafield On Instagram # 1: https://www.instagram.com/happysoulskids/ On Instagram # 2: https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield/ On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinthafield/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@happysoulskids On TikTok # 1: https://www.tiktok.com/@happysoulskids On TikTok # 2: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield Promo: WIN free access to Jacintha's beta testing of Happy Souls Kids app - 5 spaces to give away! Email hello@happysoulskids.com for more info. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/f66HCFcmcSk Original date of episode: October 8, 2025 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.

    1h 15m
  2. What is a Mind Map? (Part 1)

    JAN 28

    What is a Mind Map? (Part 1)

    Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, host Gabrielle Crichlow welcomes guest John Diggs, a renowned mentor and the creator of the "I Am Mind Map" system. Together, they explore the concept of mind maps, discussing their definition, purpose, and practical applications in personal development. Join them as they break down mind mapping, emphasizing its role as a visual representation of thoughts that helps organize and clarify ideas. John shares his expertise on the benefits of mind maps, highlighting how they can reduce mental clutter, enhance decision-making, and provide clarity in both personal and professional contexts. Throughout the conversation, Gabrielle and John delve into the differences between mind maps and vision boards. While vision boards serve as inspirational collages that visually represent goals and dreams, mind maps are dynamic tools that allow for a deeper exploration of thoughts and ideas. Vision boards typically focus on end results, using images and words to evoke feelings and aspirations. In contrast, mind maps facilitate a more structured approach, enabling individuals to break down their goals into actionable steps and organize their thoughts logically. This adaptability makes mind maps particularly effective for planning, brainstorming, and problem-solving, allowing for continuous updates as goals evolve. As the episode concludes, Gabrielle and John inspire you to take action by utilizing mind mapping techniques in your own life. Discover how this transformative tool can unlock your potential, enhance your creativity, and help you visualize your path to success. Tune in to this enlightening discussion and embark on a journey toward a more organized and fulfilling life! Who is John Diggs? John Diggs is a Mappineering Mentor and the creator of the "I AM Mind Map System", a transformative approach to personal development that combines mind mapping with powerful self-discovery techniques. John Diggs is dedicated to helping people live and love their best lives by using their own unique blueprint for health, wealth, success and happiness. Through the power of Mappineering, John has guided individuals, from students and athletes to parents and professionals, in gaining clarity, building resilience, and achieving extraordinary results. Get ready to DIGG deep into how we can all use mind maps to better understand who we are, set purposeful goals, and unlock our potential. Let’s welcome John Diggs to the show! You can find John (updated): On the web # 1: https://johndiggs.com On the web # 2: https://mappineerville.mn.co/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnDiggsMappineer On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johndiggsmappineermentor/ On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@johndiggsmappineermentor On X: https://twitter.com/JohnDiggs On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-diggs-mappineer/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourMappineeringMentor On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/johndiggable/ On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johndiggable Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/au7bzISJmno Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 24, 2025

    1h 9m
  3. The Doctor Is In: Addressing Modern Parenting Challenges

    JAN 21

    The Doctor Is In: Addressing Modern Parenting Challenges

    Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, invites guest Dr. Marci Klein, a pediatrician-turned-STEM entrepreneur and co-founder of 3DuxDesign, to discuss child development and the role of technology in learning. They delve into the pros and cons of technology, emphasizing the importance of balancing it with hands-on creativity to cultivate an environment that fosters curiosity and emotional intelligence. Dr. Klein highlights concerns regarding excessive technology use, which can lead to declines in children's fine motor skills, creativity, and social interactions. The conversation stresses the need for hands-on learning, illustrating how it promotes active engagement and real-world problem-solving skills. They also discuss the importance of effective communication skills and how parents can engage in collaborative activities with their children instead of relying solely on devices. As the discussion unfolds, they explore constructive tech resources like Book Creator and Chatterpix, as well as the use of 3D models to create stories. The episode touches on the distinction between technology for consumption and technology for creation, underscoring how assembling models can be a valuable tool for parents looking to enhance their children's skills while fostering creativity. Join us for insights on effectively integrating technology while ensuring children develop essential skills for their future! Who is Dr. Marci Klein? Dr. Marci Klein is a pediatrician-turned-STEM entrepreneur and co-founder of 3DuxDesign, a company that creates hands-on, project-based learning resources for K–12 classrooms, afterschool programs, and enrichment settings. Drawing from over 25 years as a physician specializing in child development, she now focuses on designing meaningful learning experiences that blend academic growth with community-centered design. Her award-winning programs and resources are used worldwide to engage students in real-world problem solving, engineering design, and creative innovation—empowering the next generation with the skills and confidence to shape their future. You can find Marci: On the web: https://www.3duxdesign.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3DuxDesign On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3duxdesign/ On LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/marci-klein-m-d-40b24b62/ On LinkedIn (business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/3duxdesign/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@3duxdesign893 Discount code "luckydux" for 10% off first order. Visit website to use the code: https://www.3duxdesign.com/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/ioDVBriJ3vM Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 22, 2025

    1h 20m
  4. What Does It Mean to be A Man? (Part 5a)

    JAN 14

    What Does It Mean to be A Man? (Part 5a)

    Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, our guest, Jason Lange, comes on the show to answer the following question: What does it mean to be a man? Jason, a men's embodiment coach and group facilitator, shares insights on how traditional definitions of masculinity—such as being tough and invulnerable—are outdated and no longer serve men well. Throughout the discussion, Jason highlights the mental health crisis facing men today, emphasizing high levels of loneliness, mental health disorders, and suicide. He argues that being a man in today's world involves embracing vulnerability and emotional presence, moving away from outdated notions of toughness. The conversation delves into the crisis of connection, where many men struggle to form deep relationships and often see other men as competition, leading to increased isolation. Jason also discusses the changing gender roles influenced by feminism and economic shifts, where women are gaining independence and men are navigating new roles in relationships. He advocates for men's groups as vital spaces for men to connect, share experiences, and learn to express their emotions and vulnerabilities. Jason emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation, noting that many men are taught to suppress their feelings, which can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Additionally, he addresses the significance of men's physical health, encouraging regular check-ups and open discussions about health issues—such as prostate and testicular cancer—that can impact men's well-being. As the discussion unfolds, Jason touches on the inevitability of aging and health issues, urging men to prepare emotionally and socially for times when they may need support. Ultimately, this episode serves as a call to action, encouraging men to embrace their emotional and physical health, seek help when needed, and cultivate connections with other men for personal growth and well-being. Who is Jason Lange? Jason is a men's embodiment coach, group facilitator, and evolutionary guide who helps men drop in and wake up to deeper clarity in their life's purpose and relationships. He believes every man should be in a men's group for the growth and support opportunities they provide. A certified No More Mr. Nice Guy coach, Jason has trained and studied with leaders such as John Wineland, Dr. Robert Glover, Jun Po Roshi, Tripp Lanier, and Ken Wilber. Many men are struggling right now as the old paradigms of what a "man" is supposed to be are no longer relevant or even appropriate. Men's work is where Jason and his team discover healthier ways to be in the world and shed the old "lone wolf" mentality. Jason began his men's work journey in his 20s after suffering from years of loneliness, discomfort in his body, and a deep struggle to create romantic relationships. Of all the work he's done over the last 20 years, men's groups have been the most impactful in changing the quality of his life day to day. It's now part of his mission for every man to be in a men's group, so they can feel healthier in their expression in the world, create more vital intimate partnerships, and be of service to their families and communities. You can find Jason: On the web: https://evolutionary.men/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evolutionarymenswork On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolutionarymen/ On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@evolutionarymen On X: https://twitter.com/menevolutionary On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolutionarymen/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@evolutionarymen On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@evolutionarymen Book a free exploratory call with Jason to talk about what's going on in your life and how men's work and coaching might support you: https://evolutionary.men/talk Jason has a podcast called "Evolutionary Men." Listen and subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jQr495pFaJk3E9YnkUK9l?si=19aaef8c01d34a38 Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/UjFTjPVjRUg Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 19, 2025

    1h 30m
  5. From Combat to Clarity: Understanding PTSD in Veterans

    JAN 7

    From Combat to Clarity: Understanding PTSD in Veterans

    Welcome to Hot Topics! Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Cole Grace, a dedicated advocate and expert on mental health issues within the military. Together, we dive deep into the often-overlooked topic of Combat-Related PTSD. Cole shares his personal experiences, insights, and the challenges faced by service members dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We explore: What PTSD is: A mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events.Common causes: From military combat to natural disasters and assaults, discover the various triggers.Symptoms: Learn about the signs, including re-experiencing trauma, avoidance, negative changes in mood, and increased arousal.Treatment options: Gain insight into effective therapies, medications, and support systems available for those affected.Cole also shares his own journey: His challenging childhood and how it influenced his perception of trauma, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health.Experiences in the Army National Guard, including combat roles and the emotional repression that followed.Struggles with health issues and addiction after returning from Iraq, leading to a transformative path through rehab.Insights from his book, "Internal > External: Calming the Chaos Within," which offers practical ways to manage mental health and improve quality of life.His belief in focusing on internal factors like integrity, joy, and mindset to influence external success, highlighting the necessity of addressing internal struggles for overall well-being.Whether you're a veteran, a loved one, or just someone interested in understanding this critical issue, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire. Tune in for an engaging conversation that sheds light on the realities of Combat-Related PTSD and the path to healing. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/vfl4u52_TqQ Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 12, 2025

    1h 24m
  6. Living with a Chronic Illness (Part 5) - Osteogenesis Imperfecta

    12/31/2025

    Living with a Chronic Illness (Part 5) - Osteogenesis Imperfecta

    Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, sits down with Katherine Klimitas, who shares her personal journey living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), commonly known as "brittle bone disease." OI is a genetic disorder that causes fragile bones, often leading to breaks with little or no apparent cause. Katherine opens up about her daily experiences and the profound impact OI has had on her life, highlighting the importance of educating others about this often-misunderstood condition. Katherine discusses the adaptations she has made to her lifestyle, such as lying on her side for comfort and relying on aides for assistance with bathing and moving around. She explains how she has to "train her friends" when going out, teaching them how to assist her safely and effectively. This collaborative approach fosters independence while ensuring her safety and comfort. Throughout the conversation, Katherine emphasizes the resilience she has cultivated in her journey. She reflects on the emotional strength required to face the daily challenges posed by OI, from navigating social situations to advocating for her needs. Notably, she has even started her own graphic design and art business, showcasing her creativity and determination to thrive despite the limitations imposed by her condition. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of the human spirit and the possibilities that can emerge from adversity. Join us for this heartfelt conversation, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it truly means to live with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and discover the strength and resilience that individuals like Katherine embody as they navigate their unique challenges. Who is Katherine Klimitas? Katherine Klimitas is a New Orleans-based artist and designer who sold her first watercolor at age 10. The daughter of veterinarians, she captures her family’s love of animals through meticulous, lifelike paintings. A 2011 Loyola University graduate, Katherine now runs her business, KAK ART & Designs, from home. Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), she stopped counting fractures at 500 by age 10. At 2’7”, she uses an electric wheelchair and creates all her art, jewelry, and graphic design while lying on her side. Her story and work inspire audiences to see possibility beyond limitation. Learn more in her book Looking Up, by joining her mailing list, or by connecting with her on social media. You can find Katherine: On the web: https://kakartnola.com/ On Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/KAKART On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kakartnola On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kakartnola/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8n7emY8eh6EX4Oa2vpGTOw On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherineklimitas/ A gift for our listeners: You can use the following discount code on Katherine's Etsy site: COMEBACKKAK Katherine also has a book called "Looking Up." You can purchase it on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/listing/104092784/katherines-inspiring-story-looking-up?click_key=649b296a50cab53c7a446e8ecb76e610970f6d5f%3A104092784&click_sum=fd100d2d&ref=shop_home_feat_2&frs=1 Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/n0wQuSXRMfM Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 11, 2025

    1h 10m
  7. What is Dragon Light Language?

    12/24/2025

    What is Dragon Light Language?

    Welcome to Hot Topics! Simon Arnold returns to the show to talk about Dragon Light Language, a communication method designed for non-speaking and partially speaking autistic individuals, as well as those with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). In this episode, we cover: Overview of Dragon Light Language: Learn how this unique approach helps individuals express themselves through non-verbal cues, symbols, and supportive strategies, allowing them to share their thoughts and feelings more effectively. This vibrational language connects with the nervous system, making it different from traditional spoken languages.Enhancing Personal Expression: Discover how Dragon Light Language helps users convey their ideas in a way that fits their communication styles, promoting a sense of independence and self-advocacy. Simon shares how his meditation experiences inspired this language.Building Connections: Hear about the importance of creating connections with caregivers, teachers, and peers through this method, making a more inclusive environment that values different ways of communicating. Simon talks about how telepathy helps create deeper connections among individuals with autism and ADHD.Practical Applications: Explore how Dragon Light Language can be used in daily life and educational settings, providing helpful tips for caregivers and educators to support individuals with autism and ADHD in their communication journey. This discussion also looks at other methods, like sign language and speech-generating devices.Community Engagement: Understand the importance of building community connections for neurodivergent individuals, helping families support each other.Holistic Approach: Discover the overall view of communication that focuses on recognizing each child's unique way of expressing themselves and nurturing their potential through different methods, including Dragon Light Language.Tune in for a conversation that showcases the power of communication methods like Dragon Light Language in supporting the lives of autistic individuals and those with ADHD! Who is Simon Arnold? Simon Arnold, host of AuDHD Me & Mo The Podcast, is taking his show on the road and embracing the #Vanlife movement. His mission: to travel across Europe and interview people with Autism and ADHD, sharing their stories and experiences. Diagnosed with both ADHD and Autism himself, Simon runs the only neurodivergent podcast available in both English and German. With listeners tuning in from 59 countries each week, the show has become a unique platform for raising awareness and building community. Simon is also in discussions with major brands to secure long-term sponsorships spanning 5–10 years. So, why take the podcast from home to the road? For the first four months, Simon is settling in Spain, where he shares regular updates on social media about his journey and podcast locations. Episodes will now be recorded not only online with global guests but also in person, right from his van. This mobile approach creates stronger community connections and makes the conversation around neurodiversity more accessible across Europe. When he’s not podcasting, Simon enjoys learning new languages, hiking, and surfing. You can find Simon: By email: simonjamesa893@gmail.com On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/me_and_mo_podcast On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonarnold-audhd On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@me_and_mo_podcast On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audhd.me.mo On Stan Store: https://stan.store/AuDHDMeandMo On LuLu: https://www.lulu.com/shop/simon-arnold/the-thirteen-hour-life-coach/paperback/product-zjkrww.html Simon Arnold has a podcast called the "AUDHD ME and MO" Podcast. Listen and subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/24fVt6FsR44mJXDgxlaRtz?si=62e537b2959d4aa0 Promo: To give back to his audience, Simon offers the first 50 listeners of each new episode of his podcast a free physical copy of his book, "The Thirteen-Hour Life Coach," which includes 155 success strategies. It’s a win-win: spreading knowledge, creating community, and growing awareness of neurodiversity in multiple languages—including Spanish, with future episodes planned. Email Simon Arnold at simonjamesa893@gmail.com for more info. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/jF3W3hiFNtc Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 6, 2025

    1h 8m
  8. What is the Speciality-First Literacy Blueprint?

    12/17/2025

    What is the Speciality-First Literacy Blueprint?

    Welcome to Hot Topics! Our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, invites guest Russell Van Brocklen to discuss the Specialty-First Literacy Blueprint and the effective strategies parents can use to support their dyslexic children at home.  Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects approximately 15-20% of learners, making reading and writing challenging for many students. However, with the right approach and resources, children with dyslexia can develop their skills and thrive academically. In this episode, we explore how to make reading enjoyable and accessible for your child. Follow these steps to create a personalized reading experience: Find What Your Child Likes: Talk to your child about their favorite things, such as animals, sports, or superheroes, and write down what they love.Pick a Book: Choose a print book that matches their interests and is slightly more challenging—at least one grade level above what they usually read.Get the Audiobook: Find the same book as an audiobook or record someone reading it clearly. This helps them follow along.Listen and Follow: Have your child listen to the audiobook while following the words in the book with their finger for 10 minutes.Circle Hard Words: Help your child identify difficult words and circle them in the book. If they prefer not to write in the book, they can type these words in a Word document instead.Look Up Word Meanings: Use the Merriam-Webster app together to check the meanings of those hard words. Encourage your child to verbalize the word after hearing the pronunciation in the app.Do More Vocabulary Work: Spend another 10 minutes finding and learning about any other hard words they come across.Make Sentences: Ask your child to create sentences using the new words to help reinforce their memory.Re-Read: Return to the section of the book they just read. Have them listen to the audio and read along again, focusing on the challenging words they just looked up.Keep Going: Repeat steps 4 to 9 until they finish the book, and celebrate their achievements to keep them excited about reading!Join us as we delve into the importance of personalized learning and structured literacy methods, empowering parents to help their children overcome reading challenges associated with dyslexia and thrive in their educational journey. Who is Russell Van Brocklen? From Russell: "Dyslexia touches as many as 15–20 % of all learners, yet most families still hear 'wait and see.' I flip that script. As the Dyslexia Professor, I translate structured-literacy methods proven most effective for struggling readers into bite-size actions parents can use tonight. Your audience leaves knowing exactly why multisensory routines beat generic worksheets and how to start seeing progress before the next report card." You can find Russell: On the web: https://dyslexiaclasses.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dyslexiaclasses/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dyslexiaclassesus/ On X: https://twitter.com/dyslexiaclasses On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-van-brocklen-2007ab87/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_cqwfxn9FqFx1Idl0YbeHg Watch this on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/VoZJ3_Z8nEY Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA ******************************************** Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlow On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlow On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360 Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservices On X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013 On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast Support us: Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013 PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013 Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013 Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support Original date of episode: September 5, 2025

    1h 23m
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to the "Hot Topics!" podcast, brought to you by A Step Ahead Tutoring Services. Join us for engaging discussions on important subjects like education, employment, physical health, and mental health. Hosted by Gabrielle Crichlow, the owner and director of A Step Ahead Tutoring Services, each episode features an interview format with guests from various backgrounds who share their insights to illuminate these topics.  At "Hot Topics!", we focus on creating a culture of learning and self-improvement because we believe in being better than we were yesterday. We avoid pointless gossip and prioritize meaningful conversations that inspire our audience.  New episodes are released every Wednesday at 5:00 am EST. Tune in to "Hot Topics!" and be part of the conversation! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.