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Hot Topics!

Hot Topics!

Written by: A Step Ahead Tutoring Services
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About this listen

 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.2023
Episodes
  • What Does It Mean to be A Man? (Part 5a)

    What Does It Mean to be A Man? (Part 5a)
    Jan 14 2026
    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facilitator, shares insights on how traditional definitions of masculinity—such as being tough and invulnerable—are outdated and no longer serve men well.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 He argues that being a man in today's world involves embracing vulnerability and emotional presence, moving away from outdated notions of toughness.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

    Original date of episode: September 19, 2025

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.
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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • From Combat to Clarity: Understanding PTSD in Veterans

    From Combat to Clarity: Understanding PTSD in Veterans
    Jan 7 2026
    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

    Original date of episode: September 12, 2025

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • Living with a Chronic Illness (Part 5) - Osteogenesis Imperfecta

    Living with a Chronic Illness (Part 5) - Osteogenesis Imperfecta
    Dec 31 2025
    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

    Original date of episode: September 11, 2025

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
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