Hot Topics!

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Andi Poland about her resiliency from dealing with the unimaginable suicides of both of her sons, Todd and Kenny.

The conversation centers around Andi's journey of transforming her tragedy into a way to help others by creating a web series focused on depression and suicide prevention. They emphasize the importance of sharing personal stories as educational tools and aim to raise awareness about mental health issues.

Throughout the discussion, Andi candidly expresses her shock and guilt over not being aware of her sons' pain and struggles. She discusses the challenges of understanding and addressing mental health issues, as well as the impact of suicide on family members. Andi finds solace in the support of other mothers who have experienced similar losses, highlighting the importance of seeking support and finding ways to cope with grief.

The conversation also touches on Andi's coping mechanisms, such as keeping busy with acting and finding solace in her work. Andi reflects on the unpredictable nature of her emotions, acknowledging feelings of guilt, sadness, and anger. She shares her different beliefs about the causes of her sons' deaths and discusses her relationship with her daughter and the steps they took to improve their strained relationship through therapy.

The episode highlights the need to stay connected and maintain relationships, especially in the face of unexpected events. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing time spent with loved ones and the power of resilience in overcoming severe traumatic experiences.

Overall, this emotional and impactful conversation between Andi Poland and Gabrielle Crichlow aims to educate and raise awareness about mental health issues, while also offering hope and inspiration to those who may be facing their own struggles. It sheds light on the devastating impact of suicide on families and the need for increased support and resources for mental health. The episode also touches on topics such as disabilities, special needs, and the importance of seeking help for suicidal tendencies, further expanding its educational reach.

Who is Andi Poland?
Andi Poland is an actress who is a mom of 3 kids and has had severe traumatic experiences. She's also a fun and silly lady but takes her acting very seriously. As a young girl, her grandmother called her “Sarah Heartburn” because she was always so dramatic. She is the life of the party and has charisma, but she is also a loyal friend who’s so much loved by so many. She is dependable, hard-working, and always an asset to any situation she encounters. Her quick wit and advanced improv skills make her easy to work with. She has worked under some of the best in the field (Richard Kline, James Murray) and is looking forward to continuing her web series while auditioning for TV and films. Andi's web series is dedicated to her two wonderful sons, Todd and Kenny, who left this earth unexpectedly way too early and loved laughing more than anyone she knows.

You can find Andi:
On the web: https://www.allaboutandipoland.com/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andi.poland
On Instagram # 1: https://www.instagram.com/polandandi1/
On Instagram # 2: https://www.instagram.com/gossipinggrams

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/fDa27ei4LKE

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33095005/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: April 15, 2023

In this episode, based on the book "We Were the Mulvaneys" by Joyce Carol Oates, Gabrielle Crichlow takes us on a journey through Bowenian Family Therapy. Originally produced as a project for her Marriage and Family Counseling course during graduate school, Gabrielle showcases her talent by voicing all the characters in this episode.

The episode delves into a fictional couple's therapy session between Michael and Corinne Mulvaney, with Gabrielle Crichlow taking on the role of the therapist. The session centers around Dr. Murray Bowen's family systems theory, which emphasizes the idea that individuals are part of a larger system, such as a family.

Corinne expresses her unhappiness with Michael's behavior following their daughter, Mary Anne's, traumatic experience of being raped. She holds him responsible for the destruction of their family. Michael, on the other hand, becomes defensive and places blame on Mary Anne. As the therapist, Gabrielle tries to understand their perspectives and encourages them to consider the possibility of change.

Towards the end of the session, Gabrielle explains Dr. Bowen's model, which includes these four concepts: marital conflict, dysfunction in one spouse, impairment of children, and emotional distance. Gabrielle emphasizes the importance of assessing the systems individuals are part of, rather than solely focusing on the individual themselves.

This episode provides profound insights into the intricate dynamics of a troubled family. It highlights the significance of understanding family systems in therapy and emphasizes the potential for transformation within relationships.

Please note that the therapy session depicted in this episode is somewhat taken out of context from the book.

Original video created at https://goanimate.com/

Purchase the book, "We Were the Mulvaneys," on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Were-Mulvaneys-Oprahs-Book-Club/dp/0452282829

Watch the project on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0v0s2_WvNro
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Original date of episode: August 2, 2020

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Richard Rieman about audiobooks for children with special needs, like blindness or deafness.

Check out this episode featuring Gabrielle Crichlow and Richard Rieman discussing the importance of making children's illustrated books accessible to blind, deaf, and neurodiverse children. They highlight the challenges these children face in finding books with sign language interpretation and Braille, emphasizing the need to improve access for those with special needs.

Imagination Storybooks, a nonprofit founded by Richard, creates audiobooks with descriptions for all children. They collaborate with major publishers to produce accessible books, converting them into various languages and Braille. Instead of artificial voices, they use live voice actors to convey the emotion of the stories.

By making children's books accessible, Imagination Storybooks positively impacts the lives of children with special needs. Join their Storybooks Club for access to videos and audio through their website. They also partner with the Described and Captioned Media Program to offer free access to their videos for qualified individuals.

Don't miss this episode that highlights the importance of reading for all children and the unique approach of Imagination Storybooks in enhancing accessibility in children's literature.

Who is Richard Rieman?
Richard Rieman (Ree’ man) wanted to be Superman but couldn’t fly, so he decided to be Clark Kent instead. After a long career as a radio news reporter, anchor, and Washington Bureau Chief, Richard turned his storytelling skills to the world of audiobooks. He has narrated and produced hundreds of Indie-published audiobooks and is the author of the award-winning book, “The Author’s Guide to Audiobook Creation.” Richard was a volunteer narrator for Learning Ally, read books for blind people, and was a ski guide for blind skiers. Combining both interests, Richard created the “Imagination Storybooks” Nonprofit to make children’s illustrated books accessible to all children by creating audiobooks with audio descriptions of the pictures for blind children and video books with captions and sign language for deaf and neurodiverse children with learning challenges.

You can find Richard:
On the web # 1: https://imaginationstorybooks.org/
On the web # 2: https://imaginationstorybooks.org/join-the-storybooks-club/
On Facebook # 1: https://www.facebook.com/imaginationstorybooks
On Facebook # 2: https://www.facebook.com/AudiobookCreation
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imaginationstorybooks/
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/IStorybooksClub
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardrieman/

Promo:
Bring the magic of books to all children. Join the Imagination Storybooks Club! Club members will receive access to our library of children’s illustrated books in three formats:

1) Videos with ASL (American Sign Language) and captions
2) Videos with AD (Audio Description)
3) Audio files with AD

A new video every week! Bonus content for teachers and even personal Happy Birthday wishes from Winnie-the-Pooh.

Richard has a podcast. Listen and subscribe here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/audiobookwizard

Richard also has books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Richard-Rieman/author/B019GKNRTA?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/EJaokCimA9k

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094994/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: April 12, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Sheila Chester about her experience with the adoption process.

In this episode, Sheila and Gabrielle delve into Sheila's personal experience with adoption. They discuss various aspects of the adoption process, including Sheila's struggles with infertility and the emotional challenges she faced. The conversation sheds light on the importance of discussing adoption and the difficulties that adoptive parents encounter.

Sheila shares her journey of infertility and explores the different options available for adoption, such as infant adoption, international adoption, and foster-to-adopt. She and her husband ultimately chose domestic infant adoption after undergoing a rigorous approval process. Despite experiencing heartbreak when a potential adoption fell through, they remained determined and eventually welcomed their son into their family. Sheila emphasizes the significance of open adoption and maintaining a relationship with the birth family. Through their discussion, the podcast highlights the uncertainties and challenges of adoption, as well as the need for support and understanding from adoption agencies and fellow adoptive parents.

Sheila also discusses her decision to become a foster parent and subsequently adopt her children. The conversation touches on the challenges of the adoption process, including the financial costs involved. It also addresses the topic of financial privilege and its impact on the ability to pursue adoption. Sheila mentions her decision not to pursue In vitro fertilization (IVF) due to a chromosomal disorder and her attempts at embryo adoption. The episode provides insights into the complexities and difficulties faced by individuals and couples dealing with infertility, as well as the various options available to them. It raises questions about the fairness and accessibility of adoption for those with limited resources.

Furthermore, the conversation delves into Sheila's experience with adoption and parenting. Sheila shares the challenges she has encountered as a parent and explains her decision not to pursue additional children. The discussion also touches on cross-racial adoption and international adoption, exploring the associated challenges and potential risks. Sheila highlights the importance of thorough research before pursuing adoption and recommends adoption resources for those interested. The episode provides insights into the challenges and considerations involved in adoption and parenting, particularly for individuals currently going through the adoption process or considering adoption.

Overall, the episode offers a glimpse into Sheila's personal experience with the adoption process. It explores the challenges, emotions, and complexities involved, shedding light on the realities of adoption and the need for support and understanding throughout the journey.

Who is Sheila Chester?
Sheila Chester is a self-acclaimed free spirit, the founder of Raising Grace Podcast, blog writer, and mother of 3 children. She spent over a decade dealing with infertility and struggling to build a family with her husband in any way possible. Their marriage struggled, and her mental health struggled, but they got through it. They adopted two children through domestic infant adoption and had one biological child through IVF (fertility treatments). Her family makes an effort to maintain an open adoption, which also includes a relationship with her adopted children's biological parents and siblings. She has written extensively about her experiences in the adoption process and going through infertility. On this side of infertility, life is chaotic, but it is the dream she had always hoped for. Mom's life is a whole new ballgame. She continues to learn and grow.

You can find Sheila:
On the web: https://www.sheilakchester.com
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaisingGracePodcast/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/RaisingGracePodcast/
Zelle: [email protected]

Sheila has a podcast! Listen and subscribe here: https://www.sheilakchester.com/episodes

You can watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/S7NK8VOVcRc

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094977/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: April 11, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Joanne Kaminski about her experience running a four- to five-figured online tutoring business every month.

In this episode, Gabrielle talks to guest and fellow tutor and podcaster Joanne Kaminski about online tutoring and how to establish a successful tutoring business. Joanne shares her journey of transitioning from a side hustle to a lucrative tutoring business earning five figures per month. She emphasizes the importance of specializing in a specific subject or niche to connect with the target audience and stand out in the crowded online tutoring market. Joanne also highlights the need to understand the problems and needs of the ideal client and tailor services accordingly. The conversation covers effective marketing strategies and the importance of learning how to run a business alongside being a skilled tutor.

Joanne explains her switch from in-person tutoring to online tutoring, citing the time-consuming nature of in-person sessions. She discusses the benefits of online tutoring, such as increased efficiency and effectiveness. Joanne advises tutors to attract warm leads through attraction marketing, utilizing strategies like search engine optimization, creating valuable content, and building relationships with potential clients through platforms like podcasts and Facebook groups. She also emphasizes the importance of setting rates based on worth and expertise, rather than trying to cater to everyone.

The conversation provides valuable insights and tips for tutors looking to establish and grow their online tutoring businesses. It emphasizes the benefits of online tutoring, effective marketing strategies, and the importance of specialization and understanding the needs of the target audience. The episode highlights the value of collaboration and learning from others in the tutoring industry.

Who is Joanne Kaminski?
Joanne Kaminski is a trailblazer in the world of online tutoring. With 20+ years of experience as a teacher and reading specialist, she has seamlessly transitioned to becoming a sought-after online reading tutor and business coach. As the founder of Online Tutor Coach, Joanne empowers over 20,000 tutors to grow their businesses and reach more students. From her popular YouTube channel and Facebook Group to her inspiring Instagram posts and podcast, Joanne is changing the game for online tutors everywhere. And if you want to learn the secrets to success, grab a copy of her Amazon best-seller, "How to Start an Online Tutoring Business Making 4-5 Figures a Month." Get ready to be inspired and take your tutoring business to the next level.

You can find Joanne:
On the web: https://onlinetutorcoach.com
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnlineTutorCoach
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onlinetutorcoach/
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joannekaminski
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@onlinetutorcoach
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannekaminski/

Joanne has a podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5eniaSvJKLF7Oc4Q6DQC5I?si=14f7204cbcbb46a1

Joanne also has a book called "How to Start an Online Tutoring Business: Making 4-5 Figures a Month." Purchase it here: https://a.co/d/6mqxNGq

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/TmbocQjOKDw

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094969/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: April 10, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Lisa Parnello about Dyslexia - what is it, how to recognize it, and what to do about it.

In this episode, Gabrielle and Lisa discuss dyslexia and its impact on people. They highlight that dyslexia is a neurological difference that affects language processing, not a vision problem. People with dyslexia struggle with connecting sounds and letters, making reading and spelling challenging. Strategies such as phonics instruction and phonemic awareness can help individuals with dyslexia become successful readers.

Dyslexia can be identified through signs like difficulty with rhyming, sequencing, and spelling. While there is no single assessment for dyslexia, educational therapy can help individuals become stronger readers and provide strategies and accommodations for their learning differences.

The episode emphasizes that dyslexia is common, affecting one in five individuals, including celebrities like Richard Branson and Whoopi Goldberg. It also highlights the lack of awareness and training on dyslexia in education programs, calling for additional training for teachers to effectively support students with dyslexia.

The conversation between Gabrielle and Lisa covers various challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia, including behavioral issues and struggles with math word problems. They emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and accommodations, debunking the misconception that individuals with dyslexia are less intelligent.

The discussion raises awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia and provides insights into strategies and support systems that can help them succeed academically and in life.

Who is Lisa Parnello?
Lisa Parnello is a dyslexia expert with over 15 years of experience, including public and private schools, primarily focusing on students with learning differences such as dyslexia and dysgraphia. She started her career teaching general education students and discovered her heart was set on helping the children who struggled the most. She earned her M.Ed. in special education and has dedicated her life to helping the most struggling learners. She is a certified Wilson Dyslexia Therapist and a Wilson Credentialed Trainer. Lisa served as the Lower School Director of Sand Hill School at CHC in Palo Alto before expanding Parnello Education Services. She trains and guides teachers as they develop into successful special education instructors, mentors teachers, and provides instructional coaching.

You can find Lisa:
On her website: https://www.parnelloeducation.com/
On Facebook (page): https://www.facebook.com/ParnelloEducation
On Facebook (group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/748473349564001/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parnelloeducation/
On Twitter: https://x.com/ParnelloEd
On Threads: https://www.threads.net/@parnelloeducation
On YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ParnelloEducation
On LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-parnello/
On LinkedIn (business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/parnello-education-services/

Lisa also has a podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dyslexia-devoted/id1628010878

Lisa has a course for parents: https://parnello-education.teachable.com/p/discovering-dyslexia

Lisa has a masterclass called "Three Keys to Success with Dyslexia": https://www.parnelloeducation.com/masterclass/

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/PSepY4e0T-c

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094965/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: April 7, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Alesia Galati about her experience growing up in a cult.

In this episode, Alesia and Gabrielle delve into the topic of growing up in a cult. Alesia, who was raised in a cult for 10 years, shares her personal experiences, shedding light on the challenges she and her siblings faced. They discuss how Alesia's mother joined the cult through a women's program affiliated with a mega church, ultimately leading them down a path of control and reliance on a charismatic leader.

The conversation highlights the impact and lasting effects of growing up in a cult-like environment. Alesia emphasizes that cults can exist within modern-day organizations, including churches, and are not solely characterized by extreme behaviors like mass suicides. By sharing her own story, Alesia aims to raise awareness about the signs of cult behavior and the importance of critical thinking and autonomy in religious and spiritual contexts.

The episode also explores the reasons behind Alesia's mother's involvement in the cult, as well as the tragic circumstances surrounding her passing due to a drug overdose. Although Alesia chooses not to disclose the cult's name for personal reasons, she reveals that its leader and members are aware of her existence.

Throughout the conversation, Alesia reflects on her experiences within the cult, including the isolation and control that she and her siblings endured. She discusses how she was coerced into attending a specific bible college under the threat of losing her home. Drawing parallels between cults and religions, Alesia points out that the only difference lies in the longevity of religions. She believes that any situation where a leader makes decisions for others and restricts independent thinking can exhibit cult-like behavior.

As the discussion comes to a close, Alesia shares words of wisdom, promoting the importance of empowering individuals to embrace their true selves and flourish. The episode transcript provides valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of someone who grew up in a cult-like environment, shedding light on the potential dangers and control exerted by such groups. It serves as a reminder to recognize and understand the signs of cult behavior while encouraging critical thinking and autonomy in religious and spiritual contexts.

Who is Alesia Galati?
Alesia Galati runs a full-service podcast management company, meaning you record, and her team does the rest. She helps business owners launch and maintain lead-generating podcasts. She lives in sunny North Carolina with her husband, two small boys, and a rescue pup. When she’s not working, you can find her either hiking, chasing her kids, or watching the latest Star Wars with her husband.

You can find Alesia Galati:
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alesiagalatipm/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alesia.galati/
On Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AlesiaGalati
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alesiagalati
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alesia-galati/
On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/alesiaga/
On Threads: https://www.threads.net/@alesia.galati

Alesia has a podcast: https://galatimedia.com/podcast/

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/t5M63kVO_Jk

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094961/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: March 30, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to guest Preezy about mental health. Sometimes we just want someone to be silent and listen to us.

In this episode, Gabrielle and Preezy engage in a meaningful discussion about mental health, highlighting its significance and encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being. Preezy, a retired corrections officer, shares her insights on mental health and emphasizes the importance of taking mental health seriously. Together, she and Gabrielle explore the various factors that can contribute to mental health issues, such as work, relationships, and personal struggles. Preezy addresses the misconception that mental health issues are only associated with extreme cases, emphasizing that anyone can be affected. Both ladies discuss the challenges that can prevent individuals from seeking help, such as embarrassment and shame. Preezy's personal experience of losing her mother to COVID-19 adds a poignant touch to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of finding support from others who have gone through similar experiences. The ladies highlight the need for individuals to seek therapy and mental health support, while also addressing the stigma surrounding mental health. They stress the importance of normalizing asking for help and encourage listeners to overcome any reservations they may have about seeking therapy. They also acknowledge that mental health issues can affect children and teenagers, expressing concern for their well-being. The episode concludes with a reminder to seek mental health assistance if needed. The conversation took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a rise in mental health issues and suicide rates, making the topic even more relevant and timely. Overall, Gabrielle and Preezy aim to raise awareness about mental health and its impact on various aspects of life. They provide valuable insights, practical advice, and resources for listeners to reach out for assistance. By sharing their experiences and knowledge, they hope to inspire positive change and encourage listeners to prioritize their mental health.

Who is Preezy?
Preezy hosts "Listen Up Listen In," a podcast discussing topics aimed at motivating, educating, differentiating, healing, laughing, and growing to improve daily lives. Preezy's favorite quote is, "Love yourself because you can't love anyone or anything unless you love yourself."

You can find Preezy:
On the web: https://www.listenuplistenin5687.com
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081104510726
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/listenuplistenin5687/
On Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/PREEZY5687/
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@listenuplistenin5687
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@preezy6648
On Linktree: https://Linktr.ee/preezy5687

Preezy has a podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1990217.rss

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/dgzgbDLbrE0

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094945/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: March 24, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to returning guest Jaciann Wright about life with a toddler.

In this episode, Jaciann Wright, a returning guest, delves into her personal experiences with parenting and the practice of gentle parenting. She covers a range of topics including potty training, pacifiers, negotiating with children, caring for sick little ones, and finding a healthy balance between work and family responsibilities. Throughout the episode, Jaciann emphasizes the inherent challenges of parenting and highlights the various approaches that parents adopt to facilitate their children's learning and growth. She candidly discusses the conflicting advice she receives from different sources, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance and support from fellow parents and caregivers who can relate to similar experiences. One area of focus in the episode is the unique challenges faced by working mothers. Jaciann offers valuable insights into how they can effectively balance the demands of their careers with the needs of their families. She acknowledges the significance of planning and organization in managing a busy schedule and provides practical suggestions for achieving a harmonious integration of work and family life. Overall, this episode provides valuable insight into the joys and struggles of motherhood, shedding light on the need for support and understanding for mothers. It aims to offer encouragement, advice, and resources specifically tailored to parents of toddlers, providing them with the tools and knowledge to navigate this stage of parenting with confidence and compassion.

Who is Jaciann Wright?
Jaciann Wright is a 25-year-old married/single mom with a compelling story. She is Jamaican, born and raised halfway in America, and holds a BS in Mathematics, class of 2016. Thanks to the Smart Scholars program, she graduated a year early from college and even studied for a summer semester in Spain. She works as a Relief Manager at Public Storage and is a small business owner of two ventures. Jaciann aspires to achieve her PhD/Doctorate and aims to retire at age 40 to generate financial freedom and wealth, creating an easier path for her daughter and demonstrating that the world is filled with endless opportunities. She also mentors upcoming entrepreneurs.

You can find Jaciann:
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaciann
On Facebook (page): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553907824576
On Instagram # 1: https://www.instagram.com/_jamaican_goddess_
On Instagram # 2: https://www.instagram.com/occasionaldesignz
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_jamaicangoddess_

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/c1B2aEN5L4g

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33094938/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: March 21, 2023

Welcome to Hot Topics! Gabrielle Crichlow talks to returning guest Mariana Santiago about finding employment to pursue her permanent residency in Canada.

This episode features Venezuelan immigrant Mariana Santiago discussing her experiences with obtaining Canadian residency and citizenship, finding work in Canada, and pursuing her career goals in the marketing industry. She emphasizes the importance of obtaining a Canadian passport for ease of travel and discusses the challenges of maintaining dual citizenship and finding employment as an immigrant. Mariana shares her journey of networking, volunteering, and applying for jobs in the marketing industry, and advises listeners to focus on positions that align with their career goals and to pursue hobbies and passions outside of work. The episode sheds light on the challenges and complexities of immigration and provides valuable insights into networking and career building.

Who is Mariana Santiago?
Mariana is a Venezuelan Latin woman who moved to Canada 7 years ago. In her previous life, as she likes to call it, she was a brand and strategic marketer for Pharmaceutical Companies. She started a new comedy and public speaking journey when she moved to Canada. Her passion has always been to share some of her happiness, light up the rooms where she walks in with her smile vibrations, and tell random but funny stories about her life. Thanks to being an immigrant who has faced many challenges, she has found herself on the right path to find her true calling. Mariana became a Stand-Up comedian over four years ago, performing in Spanish and English. Even though she loves her comedy, she wants to have a major impact through her public speaking. She has her podcast where she shares her unique stories on how we can be better humans and communicate better. Mariana’s mission is to make a positive impact in the world through the honesty of her words, wherever she is, either talking with a stranger, a friend or family, on stage, or camera! In her new life, she is walking the path she wants, happy and fulfilled, and finding herself, healing, and growing to make a bigger positive impact.

You can find Mariana Santiago:
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariana191
On Instagram # 1: https://www.instagram.com/mariana191/
On Instagram # 2: https://www.instagram.com/ellaesmarianita/
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPqFOYl8efLDmUUMS0pJTPw

Mariana has a Spanish and English podcast called "Is Mariana making sense?" Listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dNTrXKL9WOK5DyLKP1aoG?si=b23b81ec2f5347b5

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/VZY0PfXnOyM

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt33092369/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: March 20, 2023