Hot Topics!

We're at it again...for the 5th time! As we experience all these health scares and changes in school policy, homeschooling is on the rise. Whether you don’t want to send your child back to in-person learning or just want to know what all the fuss is about - Homeschooling 101 is for you! Are you considering homeschooling your children but not sure where to start? Join us for Homeschooling 101, an online event designed to guide you through the basics of homeschooling. We cover topics such as creating a curriculum, setting up a schedule, and finding resources to support your homeschooling journey. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, Homeschooling 101 has something for everyone.

Speakers (in order of appearance):
1) Waletha Garrett
On the web: https://www.affiliategirlof2023.store
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wallie.nelson.54
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.product.pusher
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@affiliategirl2023
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theproductpusher
On Clapperapp: https://clapperapp.com/Theproductpusher?is_invite=1&r=XPn5DmRN6a&c=in&m=co

2) Darren Jones
On the web: https://hslda.org/
On Facebook (HSLDA): https://www.facebook.com/hslda
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hslda/
On X: https://x.com/HSLDA
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 540-338-5600

3) Jan Sixt
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyJSTutor
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myjstutor/
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jansixttutor1
Email: [email protected]

4) Tamara Somerville
On Facebook (group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Westchesterhomeschoolers
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 914-512-7644

Purchase Tamara's book, "African American Families: Why We Homeschool," on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0855BX73R/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_HH5P8GHVVY8TPX9SJ2KM

5) Gabrielle Crichlow (Your Host)
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

6) LaNissir James
On the web: https://hslda.org/
On Facebook (HSLDA): https://www.facebook.com/hslda
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hslda/
On X: https://x.com/HSLDA
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 540-338-5600

Watch this event on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a7kIyyu10uU

Rate this event on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36577286
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Original date of episode: November 4, 2024

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, with our guest Angela Barnett, we explore the connection between emotional eating and fitness. We discuss mindful cravings and the importance of balancing emotions with food and exercise. Angela promotes a holistic approach to wellness that includes physical fitness, emotional healing, and life coaching.

We talk about the struggles of emotional eating, where people often turn to food for comfort during tough times. Angela highlights the need to recognize the triggers behind these cravings instead of just cutting out favorite foods. For example, she compares this to giving a baby a bottle to stop crying, showing how we often learn to soothe ourselves with food in a similar way. Instead of eliminating our favorite foods entirely, Angela suggests reducing them and finding healthier alternatives that can satisfy cravings.

We also focus on the importance of setting personal boundaries to reclaim your power and manage your emotions effectively. Angela introduces Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), which involves tapping on specific points of the body while thinking about negative feelings. This method helps with processing emotions and reducing the urge to use food as comfort.

Additionally, we suggest simple self-care practices like journaling and physical activity as healthy ways to cope with feelings. We emphasize that fitness plays a crucial role in managing emotions and building self-love.

Lastly, we discuss the value of community support in your journey to better emotional and physical health and the importance of personal growth and self-reflection.

Join us to learn more about reclaiming your power, being mindful with food, and making healthier choices in your fitness routine!

Who is Angela Barnett?
Angela is deeply passionate about guiding individuals through profound transformations by integrating physical fitness, breath work, sound healing, emotional release through movement, and Master Life Coaching. In 1999, she discovered the delicate balance between a love for food and the pursuit of a healthy, vibrant body. This realization expanded her view of wellness beyond physical fitness, emphasizing a holistic approach that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Fueled by this insight, she founded Radiate Naturally, a wellness company aimed at empowering individuals to reclaim their health. Angela holds certifications as a Master Life Coach and offers aerobics, personalized training, EFT, and Trigger Point Therapy, blending fitness with energetic healing techniques. She also supports individuals transitioning from high-control organizations, helping them rediscover their inner strength and purpose. Together, Angela and her clients embark on a transformative path toward radiant health and empowered living.

You can find Angela (Updated):
On the web: https://www.coachangiebe.com/
On Facebook (profile): https://www.facebook.com/angela.emory1
On Facebook (page): https://www.facebook.com/RadiateNaturallyAtl
On Instagram # 1: https://www.instagram.com/radiatenaturally_
On Threads # 1: https://www.threads.com/@radiatenaturally_
On Instagram # 2: https://www.instagram.com/exodusjw
On Threads # 2: https://www.threads.com/@exodusjw
On X: https://twitter.com/Radiantangela
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elevatedfitness/
On YouTube # 1: https://www.youtube.com/@jwexodusgroup3613
On YouTube # 2: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachAngieBe
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiatenaturally

Angela has a collection of books. Purchase them from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0B88W2MXM/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=e226d253-def9-4c53-b40f-65ca5feda9d4&ref_=ap_rdr&ccs_id=cfbef19b-d2b1-421d-a95c-226dbc37e85f

PROMO: Two free wellness sessions! Regular price is $150, but with promo, it's free! Use code "RadiateMe" on her website: https://www.coachangiebe.com/

Angela has a series of upcoming events: https://www.coachangiebe.com/event-list

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/oBZCh9ZENqc

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38883859?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: May 27, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, host Gabrielle Crichlow talks with returning guest Brittany Gregorio, who shares her journey of leaving a stressful marketing career to pursue her true passion for yoga and energy healing. Brittany opens up about her experiences with burnout and how embracing her healing background became the key to her happiness.

Brittany transitioned from being a marketing CEO to a yoga teacher and healer after experiencing severe burnout. While managing her marketing company, she faced overwhelming demands from clients, often working late nights to meet their needs. As a mother of three, including a child with special needs, balancing work and family was challenging and added to her stress.

Initially, Brittany hesitated to hire help for her business due to her loyalty to her clients. A deep emotional awakening during a yoga class inspired her to take yoga and meditation more seriously. However, she faced criticism in the yoga industry regarding body image, which contributed to her feelings of inadequacy.

As she continued in marketing, Brittany began dreaming of returning to yoga and meditation, growing increasingly resentful of her career. A turning point came during a train ride to a medical appointment with her son, where she experienced a mental breakdown while reading a book called "Dharma," which focuses on finding purpose.

After stepping off the train, Brittany decided to leave her marketing career and informed her clients of her decision, which brought her immense relief. With her husband's financial and emotional support, she began building a construction and plumbing business with him while reestablishing her yoga practice. This journey highlights the importance of self-care, following one’s true passion, and asking yourself, "Are you happy?"

Tune in for insights on finding fulfillment and living authentically.

Who is Brittany Gregorio?
Brittany Gregorio is a former brand and marketing CEO turned soul-led healer, yoga teacher, and meditation guide. After experiencing deep burnout running a six-figure business, Brittany embarked on a journey back to herself — rediscovering purpose, peace, and her true dharma through yoga, meditation, and nervous system healing. Today, she creates transformative spaces for others to come home to themselves — whether through curvy-body-inclusive yoga classes, deeply healing Yoga Nidra sessions, or her signature Sacred Rage Release experiences. Brittany’s work is rooted in radical self-connection, nervous system nourishment, and the belief that awakening to your truth is what heals the world.

You can find Brittany: 
On the web: https://www.brittanyannyoga.com/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittany.gregorio85
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittany.gregorio/
On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@brittany.gregorio

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/MguSK1r9Ya8

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt38864322/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: May 22, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, we’re excited to have returning guest Tiffany Hernandez to answer the question: What is a microschool? This new trend among homeschoolers is changing the way we think about education.

Join us as Tiffany breaks it down:

1. Understanding Microschools: We’ll explore what microschools are—small, tailored learning spaces that focus on the individual needs of students, stepping away from traditional schools.
2. Defining Microschools: Learn how microschools aim to create personalized learning environments that nurture the whole child, going beyond just academics.
3. Controversial Nature and Structure: We’ll discuss the debate between microschooling and homeschooling, highlighting the flexible schedules that microschools often provide.
4. Learning Environments: Microschools usually have smaller classes, with 5 to 12 students, allowing for more personalized instruction and attention.
5. Curriculum Flexibility: Many microschools use project-based and hands-on learning approaches, focusing on creativity rather than traditional methods.
6. Locating Microschools: Tiffany shares resources like Kai Pod, Haskel Educational Network, and Homeschooler House to help parents find microschools in their area.
7. Rising Popularity: We’ll talk about why microschools are becoming more popular, driven by dissatisfaction with public education and a growing acceptance of homeschooling.
8. Assessment and Accountability: Learn about the different ways students are assessed in microschools, from standardized tests to observational assessments.

Tiffany offers insights on the importance of a well-rounded education that includes emotional, mental, and social development along with academic growth. Tune in for an engaging discussion that could change your perspective on education!

Who is Tiffany Hernandez?
Meet Tiffany Hernandez, a dedicated mother of three and the visionary founder of Tender Heart Ministries and Outreach. After graduating in Interior Design, she courageously followed God’s calling to homeschooling and ministry, serving her community with passion and purpose. Through her nonprofit outreach, Tiffany combines her love for education and faith, offering support and guidance both locally and online. As the host of "The Ultimate Homeschool Community Podcast" and through her coaching services, she empowers families to create enriching educational experiences at home and within learning communities. Tiffany inspires others to embrace ministry and nonprofit leadership with a compassionate heart and unwavering dedication to service, remaining a beacon of inspiration. Her story embodies faith, family, and the transformative power of answering God's call. Tiffany's commitment highlights the profound impact one person can have on a community, sparking a ripple effect of embracing one's calling with love and purpose. Despite adversity, she attributes all of life’s blessings to God's grace, finding strength in faith to serve with boundless compassion. 

You can find Tiffany Hernandez:
On the web: https://tiffanyhernandez.net/
On Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/tiffany.lynn.5011
On Facebook (page) # 1: https://www.facebook.com/ultimatehomeschool
On Facebook (page) # 2: https://www.facebook.com/NatureExplorersHC
On Facebook (page) # 3: https://www.facebook.com/tenderheartministry
On Facebook (group) # 1: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1015732599611195
On Facebook (group) # 2: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1666328760883358
By Email: [email protected]

Freebies in the store: https://stan.store/UltimateHomeschool

Tiffany has a podcast called "The Ultimate Homeschool Community Podcast." Listen and subscribe here: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/338-the-ultimate-homeschool-co-126945250/

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

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38785793?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: May 19, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, host Gabrielle Crichlow speaks with menstrual health advocate Betina Hunt about the often-overlooked aspects of menstrual health. They discuss how diet, hygiene practices, and harmful chemicals in feminine products can impact women's health, including menstrual irregularities, adenomyosis, yeast infections, fibroids, and endometriosis.

Betina emphasizes the importance of hydration, balanced nutrition, and exercise in maintaining both mental and menstrual health. Staying hydrated and consuming a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables are essential for overall well-being, while regular physical activity can help reduce menstrual cramps and fatigue.

Betina and Gabrielle also address the harmful chemicals found in many feminine products and the risks associated with tampons, including toxic shock syndrome. Betina advocates for 100% cotton, chemical-free, and fragrance-free sanitary products, including her brand, "Reign."

Education on menstrual health is crucial for empowering young women and combating stigma. Open discussions about menstruation can help normalize the topic and reduce fear and anxiety. Betina stresses the importance of sharing knowledge within communities to address health disparities, especially among Black and Brown women. Join us for this enlightening episode that aims to inform and empower!

You can find Betina (updated 5/31/2025):
On the web: https://youfirstcf.org/
On Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/betinamhunt
On Facebook (business): https://www.facebook.com/youfirstcf
On Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/betinahunt/
On Instagram (business): https://www.instagram.com/youfirstcf/
On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@betinahunt
On LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/betinahunt/
On LinkedIn (business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/youfirstcf/
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mstennesseeca

Betina has a feminine product company called "Reign," where she's selling 100% cotton, chemical-free, and fragrance-free pads and panty liners. Purchase them here: https://youfirstcf.org/shop

Betina also has a book called "Period Power." Purchase it on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0K6WF3x

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/-8HzfSJpn98

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt37961960/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: May 16, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, host Gabrielle Crichlow invites returning guest and long-time friend Jonisha Jones to share her firsthand experiences of weathering two back-to-back hurricanes in Florida in 2024. Jonisha recounts the emotional and physical challenges she faced during Hurricane Helene in September and Hurricane Milton in October. 

From frantic preparations to the aftermath of the storms, Jonisha offers valuable insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the strength found within communities during times of crisis. She explores how Florida residents often adopt a nonchalant attitude toward hurricanes, engaging in "hurricane parties," even as they face the reality of severe weather.

The conversation delves into the significant impact of Hurricane Milton, which brought devastating winds and flooding, resulting in power outages and extensive damage to homes. Jonisha shares her family's experience, including the eerie quiet before the storm and the chaos that followed.

Listeners will gain an understanding of the complexities surrounding evacuation efforts, the frustrations with FEMA assistance, and the challenges posed by inadequate insurance coverage. Throughout the episode, Jonisha highlights the importance of community support, the mixed responses to disaster, and the broader implications of systemic dependence on government programs.

Join us for this powerful discussion that emphasizes survival, hope, and the crucial lessons learned from nature's most daunting challenges. Discover how kindness and understanding can make a difference in navigating difficult times, as everyone faces unique circumstances in the wake of disaster.

Who is Jonisha Jones?
Jonisha is a podcaster! She's working on building her podcast, "(Scoff) Another Damn Podcast." The podcast covers a variety of social issues, including mental health, relationships, and motherhood. The intention behind this podcast is to engage listeners and encourage them to think outside of social norms. Jonisha's goal is to reach millions of people and spark conversations that challenge their own thought processes and views of the world.

You can find Jonisha Jones:
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090844685715
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jojo_sandiego369/
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@supanova_jones39
On Substacker: https://supanovajones.substack.com/p/forgive-yourself-mom

Jonisha also has a podcast called "(Scoff) Another Damn Podcast." You can listen and subscribe to it here: https://anchor.fm/jo-jo810?fbclid=IwAR2p1f_2eD0OcJZ2SwlwOOxgJdDhyDPtJNyH_L8YLkMgNJE5Q0cPw3WhsS0

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/n62oxwb_WxQ

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt37930437/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast

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Original date of episode: May 13, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, we welcome back Renée Peña Lopez, an early childhood inclusion specialist, to share her journey of living with dyslexia and her surprising recent diagnosis of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). While our initial focus was on dyslexia, Renée's revelation about her comorbid ADHD adds a fascinating layer to her story.

Renée reflects on her childhood experiences marked by perfectionism, where her struggles with comprehension, spelling, and writing were often overshadowed by her grandfather's insistence on academic excellence. She candidly discusses her late dyslexia diagnosis in college and the emotional challenges that accompanied it, including the impact of her learning difficulties on her self-esteem.

Throughout the episode, Renée shares her coping strategies, such as utilizing dictation tools and seeking support from mentors, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s learning differences. She explores how her recent ADHD diagnosis intertwines with her dyslexia, offering insights into the unique experiences of women and girls of color navigating these conditions.

Renée also dives into the cultural context surrounding learning disabilities, particularly within Black and Afro-Caribbean families, highlighting the need for better awareness and resources to support families dealing with learning differences. She critiques current educational practices regarding spelling and writing instruction and advocates for diverse learning strategies tailored to individual needs.

As a parent herself and an educator, Renée reflects on her growth and the importance of empowering children to embrace their learning differences. She concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to seek help and explore their unique learning styles, fostering a culture of curiosity and understanding.

Join us for a compelling conversation that champions resilience, empowerment, and advocacy for those navigating the complexities of dyslexia and ADHD.

Who is Renée Peña Lopez?
Renée Peña Lopez is an Early Childhood Inclusion Specialist, and proud Native New Yorker. She is a licensed special education early childhood teacher who has a passion for quirky learners such as herself. Renée attended Bard College for her B.A. in Dance and Integrated Arts (Video and Arts Education). While on her journey, she fell in love with Early Childhood working at an enrichment school, where the director took a chance on her and suggested she go into the field. She decided to attend Mercy College for (Birth-6th with Student with Disabilities). Now, Renée pulls from her creative background in dance and her vast experience in an array of classrooms from museums to progressive spaces to play-based models. She is also a Mama of a quirky and lovely kiddo who works with Families and Teachers of Littles to help them make sense of their Littles play by finding the magic that makes them shine. Together, we rethink inventions!

You can find Renée:
On the web: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicOfLittles/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themagicoflittles
On Threads: https://www.threads.net/@themagicoflittles
On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themagicoflittles/
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-pena-lopez-9a93957

Download "The Mighty Advocate Guide" for free: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/page/619933

Purchase digital "Stay on Top of IEPs" Planner with 50% discount for our audience: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/purchase/212062-Stay-on-Top-of-IEPs-Planner/coupon/ASTEPAHEAD

Renee has a podcast called "The Magic of Littles with Renee Pena Lopez." Listen and subscribe here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-magic-of-littles-with-renee-pena-lopez/id1460070377

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

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt37610844/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Original date of episode: May 10, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, talks with guest Chidimma Ibeh, the founder of Open Path Academy. Together, they delve into Chidimma's journey from teacher assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the crucial differences between tutoring and traditional teaching. Chidimma shares her deep passion for personalized, one-on-one tutoring and her commitment to empowering students with essential skills for their futures.

The discussion addresses the challenges of managing large classrooms and emphasizes the benefits of remote tutoring, which allows for greater flexibility and individualized attention. Chidimma elaborates on the digital tools she utilizes to enhance learning experiences, including Zoom and Scratch, and shares her effective marketing strategies, primarily focused on organic social media outreach and Facebook ads.

Listeners will also learn about Chidimma's exciting upcoming summer camps: a Gaming and Game Design Camp for middle school students and a Creator Camp for high school students, both aimed at fostering creativity and technical skills. With competitive pricing and early sign-up discounts, these camps are designed to be accessible to all.

Chidimma then offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring tutors, encouraging them to empower youth and create opportunities for skill development.

Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the future of education and the evolving tutoring industry!

Who is Chidimma Ibeh?
Chidimma Ibeh is the visionary founder of Open Path Academy, an educational service committed to preparing students for success in today’s fast-paced, digital world. With a background in software development and a deep passion for STEAM education, she blends science, technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship to create engaging, future-ready learning experiences. Chidimma holds a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, a master’s in software development from Maryville University, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration at Capella University. Her teaching journey began during her undergraduate years as a tutor and teaching assistant, and she has since impacted students through both in-person and virtual instruction. In 2022, she launched Open Path Academy to help children build confidence, develop essential life skills, and grow into innovative, thoughtful members of their communities. Chidimma’s mission is rooted in empowering every child to think critically, lead boldly, and discover their unique path in an ever-evolving world.

You can find Chidimma:
On the web: https://www.openpathacademy.com/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/openpathacademyllc/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openpathacademy
On X: https://twitter.com/openpathacademy
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@openpathacademy
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@openpathacademy
On Threads: https://www.threads.net/@openpathacademy
On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/openpathacademy/

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/BgDfFdW3eto

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt37539264/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: 
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On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/
On YouTube: https://youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservices
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013
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Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com   

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Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast

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Original date of episode: April 9, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! Join us for a collaborative presentation featuring fellow tutorpreneur and repeat guest, Sheryl Uehling. Together, we’re excited to share essential essay writing tips to help you succeed!

In this episode, we’ll cover:

1. Understanding Purpose: Discover how to identify the purpose of your writing and your audience, allowing you to create a solid plan of action. We’ll discuss analyzing prompts, brainstorming ideas, and crafting a clear thesis statement.
2. Research and Credible Sources: Learn the importance of gathering credible information from reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and .edu and .org websites. We'll emphasize the significance of taking notes and proper citation.
3. Developing Strong Arguments: Understand how to construct a logical flow in your writing by creating a clear introduction with a thesis, using topic sentences in each paragraph, and incorporating transitions for smooth readability.
4. Clarity and Conciseness: Master the art of writing clearly and concisely. We’ll explore the appropriate use of voice—first person for personal narratives and third person for research—and the importance of varying sentence structure while avoiding unnecessary information.
5. Revising, Editing, and Proofreading: We’ll guide you through the essential steps of revising, editing, and proofreading your work. Learn the benefits of taking breaks between drafts, seeking peer reviews, and checking your work in both paper and digital formats.
6. Personal Experiences and Feedback: We’ll encourage you to draw from your personal experiences to enrich your writing and discuss the importance of feedback for continuous improvement.

Tune in for an informative and engaging session filled with practical tips to enhance your essay writing skills!

Who is Sheryl Uehling?
Sheryl Uehling, a seasoned educator and reading specialist, empowers struggling readers from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade through evidence-based methods rooted in the Science of Reading. Her personalized instruction, blending phonics, decoding, spelling, writing, and comprehension, fosters significant reading achievement. Beyond her direct work with students, Sheryl also equips fellow tutors in the Tech Hub for Tutors with essential digital literacy and marketing skills, maximizing their impact.

You can find Sheryl:
On the web # 1: https://tutoringwithsheryl.tutorbird.com
On the web # 2: https://tutoringwithsheryl.tutorbird.com/tech-coach-for-tutors
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tutoringwithsheryl
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tutoringwithsheryl/
On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@techtutorinnovate
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheryl-uehling-tech-coach-for-tutors/
On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tutoringwithsheryl

Join the Tech Hub for Tutors at https://techhubfortutors.my.canva.site

Sheryl has a podcast called "Tutoring with Sheryl"! Listen and subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bjS1j50059IHPtw8z6anK?si=0bafd720bc204246

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/p8ht04q1zzo

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt37539184/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: 
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Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services:
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On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/
On YouTube: https://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 

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Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcast

Support us:
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Original date of episode: April 7, 2025

Welcome to Hot Topics! Join host Gabrielle Crichlow in this empowering episode featuring fellow tutorpreneur Renée Peña Lopez as they discuss the essential role of advocacy in your child's development. Together, they delve into key developmental markers for preschool and elementary-aged children, providing parents with the insights needed to recognize and address their child's unique needs.

In this episode, you'll learn effective strategies for advocating for your child's educational and emotional support, and discover how to navigate the systems in place to ensure they receive the help they require. Gabrielle and Renée share practical takeaways for when you feel overwhelmed or stuck, empowering you to advocate confidently and effectively.

Renée, an early childhood inclusion specialist and special education teacher, shares her personal journey of advocating for her daughter who faced developmental delays. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and navigating the special education system, including terms like "CPSC" (Committee of Special Education) and "EI" (Early Intervention). 

The episode emphasizes the significance of developmental milestones for children aged 3-5 years, advocating early, and the collaborative relationship between parents and educators. Renée also addresses the cultural considerations surrounding advocacy, including the stigma some parents face regarding labels and special education.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this episode is filled with expert advice and actionable tips to help you become a mighty advocate for your child. Tune in and take the first steps toward making a meaningful difference in their educational journey! 

Key Takeaways:
- Understanding your child's developmental markers.
- Strategies for effective advocacy in educational settings.
- Importance of documentation and early intervention.
- Navigating cultural considerations and overcoming stigma.
- Building collaborative relationships with educators.

Don't miss this insightful discussion that empowers you to support your child's needs!

Who is Renée Peña Lopez?
Renée Peña Lopez is an Early Childhood Inclusion Specialist, and proud Native New Yorker. She is a licensed special education early childhood teacher who has a passion for quirky learners such as herself. Renée attended Bard College for her B.A. in Dance and Integrated Arts (Video and Arts Education). While on her journey, she fell in love with Early Childhood working at an enrichment school, where the director took a chance on her and suggested she go into the field. She decided to attend Mercy College for (Birth-6th with Student with Disabilities). Now, Renée pulls from her creative background in dance and her vast experience in an array of classrooms from museums to progressive spaces to play-based models. She is also a Mama of a quirky and lovely kiddo who works with Families and Teachers of Littles to help them make sense of their Littles play by finding the magic that makes them shine. Together, we rethink inventions!

You can find Renée:
On the web: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicOfLittles/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themagicoflittles
On Threads: https://www.threads.net/@themagicoflittles
On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themagicoflittles/
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-pena-lopez-9a93957

Download "The Mighty Advocate Guide" for free: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/page/619933

Purchase digital "Stay on Top of IEPs" Planner with 50% discount for our audience: https://www.themagicoflittles.com/purchase/212062-Stay-on-Top-of-IEPs-Planner/coupon/ASTEPAHEAD

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/Tjw69vLdAIY

Rate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt36940673/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
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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.twitter.com/ASATS2013 
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/
On YouTube: https://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: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/support

Original date of episode: March 16, 2025