The Crisis Files

Most of us easily navigate making doctors’ appointments, enrolling our kids in school, applying for loans without thinking about what language we're using. What if seemingly regular but important tasks didn't come so easily? There are more than 7000 languages spoken around the globe. In the United States, many people have limited English skills. Language barriers can be a non-starter for communication, which then limits our ability to trust. Host Roshini Rajkumar welcomes professional translator and author of the Language of Trust Ingrid Christensen to dive into how language can be either a barrier or a bridge for trust. Language access creates pathways for understanding. Plus, find out why you might not want to rely on Google Translate for overcoming language gaps.

We love rooting for our favorite sports stars, often elevating them to god-like status. But off-the-field scandals can make or break an athlete’s career. Nasty contract negotiations and offensive tweets can overshadow a championship win and create headaches for managers, agents and owners. In one of the most notorious acts to affect the reputation of the NFL, then-New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez was charged with murder in 2013. Producer Adam Watson was part of nonstop coverage as things were breaking. He brings his sports expertise to The Crisis Files as he joins host Roshini Rajkumar to break down why sports scandals create unique headlines.

In this era of cancel culture and political correctness, many of us are watching our words more than ever. We may not intend to offend, but it can be easy to speak without realizing the impact of our words. How are we supposed to know what is a mis-speak? Should the intent of a person’s message matter as much as its impact? Are individual sensitivities more important than freedom of speech? Comedian, speaker and social instigator Miss Shannan Paul joins host Roshini Rajkumar to offer guidance for navigating a world where microaggressions and cultural insensitivities are being called out. Plus, learn how to rebound from an unintended faux pas and why forgiveness shouldn’t be assumed.

Our military members serve and sacrifice to protect America’s freedom, but the transition from the military to civilian life can be difficult. Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), homelessness, traumatic brain injuries and substance abuse are a few of the challenges that can plague veterans looking to return to their families and civilian life. Resources such as the Veterans Health Administration and employment services are available, but access and varying quality can impede the support veterans deserve. Regional President for Huntington National Bank Darrel German is a retired United States Army Reserve Colonel and Iraq War vet who takes us inside his personal, lived experiences as an active-duty military member and veteran with PTSD. Host Roshini Rajkumar and German also explore what each of us can do as we honor veterans this Memorial Day and beyond.

We’ve all been there - “You Look Amazing! Have You Lost Weight?” Even well-intentioned comments about our bodies can trigger negative feelings and painful memories. Society intensely focuses on appearance - often even from birth. Younger generations and activists are challenging unrealistic body standards and embracing body positivity for people of all sizes. Host Roshini Rajkumar welcomes The Crisis Files’ wellness contributor and editor in chief of Experience Life magazine Jamie Martin to discuss body image, healthy living and how we talk about our bodies. Plus, learn how “body neutrality” can be the best strategy for embracing what your body can do rather than what it looks like.

Crises are shaking up higher education! When Hamline University decided not to renew an adjunct instructor’s contract after she offended a student by showing an image of the prophet Mohamed in class, it set off a national debate. A clumsy response from university leadership led to a Federal lawsuit, the resignation of the Hamline president and a damaged reputation for Minnesota’s oldest university. So what would have been the right way to handle this loaded situation? CEO and crisis specialist Jen Hellman joins Roshini Rajkumar to breakdown the ABC’s and 123’s of crisis management that apply well beyond academic institutions. Learn how considering your concentric circles of advocates and stakeholders can minimize the fall out and how timing can make or break your response and reputation.

Studies show that globally more than 1700 infants are born with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders each day. Exposure to alcohol during pregnancy can lead to lifelong challenges, yet more than 13% of expecting mothers report drinking while pregnant. Alcohol is deeply embedded in our culture, traditions and society. A positive twist for some, sober lifestyles and non-alcoholic beverages are becoming increasingly mainstream as Americans reconsider their relationship with booze. Host Roshini Rajkumar welcomes Executive Director of Proof Alliance Mollie O'Brien to discuss prevention and improving outcomes for everyone affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Plus, get the definitive answer on how much alcohol is “safe” to drink while pregnant.

Have you ever caught yourself putting things off until tomorrow or next week or next year? Busy schedules, unclear directions and limited time can be overwhelming, making procrastination your go-to coping mechanism. But dragging your feet often snowballs, putting you in a worse position and impacting your personal wellbeing. Productivity coach and founder of “Life Done Simply” Aimee Olson shares her tips and tricks with host Roshini Rajkumar to help overcome procrastination. Plus, find out the number one reason people procrastinate. It's likely not what you think.

Love is universal but navigating sex and intimate relations in modern times can feel hopeless. Kinky fantasies, cultural expectations and sexual chemistry can make or break a relationship. But data and psychological research can help decode modern love – separating emotions from reality. Psychologist, Love & Life podcast host, and author Dr. Karin Anderson Abrell joins Roshini Rajkumar to help you find success when “catching feelings” turns into a mattress dance.

Americans are obsessed with true crime! From the Murdaugh murders to Tiger King, true crime TV shows, podcasts and documentaries are more popular than ever. A new era of familial DNA, forensic entomology and digital fingerprints have eclipsed the days of Sherlock Holmes and the tools of deduction. These unbelievable advances in technology have transformed the field of criminology, creating a new fascination with forensics and delivering justice to grieving families. Host Roshini Rajkumar welcomes CrimeDoor showrunner Adam Watson to explore the latest investigative breakthroughs.