Getting Involved: How Young Leaders Change Politics

Getting Involved: How Young Leaders Change Politics

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Ty Champion, Vice Chairman of the Norfolk Democratic Committee and President of the Black Caucus of the Virginia Young Democrats, for a candid conversation about politics, public service, leadership, and what motivates people to get involved in their communities. Ty shares his journey from growing up in Norfolk to earning a master’s degree in architecture at Hampton University before finding his passion in political organizing and advocacy. What began as an interest sparked by the 2008 presidential election evolved into a commitment to helping young people become engaged, informed, and empowered participants in the political process. Adam and Ty dive into the realities of grassroots organizing, campaign work, and political leadership. Ty reflects on volunteering for local campaigns, working his way into leadership positions, and learning firsthand that leadership often finds people before they think they're ready for it. He also shares stories from his experiences with the Hampton Roads Young Democrats, navigating organizational growth, fundraising, and the challenges of building sustainable movements that are bigger than any one person. The conversation explores the importance of representation in politics, civic engagement, and why local elections matter more than many people realize. Ty discusses the impact of seeing leaders who looked like him, how mentors helped shape his path, and why creating opportunities for future generations remains one of his biggest priorities. Adam and Ty also tackle difficult topics including political polarization, higher education, student loan debt, media narratives, and the growing divide in American politics. Together, they examine how people form political identities, the role of personal experiences in shaping beliefs, and why meaningful conversations across differences are becoming increasingly important. Throughout the episode, Ty emphasizes the value of community, mentorship, and staying engaged even when political systems feel frustrating or imperfect. Rather than focusing solely on elections, he encourages listeners to think about how they can make an impact in their neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and local governments. If you've ever wondered how someone gets involved in politics, what grassroots organizing actually looks like, or why local leadership matters, this episode offers an honest and insightful look at civic engagement, public service, and building change from the ground up. Learn more about Ty Champion here [https://www.instagram.com/tychampionva?igsh=MTJjemFvYWhjanM0ZA==]. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Men’s Mental Health, Masculinity, and the Power of Community

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Jason Lange, founder of Evolutionary Men and a longtime men's group facilitator, for a thought-provoking conversation about modern masculinity, men's mental health, community, and the challenges facing men today. Jason shares his personal journey into men's work, which began in 2006, and explains how men's groups have evolved from niche gatherings into a growing movement focused on emotional well-being, personal growth, and authentic connection. Adam and Jason explore why so many men struggle with loneliness, isolation, and identity in a rapidly changing world—and why the traditional definition of masculinity no longer works for many men. The conversation dives deep into topics like the "man box," emotional vulnerability, fatherhood, provider culture, and the rise of online influencers who promise simple solutions to complex problems. Jason challenges the idea that masculinity itself is the problem and argues that what society needs is not less masculinity, but healthier masculinity—men who are connected to themselves, their emotions, and their communities. Adam and Jason also discuss the growing mental health crisis among men, the importance of meaningful male friendships, and why vulnerability is often viewed as weakness when it can actually become a powerful form of leadership. Together, they unpack how men's groups help participants move beyond shame, build self-awareness, and develop stronger relationships with themselves and others. The conversation also explores social media, approval-seeking, therapy, coaching, and the role community plays in helping men resist manipulation, overcome isolation, and create more fulfilling lives. Jason shares why connection—not achievement—is often the missing ingredient in many men's lives and how finding a supportive group can dramatically change a person's outlook and well-being. If you've ever wondered what healthy masculinity looks like, why men are struggling with connection, or how men's groups can help foster growth, confidence, and emotional resilience, this episode offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on what it means to be a man in today's world. Learn more about Jason Lange: https://evolutionary.men/talk [https://evolutionary.men/talk] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Inner Glow: Why Success Doesn’t Create Fulfillment

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with women’s coach, author, and self-proclaimed “Inner Glow Coach” Angie Hawkins for a powerful conversation about self-trust, fulfillment, personal growth, and what happens when you stop living your life for everyone else. Angie shares her journey from spending 20 years in corporate America checking all the boxes of success to realizing that, despite having a life that looked great on paper, something was missing. Like many people, she followed the path she thought she was supposed to take—career, achievements, stability—without ever stopping to ask herself what she actually wanted. That realization led her on a transformational journey of self-discovery, healing, and ultimately building a life that felt aligned with who she truly was. Adam and Angie dive into the ways society, family systems, and cultural expectations can slowly dim our “inner glow” over time. Together, they explore why so many people struggle to trust themselves, how fear and shame keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us, and why stepping outside of other people’s expectations is often the first step toward creating a more fulfilling life. The conversation also tackles emotional awareness, self-worth, abundance mindset, personal responsibility, and the challenges that come with making major life changes. Angie opens up about leaving her corporate career, overcoming limiting beliefs, and helping women reconnect with the parts of themselves they’ve spent years suppressing. Adam shares his own experiences with therapy, self-awareness, and breaking generational patterns, leading to a thoughtful discussion about healing, authenticity, and creating meaningful change. If you’ve ever felt like your life looks successful from the outside but doesn’t feel fulfilling on the inside, struggled to trust your own voice, or wondered how to stop living by everyone else’s rules, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for rediscovering your authentic self. Learn more about Angie Hawkins: https://www.innerglowbyangie.com/ [https://www.innerglowbyangie.com/] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Dyslexic Kids Are Specialists, Not Generalists: Building Confidence Beyond the Classroom

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with dyslexia coach Russell Van Brocklen for a fascinating conversation that challenges everything most people think they know about dyslexia, reading, intelligence, and learning. Russell shares his remarkable personal journey from having a first-grade reading and writing level in college to attending law school, conducting dyslexia research, and developing a system that has helped students dramatically improve their reading and writing skills. Russell opens up about the discrimination and obstacles he faced throughout his education, including a pivotal experience during a prestigious New York State Assembly internship that ultimately changed the course of his life. Rather than accepting the limitations others placed on him, he became determined to understand dyslexia for himself and help other students avoid the same struggles. His journey eventually led him through law school, educational research, and the development of a unique approach to literacy that focuses on writing as the pathway to reading improvement. Adam and Russell dive into the misconceptions surrounding dyslexia, the relationship between intelligence and reading ability, and why many highly capable students are often misunderstood in traditional educational settings. Russell explains how his methods have helped students make dramatic academic gains and why he believes many current approaches to dyslexia intervention overlook the underlying problem. The conversation also explores the role of motivation, confidence, and technology in modern education. Russell shares how artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT have transformed the way he works, allowing him to overcome challenges that once required enormous amounts of time and effort. Together, Adam and Russell discuss learning differences, educational reform, and what parents can do when they feel their child is falling behind in school. If you’ve ever wondered what dyslexia really is, how struggling readers can thrive, or why some of the smartest people struggle in traditional classrooms, this episode offers a powerful perspective on learning, resilience, and unlocking potential. Get Russell's free guide and learn more about his approach to dyslexia intervention and literacy development: https://mailchi.mp/dcacd9a6f9ae/3-reasons-ebook [https://mailchi.mp/dcacd9a6f9ae/3-reasons-ebook] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Living a Life by Design Instead of Autopilot

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with psychologist and women’s coach Dr. Wendy O’Connor for a relatable and eye-opening conversation about burnout, fulfillment, motherhood, and the pressure so many women feel to “have it all together.” What starts as a discussion about psychology and coaching quickly becomes a deeper exploration of happiness, identity, and why success on paper doesn’t always translate into feeling fulfilled in real life. Dr. Wendy shares how becoming a mother of three—including twins born just 15 months after her first daughter—completely shifted the way she viewed stress, balance, and personal fulfillment. Despite having a successful career, a loving family, and everything she thought she was “supposed” to want, she found herself asking a question many women quietly struggle with: “Is this really as good as it gets?” That experience ultimately led her into the world of positive psychology and coaching women through burnout, overwhelm, and the feeling of losing themselves while trying to keep up with everyone else’s expectations. Adam and Dr. Wendy dive into the science of happiness, the danger of living life on autopilot, and how many people spend years simply checking boxes instead of intentionally building lives that genuinely excite them. Together, they unpack the mental load women often carry, why burnout can happen even in lives we’re grateful for, and how redefining success can completely change the way we experience everyday life. The conversation also explores intentional living, emotional fulfillment, motherhood, relationships, and why so many people struggle to prioritize themselves without guilt. Dr. Wendy explains how small shifts in mindset, routines, and self-awareness can help people reconnect with joy instead of constantly operating in survival mode. If you’ve ever felt burned out despite doing “all the right things,” struggled to balance ambition with fulfillment, or wondered why success doesn’t always feel satisfying, this episode offers a thoughtful and empowering perspective on creating a life that actually lights you up. Learn more about Dr. Wendy O’Connor: https://www.drwendyoconnor.com/monthly-reflection-goal-setting-worksheet [https://www.drwendyoconnor.com/monthly-reflection-goal-setting-worksheet] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce