01. Drone Assassination: Inconvenient Facts
02. Pelosi’s Dangerous Taiwan Trip
03. The History of Psychedelics and Harvard University
04. Irreverent Reverend Busts Taboos about God and Sex
05. 7 Self-Care Mental Health Tips
06. Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?
07. Just In Time for Back to School: How to Raise a Reader
08. Why Older Workers Are in Demand
09. Latinos Are 50% More Likely to Develop Dementia than Whites
10. 4 Things to Do If You’re Experiencing Social Anxiety
11. Why Your Neighbors May Outlive You
12. Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained
13. The U.S. Has a Maternal Health Crisis
14. How to Help Burned-Out Healthcare Workers
15. New Destinations, Female Captains, and Other Cruise Trends That May Float Your Boat
1.==> Drone Assassination: Inconvenient Facts
Over the weekend a U.S. counterterrorism operation in Afghanistan killed top Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, one of the plotters behind the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Cultural critic Laurie Calhoun says media pundits are gushing over Biden’s accomplishment while ignoring the many drone attacks that have killed innocent civilians. “We have been assured that al-Zawahiri was killed alone, and no one else was injured by the strike, not even his family. What a curious claim to make, given that family members were considered fair game for attack throughout the ‘war on terror.’ Twenty years and millions of ruined lives later, the Biden administration wishes to claim the summary execution of the charred corpse identified as a high-value target as some sort of historic victory. But lest we forget, throughout the ‘war on terror,’ many named targets were ‘reportedly’ killed on multiple occasions at multiple sites. The people incinerated in their stead were, in fact, unnamed civilians.” Laurie Calhoun is the author of several books including “We Kill Because We Can: From Soldiering to Assassination in the Drone Age.” Contact her at laurielcalhoun@gmail.com; @laurielcalhoun
2. ==> Pelosi’s Dangerous Taiwan Trip
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are on edge after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan this week. China escalated its rhetoric, calling the trip “very dangerous and stupid” and blasting the Biden administration for not stopping it. James Bradley, the author of several books focused on U.S. policy in the Pacific and Asia, says Pelosi was indeed “playing with fire” as President Xi Jinping warned. Bradley describes the visit as more dangerous than a similar trip by then-speaker Newt Gingrich in 1997. But, he adds, “There’s no evidence that China wants a military confrontation. Military conflict regarding Taiwan will happen if the U.S. government starts or provokes it.” Bradley is perhaps best known for his book “Flags of Our Fathers.” He is also the author of several books focused on U.S. policy in the Pacific and Asia, including “The China Mirage: The Hidden History of American Disaster in Asia.” Bradley has produced numerous episodes of the Untold Pacific” podcast including China Rising and U.S. Military: War with China Inevitable. Contact him at james@jamesbradley.com
3. ==> The History of Psychedelics and Harvard University
Harvard is restarting its long-lost psilocybin research with the launch of the new Center for Neuroscience of Psychedelics at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). The goal is to test how psychedelics can be used in treating depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Invite Patrick Schmidt to share how psychedelics first arrived at Harvard when some of the most renowned social scientists of the 20th century persuaded the school to establish a new department, promising to create an interdisciplinary science that would surpass in importance Harvard’s “big three” disciplines of economics, government, and history. Although the department of social relations failed to achieve the goal, the author of “Harvard’s Quixotic Pursuit of a New Science” can discuss what did happen. Hear how some faculty became notorious for their questionable research: Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert (reborn as Ram Dass) gave the psychedelic drug psilocybin to students, while Henry Murray traumatized undergraduate Theodore Kaczynski (later the Unabomber) in a three-year-long experiment. Patrick Schmidt is an attorney in Washington, D.C. He first examined the history of the department of social relations in his undergraduate honors thesis at Harvard. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
4.==> Irreverent Reverend Busts Taboos about God and Sex
Rev. Stephanie Clarke has been busting taboos with humor and helping people get free of guilt, shame, and fear for years by exposing the religious mythology of sexuality so that people can have healthy, passionate, sexual relationships. Ask her: How has our biblical heritage impacted our relationship to our bodies, sexuality, and sex partners? What is the meaning of Original Sin? Was Mary, mother of Jesus, really a virgin? Was Mary Magdalene really a hooker? Rev. Stephanie is a metaphysical minister and Law of Attraction coach who studied for ten years at Agape in Los Angeles under Rev. Michael Beckwith of “The Secret” fame. She started the first multiracial New Thought ministry in South Africa. Contact her at revstephanieclarke@gmail.com
5. ==> 7 Self-Care Mental Health Tips
According to Mental Health America’s annual State of Mental Health in America report; nearly 50 million Americans – almost 20% — are currently experiencing a mental illness. Over half of adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment, totaling over 27 million people in the U.S. who are going untreated. Invite PTSD survivor, spiritual life coach, and author Marni Goldman to share seven tips that can improve everyone’s mental health. From simple steps like making your bed each morning and getting out into nature, to more difficult tips like setting boundaries and letting go of grudges, you’ll hear practical, advice for mental health self-care. Marni Goldman is the author of “True To Myself: Peace, Love, Marni.” The daughter of a drug-addicted mother, Marni has survived a life of depression, ADHD, childhood PTSD, anxiety, and a leukemia diagnosis. She works with people all over the world to help them transcend and heal emotional traumas. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com
6. ==> Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?
A decision is expected any day now from President Biden on broad student-loan forgiveness. Reports suggest he’s considering $10,000 in relief for borrowers making under $150,000 a year. Millions of struggling student-loan borrowers are anxiously awaiting an announcement in the coming days, but is this the answer? According to former college professor Glen Dunzweiler, students should not waste their time thinking about loan forgiveness. “It’s a waste of energy,” he says, “because there is no incentive for anyone to forgive your debt. Instead, the discussion can provide an opportunity to figure out the leverage that individual students do have.” Glen is the author of two books including “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills For Students.” He is an independent filmmaker and the host of the YouTube series Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler. His documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Just In Time for Back to School: How to Raise a Reader (One Book at a Time)
Despite their hectic schedules and the distractions of social media and modern technology, parents can dramatically improve their children’s lives by setting aside time to read with them. “A relaxing reading ritual not only fuels your child’s reading journey, but it also builds a bond and creates memories that last,” says author and long-time educator Lori Lynn Ahrends. “The right books will not only be fun but will build your child’s self-confidence.” Lori Lynn is an award-winning educator and international speaker with a master’s in education; a singer/songwriter; creator of the Overall Buddies early childhood learning website and author of the children’s book “I’m a Pig.” Contact her at (402) 235-4292; lahrends@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Why Older Workers Are in Demand
Older workers used to have a rough time finding employment due to rampant age discrimination. But thanks to the current labor shortages and lack of reliable employees, people of a certain age are very much in demand in the job market. “Mature workers are worth their weight in gold,” says author Judy Balloff. “They are extremely reliable, efficient and have a terrific work ethic.” Judy should know. She landed her dream job at age 60, and even met and married the love of her life in her later years. “I can also show people how to control their thoughts to create their own reality, and share the 12 Universal Laws for living a healthier and happier life and other tips for finding your dream life in your 50s, 60s, and beyond.” She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Latinos Are 50% More Likely to Develop Dementia than Whites
According to data from the Alzheimer’s Association, Hispanic people are about 50% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than non-Latino whites but are less likely to pursue treatment for the disease. Instead, they tend to rely on informal care from family and community members. This can lead to poor health outcomes because of low awareness of the disease and its symptoms as well as limited access to medical resources. Behavioral specialist and author Lisa Skinner says language, lack of resources and cultural differences are often roadblocks to quality dementia care. “Alzheimer’s disease is a global crisis that needs native-language resources which help family members and caregivers improve their ability to manage the challenging symptoms and behaviors associated with brain disease,” says Skinner. “Many Latino caregivers end up being family members, as many Latinos live in multigenerational households.” She shares tools for caregivers in the book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces,” which is also available in Spanish (“Verdad, Mentiras Y Alzheimer – Sus Caras Secretas”). Skinner is a Certified Dementia Care Trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association with more than a quarter-century of experience in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Contact Dianemarie (DM) Collins at (775) 742-8403; DM@DMProductionsLLC.com; @DMCollins
10. ==> 4 Things to Do if You’re Experiencing Social Anxiety
Are you worried about going out in public because you fear that other people will judge you? Do you struggle to interact with strangers? Have you avoided speaking up for yourself at work or home because you’re afraid that you won’t be liked enough to be taken seriously? You may be relieved to know that you’re not alone – and that you don’t have to struggle with these and other common symptoms of social anxiety. Collectively, our social anxiety has only gotten worse since the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Interview Lee Vallely, the author of “Kick the Sh*t out of Social Anxiety,” to help your audience ease the stress of social anxiety and start enjoying their lives. Ask him: What are four things you can do right now if you’re experiencing social anxiety? Why is “feel the fear and do it anyway” terrible advice? How can simple breathing help you overcome social anxiety? Contact Lee Vallely at (561) 658-1266 or lvallely@rtirguests.com
11. ==> Why Your Neighbors May Outlive You
Most of us look at our neighbors and make silent comparisons. Some certainly look worse than we do, older, paunchier, and perhaps grayer. But we may concede that some look better, more active, upbeat, and healthier, making us wonder what they know that we don’t. You could ask them, but you probably won’t. Instead, why not ask nurse practitioner (APRN) Anne McAwley-LeDuc, an award-winning author? Anne says the healthiest people don’t just see physicians regularly, stick to a healthful diet and exercise program, take prescription medicines correctly and avoid bad habits. According to Anne, they also keep accurate health histories and records. She’ll reveal the importance of maintaining key information about every doctor visit, and all procedures, tests, treatments, vaccinations, and prescriptions for every family member. Anne is the creator of the “Personal Health Organizer.” Contact her at (860) 300- 603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained
Adoption is certainly a beautiful, loving way to bring a new child into one’s family. But like many couples, Nate Birt and his wife wanted to make their adoption journey particularly special. They chose to adopt a frozen embryo that was implanted, carried, and delivered by Nate’s wife. Now the Birts are delighted to be the parents of a lovely little daughter and have written a how-to book about the process. Invite Nate on-air to explain how all this happened, and what others can do to turn a frozen embryo into a joyful birth. Even the curious in your audience will be fascinated. Ask him: Where are frozen embryos available for adoption and why? What is the process like? What memorable circumstances did Nate and his wife experience? What do most people ask about such adoptions? Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com
13. ==> The U.S. Has a Maternal Health Crisis
Even in the 21st century, pregnancy is rough for most women. And it can be unsafe and even fatal, particularly in the U.S. which has the highest rate of maternal fatalities in the developed world. To find out why, and how we can do better for mothers and babies, interview OB specialist obstetrician Alan Lindemann, M.D., who in his 40-year rural practice has delivered more than 6,000 babies without a single maternal death. Ask him: Why do we lose so many women in childbirth? How can complications be prevented? How has the Supreme Court decision on Roe vs. Wade increased the disparity in health care access for women? What can be done about “maternity deserts” that keep expectant moms far from hospitals and care? Dr. Lindemann is the author of “Safe Pregnancy Explained: Three Steps to a Safer Pregnancy.” He can also answer questions about morning sickness, lifestyle changes, and what expectant fathers can do to improve the health of their partner. Contact Alan Lindemann, M.D., at (701) 399-9556; ALindemann@rtirguests.com
14. ==> How to Help Burned-Out Healthcare Workers
Hospitals across the U.S. are facing workforce shortages, some so severe that they have had to scale back on the services they offer. This is not surprising given that 22 million U.S. healthcare professionals and another 38 million around the world had nearly every aspect of their lives negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. But, as Katherine Kelly, Ph.D., M.S.P.H, says, making them whole again will require more than offering higher wages and signing bonuses. Dr. Kelly says, “Like individuals, healthcare organizations are struggling because they’ve lost touch with who they are. Until that is repaired the problems will persist.” She’ll explain what healthcare leaders need to know about leading in post-COVID times, five vital steps to revitalizing the “soul” of healthcare organizations, and six ways to make healthcare workers whole again. Dr. Katherine T. Kelly, Ph.D., M.S.P.H., is a clinical health psychologist, former director of behavioral science in family medicine and medical school professor, best-selling author, speaker and consultant. Her latest book is “The Healer’s Path to Post-COVID Recovery: A Restorative Journey for Healthcare Workers.” Contact her at (336) 659-3923; (336) 406-8431 (cell) or kkelly@drkatherinetkelly.com
15. ==> New Destinations, Female Captains, and Other Cruise Trends That May Float Your Boat
You’ll enjoy smooth sailing with tips from travel expert Cindy Bertram, who will share hot new trends and destinations in the cruise travel industry. “With cruising, there are different options,” she says. “Some luxury cruise lines are launching very unique, ultra-luxury expedition ships to go to smaller places that larger ships can’t go to. River cruising has also been growing, including more options for people to go on diverse river cruises on U.S. waterways.” In addition, there are growing opportunities for women in the cruise industry, as everything from top executives to ships’ captains. Cindy is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry. She is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog… Learning from Great Humans.” Contact Cindy at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com
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