01. Should Churches Be Sanctuaries for Immigrants?
02. What Trump’s Gender Executive Order Means for Trans People
03. The Pandemic is Over, Why Are Students Still Struggling?
04. Proof That Expecting Greatness Leads to Success
05. 5 Cultural Trends Shaping America in 2025
06. How to Move Forward After the LA Fires
07. Is DEI Dead?
08. It Doesn’t Take a Village to Raise Kids
09. Why Parents Should Embrace Artificial Intelligence
10. This Insidious Habit Hurts Kids
11. Do You Know the Signs of Hidden Trauma?
12. How to Tap Into Your Intuitive Super Power
13. Interview a Woman Who Had Two Near-Death Experiences
14. This Veteran Found Closure Reading His Letters to Home
15. The Difference Between Hope and Optimism
1. ==> Should Churches Be Sanctuaries for Immigrants?
The Trump administration has declared that immigration agents are now free to make arrests in places of worship, but undeterred faith leaders in Southern California and beyond say they are prepared to aid and even shelter immigrants. “We have an executive order from God, not from politicians,” says Guillermo Torres, who leads immigration campaigns at Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice, a nonprofit advocacy group in Los Angeles. “Do you think we’re going to betray the greatest commandment, to love your neighbor as yourself?” Southern California faith leaders have been preparing for this moment and are organizing “know your rights” training sessions for members of their congregations and labeling certain buildings as private property to dissuade immigration agents from attempting to gain access without a warrant. “You might see a model of the Underground Railroad being practiced here,” says Torres. Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE) is a coalition of diverse Southern California congregations with a progressive agenda around workers’ rights and issues of economic justice. Contact Guillermo Torres at gtorres@cluejustice.org
2. ==> What Trump’s Gender Executive Order Means for Trans People
Keeping with his campaign promises, President Trump wasted no time in signing an executive order directing federal agencies to roll back protections for trans people. What does it all mean? Shawn Thomas Meerkamper, managing attorney at the Transgender Law Center, says the order directs all federal agencies in the executive branch to adopt new policies that pretend as if transgender people don’t exist. But, he says, “This order does not change anybody’s rights and it does not change the law. It begins the process of changing federal regulations and policies.” While people are scared about all this means, Meerkamper says they need to know that we’re just going to have to wait and see. Ask Meerkamper: What do you make of the administration framing the order as “protecting women”? Have we seen this type of executive order at the federal level before? At the state level? What about incarcerated people and immigrants in detention who are trans? Do you expect the order to be challenged in court? Transgender Law Center is the largest national trans-led organization advocating self-determination for all people. Contact K Richardson at k@transgenderlawcenter.org or Sue Yacka-Bible at sue@transgenderlawcenter.org
3.==> The Pandemic is Over, Why Are Students Still Struggling?
It’s been nearly 5 years since the pandemic closed the nation’s schools and this week a new report on how kids are doing shows a mixed bag. There’s some good news in math, mostly bad news in reading and lots of questions about why so many students are still struggling. While achievement declines were exacerbated by the pandemic, they appear to have begun even before COVID-19, so what’s going on? “That is the multitrillion-dollar question,” says Dan Goldhaber, an education researcher at the University of Washington who has studied pandemic learning loss. He suggests that the Great Recession, kids’ increased access to smartphones and tablets, and the ripple effects of a decline in kids reading for fun have also affected their learning. “It’s important to understand what caused that earlier stagnation if we’re going to get out of the mire of the pandemic,” he says. Dr. Dan Goldhaber is the Director of the Center for Education Data & Research and a professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Washington. He is also the director of the National Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER) and a vice-president at American Institutes of Research (AIR). Contact him at dgoldhaber@air.org
4.==> Proof That Expecting Greatness Leads to Success
What if expecting greatness could change lives? William A. Keyes, PhD., president of The Institute for Responsible Citizenship has devoted his life to that idea. The non-profit, operating in Washington DC, recruits the brightest young talent to help them become Rhodes Scholars, Fulbright Scholars, and leaders in medicine, law, education, and beyond. Dr. Keyes draws from over four decades of experience as a White House Senior Policy Advisor, mentor, and educator to show how expecting greatness can transform individuals and communities alike. He challenges educators, mentors, and community leaders to invest in young talent and spark generational change. Keyes’ new book, “The Stories They Hear: Expecting Greatness as the Key to Success” reveals the transformative impact of mentorship on America’s brightest African American male college students. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099; johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
5. ==> 5 Cultural Trends Shaping America in 2025
As America navigates an era of profound change, the editor of “County Highway” are sharing five cultural trends they see shaping the country this year and what they have in common. Among the top trends, David Samuels expects a revival of rural America, a new kind of individualism and the return of American grit. Born in the era of Covid when many people grew disillusioned with big city life, “County Highway” is alternative to traditional media and is rooted in the idea that counties are the perfect-sized communities for storytelling. Samuels says the popularity of his publication is proof that “Americans crave tangible, authentic narratives. This return to print and slower storytelling is a harbinger of broader cultural changes in how we consume and value media.” County Highway is a magazine styled as a 19th-century American broadsheet. Editor David Samuels is a longtime writer for Harper’s, The New Yorker and other magazines. Contact Mark Goldman at (516)639-0988; markgoldman73@gmail.com
6. ==> How to Move Forward After the LA Fires
Tens of thousands of people have been displaced by the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. David Glass, a veteran Certified Family Law Specialist and former psychologist, offers advice for families and couples as they embark on the daunting task of trying to rebuild their lives. “There is nothing more devastating than suffering the losses thousands have experienced in the wake of SoCal’s horrific fires,” Glass says. “Tensions in relationships are bound to be high.” Glass himself was forced to evacuate his wife and two sons during the Sunset Fire. He says maintaining communication, patience and a sense of humor are key to getting through this, along with the occasional reminder that this too, shall pass. Glass is best known for handling A-list celebrities and high-profile types with their family law matters. His popular podcast, TheHourGLASS, is based on his book, “Moving On: Redesigning Your Emotional, Financial and Social Life After Divorce.” Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or Cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com or Shannon Dugger at (303) 619-3949; Shannon@kerrpr-execuprov.com
7. ==> Is DEI Dead?
Donald Trump has moved to change the US government's policies on gender and diversity. One of his first executive orders would "end DEI inside the federal government", cutting funding to DEI programs across all agencies and including a review of offices renamed because of DEI initiatives.” The order does not affect the private sector. Sara Ting, a diversity and inclusion educator, can discuss why the concept has become so controversial, what will happen if DEI policies disappear, and why people have a hard time accepting that each of us has personal biases. “Often times, people aren’t even aware of their biases. But because we live in such a diverse society, it’s important that we acknowledge our biases and work toward inclusion – so that we can all function more harmoniously in every aspect of life,” she says, adding that DEI is the foundation for a healthy society. Sara is a speaker, consultant, and the author of "Small Book with a Big Idea: 5 Minute Training to Empower You and Transform the World." Contact her at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com
8. ==> It Doesn’t Take a Village to Raise Kids
According to Richard Ramos, the "it takes a village" concept is obsolete, irrelevant, and was meant for another time and culture. He says what it really takes to raise a child is good parenting. Ramos was working with at-risk youth when he realized that to truly help his students he needed to help their parents. That’s when he switched his focus and started Parents on a Mission, a mentoring program that teaches parents how to build healthy relationships with their children and transforms family dynamics. He’ll talk about parenting as a profession, meaning you go to parenting classes just like any good professional who wants to keep learning, growing, improving their skills and remain relevant. He’ll share strategies for communicating, how to blend stepfamilies and ways to battle the influence of social media in kids’ lives. Contact him at (805) 456-1407; rramos@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Why Parents Should Embrace Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is already a big part of our day-to-day lives. Should we be concerned that our kids have easy access to this powerful resource? Quite the opposite, argues thought leader Marc Prensky. He sees artificial intelligence and cell phones as young people’s passports to the future and the new human capabilities they will use to better the world. Invite Prensky on your show to bust the myth that cell phones make kids lazy and explain why kids need to be taught the fundamental emotional skills of love, empathy, gratitude, and optimism. Prensky is the author of 12 books, most recently “Third Millenium Kids: A Hell Yes! Low Stress Guide for Everyone.” He’s also a public speaker who’s appeared in over 50 countries. Contact Marc Prensky at (516) 701-1440; mprensky@rtirguests.com
10. ==> This Insidious Habit Hurts Kids
Negative self-talk can creep up on anybody—especially kids. What if there were a way to identify this hidden habit in our children and give them the tools to defeat it? Armida Espinoza’s has a lifetime of experience in this area and will explain how kids aren’t as emotionally resilient as we might think. Invite Espinoza to discuss the long-term effects of negative self-talk and teach listeners how to turn this crippling outlook into a growth mindset. A retired bilingual elementary school teacher, Espinoza has helped thousands of kids, teachers, parents, and school administrators. She’s the author of “Brave Lolis Learns English,” an effective primer based on autobiographical experience. Contact Armida Espinoza at (559) 234-3516; aespinoza@rtirguests.com
11. ==> Do You Know the Signs of Hidden Trauma?
Author, coach and therapist Lisa Morgan experienced the kind of trauma that many people could not survive. After enduring a horrific childhood which included sexual abuse, violence, and neglect, she developed multiple personality disorder (soul-fracturing) as a way to cope. Despite the odds, Lisa not only survived the trauma, she also somehow managed to thrive and now helps others facing similar circumstances. Lisa can explain how she developed her own path forward with compassion and love, and how her Freedom Body Blueprint coaching method helps others to reclaim their authentic selves. "After navigating a 20-year journey through the dark night of the soul, I draw upon all of my professional experiences in psychiatry, 20-plus years of inner-healing, and all the wisdom, insights, and know-how gained along the way to provide hope for those who suffer." Lisa is an author, speaker, and coach with 35-plus years of experience as a Certified Life Coach and Board- Certified Music Therapist. She is the author and co-author of several books including “Against All Odds.” Contact Lisa Morgan at (314) 265-3491; lmorgan@rtirguests.com
12. ==> How to Tap Into Your Intuitive Super Power
Dr. Dan Bartlett, a Certified Metaphysical Practitioner with over 30 years of experience, empowers audiences to gain insight, clarity and direction in their lives. He’ll reveal how to develop natural intuitive abilities to improve relationships, overcome challenges and unlock personal potential. Dr. Dan’s approachable guidance can teach your audience how to tap into their innate intuition to improve decision-making or even start their own intuitive business from home. Known for his engaging style as a Magical Mentalist, Dr. Dan can also captivate your audience with live mind-reading demonstrations. Inspire your audience with practical ways to enhance relationships, well-being and career success. Dr. Dan is the author of “Six Easy Secrets to Psychic Success.” Contact him at (480) 841-0984 or dbartlett@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Interview a Woman Who Had Two Near-Death Experiences
Pastor Nancy Frecka is an experienced and delightful media guest who has had two documented near-death experiences. She will share her amazing, fun, and sometimes life-threatening experiences. She uses these true stories to assist others in their walk with God. Her book, “God Says, You Can Trust Me: Supernatural Encounters with God” has become a beacon of hope for many, as she shares her journey of resilience and perseverance. Ask her: What was heaven like? How have your near-death experiences changed you? What evidence of the supernatural have you experienced? Contact Nancy Frecka at (330) 422-6955; nfrecka@rtirguests.com
14. ==> This Veteran Found Closure Reading His Letters to Home
Since 1776, America has only known 17 years of peace, being involved in some kind of global conflict for 228 of the last 245 years. This has resulted in countless thousands of veterans who served a long way from home and suffered after they came back. Don Eggspuehler knows all about this: A Marine combat pilot who served in Vietnam, Don kept the promise he made to his mother and consistently wrote letters home. Six years after he returned stateside, Don compiled those letters so his dying mother could read them again. That’s when he realized that they were written as much for him as her. Don has recently published that compilation in his latest book “Letters to Mom.” By re-reading his accounts of everyday life in boot camp, in-country, and in combat, Don was able to find some closure for the survivor’s guilt he’d been struggling with since returning home. He believes that this kind of closure is available to many more combat veterans. In fact, this kind of journaling has long been recognized to help reduce anxiety and improve mental health. Contact Don Eggspuehler at (469) 402-6613 or deggspuehler@rtirguests.com
15. ==> The Difference Between Hope and Optimism
In conversation, hope and optimism can often be used interchangeably, but Kendra Thomas says there’s an important gap between them. While optimism can rely on a sense of luck over action, hope is a mindset that helps people endure challenges, tackle them head-on and keep their eyes on the goal. Psychological studies have found that hope is stronger than optimism at predicting academic success and people’s ability to cope with pain, and scientific evidence suggests it can even improve health and boost well-being. But Thomas says it has benefits beyond the self. Centuries of spiritual and philosophical work describe hope as a virtue that, like love, is a decision, not a feeling. She’ll discuss how hope can grow out of adversity and ways people embody hope, often without expectations of personal success. Thomas studies “virtuous hope” in a South African Zulu community that has little reason for optimism. Kendra Thomas is an associate professor of psychology at Hope College. Contact her at (616) 395-7716; thomas@hope.edu
