01. God, Guns, and Sedition
02. The Right’s 100-Year Obsession with Foreign Dictators
03. Dry January – The Benefits of Backing Off Booze for a Month
04. How to Be More Optimistic in 2024
05. Forget New Habits, Create Rituals This Year
06. 2024 Will Be a Dull Year — That Could Be a Good Thing
07. The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
08. Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Helping Imprisoned Women
09. What Is Healthy Anger?
10. Find Your Voice in 2024
11. This Author Dispels the Myth That Hard Work Leads to Success
12. What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
13. How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
14. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
15. The Longevity Secret of a Tiny Caribbean Island
1.==> God, Guns, and Sedition
Shocking acts of terrorism have erupted from violent American far-right extremists in recent years, including the 2015 mass murder at a historic Black church in Charleston and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. These incidents, however, are neither novel nor unprecedented. Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware can trace the historical trajectory and assess the present-day dangers of this violent extremist movement and discuss the harm it poses to U.S. national security. The authors of “God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America” will highlight key terrorist tactics, such as the use of cutting-edge communications technology; the embrace of leaderless resistance or lone-wolf strategies; infiltration and recruitment in the military and law enforcement; and the movement’s intricate relationship with mainstream politics. Bruce Hoffman has been studying terrorism and insurgency for almost half a century. He is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). Jacob Ware is a research fellow at CFR, where he studies domestic and international terrorism and counterterrorism. Contact Bruce Hoffman at (202) 509-8508; bhoffman@cfr.org or Jacob Ware at jware@cfr.org
2. ==> The Right’s 100-Year Obsession with Foreign Dictators
The rise of authoritarian rhetoric in America is no longer news, but the right’s affinity for foreign autocrats continues to baffle. Why does Tucker Carlson keep figures like Viktor Orbán and Jair Bolsonaro (and now Argentina’s Javier Milei) on his speed dial? Why does Ron DeSantis embrace the kind of illiberal democracy in Turkey, Hungary, and the Philippines? And why is Trump incapable of breaking up with Putin? “National Interest” editor Jacob Heilbrunn says the infatuation of American conservatives with foreign dictators is not a new phenomenon. The author of “America Last: The Right’s Century-Long Romance with Foreign Dictators” will trace the love affair back to World War 1 and show that dictator worship is an unignorable tradition within modern American conservatism — and what it means for us today. Jacob Heilbrunn is a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. He is also the author of “They Knew They Were Right: The Rise of the Neocons.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 646-5188
3. ==> Dry January – The Benefits of Backing Off Booze for a Month
From holiday parties to New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s been a lot of alcohol flowing over the past few weeks and for many imbibers, it’s time to step back and recalibrate their booze intake. Over the past few years the concept of Dry January has become increasingly popular but what exactly is it and should you try it? Stephanie Marcello, a psychologist at Rutgers University, says those with health issues, financial concerns, or who think they might use alcohol as a way to cope are all good candidates. “Dry January can offer a reset for individuals,” says Marcello. “Research shows that there are benefits to physical and mental health and people’s overall well-being. People like structure, and Dry January creates this structure. It also creates a sense of community, since others are also participating.” She’ll explain what’s involved, how long it takes to see the benefits, and simple ways to make staying sober easier. Stephanie Marcello, Ph.D., serves as chief psychologist for Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care and director of the psychology internship program for doctoral students. Contact her at marcelsc@ubhc.rutgers.edu
4. ==> How to Be More Optimistic in 2024
War. Climate catastrophe. Economic turmoil. Immigrant invasions. Political fighting and backstabbing. All endlessly circulating on TV, radio, podcasts, social media. Everywhere we go. Everyone we know. At times, it feels like everyone in the United States is angry, afraid, anxious, confused or depressed. How can anyone remain positive, hopeful and optimistic these days? Quirky, smart and funny, syndicated radio host and podcaster Brant Hansen will explain how to experience more joy, whatever your circumstances, and “outsource your worries” without being naïve or unaware. He’ll share a refreshingly different approach to life and how it can resonate with people seeking a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. Brant Hansen is a best-selling author, syndicated radio host and advocate for healing children with correctable disabilities through CURE International Children’s Hospitals. His latest book is “Life is Hard. God is Good. Let’s Dance.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com
5. ==> Forget New Habits, Create Rituals This Year
Every January we resolve to get more sleep, drink less, exercise more and spend more time with loved ones. But do we really want to live a life of perfect habits? Michael Norton says there is something better. “Habits are great, but they’re very black and white. Rituals come in technicolor. Many rituals, I’ve come to believe, are a unique human invention to remind us to try, at least every so often, to live fully. And a new ritual can be joyous in a way that a new habit is not.” Norton, a leading behavior scientist, behavioral economics researcher and Harvard Business School professor, says rituals remind us to savor our experiences and our experiences with others, and help bind extended families and friends who might otherwise become estranged. Michael Norton’s new book is “The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions.” Contact Aileen Boyle at (917) 439-4470; aileen@auderemedia.com
6. ==> 2024 Will Be a Dull Year — That Could Be a Good Thing
The New Year might appear to be shaping up as anything but dull with wars, bitter partisanship, and contentious elections dominating the news. However, there’s something to be said for enjoying the calmer, routine, often mundane things we encounter every day. Members of the Dull Men’s Club (women belong now as well) are doing just that. What they are doing, which can inspire us all, is presented in the club’s calendars which focus on people who are celebrating the ordinary with their unique and quirky passions. Grover Click, assistant vice president (the highest office) of the club, says, “Happiness can be a byproduct of doing something meaningful like what the men and women in the calendars are doing.” Grover can talk about the club’s 2024 calendar which includes Jim and Irene Leuenberger of Shawano County Wisconsin whose barn quilts, quilt patterns painted on plywood, adorn barns throughout the county. And Richard Birnie and Ron Wenger of Yuma Colorado who run a museum for orphaned and discontinued cars (like Nash Ramblers and Chevrolet Corvairs). He can also talk about events and holidays in the calendar that celebrate the ordinary like World Sauntering Day, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, and a duct tape festival. Contact Grover at (308) 874-4173 or groverclick@gmail.com
7. ==> The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
Based on actual events and starring Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lily Gladstone, “Killers of the Flower Moon” deals with a little-known part of history that occurred in the 1920s after oil was discovered by members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. When he was a reporter with Gaylord News, a reporting project at the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Jim B. North interviewed members of the Osage tribe and has great stories to tell about the events that make up the film. He can talk about the impact the oil discovery and newfound wealth had on the tribe. His new book, “Unsung Heroes Wear No Capes,” also contains some Native American removal stories. Jim has won multiple journalism awards for his human-interest storytelling and was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com
8. ==> Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Helping Imprisoned Women
Rita Ali was a distinguished Philadelphia socialite and among the few African American women boxing PR professionals who hobnobbed with such famous fighters as Muhammad Ali, Michael Spinks, and Mike Tyson, who is now her son-in-law. Then it all came crashing down when she — along with her daughter and son — was convicted and imprisoned for funneling public funds. Though she has maintained her innocence throughout, Ali was tried, convicted and sent to federal prison three times. “I was convicted and sentenced three times on virtually the same charges for a crime I didn’t commit, which amounted to triple jeopardy,” she says. She is the author of “Triple Jeopardy: 3 Strikes But Not Out,” a life coach, and founder of the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Contact Rita Ali at (917) 243-9214; rali@rtirguests.com
9. ==> What Is Healthy Anger?
Our society often frowns upon anger, especially when women express this emotion. But clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne Wilner claims that anger can be a valuable tool for promoting personal growth and one’s overall well-being if released in constructive ways. “By working with our bodies in specific ways, we can transform our anger and improve our health,” she says. “Otherwise, anger can get trapped in our psyches and cause a host of physical and mental health issues.” Karyne can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. She is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/body health. Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Find Your Voice in 2024
It’s no secret that women struggle to be heard. Society teaches girls to be polite and agreeable and not make a fuss, even when a situation is challenging — or just plain wrong. If your audience is looking to reclaim their power in the workplace, at home, and beyond, you need to hear from Francesca Burack. The author of “Women Are Special: 123 Reasons Why” can share advice, tips, and encouragement to help women find, own, and use their voices with confidence. Ask her: What can women do to speak up in one-sided relationships, whether it’s at work or with family? How can women approach difficult conversations in the workplace, such as asking for raises, promotions, or benefits? An author, entrepreneur, educator, and popular speaker, Francesca Burack has been featured on major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com
11. ==> This Author Dispels the Myth That Hard Work Leads to Success
America is a nation of workaholics who have long been indoctrinated to believe that performing long hours of mind-numbing work is the path to success. But according to author, project management expert and professional musician Gerald Leonard, that is total nonsense. “The long-held myth is that stressful work environments lead to higher productivity,” he says. “However, this leads to extreme burnout, greater employee turnover and decreased worker loyalty.” Gerald can share how to work smarter, not harder, to obtain maximum success. He is the author of numerous books including “Culture Is the Bass: 7 Steps to Creating High Performing Teams.” He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player. Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com
12. ==> What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
Teen depression and suicide have dramatically increased during the past decade. “There are multiple causes including isolation, school stress, social media, bullying, and many others,” says best-selling author Scott Kolbaba M.D. “This was made worse by the pandemic.” Dr. Kolbaba claims that enabling young people to focus on finding a purpose in life and pursuing their passions is just what the doctor ordered. His award-winning children’s book, “Clara’s Magic Garden,” is an uplifting illustration of this principle. He is an internal medicine physician who graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and appeared in “Chicago Magazine” as a “Top Doctor.” Contact Dr. Scott Kolbaba at (630) 656-9507; skolbaba@rtirguests.com
13. ==> How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
Social media. Bullying. The long isolation of the pandemic. Gender confusion. Today’s kids have more stressors than at any other time in modern history. “When I speak to fellow counselors and parents, they say that anxiety and depression among young people are off the charts,” says author, former teacher and counselor Patricia Wilson. “I have an understanding of what children need: a sense of self-worth, how to cooperate with others and an appreciation of the gift of life.” Patricia can share how to determine if kids are struggling with depression, and simple, yet powerful self-talk tools to convince them that they are amazing. She has taught children from grades K-12 and counseled kids for more than 30 years. She is the author of numerous best-selling books including “My Magical Night Mare,” “I Am Amazing” and “When Grandma Giggled.” Contact Patricia Wilson at (778) 561-4603; pwilson@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com
15. ==> The Longevity Secret of a Tiny Caribbean Island
The idyllic Caribbean nation of Dominica, where herbs expert Gladstone Etienne grew up, is a nature paradise known for its pristine environment, organic foods and laid-back lifestyle. Gladstone claims that the citizens there live longer, and stronger, as a result. “According to the BBC, Dominica has the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world,” he says. He also gives credit to herbal medicine, which he began studying as a child. Gladstone went on to develop a line of teas, to make it easier for Americans to gain the wondrous health benefits of herbs. He is the founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company. Contact Gladstone Etienne at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com
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