01. Interview Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack
02. Insider Reveals What Really Goes on at the FDA
03. ‘Squid Game’ for Halloween? Psychiatrist Says, ‘No!’
04. Great Gourds: Expert Pumpkin Carving Tips
05. The Teal Pumpkin Project
06. The Enormous Price Tag of Weather Disasters
07. Why the ‘Great Resignation’ Phenomenon Continues
08. Your Laundry Detergent May Be as Bad for You as Smoking
09. Vaccine Passports Are an Assault on Freedom
10. His Simple Instrumental Song Has Changed Millions of Lives
11. Beyond Money: What Makes for a Satisfying Retirement?
12. Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good
13. Can You Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity?
14. Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less
15. Trendiest Post-COVID Cosmetic Procedures
1.==> Interview Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack
What will happen now that the U.S. has physically departed Afghanistan? How will major nations including the United States, Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Turkey continue to grapple with serious Afghan-related challenges that extend beyond its borders? Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack, who served as the director of the Joint Intelligence and Operations Center in Afghanistan from 2008-2009, can discuss the forces at play in that country and the brutal history of the region while providing insight into the Afghani people beyond the usual clichés. Zwack’s new book, “Afghanistan Kabul Kurier,” provides an eyewitness account of the complexities of Afghanistan through a series of letters he wrote while serving as a U.S. top military intelligence officer on the ground during a particularly tumultuous period. He spent more than 34 years of U.S. military service in senior command and staff positions in Afghanistan, Germany, Kosovo, South Korea, and Moscow. He currently serves as a Wilson Center Global Fellow within the Kennan Institute and frequently discusses national security and leadership issues in the media. Contact Terri Beavers at (434) 979-7438; BG.PBZ.r@gmail.com
2. ==> Insider Reveals What Really Goes on at the FDA
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates more than $1 trillion worth of consumer goods each year and is responsible for protecting public health by ensuring Americans’ food, drugs and medical devices are safe and effective. But a former director says most people would be surprised by what goes on behind closed doors of the agency. Richard Williams, Ph.D., is the author of “Fixing Food: An FDA Insider Unravels the Myths and the Solutions.” Invite him on your show to talk about the health and safety of our food supply. You’ll learn why one out of every six Americans gets food poisoning every year, and why two-thirds of us are overweight or obese. Also, why by 2030, despite FDA’s nutrition labeling, one out of every two Americans is expected to be obese! Dr. Williams can also discuss new tools coming from private entrepreneurs that will help consumers eat more safely and healthier. Richard Williams, Ph.D., served as the director for social science with the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition at the Food and Drug Administration from 1980 to 2007. He then served as vice president for policy research at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Briana Caywood at (703) 646-5188 (office)
3. ==> ‘Squid Game’ for Halloween? Psychiatrist Says, ‘No!’
“’Squid Game’ has become the new addiction — and it is not all fun and games!” according to Dr. Carole Lieberman, a forensic psychiatrist and former head of the National Coalition on TV Violence. She says, “The violence is strangely sanitized and sadistic at the same time, and it mesmerizes viewers like a grotesque car accident, where we can’t look away.” Dr. Lieberman says society is already on edge and extremely vulnerable to becoming violent. “The popularity of this show, especially so close to Halloween, will make it the costume of choice for many kids. This is dangerous because it shows kids that their parents validate the violence, and — just like with any costume — the wearer naturally acts out like the character they are dressed up to be.” Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has testified before Congress three times about the impact of media violence. She hosts a radio show and podcast and is the author of several books. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com
4.==> Great Gourds: Expert Pumpkin Carving Tips
Have you been inspired by Halloween pumpkin carving shows and feel that this could be the year that your inner artist will emerge? Grab your gourd and up your game with some expert tips, starting with what shape of pumpkin is best. Don’t be afraid to get one that’s more visually interesting or even misshaped as long as it doesn’t have any soft spots, according to Masterpiece Pumpkins’ Gene Granata, who has been expertly carving pumpkins for more than 20 years. He’ll share hacks that will simplify the job like cutting open the bottom instead of the top around the stem. “When you pull that plug out, a lot of the seeds and stringy stuff comes out with it. Half your job of cleaning out the pumpkin is already done,” he says. Gene Granata custom carves pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns, and designs carving patterns and stencils. He specializes in camera-ready pumpkins for movie and theater props, homes, businesses, and weddings. Contact him at (949) 874-4503; gene@masterpiecepumpkins.com
5. ==> The Teal Pumpkin Project
Approximately one in 13 children in the U.S. has a potentially life-threatening food allergy. Since many Halloween treats contain nuts, soy and other possible allergens that make trick-or-treating downright dangerous for them, The Teal Pumpkin Project is trying to make the holiday safer and more inclusive. Food allergy advocates are encouraging people to put a teal pumpkin on their doorsteps to signify non-food treats are available that are safe for all trick-or-treaters, like glow sticks or small toys, in addition to candy. The Teal Pumpkin Project was launched in 2012 by a local food allergy group in Tennessee and was expanded by FARE, the world’s leading non-governmental organization engaged in food allergy advocacy and the largest private funder of food allergy research. FARE president and CEO Lisa Gable says, “The number of children with food allergies has risen dramatically over the past 20 years. This simple act brings the community together to ensure a safe and inclusive Halloween for all trick-or-treaters.” Help get the word out in your community and learn where to find educational information and an interactive online map to help locate participants in your area. For more information and interviews, contact Lisa Gable at (703) 485-6551; media@foodallergy.org
6. ==> The Enormous Price Tag of Weather Disasters
According to a new report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Centers for Environmental Information, 2021 is likely to be one of the costliest years ever for the U.S. thanks to weather disasters. The report listed 18 separate weather and climate disasters that have cost us at least $1 billion. Among those increasing disasters have been wildfires that at the moment are burning in California, Montana, Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Available to talk about the impact increased wildfires are having on the country and ways we can be better prepared to fight them is Jim Moseley, whose company, Sun FireDefense, has developed technology whose widespread use could save property and lives. Jim will discuss how new technology can protect homes, why the western U.S. and Canada are so prone to damaging wildfires and ways new technologies can protect wildlife, the environment and communities at risk. Contact James Moseley at (818) 486-4662; jmoseley@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Why the Great Resignation’ Phenomenon Continues
Thanks to the pandemic, more of us had time to think about our values and what we like and don’t like about our jobs. That soul searching has led to some refusing to go back to work or seeking new opportunities. But, as workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman will tell you, not everyone knows the best way to make these changes. Invite Marc to explain why having a side hustle is more important than ever today and even why having one can make you a more effective employee. He can talk about the steps to take to determine what type of moonlighting is best for you, how to value your time, and eventually, how to resign well. Ask him what does it mean to resign well? Why do moonlighters make good employees? How can you identify what you do well? Marc has a master’s degree in organizational leadership and 30 years of studying leadership to his credit. He’s been featured in “Real Simple” and “SUCCESS,” and on NBC, and Fox News. Marc is the author of seven books including his latest, “The Surprising Gift of Doubt: Use Uncertainty to Become the Exceptional Leader You Are Meant to Be.” Contact Marc Pitman at (317) 751-1610; mpitman@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Your Laundry Detergent May Be as Bad for You as Smoking
Your laundry may smell like a mountain breeze or fresh meadow after washing. But those seemingly delightful aromas may be as deadly as cigarettes. “Many household products contain fragrance,” says product expert Zorica Denton. “They may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals. But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica should know. She developed asthma, a gastric ulcer and other debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model, and almost died. Invite her on your show and learn how to tell what’s really in household products and what consumers should steer away from. Zorica Denton founded the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu. She’s also the author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact her at (213) 616-7904; Zdenton@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Vaccine Passports Are an Assault on Freedom
Why should you need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination when you eat out? Attend a concert? Travel? Stay in a hotel? Are these so-called vaccine passports truly about the public good or are they just a form of government control? Find out what your listeners think when you interview Tamara Lashchyk. She worries that what’s happening in New York City, where passports are now required, will spread across the country. She says, “A two-tiered society is emerging and those who simply want to exercise their right to medical choice are being smeared as ‘others.’ This is how the Nazis successfully executed their heinous plan. By vilifying and dehumanizing, they fostered a culture where neighbors turned on one another. Irresistible social pressure is now pervasive, as our own president actually blames the unvaccinated for perpetuating the pandemic.” Ask her: Why are so many Americans blindingly trusting corporations and governments that have repeatedly lied to us? How is COVID propaganda brainwashing us? Who stands to gain the most from a vaccine mandate? Who will be held accountable if you sustain a vaccine injury? Tamara Lashchyk has been interviewed by the BBC and featured in Huffington Post and co-hosts “The Bo Peep Podcast.” A career coach, author, and former Wall Street executive, she recently ran for the New York State Assembly. Contact her at (848) 373-3543; TLashchyk@rtirguests.com
10. ==> His Simple Instrumental Song Has Changed Millions of Lives
Dave Combs has written 120 songs and recorded 15 albums, and his music has been heard by millions around the world. But one song in particular, with a simple melody and no lyrics, has become an international standard, inspiring more than 50,000 written notes from adoring fans. On your show, Combs will reveal the tragic event behind “Rachel’s Song” and the woman for whom it’s named. You’ll also learn why the song has meant so much to so many and hear real stories of how the piece has affected people’s lives. It also changed Combs’ life. At the time he came up with his signature song, Combs was a traveling consultant for AT&T and it took him three years to move the music forward. Dave Combs’ new book is “Touched By the Music: How the Story and Music of Rachel’s Song Can Change Your Life.” Combs has been featured in the “Winston-Salem Journal,” “Spectrum News,” “Guideposts” and other media outlets. “Rachel’s Song” can be heard on Spotify, Pandora, iTunes, iHeart, YouTube and Amazon. Contact Dave Combs at (336) 655-8320; dave@combsmusic.com
11. ==> Beyond Money: What Makes for a Satisfying Retirement?
When people plan for retirement, they focus on the money. And while that is important, it isn’t everything, says Gary Sirak, who has spent 40 years as a financial advisor and is president of Sirak Financial Services in Canton, Ohio. So how do you figure out what you need to make your retirement years terrific? Gary can offer listeners resources and tools for deciding what you want to do with all that time you will have to fill. He’ll illustrate his points with stories of the good, the bad, and the really bad side of retirement he has witnessed through helping his clients. Gary is the author of “How to Retire and Not Die.” Ask him: Why isn’t retirement all about the money? Why are the 3Ps: Passion, Purpose and a Plan so important? What is a retirement mentor and why do you need one? Contact Gary Sirak at (330) 705-3820; garys@sirakfinancial.com
12. ==> Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good
Adults may continue to experience the effects of a toxic parent long after that parent is dead, without even realizing it. “This may manifest as an ongoing pattern of unhealthy romantic relationships, dead-end jobs and debilitating low self-esteem,” says Arnoux Goran. His horrific childhood led Arnoux to create the “7 Steps to Reprogramming Yourself” program, which has helped countless people to overcome their childhood trauma to achieve lasting health, wealth and happiness. He is the author of three upcoming books including “The 5 Secrets of Ending Drama in Relationships,” and an online workshop. Contact Arnoux at (878) 203-8231; agoran@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Can You Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity?
The Brits do it. So do little old ladies. But is tea something that belongs in your cupboard and your cup if you want to boost your immunity to flu and viruses, and feel and look your best? Listen to nutritional expert Tilak Silva and learn why you should never overlook tea when it comes to building immunity from disease and other health-zapping dangers. The inventor of CilanTea, Tilak will teach your audience how to literally drink their way to greater strength, healthier skin, more energy, fewer illnesses, and better sleep. Oh, and Tilak will also tell you what beverages are best avoided because they may depress immune systems. Ask him: What’s the best way to take advantage of tea’s benefits? What are the best times of day to drink tea? What foods go best with a cup, and what should you not pair with tea? Contact TIlak Silva at (310) 483-2785, tsilva@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less
Even in the best of times, living with anxiety is a way of life for many people. How can someone go from an anxious state to one of peace in a matter of seconds? Interview Reiki Master and energy work expert Rhonda Harris-Choudhry to find out. Rhonda will talk about ways to use self-healing energy work she calls “Feel Good Reiki” to help people calm down so they can focus on improving their lives. Ask her: What are the connections between anxiety and adrenaline addiction? How can people identify the source of their anxiety? How can people stay calm and focused throughout the day? Rhonda is the author of “You Are Not Broken: How to Retrain Your Brain, Clean Up Your Energy and Use Emotional Shapeshifting to Raise Your Vibration and Manifest Your Desires.” Contact Rhonda Harris-Choudhry at (505) 239-7729; azjua7@gmail.com
15. ==> Trendiest Post-COVID Cosmetic Procedures
Having been given the green light to resume elective surgery in late 2020, plastic surgeons have found themselves managing waiting lists that stretch for months, even years. For Vasileios Vasilakis, M.D., it’s no surprise that demand for cosmetic procedures is on the rise again, especially now that more Americans are fully vaccinated. “With COVID-19 cases dropping each day, many are confidently approaching the procedures they’ve always wanted to have done,” Dr. Vasilakis says. He says the most requested procedures have been liposuction and breast augmentation along with facial procedures involving fillers and injectables. “The fact that people are now going mask-less is definitely motivating this new demand,” Dr. Vasilakis points out. “Aside from these injectables, we’re also receiving many inquiries about surgical lip lifts because they want to show off their new looks without a mask.” A surgeon at Memorial Plastic Surgery in Texas, Dr. Vasilakis specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, face, nose, and body. Contact Dr. Vasilakis or Dr. Patrick Hsu at (713) 633-4411; @memorialplasticsurgery