01. Legal Scholar: What Makes This Shutdown Different
02. New Study: Working-Class Americans Are Pretty Progressive
03. Celebrities Don Aprons to Support ‘One Fair Wage’
04. Why RFK Jr. Is a Threat to Americans’ Health
05. Sherri Shepherd Wants Kids To Know They’re Never Alone
06. Columbus Day is Monday: Who Was He Really?
07. Breast Cancer Awareness: Dogs Get it Too!
08. What Your Halloween Costume Says About You
09. Work Smart, Not Scared: How to Stay Grounded When the Economy Isn’t
10. The Silent Mistake Millions of Stepfamilies Make
11. Physical Therapist Says We’re Treating Pain the Wrong Way
12. Longtime OB/GYN Talks Reproductive Health and Freedom
13. Pet Grief is Real: Ways to Weather the Loss
14. A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs. Could it Work?
15. Where Was Jesus Before He Was Born? The Bible’s Best Kept Secret
1. ==> Legal Scholar: What Makes This Shutdown Different
A leading legal scholar is warning that the current government shutdown could give President Donald Trump sweeping opportunities to consolidate power and push forward what he describes as an authoritarian takeover of the federal government. Austin Sarat, a political scientist at Amherst College, says shutdowns have historically been disruptive, but temporary. This time, he argues, the stakes are far higher. “This shutdown feels different because it is coming amid an authoritarian takeover of the federal government. Shutting down the government does nothing to arrest that takeover and there is a real risk it will accelerate it,” he says. He also warns that Trump could use the shutdown to selectively halt services in blue states and expand emergency powers, potentially bypassing normal legal constraints. Austin Sarat is William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Jurisprudence and Political Science at Amherst College. Contact him at (413) 542-238; asarat@amherst.edu or Caroline Hanna at channa@amherst.edu
2. ==> New Study: Working-Class Americans Are Pretty Progressive
According to a new study, working-class voters overwhelmingly support a range of bold progressive economic policies, like raising the minimum wage and protecting Social Security. Using data from 1962-2022, researchers tracked long-term shifts in working-class attitudes across six issues. Jared Abbot, director of the Center for Working-Class Politics says, “Working-class people are often portrayed in the media as conservative reactionaries, but when you look at it over time, working-class people have not become more conservative. In fact, they’ve gotten more progressive or egalitarian.” He adds, “As the core of the Democratic Party has become more highly educated and increasingly higher-income, the party has reflected the views of those groups; the messaging has been catered to those folks. But there is a way to reach working-class people, as long as you communicate in a way that feels relatable and not condescending.” He says, “The message is clear: economic populism must be the core of progressive appeals to workers.” Jared Abbott is a political scientist, professor, and director of the Center for Working-Class Politics. Contact him at jared@workingclasspolitics.org
3. ==> Celebrities Don Aprons to Support ‘One Fair Wage’
Chrissy Teigen, Orlando Bloom, Sophia Bush are among the celebrities and other special guests donning aprons and serving tables alongside restaurant workers and elected officials to spotlight the nationwide fight for a Living Wage for All. A recent report found that 67 million US workers, or nearly half the entire American workforce, earn less than $25 per hour, which is considered a living wage in 2025. The ‘Server for an Hour’ event in NYC is hosted by the pro-worker advocacy organization One Fair Wage. It also coincides with the launch of the new Make America Affordable Now PAC, a national political effort focused on electing and supporting candidates running on affordability and living wages. One Fair Wage (OFW) fights for fair wages on behalf of the more than 13.6 million restaurant workers nationwide. For interviews contact the OFW press team at (917) 499-2688; press@onefairwage.org
4. ==> Why RFK Jr. Is a Threat to Americans’ Health
Six former U.S. surgeons general have publicly condemned Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, calling his leadership a “profound, immediate, and unprecedented threat” to the health and safety of Americans. Richard Carpiano, a professor of public policy at the University of California, Riverside, says Kennedy has helped to erode public confidence in the trustworthiness of U.S. health and science agencies. “He didn’t necessarily come in with a plan of attack and scheme accordingly to achieve these grand strategies. There have been enabling events for him to meddle and create confusion––including even having this sheer amount of media attention. This past measles season, for instance, provided opportunities for RFK Jr. to stir up all sorts of doubt about effective treatments. An ordinary secretary of HHS would say, in response to an outbreak, ‘we are sending vaccines and technical support to get those shots in arms.’ But with RFK Jr., that gets muddled up with things like his claims about vitamin A, or other sorts of distractions that sow doubt and confusion––and legitimate grifters, phony science, and alternatives to vaccination.” Richard Carpiano studies how social factors impact the physical and mental health of adults, children, and communities. Contact him at richard.carpiano@ucr.edu
5. ==> Sherri Shepherd Wants Kids To Know They’re Never Alone
Comedian/actor Sherri Shepherd is hoping to teach kids about the power of friendship through her first children’s book. “The Sunshine Queens” was inspired by Sherri’s close friendships and follows four friends as they overcome challenges and learn that friends always show up for one another. Known for spreading joy and positivity through her television show and comedy, Shepherd brings those same messages to girls throughout the book. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my friends,” says Shepherd. “I hope “The Sunshine Queens” helps girls learn to develop those same strong friendships that will last them through life, and I hope they will see what they can accomplish together.” Ask Sherri about the book, her show or her other projects, including her recent role in Tyler Perry’s “Straw,” with Taraji P. Henson. For interviews, contact Simone Smalls at simone@strategicheights.com
6. ==> Columbus Day is Monday: Who Was He Really?
Monday, is Columbus Day, but what do we really know about the man? Many have criticized the holiday and protested it for decades because of the way the Italian explorer treated Indigenous people. Historian Matthew Restall unpacks Christopher Columbus’ enduring cultural and political presence while weaving a new history of the modern world in his new book, “The Nine Lives of Christopher Columbus.” Scrutinizing nine key myths, Restall tugs apart our misconceptions about the historical figure of Columbus, his exceptionalism, and his culpability for colonial violence in the Americas. He also deconstructs modern narratives around Columbus, and tells a story about contemporary society, American self-conceptions, and the importance of rigorous historical accounting. Matthew Restall, Ph.D., is Edwin Erle Sparks Professor of History and Anthropology and director of Latin American studies at Penn State University and the author of more than 30 books. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
7. ==> Breast Cancer Awareness: Dogs Get it Too!
It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month and while there’s plenty of media coverage about the disease, what often goes undiscussed are the staggering rates of mammary cancers found in dogs. Dr. Carol Osborne is passionate about educating pet owners on the best ways to prevent and detect breast cancer in our furry friends. Learn how neutering your female dog could significantly lower her risk of developing the disease and the role of diet in prevention—and treatment—of breast cancer in canines. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian and a nationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of functional medicine. She is the founder and director of the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center and Pet Clinic and an Emmy-nominated television journalist. She is a regular contributor to several television shows and networks including Fox and Friends, the Today Show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and Good Day LA. Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com
8. ==> What Your Halloween Costume Says About You
When it’s time to pick out a costume do you gravitate toward vampires, superheroes, or goofy pumpkins? Mindset coach Mike Sealy says what you choose may reveal hidden truths about your personality and confidence. He explains how dressing up lets people safely explore parts of themselves they usually hide and shares why that can boost self-esteem. This fun, light segment will spark laughs and insights alike in time for the Halloween season. Mike is a mindset coach and author who helps high achievers overcome low confidence and unlock authentic self-worth. Contact him at msealy@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Work Smart, Not Scared: How to Stay Grounded When the Economy Isn’t
Layoffs are rising. Tariffs and supply chain shocks are back in the headlines. And millions of Americans are working longer hours just to stay afloat. But does thriving at work during economic instability mean hustling harder—or thinking differently? Business transformation expert Shawn Fry says most workers are stuck in a reactive mindset at great cost to their health, their relationships and even their job performance. Draw¬ing from 25+ years of leading global organizations through volatility in 17 countries, Shawn shares surprising strategies for staying focused, valuable and mentally resilient without working 70+ hours a week. He’ll explain why goal-setting is failing most employees—and how a simple, repeatable daily routine can help anyone stay visible, adaptable and indispensable, even when layoffs loom. Ask him: Is burnout actually making us less employable? Can the right daily routine really help someone survive a layoff wave? Contact Shawn Fry at (330) 422-4090; Sfry@rtirguests.com
10. ==> The Silent Mistake Millions of Stepfamilies Make
Over 1 in 3 Americans is now part of a stepfamily, yet few realize the emotional damage that’s quietly being done in homes across the country, not by conflict, but by silence. According to parenting expert Richard Ramos, the biggest mistake stepparents make isn’t discipline, favoritism or scheduling. It’s ignoring the child’s voice during major fam¬ily transitions. And that unspoken pain can show up later as resentment, rebellion or complete emotional withdrawal. Ramos draws from 25+ years of working with families—and his own hard-earned lessons as a stepparent—to reveal what really derails blended families (hint: it’s not what you think) and how to turn things around. Ask him: Can giving your stepchild “space” actually backfire? Why do some kids act out more after the family finally “settles down”? Richard Ramos is the author of “The Art of Stepparenting: How to Blend Families Without Tearing Them Apart.” Contact him at rramos@rtirguests.com; (805) 456-1407
11. ==> Physical Therapist Says We’re Treating Pain the Wrong Way
Most people assume pain means something is torn or broken. But Stacey Roberts, physical therapist to professional athletes and celebrities, explains that chronic pain is often driven more by inflammation and less by structural damage. Treating pain solely as an injury may only mask the problem instead of solving it. Chronic inflammatory diseases affect over 60 million people in the U.S. alone, and up to 90% of chronic conditions have an inflammatory component. This means inflammation impacts most people, directly or indirectly making it a root cause of pain for many. Roberts’ approach uses hormone testing, food sensitivity panels like the ALCAT, and a targeted anti-inflammatory protocol involving nutrition, movement, and advanced therapies. “Chronic pain is a whole-body issue,” Roberts says. “Addressing inflammation and biomechanics helps reduce pain and promotes lasting healing far beyond just treating the injury.” Contact Stacey Roberts at (414)522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Longtime OB/GYN Talks Reproductive Health and Freedom
Dr. Steven Eisinger is out to tackle a hot topic in the current political scene: abortion. Throughout his career, Dr. Eisinger has dedicated himself to three main pursuits: providing obstetric and gynecologic care for underserved women, educating young doctors, and championing reproductive freedom, including abortion. Dr. Eisinger has performed abortions all his professional life, beginning in 1971. He even wrote a book approaching the topic with clarity, humor, and passion to present an accurate picture of abortion to the public, including the medical and psychological realities for patients and providers, and addresses the complex issues surrounding abortion. Ask him: What are some stand-out memories from his career? How multi-faceted is abortion from a doctor’s perspective? What are his professional opinions on the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the consequences that go along with it? Contact Dr. Eisinger at (585) 721-1575; sseisinger@gmail.com
13. ==> Pet Grief is Real: Ways to Weather the Loss
Losing a beloved pet can be heart-wrenching. Jean Alfieri, author, speaker, and pet loss grief coach, understands. Her rescue dog, Silly Sally, taught her how to grieve, remember, and celebrate the special bond we share with our pets. Having adopted older shelter dogs for decades, Alfieri had experi¬enced pet loss before. But when Sally passed, she returned to creative outlets to process her grief. Along the way, she was reminded of others facing similar loss: single friends whose only family was a pet, parents helping a child grieve their first dog, and seniors or veterans who’d lost a comfort or therapy animal. To support grieving pet owners, Alfieri developed 21 ways to weather the loss of a pet, a practical, heartfelt toolbox of ideas to help others navigate the pain of loss while honoring their pet’s memory. Her goal? To bring comfort and lightness by reminding us that love never ends, it simply changes form. Contact Jean Alfieri at (480) 725-7921: jalfieri@rtirguests.com
14. ==> A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs. Could it Work?
David Selley isn’t your typical 87-year-old. He’s a globe-trotting entrepreneur, married for 65 years, and now launching a Guinness World Record attempt—to become the oldest author to publish the most books in a single year. But behind the bold headlines is an even bolder mission: to train 700 million entrepreneurs around the world, many of whom have been overlooked by traditional education systems. That’s not to say Selley is anti-education. Inspired by the late Sir Ken Robinson, he believes in learning—but questions whether everyone needs a B.A., M.A., or Ph.D. Drawing from decades of experience across three countries, three careers, and a lifetime of business success, Selley shares how our creativity—so vivid in childhood—often gets stifled by rigid systems that reward conformity over innovation. Ask him: What inspired your goal to train 700 million entrepreneurs—and why do you think it’s possible? How did your own daughter’s creativity spark a lifelong concern about how schools shape us? Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; Dselley@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Where Was Jesus Before He Was Born? The Bible’s Best Kept Secret
Did you know Jesus was active long before His birth in Bethlehem? In the new book, “Before I Was Jesus,” Gerald Robison reveals the surprising truth about Jesus’ role throughout the Bible—before the manger and the cross. Gerald explores 25 hidden identities of Jesus found in the Old Testament, showing how He was active in God’s plan long before He was born. This show challenges the common assumption that Jesus’ work began at His birth. Gerald explains how Jesus was involved in Creation and His ongoing presence in history, offering your audience a fresh perspective they’ve likely never considered. Ask him: Most people think Jesus’ work started at birth, but how does scripture reveal His role even before Bethlehem? What was Jesus’ role in Creation? How can that be reconciled with God’s role in the same event? Contact Gerald at Grobison@rtirguests.com; (904) 867-2449.