11/25/2024 RTIR Newsletter: Last-Minute Turkey Talk, Dreadful Relatives, Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday

01. Butterball Turkey Talk: Butterball Experts Share Advice
02. What Does it Mean to Be an American Today?
03. How to Survive Thanksgiving With Challenging Relatives
04. Being Thankful Helps You Live Longer
05. Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: When are Best Deals?
06. Cybersecurity Expert on Holiday Cyber Scams
07. Catastrophic Consequences if Ukraine Loses War
08. The Biggest Myths About Procrastination
09. Transform Menopause from Struggle to Strength!
10. 5-Time Survivor Reveals Why She’s Glad She Had Cancer
11. Does Heaven Exist? Ask the Woman Who Had Two Near-Death Experiences
12. Is Your Image of God Holding You Back?
13. When Love Hurts: This Relationship Survived Addiction, Infidelity, and Child Suicide
14. Chiropractic Care for Pets? This Doc Says, “Yes!”
15. You Slept Where? Interview A Modern-Day Erma Bombeck

1. ==> Butterball Turkey Talk: Butterball Experts Share Advice

Whether it’s your first or fortieth time preparing a Thanksgiving meal, there’s a lot involved in creating the feast and it can be quite intimidating. “The holiday season can be one of the most exciting times of the year, but unfortunately, it can also be one of the most stressful,” says Nicole Johnson, director of the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line. Since its first season in November 1981, the Turkey Talk-Line has helped almost 50 million consumers with their bird woes. Each November and December, professionally trained turkey experts assist more than 4 million cooks through the phone hotline, Butterball.com, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Butterball Skill for Alexa, live chat and emails in the United States and Canada. With more than 50 staff members, the Talk-Line crew operates through December and answers questions from both English- and Spanish-speaking callers and responds to questions via email. On your show, Butterball experts can share the most common questions asked and offer tips and tricks to pulling off a holiday meal that everyone will enjoy. Request an interview with a Butterball expert at ButterballMedia@edelman.com

2. ==> What Does it Mean to Be an American Today?

In 2024, the question of what it means to be an American feels more pressing than ever. Is it the pursuit of freedom and opportunity, as it has long been defined, or has that ideal evolved—or fractured—over the years? As cultural and political divisions grow, some wonder if the shared identity that once united Americans has shifted. Are we still bound by common values, or are we redefining what it means to belong in a country as diverse and dynamic as this one? David Samuels, the editor of “County Highway,” will discuss how we’ve changed in the past 80-years, from core beliefs and values to political leanings and economic shifts. Samuels, a longtime writer for “Harper’s,” “The New Yorker” and other magazines, started “County Highway” during the Covid lockdowns when many people became disillusioned with big city life, leading some to move to rural areas. The publication is rooted in the idea that counties are the perfect-sized communities for storytelling, drawing inspiration from real and fictional American counties. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988; markgoldman73@gmail.com

3.==> How to Survive Thanksgiving With Challenging Relatives

Families all across the US are not only trying to figure out who’s making the turkey and sides this Thanksgiving, they’re also wondering how they’re going to survive a get-together with relatives that are—let’s just say, challenging. Mental health advocate Marni Goldman will share 5 creative tips to help you keep your cool this holiday. From the obvious “steer clear of politics” to the deceptively simple “seat yourself far away from them,” Marni says it’s perfectly ok to avoid annoying relatives and suggests staying busy and helping the host if you want to stay clear of sticky conversations. Ask her: What are the most common sources of stress during Thanksgiving gatherings? How can you effectively handle family members who try to instigate arguments? What simple strategies can help minimize conflict at the dinner table? Marni Goldman is the founder and CEO of Fabulously Flawed Inc., as well as a mother, empowerment coach, and the author of “True to Myself: Peace, Love Marni.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

4.==> Being Thankful Helps You Live Longer

When you are struggling with finances, dealing with grief or upset over politics, it’s difficult to count your blessings. But science says practicing gratitude is in your own best interest and will help you live longer. In a recent Harvard University study, researchers monitored nearly 50,000 women for three years and found those who reported having a “long list” of things to be grateful for actually lived the longest. As you prepare to consider the things in life for which you are most grateful this Thanksgiving, invite award-winning journalist Peter Lovenheim to share ways to cultivate gratitude every day. Peter is an author and journalist whose articles and essays have appeared in the “New York Times,” “New York Magazine,” “The Los Angeles Times,” “Parade,” “Politico,” “The Washington Post,” and other publications. His new book is “Gift Shop of Gratitude: A Journal to Explore the Journey of Your Life.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

5. ==> Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: When are Best Deals?

It’s an annual debate: Should you shop Black Friday or Cyber Monday for the best deals? It’s tempting to grab a Black Friday markdown when you see them, but keep in mind, you may find even better deals on Cyber Monday. So when should you pull out the credit card? Consumer Reports’ Samantha Gordon says many stores will offer the same deals both days, with some exceptions on Cyber Monday. “Historically, tech products are at better prices (on Cyber Monday). There tend to be more deals online than in stores. That is how Cyber Monday got started,” she says. If you’re really unsure when to buy, don’t stress, she says. That’s because retailers tend to have generous price match policies around the holidays. So when you buy something on Black Friday, check for a lower price Cyber Monday. If it is cheaper, then ask for an adjustment. Contact Cyrus Rassool at (914) 378-2786; cyrus.rassool@consumer.org

6. ==> Cybersecurity Expert on Holiday Cyber Scams

Holiday shopping is about to heat up and cyber scammers are ready to strike. Don’t let a scam or cybercrime ruin your holiday. Invite Jocelyn King, “The Queen of Online Safety” and cybercrime victim-turned-cybersecurity expert, to explain the best ways to protect yourself from scammers who’ll use the information you give them to steal your money, identity and other critical assets. She’ll share the three most important things to do to protect yourself online, how to spot a suspicious email or text, and then what to do about it. Contact Kristen Alexander at (408) 833-2787; services@jocelynking.com

7. ==> Catastrophic Consequences if Ukraine Loses War

As the war between Russia and Ukraine continues to rage with no end in sight, author and refugee Laszlo (Les) Suhayda can share how the consequences will be catastrophic if Ukraine loses. “The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has verified 30,457 civilian casualties to date and millions of people have been displaced, which will only escalate,” he says. “If Ukraine loses, this will also embolden China, Iran, and North Korea to continue their own military expansion, which would have dire consequences for the entire world.” Les and his family escaped from Communist Hungary for America when he was only 5, and he witnessed the horrors of dictatorships first-hand. He is the author of the memoir “Twelve Bells to Freedom: The Suhajda Story,” and the inventor of the first wine slushee product in America. Contact Laszlo (Les) Suhayda at (314) 501-6838; Lsuhayda@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Biggest Myths About Procrastination

Ninety-five percent of us admit we procrastinate, which basically means we all do it. After all, cell phones are addictive, and too much time on social media is a problem for many procrastinators. Is this stressful, limiting behavior a life sentence? Not at all! Non-procrastinators are happier, healthier, and wealthier – and this habit of postponing your dreams is a learned behavior that can be unlearned. The way to start is by understanding the top seven myths about procrastination – things like “once a procrastinator, always a procrastinator,” or that you do your best work under pressure, or that guilt-tripping yourself will somehow solve the problem. Dr. Linda Gannaway, the author of “FINALLY Stop Procrastinating,” is the perfect person to help. A former procrastinator herself, Gannaway spent five years researching the science behind procrastination and lectured on the topic for decades. Using this wealth of knowledge, she enthusiastically teaches proven techniques to help us open our lives to new opportunities and finally get the peace and happiness we deserve. Contact her at (559) 234-4572; Lgannaway@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Transform Menopause from Struggle to Strength!

Menopause doesn’t have to mean suffering, silence, or struggling alone. Lisa R. Triggs will share her transformative journey from despair to empowerment and offer effective mindset tools like meditation, affirmations, and visualization to conquer menopause symptoms and find joy. The author of “The Menopause Mindshift: How I Unleashed My Inner Queen, And You Can Too!” will inspire women looking to thrive through menopause—no doctor’s visit required. More than a self-help segment, Triggs will call on listeners to “rediscover your inner strength, embrace change, and live like the Queen you are!” Give your audience the wisdom and inspiration to transform their menopause journey by bridging the gap in menopause support and shifting how they view it! Contact Lisa R. Triggs at lisa@lern.ca

10. ==> 5-Time Survivor Reveals Why She’s Glad She Had Cancer

The very thought of cancer strikes terror into the hearts of most people. But after surviving four bouts with lymphoma and one with a rare digestive tract cancer, Shariann Tom considers her experiences a gift. For one, she discovered her true passion. “I left the unfulfilling corporate world to launch the Cancer Journey Institute, which trains coaches to work with cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers of all ages, cancer stages, and walks of life to discover their inner strengths,” she says. She also devised a “cancer road map,” which eases the journey. Shariann is the author of “The Call of Cancer: A Loving Pathway to Wholeness, Healing, and Transformation.” She has been featured on KGO-TV in San Francisco and in the “Wall Street Journal” and “Stanford Medical Magazine.” Contact Shariann Tom at (415) 480-3264; stom@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Does Heaven Exist? Ask the 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

12. ==> Is Your Image of God Holding You Back?

Rocked by economic instability, social unrest, and increasing uncertainty, many people are grappling with spiritual disconnection. According to Pew Research, nearly 30% of adults feel spiritually disconnected. Marcia Fleischman, author of “If God Is Love, Why Do I Feel So Bad?,” believes our internal image of God may be the root cause. She’ll explain how a rigid or punitive view of God keeps people from the peace and guidance they seek. Through practical insights and real-life examples, Fleischman offers a path to reconnect with a compassionate God who can transform your life in trying times. Ask her: How does your image of God affect emotional well-being in uncertain times? Can you share how someone has transformed their life by changing their view of God? Contact Marcia Fleischman at (816) 852-3849, mfleischman@rtirguests.com

13. ==> When Love Hurts: This Relationship Survived Addiction, Infidelity, and Child Suicide

Diana and John Snowden’s marriage has spanned 50-plus years and has faced significant challenges, including addiction, infidelity, bankruptcy, and separation. Six years ago, a new period of being a couple developed. The tragic suicide of their younger son was devastating, and Diana remarked, “If we weren’t together when our son died I know we never would have gotten back together.” Her insight underscores how shared grief can unexpectedly forge deep connections. With over five decades of marriage wisdom, the Snowdens will share how to navigate both the good and bad times in a relationship. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder that love can endure even the most overwhelming trials, highlighting the potential for healing and resilience. Their story offers hope and perspective for couples facing their own challenges. Contact Diana and John Snowden at (705) 571-3864; jsnowden@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Chiropractic Care for Pets? This Doc Says, “Yes!”

Veterinarians often treat animals with the same meds and treatments used on humans. Bill Ormston, DVM, who incorporates holistic remedies into his practice, takes things one step further by adding chiropractic care. “It can treat everything from range of motion issues in senior pets to injury recovery, behavior issues caused by medical issues, and more,” he says. Dr. O can share how this approach works, and its many benefits for animals. Dr. O. has been a vet for more than 36 years, has been adjusting animals for more than 26 years, and is a member of the elite Animal Chiropractic Hall of Fame. He is the author of “Yes! It’s Really a Thing: An Informative Guide to Animal Chiropractic.” Contact Dr. Bill Ormston at (469) 833-2378; bormston@rtirguests.com

15. ==> You Slept Where? Interview A Modern-Day Erma Bombeck

Brenda Prater Sellers has done it all: climbed Mt. Everest, chatted with celebrities, and written a book about her fabulous adventures. She’s slept in some of the craziest places and learned a lot of lessons about perseverance, mental health and supporting loved ones—all while inspiring others. Bring Brenda on your show to share her story, discuss her travels, and encourage readers to focus on what really matters in life. She is the author of “You Slept Where? Calamities of a Clumsy Businesswoman.” Contact her at (865) 344-1755; bsellers@rtirguests.com

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