01. CEO Shooting: Street Crime vs Corporate Crime
02. Corporate Heads Are Nervous
03. Is the Company Holiday Party Dead?
04. 45th Anniversary of ‘Hart to Hart’- Interview Stephanie Powers
05. African-American Country Music is Taking the Country by Storm
06. Former NBA Player Fights to Keep Kids in School
07. Control the Oil, Control the World: Spy’s Daughter Tells All
08. Save Your Family History Before Disaster
09. Become a Better Parent in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
10. Ridiculous Travel Adventures of a Modern Day Erma Bombeck
11. Does Heaven Exist? Ask the Woman Who Had Two Near-Death Experiences
12. What Your Past Lives Reveal About Your Current Choices
13. How Golf Can Be a Catalyst for Success (Even If You’ve Never Picked Up a Club)
14. Interview a Middle-Aged Mom With 1M YouTube Subscribers
15. Do a Show on The Timeless Genius of Marian Anderson
1. ==> CEO Shooting: Street Crime vs Corporate Crime
After a multi-day FBI manhunt, Luigi Mangione was captured in Pennsylvania and now faces murder charges in the fatal York City sidewalk shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Anthony Grasso isn’t surprised by the public’s unsympathetic response. He says it’s indicative of the festering anger people have towards the health insurance system. But it also suggests that there is a growing awareness of the fact that in America, we conceptualize crime and violence differently depending on who commits it and how. “We often view street violence as a moral failing deserving punishment; in the corporate world, we often view decisions that cause harm as unfortunate but necessary byproducts of business,” he says. “But the public’s shocking reaction to Thompson’s shooting suggests that people are interpreting the ruthless tactics of private health insurers as forms of violence akin to street violence, which sharply cuts against how we typically view business malfeasance in the U.S.” Grasso is a professor of political science at Rutgers University and the author of the new book “Dual Justice: America’s Divergent Approaches to Street and Corporate Crime.” Contact him at agrasso@camden.rutgers.edu
2. ==> Corporate Heads are Nervous
The shocking killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Midtown Manhattan last week has shaken C-Suites across the country. Security experts say there is significant concern that this fatal shooting may not be a one-off and phones are ringing off the hook at top-dollar security firms to keep the captains of industry safe. “Corporate America is nervous. People are on high-alert,” says Keith Wojcieszek, global head of intelligence at Kroll. Outreach from companies is “way up” since the brazen shooting of Thompson, he says. Security firms often provide extensive protections to keep executives safe, including physical security guards, online threat monitoring and analysis, cybersecurity defenses, at-home security and protection for spouses and other family members. Keith Wojcieszek is a former senior official at the US Secret Service. He founded and leads Kroll’s Cyber Threat Intelligence program. Request an interview at mediarelations@kroll.com
3.==> Is the Company Holiday Party Dead?
Whether you love them or hate them, it appears the pandemic didn’t kill the office holiday party, and in fact, it may be more important than ever. “COVID ushered in the virtual party, and with many teams working remotely, this way to connect has some staying power,” says Andrew Challenger, Senior Vice President and workplace expert at Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. He says 64% of companies will have a holiday party this year, although 17% report that they won’t be spending as much as they did last year. Challenger can also discuss the hiring outlook for the coming year. “While there is optimism for the next year, there also appears to be some caution,” he adds. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com
4. ==> 45th Anniversary of ‘Hart to Hart’- Interview Stephanie Powers
2024 is the 45th anniversary of the hit series "Hart to Hart” and a great time to speak with Stefanie Powers about her career in film and TV and the recent acknowledgment at the United Nations for her work with the William Holden Wild Life Foundation. Stefanie’s film career took off in the role of Rebecca McLintock (the daughter of John Wayne and Mareen O’Hara’s characters) and became cemented in TV history as “The Girl From U.N.C.L.E.” and a bonified household name as Jennifer Hart in “Hart to Hart.” Still working as an actress on stage as Anna in “The King and I,” and Norma Desmond in “Sunset Boulevard,” Stephanie is very active with The William Holden Wildlife Foundation. Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 296-3757; harlan@bhbpr.com
5. ==> African-American Country Music is Taking the Country by Storm
Black musicians, historically overlooked or marginalized within the country music industry, are gaining recognition and reshaping the industry in significant ways. Invite journalist Armin Rosen to discuss the increasing visibility and success of Black artists within the traditionally white-dominated genre of country music. Hear how the mainstream country music industry has responded to the rise of Black artists, the challenges they still face in the country music scene, and the role of Darius Rucker, Mickey Guyton, Jimmie Allen, and Brittney Spencer in changing country music culture. Armin Rosen is a New York-based writer for “County Highway.” His beats are culture, religion, and international conflict. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988; markgoldman73@gmail.com
6. ==> Former NBA Player Fights to Keep Kids in School
You might think that being drafted into the NBA by Hall of Famer Bill Russell or mentored by basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain would be living the dream, but Dean Tolson has much higher ambitions. His goal is getting at-risk kids to stay in school. Hear why he says he didn’t let his basketball career define him and his message to teens who are thinking about dropping out of school. Tolson went from functional illiteracy in the NBA to achieving a master’s degree magna cum laude. The author of “Power Forward,” Tolson now inspires at-risk kids with his inspirational story. A seasoned public speaker, Tolson has appeared in “Sports Illustrated” and “The Grio.” Contact him at (253) 884-8934; dtolson@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Control the Oil, Control the World: Spy’s Daughter Tells All
Invite Charlotte Dennett, daughter of America’s first master spy in the Middle East, to expose the cold calculations behind the endless wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. The investigative reporter and author will discuss the significant oil and natural gas reserves in Ukraine, which are second only to Russia in Europe, and their role in the conflict there. Similarly, she says large natural gas reserves off the coast of Gaza were discovered by British Gas and contracted by the Palestinian Authority and highlights the political and economic implications of these resources. Dennett’s latest book, “Follow the Pipelines,” includes a dozen pipeline maps covering World War II to the present, showing how the distribution of fossil fuels via pipelines has resulted in military protection of the pipelines, often leading to war. Contact Ilene Proctor at (310) 721-2336 (cell); (828) 483-6063 (O) or ilenepr@sbcglobal.net
8. ==> Save Your Family History Before Disaster Strikes
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, countless families have lost not only their homes, but also irreplaceable memories. These heart-wrenching losses should remind us all: Don’t wait for disaster to strike to protect your family’s legacy. Archivist Rhonda Chadwick, author of “Secrets from the Stacks,” offers essential advice on safeguarding photographs, documents, textiles and more. She’ll share simple, steps to create a lasting family archive—perfect for anyone wanting to disaster-proof their cherished memories. With natural disasters on the rise, Rhonda’s guidance is timelier than ever. She’ll reveal the most common mistakes people make when preserving family heirlooms, how families can safeguard their keepsakes from natural disasters and why digitizing family memories is so crucial today. Contact Rhonda Chadwick at (401) 227-3306; rchadwick@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Become a Better Parent in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
AI 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 — 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. ==> Ridiculous Travel Adventures of 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 crazy places and learned a lot of lessons about perseverance, mental health and supporting loved ones. Bring Brenda on your show to share her story, discuss her travels, and encourage readers to focus on what really matters in life. Hear about her experiences and mishaps in bizarre locations and staying at the world’s most unique places: an underwater hotel, an ice hotel, sleeping with polar bears, and sleeping in wigwams along Route 66. She’ll share cost-saving travel tips and provide insight into her adventures while encouraging listeners to create their own bucket lists! Brenda is the author of “You Slept Where? Calamities of a Clumsy Businesswoman.” Contact her at (865) 344-1755; bsellers@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. ==> What Your Past Lives Reveal About Your Current Choices
Can your past lives explain your present? Alla Kaluzhny—licensed therapist, hypnotherapist, and author of two thought-provoking reincarnation memoirs including “Turning New Pages,” uncovers the hidden ways your soul’s journey shapes love, habits and decisions. With vivid memories of her own past lives and spiritual expertise, Alla delivers insight that will inspire your audience to rethink their connections and choices. During this one-of-a-kind show, Alla will share her most unforgettable past-life experiences and explain how past lives influence love, friendships, and behaviors. She’ll answer your questions about déjà vu, karmic ties, and recurring patterns and explore how past-life memories can help resolve today’s conflicts. Contact Alla Kaluzhny at (213) 459-3509; akaluzhny@rtirguests.com
13. ==> How Golf Can Be a Catalyst for Success (Even If You’ve Never Picked Up a Club)
Discover how the timeless principles of golf can help you guide your decision-making, establish your own life rules for success, and achieve your goals. At 86, Tom Loegering shares a simple yet profound truth about life’s biggest obstacle: you! Drawing from decades of experience — retiring early, overcoming setbacks, and rebuilding his life — Tom will reveal how the game of golf uniquely inspires personal responsibility and empowers people to create their own path to success. He’ll describe the four pillars of his P.A.T.H. philosophy and share why he believes the game is more than a sport. “Golf has no referee. It’s up to you to take responsibility and create your path,” he says. “Whether you’re a seasoned player or have never held a club, golf lessons can guide you to a more fulfilling, successful life.” Contact Tom Loegering at (623) 400-8648; tloegering@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Interview a Middle-Aged Mom With 1M YouTube Subscribers
Most people associate YouTube with cool music, comedy, and how-to videos, as it's primarily considered a bastion of young trendsetters. But author and English language educator Jennifer Lebedev is living proof that you don't have to be a 20-something hipster to become a YouTube star. "I reached one million subscribers on the channel when I was nearing 50," she says. "I believe it's important to step outside your comfort zone, especially in mid-life." She ‘ll share her definition of success that has helped her find balance and happiness. Ask her: How can someone reach 1 million subscribers? How do you define success? Jennifer is a long-time educator and author of "Being a YouTuber: One Creator's Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers." Contact Jennifer Lebedev at (617) 668-1804; jlebedev@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Do a Show on The Timeless Genius of Marian Anderson
Unequivocally declared by the world’s leading music personality, as possessing a voice “heard only once in a hundred years,” Marian Anderson still ranks as the top classical concert singer on all world stages, singing in 9 languages for over 50 years to sold-out audiences on every continent. Over 50 universities conferred upon her doctorate degrees—a singular achievement for a 24-year-old high school graduate with no undergraduate degree. Philadelphia native Emile Henwood was shocked to realize that despite living minutes from Anderson’s home, he had no idea of her esteem and greatness. He soon rectified that situation and is the author of “Remembering a Great American Hero Marian Anderson: The Lady from Philadelphia.” Bring him on your show to learn about this sometimes forgotten hero’s life, from her role at the beginning of the Civil Rights movement to her defiance of the Nazis during World War II. Contact Emile Henwood at (610) 420-5510; joe.henwood@verizon.net
