01. Big Pharma’s Big-Money Business Model for the Pandemic
02. Congress’ Best Idea to Save Local Journalism Would Hurt It
03. The Autocrat in Your iPhone: How Mercenary Spyware Threatens Democracy
04. Eating the Shokuiku Way: A Japanese Guide to Healthy Food Habits
05. Muppets in Moscow: True Story of Making ‘Sesame Street’ in Russia
06. Rosa Parks, Emmitt Till: Retelling Civil Rights History
07. The Red Movement: Social Justice in the Aftermath of BLM
08. Help! I Drank Too Much at the Office Holiday Party!
09. When the Holidays Hurt
10. How to Have More Joy and Less Oy In 2023
11. No More Bad Service! How to Be Treated Royally
12. Why Are So Many Black Women Obese?
13. How Trauma Can Position You for Triumph
14. Rewire Your Brain to Break Negative Patterns
15. Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience
1. ==> Big Pharma’s Big-Money Business Model for the Pandemic
The Inflation Reduction Act marked an important step on the path to reducing prices for key prescription drugs in the United States. But fresh analysis from the New Institute for Economic Thinking finds that the status quo will remain largely intact unless pharmaceutical companies sever executive pay from stock price performance and the companies are banned from stock buybacks, among other reforms. William Lazonick is a professor emeritus of economics at the University of Massachusetts and co-founder and president of the Academic-Industry Research Network. This week, he co-authored a piece with Öner Tulum describing how pharmaceutical industry lobbyists have argued since the 1980s that “they need high pricing to yield enough profit to reinvest in innovation, and that you can’t regulate pricing because that will hinder innovation.” But Lazonick and Tulum’s work finds just the opposite to be true: “Rather than devoting the high profits from high drug prices to augmenting and accelerating investment in drug innovation, U.S. pharmaceutical companies burden U.S. patients and taxpayers so that, through massive distributions to shareholders, the senior executives who make these allocation decisions can boost the yields on the companies’ publicly traded shares.” Lazonick argues that alongside executive pay reforms and the banning of stock buybacks, reforms must also focus on reforming corporate tax policy and placing representative stakeholders in corporate board positions. Contact William Lazonick at william.lazonick@gmail.com
2. ==> Congress’ Best Idea to Save Local Journalism Would Hurt It
For weeks, congressional negotiators have been considering folding the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act (JCPA), a bill intended to support local journalism, into a larger must-pass spending bill. Thanks to changing priorities, the bill won’t advance this year, and Jeremy Littau says that’s cause for cheer. The JCPA would attempt to subsidize dying news brands by creating a type of link tax on social platforms, but Littau says the problem is that the bill itself wouldn’t address the underlying problems that have news organizations struggling economically. He can explain what the issues are and why we may not have seen the last of this bill. “The JCPA’s unusual ally list suggests it could easily surface again, and probably at an unexpected time. Proponents cleverly evolved their rhetoric to call the JCPA a check on Big Tech, which excites partisans across ideologies, even as the legislative mechanism does nothing of the sort. If you’re worried about Big Tech’s massive gatekeeping power, this bill does nothing to address it structurally. In fact, it looks like entrenchment.” Jeremy Littau is a former journalist who specializes in teaching and researching digital media as an associate professor of journalism and communication at Lehigh University. He worked in newsrooms for 10 years as both a reporter and editor, most recently with the “Los Angeles Daily News.” He recently wrote a piece on the JCPA for Slate. Contact him at (610) 758-6520; jeremy@lehigh.edu
3. ==> The Autocrat in Your iPhone: How Mercenary Spyware Threatens Democracy
There are dozens of cases in which Pegasus or other similar spyware technology has been found on the digital devices of prominent political opposition figures, journalists, and human rights activists across the globe. Providing the ability to clandestinely infiltrate even the most up-to-date smartphones — the latest “zero click” version of the spyware can penetrate a device without any action by the user — Pegasus has become the digital surveillance tool of choice for repressive regimes around the world. Invite professor Ronald Deibert to discuss the spyware revolution and why the risks for democracy will become acute if the use of mercenary spyware continues to grow unchecked. “If elites in any country can use this technology to neutralize legitimate political opposition on any point on earth, silence dissent through targeted espionage, undermine independent journalism, and erode public accountability with impunity, then the values on which the liberal international order is built may soon be no more secure than the passwords on our phones.” Ronald Deibert is a professor of political science and director of the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy. Contact him at (416) 946-8916; r.deibert@utoronto.ca
4. ==> Eating the Shokuiku Way: A Japanese Guide to Healthy Food Habits
The Japanese are known for their long lifespans and low obesity rates and many attribute that to a healthier attitude surrounding food that begins in childhood. With a focus on simple ingredients to improve the sensitivity of growing taste buds and an emphasis on slowing down to aid digestion and brain function, the Shokuiku way helps children and families appreciate food and the act of eating. Chef and nutritionist Marie Akisawa says the comprehensive approach encourages mindful eating and making healthful choices that will last a lifetime. And while it’s best to start at an early age, Akisawa says the approach can help anyone hoping to change their eating habits and improve their overall health and well-being. Marie Akisawa and Motoko Kimura wrote “Eating the Shokuiku Way: The Japanese Guide to Raising Kids with Healthy Food Habits” as a go-to guide for learning how to respect and honor food and its role in nourishing our bodies and minds. Akisawa has written four books on healthy cooking. Kimura is an author and TV and film producer. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Sasha Beatty at (703) 646-5188
5. ==> Muppets in Moscow: True Story of Making ‘Sesame Street’ in Russia
After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring “Sesame Street’ to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. Invite American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff to discuss her experience producing a Russian version of the classic children’s show. You’ll hear how Natasha and her colleagues faced the assassinations of their broadcast partners, a car bombing, and the takeover of the show’s production office by Russian soldiers with AK-47s, the cognitive dissonance of creating a comedic, educational children’s television show against the violent backdrop of 1990s Moscow, and the cultural clashes that threatened to derail efforts to bring the Muppets and their values to millions of children across the former Soviet empire. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist who has produced television news and documentaries in Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union for CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS. Lance Rogoff executive produced “Ulitsa Sezam,” the Russian adaptation of “Sesame Street,” between 1993 and 1997. She also produced “Plaza Sesamo” in Mexico. “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia” is her new book. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853 (cell); LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @lissa_warren
6. ==> Rosa Parks, Emmitt Till: Retelling Civil Rights History
The Peacock documentary “The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks” and the hit movie “Till” about Emmitt Till, are shining a light on America’s civil rights struggles. Both movies are generating a lot of buzz and revealing to some Americans unknown and painful chapters. Author Nita Wiggins contends that many Black Americans have long known about the kidnapping and lynching of the teenaged Till. Wiggins interviewed Rosa Parks, Muhammed Ali and many other prominent Black figures and athletes during her career as a pioneering female sports broadcaster. The author of “Civil Rights Baby” can discuss how telling these stories might affect the civil rights climate and why they were buried for decades. Wiggins is a former news and sports journalist who currently teaches journalism in Paris, France. Contact her at nita@nitawiggins.com or request an interview via text or a phone call to Nita’s WhatsApp number + 336 72 97 31 62
7. ==> The Red Movement: Social Justice in the Aftermath of BLM
From the coffee that is harvested by Black child slaves in Africa to the clothes that are created by modern-day slave labor in India and other parts of the world, The Red Movement increases awareness about how our purchasing power is supporting companies who use slave labor and child labor every day. Attorney, activist and founder of The Red Movement Shadan Kapri says billions of people are completely in the dark about how their hard-earned money is supporting slavery and its proliferation around the world. She’ll reveal the surprising number of items in your home that are harvested or put together by slave and forced labor and why slavery is more prevalent now than at any time in history — and why #BLM isn’t talking about it. Shadan Kapri (pronounced Shadawn Capri) has been recognized nationally and internationally for her work in law and human rights. Her book is “The Red Movement: Social and Environmental Justice in the 21st Century.” Contact her at (509) 720-0278; ShadanKapri@icloud.com
8. ==> Help! I Drank Too Much at the Office Holiday Party!
Holiday merriment is back this year, but unfortunately, some people will have a little too much to drink at the office holiday party and become immortalized for all the wrong reasons. If you or someone you know was recently the jackass at the company shindig, mental health expert and Author Marni Goldman is here with a plan to begin the recovery. From taking responsibility for your behavior to starting an apology tour, Marni will discuss ways to repair your reputation, questions to ask yourself in the aftermath of bad behavior, and how cringe-worthy antics can affect your future career advancement. Marni says even if you’re not famous, you should check your social media accounts and hope your behavior wasn’t caught on camera and posted online. In the end, she says, “We all make mistakes and sometimes, we all have a little too much fun. You will get through this and your true friends will never leave your side.” Marni Goldman is a spiritual life coach and author of “True To Myself: Peace, Love, Marni.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com
9. ==> When the Holidays Hurt
Scenes of happy families celebrating can feel like torture when you’re hurting, especially when everyone is talking about being grateful and you feel anything but. Why do our hurts and pains get magnified around the holidays? How can you navigate this time without feeling isolated, forgotten, confused and hopeless? Help your listeners understand what’s going on and find ways to find comfort when you interview Pastor Mike Novotny, author of “When Life Hurts: How to See Through Suffering.” Novotny can discuss strategies to get through the holidays and how to help loved ones who are hurting. Mike Novotny is pastor at The CORE, a church in Appleton, Wisconsin, and spiritual leader and lead speaker for Time of Grace, a media ministry that features a weekly television program, video and written devotions, blog posts, podcasts, and printed publications. Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com
10. ==> How to Have More Joy and Less Oy In 2023
If you want to have a happy New Year, start by ditching resolutions in favor of real solutions, says Ellen Albertson, a psychologist, registered dietitian, nutritionist, and board-certified health and wellness coach. “Make it a happy no year!” She’ll advise people to say no to the habits, behaviors, and relationships that drain them and yes to more of what brings them joy. Dr. Ellen says, “When we are happy and joyful, we release serotonin and dopamine, which makes us more motivated to accomplish our goals. When we are happy, our brain is flooded with these feel-good hormones and we are much less likely to pour another glass of wine or have a threesome with Ben & Jerry’s to feel good.” Dr. Ellen can discuss what joy is, how it differs from happiness and ways joyfulness improves relationships and well-being, makes life more meaningful and even helps people to lose weight and be healthier. A best-selling author, inspirational speaker, and expert on women’s well-being, Dr. Ellen has appeared on “Extra,” the Food Network and “NBC World News” and has been quoted in “Psychology Today,” “Forbes,” “Eating Well” and “USA Today.” She has written for “SELF,” “Better Homes & Gardens” and “Good Housekeeping.” Her latest book is “Rock Your Midlife.” Contact Dr. Ellen at (802) 497-7222; tigerwellness1@gmail.com
11. ==> No More Bad Service! How to Be Treated Royally
Ask anyone and you are sure to hear some version of “customer service stinks” as well as the details of the latest incident in which they were treated as though their patronage didn’t matter. Your audience would love to hear how they can benefit from receiving A-1 service instead of mediocre service and Tawn Holstra Auston has the answers. She can offer some tips on what you can do to receive excellent service every time by being a better customer! Tawn has been advising small business owners for a decade and is working on a book that will tentatively be titled “Changing Gears: What It Takes to Make Huge Life Changes with Confidence and Grace.” Contact Tawn at (206) 495-6505; tauston@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Why Are So Many Black Women Obese?
Obesity is an epidemic across America, but especially so in Black communities where nearly half of all adults and a staggering 82% of women are overweight. The statistics are even more alarming when considering the health risks most commonly associated with obesity. Invite Dr. Alvin Perry to discuss the genetic, behavioral and socio-cultural factors at play in the Black community, and how to change the equation to create healthier communities. Ask him: Are Blacks genetically predisposed to being overweight? Has the community normalized obesity? Why are Black women less likely to exercise (and what is the simple solution)? Alvin Perry, DBA, is a successful entrepreneur and small business expert. He is also ISSA certified in personal training and nutrition. His book, “Just Fat!” chronicles his 80-pound weight-loss journey and shares a simple system he created that changed the course of his life and led him to the path of personal wellness. Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com
13. ==> How Trauma Can Position You for Triumph
If you have faced a life challenge that involved being vulnerable, you know that it’s not the best feeling, yet it’s just what is needed to make most life situations better. As the new year approaches, many people are looking to make a fresh new start and Kenya Lee says that begins with self-awareness and changing your emotional outlook. Lee is a women’s empowerment expert, registered nurse and the author of “The Path to Emotional Greatness (EGYPT).” Ask her: What relationship does low self-esteem play in making (and staying in) self-destructive life choices? How did she manage to heal from her trauma of abuse and the loss of an unborn child? What is the Trinity Strategy? Kenya Lee is the CEO and founder of Faith in Girls, Inc. which encourages the development of life-coping skills, financial preparation and education in order to maintain permanent housing for those who lack the traditional ability to qualify for it. Contact Kenya Lee at (313) 999-0264; kenyalee.kl@gmail.com
14. ==> Rewire Your Brain to Break Negative Patterns
The feeling of being stuck in a rut or trapped by life’s circumstances is all too common, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that has left us with fewer choices than ever. Laura Brennan Ballet is here to help us break free of the negative patterns that keep us stuck in unhappy jobs, relationships, or situations – simply by changing the way we think. An experienced life coach and the author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura can teach your audience how to not just think differently, but to recalibrate your brain and move forward with intent, free of the negativity that’s been holding you back. Ask her: Is it really possible to live without regrets? Why does she say that we all become algorithms of the people around us? How can we “think better?” Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435 or lballet@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience
Millions of Americans love “The Golden Girls,” an iconic network television staple that featured a unique premise, a mesmerizing cast, and the tendency to tackle groundbreaking social issues that few sitcoms at the time dared to incorporate. But what was it really like on the set of this treasured show? Interview Jesse Fiedor to find out! An author and inspirational speaker, Jesse overcame a serious disability to achieve his dream of working in Hollywood. He’ll not only regale your guests with tales of meeting stars like Betty White, one of America’s most beloved actresses, but also help them find the motivation to overcome their own obstacles and succeed in life. Ask him: What was Betty White like in person? Did you meet anyone else? What did you do on the set of the show? How did you overcome your disability, and how can others do the same? Why do you say, “If I can do it, anyone can”? Contact Jesse Fiedor at (714) 683-2353; jfiedor@rtirguests.com