01. America’s Magical Thinking About Ukraine
02. Bitter Cold Weather is Rough on Pets
03. Know When to Fold ‘Em: The Surprising Benefits of Giving Up
04. The Origins of Your Favorite Christmas Carols
05. New Year, New You, Old Self?
06. Innocent But Convicted? A Trial Lawyer Reveals Why It Keeps Happening
07. How to Thrive When the Economy is Fragile
08. A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs Worldwide
09. Will Franchise Owners Survive the New Economy?
10. Shop Your Closet First: Save Money and Look Amazing This Holiday Season
11. From Soviet Shadows to American Light: One Woman’s Journey
12. How the Pursuit of “Great Again” Is Changing Faith in America
13. High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
14. A Bold New Action Plan to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds
15. Edgar Allan Poe: What Do We Really Know?
1. ==> America’s Magical Thinking About Ukraine
Donald Trump remains committed to ending the Russia/Ukraine war but British historian Sergey Radchenko says he’s chasing a fantasy. “The U.S. president is seemingly unwilling to accept that his Russian counterpart does not want to end the war without securing Ukraine’s complete surrender.” After nearly four years of fighting, Radchenko says the war has made Russia poorer and accelerating its demise as would-be great power and Trump must recognize that despite the visceral horrors of the war, he should not be in a rush to force a bad deal. “Russia should face the consequences of its misguided policies, not reap the rewards of territorial enlargement. It should be made to realize that there are better ways to achieve greatness than invading one’s neighbors. For the sake of peace, Trump should not place further obstacles in the way of this belated realization.” Sergey Radchenko is Wilson E. Schmidt Distinguished Professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies in Europe. Contact him at radchenko@jhu.edu
2. ==> Bitter Cold Weather is Rough on Pets
Much of the nation is under a deep freeze with temperatures plunging into the teens and lower. Braving the bitter cold is tough on everyone, including our four-legged friends. Thankfully, integrative veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne has a whole archive of helpful tips and advice to keep your pets out of harm’s way during the cold winter months. From protecting pets’ paws from de-icing chemicals to keeping them away from rat and mouse baits, listeners will appreciate insight and information that could save them a trip to the vet’s office. Can pets get frostbite? How cold is too cold to let our pets out? Dr. Carol says, “If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet!” She also says it’s perfectly healthy to give your dog a little extra food in the winter because they’re burning more calories trying to maintain body heat in the cold. 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 TV shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” “Animal Planet,” and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com
3. ==> Know When to Fold ‘Em: The Surprising Benefits of Giving Up
Don’t give up. How many times have we all heard that motivating mantra? While it has its benefits, new research finds that sometimes giving up is actually the right move. And knowing when to abandon or change your goals may be just as important as persistence. The research, published in Nature Human Behaviour, finds that letting go of unattainable goals has tangible health benefits like reduced stress, anxiety and depression and even death. Lead researcher Dr. Hugh Riddell from the Curtin School of Population Health says, “Sticking with impossible goals can take a real toll. But letting go and—crucially—reengaging with new goals, was found to restore purpose and wellbeing. Changing how you pursue your goals by being flexible rather than rigid could help people stay resilient and still have a focus in their lives, even if it has changed.” Contact Dr. Hugh Riddell at hugh.riddell@curtin.edu.au
l4. ==> The Origins of Your Favorite Christmas Carols
Behind every Christmas carol lies a story — of faith, hope and the enduring power of music. Physician, photographer, musician and author Dr. Olapeju Simoyan, invites listeners to rediscover the music of Christmas through the fascinating true stories behind its most treasured carols. Simoyan explores the history and inspiration behind classics like “O Holy Night,” “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night.” Delving into the lives of the lyricists and composers, revealing the moments of faith, hope and perseverance that gave birth to these timeless melodies. From enduring hymns to modern favorites like “Feliz Navidad,” She traces how carols have transcended time and culture — uniting generations through shared expressions of joy, peace and love. Dr. Simoyan’s new book is “I Played My Best for Him!: The Inspiring Stories Behind The Little Drummer Boy and Other Christmas Favorites.” Contact Veronica Gillies at (800) 854-1134; news@ascotpr.com
5. ==> New Year, New You, Old Self?
For more than twenty years, University of Chicago professor J. Eric Oliver has taught a legendary course that students routinely describe as life-changing. His new book, “How to Know Your Self: The Art & Science of Discovering Who You Really Are,” brings the best of that classroom experience to anyone, anywhere. Starting with the premise that most of us move through life with a low hum of dissatisfaction, he shows how easily we adapt to the discomfort and call it normal. He then challenges that assumption by asking a simple but life-changing question: What if the real source of your suffering is not your circumstances, but your lack of understanding of your own inner workings? This is a great show for anyone hoping to enter the new year with more clarity, less self-sabotage, and a stronger sense of purpose. Oliver says It’s not about becoming a “new you.” It’s about finally meeting the you who has been there all along. J. Eric Oliver is professor of political science at the University of Chicago and host of the Knowing podcast. He is the author of five previous books on subjects ranging from the politics of obesity to magical thinking in American life. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
Looking for more New Year guests and topics? Stay tuned for a special New Year RTIR Newsletter this Friday, December 12th. The issue features a dynamic mix of intuitive coaches, financial pros, psychologists, wellness experts, and high-performance strategists to inspire your audience and make real change seem possible.
6. ==> Innocent But Convicted? A Trial Lawyer Reveals Why It Keeps Happening
Think wrongful convictions are rare? Think again. New data shows 147 Americans were exonerated last year alone, many after losing more than a decade behind bars. Trial attorney James Porfido says the real shock is this: most wrongful convictions start with everyday situations like a bad lineup, a pressured plea, a flawed forensic test, or a jury that assumes guilt. James exposes the myths TV crime shows have created and the uncomfortable truth about how quickly the system can turn on ordinary citizens. He also breaks down the red flags your audience should look for and why exonerations are increasing nationwide. Gripping and deeply relevant, this perspective breaks down the need for justice reform in plain English. James Porfido has served as both a prosecutor and a criminal defense lawyer, giving him a rare 360-degree view of the justice system. Contact James Porfido at (973) 620-2157; jporfido@rtirguests.com
7. ==> How to Thrive When the Economy is Fragile
With year-end uncertainty weighing on workers everywhere, Shawn Fry delivers practical tools for staying relevant, productive, and mentally sharp when layoffs, budget cuts, and job insecurity dominate headlines. He explains how professionals can reclaim control through strategic communication, performance positioning, and mindset mastery, making this an ideal segment for career-focused or workplace-centered shows. Fry’s forward-thinking strategies transform anxiety into actionable steps that empower audiences navigating financial strain and professional pressure. Shawn Fry is a global business strategist and leadership performance expert known for helping individuals and organizations build resilience and sustainable success in volatile economic environments. CONTACT Shawn Fry at sfry@rtirguests.com or (330) 422-4090
8. ==> A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs Worldwide
Invite David Selley to share his ambitious mission to empower millions through entrepreneurship education. He’ll explain how developing confident business leaders fuels economic stability, innovation, and long-term prosperity worldwide. His forward-thinking perspective offers a powerful, inspirational storyline for producers spotlighting global economic transformation and leadership development. Selley’s vision reframes entrepreneurship as the foundation of resilient economies. David Selley is an international business visionary and author dedicated to leadership development and global entrepreneurial education initiatives. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; Dselley@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Will Franchise Owners Survive the New Economy?
Greg Mohr predicts franchise owners will not only survive the current economic wave, they’ll thrive in the new economy! Invite him on your show and hear how franchising has become a reliable pathway to financial independence during uncertain markets. He’ll reveal how proven systems reduce startup risk while delivering scalable income opportunities for everyday investors. Mohr’s strategic guidance will prepare those considering business ownership as they transition into the new year. Greg Mohr is a franchising consultant and author specializing in business ownership strategy, investment planning, and income growth models. Contact him at gmohr@rtirguests.com or (361) 204-5470
10. ==> Shop Your Closet First: Save Money and Look Amazing This Holiday Season
With holiday parties, family photos, and year-end events piling up, this can be one of the most expensive seasons for personal style. Fashion expert Gayla Bentley shows your audience how to avoid unnecessary spending by “shopping your own closet” before hitting the stores. She explains how to uncover forgotten pieces, build fresh outfits from existing staples, and use simple tailoring or accessories to elevate looks without buying anything new. Bentley also reveals the emotional traps that push people toward impulse fashion purchases during the holidays — and how a strategic closet edit can restore confidence while protecting your budget. Gayla Bentley is a renowned style strategist and advocate for smart, sustainable wardrobe planning. Contact her at (936) 261-7713: gbentley@rtirguests.com
11. ==> From Soviet Shadows to American Light: One Woman’s Journey
What does freedom really mean when you’ve lived without it? Olga Alexeeva grew up in the Soviet Union, where speaking your mind—or your faith—could cost you everything. After coming to America, she discovered that freedom can be just as intimidating as oppression. Now an author, artist, and entrepreneur, Alexeeva shares powerful insights on courage, self-discovery, and how to rebuild your spirit after loss or fear. In interviews, she reveals how to break the habits of silence and conformity, rediscover inner purpose, and use creativity and spirituality to heal. Her story offers a fresh perspective on resilience, gratitude, and what it takes to begin again—no matter what your past. Ask her: What can Americans learn about freedom from someone who grew up without it? How do fear and conformity keep people from living their purpose—and how can they break free? Contact Olga Alexeeva at (615) 205-7043; Oalexeeva@rtirguests.com
12. ==> How the Pursuit of “Great Again” Is Changing Faith in America
What does it really mean to be “great again”? And why is that phrase influencing everything from our politics to our pews? Rick Patterson, author of “The Matthew Challenge,” says the obsession with “greatness” has become a moral blind spot in American life. In his new book, the former evangelical preacher and adoptive father of four Black children, explores how this mindset has crept into churches, shaping alliances and behaviors that contradict the very faith they claim to uphold. With master’s and doctoral degrees in ministry and decades of experience in evangelical circles, Rick brings a powerful insider perspective to today’s spiritual and cultural divide. He makes the psychology behind it all practical and accessible, helping audiences understand how the need to feel “great” often strips us of the humility and compassion that make us human. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com
13. ==> High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
A third of Americans now spend more than 30% of their income on rent, and in major cities, it’s often over 50%. But the financial strain is only half the story. Darius Ross says the mental toll of this affordability crisis is eroding resilience, fueling chronic stress, and keeping people stuck in survival mode. As a former homeless teen who became a successful entrepreneur, Darius offers a grounded, street-smart perspective that connects with audiences of all backgrounds. His mindset strategies blend lived experience with real-life tools for navigating uncertainty, managing trauma, and staying motivated—even when the math doesn’t add up. In this timely conversation, Darius doesn’t just unpack the crisis, he helps audiences cope, shift their mindset, and take their next step forward. Darius Ross is the author of “Mastering the TPS Blueprint,” a speaker on trauma and transformation, and a community advocate who helps underserved youth rise. Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956 or dross@rtirguests.com
14. ==> A Bold New Action Plan to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds
Lauraine White warns America’s reckoning with slavery can’t wait another generation. As President Trump’s non-inclusive politics fuel new battles over DEI, history standards and voting rights, she says the time for denial is over. With both enslaved and Confederate blood in her family line, White argues that real healing requires more than apologies. Her Freedom Wealth Fund lays out measurable steps: 1) erase student-loan debt for descendants of slaves, 2) guarantee free education, and 3) rewrite U.S. history curricula to tell the full truth about the transatlantic slave trade. White insists this isn’t about relitigating the past—it’s a practical blueprint for a just future. With nearly 60% of Americans saying slavery still affects Black people’s position in society today (Pew Research), her plan will spark headlines, debate and the uncomfortable, but necessary, conversation America keeps postponing. Ask her: Can a Confederate descendant credibly lead the call for reparations, or is that exactly why she should? Is student-debt forgiveness for descendants a fair, targeted form of reparations that taxpayers can accept? Contact Lauraine White at lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred); (770) 525-8743
15. ==> Edgar Allan Poe: What Do We Really Know?
Edgar Allan Poe is a name recognized by just about everyone - but what do we really know about the man behind the iconic literature? And is what we know true? Author Dwight Thomas is determined to shine light on the truth in his medical biography, “Mr. Poe and Dr. Moran.” Invite Dwight Thomas on our show to discover the fabrications created by Poe’s deathbed physician, Dr. John J. Moran, M.D., and others. What did Moran seek to gain by spreading misinformation about the now beloved writer? How can we sift through the falsities to discover the truth? What understanding would we gain about Poe and with this discovery? Contact Dwight Thomas at 17dwight33thomas@att.net; (912) 443-9299
