01. Shrink the Federal Workforce? It’s Been Shrinking for Decades
02. Texas Measles Outbreak is Just the Beginning
03. What’s Going on With Bird Flu? Who Knows?
04. Medicinal Herbs for Your Kitchen, Garden, and Apothecary
05. ‘Soldiers of Song’ Documentary About Ukrainian Musicians
06. What’s at Stake in Ukraine?
07. The Scales of American Justice Have Tipped to the State
08. We Need to Protect Whistleblowers Now, More Than Ever
09. The Key to a Longer Life and Better Environment? Vegetables!
10. Why You Shouldn’t Do Your Best
11. The Biggest Myths About Psychic Intuition
12. Healing After Goodbye: Taking Care of Yourself When a Relationship Ends
13. How to Use Spiritual Values to Persevere and Thrive
14. Couple Shares Inspirational Advice on Marriage
15. The Garage Sale Millionaire: Find Hidden Cash in Your Attic
1. ==> Shrink the Federal Workforce? It’s Been Shrinking for Decades
“The Trump administration claims that the federal workforce is massive and growing, when in fact it’s been declining and has already declined significantly,” says Algernon Austin, the director of the Race and Economic Justice project at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “When Trump was born, federal workers made up 4.5 percent of the workforce. Today they make up 1.5 percent. That is a massive reduction, especially when you consider that Congress has placed many new additional demands on the federal workforce during that time.” Austin says we have reached a catastrophic situation and points to the recent D.C. plane crash. “The National Air Traffic Controllers Association said that 40 percent of their members are working six days per week, 10 hours per day. That sort of degree of overwork is not uncommon in the federal government. Consequently, we see a lot of stress, fatigue, burnout, and high attrition in many agencies. It’s a real problem.” He says this isn’t just any business trying to cut spending by cutting employees. “The federal government serves the American people, so when it’s understaffed, the American people are being underserved and poorly served.” Contact Algernon Austin at austin@cepr.net
2. ==> Texas Measles Outbreak is Just the Beginning
A West Texas measles outbreak has climbed to 58, with 13 people (mostly children) hospitalized. The U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000 thanks to a large percentage of people getting the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, but epidemiologist Elizabeth Jacobs says the U.S. coverage among children of kindergarten age has fallen and is now below the 95 percent coverage target. She says the outbreak is a completely predictable outcome for under vaccination. “What we’re seeing is going to be happening all over. It’s not just going to be measles; it will be other infectious diseases. I believe that, unfortunately, the next four years will usher in outbreaks of infectious disease that we haven’t seen in decades.” Jacobs says the only thing that will keep herd immunity up is continuing to require vaccines for school entry. Elizabeth Jacobs is a cancer and nutritional epidemiologist at the University of Arizona. Contact her at 1elizabethtjacobs1@gmail.com
3. ==> What’s Going on With Bird Flu? Who Knows?
Some public health experts are worried they’re not getting information from the Trump administration on H5N1, aka Bird Flu, which makes it hard to understand the scope of the current situation. “It’s really alarming,” says Jennifer Nuzzo, an epidemiologist and director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University. “I have to assume that we haven’t heard big developments because big developments haven’t happened, but we also haven’t heard information about what’s ongoing to make sure big developments aren’t happening.” She says reports that the Centers for Disease Control withheld multiple issues of a key weekly report for the first time since the 1960s – and that those reports were about H5N1 – is a sign that things are deeply unwell at the CDC. “It’s really puzzling to me why we’re not releasing information that is essential to understand what risk this virus poses to people and how best to protect them,” she says. Contact Jennifer Nuzzo at pandemic_center@brown.edu; @jennifernuzzo
4. ==> Medicinal Herbs for Your Kitchen, Garden, and Apothecary
Herbs bring more bees, birds, and beneficial insects into the garden. They add spice and depth to any recipe. They enrich our lives, our health, and our earth in profound and nourishing ways. Invite gardening expert Bevin Cohen to offer gardeners, herbalists, cooks, and homesteaders a new way of looking at herbs throughout the year, from every angle. The author of “Herbs in Every Season” will share information on gardening, cooking, and integrating herbs as part of a holistic wellness routine. Herbalists will learn how an herb’s growth habits inform its medicinal capabilities, and gardeners will gain insight into herbs as integral culinary plants for the kitchen garden, pollinator plants for perennial borders, and key ingredients for a home apothecary. Bevin Cohen is an author, herbalist, gardener, seed saver, and educator. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099; johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
5. ==> ‘Soldiers of Song’ Documentary About Ukrainian Musicians
Hailed as a ‘must-watch’ film by “Forbes” magazine, "Soldiers of Song” opens in limited theaters this month. The documentary follows Ukraine’s most iconic musicians as they use music to help inspire unity and courage. The film explores the profound impact of music on Ukrainian culture during a time of war and reveals the experiences of life under the shadow of Russian aggression. Directed and produced by New York-native Ryan Smith, this film marks a continuation of Smith's previous acclaimed work, including the Emmy Award-winning "NFL 360: Who If Not Us," which followed a group of football players in Ukraine who volunteered to join the military in defense of their country. “Soldiers of Song” was made in collaboration with a courageous Ukrainian production crew and executive produced by the Governor George Pataki Leadership Center. Contact Ryan Davis at (206) 491-3738; ryan@smarthousecreative.com
6. ==> What’s at Stake in Ukraine?
With the three-year war in Ukraine grinding on, Donald Trump says he’s the man who can end it. Whether that will happen or not, 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 to 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 him at (314) 501-6838; Lsuhayda@rtirguests.com
7. ==> The Scales of American Justice Have Tipped to the State
Many Americans feel our criminal justice system is broken. This veteran attorney agrees and says it’s time to tip the scales back in balance. Invite James Porfido, who served decades as both a state prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, to discuss how the American justice system has become unfair. He’ll share specific cases of unfair prosecution and the damage to the accused and their families. He’ll also discuss systemic changes that could be implemented to help level the playing field and share what you need to know if you are ever pulled over, arrested or detained by police. Porfido has appeared as a legal analyst on Court TV and CNN. He’s the author of “Unequal Justice: The Search for Truth to Balance the Scales,” a book detailing his experience in the criminal justice system. Contact him at (973) 620-2157; jporfido@rtirguests.com
8. ==> We Need to Protect Whistleblowers Now, More Than Ever
President Donald Trump says his new Department of Government Efficiency is rooting out waste, fraud and abuse, but critics say the White House is weakening watchdogs intended to guard against corruption. Discuss the importance of whistleblowers with Dana de Wendt and hear how they’ve changed the course of history. Karen Silkwood, a chemical technician and labor union activist, paid with her life when she exposed unsafe practices at Kerr-McGee Cimarron Fuel Fabrication Site in Oklahoma. Mark Felt, better known as "Deep Throat," helped to bring down Richard Nixon by uncovering the Watergate scandal. Both were featured in major movies. However, whistle blowing isn't always as intriguing and can be very frustrating. "While working as a broker at Morgan Stanley in the early 2000s, I was convinced that they were cheating clients," says Dana. Although no criminal charges were ever filed, in 2007, Morgan Stanley and one of its senior traders agreed to pay $6.1 million in fines and restitution to settle allegations that the investment bank overcharged brokerage customers — one of whom was Dana's then 87-year-old father — on 2,800 purchases of $59 million of bonds. Dana is the author of "Checkmate: The Morgan Stanley Whistle Blower." Contact Dana de Wendt at (772) 773-6879; ddewindt@rtirguests.com
9. ==> The Key to a Longer Life and Better Environment? Vegetables!
Author and environmental activist Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., is 90-years-young and still going strong. His secret? "I have followed a vegan diet for decades," he says. "I am convinced that that has been the key to my longevity and remaining healthy at an advanced age." He also believes that animal-based industries are destroying the planet by largely contributing to climate change. "The world is eating itself into distinction," he adds. "If people don't embrace vegetarianism and veganism on a massive scale, I am convinced that humans will be extinct by 2100." An experienced media guest, Richard is the author of "Vegan Revolution" and several other books. Contact Richard Schwartz at (914) 533-1949; rschwartz@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Why You Shouldn’t Do Your Best
People think that doing your best is the key to success, but according to transformational speaker, educator, and businesswoman Rachel Rappaport, that attitude leads to “just getting by.” Instead, she says, “Do whatever it takes, because doing your best is not enough! It is just a well-intentioned excuse; it is a mindset that leads to feeling stuck and creates an imaginary glass ceiling.” Alternatively, doing whatever it takes will stretch your creativity, empower you, and expand your possibilities, and give you the passion that you need to succeed in business and life. Rachel is the founder of the success-coaching program MAX! She also trained with Jack Canfield, co-author of “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” and well-known motivational coach Tony Robbins. Contact Rachel Rappaport at (848) 266-5824; rrappaport@rtirguests.com
11. ==> The Biggest Myths About Psychic Intuition
Think psychic intuition is horse hooey? A segment with Nancy Orlen Weber might have you looking at things a little differently AND opening the door to your own abilities! Nancy, a renowned psychic, badge-carrying detective and animal communicator, will debunk common myths about psychic intuition and show you how to access your inner wisdom, develop deeper connections with people and animals, unlock your life’s purpose, and navigate challenges with clarity and confidence! She can also share examples of real-life mysteries she’s solved as a psychic detective. With more than 45 years of experience, Nancy is a true expert in animal communication, psychic investigations and spiritual development, and the author of several books including “The Life of a Psychic Detective.” Contact Nancy Orlen Weber at (973) 453-0906; nweber@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Healing After Goodbye: Taking Care of Yourself When a Relationship Ends
Breaking up is hard to do, but taking care of yourself afterward is even harder. Author and nurse practitioner Susie Bell has some great tips for dealing with the emotional pain, as well as practical steps to move forward when you know a relationship is over. "From setting boundaries to rediscovering yourself, I can talk about how to process the loss, avoid self-sabotage, and build a future that feels like yours again," she says. Susie should know. After being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, she underwent a messy, highly complicated divorce from her devout Mormon husband, struggled with being separated from her children, and substance abuse. She is the author of the book "A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine & Men." Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com
13. ==> How to Use Spiritual Values to Persevere and Thrive
Nancy Frecka is a pastor who has experienced heaven and is passionate about helping others learn to put their trust in God. On your show, she can discuss her two near-death experiences, as well as her beliefs in the supernatural and the strategies she uses to persevere in the face of hardship. Nancy is an experienced media guest who has lived an extraordinary life. On air, she will share her amazing, fun, and sometimes life-threatening experiences that she uses to assist others in their walk with God. Her book, “God Says,” You Can Trust Me”: Supernatural Encounters with God” has become a source of hope for many, as she shares her story of resilience and staying strong. Contact Nancy Frecka at (330) 422-6955; nfrecka@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Couple Shares Inspirational Advice on Marriage
Diana and John Snowden’s marriage has spanned 50-plus years and 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
15. ==> The Garage Sale Millionaire: Find Hidden Cash in Your Attic
Downsizing and decluttering can be overwhelming, but what if you could turn the painful process into a money-making operation? You’ll look at your stuffed closets and basement boxes in a whole new light when you interview Aaron LaPedis, the Garage Sale Millionaire. Aaron’s journey as an entrepreneur started when he was 9 flipping coins, stamps and baseball cards. By 21 he was a millionaire. Invite him on your show and learn how to have a five-figure garage sale, how to buy and sell online marketplaces and eBay, and the five top scams people are losing money to while buying and selling online. Aaron had a TV show on PBS for many years and continues to be an expert for the FBI. With over 1,000 interviews on radio, podcasts, and TV and 40 years of experience, Aaron could be your next great interview! Contact Mara at assistant@gsmpartnersinc.com
Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com
