February 27, 2020
01. Coronavirus Should Change the Way We Think about China
02. Fed Expert: Coronavirus Strikes Wall Street
03. Interview ‘Potsie’ from Happy Days: Actor Anson Williams
04. International Women’s Day is March 8th – What Oscar Couldn’t Do, This Festival Does
05. Weinstein Verdict and #MeToo
06. What the Media are Getting Wrong about Bernie
07. Why Do So Many Americans Think Socialism is a Good Thing?
08. ‘Why I Forgave My Son’s Murderers’
09. Attorney Reveals the Dark Side of Winning a Lawsuit
10. Consumer Alert: Billions Lost Due to Insurance Policy Lapse
11. Surviving Childbirth — Don’t Be a Maternal Mortality Statistic
12. When Pills Are the Worst Way to Stop Pain
13. Iraq Vet: From Faith to Darkness and Back Again
14. Spring-Clean Your Life and Make Room for Your Dreams
15. Make the Second Half of Your Life … The BEST Half
16. When Does Checking Your Smartphone Become Unhealthy?
17. Why Teachers Are Burned-Out, Worn-Out and Ready to Get Out
18. Everyone Needs a Coach: How to Have One on Any Budget
19. This Lived-It Expert Says Fighting Cancer Doesn’t Make Sense
20. CEOs on Social Media: How Much Should They Share?
1.==> Coronavirus Should Change the Way We Think about China
How the coronavirus plays out is uncertain, but foreign policy expert Richard Haass says the virus has the potential to change China in fundamental ways. “Unless authorities get the situation under control and restore economic growth soon, it has the potential to become much more significant than Tiananmen, as what is at issue is not thousands of students calling for reform but millions of citizens demanding basic competence. Desperate people can do desperate things.” Haass also thinks outsiders should change the way they think about China. “Virtually everything written and said about China is premised on the notion of its continued rise. But to assume China’s growth will continue in a steady fashion ignores Chinese history.” Robert Haass is a veteran diplomat and president of the Council on Foreign Relations. Contact him at (212) 434-9540; president@cfr.org
2. ==> Fed Expert: Coronavirus Strikes Wall Street
Financial markets have stepped up their expectations for interest rate cuts in recent days as fears of a global pandemic finally rocked the U.S. stock market. Short of an accurate assessment of the full scope of the coronavirus — whether or not it becomes a true pandemic — it’s impossible to determine the economic impact or the Fed’s response. Invite Fed expert Danielle DiMartino Booth to discuss the situation, whether she believes the Fed will cut rates, and what that means for the American economy. DiMartino Booth is CEO of Quill Intelligence LLC, a research and analytics firm. Before that, she spent nine years at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. She is the author of “FED UP: An Insider’s Take on Why the Federal Reserve is Bad for America,” a full-time columnist for Bloomberg View, and a frequent commentator on CNBC, Bloomberg, Fox News, Fox Business News, BNN Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance and other major media outlets. Contact Johanna Ramos Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 646-5188
3. ==> Interview ‘Potsie’ from Happy Days: Actor Anson Williams
Although he’s best known as Potsie Weber from the classic TV series Happy Days, actor/director Anson Williams is a man on a mission. After a near-fatal car accident caused by falling asleep at the wheel, Williams (with help from his famous uncle, Dr. Henry Heimlich) developed a spray that eliminates drowsy driving (which is a factor in more than 100,000 crashes annually). This all-natural stimulant has been adopted by first responders and trucking companies across the country. Anson is happy to talk Happy Days too and also about his prolific career as a director (Beverly Hills 90210, Melrose Place, and Star Trek: Voyager, plus many more). Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 345-7513; hboll@rtirguests.com
4.==> International Women’s Day is March 8th – What Oscar Couldn’t Do, This Festival Does
Women directors may not have gotten their due at this year’s major film awards, but the Female Eye Film Festival (FeFF) in Toronto will be celebrating them next weekend in honor of International Women’s Day. Invite FeFF founder, executive and artistic director Leslie Ann Coles to talk about the role of women in the movie industry, both behind and in front of the camera. She says, “This is a pivotal year for advancing gender equality worldwide, and our festival offers the perfect platform to further embrace this theme.” This year, the festival’s 18th, features 56 films directed by women from across North America and the world. The four days of eclectic films reflect the topics of gender equality and violence against women, as well as socio-political shorts and documentaries that explore issues of women in technology, immigration, homelessness, aging, coming-of-age, and sexual identity. Contact Kelly Hargraves at kellyhargraves@gmail.com or the Female Eye Film Festival at femaleeyefilmfestival@gmail.com
5. ==> Weinstein Verdict and #MeToo
Harvey Weinstein was convicted in a Manhattan courtroom on Monday of rape and a forcible sexual act. The disgraced movie mogul may be sitting in jail, but Christine Rose isn’t celebrating yet. “The guilty verdict may be the end of this trial, but it’s nowhere near close to the end of the #MeToo movement and efforts needed to create workplaces that are equal.” Rose, who has survived several abusers, will share her perspective on #MeToo and explain where and why the focus is moving. She’ll share her in-depth look at what society can do to create not only a safer business landscape but “a new normal,” free from gender-based discrimination and violence. Christine Rose is an executive coach and the author of “Life Beyond #MeToo: Creating a Safer World for Our Mothers, Daughters, Sisters & Friends.” Contact her at (425) 326-9855; cr@christinerose.coach
6. ==> What the Media are Getting Wrong about Bernie
What makes Bernie so dangerous? Why were previous hopefuls such as Ron Paul, the Green Party ticket in 2016, and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard this year also considered dangerous? Candidates outside the red and blue “box” cause mainstream journalists to shake. Nita Wiggins, the journalism professor who predicted the victory of presidential candidate Donald Trump a full year before it happened has some surprises for your audience this season. A TV broadcaster who has followed presidential campaigns since covering the 1988 Democrat convention, she now teaches journalism in Paris, France. Contact her at NWiggins@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Why Do So Many Americans Think Socialism is a Good Thing?
Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders calls himself a democratic socialist and is currently the frontrunner in the race to become the Democrats’ candidate to go head-to-head with Donald Trump in the November election. With our nation’s traditional fight against socialism, why are countless well-educated voters embracing it now? How did that happen? And what should audiences know to protect American democracy? Invite Rick Elkin to explore disguised forces shaping the politics of more than one generation of voters. Author of “The Illusion of Knowledge: Why So Many Educated Americans Embrace Marxism,” Elkin offers a radical new theory on why half the nation might jettison our constitutional republic for a progressive promised land. Ask him how, why or whether academia, union leaders and news and entertainment executives became prisoners of Groupthink. Contact Rick at (760) 825-4884; RElkin@rtirguests.com
8. ==> ‘Why I Forgave My Son’s Murderers’
In late May, it will be seven years since Rev. Meghan Smith Brooks lost her 29-year-old younger son. Justin’s body was found in a river, wrapped in chains and weighed down by a cinder block. Justin, the father of a five-year-old, had been shot three times. It would take 18 months for two arrests to be made. Interview Meghan to find out how she coped with the tragedy and why she was able to forgive her son’s murderers. She can talk about whether grief ever goes away and why forgiveness is so important to moving forward as well as share tips other people can use who are currently grieving. Meghan is an ordained Unity Minister and certified grief coach. She is the author of the upcoming book “Unraveling Grief: A Mother’s Spiritual Journey After Losing Her Son.” She will be the keynote speaker at Missouri’s event commemorating National Crime Victim Awareness Week in late April. Contact Meghan Smith Brooks at (816) 844-6783; mbrooks@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Attorney Reveals the Dark Side of Winning a Lawsuit
Talk about initiating a lawsuit and most people think: Hefty settlement! Getting justice! (Or retribution.) Healing and starting over. But legal trouble is stressful and expensive and lawsuits can last years, taking more out of you than you gain. So warns attorney Francine Tone, who’s been educating the public for years about getting the right legal help, asking prudent questions, making wise decisions, and proceeding with caution as legal challenges unfold. Invite her to explore realities about suing and being sued, myths and truths about the law, and how even winning lawsuits can jeopardize your business, marriage or health. Francine is the author of “What Every Good Lawyer Wants You to Know.” Contact Francine at (531) 208-1297; FTone@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Consumer Alert: Billions Lost Due to Insurance Policy Lapse
Imagine if you could receive CASH for that life insurance policy you or your parents don’t need anymore! Did you know that $70 billion of life insurance policies go to waste annually? Simply because consumers don’t know a little-known secret that, if you qualify, you could receive up to 75% of your death benefits in CASH! Many professional advisors such as attorneys and CPAs are now becoming aware of this and trying to help their clients avoid this waste and turn it into cash. David Kottler, the Insurance Doctor™, will educate your audience and tell you what life insurance companies don’t want you to know! David combines his legal and business experience with a passion for philanthropy. His book, “The Best Kept Money Secret in Your Insurance Policy,” details everything your audience needs to know to get that insurance policy working for them! Contact David Kottler at (216) 532-1221; DKottler@rtirguests.com
11. ==> Surviving Childbirth — Don’t Be a Maternal Mortality Statistic
It’s the 21st century. That means women can breeze through childbirth and be healthy to raise their children, right? Sad¬ly, maternal deaths have been increasing, despite advanced obstetrical care. Find out why and what expectant parents and medical personnel should know, when you interview Alan Lindemann, M.D. He has delivered more than 6,000 babies (including many multiple births, even quads) during his decades-long career without losing a mom. This fascinating professional will discuss the trouble with “maternity deserts” where women are hours away from where they’ll deliver … illnesses affecting healthy birthing … the impact of too many c-sections … who needs more OB nurses … plus additional issues that put mothers (and babies) at risk. Dr. Lindemann’s advice can save countless lives, families and careers. Contact Dr. Lindemann at (701) 543-6182; dhaugen@rtirguests.com
12. ==> When Pills Are the Worst Way to Stop Pain
You and your audience will want to listen-up when Maggie Phillips, Ph.D., pain relief expert and trainer, talks about using skills not pills to alleviate pain. After all, it’s almost daily that we hear of opioid controversies, addictions and even painkiller-related deaths. The author of “Freedom from Pain and Reversing Chronic Pain” will share good news about effective alternative healing methods. Ask her about the value of working with the rhythms of the nervous system, diet and exercise, spiritual practic¬es, drug-free supplements, meditation, hypnosis, lifestyle changes and other ways to build healing pathways. She’ll also explain why other nations are far ahead of the U.S. in wisely using “skills-not-pills” approaches to thwart pain and trauma without unwanted side effects or creating dependency and addiction problems. Contact Maggie at (510) 561-1645; mphillips@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Iraq Vet: From Faith to Darkness and Back Again
If you’d pulled shards of a friend’s skull out of your own face or seen a man killed by an IED as he raced to meet his wife and newborn child, how would you respond? How would you be changed? Decorated combat veteran Capt. Jeff Morris will share his traumatic experience as a battalion leader in Iraq, what it did to his faith and how he came to survive not only firefights in Baghdad’s most dangerous war zone but the deaths of eight of his men and a subsequent decade-long battle with PTSD. The author of “Legion Rising: Surviving Combat and the Scars It Left Behind” is now a senior executive who travels the country on behalf of his nonprofit Legion 8 Foundation, formed to honor the men lost under his leadership in Baghdad. Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com
14. ==> Spring-Clean Your Life and Make Room for Your Dreams
Springtime brings thoughts of spring-cleaning to many parents, but how about some mental spring-cleaning to make room for your dreams? Instead of being overwhelmed with to-do lists and constantly feeling burned out, why not recharge your batteries by reigniting your dreams? Children’s author and mom of three Rosie Pova tells parents, “We put our kids first and often ignore our dreams and passions in life in order to take care of everyone else in the family. With the right strategy, we can make the time to pursue our goals.” Invite Pova to share 10 tips on following your passions without neglecting your family. She can tell your audience how to get started, how to stay motivated even after multiple setbacks, and how to overcome failure. Pova is the author of several children’s books including her latest picture book, “Sunday Rain.” She’s been featured by KCHF 730-AM, DEAR Texas Radio, Web Talk Radio, and many other shows nationwide. Contact her at (214) 225-0856; RPova@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Make the Second Half of Your Life … The BEST Half
As we age, we may not realize that things can (and should) get better. With awareness, maturity, experience and motivation, the second half of life offers extraordinary opportunities and satisfaction — certainly personally but especially professionally. That’s the message of Joe Swinger, a sought-after speaker, author and interview guest who specializes in helping midlife adults transition from corporate to living the VIP life: welcoming vibrancy, impact and purpose. Appreciative audiences will hear Joe explain on-air how he became inspired to establish the organization Silver Linings Network. Joe will reveal what he advises, including how to revisit long-forgotten dreams, while also embracing new pathways, projects and personal development. Ask about his upcoming conferences. Contact Joe Swinger at (385) 425-6705; JSwinger@rtirguests.com
16. ==> When Does Checking Your Smartphone Become Unhealthy?
Many people believe cell phone addiction is something the other guy needs to worry about. It’s easy to spot when someone else is obsessed with email, Instagram and Facebook, but not so easy to notice it in ourselves. But, as stress and wellness expert Diana Ruiz will explain, it is likely your smartphone may be causing your stress—not relieving it—and a digital detox is in order. She’ll talk about why spending time with people in the same room who are not on their phones is way more relaxing than texting them or swiping right. She’ll also share what research suggests about which sex is more likely to exhibit constant device checking. Diana is the author of the new program Break Free from Stress and Grief: Love Your Life Again. Contact Diana Ruiz at (360) 550-9436; DRuiz@rtirguests.com
17. ==> Why Teachers Are Burned-Out, Worn-Out and Ready to Get Out
Countless teachers start out loving education yet often land on the brink of leaving their profession. For a topic that ultimately impacts every community, hear how teachers can explore new goals, opportunities and leads, and how directing their skills elsewhere benefits everyone. Geraldine Hogan, a former educator, attorney and judge, can discuss her own inspiring journey and help listeners appreciate teachers’ challenges. She’ll explain how educators, other professionals, and entrepreneurs can recognize and bravely implement exciting plans for career changes. She’ll start with three simple questions to ask yourself before making any career move, discuss whether salary should ever guide you, and share tips to overcome obstacles and hesitations. And Geraldine loves call-in questions! Her new book is “Career Moves for Teachers and Other Professionals: Strategies for a Successful Job Change.” Contact her at (305) 902-3869; hogan@rtirguests.com
18. ==> Everyone Needs a Coach: How to Have One on Any Budget
Think you don’t need a coach to help navigate your challenging career and reach your goals? Think again! Then interview Dr. Sarah Brown, a sought-after coach and trainer who’s helped thousands define and pursue success based on their unique interests, strengths and needs. She’ll help listeners understand the critical role coaches play and describe how anyone can turn a friend, colleague, or mentor into that much-needed role. People can even learn to coach themselves! Dr. Brown will share her 5-step KTS Success Factor™ Model and must-know secrets, including finally clarifying exactly what you want … getting started even without all the answers (and without going bankrupt!) … whether it’s wise to give-up one’s current job first … remedies for lackluster performances … and special advice for entrepreneurial businesses. Contact Sarah Brown at (302) 274-0624; SBrown@rtirguests.com
19. ==> This Lived-It Expert Says Fighting Cancer Doesn’t Make Sense
Kipp Harris knows what he’s talking about when he explores myths and truths about cancer and its treat¬ments. Several times that powerful disease has invaded his body, only to be thwarted into remission by modern medical science and Kipp’s own resourcefulness. Learn why he says it’s wise to work through, never battle, one’s cancer. So what does he recommend? Why does he call his cancer journey “improbable joy”? What was the first thing he did upon learning his cancer returned? And what does he advise for patients (and their loved ones) who want to thrive throughout and afterward? Kipp will even discuss on-air whether humanity is meant to experience cancer. Contact Kipp at (701) 638-4051; kharris@rtirguests.com
20. ==> CEOs On Social Media: How Much Should They Share?
According to a recent Glassdoor poll of over 1,200 employed adults, 57% of workers say they have talked about politics while on the job — despite 60% saying they believe discussing politics at work is unacceptable. What about CEOs who share their political or religious beliefs on social media? Reputation management expert Ryan McCormick says, “Under no circumstances should high-level executives share or promote their political perspectives online. Doing so can risk alienating loyal customers or potential customers who share different perspectives.” He suggests CEOs who want to help their preferred candidate do so away from the public eye. But interestingly, when it comes to corporate heads touting their religious beliefs, he says there is a greater chance of it being acceptable (and even embraced) if the company has made those beliefs an integral part of their culture. McCormick, a former TV producer and newspaper editor, is co-founder of Goldman McCormick PR. Contact him at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com