3/30/2023 RTIR Newsletter: The AI Race, Millennials in Trouble, Controversial Pet Care

01. Should We Pause the Artificial Intelligence Race?
02. For 4/20: Cannabis Legalization and Racial Justice
03. Millennials Are in Trouble. How to Help Them
04. National First Ladies Day
05. Glimpse Inside the TV Industry with Veteran Producer
06. From Tick Collars to Vegan Diets: Controversial Pet-Care Issues
07. What is Kratom and Why Does the FDA Want to Ban it?
08. The Kosher Baker Lightens Up Passover Favorites
09. How to Cruise Like Royalty on a Budget
10. Spring Health: Small Ways to Be Your Own Advocate
11. How to Be More Resilient in 5 Minutes a Day
12. This Expert Can Share that Reincarnation Is Real
13. She Abandoned Med School Dreams for the Wilderness
14. This Senior Athlete Proves Age Is Just a Number
15. Do a Show on the Healing Power of Music

1. ==> Should We Pause the Artificial Intelligence Race?

Some of the biggest names in tech are calling for artificial intelligence labs to stop the training of the most powerful AI systems for at least six months, citing “profound risks to society and humanity.” Elon Musk, Bill Gates and Steve Wozniak are among the dozens of tech leaders, professors and researchers who signed the letter, which was published by the Future of Life Institute, a nonprofit backed by Musk. Tech expert Shelly Palmer, who also signed the letter says, “No technology has ever excited me more – or caused me more pause – than AI. In truth, it scares the hell out of me. Frankly, if it doesn’t both excite and scare the hell out of you, you don’t know enough about it.” He’ll explain why he signed the letter and what he hopes will happen next. Shelly Palmer is an advertising, marketing and technology consultant and business adviser. He’s CEO of The Palmer Group, Fox 5 New York’s on-air tech and digital media expert, a columnist for “Ad Age,” and a regular commentator on CNBC and CNN. Contact him at (917) 886-1173; shelly@palmer.net or Dana Eisenberg at (212) 532-3880; admin@shellypalmer.com

2. ==> For 4/20: Cannabis Legalization and Racial Justice

4/20 has become known as a national holiday for cannabis culture. It’s also an opportunity for a discussion about the racist history of cannabis. Hear how the War on Drugs targeted Black, Brown, and Indigenous Americans already disadvantaged by a system stacked against them and whether the current legalization movement and booming cannabis industry are doing enough to repair the damage. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah and Tahira Rehmatullah call the War on Drugs one of the worst social and political failures in the nation’s history. The authors of “Waiting to Inhale: Cannabis Legalization and the Fight for Racial Justice” argue that with attitudes toward cannabis shifting, now is the time to expunge marijuana convictions and make a place in the burgeoning legal cannabis market for Blacks and other underrepresented groups who have borne the brunt of harsh cannabis laws. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah is a sociology professor at the University of Toronto, an affiliate scientist at Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and the director of research for the Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty. Tahira Rehmatullah is a partner at Highlands Venture Partners, co-founder and CEO of Commons, and member of the board of directors for Akerna Corp and Last Prisoner Project. She is often referred to in the trade press as “the most powerful woman in cannabis.” Contact Lissa Warren at LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com; (617) 233-2853

3. ==> Millennials Are in Trouble. How to Help Them

A recent study by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University reveals millennials are grappling with multiple existential crises. Center co-founder and researcher Dr. George Barna believes it’s important for Americans to both see the generation for what they are and step in to help. “Millennials had no intention of becoming lightning rods for social change. They’re largely the product of the unaddressed dysfunctions of the generations that came before them. They’ve inherited a cultural war zone but not the tools to bring peace to that war,” he says. “We must look upon our youngest adults as a group that we might be able to help navigate through the challenges in which we’ve immersed them.” Hear why millennials find it difficult to trust others and often go out of their way to avoid relational conflict and how only 4% have a biblical worldview — the lowest level of any generation since Barna began researching worldview, faith and culture in America more than 30 years ago. Dr. George Barna has pastored, taught at the graduate and undergraduate levels and authored over 50 books. “Helping Millennials Thrive: Practical Wisdom for a Generation in Crisis” is based on his research and features contributions from 11 different ministry leaders. Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com

4. ==> National First Ladies Day

National First Ladies Day is celebrated on the last Saturday of April every year to recognize the role first ladies have played in molding our nation. While they aren’t elected, many of them campaign alongside their spouses. Others have served as elected or appointed officials in many different capacities. Rev. Nicholas Inman, founder of the National First Ladies Day Commission, can share stories and historical trivia about our nation’s first ladies and their role in the White House and the country. Learn about the first cherry blossom planting in 1912 by First Lady Helen Herron Taft, and how the National Cherry Blossom Festival has become a major event, drawing tourists and locals alike to Washington D.C., and communities around the nation. A ceremony will be held in Marshfield, Missouri, during the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival on April 29 featuring descendants of many of America’s greatest first ladies. Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 296-3757; harlan@bhbpr.com

5. ==> Glimpse Inside the TV Industry with Veteran Producer

Ever wonder what it’s like to work in television? After decades as an award-winning television producer and showrunner, Karen Lee Cohen has seen it all and worked with everyone from Bob Hope to Frank Sinatra, Lily Tomlin and Jewel. Hear about her start in entertainment with a brief stint as an actress, why she moved behind the scenes, and how she worked her way up, bit by bit. She’ll share her many adventures along the way and offer valuable insight into the television business, with insider knowledge and tips about how to succeed in the industry. Karen Lee Cohen is an award-winning producer and executive producer, the former director of programs for WNBC-TV in New York and founder and president of Crystal Pyramid Productions, Inc. Her new book is “It’s About Time: My Award-Winning TV Adventure.” Contact her at karenleecohen1@gmail.com

6. ==> From Tick Collars to Vegan Diets: Controversial Pet-Care Issues

It’s no secret that we live in a hyper-polarized society, but do our disagreements extend to how we care for our pets? Pet owners are faced with all kinds of choices (from diet to grooming and training) with emotionally charged proponents on each side of every debate. The controversy surrounding many of these choices may surprise new pet parents, but integrative veterinarian Carol Osborne has heard it all! After more than 20 years in her own practice, she’ll share the facts at the heart of these issues so that you can make the right choice for your furry friend. From the safety of flea and tick collars to debates over declawing, vegan pet diets and more, Dr. Carol can answer your toughest pet-care questions. Carol Osborne, DVM, is 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 television shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

7. ==> What is Kratom and Why Does the FDA Want to Ban it?

Cindy Perlin believes kratom could help end the opioid crisis. The Southeast Asian herb has been used for centuries to relieve pain and has helped millions overcome opioid addiction because it relieves withdrawal symptoms. But Perlin says the FDA has gone to extraordinary lengths to keep it from patients, even asking the WHO to ban it internationally (they declined). Perlin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified biofeedback practitioner and chronic pain survivor, will explain how the herb works, who could benefit from it, and why the FDA is against it. She says getting this information to your audience could save lives. The author of “The Truth About Chronic Pain Treatments: The Best and Worst Strategies for Becoming Pain Free” and the founder and CEO of the Alternative Pain Treatment Directory, is a seasoned radio guest who has appeared on dozens of radio shows and podcasts. Contact her at (518) 439-6431 cindyperlin@gmail.com

8. ==> The Kosher Baker Lightens Up Passover Favorites

Passover begins April 5 at sundown and many families will be enjoying Seder dinners and special foods they look forward to having all year long. Skip the calorie-loaded dishes and opt for a healthier Passover when you invite Paula Shoyer, aka the Kosher Baker, to share ways to lighten up your favorite family recipes. Whether you’re cooking keto, Whole30 or are just trying to cut calories, Paula will help you makeover your holiday table with dishes every generation will appreciate. She’ll also help you create a stress-free holiday with great ideas for room-temperature dishes and freezer-friendly make-ahead recipes that are perfect for delivery to the loved ones you can’t gather with right now. Paula Shoyer has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and even competed on Food TV. A graduate of Ritz Escoffier Ecole de Gastronomie Francaise, she is the author of several cookbooks including “The Healthy Jewish Kitchen.” Contact her at (301) 404-8998; pshoyer@hotmail.com

9. ==> How to Cruise Like Royalty on a Budget

As fans of cruises know, this form of travel can be very expensive. There are often hidden fees for drinks, shore excursions and other amenities that the public doesn’t know about. Travel expert Cindy Bertram can share the hidden bargains and tips for getting the most bang for your buck for smooth sailing. “There are now apps you can download that can help you find the best deals on dining, shore excursions and more,” she says. “You can also save money on luxury cruises by booking at certain times.” Cindy can share these and other insider tips for budget-friendly cruising. She is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry. Cindy is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact her at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Spring Health: Small Ways to Be Your Own Health Advocate

Chances are your lifestyle choices are hurting you, but there are countless things you can do to improve your health and postpone the onset of chronic disease. Emily Gold Mears says spring is the perfect time to take small steps toward better health. Forget the urge to change everything at once, Mears says, “Every incremental change you make will result in a positive impact. Every lifestyle alteration will contribute to your living a longer, healthier and happier life.” She’ll share ways to reduce your toxin exposure at home, explain why you should prioritize your oral health, and reveal the surprising benefits of optimizing your indoor light exposure. Emily Gold Mears is a former attorney and a citizen scientist whose research focuses on the intersection of functional and allopathic medicine and the critical requirements for individuals to become their own health-care advocates. She is the author of “Optimizing Your Health: An Approachable Guide to Reducing Your Risk of Chronic Disease.” Contact her at emily@emilygoldmears.com; egoldmears@aol.com

11. ==> How to Be More Resilient in 5 Minutes a Day

Why are some people better able to handle life’s blows than others? Can you learn how to bounce back from your challenges? Linda Karimo, who has developed a course on being more resilient, has researched this issue and says she can teach anyone — even those whose personalities struggle with change — to be more resilient, starting with a personalized five-minute activity that will lower your stress and help you think clearly about what you can change, what you can’t and how to deal with the difference. In addition to her upcoming resilience course, Linda is the developer of Initiative: “After Hours” by Linda Karimo, an education-focused community of individual and family members concerned about eye and mental health, and the author of her mother’s story, “I Know My Way Memoir,” which explores how normal living is possible with a little bit of adaption. Contact Linda Karimo at (914) 944-1474; lkarimo@rtirguests.com

12. ==> This Expert Can Share that Reincarnation Is Real

After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, author Jennifer Maag became extremely empathic and developed a keen sense that she has lived before. “I have been provided with some jarring past-life experiences that I seemingly did nothing to stir up,” she says. “Reliving these past-life experiences proved insightful; it allowed me to make peace with the emotions I had carried into this present life.” Jennifer can demonstrate how to determine if we have lived before, and the ways our past lives impact our current lives. She is a licensed massage therapist and co-author along with her son, Alexander Maag, of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform our inner battles into healing tools to live our best lives. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

13. ==> She Abandoned Med School Dreams for the Wilderness

Why would someone give up a prestigious medical school scholarship for the literal unknown wilderness? Three years ago, Raileigh Duschen left behind her medical school dreams and moved to the mountains of North Carolina to heal generational disease and poverty and begin a career as an entrepreneur. Now she is leading a national effort to open doors to more empowered, holistic, and healthy pathways in both lifestyle and career, particularly for communities of color. Raileigh is the founder of Conscious Lifestyle Coaching, a relationship executive for Black Folks Camp Too, and the author of “Phoenix Medicines: A Transformative Journey Through Consciousness.” Raileigh guides people through significant lifestyle changes, authentic embodiment, and deep present awareness. Ask her: How can pursuing your wildest self unlock your authentic life purpose and path? How do you overcome the fears that prevent you from getting there? Contact Raileigh Duschen at (386)-275-0339; raileigh@consciouslifestylecoaching.com

14. ==> This Senior Athlete Proves Age is Just a Number

They say you’re only as old as you feel. Yet if you’re struggling with your health and fitness, this motivational phrase can backfire. What if you’re in your 30s or 40s, but you feel 100 years old whenever you try to jog or hit the gym? National champion senior athlete John Hurd can help you turn things around with simple ways for anyone to improve their health at any age. John is proof that his methods work. He didn’t start competitive running until he was 61 years old. He has since won a total of 162 gold medals, including two National Senior Olympic Sprint Champion titles. Interview this motivating, inspiring guest today and help your listeners truly feel young. Ask him: Why did you decide to start getting in shape at 61? How did you train yourself without having to pay fitness experts? Contact John Hurd at (850) 367-8411; jhurd@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Do a Show on the Healing Power of Music

Music is a huge part of every culture the world over. Beyond a form of entertainment, music can instantly affect our moods and bring people together. But did you know that music can also heal? John Campbell talks about the tremendous power of music to soothe the body and soul. He’ll share examples from the personal experiences of Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers responding to music. John can provide tips and advice on choosing the best music for healing, unconventional ways to bring healing music into your life, and more. An entrepreneur and musician/songwriter, John is the author of four books. His latest, “Beyond the Fading Memories: Guiding Words for Dementia Caregivers,” includes stories, advice, and lessons learned from spending six years as the primary caregiver for his mother after she was diagnosed with dementia. Contact John Campbell at (608) 975-2714; jcampbell@rtirguests.com

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