01. How Drugs Change the Abortion Battle
02. Dangers of the So-called ‘Zombie Drug’
03. Why the Highest U.S. Marginal Tax Rate Is Too Damn Low
04. For Earth Day: Endangered Species or Nuance? The Gray Wolf
05. Green Exercise: Why You Should Take Your Workout Outdoors
06. Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Her Wrongful Conviction and More
07. Why You Should Ask for a Raise Now
08. April Is Financial Literacy Month: The Cost of Aging Parents
09. The Brain Science Behind ‘Sticky Ideas’ and ‘Brain Glue’
10. Top Psychic Reveals What to Expect This Spring
11. You’re Not as Messed Up as You Think!
12. Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All
13. Do a Show on the Healing Power of Music
14. Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?
15. Yes, You Can Buy Love
1. ==> How Drugs Change the Abortion Battle
The future of abortion — both the practice and the legal fight over it — will increasingly revolve around prescription drugs. Both abortion supporters and opponents understand how important medication abortion has become. “The fact that pills can be mailed is an existential crisis for the anti-abortion movement,” says Rachel Rebouche, a leading scholar in reproductive health law and family law. “It’s hard to police. It’s hard to track. It’s difficult to enforce.” She can explain recent dueling law opinions on abortion drugs, how drug companies are reacting, and what’s likely to happen next. Rachel Rebouche is the dean of Temple University’s law school, the author of “Governance Feminism: An Introduction” and an editor of “Governance Feminism: Notes from the Field.” Contact her at (215) 204-1550; rebouche@temple.edu
2. ==> Why Is the ‘Zombie Drug’ So Dangerous?
On Twitter, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) recently called xylazine a “zombie” drug that can cause “flesh-rot.” This week the Biden administration called the street drug combination of fentanyl spiked with the animal tranquilizer an “emerging threat,” the first time the U.S has declared a drug as such since a 2018 federal bill enabled the new category. Claire Zagorski, a paramedic and harm reductionist supporting overdose response programming and research at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy’s PhARM Program, says xylazine isn’t like the usual drugs that cause fatal overdoses. “Xylazine is different. On its own, it’s not immediately or rapidly killing people. Instead, it’s creating noxious, longer-acting, poorly understood harms. In particular, xylazine is known to cause wounds of unknown etiology.” The Office of National Drug Policy will now seek $11 million to help create a strategy to stop its spread, develop an antidote and research how it has gotten into the drug supply. Contact Claire Zagorski at claire.zagorski@austen.utexas.edu
3. ==> Why the Highest U.S. Marginal Tax Rate Is Too Damn Low
With Tax Day just around the corner, economist Sylvia Allegretto says it’s a good time to put post-WWII top marginal tax rates into context. “Many find it hard to believe that the top rate was 91% during the Eisenhower years. No, that didn’t mean that high earners paid a 91% tax on all of their income,” she says. She’ll explain what the rates really mean, why they’ve only fluctuated a few percentage points over the past three decades, and what that is doing to our communities. “Current tax structures starve investments in our aging infrastructure and other public goods like health care, education, childcare, and veteran care,” she says. “While no single tax change can solve the issue of fairness and revenue for things both needed and nice, progressive tax changes across corporate, capital gains, personal income, estates, and wealth together can change the landscape of the country.” She adds, “Inequality continues to soar and the richest Americans and corporations are not paying their fair share.” Sylvia Allegretto is a senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. Contact her at allegretto@cepr.net or Dan Beeton at (202) 293-5380, ext. 104; beeton@cepr.net
4. ==> For Earth Day: Endangered Species or Nuance? The Gray Wolf
Following a February 10, 2022, court order, gray wolves in the contiguous 48 states and Mexico – with the exception of the Northern Rocky Mountain population – are now protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). After being nearly eradicated in the 1990s, the gray wolf has made an astonishing comeback in Washington State, delighting conservationists but infuriating ranchers. Eli Francovich is a journalist who covers the environment, conservation, and outdoor recreation in Washington for the “Spokesman-Review,” the state’s second-largest newspaper. For Francovich, there is perhaps no better metaphor for the fundamental tension in contemporary American behavior. Invite him to discuss the deep social and political struggles at the core of this debate over the endangered species and whether there is a solution that will appease both parties—and perhaps mend an ever-widening division in American culture. Eli Francovich’s new book is “The Return of Wolves: An Iconic Predator’s Struggle to Survive in the American West.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099; johanna@jrbpr.biz or johanna@jrbcomm.com
5. ==> Green Exercise: Why You Should Take Your Workout Outdoors
Research suggests that moving your workout outside can be a simple way to magnify its benefits, not only for thinking but also health, happiness, fitness and motivation — a timely message as springtime temperatures rise, leaves bud, days lengthen and the outdoors beckons. A new, small study of the neurological effects of “green exercise” — meaning physical activity done in nature — finds a short, leafy stroll improves working memory and concentration substantially more than completing the same brief walk inside. For the new study, Katherine Boere, a neuroscience doctoral candidate at the University of Victoria, and her colleagues gathered 30 college students, tested their working memory and ability to focus, and on alternate days, had them walk for about 15 minutes inside a building or outside on leaf-canopied paths, before repeating the cognitive tests. On most measures, the outside walk easily trumped the indoor version with students concentrating better and responding faster. According to one widely held theory, the natural world encourages even the jumpiest among us to relax and let our whirring brains quiet. Nature provides what scientists call “soft fascination,” she says — it holds our attention without demanding constant intellectual processing. Our overtaxed attention can reset, and afterward, we can concentrate and reason more readily. “That’s why,” she says, she and her co-authors titled their new study, “Exercising Is Good for the Brain But Exercising Outside Is Potentially Better.” Contact Katherine Boere at katherineboere@uvic.ca
6. ==> Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Her Wrongful Conviction and More
Rita Ali was a distinguished Philadelphia socialite and among the few African American women boxing PR professionals who hobnobbed with such famous fighters as Muhammad Ali, Michael Spinks, and Mike Tyson, who is now her son-in-law. Then it all came crashing down in 2004 when she — along with her daughter and son — was indicted on charges of funneling public funds through a partnership between the Sister Clara Muhammad School and the Community College of Philadelphia. The defendants were convicted and imprisoned for profiting off of a ghost employee scam to provide adult education classes, but Ali has maintained her innocence throughout and describes it all as “the federal plot to take down my family and me.” Ali, who served four and half years in federal custody says, “I was convicted and sentenced three times on virtually the same charges for a crime I didn’t commit, which amounted to triple jeopardy.” Rita Ali is the author of “Triple Jeopardy: 3 Strikes But Not Out,” and a life coach and founder of the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Contact Rita Ali at (917) 312-5729; rali@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Why You Should Ask for a Raise Now
Experts may not agree on who holds the balance of power in the post-COVID world of salary negotiations, but Cindy Watson says if you’ve been thinking about asking for a raise, right now may be a good time to do it. The master negotiator says, “The first quarter is under everyone’s belt with a clearer sense of what the rest of the year holds. It’s a great time to take stock of where you are in your employment relationship and set the groundwork for where you want to be.” Watson, the author of “The Art of Feminine Negotiation,” says, “Be bold! Ask for a meeting to discuss next steps and do your preparation to build a case for your value.” Her tips include creating a “brag list” of everything you bring to the table (Pro Tip: be sure to include past, present and future anticipated contributions), checking out comparable salaries in your organization and industry, and getting clarity about what you want. Watson also suggests considering the FULL compensation package and beyond (not just salary.) Cindy Watson is the founder of Women On Purpose, creator of the Art of Feminine Negotiation programs and a women’s empowerment coach. She’s also an attorney specializing in social justice law. Contact her at (705) 646-3851; cindy@womenonpurpose.ca
8. ==> April Is Financial Literacy Month: The Cost of Aging Parents
Fidelity estimates that it costs a healthy senior couple more than $300,000 just for their health care during retirement. If one of them becomes seriously ill, the costs mushroom and Medicare doesn’t cover everything. April is Financial Literacy Month and Leonie Rosenstiel says it’s a good time to ask yourself a few key questions: Do your parents have that amount in total assets, let alone in a dedicated account? Do you even know? Originally a classical violinist, Rosenstiel earned a master’s degree in public health after her mother, a retired professor with dementia, was put in a conservatorship, with dire results. The founder of Dayspring Resources, Rosenstiel now educates families about the real cost of taking care of aging parents and how to withstand what can be a difficult journey. She’ll offer a realistic look at where money goes and the various reasons why even adult children who believe they are in line for an inheritance may be in for a shock. Contact Leonie Rosenstiel at (505) 317-2405; leonie@DayspringResources.com
9. ==> The Brain Science Behind ‘Sticky Ideas’ and ‘Brain Glue’
Your audience will discover an unexpectedly easy way to boost popularity for themselves, their ideas, and their products while leveling up their potential, and skyrocketing their sales and profits when you interview Jim Bond. As one of America’s leading behavioral management specialists and the author of “Brain Glue,” which Jack Canfield has called, “Mind-blowing … Clearly, one of the most valuable persuasion books I have ever experienced,” Jim reveals the brain science method for making your ideas “sticky” that leads to prospects saying yes to your products, ideas, and more. Thousands of entrepreneurs and big businesses have used Jim’s simple secret to boost the power of social media posts and marketing efforts and achieve blockbuster success. Jim can talk about the ice cream maker who used a surprising twist to explode sales, how Marilyn Monroe’s beauty mark made her famous, the Utah couple who went from zero to $100 million in 18 months, how people like Kurt Cobain, Snoop Dogg, Warren Buffett, and Malcolm X used “brain glue” type phrases that made them stand out from the crowd and more. Contact Jim Bond at (805) 424-8611; jbond@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Top Psychic Reveals What to Expect This Spring
Spring has sprung. Want to know what it has in store for you and yours? Find out when you interview Ann Johnson, a frequent media guest and top psychic based in New York. Over her career, she has read the fortunes of thousands of clients and helped them discover answers to their questions about relationships, health, wealth, and careers. Ann can provide instant personality analysis, relationship advice, and more. Her abilities and services have been covered by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone” magazine, who said, “She has a unique gift for connecting with people.” Ann is the author of “Facing Forward: A Memoir About Choices, Intuition, and Insights in a Show Busy Life.” Contact Ann Johnson at (516) 862-4405; ajohnson@rtirguests.com
11. ==> You’re Not as Messed Up as You Think!
Many people get trapped in a seemingly never-ending cycle of low self-esteem and are convinced that they are stuck in their limitations. They turn to self-judgment, self-abuse, poor choices and believing lies about themselves. But psychologist/author Dr. Adriana Popescu says it’s possible to stop the inner critic and stop feeling bad about yourself. “Over the last 25 years, I’ve worked with thousands of people, empowering them to overcome their imagined limitations, release their self-judgments and discover the brilliance within − creating a life of infinite possibilities,” she says. Adriana is a licensed clinical psychologist, addiction and trauma specialist, speaker, thought leader and empowerment coach. She’s the author of “What If You’re Not as F***ed Up As You Think You Are? How We Come to Believe Lies About Ourselves and What We Can Do to Change Them.” Contact her at (415) 707-5054; Apopescu@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All
Many people struggle with worry and stress on a day-to-day basis. What if you could let go of the burden of worry and enjoy peace every day, regardless of what’s happening in your life? Certified life coach and author Valerie Galloway can help your audience stop worrying and start living. Whether you’re struggling with grief, a major life change, addiction or dependency, or concerned that your future prospects seem less than bright, Valerie will empower you to tap into your own internal resources and trade worry for wonder and joy. Learn how to accomplish personal goals, improve relationships, and move forward with confidence by unlocking your potential when you interview this powerful and inspiring guest! A certified ICF coach with a bachelor’s degree in community health and a master’s degree in social science, Valerie is the author of “Steal, Kill & Destroy: A Spiritual Guide to Overcoming Addiction and Loss.” Contact Valerie Galloway at (917) 994-8841; vgalloway@rtirguests.com
13. ==> 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 us body and soul. He’ll share examples from personal experience 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 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
14. ==> Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?
Growing up in a highly dysfunctional broken home, author Tressa Mitchener became a single teenage mother and drug dealer who was facing a 30-years-to-life sentence in federal prison. But thanks to her strong belief in a higher power, her sentence was miraculously reduced to five years, and she went on to earn a B.A. in psychology, become a respected Christian counselor and best-selling author, and marry her dream man. She credits her newfound faith for enabling her to dramatically turn her life around. “While I was in prison, I was strongly focused on God,” she says. “He was giving me instructions and guiding me. My mind began to change. I became a change-maker for others.” Tressa shared her incredible story on “The 700 Club,” and can reveal how anyone can transform his or her life through faith. She is the author of “Looking Out from the Inside: The United States v. Tressa Oliva Parker.” Contact Tressa at (919) 582-5992; Tmitchener@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Yes, You Can Buy Love
Sure, the Beatles said that “money can’t buy me love” and most of us assume that the Beatles knew what they were singing about. But according to Barry Shore, you can buy love — the real, authentic good stuff — as long as you apply his simple ASK formula. Let Barry, a former quadriplegic turned happiness expert, share the three things you need to do so that “in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” Shore’s mission is spreading the joy of being alive no matter what adversities people face. He hosts The Joy of Living radio program and podcast and has been featured in or appeared on “O Magazine,” Fox, NBC, ABC, and Forbes. Contact him at (310) 770-4685; barry@barryshore.com
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