4/22/2025 RTIR Newsletter: Pope Francis’ Legacy, National Park Week, Lyrid Meteor Showers



01. For Easter: How to Rediscover Religious Joy
02. Ask This Catholic Priest: Can Souls Get Stuck on Earth?
03. Eggs, Candy and a Basket: The History of the Easter Bunny
04. True Crime: Plane Crash, Faked Death, and 23 Aliases
05. Wonder Woman, Cher, Frasier: Iconic TV Memorabilia for Sale
06. After IVF Nightmares, Patients Have few Protections
07. The Shocking Truth about Modern Nursing: What Hospital’s Don’t Want You to Know
08. Former Wisconsin Gov. Shares Advice for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
09. DEI for White Guys: Lessons From a White Dad With Black Kids
10. Collaboration Over Conflict: The Secret to Leadership Success
11. You Were Born to Self-Sabotage - How to Turn the Trait Off
12. Healing After Goodbye: Taking Care of Yourself When a Relationship Ends
13. Meet an 87-Year-Old Trying to Create a Guinness World Book Record
14. How a Former FEMA Spokesman Became an Internet Humor Sensation
15. The Difference Between Hope and Optimism


1. ==> For Easter: How to Rediscover Religious Joy

The most important holiday in Christianity is this Sunday, when the faithful celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. But what happens when you can't tap into the joy of the message and you feel like faith has become more duty and obligation than gratitude and adoration? Biblical worldview is at a 30-year low and organized religion has experienced consistent declines since COVID, which means you're not alone in feeling less joy. Bring Pastor Walter Hill on your show to inspire your audience and rekindle their fading faith and find joy again. Ask him: Why do you think the longer people attend church the less happy they seem? Why do people grow so weary as they try and follow Jesus? Why do so many get so little satisfaction from the ministry offered to them at their local church? Why do so many Christians struggle to find peace and their joy? Walter Hill, a US Navy veteran, has served in leadership roles at several congregations. He’s also a songwriter, musician and the author of “Amazed Again: Reclaiming Christ’s Joy in a Fading World.” Contact Marianna Gibson at marianna@jonesliterary.com

2. ==> Ask This Catholic Priest: Can Souls Get Stuck on Earth?

Christians are celebrating the promise of life after death this Easter, but can a soul get stuck here on earth after the body dies? Father Nathan Castle has helped 500 “stuck" — and not-so-stuck souls who died suddenly and traumatically adjust to the afterlife. Victims of fires, automobile accidents, shootings, stabbings, drownings - and suicides - come to him in his dreams seeking help to resolve their Interrupted Death Experiences.™ Father Nathan believes that providing such help is something the Holy Spirit has given him and his prayer partners to do. Father Nathan is quick to point out that not everyone who dies suddenly gets stuck. Ask him: Is death survivable? What does he do to help people cross over? Does time exist in the afterlife? Do deceased relatives help us adjust to moving through our deaths? In his third book, “Afterlife Interrupted: Please Let Me Explain," Father Nathan shares the stories of those whose afterlife experiences might help explain questions people have about what happens after we survive our deaths. Father Nathan Castle is celebrating his 40th Ordination Anniversary this year as a Dominican Priest. He hosts the podcast The Joyful Friar. Contact Father Castle at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Eggs, Candy and a Basket: The History of the Easter Bunny

Parents are dyeing eggs and making baskets as they get ready for their annual Easter celebrations. But did you ever wonder how a rabbit handing out eggs became the face of the holiest day in Christianity? Cultural anthropologist Tok Thompson says the hare has a long association with spring and Easter, with folklore dating back centuries, often with pagan influences. Thompson can discuss the earliest German and English Easter traditions that involved rabbits and eggs, and how German immigrants brought the story of the Easter Bunny to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, or at least an early iteration of the story. Hear how the Easter Bunny became a symbol of joy and new beginnings, despite its ancient origins. Tok Thompson is an anthropologist at the University of Southern California who has extensively studied folklore and cultural symbols. Contact him at (213) 740-5195; tokthomp@usc.edu

4. ==> True Crime: Plane Crash, Faked Death, and 23 Aliases

Over a span of 39 years, 23 aliases, 28 arrests in 20 cities, and nearly a dozen imprisonments, Robert Spears lived a con artists' life of unparalleled adventure and intrigue. Buckle up and get ready for one of the great true crime stories of our time when you interview Jerry Jamison, the author of “Vanishing Act: A Crashed Airliner, Faked Death, and Backroom Abortions.” Meticulously researched for years, Jamison shares the complete and shocking story that until now, has never been told. It begins shortly before Thanksgiving Day in 1959 when a plane explodes in mid-air, killing all 42 passengers and crew and leaving scattered debris and bodies across the otherwise tranquil Gulf waters. Listed on the manifest was Dr. Robert Spears—once the highly regarded president of the Texas Naturopathic Association. But less than two months later, Spears miraculously “rose from the dead” in Phoenix and authorities discovered he'd cleverly switched identities by persuading a friend to fly with his plane ticket and asked him to carry “a package” on board. Spears then drove away in his buddy’s car with his wallet and driver’s license. As the FBI began to investigate, they uncovered a stunning, mind-bending tale of murder, abortion rings, and false identities, as well as insurance scams and investment fraud that stretched over decades. Jerry Jamison is an award-winning advertising copywriter and the author of dozens of novels. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

5. ==> Wonder Woman, Cher, Frasier: Iconic TV Memorabilia for Sale

Fans and collectors of TV memorabilia have an opportunity to own a piece of television history when an extraordinary collection of over 600 props, costumes, set pieces, production materials, and more goes up for auction next month. Julien Auction’s "Channel Surfing" chronicles 60 years of television's most iconic moments. Highlights of the auction include the original Americana uniform bodysuit worn by Lynda Carter in her iconic role as Wonder Woman, along with her tiara, earrings, "Lasso of Truth" prop, and knee-high boots and iconic set pieces and props from sitcom classics like "Cheers," including the original bar front door and barstools, and "Frasier," featuring Frasier Crane's penthouse sofa and Café Nervosa table and chairs. Also up for grabs are the instantly recognizable couch from the long-running comedy "Roseanne" and many of the iconic Bob Mackie-designed costumes for Cher. Other props and costumes up for auction include Carole Burnett’s TV wardrobe and items from “Star Trek,” “Breaking Bad,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” and “Lost in Space.” The auction will be held live and online on Wednesday, May 7th and Thursday, May 8th. For interviews contact Mozell Miley-Bailey at (646) 653-3105; mozell@homagepr.com or info@juliensauctions.com

6. ==> After IVF Nightmares, Patients Have few Protections

For families having children via in vitro fertilization, trust in those providing care should be the highest priority. But many families have discovered they were victims of medical malpractice and negligence. A recent NBC News analysis found hundreds of lawsuits over five years alleging that embryos were lost, destroyed or swapped by fertility clinics or companies. Attorney Andrew Rader can discuss the unregulated behaviors in the IVF field, his experiences in related cases and how you can protect yourself. Rader has devoted his career to personal injury law, medical malpractice, and reproductive rights. He is an attorney and founder of the Rader Law Group LLC. Contact Adrienne Mazzone at (561) 908-1683; amazzone@transmediagroup.com


7. ==> The Shocking Truth about Modern Nursing: What Hospital’s Don’t Want You to Know

One day, nurse Kathy Allan happened to look out the window of her hospital to see a new mother and her infant being discharged – by a cleaning lady dressed in scrubs. The trouble was, only nurses should wear scrubs and only nurses can discharge patients. When Allan began asking questions, the hospital administration threatened her job. “I knew then that the fix was in and the con was on,” Allan says. Our for-profit healthcare system betrays patients and abuses caregivers. Nurses are overworked, exhausted, and are almost 20% more likely to die by suicide. As a 60-year nurse veteran, Allan not only knows all about these systemic ills, she can also discuss solutions which effectively address burnout and exhaustion, improve workplace relationships and professional boundaries, and strengthen policies that reduce the risk of medical errors. She is the founder of Gutsy Nurses, an organization dedicated to restoring the ethical practice of nursing as well as the sacred trust patients place in their caregivers. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; Kallan@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Former Wisconsin Gov. Shares Advice for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

When Martin J. Schreiber first ran for public office in 1962, his wife, Elaine, was his hardest working campaigner and biggest support system. But when Elaine was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the mid-2000s, their roles began to reverse, and Martin gradually found himself in the position of caregiver. In his book “My Two Elaines: Learning, Coping, and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver” the former Wisconsin governor writes about his experience caring for Elaine, which he did for nearly 20 years from her diagnosis to her death in 2022. He also explains in poignant detail what it was like to grieve someone who was still alive and how he let go of the wife he knew so that he could embrace the wife he came to know. He’ll also offer advice for other caregivers. “I think one of the things that is most important for caregivers and friends of the person who’s ill is to understand that if Alzheimer’s is bad, ignorance of the disease is worse,” says Martin. To arrange interviews with Martin J. Schreiber contact mkrause999@gmail.com


9. ==> DEI for White Guys: Lessons From a White Dad With Black Kids

Rick Patterson didn’t grow up talking or even thinking about diversity and inclusion—but raising four Black children opened his eyes to racial bias and prejudice in ways, as a white man, he never expected. A former evangelical pastor turned corporate leader, he understands why some white people struggle with DEI—and why others see it as essential. Now, he’s on a mission to help both sides hear and understand each other. Through his training, “DEI for the White Guy,” Rick shares real-world insights on how to move beyond defensiveness and division to create workplaces and communities where people truly listen, learn and lead with impact. The author of “Shame Unmasked” and “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth,” he offers a refreshing, no-nonsense take on race, bias and prejudice—challenging old mindsets and sparking real change. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; Rpatterson@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Collaboration Over Conflict: The Secret to Leadership Success

Conflict is everywhere—in the office, at home and in our communities. But what if you could prevent disputes before they even arise? Samuel Bentil, a global project planning and dispute resolution expert, reveals the surprising strategies that turn potential disagreements into constructive and productive conversations. Whether you're a leader managing a team, a parent navigating family dynamics or someone looking to improve daily interactions, Samuel’s proven conflict-prevention methods will help you establish trust, reduce tension and build stronger relationships in every area of life. Book Samuel to help your audience master tough conversations, even with difficult people, and discover why communication—not control—is the key to lasting harmony. He has helped businesses, families and communities prevent disputes before they start. Ready to help your audience create more peace in their lives? Contact Samuel at (778) 656-0067; Sbentil@rtirguests.com

11. ==> You Were Born to Self-Sabotage - How to Turn the Trait Off

We are all born with a self-sabotage trait and it holds many people back from their dreams. Philip Agrios discovered an antidote that turns it off for good. According to self-sabotage specialist, business consultant, bestselling author, and international speaker Philip Agrios, there’s really only one thing standing between us and the life we want to live—ourselves. After decades of research and personal experience, Agrios has discovered a mechanism he calls the Inborn Sabotaging Trait. He’s here to tell your listeners how to identify this mechanism and shut it off. Ask him: Why do people self-sabotage? What are the signs of self-sabotage? Is self-sabotage the same as fear of success? Can parents identify the trait in children? Philip Agrios, DC, DACBSP, teaches a technique called the T-NOW Method to ensure lasting personal and professional success. According to Agrios, this method works as well for imposter syndrome as it does procrastination. Contact him at (848) 337-5018; Pagrios@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. ==> Meet an 87-Year-Old Trying to Create a Guinness World Book Record

Some people think that getting older means slowing down. Then there are other people, like David Selley, whose levels of ambition outmatch the most manic 20-year-old. In addition to launching his new “Famous 50” publishing series, Selley is on a quest to create a new Guinness World Record: Oldest Author to Publish the Most Books in One Year – and to do that he plans on publishing up to fifteen books by year’s end! (Four of which are already available on Amazon.) Selley is an entrepreneur through and through, having had success as a restauranteur, real estate developer, and in sales and senior management for companies like Revlon and Lancome. He is the founder of the International Entrepreneurs Association and continues to live up to his motto: “I Aspire to Inspire Before I Expire.” Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; Dselley@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How a Former FEMA Spokesman Became an Internet Humor Sensation

In terms of career reinventions, W.G. “Bill” Williams has been there and done that. He ran his own consulting business in Washington, D.C. for twenty years, was a registered lobbyist, became the first director of News and Information for FEMA, and registered to become a financial advisor. Despite all that, all Williams really wants to be remembered for is making people smile. “I started sending out a humorous daily email in the 1990s to get my sales staff to read their emails,” Williams says. “It worked.” Decades later, Williams has compiled thousands of these jokes and humorous stories, leading to his most recent book, “20 Years of Internet Humor…and Other Interesting Things.” Have Williams on for a fun show to discuss quirky things like cat baptisms and the perils of AAADD: Age-Activated Attention Deficit Disorder. He can even tell stories about his old college friend, who went on to become the famous musician, John Denver. Contact W.G. “Bill” Williams at (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Difference Between Hope and Optimism

In conversation, hope and optimism can often be used interchangeably, but Kendra Thomas says there’s an important gap between them. While optimism can rely on a sense of luck over action, hope is a mindset that helps people endure challenges, tackle them head-on and keep their eyes on the goal. Psychological studies have found that hope is stronger than optimism at predicting academic success and people’s ability to cope with pain, and scientific evidence suggests it can even improve health and boost well-being. But Thomas says it has benefits beyond the self. Centuries of spiritual and philosophical work describe hope as a virtue that, like love, is a decision, not a feeling. She’ll discuss how hope can grow out of adversity and ways people embody hope, often without expectations of personal success. Thomas studies “virtuous hope” in a South African Zulu community that has little reason for optimism. Kendra Thomas is an associate professor of psychology at Hope College. Contact her at (616) 395-7716; thomas@hope.edu




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