01. Experts Warn of AI and Deepfakes Ahead of Election
02. The Push for Biblical Citizenship
03. Don’t Compare This Moment to the ‘60s
04. Microskills That Make Your Job Easier and Career More Successful
05. True Story: Left for Dead in the Falklands
06. What Do Tommy Chong and Deepak Chopra Have in Common?
07. Why Your Parents Are Happier Than You
08. Reclassifying Weed Is a Big Deal
09. Pet Aggression: A Better Solution Than Shooting Your Dog
10. The Loss of Women’s Freedoms Will Impact Generations to Come
11. The Biggest Myths About Making a Change
12. How Creative Moms Build Careers
13. Why the Biggest Domestic Violence Myths Continue
14. ‘I Was Roofied by a Famous Athlete and Savaged on Social Media’
15. Interview the DJ Who Worked with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog and Joe Jackson
1.==> Experts Warn of AI and Deepfakes Ahead of Election
With six months to go before the general election, the media are on high alert for a technology that threatens to disrupt fair voting. AI and deepfakes are getting more sophisticated, but researchers are working on new ways to detect them. The group TrueMedia.org has created a deepfake detection tool that can analyze suspicious media and identify deepfakes over 90% of the time and is offering the technology to reporters, government officials, fact-checkers and nonprofits — from progressives to conservatives and everyone in between. “Newsroom staff is dwindling, deadlines are tighter and the avalanche of fake social media assets is growing exponentially. This is not about supporting a specific candidate or agenda — it’s about providing reporters with a state-of-the-art deepfake detection tool,” says TrueMedia.org founder Dr. Oren Etzioni. The tool allows registered users to input links from TikTok, X, Mastodon, YouTube, Reddit, Instagram, Google Drive or Facebook to test for signs of media manipulation. Dr. Oren Etzioni is a professor emeritus at the University of Washington and was the founding chief executive officer at the Allen Institute for AI. TrueMedia.org is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization focused on fighting AI-based disinformation in political campaigns by identifying manipulated media. Contact Bryce Tom at btom@rubenstein.com
2. ==> The Push for Biblical Citizenship
In Texas, a coalition of organizations called the Remnant Alliance is mobilizing congregations to take over local school boards. Invite freelance investigative journalist Steven Monacelli to discuss how religious groups are pushing biblical citizenship, encouraging pastors and congregants to view political activism as spiritual warfare —political activism as an avenue for spiritual revival. Last week, the “Texas Observer” published his reporting about the Remnant Alliance. “My story focused on Texas, but [the Alliance is] active in other states, including swing states like Pennsylvania.” According to Monacelli, the push is usually in fast-growing suburban areas around metropolitan cities, where demographics are shifting. “These places may not be completely red, so they can play a big role in state-level politics. If things shift at that level, then they can shift on a national level — and then suddenly everything looks different.” He says, “Like it or not, religion is going to be one of the main stories driving politics.” Steven Monacelli is a freelance investigative journalist in Dallas. Contact him at monacelli@texasobserver.org
3. ==> Don’t Compare This Moment to the ‘60s
Journalist and historian Rick Perlstein argues against comparing this moment on U.S. college campuses to the political unrest of the 1960s. Perlstein, who often writes about the post-1960s conservative movement, says, “[I get] requests every day asking me to compare this [moment] to 1968. But we don’t really understand what’s going on now.” Perlstein adds, “I see the militarization of policing –– in a way that was inconceivable in the 1960s –– as an exemplification of the weirdness of the moment we’re in right now. Another thing you can’t really understand [through comparison], because it didn’t exist in the same way in the 1960s, is the political weaponization of events on campus to advance the conservative goal of sabotaging liberal universities as an institution in this society.” Rick Perlstein is the author of several books including “Reaganland: America’s Right Turn 1976–1980,” as well as “Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus” and “Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America.” Contact Rick Perlstein at nixonland@gmail.com; @rickperlstein
4. ==> Microskills That Make Your Job Easier and Career More Successful
When you begin your professional journey, it can feel like there is some sort of playbook to which you aren’t privy. Lend a hand to newbies when you invite the authors of “MicroSkills” to impart advice to recent college graduates about how to enter the workforce. Dr. Adaira Landry and Dr. Resa Lewiss believe every big goal and complicated task can be broken down into small, learnable skills that can be practiced and incorporated in real time. They call them Microskills, and say they’ll make your job easier and your career more successful. Find it hard to network because you’re an introvert? Ditch awkward large-group mixers in favor of small-group dinners or even one-on-one coffees. Sick of endless Zooms? Meetings tend to expand to fill the time allotted, so book them for 45 minutes instead of an hour, and 20 minutes instead of a half. Dr. Adaira Landry and Dr. Resa Lewiss, two accomplished emergency medical physicians, wrote “MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact,” as the book they wish they’d had when they were starting out. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com; @Lissa_Warren
5.==> True Story: Left for Dead in the Falklands
Invite best-selling maritime historian Eric Jay Dolin to share the true account of five castaways stranded on the Falkland Islands during the War of 1812. Hear how misunderstandings and mistrust led to the abandonment of three British sailors and two Americans in the unforgiving terrain for a harrowing 18 months. Dolin’s latest book, “Left for Dead: Shipwreck, Treachery, and Survival at the Edge of the World,” is set against the backdrop of wartime conflicts, and reveals a spectrum of human behavior under extreme duress — depicting instances of greed, deception, and bullying juxtaposed with stellar leadership, ingenuity, and remarkable endurance. Eric Jay Dolin’s other books include “Leviathan,” “Rebels at Sea,” “Black Flags,” and “Blue Waters.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (c); johanna@jrbpr.biz or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5188
6. ==> What Do Tommy Chong and Deepak Chopra Have in Common?
Perhaps you have wondered why such people as Deepak Chopra, Gary Vee (“Crush It!”), Jack Canfield (“Chicken Soup for the Soul”), Lisa Nichols (“The Secret”), Brian Austin Green (“90210”), and Tommy Chong seemingly become more successful and happier, ultimately weathering economic and emotional storms with ease. Corey Poirier, often called the Modern-Day Napoleon Hill, has the answers. Poirier has interviewed over 7,500 of the world’s top thought leaders and his new book, “The Enlightened Passenger,” reveals the top lessons and habits he has learned during those interviews. Ask him: What are the secrets behind The Power of No, the Purpose Statement, and Vitamin P, E+R=O? How do they allow people to succeed, enjoy greater abundance, and even avoid the current mental health crises? Contact Corey Poirier at (902) 303-5544; corey@blutalks.com
7. ==> Why Your Parents Are Happier Than You
You’ve likely heard the United States has fallen to No. 23 in Gallup’s latest World Happiness Report. The unhappiest among us are the under-30 group, ranking 62 among their peers worldwide. But Americans over 60-years-old rank in the top 10 for their age group! What’s their secret? In “Breaking the Age Code,” Becca Levy argues that one key to being happier as we age is to stop worrying about old age. If you remember, for example, that many kinds of cognition actually improve with age, Levy writes, you can savor your enhanced skills. Among these are pattern recognition and the ability to think about thinking, or what’s called “metacognition.” Metacognition allows for detachment from stressful thoughts. Becca Levy is a professor of epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health and of psychology at Yale University. She is the leading authority on how beliefs about aging influence aging health. Contact her at (203) 785-2869; becca.levy@yale.edu
8. ==> Reclassifying Weed Is a Big Deal
In a remarkable move, the Drug Enforcement Administration has announced plans to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. The decision marks a major turning point in how many Americans perceive this complex plant and its place in society. The move must now undergo what is likely to be a lengthy approval process, but still, the switch is considered “paradigm-shifting and it’s very exciting,” according to Vince Sliwoski, a Portland, Oregon-based cannabis and psychedelics attorney who authors well-known legal blogs on those topics. “I can’t emphasize enough how big of news it is,” he says. Ask him what’s involved in the decision and the effect it will have on the cannabis industry. Vince is a partner in the law firm Harris Sliwoski. He is a frequent presenter and commentator on the legal aspects of controlled substance issues and has been cited by many sources over the years. Contact him at (503) 549-4636; @vince_sliwoski
9. ==> Pet Aggression: A Better Solution Than Shooting Your Dog
In her upcoming memoir “No Going Back,” South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem writes about putting her dog down because he was too aggressive. Many have expressed outrage at this violent and drastic response to her dog’s aggressive behavioral issues. Was there a better way to deal with the animal? Veterinarian Carol Osborne can discuss behavioral issues in pets, how to spot the warning signs, and the best ways to go about addressing an aggressive pet. Ask her: Can an aggressive dog be rehabilitated? How can you integrate a temperamental pet back into a home? Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian, the 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,” the “Today” show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com
10. ==> The Loss of Women’s Freedoms Will Impact Generations to Come
The recent reversal of Harvey Weinstein’s felony sex crime charges after more than 100 women accused him of sexual assault and misconduct has landed another staggering blow to women’s rights after decades of gaining ground, in a landslide that started with the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. Future generations of women are at risk of losing crucial protections if we don’t turn things around now. Learn more about this critical topic when you interview Shila Patel, M.D. An author and retired licensed psychiatrist who started her personal and professional life in a culture where women are typically treated as lesser than men, Shila brings a unique perspective to women’s rights and why we need to fight harder than ever to safeguard our children. Interview this expert guest today to discuss how the Weinstein reversal undermines the progress of the #MeToo movement (which started when women came forward against the producer), how the pandemic highlighted the need for women’s freedom, and much more. Contact Dr. Shila Patel at (229) 586-6190 or spatel@rtirguests.com
11. ==> The Biggest Myths About Making a Change
Many people mistakenly believe that lacking confidence is a sure sign that you should not do something. But leading change expert Kirsty Maynor, a woman with 25 years of experience working with more than 10,000 executives, says while it is important to believe in ourselves, the truth is that self-confidence often comes after we make the change. Among the takeaways she’ll offer: change often doesn’t require a giant leap, and it often gets messy right in the middle of things. Kirsty’s refreshingly counterintuitive message may be just what your audience members need to make the changes they have hesitated to make whether that’s starting their own business, relocating or something equally life-changing. Kirsty Maynor is an entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Firefly, a team of organizational culture change and leadership development specialists. Her new book is “Untangled: A Practical and Inspirational Guide to Change You Choose and Change You Don’t.” Contact Kirsty at kirsty.maynor@gmail.com
12. ==> How Creative Moms Build Careers
Between their kids’ activities, working full-time jobs, and managing hectic households, modern moms are busier than ever. Yet some manage to do amazing things and inspire others to do the same. Author, YouTube star, English language educator, and mom Jennifer Lebedev is one of them. She says, “Building my career online was my best choice.” By taking this route, Jennifer was able to continue her teaching career and rack up one million YouTube subscribers. Even more interesting is that she accomplished this upon turning 50. “It was a year of milestones,” she says. “And while I made time to celebrate, my happiness and self-worth were in question. I was on the verge of a midlife crisis. But instead of plunging into despair, I chose to write a book.” The result was the critically acclaimed “Being a YouTuber: One Creator’s Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers.” Jennifer can share how moms can successfully set and attain personal and professional goals. Contact Jennifer Lebedev at (617) 668-1804; jlebedev@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Why the Biggest Domestic Violence Myths Continue
Many of the realities of domestic violence, including how common it is, remain hidden in darkness and secrecy. Without understanding, many people believe that women should “just leave” their abusers. The reality is that leaving is not that simple for many trapped in abusive relationships. Phoenix Rose understands that reality on a personal level. She shares her story with your audience on escaping a violent relationship and rebuilding her life and offers real, actionable advice for people to help themselves or their loved ones do the same. The author of “Walking in Aloha: 5 Steps to Living Your God Potential Life,” Phoenix provides secure, empowering steps for women that will help them break free and achieve a stronger, more purposeful life. She’ll also discuss the unseen reasons women stay with those who hurt them, what domestic violence victims have in common with their abusers, why the occurrence of domestic violence spiked drastically during the pandemic, and much more. Contact Phoenix Rose at (808) 201-2784 or prose@rtirguests.com
14. ==> ‘I Was Roofied by a Famous Athlete and Savaged on Social Media’
Susie Bell was newly divorced, had just left the Mormon faith, and was working as a nurse in Las Vegas when she met a famous baseball player who would turn her life upside down. “He approached me at the gym and asked me to get together sometime,” she says. “I had tickets to the opening of a nightclub and invited him along. I had some wine and the room was spinning. I woke up at his house at 5 a.m. to him raping me.” While she reported the incident to authorities, they declined to seek criminal charges and the MLB star launched a public campaign of terror, repeatedly trashing her on social media. Susie can share the harrowing details, along with the challenges she faced after leaving Mormonism. She is the author of the upcoming book “A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine & Men.” Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Interview the DJ Who Worked with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog and Joe Jackson
While growing up on the rough streets of Compton, Calif., Damon Grayson could have become just another sad statistic. But thanks to his love of music, combined with his irrepressible can-do spirit, he managed to become a successful DJ known as DMG, who worked with such superstars as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, Joe Jackson and many others. “Not only was music a form of therapy for me, the self-confidence of those who rose up from my same background to become highly successful was a great inspiration to me,” he says. Damon is an entrepreneur, relationship counselor, single dad to three boys and author of the inspirational book for women “When His Ways Meet Yours: When You Love You He Will Follow Suit.” Contact Damon Grayson at (760) 490-0656; dgrayson@rtirguests.com
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