01. U.S. Allies Come to Terms with New Foreign Policy
02. RFK Jr. Is Committing Public Health Malpractice
03. Memorial Day: Remember Fallen Heroes With PTSD
04. Don’t Go in the Water: America's Beach Bacteria Hotspots
05. The Best Big-City Park Systems in America
06. True Crime: One of America’s Wildest Criminal Mysteries
07. What Parents Need to Know About Artificial Intelligence
08. What if Your Mom Stole Your Boyfriend? How to Heal from a Toxic Parent
09. Want to Be Happier, Healthier, and Wealthier? Stop Procrastinating!
10. Business Expert Shares How to Really Pay Off the National Debt
11. Former Wisconsin Gov. Shares Advice for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
12. The Big Myth About Doing Your Best
13. Do a Show on the Science of Happiness: What This Doctor Learned from 40 Years in Practice
14. Interview an Intuitive Mentalist
15. Why God Isn’t Answering Your Prayers
1. ==> U.S. Allies Come to Terms with New Foreign Policy
According to Linda Robinson of the Council on Foreign Relations, two things emerged from this week’s Copenhagen Democracy Summit. The disruptive foreign policy of Donald Trump has jolted many countries into the stark realization that they must do more, quickly, to shoulder the burden of protecting and advancing democracy in the face of massive, unprecedented reductions in U.S. spending assistance and defense commitments that have anchored global security since the end of World War II. Secondly, many leaders have become increasingly vocal in rejecting the Trump administration’s apparent embrace of what Rasmussen called “might makes right” as an operating principle. She says, “Current and former officials who spoke at the gathering hope for a return to normal state-to-state diplomacy to address frictions between and among allies, including defense burden-sharing, trade deals, and critical minerals development. But they recognized that old assumptions have been shattered, and there is no room for complacency.” Robinson concludes, “While the road ahead for democracy will be hard and rocky, the Copenhagen gathering of government and industry leaders, young tech entrepreneurs, and democracy activists provided ample cause for hope.” Linda Robinson is a former foreign correspondent for “U.S. News & World Report” and senior editor at “Foreign Affairs,” Robinson provides frequent commentary on international affairs and U.S. foreign policy. Contact her at lrobinson@cfr.org
2. ==> RFK Jr. Is Committing Public Health Malpractice
Longtime epidemiologist Elizabeth Jacobs says Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is committing “public health malpractice.” She says, “There is no one thing that is problematic or falling apart right now. It is a whole number of intertwined, catastrophic events happening at once.” Jacobs expressed her concerns over measles, whooping cough, and bird flu outbreaks. “There needs to be one unified message coming from all levels of public health right now, and that message is ‘you need to get vaccinated with MMR.’ Instead, RFK Jr. is publicly lying about the vaccine,” she says. “Congress is sitting by and letting the secretary of HHS tell the world a lie, which is that the MMR vaccine contains aborted fetus debris. This is a demonstrable lie. He also lied about the vaccine being against the Mennonite religion.” She adds, “Letting anti-vax people occupy positions of power does not build trust. It is a flawed idea that is already backfiring.” Jacobs is Professor Emerita of epidemiology at the University of Arizona. Contact her at 1elizabethjacobs1@gmail.com
3. ==> Memorial Day: Remember Fallen Heroes With PTSD
Each year on Memorial Day, Americans pause to remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We gather at cemeteries, raise our flags, and share stories of heroism. But there is another group of fallen heroes we often overlook — those who died not on the battlefield, but long after the gunfire ceased, lost to the lingering wounds of post-traumatic stress. Mike Kenney of the non-profit Warriors’ Ascent says, “Memorial Day must evolve in our consciousness. It should continue to honor those killed in action, but also shine a solemn light on those who died because the war followed them home. These men and women wore the uniform, stood post and protected our freedoms. That their deaths didn’t occur in combat, but in our own hometowns and communities, makes them no less worthy of remembrance — or of action.” Kenney will also discuss the new movie “Sheepdog,” that tells the story of a veteran battling the haunting aftermath of combat and the fragility of survival when support is lacking. Lt. Col. Mike Kenny is a graduate of West Point and is the executive director of Warriors’ Ascent, which leads evidence-based retreats for veterans and first responders. Contact him at (816) 800-9276
4. ==> Don’t Go in the Water: America's Beach Bacteria Hotspots
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 5 million people get sick from swimming in contaminated water each year. With Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start to summer, the Surfrider Foundation has released its annual Clean Water Report to help keep you and your family safe at the beach. The overall findings found that 80% of the beaches tested (483 of 604) exceeded state health standards at least once in 2024, and 25% of all samples measured high bacteria levels. Stormwater runoff has long been the number one cause of beach closures and swimming advisories in the U.S. but, more frequent extreme weather events are overwhelming our wastewater systems, causing infrastructure failures and sewage spills with increasing frequency. Surfrider’s top bacteria hotspots range from Sag Harbor, New York to Miami Beach, Florida and include several California and even Hawaiian beaches. "Everyone deserves access to clean water to surf, swim, and play in. We ensure that people have access to the information they need to protect themselves and the health of their families when recreating at the beach and in our coastal waterways," explains Mara Dias, Surfrider's Water Quality Initiative Senior Manager. The Surfrider Foundation is a nonprofit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world's ocean, waves, and beaches for all people. For interviews contact the Surfrider Foundation at media@surfrider.org
5. ==> The Best Big-City Park Systems in America
Washington, DC, has been rated the nation’s best big-city park system by the 2025 ParkScore® index for the fifth year in a row, narrowly outscoring Irvine, California, Minneapolis and Cincinnati to retain the title. The annual ParkScore® index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the gold standard for park evaluation. Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, president and CEO of Trust for Public Land, says parks are a great unifier, pointing to four major US cities—Atlanta, Fort Worth, Colorado Springs, and Chicago—that have invested in parks to help bring people together and strengthen communities. “Parks bring people together and deliver enormous physical and mental health benefits for visitors,” says Hauser. “At a time when so much in our nation seems fractured or polarized, parks may be the last ideology-free zones, where everyone can come together, form meaningful relationships, and enjoy a few hours of peace and relaxation.” Other interesting park rankings include Boise defending its title as the best park system for dogs, with a nation-leading 9.0 dog parks per 100,000 residents. St. Paul received top marks for basketball hoops, Las Vegas scored best for playgrounds, and Boston earned top marks for splashpads and other water features. For more information on rankings or interviews contact Andy Orellana at (775) 391-3132; andy.orellana@tpl.org
6. ==> True Crime: One of America’s Wildest Criminal Mysteries
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
7. ==> What Parents Need to Know About Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is already a big part of our day-to-day lives. Should we be concerned that our kids have easy access to this powerful resource? Quite the opposite, argues thought leader Marc Prensky. He sees artificial intelligence and cell phones as young people’s passports to the future and the new human capabilities they will use to better the world. Invite Prensky on your show to bust the myth that cell phones make kids lazy and explain why kids need to be taught the fundamental emotional skills of love, empathy, gratitude, and optimism. Prensky is the author of 12 books, most recently “Third Millenium Kids: A Hell Yes! Low Stress Guide for Everyone.” He’s also a public speaker who’s appeared in over 50 countries. Contact Marc Prensky at (516) 701-1440; mprensky@rtirguests.com
8. ==> What if Your Mom Stole Your Boyfriend? How to Heal from a Toxic Parent
What would you do if your own mother ran away with your boyfriend? Sabrina Ciceri faced this ultimate betrayal—but refused to let it define her. In “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Mother,” she shares how she broke free from generational dysfunction, turned trauma into strength and built the loving family she never had. With raw honesty and humor, Sabrina reveals how anyone can escape toxic relationships, set firm boundaries and heal—even when forgiveness feels impossible. As a mother of six, grandmother of five and former nurse turned health advocate, she offers an inspiring take on resilience, self-care and rewriting your story. Book her for an unforgettable conversation about breaking cycles and creating the life you deserve. Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308-1596; Sciceri@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Want to Be Happier, Healthier, and Wealthier? Stop Procrastinating!
If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or that your best life is always just out of reach, there’s a scientific reason for that. Thanks to exciting breakthroughs in neuroscience, we know which parts of the brain cause procras¬tination—and how to train them to work for you instead of against you. Backed by over 25 years of university teaching and five years of research, Dr. Linda Gannaway turned her own struggles into the powerful, practical book “FINALLY Stop Procrastinating: When Nothing Else Works, Unlock Your Hidden Power to Suc¬ceed.” Whether you want to earn more, improve your health, or simply feel more fulfilled, Gannaway offers a roadmap to move forward—without the guilt and frustration. Interview her to learn how to unlock your brain’s full potential and finally achieve the results you deserve. Contact Linda Gannaway at (559) 234-4572; Lgannaway@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Business Expert Shares How to Really Pay Off the National Debt
As political strategist James Carville famously said, "It's the economy, stupid!" The U.S. economy has, indeed dominated the news for months, with concerns about the current chaos and the spiraling deficit. "The deficit grew from almost nothing just 40 years ago to now more than $34 trillion," says author and business expert Mitch Francis. "Can you picture how successful the U.S. would be if it had no deficit, no interest payments, and was required to spend no more that the taxes bring in?" While this may seem far-fetched, Mitch can share with audiences how this could actually happen. Mitch is the author of "Bad-Ass Solutions For Today's Big-Ass Problems." He has an extensive business background as founder and CEO of publicly traded and private companies and develops, owns, and manages commercial real estate across the U.S. Contact Mitch Francis at (424) 380-4561; Mfrancis@rtirguests.com
11. ==> 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
12. ==> The Big Myth About Doing Your Best
People think that doing one’s best is the key to success. But according to transformational speaker, educator, and businesswoman Rachel Rappaport, that attitude leads to “just getting by.” Instead, she says, “Do whatever it takes because doing your best is not enough! It is just a well-intentioned excuse; it is a mindset that leads to feeling stuck and creates an imaginary glass ceiling.” Alternatively, doing whatever it takes will stretch your creativity, empower you, and expand your possibilities, and give you the passion that you need to succeed in business and life. Rachel is the founder of the success-coaching program MAX! She also trained with Jack Canfield, co-author of “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” and well-known motivational coach Tony Robbins. Contact Rachel Rappaport at (848) 266-5824; rrappaport@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Do a Show on the Science of Happiness: What This Doctor Learned from 40 Years in Practice
You might think that worry, self-doubt, and complicated emotions are just a fact of life—the unavoidable side effects of growing up and achieving adulthood. But Ron Schneebaum, MD knows that not only is this NOT the case, we each have the ability to reconnect with our innate capacity for love, joy, and living a more meaningful life. “Reconnecting with our capacity for love starts with appreciating that love lives within,” Schneebaum says. “It’s part of our human birthright. We know this by exploring compassion, for compassion is love put into action.” The author of “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life,” Schneebaum draws on his decades of experience as an educator and primary care physician to prescribe common sense, practical techniques to help us break free from limiting beliefs and emotions. Contact Ron Schneebaum at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Interview an Intuitive Mentalist
Dan Bartlett will empower your audience to gain insight, clarity and direction in their lives. A Certified Metaphysical Practitioner with over 30 years of experience, he’ll reveal how to develop natural intuitive abilities to improve relationships, overcome challenges and unlock personal potential. Dan’s approachable guidance can teach your audience how to tap into their innate intuition to improve decision-making or even start their own intuitive business from home. Known for his engaging style as a Magical Mentalist, Dan can also captivate your audience with live mind-reading demonstrations. Inspire your audience with practical ways to enhance relationships, well-being and career success. Dan Bartlett is the author of “Six Easy Secrets to Psychic Success.” Contact him at (480) 841-0984; dbartlett@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Why God Isn’t Answering Your Prayers
If God can heal anyone of any issue, why do prayers go unanswered? Beatty Carmichael has discovered a simple prayer that will heal anything, no matter what your faith. The author of “The Prayer of Freedom,” has helped over 600 people overcome issues like chronic pain, migraines, anxiety, depression, addictions and more. With his simple method of prayer, he’s seen nearly 90% success in helping people get relief from these types of issues within 24 hours. Beatty has been developing, testing, and perfecting this approach to prayer for over eight years. He’ll explain how to do it with specific, step-by-step instructions and advice. He stresses that it works for anyone, no matter what their religion or depth of faith. The Prayer of Freedom seems to universally work simply because it works. Beatty comes from a family of seven generations of doctors and combines his deep understanding of faith with practical healing techniques. He’s ready to share his expertise and empower your audience to find freedom from physical issues, emotional pain and mental struggles. Beatty Carmichael is the host of the podcast Get Radical Faith with Beatty Carmichael and the author of “Life’s One Law: Nature’s Blueprint for Repeatable Success in Life and Business.” Contact him at (205) 635-4824; bcarmichael@rtirguests.com
Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com
