01. The Strategic Consequences of India’s COVID Crisis
02. ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Star Creates App for Mental Health
03. PBS Host on ‘Life at the Waterhole’
04. ‘Nomadland’ in Real Life
05. The 6 Biggest Myths about Sunglasses
06. Are Americans Selfish? Independence vs Common Good
07. This Therapist Says Racism is a Mental Illness
08. Will Trump Be Remembered as the Worst President?
09. Experts Fear an Early Start to Wildfire Season
10. How to Get Turned-Off Students to Tune In
11. Do a Show on Family Estrangement
12. How to Have Unstoppable Confidence … Even on Monday Mornings
13. Improve Your Mood in 5 Minutes or Less
14. The Childhood Disease You’ve Never Heard About
15. Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip
1.==> The Strategic Consequences of India’s COVID Crisis
The U.S. has committed to sending vaccines and medical supplies to help quell the horrific coronavirus surge in India, but Daniel Markey says the Biden administration needs to look at the geopolitical ramifications of the current crisis. “In the midst of immense suffering, it is tempting to assume that India’s situation could not get worse. However, the reality is that India was already facing an entirely different, daunting threat to its national security prior to this new viral wave: a year of heightened tensions and unusual levels of violence along its contested border with China.” With those issues unresolved, Markey believes the U.S. should help India there too. “The United States has a strong interest in preventing military escalation along their border. Through carefully calibrated defensive assistance to India, the United States can help it deter China without taking steps that make conflict more likely.” Daniel Markey is a senior research professor and academic director of Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies’ (SAIS) Master of Arts in global policy program. Contact him at (202) 587-3200; (202) 257-3085 (cell) or dmarkey@jhu.edu
2. ==> ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Star Creates App for Mental Health
Blondy Baruti made headlines in 2018 with his autobiography detailing his harrowing journey at the age of 10, walking over 500 miles to escape Civil War in the Congo. Blondy’s life took a dizzying turn when he earned a role in the Marvel blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2” and is an inspirational, true rags-to-riches story. This week, Blondy became a tech entrepreneur, releasing a social media platform called BePerk designed to help give users more power to decide how they want to be represented online. The actor hopes to minimize social media bullying, anxiety, and judging by allowing users full control of their content. With May as Mental Health Month, invite Blondy Baruti to share his journey, how he was inspired to create BePerk and how it works, and why it is so important to help kids and teens navigate social media. Contact James Weir at (310) 801-3490; J.T Hainje at (323) 229-1902; or Emma Telesca at (818) 390-0859
3. ==> PBS Host on ‘Life at the Waterhole’
Waterholes are vital to the African ecosystem as elephants, lions, leopards and other species meet and compete for water. Despite the growing fight for resources, little is known about how these waterholes support so much life. PBS’ new three-part series “Life at the Waterhole” takes viewers to an artificial waterhole outfitted with cameras for a glimpse at elephants, warthogs, giraffes, monkeys and big cats jostling for position. Hosted by global conservation scientist Dr. M. Sanjayan, the show reveals thirsty animals flocking to drink and scientists witnessing firsthand the importance of water as Africa’s wildlife faces the growing impact of climate change. Invite Dr. Sanjayan to share some of the most dramatic interactions, unlikely rivalries, and unexpected moments of humor. Dr. Sanjayan has hosted more than a dozen documentaries on PBS, BBC, National Geographic and more. He’s also appeared on NBC’s “Today,” “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “CBS This Morning” and numerous other shows. “Life at the Waterhole” begins May 19. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.
4.==> ‘Nomadland’ in Real Life
If you have seen “Nomadland,” the film starring Frances McDormand that won Academy Awards for best picture, best director, and best actress, or are curious about the modern-day vagabonds who played versions of themselves in the film you will want to interview Tim Winders. While McDormand’s character lived out of her van named Vanguard getting by working at temporary jobs, Tim and his wife have been living and working out of an RV named Theo since 2019; they began living a nomadic lifestyle in 2013 and have experienced communities like those depicted in the film. Although doing very well these days, Tim knows what it is like to be down and out and bounce back. At the same time, he understands the joy of finding something new around the next curve of the road. His new novel is “Coach: A Parable of Success Redefined.” He also hosts the “SeekGoCreate” podcast and is available last minute. Contact Tim at (404) 846-4639; twinders@rtirguests.com
5. ==> The 6 Biggest Myths about Sunglasses
Wearing the right sunglasses is the best defense against short-and long-term eye damage from ultraviolet rays, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons. Surprisingly, many people have no idea how to choose the right shades to keep them safe. Vision educator Linda Odubayo Thompson will share the six biggest myths that could endanger your eyesight. Ask her: what two numbers should you look for on prospective sunglasses? Will polarized lenses that look cool keep out damaging UV rays? What style of sunglasses would be your best bet? Should children wear sunglasses? Do you need sunglasses on cloudy days? Linda knows not to take her vision for granted; she has suffered from glaucoma for more than 30 years. Contact her at lthompson@rtirguests.com
6. ==> Are Americans Selfish? Independence vs Common Good
Glen Dunzweiler is an independent filmmaker, former college professor, and author who specializes in raising and debating difficult questions. For example, are Americans more inclined to fight each other than to fight the COVID-19 virus? Is the rugged independence the U.S. is known for a handicap when it comes to getting people to buy into doing what is best for the common good? How can we deal with the deeply ingrained pushback we have for authority? Just as he does with his new YouTube series, “Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler,” Glen will engage your audience in a thoughtful discussion on ways to use “good old American innovation” to turn COVID mania into something good. Contact Glen at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com
7. ==> This Therapist Says Racism is a Mental Illness
Are hate crimes a mental health problem? How about the behavior of those who make racist comments? Explore this timely controversial issue with Howard Bronson, a marriage and family therapist and author of 16 books. Bronson says we already have the means to end racist thinking through sensitivity training, but we need to coordinate. Ask him: How did we get to this place where gossip and divisiveness have gotten so out of hand? What is gossip and what is its relationship to racism? With over 40 years of therapy experience, Howard Bronson has appeared on “CBS This Morning” and NBC’s “Today” show and done more than 1,000 radio interviews. His new book is “Speak Up: How Gossip Has Transformed Racism and Misinformation into a Primary Mental Illness.” Contact him at (802) 373-2921; howard_bronson@yahoo.com
8. ==> Will Trump Be Remembered as the Worst President?
Donald Trump considers himself to have been America’s “best-ever commander-in-chief.” He even compared himself to Abraham Lincoln and other greats immortalized on Mount Rushmore. But will he be remembered as the worst? Expect intense discussion when you interview Patric Rutherford, Ph.D., about this controversy, and why he is certain that God did not want Trump to serve a second term. Dr. Rutherford has studied politics, faith, and human nature for decades and is the author of “God and President Trump Plus the Rest of Us.” Ask him: Why do you believe God allowed Trump to be elected the first time? How would God grade Trump’s years in office? What does the anti-Trump contingent get right and wrong? What five aspects of the Trump presidency, beyond even his two impeachments, ensure that Trump will get the lowest marks of anyone to occupy the White House? Contact Patric Rutherford at (786) 591-0091; prutherford@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Experts Fear an Early Start to Wildfire Season
Unseasonably warm temperatures in California are causing alarm among weather monitors who fear the conditions will result in wildfires earlier than expected. Invite James Moseley — a top expert on the dangers and causes of wildfires — to discuss ways to protect the environment, our citizens, wildlife, and the already-charred communities and woodlands in wildfire territory. Ask him: What are the most common causes of wildfires? Which states and provinces in North America are at risk again? What special actions will prevent wildfires in wetlands and forests? What have we learned from the fires that ravaged Australia? How long will it take for stricken regions to heal? Moseley is a sought-after guest who shares eye-opening information about the menace and better ways to fight it. He is the CEO of Sun FireDefense, a company offering advanced fire defense programs and products. Contact James Moseley at (818) 217-1270; jmoseley@rtirguests
10. ==> How to Get Turned-Off Students to Tune In
Many students across America are feeling disengaged and uninspired. Their schools are not deliberately creating a negative, tune-out atmosphere. So what’s happening and how can educators, administrators, coaches and parents help our centers of learning improve? Educator and author Paul Bernabei is spearheading a movement to encourage and benefit students, which ultimately boosts our nation’s future. Ask him: What has become seemingly invisible for school students these days? How has an epidemic of “I’m neither good enough nor smart enough” started attacking student populations nationwide? What easily implemented strategies will create a safe environment for students, especially during stressful times? Bernabei is the author of “Why Students Disengage in American Schools and What We Can Do About It.” Contact him at (651) 470-3827; PBernabei@rtirguests.com
11. ==> Do a Show on Family Estrangement
Is there a troubling or even unspoken estrangement lurking in your family? Perhaps siblings who no longer communicate, or parents and adult children who avoid or even openly rebuke each other? Discuss these common family dynamics with author Peter Colman, Ph.D., whose book “The Prodigal Father: A Son’s Hope-Filled Story of Love, Reconciliation and Redemption” explores how fragile family relationships can be. Dr. Colman, an educator, will reveal truths and myths about why loved ones drift apart, the regrets both sides have but may not readily admit, the power of shared faith, and his personal insights. Many listeners are sure to identify with this topic and be moved. Ask him: How do forgiveness and healing begin? What is so sacred about the bond between father and son? How do the effects and memories of wartime service impact family relationships? Contact Judith Colman at (847) 469-1886; jcolman@rtirguests.com
12. ==> How to Have Unstoppable Confidence … Even on Monday Mornings
What is it about Monday mornings that makes going back to work so hard? So anxiety-producing? Is it you? Or is it the job? Interview Jean-Paul Gravel, founder of ThroughConversation Personal Development, Inc. and Mondays will never feel the same! He will share with your audience members three simple steps to raise their confidence, conviction, and persuasiveness — important tools both at work and at home. Let Jean-Paul show them how to instantly raise their inner “value,” that intangible something that makes them stand out and others take notice. With a success rate of over 98%, Gravel has spent 15 years showing people from all walks of life including high achievers, entrepreneurs and pro athletes how to unlock their deep-seated power and potential to experience extraordinary results in business and life. Contact Olga Kniazeva at (604) 265-7469; JGravel@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Improve Your Mood in 5 Minutes or Less
Everyone has had days where everything seemed wrong, nothing worked and the thought that no one likes us has crossed our minds. What to do? Emily Thiroux-Threatt can offer ways to instantly shift your mood by paying attention to your thoughts. Feeling alone? She’ll talk about the power of making a phone call to someone who cares about you for lifting one’s spirit, flipping around your “everything is bad” mentality by creating a list of what you are grateful for and walking around with a smile on your face even though smiling is the last thing you feel like doing. Emily is the author of “Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief” and holds a master’s degree in English with a concentration in writing and taught writing and composition at the college and university level for over 30 years. Emily conducts workshops, speaking engagements, and retreats on transforming from loss to joy on the mainland of the United States and on Maui, Hawaii. Contact her at (661) 428-3610; emily@lovingandlivingyourwaythroughgrief.com
14. ==> The Childhood Disease You’ve Never Heard About
Rare. Incurable. Fatal. They are the worst words a parent can hear about their child’s health. Have you heard of Batten disease? It’s a rare group of genetic nervous system disorders (like “Parkinson’s on steroids”) that worsen over time, with children experiencing progressive problems involving vision, balance, muscle movement, intellectual skills, dementia and seizures. Learn more by interviewing prolific researcher and author Amy Proebstel, who is helping to bring awareness to the disease. You’ll learn why children get the disease, what the first symptoms are and the prognosis for those affected. Amy is the author of “The Rift in Our Reality,” a touching story of a real-life preteen girl with the disease. A portion of book sales will support Haley’s Foundation, a nonprofit named for the girl. Contact Amy Proebstel at (503) 877-1119; aproebstel@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip
As we begin moving about once again, combining the pleasures of wine and travel is becoming a possibility. Helping audiences make the most of post-pandemic wine adventures is expert guide Jim Laughren, CWE, with suggestions from how to enjoy local wineries, to where in the world we can find the “wildest” wine vacations of all. Whether you’re looking for fabulous food, incredible scenery, or amazing hospitality, all to enjoy with some gorgeous wines, Jim can steer you in the right direction. Ask him: Why should people visit Mendoza, Argentina, the Republic of Georgia and the Napa Valley? Where can you not only tour 1,500 acres of grapes but also buy a piece of the vineyard AND return for the harvest to make your own wine? The author of two short new eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com
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