01. The Twin Crises of Israel
02. Affirmative Action for Rich Kids
03. What ‘Oppenheimer’ Leaves Out
04. How Pets at Work Make a Business Better
05. Do a Show for Fans of TV’s ‘Bones’
06. Want to Be a Mermaid? There’s a School for That
07. Why Extreme Heat Hits the Elderly Harder
08. Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Starting Over After Prison
09. Veteran Journalist Charles Glass Shares Story of War Poets
10. Mental Illness Derailed This Hollywood Starlet’s Career
11. Want to Start a Nonprofit? The Pros, Cons and Alternatives
12. She Teaches Women to Stand Up and Speak Out
13. Tips to Battle Weight Creep at Any Age
14. Why Chasing Dreams Is a Losing Proposition
15. Meet the World’s-Best Laugher
1. ==> The Twin Crises of Israel
Mass protests and strikes rocked Israel this week in the face of the hard-right government’s decision to push through a controversial legal reform weakening the powers of the Supreme Court. But Abba Solomon says the country is actually facing twin crises. “The crisis of a right-wing authoritarian takeover of Israel’s government is parallel to the permanent crisis of Israel’s Jewish supremacist rule over Palestine.
So far, the mass Israeli Jewish movement to protect democracy does not overlap with the Palestinian movement for democracy in Israel/Palestine.” Solomon adds, “A common criticism of Israel has been that the ‘Jewish and democratic’ state is democratic for Jews and Jewish for Arabs. This pro-democracy movement in Israel may force the contradictions in Israel/Palestine to a point of clarity.” Abba Solomon is the author of two books on Zionism, “The Miasma of Unity: Jews and Israel” and “The Speech, and Its Context: Jacob Blatstein’s Speech, The Meaning of Palestine Partition to American Jews.” Contact her at abbasolomon@gmail.com
2. ==> Affirmative Action for Rich Kids
Affirmative action for minority kids may now be dead, but a blockbuster new study finds that affirmative action for rich kids is alive and well. The study — by Opportunity Insights, a group of economists based at Harvard who study inequality — quantifies for the first time the extent to which being very rich is its own qualification in selective college admissions. Economists found that they may or may not always do it on purpose, but a group of the most prestigious private colleges in America is handing a massive admissions advantage to rich kids over less affluent kids — even when they have the same SAT scores and academic qualifications. They found three factors that gave rich kids the admissions boost: legacy programs, athletic recruitment and the fact that they are more likely to have participated in non-academic, extracurricular activities. Invite Raj Chetty to discuss the findings and share his ideas to promote both racial and socioeconomic diversity that may survive judicial scrutiny. Chetty is the William A. Ackman professor of economics at Harvard University and the director of Opportunity Insights. Contact him at chetty@opportunityinsights.org
3. ==> What ‘Oppenheimer’ Leaves Out
Christopher Nolan’s film “Oppenheimer” is a huge hit, doubling box office projections for its opening weekend. The movie is based on the life of the controversial “father of the atomic bomb,” J. Robert Oppenheimer. Thomas Reifer says the film raises many important issues, none more urgent than the vast increase in destructive power that came with the making of atomic and then thermonuclear weapons. “Unfortunately, the film doesn’t take the time to go into the period of U.S. testing of the H-Bomb, which along with the earlier atomic explosions, spread radioactive waste, and led to the infamous Lucky Dragon incident.” Invite Reifer on your show and hear how the latter hydrogen bombs were 1,000 times more powerful than those dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, what happened when the U.S. exploded an H-bomb at Bikini Atoll in the South Pacific, and why the powers that be went ahead with the bomb project, despite concerns that it might ignite the atmosphere and destroy the world. Reifer is a professor of sociology at the University of San Diego and an associate fellow at the Transnational Institute. Contact him at reifer@sandiego.edu
4. ==> How Pets at Work Make a Business Better
Has your workplace gone to the dogs? Maybe it should! Some of the most successful companies in the world welcome therapy dogs on their premises, like Google, Amazon and Ben & Jerry’s. Then there’s Build-a-Bear Workshop, which has Milford the chief dog, and P&G Petcare, which “employs” Euka as vice president of canine communications. Larry Grogan helps companies implement full-time pet therapy programs. He says it’s good for employees and business. “Pet therapy has been medically proven to reduce blood pressure, lower heart rates, reduce anxiety and increase mental alertness all at the same time,” he says. “It also increases productivity, boosts morale and encourages teamwork.” An author and pet therapy advocate, Grogan founded Delta Omega Gamma to help companies utilize pet therapy properly. Grogan has seen firsthand how pets can work wonders for people struggling with mental and physical health issues. He and his tiny dog Scrappy were a pet therapy team for eight years at a children’s hospital where they worked with thousands of children. Contact him at (423) 557-1908; larrygrogan5@gmail.com
5. ==> Do a Show for Fans of TV’s ‘Bones’
Kathy Reichs’ best-selling book series featuring Temperance “Bones” Brennan was the inspiration for Fox TV’s longest-running scripted drama. Bring the author and certified forensic anthropologist on your show and discuss “Bones,” how the series and forensic anthropology in general have changed over the past two decades, and what’s in store for Tempe in the 22nd installment, “The Bone Hacker.” The new book has a ripped-from-the-headlines plot and offers an electrifying tale of murder, intrigue, and cutting-edge technology. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Briana Caywood at (703) 646-5188
6. ==> Want to Be a Mermaid? There’s a School for That
Mermaids have always fascinated us but Disney’s recent remake of “The Little Mermaid” has “mermaiding” (the art of swimming with mermaid fins and tails) growing in popularity across the globe. Marielle Henault of Montreal says it’s a fun activity for everyone. “When you put your mermaid tail on at the beach or pool, you become a superstar,” she says. “Kids and adults — everybody’s happy to see a mermaid!” A love of mermaiding led to Henault’s opening the AquaMermaid School in 2015. Today it’s the world’s largest mermaid swimming school with over 10 locations across Canada and the U.S. The school offers mermaid swim lessons, certification, mermaid tail rentals, mermaid apparel (seashell bras, silicone and fabric tails, monofins and T-shirts) and mermaid performer bookings. Henault can discuss the lore of mermaids, and what’s involved in mermaid training, and share real behind-the-scenes mermaid stories. Contact Marielle Chartier Hénault at (514) 601-2808; info@aquamermaid.com
7. ==> Why Extreme Heat Hits the Elderly Harder
Dangerously high temperatures that have already proven deadly in multiple states are expanding as far east as the Northeast. More than 100 million people from California to Massachusetts were under some kind of heat alert Wednesday as extreme temperatures spread across the country. Over the next seven days, 85% of the population will experience temperatures 90 degrees or higher. The stifling forecast has pushed Connecticut’s governor to activate the state’s extreme hot weather protocol to provide cooling centers for vulnerable residents. “The elderly are especially vulnerable because most lose the ability to feel thirst as keenly as they age,” says Leonie Rosenstiel, MPH, president of Dayspring Resources. She’ll offer tips for avoiding heat stroke and share ways seniors can stay healthy and safe when the temperature spikes. Dayspring Resources helps families navigate elder care, from complex financial issues to small hacks that can improve the day-to-day quality of life. Contact Leonie at (505) 317-2405; rosensti63@gmail.com
8. ==> Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Starting Over After Prison
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 when she was convicted and imprisoned for a crime she says she didn’t do. “I was convicted and sentenced three times on virtually the same charges for a crime I didn’t commit, which amounted to triple jeopardy.” After her release, Ali, along with Mike Tyson (who also served time in prison), founded the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Ask her about her experience behind bars and how she has turned it into a cause for good. She is also the author of “Triple Jeopardy: 3 Strikes But Not Out.” Contact Rita Ali at (917) 243-9214; rali@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Veteran Journalist Charles Glass Shares Story of War Poets
From the moment war broke out across Europe in 1914, the world entered a new, unparalleled era of modern warfare. Soldiers faced relentless machine gun shelling, incredible artillery power, flame throwers, and gas attacks. Veteran journalist Charles Glass tells the story of the soldiers and doctors who struggled with the effects of industrial warfare on the human psyche in his new book, “Soldiers Don’t Go Mad.” As psychiatrists tried to treat the victims of shell shock with various degrees of success, Glass shows us how a few patients emerged from the trenches and the mental hospitals to depict their demons in some of the most compelling poetry of the 20th century. Glass recently wrote the piece “From ‘Shell Shock’ to PTSD, Veterans Have a Long Walk to Health.” An author, journalist, broadcaster and publisher specializing in the Middle East and the Second World War, Glass was ABC News’ chief Middle East correspondent from 1983 to 1993 and has worked as a correspondent for “Newsweek” and “The Observer.” Contact him at charlesglass@gmx.com; @charlesmglass
10. ==> Mental Illness Derailed This Hollywood Starlet’s Career
Kathy O’Dare’s acting career was on the rise. At just 16, she was cast in the pilot of “Happy Days,” playing Ron Howard’s love interest. But sadly, Kathy’s acting career ended when she began having mental health issues. David F. D’Orazi is Kathy’s brother and has written “Is Everybody Happy? The Untold Story of Kathy O’Dare.” David can talk about his sister’s acting career and also address how to deal with mental illness. David credits his success as a salesman to having both a sister and father who struggled with mental illness, saying those experiences taught him how to deal with the everyday world. Ask him: Was Kathy really Ron Howard’s first kiss? What was Mark Hamill like pre-“Star Wars?” What other shows did Kathy appear on? Why do so many mentally ill people never get medical treatment? Contact David F. D’Orazi at (818) 427-4261; h20david@aol.com
11. ==> Want to Start a Nonprofit? The Pros, Cons and Alternatives
Tragic events like school shootings and natural disasters often lead everyday people to start nonprofits. But while this may be a noble endeavor, it’s not right for everyone. “Starting and running a new nonprofit is hard, so maybe people should think about doing something else with their passion project,” says author and nonprofit consultant Michele Whetzel. “Consider that there may be a way to have a successful program to fulfill your charitable ambition without all that is required to start and run a stand-alone public charity.” Michele can offer invaluable advice about how to pursue your passion project, without the headaches. She is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting and author of the upcoming book “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Ask her: What are examples of good nonprofits? What are some better alternative projects? Contact Michele at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com
12. ==> She Teaches Women to Stand Up and Speak Out
It’s no secret that women struggle to be heard. Society teaches girls to be polite and agreeable and not make a fuss, even when a situation is challenging — or just plain wrong. If your audience is looking to reclaim their power in the workplace, at home, and beyond, you need to hear from Francesca Burack. The author of “Women Are Special: 123 Reasons Why” can share advice, tips, and encouragement to help women find, own, and use their voices with confidence. Ask her: What can women do to speak up in one-sided relationships, whether it’s at work or with family? How can women approach difficult conversations in the workplace, such as asking for raises, promotions, or benefits? An author, entrepreneur, educator, and popular speaker, Francesca Burack has been featured on major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Tips to Battle Weight Creep at Any Age
Weight gain is something that creeps up on us especially as we get older. But once we notice it and want to do something about it we may find that reversing course is hard. Laura Pickett knows this firsthand but as an older woman who dropped 80 pounds, she’s living proof that weight loss can happen at any age. Using a combination of honest talk, encouragement and humor, Laura can help audience members who have all but given up on taking off those last five or ten pounds or more. Ask her: What is the role forgiveness plays in weight loss? What are the ten signs that you are ready to lose weight? Why does she say that changing your eating habits is not the be-all and end-all of weight loss? Laura is the author of “Get Over Weight (12 Steps to Finally Win the Weight Battle and Win at Life)” and the creator of a coaching and membership program on the topic. She has spent more than 30 years in the ministry and made multiple appearances on TBN’s national and local network (in Atlanta), and WATV. Contact her at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Why Chasing Dreams Is a Losing Proposition
Many people spend their lives looking for meaning and purpose, oftentimes in the wrong places. Invite popular podcaster and author Kelly Needham to explore the origins of our insatiable desire for the extraordinary and unveil a path to a life brimming with purpose — without turning our world upside down. For anyone who is restless and discontented, stuck in the thick of a seemingly endless and mundane routine, or in the throes of a mid-life crisis, Needham will explain how we’ve been fooled when it comes to understanding our purpose, how social media contributes to the confusion and why finding joy in the mundane isn’t the same as settling or expecting less from life. Kelly Needham is the author of “Purposefooled: Why Chasing Your Dreams, Finding Your Calling and Reaching for Greatness Will Never Be Enough.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com
15. ==> Meet the World’s Best Laugher
Who knew that laughing was a competitive sport? And what makes a winning laugh? Carla Brown (who has been the National Laughing Champion for two years running) recently finished first against competitors from Asia, Europe and the Americas in the World Laughing Championship! Her Diabolical Laugh, Sexy Laugh, ROFL and Contagious Laughter helped her win the title. Brown, who calls herself a recovering serious person, says the competition is really about conjuring laughter when there’s nothing specific to laugh at. “I’ve been teaching and practicing these tools for so long, it’s a part of me now,” the trailblazing laughter yogi says. The idea behind her laughter and grief yoga is that the very act of laughing – even if, maybe especially if, you don’t feel like it – can regulate your mood, break patterns of negative thoughts, relieve stress and tension, and lead to lasting joy and contentment. Contact Carla Brown at (806) 392-5768; livingfromjoy@gmail.com