7/29/2025 RTIR Newsletter: CEOs, the Sun and 10 Guests for the Dog Days of Summer

01. The Rise of the CEO Gig Economy
02. America’s Food Bank Network on Brink of Collapse
03. Parents Are Confused by Conflicting Vaccine Recommendations
04. What Happened to Millennials?
05. The Sun is Having a Moment
06. Snap Out of Your Summer Funk
07. How Summer Travel Can Boost Your Well-Being
08. Let Go of Shame and Reclaim Joy This Summer
09. Beat the Heat and the Scale: Summer-Ready Nutrition Habits
10. Find Summer Calm with Mindful Stress-Free Practices
11. Summer Style Tips for Every Body Type
12. Sip Your Way to Summer Wellness with Herbal Tea Rituals
13. Summer Survival Tips from The Menopause Mindshift
14. Enjoy a Fun and Active Summer While Managing Chronic Pain
15. Why Summer is the Best Time to Reset Your Energy


1. ==> The Rise of the CEO Gig Economy

Have you noticed the emerging trend of companies relying on interim leadership? According to a new report by global outplacement and business and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, 33% of new CEOs in the first 6 months of 2025 have been named on an interim basis, compared to 9% during the same period both last year and 2023. “With growing uncertainty across the economy, shifting corporate values like DEI, the impact of tariffs, potential deregulation, evolving consumer behavior, and the rapid implementation of new technologies such as AI, identifying the right leader for long-term success has become increasingly difficult,” says company VP, Andy Challenger. “At the same time, more executives are embracing the increasingly attractive option of short-term CEO roles, essentially participating in a ‘CEO gig economy,’” he adds. Challenger can discuss the pros and cons of interim leadership, what’s happening with women CEOs and which industries are seeing the most CEO turnover. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

2. ==> America’s Food Bank Network on Brink of Collapse

Food banks and pantries across the U.S. are bracing for the impact of Federal budget cuts that they say will break the already overextended hunger relief network. Vince Hall, Feeding America’s chief government relations officer says the cuts affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) alone could eliminate 6 to 9 billion meals annually. He said “it’s simply not possible” for the network of food banks and faith-based and charitable organizations to fill the predicted hole and essentially double the amount of food they distribute. While some safety net cuts won’t take effect for years, others are more imminent and Hall predicts food banks will see an immediate increase in demand. For interviews contact a Feeding America media representative at (800) 771-2303

3. ==> Parents Are Confused by Conflicting Vaccine Recommendations

A new study finds that between 35 and 40 percent of pregnant women and parents of young kids in the U.S. plan to fully vaccinate their child on schedule, including Covid and flu vaccines. Megan Ranney, an emergency physician, professor of medicine and public health, and dean of the Yale School of Public Health, says, “It is always important to get a pulse on public sentiment, and this study in particular is quite interesting in how it surveyed pregnant people and parents. But it was frustrating and disturbing to see that only about a third of [respondents] felt sure that they were going to get their kids all recommended vaccines on schedule.” She adds, “This is the first time in my lifetime as a physician and public health professional that there are conflicting recommendations from different groups. We’re in a communication environment that is challenging in a way that none of us have ever experienced before. That makes me worried for the health of kids and immunosuppressed people and communities. But this is where we are.” Contact Megan Ranney at shannon.mcmahon@yale.edu

4. ==> What Happened to Millennials?

Millennials are currently America’s largest living generation—and they’re on the precipice of power. Now ages 29 to 44, they began life on an upswing of economic growth, the emerging Internet, and the rise of the cell phone. But their adulthood has been disrupted by war, recession, pandemic, and a sharp turn toward cultural and economic polarization. All the while, Millennials have been endlessly critiqued by others as immature, lazy, weak, incomplete, selfish, and supposedly riddled with failure. “Bloomberg News” reporter Charlie Wells comes to the generation’s defense and says it’s time to reexamine Millennials. Hear why he thinks they offer a counternarrative to today’s culture wars and how they are rising—in new, and unexpected ways. With Millennials approaching midlife and about to become our new leaders, Wells believes understanding this cohort will help us understand our cultural and economic futures. Charlie Wells’ new book is “What Happened to Millennials: In Defense of a Generation.” Contact Lissa Warren at 617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @Lissa_Warren

5. ==> The Sun is Having a Moment

There’s a big new effort for a national grassroots mobilization around solar power and it’s designed to make the one point that environmentalists never could until now: renewable energy is now the cheapest energy available. Invite solar expert Bill McKibben to explain why the economics of solar and wind now offer a competitive edge for U.S. businesses. “We're used to thinking of solar energy as the Whole Foods of energy. Nice, but pricey. We need to get across that it's now the Costco of energy. Cheap, available in bulk, on the shelf,” says McKibben, a longtime energy observer. He says, “Another way of saying it is we've spent 40 years referring to it as alternative energy. If we do our job right, people will understand that it's the obvious, common- sense mainstream way to produce power.” McKibben is working alongside Denis Hayes (now 80 and the original organizer of Earth Day) to organize a national day of action called Sun Day on September 21st. Bill McKibben is the founder of Third Act, which organizes people over the age of 60 for action on climate and justice. A prolific writer who has contributed to “Rolling Stone” magazine and “The New Yorker,” McKibben’s latest book is “Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> Snap Out of Your Summer Funk

When long summer days start to feel overwhelming rather than uplifting, it’s time for a mental reset. Deborah Mallow, happiness expert and author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck: Ditch Unhealthy Habits, Unzip a Happier You,” knows how to break free from negative thought patterns. Whether burnout, self-doubt or stress are getting you down, Deborah’s simple six-step approach is designed to help you shake off the funk and embrace joy. With humor and practical advice, she’ll inspire you to make small but powerful changes that add up to a happier, lighter summer. Learn how to reset your mindset and reclaim your well-being—one positive step at a time. Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

7. ==> How Summer Travel Can Boost Your Well-Being

One of Evelyn Kelly’s favorite travel memories? Watching the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, a moment of pure tranquility that reminded her how travel can nurture the soul. Together with her daughter Natalie, Evelyn has explored seven continents, 88 countries and all 50 states, finding wellness in each adventure. Their book, “Have a Love Affair with Travel: Your Ticket to an Exhilarating Life,” encourages others to break free from routine and experience life with fresh eyes. Travel, they say, isn’t just a break from everyday stress—it’s a path to joy and renewal. This summer, find out how to make travel your wellness practice, whether you’re planning a getaway or just exploring your hometown. Contact Natalie Kelly at (850) 570-5747; Natalie@travelersatheart.com

8. ==> Let Go of Shame and Reclaim Joy This Summer

Rick Patterson knows firsthand how shame can trap you in negative cycles—whether it’s struggling with self-worth, grappling with your past or feeling like you’ll never measure up. As a former evangelical pastor turned corporate leader—and the author of “Shame Unmasked”—Rick offers a unique perspective on how to break free from the hold of shame and rediscover joy. After years of internal struggle and transformation, including raising four Black children as a white dad, Rick learned how to let go of guilt and lean into authenticity. Now, he’s on a mission to help others shed their shame stories and start living with purpose and passion. Whether it’s through faith, leadership or personal growth, Rick’s message resonates with anyone looking to reclaim their joy this summer. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; Rpatterson@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Beat the Heat and the Scale: Summer-Ready Nutrition Habits

Summer is full of sweet temptations—from ice cream cones to sugary drinks—but staying healthy doesn’t have to mean missing out on all the fun. Jodi Velazquez, author of “Know the Enemy: Preventing Weight Gain, Diabetes & Disease,” shares simple, practical nutrition tips to help you thrive when cravings strike. Inspired by her journey managing her daughter’s Type 1 Diabetes, Jodi has developed easy-to-follow habits that prioritize whole foods, balanced meals and consistent movement. Her approach focuses on making small, sustainable changes that keep your body fueled and your energy high, even on the hottest days. From hydration hacks to meal planning tips, Jodi’s advice will help you enjoy the season without worrying about the scale. Discover how to keep your nutrition goals on track while making the most of summer. Contact Jodi Velazquez at (412) 606-9628; slickmoveguide@comcast.net

10. ==> Find Summer Calm with Mindful Stress-Free Practices

Summer can be a whirlwind of social plans, family commitments and career demands. Dan Bartlett knows that staying centered during these busy months takes intentional effort. As a certified metaphysical practitioner and author of “Six Easy Secrets to Psychic Success,” he teaches practical techniques to reduce stress and cultivate calm. From intuitive breathing exercises to guided visualizations, Dan’s methods help you make empowered choices, no matter how hectic life gets. Known for his dynamic presentations as a magical mentalist, he also demonstrates how tapping into your intuition can transform your mindset. This summer, help your audience embrace a calmer, more resilient version of themselves with his practical insights. Contact Dan at (480) 841-0984; dbartlett@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Summer Style Tips for Every Body Type

When temperatures rise, it’s easy to feel self-conscious about what to wear. But summer style should be about embracing your body, not hiding it! Gayla Bentley, fashion expert and author of “Fashion’s Stepsister: A Journey to Style,” empowers women of all sizes to feel confident and fabulous, no matter the weather. Gayla’s approach to fashion goes beyond looking good, it’s about feeling good too. She shines a spotlight on how dressing well can boost your mood, increase self-esteem and help you step out with confidence. Discover how to dress your body with love and flair this season using Gayla’s tips on choosing breathable fabrics, embracing bold colors and creating effortless looks that keep you cool and chic. Whether you’re a guest at a summer wedding or enjoying a day at the beach, you’ll be ready to shine. Make fashion part of your self-care this summer with Gayla’s expert advice. Contact Gayla Bentley at (936) 261-7713; gbentley@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Sip Your Way to Summer Wellness with Herbal Tea Rituals

Nothing says summer like a refreshing, cooling drink—especially when it’s packed with natural health benefits. Gladstone Etienne, founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company, draws from his Caribbean roots to create herbal blends that hydrate, rejuvenate and promote overall vitality. Growing up in Dominica, Gladstone learned how local herbs support a long, healthy life, and now he’s sharing these time-honored traditions with modern tea drinkers. Whether it’s a calming chamomile blend or a revitalizing mint infusion, his teas help you stay balanced, cool and invigorated during the hottest months. Contact Gladstone Etienne at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Summer Survival Tips from The Menopause Mindshift

Managing menopause symptoms during summer heat can feel like an uphill battle, but Lisa R. Triggs knows how to stay cool and confident. As the author of “The Menopause Mindshift: How I Unleashed My Inner Queen, And You Can Too!,” Lisa shares practical tips to reduce hot flashes, manage discomfort and embrace your inner queen, even on the hottest days. From mindset shifts to lifestyle adjustments, her approach empowers women to take charge of their well-being, no matter the temperature. Whether you’re heading to a backyard BBQ or just trying to stay comfortable at home, Lisa’s insights make it easier to navigate menopause with grace and resilience. Contact Lisa R. Triggs at lisa@lern.ca

14. ==> Enjoy a Fun and Active Summer While Managing Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain doesn’t mean giving up on summer fun. Vita Oyler, rehabilitation counselor and author of “Got Pain? Now What?,” has spent decades finding ways to balance an active lifestyle with pain management. After battling reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) and overcoming major physical challenges, Vita developed practical strategies to help others thrive despite chronic pain. This summer, she’s sharing her tips for staying mobile, managing discomfort and embracing activities you love, even when pain tries to slow you down. From gentle movement routines to cooling techniques that reduce inflammation, Vita’s advice is designed to help you make the most of sunny days while keeping symptoms under control. Discover how to stay active, positive and resilient all summer long. Contact Vita Oyler at (209) 255-2962; Voyler@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Why Summer is the Best Time to Reset Your Energy

Summer is the perfect time to revitalize your energy and let go of the blockages holding you back. Kooch Daniels, renowned intuitive expert and author of “Stars, Cards, and Stones: Exploring Cosmic Connections between Astrology, Tarot, and Runestones,” reveals how chakra balancing can be your gateway to a transformative summer. In this eye-opening interview, Kooch will show you how simple yet powerful energy work can bring balance, clarity and renewal. From absolute beginners to seasoned energy workers, Kooch’s expert guidance can empower anyone to reset their energy and step into a vibrant, more fulfilled version of themself this summer. Contact Kooch at kdaniels@rtirguests.com; (707) 878-5039