7/31/2025 RTIR Newsletter: The Widening Ideological Gender Divide, Neighborhood Safety Experts and What Dogs Teach Us About Grief



01. A Growing Cry of Genocide in Gaza
02. Healthcare Deserts Grow Across U.S.
03. The Widening Ideological Gap Between Young Men and Women
04. Charity Helps Women Suffering Childbirth Injury
05. The One Trick You Need to Teach Your Dog
06. Why Cities Need Neighborhood Safety Experts — Not Just More Police
07. Do a Show on the Hidden Trauma Nurses and Patients Face
08. How Pro Athletes Relieve Chronic Pain
09. Great Back to School Show: Why Most Kids Hate Math and How to Fix It
10. Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even If They Aren’t Religious
11. Inside the Toxic Social Environment That Fuels Teen Suicide
12. A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs. Could it Work?
13. From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Author Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption
14. How the Core Truths of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity Can Unite Us All
15. How a Dog Named Silly Sally Taught Me to Keep My Heart Light (and How to Grieve)

1. ==> A Growing Cry of Genocide in Gaza

Two prominent Israeli rights groups this week said their country is committing genocide in Gaza, the first time that local Jewish-led organizations have made such accusations against Israel during nearly 22 months of war. Genocide scholar Omar Bartov agrees, “Having grown up in a Zionist home, lived the first half of my life in Israel, served in the I.D.F. (Israel Defense Forces) as a soldier and officer and spent most of my career researching and writing on war crimes and the Holocaust, this was a painful conclusion to reach, and one that I resisted as long as I could. But I have been teaching classes on genocide for a quarter of a century. I can recognize one when I see one. …” Bartov adds, “I don’t know of any comparable situation. Recent estimates show that about 70 percent of the structures in Gaza are either completely destroyed or severely damaged. The argument that the I.D.F. is conducting a war in Gaza is simply cynical, there is no war in Gaza. What the I.D.F. is doing in Gaza is demolishing it.” Bartov is Dean’s professor of holocaust and genocide studies in the department of history at Brown University. His books include “Genocide,” “The Holocaust” and “Israel-Palestine: First-Person History in Times of Crisis.” Contact him at Omer_Bartov@brown.edu

2. ==> Healthcare Deserts Grow Across U.S.

A new report from GoodRx finds that healthcare deserts––areas that lack adequate access to and infrastructure for healthcare services––exist in about 80 percent of counties in the United States. Nearly 60 percent of counties have more than one type of healthcare desert, and roughly one in three Americans are affected by healthcare deserts. Senior health economist at GoodRx, Amanda Nguyen, says, “All healthcare deserts pose risks, but hospital and trauma center deserts are the most immediately life-threatening. Nearly 50 million people live more than an hour from a trauma center, and 28 million live over 30 minutes from the nearest hospital. In a critical emergency like a stroke or car accident, that distance can determine whether someone survives.” She’ll discuss what constitutes a healthcare desert and the various ways people are affected. “Media coverage often misses how deeply systemic and interconnected healthcare access barriers really are. You can have insurance and still struggle to get care because your local pharmacy has closed, your medication is out of stock, or your insurance doesn’t cover the treatment you need.” Contact Amanda Nguyen at erynne.zhang@goodrx.com



3. ==> The Widening Ideological Gap Between Young Men and Women

There is a global gender divide that seems to be increasing yearly. Data from multiple countries around the world indicate that young women are adopting more liberal ideologies, while young men are leaning more conservative. What’s driving the divide? Psychiatrist and author Dr. Melvyn Lurie sees the split as more emotional than political. In his book “The Biology of Politics 2nd edition: So America Won't Die,” he explains how men’s growing disconnection, insecurity and loss of identity may be pushing them toward more extreme ideologies. Dr. Lurie offers powerful insight into why many young men feel alienated in today’s society, and how unaddressed shame, not ideology, may be the real root of their rage. Contact Dr. Melvyn Lurie at (857) 376-6874; mlurie@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Charity Helps Women Suffering Childbirth Injury

Imagine giving birth and suffering a devastating injury that leaves you incontinent, ostracized, and without hope. Now imagine that a simple surgery could give you your life back. Kate Grant is CEO of a global nonprofit that provides these life-transforming surgeries to women suffering from obstetric fistula. Invite Grant to shed light on the global crisis affecting over a million women in rural Africa and Asia and share personal stories of those impacted by the disorder. She’ll also share her extraordinary journey from Madison Avenue to leading the Fistula Foundation and building it into one of the world’s largest charities, providing surgeries completely funded by private donations. To date, the foundation has provided more than 100,000 life-transforming surgeries to women in need. Proceeds from her memoir, “No Woman Left Behind: A Journey of Hope to Heal Every Woman Injured in Childbirth,” will fund free surgeries through the foundation’s ‘Love a Sister’ program. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

5. ==> The One Trick You Need to Teach Your Dog

A great show for dog lovers! Kathleen Troy has been training dogs for 20+ years and she’s ready to share her tricks. Kathleen trained her dog, Dylan, to count to ten, understand multiple languages and hand commands, and so much more! She’ll explain her unique training methods based on compassion, consistency and respect for the dog. Kathleen is the author of the “Dylan’s Dog Squad” series, as well as a nonfiction book about dog training. Ask her: How do your methods differ from other trainers? Are all dogs trainable? What trick do you think all dogs should be taught? Contact Kathleen Troy at (714) 975-9807; ktroy@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Why Cities Need Neighborhood Safety Experts — Not Just More Police

What if preventing gang violence, drug activity, and youth crime didn’t require additional cops, but more empowered citizens? For over 40 years, crime prevention consultant Stephanie Mann has trained “Neighborhood Safety Experts” (NSEs) to do just that. Working alongside—but independent from—police, NSEs are trusted community members who speak the language, understand the culture, and unite neighbors to reclaim their blocks. From reducing gun sales to identifying traffickers, this grassroots strategy has built safer, healthier, and more connected neighborhoods through the organization of over 27 citywide prevention committees. With cities spending billions on crime after it happens, isn’t it time we focused on preventing it in the first place? Invite Mann on your show to get insights on how everyday people can powerfully protect their communities. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Do a Show on the Hidden Trauma Nurses and Patients Face

America’s healthcare system is in crisis—but what’s often ignored is the trauma beneath the surface. Kathy Allan, a board-certified holistic nurse with over two decades of experience in trauma recovery, says many nurses today are emotionally broken, betrayed by the very system they once trusted. Patients, too, are suffering from care that feels cold, rushed, and disconnected. In interviews, Allan reveals how this hidden trauma plays out—and how to begin healing it. Drawing on her “12 Steps of Healing Care” and years as a healing touch instructor and somatic experiencing practitioner, Allan offers a spiritual and body-centered roadmap for transforming pain into purpose. Her stories and insights will resonate with nurses, healthcare workers, and anyone who’s ever felt harmed by the system that was supposed to help them. Contact Kathy Allan at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

8. ==> How Pro Athletes Relieve Chronic Pain

Stacey Roberts’ patients include pro athletes and women seeking relief from joint and muscle pain (including pelvic pain) without injections, drugs or surgery. This seasoned registered nurse and physical therapist has created a breakthrough approach that targets the root causes of chronic pain instead of just masking symptoms. Hear what Softwave therapy is and how it works along with cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments to help patients find real, lasting relief. Roberts says “The Pain Free Formula” could help the millions who suffer from unresolved pain tied to hormonal imbalances, food sensitivities and old injuries. With over 30 years of experience, Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MSN, blends a rich tapestry of expertise in functional medicine, physical therapy, nursing, and complimentary medicine. She works with everyday clients as well as over 10 national professional athletic teams, helping elite athletes recover faster and perform at their best. She’s been featured on World News Now, Oprah, and numerous Australian media and hosts her own podcast, The Pain-Free Formula. Contact Stacey Roberts at (414) 522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com


9. ==> Great Back to School Show: Why Most Kids Hate Math and How to Fix It

If your back-to-school coverage includes frustrated parents, overwhelmed teachers, or students dreading another year of math, this guest is a must. Dr. Craig Hane (aka Dr. Del) is the author of “Golden Rule Math for 21st Century Student,” says most kids don’t hate math—they hate confusion, boredom, and irrelevance. With a PhD in math and decades of experience teaching students who struggle, Hane shows how schools are often teaching the wrong content, in the wrong way, to the wrong kids. His fast, practical, and confidence-building method has helped thousands of learners go from “I’m just not a math person” to “I’ve got this!” Invite Craig Hane on your show and help parents, educators, and students kick off the school year with a fresh perspective on one of the most dreaded subjects in education. Contact Craig Hane at (812) 332-8179; craig@hane.com

10. ==> Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even If They Aren’t Religious

Top students often excel due to their understanding of cultural references, and a surprising factor behind their success is knowledge of the Bible. Studies show that students with a strong knowledge of biblical references tend to score higher on standardized tests. Research indicates these students score 10-15% higher on SAT Critical Reading and AP English Literature exams compared to peers without this knowledge. Tamara Berkman, a Texas State Certified Teacher, created the “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP” curriculum to help students quickly grasp the Bible’s storyline. In just 20 short lessons, students improve their understanding of literature, identify cultural references, and sharpen critical thinking skills— key elements for academic success. Berkman’s book, “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP,” offers a fast, effective way for students and families to understand the Bible’s story while boosting academic performance and cultural literacy. Contact Tamara Berkman at (830) 201-3160; tberkman@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Inside the Toxic Social Environment That Fuels Teen Suicide

In a world where suicide is now the leading cause of death for people ages 10-33, therapist Sally Raymond is on a mission to change the narrative. With over 33 years of experience, Sally’s deeply personal journey—shaped by the loss of her son to suicide—continues to fuel her de¬termination to help others avoid the same unnecessary and heartbreaking fate. Sally has worked tirelessly to uncover the toxic social forces that first took her own son to suicide and still work to demoralize today’s youth in ever-increasing numbers. In this powerful interview she’ll reveal the hidden factors contributing to the rising suicide rates, including bullying, social media pressures, and lack of emotional support. Sally’s message is clear: while we can’t always prevent suicide, we can always make life worth the living. Contact her at (805) 576-8640; sraymond@rtirguests.com

12. ==> A Bold Plan to Train 700 Million Entrepreneurs. Could it Work?

David Selley isn’t your typical 87-year-old. He’s a globe-trotting entrepreneur, married for 65 years, and now launching a Guinness World Record attempt—to become the oldest author to publish the most books in a single year. But behind the bold headlines is an even bolder mission: to train 700 million entrepreneurs around the world, many of whom have been overlooked by traditional education systems. That’s not to say Selley is anti-education. Inspired by the late Sir Ken Robinson, he believes in learning—but questions whether everyone needs a B.A., M.A., or Ph.D. Drawing from decades of experience across three countries, three careers, and a lifetime of business success, Selley shares how our creativity—so vivid in childhood—often gets stifled by rigid systems that reward conformity over innovation. Ask him: What inspired your goal to train 700 million entrepreneurs—and why do you think it’s possible? How did your own daughter’s creativity spark a lifelong concern about how schools shape us? Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; Dselley@rtirguests.com

13. ==> From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Author Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption

What happens when a devout Mormon mother of five dares to question everything she’s ever known? Meet Susie Bell, a nurse practitioner who went from being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, a heart-wrenching divorce, and single motherhood in Las Vegas to self-made success. With honesty and grit, Susie recounts her journey through addiction recovery, being drugged and raped by a famous athlete who relentlessly harassed her, and even a surreal moment in the hospital room with the body of Tupac Shakur following his murder. Her story is not just about leaving religion—it’s about reclaiming power and purpose. She is the author of the memoir “A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine and Men.” Contact her at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How the Core Truths of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity Can Unite Us All

What if the world’s three major monotheistic religions were never meant to be divided? In “One Lord: Uniting Jews, Christians, and Muslims,” researcher John Hageman reveals how the true message of God/Allah—hidden within centuries of religious dogma and conflicting scriptures—can bring us together instead of tearing us apart. With a scientific mind and a spiritual heart, Hageman explores the scriptures of all three faiths, exposing the lies woven into all our holy scriptures—and the Lord’s divine truths that still shine through. Invite Hageman on your show to discover how faith, logic, and wisdom can show the obvious path to unity by simply loving the Lord, loving our neighbors, doing good, and resisting evil. Contact John Hageman at (210) 806-7961; jhageman@rtirguests.com

15. ==> How a Dog Named Silly Sally Taught Me to Keep My Heart Light (and How to Grieve)

Losing a beloved pet can be heart-wrenching. Jean Alfieri, author, speaker, and pet loss grief coach, understands. Her rescue dog, Silly Sally, taught her how to grieve, remember, and celebrate the special bond we share with our pets. Having adopted older shelter dogs for decades, Alfieri had experi¬enced pet loss before. But when Sally passed, she returned to creative outlets to process her grief. Along the way, she was reminded of others facing similar loss: single friends whose only family was a pet, parents helping a child grieve their first dog, and seniors or veterans who’d lost a comfort or therapy animal. To support grieving pet owners, Alfieri developed 21 ways to weather the loss of a pet, a practical, heartfelt toolbox of ideas to help others navigate the pain of loss while honoring their pet’s memory. Her goal? To bring comfort and lightness by reminding us that love never ends, it simply changes form. Contact Jean Alfieri at (480) 725-7921: jalfieri@rtirguests.com