01. Whistleblower: What’s Happening Inside Your Kid’s School
02. The Problem Parents Will Feel in the Classroom This Fall
03. Are Schools Failing to Teach Democracy?
04. Stop Trying to Solve Your Kids’ Problems
05. The Safety Skills Every Teen Needs Before Heading Back to School
06. How to Ease the Back-to-School Transition
07. Back-to-School Conversations Every Boy Needs
08. Does Your Child Have Back-to-School Anxiety?
09. The Confidence Crisis Affecting Today’s Kids
10. A 60-Second Reset to Calm Back-to-School Stress
11. Inside the Toxic Social Environment That Fuels Teen Suicide
12. How to Be a Calmer, More Focused Parent
13. Why Pushing Your Kids Could Break Them
14. What is Montessori Parenting? Pros, Cons and Tips
15. Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even if They Aren’t Religious
1. ==> Whistleblower: What’s Happening Inside Your Kid’s School
An important conversation as a new school year begins, Karen Horwitz, an award-winning public-school teacher and whistleblower, will discuss what happens inside schools that parents never see, and then what happens when educators raise concerns inside their school districts. “Schools are often described as the foundation of democracy,” Horwitz says. “What I witnessed was how quickly that foundation cracks when people are afraid to speak.” Horwitz says the pattern she documented was consistent: teachers raised concerns internally, and instead of problems being addressed, they quietly lost their careers. After speaking publicly, she co-founded an organization to prevent teacher abuse and began hearing similar accounts from more than 2,000 educators who reported retaliation. She’ll explain how silence is enforced through fear, power imbalances, and institutional self-protection. Horwitz is the author of “A Graver Danger,” which draws directly from teacher whistleblowers to examine systemic failures. Contact Karen Horwitz at (312) 498-9074; khorwitz@rtirguests.com
2. ==> The Problem Parents Will Feel in the Classroom This Fall
The teacher shortage isn't simply about finding enough people to fill classrooms. Deanna Gilmore, Ph.D., says the bigger problem is keeping great teachers from walking away. On your show, she'll reveal what is driving talented educators away, what could actually convince them to stay, and why rebuilding schools requires valuing the entire ecosystem supporting children, including principals, bus drivers, coaches, cafeteria workers, and paraprofessionals. She'll also share concrete steps communities and lawmakers can take to strengthen schools. With 26 years in the classroom plus experience as a school principal and university professor training future educators, Gilmore has seen the challenges facing schools from multiple perspectives. Her book, “There's a Pig on the Playground: Memorable Stories from the Schoolyard,” celebrates the people who make school communities work. Contact Deanna Gilmore at (208) 285-7567; dgilmore@rtirguests.com
3. ==> Are Schools Failing to Teach Democracy?
America's education debate usually focuses on test scores, funding, and curriculum. But retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, educator, and education reform advocate Elissa Mohan believes we're overlooking a far more urgent issue: preparing citizens for self-government. In her forthcoming book, “ENOUGH: Why America Is Failing at Education and What to Do About It,” Elissa argues that today's fragmented education landscape leaves too many students unprepared to evaluate information, engage in civil discourse, and understand the Constitution. Drawing on her experience as a military leader, homeschool parent, public school teacher, and educational psychologist, she offers a bold blueprint for rebuilding education to meet the challenges of democracy in the AI age. Contact Elissa Mohan at (405) 346-8358; emohan@rtirguests.com
4. ==> Stop Trying to Solve Your Kids’ Problems
Parents want to help their children succeed, but stepping in too quickly may have an unintended consequence: kids who struggle to solve problems or trust themselves. Educator and author Dr. Dianne Olvera says one powerful shift can change that—stop telling and start asking. On your show, she'll reveal how thoughtful questions can help children think independently, regulate emotions, develop resilience, and take greater ownership of their choices. As families head back to school, she'll also explain why constantly rescuing kids from mistakes can undermine the confidence parents are trying to build. Her newly released “Helping Kids Take Ownership of Their Lives” gives parents practical strategies for replacing control with connection and encouraging capable, empathetic kids. A professor for four decades, board-certified educational therapist, and former U.S. Embassy professional, Olvera brings a uniquely education-focused perspective to helping children become independent thinkers. Contact Dianne Olvera at (805) 779-3558; dolvera@rtirguests.com
5. ==> The Safety Skills Every Teen Needs Before Heading Back to School
Keeping teenagers safe isn't as simple as giving them more rules. After 40 years in crime and violence prevention, Stephanie Mann says the teens best equipped to navigate danger are the ones who develop their own inner strength. As students return to classrooms, sports, friendships, and greater independence, Mann will reveal how self-awareness, emotional strength, and a centered sense of identity can help young people navigate risky situations. She'll explain what can make teens vulnerable to gangs, toxic relationships, and other dangers, why tighter restrictions can create false security, and how parents can build genuine resilience instead. Her book, “Magical YOU! Empowering Teens to Stay Safe and Healthy in an Unsafe World,” gives families a different way to think about protection: empower teens rather than simply shelter them. After 40 years as a crime and violence prevention specialist, Mann brings decades of firsthand experience understanding the conditions that put young people at risk. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
6. ==> How to Ease the Back-to-School Transition
After weeks of scrolling, notifications, and unstructured summer days, suddenly asking a child to sit still and concentrate for hours can be a difficult transition. Senior mindfulness educator Mitra Manesh says constant stimulation can train the brain toward distraction, reactivity, and "survival mode" without people realizing it. She'll explain how scrolling, comparison, and pressure can quietly shape attention, self-worth, and decision-making, and why reclaiming conscious attention can help people move from fear and reaction toward greater clarity and choice. She'll also share practical ways to interrupt patterns of distraction and regain focus as families transition from summer freedom back to structured routines. Her novel, “The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World,” explores many of these themes. A senior mindfulness educator and author, Manesh has spent decades guiding individuals and organizations in attention, consciousness, and personal transformation. Contact Mitra Manesh at (310) 807-3031; mmanesh@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Back-to-School Conversations Every Boy Needs
As boys return to school, parents may be focused on grades and schedules, but C. Lynn Williams says emotional health deserves a place in the conversation, too. In a culture where boys are often taught to suppress their feelings, the award-winning parenting expert says parents can help sons become emotionally aware, resilient, and confident by challenging outdated ideas about masculinity. On your show, Williams will explain why fear-based parenting should give way to connection, communication, and trust, and how giving boys permission to feel, communicate, and be understood can help them grow into healthier men. She'll also tackle a question many parents struggle with: How do you raise sons to be strong without teaching them to be aggressive? Williams is the author of five parenting books, including “Trying to Stay Sane While Raising Your Teen.” Williams is an educator, speaker, family dynamics strategist, and award-winning parenting expert. Contact her at (224) 344-3487; Cwilliams@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Does Your Child Have Back-to-School Anxiety?
Back-to-school jitters can be normal, but for some kids, anxiety can make it hard to focus or even walk through the school doors. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that up to 5% of children experience school-related anxiety. Sharon Emily says more studying and pressure may miss what kids need most: help changing the thoughts driving their fear. Sharon shows parents how imagination, repetition, and positive self-talk can help children shift from “What if I fail?” to picturing what they want to happen and taking steps toward it. Her children’s book, “Mirror of Myself,” grew from a song she created to make those mindset lessons memorable. Can imagining success really help a worried child? Could pushing harder actually make school anxiety worse? A former counselor and FranklinCovey-trained facilitator, Sharon has spent decades applying mindset principles to parenting, recovery, education, and personal growth. Contact Sharon Emily at (480) 470-3893; semily@rtirguests.com
9. ==> The Confidence Crisis Affecting Today’s Kids
Social media addiction, disappearing family rituals, and a lack of stability can leave kids feeling disconnected and adrift. Jack Gindi says all three can also undermine something children desperately need as they return to school: self-esteem. On your show, he'll share practical ways parents and teachers can help children manage emotions, set achievable goals, and strengthen their belief in themselves as a new school year begins. Gindi focuses his work on giving families practical tools to strengthen children's self-esteem, emotional management, and goal-setting skills. Contact Jack Gindi at (719) 751-8807; jgindi@rtirguests.com
10. ==> A 60-Second Reset to Calm Back-to-School Stress
New schedules. Earlier mornings. Homework. Activities. The return to school can make family life feel hectic almost overnight. Artist and former healthcare professional Edi Matsumoto offers a surprisingly simple reset: get creative. On your show, she'll demonstrate her "60-second joy reset," a quick technique audiences can try live, and explain how small "creative shifts" can reduce stress, improve mood, and restore focus. Even playful activities like doodling or looking at her silly otter paintings can help calm the nervous system, she says. Best of all, no artistic talent is required—just a willingness to pause and engage. Her book, “Otter Therapy,” and her own transition from healthcare to art inform an approachable conversation about incorporating creativity into everyday life when family routines become hectic again. Matsumoto brings together her experience as a former healthcare professional and working artist to offer an unconventional approach to mental and emotional resets. Contact Edi Matsumoto at (831) 290-6491; ematsumoto@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. ==> How to Be a Calmer, More Focused Parent
Back-to-School season can be a whirlwind of social plans, family commitments and career demands. Dr. Dan Bartlett knows that staying centered during this busy time 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, Dr. 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 fall, help your audience embrace a calmer, more resilient version of themselves with his practical insights. Contact Dr. Dan at (480) 841-0984; dbartlett@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Why Pushing Your Kids Could Break Them
Back-to-school season can turn into a pressure cooker for kids when parents push too hard for high grades, top sports performance, or constant achievement. Former LPGA Tour Player and mindset coach Cindy Miller has seen how perfectionism, comparison and performance pressure can crush kids’ confidence. In this conversation, she shares what parents should (and shouldn’t) say after a bad grade or tough loss, why mistakes are essential for growth, and how to raise resilient kids without breaking their spirit. Her advice applies on and off the field, helping families set goals while keeping perspective. Cindy Miller is a Hall of Fame LPGA Professional and certified mindset coach with decades of experience developing confident young athletes. Contact her at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com
14. ==> What is Montessori Parenting? Pros, Cons and Tips
Parenting today is more challenging than ever, with chaos and stress becoming the norm in many households. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Teresa Angeles, Montessori educator, mother of six and author of “The Montessori Home and Beyond,” reveals how adopting Montessori principles can transform family life. Instead of constant power struggles, parents can foster calm, confidence and cooperation—even with young children. It’s not about turning your home into a classroom but embracing a mindset that nurtures independence, respect and connection. Teresa shares practical tips for creating a harmonious environment where kids feel valued and learn to take responsibility. She also shares stories from her own family’s Montessori journey, highlighting the power of traditions, rituals and building strong relationships. Whether you’re new to Montessori or looking to expand your parenting approach, Teresa’s insights offer a practical, heart-centered way to build a home where both parents and children thrive. Contact Teresa Angeles at (253) 523-3158; tangeles@rtirguests.com
15. ==> 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. Contact Tamara Berkman at (830) 201-3160; tberkman@rtirguests.com
