01. Donald Trump Has No Idea How to Do Diplomacy
02. The Real Impact of Foreign Aid Cuts and the Dismantling of Diplomacy
03. Do Democrats Need a MAGA-like Makeover?
04. Pediatric Group Breaks With Government on COVID Vaccines
05. Ultra-Processed Foods Make Up Majority of Kids’ Diet
06. B-T-S Expert: Proven Ways to Boost Student Engagement and Success
07. Are Tariffs the Answer to Saving American Jobs? This Economist Says Yes
08. We’re in the Middle of a Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care
09. He’s White, A Former Evangelical Minister —and Tackling Race Head-On
10. Are We Raising a Nation of Wimps?
11. Do a Show on the Hidden Trauma Nurses and Patients Face
12. Inside the Toxic Social Environment That Fuels Teen Suicide
13. This Priest Helps People Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Healing
14. The Therapy You Didn’t Know You Needed
15. The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice
1. ==> Donald Trump Has No Idea How to Do Diplomacy
Political scientist Stephen Walt says the combination of that weird summit in Alaska with Vladimir Putin and the only slightly less bizarre gathering of NATO leaders in Washington, was the latest reminder that U.S. President Donald Trump is a terrible negotiator, a true master of the ‘art of the giveaway.’ “He doesn’t prepare, doesn’t have subordinates lay the groundwork beforehand, and arrives at each meeting not knowing what he wants or where his red lines are. He has no strategy and isn’t interested in the details, so he just wings it,” Walt says. “Conducting a successful negotiation with a serious adversary requires a cold-blooded and ruthlessly realistic assessment of each side’s interests, power, and resolve. You aren’t going to charm a leader like Putin into making concessions just because he likes you or because you’ve rolled out a red carpet on the tarmac, and you aren’t going to get anywhere by indulging in wishful thinking or making threats or promises that nobody takes seriously. When lightweights like Trump, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and amateur diplomat Steve Witkoff go up against the likes of Russian President Vladimir Putin or Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, you should expect the latter side to pick U.S. pockets cleanly.” Stephen Walt is a columnist at “Foreign Policy” and the Robert and Renée Belfer professor of international relations at Harvard University. Contact him at 617-495-5712; stephen_walt@hks.harvard.edu or Leah Marshall at 617-496-2737
2. ==> The Real Impact of Foreign Aid Cuts and the Dismantling of Diplomacy
The U.S. recently gutted its diplomatic corps—eliminating thousands of positions in one sweeping move. Danielle Reiff, a former USAID diplomat with 20 years of experience, says the impact goes far beyond the loss of jobs. “We’ve quietly dismantled one of our strongest tools for global influence,” she says. Reiff offers a rare insider look at what U.S. diplomacy actually does, why it matters now more than ever, and what happens when our “soft power” disappears. She also leads the Peacebuilders Initiative, empowering citizens to unite across divides—something she says is more urgent now than at any point in her career. Timely, global, and eye-opening. Contact Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com
3. ==> Do Democrats Need a MAGA-like Makeover?
A number of pundits and critics suggest that Democrats could benefit from a MAGA-like makeover and it appears some in the party are agree, like Gavin Newsom and Jasmine Crockett. Matt Bennett, co-founder of the center-left think tank Third Way, says Democrats need “combative centrists,” and said it would be a huge mistake for the party to overread the attention the left is currently getting. “The very online left are the only ones who actually believe that kind of politics can flip seats and win the White House,” Bennett says. “We’ve got to appeal to the gigantic group of voters who’ve left Democrats in the last 10 years. Those people are not looking for socialism. They’re looking for fighters—but only ones who share their values.” Contact Lily Cohen at lcohen@thirdway.org
4. ==> Pediatric Group Breaks With Government on COVID Vaccines
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children ages 6 months to 23 months-old receive a COVID vaccine even though federal officials have rolled back recommendations. Sean O’Leary, a physician who heads the AAP’s infectious-diseases committee says, “We make recommendations based on what’s in the best interest of the health of children.” The AAP and other professional organizations have been holding discussions with insurance companies to continue covering the shots based on guidance from professional associations rather than the federal government. O’Leary says insurers “are signaling that they are committed to covering our recommendations.” The AAP’s full vaccine guidance recommends immunization against 18 diseases. Its recommendations for flu and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, are essentially the same as what federal health officials including RFK Jr. have recommended. Sean O’Leary, MD, MPH, is a professor of pediatrics and infectious diseases at the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus and Children’s Hospital Colorado. Contact Dr. O’Leary at (303) 724-1582; sean.oleary@cuansc-schutz.edu
5. ==> Ultra-Processed Foods Make Up Majority of Kids’ Diet
A new CDC report reveals that ultra-processed foods make up a staggering 62% of children's daily calories and 53% of adults' calories, marking the first time the agency has quantified Americans' consumption of these highly processed products. Ultra-processed foods — defined as "industrial creations" made with little to no whole foods — include popular items like burgers, hot dogs, baked goods, and sugary drinks. These foods have been linked to serious health issues including depression, Type 2 diabetes, and early death. Dr. Michael Aziz, a board-certified internist and regenerative medicine specialist based in New York City, can discuss the significance of the new report. Ask him: How can families navigate the convenience factor of processed foods while protecting their health? Given that some processed foods like certain yogurts and whole grain breads may actually be beneficial, how can consumers distinguish between harmful and helpful processed options? Dr. Michael Aziz is an expert in anti-aging medicine, a national speaker and author of the “The Perfect 10 Diet.” His latest book is "The Ageless Revolution: 10 Hallmarks of Aging That Hold the Secret to Defeating Disease, Reversing Age, Looking Younger, and Living Longer." Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103 (call/text)
6. ==> B-T-S Expert: Proven Ways to Boost Student Engagement and Success
As a new school year begins, administrators have a fresh opportunity to energize their campuses, inspire teachers, and spark lasting student engagement. Karen Hansen shares uplifting, proven strategies that help high school and college leaders build thriving, student-centered communities. As families send their children back to school, these strategies aren’t just abstract policy ideas, they directly affect children’s learning. A student-centered culture can mean fewer discipline issues, higher graduation rates, and better preparation for college, career, and life. Back-to-school season isn’t just about sharpened pencils and new schedules—it’s a chance to reset the culture of learning. Hansen’s research shows how schools can become places where students feel challenged, and connected, setting kids up for even bigger successes. Karen Hansen, PhD, is professor emerita of sociology at Brandeis University and author of “Working-Class Kids” and “Visionary Educators in a Multiracial High School: A Story of Belonging.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbpr.biz
Looking for more back-to-school guests? Check out our Special Back-to-School RTIR Newsletter
7. ==> Are Tariffs the Answer to Saving American Jobs? This Economist Says Yes
Forget what you think you know about tariffs. Wealth manager and geopolitical commentator Rodger Friedman makes a bold case: tariffs, if used strategically, are not a relic—they’re a solution. “Tariffs protect workers, secure sovereignty and check global manipulation,” he says. Drawing from decades in finance and policy, Friedman warns against free-trade idealism and shares why smart protectionism may be key to rebuilding U.S. manufacturing. As the author of the “Equal Opportunity Times” column, he brings hard data and harder truth—without the political spin. Great for any segment on inflation, labor policy or America’s economic future. Contact Rodger Friedman at (301) 327-2255; rfriedman@rtirguests.com
8. ==> We’re in the Middle of a Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care
America’s birth rate has plunged to its lowest level ever, with the CDC reporting fewer than 1.6 children per woman in 2024. Meantime, a recent study shows the odds of having a boy or girl are no longer 50-50. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says both are symptoms of a much bigger fertility crisis. “Declining birth rates will reshape everything—from who cares for the elderly to who fuels the workforce,” the OB/GYN warns. Dr. Marina’s book, “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally,” offers a lifestyle-based approach to fertility and menstrual health—but she also sounds the alarm on the broader costs of reproductive neglect. She’ll bust myths, explain the falling boy birth ratio and share what needs to change—at home and in policy. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com
9. ==> He’s White, A Former Evangelical Minister —and Tackling Race Head-On
He raises bulls, quotes scripture and has four adopted Black children. Meet Rick Patterson, the former pastor turned corporate exec who’s challenging how America talks about race, masculinity and power. “I used to preach certainty,” he says. “Now I lead with questions.” With humor and humility, Patterson offers a surprising voice both sides of the culture war can actually hear. The author of “Shame Unmasked” and “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth,” says faith-based leaders need a new playbook for connection. Don’t miss this guest’s fresh take on reconciliation, manhood and what true leadership looks like in divided times. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Are We Raising a Nation of Wimps?
From cyberbullying to school shootings, video game addiction, sexual predators, and more, modern kids face many dangers. It’s no wonder that parents tend to be over-protective. But according to Dianne Olvera, we aren’t doing them any favors. “We are over-protecting kids, as opposed to empowering them,” she says. “As a result, kids can't make decisions, act impulsively, and seek artificial means to soothe their emotions.” Dianne shares ways to empower children to become more self-reliant by recognizing their strengths and encouraging independence. Dianne Olvera, Ph.D., BCET, is a board-certified educational therapist and the author of "The Power of Connection: Understanding Individual Differences to Uplift and Empower." She’s also a former diplomat and spy. Contact Dianne Olvera at (805) 779-3558; dolvera@rtirguests.com
11. ==> 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 (619) 932-5206; kallan@rtirguests.com
12. ==> 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
13. ==> This Priest Helps People Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Healing
We all know “The Wizard of Oz” as a childhood classic, but Dominican priest Father Nathan Castle, O.P., says it’s also a spiritual roadmap for people recovering from loss, religious trauma or life upheaval. In his popular “And Toto Too” retreat, he guides people through Dorothy’s journey with fresh eyes, revealing how each character represents a part of ourselves that longs for healing. Ask him: Why do many people today relate more to the Wicked Witch than to Glinda, and what does that says about grief, identity and power? How does the Yellow Brick Road mirror our own path to wholeness, complete with fear, courage and learning to trust love again? As “Wicked” draws new attention to Oz, Father Nathan offers a joyful, soul-centered perspective your audience won’t expect. Father Nathan is also the author of “Afterlife, Interrupted” and host of The Joyful Friar podcast. Contact him at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com
14. ==> The Therapy You Didn’t Know You Needed
In a world full of chaos, author and educator Lynette Watkins offers a path to serenity—through art. As a passionate advocate for creativity, Lynette believes art isn’t just decoration—it’s a spiritual experience, a mental health lifeline, and a powerful tool for education. Lynette shows us that healing, inspiration, and resilience often begin with a brushstroke. She says, "If you're ready to thrive—regardless of what’s happening in the world—take a trip with to the nearest art museum... and find yourself." Lynette is an acclaimed artist, professor of art, writer, musician, and author of “Can It Be That Some Chains Are Mere Shadows? A Visual Journey From Darkness To Light.” Contact Lynette Watkins at (575) 454-4635; lwatkins@rtirguests.com
15. ==> The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice
You might think that worry, self-doubt, and complicated emotions are just a fact of life—the unavoidable side effects of growing up and achieving adulthood. But Ron Schneebaum, M.D. knows that not only is this NOT the case, we each have the ability to reconnect with our innate capacity for love, joy, and living a more meaningful life. “Reconnecting with our capacity for love starts with appreciating that love lives within,” Schneebaum says. “It’s part of our human birthright. We know this by exploring compassion, for compassion is love put into action.” The author of “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life,” Schneebaum draws on his decades of experience as an educator and primary care physician to prescribe common sense, practical techniques to help us break free from limiting beliefs and emotions. Contact him at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com
