8/29/2024 RTIR Newsletter: Ralph Nader, Hollywood Crypt for Sale, a Festival of Goddesses

01. Ralph Nader: Exposing the Gaza Undercount
02. Majority of Americans Support More Nuclear Power
03. Divisive Politics, Climate Change, Wars: How to Overcome Overwhelming Stress
04. Spend Eternity Between Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner
05. Discover the Navratri Goddess Festival
06. The History of American Horror
07. Saving Earth is the Greatest Economic Opportunity of Our Time
08. How Did a Middle-Aged Mom Get 1M YouTube Viewers?
09. Travelling With Fido? Tips for a Pet-Friendly Trip
10. What Do Tommy Chong and Deepak Chopra Have in Common?
11. Do the Dems Want to Take Away Our Freedom and Prosperity?
12. Can a Marriage Survive Sex Addiction?
13. This Psychotherapist May Hold the Key to Ending Religious Divisiveness
14. Why the Biggest Domestic Violence Myths Continue
15. 3 Signs You’re an Empath

1. ==> Ralph Nader: Exposing the Gaza Undercount

The situation in Gaza is dire with the official death toll at around 40,000 since the war started last October, but activist Ralph Nader says both Hamas and Israel are severely undercounting the dead. He says expert estimates point to a death toll of over 300,000 Palestinians, with that number at least doubling by end of the year. “With over 100,000 bombs and missiles, plus daily tank shelling and ruthless sniper fire, there has been massive destruction of apartment buildings, congested marketplaces, crowded refugee camps, hospitals and their surrounding huddled homeless masses of families, clinics, ambulances, bakeries, schools, universities, mosques, churches, roads, electricity networks, critical water mains — just about everyone and everything.” Invite the longtime political activist to discuss the situation, including his argument that both Netanyahu and Hamas have an interest in undercounting the dead in Gaza. Nader recently wrote the piece Exposing the Gaza Death Undercount for the “Capitol Hill Citizen.” Contact him via Info@csrl.org; @RalphNader

2. ==> Majority of Americans Support More Nuclear Power

According to a recent Pew Research Center poll, 56% of U.S. adults favor more nuclear power plants to generate electricity, which is statistically unchanged from last year. But the future of large-scale nuclear power in America is uncertain. Senior researcher Brian Kennedy says Americans remain more likely to favor expanding solar power (78%) and wind power (72%) than nuclear power, but support for solar and wind power has declined by double digits since 2020 – largely driven by drops in Republican support – while the share who favor nuclear power has grown by 13 percentage points over that span. Kennedy can share Americans’ views by gender, political party and age, and can discuss the current status of nuclear reactors across the country. Brian Kennedy is a senior researcher at the Pew Research Center, where he focuses on science and society research. He frequently appears in the media to discuss research on public opinion on climate, energy and environmental issues and public trust in science. Contact Haley Nolan at (202) 419-4394; hnolan@pewresearch.org or Mithila Samak at (202) 419-4308; msamak@pewresearch.org

3.==> Divisive Politics, Climate Change, Wars: How to Overcome Overwhelming Stress

Overcoming stress is not a new topic. But while most experts recommend strategies to avoid stress, internationally known psychologist Stephen Sideroff claims it’s best to just face it head on. “Stress is a fact of life, and it’s necessary for success,” he says. “I have discovered a holistic methodology based on 9 key pillars to help you thrive, even in the midst of overwhelming stress.” Drawing on over 40 years of experience, Stephen can share techniques to adjust the mind and body to cope with modern forms of stress and ways to prosper with stress, rather than letting it weigh you down. Stephen is an associate professor in the Departments of Psychiatry and Rheumatology at UCLA’s Geffen School of Medicine. He was the founder and former clinical director of the Stress Strategies Program of UCLA/Santa Monica Hospital and former clinical director of Moonview Treatment and Optimal Performance Center. He is the author of “The 9 Pillars of Resilience: The Proven Path to Mastering Stress, Slow Aging and Increase Vitality.” Contact Dr. Stephen Sideroff at (213) 660-4659; ssideroff@rtirguests.com

4.==> Spend Eternity Between Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner

A burial crypt next to Hugh Hefner and Marilyn Monroe is up for sale. The crypt, which once belonged to Tony Award-winning composer Jerry Herman, is located at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park in Los Angeles — the final home for many celebrities including Natalie Wood, Dean Martin, Farrah Fawcett and Truman Capote. Herman, who wrote the Broadway classics “Hello, Dolly!” “La Cage aux Folles” and “Mame,” originally purchased the crypt in 1997 for $75,000 when he lived in Los Angeles amid fear that being HIV positive was a death sentence, according to his goddaughter Jane Dorian. Thanks to the development of new drug therapies, Herman went on to live to the age of 88, and by the time of his death in 2019 he’d changed his mind and was buried next to his mother in New Jersey. Dorian says Herman gave his permission to sell the crypt before his death. She’ll discuss her famous godfather’s illustrious career and an upcoming auction which promises to feature “items of historic significance.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

5. ==> Discover the Navratri Goddess Festival

Did you know there’s an annual nine-goddess festival that begins on Oct. 3 celebrated by millions of Indians worldwide, with many colors, music, pomegranate seeds, puffed rice, potatoes, and dancing around the light of a lamp? And that so many celebrate, yet so few, including Deepak Chopra, know its significance? The festival is called Navratri and the light of the lamp at the center of the dance represents the power we have to give birth to the most authentic version of ourselves. Interview Ananta Ripa Ajmera to learn Navratri’s significance, including a nine-step process she created through her journey to empower people to overcome abuse and trauma and turn adversity into their friend. Ananta is the author of the best-selling “The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self,” which Deepak Chopra endorsed. Contact Ananta Ripa Ajmera at (419) 297-9210; ananta.ripa.ajmera@gmail.com

6. ==> The History of American Horror

Horror is and has always been a favorite American pastime, and author Jeremy Dauber argues that our fear reveals the American consciousness in its truest form. He’ll chronicle the rise and enduring grip of fear and horror throughout American culture, from the tales of H. P. Lovecraft, Shirley Jackson, and Edgar Allan Poe to the films and television shows of Alfred Hitchcock, Jordan Peele, and Ryan Murphy. Dauber can discuss the genre’s current place in society – its rise in popularity, its guiding themes and beloved tropes, its real-world context, and the electrifying way it has leapt off the screen and page to shape history. Jeremy Dauber is a professor of Jewish literature and American studies at Columbia University. He is the author of several books including “Mel Brooks: Disobedient Jew and American Comics: A History” and his latest, “American Scary: A History of Horror, from Salem to Stephen King and Beyond.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (c); johanna@jrbpr.biz or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5188

7. ==> Saving Earth is the Greatest Economic Opportunity of Our Time

Saving the planet seems like an insurmountable challenge. But what if there was a viable path to combating climate change? Dr. John Berger says there is — that we actually have the necessary technology and money to prevent further damage. Invite Berger to explain a three-pronged approach to the problem that includes embracing new technology, protecting our natural ecosystems, and reducing social and environmental injustice. Learn how replacing the fossil-fuel system with a modernized, clean-energy economy could produce millions of new jobs and save trillions of dollars, making the case that protecting the climate has the potential to be the greatest economic opportunity of our time. Berger spent six years traveling the world interviewing experts on climate change and business for his new book, “Solving the Climate Crisis: Frontline Reports from the Race to Save the Earth.” John Berger, Ph.D., is a senior research fellow at The Pacific Institute. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @Lissa_Warren

8. ==> How Did a Middle-Aged Mom Get 1M YouTube Viewers?

Most people associate YouTube with cool music, comedy, and how-to videos, as it’s primarily considered a bastion of young trendsetters. But author and English language educator Jennifer Lebedev is living proof that you don’t have to belong to Gen Z to become a YouTube star. “I reached the 1 million subscriber mark on the channel when I was nearing 50,” she says. “I believe it’s important to step outside your comfort zone, especially in mid-life.” She can share how mid-lifers can successfully set and attain personal and professional goals, despite their hectic lives. Jennifer is a long-time educator and author of the book “Being a YouTuber: One Creator’s Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers.” Contact Jennifer Lebedev at (617) 668-1804; jlebedev@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Travelling With Fido? Tips for a Pet-Friendly Trip

A family trip isn’t a family trip unless Fido and/or Fluffy come along for the adventure. But travel can be stressful for pets and owners alike. Carol Osborne, DVM, offers must-have advice for those who ‘have pet, will travel’! Dr. Osborne will share important questions to ask yourself before packing up your pet, starting with if they’re well-trained and healthy enough for travel. Whether you’re taking a plane or hitting the highway, learn what to bring, how to prepare your pet beforehand, and natural remedies to help if your furry friend gets anxious on the trip. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian. She is a regular contributor to several TV shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” Discovery’s “Animal Planet,” and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

10. ==> What Do Tommy Chong and Deepak Chopra Have in Common?

Perhaps you have wondered why people like Deepak Chopra, Gary Vee (“Crush It!”), Jack Canfield (“Chicken Soup for the Soul”), Lisa Nichols (“The Secret”), Brian Austin Green (“90210”), and Tommy Chong seemingly become more successful and happier, ultimately weathering economic and emotional storms with ease. Corey Poirier, often called the Modern-Day Napoleon Hill, has the answers. Poirier has interviewed over 7,500 of the world’s top thought leaders and his new book, “The Enlightened Passenger,” reveals the top lessons and habits he has learned during those interviews. Ask him: What are the secrets behind The Power of No, the Purpose Statement, Vitamin P, E+R=O? How do they allow people to succeed, enjoy greater abundance, and even avoid the current mental health crises? Contact Corey Poirier at (902) 303-5544; corey@blutalks.com

11. ==> Do the Dems Want to Take Away Our Freedom and Prosperity?

Americans are more divided than they’ve been in decades. Author Taylor Woodruff blames Democrats for situation. He also believes the 2020 election was stolen. “I was distressed to find that not one entity Americans trust analyzed or reviewed election results,” he claims. “They all appeared to have sided with the corrupt, godless, communist transformation of the American Democratic Party. That, more than anything, told me where they plan on taking this country.” Ask Taylor about his controversial views and how he came to these conclusions. He is the author of “My Book: The Case for National Divorce, One Christian’s Perspective.” Contact Taylor Woodruff at (252) 888-5892; twoodruff@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Can a Marriage Survive Sex Addiction?

Infidelity is a leading cause of divorce in the U.S. But while many marriages do not survive such betrayal, author and marriage therapist Marsha Means claims that there is hope. “In a number of cases, cheating is a result of sex addiction,” she says. “The problem is the same with any form of addiction, be it sex, heroin, or alcohol, which often is the result of unresolved childhood trauma.” Marsha can share how to address past trauma to break sex addiction for good, and how couples can survive the pain. She is the author of the critically acclaimed books “Learn Empathy: Help Your Betrayed Wife Heal” and “From Betrayal Trauma to Healing & Joy: A Workbook for Partners of Sex Addicts.” Contact Marsha Means at (520) 341-6002; mmeans@rtirguests.com

13. ==> This Psychotherapist May Hold the Key to Ending Religious Divisiveness

What if we could stop every disagreement over religion, from fighting with your uncle at Thanksgiving to full-scale holy wars? Author and psychotherapist Joe Masterleo reveals the universal constant that not only encompasses all religions but also bridges the gap between spirituality and science. Until now, he says, the only “solution” we’ve found is to agree to disagree – a theory not everyone subscribes to, and one that only puts off arguments rather than ending them. Ask him: How can God be everywhere at once? Why do you say that heaven is real? What is the all-inclusive theory that unites nature and religion? Are dogs a reflection of God? A psychotherapist for over 50 years, Joe has worked with hundreds of people to help them reconcile their inner conflicts and contradictions along mental-spiritual lines. Joe’s commentaries have appeared in the “Syracuse Post Standard.” He is the author of ” The Ambient Christ: The Untold Story of God in Science, Scripture and Spirituality.” Contact Joe Masterleo at (315) 509-3740 or jmasterleo@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Why the Biggest Domestic Violence Myths Continue

Many of the realities of domestic violence, including how common it is, remain hidden in darkness and secrecy. Without understanding, many people believe that women should “just leave” their abusers. The reality is that leaving is not that simple for many trapped in abusive relationships. Phoenix Rose understands that reality on a personal level. She shares her personal story with your audience on escaping a violent relationship and rebuilding her life, and offers real, actionable advice for people to help themselves or their loved ones do the same. The author of “Walking in Aloha: 5 Steps to Living Your God Potential Life,” Michelle provides secure, empowering steps for women that will help them break free and achieve a stronger, more purposeful life. She’ll also discuss the unseen reasons women stay with those who hurt them, what domestic violence victims have in common with their abusers, why the occurrence of domestic violence spiked drastically during the pandemic, and much more. Contact Phoenix Rose at (808) 201-2784; prose@rtirguests.com

15. ==> 3 Signs You’re an Empath

Do you sometimes know something is going to happen before it does? Do you actually feel the pain of others? Do you experience keen physical discomfort in the presence of certain people? If so, you may be an empath or perhaps you may find that you know someone who is, someone like Jennifer Maag. She says, “After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, I became extremely empathic, which was a gift.” While being highly empathic can cause people to be hyper-sensitive, Jennifer can share how mastering the emotions that accompany this trait can greatly benefit one’s existence. Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform inner battles into healing tools to live one’s best life. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

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