01. Government Shutdown: Why Dems Should Do Nothing
02. Aid Flotilla Nears Gaza: Interview US Vets Aboard Ship
03. The Biggest Sex Myths and Why They Persist
04. Who Was Christopher Columbus?
05. Are Ghosts Real? A Priest Explains Encounters from the Other Side
06. Meet the Political Rocky: How One Man Took on the ‘Unbeatable’ and Changed His District
07. Longtime OB/GYN Talks Reproductive Health and Freedom
08. Are We Raising a Nation of Wimps?
09. The Math Fix That Could Change Your Teen’s Year
10. Urban PTSD Nearly Broke This Entrepreneur. A Mindset Shift Saved Him
11. What's Your Pet Really Thinking? Ask This Animal Psychic
12. Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain
13. The Key to Unlock Your Secret Genius (It’s in Your Senses!)
14. The Therapy You Didn’t Know You Needed
15. Unlock the LUCK Code to Change Your Future
1. ==> Government Shutdown: Why Dems Should Do Nothing
For weeks, Democrats have debated the pros and cons of potentially forcing a government shutdown as they try to extract concessions on health care policy from President Donald Trump. Now, they can add a new item to the “cons” side of the ledger: The White House plans to use a government shutdown to attempt another round of mass firings of federal workers. Georgetown University political scientist Matthew Glassman thinks forcing a shutdown is the wrong approach. “There have been a handful of shutdowns longer than a day in the modern era,” Glassman told “The New York Times” last week. “In none of them did the party trying to leverage the shutdown win the concessions they were seeking and, in each case, they also lost the public opinion battle. There’s an important political fallacy at play here, that if something is available to do, you should necessarily do it. If doing nothing causes less harm, it’s the best option. Sometimes you have to choose the least-worst path.” Matt Glassman is a Senior Fellow at the Government Affairs Institute at Georgetown University. Contact him at @MattGlassman312
2. ==> Aid Flotilla Nears Gaza: Interview US Vets Aboard Ship
There are several U.S. veterans on the Sumud Flotilla, which is now approaching Gaza with humanitarian aid. The huge flotilla is comprised of more than 50 ships from at least 44 countries. It’s a significant maritime initiative aimed at delivering aid amid the ongoing blockade. Spain and other countries have dispatched navy vessels to support the Flotilla. The Flotilla just reported: “Turkish navy vessels spotted alongside the Global Sumud Flotilla — the circle of protection is growing.” The effort, which began several weeks ago in Barcelona and Tunis, has not been without setbacks, including at least one drone strike. Coordinated by grassroots organizers, seafarers, doctors, artists, and solidarity activists from over 40 countries, the flotilla is a nonviolent humanitarian mission. Those participating include members of parliament from Europe, Mandla Mandela from South Africa, Greta Thunberg from Sweden and two U.S. veterans: Gregory Stoker and Philip Tottenham. Stoker has been posting videos of the trip. Contact him at greg.j.stoker@gmail.com; @gregjstoker. Philip Tottenham recently appeared on “Flashpoints.” Contact him at philiptottenham@gmail.com
3. ==> The Biggest Sex Myths and Why They Persist
A growing body of research is finding that some of the most commonly held beliefs about sex are wrong. “We have a sexual literacy problem in our culture,” says Justin Garcia, executive director of the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University. “And in the absence of good information, we create a mythology and treat it as gospel.” Garcia says we shouldn’t be surprised. Sex education and research are perpetually underfunded and often attacked by politicians and religious groups. Plus, many people are uncomfortable talking about sex. But good information is good information, so let Garcia share what most people get wrong about sex and why that matters. Ask him: How much sex should you be having? Should I keep my fantasies to myself or share them with my partner? Is spontaneous sex better than planned sex? Dr. Justin Garcia is an evolutionary biologist and sex researcher. Contact him at (812) 855-7686; jusrgarc@iu.edu
4. ==> Who Was Christopher Columbus?
Monday, October 13th is Columbus Day, but what do we really know about Chris? In the years since Columbus “sailed the ocean blue in 1492,” his journey and its consequences have gained notoriety across the globe. Historian Matthew Restall unpacks Columbus’ enduring cultural and political presence while weaving a new history of the modern world in his new book, “The Nine Lives of Christopher Columbus.” Scrutinizing nine key myths, Restall tugs apart our misconceptions about the historical figure of Columbus, his exceptionalism, and his culpability for colonial violence in the Americas. He also deconstructs modern narratives around Columbus, and tells a story about contemporary society, American self-conceptions, and the importance of rigorous historical accounting. Matthew Restall, Ph.D., is Edwin Erle Sparks Professor of History and Anthropology and director of Latin American studies at Penn State University and the author of more than 30 books. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
5. ==> Are Ghosts Real? Priest Explains Encounters From the Other Side
Just in time for Halloween, here’s a segment about hauntings, ghosts and spirits. Dominican priest Nathan Castle says ghost stories aren’t make-believe, they’re spiritual roadmaps. Here how he has helped hundreds of people process near-death and ghostly encounters. His work explores whether spirits reach out to us for healing and closure. Perfect for Halloween, Castle offers a grounded, joyful take on life beyond the grave. Father Nathan is a Dominican priest, retreat leader, and author of “Afterlife, Interrupted.” In his retreats, he guides people through Dorothy’s Yellow Brick Road with surprising parallels to grief, fear, and even ghostly encounters. Contact him at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com
6. ==> Meet the Political Rocky: How One Man Took on the ‘Unbeatable’ and Changed His District
Author Rob Curnock knows politics from every angle—as a volunteer, TV reporter, and county party leader. He ultimately got a front-row seat to the down-and-dirty world of politics during his unlikely run for Congress against an entrenched incumbent. “I experienced the often brutal realities of running for office—and learned how ordinary citizens can shake up the system,” he says. Whether you’re thinking of running for office—or just curious about what it takes—Rob delivers an inside look that is as timely as today’s headlines. He is a long-time broadcast journalist and the author of “Dead Man Running.” Contact Rob Curnock at (254) 822-3741; rcurnock@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Longtime OB/GYN Talks Reproductive Health and Freedom
Dr. Steven Eisinger is out to tackle a hot topic in the current political scene: abortion. Throughout his career, Dr. Eisinger has dedicated himself to three main pursuits: providing obstetric and gynecologic care for underserved women, educating young doctors, and championing reproductive freedom, including abortion. Dr. Eisinger has performed abortions all his professional life, beginning in 1971. He even wrote a book approaching the topic with clarity, humor, and passion to present an accurate picture of abortion to the public, including the medical and psychological realities for patients and providers, and addresses the complex issues surrounding abortion. Ask him: What are some stand-out memories from his career? How multi-faceted is abortion from a doctor's perspective? What are his professional opinions on the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the consequences that go along with it? Contact Dr. Eisinger at (585) 721-1575; sseisinger@gmail.com
8. ==> 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
9. ==> The Math Fix That Could Change Your Teen’s Year
Hate math? Your teen probably does too—and Dr. Craig Hane says it’s often because they’ve been taught the wrong way. Known as “Dr. Del,” he developed a system to help struggling students find real-world meaning in math, rebuild confidence, and even start to enjoy it. In this back-to-school conversation, he’ll show parents how to stop the nightly homework battles and start sparking curiosity, from basic algebra to practical problem-solving. His approach works especially well for students who feel “behind” or disconnected from traditional methods. Dr. Craig Hane is an educator, author, and creator of the Triad Math program, with decades of experience making math accessible and relevant for teens. Contact him at (812) 408-8047; chane@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Urban PTSD Nearly Broke This Entrepreneur. A Mindset Shift Saved Him
Entrepreneur and community leader Darius Ross knows what it’s like to survive on the streets and in the boardroom. In his book “Mastering the TPS Blueprint,” he reveals how Urban PTSD—trauma rooted in chaos, violence and family dysfunction—nearly cost him everything. The biggest battle wasn’t business, however. It was the war in his mind. Now, Darius brings his no-BS “inner-city Navy SEALs mindset” to help audiences rewire limiting beliefs and step into resilience. He’s bold, uplifting and unafraid to say what others won’t, while also offering real solutions that change lives. Darius is a dynamic guest who takes live calls, gives away coaching sessions and keeps listeners engaged with street-smart clarity, humor and heart. This is the comeback story your audience didn’t know they needed. Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com
11. ==> What's Your Pet Really Thinking? Ask This Animal Psychic
What if your dog or cat could talk — and you understood every word? Nancy Orlen Weber shares her extraordinary life as an animal communicator and healer. From locating missing pets to warning law enforcement about dangerous animal abuse cases, Nancy’s intuitive gifts and deep compassion have led her to serve animals, plants, and people alike for over 50 years. Her remarkable true stories—including animals she’s never met recognizing her years later—demonstrate that we are all deeply connected across species. Nancy is a true expert in animal communication, psychic investigations, spiritual development, and the author of several books including "Nature Speaks." Contact Nancy Orlen Weber at Nweber@rtirguests.com; (973) 453-0906
12. ==> Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain
We’ve all heard the adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” Long-time chronic pain survivor Vita Oyler is living proof of that. When she was a young, highly athletic woman, she accidentally stepped on a rock, after which she developed reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), a severe malfunction of the nervous and immune systems. This led to decades of excruciating pain and, ultimately, the amputation of her foot and part of her leg. But she has managed to survive, and thrive, via incorporating humor into her healing journey. “Laughter releases the body’s natural painkillers known as endorphins,” she says. “Researchers have found that humor can increase tolerance to pain.” Vita is a rehabilitation counselor and doctoral candidate at San Diego State University. She is the author of “Got Pain? Now What?” Contact Vita Oyler at (209) 255-2962; Voyler@rtirguests.com
13. ==> The Key to Unlock Your Secret Genius (It’s in Your Senses!)
What if the key to health, happiness, and deeper relationships isn’t out there—but within your own sensory system? Donna Redman has created a groundbreaking program: The Secret Genius of Sensory Processing, in collaboration with renowned occupational therapist Cynthia Duffy. Backed by neuroscience, art therapy, and nature-based healing, this revolutionary program empowers parents, caregivers, and neurodivergent individuals to understand and leverage their sensory experiences to transform daily life. “When we understand the senses, we begin to understand ourselves,” she says. Whether it’s the chaos of school mornings, struggles with mealtime, or the heartbreak of misunderstood behavior—this program offers practical tools and deep insight that can change everything. Contact Donna Redman at (973) 876-5903; dredman@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. ==> How the LUCK Code Can Change Your Future
What if the patterns behind your relationships, career wins (and failures), and daily life weren’t random — but part of a code you never knew existed? Ariel Vox has discovered the LUCK Code, an acronym for the four animals that represent your personality shaping your world: lion, umbrella cockatoo, coral, and koala. “We’re not just one — we’re all four,” she says. “And knowing when to switch between them is the key to better love, leadership, and life.” This isn’t another personality test. It’s a wildly relatable, science-backed framework brought to life through laugh-out-loud stories and uncanny insight. Ariel is a successful destiny coach, speaker, and author of "Crack the LUCK Code." Contact Ariel Vox at avox@rtirguests.com
