12/19/2024 RTIR Newsletter: Holiday Stress, Track Santa’s Sleigh, Find a New Job in 2025


01. Is it Really the Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
02. Live Santa Tracker on Christmas Eve
03. Holiday Survival Guide for Paw-Parents
04. Which Charities Are Worth Donating to (and Which to Avoid)
05. Public Health Outlook Under Trump
06. How to Find a New Job in 2025
07. Parents Are Losing Influence Over Their Kids—How to Get It Back
08. Why Talking Politics Gets Us So Heated, Even After Election Day
09. Do You Worship Like a Cat or a Dog? And Why it Matters
10. What Parents Need to Know About Artificial Intelligence
11. Negative Self-Talk is Crippling Our Children
12. The Biggest Myths About Psychic Intuition
13. Why We Need To Have More Compassion for Ourselves
14. Make This One Change and Live to 90+ Years
15. From Mt. Everest to a Solo Expedition in Antarctica: Interview This Pioneering Female Mountain Climber

1. ==> Is it Really the Most Wonderful Time of the Year?

If this is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, why are we all so stressed out? According to a poll by the American Psychological Association, 90% of Americans are feeling joyous but overwhelmed this holiday season with concerns about not having enough money, missing loved ones and anticipating family conflict. While stress is common this time of year, 43% say the stress of the holidays interferes with their ability to enjoy them and 36% say the holidays feel like a competition. Dr. Carole Lieberman can discuss how financial stress can impact someone’s overall health and well-being, ways to manage expectations around the holidays and how upholding traditions can contribute to the mixed feelings of joy and stress during the holiday season. Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H. is a board-certified forensic psychiatrist and the author of several books. She has appeared on “Oprah,” the “Today Show,” “Good Morning America,” CNN, Fox News. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

2. ==> Live Santa Tracker on Christmas Eve

On Tuesday, St. Nick is scheduled to load his sleigh with gifts, harness his reindeer and take to the skies for his annual journey across the globe, and there’s one government agency that will be following his every move … and you can too! The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the government agency that tracks everything that flies in and around North America in defense of our homeland, will track Santa Claus just as they have each year since 1955. Book an interview with a Santa Tracker to hear the unlikely story of how this modern tradition began with a child’s accidental phone call, why the agency continues to provide Santa’s flight updates more than 60 years later, and how the process has evolved to include social media and flight apps that allow you to track Santa on your phone! The folks at NORAD can provide video b-roll and graphics and arrange general interviews with a Santa Tracker or tailor the interview for your specific region. You can even book live in-flight interviews for December 24. Contact NORAD Public Affairs at (719) 554-6889; NTSMedia@outlook.com

3. ==> Holiday Survival Guide for Paw-Parents

The holiday season is upon us and as we gear up for travel plans, family festivities, and decorations galore, we sometimes forget how this time of year can be quite stressful (and potentially dangerous) for our furry friends. For our pets, the holidays often come with major changes in routine and exposure to foods and plants that we don’t see any other time of the year. Invite Carol Osborne D.V.M. to provide her expertise on the best ways to keep your fur-babies happy and healthy this holiday season! Learn how to pet-proof your Christmas tree, holiday houseplants to avoid and ways to ease your pet’s holiday anxiety. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian and a nationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of functional medicine. 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

4. ==> Which Charities Are Worth Donating to (and Which to Avoid)

Many people are quick to donate to charitable causes, especially during the holidays. But according to author and nonprofit expert Michele Whetzel, “It’s better to think with your head as opposed to your heart before turning over your hard-earned cash. Do your research first!” She’ll share what to look for in truly worthy charities, red flags to watch out for, as well as tips for starting your own nonprofit. Michele is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting, and author of the book, “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Contact her at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Public Health Outlook Under Trump

With the second Trump presidency looming, many experts are concerned about a host of emerging issues in public health, including immunization practices, biomedical research, federal funds, and fears about bird flu. Arthur Reingold, a professor of epidemiology who has dedicated his research to the prevention and control of infectious disease, says the academic public health and biomedical community is concerned based on the views that have been publicly made clear about RFK Jr., the incoming head of NIH, and the incoming CDC director. “These appointees are not a good omen for biomedical research funding,” he says. Reingold can also discuss concerns about bird flu in California. “Bird flu is here, but so far the impact on human health has thankfully been negligible. Nobody can predict whether that will continue to be the case or whether there will be catastrophic changes in the virus that create a pandemic that puts Covid to shame.” Arthur Reingold, MD, is a professor of epidemiology at the University of California, Berkeley School of Public Health. He also serves on the Advisory Council on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Contact him at reingold@berkeley.edu

6. ==> How to Find a New Job in 2025

Whether you’re a new college grad, a mid-level manager or an older worker looking to switch careers, get a look at the hiring outlook for the coming year from Andy Challenger, SVP of Challenger, Gray and Christmas Inc., an outplacement and executive coaching firm. He’ll discuss ways to navigate the complex and evolving job market and share expert tips on how to advance your career or land your next opportunity. Hear how to navigate the hidden job market and the ways different industries are transitioning, and get specific tips for new grads, veterans and those over 55. Listeners will also get information on The Challenger Holiday Job Search Event, a free two-day webinar and virtual coaching event later this month. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (o); (314) 807-1568 (c) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

7. ==> Parents Are Losing Influence Over Their Kids—How to Get It Back

Why are parents losing the battle for their children’s attention and trust? Parenting expert Richard R. Ramos tackles this urgent issue in his book “Parents on a Mission,” revealing how to reclaim influence in an era where social media dominates teens’ lives and parental rights are being challenged in schools. Ramos has helped thousands of parents nationwide strengthen family bonds and prevent negative lifestyles like gangs and violence. His revolutionary “Home Field Advantage” strategy equips parents with tools to connect deeply with their kids and navigate today’s challenges with confidence. Book Ramos for your podcast, TV or radio show to inspire your audience with proven strategies that prioritize parenting over the outdated “it takes a village” mindset. Contact Richard Ramos at (805) 456-1407; rramos@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Why Talking Politics Gets Us So Heated, Even After Election Day

A majority of Americans were stressed before Election Day, and now post-election, emotions are still running high for many across the country. Experts say Americans with varying political views may be overcome with emotion in the wake of the election results, from pride and optimism to disappointment, frustration and even fear. Psychiatrist Melvyn Lurie can help explain why people take it so personally when their candidate doesn't win. The author of “The Biology of Politics” says more is going on than you realize. He’ll discuss the many hidden drives that are a fundamental part of our nature and help your audience learn how to discuss and debate politics (or anything) with family and friends without resorting to anger, rage or name-calling. Dr. Lurie is an honors graduate of Harvard Medical School. He has practiced and taught medical students at Harvard and Tufts, has served as an expert witness, managed political campaigns and once even ran for political office. Contact him at (617) 510-8474; mlurie@post.Harvard.edu

9. ==> Do You Worship Like a Cat or a Dog? And Why it Matters

There’s a saying that dogs have masters and cats have staff. Gerald Robison says humans act the same in their relationships with God. Too many Christians say God is their master but they treat him like a staff member saying, "God do this, give me that and take care of this. Thanks, you can go now." Simple and humorous, but also profound, Robison’s take is easy-to-understand and fascinating to debate. The author of Cat and Dog Theology will share his fresh perspective and vision of our relationship to our master. He’ll take the dog vs cat debate to the next level and may even challenge what you think about salvation. Ask him: What is cat theology and why is it dangerous? How is a dog different? What is a selfish prayer and feel-good theology? Contact Dr. Gerald Robison at (904) 874-6706; GeraldRobi@aol.com

10. ==> What Parents Need to Know About Artificial Intelligence

AI is already a big part of our day-to-day lives. Should we be concerned that our kids have easy access to this powerful resource? Quite the opposite, argues thought leader Marc Prensky. He sees artificial intelligence and cell phones as young people’s passports to the future and the new human capabilities they will use to better the world. Invite Prensky on your show to bust the myth that cell phones make kids lazy and explain why kids need to be taught the fundamental emotional skills of love, empathy, gratitude, and optimism. Prensky is the author of 12 books, most recently “Third Millenium Kids: A Hell Yes! Low Stress Guide for Everyone.” He’s also a public speaker who’s appeared in over 50 countries. Contact Marc Prensky at (516) 701-1440; mprensky@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Negative Self-Talk is Crippling Our Children

Negative self-talk can creep up on anybody—especially kids. What if there were a way to identify this hidden habit in our children and give them the tools to defeat it? Armida Espinoza’s has a lifetime of experience in this area and will explain how kids aren’t as emotionally resilient as we might think. Invite Espinoza to discuss the long-term effects of negative self-talk and teach listeners how to turn this crippling outlook into a growth mindset. A retired bilingual elementary school teacher, Espinoza has helped thousands of kids, teachers, parents, and school administrators. She’s the author of “Brave Lolis Learns English,” an effective primer based on autobiographical experience. Contact Armida Espinoza at (559) 234-3516; aespinoza@rtirguests.com

12. ==> The Biggest Myths About Psychic Intuition

Invite renowned psychic, badge-carrying detective, and animal communicator Nancy Orlen Weber to reveal the extraordinary power of tapping into your soul’s guidance to transform your life. She’ll debunk common myths about psychic intuition and show you how to access your inner wisdom, develop deeper connections with people and animals, unlock your life’s purpose, and navigate challenges with clarity and confidence! With more than 45 years of experience, Nancy is a true expert in animal communication, psychic investigations, and spiritual development, and the author of several books, including “The Life of a Psychic Detective.” In addition to sharing simple ways to connect with your soul’s guidance, Nancy can share examples of real-life mysteries she’s solved as a psychic detective. Contact Nancy Orlen Weber at (973) 441-4411; lightwingcenter@gmail.com

13. ==> Why We Need To Have More Compassion for Ourselves

Author and nurse practitioner Susie Bell has been through hell and back. She was excommunicated from the Mormon Church, suffered the loss of a baby, went through a soul-wrenching divorce, was drugged, raped, and publicly harassed by a famous athlete, and struggled with substance abuse. But instead of becoming bitter and angry, she developed a keen sense of compassion for herself. "This enabled me to develop a strong sense of empathy for others," she says. "People cannot have compassion for others until they have compassion for themselves." She is the author of the book "A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine & Men." Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Make This One Change and Live to 90+ Years

Author and environmental activist Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., is 90-years-young and still going strong. His secret? "I have followed a vegan diet for decades," he says. "I am convinced that that has been the key to my longevity and remaining healthy at an advanced age." He also believes that animal-based industries are destroying the planet by largely contributing to climate change. "The world is eating itself into distinction," he adds. "If people don't embrace vegetarianism and veganism on a massive scale, I am convinced that humans will be extinct by 2100." An experienced media guest, Richard is the author of "Vegan Revolution" and several other books. Contact Richard Schwartz at (914) 533-1949; rschwartz@rtirguests.com

15. ==> From Mt. Everest to a Solo Expedition in Antarctica: Interview This Pioneering Female Mountain Climber

After years of working as a top corporate executive, Siv Harstad experienced severe burnout. So she decided to climb new mountains, literally, by tackling the world's seven summits, the highest peak on all continents, including Mt. Everest and Kilimanjaro, and the highest volcanoes on all seven continents, totaling 33 expeditions. Ironically, she used to suffer from an acute fear of heights! Her experiences became a metaphor for tackling life's challenges, especially for women. "If I can manage to climb Mt. Everest, so many other people can do things that they have been dreaming about, especially women," she says. "More women than men hold themselves back, due to their upbringing and societal imprints." Contact Siv Harstad at contact@sivharstad.com



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