01. Conclave 101: How a New Pope is Chosen
02. Inside the Extraordinary Conclave Security
03. The Spinach King: How Industrial Farming Changed American Ag
04. The War on Misogyny Takes a Shocking New Twist
05. Docu-Fiction: Eileen Gray and the House by the Sea
06. Change This Costly Food Habit to Save Money
07. The Biology of Politics: Why We Get So Angry
08. Surviving Communism, Fighting for Faith: A Firsthand Story of Religious Persecution and Freedom
09. The Hidden Epidemic: How Isolation is Impacting Teen Mental Health
10. What it Means to Be Great (Again)
11. How to Talk to Your Gen Z Coworker
12. As Seen on ‘Shark Tank’: How to Look Chic at Any Size
13. There Are No Bad Dogs: One Woman’s Mission to Train with Compassion
14. From Pro Athletes to Polka Mishaps: One RN/PT’s Journey to a Pain-Free Formula
15. Time for Spring Yard Sales! Interview The Garage Sale Millionaire
1. ==> Conclave 101: How a New Pope is Chosen
Cardinals from around the world are gathering in the Sistine Chapel to elect Pope Francis’s successor. Professor Rebecca Rist, papal expert at the University of Reading, can share everything you need to know about the secretive process—from who’s eligible to vote, what language they speak, and how the next pope is chosen. “The balloting is done in secret - so no one knows how each cardinal will vote,” she says. “If a ballot is inconclusive, black smoke will emanate from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. Once a pope has been agreed on, white smoke will emanate from the chimney and the world will know there is a new pope.” Rebecca Rist is a professor of medieval history at the University of Reading in the UK. Contact Carolann Grandison at c.grandison@reading.ac.uk or pressoffice@reading.ac.uk
2. ==> Inside the Extraordinary Conclave Security
The Vatican’s approach to security protocols for the papal conclave “sets a gold standard for organizations handling sensitive decisions,” according to security expert and author Theresa Payton. Ensuring that ancient process remains free of external influence and leaks (as well as safe from potential attacks) is even more challenging in a hyperconnected world — but the Vatican’s approach “offers a blueprint for protecting privacy,” says Payton, the first female chief information officer for the White House under President George W. Bush. She noted the Vatican has taken “extraordinary measures” that combine several key technological, legal and physical precautions. Along with sequestering the cardinal electors and support staff — all under oath, upon pain of excommunication — in the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican guesthouse, Vatican security officials are “doing something I have long told organizations to do — no cellphones,” says Payton, CEO and chief adviser of the North Carolina-based cybersecurity security firm Fortalice. “We followed this practice often at the White House and we deploy this practice at my firm and also in my personal life.” Payton says the Vatican is “taking bold steps to ensure the conclave’s confidentiality,” and underscoring a “dedication to preserving the sanctity of a process that has chosen Catholic leaders for centuries.” For interviews email Watchmen@FortaliceSolutions.com and copy Vanessa Santos at Vanessa@redrenegadedc.com
3. ==> The Spinach King: How Industrial Farming Changed American Ag
C.F. Seabrook, hailed as the “Henry Ford of agriculture,” built an empire in the bean fields of southern New Jersey—Seabrook Farms, which at its peak in the mid-1950s grew a third of America’s frozen vegetables—and made his family as wealthy, glamorous, and powerful as Gilded Age aristocrats. As heir to this complicated legacy, longtime “New Yorker” staff writer John Seabrook confronts his family’s extraordinary story and breaks through his family’s carefully cultivated façade. Learn how C.F. drove the transition from horsepower to mechanized agriculture and pioneered quick-frozen foods (which, according to the “New York Times,” changed “the eating habits of the nation”), and hear how his father Jack, C.F.’s youngest son and would-be successor, lost it all. Seabrook’s new book, “The Spinach King: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty,” traces 166 years of ambition, innovation, betrayal, and collapse—offering an unflinching portrait of the dark side of the American Dream. John Seabrook has been a staff writer at “The New Yorker” for more than three decades. “The Spinach King” is his fifth book. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099; johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
4. ==> The War on Misogyny Takes a Shocking New Twist
A new group has stepped into the misogynist fray: a wave of female writers, broadcasters and influencers gaining millions of followers for their conservative views, particularly about gender roles. This glamourous, highly articulate cohort promotes the idea that women should be homemakers, with some even positioning themselves as male property—presenting the agenda as empowerment. Cecile Simmons, author of “Ctrl Hate Delete: The New Anti-Feminist Backlash and How We Fight it,” sees them as part of a growing anti-gender-equality ‘femosphere,’ which has sprung up alongside the toxic manosphere. “These conservative commentators are intellectual spokeswomen for trad wife content,” she says. “They’re promoting the same traditional gender roles but with a feminist veneer.” The solution? She says more media literacy is needed “to help us recognize the tactics being used by these right wing influencers to weaponize social media platforms and monetize their content.” She also believes feminists need to have braver and more nuanced conversations about divisive issues like sexual politics, porn and discontent dating, to ensure there’s a robust counter-discourse. Cécile Simmons is a research manager at ISD, specializing in malign influence operations targeting elections, public health and climate disinformation, far-right extremism and conspiracy theories. Her writing and commentary has been featured by the BBC, “The Guardian,” “Washington Post,” “Los Angeles Times” and “Wired,” among others. She previously worked in publishing and journalism. Arrange interviews by contacting media@isdglobal.org
5. ==> Docu-Fiction: Eileen Gray and the House by the Sea
In 1929, Irish designer Eileen Gray created E.1027 on the sun-soaked Côte d'Azur – a bold and hidden gem of avant-garde architecture. This striking house was meant to be a personal refuge. But when the legendary architect Le Corbusier stumbled upon it, he covered its walls with his murals, completely disregarding Gray's wishes and her vision. His defiant act ignited a battle for creative control, with Gray demanding restitution for the destruction of her work. He ignored her wishes and instead built his famous Cabanon house directly behind E.1027. “E.1027 – Eileen Gray and the House By the Sea” is an unusual hybrid docu-fiction film that tells a story about the power of one woman’s creative expression and a man’s desire to control it. The film debuts later this month in New York and Los Angeles. Writer/director Beatrice Minger can discuss how Gray was treated within the architectural community because she was a woman, and how she used Gray’s memoirs in creating the film. Contact Kelly Hargraves at kelly.hargraves@firstrunfeatures.com
6. ==> Change This Costly Food Habit to Save Money
Americans are cutting more coupons and changing their buying habits because of high food prices but there’s one costly food habit they’re not changing, even though it could save them a lot of money. They’re not wasting less. Ohio State economist Brian Roe says the average four-person U.S. household throws away nearly a third of the food it buys. Ohio State researchers recently tracked consumers who claimed they were trying to waste less food, and found they wasted just as must as consumer who didn’t make that claim. “Honestly, we don’t know if it’s even possible to get people to change their behaviors long-term,” he says. “They do seem to slide back into their old habits.” Learn how much of the food produced today around the world is never consumed and how you can help prevent unnecessary food loss right in your own home. The Ohio State Food Waste Collaborative is a collection of researchers, practitioners, and students working together to promote the reduction and redirection of food waste as an integral part of a healthy and sustainable food system. Contact Brian Roe at roe.30@osu.edu
7. ==> The Biology of Politics: Why We Feel So Angry
There’s a lot going on in Washington right now. Millions of people are worried about Donald Trump and what he’s doing to the country, while others are excited about the changes. Regardless of which side you are on, emotions are running high right now and political divisions have never seemed wider. Psychiatrist Melvyn Lurie can help explain why people take politics so personally, and how that can fuel emotions and lead to blow-ups and ruined relationships. 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 (857) 376-6874; mlurie@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Surviving Communism, Fighting for Faith: A Firsthand Story of Religious Persecution and Freedom
Laszlo (Les) Suhayda risked everything for freedom as a child, escaping Communist Hungary through a minefield with his family. His book, "Twelve Bells to Freedom," tells the harrowing true story of how communism sought to destroy faith—banning religion, imprisoning clergy, and forcing families to inform on each other. Laszlo shares why religious freedom is still under threat and why history’s lessons must not be forgotten. His gripping firsthand account will captivate listeners, from history buffs to those passionate about faith, freedom, and resilience. In addition to being an author, Les is a successful businessman and the inventor of the first wine slushee product in America. Contact Laszlo (Les) Suhayda at (314) 501-6838; Lsuhayda@rtirguests.com
9. ==> The Hidden Epidemic: How Isolation is Impacting Teen Mental Health
While the general belief is that the elderly are more inclined to experience loneliness and isolation, recent university studies have concluded that teens actually are more likely to experience this. One major cause is pervasive overuse of social media. "Social media can lead to feelings of negative comparison, inadequacy, and exclusion for teens," says retired psychiatrist and author Dr. Shila Patel. "The resulting feelings of isolation can result in a host of physical and mental health issues, ranging from weakened immune function to acute depression, as well as thoughts of suicide." Shila is a retired psychiatrist who spent her career focused on women's and children's issues, and the author of the three-book series "US Unhinged 1 and 2 and US Fractured." Contact: Dr. Shila Patel at (229) 586-6190; spatel@rtirguests.com
10. ==> What it Means to Be Great (Again)
Rick Patterson thinks a lot of Americans are confused about the meaning of greatness. A corporate leader, former Evangelical minister who launched his own church, and cattle rancher, Rick can discuss what real greatness looks like when you are following Christ compared to the definition of greatness used in the world, our addiction to greatness and the role of shame, and the choice we have between self-preservation and self-sacrifice. He’ll also discuss what is currently driving the church and the Christian nationalism movement. Rick calls his new book, “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth: Rediscovering What it Means to Be Great (Again),” a biblical rebuke to the religious right and redemption for the religiously wronged. His previous book, “Shame Unmasked: Disarming the Hidden Source of Destructive Decisions,” offers ways to pivot your thinking to make decisions that are less destructive to yourself and others. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; Rpatterson@rtirguests.com
11. ==> How to Talk to Your Gen Z Coworker
In today’s multigenerational workforce, mastering commu¬nication is crucial for success. Francesca Burack, an expert in workplace dynamics, is transforming how businesses navigate generational differ¬ences. Her innovative approach shows that language—when used intentionally—can turn communication challenges into opportunities for growth. “Communication is the heartbeat of any organization,” says Francesca. “It’s not just about the words; it’s about how and why we use them. The right mindset can turn misunderstandings into moments of connection.” Francesca’s method reframes generational differences and helps businesses leverage distinct communication styles—from the Silent Generation’s formality to Gen Z’s digital-first, fast-paced approach. Contact Francesca Burack at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com
12. ==> As Seen on ‘Shark Tank’: How to Look Chic at Any Size
For a fun show on looking and feeling your best no matter what your size, invite Gayla Bently to amp up the energy and wow your audience. You may have seen Bentley impressing the judges on ‘Shark Tank’ a few seasons back. She is a pioneer in size-inclusive fashion who shares tips to elevate style—no matter the size or budget. With years of fashion experience in Paris and at Saks Fifth Avenue, Gayla blends timeless elegance with practicality. From poorly fitting undergarments to cookie-cutter trends, she’ll show listeners how to refine their look with what they already own. Gayla’s wit and wisdom will leave audiences laughing, learning and feeling confident. Gayla Bentley is the author of “Fashion’s Stepsister: A Journey to Style!” Contact her at (936) 261-7713; gbentley@rtirguests.com
13. ==> There Are No Bad Dogs: One Woman’s Mission to Train with Compassion
Everybody loves dogs, right? Kathleen Troy is a dog lover who’s been involved with dog training for 20+ years and she’s ready to share her training methods based on compassion, consistency and respect for the dog. Kathleen trained her dog, Dylan, to count to ten, understand multiple languages and hand commands, and so much more! She is the author of the “Dylan’s Dog Squad” series, as well as a nonfiction book about dog training. She is the perfect guest to give your audience the ultimate show about dog training. Ask her: How do your methods differ from other trainers? What lessons have you learned through training dogs? What trick do you think all dogs should be taught? Contact Kathleen Troy at (714) 975-9807; ktroy@rtirguests.com
14. ==> From Pro Athletes to Polka Mishaps: One RN/PT’s Journey to a Pain-Free Formula
A wedding dance gone wrong—the Beer Barrel Polka—landed Stacey Roberts, a seasoned registered nurse and physical therapist, in an orthopedic surgeon’s office. That moment sparked her mission to transform pain care. The result: The Pain-Free Formula, a breakthrough approach that targets the root causes of chronic pain instead of just masking symptoms. Although pain management became a medical subspecialty in 1995, millions still suffer from unresolved pain tied to hormonal imbalances, food sensitivities, and old injuries. With over 30 years of experience, Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MSN, blends SoftWave therapy with cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments to help patients find real, lasting relief. Her expertise has not only guided everyday patients to freedom from pain—she has also worked with over 10 national professional athletic teams, helping elite athletes recover faster and perform at their best. Contact Stacey Roberts at (414) 522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com
15. ==> Time for Spring Yard Sales! Interview The Garage Sale Millionaire
Downsizing and decluttering can be overwhelming, but what if you could turn the painful process into a money-making operation? You’ll look at your stuffed closets and basement boxes in a whole new light when you interview Aaron LaPedis, the Garage Sale Millionaire. Aaron’s journey as an entrepreneur started when he was 9 flipping coins, stamps and baseball cards. By 21 he was a millionaire. Invite him on your show and learn how to have a five-figure garage sale, how to buy and sell online marketplaces and eBay, and the five top scams people are losing money to while buying and selling online. Aaron had a TV show on PBS for many years and continues to be an expert for the FBI. With over 1,000 interviews on radio, podcasts, and TV and 40 years of experience, Aaron could be your next great interview! Contact him at alapedis@rtirguests.com
