01. Carole King Biographer on Iconic Singer/Songwriter
02. IRS Says Churches Can Endorse Political Candidates
03. Measles Cases at Record High
04. Rewards Are Getting Less Rewarding. The Best Way to Use Credit Cards Now
05. Plastic Purge: 9 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use
06. Tune Out or Rage? Why Neither Will Fix Our Divided Politics and What to Do Instead
07. Why Young Men Are Turning Right While Women Lean Left
08. This Woke Redneck Talks Race, Power and Real Leadership
09. Charisma Coach: How to Step Into Your Next Big Thing
10. Could an American Pope Reignite Faith in U.S. Catholics?
11. The Real Cost of Unsafe Neighborhoods
12. Cutting-Edge, Pain-Relieving Secrets Revealed
13. Urban PTSD Nearly Broke This Entrepreneur. A Mindset Shift Saved Him
14. What Happens After You Die? This Woman Had Two Near-Death Experiences
15. New Research: Hope is the Key to a Meaningful Life
1. ==> Carole King Biographer on Iconic Singer/Songwriter
Carole King’s extraordinary career has defined American popular music for more than half a century. She shaped the soundtrack of the 1960s with classics written with her first husband Gerry Goffin and was a leader in the singer-songwriter movement of the 1970s. Her 1971 album “Tapestry” won four Grammys and remains beloved across generations around the globe and in recent years, she became the subject of the Tony-winning Broadway show “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” Journalist and author Jane Eisner will reveal the details of King’s humble beginnings in postwar Jewish Brooklyn and explore the roots of her musical genius. Hear how her four marriages intersected with her artistic production, her fruitful collaborations across genres, her conflicted relationship with fame, and her engagement with politics. Jane Eisner’s new book, “Carole King: She Made the Earth Move,” is the first biography of the extraordinary artist. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
2. ==> IRS Says Churches Can Endorse Political Candidates
Reversing decades of legal precedent, the Internal Revenue Service now says that churches and other religious 501 c(3) organizations can endorse political candidates in certain circumstances. The new position carves out a narrow exception to the Johnson Amendment, which has banned political activity by churches since 1954. Venture capitalist Ibrahim AlHusseini says, “If billionaires and corporations can legally mask their political spending through nonprofits and Super PACs, then worrying about churches becoming covert campaign arms feels less like a principled stand and more like selective enforcement in a broken system.” He’ll discuss whether this is a long-overdue correction or another sign of the blurred lines between politics and nonprofits and what impact this will have on future elections. AlHusseini is an entrepreneur, environmentalist and political commentator who frequently appears in the media. As founder and managing partner of FullCycle, he funds and scales solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly by converting waste into clean energy. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com
3. ==> Measles Cases at Record High
This week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the number of confirmed measles cases in the country has risen to 1,288. That’s the highest single year total since health officials declared the disease eliminated in the United States back in 2000. And the year is just half over! The cause of the outbreaks, according to experts, is a decline in vaccination rates. Dr. Ron Schneebaum, a retired pediatrician, hopes this is a wake-up call to vaccine skeptics. “People easily forget how devastating some childhood illnesses were. Before the measles vaccine was developed in the early 1960s, 2 1/2 million people died of measles every year in the world.” Schneebaum advises parents who are hesitant to vaccinate to talk to their pediatrician about their concerns and approach the subject with an open mind. Ron Schneebaum spent 40 years as a primary care pediatrician. He also served on the clinical faculty at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine and is the author of “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life.” Contact Dr. Schneebaum at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com
4. ==> Rewards Are Getting Less Rewarding. The Best Way to Use Credit Cards Now
Credit cards have been around for decades but in recent years credit card rewards have become a way to make money by spending money and afford things you normally couldn’t. "Rewards can be an amazing thing and can be really lucrative if you manage it, and that's certainly easier to do in good times," Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree, says. "But if you have a half dozen credit cards because you're chasing miles and points and all of a sudden you find yourself without a job or there's a medical emergency or your income is reduced, it can become a real challenge." And with many rewards programs pulling back perks in the face of current economic uncertainty, Schulz says younger creditors holding onto debt might want rethink their credit card strategy. "I would certainly think that that might be something that's being talked about at some dinner tables around the country right now, people thinking, well, maybe instead of worrying about that dream vacation and getting that big points bonus, maybe we ought to consider simple cash back and building the emergency fund," he says. Matt Schulz is the author of “Ask Questions, Save Money, Make More.” Contact him at mattschulzwrites@gmail.com; @bymattschulz
5. ==> Plastic Purge: 9 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use
The news about plastic pollution and the health risks of microplastics can be scary and overwhelming, but experts say you do have some control over how much plastic is in your life. While it seems impossible to cut it out completely, there are a few steps you can take that can drastically reduce plastics in your typical day-to-day. Invite sustainability event producer Andy King to share 9 easy ways to reduce plastic use, from ways to cut out single-use bottles to clever ways to replace kitchen storage containers and utensils, listeners will learn safe alternatives to plastics and get tips to reduce plastic waste all around the house. Andy King, known as the ‘Concierge of New York City,’ is the founder of Andy King Events and the host of the Take Two With Andy King podcast. Contact him at bookings@andykingevents.com
6. ==> Tune Out or Rage? Why Neither Will Fix Our Divided Politics and What to Do Instead
Millions of people are feeling tired of feeling helpless—or furious—about politics. “Agonizing, protesting, and turning off the news” aren’t our only options according to Sam Daley-Harris, activist and author of “Reclaiming Our Democracy.” He offers a proven alternative: transformational advocacy, a form of advocacy where you work to change an issue and you are changed in the process. Daley-Harris will share stories of ordinary people who used transformational advocacy to go from feeling clueless about activism to feeling euphoric; from experiencing what they called ‘climate trauma’ to experiencing engagement as sacred and profound. Feeling fed up with what’s going on in the world isn’t a flaw, Daley-Harris says it’s fuel and he’ll show your audience how to use it. Contact Sam Daley-Harris at (202) 804-2504; Sdaley@rtirguests.com
7. ==> Why Young Men Are Turning Right While Women Lean Left
Data from across Europe, the US and beyond show some remarkably consistent trends: young men are embracing the political right, while women lean increasingly progressive. What’s driving the divide? Psychiatrist and author Dr. Melvyn Lurie sees the split as more emotional than political. In his book “The Biology of POLITICS 2nd edition: So America Won't Die,” he explains how men’s growing disconnection, insecurity and loss of identity may be pushing them toward more extreme ideologies. Dr. Lurie offers powerful insight into why many young men feel alienated in today’s society, and how unaddressed shame, not ideology, may be the real root of their rage. Contact Dr. Melvyn Lurie at (857) 376-6874; mlurie@rtirguests.com
8. ==> This Woke Redneck Talks Race, Power and Real Leadership
He’s white. He’s a former evangelical preacher. He raises bulls for fun. And he’s “woke”—but not in the way you think. Rick Patterson is a former evangelical pastor turned corporate exec and father of four adopted Black children. Through that wild mix of identities, he’s learned what it really means to talk about race, masculinity, power and faith without blowing things up. In his interviews, Rick unpacks: How to lead with humility, how masculinity gets warped by shame and why the “culture wars” are failing us. With humor, honesty and a voice both sides can actually listen to, Rick shows how we can bridge divides and build something better. The author of “Shame Unmasked and The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth,” Rick is not here to play it safe—he’s here to get real. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; Rpatterson@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Charisma Coach: How to Step Into Your Next Big Thing
Most people let fear of rejection or not feeling “ready” hold them back from the opportunities they want most. Malia Rogers, author of “Magnetic Allure,” is on a mission to change that. With her relatable coaching style and proven strategies, she helps people rewire the way they think about self-worth, confidence and connection—so they can stop second-guessing and start showing up. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, thinking of switching careers or finally ready to text that person back, Malia shows you how to ditch self-doubt and step into your next big thing with courage and charisma. Ask her: How can someone overcome the fear of not being good enough? Why do we let fear of rejection sabotage great opportunities? Contact Malia Rogers at (208) 923-8366; info@maliarogers.com
Looking for more career-related topics and guests? Keep an eye out for our special RTIR Ezine, The World of Work, tomorrow, Friday, July 11th
10. ==> Could an American Pope Reignite Faith in U.S. Catholics?
With Pope Leo now the first American pontiff, many are asking: Will this historic shift help reconnect disillusioned U.S. Catholics with their faith? Father Nathan Castle, O.P.—Dominican priest, author of “Afterlife, Interrupted,” and spiritual advisor to thousands—believes this moment could spark real spiritual renewal. Drawing from decades of ministry and healing work, Father Castle speaks to the emotional and cultural rift that’s grown between American Catholics and institutional religion. His deep understanding of how faith, trauma and purpose intersect makes him a powerful guest to unpack what Pope Leo’s leadership could mean for the soul of the nation. Book him to explore the promise of a more relatable Vatican, how spirituality is evolving in modern life and what this new papacy could do to restore hope in the pews. Contact Father Nathan Castle, O.P., at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com
11. ==> The Real Cost of Unsafe Neighborhoods
Gangs, child abuse, human trafficking, youth suicide, and drug abuse are not just horrific societal ills, they come at an astonishing cost to the taxpayer: by estimates over $2 trillion annually. The plain fact is that none of this is inevitable, and much of it is preventable. Have author and child safety expert Stephanie Mann on your show to learn about crime prevention and making neighborhoods safer. As a community leader, neighborhood organizer, county coordinator, and state consultant, Mann has forty years of experience as a crime and violence prevention expert. She is the author of five books on empowering our communities and keeping kids safe. Her first book, “Alternative to Fear: Guidelines to Safer Neighborhoods” helped launch the national Neighborhood Watch Program. She is also the founder of the Safe Kids Now Network LLC. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Cutting-Edge, Pain-Relieving Secrets Revealed
Pro athletes seek out Stacey Roberts to help relieve their joint and muscle pain. So do women with unresolved pelvic pain. This seasoned registered nurse and physical therapist has created a breakthrough approach that targets the root causes of chronic pain instead of just masking symptoms—and she does it without injections, drugs or surgery. Hear what Softwave therapy is and how it works along with other cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments to help patients find real, lasting relief. Roberts says “The Pain Free Formula” could help the millions who 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 a rich tapestry of expertise in functional medicine, physical therapy, nursing, and complimentary medicine. She works with everyday clients as well as over 10 national professional athletic teams, helping elite athletes recover faster and perform at their best. She’s been featured on World News Now, Oprah, and numerous Australian media and hosts her own podcast, The Pain-Free Formula. Contact Stacey Roberts at (414) 522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com
13. ==> 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
14. ==> What Happens After You Die? This Woman Had Two Near-Death Experiences
Everyone wonders what happens after we die. Pastor Nancy Frecka is an experienced and delightful media guest who has had two documented near-death experiences. She will share her amazing, fun, and sometimes life-threatening experiences. She uses these true stories to assist others in their walk with God. Her book, “God Says, You Can Trust Me: Supernatural Encounters with God” has become a beacon of hope for many, as she shares her journey of resilience and perseverance. Ask her: What was heaven like? How have your near-death experiences changed you? What evidence of the supernatural have you experienced? Contact Nancy Frecka at (330) 422-6955; nfrecka@rtirguests.com
15. ==> New Research: Hope is the Key to a Meaningful Life
Hope isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a powerful emotional force that gives our lives meaning. Now, a new groundbreaking study from the University of Missouri shows it may be even more essential to well-being than happiness or gratitude. Experiencing meaning in life is a central aspect of psychological functioning, predicting a host of important outcomes including happiness, better quality relationships, better health and higher income. “Experiencing life as meaningful is crucial for just about every good thing you can imagine in a person’s life,” says psychologist and University of Missouri researcher Laura King, who believes the findings may only scratch the surface of hope’s full impact. Invite her to share other research findings and ways to cultivate more hope in daily life. Contact Eric Stann at StannE@missouri.edu
