01. Ex-CIA Analyst and Novelist David McCloskey
02. AI Is Eliminating Certain Jobs … and Creating Opportunities in Others
03. Buzzkill! U.S. Alcohol Use Hits 90-Year Low
04. Comet? UFO? Astronomers Puzzled Over Strange Object
05. OB/GYN Warns Birth Decline Could Cost Us All
06. Find Back-to-School Calm with Mindful Stress-Free Practices
07. What is Montessori Parenting? Pros, Cons and Tips
08. Freedom is Not Free: What Americans Can Learn From Hungary
09. Feeling Stuck? This LPGA Golf Pro Says it’s Time to Start Swinging
10. What Taking Off My Wig Taught Me About Self-Worth
11. What History’s Most Notorious Leaders Can Teach You About Success
12. The Surprisingly Simple Habit That Delivers Huge Rewards
13. Fall Fashion for Girls With Curves
14. Meet a Real-Life ‘Mad Men’ Ad Exec Rewriting the Script on Aging
15. Has Christianity Abandoned God’s Commands? This Author Says Yes
1. ==> Ex-CIA Analyst and Novelist David McCloskey
For a fascinating, timely segment, invite former CIA analyst and bestselling author David McCloskey to discuss his latest novel, “The Persian.” McCloskey draws on his time in CIA field stations across the Middle East to turn insider knowledge into a thriller about the long-simmering shadow war between Iranian and Israeli intelligence services. It’s equal parts heart-pounding and haunting, packed with authentic depictions of tradecraft and enthralling human drama. David McCloskey is the “Sunday Times” bestselling author of “The Seventh Floor,” “Moscow X,” and “Damascus Station.” He is cohost of the podcast “The Rest is Classified” - listened to by more than 1 million people per month. Contact Johanna Ramos Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
2. ==> AI Is Eliminating Certain Jobs … and Creating Opportunities in Others
Advances in artificial intelligence have come with dire predictions about jobs being eliminated, but there hasn’t been much data to back that up. A new study reveals a nuanced picture of AI’s impact on labor. Erik Brynjolfsson, a professor at Stanford University says by combing through payroll data, researchers found that AI’s impact has more to do with a worker’s experience and expertise than the type of work they do. He says more experienced employees in industries where generative AI is being adopted are seeing new opportunities emerge and have been insulated from job displacement. For now, at least. Brynjolfsson says the study offers a lesson on how to maximize the benefits of AI across the economy and suggests AI companies develop systems that prioritize human-machine collaboration. “I think there’s still a lot of tasks where humans and machines can outperform AI on its own,” he says. Erik Brynjolfsson is director of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab and senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI. Contact him at erikb@stanford.edu
3. ==> Buzzkill! U.S. Alcohol Use Hits 90-Year Low
There’s been a seismic shift in young adults’ drinking habits and experts say it marks a powerful cultural and health shift. A 2025 Gallup poll shows only 50 % of adults under 35 now report drinking, reflecting an 18‑point drop since the early 2000s — a collapse that outpaces general trends and signals a seismic behavioral change. At the same time, only 54 % of all U.S. adults drink, the lowest level in Gallup’s nearly 90-year history. Dr. Michael Aziz, a board-certified internist and regenerative medicine specialist, can discuss why so many young adults are suddenly turning away from alcohol. Ask him: How do you counsel patients about alcohol now versus, say, 10 years ago? Has the medical guidance really shifted that much? Why do you think younger patients more health-conscious about alcohol than previous generations? If this trend continues, what kind of long-term health improvements might we actually see at a population level? Dr. Aziz is an expert in anti-aging medicine. He’s the author of the bestselling “The Perfect 10 Diet” and the new book, "The Ageless Revolution: 10 Hallmarks of Aging That Hold the Secret to Defeating Disease, Reversing Age, Looking Younger, and Living Longer." Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103
4. ==> Comet? UFO? Astronomers Puzzled Over Strange Object
Something is afoot in the sky. 31/Atlas, which is travelling at 118,000 mph, has baffled scientists. What is it? Some, like Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb, suggest it could be an alien probe. Others say it could be a hard-baked cosmic iceberg. It’s just the third interstellar object ever recorded passing through the solar system, and Loeb says several things about it are unusual and raise the question of whether this trajectory was designed. Loeb is recognized by fellow astronomers for his work on the evolution of the first stars but he gained a global following in 2018 when he and a colleague published a paper suggesting a similar object was a solar sail created by an alien civilization. Avi Loeb is a professor of science at Harvard University and a bestselling author. He’s also the founding director of Harvard’s Black Hole Initiative. Contact him at aloeb@cfa.harvard.edu or Harvard University Public Affairs at pubaffairs@cfa.harvard.edu
5. ==> OB/GYN Warns Birth Decline Could Cost Us All
Fertility isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a global one. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri warns that today’s falling birth rates could lead to a future workforce collapse, strained eldercare systems and widespread social impact. In an eye-opening conversation, this OB/GYN will share insights from her new book, “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally,” which offers a holistic, lifestyle-based approach to reproductive health. With 30+ years of clinical experience and a passion for prevention, Dr. Marina empowers women to improve their fertility, often without turning to IVF. She’ll bust common reproductive myths, decode menstrual cycle health and explain what women, couples and even policymakers need to know now. A timely and thought-provoking segment that speaks to individual hope and societal urgency. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com
6. ==> Find Back-to-School Calm with Mindful Stress-Free Practices
Back-to-School season can be a whirlwind of social plans, family commitments and career demands. Dr. Dan Bartlett knows that staying centered during this busy time takes intentional effort. As a Certified Metaphysical Practitioner and author of “Six Easy Secrets to Psychic Success,” he teaches practical techniques to reduce stress and cultivate calm. From intuitive breathing exercises to guided visualizations, Dr. Dan’s methods help you make empowered choices, no matter how hectic life gets. Known for his dynamic presentations as a Magical Mentalist, he also demonstrates how tapping into your intuition can transform your mindset. This fall, help your audience embrace a calmer, more resilient version of themselves with his practical insights. Contact Dr. Dan at (480) 841-0984; dbartlett@rtirguests.com
7. ==> What is Montessori Parenting? Pros, Cons and Tips
Parenting today is more challenging than ever, with chaos and stress becoming the norm in many households. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Teresa Angeles, Montessori educator, mother of six and author of “The Montessori Home and Beyond,” reveals how adopting Montessori principles can transform family life. Instead of constant power struggles, parents can foster calm, confidence and cooperation—even with young children. It’s not about turning your home into a classroom but embracing a mindset that nurtures independence, respect and connection. Teresa shares practical tips for creating a harmonious environment where kids feel valued and learn to take responsibility. She also shares stories from her own family’s Montessori journey, highlighting the power of traditions, rituals and building strong relationships. Whether you’re new to Montessori or looking to expand your parenting approach, Teresa’s insights offer a practical, heart-centered way to build a home where both parents and children thrive. Contact Teresa Angeles at (253) 523-3158; tangeles@rtirguests.com
Need more last-minute back-to-school guests? Check out our special Back-to-School RTIR Newsletter
8. ==> Freedom is Not Free: What Americans Can Learn From Hungary
Since 2010 Hungary has been led by Viktor Orban, an authoritarian strongman who is a favorite among American conservatives. Laszlo Suhayda was five years old when he followed his parents and two older sibling through a minefield in the forest of Sopron, Hungary, to escape the oppressive Communist government. He’ll share the grim lessons he learned about war, totalitarian governments, and keeping the faith amid horror as it relates to the current turmoil in the world. He says, "As I was swimming through weeds, I fell on top of a young Hungarian man who was shot in the head by a Russian sniper. I saw the tragedy of war and the price of freedom. Freedom is not free; you have to earn it." Laszlo is the author of "Twelve Bells to Freedom: The Suhajda Story," and the inventor of the first wine slushee product in America. Contact Laszlo Suhayda at (314) 501-6838; Lsuhayda@rtirguests.com
9. ==> Feeling Stuck? This LPGA Golf Pro Says it’s Time to Start Swinging
Recent headlines proclaim that Americans are stuck! Nobody’s leaving their jobs or homes, we’re not making plans for the future and many of us are feeling unsure of what to do next. Hall of Fame golf instructor and mindset coach Cindy Miller says it’s ok to consider your options, but sometimes you have to stop thinking and start swinging. Cindy’s not just another motivational voice, she lives the message. After losing her LPGA card, she clawed her way back—25 years later—proving that failure isn’t final and reinvention has no age limit. Her signature mix of humor and no-nonsense wisdom helps audiences silence self-doubt and take bold action. If your listeners are feeling stuck, burned out or ready for a comeback, Cindy’s story will leave them inspired and ready to take their next shot. Contact Cindy Miller at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com
10. ==> What Taking Off My Wig Taught Me About Self-Worth
Barbara Stone spent 25 years climbing the corporate ladder while hiding her true self behind a wig and a persona she thought the world expected. Now a TEDx speaker, leadership coach and author of “So Much to Drool About,” Barbara shares what it took to finally stop performing and start living authentically. In this powerful and inspiring segment, she opens up about living with alopecia, shedding perfectionism and how her Great Danes helped her rediscover joy and confidence from the inside out. Whether your audience struggles with imposter syndrome, burnout or just needs a reminder that they are enough as they are, Barbara delivers a transformational message with heart, humor and hope. Her “wig off” moment isn’t just a visual; it's a metaphor for the freedom we all deserve. Contact Barbara Stone at (315) 840-2845; bstone@rtir.com
11. ==> What History’s Most Notorious Leaders Can Teach You About Success
The long-held conventional belief in the business world is that leadership can only be learned from positive role models. However, Steve Williams claims that we have it backward. "We can learn a lot about effective leadership from the likes of Atilla the Hun, Al Capone, and Genghis Khan," he says. "Although they were ruthless, they were some of the most brilliant leaders of all time." Steve can share the specific practices and tactics that made these infamous characters such effective head honchos, and how to apply these to one's own path to success. He is the author of six books including " Notorious: Leadership Lessons from History's Most Notorious Leaders," and a certified leadership coach and Quality Management System expert. Contact Steve Williams at (920) 280-1068; swilliams@rtirguests.com
12. ==> The Surprisingly Simple Habit That Delivers Huge Rewards
Why do so many smart, hardworking people still feel stuck, scattered or unfulfilled? According to Emilio Justo, the real problem isn’t effort—it’s timing. A two-time international TEDx speaker (with over 10.5 million views) and bestselling author of “The Power of Pause,” Justo reveals how mastering the habit of delayed gratifica¬tion—the ability to pause before reacting—can dramatically improve focus, resilience and achievement. Studies show that people who master delayed gratification are more likely to succeed in school, earn more money and maintain healthier relationships. In fact, the famous Stanford Marshmallow Experiment found that children who could delay gratification were more likely to thrive academically, professionally and personally as adults. Drawing from his journey as a Cuban refugee who became a renowned surgeon and entrepreneur, Justo delivers a rare mix of heart, science and actionable wisdom that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Contact Emilio Justo, M.D., at Ejusto@rtirguests.com (email preferred); (480) 992-6803
13. ==> Fall Fashion for Girls With Curves
As the days grow shorter and the air gets crisper, it’s time to add some layers and get ready fall. Gayla Bentley, fashion expert and author of “Fashion’s Stepsister: A Journey to Style,” empowers women of all sizes to feel confident and fabulous, no matter the weather. Gayla’s approach to fashion goes beyond looking good, it’s about feeling good too. She shines a spotlight on how dressing well can boost your mood, increase self-esteem and help you step out with confidence. Discover how to dress your body with love and flair this season using Gayla’s tips on choosing fabrics, embracing fall colors and creating effortless looks that keep you stylishly warm and chic. Whether you’re attending a fall festival or enjoying a day of leaf-peeping, you’ll be ready to shine. Make fashion part of your self-care this fall with Gayla’s expert advice. Contact Gayla Bentley at (936) 261-7713; gbentley@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Meet a Real-Life ‘Mad Men’ Ad Exec Rewriting the Script on Aging
He might be 89, but this man has a ten-year plan. Former international ad exec Jim Flaherty is on a mission to shake up how we see aging. With his new book, “Loving Longevity: Make Your Next Years Your Best Years,” Flaherty offers straight talk, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to a generation that’s been told to fade quietly into the background. From caregiving a partner through dementia to living abroad on a whim—and launching a successful business at 45—Flaherty has lived the lessons he shares. But his most urgent message is for the 7.5 million depressed seniors in America: Life isn’t over, it’s just different—and can be full. Uplifting, funny, and fiercely honest, Flaherty is the voice older adults (and those who love them) didn’t know they needed. Contact Jim Flaherty at jflaherty@rtirguests.com; (914) 326-2697
15. ==> Has Christianity Abandoned God’s Commands? This Author Says Yes
Churches across the world preach love for God—but are they ignoring what that love requires: obedience to His original commandments? In his thought-provoking book “Following Christ: Rediscovering the Jewish Faith of Jesus,” religious scholar Harry Buerer makes a bold claim. He says modern Christian¬ity has strayed from God’s instructions, abandoning practices given through Moses including keeping the Sabbath, observing biblical festivals and honoring dietary laws. Buerer, a seminary-trained Bible scholar and longtime church leader, argues that Jesus and his earliest followers upheld these teachings—and that Gentile Christians were never meant to reject them. His insights challenge centuries of tradition and invite believers to take a fresh look at what it really means to love and obey God. This is a conversation that will stir hearts, spark debate, and encourage deeper biblical reflection. Contact Harry Buerer at (503) 388-9245; hbuerer@rtirguests.com
