01. Actress and TV Host Sherri Shepherd
02. US Allies Test Trump’s Israel Policy
03. Seasonal Jobs Will Be Hard to Find This Year
04. Leaves Are About to Pop in Pennsylvania: Here’s What to See
05. This Happiness Expert Shares How to Harvest More Joy This Fall
06. Shame, Not Ideology, Drives Young Men to Radical Ideologies
07. Former Diplomat: 5 Ways to Be a Peacebuilder
08. OB/GYN Warns Birth Decline Could Cost Us All
09. Medicare Scams Are Getting Smarter: How to Stay One Step Ahead
10. High Achiever, Low Confidence? It’s More Common Than You Think
11. Business Expert Shares How to Really Pay Off the National Debt
12. Is There a Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?
13. Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even If They Aren’t Religious
14. Would Jesus Be Welcome in Today’s Church?
15. How the Core Truths of 3 Faiths Can Unite Us All
1. ==> Actress and TV Host Sherri Shepherd
Sherri Shepherd is a busy woman. The comedian/actress just started season four of her syndicated daytime talk show, Sherri, and is about to release her first children’s book. “The Sunshine Queens” was inspired by Sherri’s own close friendships and follows four friends as they overcome challenges and learn that friends always show up for one another. Known for spreading joy and positivity through her television show and comedy, Shepherd brings those same messages to girls throughout the book. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my friends,” says Shepherd. “I hope “The Sunshine Queens” helps girls learn to develop those same strong friendships that will last them through life, and I hope they will see what they can accomplish together.” Ask Sherri about the book, her show or her other projects, including her recent role in Tyler Perry’s “Straw,” with Taraji P. Henson. For interviews, contact Simone Smalls at simone@strategicheights.com.
2. ==> US Allies Test Trump’s Israel Policy
As several U.S. allies move to formally recognize a Palestinian state, questions are mounting over how this shift will test former President Trump’s long-standing Israel policy. Asaf Romirowsky, a Middle East analyst with deep expertise on U.S.-Israel-Palestine relations, is available for interviews to break down the geopolitical implications, the diplomatic rift this creates with Washington, and what it could mean for regional stability moving forward. Contact Mark Goldman at 516-639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com
3. ==> Seasonal Jobs Will Be Hard to Find This Year
Bad news if you were hoping to pick up a seasonal job and earn some extra cash this holiday season. Experts expect few seasonal hires this year. Challenger, Gray & Christmas, an outplacement and executive coaching firm, expects seasonal retail hiring to fall to its lowest point since the recession-hit season of 2009. “While we could see a late hiring push if holiday sales surprise to the upside, the cautious pace of announcements so far suggests that companies are not betting on a big seasonal surge. This year may be more about doing more with less,” according to workplace expert Andy Challenger. He adds, “The traditional seasonal spike in warehousing and shipping jobs is no longer as pronounced, and that shift could be permanent.” Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com
4. ==> Leaves Are About to Pop in Pennsylvania: Here’s What to See
It’s leaf-peeping season and Pennsylvania offers one of the longest and most varied fall foliage seasons in the world. Each autumn, millions of acres of forest come alive with color, drawing visitors from across the country to experience the magic of the season. Starting today, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is issuing a fall foliage report each Thursday, featuring regional updates, photos, and expert tips to help people experience the Commonwealth’s vibrant seasonal landscapes in the coming weeks. From scenic drives to fall festivals and pumpkin picking, experts from the DCNR are available to share what’s going on all across the state and the best ways to experience all the season has to offer. Hear about the newly re-opened Kinzua Bridge and the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, as well as the Monster Pumpkin Festival in Pittsburgh. For interviews contact Wesley Robinson at (717) 877-6315; werobinson@pa.gov
5. ==> This Happiness Expert Shares How to Harvest More Joy This Fall
Autumn is the perfect time to let go of stress, negativity, and those “sucky” days that weigh you down. Just as the leaves turn and fall, happiness expert Deborah Mallow shows how to release old patterns and create space for more joy, gratitude, and peace. With humor, warmth, and science-backed steps, Deborah teaches simple daily shifts that boost serotonin and quiet the inner critic that will help you shine and “leaf” behind what no longer serves you. Deborah’s uplifting message will help you enjoy more, worry less, and carry your sunshine into every crisp autumn day. A former #1 pharmaceutical sales rep, she is the author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck: Ditch Unhealthy Habits Unzip A Happier You.” Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com
6. ==> Shame, Not Ideology, Drives Young Men to Radical Ideologies
There is a global gender divide that seems to be increasing yearly. Data from multiple countries around the world indicate that young women are adopting more liberal ideologies, while young men are leaning more conservative. What’s driving the divide? Psychiatrist and author Dr. Melvyn Lurie sees the split as more emotional than political. In his book “Fractured: How Shame and Fear of Failure Are Driving the Divide in America,” 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
7. ==> Former Diplomat: 5 Ways to Be a Peacebuilder
Tired of outrage, division, and endless political finger-pointing? Danielle Reiff is a former U.S. diplomat who helped advance peace and democracy around the world in places like the Republic of Georgia, Sri Lanka, and Uganda. Now she’s bringing those same skills to the challenges facing America. Invite Reiff on your show to learn five ways everyday Americans can build peace in their own communities—no protests or politicians required. Drawing from her real-world experience and her Peacebuilders initiative, she’ll explore how shifting from a zero-sum worldview to one of dialogue, collaboration, and unity in diversity can help us heal our fractured society. This is a hopeful, practical conversation about what real peacebuilding looks like—right here at home. Ask her: Why do you say peacebuilding must go “beyond protest”? What does it look like to become a peacebuilder in a divided neighborhood or workplace? Do you think peace is even possible given how divided we are? Contact Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com
8. ==> 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
9. ==> Medicare Scams Are Getting Smarter: How to Stay One Step Ahead
Medicare fraud is a $100 billion problem, and now AI voice clones and “free benefit” offers are making it worse. With open enrollment approaching (Oct. 15 to Dec. 7), millions are vulnerable to card theft, phantom billing and even being enrolled in hospice without consent. Medicare expert Toni King, author of “Medicare Survival Guide Advanced Edition,” helps Americans navigate Medicare’s maze so they avoid costly mistakes and lifelong penalties. She breaks down today’s most common scams (robocalls, door-to-door “screenings,” surprise plan switches), the red flags most people miss and the exact steps to take if you think you’ve been targeted. Whether you’re turning 65, leaving employer coverage or helping a parent, her message is right on time before open enrollment. For interviews, contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736 or tking@rtirguests.com
10. ==> High Achiever, Low Confidence? It’s More Common Than You Think
Many successful adults are quietly plagued by feelings of inadequacy. Despite impressive résumés and outward accomplishments, they often battle self-limiting beliefs and an internal voice that says, “I’m not good enough.” On your show, Mike Sealy will unpack this common but misunderstood disconnect—why confidence often lags behind achievement, and what to do about it. Drawing from personal insight and years of mindset coaching, Sealy will help your audience understand how a growth mindset can reverse deep-seated patterns of self-doubt. He’ll share the hidden signs of imposter syndrome, the long-term effects of performance-based validation, and how to build authentic self-worth—not just a longer to-do list. It’s an empowering conversation for anyone who’s ever looked successful on the outside but still felt stuck on the inside. Contact Mike Sealy at msealy@rtirguests.com
11. ==> Business Expert Shares How to Really Pay Off the National Debt
As political strategist James Carville famously said, "It's the economy, stupid!" The U.S. economy has, indeed dominated the news for months, with concerns about the current chaos and the spiraling deficit. "The deficit grew from almost nothing just 40 years ago to now more than $34 trillion," says business expert Mitch Francis. "Can you picture how successful the U.S. would be if it had no deficit, no interest payments, and was required to spend no more that the taxes bring in?" While this may seem far-fetched, Mitch can share with audiences how this could actually happen. Mitch is the author of "Bad-Ass Solutions For Today's Big-Ass Problems." He has an extensive business background as founder and CEO of publicly traded and private companies and develops, owns, and manages commercial real estate across the U.S. Contact Mitch Francis at (424) 380-4561; Mfrancis@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Is There a Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?
Lauraine White warns America’s reckoning with slavery can’t wait another generation. As President Trump’s non-inclusive politics fuel new battles over DEI, history standards and voting rights, she says the time for denial is over. With both enslaved and Confederate blood in her family line, White argues that real healing requires more than apologies. Her Freedom Wealth Fund lays out measurable steps: 1) erase student-loan debt for descendants of slaves, 2) guarantee free education, and 3) rewrite U.S. history curricula to tell the full truth about the transatlantic slave trade. White insists this isn’t about relitigating the past—it’s a practical blueprint for a just future. With nearly 60% of Americans saying slavery still affects Black people’s position in society today (Pew Research), her plan will spark headlines, debate and the uncomfortable, but necessary, conversation America keeps postponing. Sample questions: Can a Confederate descendant credibly lead the call for reparations, or is that exactly why she should? Is student-debt forgiveness for descendants a fair, targeted form of reparations that taxpayers can accept? For interviews, contact lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred) or (770) 525-8743
13. ==> Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even If They Aren’t Religious
Top students often excel due to their understanding of cultural references, and a surprising factor behind their success is knowledge of the Bible. Studies show that students with a strong knowledge of biblical references tend to score higher on standardized tests. Research indicates these students score 10-15% higher on SAT Critical Reading and AP English Literature exams compared to peers without this knowledge. Tamara Berkman, a Texas State Certified Teacher, created the “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP” curriculum to help students quickly grasp the Bible’s storyline. In just 20 short lessons, students improve their understanding of literature, identify cultural references, and sharpen critical thinking skills— key elements for academic success. Berkman’s book, “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP,” offers a fast, effective way for students and families to understand the Bible’s story while boosting academic performance and cultural literacy. Contact Tamara Berkman at (830) 201-3160; tberkman@rtirguests.com
14. ==> Would Jesus Be Welcome in Today’s Church?
Rick Patterson doesn’t think so—and he’s not afraid to say why. In his new book “The Matthew Challenge,” this former evangelical pastor and father of four invites audiences to reexamine how Christ challenged the church of his day to radical inclusivity, justice-oriented action for the "least of these" and generosity over power. Patterson pulls no punches when it comes to how American faith has been politicized, weaponized and distorted, often at the expense of the very people Jesus prioritized. Rick is a bold, thought-provoking guest. He’ll leave audiences asking better questions, not just echoing louder answers. Ask him: Why do you say the modern church wouldn’t recognize Jesus today? What does it look like to live out the radical message of Matthew in a divided America? Ideal for faith, culture or politics segments that want more than the usual hot takes, Rick brings both heat and healing. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com
15. ==> How the Core Truths of 3 Faiths Can Unite Us All
What if the world’s three major monotheistic religions were never meant to be divided? In “One Lord: Uniting Jews, Christians, and Muslims,” researcher John Hageman reveals how the true message of God/Allah—hidden within centuries of religious dogma and conflicting scriptures—can bring us together instead of tearing us apart. With a scientific mind and a spiritual heart, Hageman explores the scriptures of all three faiths, exposing the lies woven into all our holy scriptures—and the Lord’s divine truths that still shine through. Invite Hageman on your show and hear how faith, logic, and wisdom can show the obvious path to unity by simply loving the Lord, loving our neighbors, doing good, and resisting evil. Contact John Hageman at (210) 806-7961; jhageman@rtirguests.com
