11/20/2025 RTIR Newsletter: ‘Quiet Piggy,’ a Holiday Feast on a Budget and a Good Reason to Look Forward to Aging

 

01. ‘Things Happen’ - Trump Defends Saudi Prince
02. 'Quiet, Piggy' - Why Trump Won’t Stop Insulting Journalists
03. The Next Wave in the Opioid Crisis is Coming
04. Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead
05. Hack Your Thanksgiving Grocery Bill
06. How to Set Boundaries with Toxic Family Members
07. High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
08. Beware These Costly Medicare Changes
09. 5 Ways to Be a Peacebuilder: No Protests or Politicians Required
10. Channel Your Political Anger into Real Change
11. A Bold New Action Plan to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds
12. A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress
13. How to Heal America’s Soul Crisis
14. ‘Psychedelics Changed My Life’—A Therapist Shares the Healing Power of Plants
15. This Pastor Died—Twice—And Came Back With a Message


1. ==> ‘Things Happen’ - Trump Defends Saudi Prince

The White House threw the doors open to embrace Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman this week signaling deeper U.S. ties to the kingdom. President Trump hosted a lavish dinner in his honor and defended the Saudi royal over journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder saying, “people disliked him” and “things happen.” U.S. intelligence has said MBS, as he is known, approved of the operation that led to the murder of Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and Saudi critic, by Saudi agents in Istanbul. "President Trump has Jamal Khashoggi's blood on his hands," says Raed Jarrar, advocacy director at DAWN, the organization founded by Khashoggi. "Seven years after ordering Jamal's brutal murder and dismemberment, MBS still hasn't revealed where his remains are so his family can bury him, and Trump won't even ask. By defending MBS and lying about the intelligence community's findings, Trump has made himself complicit in every execution and imprisonment MBS has ordered since." Raed Jarrar is an Arab-American political advocate based in Washington, DC. he has testified in numerous Congressional hearings and briefings. He is a frequent guest on national and international media outlets in Arabic and English, including CNN, MSNBC, NPR, the BBC, Al Jazeera, and Sky News Arabia. DAWN is an organization that works to reform U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and North Africa and to hold human rights abusers accountable. For interviews contact press@dawnmena.org

2. ==> 'Quiet, Piggy' - Why Trump Won’t Stop Insulting Journalists

Just one day after telling a female reporter on Air Force One “Quiet, piggy,” when she asked him a question about Jeffrey Epstein, Donald Trump raged at another female journalist saying she was “a terrible person and a terrible reporter” after she asked about his family’s business in Saudi Arabia and the Khashoggi killing. Margaret Sullivan, executive director for the Craig Newmark Center for Journalism Ethics and Security at Columbia Journalism School and media columnist for “The Guardian US,” is furious about the insults. “This kind of language isn’t just rude—it’s a calculated attempt to demean and delegitimize the press, especially women reporters who challenge him.” She says, “It does need to be called out, and broadly. The news organizations and leadership should certainly be pushing back, hard.” So far the White House Press Association has not issued a formal response to either of the attacks. Margaret Sullivan appears frequently in the media and is the author of “Newsroom Confidential” Contact her at mms2277@columbia.edu; @Sulliview

3. ==> The Next Wave in the Opioid Crisis is Coming

Public health experts have their eyes on an old-school synthetic drug that is gaining a foothold in street drugs. Nitazenes have been around since the 1950s, but the extremely potent synthetic opioid recently became popular in Europe and has spread worldwide over the past five years. The most common nitazene, known as ISO, is five to nine times stronger than fentanyl, which itself is generally 25 to 50 times stronger than heroin. “That means less than 2mg of ISO—the equivalent of the tip of a pencil or a few grains of sand—can kill you,” says Brian Townsend, a retired supervisory special agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and founder and president of Only 2mg Inc., a nonprofit addressing the use of fentanyl and other emerging illicit substances. Townsend can explain what nitazenes are, why they’re becoming increasingly popular, and why people are especially concerned about them right now. Contact Brian Townsend at Brian@only2mg.com

4. ==> Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead

Contrary to what most of us believe, our younger years are not the best years of our lives. Laura Carstensen, a professor of psychology and founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity says our best years come much later in life. Carstensen’s research consistently suggests that starting in our mid-20s we begin experiencing fewer negative emotions and our emotional balance improves as we age. So, should we look forward to old age? “In many ways, it’s the best time of life,” says Carstensen. “People have a better emotional experience. They’re more satisfied with their relationships and more at peace with themselves, and as we get older, we stop caring so much about these trivial matters that can drive us crazy at earlier stages of life.” She explains that older people aren’t happier, but they experience less anger and sadness, and fear and anxiety. She’ll explain how these changes happen and exactly when they peak, as well as other interesting takeaways from her years of studying aging and longevity. Contact Joleen Castro at (650) 725-0347; jpcastro@stanford.edu

5. ==> Hack Your Thanksgiving Grocery Bill

Who isn’t pinching pennies these days? But nobody wants to skimp on Thanksgiving dinner—it’s supposed to be a feast! Celebrate the season and still save when you invite Andrea Woroch to share practical tips for cutting your Thanksgiving grocery bill. The consumer savings expert says there are plenty of ways to trim costs without sacrificing quality. “Honestly, you can save money if you opt for the frozen,” says Andrea. “I picked up a bag of fresh green beans for $2.79—frozen was $1.79. People don’t realize produce is flash frozen at the time it’s picked, so it actually has more nutrients.” She also recommends using store brands over name brands for staples like stuffing mix and canned goods, using grocery store apps for digital coupons and weekly deals, and planning ahead to avoid impulse buys and take advantage of early bird pricing. Andrea Woroch is a consumer and money-saving expert, writer, and speaker. She frequently appears on national and local TV and radio. Contact her at andrea@andreaworoch.com.

6. ==> How to Set Boundaries with Toxic Family Members

The holidays are sold as a time for joy, but for many, they bring stress, guilt, and painful reminders of broken relationships. Sabrina Ciceri, author of “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Mother,” knows that hurt runs deepest when it comes from family. At just 13, her mother ran off with her boyfriend. Sabrina’s journey of healing, forgiveness, and breaking the cycle of generational trauma is a powerful example of what’s possible. A mother of six, grandmother of five, and former nurse turned health advocate, she shares with audiences how to set boundaries, protect your peace, and start the holiday season emotionally lighter. Ask her: How can people protect themselves emotionally during holiday gatherings? What’s the best way to set a boundary with a toxic parent? Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308 1596; Sciceri@rtirguests.com

7. ==> High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis

A third of Americans now spend more than 30% of their income on rent, and in major cities, it’s often over 50%. But the financial strain is only half the story. Darius Ross says the mental toll of this affordability crisis is eroding resilience, fueling chronic stress, and keeping people stuck in survival mode. As a former homeless teen who became a successful entrepreneur, Darius offers a grounded, street-smart perspective that connects with audiences of all backgrounds. His mindset strategies blend lived experience with real-life tools for navigating uncertainty, managing trauma, and staying motivated—even when the math doesn’t add up. In this timely conversation, Darius doesn’t just unpack the crisis, he helps audiences cope, shift their mindset, and take their next step forward. Darius Ross is the author of “Mastering the TPS Blueprint,” a speaker on trauma and transformation, and a community advocate who helps underserved youth rise. Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956 or dross@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Beware These Costly Medicare Changes

Big changes are coming to Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and more than 69 million Americans could be affected. This is a timely story your listeners need to hear now, during Medicare’s Open Enrollment period, which runs through December 7th. Invite Medicare expert Toni King, author of “Medicare Survival Guide Advanced Edition,” to discuss new changes set to take effect January 1st. King will help your audience understand how these updates will affect their coverage and annual out-of-pocket costs in 2026. She’ll also explain how Medicare directly negotiated lower prices for 10 high-cost drugs, transforming Part D and contributing to rising premiums for many enrollees. Ask her: “How can one small oversight erase your drug coverage overnight?” Which 2026 changes will hit enrollees’ wallets the hardest?” Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736; tking@rtirguests.com

9. ==> 5 Ways to Be a Peacebuilder: No Protests or Politicians Required

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

10. ==> Channel Your Political Anger into Real Change

“Agonizing, protesting, or tuning out” aren’t our only options in today’s heated political climate, says activist and author Sam Daley-Harris. In his book “Reclaiming Our Democracy,” Daley-Harris reveals a proven alternative: transformational advocacy, where you don’t just change an issue, you’re changed in the process. He shares stories of ordinary citizens who turned “climate trauma” into hope, and political helplessness into purpose. Feeling fed up isn’t a flaw. It’s fuel. Daley-Harris shows your audience how to harness it into impact. Book him today to inspire your audience and dive into the tough question like “Why is outrage not enough?” and “How can ordinary people actually change politics?” Sam Daley-Harris is the founder of RESULTS, a citizens’ lobby that has empowered grassroots advocates to influence U.S. policy for more than 40 years. Contact Sam at (202) 804-2504; sdaley@rtirguests.com

11. ==> A Bold New Action Plan 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. Ask her: 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?

12. ==> A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress

Across the country, teachers and parents are noticing that kids are more anxious than ever. Mindset coach and mother of four Sharon Emily believes the antidote is not pressure or perfectionism, but mindset. A former counselor and Franklin Covey-trained facilitator, she teaches families practical ways to replace fear with focus. Her new children’s song turned book, “Mirror of Myself,” gives parents an easy way to start those conversations at home. Sharon helps audiences understand how thoughts shape confidence, motivation, and resilience in both children and adults. Whether your listeners are concerned about school stress, social media, or the constant rush of modern life, she offers tools that spark calm, gratitude, and hope while still acknowledging real challenges. Sharon has practiced what she preaches, raising a son who became a millionaire before 30 and a thriving daughter living with autism. Contact her at (480) 470-3893; scarstens@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How to Heal America’s Soul Crisis

Across every generation, stress, anxiety, and burnout are on the rise. But according to author and spiritual teacher Doreen Mary Bray, what we’re really facing isn’t just a mental health crisis, it’s a soul crisis. In her new book “The Angel and The Avatar,” Doreen reveals how losing connection with our inner selves has left millions feeling unfulfilled, anxious, and exhausted. A naturopath, shaman, and teacher for more than 40 years, she offers a fresh, practical perspective on how to restore balance through simple daily practices that realign mind, body, and soul. A compassionate and insightful guest, Doreen helps audiences understand the hidden causes of modern stress and how to turn sensitivity, overthinking, and self-doubt into tools for healing and personal growth. Ask her: What do you mean by a “soul crisis,” and how is it different from burnout? What’s one thing our listeners can do today to feel calmer and more centered? Contact Doreen Mary Bray at (438) 802-0280; dbray@rtirguests.com

14. ==> ‘Psychedelics Changed My Life’—A Therapist Shares the Healing Power of Plants

According to research presented at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference in Denver, patients who had been diagnosed with major depressive disorder experienced a dramatic decrease in depression after just one dose of psilocybin (magic mushrooms). Author and psychotherapist Anjalia McGoldrick is living proof of the power of plant-based psychedelics. “I got pregnant at 13, was in an abusive relationship at 14, and escaped with my life at 16,” she says. “Although I became a successful psychotherapist, I still carried deep wounds. Psychedelics absolutely changed my life.” Anjalia is the author of the critically acclaimed memoir “The Child I Left Behind A Mother's Journey To Healing & Forgiveness.” Contact Anjalia McGoldrick at (540) 616-3200; amcgoldrick@rtirguests.com

15. ==> This Pastor Died—Twice—And Came Back With a Message

When Pastor Nancy Frecka slipped into death—twice—she never imagined what awaited her. Floating above her lifeless body, she watched nurses scramble, unable to find a pulse. Then came the divine encounter with Jesus Himself. Pages of her past flipped like a book until stopping at the moment that shaped her soul childhood tragedy involving her brother, a shotgun, and a haunted house. But death wasn’t the end. It was the beginning of a mission. Nancy returned from the other side with a powerful message. “The message of unforgiveness is key to having a life full of peace, love and joy,” she says. Nancy is a speaker, pastor, and the author of "God Says, "You Can Trust Me:” Supernatural Encounters with God." Contact Nancy Frecka at (330) 422-6955; nfrecka@rtirguests.com