admin -

8/6/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Missile Shortages, the Rise of Democratic Socialists and What the Bible Says About Aliens

01. The United States is Low on Missiles. Why?
02. Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?
03. The Difference Between Democratic Socialism and Communism
04. UFOs, Aliens and God
05. How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children
06. What Our Schools Forget to Teach About Democracy
07. America is Bitterly Divided: Small Steps to Bridge Our Differences
08. Can’t Get Away? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere
09. AI Summer Travel Scams
10. The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer
11. Seniors and Depression: It’s Not Just Old Age
12. Is a Job the Only Path? What New Grads Should Consider
13. Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker
14. Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation
15. There’s Still Time to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck

1. ==> The United States is Low on Missiles. Why?

The United States has a munitions problem. Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) says the U.S. arsenal is “depleted,” with some munitions “quite depleted,” and that rebuilding inventories will take 1–5 years. He says use during the war against Iran is a major driver of the issue, but not the only one and that transfers to Ukraine are a minor factor—with one important exception; Patriot missiles. Cancian can explain why current munitions are low and how that effects the wars in Iran and Ukraine. “The immediate problem is not money, but time. With time, production will equal demand, but that is several years in the future. Until then, there is a window of vulnerability. The question facing the United States is whether the risk in a future conflict arising from reduced inventories is worth the gain in the current conflict.” He adds, “That is a political question about which the country is deeply divided.” The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. For interviews with Mark F. Cancian (Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, ret.), contact the CSIS media relations department at press@csis.org or (202) 775-7317

2. ==> Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?

A wave of victories for democratic socialists in mayoral elections and congressional primaries over the past year has shocked the Democratic Party establishment, but not India Walton. “I’m excited to see so many candidates running unapologetically on bold, people-first agendas in cities across the country,” says Walton, a longtime community activist and democratic socialist who won the Democratic primary election for mayor of Buffalo in 2021 against a 16-year incumbent. “From New York to Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, these victories remind us that when everyday people organize, they can overcome enormous political and financial barriers,” Walton says. “I know firsthand how difficult it is to challenge entrenched political machines. These campaigns show that voters are hungry for leaders who will take on inequality, fight for working families, and put communities ahead of corporations. This can no longer be considered a fluke – these victories represent a growing movement demanding a more just, democratic future.” Walton is currently the senior strategist for RootsAction, a progressive advocacy organization focused on social and economic justice. Contact her at india@rootsaction.org

3. ==> The Difference Between Democratic Socialism and Communism

Socialism has long been considered a “dirty word” in American politics and is often confused with communism. So, what’s the difference? Michael Kazin says democratic socialists support expanding social ownership and public programs through democratic elections, civil liberties, and multi party competition. Communists, on the other hand, seek to abolish capitalism and private property entirely, often through revolutionary means and typically under a single ruling party. “Communists want to do away with capitalism altogether. They don't want any private enterprise. They don't want any private means of production. And they want a whole world run by people like that,” he says. “Democratic socialists are willing to have themselves voted out of power… if people don’t want to keep it, then they can go back to a more capitalist society.” Michael Kazin is an American historian and professor at Georgetown University. He’s the author of several books and is a frequent contributor to publications including the “New York Times,” the “Washington Post” ad “Foreign Affairs.” Contact him via his website at mkazin.com/contact

4. ==> UFOs, Aliens and God

The UFO conversation has moved from the fringe to the front page. The White House has directed the Pentagon to open its files, Congress keeps holding disclosure hearings, and lawmakers are talking about immunity for whistleblowers who claim knowledge of recovered "nonhuman biologics." Whatever anyone makes of it, a lot of people are watching, and plenty of them are asking spiritual questions. Not many are finding many places that will take the questions seriously - including and specifically the church. LA filmmaker Derrick Warfel, author of “UFOs and God” and a companion feature documentary, can explain what the Bible says about aliens, why he believes UFOs are fallen supernatural powers, and whether this could be the next Darwin moment for the church. Derrick became increasingly concerned by the growing normalization of UFO narratives in popular media—particularly the claim that alleged extraterrestrial messages are guiding humanity toward a new stage of evolution. Derrick Warfel was born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in the heart of the PA Bible Belt. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Princeton University, a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, and an MFA in Cinema from the University of Southern California. Contact Mark Breta at mark@jonesliterary.com

5. ==> How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children

As the country’s schools, libraries, museums, and government institutions face an escalating campaign to erase Black history—as political leaders are banning books, sanitizing slavery, and claiming to protect white children from the discomfort of America’s racial past—award-winning journalist, author and historian, Stacey Patton, reveals how white parenting culture trained generations of its own children for racial terror. She exposes the grotesque historical contradiction at the center of today’s censorship campaigns: The same nation now insisting that white children are too fragile to learn about racism once deliberately brought them to lynchings, exposed them to communal homicide, and taught them to regard the barbaric destruction of Black bodies as “law and order,” protection, entertainment, and family bonding. She says lynching did more than terrorize Black communities. It functioned as a multisensory public curriculum in racial domination that trained white children through sight, sound, touch, smell, and spectacle so they would become desensitized to racial terror, and so that terror would have heirs. Stacey Patton, Ph.D., is a nationally recognized child advocate. Her writing has appeared in the “New York Times,” “The Washington Post,” “The Chronicle of Higher Education,” and other national outlets. Her new book, “Strung Up: How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children,” will be released in October. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

6. ==> What Our Schools Forget to Teach About Democracy

America's education debate usually focuses on test scores, funding, and curriculum. But retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, educator, and education reform advocate Elissa Mohan believes we're overlooking a far more urgent issue: preparing citizens for self-government. In her forthcoming book, “ENOUGH: Why America Is Failing at Education and What to Do About It,” Elissa argues that today's fragmented education landscape leaves too many students unprepared to evaluate information, engage in civil discourse, and understand the Constitution. Drawing on her experience as a military leader, homeschool parent, public school teacher, and educational psychologist, she offers a bold blueprint for rebuilding education to meet the challenges of democracy in the AI age. Contact: Elissa Mohan at (405) 346-8358; emohan@rtirguests.com

7. ==> America is Bitterly Divided: Small Steps to Bridge Our Differences

Most people aren't losing relationships over big ideological battles. They're losing them over Tuesday night dinners and team meetings — the small moments where someone says the wrong thing and the damage is done before anyone realizes it. Peacebuilding expert Daisy Khan says the problem is rarely what we believe. It's that nobody taught us how to say it. Drawing from years of training organizations, schools, and communities, Khan gives your audience something practical and immediately usable: specific language shifts that let people hold their ground without triggering defensiveness, avoid the two most common communication mistakes that escalate disagreements, and stay in relationships with people they fundamentally disagree with. This isn't conflict avoidance. It's conflict navigation. And in a climate where audiences are exhausted by division but don't know how to do it differently, Khan is the guest who hands them a tool, not just a talking point. Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Can’t Get Away? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere

Vacations are supposed to help us recharge, yet many people just can’t get away right now. How can you get the benefits of a break without leaving home? Artist Edi Matsumoto believes joy isn’t something we find after everything slows down. It’s something we can practice in the middle of everyday life. She’ll introduce her simple 60-second Joy Reset, a creative mindfulness technique that helps people pause, reconnect with the present moment, and experience more gratitude wherever they are. Through heartwarming stories, playful exercises, and lessons inspired by her beloved otter paintings, Edi shows that even the busiest lives have room for wonder. It’s a refreshing reminder that happiness often begins with noticing what’s already around us. Edi Matsumoto is an award-winning artist and internationally collected painter. She wrote “Otter Therapy” to help people cultivate more joy every day. Contact her at (831) 290-6491; ematsumoto@rtirguests.com

9. ==> AI Summer Travel Scams

Travel should create lasting memories, not costly scams. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, criminals are using AI to create convincing travel websites, fake customer service representatives, voice cloning, phishing emails, and fraudulent booking confirmations that can fool even experienced travelers. Cybersecurity expert Jocelyn King explains how these scams work, why they're becoming harder to recognize, and the simple precautions every traveler should take before booking a trip or responding to unexpected messages while away from home. She'll also discuss practical ways families can verify information, protect personal data, and avoid becoming victims before vacation even begins. Jocelyn helps audiences navigate today's digital world with greater awareness and confidence. She is a cybersecurity strategist, host of the Smarter Online Safety podcast and the author of “Digital Self-Defense in an AI World: How to Protect Yourself Online.” Contact Jocelyn King at (970) 514-5150; jking@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer

Summer travel is in full swing, but many Medicare beneficiaries don't realize their health coverage may not work the way they expect once they're away from home. Medicare expert Toni King says misunderstanding your benefits before traveling can lead to unexpected medical bills, delayed care, and unnecessary stress during what should be a relaxing vacation. She'll explain what Original Medicare does and doesn't cover while traveling, when Medicare Advantage plans may have network limitations, and the questions every beneficiary should ask before leaving home. She'll also discuss common enrollment misunderstandings that continue to surprise retirees long after they've signed up. It's essential information for anyone who wants to travel with greater confidence and peace of mind this summer. Toni King has spent decades helping Americans understand Medicare through her books, seminars, and consumer education programs. Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736 or tking@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Seniors and Depression: It’s Not Just Old Age

Seven and a half million American seniors are living with depression — and most of them will never be diagnosed, never be treated, and never hear from a doctor that what they’re feeling isn’t just “getting old.” James B. Flaherty is 90, and he has something to say about that. A former Madison Avenue advertising executive, innkeeper, and author of five books written in his 80s — with a fifth one just published — Flaherty has built a second life devoted to proving that the final decades can be the richest ones. In inter-views, he’ll share what he’s learned about purpose, connection, and the daily choices that keep a 90-year-old not just alive — but genuinely thriving — and why the antidote to senior depression is simpler than anyone thinks. Ask him: Why are 7.5 million depressed seniors being ignored — and who’s responsible? What’s the single most important choice a senior can make to stay vital? Contact James Flaherty at (914) 326-2697; jflaherty@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Is a Job the Only Path? What New Grads Should Consider

For decades, college graduates were told the formula for success was simple: earn a degree, land a job, climb the ladder. But with layoffs rising, AI reshaping industries, and many young professionals already questioning traditional career paths, franchise consultant and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Greg Mohr says graduates should pause before automatically sending out résumés. On your show, he’ll explain why entrepreneurship and business ownership are becoming more attractive to younger generations seeking flexibility, control, and long-term wealth-building opportunities. He’ll also break down the biggest misconceptions about franchising, why some grads are better suited for ownership than corporate life, and what questions families should ask before taking on years of career uncertainty or debt. Drawing from years helping professionals transition into franchise ownership, Mohr offers a practical, eye-opening conversation about rethinking success in today’s economy. Greg Mohr is the author of “Real Freedom.” Contact him at (361) 204-5470; gmohr@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker

Most people believe that persuasive speaking is a natural talent. But retired Army Colonel Larry Tracy says it's a skill that anyone can master. Drawing on decades of high-stakes experience briefing military leaders, defending U.S. policy before hostile audiences, and training professionals competing for multimillion-dollar government contracts, Larry developed an easy-to-follow 6-step system to help speakers communicate with confidence, clarity, and credibility in any setting. Praised by President Ronald Reagan as "an extraordinarily effective speaker," Larry shows that persuasion isn't about charisma—it's about preparation. His battle-tested approach can help anyone influence audiences, overcome speaking anxiety, and deliver messages that truly change minds. Larry’s proven system is featured in his book “How to Bring Home the Bacon: Becoming a Persuasive Speaker.” Contact Larry Tracy at (571) 336-0507; Ltracy@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation

America is facing what the U.S. Surgeon General recently called an epidemic of loneliness. Nearly half of adults say they feel isolated at times, and that isolation often deepens during life’s hardest moments: serious illness, caregiving, grief, infertility, or financial uncertainty. Author and loneliness coach Karen Kay Smith asserts these “waiting room seasons” can quietly push people away from the very support they need most. On your show, Smith explains why people often shift into “functioning versus feeling” during crises, how emotional suppression fuels loneliness, and why many struggle to communicate what they truly need. She offers practical, yet life-changing tools listeners can use immediately, including how a simple “breath prayer” can replace pressure-filled spiritual routines, why naming emotions out loud can be more healing than staying strong, and how her “3 C’s” framework—confidence, communication, and community—helps people rebuild connection step by step. Drawing from 15 years caring for her husband during his battle with multiple sclerosis, along with years in women’s ministry and training as a transformational life coach, Smith brings a rare blend of lived experience and practical guidance to conversations about loneliness and connection. She is the author of “Nearsighted: Choosing to See Eating Disorders Differently” and the upcoming “Hope Has a Seat in Every Waiting Room.” Contact Karen Kay Smith at (256) 812-5106; ksmith@rtirguests.com

15. ==> There’s Still Time to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck

Summer is supposed to be a season to relax, reconnect, and recharge, yet many people finish it feeling exhausted, overscheduled, and wondering where the time went. Happiness expert Deborah Mallow says creating a memorable summer doesn't require expensive vacations or a perfectly planned calendar. It starts with making intentional choices that increase joy and reduce stress. She'll share practical ways to avoid burnout, set healthy boundaries, embrace small moments of happiness, and create experiences that leave families feeling more connected instead of more overwhelmed. Whether you're balancing work, caring for loved ones, or simply trying to enjoy the season, these simple strategies can help you make the most of the weeks ahead. Based on the principles in “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck,” Deborah offers realistic tools for creating a summer you'll actually remember for the right reasons. Known as America's Happiness Coach, Deborah Mallow is a nationally recognized speaker who helps individuals and organizations build happier, healthier, and more resilient lives. Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

8/4/2026 RTIR Newsletter: ‘Furious’ Actor, the Sandwich Generation Needs Help and a Dear Abby for Dogs

01. How AI Is Already at Work in Your Healthcare
02. 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come
03. Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’
04. The Sandwich Generation is a Workplace Retention Issue
05. New Tool to Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts
06. How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire
07. Great Business Show: How to Use Visual Thinking in the Age of AI
08. The Reason You’re Stuck Has Nothing to Do with Willpower
09. This Guest Turns Problem Pooches into Perfect Pups
10. The Real Cost of Crime and Who Pays
11. High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
12. Signs Your Body is Asking for Change This Summer
13. Are You Asking the Wrong Questions About God?
14. What if Before You Were Born, You Chose This Life?
15. Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool

1. ==> How AI Is Already at Work in Your Healthcare

Most Americans think AI in healthcare is still experimental. Anmol Madan says we’re already living through one of the biggest transformations in modern medicine, and most people just don't see it. As founder and CEO of RadiantGraph, former Chief Data Scientist at Livongo and Teladoc Health, and founder of Ginger, one of the first AI-powered behavioral healthcare companies, Anmol has spent more than two decades building the technology that's reshaping healthcare from the inside. He can pull back the curtain on what's actually happening inside health plans, hospitals, and healthcare organizations, separating reality from hype and explaining the changes that are quietly affecting millions of Americans today. He’ll explain how healthcare is quietly becoming autonomous, the ways AI is making the experience increasingly personalized and why he believes that’s a good thing. Anmol Madan is the author of “The Machines Will See You Now: A Human Roadmap to Autonomous Health Care.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 (office)

2. ==> 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the largest food assistance program in the country, is undergoing a massive overhaul, with many changes yet to come. Already, more than 4 million people – many them children – are estimated to have lost the critical food aid since last July when a sweeping Republican tax and spending package became law. Starsky Wilson, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, a child advocacy group, says he has been alarmed by the speed of the tax law’s impact and warns that more cuts will take effect later this year. “There could be an even greater sense of desperation among children and their families,” he says. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act included major changes to the food assistance program. SNAP has already been tightening eligibility, but the biggest shift will come in October when states will need to pay if they want to keep the program going. If they don’t, neither food banks nor existing government programs would have the capacity to fill the gap, according to Wilson. “There’s no replacement for SNAP if a state gets rid of it,” he says. Contact CDF media relations manager John Henry at (708) 646-7679; jhenry@childrensdefense.org

3. ==> Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’

Critics are calling Hulu's new crime thriller, Furious, savage, smart and addictive. Written by Elizabeth Meriwether and inspired by the 1987 film ‘Black Widow,’ the series stars Emmy Rossum as an FBI agent obsessed with a female serial killer who is targeting the city’s elite. Actor Clark Moore plays Caleb Easton, a judge and the son of a billionaire. He’s also the killer's first victim. Invite Moore to talk about the show and his pivotal role and share behind-the-scenes stories from the twisty, funny thriller. Moore's career highlights include a recurring role as D.A. Stanny Sanders in the ABC limited series Women of the Movement, executive produced by Will Smith and Jay-Z, and a leading performance in the Amazon Prime series Lore. Contact Sean Dubravac at (323) 746-5003; 419815@email4pr.com

4. ==> The Sandwich Generation is a Workplace Retention Issue

Millions of Millennial and Gen X workers are caught between aging parents who need care and children who still depend on them. They are also the employees that companies have spent years developing into leaders, and the ones most likely to walk if that squeeze goes unaddressed. Workplace expert Andy Challenger says, "This is a workforce issue, not a personal issue. Sandwiched caregivers cut hours, decline promotions, and sometimes leave their organizations entirely. That's talent walking out the door, and it's often the experienced, mid-career talent you spent years developing." He says, "Flexibility is the single most important thing employers can offer to caregivers. A doctor's appointment for an aging parent doesn't respect a 9-to-5 calendar. Neither does a sick kindergartener. Remote and hybrid schedules, flexible start and stop times, and compressed workweeks let caregivers manage the unpredictable without stepping off their career track." He says other ways employers can support caregiving workers include normalizing eldercare (not just childcare), offering caregiving leave and making it usable, and training managers to ask and listen. Andy Challenger is chief revenue officer for Challenger, Gray & Christmas, an outplacement and executive coaching firm. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> New Tool to Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts

Most people should know by now that posting things online can come back to haunt you. It can also get you fired. Or keep you from being hired! According to research by CareerBuilder, 34% of employers have reprimanded or terminated an employee because of online activity, while 57% have discovered social media content that caused them not to hire a candidate. For those who are worried about their ability to self-check, or who are unclear about boundaries, a new tool called PostCheck could help you avoid becoming the next cautionary tale. Unlike traditional AI writing or sentiment tools, PostCheck analyzes draft social media posts, emails, direct messages, and other digital communications for potential career, legal, financial, and reputational risk before they're published. The platform was developed using real-world crisis communications and public relations expertise, giving users a practical "five-second reality check" before they hit send. Ask creator Ryan McCormick: What are the worst cases of posts destroying entire careers? How fast does it happen? Should people share their political/social views online, especially if they're friends with co-workers? What makes PostCheck unique? Couldn't people use regular AI and get the same response? Ryan McCormick is cofounder of Goldman McCormick Public Relations. Contact him at ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

6. ==> How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire

AI has already been cited in more than 100,000 U.S. job cuts this year. That’s more than any other reason companies give for layoffs, according to Newsweek. But are businesses sacrificing the very qualities that drive long-term success? Startup strategist and attorney Douglas Park says the companies that thrive in the AI era won't simply have the best technology—they'll know how to combine AI with human creativity, judgment, and smart strategy. Drawing on more than 25 years advising companies, Park reveals the costly AI mistakes many leaders are making, why products are becoming easier to copy, and why people and competitive positioning matter more than ever. Douglas is a Silicon Valley attorney, former business professor, startup advisor and the author of “Starting Startups.” His research-based 3P Framework helps organizations align their people, products, and position to compete in a rapidly changing economy. Contact Douglas Park at (650) 629-1424; dpark@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Great Business Show: How to Use Visual Thinking in the Age of AI

What if your messy stick figures could transform stalled meetings into breakthrough moments? Lisa Rothstein, “New Yorker” cartoonist and former advertising creative, has discovered that imperfect doodles beat perfect presentations every single time—and the science backs her up. In interviews, Rothstein will reveal how simple sketches get buy-in faster than any PowerPoint deck, why drawing badly creates psychological safety that "perfect" can't match, and how to use visual thinking in the age of AI to stand out as authentically human. Drawing from her book “Drawing Out Your Genius,” she'll share quick techniques anyone can use to simplify complex ideas, kickstart innovation, and finally get teams speaking the same language. Ask her: You say "the worse it looks, the better it works"—how does that make sense? What kinds of problems can this technique help you solve? How can non-artists use drawing to get breakthrough results this week? Contact Lisa Rothstein at (310) 388-8093; Lrothstein@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Reason You’re Stuck Has Nothing to Do with Willpower

If willpower were enough, you'd already be free from negativity in your life. “What keeps people stuck isn’t a lack of motivation, it’s the nervous system holding unresolved survival responses from the past,” according to Lisa Morgan. “Real change happens when we work with the body, not against it.” Lisa’s world fell apart when panic and anxiety brought her to her knees. This became the foundation of her life’s work. Lisa is a master coach, intuitive guide, and soul-level healer who helps people break free from hidden blocks and rediscover who they truly are. Through her signature framework, Free Your Soul to Soar™, she bridges neuroscience and energy psychology to help people transform to reclaim their joy, worth, and wings. Contact Lisa Morgan at (314) 265-3491; lmorgan@rtirguests.com

9. ==> This Guest Turns Problem Pooches into Perfect Pups

Author and longtime dog behaviorist Kathleen Troy answers real questions from dog owners with warmth, humor, and hard-earned experience. Dubbed the Dear Abby for dogs, Kathleen tackles everyday canine challenges while debunking one of the biggest myths of all: some dogs cannot be trained. She gets her inspiration from her remarkable rescue pup, Dylan, a former “problem dog” who went on to become a certified therapy and hospice service dog. She combines practical guidance with unforgettable stories. Audiences will learn how patience, consistency, and respect can transform both dogs and their humans. Kathleen is the author of the “Dylan’s Dog Squad” series, and a book about dog training. Contact Kathleen Troy at (714) 975-9807; ktroy@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Real Cost of Crime and Who Pays

Crime isn’t just a public safety issue—it’s a major financial burden. In fact, it costs U.S. taxpayers an estimated $100 billion every year. Crime prevention consultant Stephanie Mann says most strategies focus on reacting after crimes occur rather than addressing the conditions that allow them to grow. Drawing from more than 40 years of experience, she explains why traditional enforcement-heavy approaches often fail to reduce long-term costs and what’s working instead. On your show, she’ll reveal how community-based strategies reduce crime, lower taxpayer expenses, and create safer neighborhoods without increasing budgets. She also explains why trust, local engagement, and prevention are more cost-effective than punishment alone. This is a practical, solutions-driven conversation that reframes crime as an economic issue and gives audiences a new way to think about where their tax dollars go. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

11. ==> 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

12. ==> Signs Your Body is Asking for Change This Summer

With 6 in 10 U.S. adults living with chronic disease, summer health resets often focus on surface fixes. But what if lasting improvement requires looking beyond symptoms and asking what the body may be responding to beneath the surface? On this timely summer show, Marcel Vögeli explores how long-term stress, suppressed conflict, and emotional overload can influence physical health, and why two people with the same diagnosis can heal at very different rates. After eight years of intensive autoimmune treatment that managed symptoms but didn’t restore his life, Marcel began examining deeper stress patterns in his own story. He has been hospital-free since 2012. Marcel Vögeli is spokesperson for The Key to Self-Liberation by the late Christiane Beerlandt. Contact Marcel Vögeli at Mvogeli@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Are You Asking the Wrong Questions About God?

A growing number of Americans are walking away from organized religion. Yet, many continue searching for meaning, purpose, and truth. Author Gary Meisner believes the problem may not be a lack of interest in God—but the questions we're asking about God in the first place. After spending more than 20 years as a skeptical, materialist agnostic, Gary experienced something he could not explain through reason alone, prompting him to reexamine his assumptions. Known internationally for his work on the golden ratio and patterns in nature, he now explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and faith. In his book “Life Through a New Lens—Finding God Where Reason and Faith Meet,” Gary invites skeptics, agnostics, and seekers to consider whether their doubts may be based on misconceptions about what God is—or could be. Contact Gary Meisner at (615) 703-3637; gmeisner@rtirguests.com

14. ==> What if Before You Were Born, You Chose This Life?

What if the life you’re living—including its struggles, its losses, and its ordinary moments—was chosen by you before you arrived? Doreen Mary Bray, who has worked between worlds for over 40 years as a naturopath and mystical guide, teaches that souls don’t stumble into human life. They long for it, wait for it, and select it with intention — choosing parents, place, and form for the privilege of embodiment. Bray will reveal what it means to live as a soul that chose this life, and why that single shift in understanding transforms everything. She’ll explore how souls navigate the journey toward incarnation and why being human is not a burden to transcend, but a gift of extraordinary rarity. For anyone who has ever felt that life is happening to them, Bray offers a radical reframe: you didn’t land here by accident. Doreen Mary Bray is the author of Drawing “The Angel and the Avatar.” Contact her at (438) 802-0280; Dbray@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool

Most parents see children's books as entertainment. Kenneth Korber, a health literacy expert, believes they can also be powerful tools for improving children's health. After two decades as a clinician, he wrote and published “The Musical Adventures of Grace” series to extend the patient office visit into bedtime reading, helping families reinforce important health and wellness lessons at home. His engaging stories and characters transform complex medical topics into age-appropriate adventures that children actually enjoy. Ken’s approach encourages healthy habits, eases childhood anxiety and fears, and strengthens literacy at the same time. “Storytelling may be one of the most effective—and overlooked—ways to improve public health, empower families, and help children build lifelong healthy behaviors, one bedtime story at a time,” he says. Contact: Kenneth Korber at (847) 238-8936; kkorber@rtirguests.com

7/30/2026 RTIR Newsletter: SPECIAL SUMMER ISSUE

01. Prepare for (and Survive) More Wild, Summer Weather
02. Doctors are Disturbed by Anti-Sunscreen Movement
03. Why Everyone Should Know How to Swim (and Why Many Don’t)
04. Parenting: The Most Important Summer Safety Tips
05. This Skill Could Save a Life This Summer
06. Road Trip! 10 Hidden Travel Gems
07. Heart-Healthy Summer Cookout Tips
08. Stressed AFTER Vacation? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere
09. How to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck
10. It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset
11. AI Summer Travel Scams
12. The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer
13. School's Out! 5 Ways to Get Kids Off Screens and Moving
14. Single and Over 50? Make This the Summer of Love
15. Reset Your Energy for a Summer of Renewal: Chakra Balancing

1. ==> Prepare for (and Survive) More Wild, Summer Weather

Wildfires, floods and record heat. This summer has been a wild ride of natural disasters, and we haven’t even gotten into August! Invite an expert from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness to share how climate change is making it more difficult to predict weather-related hazards and how the increase in the number of weather-related disasters and their associated costs has consistently risen over time. Learn how to make a family emergency preparedness plan, how to track wildfires and the best way to survive any disaster. The National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP), Columbia Climate School, at Columbia University, works to understand and improve the capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. For interviews with experts in disaster preparedness contact Jonathan Sury at (212) 853-6237; jjs2154@columbia.edu

2. ==> Doctors are Disturbed by Anti-Sunscreen Movement

Young people are baking in the sun and chasing sunny skies and high UV levels, often without using a drop of sunscreen. It’s the latest trend sweeping social media. It’s called "tanmaxxing." “I guess melanoma maxxing was not available or didn't track well with focus groups, because that's in essence what you're doing,” says Dr. Adam Friedman, chair of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. “You are accelerating and increasing the potential for skin cancers.” The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. It’s also the most common cancer in the United States. Friedman says the only safe tan is an artificial one but sunscreen, and even simply wearing a hat, are simple steps to help reduce the risk when you are outdoors. Contact Dr. Adam Friedman at (202) 741-2600; ajfriedman@mfa.gwu.edu or smhsnews@gwu.edu

3. ==> Why Everyone Should Know How to Swim (and Why Many Don’t)

Summer fun often leads to the water, whether it’s a beach, pool or lake, but a dip to cool off can be deadly if you don’t know how to swim. Every year in the United States there are over 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths. And after years of declining rates, child drowning deaths have increased since the Covid-19 pandemic, perhaps because of disruptions to swimming lessons and public pool access. Invite Lisa Zarda, executive director of the United States Swim School Association, to discuss the best flotation devices for kids, the safest swimsuit colors, backyard pool safety and how to choose the best swim instruction for kids or adults. Contact
Amy Wolff at (623) 910-1690; amywolffPR@gmail.com

4. ==> Parenting: The Most Important Summer Safety Tips

Summer fun is full of water slides, road trips, lake visits, and outdoor play but it also comes some potential hazards that parents should be aware of, according to Dr. Darria Long, board-certified adult and pediatric ER doctor, mom of three, and founder of No-Panic Parenting. Long says summer is, sadly, the “busiest pediatric trauma season” with “remarkably predictable patterns.” Thankfully, just a handful of precautions can help prevent the most common summer safety hazards. “You don’t need to add a hundred new fears to your summer,” says Long. “You need to focus on the small handful of things that drive the overwhelming majority of injuries.” She suggests focusing your summer safety prep on what you can predict and prevent. “Drowning, helmet-preventable head injuries, hot car deaths, and window falls are concentrated, predictable, and largely preventable with a few specific actions. Once those are handled, you’ve done your job. You can stop scanning for the next thing to worry about and actually be present with your kids. Because this is supposed to be the fun part.” Contact Dr. Darria Long at team@nopanicparenting.com

5. ==> This Skill Could Save a Life This Summer

Chances are, you’ll find yourself at a party, sporting event or family gathering this summer. Would you know what to do if you witnessed a medical emergency? When Lynn Blake suffered sudden cardiac arrest at just 27 years old, she survived because a bystander immediately began CPR before emergency responders arrived. Today, she encourages everyone to learn this lifesaving skill while also reminding audiences that survival is only the beginning. Blake shares the hidden emotional and spiritual challenges many cardiac arrest survivors face, why bystanders should never underestimate the difference they can make, and the simple steps that could help save someone's life while waiting for EMS. It's a timely conversation that could inspire more people to become prepared before enjoying another busy summer weekend. Lynn Blake is the author of the memoir Heart of the Matter and founder of Heart Hope, where she shares her journey of survival, healing, and hope following sudden cardiac arrest. Contact Lynn Blake at Lynn Blake at (970) 331-3983; Lynn@HeartHope.org

6. ==> Road Trip! 10 Hidden Travel Gems

Thinking about a last-minute summer road trip? You’ll want to hear from Natalie and Evelyn Kelly, who say many of the country’s most memorable destinations aren’t the ones topping travel lists. After exploring all 50 states together over three decades, the mother-daughter travel experts say some of America’s greatest experiences are tucked away in small towns, scenic byways, and overlooked attractions that most travelers drive right past. From breathtaking natural wonders to charming Main Streets and unforgettable local eateries, they’ll share ten hidden gems perfect for families, couples, retirees, and adventure seekers looking to skip the crowds and discover something new. They’ll also reveal simple ways to plan a more meaningful vacation without spending a fortune. Their book, “Love Affair with the USA,” celebrates the people, places, and stories that make America worth exploring one road trip at a time. Contact Evelyn and Natalie Kelly at (352) 661-2493; ekelly@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Heart-Healthy Summer Cookout Tips

Cookouts are big part of summer socializing, but the typical menu of hot dogs and burgers isn’t exactly health food. Dorothy Greet can share ways to enjoy a BBQ without the meat. After suffering a heart attack at age 70, Dorothy and her husband. both lifelong meat-and-dairy lovers, made a dramatic change by adopting a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. Within weeks, they experienced improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, energy, and overall well-being. Today, Greet says summer is one of the easiest seasons to enjoy fresh, flavorful plant-based meals without feeling deprived. She'll share simple ways to create heart-healthier cookouts, practical ideas for replacing meat and dairy, and explain why many Americans consume far more protein than they actually need. She'll show listeners that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated, and that it's never too late to make changes that can improve both health and quality of life. Credentialed in plant-based nutrition through Cornell, Dorothy Greet has spent more than a decade teaching, blogging, and encouraging others to discover the life-changing benefits of whole-food, plant-based eating. She’s the author of “Go Veg with Class.” Contact Dorothy Greet at (302) 314-6010; dgreet@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Stressed AFTER Vacation? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere

Vacations are supposed to help us recharge, yet many people arrive home feeling just as stressed as when they left! Artist Edi Matsumoto believes joy isn’t something we find after everything slows down. It’s something we can practice in the middle of everyday life. She’ll introduce her simple 60-second Joy Reset, a creative mindfulness technique that helps people pause, reconnect with the present moment, and experience more gratitude wherever they are. Through heartwarming stories, playful exercises, and lessons inspired by her beloved otter paintings, Edi shows that even the busiest lives have room for wonder. It’s a refreshing reminder that happiness often begins with noticing what’s already around us. Edi Matsumoto is an award-winning artist and internationally collected painter. She wrote “Otter Therapy” to help people cultivate more joy every day. Contact her at (831) 290-6491; ematsumoto@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck

10. ==> It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset

Most golfers blame their swing when they play poorly. Former LPGA Tour player and LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member Cindy Miller says the real problem is usually the six inches between their ears. In this timely summer segment, she reveals how fear, frustration, self-doubt, and unrealistic expectations sabotage performance long before golfers reach the green. Cindy shares practical strategies to quiet negative self-talk, recover after mistakes, and play with greater confidence and consistency. She also explains why the same mental habits that improve your golf game can strengthen leadership, relationships, and resilience long after you leave the course. Her book, “Take Another Shot,” reinforces these lessons through real stories of perseverance, second chances, and personal growth. Cindy Miller is a former LPGA Tour player, LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member, and nationally recognized golf instructor who has spent decades helping golfers improve both their game and their mindset. Contact Cindy Miller at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com

11. ==> AI Summer Travel Scams

12. ==> The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer

13. ==> School's Out! 5 Ways to Get Kids Off Screens and Moving

Summer break often means more hours on tablets, video games, and TVs, but math educator Suzy Koontz says the best way to keep kids learning isn't another educational app. It's getting them on their feet. As creator of Math & Movement, a program used by schools nationwide, Suzy shows how simple movement-based activities can strengthen math, reading, focus, and memory while kids are having fun. In this lively segment, she'll demonstrate easy games parents can play at home or outside using sidewalk chalk, hopping, jumping, and whole-body movement to turn summer into an active learning adventure. Instead of fighting kids over worksheets, Suzy helps parents keep young minds engaged without feeling like they're doing schoolwork. Her practical ideas are easy to implement, require little or no equipment, and can help prevent summer learning loss before the new school year begins. Contact Suzy Koontz at (607) 366-9588; skoontz@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Single and Over 50? Make This the Summer of Love

Longer days, warmer weather, vacations, and community events make summer one of the easiest seasons to meet new people, but finding lasting love after 50 takes more than simply putting yourself out there. Relationship expert Dr. Victoria Vaughn says this stage of life offers unique opportunities to build healthy, fulfilling relationships grounded in confidence, authenticity, and emotional maturity. She'll discuss common dating mistakes, how to recognize emotionally available partners, and why many people unknowingly carry limiting beliefs that keep them from finding the connection they want. Whether you're recently divorced, widowed, or simply ready to date again, her practical advice offers hope for creating meaningful relationships later in life. Her book provides encouragement for anyone ready to embrace a new chapter with confidence. Dr. Victoria Vaughn is a relationship expert, speaker, and author who helps adults build healthy relationships through greater self-awareness, emotional growth, and intentional connection. Contact Dr. Victoria Vaughn at (512) 580-8531; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Reset Your Energy for a Summer of Renewal: Chakra Balancing

Summer is the perfect time to revitalize your energy and let go of the blockages holding you back. Kooch Daniels, renowned intuitive expert and author of “Stars, Cards, and Stones: Exploring Cosmic Connections between Astrology, Tarot, and Runestones,” reveals how chakra balancing can be your gateway to a transformative summer. In this eye-opening interview, Kooch will show you how simple yet powerful energy work can bring balance, clarity and renewal. From absolute beginners to seasoned energy workers, Kooch’s expert guidance can empower anyone to reset their energy and step into a vibrant, more fulfilled version of themself this summer. Contact Kooch at kdaniels@rtirguests.com; (707) 878-5039

7/28/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Shark Week, Love and Sex After 50 and What Your Golf Game Reveals

01. ‘Mind-Blowing’ El Nino Stuns Scientists
02. It’s Shark Week! Expert Separates Fact From Fiction
03. The Wreck of the Mentor: Lessons From the 1831 Whaling Disaster
04. Sell By, Use By, Best Before: What Does it All Mean?
05. It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset
06. Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?
07. The Elderly Are Holding America Back
08. Why Women in Leadership Keep Hitting the Same Wall
09. The Push for Peak Productivity Is Making Professionals Miserable
10. What it’s Really Like to Run for Office in America Today
11. The Trauma No One Talks About in American Healthcare
12. Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late
13. Love, Sex & Second Chances After 50
14. From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Guest Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption
15. Listeners Want Uplifting Stories: This Guest Has 80 of Them

1. ==> ‘Mind-Blowing’ El Nino Stuns Scientists

A new analysis by Berkeley Earth climate scientist Zeke Hausfather paints a worrying picture of the climate phenomenon currently developing in the Pacific Ocean. “This year’s El Nino is not only very likely to be the strongest event since reliable records began, it may end up the strongest by a truly mind-blowing margin,” he says. Experts say this year’s climate event could cause a massive global temperature spike with economic losses of $10 trillion by 2032. Hausfauther’s analysis also reveals that the phenomenon is developing faster than usual. He can discuss when we’ll see the full impact of this year’s Pacific heat wave on global temperatures, what that might mean for Americans, and talk about the challenges of forecasting an El Nino, including the lack of historical analogues. Zeke Hausfather is a climate scientist and energy systems analyst. He currently serves as the climate research lead at Stripe and is also a research scientist at Berkeley Earth. His work primarily focuses on observational temperature records, climate models, and mitigation technologies. Contact him at hausfath@gmail.com

2. ==> It’s Shark Week! Expert Separates Fact From Fiction

Fans of Discovery’s annual sharkfest wait all year for the week-long shark-related programming. Sharks have also become big news this summer along the US coastline with numerous sightings close to beaches. Sharks are frequently portrayed as intimidating predators, but researchers continue to uncover a much more complex story about their behavior, biology and the critical role they play in healthy ocean ecosystems. Invite Maggie Winchester-Weiler, senior manager of Florida conservation at Ocean Conservancy, to separate fact from fiction. She’ll discuss what researchers have learned from working with sharks up close, the surprising ways sharks respond to stress and survive and common misconceptions about shark behavior and encounters. A marine biologist with extensive field research experience, Winchester has worked with some of the world’s most fascinating shark species, including Greenland sharks, one of the longest-living vertebrates on Earth. Contact Sabrina Hennessy at Sabrina@CatalystCG.com or Jordana Lewis at jlewis@oceanconservancy.org

3. ==> The Wreck of the Mentor: Lessons From the 1831 Whaling Disaster

Invite maritime historian Jay Dolin to take your listeners on the water as he tells the remarkable story of an 1831 whaleship that left New Bedford, then the wealthiest whaling port in the world, and ended in disaster in the western Pacific. After striking a reef near Palau, surviving crew members made it ashore and lived among island communities for months and in some cases years. Some eventually returned home. Others did not. Their story offers a rare window into early encounters between American sailors and Pacific Island societies. Dolin can discuss America’s global reach during the whaling era, survival and daily life in the Age of Sail, and lessons in resilience, cross-cultural understanding, and survival that mirror today’s conversations about global interdependence, migration, and how societies respond to crisis. Dolin’s new book, “The Wreck of the Mentor: A True Story of Death, Despair, and Deliverance in the Age of Sail,” has been praised as one of the most gripping maritime sagas of the nineteenth century. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

4. ==> Sell By, Use By, Best Before: What Does it All Mean?

What’s the difference between a ‘sell by’ and ‘best before’ date when stamped on your food? If you think they all mean the same thing you’re probably among the many people who throw away perfectly good food. But you’re hardly alone. Many Americans misunderstand the food stamps and what they mean, resulting in a lot of confusion and billions of dollars in food waste. “Food product dating rarely indicates when the food is safe to eat,” says Nicole Arnold, an assistant professor and food safety field specialist at the Ohio State University. Instead, she adds, “almost all food product dating in the United States represents how long a product will maintain its peak quality.” So, when should you respect the date on the package? Experts say you should always toss any meat, poultry or fish with an expired safety date because you can’t use appearance, smell or taste to detect the invisible pathogens. But Arnold says there’s some wiggle room with dairy products like hard cheeses, yogurt and eggs. And when assessing snacks, cereals and condiments that may or may not have a date stamp, she says it’s smart to use your senses to gauge freshness. “When in doubt, throw it out,” she advises. “When you notice funky smells or striking changes in texture, toss the items.” She can also discuss a bill now pending in Congress that would limit the jargon on food to just two terms: ‘best if used by’ for peak quality and ‘use by’ for safety. Contact Nicole Arnold at arnold.1363@osu.edu

5. ==> It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset

6. ==> Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?

7. ==> The Elderly Are Holding America Back

The age of America's leaders is always in the headlines, from worries about fitness for office to fights over term limits. Samuel Moyn, a Yale law and history professor, thinks that debate misses the deeper story. He argues that older Americans dominate not just elected office, but the money and institutions that set the country's direction. Invite the author of Moyn to discuss how America became so decrepit and why it matters. He says the elderly hoard housing, create a drag on innovation, and have an aversion to addressing long-term social problems, especially those prejudicial to their financial interests. He also says, because they’re living longer than ever before, they’re occupying elite cultural, academic and social positions for too long and blocking opportunities for those in their prime. Moyn proposes several ways to fix the problem including imposing age limits for political office and mandatory retirement ages and floats some unorthodox ways to shift more power back to younger generations, like weighing their votes more heavily and abolishing the US Senate. Samuel Moyn is the Kent professor of Law and History at Yale University, where he also serves as head of Grace Hopper College. Contact him at (203) 432-1994; Samuel.moyn@yale.edu

8. ==> Why Women in Leadership Keep Hitting the Same Wall

Women in leadership roles have spent decades doing what they were told. Speak up. Work harder. Adapt. Many have done exactly that and still find themselves running on empty. Amanda Christian spent 33 years in global banking and technology, reaching executive level in industries that weren’t built with her in mind. What she found wasn’t that women weren’t working hard enough. The model itself was wrong. On your show, she talks about the “translation tax”: the invisible cost of adjusting how you communicate and lead just to be taken seriously, and what a more sustainable model looks like. Her book, “SoulFIRE Leadership,” lays out the framework. Ask her: Can doing everything “right” actually work against you as a senior leader? What does sustainable leadership look like for women who’ve already proven they can perform? Contact Amanda Christian at (704) 610-1637; achristian@rtirguests.com

9. ==> The Push for Peak Productivity Is Making Professionals Miserable

Productivity has become a badge of honor. Yet despite countless apps, systems, and productivity hacks, many high achievers feel more exhausted, disconnected, and dissatisfied than ever before. Entrepreneur and award-winning author David Hampson says the problem isn't a lack of productivity—it's an unhealthy obsession with it. Invite him to explain why the relentless pursuit of optimization often leads to burnout and how professionals can build careers that create both achievement and meaning. Hampson will challenge conventional thinking about work, ambition, and what a successful life actually looks like. Hampson built and led successful businesses while questioning many of the assumptions behind modern work culture giving him both entrepreneurial credibility and hard-earned perspective. He’s the author of “Rainbow Gold: Building a Business That's Both the Journey and the Destination.” Contact David Hampson at dhampson@rtirguests.com or (603) 605-8594

10. ==> What it’s Really Like to Run for Office in America Today

Most people think running for office is about speeches, slogans, and shaking hands. Rob Curnock knows better. As a former TV political reporter, party leader, and unlikely congressional candidate, he’s seen the process from every angle. He pulls back the curtain on the physical exhaustion, emotional toll, family strain, and political hardball that define modern campaigns. After challenging and almost winning after running against an “unbeatable” incumbent, he discovered how power really works behind closed doors. “I experienced the often brutal realities of running for office—and learned how ordinary citizens can shake up the system,” he says. Rob is a long-time broadcast journalist and the author of “Dead Man Running.” Contact Rob Curnock at (254) 822-3741; rcurnock@rtirguests.com

11. ==> The Trauma No One Talks About in American Healthcare

America’s healthcare system is in crisis—but what’s often ignored is the trauma beneath the surface. Kathy Allan, a board-certified holistic nurse with over two decades of experience in trauma recovery, says many nurses today are emotionally broken, betrayed by the very system they once trusted. Patients, too, are suffering from care that feels cold, rushed, and disconnected. In interviews, Allan reveals how this hidden trauma plays out, much like in the TV show, “The Pitt.” Drawing on her “12 Steps of Healing Care” and years as a healing touch instructor and somatic experiencing practitioner, Allan offers a spiritual and body-centered roadmap for transforming pain into purpose. Her stories and insights will resonate with nurses, healthcare workers, and anyone who’s ever felt harmed by the system that was supposed to help them. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; kallan@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late

More women are waiting longer to start families, but many are shocked to learn their fertility may have declined years earlier. OB/GYN Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says the problem isn’t just age, it’s a lack of awareness about the early signals the body provides. She’ll explain why many women don’t discover issues until they’re struggling to conceive, how modern lifestyles may quietly accelerate fertility decline, and why relying on IVF as a backup plan can be misleading. Drawing on more than 30 years in women’s health she shares what women and couples should be tracking now—long before they’re ready for pregnancy. She’ll reveal fertility warning signs women are missing in their 20s and 30s and explain why so many women overestimate what IVF can actually do. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri is the author of “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally.” Contact her at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Love, Sex & Second Chances After 50

More than 37 million single adults over 50 are reentering the dating world and discovering it’s nothing like they remember. Known as the next “Dr. Ruth,” Dr. Victoria Vaughn brings candid, humorous insight into love, sex, and starting over later in life. She’ll share lessons from her own dating journey: spotting red flags like financial instability and emotional un-availability, avoiding the pressure to “settle,” and why loneliness often leads smart people to relationship mistakes. Her stories resonate with men and women, including same-sex couples, offering a practical “buyer beware” guide to dating after 50. Ask her: Why do smart people ignore red flags after 50? Is it really possible to have more than one true love? Vaughn is the author of “Oh the Frogs I Kissed Before I Finally Found My Prince.” Contact her at (512) 585-1876; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

14. ==> From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Guest Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption

What happens when a devout Mormon mother of five dares to question everything she’s ever known? Meet Susie Bell—a nurse practitioner who went from being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, a heart-wrenching divorce, and single motherhood in Las Vegas to self-made success. With honesty and grit, Susie recounts her journey through addiction recovery, being drugged and raped by a famous athlete who relentlessly harassed her, and even a surreal moment in the hospital room with the body of Tupac Shakur following his murder. Her story is not just about leaving religion—it’s about reclaiming power and purpose. She is the author of the memoir "A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine and Men." Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Listeners Want Uplifting Stories: This Guest Has 80 of Them

After 56 years in the movie business, Dan Klusmann learned that audiences rarely remember explosions or special effects. They remember the stories that made them feel something. That realization inspired “Life Answers Back,” a collection of stories gathered over 15 years from more than 80 contributors. Klusmann can discuss why certain stories stay with us forever, what makes audiences emotionally connect to a story, and why uplifting storytelling is resonating again in today’s stressful and negative world. Drawing from decades spent studying audience reactions in the movie business, Klusmann shares how stories can inspire hope, create emotional connection, and help people feel understood, comforted, and less alone. Ask him: Why do certain stories stay with us forever? What did decades in the movie business teach you about emotional connection? Why are uplifting stories making a comeback right now? Can one simple story change the way someone sees life? Contact Dan Klusmann at (406) 578-7999; dklusmann@rtirguests.com

7/23/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Saudi Nuclear Deal, the Great American Stomacheache and Hidden Gem Roadtrips

01. Is the US About to Spark a Middle East Nuclear Arms Race?
02. The Return of the Great American Stomachache?
03. 10 Things Every Family Should Know in a Medical Emergency
04. Road Trip! 10 Hidden Gems to Visit This Summer
05. Stressed AFTER Vacation? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere
06. How Erasing Black History Is Dangerous
07. The Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs (But Few Have)
08. The Real Cost of Your Perfectionism
09. Can a Bigger Paycheck Make Financial Anxiety Worse?
10. Humor Is Never Untimely – From a Guy Who's Been Proving It for 30 Years
11. Why You Keep Choosing the Wrong Partner—and How to Break the Cycle
12. America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation
13. 47% of Women Experience Abuse — Why Few Ever Say a Word
14. When Faith Defies Fear: Miraculous Encounters with God
15. Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body

1. ==> Is the US About to Spark a Middle East Nuclear Arms Race?

President Donald Trump has approved a nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia that could lead to the kingdom enriching its own fuel for civilian reactors without adopting the "gold standard" of international oversight. Kelsey Davenport of the Arms Control Association regularly briefs Congress and the media on 123 Agreements, proliferation risks, and Middle East nuclear dynamics. She can explain how this deal deviates from the “gold standard” and why that matters for regional stability. Davenport provides commentary for NPR, CNN, ABC, Fox News, and al-Jazeera. She is one of the leading experts on Iran’s nuclear program and U.S. diplomatic efforts to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. She also analyzes North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs and tracks emerging proliferation risks in the Middle East and East Asia. Contact her at (202) 463-8270, ext. 102; kelsey@armscontrol.org

2. ==> The Return of the Great American Stomachache?

As states continue to face a large and growing outbreak of severe gastrointestinal illness caused by cyclospora, a microscopic parasite that can contaminate fresh food or water, Health Secretary RFK Jr. says the source has been identified and the outbreak is under control. Who doesn’t have questions about the safety of our food supply right now? Deborah Blum is a Pulitzer prize-winning science journalist and author of six books including “The Poison Squad,” a history of food safety in the United States. She’ll can explain how the Food and Drugs Act and the Meat Inspection Act were passed in 1906 creating the framework for a federal system to test ingredients, inspect food factories and recall unsafe products. While the system has been criticized as seriously underfunded and often overcautious, Blum says, “It has prevented a return to the fraudulent and poisonous food supply of the 19th century, which one historian called the ‘century of the great American stomachache.’ That is, until recently, when the Trump administration began to unravel that safety net.” She’ll explain the effect of shuttering food safety programs and terminating thousands of federal health workers and why experts believe food poisoning outbreaks will continue to spread farther and last longer. Connect with Deborah Blum via her website at deborahblum.com/contact/

3. ==> 10 Things Every Family Should Know in a Medical Emergency

If someone you loved suddenly collapsed from cardiac arrest, began choking, or stopped breathing, would your family know what to do before first responders arrived? Fire captain, paramedic, EMS educator Brad Newbury and emergency medical technician Kiera Newbury say preparedness is one of the greatest gifts you can give the people you love. With more than 40 years of emergency medical experience, the pair will share what to do in the heat of the moment like when to call 911 (immediately, don’t wait for things to get better!) and why you should put the call on speakerphone, unlock the front door, and send someone outside to meet emergency responders. They’ll also share essential steps listeners should take now to prepare for future emergencies including learning CPR, compiling medicine lists and creating a family emergency plan. Brad and Kiera’s new book, “The Saved Effect: True Stories of Lives Reclaimed by People Who Were Ready to Act,” features remarkable, true stories that illustrate why saving one life is really about preserving an entire family. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 (office)

4. ==> Road Trip! 10 Hidden Gems to Visit This Summer

Millions of Americans are hitting the road this summer, but many of the country’s most memorable destinations aren’t the ones topping travel lists. After exploring all 50 states together over three decades, mother-daughter travel experts Natalie and Evelyn Kelly say some of America’s greatest experiences are tucked away in small towns, scenic byways, and overlooked attractions that most travelers drive right past. From breathtaking natural wonders to charming Main Streets and unforgettable local eateries, they’ll share ten hidden gems perfect for families, couples, retirees, and adventure seekers looking to skip the crowds and discover something new. They’ll also reveal simple ways to plan a more meaningful vacation without spending a fortune. Their book, “Love Affair with the USA,” celebrates the people, places, and stories that make America worth exploring, one road trip at a time. Contact them at (352) 661-2493; ekelly@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Stressed AFTER Vacation? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere

6. ==> How Erasing Black History Is Dangerous

As battles intensify over DEI rollbacks, book bans, and the removal of Black history references from schools, museums, and national parks, Lauraine White warns America is repeating one of its oldest mistakes: erasing the truth to avoid accountability. White—whose ancestry includes both enslaved people and Confederate slaveholders—says today’s political climate mirrors earlier attempts to sanitize slavery, segregation, and the Civil Rights Movement from public memory. Drawing from her genealogical research and themes in her book “A Daughter of the Confederacy,” she explains why recording history honestly is essential to healing racial division today. White argues when a nation edits its past, it shapes who has power, whose pain matters, and what future generations are allowed to understand. Ask her: Why do you believe current efforts to limit Black history education are dangerous to all Americans—not just Black communities? Can acknowledging painful history unite people rather than divide them? Contact Lauraine White at lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred) or (770) 525-8743

7. ==> The Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs (But Few Have)

Great leaders aren’t just decisive—they’re deliberate. “In high-stakes rooms where every word carries weight, success depends on skills rarely taught in business school: listening with precision, speaking with intention, and navigating conflict without escalating it,” says author and former diplomat Dianne Olvera. Drawing from real-world diplomacy and leadership experience, this approach reveals how to manage tough conversations, defuse tension, and influence outcomes without overpowering the room. “It’s about knowing when to speak, when to pause, and how to choose language that builds trust instead of resistance,” she says. Dianne is a board-certified educational therapist and the author of “The Power of Connection: Understanding Individual Differences to Uplift and Empower.” She’s also a former diplomat and spy. Contact Dianne Olvera at (805) 779-3558; dolvera@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Real Cost of Your Perfectionism

Millions of people are on a perpetual search for a new and better version of themselves, meantime research shows that perfectionism and self-criticism are rising and fueling burnout and anxiety, instead of change. Leadership coach and TEDx speaker Barbara Stone says the problem isn’t motivation, it’s identity. After 25 years hiding her alopecia under a wig and her voice behind corporate success, Barbara took the wig off onstage and discovered a surprising truth: real growth begins when we stop trying to fix ourselves. In this segment, she’ll share what shedding perfection taught her about self-worth and authenticity, and why flaws, not upgrades, are often the key to confidence. Whether your audience is hiding a condition, insecurity, or impossible expectations, Barbara offers practical ways they can stop performing and start living more honestly. Ask her: Can trying to “improve yourself” actually make you less confident? What did losing your hair teach you that success never did? Contact Barbara Stone at (315) 840-2845; bstone@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Can a Bigger Paycheck Make Financial Anxiety Worse?

Most financial guests talk about how to make more money. Darius Ross talks about why making more money can make things harder, and why that's something your audience may already be living but has never heard named out loud. Drawing from his own journey out of homelessness to business ownership, Ross explains how a "survival mindset" doesn't disappear when the money arrives. Fear of loss, the pressure to sustain success, and the weight of responsibility can quietly hijack decision-making and drive anxiety even at six figures. On your show, he'll unpack how past financial trauma shapes behavior long after circumstances improve — and what it actually takes to build peace of mind, not just a bigger bank account. This isn't a budgeting conversation. It's a psychology-of-money conversation, with a guest who lived it before he learned to explain it. Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Humor Is Never Untimely – From a Guy Who's Been Proving It for 30 Years

Bill Williams has been sending daily humor emails for three decades. What started in the 1990s as a way to get his sales staff to read emails has grown into a beloved ritual for hundreds of subscribers globally—and he's never made a dime doing it. Drawing from "20 Years of Internet Humor ... and Other Interesting Things," Williams explains why humor works in any news cycle, for any audience. Listeners will discover how he turned a workplace tool into a lifelong practice of spreading joy, and why his college friend John Denver influenced his view on taking creative risks. Ask him: You've done this for 30 years without making money, so what keeps you going? You say humor is never untimely. What makes it work when other topics go stale? How did your friendship with John Denver shape your approach to life? Contact Bill Williams at (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Why You Keep Choosing the Wrong Partner—and How to Break the Cycle

Nearly half of American marriages end in divorce, and many people say their next relationship feels eerily similar to the last. Author and speaker Charisse Walker says it’s not a coincidence. Most people enter relationships without understanding the deeper beliefs, experiences, and patterns quietly shaping their decisions. On your show, Walker introduces the powerful idea behind her book “Flipping the Iceberg”: every relationship has an iceberg. The small portion above the surface includes what we easily see—attraction, personality, and shared interests. But the much larger portion below the surface includes our beliefs about love, expectations, communication habits, past experiences, and values. Walker explains how these hidden influences shape who we trust, commit to, and ultimately marry. She shows audiences how greater self-awareness can help people stop repeating painful relationship patterns and make more intentional decisions about love and commitment. Charisse Walker is an entrepreneur, author, and former host of the Emmy-nominated national television show The American Dream. She now speaks about the importance of self-awareness and understanding the deeper dynamics that shape healthy relationships. Contact Charisse Walker at (801) 251-6965; cwalker@rtirguests.com

12. ==> America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation

13. ==> 47% of Women Experience Abuse — Why Few Ever Say a Word

Behind closed doors, abuse thrives in silence — and far more women experience it than most realize. Kit Filbey pulls back the curtain on the hidden reality of domestic abuse, revealing why so many women never speak up. Through a deeply personal story set in the remote Northwoods of Wisconsin, Kit captures the confusion, denial, and emotional complexity that keep victims trapped. Her journey from self-sufficient homesteading to recognizing and escaping abuse offers rare insight into the psychology of silence. Kit’s story gives voice to millions, helping readers to see the signs, confront uncomfortable truths, and start conversations that could save lives. She is the author of the memoir “Cottage Test.” Contact Kit Filbey at (540) 501-7189; kfilbey@rtirguests.com

14. ==> When Faith Defies Fear: Miraculous Encounters with God

Nancy Frecka brings a unique perspective as both a pastor and someone who has experienced extraordinary events. She shares insights about hearing God’s voice and trusting divine guidance in everyday life. Her two near-death experiences, encounters with Jesus, and the way God brought clarity and healing through moments of deep childhood trauma speak powerfully to the reality of surrendering to God’s will. When she 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. 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

15. ==> Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body

When symptoms don’t respond to traditional approaches, Marilyn Mercado looks at energy. She explains how emotional stress and unresolved experiences can disrupt the body’s energy centers, often showing up as pain, fatigue, or recurring illness. Mercado helps audiences understand how chakra balance supports physical and emotional health and how simple awareness practices can restore flow. Her perspective offers an intriguing complement to conventional wellness conversations. Marilyn is an energy practitioner and holistic wellness expert specializing in chakra balance and mind-body healing. Contact her at (805) 332-4863; mmercado@rtirguests.com

The Six-Step System That Can Make Anyone a More Persuasive Speaker

Most people believe that persuasive speaking is a natural talent. But retired Army Colonel Larry Tracy says it’s a skill that anyone can master. Drawing on decades of high-stakes experience briefing military leaders, defending U.S. policy before hostile audiences, and training professionals competing for multimillion-dollar government contracts, Larry developed an easy-to-follow 6-step system to help speakers communicate with confidence, clarity, and credibility in any setting.

Praised by President Ronald Reagan as “an extraordinarily effective speaker,” Larry demonstrates that persuasion isn’t about charisma—it’s about preparation. His battle-tested approach can help anyone influence audiences, overcome speaking anxiety, and deliver messages that truly change minds.

Larry’s proven system is featured in his book How to Bring Home the Bacon: Becoming a Persuasive Speaker.

Contact: Larry Tracy at (571) 336-0507; Ltracy@rtirguests.com

What Our Schools Forget to Teach About Democracy

America’s education debate usually focuses on test scores, funding, and curriculum. But retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, educator, and education reform advocate Elissa Mohan believes we’re overlooking a far more urgent issue: preparing citizens for self-government. In her forthcoming book, ENOUGH: Why America Is Failing at Education and What to Do About It, Elissa argues that today’s fragmented education landscape leaves too many students unprepared to evaluate information, engage in civil discourse, and understand the Constitution.

Drawing on her experience as a military leader, homeschool parent, public school teacher, and educational psychologist, she offers a bold blueprint for rebuilding education to meet the challenges of democracy in the AI age.

Contact: Elissa Mohan at (405) 346-8358; emohan@rtirguests.com

Why Children’s Books May Be One of the Most Underrated Health Tools in America

Most parents see children’s books as entertainment. Kenneth Korber, a health literacy expert, believes they can also be powerful tools for improving children’s health. “Storytelling may be one of the most effective—and overlooked—ways to improve public health, empower families, and help children build lifelong healthy behaviors, one bedtime story at a time,” he says.

After two decades as a clinician, he wrote and published The Musical Adventures of Grace series to extend the patient office visit into bedtime reading, helping families reinforce important health and wellness lessons at home.

His engaging stories and characters transform complex medical topics into age-appropriate adventures that children actually enjoy. Ken’s approach encourages healthy habits, eases childhood anxiety and fears, and strengthens literacy at the same time.

Contact: Kenneth Korber at (847) 238-8936; kkorber@rtirguests.com

America at 250: Mother-Daughter Traveling Duo Reveals All Its Hidden Gems

As America continues to celebrate its 250th birthday, two travelers who have visited 90 countries, all 50 states, and seven continents say some of the most fascinating destinations are right here at home. Evelyn and Natalie Kelly reveal the overlooked places, quirky towns, remarkable people, historic sites, and cultural traditions that most Americans miss while dreaming of overseas travel.

Based on the travel adventures revealed in their book, Have a Love Affair with the USA, they share why small-town America often tells the nation’s biggest stories, how history comes alive through travel, and why the USA may be the world’s most underrated travel destination.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS: After seeing 90 countries, why do you say America may be the best travel destination of all? What hidden gems, unusual attractions, and small towns should Americans visit during the nation’s 250th birthday celebration?

CONTACT: Evelyn and Natalie Kelly at ekelly@rtirguests.com or (352) 661-2493.

Are We Asking the Wrong Questions About God?

A growing number of Americans are walking away from organized religion. Yet, many continue searching for meaning, purpose, and truth. Author Gary Meisner believes the problem may not be a lack of interest in God—but the questions we’re asking about God in the first place. After spending more than 20 years as a skeptical, materialist agnostic, Gary experienced something he could not explain through reason alone, prompting him to reexamine his assumptions.

Known internationally for his work on the golden ratio and patterns in nature, he now explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and faith. In his book Life Through a New Lens—Finding God Where Reason and Faith Meet, Gary invites skeptics, agnostics, and seekers to consider whether their doubts may be based on misconceptions about what God is—or could be.

Contact Gary Meisner at (615) 703-3637; gmeisner@rtirguests.com