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  • 1/4/2024 RTIR Newsletter: America’s Far-Right Terrorists, Dry January, Habits vs Rituals

    01. God, Guns, and Sedition
    02. The Right’s 100-Year Obsession with Foreign Dictators
    03. Dry January – The Benefits of Backing Off Booze for a Month
    04. How to Be More Optimistic in 2024
    05. Forget New Habits, Create Rituals This Year
    06. 2024 Will Be a Dull Year — That Could Be a Good Thing
    07. The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
    08. Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Helping Imprisoned Women
    09. What Is Healthy Anger?
    10. Find Your Voice in 2024
    11. This Author Dispels the Myth That Hard Work Leads to Success
    12. What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
    13. How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
    14. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    15. The Longevity Secret of a Tiny Caribbean Island

    1.==> God, Guns, and Sedition

    Shocking acts of terrorism have erupted from violent American far-right extremists in recent years, including the 2015 mass murder at a historic Black church in Charleston and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. These incidents, however, are neither novel nor unprecedented. Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware can trace the historical trajectory and assess the present-day dangers of this violent extremist movement and discuss the harm it poses to U.S. national security. The authors of “God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America” will highlight key terrorist tactics, such as the use of cutting-edge communications technology; the embrace of leaderless resistance or lone-wolf strategies; infiltration and recruitment in the military and law enforcement; and the movement’s intricate relationship with mainstream politics. Bruce Hoffman has been studying terrorism and insurgency for almost half a century. He is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). Jacob Ware is a research fellow at CFR, where he studies domestic and international terrorism and counterterrorism. Contact Bruce Hoffman at (202) 509-8508; bhoffman@cfr.org or Jacob Ware at jware@cfr.org

    2. ==> The Right’s 100-Year Obsession with Foreign Dictators

    The rise of authoritarian rhetoric in America is no longer news, but the right’s affinity for foreign autocrats continues to baffle. Why does Tucker Carlson keep figures like Viktor Orbán and Jair Bolsonaro (and now Argentina’s Javier Milei) on his speed dial? Why does Ron DeSantis embrace the kind of illiberal democracy in Turkey, Hungary, and the Philippines? And why is Trump incapable of breaking up with Putin? “National Interest” editor Jacob Heilbrunn says the infatuation of American conservatives with foreign dictators is not a new phenomenon. The author of “America Last: The Right’s Century-Long Romance with Foreign Dictators” will trace the love affair back to World War 1 and show that dictator worship is an unignorable tradition within modern American conservatism — and what it means for us today. Jacob Heilbrunn is a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. He is also the author of “They Knew They Were Right: The Rise of the Neocons.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 646-5188

    3. ==> Dry January – The Benefits of Backing Off Booze for a Month

    From holiday parties to New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s been a lot of alcohol flowing over the past few weeks and for many imbibers, it’s time to step back and recalibrate their booze intake. Over the past few years the concept of Dry January has become increasingly popular but what exactly is it and should you try it? Stephanie Marcello, a psychologist at Rutgers University, says those with health issues, financial concerns, or who think they might use alcohol as a way to cope are all good candidates. “Dry January can offer a reset for individuals,” says Marcello. “Research shows that there are benefits to physical and mental health and people’s overall well-being. People like structure, and Dry January creates this structure. It also creates a sense of community, since others are also participating.” She’ll explain what’s involved, how long it takes to see the benefits, and simple ways to make staying sober easier. Stephanie Marcello, Ph.D., serves as chief psychologist for Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care and director of the psychology internship program for doctoral students. Contact her at marcelsc@ubhc.rutgers.edu

    4. ==> How to Be More Optimistic in 2024

    War. Climate catastrophe. Economic turmoil. Immigrant invasions. Political fighting and backstabbing. All endlessly circulating on TV, radio, podcasts, social media. Everywhere we go. Everyone we know. At times, it feels like everyone in the United States is angry, afraid, anxious, confused or depressed. How can anyone remain positive, hopeful and optimistic these days? Quirky, smart and funny, syndicated radio host and podcaster Brant Hansen will explain how to experience more joy, whatever your circumstances, and “outsource your worries” without being naïve or unaware. He’ll share a refreshingly different approach to life and how it can resonate with people seeking a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. Brant Hansen is a best-selling author, syndicated radio host and advocate for healing children with correctable disabilities through CURE International Children’s Hospitals. His latest book is “Life is Hard. God is Good. Let’s Dance.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com

    5. ==> Forget New Habits, Create Rituals This Year

    Every January we resolve to get more sleep, drink less, exercise more and spend more time with loved ones. But do we really want to live a life of perfect habits? Michael Norton says there is something better. “Habits are great, but they’re very black and white. Rituals come in technicolor. Many rituals, I’ve come to believe, are a unique human invention to remind us to try, at least every so often, to live fully. And a new ritual can be joyous in a way that a new habit is not.” Norton, a leading behavior scientist, behavioral economics researcher and Harvard Business School professor, says rituals remind us to savor our experiences and our experiences with others, and help bind extended families and friends who might otherwise become estranged. Michael Norton’s new book is “The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions.” Contact Aileen Boyle at (917) 439-4470; aileen@auderemedia.com

    6. ==> 2024 Will Be a Dull Year — That Could Be a Good Thing

    The New Year might appear to be shaping up as anything but dull with wars, bitter partisanship, and contentious elections dominating the news. However, there’s something to be said for enjoying the calmer, routine, often mundane things we encounter every day. Members of the Dull Men’s Club (women belong now as well) are doing just that. What they are doing, which can inspire us all, is presented in the club’s calendars which focus on people who are celebrating the ordinary with their unique and quirky passions. Grover Click, assistant vice president (the highest office) of the club, says, “Happiness can be a byproduct of doing something meaningful like what the men and women in the calendars are doing.” Grover can talk about the club’s 2024 calendar which includes Jim and Irene Leuenberger of Shawano County Wisconsin whose barn quilts, quilt patterns painted on plywood, adorn barns throughout the county. And Richard Birnie and Ron Wenger of Yuma Colorado who run a museum for orphaned and discontinued cars (like Nash Ramblers and Chevrolet Corvairs). He can also talk about events and holidays in the calendar that celebrate the ordinary like World Sauntering Day, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, and a duct tape festival. Contact Grover at (308) 874-4173 or groverclick@gmail.com

    7. ==> The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’

    Based on actual events and starring Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lily Gladstone, “Killers of the Flower Moon” deals with a little-known part of history that occurred in the 1920s after oil was discovered by members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. When he was a reporter with Gaylord News, a reporting project at the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Jim B. North interviewed members of the Osage tribe and has great stories to tell about the events that make up the film. He can talk about the impact the oil discovery and newfound wealth had on the tribe. His new book, “Unsung Heroes Wear No Capes,” also contains some Native American removal stories. Jim has won multiple journalism awards for his human-interest storytelling and was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com

    8. ==> Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Helping Imprisoned Women

    Rita Ali was a distinguished Philadelphia socialite and among the few African American women boxing PR professionals who hobnobbed with such famous fighters as Muhammad Ali, Michael Spinks, and Mike Tyson, who is now her son-in-law. Then it all came crashing down when she — along with her daughter and son — was convicted and imprisoned for funneling public funds. Though she has maintained her innocence throughout, Ali was tried, convicted and sent to federal prison three times. “I was convicted and sentenced three times on virtually the same charges for a crime I didn’t commit, which amounted to triple jeopardy,” she says. She is the author of “Triple Jeopardy: 3 Strikes But Not Out,” a life coach, and founder of the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Contact Rita Ali at (917) 243-9214; rali@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> What Is Healthy Anger?

    Our society often frowns upon anger, especially when women express this emotion. But clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne Wilner claims that anger can be a valuable tool for promoting personal growth and one’s overall well-being if released in constructive ways. “By working with our bodies in specific ways, we can transform our anger and improve our health,” she says. “Otherwise, anger can get trapped in our psyches and cause a host of physical and mental health issues.” Karyne can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. She is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/body health. Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Find Your Voice in 2024

    It’s no secret that women struggle to be heard. Society teaches girls to be polite and agreeable and not make a fuss, even when a situation is challenging — or just plain wrong. If your audience is looking to reclaim their power in the workplace, at home, and beyond, you need to hear from Francesca Burack. The author of “Women Are Special: 123 Reasons Why” can share advice, tips, and encouragement to help women find, own, and use their voices with confidence. Ask her: What can women do to speak up in one-sided relationships, whether it’s at work or with family? How can women approach difficult conversations in the workplace, such as asking for raises, promotions, or benefits? An author, entrepreneur, educator, and popular speaker, Francesca Burack has been featured on major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> This Author Dispels the Myth That Hard Work Leads to Success

    America is a nation of workaholics who have long been indoctrinated to believe that performing long hours of mind-numbing work is the path to success. But according to author, project management expert and professional musician Gerald Leonard, that is total nonsense. “The long-held myth is that stressful work environments lead to higher productivity,” he says. “However, this leads to extreme burnout, greater employee turnover and decreased worker loyalty.” Gerald can share how to work smarter, not harder, to obtain maximum success. He is the author of numerous books including “Culture Is the Bass: 7 Steps to Creating High Performing Teams.” He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player. Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?

    Teen depression and suicide have dramatically increased during the past decade. “There are multiple causes including isolation, school stress, social media, bullying, and many others,” says best-selling author Scott Kolbaba M.D. “This was made worse by the pandemic.” Dr. Kolbaba claims that enabling young people to focus on finding a purpose in life and pursuing their passions is just what the doctor ordered. His award-winning children’s book, “Clara’s Magic Garden,” is an uplifting illustration of this principle. He is an internal medicine physician who graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and appeared in “Chicago Magazine” as a “Top Doctor.” Contact Dr. Scott Kolbaba at (630) 656-9507; skolbaba@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids

    Social media. Bullying. The long isolation of the pandemic. Gender confusion. Today’s kids have more stressors than at any other time in modern history. “When I speak to fellow counselors and parents, they say that anxiety and depression among young people are off the charts,” says author, former teacher and counselor Patricia Wilson. “I have an understanding of what children need: a sense of self-worth, how to cooperate with others and an appreciation of the gift of life.” Patricia can share how to determine if kids are struggling with depression, and simple, yet powerful self-talk tools to convince them that they are amazing. She has taught children from grades K-12 and counseled kids for more than 30 years. She is the author of numerous best-selling books including “My Magical Night Mare,” “I Am Amazing” and “When Grandma Giggled.” Contact Patricia Wilson at (778) 561-4603; pwilson@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?

    Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> The Longevity Secret of a Tiny Caribbean Island

    The idyllic Caribbean nation of Dominica, where herbs expert Gladstone Etienne grew up, is a nature paradise known for its pristine environment, organic foods and laid-back lifestyle. Gladstone claims that the citizens there live longer, and stronger, as a result. “According to the BBC, Dominica has the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world,” he says. He also gives credit to herbal medicine, which he began studying as a child. Gladstone went on to develop a line of teas, to make it easier for Americans to gain the wondrous health benefits of herbs. He is the founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company. Contact Gladstone Etienne at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com

  • 12/28/2023 RTIR Newsletter: 2024 Trends, The Big Crime Lie, Private Equity is Pillaging Health Care

    01. America’s Crime Problem Is a Big Fat Lie
    02. Private Equity: The Metastasizing Disease Threatening Health Care
    03. Lessons from Matthew Perry’s Life and Death
    04. 2024 Financial Trends
    05. How to Get Unstuck in 2024
    06. Should You Rethink That Holiday Proposal?
    07. When the Season of Joy Leaves You Sad
    08. Behind the Scenes of ‘Coach Prime’
    09. WWPSD: What Would Patrick Swayze Do (and Say) in 2024?
    10. Teach Your Child to Handle Criticism (and Milk It for All It’s Worth)
    11. What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
    12. Get Better Faster: The Secret to Boosting Your Healing Power
    13. Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better
    14. How to Find Hope Even Amid Natural Disasters
    15. Did You Get a Holiday Visit from Beyond the Grave?
    1. ==> America’s Crime Problem Is a Big Fat Lie
    A Gallup poll released this month found that 77% of Americans believe crime rates are worsening, but they are mistaken, according to new FBI data and other statistics. The FBI data, which compares crime rates in the third quarter of 2023 to the same period last year, found that violent crime dropped 8%, while property crime fell 6.3% to what would be its lowest level since 1961, according to criminologist Jeff Asher, who analyzed the FBI numbers. Murder plummeted in the United States in 2023 at one of the fastest rates of decline ever recorded, Asher found, and every category of major crime except auto theft declined. So why the disconnect? “I think we’ve been conditioned, and we have no way of countering the idea that crime is rising,” Asher says. “It’s just an overwhelming number of news media stories and viral videos — I have to believe that social media is playing a role.” Jeff Asher is a consultant and crime analyst based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Jeff served as a crime analyst for the City of New Orleans from 2013 to 2015 before serving as a crime analyst for “The New Orleans Advocate” and WWLTV. Contact him at JAsher@ahdatalytics.com
    2. ==> Private Equity: The Metastasizing Disease Threatening Health Care
    Private equity firms increasingly make up a substantial portion of investment in U.S. health-care companies, in virtually every sector of the industry. But many communities across the country are finding that the companies are aggressively looting safety-net hospitals, stripping valuable real estate, cutting critical but less profitable services and exploiting government funding programs intended to support and stabilize health-care access. Invite Jim Baker to discuss the impact this profiteering is having on health-care workers and patients and why, despite the growing threat they pose to critical health-care services, private equity firms are largely able to operate in the shadows. Jim Baker is the executive director of the Private Equity Stakeholder Project. Contact him at jim.baker@pestakeholder.org
    3. ==> Lessons from Matthew Perry’s Life and Death
    Actor Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler on the TV series “Friends,” described his decades-long fight against opioid addiction in his 2022 memoir. Perry’s addiction began with a single Vicodin dispensed by a physician for pain after a jet-skiing accident. Now we’ve learned from recently released toxicology reports that Perry’s death on October 28 was due to a frequently abused drug, ketamine, which he was initially introduced to by a health-care provider to treat his anxiety and depression. Chronic pain expert Cindy Perlin can discuss the lessons that physicians and patients can learn from Perry’s tragic tale. Perlin is a licensed clinical social worker, founder and CEO of the Alternative Pain Treatment Directory and the author of “The Truth About Chronic Pain Treatments: The Best and Worst Strategies for Becoming Pain Free.” She’s also a chronic pain survivor and an experienced interview guest. Contact her at cindyperlin@gmail.com or (518) 439-6431.
    4.==> 2024 Financial Trends
    All signs currently point to a resilient economy, yet a new Bankrate survey finds that two-thirds of Americans don’t expect their personal finances to improve in 2024. The biggest reason behind Americans’ financial pessimism continues to be inflation. Invite Sam Burns of Mill Street Research to explain the disconnect and what he sees ahead in the coming year. Sam can discuss stock picks, corporate earnings, economic news, and the current geopolitical environment’s impact on the markets. Sam Burns is CFA and chief strategist at Mill Street Research, an independent research company specializing in proprietary institutional research tools for asset allocation, stock selection, and macroeconomic indicators. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com
    5. ==> How to Get Unstuck in 2024
    Are you feeling stuck in an unhappy job, relationship, or other unpleasant situation? Does it seem like the circumstances will never be right for you to find the perfect partner, career, or life? Luckily, you don’t have to wait for the opportunity to come to you. Learn how to make your own opportunities for breaking free from anything that holds you back when you interview Laura Brennan Ballet. The author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura is an experienced life coach and frequent media guest who helps people connect with their personal power to achieve anything, simply by changing the way they think about it. She’ll not only show your audience how to think differently but actually recalibrate their brains and reach for their dreams with intent. You’ll hear why we all become algorithms of the people around us, how to reclaim your authentic self, and how to move past disappointment and live life with zero regrets. Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435; lballet@rtirguests.com
    6. ==> Should You Rethink That Holiday Proposal?
    The majority of marriage proposals are made during the holiday season and while many people would take this as an omen of prosperity and cheer, a holiday engagement could signify some red flags in a relationship. Research psychologist, psychoanalytic therapist, and relationship therapist Dr. Frieda Birnbaum can share her perspective on the engagement season and the best ways to decipher if you and your partner are truly ready to tie the knot! Dr. Frieda is a seasoned media personality and commentator and, notably, the oldest woman in America to give birth to twins. A mother of five, her youngest sons were born when she was 60, lending her a unique perspective on issues related to parenting and the empowerment of women at any age. She’s the author of “Life Begins at 60: A New View of Motherhood, Marriage, and Reinventing Ourselves” and “What Price Power: An In-Depth Study of the Professional Woman in a Relationship.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com
    7. ==> When the Season of Joy Leaves You Sad
    The season of joy doesn’t lighten everyone’s spirits. It can also bring great sorrow and depression, especially for those who’ve recently lost a loved one. “Grief is real and needs to be addressed. It can be overwhelming,” says Marcia Chang Vogl. “It often includes physiological distress, separation anxiety, confusion, yearning, obsessive dwelling on the past, and apprehension about the future.” The ordained prayer minister can discuss ways to deal with grief and how to spot — and help — someone who is suffering. “We usually think of it as the loss of a loved one, but grief also can arise out of the loss of a job, a career, a favorite time, or even an ability.  If you were an avid skier and now have injuries that keep you from the sport, there will be the grief of having to give that up.” Marcia Chang Vogle is an author and consultant for Christian Spiritual Mentoring. Her latest book is “The Path Forward.” Contact her at (714) 454-7194; marciavogl@gmail.com
    8. ==> Behind the Scenes of ‘Coach Prime’
    The new season of Prime Video’s hit docuseries “Coach Prime” takes viewers inside the locker room and onto the field of Coach Deion Sanders’ University of Colorado Boulder football program for the 2023 season. “Coach Prime” and the Buffaloes have shaken up the college football landscape. The series highlights Sanders’ journey to inspire the team and transform the program. It features Sanders’ sons Shilo and Shedeur along with their former Jackson State University teammate Travis Hunter and takes viewers behind the scenes of the most exciting story in college sports this year. Invite Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner Micah Brown to discuss the series and preview the drama that unfolds during Sanders’ first full season at CU Boulder and share stories that take place on and off the field. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.
    9. ==> WWPSD: What Would Patrick Swayze Do (and Say) in 2024?
    Patrick Swayze left us in 2009 yet his wise words and zest for living are as applicable as ever particularly as we begin a new year. For example, Patrick said: “We kind of get ruined in the Western way of thinking that the brass ring is what’s important when it’s very simple things in life that are important — like hanging on to faith and hope. … I hope our standards, our levels of integrity and morality and passion and beliefs upgrade themselves soon.” Sue Tabashnik can talk about Patrick’s universal take on the world and core values that would be of comfort to all in 2024. Philosophical and spiritual, he was an advocate for dance, conservation, and advances in cancer treatment. Sue is the author of four books about Patrick Swayze — including “Patrick Swayze: The Dreamer” and met him several times. Contact her at (248) 617-0505; stabashnik@rtirguests.com
    10. ==> Teach Your Child to Handle Criticism (and Milk It for All It’s Worth)
    Most parents will do whatever they can to prevent their children from experiencing hurt and criticism. Yet receiving criticism — and learning how to manage it — is part of life. So how can parents raise emotionally intelligent children who can mine the lessons often contained in critical comments? Interview emotional intelligence expert Detri McGhee to find out and adults will also pick up some pointers they can use themselves! Detri is the author of the upcoming book “Criticism Management: The C-A-T That Tames the Dragon.” Ask her: What is the most important skill that is often neglected and how can your audience acquire it? How can kids and adults profit from every criticism they get? What tools are available to combat the negative and destructive effects of deserved and undeserved criticism? Detri is the president of Entrepreneurial Training and Marketing, LLC, a company that offers workshops and seminars on criticism management. Contact her at (870) 407-7523; dmcghee@rtirguests.com
    11. ==> What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
    Teen depression and suicide have dramatically increased during the past decade. “There are multiple causes including isolation, school stress, social media, bullying, and many others,” says best-selling author Scott Kolbaba M.D. “This was made worse by the pandemic.” Dr. Kolbaba claims that enabling young people to focus on finding a purpose in life and pursuing their passions is just what the doctor ordered. His award-winning children’s book, “Clara’s Magic Garden” is an uplifting illustration of this principle.  He is an internal medicine physician who graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and appeared in “Chicago Magazine” as a “Top Doctor.” Contact Dr. Scott Kolbaba at (630) 656-9507; skolbaba@rtirguests.com
    12. ==> Get Better Faster: The Secret to Boosting Your Healing Power
    Science has shown that a mind-body connection exists and your emotions can impact your physical health, but how much does it actually help? Discover the real power of positive thinking when you interview Stan Munslow. After helping his father beat 30% survival odds and fully recover from Stage 4 lymphoma, Stan shares his methods for faster recovery from surgery, chronic conditions, or serious illness — and improved health overall. Discover powerful techniques to optimize your mind-body connection and reclaim your health. Ask him: How can your thoughts help you decrease pain, recovery time, and even your health-care costs? Why does being the “perfect patient” help you shorten and improve a hospital experience? Stan Munslow is the author of “Get Weller Sooner: 12 Powerful, Proven Ways to Speed and Improve Your Recovery from Illness or Surgery?” Contact him at (401) 337-7436; smunslow@rtirguests.com
    13. ==> Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better
    Most people dread being fired. Jim North was devastated when it happened to him yet he seized the opportunity to remake his life and today is excelling more than when he was employed at his long-time job of 23 years. Why wait until New Year’s to do a show on changing course when you could interview Jim now to inspire your listeners to figure out what they want — instead of merely going along for the ride — and go for it? Jim’s firing ultimately led him to pursue a career as a writer, interview people, and travel to Jerusalem where he interviewed people whose stories were life-changing. Jim says, “Learning someone else’s story doubles your life.” Jim has produced creative presentations for events and children’s settings. He was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com
    14. ==> How to Find Hope Even Amid Natural Disasters
    Hurricanes, wildfires, floods and other natural disasters are becoming increasingly common, leaving dazed and unprepared people to pick up the pieces. No human being can change the weather but we can develop a habit of hope, says Edie Summers, an expert on building resilience who says such a habit can also help us bounce back from divorce and job loss. Edie says, “You have much more control over how you feel than you realize.” She is the author of “The Memory of Health,” a wellness coach, mind-body fitness instructor, former executive, and the creator of the My Daily Well app. She has been featured in “Entrepreneur” and many podcasts. Ask her: How can we develop a habit of hope? How can focusing on small things to be grateful for reinforce that habit? What mindset shift do we need to practice? Contact Edie Summers at (503) 487-0058; esummers@rtirguests.com
    15. ==> Did You Get a Holiday Visit from Beyond the Grave?
    This time of year brings up a lot of memories and emotions, especially about people who are no longer with us. Many of us have dreamt about a lost loved one, felt the presence of someone who has passed on, or experienced other seemingly inexplicable messages from the dearly departed. While it’s common to chalk this up to mere nonsense, psychic medium and author June Edward claims that this is not your imagination playing tricks. “You can’t see the air you breathe, but it’s there,” she says. “It’s the same with souls that have passed on. They are standing right next to you!” June can share why we may feel our departed loved ones more often this time of year, how to communicate with them, and how this can vastly improve your life. She is the author of “All’s Fair in Love & Karma: 5 Steps to Relationship Mastery,” which has been endorsed by best-selling author John Gray. Contact June Edward at (508) 544-0189; jedward@rtirguests.com
  • 12/21/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Track Santa’s Flight, America’s Giant Goldfish Problem, Cruise News

    01. Live Santa Tracker on Christmas Eve
    02. The Santa Conservatory: A Real-Life Santa School
    03. Financial Expert Talks 2024 Trends
    04. The Curious Case of the Genetically Engineered American Chestnut Tree
    05. America’s Got a Giant Goldfish Problem
    06. The History of Hip Hop and House Music
    07. Counterintelligence Spy Shares Stories from the Frontlines
    08. WWPSD: What Would Patrick Swayze Do (and Say) in 2024?
    09. How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate
    10. Don’t Believe the Biggest Success Myth
    11. 2024 Cruise News and Tips
    12. How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
    13. Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers
    14. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    15. Top Black Interior Designer on How to Design an Authentic Life
    1.==> Live Santa Tracker on Christmas Eve
    This Sunday, St. Nick is scheduled to load his sleigh with gifts, harness his reindeer and take to the skies for his annual journey across the globe, and there’s one government agency that will be following his every move … and you can too! The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the government agency that tracks everything that flies in and around North America in defense of our homeland, will track Santa Claus just as they have each year since 1955. Book an interview with a Santa Tracker to hear the unlikely story of how this modern tradition began with a child’s accidental phone call, why the agency continues to provide Santa’s flight updates more than 60 years later, and how the process has evolved to include social media and flight apps that allow you to track Santa on your phone! The folks at NORAD can provide video b-roll and graphics and arrange general interviews with a Santa Tracker or tailor the interview for your specific region. You can even book live in-flight interviews for December 24.  Contact NORAD Public Affairs at (719) 554-6889; NTSMedia@outlook.com
    2. ==> The Santa Conservatory: A Real-Life Santa School
    Have you ever wondered what it’s like to put on the famous red suit and stand in for Santa Claus? Santa Ed is a professional Santa who also runs The Santa Claus Conservatory, a Santa Claus school. He’ll explain the ways “Santas for Hire” adapted during COVID (think Zoom calls, virtual parties and Plexiglas) and how kids and their parents responded. He’ll also share some of the craziest Santa requests he’s gotten and explain how he got into the profession and how he now trains others for the job. Santa Ed is Hollywood’s “go-to” Santa Claus and has appeared on many TV shows and in commercials and movies. The Santa Claus Conservatory has been featured in the “Wall Street Journal,” Fox Business, “Money” magazine, VOX, and many others. Contact Santa Ed at (424) 343-9555 (call or text); Santa@SantaEd.com
    3. ==> Financial Expert Talks 2024 Trends
    All signs currently point to a resilient economy, yet a new Bankrate survey finds that two-thirds of Americans don’t expect their personal finances to improve in 2024. The biggest reason behind Americans’ financial pessimism continues to be inflation. Invite Sam Burns of Mill Street Research to explain the disconnect and what he sees ahead in the coming year. Sam can discuss stock picks, corporate earnings, economic news, and the current geopolitical environment’s impact on the markets. Sam Burns is CFA and chief strategist at Mill Street Research, an independent research company specializing in proprietary institutional research tools for asset allocation, stock selection, and macroeconomic indicators. Contact Johanna Ramos-
    Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com
    4. ==> The Curious Case of the Genetically Engineered American Chestnut Tree
    The American Chestnut Foundation recently announced that it would drop its “years-long signature effort to develop a genetically engineered American chestnut tree” known as “Darling 58” (D58). Environmental activists say the decision has “far-reaching implications for the future of (genetically modified organisms) and raises serious concerns about the regulatory process surrounding their release.” Anne Peterman, international coordinator of the Campaign to STOP Genetically Engineered Trees, can discuss the problem with this particular tree, what would have happened if it was released in the wild, and why this should be seen as a cautionary tale about genetic engineering. “Trees are not computers. You aren’t going to know the long-term problems until much later. This is a perfect example,” she says. Anne Peterman is the executive director of Global Justice Ecology Project. She has been involved in efforts for forest protection and defense of the rights of Indigenous peoples since 1989. Contact her at anne@globaljusticeecology.org
    5.==> America’s Got a Giant Goldfish Problem
    In recent years, giant goldfish have been appearing in freshwater lakes around the country. It’s not just that they’re big, either. There’s also been a population explosion that has “negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and native species,” according to a recent study in the Journal of Great Lakes Research. “There are literally millions of goldfish in the Great Lakes, if not tens of millions,” according to Dr. Nicholas Mandrak, a professor of biological sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough. So what happened? Experts say the colossal fish are likely people’s pets that have been washed out or released into local lakes and rivers. Mandrak can discuss the problems the goldfish are creating and options for reducing the population of the colossal fish. Contact professor Nicholas Mandrak at (416) 208-2248; nicholas.mandrak@utoronto.ca
    6. ==> The History of Hip Hop and House Music
    A new docuseries examines the unique conditions in the 1970s and 1980s that birthed both the Hip Hop and House Music movements, the collision of the two genres, the stars, the songs, and the movement that followed. “In Our DNA: Hip House” features music-industry legends Kevin Liles, Terry Hunter and Kelly G. It chronicles the birth of Hip Hop in New York and how other regions began interpreting the genre differently, like in Chicago, where they blended the infectious soulful dance beats, to create a new genre: House Music. “It is said that music is a mirror of an artist’s reality, and his/her reality is written in part by society. Show me a revolution in music, art, and culture and I’ll show you a society screaming to evolve,” says executive producer Keesha Boyd. The three-part docuseries is currently airing on Xfinity’s Black Experience channel. Contact Michelle Huff Elliott at Comcast@strategicheights.com
    7. ==> Counterintelligence Spy Shares Stories from the Frontlines
    Pete Turner spent several years as a counterintelligence spy for the U.S. Army traveling to some of the most dangerous places on earth including Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Iraq. Invite him on your show to share tales from the frontlines like the time the Taliban requested a meeting with him by name, and how he once used a former Saddam Hussein aide as a source. Turner can share his predictions, based on firsthand experiences, regarding the Ukraine-Russia War and describe how U.S. foreign policy is practically applied. Turner started the nonprofit International Institute for Nonproliferation Studies (IINPS). While most think tanks are academia-based, the IINPS brings together a diverse range of seasoned professionals who have firsthand knowledge of the recurring and foreseeable failures of U.S. initiatives abroad. “Frankly,” says Turner, “I was tired of seeing people getting killed while we floundered from top to bottom. My goal is to break the cycle of history repeating itself.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com
    8. ==> WWPSD: What Would Patrick Swayze Do (and Say) in 2024?
    Patrick Swayze left us in 2009 yet his wise words and zest for living are as applicable as ever particularly as we begin a new year. For example, Patrick said: “We kind of get ruined in the Western way of thinking that the brass ring is what’s important when it’s very simple things in life that are important — like hanging on to faith and hope. … I hope our standards, our levels of integrity and morality and passion and beliefs upgrade themselves soon.” Sue Tabashnik can talk about Patrick’s universal take on the world and core values that would be of comfort to all in 2024. Philosophical and spiritual, he was an advocate for dance, conservation, and advances in cancer treatment. Sue is the author of four books about Patrick Swayze — including “Patrick Swayze: The Dreamer” and met him several times. Contact her at (248) 617-0505; stabashnik@rtirguests.com
    9. ==> How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate
    There has been an alarming rise in hate crimes since the Hamas-Israel war started in October. The Anti-Defamation League reports that incidents of anti-Semitic harassment, vandalism and assault have increased by an astounding 388%. With so much chaos and destruction going on in the world right now, is it any wonder that people are lashing out? Sara Ting says the current world climate doesn’t have to lead to hate. “I can share what each of us can do to create a more peaceful world,” she says. “I have developed a tool that takes 10 seconds or less to help cultivate a mindset to value all people equally.” Sara is a diversity and inclusion educator, speaker, consultant and the author of “Small Book with a Big Idea: 5 Minute Training to Empower You and Transform the World.” She is also the founder and president of World Unity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the elimination of all forms of bigotry. Contact Sara Ting at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com
    10. ==> Don’t Believe the Biggest Success Myth
    America is a nation of workaholics, who have long been indoctrinated to believe that performing long hours of mind-numbing work is the path to success. But according to author, project management expert and professional musician Gerald Leonard, that is total nonsense. “The long-held myth is that stressful work environments lead to higher productivity,” he says. “However, this leads to extreme burnout, greater employee turnover and decreased worker loyalty.” Gerald can share how to work smarter, not harder, to obtain maximum success. He is the author of numerous books including “Culture Is the Bass: 7 Steps to Creating High Performing Teams.” He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player. Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com
    11. ==> 2024 Cruise News and Tips
    If you’re planning your next adventure and thinking about taking a cruise, you’ll want to hear little-known tips from travel expert Cindy Bartram. What type of cruise is best for me? What’s the best time of year to cruise? Should I buy travel insurance? Are there specific travel apps for cruising? Cindy has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and can ensure smooth sailing on your next shipboard adventure. She’ll answer all your cruising questions from booking to boarding and share insider tips to make the most of your time on and off the ship. Cindy is a communications, media and branding specialist and the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact Cindy Bertram at (219) 501-5054; cbertram@rtirguests.com
    12. ==> How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
    Social media. Bullying. The long isolation of the pandemic. Gender confusion. Today’s kids have more stressors than at any other time in modern history. “When I speak to fellow counselors and parents, they say that anxiety and depression among young people are off the charts,” says author, former teacher and counselor Patricia Wilson. “I have an understanding of what children need: a sense of self-worth, how to cooperate with others and an appreciation of the gift of life.” Patricia can share how to determine if kids are struggling with depression, and simple, yet powerful self-talk tools to convince them that they are amazing. She has taught children from grades K-12 and counseled kids for more than 30 years. She is the author of numerous best-selling books including “My Magical Night Mare,” “I Am Amazing” and “When Grandma Giggled.” Contact Patricia Wilson at (778) 561-4603; pwilson@rtirguests.com
    13. ==> Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers
    Everyone deserves to be loved for who they are, but Stephanie Bailey says many people sabotage themselves and struggle with negative thinking that holds them back. “To experience the unconditional love all of us deserve, we must stop filling our heads with what bothers us most. For example, we need to stop falling victim to love blockers. We need to stop making such statements as I will never find love, I hate my job, there are no good men or women out there and nothing great ever happens in my life.” Invite this love mentor/expert to explain how people accidentally attract what they don’t want in their lives — and how to turn that around and learn why you should think twice about complaining about your relationship to friends. Stephanie Bailey is the CEO of Miss-Adventures LLC and the author of several books including her latest, “Love Affirmations: Manifesting the Life You Desire.” Contact her at (720) 276-2226; missadventuresseries@yahoo.com
    14. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com
    15. ==> Top Black Interior Designer on How to Design an Authentic Life
    Every human has two lives, an inner one and the one they show the world. To live an authentic life — one that is true to who you are and what you want — takes work and the willingness to confront difficult issues. Fortunately, Black interior designer Tonya Comer can help listeners design purpose-filled lives by combining her personal experiences and the seven power tools she developed. She’ll explain why you always have choices even when you think you don’t, why the imposter syndrome is so common, and more. A life coach and speaker, Tonya is the author of “In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life.” She has been named one of the top 20 African American Interior Designers in the United States. Contact Tonya Comer at (301) 538-7650; trc@tonyacormer.com
  • 12/19/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Ketamine Therapy, National Bus Crisis, How to Cultivate Hope

    01. High Court to Rule on Abortion Drug
    02. Did Ketamine Treatment Kill Matthew Perry?
    03. The National Bus Crisis: Why Terminals Are Closing
    04. How to Find a Job in 2024: Free Career Hotline
    05. 1924 Washington Senators and the ‘Team of Destiny’
    06. The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
    07. Can a Holiday Proposal Bring Bad Luck to Your Marriage?
    08. How to Cope With Loss at a Joyous Time
    09. Enjoy the Season Without Abandoning Your Health Goals
    10. Holiday Visits From Beyond the Grave
    11. Holiday Strategies for Kids With Behavior Issues
    12. Are You Tired of Not Being Heard?
    13. How to Cultivate a Habit of Hope
    14. How You Can Avoid America’s No. 1 Killer
    15. We Are Raising a Generation Unable to Think

    1. ==> High Court to Rule on Abortion Drug

    The Supreme Court will decide this term whether to limit access to the abortion drug mifepristone, returning the polarizing issue of reproductive rights to the high court after the conservative majority overturned Roe v. Wade last year. Law professor David Cohen says that the upcoming case is more limited than the original case. “We know that the Supreme Court won’t look at the original approval of the drug in 2000,” he says. “But it could wind up rolling back some of the FDA changes that made mifepristone more available to people: expanding approval to 10 weeks, not requiring in-person dispensation, and allowing pharmacies to mail it to people.” Cohen says that would make it more difficult for people to access the drug, despite it being safe and effective –– safer than pregnancy and the most common FDA-approved drugs. David S. Cohen is a professor of law at Drexel University. His scholarship examines the intersection of constitutional law and gender. Contact him at david.s.cohen@drexel.edu; @dsc250

    2. ==> Did Ketamine Treatment Kill Matthew Perry?

    An autopsy report released by the Los Angeles County medical examiner attributes the death of Matthew Perry to the “acute effects” of ketamine. The “Friends” actor was undergoing medically supervised ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety and received an infusion a week and a half before he died. The medical examiner’s office determined that treatment was unrelated to his death because the drug remains in the system for just a few hours. That suggests Perry was using ketamine at home at the time of his death. “People shouldn’t be afraid to use ketamine if it’s prescribed by their physician and it’s delivered correctly in a health-care setting,” says Dr. Gerard Sanacora, director of the Yale Depression Research Program and co-director of the Yale New Haven Hospital Interventional Psychiatry Service. “I’m not a coroner or a forensic pathologist, but he had a lot of risk factors and there are a lot of potential things that could have happened,” he says. “The most important takeaway is that ketamine is not a drug to be taken at home.” Contact Dr. Gerard Sanacora at (203) 974-7535; gerard.sanacora@yale.edu

    3. ==> The National Bus Crisis: Why Terminals Are Closing

    Bus terminals are rapidly closing in cities across the country. Stations have closed in Houston, Philadelphia and Tampa and terminals in Chicago and Dallas are set to shut next. Joseph Schwieterman, a DePaul University professor who researches intercity bus travel, says the stations, built decades ago, are shuttering because of high operating costs, government underfunding and, surprisingly, the entrance of a hedge fund buying up Greyhound’s real estate for lucrative resale. Schwieterman says intercity bus lines like Greyhound and Megabus carry twice the number of people as Amtrak each year and three-quarters of bus riders make less than $40,000. Terminal closures unravel service and break the web of national bus routes, he says. “You’re taking mobility away from disproportionately low-income and mobility-challenged citizens who don’t have other options.” Joseph Schwieterman directs DePaul’s Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development. Contact him at (312) 362-5732; jschwiet@depaul.edu

    4. ==> How to Find a Job in 2024: Free Career Hotline

    Whether you’re a recent college grad or a seasoned professional trying to move into another field, finding a job can be a daunting task. To help navigate the current job market, invite Andrew Challenger, a senior vice president at the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas, Inc., to share tips for anyone looking for work now. Listeners will discover the hidden job market, how to switch industries and ways to explain a career gap. They’ll also hear how they can get free career and job-search advice during the upcoming two-day Challenger Hotline. On Dec. 26 and 27, the company will suspend normal business operations so its staff of professional job-search coaches can help callers. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (314) 807-1568; colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    5. ==> 1924 Washington Senators and the ‘Team of Destiny’

    For a show that’s sure to inspire all generations of baseball fans, invite sports historian Gary Sarnoff to share the uplifting story of a team that surpassed all expectations and gave Washington fans a season to remember. He’ll take listeners back to 1924 when the Washington Senators’ team president Clark Griffith hired Bucky Harris, his 27-year-old second baseman, to manage the Senators, a decision called “Griffith’s folly.” Hear how the team was inspired by their new leader and found themselves in first place heading into the homestretch, and what happened next. Gary Sarnoff is the author of “Team of Destiny: Walter Johnson, Clark Griffith, Bucky Harris, and the 1924 Washington Senators.” Gary Sarnoff is a member of the Society for American Baseball Research and speaks frequently on baseball history throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbpr.biz or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

    6. ==> The True Story Behind ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’

    Based on actual events and starring Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lily Gladstone, “Killers of the Flower Moon” deals with a little-known part of history that occurred in the 1920s after oil was discovered by members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. When he was a reporter with Gaylord News, a reporting project at the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Jim B. North interviewed members of the Osage tribe and has great stories to tell about the events that make up the film. He can talk about the impact the oil discovery and newfound wealth had on the tribe. His new book, “Unsung Heroes Wear No Capes,” also contains some Native American removal stories. Jim has won multiple journalism awards for his human-interest storytelling and was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com

    7. ==> Can a Holiday Proposal Bring Bad Luck to Your Marriage?

    The majority of marriage proposals are made during the holiday season and while many people would take this as an omen of prosperity and cheer, a holiday engagement could signify some red flags in a relationship. Research psychologist, psychoanalytic therapist, and relationship therapist Dr. Frieda Birnbaum can share her perspective on the engagement season and the best ways to decipher if you and your partner are truly ready to tie the knot! Dr. Frieda is a seasoned media personality and commentator and, notably, the oldest woman in America to give birth to twins. A mother of five, her youngest sons were born when she was 60, lending her a unique perspective on issues related to parenting and the empowerment of women at any age. She’s the author of “Life Begins at 60: A New View of Motherhood, Marriage, and Reinventing Ourselves” and “What Price Power: An In-Depth Study of the Professional Woman in a Relationship.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    8. ==> How to Cope With Loss at a Joyous Time

    The holidays hit hard when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one or have recently suffered a serious setback like the loss of a job or health issues. Unfortunately, the majority of advice for conquering the aftermath of life’s worst curveballs does not address grief at all. Frank DiMaio can help your audience recover from the big things and find ways to enjoy the holidays — and life. He developed a way to help anyone move forward from being emotionally stuck in grief. Frank’s new book is “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Enjoy the Season Without Abandoning Your Health Goals

    The cheesy dips! The carb-loaded casseroles! The pies! The eggnog! So much of our holidays revolve around calorie-laden family favorites that just reading about them may make you think of gaining weight. But Laura Pickett — who lost 80 pounds and has kept them off — is here to tell you that you can lose weight this time of year and do it without giving up your favorite foods. “The holidays don’t mean you have to abandon your weight-loss goals,” Laura says, and she’ll explain what you need to do to enjoy holiday foods without the guilt or excess pounds. Laura Pickett is the author of “Get Over Weight (12 Steps to Finally Win the Weight Battle and Win at Life)” and the creator of a coaching and mentoring program on the topic. She has spent more than 30 years in the ministry and made multiple appearances on TBN’s national and local network (in Atlanta), and WATV. Contact Laura Pickett at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Holiday Visits From Beyond the Grave

    This time of year brings up a lot of memories and emotions, especially about people who are no longer with us. Many of us have dreamt about a lost loved one, felt the presence of someone who has passed on, or experienced other seemingly inexplicable messages from the dearly departed. While it’s common to chalk this up to mere nonsense, psychic medium and author June Edward claims that this is not your imagination playing tricks. “You can’t see the air you breathe, but it’s there,” she says. “It’s the same with souls that have passed on. They are standing right next to you!” June can share why we may feel our departed loved ones more often this time of year, how to communicate with them, and how this can vastly improve your life. She is the author of “All’s Fair in Love & Karma: 5 Steps to Relationship Mastery,” which has been endorsed by best-selling author John Gray. Contact June Edward at (508) 544-0189; jedward@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Holiday Strategies for Kids With Behavior Issues

    The holiday season can be stressful for everyone, but for families with kids who have behavior issues, this time of year can be particularly trying. From large family get-togethers to school vacation trips, there are plenty of opportunities for meltdowns, temper tantrums and uncomfortable interactions — and for parents to stress about how they reflect on them. Parenting expert Rebecah Freeling can share ways parents can try to prevent issues, strategies and tips to prepare kids for situations before you leave home, and how to deal with meltdowns in the moment. Freeling specializes in kids with problem behaviors. She’s the owner of Wits End Parenting and the author of the upcoming book “Your Rules Are Dumb: Parenting Your Strong-Willed, Oppositional or Defiant Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

    12. ==> Are You Tired of Not Being Heard?

    It’s no secret that women struggle to be heard. Society teaches girls to be polite and agreeable and not make a fuss, even when a situation is challenging — or just plain wrong. If your audience is looking to reclaim their power in the workplace, at home, and beyond, you need to hear from Francesca Burack. The author of “Women Are Special: 123 Reasons Why” can share advice, tips, and encouragement to help women find, own, and use their voices with confidence. Ask her: What can women do to speak up in one-sided relationships, whether it’s at work or with family? How can women approach difficult conversations in the workplace, such as asking for raises, promotions, or benefits? An author, entrepreneur, educator, and popular speaker, Francesca Burack has been featured on major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How to Cultivate a Habit of Hope

    With all the political turmoil and negative news Americans are subjected to it’s easy to see why some of us have lost the habit of hope. But like any healthy habit, it can be refreshed, rebooted, or acquired for the first time. Expert Edie Summers is making it her mission to teach people how to be more hopeful and shift their mindset to focus on what they can control. Ask Edie: How can we develop a habit of hope? How can focusing on small things to be grateful for reinforce that habit? What mindset shift do we need to make? Edie Summers is the author of “The Memory of Health,” a mind-body fitness instructor, a former executive, and the creator of the My Daily Well app. She has been featured in “Entrepreneur” and many podcasts. Contact her at (503) 487-0058; esummers@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> How You Can Avoid America’s No. 1 Killer

    Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death among American men and women? The good news is, it can be avoided, according to long-time nurse Allen Daugherty. “The American health-care system is designed to focus on diseases after they happen,” he says. “So we need to change our mindset to focus on prevention.” Allen can share the types of screenings, lifestyle changes and other preventative steps we can take before becoming another statistic. He has worked in the medical field for almost 50 years, first as a U.S. Air Force medic then as an RN and certified dialysis nurse. He is the author of “An Ounce of Prevention is Worth More Than You Can Imagine.” Contact Allen at (540) 712-8704; adaugherty@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> We Are Raising a Generation Unable to Think

    Children and teenagers today don’t have it easy. Nor do their parents. But as emotional intelligence expert Detri McGhee will tell you, one of the biggest problems with kids these days is that they are subjected to never-ending information with no filter with which to judge it. Kids need extra help, she’ll say, so they can begin to think for themselves, and parents, teachers and others who care about them can provide those resources. Detri can share how to raise a contrarian thinker (and why you’ll want to), how to teach kids the importance of the 80/20 rule, and how to raise an emotionally intelligent child. Detri runs the nonprofit Reaching for Life, Inc. which encourages reading writing, and communicating through developing advanced emotional intelligence skills. Ask her: How can parents raise kids who handle criticism well? Why is it important to build quiet times of reflection into children’s days? How does expanding emotional intelligence relate to success in life? Contact Detri McGhee at (870) 407-7523; dmcghee@rtirguests.com

  • 12/14/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Who Was Saint Nicholas? The Evolution of Hip Hop and House Music, A Gift for Dull People

    01. Counterintelligence Spy: Stories from the Frontlines
    02. Behind the Scenes of Amazon’s ‘Coach Prime’
    03. The Birth, Evolution, and Collision of Hip Hop and House Music
    04. Saint Nicholas: The Whole Story
    05. The Holidays Are Dangerous for Pets
    06. How to Lose Weight During the Holidays
    07. Budget-Stretching Holiday Tips
    08. Check Your Charity: What to Know Before You Donate
    09. Don’t Believe the ‘Hard Work Leads to Success’ Myth
    10. What Is Healthy Anger?
    11. Top Black Interior Designer: How to Design an Authentic Life
    12. From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru
    13. How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
    14. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    15. An ‘Ordinary’ Calendar: Fun Gift for the Dull Man or Woman in Your Life

    1. ==> Counterintelligence Spy: Stories from the Frontlines

    Pete Turner spent several years as a counterintelligence spy for the U.S. Army traveling to some of the most dangerous places on earth including Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Iraq. Invite him on your show to share tales from the frontlines like the time the Taliban requested a meeting with him by name, and how he once used a former Saddam Hussein aide as a source. Turner can share his predictions, based on firsthand experiences, regarding the Ukraine-Russia War and describe how U.S. foreign policy is practically applied. Turner started the nonprofit International Institute for Nonproliferation Studies (IINPS). While most think tanks are academia-based, the IINPS brings together a diverse range of seasoned professionals who have firsthand knowledge of the recurring and foreseeable failures of U.S. initiatives abroad. “Frankly,” says Turner, “I was tired of seeing people getting killed while we floundered from top to bottom. My goal is to break the cycle of history repeating itself.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

    2. ==> Behind the Scenes of Amazon’s ‘Coach Prime’

    The new season of Prime Video’s hit docuseries “Coach Prime” takes viewers inside the locker room and onto the field of Coach Deion Sanders’ University of Colorado Boulder football program for the 2023 season. “Coach Prime” and the Buffaloes have shaken up the college football landscape. The series showcases Sanders’ journey to inspire the team and transform the program. It features Sanders’ sons Shilo and Shedeur along with their former Jackson State University teammate Travis Hunter and takes viewers behind the scenes of the most exciting story in college sports this year. Invite Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner Micah Brown to discuss the series and preview the drama that unfolds during Sanders’ first full season at CU Boulder and share stories that take place on and off the field. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.

    3. ==> The Birth, Evolution, and Collision of Hip Hop and House Music

    A new docuseries examines the unique conditions in the 1970s and 1980s that birthed both the Hip Hop and House Music movements, the collision of the two genres, the stars, the songs, and the movement that followed. “In Our DNA: Hip House” features music industry legends Kevin Liles, Terry Hunter and Kelly G. It chronicles the birth of Hip Hop in New York and how other regions began interpreting the genre differently, like in Chicago, where they blended the infectious soulful dance beats, to create a new genre: House Music. “It is said that music is a mirror of an artist’s reality, and his/her reality is written in part by society. Show me a revolution in music, art, and culture and I’ll show you a society screaming to evolve,” says executive producer Keesha Boyd. The three-part docuseries is currently airing on Xfinity’s Black Experience channel. Contact Michelle Huff Elliott at Comcast@strategicheights.com

    4. ==> Saint Nicholas: The Whole Story

    Everyone is familiar with Santa Claus, with his big belly, white beard, pink cheeks and omnipresent sack of toys for children. Most people know that the inspiration for Santa was Saint Nicholas, a priest and bishop who lived in the third century A.D., but few know much about the real man in the red suit. Wayne Van Der Wal, a school psychologist and practicing Christian, wants to change that. Invite him on your show and hear how St. Nicholas overcame childhood tragedy, felt called by God to take a vow of poverty, endured horrific persecution for his religious faith, and went on to become one of the most beloved, generous, loving, and famous figures in human history. The author of the historical novel “The Gospel of Santa Claus” will fascinate your audience as he shares details of St. Nicholas’ extraordinary life and what Santa Claus has in common with St. Nick. He’ll also explain how writing the book changed the way he and his family celebrate Christmas each year and how anyone can have the best Christmas season ever, even on a limited budget. Contact Wayne Van Der Wal at (775) 338-4300; wav66@yahoo.com

    5. ==> The Holidays Are Dangerous for Pets

    The holidays are upon us! That means tasty treats, special decorations and, for some unfortunate pet owners, an unexpected trip to the vet’s office. Our furry family members tend to fill their bellies with everything from dangerous “people” food to pine needles, brightly colored glass bulbs, and tinsel. And that’s only the trouble they can get into indoors! Dr. Carol Osborne has a laundry list of holiday tips to keep everyone happy through the New Year. She’ll also share great gift ideas for your favorite pup or kitty and ways to ease their holiday stress (yes, they get it too). Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is an integrative veterinarian who practices functional pet medicine. She’s the author of several books and is a regular contributor to “Fox & Friends,” the “Today” show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA,” among other media outlets. Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    6. ==> How to Lose Weight During the Holidays

    The pies! The eggnog! The stuffing! So much of the run-up to the holidays involves food including family favorites that just reading about them may make you think of gaining weight. But Laura Pickett — who lost 80 pounds and has kept them off — is here to tell you that you can lose weight during the holidays and do it without giving up your favorite foods. “The holidays don’t mean you have to abandon your weight-loss goals,” Laura says, and she’ll explain what you need to do to enjoy holiday foods without the guilt or excess pounds. Laura Pickett is the author of “Get Over Weight (12 Steps to Finally Win the Weight Battle and Win at Life)” and the creator of a coaching and mentoring program on the topic. She has spent more than 30 years in the ministry and made multiple appearances on TBN’s national and local network (in Atlanta), and WATV. Contact Laura Pickett at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> Budget-Stretching Holiday Tips

    Many American families are living paycheck to paycheck, trying to find ways they can stretch their dollars without sacrificing their dreams. And for some, the holidays can wreak havoc with their budgets. Invite consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch to share tips and tricks for saving this season so you won’t find yourself in debt come January. She has great advice on everything from decorating and gifts to creatively using gift cards and booking your holiday travel. “Book one-way flights. This allows you to find flights in and out of different airports in the same or surrounding cities and with different airlines to help you create the cheapest itinerary possible,” she says. Woroch has appeared on “Today,” “Good Morning America,” CNN and other major media and in numerous publications. Contact her at andrea@andreaworoch.com

    8. ==> Check Your Charity: What to Know Before You Donate

    It may be the season of giving, but you should know where your dollars go. Those who donate to charities that are dear to their hearts always have the best of intentions but are the funds actually making an impact? “There are more than 1.7 million public charities in our country, and many of them overlap services with others and need to compete for donor dollars and grants,” says nonprofit expert and author Michele Whetzel. “People need to do their homework before donating to organizations. Charities should be findable and transparent and should register and share their financials on sites like Guidestar.org and CharityNavigator.org.” Michele is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting and author of the book “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Contact Michele Whetzel at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Don’t Believe the ‘Hard Work Leads to Success’ Myth

    America is a nation of workaholics who have long been indoctrinated to believe that performing long hours of mind-numbing work is the path to success. But according to author, project management expert and professional musician Gerald Leonard, that is total nonsense. “The long-held myth is that stressful work environments lead to higher productivity,” he says. “However, this leads to extreme burnout, greater employee turnover and decreased worker loyalty.” Gerald can share how to work smarter, not harder, to obtain maximum success. He is the author of numerous books including “Culture Is The Bass: 7 Steps to Creating High Performing Teams.” He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player. Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> What Is Healthy Anger?

    Our society often frowns upon anger, especially when women express this emotion. But clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne Wilner claims that anger can be a valuable tool for promoting personal growth and one’s overall well-being if released in constructive ways. “By working with our bodies in specific ways, we can transform our anger and improve our health,” she says. “Otherwise, anger can get trapped in our psyches and cause a host of physical and mental health issues.” Karyne can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. She is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/body health. Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Top Black Interior Designer: How to Design an Authentic Life

    Every human has two lives, an inner one and the one they show the world. To live an authentic life — one that is true to who you are and what you want — takes work and the willingness to confront difficult issues. Fortunately, Black interior designer Tonya Comer can help listeners design purpose-filled lives by combining her personal experiences and the seven power tools she developed. She’ll explain why you always have choices even when you think you don’t, why the imposter syndrome is so common, and more. A life coach and speaker, Tonya is the author of “In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life.” She has been named one of the top 20 African-American Interior Designers in the United States. Contact Tonya Comer at (301) 538-7650; trc@tonyacormer.com

    12. ==> From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru

    Former Ivy League scholar and pro football player John Nicholas had no plan for success at 16 when he crashed into a house during a Halloween night car chase with police. But then he discovered keys that launched him toward academic and athletic success and building sports media and real estate companies worth millions. He credits something he calls Personal Convergence, a dynamic force similar to nuclear fusion, that has fueled high-impact people throughout history and can help us target and direct our lives today. John’s upcoming book “Hit Your Bullseye!” shares how you can harness this power to achieve your ultimate life, career, business, or calling. John has appeared on ABC News, CBS News, syndicated radio, and numerous podcasts. He also wrote the popular book, “Debt-Free ASAP!” Contact him at (214) 225-9991; Jnicholas@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids

    Social media. Bullying. The long isolation of the pandemic. Gender confusion. Today’s kids have more stressors than at any other time in modern history. “When I speak to fellow counselors and parents, they say that anxiety and depression among young people are off the charts,” says author, former teacher and counselor Patricia Wilson. “I have an understanding of what children need: a sense of self-worth, how to cooperate with others and an appreciation of the gift of life.” Patricia can share how to determine if kids are struggling with depression, and simple, yet powerful self-talk tools to convince them that they are amazing. She has taught children from grades K-12 and counseled kids for more than 30 years. She is the author of numerous best-selling books including “My Magical Night Mare,” “I am Amazing” and “When Grandma Giggled.” Contact Patricia Wilson at (778) 561-4603; pwilson@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?

    Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> An ‘Ordinary’ Calendar: Fun Gift for the Dull Man or Woman in Your Life

    With New Year’s approaching, you can find a calendar with just about any theme imaginable — from cute puppies to national parks and sexy men and women. So who would design a calendar about everyday mundane, dull things? Grover Click, the assistant vice president (the highest office) of the Dull Men’s Club (women belong also now). The “Dull Men’s Club Calendar 2024: Unique & Quirky Passions” lists 150 events and holidays that celebrate the ordinary like World Turtle Day, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, World Snail Racing Championships and the Antique Doorknob Collectors Annual Convention. And you’ll meet people like Jim and Irene Leuenberger of Shawano County, Wisconsin, with their barn quilts, patterns from quilts painted on plywood and mounted on barns; and Richard Birnie and Ron Wenger of Yuma, Colorado, who run an admission-free museum for orphaned and discontinued cars (think AMC Ramblers and Chevrolet Corvairs). The calendar is amusing, and at times hilarious, but Click says it also celebrates people who find passion in the ordinary. “They’re on to something. They’re cheerful, content, and happy. They’re not seeking glitz and glam, not constantly moving on to the next big thing. What they’re doing provides purpose and meaning.” Contact Grover Click at (308) 874-4173 or groverclick@gmail.com

    Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com

    01. Counterintelligence Spy: Stories from the Frontlines
    02. Behind the Scenes of Amazon’s ‘Coach Prime’
    03. The Birth, Evolution, and Collision of Hip Hop and House Music
    04. Saint Nicholas: The Whole Story
    05. The Holidays Are Dangerous for Pets
    06. How to Lose Weight During the Holidays
    07. Budget-Stretching Holiday Tips
    08. Check Your Charity: What to Know Before You Donate
    09. Don’t Believe the ‘Hard Work Leads to Success’ Myth
    10. What Is Healthy Anger?
    11. Top Black Interior Designer: How to Design an Authentic Life
    12. From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru
    13. How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids
    14. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    15. An ‘Ordinary’ Calendar: Fun Gift for the Dull Man or Woman in Your Life

    1. ==> Counterintelligence Spy: Stories from the Frontlines

    Pete Turner spent several years as a counterintelligence spy for the U.S. Army traveling to some of the most dangerous places on earth including Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Iraq. Invite him on your show to share tales from the frontlines like the time the Taliban requested a meeting with him by name, and how he once used a former Saddam Hussein aide as a source. Turner can share his predictions, based on firsthand experiences, regarding the Ukraine-Russia War and describe how U.S. foreign policy is practically applied. Turner started the nonprofit International Institute for Nonproliferation Studies (IINPS). While most think tanks are academia-based, the IINPS brings together a diverse range of seasoned professionals who have firsthand knowledge of the recurring and foreseeable failures of U.S. initiatives abroad. “Frankly,” says Turner, “I was tired of seeing people getting killed while we floundered from top to bottom. My goal is to break the cycle of history repeating itself.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

    2. ==> Behind the Scenes of Amazon’s ‘Coach Prime’

    The new season of Prime Video’s hit docuseries “Coach Prime” takes viewers inside the locker room and onto the field of Coach Deion Sanders’ University of Colorado Boulder football program for the 2023 season. “Coach Prime” and the Buffaloes have shaken up the college football landscape. The series showcases Sanders’ journey to inspire the team and transform the program. It features Sanders’ sons Shilo and Shedeur along with their former Jackson State University teammate Travis Hunter and takes viewers behind the scenes of the most exciting story in college sports this year. Invite Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner Micah Brown to discuss the series and preview the drama that unfolds during Sanders’ first full season at CU Boulder and share stories that take place on and off the field. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.

    3. ==> The Birth, Evolution, and Collision of Hip Hop and House Music

    A new docuseries examines the unique conditions in the 1970s and 1980s that birthed both the Hip Hop and House Music movements, the collision of the two genres, the stars, the songs, and the movement that followed. “In Our DNA: Hip House” features music industry legends Kevin Liles, Terry Hunter and Kelly G. It chronicles the birth of Hip Hop in New York and how other regions began interpreting the genre differently, like in Chicago, where they blended the infectious soulful dance beats, to create a new genre: House Music. “It is said that music is a mirror of an artist’s reality, and his/her reality is written in part by society. Show me a revolution in music, art, and culture and I’ll show you a society screaming to evolve,” says executive producer Keesha Boyd. The three-part docuseries is currently airing on Xfinity’s Black Experience channel. Contact Michelle Huff Elliott at Comcast@strategicheights.com

    4. ==> Saint Nicholas: The Whole Story

    Everyone is familiar with Santa Claus, with his big belly, white beard, pink cheeks and omnipresent sack of toys for children. Most people know that the inspiration for Santa was Saint Nicholas, a priest and bishop who lived in the third century A.D., but few know much about the real man in the red suit. Wayne Van Der Wal, a school psychologist and practicing Christian, wants to change that. Invite him on your show and hear how St. Nicholas overcame childhood tragedy, felt called by God to take a vow of poverty, endured horrific persecution for his religious faith, and went on to become one of the most beloved, generous, loving, and famous figures in human history. The author of the historical novel “The Gospel of Santa Claus” will fascinate your audience as he shares details of St. Nicholas’ extraordinary life and what Santa Claus has in common with St. Nick. He’ll also explain how writing the book changed the way he and his family celebrate Christmas each year and how anyone can have the best Christmas season ever, even on a limited budget. Contact Wayne Van Der Wal at (775) 338-4300; wav66@yahoo.com

    5. ==> The Holidays Are Dangerous for Pets

    The holidays are upon us! That means tasty treats, special decorations and, for some unfortunate pet owners, an unexpected trip to the vet’s office. Our furry family members have the tendency to fill their bellies with everything from dangerous “people” food to pine needles, brightly colored glass bulbs, and tinsel. And that’s only the trouble they can get into indoors! Dr. Carol Osborne has a laundry list of holiday tips to keep everyone happy through the New Year. She’ll also share great gift ideas for your favorite pup or kitty and ways to ease their holiday stress (yes, they get it too). Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is an integrative veterinarian who practices functional pet medicine. She’s the author of several books and is a regular contributor to “Fox & Friends,” the “Today” show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA,” among other media outlets. Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    6. ==> How to Lose Weight During the Holidays

    The pies! The eggnog! The stuffing! So much of the run-up to the holidays involves food including family favorites that just reading about them may make you think of gaining weight. But Laura Pickett — who lost 80 pounds and has kept them off — is here to tell you that you can lose weight during the holidays and do it without giving up your favorite foods. “The holidays don’t mean you have to abandon your weight-loss goals,” Laura says, and she’ll explain what you need to do to enjoy holiday foods without the guilt or excess pounds. Laura Pickett is the author of “Get Over Weight (12 Steps to Finally Win the Weight Battle and Win at Life)” and the creator of a coaching and mentoring program on the topic. She has spent more than 30 years in the ministry and made multiple appearances on TBN’s national and local network (in Atlanta), and WATV. Contact Laura Pickett at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> Budget-Stretching Holiday Tips

    Many American families are living paycheck to paycheck, trying to find ways they can stretch their dollars without sacrificing their dreams. And for some, the holidays can wreak havoc with their budgets. Invite consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch to share tips and tricks for saving this season so you won’t find yourself in debt come January. She has great advice on everything from decorating and gifts to creatively using gift cards and booking your holiday travel. “Book one-way flights. This allows you to find flights in and out of different airports in the same or surrounding cities and with different airlines to help you create the cheapest itinerary possible,” she says. Woroch has appeared on “Today,” “Good Morning America,” CNN and other major media and in numerous publications. Contact her at andrea@andreaworoch.com

    8. ==> Check Your Charity: What to Know Before You Donate

    It may be the season of giving, but you should know where your dollars go. Those who donate to charities that are dear to their hearts always have the best of intentions but are the funds actually making an impact? “There are more than 1.7 million public charities in our country, and many of them overlap services with others and need to compete for donor dollars and grants,” says nonprofit expert and author Michele Whetzel. “People need to do their homework before donating to organizations. Charities should be findable and transparent and should register and share their financials on sites like Guidestar.org and CharityNavigator.org.” Michele is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting and author of the book “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Contact Michele Whetzel at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Don’t Believe the ‘Hard Work Leads to Success’ Myth

    America is a nation of workaholics who have long been indoctrinated to believe that performing long hours of mind-numbing work is the path to success. But according to author, project management expert and professional musician Gerald Leonard, that is total nonsense. “The long-held myth is that stressful work environments lead to higher productivity,” he says. “However, this leads to extreme burnout, greater employee turnover and decreased worker loyalty.” Gerald can share how to work smarter, not harder, to obtain maximum success. He is the author of numerous books including “Culture Is The Bass: 7 Steps to Creating High Performing Teams.” He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player. Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> What Is Healthy Anger?

    Our society often frowns upon anger, especially when women express this emotion. But clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne Wilner claims that anger can be a valuable tool for promoting personal growth and one’s overall well-being, if released in constructive ways. “By working with our bodies in specific ways, we can transform our anger and improve our health,” she says. “Otherwise, anger can get trapped in our psyches and cause a host of physical and mental health issues.” Karyne can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. She is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/body health. Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Top Black Interior Designer: How to Design an Authentic Life

    Every human has two lives, an inner one and the one they show the world. To live an authentic life — one that is true to who you are and what you want — takes work and the willingness to confront difficult issues. Fortunately, Black interior designer Tonya Comer can help listeners design purpose-filled lives by combining her personal experiences and the seven power tools she developed. She’ll explain why you always have choices even when you think you don’t, why the imposter syndrome is so common, and more. A life coach and speaker, Tonya is the author of “In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life.” She has been named one of the top 20 African-American Interior Designers in the United States. Contact Tonya Comer at (301) 538-7650; trc@tonyacormer.com

    12. ==> From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru

    Former Ivy League scholar and pro football player John Nicholas had no plan for success at 16 when he crashed into a house during a Halloween night car chase with police. But then he discovered keys that launched him toward academic and athletic success and building sports media and real estate companies worth millions. He credits something he calls Personal Convergence, a dynamic force similar to nuclear fusion, that has fueled high-impact people throughout history and can help us target and direct our lives today. John’s upcoming book “Hit Your Bullseye!” shares how you can harness this power to achieve your ultimate life, career, business, or calling. John has appeared on ABC News, CBS News, syndicated radio, and numerous podcasts. He also wrote the popular book, “Debt-Free ASAP!” Contact him at (214) 225-9991; Jnicholas@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How to End the Epidemic of Low Self-Esteem in Kids

    Social media. Bullying. The long isolation of the pandemic. Gender confusion. Today’s kids have more stressors than at any other time in modern history. “When I speak to fellow counselors and parents, they say that anxiety and depression among young people are off the charts,” says author, former teacher and counselor Patricia Wilson. “I have an understanding of what children need: a sense of self-worth, how to cooperate with others and an appreciation of the gift of life.” Patricia can share how to determine if kids are struggling with depression, and simple, yet powerful self-talk tools to convince them that they are amazing. She has taught children from grades K-12 and counseled kids for more than 30 years. She is the author of numerous best-selling books including “My Magical Night Mare,” “I am Amazing” and “When Grandma Giggled.” Contact Patricia Wilson at (778) 561-4603; pwilson@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?

    Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> An ‘Ordinary’ Calendar: Fun Gift for the Dull Man or Woman in Your Life

    With New Year’s approaching, you can find a calendar with just about any theme imaginable — from cute puppies to national parks and sexy men and women. So who would design a calendar about everyday mundane, dull things? Grover Click, the assistant vice president (the highest office) of the Dull Men’s Club (women belong also now). The “Dull Men’s Club Calendar 2024: Unique & Quirky Passions” lists 150 events and holidays that celebrate the ordinary like World Turtle Day, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, World Snail Racing Championships and the Antique Doorknob Collectors Annual Convention. And you’ll meet people like Jim and Irene Leuenberger of Shawano County, Wisconsin, with their barn quilts, patterns from quilts painted on plywood and mounted on barns; and Richard Birnie and Ron Wenger of Yuma, Colorado, who run an admission-free museum for orphaned and discontinued cars (think AMC Ramblers and Chevrolet Corvairs). The calendar is amusing, and at times hilarious, but Click says it also celebrates people who find passion in the ordinary. “They’re on to something. They’re cheerful, content, and happy. They’re not seeking glitz and glam, not constantly moving on to the next big thing. What they’re doing provides purpose and meaning.” Contact Grover Click at (308) 874-4173 or groverclick@gmail.com

  • 12/12/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Inside ‘Coach Prime,’ Chrismuckkah, Holiday Office Parties

    01. Inside Deion Sanders’ ‘Coach Prime’
    02. How the Industrial Revolution Created Chrismukkah
    03. A Healthier Hanukkah? The Kosher Baker Lightens Things Up
    04. Let’s Talk Holiday Office Parties
    05. How to Make a Hybrid Schedule Work
    06. Stop Working So Hard: Smarter Success Strategies
    07. Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better
    08. How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate
    09. What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
    10. The Surprising Skill That Must Be Taught in Elementary School
    11. How Toxic Anger Affects Your Body
    12. Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers
    13. The Health Benefits of Herbs
    14. Do Lost Loved Ones Talk to Us?
    15. Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?

    1. ==> Inside Deion Sanders’ ‘Coach Prime’

    The new season of Prime Video’s hit docuseries “Coach Prime” takes viewers inside the locker room and onto the field of Coach Deion Sanders’ University of Colorado Boulder football program for the 2023 season. “Coach Prime” and the Buffaloes have shaken up the college football landscape yet again, and the series showcases Sanders’ journey to inspire the team and transform the program. This season Sanders’ sons Shilo and Shedeur join their father in Colorado along with their former Jackson State University teammate Travis Hunter, taking viewers behind the scenes of the most exciting story in college sports this year. Invite Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner Micah Brown to discuss the series and preview the drama that unfolds during Sanders’ first full season at CU Boulder and share stories that take place on and off the field. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.

    2. ==> How the Industrial Revolution Created Chrismukkah

    Assimilation has no doubt played a role in making Hanukkah the commercialized holiday it is today. But other factors have shaped the modern festival, too, says Samira Mehta, a scholar of religion and the politics of the American family. While many Jewish Americans worry about Hanukkah growing too similar to Christmas, Samira says the history of both holidays is complicated. Invite the author of “Beyond Chrismukkah: The Christian-Jewish Interfaith Family in the United States” to discuss how Hanukkah came to have the commercial, kids-and-gifts focus that it has in the U.S. today and how both contemporary Christmas and contemporary Hanukkah grew up together in response to the Industrial Revolution. Samira Mehta is an associate professor of women and gender studies and the director of Jewish studies at the University of Colorado Boulder. Contact her at Samira.Mehta@Colorado.edu; @samirakmehta

    3. ==> A Healthier Hanukkah? The Kosher Baker Lightens Things Up

    Hanukkah menus feature fried foods like potato latkes and doughnuts — not your typical health foods. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or someone in your family has health issues, celebrating with traditional foods and recipes can be challenging. Invite Paula Shoyer, the Kosher Baker, to share ways to lighten up your favorite family recipes. Whether you’re cooking Keto, Whole30 or are just trying to cut calories, Paula will help you make over your holiday table with dishes every generation will appreciate. She’ll also help you create a stress-free holiday with great ideas for room-temperature dishes and freezer-friendly make-ahead recipes. Paula Shoyer has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and even competed on Food TV. A graduate of Ritz Escoffier Ecole de Gastronomie Francaise, she is the author of five cookbooks including “The Healthy Jewish Kitchen.” Contact her at (301) 404-8998; pshoyer@hotmail.com

    4.==> Let’s Talk Holiday Office Parties

    The pandemic put a hold on holiday office parties during the work-from-home Zoom era, but more and more workers are back on site and the annual company party is making a comeback. Do workers enjoy them or do they see them as an after-hours obligation? Invite workplace expert Andrew Challenger to discuss the issue and how innovative companies are handling it. “The holiday party has always been a way for companies to show their teams they value them. Creating a space for employees to have fun together bolsters morale and connection to their employers and their work, so it really is an important retention and leadership tool for employers,” he adds. Challenger can discuss creative ways companies are gathering and how the work-from-home movement and hybrid office set-ups have changed company culture and the way offices operate. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (o); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    5. ==> How to Make a Hybrid Schedule Work

    Disney, Starbucks, and Salesforce are the latest corporate giants to call workers back to their cubicles and data indicate that, starting in 2024, a staggering 90% of companies will require employees to resume working from the office at least three days a week. While some see this as a regressive move driven by corporate profit rather than employee welfare, data scientist and lawyer Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio offers a different perspective. She contends that a return to the office could be particularly advantageous for women and minorities. “Current data suggest that these groups have faced career stagnation during remote work periods due to decreased visibility and the ensuing missed promotional opportunities,” she says. Paola can discuss the potential upside of returning to the office and how to make a hybrid model work. Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio holds dual appointments at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and Harvard Law School, where she serves as faculty chair of the Executive Leadership Research Initiative for Women and Minority Attorneys. Her new book is “Diversity Dividend: The Transformational Power of Small Changes to Debias Your Company, Attract Diverse Talent, Manage Everyone Better—and Make More Money.” Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @Lissa_Warren

    6. ==> Stop Working So Hard: Smarter Success Strategies

    Our society has long believed that working long hours, toiling through stress and generally busting your butt on the job are the keys to success. But according to Gerald Leonard, these are myths. “This only leads to burnout and low productivity,” he says. “Finding balance and mindfulness in your life overall are the true keys to success.” Gerald has devised tried-and-true strategies for managers and their teams to bring creativity and joy to their projects, which results in greater success for all. He can also share future of workplace trends, as careers move more toward project-based roles. He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player, and the author of “A Symphony of Choices,” “Workplace Jazz” and “Culture is the Bass.” Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better

    Most people dread being fired. Jim North was devastated when it happened to him yet he seized the opportunity to remake his life and today is excelling more than when he was employed at his long-time job of 23 years. Why wait until New Year’s to do a show on changing course when you could interview Jim now to inspire your listeners to figure out what they want — instead of merely going along for the ride — and go for it? Jim’s firing ultimately led him to pursue a career as a writer, interview people, and travel to Jerusalem where he interviewed people whose stories were life-changing. Jim says, “Learning someone else’s story doubles your life.” Jim has produced creative presentations for events and children’s settings. He was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com

    8. ==> How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate

    There has been an alarming rise in hate crimes since the Hamas-Israel war started in October. The Anti-Defamation League reports that incidents of anti-Semitic harassment, vandalism and assault have increased by an astounding 388%. With so much chaos and destruction going on in the world right now, is it any wonder that people are lashing out? Sara Ting says the current world climate doesn’t have to lead to hate. “I can share what each of us can do to create a more peaceful world,” she says. “I have developed a tool that takes 10 seconds or less to help cultivate a mindset to value all people equally.” Sara is a diversity and inclusion educator, speaker, consultant and the author of “Small Book with a Big Idea: 5 Minute Training to Empower You and Transform the World.” She is also the founder and president of World Unity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the elimination of all forms of bigotry. Contact Sara Ting at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?

    Teen depression and suicide have dramatically increased during the past decade. “There are multiple causes including isolation, school stress, social media, bullying, and many others,” says best-selling author Scott Kolbaba M.D. “This was made worse by the pandemic.” Dr. Kolbaba claims that enabling young people to focus on finding a purpose in life and pursuing their passions is just what the doctor ordered. His award-winning children’s book, “Clara’s Magic Garden,” is an uplifting illustration of this principle. Scott Kolbaba is an internal medicine physician who completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic and appeared in “Chicago” magazine as a Top Doctor. Contact Dr. Scott Kolbaba at (630) 656-9507; skolbaba@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Surprising Skill That Must Be Taught in Elementary School

    Teaching computer science to students in grades pre-K through 5 is now a major focus in schools. Children’s author and longtime STEM educator Chris Goldberg, Ed.D., has worked with even the youngest elementary school students and can speak to the need for teaching these skills to young children. “Research shows that these skills help students in mathematics, problem-solving and critical thinking and may help create a path of interest for students who have the aptitude for programming one day,” he says. “There also must be a focus on making sure underrepresented populations receive exposure to computer science skills.” Chris is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Ask him: How does learning computer science prepare kids for the future? What specific STEM skills should young kids learn, and why? Contact Chris Goldberg at (610) 557-8442; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> How Toxic Anger Affects Your Body

    Heart disease is the number one killer of women. According to clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne B. Wilner, anger is one well-known factor in women’s heart disease, along with our culture’s role in suppressing it. “Anger creates stress in the body that can lead to physical and emotional health problems,” she says. She can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. Karyne is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/health. Ask her: What is Core Energetics? What techniques can women use to overcome the toxic effects of anger? What are some tools to reduce stress? Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers

    Everyone deserves to be loved for who they are, but Stephanie Bailey says many people sabotage themselves and struggle with negative thinking that holds them back. “To experience the unconditional love all of us deserve, we must stop filling our heads with what bothers us most. For example, we need to stop falling victim to love blockers. We need to stop making such statements as I will never find love, I hate my job, there are no good men or women out there and nothing great ever happens in my life.” Invite this love mentor/expert to explain how people accidentally attract what they don’t want in their lives — and how to turn that around and learn why you should think twice about complaining about your relationship to friends. Stephanie Bailey is the CEO of Miss-Adventures LLC and the author of several books including her latest, “Love Affirmations: Manifesting the Life You Desire.” Contact her at (720) 276-2226; missadventuresseries@yahoo.com

    13. ==> The Health Benefits of Herbs

    The idyllic Caribbean nation of Dominica, where herbs expert Gladstone Etienne grew up, is a nature paradise known for its pristine environment, organic foods and laid-back lifestyle. Gladstone points out that the citizens there live longer, and stronger, as a result. “According to the BBC, Dominica has the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world,” he says. He also gives credit to herbal medicine, which he began studying as a child. Gladstone went on to develop a line of teas, to make it easier for Americans to gain the wondrous health benefits of herbs. He is the founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company. Contact Gladstone Etienne at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Do Lost Loved Ones Talk to Us?

    Have you ever dreamed about a lost loved one? Or felt the presence of those who have passed on, and experienced other seemingly inexplicable messages from the dearly departed? While it’s common to chalk this up to mere nonsense, psychic medium and author June Edward claims that this is not our imagination playing tricks on us. “You can’t see the air you breathe, but it’s there,” she says. “It’s the same with souls that have passed on. They are standing right next to you!” June can share how to communicate with departed loved ones, and how this can vastly improve our lives. She is the author of “All’s Fair in Love & Karma: 5 Steps to Relationship Mastery,” which has been endorsed by best-selling author John Gray. Contact June Edward at (508) 544-0189; jedward@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?

    If you are old enough, chances are you grew up watching “The New Zoo Revue.” The show was syndicated from 1972 to 1977 and episodes ran well into the 1990s. The show was the brainchild of Doug Momary who, along with his wife, Emmy Jo, created an answer to Sesame Street, focusing on relationships and feelings. Doug wrote every song and storyline for their 550-plus shows. Besides their wildly popular Facebook livestreams, they recently appeared at Comic Con in San Diego, where fans cried when they saw them. This weekend they’ll be at the Greater Philadelphia Toy Show. Invite them on your show and find out what they’ve been doing for the past 50 years and why they think the response to them has been so overwhelming. Contact Danny Deraney at (323) 333-8501; @dannyderaney

  • 12/7/2023 RTIR Newsletter: ‘Coach Prime,’ Chrismukkah, Holiday Office Parties

    01. Inside Deion Sanders’ ‘Coach Prime’
    02. How the Industrial Revolution Created Chrismukkah
    03. A Healthier Hanukkah? The Kosher Baker Lightens Things Up
    04. Let’s Talk Holiday Office Parties
    05. How to Make a Hybrid Schedule Work
    06. Stop Working So Hard: Smarter Success Strategies
    07. Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better
    08. How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate
    09. What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?
    10. The Surprising Skill That Must Be Taught in Elementary School
    11. How Toxic Anger Affects Your Body
    12. Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers
    13. The Health Benefits of Herbs
    14. Do Lost Loved Ones Talk to Us?
    15. Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?

    1. ==> Inside Deion Sanders’ ‘Coach Prime’

    The new season of Prime Video’s hit docuseries “Coach Prime” takes viewers inside the locker room and onto the field of Coach Deion Sanders’ University of Colorado Boulder football program for the 2023 season. “Coach Prime” and the Buffaloes have shaken up the college football landscape yet again, and the series showcases Sanders’ journey to inspire the team and transform the program. This season Sanders’ sons Shilo and Shedeur join their father in Colorado along with their former Jackson State University teammate Travis Hunter, taking viewers behind the scenes of the most exciting story in college sports this year. Invite Emmy-winning executive producer and showrunner Micah Brown to discuss the series and preview the drama that unfolds during Sanders’ first full season at CU Boulder and share stories that take place on and off the field. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com.

    2. ==> How the Industrial Revolution Created Chrismukkah

    Assimilation has no doubt played a role in making Hanukkah the commercialized holiday it is today. But other factors have shaped the modern festival, too, says Samira Mehta, a scholar of religion and the politics of the American family. While many Jewish Americans worry about Hanukkah growing too similar to Christmas, Samira says the history of both holidays is complicated. Invite the author of “Beyond Chrismukkah: The Christian-Jewish Interfaith Family in the United States” to discuss how Hanukkah came to have the commercial, kids-and-gifts focus that it has in the U.S. today and how both contemporary Christmas and contemporary Hanukkah grew up together in response to the Industrial Revolution. Samira Mehta is an associate professor of women and gender studies and the director of Jewish studies at the University of Colorado Boulder. Contact her at Samira.Mehta@Colorado.edu; @samirakmehta

    3. ==> A Healthier Hanukkah? The Kosher Baker Lightens Things Up

    Hanukkah menus feature fried foods like potato latkes and doughnuts — not your typical health foods. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or someone in your family has health issues, celebrating with traditional foods and recipes can be challenging. Invite Paula Shoyer, the Kosher Baker, to share ways to lighten up your favorite family recipes. Whether you’re cooking Keto, Whole30 or are just trying to cut calories, Paula will help you make over your holiday table with dishes every generation will appreciate. She’ll also help you create a stress-free holiday with great ideas for room-temperature dishes and freezer-friendly make-ahead recipes. Paula Shoyer has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and even competed on Food TV. A graduate of Ritz Escoffier Ecole de Gastronomie Francaise, she is the author of five cookbooks including “The Healthy Jewish Kitchen.” Contact her at (301) 404-8998; pshoyer@hotmail.com

    4.==> Let’s Talk Holiday Office Parties

    The pandemic put a hold on holiday office parties during the work-from-home Zoom era, but more and more workers are back on site and the annual company party is making a comeback. Do workers enjoy them or do they see them as an after-hours obligation? Invite workplace expert Andrew Challenger to discuss the issue and how innovative companies are handling it. “The holiday party has always been a way for companies to show their teams they value them. Creating a space for employees to have fun together bolsters morale and connection to their employers and their work, so it really is an important retention and leadership tool for employers,” he adds. Challenger can discuss creative ways companies are gathering and how the work-from-home movement and hybrid office set-ups have changed company culture and the way offices operate. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (o); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    5. ==> How to Make a Hybrid Schedule Work

    Disney, Starbucks, and Salesforce are the latest corporate giants to call workers back to their cubicles and data indicate that, starting in 2024, a staggering 90% of companies will require employees to resume working from the office at least three days a week. While some see this as a regressive move driven by corporate profit rather than employee welfare, data scientist and lawyer Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio offers a different perspective. She contends that a return to the office could be particularly advantageous for women and minorities. “Current data suggest that these groups have faced career stagnation during remote work periods due to decreased visibility and the ensuing missed promotional opportunities,” she says. Paola can discuss the potential upside of returning to the office and how to make a hybrid model work. Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio holds dual appointments at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and Harvard Law School, where she serves as faculty chair of the Executive Leadership Research Initiative for Women and Minority Attorneys. Her new book is “Diversity Dividend: The Transformational Power of Small Changes to Debias Your Company, Attract Diverse Talent, Manage Everyone Better—and Make More Money.” Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @Lissa_Warren

    6. ==> Stop Working So Hard: Smarter Success Strategies

    Our society has long believed that working long hours, toiling through stress and generally busting your butt on the job are the keys to success. But according to Gerald Leonard, these are myths. “This only leads to burnout and low productivity,” he says. “Finding balance and mindfulness in your life overall are the true keys to success.” Gerald has devised tried-and-true strategies for managers and their teams to bring creativity and joy to their projects, which results in greater success for all. He can also share future of workplace trends, as careers move more toward project-based roles. He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player, and the author of “A Symphony of Choices,” “Workplace Jazz” and “Culture is the Bass.” Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better

    Most people dread being fired. Jim North was devastated when it happened to him yet he seized the opportunity to remake his life and today is excelling more than when he was employed at his long-time job of 23 years. Why wait until New Year’s to do a show on changing course when you could interview Jim now to inspire your listeners to figure out what they want — instead of merely going along for the ride — and go for it? Jim’s firing ultimately led him to pursue a career as a writer, interview people, and travel to Jerusalem where he interviewed people whose stories were life-changing. Jim says, “Learning someone else’s story doubles your life.” Jim has produced creative presentations for events and children’s settings. He was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com

    8. ==> How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate

    There has been an alarming rise in hate crimes since the Hamas-Israel war started in October. The Anti-Defamation League reports that incidents of anti-Semitic harassment, vandalism and assault have increased by an astounding 388%. With so much chaos and destruction going on in the world right now, is it any wonder that people are lashing out? Sara Ting says the current world climate doesn’t have to lead to hate. “I can share what each of us can do to create a more peaceful world,” she says. “I have developed a tool that takes 10 seconds or less to help cultivate a mindset to value all people equally.” Sara is a diversity and inclusion educator, speaker, consultant and the author of “Small Book with a Big Idea: 5 Minute Training to Empower You and Transform the World.” She is also the founder and president of World Unity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the elimination of all forms of bigotry. Contact Sara Ting at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> What’s Behind the Shocking Increase in Teenage Depression?

    Teen depression and suicide have dramatically increased during the past decade. “There are multiple causes including isolation, school stress, social media, bullying, and many others,” says best-selling author Scott Kolbaba M.D. “This was made worse by the pandemic.” Dr. Kolbaba claims that enabling young people to focus on finding a purpose in life and pursuing their passions is just what the doctor ordered. His award-winning children’s book, “Clara’s Magic Garden,” is an uplifting illustration of this principle. Scott Kolbaba is an internal medicine physician who completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic and appeared in “Chicago” magazine as a Top Doctor. Contact Dr. Scott Kolbaba at (630) 656-9507; skolbaba@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Surprising Skill That Must Be Taught in Elementary School

    Teaching computer science to students in grades pre-K through 5 is now a major focus in schools. Children’s author and longtime STEM educator Chris Goldberg, Ed.D., has worked with even the youngest elementary school students and can speak to the need for teaching these skills to young children. “Research shows that these skills help students in mathematics, problem-solving and critical thinking and may help create a path of interest for students who have the aptitude for programming one day,” he says. “There also must be a focus on making sure underrepresented populations receive exposure to computer science skills.” Chris is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Ask him: How does learning computer science prepare kids for the future? What specific STEM skills should young kids learn, and why? Contact Chris Goldberg at (610) 557-8442; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> How Toxic Anger Affects Your Body

    Heart disease is the number one killer of women. According to clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne B. Wilner, anger is one well-known factor in women’s heart disease, along with our culture’s role in suppressing it. “Anger creates stress in the body that can lead to physical and emotional health problems,” she says. She can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. Karyne is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/health. Ask her: What is Core Energetics? What techniques can women use to overcome the toxic effects of anger? What are some tools to reduce stress? Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers

    Everyone deserves to be loved for who they are, but Stephanie Bailey says many people sabotage themselves and struggle with negative thinking that holds them back. “To experience the unconditional love all of us deserve, we must stop filling our heads with what bothers us most. For example, we need to stop falling victim to love blockers. We need to stop making such statements as I will never find love, I hate my job, there are no good men or women out there and nothing great ever happens in my life.” Invite this love mentor/expert to explain how people accidentally attract what they don’t want in their lives — and how to turn that around and learn why you should think twice about complaining about your relationship to friends. Stephanie Bailey is the CEO of Miss-Adventures LLC and the author of several books including her latest, “Love Affirmations: Manifesting the Life You Desire.” Contact her at (720) 276-2226; missadventuresseries@yahoo.com

    13. ==> The Health Benefits of Herbs

    The idyllic Caribbean nation of Dominica, where herbs expert Gladstone Etienne grew up, is a nature paradise known for its pristine environment, organic foods and laid-back lifestyle. Gladstone points out that the citizens there live longer, and stronger, as a result. “According to the BBC, Dominica has the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world,” he says. He also gives credit to herbal medicine, which he began studying as a child. Gladstone went on to develop a line of teas, to make it easier for Americans to gain the wondrous health benefits of herbs. He is the founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company. Contact Gladstone Etienne at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Do Lost Loved Ones Talk to Us?

    Have you ever dreamed about a lost loved one? Or felt the presence of those who have passed on, and experienced other seemingly inexplicable messages from the dearly departed? While it’s common to chalk this up to mere nonsense, psychic medium and author June Edward claims that this is not our imagination playing tricks on us. “You can’t see the air you breathe, but it’s there,” she says. “It’s the same with souls that have passed on. They are standing right next to you!” June can share how to communicate with departed loved ones, and how this can vastly improve our lives. She is the author of “All’s Fair in Love & Karma: 5 Steps to Relationship Mastery,” which has been endorsed by best-selling author John Gray. Contact June Edward at (508) 544-0189; jedward@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?

    If you are old enough, chances are you grew up watching “The New Zoo Revue.” The show was syndicated from 1972 to 1977 and episodes ran well into the 1990s. The show was the brainchild of Doug Momary who, along with his wife, Emmy Jo, created an answer to Sesame Street, focusing on relationships and feelings. Doug wrote every song and storyline for their 550-plus shows. Besides their wildly popular Facebook livestreams, they recently appeared at Comic Con in San Diego, where fans cried when they saw them. This weekend they’ll be at the Greater Philadelphia Toy Show. Invite them on your show and find out what they’ve been doing for the past 50 years and why they think the response to them has been so overwhelming. Contact Danny Deraney at (323) 333-8501; @dannyderaney

    Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com

  • 12/5/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Holiday Help, Mystery Dog Illness, Celebrate the Ordinary

    01. Familiar Russian Tactic: Genocide by Starvation
    02. The Contradictions of Henry Kissinger’s Legacy
    03. Mystery Canine Illness Sweeping the Nation
    04. The Holidays Are Expensive: Money-Saving Tips
    05. A Calendar That Celebrates the Ordinary? It’s a Thing
    06. Anxiety Got You Feeling Like a Grinch?
    07. The Biggest Holiday Scams
    08. How Holiday Music Can Heal
    09. The Greatest Gift You Can Give Yourself
    10. Holiday Strategies for Kids With Behavior Issues
    11. We Are Raising a Generation Unable to Think
    12. How to Find Hope Amid War and Disasters
    13. Get Better Faster: The Secret to Boosting Your Healing Power
    14. Book This Guest Before You Buy a Cruise
    15. Let’s Talk About Elephants

    1.==> Familiar Russian Tactic: Genocide by Starvation

    As the war in Ukraine nears the two-year mark, human rights investigators have released new evidence accusing Moscow of a deliberate starvation campaign that appears to have started before the full-scale invasion. Russia-Ukraine expert Kristina Hook says it’s further proof that the war is more than an attempt to reclaim land. “For most Ukrainians, the main factor fueling their determination to fight on is the sense that Russia’s genocidal objectives leave them with no choice but to resist. Either Ukrainians defend themselves, or Ukraine itself will cease to exist.” The latest revelations come as Ukraine marks the anniversary of the Holodomor, one of Joseph Stalin’s most notorious crimes. In the early 1930s, in less than two years, an estimated four million Ukrainians died after Stalin deliberately engineered a famine. Kristina Hook, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of conflict management at Kennesaw State University’s School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding, and Development. An anthropologist and scholar-practitioner, she is writing a book about the Ukraine-Russia war. Contact her at khook2@kennesaw.edu

    2. ==> The Contradictions of Henry Kissinger’s Legacy

    The death of former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger marks the end of one of the most impactful — and most controversial — careers in American politics. Loved by some and hailed as a brilliant statesman, others loathed and condemned him as a shameless war criminal. Historian Timothy Naftali says the German-born academic inspired fierce debate for decades. “There is no denying the extraordinary nature of his accomplishments. He achieved immortality in global affairs, building relationships for the United States that endure. And he leaves a legacy brimming with cautionary tales for future practitioners of American power,” he says. He can discuss Kissinger’s obsession with his legacy and how future generations should remember him. Timothy Naftali is a scholar at the Institute of Global Politics at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. He was the founding director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Contact him at tn2536@columbia.edu

    3. ==> Mystery Canine Illness Sweeping the Nation

    A mysterious respiratory illness is targeting dogs across the country and pet owners are desperate for answers. What is this illness and what do pet parents need to know? Dr. Carol Osbourne is available with expert research, advice, and treatment plans. While no definitive cause of the illness has been found, Dr. Carol will share some precautions owners can take like avoiding places where dogs congregate, practicing good sanitation and boosting their dog’s immunity. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is an integrative veterinarian who practices functional pet medicine. She’s the author of several books and is a regular contributor to “Fox & Friends,” the “Today” show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA,” among other media outlets. Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    4. ==> The Holidays Are Expensive: Money-Saving Tips

    Many American families are living paycheck to paycheck, trying to find ways they can stretch their dollars without sacrificing their dreams. And for some, the holidays can wreak havoc with their budgets. Invite consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch to share tips and tricks for saving this season so you won’t find yourself in debt come January. She has great advice on everything from decorating and gifts to creatively using gift cards and booking your holiday travel. “Book one-way flights. This allows you to find flights in and out of different airports in the same or surrounding cities and with different airlines to help you create the cheapest itinerary possible,” she says. Woroch has appeared on “Today,” “Good Morning America,” CNN and other major media and in numerous publications. Contact her at andrea@andreaworoch.com

    5. ==> A Calendar That Celebrates the Ordinary? It’s a Thing

    Even in our high-tech world, one can buy countless paper calendars —with themes ranging from national parks to cute animals to sexy men and women. So why would someone design calendars about everyday mundane, dull things? Find out by interviewing Grover Click, assistant vice president (the highest office) of the Dull Men’s Club (women belong also now). He created the DMC’s latest calendar, “Dull Men’s Club Calendar 2024: Unique & Quirky Passions.” He can explain that, while what the people are doing is amusing, at times hilarious, there’s a rewarding aspect to it. They are on to something. They are cheerful, content, and happy. They are not seeking glitz and glam, not constantly moving on to the next big thing. There’s Jim and Irene Leuenberger of Shawano County, Wisconsin, with their barn quilts, patterns from quilts painted on plywood and mounted on barns; and Richard Birnie and Ron Wenger of Yuma, Colorado, who run an admission-free museum for orphaned and discontinued cars (think AMC Ramblers and Chevrolet Corvairs). What they are doing provides purpose and meaning. In addition to these stories, the calendar lists 150 events and holidays that celebrate the ordinary (World Turtle Day, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, World Snail Racing Championships, Antique Doorknob Collectors Annual Convention). Contact Grover at (308) 874-4173 or groverclick@gmail.com

    6. ==> Anxiety Got You Feeling Like a Grinch?

    Regardless of your family type, the holiday season tends to create more complications and tensions than usual. But Dr. John Deloney says there are a few things you can do to make sure your time with family is filled with less stress, conflict and awkwardness — and more laughter joy, and connection. He’ll share five tips for navigating family dynamics this holiday season including setting boundaries, remembering the “why” of the event and that you can’t control everything. He’ll also remind listeners that this time of year is challenging and lonely for a lot of folks. “Don’t be shy about inviting others to spend the holidays with you too, even if you don’t know them well,” he says. “The more laughter and joy around a table, the better.” Dr. John Delony is a best-selling author and mental health expert. He hosts “The Dr. John Delony Show” and serves as co-host of “The Ramsey Show,” where he helps unpack the psychology behind finances. His books include “Own Your Past, Change Your Future,” “Redefining Anxiety,” and the upcoming “Building a Non-Anxious Life.” Contact Samantha Ellis at (615) 850-1543; samantha.ellis@ramseysolutions.com

    7. ==> The Biggest Holiday Scams

    Nothing can put a damper on your holiday spirit faster than getting tricked out of your hard-earned cash! This year experts say scammers are out in full force looking to fool you, steal your money and more. Invite William Francavilla to share the biggest scams this holiday season (yes, porch pirates are still stealing packages), how to spot a rip-off scheme, and who scammers target most and how they do it. From charity donations to online rip-offs and social media phishing scams, Francavilla will outline ways to make sure your information and funds don’t fall into the wrong hands. Francavilla is the author of “The Madoffs Among Us: Combat the Scammers, Con Artists and Thieves Who Are Plotting to Steal Your Money.” He’s a CFP and former senior vice president, and director of Wealth Management for Legg Mason who has extensive media experience. Contact him at (757) 870-4590; wmfrancavilla@gmail.com

    8. ==> How Holiday Music Can Heal

    Music is a huge part of the holiday season in every culture the world over. From Christmas carols to hymns, seasonal songs take us back in time and provoke nostalgic memories. They can also instantly affect our moods — but did you know that music can also heal? John Campbell talks about the tremendous power of music to soothe us, body and soul, during the holiday season and beyond. He’ll share examples from personal experience of Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers responding to music along with tips and advice on choosing the best music. Hear unconventional ways to bring healing music into your life all year long, and much more. An entrepreneur and songwriter, John is the author of four books. His latest, “Beyond the Fading Memories: Guiding Words for Dementia Caregivers,” includes stories, advice, and lessons learned from six years as the primary caregiver for his mother after she was diagnosed with dementia. Contact John Campbell at (608) 975-2714; jcampbell@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> The Greatest Gift You Can Give Yourself

    Are you feeling stuck in an unhappy job, relationship, or other unpleasant situation? Does it seem like the circumstances will never be right for you to find the perfect partner, career, or life? Luckily, you don’t have to wait for the opportunity to come to you. Learn how to make your own opportunities for breaking free from anything that holds you back when you interview Laura Brennan Ballet. The author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura is an experienced life coach and frequent media guest who helps people connect with their personal power to achieve anything, simply by changing the way they think about it. She’ll not only show your audience how to think differently but actually recalibrate their brains and reach for their dreams with intent. You’ll hear why we all become algorithms of the people around us, how to reclaim your authentic self, and how to move past disappointment and live life with zero regrets. Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435; lballet@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Holiday Strategies for Kids With Behavior Issues

    The holiday season can be stressful for everyone, but for families with kids who have behavior issues, this time of year can be particularly trying. From after-school parties to large family get-togethers, there are plenty of opportunities for meltdowns, temper tantrums and uncomfortable interactions and for parents to stress about how they reflect on them. Invite parenting expert Rebecah Freeling to share ways parents can try and prevent issues, strategies and tips to prepare kids for situations before you leave home, and how to deal with meltdowns in the moment. Freeling specializes in kids with problem behaviors. She’s the owner of Wits End Parenting and the author of the upcoming book “Your Rules Are Dumb: Parenting Your Strong-Willed, Oppositional or Defiant Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

    11. ==> We Are Raising a Generation Unable to Think

    Children and teenagers today don’t have it easy. Nor do their parents. But as emotional intelligence expert Detri McGhee will tell you, one of the biggest problems with kids these days is that they are subjected to never-ending information with no filter with which to judge it. Kids need extra help, she’ll say, so they can begin to think for themselves, and parents, teachers and others who care about them can provide those resources. Detri can share how to raise a contrarian thinker (and why you’ll want to), how to teach kids the importance of the 80/20 rule, and how to raise an emotionally intelligent child. Detri runs the nonprofit Reaching for Life, Inc. which encourages reading writing, and communicating through developing advanced emotional intelligence skills. Ask her: How can parents raise kids who handle criticism well? Why is it important to build quiet times of reflection into children’s days? How does expanding emotional intelligence relate to success in life? Contact Detri McGhee at (870) 407-7523; dmcghee@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How to Find Hope Amid War and Disasters

    War and natural disasters dominate the news these days filling our screens with scenes of scorched earth, bombed-out buildings and human carnage. It’s easy to feel helpless and hopeless while looking on, but Edie Summers, an expert on building resilience, will explain how having a habit of hope can help. Invite her on your show and learn how to develop the habit and how it can also help you bounce back from your own difficulties, like divorce and job loss. Edie says, “You have much more control over how you feel than you realize.” The author of “The Memory of Health,” is a wellness coach, mind-body fitness instructor, former executive, and the creator of the My Daily Well app. She has been featured in “Entrepreneur” and many podcasts. Ask her: How can we develop a habit of hope? How can focusing on small things to be grateful for reinforce that habit? What mindset shift do we need to practice? Contact Edie Summers at (503) 487-0058; esummers@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Get Better Faster: The Secret to Boosting Your Healing Power

    Science has shown that a mind-body connection exists and your emotions can impact your physical health, but how much does it actually help? Discover the real power of positive thinking when you interview Stan Munslow. After helping his father beat 30% survival odds and fully recover from Stage 4 lymphoma, Stan shares his methods for faster recovery from surgery, chronic conditions, or serious illness — and improved health overall. Discover powerful techniques to optimize your mind-body connection and reclaim your health. Ask him: How can your thoughts help you decrease pain, recovery time, and even your health-care costs? Why does being the “perfect patient” help you shorten and improve a hospital experience? Stan Munslow is the author of “Get Weller Sooner: 12 Powerful, Proven Ways to Speed and Improve Your Recovery from Illness or Surgery?” Contact him at (401) 337-7436; smunslow@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Book This Guest Before You Buy a Cruise

    If you’re planning your next adventure and thinking about taking a cruise, you’ll want to hear little-known tips from travel expert Cindy Bartram. What type of cruise is best for me? What’s the best time of year to cruise? Should I buy travel insurance? Are there specific travel apps for cruising? Cindy has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and can ensure smooth sailing on your next shipboard adventure. She’ll answer all your cruising questions from booking to boarding and share insider tips to make the most of your time on and off the ship. Cindy is a communications, media and branding specialist and the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact Cindy Bertram at (219) 501-5054; cbertram@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Let’s Talk About Elephants

    Elephants are very popular in modern culture, with good reason. They are majestic, lovable and highly intelligent. But according to animal/environmental welfare activist Georja Umano, pachyderms are more than just adorable. “They are crucial to the health of our environment and ecosystems, and are sadly endangered because of poaching, trophy hunting and habitat loss due to land development,” she says. Georja can share why it’s so important to protect this endangered species, and other fascinating pachyderm facts, as well as her experiences living in Kenya. She is the author of the award-winning book “Terriers in the Jungle,” and is launching a nonprofit called the Elephant Matriarch Project for Mothers and Children, the goal of which is to educate and train young underprivileged African women and girls for careers in wildlife conservation. Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

    Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com

  • 11/30/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Free Career Hotline, ‘The New Zoo Review,’ Love Blockers

    01. Russia’s Second Front in Europe
    02. Is Biden Going from Denial to Panic?
    03. A Hotline for Career Help
    04. She’s Defying Alzheimer’s Dreaded Prognosis
    05. Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?
    06. Talk About ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ With This Guest
    07. Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers
    08. Trauma Surgeon: What Really Goes on in the OR
    09. Why You Get SAD This Time of Year (and Ways to Fight It)
    10. How You Can Avoid America’s No. 1 Killer
    11. What Is Healthy Anger?
    12. This DJ Came Straight Out of Compton to Become a Loving Single Dad
    13. Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?
    14. How Our Past Lives Affect Our Current Life
    15. Feel-Good Show: Why ‘Dirty Dancing’ Continues to Offer Hope, Optimism

    1. ==> Russia’s Second Front in Europe

    The Balkans have been at the center of power competition for centuries, and Russia has long played a leading role. Ivana Stradner, a research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, says the region is now on the precipice of becoming a geopolitical flashpoint. She can discuss why tensions in the Balkans are rising and how Moscow is seeking to leverage ongoing instability to maintain its influence and weaken the European Union and NATO. Stradner will explain what the Ukraine war has meant for Russia’s role in the Balkans and why the West must stop Vladimir Putin from provoking conflict in the region. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a Washington, D.C.-based nonpartisan research institute focusing on national security and foreign policy. To arrange an interview, contact FDD media relations at press@fdd.org

    2. ==> Is Biden Going from Denial to Panic?

    Last weekend, Politico published the latest in a wave of stories about President Biden’s prospects for re-election. The article pointed out that the president is trailing the presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump in the majority of the latest polling. Jeff Cohen says the Biden campaign is going from denial to panic mode. “The bleak poll numbers might actually understate the problem, as they measure only voter discontent and not activist discontent. For months next summer and fall, Democratic activists will be needed to win over undecided voters and mobilize occasional voters. But many activists who worked hard to elect Biden over Trump in 2020 now have little enthusiasm for the president, due to his policies on climate, racial justice, Gaza and other vital concerns.” Jeff Cohen is co-founder of RootsAction.org, which is sponsoring the Step Aside Joe campaign. He is a retired journalism professor at Ithaca College and founder of the media watch group FAIR. Cohen was a Bernie Sanders delegate to the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Contact him at jeff@rootsaction.org, @Roots_Action

    3. ==> A Hotline for Career Help

    The labor market is loosening and companies appear to be entering the new year cautiously. To help navigate the current job market, invite Andrew Challenger, senior VP at the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas, Inc., to share tips for anyone looking for work now. Listeners will discover the hidden job market, how to switch industries and ways to explain a career gap. They’ll also hear how they can get free career and job-search advice during the upcoming two-day Challenger Hotline. On Dec. 26 and 27, the company will suspend normal business operations so its staff of professional job-search coaches can help callers. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (314) 807-1568; colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    4. ==> She’s Defying Alzheimer’s Dreaded Prognosis

    Four and a half years ago, Rebecca Chopp was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. She was then 67 years old and the chancellor of the University of Denver. She was told in six months she would not be able to button her blouse. Instead of denying it or going home to slowly give in to the disease, Rebecca chose to fight. Today Rebecca is still vibrant, sharp, and helping others manage and live with the devastating disease. Invite her to discuss the benefits of early diagnosis, how changing her lifestyle allowed her to meet the disease head-on and slow the progression, as well as current medications and those about to be approved by the FDA. Discover how learning to paint and other creative activities have helped Rebecca sustain her cognitive abilities and allow her to continue to live independently. She is currently working with the National Alzheimer’s Association and the Morgridge Family Foundation to raise awareness about the disease. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

    5. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘The New Zoo Revue’?

    If you are old enough, chances are you grew up watching “The New Zoo Revue.” The show was syndicated from 1972 to 1977 and episodes ran well into the 1990s. The show was the brainchild of Doug Momary who, along with his wife, Emmy Jo, created an answer to Sesame Street, focusing on relationships and feelings. Doug wrote every song and storyline for their 550-plus shows. Besides their wildly popular Facebook livestreams, they recently appeared at Comic Con in San Diego, where fans cried when they saw them. This weekend they’ll be at the Greater Philadelphia Toy show. Invite them on your show and find out what they’ve been doing for the past 50 years and why they think the response to them has been so overwhelming. Contact Danny Deraney at (323) 333-8501; @dannyderaney

    6. ==> Talk About ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ With This Guest

    Director Martin Scorsese’s latest film “Killers of the Flower Moon” is getting a lot of Oscar buzz. Based on actual events and starring Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lily Gladstone, the movie deals with a little-known part of history that occurred in the 1920s after oil was discovered by members of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. When he was a reporter with Gaylord News, a reporting project at the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Jim B. North interviewed members of the Osage tribe and has great stories to tell about the events that make up the film. He can talk about the impact the oil discovery and newfound wealth had on the tribe. His new book, “Unsung Heroes Wear No Capes,” also contains some Native American removal stories. Jim has won multiple journalism awards for his human-interest storytelling and was a workshop speaker at the John Hope Franklin Symposium in Tulsa. He holds a B.A. in journalism and an M.A. in professional writing. He studied international reporting at Hebrew University. Contact Jim at (918) 809-0565; jim@jimbnorth.com

    7. ==> Looking for Unconditional Love? Beware These Love Blockers

    Everyone deserves to be loved for who they are, but Stephanie Bailey says many people sabotage themselves and struggle with negative thinking that holds them back. “To experience the unconditional love all of us deserve, we must stop filling our heads with what bothers us most. For example, we need to stop falling victim to love blockers. We need to stop making such statements as I will never find love, I hate my job, there are no good men or women out there and nothing great ever happens in my life.” Invite this love mentor/expert to explain how people accidentally attract what they don’t want in their lives — and how to turn that around and learn why you should think twice about complaining about your relationship to friends. Stephanie Bailey is the CEO of Miss-Adventures LLC and the author of several books including her latest, “Love Affirmations: Manifesting the Life You Desire.” Contact her at (720) 276-2226; missadventuresseries@yahoo.com

    8. ==> Trauma Surgeon: What Really Goes on in the OR

    For all the hospital dramas that dominate television, most of us have no concept of the daily, Herculean efforts that take place inside a trauma center. Dr. Stephen Cohn pulls back the curtain and explains the critical role trauma surgeons play in the saving of lives — in the OR and sometimes even in the emergency room. Ask him: What really goes on in the OR? What does a trauma surgeon do? How do trauma surgeons stay cool and act decisively when a patient’s life hangs in the balance? Dr. Cohn is a 40-year veteran of trauma care, having served as a surgeon in the U.S. Army Medical Corp in Desert Storm and, later, division chief of trauma and surgical critical care at Yale University School of Medicine. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

    9. ==> Why You Get SAD This Time of Year (and Ways to Fight It)

    Many people dread this time of year, especially if they suffer from the Winter Blues. Invite Dr. Greg Hammer to share a tried-and-true way to help boost your mental resilience and give you the tools to thrive in the cold winter months. He’ll explain the science behind seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the physical and mental symptoms, and a simple, daily three-minute tool to combat negative thoughts and rewire the brain. Hammer is passionate about educating people on how they can prioritize and improve their mental health so that they may live peaceful and fulfilling lives. Greg Hammer, M.D., is a professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, a pediatric intensive care physician, pediatric anesthesiologist, mindfulness expert, and the author of “GAIN without Pain: The Happiness Handbook for Health Care Professionals.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    10. ==> How You Can Avoid America’s No. 1 Killer

    Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death among American men and women? The good news is, it can be avoided, according to long-time nurse Allen Daugherty. “The American health-care system is designed to focus on diseases after they happen,” he says. “So we need to change our mindset to focus on prevention.” Allen can share the types of screenings, lifestyle changes and other preventative steps we can take before becoming another statistic. He has worked in the medical field for almost 50 years, first as a U.S. Air Force medic then as an RN and certified dialysis nurse. He is the author of “An Ounce of Prevention is Worth More Than You Can Imagine.” Contact Allen at (540) 712-8704; adaugherty@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> What Is Healthy Anger?

    Our society often frowns upon anger, especially when women express the emotion. But clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne Wilner claims that anger can be a valuable tool for promoting personal growth and one’s overall well-being if released in constructive ways. “By working with our bodies in specific ways, we can transform our anger and improve our health,” she says. “Otherwise, anger can get trapped in our psyches and cause a host of physical and mental health issues.” Karyne can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. She is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/body health. Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> This DJ Came Straight Out of Compton to Become a Loving Single Dad

    While growing up on the mean streets of Compton, Calif., amidst police brutality, gangs, drugs and a broken home, Damon Grayson managed to become a productive member of society and a devoted single father to three boys. “I was eventually able to overcome the obstacles by focusing on myself, instead of focusing on the antagonistic reality that surrounded my daily life,” he says. Damon channeled his frustrations into music by becoming a successful DJ who worked with Dr. Dre, an entrepreneur who owned many successful businesses and a relationship expert who has counseled many couples. He is the acclaimed author of “When His Ways Meet Yours: When You Love You He Will Follow Suit.” Contact Damon Grayson at (760) 490-0656; dgrayson@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Can This Hypnotherapist Really Talk to Aliens?

    Dozens of people suspect they have been visited by an alien, but do you know anyone personally who has conversed with one? Hypnotherapist and author Kryste Andrews recounts a year of gathering information from a Gray, one of the 81 extraterrestrial species currently acknowledged by experts. Working weekly with her client, former champion weightlifter Robert Nanez, Kryste was introduced to the Gray whom Robert met at the age of five. “Under hypnosis, we’ve uncovered the truth for Robert and can now share his story with the world,” she says. “His bravery may help others who suspect they are undergoing physical and emotional manipulation by aliens.” Kryste (pronounced Christy) spent 30 years as a performer/singing instructor in New York City where she prepared young singers for Broadway and international stages. Her work as a certified hypnotherapist began in 1994. She is the author of the critically acclaimed book “LEGACY Book One, Discovery: A Remote Time Viewer’s Journey to His Ancestors.” Contact Kryste Andrews at (201) 801-4551; Kandrews@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> How Our Past Lives Affect Our Current Life

    Do you frequently have a sense of déjà vu? Do you have fears or phobias that are unrelated to anything you’ve ever experienced? According to Jennifer Maag, we’ve all had past lives, and they have a profound impact on our current lives. “I believe the self-esteem you’re born with comes from the past lives you’ve already lived,” she says. “Tapping into that enables us to heal in our current existence.” Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform our inner battles into healing tools to live our best lives. Contact Jennifer Maag at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Feel Good Show: Why ‘Dirty Dancing’ Continues to Offer Hope, Optimism

    Everyone could use a shot of hope and optimism these days. Sue Tabashnik is just the person to supply it as she takes your audience back in time to relive the movie magic of “Dirty Dancing.” The movie starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey centers on a Catskills resort with a coming-of-age tale intertwined with a love story. Invite Sue to talk about the film’s enduring themes and the festivals that entice thousands of fans to gather to celebrate the film and its iconic soundtrack. She can also talk about the “Dirty Dancing” sequel planned for 2025. Sue has extensively researched “Dirty Dancing” and was the special guest speaker at a major “Dirty Dancing” festival. She met Swayze multiple times and his mother once. Among her books are “Patrick Swayze: The Dreamer” and “Patsy Swayze: Every Day, A Chance to Dance.” Contact Sue Tabashnik at (248) 617-0505; stabashnik@rtirguests.com

  • 11/28/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Taboo Talk, Holiday Engagements, Self-Care for Caregivers

    01. What Would a Hamas-Israel Peace Plan Entail?
    02. How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate
    03. Taboo: What Christians Don’t Talk About but Should
    04. Put a Hold on That Holiday Engagement
    05. Do Our Dead Relatives Visit During the Holidays?
    06. When ‘Ho, Ho, Ho’ Hurts: Grief and the Holidays
    07. How to Lose Weight During the Holidays
    08. Before You Write That Donation Check
    09. Ways to Work Smarter, Not Harder
    10. Women Are Tired of Not Being Heard
    11. Anger’s Hidden Role in Women’s Heart Disease
    12. Rewire Your Brain to Break Negative Patterns
    13. From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru
    14. How a Healing Mindset Can Change Your Life
    15. Self-Care for Caregivers: 10-Minute Rituals

    1. ==> What Would a Hamas-Israel Peace Plan Entail?

    While the world looks on with hopes that a U.S.-brokered cease-fire between Hamas and Israel will continue, Matthew Duss of the Center for International Policy can discuss what would pave the way for a resolution to the current war. He says any agreement must end Israel’s blockade and functional imprisonment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and deny Hamas the capability to launch attacks on Israel. But, he says, Israel’s stated goal of “ending Hamas” is unrealistic. “Hamas will endure as a political movement as long as the denial of Palestinian rights endures. It is not possible to ‘end’ Hamas, but it is possible to make Hamas irrelevant by addressing the anger and hopelessness on which it feeds.” He adds that any resolution would entail a reckoning with the mass civilian casualties on each side. He’ll also discuss how Washington must reorient its policies to reaffirm rules-based international order and end its practice of merely criticizing Israel’s deepening occupation and instead take concrete steps to stop it. Matthew Duss has been a visiting scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a foreign policy adviser to U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Contact him at Duss@internationalpolicy.org

    2. ==> How to Prevent Bias from Turning to Hate

    The shooting of three Palestinian college students in Vermont is just the latest in an alarming rise in hate crimes since the Hamas-Israel war started in October. The Anti-Defamation League reports that incidents of anti-Semitic harassment, vandalism and assault have increased by an astounding 388%. With so much chaos and destruction going on in the world right now, is it any wonder that people are lashing out? Sara Ting says the current world climate doesn’t have to lead to hate. “I can share what each of us can do to create a more peaceful world,” she says. “I have developed a tool that takes 10 seconds or less to help cultivate a mindset to value all people equally.” Sara is a diversity and inclusion educator, speaker, consultant and the author of “Small Book with a Big Idea: 5 Minute Training to Empower You and Transform the World.” She is also the founder and president of World Unity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the elimination of all forms of bigotry. Contact Sara Ting at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com

    3. ==> Taboo: What Christians Don’t Talk About but Should

    Many people keep their personal struggles hidden from view and battle them silently, but pastor and author Mike Novotny says that causes isolation and loneliness and can hinder the development of relationships and a community that can provide comfort and guidance. “We should share our struggles. Talk about hard things. With other people. People who love us. People we trust,” he says. “Keeping these secrets not only leads us to feel alone, it damages our faith, witness and leadership, too. Because, when we present a facade of perfection while privately struggling, it destroys our credibility in the eyes of others.” Novotny can discuss why many churches fail to address topics like abortion, suicide, transgenderism, homosexuality, sex, pornography, race, depression, and politics — all of the things we struggle with and would rather not talk about — and how healing often begins with acknowledging and sharing our struggles. Mike Novotny is the lead speaker for Time of Grace, an independent, donor-funded global media ministry. His new book is “Taboo: Topics Christians Should be Talking About but Don’t.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@ jonesliterary.com

    4. ==> Put a Hold on That Holiday Engagement

    Did you know that the majority of marriage proposals are made during the holiday season? Many people would take this as an omen of prosperity and cheer, but a holiday engagement could signify some red flags in a relationship. Research psychologist, psychoanalytic therapist, and relationship therapist Dr. Frieda Birnbaum can share her perspective on the upcoming engagement season and the best ways to decipher if you and your partner are truly ready to tie the knot! Dr. Frieda is a seasoned media personality and commentator and, notably, the oldest woman in America to give birth to twins. The mother of five, her youngest sons were born when she was 60, lending her a unique perspective on issues related to parenting and the empowerment of women at any age. She’s the author of “Life Begins at 60: A New View of Motherhood, Marriage, and Reinventing Ourselves” and “What Price Power: An In-Depth Study of the Professional Woman in a Relationship.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

    5. ==> Do Our Dead Relatives Visit During the Holidays?

    This time of year brings up a lot of memories and emotions, especially about people who are no longer with us. Many of us have dreamt about a lost loved one, felt the presence of someone who has passed on, or experienced other seemingly inexplicable messages from the dearly departed. While it’s common to chalk this up to mere nonsense, psychic medium and author June Edward claims that this is not your imagination playing tricks. “You can’t see the air you breathe, but it’s there,” she says. “It’s the same with souls that have passed on. They are standing right next to you!” June can share why we may feel our departed loved ones more often this time of year, how to communicate with them, and how this can vastly improve your life. She is the author of “All’s Fair in Love & Karma: 5 Steps to Relationship Mastery,” which has been endorsed by best-selling author John Gray. Contact June Edward at (508) 544-0189; jedward@rtirguests.com

    6. ==> When “Ho, Ho, Ho” Hurts: Grief and the Holidays

    The holidays hit hard when you’re grieving the loss of a loved one or have recently suffered a serious setback like the loss of a job or health issues. Unfortunately, the majority of advice for conquering the aftermath of life’s worst curveballs does not address grief at all. Frank DiMaio can help your audience recover from the big things and find ways to enjoy the holidays — and life. He developed a way to help anyone move forward from being emotionally stuck in grief. Frank’s new book is “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> How to Lose Weight During the Holidays

    The pies! The egg nog! The stuffing! So much of the run-up to the holidays involves food including family favorites that just reading about them may make you think of gaining weight. But Laura Pickett — who lost 80 pounds and has kept them off — is here to tell you that you can lose weight during the holidays and do it without giving up your favorite foods. “The holidays don’t mean you have to abandon your weight-loss goals,” Laura says, and she’ll explain what you need to do to enjoy holiday foods without the guilt or excess pounds. Laura Pickett is the author of “Get Over Weight (12 Steps to Finally Win the Weight Battle and Win at Life)” and the creator of a coaching and mentoring program on the topic. She has spent more than 30 years in the ministry and made multiple appearances on TBN’s national and local network (in Atlanta), and WATV. Contact Laura Pickett at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Before You Write That Donation Check

    It may be the season of giving, but you should know where your dollars go. Those who donate to charities that are dear to their hearts always have the best of intentions but are the funds actually making an impact? “There are more than 1.7 million public charities in our country, and many of them overlap services with others and need to compete for donor dollars and grants,” says nonprofit expert and author Michele Whetzel. “People need to do their homework before donating to organizations. Charities should be findable and transparent and should register and share their financials on sites like Guidestar.org and CharityNavigator.org.” Michele is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting and author of the book “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Contact Michele Whetzel at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Ways to Work Smarter, Not Harder

    Our society has long believed that working long hours, toiling through stress and generally busting your butt on the job are the keys to success. But according to Gerald Leonard, these are myths. “This only leads to burnout and low productivity,” he says. “Finding balance and mindfulness in your life overall are the true keys to success.” Gerald has devised tried-and-true strategies for managers and their teams to bring creativity and joy to their projects, which results in greater success for all. He can also share the future of workplace trends, as careers move more toward project-based roles. He is a certified Portfolio Management Professional and professional bass player, and author of “A Symphony of Choices,” “Workplace Jazz” and “Culture is the Bass.” Contact Gerald Leonard at (443) 703-2929; gleonard@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Women Are Tired of Not Being Heard

    It’s no secret that women struggle to be heard. Society teaches girls to be polite and agreeable and not make a fuss, even when a situation is challenging — or just plain wrong. If your audience is looking to reclaim their power in the workplace, at home, and beyond, you need to hear from Francesca Burack. The author of “Women Are Special: 123 Reasons Why” can share advice, tips, and encouragement to help women find, own, and use their voices with confidence. Ask her: What can women do to speak up in one-sided relationships, whether it’s at work or with family? How can women approach difficult conversations in the workplace, such as asking for raises, promotions, or benefits? An author, entrepreneur, educator, and popular speaker, Francesca Burack has been featured on major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox News. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Anger’s Hidden Role in Women’s Heart Disease

    Heart disease is the number one killer of women. According to clinical psychologist Dr. Karyne B. Wilner, anger is one well-known factor in women’s heart disease, along with our culture’s role in suppressing it. “Anger creates stress in the body that can lead to physical and emotional health problems,” she says. She can share body-based techniques to release anger in ways that lead to greater health overall. Karyne is the author of the upcoming book “Releasing Toxic Anger for Women: Body-Based Practices to Transform Negative Thoughts, Soothe Stress, and Stay True to Yourself.” She is a leader in the field of Core Energetics and mind/health. Ask her: What is Core Energetics? What techniques can women use to overcome the toxic effects of anger? What are some tools to reduce stress? Contact Karyne Wilner at (401) 305-2278; kwilner@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Rewire Your Own Brain to Break Negative Patterns

    Are you feeling stuck in an unhappy job, relationship, or other unpleasant situation? Does it seem like the circumstances will never be right for you to find the perfect partner, the perfect career, or the perfect life? Luckily, you don’t have to wait for the opportunity to come to you. Learn how to make your own opportunities for breaking free from anything that holds you back when you interview Laura Brennan Ballet. The author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura is an experienced life coach and frequent media guest who helps people connect with their personal power to achieve anything, simply by changing the way they think about it. She’ll show your audience not only how to think differently but to actually recalibrate their brains and reach for their dreams with intent. You’ll hear why we all become algorithms of the people around us, how to reclaim your authentic self, and how to move past disappointment and live your life with zero regrets. Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435; lballet@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> From ‘Dumb Jock’ to Ivy League Success Guru

    Former Ivy League scholar and pro football player John Nicholas had no plan for success at 16 when he crashed into a house during a Halloween night car chase with police. But then he discovered keys that launched him toward academic and athletic success and building sports media and real estate companies worth millions. He credits something he calls Personal Convergence, a dynamic force similar to nuclear fusion, that has fueled high-impact people throughout history and can help us target and direct our lives today. John’s upcoming book “Hit Your Bullseye!” shares how you can harness this power to achieve your ultimate life, career, business, or calling. John has appeared on ABC News, CBS News, syndicated radio, and numerous podcasts. He also wrote the popular book, “Debt-Free ASAP!” Contact him at (214) 225-9991; Jnicholas@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> How a Healing Mindset Can Change Your Life

    Science has shown that a mind-body connection exists and your emotions can impact your physical health, but how much does it actually help? Discover the real power of positive thinking when you interview Stan Munslow. After helping his father beat 30% survival odds and fully recover from Stage 4 lymphoma, Stan shares his methods for faster recovery from surgery, chronic conditions, or serious illness — and improved health overall. Discover powerful techniques to optimize your mind-body connection and reclaim your health. Ask him: How can your thoughts help you decrease pain, recovery time, and even your health-care costs? Why does being the “perfect patient” help you shorten and improve a hospital experience? Stan Munslow is the author of “Get Weller Sooner: 12 Powerful, Proven Ways to Speed and Improve Your Recovery from Illness or Surgery?” Contact him at (401) 337-7436; smunslow@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Self-Care for Caregivers: 10-Minute Rituals

    There are currently over 50 million people providing unpaid care to a sick or aging loved one in the United States and studies show that at least 40% to 70% of family caregivers report symptoms of anxiety or depression — that’s a whole lot of stressed-out caregivers! As the primary caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease, Alexandra Free suffered from daily panic attacks and depression. One particularly bad day, she decided something had to change and she started putting self-care at the top of her caregiving to-do list. Alexandra can discuss the importance of self-care for caregivers and share simple 10-minute rituals she created to help caregivers (and non-caregivers) create some peace in the middle of whatever chaos life is throwing at them. Alexandra is a self-care advocate, caregiving expert, and the author of “From Zero to Zen: A Guide to Help You Thrive as a Caregiver.” Contact Alexandra Free at (310) 922-5637; lex@alexandrafree.com