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01. Biden Touts Inclusive Internationalism
02. Menendez Indictment and Egypt
03. Holiday Hiring Outlook: Amazon Jobs Aplenty, But What Else?
04. Return to the Office? Remote Workers Revolt
05. NPR Host: The Power and Politics of Seeds
06. All Your Artificial Intelligence Questions Answered
07. The New Law That Deprives Families of Religious Liberty
08. 5 Simple Strategies to Take Control of Your Health
09. Warning Signs of Doggy Dementia
10. Can You Be Addicted to Being Unhappy?
11. This Psychologist Shares the Real Causes of Depression
12. How to Think Yourself Healthy
13. Herbs to Live Longer and Stronger
14. Is a Color-Blind Society Possible?
15. 5 Tips to Raise Good Kids in Bad Times

1.==> Biden Touts Inclusive Internationalism

Amid renewed calls for changes in the world order, President Joe Biden used his opening address to the U.N. General Assembly to stress his support for greater inclusion of developing nations in addressing economic, social, and climate concerns. Esther Brimmer says, “For presidents advocating an internationalist foreign policy, the annual speech is a moment to reinforce a fundamental tenet of mainstream American foreign policy: that benevolent hegemony benefits the world at large. Biden’s speech was a classic of the internationalist mode.” Brimmer can discuss the four main issues Biden addressed and how the absence of the four other leaders of the U.N. Security Council’s five permanent, veto-wielding members — China, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom — allowed Biden the chance to reinforce the image of the United States as a unique global power. Esther Brimmer’s career spans government, academia, and non-governmental organization leadership. She is the James H. Binger senior fellow in global governance at the Council on Foreign Relations. Contact her at ebrimmer@cfr.org

2. ==> Menendez Indictment and Egypt

Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) refuses to step down despite a federal corruption indictment. The three-count indictment, which also charges the senator’s wife and three New Jersey businessmen, accuses him of using his official position in a wide range of corrupt schemes at home and abroad. One of them alleges he provided sensitive U.S. government information and took other steps that secretly aided the government of Egypt. Professor of politics at the University of San Francisco Stephen Zunes says, “Menendez’s indictment for passing on sensitive government information to strengthen the el-Sisi regime underscores the often-overlooked bipartisan support for Egypt’s brutal dictatorship — one of the most repressive in the world.” Zunes can discuss the charges against Menendez, his controversial role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and why the charges involving Egypt are particularly disturbing. Stephen Zunes wrote the piece “One of the Democrats’ Biggest Hawks Is Now Senate Foreign Relations Chair.” Contact Stephen Zunes at zunes@usfca.edu

3. ==> Holiday Hiring Outlook: Amazon Jobs Aplenty, But What Else?

As the 2023 holiday season kicks off, the labor market is starting to cool and employers are hiring at a slower clip. So what does this mean for the seasonal job market? “With inflation slowing, companies, particularly retailers, won’t be able to pass increased labor costs to the consumer as easily. This could lead to more cuts, rather than more added positions, as evidenced by the increase in job cuts in this sector,” says Andrew Challenger, a workplace and labor expert. He predicts retailers will add the lowest number of jobs since 2008. “Seasonal employers have a few issues to grapple with in the coming months. One is the cost of labor limiting desire to add workers. Another is whether consumers continue to spend at the same clip. Another is one that has been fairly constant since the pandemic: can they attract workers?” says Challenger. One outlier this year is Amazon, which says it plans to hire 250,000 workers this holiday season, the largest number since the fourth quarter of 2012. Andrew Challenger is the senior vice president of global outplacement and executive and business coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

4.==> Return to the Office? Remote Workers Revolt

More and more companies are cracking down on remote work with many now requiring workers to put in at least a few days in the office. But a substantial number of employees are pushing back with walkouts and resignations, despite the tightening job market. “I’m not surprised at all,” Prithwiraj Choudhury, a Harvard Business School professor who studies the future of work, says about workers quitting. “By mandating these rigid policies, you’re risking your top performers and diversity. It just doesn’t make sense.” As companies debate the pros and cons of remote work, Choudhury says the question isn’t whether work from anywhere is possible, but what is needed to make it possible. “The short answer,” he says, “is management.” Contact Prithwiraj (Raj) Choudhury at (617) 495-3656; @prithwic

5. ==> NPR Host: The Power and Politics of Seeds

As we navigate the climate crisis, a sharp decline in biodiversity, financial uncertainty, and social unrest, maybe it’s time to reconsider what humans need most. Gardening expert Jennifer Jewel believes that hope can be found in the humblest of forms — the simple seed. The host of NPR’s “Cultivating Place,” Jewell reveals the power of seeds in our world “for food, for medicine, for utility, for the vast interconnected web we include in the concept of biodiversity and planetary health, for beauty, and for culture.” She can discuss the natural history of seeds, loopholes in the seed supply chain for growing “organic” plants, and the efforts of activists working to regain legal access to heirloom seeds that were stolen from Indigenous peoples and people of color. Jennifer Jewell is a gardener, garden writer, gardening educator and advocate. Her new book is “What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds.” Contact Johana Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> All Your Artificial Intelligence Questions Answered

It’s been several months since AI chatbots became available to the general public and experts say there’s no turning back now. What exactly is artificial intelligence and is it good or bad for the future? Invite Calum Chace to discuss the big picture and how AI is likely to play out in the years to come. He can discuss the role AI played in the Hollywood Writers’ strike and how big tech and governments are responding to the new technology. Calum Chace is a sought-after keynote speaker and best-selling writer on artificial intelligence. He focuses on the medium- and long-term impact of AI on us, society and the economy. He is the author of several books on artificial intelligence including “Surviving AI,” about strong AI and super intelligence, and “The Economic Singularity,” about the prospect of widespread technological unemployment. Contact him at cccalum@gmail.com

7. ==> The New Law That Deprives Families of Religious Liberty

A Texas law went into effect this month that allows public schools to replace counselors with chaplains and to use funds earmarked for school safety and mental health to pay them. There are no requirements or training required outside of a background check, and chaplains are not barred from proselytizing. Lawmakers in at least two other states are pushing similar bills and more than a dozen states currently have laws requiring schools to display “In God We Trust” signs. Amanda Tyler, a constitutional lawyer and Baptist leader committed to religious liberty, says it’s all part of a resurgence of Christian nationalism, which conflates American and Christian identities. “The very premise that the government plays a role in religious affairs betrays the foundational values of religious freedom.” She says, “Christian nationalism is a powerful ideology in a majority-Christian nation. But I’m hopeful that most Americans — of all faiths and no faith — do not want the government deciding religious matters for our families.” Amanda Tyler is the lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism. Contact Guthrie Graves-Fitzsimmons at guthrie@BJConline.org

8. ==> 5 Simple Strategies to Take Control of Your Health

Did you know 7 of the 10 leading causes of death and disability worldwide are almost entirely preventable? And yet for the first time in over 100 years our human life expectancy — despite our amazing medical technology and treatment options — is going down. Dr. Thomas Hemingway believes much of the destiny of our health is in our own hands. Invite him on your show to hear how health and wellness are both possible and sustainable through simple strategies that address the root cause of health challenges. Hemingway, a board-certified physician and wellness expert, will discuss the importance of gut health, how to restart your metabolism, and how to sleep better and develop a smarter approach to stress. Hemingway has appeared on numerous radio shows and podcasts, and hosts his own podcast, “Unshakable Health.” His latest book is “Preventable! Five Powerful Practices to Avoid Disease and Build Unshakeable Health.” Contact him at (808) 652-1506; alohasurfdoc@gmail.com

9. ==> Warning Signs of Doggy Dementia

Have you noticed strange behaviors in your older furry friends? Has Fido been getting lost in the house? Have you found him sitting there, staring at the wall? Does he seem to randomly forget his house training after going years without an accident? Drastic behavioral changes in older animals may point to a more serious issue — canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, also known as dog dementia. Integrative veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne says elderly pets can experience brain changes similar to Alzheimer’s disease in people, which can affect their temperament, behavior and quality of life. She’ll share her expertise on how to spot the warning signs of degenerative diseases in your senior pets and what treatments are available. She’ll also discuss ways to keep your pet’s brain healthy with exercise, games and toys, and new experiences. Carole Osborne, DVM, is an author and Emmy-nominated television journalist. She has appeared on many shows including “Fox & Friends,” “Today” and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

10. ==> Can You Be Addicted to Being Unhappy?

Everyone wants to be happy. But many people are unwittingly addicted to unhappiness. We all do things we think will make us happy (but don’t) while avoiding things we believe lead to unhappiness (but also don’t). And so, the cycle continues, and we never realize how far away from happiness we truly are. Jennifer Hughes reveals good news: You can choose happiness! A certified success trainer and life coach, and the author of “Choose Happy: Be This, Not That; Increase Your Happiness, Strengthen Your Relationships, Achieve Your Dreams,” she’ll share the real, surprising secrets of happiness that anyone can accomplish. You’ll learn why making mistakes is good, being right is wrong, and looking for who’s at fault keeps you miserable. You’ll also hear how to unlearn deceptive choices that seem right, but actually block satisfaction and deliver disappointment. Interview this eye-opening guest to find out what’s been keeping you from being happy with your life. Contact Jennifer Hughes at (480) 745-2113; jhughes@rtirguests.com

11. ==> This Psychologist Shares the Real Causes of Depression

Depression has reached epidemic proportions in modern society. According to psychologist/author Adriana Popescu: “Depression and issues such as low self-esteem and addiction are not just caused by mental distress. There are many other contributing factors such as hormone imbalances, and disruptions in the mind/body/spirit connection overall.” Adriana is a licensed clinical psychologist, addiction and trauma specialist, speaker, thought leader and empowerment coach, and author of the critically acclaimed book “What If You’re Not as F***ed Up As You Think You Are?: How We Come to Believe Lies About Ourselves and What We Can Do to Change Them.” Contact Adriana Popescu at (415) 707-5054; Apopescu@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How to Think Yourself Healthy

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. ==> Herbs to Live Longer and Stronger

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

14. ==> Is a Color-Blind Society Possible?

While bigotry is on the rise across the globe, author Sara Ting claims that there is hope for peace and harmony. “All humans have unconscious biases,” she says. “I have developed a tool that organizations can offer to their colleagues 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 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

15. ==> 5 Tips to Raise Good Kids in Bad Times

With the perils of social media, bullying and over-worked and overwhelmed parents, it’s not easy being a kid in today’s chaotic world. But author/parenting expert Jerry Bures can offer tips for making the journey smoother. “It’s important to not just hear your kids, but actually listen to them,” he says. “It’s also important to set limits, without being overly strict.” Jerry is the author of “When Kids Leave Clues: 26 Timeless Stories of Inspiration & Essential Life Lessons Taught to Us by Our Own Children.” Contact Jerry Bures at (920) 796-9160; jbures@rtirguests.com

 

01. ‘Scamanda’ Creator on ‘El Chapo’ Podcast Season 2
02. ‘Black Hawk Down’ Hero Tom Satterly
03. UAW Strike: How a 4-Day Workweek Could Benefit All Workers
04. For Theater Geeks: Before They Were Stars
05. New CDC Guidance for Health Workers Raises Concerns
06. When Religion Meets Tech: The Faith Code
07. What’s So Great About Popeyes?
08. Being Fired Changed His Life for the Better
09. How You Can Achieve What the Top 1% Does
10. So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit …
11. Has Informed Consent Gone Too Far?
12. Why Black Dads Get a Bad Rap
13. Get Off the ‘Weight List’ for Good
14. Death, Divorce, Disaster: How to Right Your Life After a Major Wrong
15. Surprising Ways Your Past Life Can Affect Your Current Life

1. ==> ‘Scamanda’ Creator on ‘El Chapo’ Podcast Season 2

Get ready for season 2 of the hit podcast “Surviving El Chapo: The Twins Who Brought Down a Drug Lord.” “Scamanda” podcast creator Charlie Webster and artist and producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson serve as executive producers and co-hosts of the podcast. They tell the story of identical twins Jay and Pete Flores, Boston-born cocaine traffickers who became government informants to bring down the infamous drug lord, “El Chapo.” The new season delves deeper into the twins’ astonishing story and the fallout affecting the people around them after they were faced with a choice: essentially become “El Chapo” or change their lives forever and cooperate against him. Invite Charlie on your show and have her share what listeners can expect this season including what really happened during the years of cooperation to get “El Chapo” behind bars, and what it was like to come face-to-face with the powerful drug lord in court. Charlie Webster is an investigative journalist and broadcaster. Contact Kevin Broderick at kevin@lippingroup.com or Katie Fuchs at kfuchs@lippingroup.com

2. ==> ‘Black Hawk Down’ Hero Tom Satterly

Depicted in the 2001 Oscar-winning film, “Black Hawk Down,” Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Tom Satterly led hundreds of critical military campaigns, including Operation Red Dawn, which led to the capture of Saddam Hussein. For 20-plus years a member of Delta Force — the most elite and secretive special operations force in the U.S. military — he was the recipient of 64 medals, including a Silver Star, four Bronze Stars, and one for Valorous Acts. But the military hero says when he finally got back home, he struggled to reclaim his life. He and his wife, Jen, have spent many years in counseling and therapy battling complex PTS and are serving Special Operations Warriors and their families (what do you mean by serving them?) Tom Satterly details his and other veterans’ desperate attempts to overcome PTS, addiction, relationship issues, and other mental health issues in his book, “All Secure: A Special Operations Soldier’s Fight to Survive on the Battlefield and the Homefront.” Contact Lauren Manley at Lauren@allsecurefoundation.org.

3. ==> UAW Strike: How a 4-Day Workweek Could Benefit All Workers

One of the union’s demands in the ongoing United Auto Worker strike is that members receive the same pay for a 32-hour workweek that they once did for 40. Economist Kate Bahn says the move is audacious, but would automatically raise workers’ earnings by at least 20%, likely increase the number of workers employed at auto manufacturing plants and cut into oversized inefficient corporate profits. Bahn can discuss what that would mean for our economy in the long run and why the simple yet significant policy change could pump the brakes on decades of increasing income inequality and a decline in labor’s share of income. Kate Bahn is research director at WorkRise, a research-to-action network hosted by the Urban Institute. Contact Archana Pyati at apyati@urban.org

4.==> For Theater Geeks: Before They Were Stars

Joe Papp and his wife Gail founded the Public Theater in New York City, and for 26 years worked to build what has become a famous theatrical institution that launched the careers of many notable stars. Invite Gail to share an inside look at the early years of the Public when plays such as “A Chorus Line” were just starting and then little-known actors were making their way in show business. Gail and Joe’s production genius was responsible for an extraordinary body of work that launched the careers of dozens of actors including James Earl Jones, Morgan Freeman, Mandy Patinkin, Kevin Kline and Meryl Streep. Hear what went on behind the curtain and how the Public Theater became a transformative beacon for social change. Gail’s new book is “Public/Private: My Life with Joe Papp at the Public Theater.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

5. ==> New CDC Guidance for Health Workers Raises Concerns

A recent CDC draft concluded that N95 face masks are equivalent to looser, surgical face masks, but nurses, researchers, and workplace safety officers worry new guidelines will harm patients and providers. The newest recommendations hinge on studies that directly contradict the CDC’s own 2022 report, which indicated that N95s do significantly cut the risk of transmission. Former OSHA Deputy Assistant Secretary Jordan Barab says, “It’s very clear that COVID-19 is not just transmitted through droplets that fall to the ground, but also through aerosolized transmission, which persist in the air for longer and can travel further distances. In that case, a loose-fitting surgical mask isn’t as effective.” If the CDC’s new draft goes into effect, it may conflict with guidelines from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). OSHA “can mandate whatever it wants to mandate,” Barab says, “and that takes precedence over CDC recommendations. The trouble is that the two agencies shouldn’t really require different things, and they need to figure that out.” Barab was the OSHA deputy assistant secretary from 2009 to 2017. He writes “Confined Space,” a newsletter about workplace safety and labor. Contact him at jbarab@gmail.com; @jbarab

6. ==> When Religion Meets Tech: The Faith Code

Longtime Bay-area pastor Terry Brisbane and Silicon Valley tech executive, investor and philanthropist Rusty Rueff have met for coffee for the last decade to talk about their lives, ambitions and missions. And to pray together. Dedication to these meetings has resulted in a deep friendship between two very different people on various ends of politics and culture. While their relationship is a wonderful model for the rest of us — particularly as we dive headlong into another ugly election cycle — there are many other interesting topics they can discuss. Ask them: Are AI pastors and sermons around the corner? Should they be? How does technology most benefit — and degrade —us? Is there danger in efficiency? Terry Brisbane and Rusty Rueff are the authors of “The Faith Code.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com

7. ==> What’s So Great About Popeyes?

In 2019, the popularity of Popeyes fast-food restaurants exploded with the introduction of a new chicken sandwich. But the buttermilk coating isn’t the only reason Americans continue to patronize the chain in droves. Sue Anderson says the company’s leadership model had a huge hand in Popeyes’ expansion across the country as well as their continued success. She’ll talk turkey — er, chicken on the power behind Popeyes’ skyrocketing popularity, along with other companies that use servant leadership to put their employees first. An author and certified business coach with years of experience transforming companies, Susan reveals how businesses like Popeyes, The Four Seasons, Zappos, Costco, and many more realize incredible profits, retention, and more by prioritizing staff. Ask her: How did Popeyes’ CEO Cheryl Bachelder turn a struggling restaurant chain into a success story? Why do businesses choose top-down leadership when the opposite is proven to work? How can servant leadership deliver the kind of workplace experiences Gen Z and millennials are looking for today? Contact Susan Anderson at (678) 999-8143; sanderson@rtirguests.com

8. ==> 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

9. ==> How You Can Achieve What the Top 1% Does

If you want to live the best years of your life starting now and suffer fewer disappointments, you need to start setting good goals. “Setting goals makes us better and people deserve to have good things in their lives,” says Winifred Bragg, a medical doctor and author of “Dreams Without Goals Are Nightmares.” Dr. Bragg can share how to get started by using TheBraggFactor®, her five-step system for goal achievement in all areas of life. Ask her: What are the four most important questions to ask yourself about setting goals? How can you create habits that make it easier to reach your goals? A nationally recognized speaker, she has appeared in numerous TV and print media and has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX. She has been quoted as an expert in “Redbook,” “Women’s World,” and “Self” magazine. Contact Winifred Bragg at (757) 434-7425; drbragg@thebraggfactor.com

10. ==> So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit …

Tragic events like school shootings and natural disasters often lead everyday people to start nonprofits. But while this may be a noble endeavor, it’s not right for everyone. “Starting and running a new nonprofit is hard, so maybe people should think about doing something else with their passion project,” says author and nonprofit consultant Michele Whetzel. “Consider that there may be a way to have a successful program to fulfill your charitable ambition without all that is required to start and run a stand-alone public charity.” Michele can offer invaluable advice about how to pursue your passion project, without the headaches. She is a veteran of the nonprofit arena, founder of Your 501 Guide consulting and author of the upcoming book “So, You Want to Start a Nonprofit, Now What?” Ask her: What are examples of good nonprofits? What are some better alternative projects? Contact Michele at (302) 407-0513; Mwhetzel@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Has Informed Consent Gone Too Far?

In the modern world, informed consent lets patients participate in their own health care by knowing all their treatment options and any associated risks. However, full transparency in medicine can overwhelm patients and lead to poor decision-making. Is it really the best policy? Dr. Dinesh Verma reveals why we’ve taken informed consent too far. He’ll talk about the damage caused when patients fail to trust medical experts, often resulting in the refusal of lifesaving treatment. He also discusses the right way to implement under-used alternative therapies in combination with modern medicine for astonishing results. A medical doctor with 45 years in practice and 18 years of integrative medicine research and experience, Verma’s latest book is “Ipsicura Effect.” Ask him: Why should more health-care professionals use the placebo effect in their practice? How did your mother miraculously recover from late-stage breast cancer? How can patients feel better, heal faster, and even save money on medical expenses? Contact Dinesh Verma at (248) 817-8296; dverma@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Why Black Dads Get a Bad Rap

Historical stereotypes perpetuated by American culture claim that Black men are absent from the home and are bad dads because of it. Author Damon Grayson says: “Imprisonment has taken many Black fathers away from the family, which results in a lack of the male figure in the home. Plus, the media often portray Black men in a negative way.” Damon is a hands-on single dad of three sons who overcame growing up on the mean streets of Compton, Calif., to become a successful DJ, entrepreneur and 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. ==> Get Off the ‘Weight List’ for Good

Laura Pickett struggled with her weight for years, peaking at 225 pounds. She has gone on to lose 70 pounds and maintain that weight loss, counseling hundreds of women on weight loss and marital challenges. Invite Laura on your program to share why anyone looking to lose weight needs to look inward to discover what is truly eating them that is causing them to linger on the “weight list.” Laura 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 membership 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. Ask her: Why are so many people eating in the dark without realizing it? What are the real reasons so many of us struggle with our weight? Why is forgiveness an integral part of losing weight? Contact Laura Pickett at (404) 856-5781; lpickett@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Death, Divorce, Disaster: How to Right Your Life After a Major Wrong

Life can throw some serious problems at you. When you suffer a setback, whether it’s divorce, losing a job, surviving a disaster, ending a relationship, or struggling with life-altering health issues, grief is a huge part of the process. 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 handle the big things and move toward emotional prosperity. He developed a way to help anyone embrace the negative to achieve the positive. An author and professional speaker, Frank holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and shares proven methods to heal from tragedy. Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Surprising Ways Your Past Life Can Affect Your 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

01. The Iran Hostage Release Explained
02. What’s Behind the UAW Strike
03. Dads Are Lonelier Than Ever. Here’s What Could Help
04. The Rise of Single-Parent Families Is Not a Good Thing
05. Got Behind on Your Bills? Beware Credit ‘Repair’ Services
06. Was Patrick Swayze a Hero?
07. Why Superman, Batman, and Spider Man Are So Popular
08. Concentration Camps in America: What You Don’t Know
09. The Real Reason Guns Are the No. 1 Killer of Children
10. Work Talk: How to Speak Up and Have Difficult Conversations
11. What Today’s Workers Really Want (and Bosses Just Don’t Get)
12. Think Like a Doctor to Save Time, Money, and Maybe Your Life!
13. Protect Yourself from this Hidden Health Threat
14. Why Don’t Most People Take Their Happiness Seriously?
15. Don’t Book a Cruise Before Hearing From This Travel Expert

1.==> The Iran Hostage Release Explained

Five U.S. citizens detained by Iran were freed Monday in a high-stakes, complex diplomatic deal brokered between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Biden administration. The deal included the transfer of $6 billion in unfrozen Iranian oil assets and the release of five Iranians facing charges in the U.S. Ray Takeyh, senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, can discuss why the Americans were being held, why the $6 billion was frozen, and what the deal means for U.S-Iran relations. Ray Takeyh’s areas of specialization are Iran, U.S. foreign policy, and the modern Middle East. He is the author of several books including his latest, “The Last Shah: America, Iran and the Fall of the Pahlavi Dynasty.” Contact him at (202) 509-8432; rtakeyh@cfr.org

2. ==> What’s Behind the UAW Strike

A labor strike against the three largest motor vehicle manufacturers in the United States carried into a fourth day on Monday amid ongoing negotiations to reach a deal. Maximillian Alvarez, editor-in-chief of The Real News Network, has been reporting on the prospect of a United Auto Workers strike. He can discuss the latest developments in the walkout, how long the strike is likely to last, and the biggest sticking points in negotiations. The Real News Network is a nonprofit media organization. Maximillian Alvarez started the podcast Working People and was previously an associate editor at the Chronicle Review. Contact him at max@therealnews.com; @maximillian_alv

3. ==> Dads Are Lonelier Than Ever. Here’s What Could Help

Experts have been sounding the alarm about an epidemic of male loneliness for years. Richard Reeves calls it a “friendship deficiency” and says fatherhood can be particularly difficult without the deep friendships that help us get through the ups and downs of life. The author of “Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It,” notes that women have made tremendous strides in equality over the past 50 years but men haven’t kept up with the changing world and as a result their connections have deteriorated. “We have to change the story of fatherhood. The model of fatherhood needs to be more hands-on,” he says. Reeves believes one way to help men is to encourage them to take on caregiver roles like teachers, nurses and paid childcare workers. “I recognize that there is a lot to overcome to accomplish this,” he says. “It means that society must see a father’s worth beyond a paycheck and a stereotyped buffoon.” Richard Reeves is also a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and president of the American Institute for Boys and Men. Contact Shannon Meraw at (202) 797-6414; smeraw@brookings.edu

4. ==> The Rise of Single-Parent Families Is Not a Good Thing

Families look a lot different than they did a few generations ago. The share of American children living with married parents has fallen to 63% and roughly a quarter of children now live in a one-parent home, more than any other country for which data is available. Economist Melissa Kearney says that’s a problem. “Children from single-parent homes have more behavioral problems, are more likely to get in trouble at school or with the law, achieve lower levels of education and tend to earn lower incomes in adulthood.” She says efforts to promote acceptance of different family arrangements are well-intentioned but actually hurt those who could need help. “The result is the widespread normalization of one-parent homes outside the college-educated class and woefully little public support for programs aimed at strengthening families.” Melissa Kearney is an economics professor at the University of Maryland and the author of the upcoming book “The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind.” Contact her at (301) 405-6202; kearney@umd.edu or the University of Chicago Press publicity office at (773) 702-7740; press_publicity@uchicago.edu

5. ==> Got Behind in Your Bills? Beware Credit ‘Repair’ Services

Delinquencies on credit card debt have risen to prepandemic levels and there has been a steady increase in demand for credit counseling services. But what about a credit “repair” services? “Consumers should be aware those services charge fees up front,” says Andrew Pizor, senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center. The repair companies’ efforts may work, but any benefit is often temporary and if the negative information is accurate, there’s generally no way to have it erased. Paying for credit repair, he says, is “really a waste of money for the vast majority of people.” Find out how you can dispute mistakes on your credit report and have the errors corrected for free, why consumers should be skeptical of debt “settlement” companies and how to get advice from a nonprofit consumer credit counseling agency. The National Consumer Law Center is an American nonprofit organization specializing in consumer issues on behalf of low-income people. Contact Stephen Rouzer at srouzer@nclc.org

6. ==> Was Patrick Swayze a Hero?

Most people know Patrick Swayze from the movies “Dirty Dancing” “Ghost” and “Road House.” They are aware that he often played heroes on screen but few know that he was a real-life hero too. Interview Sue Tabashnik, author of “Patrick Swayze: The Dreamer,” to share the many reasons he was and continues to be an inspiration to many, more than 20 years after his death. As she will explain, Patrick was one of the first celebrities to talk about battling pancreatic cancer. He advocated for more funding for research for better early detection and new treatment for pancreatic cancer, and by example showed more openness about discussing the cancer’s impact on lives. Ask her: What was it like to meet Patrick four times? Why do you consider him a hero? How can Patrick’s life be an inspiration to all of us? What can you tell us about his advocacy for dance, conservation, and traditional values? Contact Sue Tabashnik at (248) 617-0505; stabashnik@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Why Superman, Batman, and Spider Man Are So Popular

Superman, Batman, and Spiderman movies are reliable box-office hits for good reason. Americans just can’t get enough of superheroes who at their heart are all about helping humanity. But superheroes are not merely great entertainment. They are also good role models, asserts author Jim B. North, because they can inspire us to be unsung heroes in our own lives and those who surround us. North says, “When you are determined to serve others, you are not mild-mannered but bold … and will unleash your own hidden superpowers.” He says that a lot of people underestimate themselves and their impact on others. Jim’s new book, “Unsung Heroes Wear No Capes,” offers insights and stories about real people who illustrate 12 essential virtues heroes exhibit that we can emulate. His leadership and management background spans 25 years. 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. ==> Concentration Camps in America: What You Don’t Know

How would you feel if the unthinkable of concentration camps happened right here in America? Well, they did, and John Suzuki warns they could happen again. Invite him on your show and hear how more than 122,000 innocent people, including 50,000 American children, were rounded up and incarcerated in concentration camps in America during World War II because of their race. The author of “American Grit: From a Japanese American Concentration Camp Rises an American War Hero” can discuss this significant and shameful historical episode as a terrifying example of racism and prejudice and share the story of the brave young men who volunteered from the camps to fight —and die — for the U.S. Army while their families remained imprisoned in the camps by the U.S. Army. Contact John Suzuki at (425) 985-1465; John@JohnSuzuki.com

9. ==> The Real Reason Guns Are the No. 1 Killer of Children

Every year, 18,000 children and teens are shot and killed or wounded and approximately 3 million are exposed to gun violence. What are adults in the U.S. doing wrong? Regina Griego lost five family members to a mass murder, three of whom were children. Her 15-year-old nephew shot them and Regina took guardianship of her nephew. She has since become an advocate for gun safety and believes that we all want to keep our children safe and families whole. Ask her: Why are our children dying from guns? What role does mental health play in the gun deaths of children? Griego is the author of “Sins of the System: Trauma, Guns, Tragedy, and the Betrayal of Our Children,” a memoir that explains the systems that failed her family. She holds a Ph.D., MS, and BS in electrical and computer engineering and an MS in computer science. Contact Regina Griego at (505) 306-6189; transcendingfutures@gmail.com

10. ==> Work Talk: How to Speak Up and Have Difficult Conversations

A recent study from Workhuman reports that nearly half of employees in the U.S. feel undervalued at work, and one out of ten don’t feel valued at all. This dissatisfaction often results from being overworked, underpaid, and above all, not listened to. However, many of us feel stuck in our miserable jobs due to a lack of better options. Francesca Burack reveals how you can take steps today to improve your job immediately, and it all begins with speaking up. She’ll explain the best ways to approach work conversations such as getting a raise, being promoted, changing your hours, improving your benefits, and more. Ask her: What’s the best way to ask for a raise or promotion with confidence (even if you don’t have any)? How can you become a fearless leader in your organization? What are the “magic words” that will help you get ahead in your career? Francesca Burack is an author, entrepreneur, educator, and frequent speaker and media guest. Contact her at (516) 823-4003; fburack@rtirguests.com

11. ==> What Today’s Workers Really Want (and Bosses Just Don’t Get)

More American businesses than ever are suffering from low employee engagement, high turnover rates, and a shortage of qualified staff. One of the biggest struggles is appealing to Generation Z and millennials, who make up 46% of our current workforce and whose career ideals are vastly different from previous generations. An executive coach and best-selling author of “The Path to Servant Leadership: A 12-Month Guide to Implementation,” Susan Anderson reveals how companies can not only appeal to the Gen Z and millennial workforce but also transform their employee practices to vastly improve engagement, decrease turnover — and by doing so, increase profits and revenue. Interview this passionate, motivational guest today to find out why Gen Z is less driven by money than any other generation (and what really gets them excited about a job), the real reason companies that prioritize employees are more profitable and much more! Contact Susan Anderson at (678) 999-8143; sanderson@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Think Like a Doctor to Save Time, Money, and Maybe Your Life!

There’s a shortage of physicians around the country that is projected to reach up to 124,000 doctors by 2034. People need practical tools to protect themselves and their families. They need actionable tips to empower them to maximize their care and minimize their costs — tips that Ann Hester, M.D., a board-certified internist with over 25 years of experience in direct patient care, can provide. Ann is the author of “Patient Empowerment 101: More Than a Book, It’s an Adventure!” She also created Patient World, a platform where people can take on-demand health and wellness courses taught by physicians, authors, and other health experts. Ask her: How can people lower their medical bills? How can they prepare a one-minute elevator speech that will help their doctor nail their diagnosis? How can families be protected from the unprecedented doctor shortage on the horizon? Contact Ann Hester. M.D., at (443) 414-8182; dr.hester@patientempowerment101.com

13. ==> Protect Yourself from this Hidden Health Threat

The American Heart Association recently identified a threat hiding in drinking water, snacks, baby food, consumer products, and wildfire smoke. Douglas Mulhall describes what it does to us and how people can protect themselves and their children from it. Mulhall is the author of “Discovering the Nature of Longevity: Restoring the Heart and Body by Targeting Hidden Stress” which is recommended by the American Institute of Stress and has a foreword by Columbia University’s chief of cardiology. He co-developed an award-winning certification recognized by the EPA for guarding against low levels of toxic metals and infections that are hard to detect. The biotech company he co-founded combines advanced technologies with natural therapies to reverse and prevent the damage. Contact Douglas Mulhall at (559) 961-7979; mulhall@calcify.com

14. ==> Why Don’t Most People Take Their Happiness Seriously?

Everyone wants to live a happy life. But the trouble is most of us never bother to do the work to achieve one. Why? According to Raj Girn, it’s because few people pay serious attention to what will make them happy. Raj says, “What I’ve learned through my own experiences, the experiences of people around me, and what clients share with me, is that there is one common denominator that screams out louder than all the others and it is a lack of constant evaluation of their life.” Interview Raj — who just became a regular panelist on CTV’s daily news show “The Debate with Mike Le Couteur” — to learn the questions all of us should be asking ourselves. A media celebrity in Canada, Raj has been featured in “The Wall Street Journal,” “Globe” and “Mail,” and on FOX and CBS and has a combined social media network of over 1 million followers. She also runs The Open Chest Confidence Academy. Contact her at (647) 363-7372; Rgirn@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Don’t Book a Cruise Before Hearing From This Travel Expert

If you’re thinking about taking a cruise soon, 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