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01. How ‘Imposter Christianity’ Is Threatening Democracy
02. Sharks Are Everywhere This Week
03. Heat Waves Can Impact Mental Health Too
04. Mormons, Murder and Impending Southwest Water Wars
05. Why You Should Care About Happy the Elephant
06. Air Travel Is a Disaster Right Now. Should You Cruise?
07. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
08. Take the Higher Road. It’s Called Etiquette
09. Is It Possible to Live a Life without Regrets?
10. Why Too Many Entrepreneurs Put Their Health Last
11. How to Be Profitable in Any Economy
12. Inside a Wilderness Program for Digitally Addicted Teens
13. 3 Principles You Must Know to Thrive in Chaos
14. Do a Show on the Coolest Form of Adoption
15. Discover the ‘Hidden Figure’ Who Helped Develop GPS

1.==> How ‘Imposter Christianity’ Is Threatening Democracy

The U.S. is facing a crisis in the form of a growing White Christian nationalist movement that uses Christian language to cloak sexism and hostility to Blacks and non-white immigrants in its quest to create a White Christian America. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of the “New York Times” best-seller “Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation,” says these beliefs, which some experts call “imposter Christianity,” have infiltrated the religious mainstream in America. “The ideas are so widespread that any individual pastor or Christian leader who tries to turn the tide and say, ‘Let’s look again at Jesus and scripture,’ are going to be tossed aside,” she says. How can White Christian nationalists who claim to follow Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” who renounced violence in the Gospels, support a violent insurrection? That’s because they follow a different Jesus than the one depicted in the Gospels, says Du Mez, who is also a professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University — a Christian school — in Michigan. They follow the Jesus depicted in the Book of Revelation, the warrior with eyes like “flames of fire” and “a robe dipped in blood.” Du Mez can discuss key beliefs often tied to White nationalists including the falsehood that the U.S. was founded as a Christian nation. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Ph.D., has written for the “New York Times,” “Washington Post,” NBC News and “Christianity Today.” Contact her at kkd3@calvin.edu; @kkdumez

2. ==> Sharks Are Everywhere This Week

Dozens of Cape Cod shark sightings this weekend shut down beaches as temperatures soared and just as Discovery launched its annual “Shark Week” series. Why are there so many sharks this summer and where is it safe to go in the water? Greg Skomal, a state marine biologist in Massachusetts, advises beachgoers to be the most vigilant when swimming off beaches where the shoreline quickly drops off into deeper waters to reduce the risks of bumping into a shark. “Sharks will come close to the shore when they have water depth,” Skomal says. Cape Cod is the only known place in the Northwest Atlantic where great white sharks are known to aggregate, and the number of sightings has likely increased as their primary prey species, the gray seal, began to recover. Gregory Skomal, Ph.D., heads up the Massachusetts Shark Research Program (MSRP) and is an adjunct scientist with the Center for Shark Research in Sarasota, Florida. Contact him at (508) 742-9745; gregory.skomal@mass.gov

3. ==> Heat Waves Can Impact Mental Health Too

It’s been sweltering across much of the U.S. recently and a lot of attention has been on preventing heat stroke, heat exhaustion and other health problems. But Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., says prolonged, excessive heat waves can also aggravate mental health issues. Dr. Lieberman can discuss why anxiety, depression and bipolar symptoms may get worse when the temperature rises, specific signs someone is struggling and ways to help. Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H. is a board-certified psychiatrist and author. She was trained at NYU-Bellevue and at Anna Freud’s London Clinic and has served on the clinical faculty of UCLA’s Neuropsychiatric Institute for years. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); mark@goldmanmccormick.com

4.==> Mormons, Murder and Impending Southwest Water Wars

On the morning of November 4, 2019, an unassuming caravan of women and children was ambushed by masked gunmen on a desolate stretch of road in northern Mexico controlled by the Sinaloa drug cartel. The attackers killed nine people and gravely injured five more. The victims were members of the LeBarón and La Mora communities—fundamentalist Mormons whose forebears broke from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) Church and settled in Mexico when the church outlawed polygamy in the late 19th century. Invite best-selling investigative journalist Sally Denton to discuss the ongoing case and why she believes it is a cautionary tale about the impending water wars in the U.S. Southwest, with a drying up water supply and armed violence. Her new book, “The Colony: Faith and Blood in a Promised Land,” begins as the story of a massacre and unfurls into the strange, violent history of the LeBarón clan in a land much stranger than fiction. Sally Denton has an extensive background in print and broadcast journalism, as well as magazine and book writing. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

5. ==> Why You Should Care About Happy the Elephant

Bronx Zoo resident Happy the elephant was recently in the news when the animal advocacy group the Nonhuman Rights Project filed a writ of habeas corpus to have her declared a person. Although Chief Judge Janet DiFiore acknowledged that elephants are intelligent and deserve compassion, she decided that they do not have the same rights as humans. Animal welfare activist Georja Umano disagrees. “Happy and other captive elephants don’t deserve this treatment,” she says. “They deserve to live in accredited sanctuaries where they have room to walk where they want, roll in mud, choose their own companions and have as much freedom as possible —given that they have lost their families, herds and homelands.” Georja spent two years living and working in Kenya. She is the author of “Terriers in the Jungle.” Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Air Travel Is a Disaster Right Now. Should You Cruise?

Traveling by air can be a nightmare today with flight delays and cancellations and luggage issues, but is cruising a good option for a relaxing vacation? Travel expert Cindy Bertram says it can be, but there are key things you should know before getting onboard. “You need to decide what port you want to sail from, how you are going to get there, what documents you need, determine the age groups that each line caters to, obtain travel insurance and know how to acquire a passport for overseas travel.” Cindy can share insider tips for smooth sailing. She is a communications, media, and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact her at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the “Los Angeles Times” to the BBC and Scripps Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, Calif., and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; DebbiePeterson805@gmail.com

8. ==> Take the Higher Road. It’s Called Etiquette

Most of us would agree that people seem to disrespect others more these days, leading to arguments, yelling, fighting and worse. It’s especially true when politics come up. Zane Carson Carruth, a certified etiquette business expert, reminds everyone there’s a way to approach these conversations by taking the high road. “While everyone’s entitled to their opinion, etiquette in conversation puts on pleasant restraints and safeguards so points of view don’t go too far off kilter or into damaging territory,” says Zane. She advises opponents to remove their war helmets and take a more cordial road to respecting others and not overstepping boundaries and says that proper etiquette is anything but weak. She says it shows even your staunchest adversaries you’re a decent human being who deserves equal respect. Zane Carson Carruth is an author, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Contact Spencer Cowen at (845) 558 4321; spencercowen.transmediagroup@gmail.com

9. ==> Is It Possible to Live a Life without Regrets?

Whether it’s your choice of a college major, that job you took that you’re stuck with now, a huge, missed opportunity, or the one that got away, everyone has regrets, and you just have to live with them — or do you? What if you could live your whole life and never regret a thing? Talk to Laura Brennan Ballet and learn how to do just that. The author of “The Science of Empowerment” and a life empowerment facilitator, Laura shares with your audience how to climb away from the chaos and drama to live the positive life you’ve always wanted, without regretting anything, and how you can connect with the people and experiences you’ve always wanted to discover. She’ll discuss how to turn your fears into advancement opportunities, a simple method for instantly replacing negative thoughts with happiness, how to become a force for greatness, and much more. Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435; lballet@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Why Too Many Entrepreneurs Put Their Health Last

Being an entrepreneur is hard work. It takes dedication, perseverance and a commitment to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Unfortunately, for many that can mean working late into the night, grabbing unhealthy food on the go and not making time for exercise, relationships and fun. Invite Dr. Alvin Perry to share how he used the same resourcefulness and resiliency that made him successful in business to help him transform his health when he suddenly “discovered” he’d gained 70 pounds over ten years. You’ll hear how he created a system using three simple principles that changed the course of his life and pushed him onto the path of personal wellness. A successful entrepreneur, small-business expert and author, Alvin Perry, DBA, is also ISSA certified in personal training and nutrition. His latest book, “Just Fat!,” chronicles his 80-pound weight loss journey. Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

11. ==> How to Be Profitable in Any Economy

Amidst global recession and money conflicts that continue to tear apart families and business relationships alike, Victoria Rader, Ph.D., insists there’s always a way to prosper. Invite her on your show to share the universal laws of money that work in any culture, language, and economy. Her simple, reliable formula for success has helped thousands bridge the gap from stressful lack to peaceful prosperity. Rader’s new book, “Prosper Me: the 35 Universal Laws to Make Money Work for You,” covers 35 empowering spiritual principles with practical applications to guide readers on the path of inner peace and financial stability and prosperity. Victoria is a frequent and popular podcast guest and a best-selling author in seven countries. Contact her at (703) 300-6866; vicarader@gmail.com

12. ==> Inside A Wilderness Program for Digitally Addicted Teens

As a police officer and entrepreneur in the 1980s Chicago area, Trace Embry never imagined that his path would lead him to start a place like Shepherd’s Hill Academy (SHA). Invite the host of the nationally syndicated radio program “License to Parent” and author of “The Miracles of Shepherd’s Hill” to discuss the unlikely 30-year odyssey that defied all odds and resulted in a globally recognized healing program that helps troubled teens and families. Embry can discuss parenting issues in our tech-driven society, the issue of digital addiction and teens and SHA’s wilderness-style therapeutic program in which teens undergo a one-year “digital detox” and live in a primitive environment without electricity or the internet. Shepherd’s Hill Academy is a Christ-centered therapeutic residential boarding school for teens in crisis. Contact Daniel Fazzina at (631) 463-7359; fazzinapr@use.startmail.com

13. ==> 3 Principles You Must Know to Thrive in Chaos

Perhaps the best word that describes present times is “chaotic.” A knee-jerk reaction might be to stay in bed with the blanket pulled over your head but that gets old fast. Instead, author and performance coach Tim Winders says it would be better to change your perspective by discovering the three timeless perspectives he will teach you. Winders, who has over 25 years of experience as a coach for business owners, executives, and leaders, utilizes these principles in his novel, “Coach: A Story of Success Redefined.” It tells the story of a man who had it all — money, a successful company, a beautiful wife — everything society considers successful but contemplates ending his life. Winders, who along with his wife, lives and works in a large RV while traveling around the country, survived several business failures before finding a better path in life. He hosts the “SeekGoCreate” podcast. Contact Tim Winders at (404) 846-4639; twinders@rtirguests.com. Ask about last-minute availability

14. ==> Do a Show on the Coolest Form of Adoption

A few years ago, Nate Birt and his wife started thinking about adding another child to their family through adoption. They did their research and found what they believe is the coolest way to adopt: frozen embryo adoption. Learn how the Birts’ youngest child started her life as someone else’s frozen embryo that was implanted, carried and birthed by Nate’s wife. Their daughter is now a preschooler adored by her parents and siblings. Invite Nate to discuss what other people need to know should they be considering a similar journey or if they’re merely curious. Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Discover the ‘Hidden Figure’ Who Helped Develop GPS

Those who saw the hit movie “Hidden Figures” are aware that women of color have made significant contributions to the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, for which they received little credit. According to former STEM teacher and current college professor Chris A. Goldberg, Ed.D., mathematician Dr. Gladys West − who helped develop the GPS model − is another unsung heroine of the STEM world. “She’s alive and well at 91,” Chris says. “No one knows that she’s a hidden figure; that’s how hidden she is.” Chris has established a professional friendship with Gladys’ family and can talk about her fascinating life and career. He is the author of the upcoming book “Aliyah and the STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact Chris at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

01. Heat Waves Are Getting Hotter and More Frequent
02. How to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning
03. Why the Next Jan. 6 Hearing Could Be a Game Changer
04. Biden’s Approval Plummets – Is He One of Worst U.S. Presidents?
05. Trial Lawyer on Elon Musk/Twitter Battle Royale
06. Fear, Guns and the American Psyche
07. The U.S. Has a Maternal Health Crisis
08. Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?
09. Why You Can’t Find Unbiased News in the U.S.
10. The Real Estate Market Is Crazy. These Stories Are Bonkers!
11. Psychedelics as Psychiatric Medicine?
12. How to Fix Our Broken Medical Model
13. Test Your Sunglasses IQ
14. Why the First and Last 15 Minutes of Your Day Are the Most Important
15. Save the Fireflies

1. ==> Heat Waves Are Getting Hotter and More Frequent

The U.S. and Europe are sweltering this summer and experts say the extreme heat is likely to become more frequent and more intense as the planet warms. Ben Zaitchik, a professor in the Earth and Planetary Sciences department at Johns Hopkins University who studies extreme weather events, says, “We’re going to be facing heat waves of at least the intensity we’ve been experiencing the past couple of years and almost certainly of greater intensity, even if we decarbonize along the best-case scenario.” He stresses the importance of preparing for a heatwave and taking steps to adapt to the changing environment. “Heat is often referred to as the silent killer because it doesn’t get the kind of attention a big hurricane blowing in does,” he says. “Just being aware of that is critically important.” Contact Ben Zaitchik, Ph.D., at (410) 516-4223; zaitchik@jhu.edu

2. ==> How to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning

Air conditioning can be lifesaving in a heat wave but sometimes there just isn’t any available. Whether you are without power or don’t own an air conditioner, there are ways to feel comfortable when it’s hot out without artificial cooling. Wendell Porter, a senior lecturer emeritus in agricultural and biological engineering at the University of Florida, says hydration is the first and foremost step to cooling down. “If your body is suffering from the heat and needs to cool itself, it can’t do that without enough moisture, since the body cools itself by sweating,” he says. He adds that the temperature of the water doesn’t even matter since your body will heat it. He also recommends taking a cold shower or bath to lower your core temperature, using cold washrags on your neck and wrists, closing curtains and blinds, and choosing breathable, low thread count cotton sheets. Porter’s other tips include closing off rooms, sleeping in the basement and pulling out your crockpot to make meals without overheating the kitchen. Contact Wendell Porter at (352) 392-1864; waporter@ufl.edu

3. ==> Why the Next Jan. 6 Hearing Could Be a Game Changer

Over the course of the January 6 hearings, we’ve heard detailed testimony rejecting allegations of widespread fraud in the 2020 election and exposing former President Donald Trump’s failed attempts to overturn the results. While many commentators are pessimistic this new evidence will change the large proportion of Republican voters who’ve lost faith in American elections, Katherine Clayton and Robb Willer disagree. Invite them to discuss their recent experiment involving more than 2,000 GOP voters that indicates the possibility of a significant shift in public opinion. The pair writes, “Our findings suggest that continued media coverage of prominent Republicans endorsing election results – a recurring theme of the January 6 hearings – does matter.” Katherine Clayton is a Ph.D. candidate in political science at Stanford University. Robb Willer is a professor of sociology, psychology and organizational behavior at Stanford. Contact Rob Willer atwiller@stanford.edu; @RobbWiller or Katherine Clayton at kpc14@stanford.edu; @katie_clayton14

4. ==> Biden’s Approval Plummets – Is He One of Worst U.S. Presidents?

There were more voters who disapproved of President Joe Biden’s performance than those who approved of it in 88% of states in the second quarter of 2022, according to a new poll from Morning Consult, released the same day a CNBC survey found Biden’s overall and economic approval ratings have hit record lows—lower than former President Donald Trump’s worst ratings. Invite strategic advisor Dr. Harlan Ullman to discuss approval ratings and what they really mean. Ask him: If a president or world leader becomes too unpopular, does that undermine their office and ability to lead effectively? How do you think President Biden compares to other U.S. presidents and what do you think his legacy will be? Who are some of the worst presidents in U.S. history? Harlan Ullman’s career spans the worlds of business and government. Chairman of several companies and an advisor to the heads of major corporations and governments, he was the principal author of “Shock and Awe.” His latest book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

5. ==> Trial Lawyer on Elon Musk/Twitter Battle Royale

The legal battle between the CEO of Tesla and the management of the microblogging website promises sparks and could have important consequences for mergers and acquisitions in the future. Invite top trial attorney Jesse Bolling to discuss the issue and how it could be resolved. Ask him Was Musk’s “walk” simply a ploy to lure Twitter into a lawsuit so he could get a better purchase price? If so, how is this “strategy” likely to play out? What leverage does each side have in the face of litigation? Should Twitter be careful about what they wish for? Is forcing someone to buy a company a big mistake? Might someone else step up and save the day for both litigants? If so, who might be a likely “player?” Jesse Bolling is a partner at Enenstein Law’s Costa Mesa, California, office. Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or Cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com

6. ==> Fear, Guns and the American Psyche

The world continues to watch the seemingly never-ending mass shootings in the U.S. − particularly in schools such as Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas − in shock and horror. While social observers remain baffled about the “whys” and “hows” of these horrific tragedies, renowned scholar Sousan Abadian, Ph.D., claims the reasons are shockingly simple. “It’s all about fear,” she says. “All those people owning/carrying guns are the most frightened people around. How did they become so fearful, and how do we reassure them?” Dr. Sousan can discuss some of the reasons why American society may be so fear-based, including spiritual trauma, and that we are collectively suffering from the “trauma virus.” She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University and conducts workshops on healing from spiritual trauma. Contact Sousan at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

7. ==> The U.S. Has a Maternal Health Crisis

Even in the 21st century, pregnancy is rough for most women. And it can be unsafe and even fatal, particularly in the U.S. which has the highest rate of maternal fatalities in the developed world. To find out why, and how we can do better for mothers and babies, interview OB specialist obstetrician Alan Lindemann, M.D., who in his 40-year rural practice has delivered more than 6,000 babies without a single maternal death. Ask him: Why do we lose so many women in childbirth? How can complications be prevented? How has the Supreme Court decision on Roe vs. Wade increased the disparity in health-care access for women? What can be done about “maternity deserts” that keep expectant moms far from hospitals and care? Dr. Lindemann is the author of “Safe Pregnancy Explained: Three Steps to a Safer Pregnancy.” He can also answer questions about morning sickness, lifestyle changes, and what expectant fathers can do to improve the health of their partner. Contact Alan Lindemann, M.D., at (701) 399-9556; ALindemann@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?

Today’s highly polarized society makes it hard for people from opposing sides to agree on anything, let alone work together, even if the goal is for the common good. It’s possible, though not easy, as Bee Bloeser personally witnessed in the middle of the Cold War when despite their vast differences, leaders across the globe joined forces to rid the world of smallpox. Bee and her family became involved in the global campaign when the CDC dispatched her husband to West Africa in 1969. Invite her to share what it was like to be an American woman in Africa at that time and the unexpected challenges she and her family faced, including brushes with a brutal dictator’s regime and living in an isolated region suffering a humanitarian crisis the rest of the world knew nothing about. An award-winning author and engaging public speaker, Bee Bloeser has been featured on NPR’s “Journeys of Discovery” and NPR KCBX Radio’s show, “Issues and Ideas.” Her book is “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Why You Can’t Find Unbiased News in the U.S.

We rely on the news to get information about the world and make good decisions, but newspapers, TV, radio, and social media are all businesses. They exist to make money, not inform you or even tell the truth. Is this real journalism? And who does it help – and hurt? Find out who owns and rules the press when you invite Dutch/American journalist Hans Izaak Kriek on your show. He’ll reveal the 15 billionaires and six major organizations that dominate and own the mainstream media and discuss how they influence and manipulate the American public daily, with fake news and framing. Ask him: How can you be sure the news you consume is accurate? What is framing and how do the media use it? Do others besides politicians use fake news, and why? Hans Izaak Kriek is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Krieksmediaworld.com and the author of “Trump’s Daily Domination of the News Media.” He’s worked as an international political journalist for AVRO/TROS, the two largest Dutch National broadcasters. As a media trainer, he has coached and advised thousands of politicians and executives. Contact him at (561) 861-2974; jkriek@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Real Estate Market is Crazy. These Stories Are Bonkers!

Selling real estate to the rich and famous can sometimes be crazy, often hilarious but never boring. Let top Realtor Valerie Fitzgerald, cohost of the podcast “Real Estate, Real Laughs,” take your audience behind the scenes to hear some of the greatest stories never told before. While she can’t mention names, Valerie can dish on the unusual and sometimes embarrassing situations she and her peers have encountered (for example, showing a house while a naked couple were visible directly outside the window) and a whole lot more. Maybe you’ll hear about the role cats play in whether someone likes a house or not, celebrities who show up for appointments in disguise, or the fantastic perks the wealthiest potential buyers may be awarded to keep them happy. The former star of HGTV’s “Selling L.A,” former Ford model and TEDx speaker, Valerie Fitzgerald is one of Coldwell Banker’s Top 10 Agents, with $3 billion in sales. She has 30,000 followers on Instagram. Her weekly podcast proves there is a side to real estate most people don’t know about: the fun side. Contact Valerie Fitzgerald at (310) 861-3238; vfitzgerald@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Psychedelics as Psychiatric Medicine?

Some once-considered “bad boys” of illicit drug culture (LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA), are now getting a second look by mental health professionals. Harvard University has restarted its long-lost psilocybin research with the launch of the Center for Neuroscience of Psychedelics at Massachusetts General Hospital. Its goal is to test how psychedelics can be used in treating depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Sparrow Hart is available for interview on this timely topic, having studied the variety of ways to alter and change consciousness for decades. He can discuss both the incredible promise of psychedelics as well as the potential pitfalls of their misuse in an addictive and distraction-seeking culture. Ask him if he see psychedelics as having a broader impact than just improving a few individuals’ happiness? He has studied with Native Americans, taught courses on shamanism, and led vision quests for three decades. Is there any commonality between these processes that alter consciousness, for example between a vision quest and a psychedelic journey? Sparrow’s varied career includes being a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Stanford, a brief stint working in a slaughterhouse, adventures in the Amazon, and over 30 years of leading workshops on shamanism, conscious dreaming, and vision quests in nature. He is the author of several books including “Letters to the River: A Guide to a Dream Worth Living.” Contact Sparrow Hart at (801) 516-0740; SHart@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How to Fix Our Broken Medical Model

How flawed is the traditional medical model in the U.S.? Can we depend on it to keep us well or is that wishful thinking? Dr. Annalee Kitay minces no words: “If you are smart, you’ll stop relying on a system that is failing everyone. Instead, you’ll learn how to tap into your body’s amazing healing properties through noninvasive modalities.” Dr. Kitay can tell your audience how to do just that. Ask her: Did medicine fail us during the pandemic? What can people do to protect themselves against communicable and other illnesses? Dr. Kitay has been in private practice for 30 years and trained in alternative protocols that aid the body in its natural recovery. She is one of the top practitioners of Neural Organization Technique and teaches the hands-on protocol to other doctors. She is a frequent guest on talk shows. Contact Annalee Kitay at (561) 462-4733; akitay@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Test Your Sunglasses IQ

Do you know how to pick a pair of sunglasses that will protect your eyes and not just look good? Do you know when to wear them and why? Many people have no clue about just how important protecting their eyes from the sun’s UV rays is, missing out on a simple way to help ensure that they keep their vision for life. But as vision educator Linda Odubayo Thompson will tell you, “the eyes are porous and the optic nerve is a direct extension to the brain. So, it stands to reason that eye protection should be added to the virus protection mix, especially for children,” she says. “Add to that protection against cataracts while looking totally cool, and you have a potent reason not to leave the house without them.” Linda knows not to take her vision for granted; she has suffered from glaucoma for more than 30 years. Ask her why aren’t sunglasses just for summer? Why do you need them on cloudy days? Should you also wear a hat? What does she have in common with Bono? Contact Linda Odubayo Thompson at (914) 944-1474; lthompson@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Why the First and Last 15 Minutes of Your Day Are the Most Important

Did you know that you can change your life, get rid of stress, and feel more in control of your destiny in only 30 minutes a day? Interview Theo Prodromitis, the author of “The Balance Between the Hustle and the Flow: Knowing When to Make Things Happen and When to Let Them Happen,” to discover why the first and last 15 minutes of your day are the most important and how to maximize them. Theo is an award-winning entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and best-selling author of “The Success Formula” with Jack Canfield. What does neuroscience tell us about our brain activity at the beginning and end of each day? What are the four things we should do every morning? Contact Theo Prodromitis at (813) 701-5414; tprodromitis@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Save the Fireflies

Chasing lightning bugs on a summer night has long been a rite of passage for many youngsters. But you may feel as if you are seeing fewer flashes across the night sky compared to when you were younger. Sérgio Henriques, the invertebrate conservation coordinator for the Indianapolis Zoo’s Global Center for Species Survival, can explain “little and easy” things listeners can do to help increase lightning bug populations including reducing lights at night, planting native species, installing a rain garden and reducing the chemicals you use on your yard or in your house. You’ll also learn how you can participate in Firefly Watch, an ongoing initiative to better survey and know the extent of lightning bug populations across the nation. “Fireflies are a privilege,” Henriques says. “It would be such a waste of a treasure if they were to decline or be gone.” Contact Kelly Griese at (317) 735-6381; kgriese@indyzoo.com or Judy Palermo at (317) 630-2010; jpalermo@indyzoo.com

01. Betrayal: How Mitch McConnell Abandoned America
02. A Young Boy Flipped ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ On Its Head
03. Will Surging COVID Cases Sway the Unvaccinated?
04. Blending Bennifer: How to Make a Messy Marriage Work
05. The Only Correct Way to Pay a Medical Bill
06. The Growing Problem of Food Deserts
07. Why Going Vegan Could be Disastrous for Your Health
08. Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip
09. How to Cool Your Temper This Summer
10. Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done
11. Why There Is a Postpartum Depression Epidemic
12. Ex-Cop Runs Wilderness Program for Digitally Addicted Teens
13. Can Teenage Lifers Be Rehabilitated?
14. How to Be Happy Now
15. Celebrate National Hot Dog Month

1.==> Betrayal: How Mitch McConnell Abandoned America

If you look back over the political chaos of the last half-dozen years or so, many Americans of all political stripes — though surely not all — would place the lion’s share of blame at the feet of former President Donald Trump. But journalist Ira Shapiro sees things a little differently. He traces the political dysfunction in America back several years earlier and places the blame squarely on U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Invite the author of “The Betrayal: How Mitch McConnell and the Senate Republicans Abandoned America” to discuss how the Senate responded to the challenges posed by the Trump administration. Shapiro says Republicans like McConnell, who recognized the threat Trump posed to democracy, made a bargain with the devil — all in the name of lowering taxes, decimating the regulatory framework, and, most of all, installing a conservative judiciary whose impact will be felt for decades. But he saves some of his most scathing commentary for Republican senators who appeared committed to governing, like Lamar Alexander of Tennessee and Rob Portman of Ohio, but kept silent during the Trump era. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

2. ==> A Young Boy Flipped ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ On Its Head

The origins and meaning of “Let’s Go Brandon” are anything but positive, but a young boy’s innocent misunderstanding has turned the hurtful phrase on its head. Sheletta Brundidge wrote the children’s book “Brandon Spots His Sign,” about her son feeling awkward about participating in activities because of his autism. When he spots “Let’s Go Brandon” messages in his neighborhood they encourage him to take more chances. The book attracted the attention of President Joe Biden, who sent Brandon a letter of admiration. It also reached Brandon Brown, the NASCAR driver who unwittingly helped spawn the phrase. He invited the family to a race as a chance to reclaim a phrase that he feels has gotten too nasty. Brundidge says the whole ordeal has been a huge boost for her son. “I have seen his confidence go through the roof. Kids with autism are so often chosen last or left out. A lot of times, it’s because other children just don’t understand why they do what they do.” Sheletta Brundidge is a broadcaster, media personality and author. Three of her four children were born with autism and her books aim to educate families about the condition and show her own kids how much they are loved. Contact her at shelettab@gmail.com

3. ==> Will Surging COVID Cases Sway the Unvaccinated?

The BA.5 COVID variant is spreading voraciously across the nation and health officials are hoping that, and a new vaccine that uses traditional, protein-based technology, will help persuade the remaining ‘vaccine hesitant’ Americans to get their shots. But sociologist Elizabeth Wrigley-Field notes that most mass vaccination sites have closed and many community campaigns have ended. She says, “It’s particularly striking that there are almost no avenues, outside of individual conversations with one’s own medical providers, to ask questions or have conversations about vaccination. This highly individualized approach is based on a cynical and incorrect assumption that people who remain unvaccinated or unboosted have made a permanent decision to stay that way.” She can also discuss how the pandemic remains highly unequal in ways that transcend vaccination rates. “Vaccines protect, but they are not enough. The current context may be a ‘pandemic of the unvaccinated,’ but it is very much still a ‘pandemic of the disadvantaged’ as well.” Wrigley-Field is a sociologist and demographer specializing in mortality, racial inequality, and historical infectious disease at the University of Minnesota. Contact her at ewf@umn.edu

4. ==> Blending Bennifer: How to Make a Messy Marriage Work

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck—a.k.a. Bennifer—sent the internet into a frenzy over the weekend after news broke that they’d married in Las Vegas. The announcement comes just months after they rekindled their well-documented romance and got engaged for a second time in April (they called the first off in 2004). Both bring with them a good deal of “baggage,” according to David Glass, a Certified Family Law Specialist, author, and former clinical psychologist. “Not only do they have to deal with how they can make their relationship work when once it did not, they also will need to find productive ways to manage the many complexities of blending their respective families and careers.” Ask him: Will it be difficult to co-parent with Jennifer Garner? Where and how does Marc Anthony fit into the family picture? When a family is this “complicated” what are some of the best ways to coordinate schedules and manage family relations? Did the couple sign a prenuptial agreement? If so, what might it contain? David Glass is one of a few attorneys trained in both law and clinical psychology (PhD). He has practiced exclusively in family law for 23 years. Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com

5. ==> The Only Correct Way to Pay a Medical Bill

Medical debt is the No. 1 cause of bankruptcy in the U.S. But perhaps what is even more shocking is that medical bills often contain errors and most patients have no idea that they are paying their medical bills wrong, says Virgie Bright Ellington, M.D., an internal medicine physician and former insurance executive. She says that when patients receive a bill for any costly medical procedure, hospital stay, surgery or ER visit they need to take three steps before paying it. Invite her to explain the process that can save you thousands of dollars. Dr. Virgie first became interested in medical debt after sharing a hospital room with a woman with young children who was coerced into agreeing to pay an exorbitant medical bill that would force her family into debt. Her new book is “What Your Doctor Wants You to Know to Crush Medical Debt.” Contact her at (914) 636-1070; dr.virgie@crushmedicaldebt.com

6. ==> The Growing Problem of Food Deserts

Many households across the country have limited reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. And as food prices rise, the problem is only getting worse. Donsha Johnson and his wife, Nicole Folkes-Johnson, are the owners of Eat Right Atlanta, is an affordable produce service that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables and operates pop-up markets at health systems across Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Invite them to discuss the increasing problem of food insecurity. Learn what a ‘food desert’ is and what it’s like to live in one, the relationship between grocery store geography and food insecurity, and how inflation is affecting the growing problem. Contact Donsha and Nicole at (404) 717-2502; kimberly@bluescorpionrm.com

7. ==> Why Going Vegan Could be Disastrous for Your Health

Plant-based eating is all-the-rage and touted as the “healthiest” but what if your genes have issues converting nutrients from plants? You could wind up with severe and catastrophic nutrient deficiencies. Take if from licensed dietitian Kristina Hess, who didn’t know her genetic profile when she went vegan 15 years ago and wound up with fractured bones and reduced bone density. Keto is all the rage too, but some people don’t feel good with this type of plan for a reason. Kristina can talk about the little-known field of nutrigenomics that can provide you with the right strategy and eating plan for your genetic blueprint, and help you optimize your health and longevity. Kristina Hess is a premier health coach and licensed dietitian-nutritionist with a functional and integrative approach. She is the co-founder of the first-of-its kind Keto Symposium to be held in the New York tri-state area on Sept. 23 and Sept. 24, at the New York Library Performing Arts at Lincoln Center — Bruno Walter Auditorium. Contact her at (203) 984-7989; kristinaihess@gmail.com

8. ==> Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

Looking to take a summer trip that combines the pleasures of wine and travel? Helping audiences make the most of their wine adventures is expert guide Jim Laughren, CWE, with suggestions from how to enjoy local wineries to where in the world we can find the “wildest” wine vacations of all. Whether you’re looking for fabulous food, incredible scenery, or amazing hospitality, all to enjoy with some gorgeous wines, Jim can steer you in the right direction. Ask him: Why should people visit Mendoza, Argentina, the Republic of Georgia and the Napa Valley? Where can you not only tour 1,500 acres of grapes but also buy a piece of the vineyard AND return for the harvest to make your own wine? The author of two short eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How to Cool Your Temper This Summer

This summer tempers are running hot around the country as the nation deals with the Supreme Court’s Roe v Wade reversal, the findings of the Jan. 6 Committee and whether or not there will be any movement to end the mass shootings that have been cropping up like dandelions. Yet even people who aren’t getting hot about changes to society may still be finding themselves in a lather about post-pandemic life, high gas prices and summer traffic. Invite happiness expert Trish Ahjel Roberts to share ways to put the chill back in your life. The author of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness,” has created a 5-hour online course that provides tools and resources to make the summer season relaxing, fun and freeing just as it is supposed to be. After a terrifying car accident in 2018, Roberts founded Mind-Blowing Happiness LLC in 2019 and left her career as a financial advisor to become a self-actualization coach and happiness expert working primarily with Black women like herself. Contact her at (917) 887-3689; hello@trishahjelroberts.com

10. ==> Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

Most people believe it takes willpower, smarts and motivation to accomplish great things … but do you know the actual secret ingredient that world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives rely on to create their exceptional outcomes? Invite Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., on your show to discuss the power of patterns, and how an awareness of what he calls the game of patterns can up-level your personal, professional and business life. With 40 years of experience as an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs in companies like Google, Visa, Apple, and more, Steven has unlocked the secrets to achieving what people say can’t be done. For his new book, Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play The Meta-Game, Steven interviewed over 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs including the former CEO of Apple, EVP of eBay, a Teacher of the Year, the chief of police of the Safest City in America, ambassadors, leading VC, millennials and a Big-Time Bookie. The book’s foreword was written by astronaut and space shuttle pilot Greg H. Johnson, who explained how Dr. Feinberg’s techniques will prepare you for your encounters with the uncertainty we all face. Dr. Feinberg will show your audience how to recognize hidden patterns in their daily interactions and decisions so they can accomplish life goals they never dreamed possible. Ask him: What is Shutdown Syndrome? Why do you say that persistence is a problem? What do you mean by “first adapter”? What is the Meta-Game? What is the No. 1 foe of leaders? Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540 or sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Why There Is a Postpartum Depression Epidemic

Many new moms attribute their feelings of sadness and emptiness to exhaustion, hormonal changes and the non-stop attention babies require. But for many women, this is more than just “the baby blues.” “Postpartum depression had been on the rise pre-COVID, but the pandemic has made the rise more significant,” says OB/GYN Dr. Florence Akindele. “A lot of women are not getting support after giving birth, and there’s not enough at-home planning.” Dr. Florence can share how new moms can get the support they need to overcome this very real mental illness. She is the founder of Florence Women’s Health Services in Alberta, Canada, and author of the book “Your Joyous Birth Experience: Empowering Moms to Participate in Their Labour And Delivery.” Contact Dr. Florence at (780) 614-5219; fakindele@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Runs A Wilderness Program for Digitally Addicted Teens

As a police officer and entrepreneur in the 1980s’ Chicago area, Trace Embry never imagined that his path would lead him to start a place like Shepherd’s Hill Academy (SHA). Invite the host of the nationally syndicated radio program “License to Parent” and author of “The Miracles of Shepherd’s Hill” to discuss the unlikely thirty-year odyssey that defied all odds and resulted in a globally recognized healing program that helps troubled teens and families. Embry can discuss parenting issues in our tech-driven society, the issue of digital addiction and teens and SHA’s wilderness-style therapeutic program where teens undergo a one-year “digital detox” and live in a primitive environment without electricity or the internet. Shepherd’s Hill Academy is a Christ-centered therapeutic residential boarding school for teens in crisis. Contact Daniel Fazzina at (631) 463-7369; fazzinapr@use.startmail.com

13. ==> Can Teenage Lifers Be Rehabilitated?

Lengthy prison sentences for youth offenders are becoming common in the U.S., and the costs – both personal and financial – are staggering. Not only do many people believe life sentences for teenagers are unjust, but the costs to governments and taxpayers are three times higher for youth than for incarcerated adults. Through correspondence with youth offenders, Mary Mitchell has seen firsthand that rehabilitation is possible. An experienced guest and the author of seven books as well as hundreds of articles, and host of a weekly radio show, Mary can share her 13-year relationship with a man incarcerated at 19 (now 50) who has found transformation in prison and talks about the prison system reform we need to offer rehabilitation and hope. Ask her: can the U.S. prison system truly rehabilitate anyone? Why is solitary confinement both cruel and ineffective? How can you offer real support to incarcerated loved ones? Contact Mary Mitchell at (530) 561-5945 or mmitchell@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How to Be Happy Now

A recent Gallup poll revealed that happiness in the United States is at an all-time low, with just 38% of Americans saying they’re satisfied. Millions are suffering from depression, anxiety, and a general sense of unhappiness that has caused many to lose hope for the future. Valerie Whetstone can help your audience turn things around and find the happiness that keeps eluding them. A bestselling author and life and wellness coach who has trained with Oprah Winfrey and Jack Canfield, she reveals five easy steps to being happy NOW that anyone can follow – no matter what kind of day (or life) they’re having! Ask her: What is the worst enemy of happiness that we all face? Why does she say that we have to slow down in order to speed up? How can we get rid of negativity when we’re surrounded by bad news every day? Contact Valerie Whetstone at (408) 752-5943 or vwhetstone@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Celebrate National Hot Dog Month

Hurry up and celebrate National Hot Dog month this July! Is a hot dog a sandwich? What’s the most popular topping for a frankfurter? And what are hot dogs really made from? Get your fill of hot dog and sausage facts, culture and history when you interview Hot Dog Top Dog Eric Mittenthal of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC). A wealth of information on anything and everything about this all-American food, the NHDSC has many resources for summer hot dog lovers including a full guide to regional hot dog styles, a list of the hot dogs found at Major League ballparks and tips on hot dog etiquette. Learn how your listeners’ can compete for the title of Hot Dog Ambassador! Contact Mittenthal at (202) 587-4238; (404) 808-8396 (cell) or emittenthal@meatinstitute.org

01. What to Expect from the Next Jan. 6 Hearing
02. Will the Hearings Change Minds?
03. COVID Cases Are Rising: Should You Be Concerned?
04. Celebrate National Hot Dog Month
05. All-Female MMA – Invicta Fighting Championships
06. Frustrated Flyers Eye Cruises: Expert Shares Tips
07. Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?
08. Abortion Ban Will Impact the Foster Care System
09. How Sharp Are Aging Politicians?
10. Hunted By the KGB, This Guest Lives to Tell the Story
11. Why Your Neighbors May Outlive You
12. 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain
13. What’s Behind Love at First Sight?
14. Raise a Reader This Summer (One Book at a Time)
15. Why a Circus without Elephants Makes Sense

1. ==> What to Expect from the Next Jan. 6 Hearing

What should we expect next from the congressional panel looking into the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol? This week’s proceedings focused on the violent extremist movement involved, and while political pundit Eleanor Clift says the committee is hot on the right trail, she also has a few suggestions on what it needs to do in the big finale. “The testimony from far-right extremists who had been taken under Trump’s cult-like spell is a fitting bridge to where the committee is headed next. And if the next hearing does prove to be the committee’s last — it’s up to Cheney and company to hit their marks and solidify the case that Donald Trump, alone, is responsible for Jan. 6 and the conspiracy that led to one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.” Clift hopes the committee digs into Trump’s dereliction of duty for the 187 minutes that he was AWOL and gets answers for why it took so long to send reinforcements to the U.S Capitol. She’s also looking for the panel to lay out who knew what (and when) about when the violent attack was coming. Eleanor Clift is an author, journalist and contributor to MSNBC and a blogger for The Daily Beast. She is probably best known as a regular panelist on “The McLaughlin Group” TV show. Contact her at info@eleanorclift.com; @eleanorclift

2. ==> Will the Hearings Change Minds?

As the Jan. 6 Commission continues its public hearings, it’s reasonable to wonder what effect they will have on the country. Sure, they represent 10 months of investigatory work, the collection of more than 130,000 documents, and testimony from more than 1,000 witnesses, but is the committee preaching to the choir? Is the committee guilty of demonizing Donald Trump without giving him the right to defend himself? Are the hearings dividing the country even more? Are they all about politics or should Trump be prosecuted and banned from running again? And what about the paradoxical way former Attorney General William Barr admitted that Trump’s claims of election fraud were “detached from reality” yet still said he would support him once again should he be the GOP nominee? Interview Sheryl White, DDiv, to discuss the questions on your listeners’ minds. A self-described independent conservative, White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact her at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

3. ==> COVID Cases Are Rising: Should You Be Concerned?

Health officials are once again raising the alarm about the threat of a resurgence of COVID-19 infections across the country, as concerns grow about the new omicron subvariant, BA.5, which is now the dominant viral strain in the U.S. According to federal data, nearly three-quarters of the U.S. population is now living in a county with a high or medium community risk level for COVID-19, as defined by the CDC. Dr. Preeti Malani, an infectious disease physician at the University of Michigan, says, “BA.5 is everywhere and if you haven’t gotten it yet, the odds are pretty [good] that you will,” she reasons. “But, if you are up to date on vaccines, the illness should be mild and without major medical consequences.” While there is a “high risk of exposure” to this variant, she said there are also “lots of reasons to be hopeful.” Early treatment with Paxlovid is now free for all Americans who may need it. “With home testing and rapid connection to treatment (for those at risk of complicated infection), COVID is manageable,” Dr. Malani says. But she and other experts warn that unvaccinated Americans, especially older ones, could face more dire consequences if they contract the virus. Dr. Preeti Malani’s work focuses on infection control and prevention in older adults. Contact Preeti Malani, M.D., at pmalani@umich.edu or Kelly Malcom at kmalcom@umich.edu

4. ==> Celebrate National Hot Dog Month

Is a hot dog a sandwich? What’s the most popular topping for a frankfurter? And what are hot dogs really made from? Get your fill of hot dog and sausage facts, culture and history when you interview Hot Dog Top Dog Eric Mittenthal of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC). A wealth of information on anything and everything about this all-American food, the NHDSC has many resources for summer hot dog lovers including a full guide to regional hot dog styles, a list of the hot dogs found at Major League ballparks and tips on hot dog etiquette. Learn how your listeners’ can compete for the title of Hot Dog Ambassador! Contact Mittenthal at (202) 587-4238; (404) 808-8396 (cell) or emittenthal@meatinstitute.org

5. ==> All-Female MMA – Invicta Fighting Championships

The spotlight is on world-class female athletes, local stars, and talented up-and-comers in Invicta FC 48 — a hard-hitting fight card boasting exciting debuts, long-awaited returns, and a hotly-anticipated main event for the Bantamweight Title. Shannon Knapp is an industry trailblazer and the only female executive to lead a major combat sports organization. In 2012, she founded Invicta Fighting Championships — the world’s largest, all-women’s mixed martial arts organization, giving professional female athletes their first major platform to compete. Invite her to discuss the upcoming championship on July 20 in Denver, Colorado. Several athletes are available for interviews including Taneisha Tennant, Melissa Oddessa Parker, a military veteran and mother of two, and Isis Verbeek. Invicta FC 48 airs July 20 on AXS TV and Fight Network. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

6. ==> Frustrated Flyers Eye Cruises: Expert Shares Tips

Airline delays and cancellations are making a mess for summer travelers and many people are now looking at cruising as a vacation option. But before you book, talk to travel expert Cindy Bertram for little-known insider tips. “I recently went on a cruise, and the process has become much more efficient due to COVID protocols,” she says. “And there are new apps that you can download for everything from making advance dining reservations to ensuring hassle-free disembarking.” Cindy can also share why it’s crucial to obtain travel insurance, the special features of various cruise ship lines and more. She is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog … Learning from Great Humans.” Contact Cindy at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?

President Biden says he’s nearing a decision on broad student-loan forgiveness. Reports suggest Biden is considering $10,000 in relief for borrowers making under $150,000 a year. Millions of struggling student-loan borrowers are anxiously awaiting an announcement in the coming days, but is this the answer? According to former college professor Glen Dunzweiler, students should not waste their time thinking about loan forgiveness. “It’s a waste of energy,” he says, “because there is no incentive for anyone to forgive your debt. Instead, the discussion can provide an opportunity to figure out the leverage that individual students do have.” Glen is the author of two books including “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills For Students.” He is an independent filmmaker and the host of the YouTube series Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler. His documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Abortion Ban Will Impact the Foster Care System

With the recent, controversial Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the main focus has been on how this will impact women. According to Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids, this will also have a profound impact on the already broken foster care system. “Hundreds of children die in foster care annually,” he says. “Tens of thousands of children are physically and sexually abused while in foster care. Foster care is not a safety net for more children. That net is in shreds and in crisis without adding children from forced pregnancies.” Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How Sharp Are Aging Politicians?

Today, you’re nobody in Washington unless you’re 80. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is 81 and her deputy, Rep. Steny Hoyer, is 82. The No. 3 Democrat, Rep. Jim Clyburn, is 81 and Senator Bernie Sanders is 80. President Joe Biden, the oldest person to take office as president, will turn 80 this year as will Republican Senator Mitch McConnell. Behavioral specialist Lisa Skinner says with an aging herd of politicians making key decisions for America, it’s important to ask about the cognitive health and fitness of our country’s current leaders. We do ask candidates for the presidency to disclose their medical histories; however, we currently have no mechanism to evaluate their past and present mental health. In her book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces,” Skinner provides a roadmap to distinguish normal aging from something more troubling by identifying the common early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Lisa Skinner has more than a quarter-century of experience in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. She’s appeared on CBS News, NBC News, Fox News, and ABC News, and in USA Today, Health & Fitness, and many other publications. Contact Dianemarie (DM) Collins at (775) 825-1727; DM@DMProductionsLLC.com or @DMCollins

10. ==> Hunted By the KGB, this Guest Lives to Tell the Story

Imagine what life would be like if the KGB was after you, threatening your life? And if you had no idea you were even taking them on at first? John Christmas does not have to imagine … he lived it. While heading up an international banking group, Christmas tried to expose fraud he uncovered without realizing that the bank in question was a KGB front. Fired for being a whistle-blower, he was threatened and terrorized and finally fled the country. Christmas is co-author of the geopolitical thriller “KGB Banker,” which was inspired by his story and takes place on the Russia/Ukraine border. Ask him: Why is your experience particularly relevant given today’s political environment? What happened to the players you exposed? Are you still in danger? Contact John Christmas at (514) 700-9015; jchristmas@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Why Your Neighbors May Outlive You

Most of us look at our neighbors and make silent comparisons. Some certainly look worse than we do, older, paunchier, and perhaps grayer. But we may concede that some look better, more active, upbeat, and healthier, making us wonder what they know that we don’t. You could ask them, but you probably won’t. Instead, why not ask nurse practitioner (APRN) Anne McAwley-LeDuc, an award-winning author? Anne says the healthiest people don’t just see physicians regularly, stick to a healthful diet and exercise program, take prescription medicines correctly and avoid bad habits. According to Anne, they also keep accurate health histories and records. She’ll reveal the importance of maintaining key information about every doctor visit, and all procedures, tests, treatments, vaccinations, and prescriptions for every family member. Anne is the creator of the “Personal Health Organizer.” Contact her at (860) 300-1603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com

12. ==> 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain

Living with chronic pain is no fun and was even less so during the pandemic when care was restricted and stress levels were through the roof. Why not help make listeners’ lives more comfortable by interviewing Trevor Campbell, M.D., who can share tips for controlling stress, managing negative thoughts, and paying attention to the story they tell their friends and family members about their illnesses, all things that can lead to lessening pain? Ask him how can what we are thinking affect our pain levels? How can people feel less stressed when they hurt? Dr. Campbell is a family physician who has worked in multidisciplinary pain management and opioid reduction programs and has served as a medical director for a leading pain management provider in Western Canada. He graduated from the University of Cape Town. He hosts the holistic “Healthscape” podcast. Dr. Campbell’s book is “The Language of Pain: Fast Forward Your Recovery to Stop Hurting.” Contact Trevor Campbell at (250) 217-7832; tcampbell@rtirguests.com

13. ==> What’s Behind Love at First Sight?

If you haven’t experienced it yourself you’ve probably seen it portrayed in a movie: two people who have an instant attraction, a soul connection, and a feeling they belong together. Alicia McBride, an empath, psychic, and author of three books, can discuss the powerful emotions behind love at first sight. Whether they are believers or not, your audience will get a kick out of exploring this unusual topic. In an interview, Alicia will say that intense instant attraction may be the result of recognizing someone from a past life, or from one of the participants having psychic abilities even though they may be hidden. She’ll explain that what we think of as love at first sight may not last or even be mutual. Be sure to ask her what happened when she met a man she had pictured in her head for two years. Alicia McBride is the author of “The Empath Effect,” “I Feel Too Much” and “I Love You When.” Reach her at (484) 369-1464; Healinglightempath@gmail.com

14. ==> Raise a Reader This Summer (One Book at a Time)

Despite their hectic schedules and the distractions of social media and modern technology, parents can dramatically improve their children’s lives by setting aside time to read with them this summer – and beyond. “A relaxing reading ritual not only fuels your child’s reading journey, it also builds a bond and creates memories that last,” says author and long-time educator Lori Lynn Ahrends. “The right books will not only be fun but will build your child’s self-confidence.” Lori Lynn is an award-winning educator and international speaker with a master’s in education; a singer/songwriter; creator of the Overall Buddies early childhood learning website and author of the children’s book “I’m a Pig.” Contact her at (402) 235-4292; lahrends@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Why a Circus without Elephants Makes Sense

After shutting down in 2017, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is planning its return next year, but with an elephant-sized caveat: The so-called “Greatest Show on Earth,” long celebrated for its animal performers, will now be sans any four-legged creatures. Animal/environmental advocate Georja Umano says that’s good news, particularly for pachyderms. “In the last century, elephant populations have plummeted by 90% due to trophy hunting, poaching, logging, zoos and circus captures,” she says. “There are alternate ways to enjoy elephants without stripping them of their natural habitats.” Georja spent two years living and working in Kenya and can share why it’s important to preserve elephants’ natural habitats, as well as how these lovable creatures positively impact global ecosystems. She is the author of “Terriers in the Jungle.” Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

01. Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti
02. Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season
03. Are There Warning Signs Before a Mass Shooting?
04. Another Devastating Supreme Court Decision
05. Mental Health Myths about Women and Abortion
06. Are the Jan. 6 Commission Hearings Just Politics?
07. What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mexican Border?
08. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
09. Why Going Vegan Could Be Disastrous for Your Health
10. Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
11. 4 Tips to Ease Social Anxiety
12. COVID’s Toll on Alzheimer’s Patients
13. Can We Make Pregnancy Safer for Women?
14. Quick-Start Your COVID Weight Loss
15. Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

1. ==> Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti

Anyone with an unusual name will be able to relate to Ashanti’s new book, “My Name Is A Story.” inspired by the Grammy-Award winner’s childhood experiences, it’s an empowering tale about a self-conscious young girl who learns to love her unique name. Ashanti can talk about why she chose to write a children’s book. Also ask her about her upcoming summer concerts and what else she’s working on now. “My Name Is A Story,” the debut picture book from singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist Ashanti, with illustrations by Monica Mikai, is currently available. For interviews, contact Michelle Huff Elliott at michelle@strategicheights.com

2. ==> Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season

It’s summertime and Americans are headed to the beach, but beware, especially if you’re on Cape Cod, there are sharks in the water. According to great white shark researchers on the Cape, early July coincides with warmer waters that lead into the primary shark sighting season from August through October. Greg Skomal, a state marine biologist in Massachusetts, advises beachgoers to be most vigilant when swimming off beaches where the shoreline quickly drops off into deeper waters to reduce the risks of bumping into a shark. “Sharks will come close to the shore when they have water depth,” Skomal says. Cape Cod is the only known place in the Northwest Atlantic where great white sharks are known to aggregate, and the number of sightings has likely increased as their primary prey species, the gray seal, began to recover. Gregory Skomal, Ph.D., heads up the Massachusetts Shark Research Program (MSRP) and is an adjunct scientist with the Center for Shark Research in Sarasota, Florida. Contact him at (508) 742-9745; gregory.skomal@mass.gov

3. ==> Are There Warning Signs Before a Mass Shooting?

There have been at least 314 mass shootings in the U.S. this year. On July Fourth alone there were at least six, including one at a holiday parade in a Chicago suburb that left six dead and dozens injured. Jaclyn Schildkraut, a national expert on mass shootings, looks at the behavior of shooters before a tragedy. She says things usually start with a grievance, like a break-up or loss of a job. She’ll discuss warning signs and red flags, and why, despite most shooters posting on social media and telling others of their plans, these mass killings continue. For those who are anxious about being in public these days, she’ll also share ways to feel safer when you’re in a crowd. “I always walk in somewhere and do a quick scan and check where the exits are. I’m also situationally aware of what’s going on around me. But I don’t stop living my life because the reality is this can happen anywhere at any time, and even in our own homes,” she says. Jaclyn Schildkraut, Ph.D., is an associate professor of criminal justice at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego. Contact her at (561) 609-8035 (cell); info@jaclyn.schildkraut.com

4. ==> Another Devastating Supreme Court Decision

The Supreme Court’s decision to severely limit the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency to combat greenhouse gas emissions not only endangers the planet, legal expert Erwin Chemerinsky says it also poses a broad and serious threat to the power of federal agencies to adopt regulations to protect public health and safety in other fields. He says, “The decision reflects an aspect of the Roberts court that has not gotten as much attention as it has overturned precedents on abortion, guns and religion. This is a court that is profoundly pro-business, even in the face of clear threats to public health and safety.” Believing this decision will have huge long-term effects, he adds, “The court’s hubris and its decision to give businesses a way to challenge every sort of federal regulatory power will do this nation great damage.” Erwin Chemerinsky is dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law and a contributing writer to Opinion. He is the author, most recently, of “Presumed Guilty: How the Supreme Court Empowered the Police and Subverted Civil Rights.” Contact him at echemerinsky@law.berkeley.edu

5. ==> Mental Health Myths about Women and Abortion

“There’s so much misinformation, so many myths about abortion. Abortion will lead to substance abuse, depression, suicidal thoughts; abortion is bad for your health; every woman is going to regret it,” says social psychologist Brenda Major, a distinguished professor emeritus in the department of psychological and brain sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In reality, decades of research have shown that “the vast majority of women feel they made the right choice, and they don’t experience regret,” says Major, who led a 2008 American Psychological Association task force exploring the science on abortion and mental health. Women who had an abortion in the first trimester were no more likely to have mental health problems than women who continued with an unplanned pregnancy, the APA review concluded. Contact Brenda Major at (805) 893-7238; brenda.major@psych.ucsb.edu

6. ==> Are the Jan. 6 Commission Hearings Just Politics?

As the Jan. 6 Commission continues its public hearings, it’s reasonable to wonder what effect they will have on the country. Sure, they represent 10 months of investigatory work, the collection of more than 130,000 documents, and testimony from more than 1,000 witnesses, but is the committee preaching to the choir? Is the committee guilty of demonizing Donald Trump without giving him the right to defend himself? Are the hearings dividing the country even more? Are they all about politics or should Trump be prosecuted and banned from running again? And what about the paradoxical way former Attorney General William Barr admitted that Trump’s claims of election fraud were “detached from reality” yet still said he would support him once again should he be the GOP nominee? Interview Sheryl White, DDiv, to discuss the questions on your listeners’ minds. A self-described independent conservative, White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact her at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

7. ==> What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mexican Border?

The world looked on in horror when families emigrating to the U.S. from Mexico were separated at the border in 2017 and 2018. “This was because of the U.S. government’s ineptitude, losing contact with thousands of families and its faltering efforts at reunification for these families,” says Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids. But thanks in part to his valiant efforts, 2,000 of those 5,000 kids have been reunited with their families. Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the “Los Angeles Times” to the BBC and Scripps Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, California, and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; info@DebbiePeterson.com

9. ==> Why Going Vegan Could be Disastrous for Your Health

Plant-based eating is all-the-rage and touted as the “healthiest” but what if your genes have issues converting nutrients from plants? You could wind up with severe and catastrophic nutrient deficiencies. Take it from licensed dietitian Kristina Hess, who didn’t know her genetic profile when she went vegan 15 years ago and wound up with fractured bones and reduced bone density. Keto is all the rage too, but some people don’t feel good with this type of plan for a reason. Kristina can talk about the little-known field of nutrigenomics that can provide you with the right strategy and eating plan for your genetic blueprint, and help you optimize your health and longevity. Kristina Hess is a premier health coach and licensed dietitian-nutritionist with a functional and integrative approach. She is the co-founder of the first-of-its-kind Keto Symposium to be held in the New York tri-state area on Sept. 23 and Sept. 24, at the New York Library Performing Arts at Lincoln Center — Bruno Walter Auditorium. Contact her at (203) 984-7989; kristinaihess@gmail.com

10. ==> Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
The feeling of being stuck in a rut or trapped by life’s circumstances is all too common, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that has left us with fewer choices than ever. Laura Brennan Ballet is here to help us break free of the negative patterns that keep us stuck in unhappy jobs, relationships, or situations – simply by changing the way we think. An experienced life coach and the author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura can teach your audience how to not just think differently, but to actually recalibrate your brain and move forward with intent, free of the negativity that’s been holding you back. Ask her: Is it really possible to live without regrets? Why does she say that we all become algorithms of the people around us? How can we “think better?” Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435 or lballet@rtirguests.com

11. ==> 4 Tips to Ease Social Anxiety

Are you worried about going out in public because you fear that other people will judge you? Do you struggle to interact with strangers? Have you avoided speaking up for yourself at work or at home because you’re afraid that you won’t be liked enough to be taken seriously? You may be relieved to know that you’re not alone – and that you don’t have to struggle with these and other common symptoms of social anxiety. Collectively, our social anxiety has only gotten worse since the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Interview Lee Vallely, the author of “Kick the Sh*t out of Social Anxiety,” to help your audience ease the stress of social anxiety and start enjoying their lives. Ask him: What are four things you can do right now if you’re experiencing social anxiety? Why is “feel the fear and do it anyway” terrible advice? How can simple breathing help you overcome social anxiety? Contact Lee Vallely at (561) 658-1266 or lvallely@rtirguests.com

12. ==> COVID’s Toll on Alzheimer’s Patients

Isolation was a huge issue for many during the COVID pandemic, but for those in memory care facilities suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s the isolation triggered faster declines in cognitive health due to loneliness and not being connected. Lisa Skinner, a behavioral specialist, says she’s now seeing a shift in caring for Alzheimer’s patients, with more adult children caring for ailing parents in their homes. Lisa Skinner and Douglas Collins are the authors of “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces.” Singer/songwriter Phil Vassar shares his personal story in a chapter called “Bringing Mom Home” which details how his family was proactive during the course of Alzheimer’s disease and had a plan in place for each stage of it. Lisa Skinner has appeared on “CBS News,” “NBC News,” ”Fox News,” and “ABC News,” and in “USA Today,” “Health & Fitness,” and many other publications. Phil Vassar’s signature songs include 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits. Contact Dianemarie (DM) Collins at (775) 825-1727; DM@DMProductionsLLC.com or @DMCollins. Contact Phil Vassar by texting (615) 727-2323; or bqsdad@yahoo.com

13. ==> What Can We Do to Make Pregnancy Safer for Women?

Even in the 21st century, pregnancy is rough for most women. And it can be unsafe and even fatal, particularly in the U.S. which has the highest rate of maternal fatalities in the developed world. To find out why, and how we can do better for mothers and babies especially after the end of Roe v. Wade, interview OB specialist obstetrician Alan Lindemann, M.D., who in his 40-year rural practice has delivered more than 6,000 babies without a single maternal death. Dr. Lindemann is the author of “Safe Pregnancy Explained: Three Steps to a Safer Pregnancy.” He can also answer questions about morning sickness, lifestyle changes, and what expectant fathers can do to improve the health of their partners. Ask him: Why do we lose so many women in childbirth? How can complications be prevented? What can be done about “maternity deserts” that keep expectant moms far from hospitals and care? What are some of the biggest lessons learned from patients? What should women know about C-sections? Contact Dr. Lindemann at (701) 399-9556; ALindemann@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Quick-Start Your COVID Weight Loss

Millions of Americans are walking around with ten, 20 or more COVID pounds and are overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose the weight and get in shape. For anyone who is tired of being overweight but doesn’t know how to get started on their weight loss journey, Alvin Perry has simplified the process to lose 3-5 lbs. in seven days! This is not a quick fix, says Perry, but a process that sets in motion everything you need to reach your health goals. Invite him on your show to inspire listeners with his own weight struggles that began in college after losing his football scholarship. Now a successful entrepreneur and small-business expert, Perry will share the unique system he used to drop 80 pounds and transform his life, with just three basic principles. Alvin Perry, DBA, is also ISSA certified in personal training, fitness and nutrition. He’s the author of numerous books including his latest, “Just Fat!” Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

Most people believe it takes willpower, smarts and motivation to accomplish great things, but do you know the actual secret ingredient that world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives rely on to create their exceptional outcomes? Invite Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., on your show to discuss the power of patterns and how an awareness of what he calls the game of patterns can up-level your personal, professional and business life. Dr. Feinberg will show your audience how to recognize hidden patterns in their daily interactions and decisions so they can accomplish life goals they never dreamed possible. Ask him: What is Shutdown Syndrome? Why do you say that persistence is a problem? What do you mean by “first adapter”? What is the Meta-Game? With 40 years of experience as an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs in companies like Google, Visa, Apple, and more, Dr. Feinberg has unlocked the secrets to achieving what people say can’t be done. For his new book, “Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play The Meta-Game,” he interviewed over 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs. Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540; sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

01. Handbook for a Post-Roe America
02. Will Conservative Court Strike Down Other Precedents?
03. The High Court and Affirmative Action
04. Metallica, Coldplay, Rolling Stones: Test Your Rock Band Knowledge
05. Must-Know July 4th Safety Tips
06. The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings
07. The ‘Perfect Storm’ in the Workplace Now
08. Feeling Helpless? Hopeless? How to Be Happy Now
09. Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
10. The Two Choices the Most Successful People Make
11. Are You Keeping Secrets That Can Kill You?
12. Surprising Reason Your Neighbors May Outlive You
13. How Does Alzheimer’s Impact Families?
14. Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained
15. How to Live Your Best Life in Your 50s and Beyond

1.==> Handbook for a Post-Roe America

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday struck down the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion in the United States. Some 13 U.S. states have “trigger laws” to immediately ban abortion in those states following Roe’s reversal, and a similar number are moving to restrict or ban access to abortion in their states, which will lead to an estimated 40 million women losing access to abortion in their states, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a public-health think tank that supports abortion access. Robin Marty, director of operations at West Alabama Women’s Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, can discuss who will be most affected by the High Court’s ruling and why she is so concerned. “There’s no end to the desperation of people who want to terminate a pregnancy,” she says. Marty is the author of the book “Handbook for a Post-Roe America.” She was just featured by NPR in the piece “Patients in ‘Trigger Law’ States Reorient after Access to Abortion Care Halts.” Contact Ruth Weiner at ruth@sevenstories.com; @robinmarty

2. ==> Will Conservative Court Strike Down Other Precedents?

With the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, many wonder what rights the court’s conservative majority will strike down next. Legal expert Francis Boyle says, “The Federalist Society, with its complete distortion of the Constitution and phony concept of ‘Originalism,’ is ultimately going to target much of FDR’s New Deal and the Warren Court precedents including even Brown v. Board of Education. Also, freedom of the press — they will seek to overturn New York Times v. Sullivan protecting America’s Fourth Estate.” Boyle says the group has been packing the courts since the Reagan administration and suggests Democrats embrace counter-packing and also consider expanding the court. “Contrary to what many claim, FDR’s plan to expand the Supreme Court was a great success. The court got the message and began to uphold his New Deal legislation after previously striking it down, which prompted his scheme in the first place. So he did not have to pack the court. But these Federalist Society members are so hardcore, it will be needed now.” Francis Boyle is a professor of law at the University of Illinois. His books include “Tackling America’s Toughest Questions.” Contact him at fboyle@illinois.edu

3. ==> The High Court and Affirmative Action

Affirmative action came out of the civil rights movement as a means to address inequalities experienced by minorities. It became law through an executive order made by John F. Kennedy in 1961. Given the current make-up of the Supreme Court, and with two upcoming cases challenging it, now is a good time to talk about affirmative action’s past and future with author Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans). She can discuss whether affirmative action is reverse discrimination, how effective it has been and who it benefits, and whether it has always been controversial. Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans, a Fulbright Scholar, was one of the first Black women in the Foreign Service. A child of educators, she grew up in public housing in the Jim Crow South where Blacks were told they lived in a separate, but equal society. She is the author of “Flowers for Brother Mudd: One Woman’s Path from Jim Crow to Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtir.com

4.==> Metallica, Coldplay, Rolling Stones: Test Your Rock Band Knowledge

AXS TV hits the concert scene this summer to put music fans to the ultimate test in the all-new trivia series “Parking Lot Payday.” The show puts a fun and unique spin on the traditional game show experience as host Zach Selwyn visits concert parking lots and asks attendees to prove how much they really know about the iconic acts they’re about to see. From Coldplay to Metallica and The Rolling Stones, select fans have the opportunity to answer up to ten multiple-choice questions worth cash prizes up to $2,500. The show premieres July 12 on AXS TV. Zach Selwyn has appeared on “Around the Horn” (ESPN), “Attack of the Show!” and “America’s Secret Slang,” among other TV shows. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

5. ==> Must-Know July 4th Safety Tips

Nothing can ruin a holiday gathering more than a trip to the emergency room or a visit from your local firefighters! Whether it’s a grill fire as you’re preparing dinner, someone slipping around the pool, or a serious burn from a sparkler, the Fourth of July holiday is filled with opportunities for accidents and mishaps. Former chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Hon. Nancy Steorts will reveal the biggest threats this holiday weekend and share ways to make sure your family enjoys the summer season without anyone having to call 911. Nancy Steorts is the author of several books including “Your Home Safe Home” and “Safe Living in a Dangerous World.” Contact her at (703) 790-5116; (240) 401-7782 (cell); nancysteorts@cox.net

6. ==> The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings

The world continues to watch the seemingly never-ending mass shootings in the U.S. − particularly in schools such as Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas − in shock and horror. While social observers remain baffled about the “whys” and “hows” of these horrific tragedies, renowned scholar Sousan Abadian, Ph.D., claims the reasons are shockingly simple. “It’s all about fear,” she says. ” All those people owning/carrying guns are the most frightened people around. How did they become so fearful, and how do we reassure them?” Dr. Sousan can discuss some of the reasons why American society may be so fear-based, including spiritual trauma, and that we are collectively suffering from the “trauma virus.” She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University and conducts workshops on healing from spiritual trauma. Contact Sousan at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

7. ==> The ‘Perfect Storm’ in the Workplace Now

When unhappy workers started quitting their jobs in unprecedented numbers the phenomenon was dubbed “The Great Resignation,” but Oreste D’Aversa says yet another shift is occurring as aging baby boomers leave the workforce. “I view this ‘perfect storm’ as creating not so much a revolution, but more of an evolution of the way business needs to hire, retain, and motivate employees so everyone can be content, productive, and prosperous.” Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” on your show and learn how to navigate this evolving world of work. He’ll share his revolutionary step-by-step blueprint to reinvent your life and thrive, explain what people get wrong about happiness and money, and help listeners get unstuck, define their life’s purpose, and be more prosperous in every aspect of life. Oreste D’Aversa is a life and business coach, corporate trainer and all-faith minister. Contact him at (201) 949-3002; odaversa@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Feeling Helpless? Hopeless? How to Be Happy Now

A recent Gallup poll revealed that happiness in the United States is at an all-time low, with just 38% of Americans saying they’re satisfied. Millions are suffering from depression, anxiety, and a general sense of unhappiness that has caused many to lose hope for the future. Valerie Whetstone can help your audience turn things around and find the happiness that keeps eluding them. A best-selling author and life and wellness coach who has trained with Oprah Winfrey and Jack Canfield, she reveals five easy steps to being happy NOW that anyone can follow – no matter what kind of day (or life) they’re having! Ask her: What is the worst enemy of happiness that we all face? Why does she say that we have to slow down in order to speed up? How can we get rid of negativity when we’re surrounded by bad news every day? Contact Valerie Whetstone at (408) 752-5943 or vwhetstone@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns

The feeling of being stuck in a rut or trapped by life’s circumstances is all too common, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that has left us with fewer choices than ever. Laura Brennan Ballet is here to help us break free of the negative patterns that keep us stuck in unhappy jobs, relationships, or situations – simply by changing the way we think. An experienced life coach and the author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura can teach your audience how to not just think differently, but to actually recalibrate your brain and move forward with intent, free of the negativity that’s been holding you back. Ask her: Is it really possible to live without regrets? Why does she say that we all become algorithms of the people around us? How can we “think better?” Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435 or lballet@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Two Choices the Most Successful People Make

What do highly savvy people do on their way to great accomplishments, wealth, power and influence? How do they become confident and fulfilled? Choice expert Rico Racosky — with an impressive career as a fighter pilot, airline pilot, and creator of the Choice Revolution — has the answers. Ask him: How has the way people make choices changed in recent years? How has it opened up more opportunities? How can you recognize a poor choice before you make one? The author of “Just 2 Choices” also speaks nationwide on making choices that will reward you with relationship happiness, better income and savings, career and entrepreneurial success, wellness and fitness, and even longevity. Contact Rico Racosky at (720) 572-1321; RRacosky@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Are You Keeping Secrets That Can Kill You?

Everyone knows that keeping secrets can be stressful. But what most people don’t know is that it can also lead to illnesses including cancer. Attorney, author and cancer survivor Francine Tone discusses the worst things to keep to yourself that can lead to illness, suffering and even the loss of life. She’s not merely talking about what you don’t tell your doctor or what happens with missed screenings. She’s talking about traumas, big and small, that happen to everyone that you keep hidden out of shame. Francine is a sought-after interview guest on legal matters and overcoming everything from abuse to debilitating accidents. She is the author of “What Every Good Lawyer Wants You to Know.” Contact her at (531) 208-1297; FTone@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Surprising Reason Your Neighbors May Outlive You

Most of us look at our neighbors and make silent comparisons. Some certainly look worse than we do, older, paunchier, and perhaps grayer. But we may concede that some look better, more active, upbeat, and healthier, making us wonder what they know that we don’t. You could ask them, but you probably won’t. Instead, why not ask nurse practitioner (APRN) Anne McAwley-LeDuc, an award-winning author? Anne says the healthiest people don’t just see physicians regularly, stick to a healthful diet and exercise program, take prescription medicines correctly and avoid bad habits. According to Anne, they also keep accurate health histories and records. She’ll reveal the importance of maintaining key information about every doctor visit, and all procedures, tests, treatments, vaccinations, and prescriptions for every family member. Anne is the creator of the “Personal Health Organizer.” Contact her at (860) 300- 603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How Does Alzheimer’s Impact Families?

Alzheimer’s disease affects some 5.8 million American families with loved ones over 65 while its younger version, early-onset, affects at least 200,000 more. Whenever this progressive, memory-robbing disease strikes, families are tested on so many levels: emotionally, physically, financially, and mentally, in ways most of us can’t imagine.
For a look at Alzheimer’s hidden toll on families, interview Carlen Maddux, a former reporter who cared for his wife for 17 years after she was diagnosed at 50. He can talk about how his wife’s illness affected their children and his marriage and the lessons he learned along the way. He is the author of “A Path Revealed” and has done dozens of interviews. Contact him at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained

Adoption is certainly a beautiful, loving way to bring a new child into one’s family. But like many couples, Nate Birt and his wife wanted to make their adoption journey particularly special. They chose to adopt a frozen embryo that was implanted, carried, and delivered by Nate’s wife. Now the Birts are delighted to be the parents of a lovely little daughter and have written a “how-to” book about the process. Invite Nate on-air to explain how all this happened and what others can do to turn a frozen embryo into a joyful birth. Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com

15. ==> How to Live Your Best Life in Your 50s and Beyond

Author Judy Balloff met and married the love of her life in her 50s and landed her dream job in her 60s. She can share specific tips for living your best life in your later years. “You are definitely not too old to find love; there are five sure-fire steps to finding it,” she says. “I can also show people how to control their thoughts to create their own reality.” In addition, Judy can share how running on autopilot can cut years off of your life, the 12 Universal Laws for living a healthier and happier life and other tips for finding your dream life in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

01. The Real People of Roe v. Wade
02. Liberals Should Rethink Their View of Supreme Court
03. More than Half of All Americans Say Democracy Is Doomed
04. Is the Jan. 6 Commission Changing Minds?
05. Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?
06. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
07. Freelance Expert Shares Tips to Get Gigging
08. Quick-Start Your Summer COVID Weight Loss
09. Summer Jobs Are More than Extra Cash for Teens
10. Mamma Deadliest: Sons and Toxic Moms
11. ‘Couple’s Whisperer’ Helps Opposites Communicate
12. Love at First Sight: What’s Behind It?
13. What Not to Say to an Infertile Couple
14. 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain
15. TV Host Shares 5 Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious Summer’

1. ==> The Real People of Roe v. Wade

Abortion rights are poised to fall with the Supreme Court’s impending decision on overturning Roe v. Wade. Investigative journalist Joshua Prager’s “The Family Roe: An American Story” offers extraordinary insight into the Supreme Court’s most divisive case and its plaintiff, Norma McCorvey. A finalist for the 2022 Pulitzer Prize, the book captures the sweeping, 50-year history of America’s pro-choice pro-life schism, the politicization of Roe, and the lives of the individuals at the heart of the case. Prager spent years with Norma; discovered her personal papers, a previously unseen trove; and witnessed her final moments. He also found the unknown Roe baby, Shelley Thornton, whose conception occasioned the lawsuit. Joshua Prager has written for “The Atlantic,” “Vanity Fair,” the “New York Times,” and the “Wall Street Journal.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

2. ==> Liberals Should Rethink Their View of Supreme Court

The last time liberals controlled a majority of the U.S. Supreme Court was 53 years ago – June 23, 1969. Since then, conservatives have spent decades developing a constitutional theory – originalism. Liberals meanwhile adopted a strategy of searching for a swing vote. Brad Snyder calls that a “fool’s errand” today and suggests they reconsider a constitutional theory that many liberals championed for the first half of the 20th century yet abandoned during the 1960s – judicial restraint. “Judges who practiced judicial restraint often upheld state and federal laws and rarely overturned precedents. This approach appealed to liberals who believed that the court should defer to democratically elected bodies while ensuring that minorities were not discriminated against or shut out of the political process.” Snyder believes a more robust theory of judicial restraint could curb the court’s excesses and reinforce the country’s commitment to democracy. Brad Snyder is a professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center and the author of the forthcoming “Democratic Justice,” a biography of Felix Frankfurter, an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1939-1962. Contact him at brad.snyder@law.georgetown.edu

3. ==> More than Half of All Americans Say Democracy Is Doomed

According to a new Yahoo News/YouGov poll, 55% of Democrats AND 53% of Republicans think it’s “likely” that America will “cease to be a democracy.” In another stunning sign of pessimism about the country’s future, the poll found that a majority of Republicans say it’s likely that “there will be a civil war in the United States in [their] lifetime,” with half of independents and 46% of Democrats agreeing. Strategic advisor Dr. Harlan Ullman can discuss what’s going on in the country and whether the nation will soon cease to exist because people can no longer get along. Ask him: Why do so many Americans believe a second civil war will occur? Are we more pessimistic today or is the likelihood of war actually greater? Harlan Ullman’s career spans the worlds of business and government. Chairman of several companies and an advisor to the heads of major corporations and governments, he was the principal author of “Shock and Awe.” His latest book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

4. ==> Is the Jan. 6 Commission Changing Minds?

As the Jan. 6 Commission continues its public hearings, the first of which drew some 2 million viewers, it is reasonable to wonder what effect they will have on the country. Sure, they represent 10 months of investigatory work, the collection of more than 130,000 documents, and testimony from more than 1,000 witnesses, but is the committee preaching to the choir? Is the committee guilty of demonizing Donald Trump without giving him the right to defend himself? Are the hearings dividing the country even more? Are they all about politics or should Trump be prosecuted and banned from running again? And what about the paradoxical way former Attorney General William Barr admitted that Trump’s claims of election fraud were “detached from reality” yet still said he would support him once again should he be the GOP nominee? Interview Sheryl White, Ph.D., to discuss the questions on your listeners’ minds. A self-described independent conservative, Dr. White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact Dr. White at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

5. ==> Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?

President Biden told reporters on Monday that he’s nearing a decision on student-loan forgiveness. He also says another extension of the student-loan payment pause is “on the table.” Recent reports suggest Biden is considering $10,000 in relief for borrowers making under $150,000 a year. Millions of struggling student-loan borrowers are anxiously awaiting an announcement in the coming weeks, but is this the answer? According to former college professor Glen Dunzweiler, students should not waste their time thinking about loan forgiveness. “It’s a waste of energy,” he says, “because there is no incentive for anyone to forgive your debt. Instead, the discussion can provide an opportunity to figure out the leverage that individual students do have.” Glen is the author of two books including “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills For Students.” He is an independent filmmaker and the host of the YouTube series Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler. His documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the “Los Angeles Times” to the BBC and Script Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, Calif., and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; DebbiePeterson805@gmail.com

7. ==> Freelance Expert Shares Tips to Get Gigging

Whether you’re looking for a career that better wraps around your family or you want a side gig to increase your income, Sherry Beck Paprocki says the current conditions are perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of freelancing. Invite Sherry on your show and learn how to create a lucrative freelance business, tips to create the gig lifestyle you’ve dreamed about, and why some people have satisfying careers while others don’t. Certified work-life balance coach Sherry Beck Paprocki has earned more than six figures a year as a freelance writer, editor and gig specialist. She is the author of “Freelance Fancy: Your Guide to Capturing Spiritual Health, Wealth and Happiness from Gig Work.” Contact her at (614) 537-7159; paprockiltd@cs.com

8. ==> Quick-Start Your Summer COVID Weight Loss

COVID may not be on our minds much anymore, but millions of Americans are still carrying around the ten, 20 or more pounds they gained during the pandemic, and many are overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose the weight and get in shape — especially now that summer is here. For anyone who is tired of being overweight but doesn’t know how to get started on their weight-loss journey, Alvin Perry, DBA, has simplified the process to lose 3-5 lbs. in seven days! This is not a quick fix, says Dr. Perry, but a process that sets in motion everything you need to reach your health goals. Invite him on your show to inspire listeners with his own weight struggles that began in college after losing his football scholarship. Now a successful entrepreneur and small-business expert, Dr. Perry will share the unique system he used to drop 80 pounds and transform his life, with just three basic principles. Alvin Perry, DBA, is also ISSA certified in personal training, fitness and nutrition. He’s the author of numerous books including his latest, “Just Fat!” Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Summer Jobs Are More than Extra Cash for Teens

The summer job has historically been a rite of passage for American teens, but in the last few decades, that has changed dramatically. In the summer of 1978, 60% of teens were working or looking for work. Last summer, just 35% were. And during the school year, even fewer teens held jobs. Whether it’s because they’re studying or involved in sports or afraid of getting sick, life and business coach, corporate trainer, and interfaith minister Oreste D’Aversa says the result is that many young adults now enter the workforce unprepared for what is expected of them. Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” to discuss how to instill a strong work ethic in adolescents and why it’s more important than ever in today’s Digital Age. Ask him: Shouldn’t teens concentrate on school? What are the benefits of a part-time job? How can parents ensure their teens are prepared for the adult workplace? Contact Oreste D’Aversa at (201) 949-3002; daversa@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Mamma Deadliest: Sons and Toxic Moms

When a boy has a toxic mother — someone who is abusive, addicted to drugs, or mentally ill — he will have a difficult time as an adult. The early collateral damage he suffers is rarely discussed but likely will lead to difficulties with his spouse, lovers, and children. Guy Arcuri, Ph.D., who suffered for years as the son of a verbally, mentally, and emotionally abusive mother, is now a married father of two who trains other people to heal themselves. Ask him how and why do men shy away from addressing the deep wounds caused by growing up with a toxic mother? What are some of the ways the voices of the sons of toxic mothers are underrepresented in our culture? The author of “Toxic Mothers: A Son’s Guide to Healing and Moving On,” he is an educational consultant, author, trainer, coach, retreat provider, experienced talk show guest, and voiceover artist. Contact Guy at (336) 345-4891; drguyteacher@gmail.com

11. ==> ‘Couple’s Whisperer’ Helps Opposites Communicate

Did you know that there are 22 pairs of opposite behaviors that can trip couples up? This complexity explains why many couples have different versions of the same fights repeatedly but never seem to know it. For example … he wants to direct things his way but she needs to collaborate. She ignores her partner’s need for meticulous plans and embraces spontaneous change. Or he needs to keep to “just the facts” while his partner must share feelings. Join Chris Shaver — The Couple’s Whisperer — as he shares stories that illustrate a better way for couples to relate and navigate the opposites that can both attract and repel. Chris Shaver is a motivational psychology expert and creator of the Better Way to Relate Program which is based on a professional-grade assessment that’s been used for 71 years for 50 million assessments. Contact Chris at (610) 417-5342; chris@marriagecure.com

12. ==> Love at First Sight: What’s Behind It?

If you haven’t experienced it yourself you’ve probably seen it portrayed in a movie: two people who have an instant attraction, a soul connection, and a feeling they belong together. Alicia McBride, an empath, psychic, and author of three books, can discuss the powerful emotions behind love at first sight. Whether they are believers or not, your audience will get a kick out of exploring this unusual topic. In an interview, Alicia will say that intense instant attraction may be the result of recognizing someone from a past life, or from one of the participants having psychic abilities even though they may be hidden. She’ll explain that what we think of as love at first sight may not last or even be mutual. Be sure to ask her what happened when she met a man she had pictured in her head for two years. Alicia McBride is the author of “The Empath Effect,” “I Feel Too Much” and “I Love You When.” Reach her at (484) 369-1464; Healinglightempath@gmail.com

13. ==> What Not to Say to an Infertile Couple

If you have never grappled with infertility you may wonder why infertile couples don’t simply adopt a child. You may even think it is OK to suggest this to couples who share their infertility issue with you. But as Frances Jones will tell you, the suggestion that such couples adopt may be considered insulting or insensitive. Bring Frances on your show to talk about infertility including what you should not say to couples who are not childless by choice. She’ll also explain why adoption is often not the answer and why the issues it raises are not just about having a child in the home. Frances Jones is the author of “Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed,” a book that tells the story of her over 20-year journey of never conceiving children and offers tips for couples traveling a similar journey. Ask her how adopting two children affected the shame, hurt, and disappointment she experienced in not having biological children. How do well-intentioned people sometimes make infertility issues worse? She’s a global women empowerment speaker, an advocate, and a transformational coach who has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, “Fox Soul The Tammi Mac Late Show,” Fox affiliates, the “Los Angeles Tribune,” and other media. Contact Frances Jones at (901) 910-0915; fjones@rtirguests.com

14. ==> 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain

Living with chronic pain is no fun and was even less so during the pandemic when care was restricted and stress levels were through the roof. Why not help make listeners’ lives more comfortable by interviewing Trevor Campbell, M.D., who can share tips for controlling stress, managing negative thoughts, and paying attention to the story they tell their friends and family members about their illnesses, all things that can lead to lessening pain? Ask him how can what we are thinking affect our pain levels? How can people feel less stressed when they hurt? Dr. Campbell is a family physician who has worked in multidisciplinary pain management and opioids reduction programs and has served as a medical director for a leading pain management provider in Western Canada. He graduated from the University of Cape Town. He hosts the holistic “Healthscape” podcast. Dr. Campbell’s book is “The Language of Pain: Fast Forward Your Recovery to Stop Hurting.” Contact Trevor Campbell at (250) 217-7832; tcampbell@rtirguests.com

15. ==> TV Host Shares 5 Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious Summer’

Summer has arrived! For tips on making the most of the season, interview Maryann Ridini Spencer, an award-winning screenwriter, author, TV/film producer, journalist, and host of the Telly Award-winning “Simply Delicious Living” PBS-TV series. She’ll discuss how to create a healthy plate you’ll “want” to eat, offer five tips for getting in shape and more. Ask her what are your mind, body, and spirit tips as the weather heats up? How can people get moving again after being isolated and dormant for so long? What’s the best way to get into summer mode? Maryann is the author of the award-winning Kate Grace novels “Lady in the Window,” “The Paradise Table,” “Secrets of Grace Manor,” and the “Simply Delicious Living” cookbooks. Her work has appeared on “Hallmark Hall of Fame” (CBS-TV), the Hallmark Channel, CNN, USA, SyFy, Showtime, PBS, and many others. Contact Maryann Ridini Spencer at (818) 492-9135; mspencer@rtirguests.com

01. Jan. 6 Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations
02. 50th Anniversary of Watergate Break-In
03. Trailer Park Residents Take on Venture Capitalists … and Win!
04. Fun Music Trivia Show: ‘Parking Lot Payday’
05. Sober Skippers Wanted: Summer Water Safety Tips
06. How to Cool Your Temper This Summer
07. What History Can Tell Us about Ending Polarization
08. Is Affirmative Action Reverse Discrimination?
09. Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?
10. How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done
11. Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?
12. It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story
13. Could You Forgive a Cheating Spouse?
14. How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs
15. Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

1. ==> Jan. 6 Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations

This week, public hearings by the House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection continue as lawmakers attempt to answer the question of whether former President Donald Trump and his political allies broke the law in seeking to overturn the 2020 election results. Jennifer Selin says the hearings are a part of a long history of congressional investigation. She says the first congressional inquiry was held in the House in 1792 and the Senate conducted its first official investigation in 1818 with several noteworthy investigations since then from the Teapot Dome scandal to Watergate. While the hearings deal with unprecedented events in American history, Selen says the very investigation of these events has strong precedent. “Congress has long exercised its power to investigate some of the greatest problems facing the nation. In that way, the upcoming hearings fit squarTely into the mainstream of American government oversight.” Jennifer Selin is co-director of the Washington office for the Carl Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy at Wayne State University. Contact her at (614) 266-1860; jennifer.selin@wayne.edu

2. ==> 50th Anniversary of Watergate Break-In

This month marks the 50th anniversary of the Watergate break-in. Invite Jefferson Morley, author of “Scorpions’ Dance: The President, the Spymaster and Watergate,” to discuss the relationship between President Richard Nixon and then-CIA Director Richard Helms and why documents that have since been partly released suggest a reexamination of overlooked portions of Nixon’s tapes. He says, “We can now say with confidence what the CIA denied: that Howard Hunt was a CIA asset at the same time he was a Watergate burglar.” In “The (Redacted) Truth About the CIA’s (Redacted) Role in Watergate,” his recent piece for the Daily Beast, Morley writes: “A redacted FBI memo from May 1973 conceals details about Hunt’s role in breaking into the office of the psychiatrist of Daniel Ellsberg, the former Defense Department analyst who leaked the Pentagon Papers to ‘The New York Times.’ The memo was addressed to Acting FBI Director Mark Felt who was serving as a confidential source, known as Deep Throat, for ‘Washington Post’ reporter Bob Woodward.” Contact Jefferson Morley at morleyj@gmail.com; @jeffersonmorley

3. ==> Trailer Park Residents Take on Venture Capitalists … and Win!

Journalist Joseph Bullington writes about a recent case of trailer park homeowners in Durango, Colorado, taking on the venture capitalists who own the land they live on. Invite him on your show to hear the story of 30-year-old Alejandra Chavez, who along with other residents, formed a cooperative, elected representatives, and voted to try and buy the park themselves. “The $5.46 million asking price was daunting, but residents knew the cost of failure,” writes Bullington, who says most residents of trailer parks own their homes but not the land beneath them. Invite him on your show to talk about what he calls this new, outdoorsy form of gentrification thanks to an inrush of tourists, remote workers and investors who have driven land and housing prices out of control in Durango and across the West. Bullington is the rural editor for “In These Times.” Contact him at joseph@inthesetimes.com

4. ==> Fun Music Trivia Show: ‘Parking Lot Payday’

AXS TV hits the concert scene this summer to put music fans to the ultimate test in the all-new trivia series “Parking Lot Payday.” The show puts a fun and unique spin on the traditional game show experience as host Zach Selwyn visits concert parking lots and asks attendees to prove how much they really know about the iconic acts they’re about to see. From Coldplay to Metallica and The Rolling Stones, select fans have the opportunity to answer up to ten multiple-choice questions worth cash prizes up to $2,500. The show premieres July 12 on AXS TV. Zach Selwyn has appeared on “Around the Horn” (ESPN), “Attack of the Show!” and “America’s Secret Slang,” among other TV shows. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

5. ==> Sober Skippers Wanted: Summer Water Safety Tips

Millions of boaters and paddlers are expected to head out on the water this summer, including more than 830,000 first-time buyers who purchased boats during the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in crowds coupled with the number of inexperienced new boaters has some folks worried. “We’re anticipating a major wave of inexperienced boaters on the water and we need everyone – our experienced boaters and our newcomers alike – to plan accordingly and be well prepared,” says Water Sports Foundation Executive Director Jim Emmons. He’ll share ten tips to maximize boating fun and safety this summer, from wearing life vests to designating a sober skipper and keeping on top of changing weather. The Water Sports Foundation (WSF) is the non-profit educational arm of the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA). Contact Joel Staley at (407) 242-9994; 338619@email4pr.com

6. ==> How to Cool Your Temper This Summer

This summer tempers are running hot around the country as the nation awaits several big rulings from the Supreme Court, the findings of the Jan. 6 Committee and whether or not there will be any movement to end the mass shootings that have been cropping up like dandelions. Yet even people who aren’t getting hot about changes to society may still be finding themselves in a lather about post-pandemic life, high gas prices and summer traffic. Invite happiness expert Trish Ahjel Roberts to share ways to put the chill back in your life. The author of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness,” has created a 5-hour online course that provides tools and resources to make the summer season relaxing, fun and freeing just as it is supposed to be. After a terrifying car accident in 2018, Roberts founded Mind-Blowing Happiness LLC in 2019 and left her career as a financial advisor to become a self-actualization coach and happiness expert working primarily with Black women like herself. Contact her at (917) 887-3689; hello@trishahjelroberts.com

7. ==> What History Can Tell Us about Ending Polarization

Americans are so deeply divided today that one might wonder if anything could possibly bring us together. But author and theologian Sheryl White, D. Min., says that history can offer us some comfort, particularly Civil War history. Dr. White says we need to stop choosing sides on every issue, bridging issues instead. It’s not an all-or-nothing siding with pro-lifers or pro-abortionists, pro-gun or anti-gun, Democrat or Republican, conservatives or progressives. Dr. White can offer steps we can take to bridge that divide including ways we can strip away labels and stereotypes and make friends with people who represent different religions, races and positions on issues. Dr. White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact Dr. White at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

8. ==> Is Affirmative Action Reverse Discrimination?

Affirmative action came out of the civil rights movement as a means to address inequalities experienced by minorities. It became law through an executive order made by John F. Kennedy in 1961. With two upcoming cases challenging it before the Supreme Court, now is a good time to discuss affirmative action’s past and future with author Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans). Ask her: Is affirmative action reverse discrimination? How effective has it been? Was it always controversial? Does it benefit everyone or just a few? Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans, a Fulbright Scholar, was one of the first Black women in the Foreign Service. A child of educators, she grew up in public housing in the Jim Crow South where Blacks were told they lived in a separate, but equal society. She is the author of “Flowers for Brother Mudd: One Woman’s Path from Jim Crow to Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?

Today’s highly polarized society makes it hard for people from opposing sides to agree on anything, let alone work together, even if the goal is for the common good. It’s possible, though not easy, as Bee Bloeser personally witnessed in the middle of the Cold War when despite their vast differences, leaders across the globe joined forces to rid the world of smallpox. Bee and her family became involved in the global campaign when the CDC dispatched her husband to West Africa in 1969. Invite her to share what it was like to be an American woman in Africa at that time and the unexpected challenges she and her family faced, including brushes with a brutal dictator’s regime and living in an isolated region suffering a humanitarian crisis the rest of the world knew nothing about. An award-winning author and engaging public speaker, Bee Bloeser has been featured on NPR’s “Journeys of Discovery” and NPR KCBX Radio’s show, “Issues and Ideas.” Her book is, “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

Most people believe it takes willpower, smarts and motivation to accomplish great things, but do you know the actual secret ingredient that world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives rely on to create their exceptional outcomes? Invite Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., on your show to discuss the power of patterns and how an awareness of what he calls the game of patterns can up-level your personal, professional and business life. Dr. Feinberg will show your audience how to recognize hidden patterns in their daily interactions and decisions so they can accomplish life goals they never dreamed possible. Ask him: What is Shutdown Syndrome? Why do you say that persistence is a problem? What do you mean by “first adapter”? What is the Meta-Game? With 40 years of experience as an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs in companies like Google, Visa, Apple, and more, Dr. Feinberg has unlocked the secrets to achieving what people say can’t be done. For his new book, “Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play The Meta-Game,” he interviewed over 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs. Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540; sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?

Fatima Bustos-Choy believes we all have an inner voice that guides us to our true north, but that many entrepreneurs can’t hear the voice. She says, “Believing that answers come from the outside, we’ve learned to not trust ourselves and our answers from within. The inner voice has become fainter and fainter, almost negligible. We have become deaf to our own inner voice.” To research her new book, “More Than Money: Five Paths to Abundance and Success for Inner-Centered Entrepreneurs,” Bustos-Choy interviewed 30 entrepreneurs to understand their minds and hearts, their joys and sorrows, wins and losses, and whether an inner voice spoke to them. She’ll share what she discovered, including the five ways the inner voice comes through. Fatima Bustos-Choy, Ph.D., is president of R&F Holistic Services and Gaia Flow Consulting. She has more than 30 years of frontline and senior leadership positions in the financial services, aerospace and nonprofit industries. Contact her at (818) 209-3775; fbustoschoy@gmail.com

12. ==> It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story

It is the peak time of year for couples to exhaust themselves, and often their bank accounts, by investing in the “perfect” wedding day. But Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., says couples rarely invest the same level of time or resources to growing the marriage after they tie the knot. The psychologist and author of “Growing Married: Creating Stories for a Lifetime of Love,” says, “Unfortunately couples spend lots to marry, plan lots to retire and check out during the long in-between.” Skerrett pulls together cutting-edge thinking and research to offer practical strategies for newlyweds to have enduring marriages. She’ll share five pieces of advice to help couples flourish in every stage of their lives. Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and registered nurse. She is the co-author of “Positive Couple Therapy,” co-editor of “Couple Resilience,” and author of “Tell Me Again How I Know You?” Contact her at (630) 292-4108 (cell); (708) 579-5911 (office); karen.skerrett@gmail.com

13. ==> Could You Forgive a Cheating Spouse?

Infidelity is the leading cause of divorce. But author Valentina Tjan claims it doesn’t have to be the end of a marriage. “If your spouse does not possess the deal-breaker traits such as addiction to sex, drugs, alcohol or assault, and they are prepared to immediately stop the affair, then you should stay as the devil you know is better than the one you don’t know,” she says. “Do not leave any stones unturned before you abandon your spouse just because you caught them with their hand in the cookie jar.” She is the author of “The Best Is Yet to Come: Real-Life Journey to Riches to Inspire You to Wisdom and Wealth,” and has first-hand experience with marital infidelity. Contact Valentina at (647) 493-1694; vphoey@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs

No parent consciously decides to raise children who will get involved in gangs, cults, or drug use. Yet the families of children who take these paths share common traits that can be identified and, more importantly, used to prevent kids from sustaining injury, a criminal record and more. Interview Pat Tamakloe, Ph.D., author of the upcoming book “Finding Your O: Four Stages to Self-Discovery from Adolescence to Adulthood” to find out more. Pat Tamakloe was born in New York City, raised in West Africa, Southern Africa, and England and became independent of his parents at age 20. An expert on the existing gaps between adolescence and adulthood, he spent 23 years in military service rising from enlisted to a commissioned officer in the U.S. before switching to his passion, helping young adults reach their potential. Ask him: What are the indicators that a child will become involved in drugs, cults, or gangs? What are the four O’s in your book title? What are some of the mental health challenges some adolescents have that prevent them from finding productive occupations? Contact Dr. Pat Tamakloe at (757) 210-7903; ptamakloe@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

Looking to take a summer trip that combines the pleasures of wine and travel? Helping audiences make the most of their wine adventures is expert guide Jim Laughren, CWE, with suggestions from how to enjoy local wineries to where in the world we can find the “wildest” wine vacations of all. Whether you’re looking for fabulous food, incredible scenery, or amazing hospitality, all to enjoy with some gorgeous wines, Jim can steer you in the right direction. Ask him: Why should people visit Mendoza, Argentina, the Republic of Georgia and the Napa Valley? Where can you not only tour 1,500 acres of grapes but also buy a piece of the vineyard AND return for the harvest to make your own wine? The author of two short eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

01. Jan. 6 Hearings Expose How Divided America Has Become
02. Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come with Equality?
03. What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?
04. Estranged from Your Father? How to Heal and Reconcile
05. LGBTQ Enviro Activist: Growing Up Gay in Middle America
06. What Happened to Teens and Summer Jobs?
07. This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s
08. Do a Show on the Ladies Who Run the Cruise Industry
09. Can You Be Allergic to a Spouse?
10. The Real Cost of Post-Disaster Clean-Up
11. Will Someone You Love Get Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?
12. Do Successful People Make Healthier Choices?
13. 3 Antidotes for Teen Anxiety
14. Children’s Summer Reading: ‘Screen Boy’
15. Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?

1. ==> Jan. 6 Hearings Expose How Divided America Has Become

Is the nation as divided as it was in 1861 or even 1776, when most American colonists favored remaining part of Great Britain? Or is this phenomenon a consequence of social media and the ubiquitous coverage and sensationalism of the news cycle? Dr. Harlan Ullman says the answer is chilling. A foreign relations expert and former Pentagon advisor, Ullman can discuss the dangerous state of America today, how every issue has become a single massive attack of disruption, and why he believes the Jan 6th Commission has opened Pandora’s Box. Harlan Ullman’s career spans the worlds of business and government. Chairman of several companies and an advisor to the heads of major corporations and governments, he was the principal author of “Shock and Awe.” His latest book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

2. ==> Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come with Equality?

June 19 is Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. For many, that means celebrating Black culture but it can be more than that: it can be a time for the nation to examine how far we’ve come with race relations in the U.S., what we’ve done right and what still needs to be done. And that is a topic that former diplomat and life story writer Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans) can address. Judith says, “Since slavery, despite the setbacks of post- Reconstruction and Jim Crow, Blacks have made gains and held onto them even as they endured losses. They are at the forefront of the fight for America to realize her full potential. They are an iron-clad part of the many that make one.” Starting in 1975 and for the next 30 years, the former English major and Fulbright Scholar who grew up in the Jim Crow South was a diplomat in the Foreign Service in New Delhi, Mumbai, Dhaka, Taipei, Hong Kong, Brussels, Libreville, Bujumbura, and Brazzaville. Her new memoir is “Chocolates for Mary Julia: Black Woman Blazes Trails as a Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

3. ==> What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?

The world looked on in horror when families emigrating to the U.S. from Mexico were separated at the border in 2017 and 2018. “This was because of the U.S. government’s ineptitude, losing contact with thousands of families and its faltering efforts at reunification for these families,” says Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids. But thanks in part to his valiant efforts, 2,000 of those 5,000 kids have been reunited with their families. Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Estranged from Your Father? How to Heal and Reconcile

Sunday may be Father’s Day, but what if you are one of the millions of families harboring an estrangement? Arguments, regrets, rivalries, miscommunication, avoidance and lack of forgiveness are sadly very common. After all, we often hurt the ones we love. So what does it take to heal such troubled family dynamics? Discuss reconciling and rebuilding family relationships with Peter Colman, Ph.D., a speaker, missionary and author of “The Prodigal Father: A Son’s Hope-Filled Story of Love, Reconciliation and Redemption.” Dr. Colman will explore why people often accuse those closest to them of mistreatment, hold grudges and drift apart. He’ll help family members understand each other and learn to lean on their shared faith and heritage to heal. Ask him: What’s the first step away from regrets and blame, toward forgiveness and healing? How do the effects of wartime service impact family relationships? What is sacred about family bonds, especially between a father and son? Contact Judith Colman at (847) 912-4481; jcolman@rtirguests.com

5. ==> LGBTQ Enviro Activist: Growing Up Gay in Middle America

Calling it the first environmental queer memoir from the Great Plains/Intermountain West, Taylor Brorby’s “Boys and Oil: Growing Up Gay in a Fractured Land” brings new focus to an ignored region of the country whose rich resources—its land and its people—are often unappreciated. In his hometown of Center, North Dakota, there are no stoplights, grocery stores, or motels, just a few bars and churches, with pews filled on Sundays by men who will return to the coal mine or the power plant on Monday. He can discuss his experience growing up gay in rural America, his family’s multigenerational relationship with the fossil fuel industry, and his environmental education and activism including an arrest while living in the Bakken oil fields while protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline in Iowa. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

6. ==> What Happened to Teens and Summer Jobs?

The summer job has historically been a rite of passage for American teens, but in the last few decades, that has changed dramatically. In the summer of 1978, 60% of teens were working or looking for work. Last summer, just 35% were. And during the school year, even fewer teens hold jobs. Whether it’s because they’re studying or involved in sports or afraid of getting sick, life and business coach, corporate trainer, and interfaith minister Oreste D’Aversa says the result is that many young adults now enter the workforce unprepared for what is expected of them. Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” to discuss how to instill a strong work ethic in adolescents and why it’s more important than ever in today’s Digital Age. Ask him: Shouldn’t teens concentrate on school? What are the benefits of a part-time job? How can parents ensure their teens are prepared for the adult workplace? Contact Oreste D’Aversa at (201) 949-3002; daversa@rtirguests.com

7. ==> This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s

Most people over 60 who wish to continue working fear age discrimination and a workforce that seems to favor younger employees. But Judy Balloff claims that’s nonsense. “I started a new career at age 64 in a job I had never done before, and I have made over half a million dollars at an age when many take social security,” she says. “Treat looking for a job like a job. Be open-minded about doing something with your skills that never occurred to you before.” Judy can share these and other tips for landing your dream job in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Do a Show on the Ladies Who Run the Cruise Industry

Most people think of cruise ship honchos as men. However, more and more women are manning the helm in the industry, and making waves. “Today, there are numerous women cruise line presidents and vice presidents, as well as the first and only American woman captain of a cruise ship for a well-known cruise line, and another woman who is a co-founder and co-owner,” says author and travel industry expert Cindy Bertram. Cindy can talk about the numerous women cruise line bigwigs who have sailed on to dazzling careers in an industry long dominated by men. She is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact Cindy at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Can You Be Allergic to A Spouse?

Do you sneeze uncontrollably whenever your wife or hubby tries to hug you? Do you wake up with a headache after sleeping next to your other half? According to products ingredients expert Zorica Denton, you may be allergic to the fragrances in their soap, body lotion or something else they use, and not even know it. “Products with fragrances may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals,” she says. “But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica developed asthma and other long-term, debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model, and almost died. She is the founder of the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu and author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact Zorica at (213) 616-7904; zdenton@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Real Cost of Post-Disaster Clean-Up

Disasters cause catastrophic damage, but they also leave behind pulverized toxic debris that can cause further environmental and health damage when it’s released during clean-up. Building, solid hazardous material and coating expert George Keefe says exposure to the toxic debris has been linked to illnesses like the recently classified “Tornado cough” and other respiratory conditions. He’ll discuss ways to contain and minimize exposure to toxic debris during disaster cleanup and how to fortify buildings before disaster strikes. George Keefe was brought in to make recommendations and help with the lockdown and control of radioactive debris from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant disaster in Japan. A consultant, contractor and coach, Keefe wrote “Just Encase They Think You’re Stupid” to demystify the complicated issues of solid hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead-based paint in buildings. Contact Lydia Ng’etich at (800) 228 5507; ask@encasementguy.com

11. ==> Will Someone You Love Get Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?

The ravages of Alzheimer’s are not limited to the aged. In fact, thousands of relatively young people and their families will be affected by early-onset Alzheimer’s this year alone. Interview Carlen Maddux, author of “A Path Revealed,” about the journey he took with his late wife, Martha, after she was diagnosed at 50. Carlen has many insights to share about the first signs of the disease, and ultimately on caregiving, single parenting, learning about a memory-robbing illness with no cure, and what lifestyle changes and treatments gave his spouse additional quality years. Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Do Successful People Make Healthier Choices?

According to author Rico Racosky, the world’s most successful people know that whatever they do, buy, develop, interact with or say can impact their physical, emotional, mental, relational and financial health. In fact, Rico says these people (who have achieved great accomplishments in life) are part of something he calls a Healthy Choice Revolution that’s amazingly simple, surprisingly obvious, and profoundly practical. Anyone is capable of embracing this, with all their choices going forward. Rico’s popular book is “Just 2 Choices” and he can instantly teach your audience some of the choice-making skills contained in that book and his online classes that we all need for greater happiness and wellness. Contact him at (720) 572-1321; RRacosky@rtirguests.com

13. ==> 3 Antidotes for Teen Anxiety

Teen anxiety has been on the rise since the turn of the century, and it has accelerated in recent years, especially during the pandemic. When Clint Rutledge heard the staggering statistics, the author and father of teens decided to do something to help families fight the growing epidemic. Clint’s new book, “Strong and Courageous,” shares three biblical secrets to help teens protect themselves. Invite him on your show and learn how parents can empower their teens to stand strong in their convictions, overcome discouragement, and become leaders others want to follow. Discover the activity parents can do with their teens to improve decision-making, the key to controlling focus and overcoming discouragement, and how stories are the secret weapon for teaching a lesson. Clint Rutledge is a keynote speaker and author. He has worked with thousands of teens, coaches, and teachers over the last 20 years. Contact him at (830) 660-1052; clint@clintrutledge.com

14. ==> Children’s Summer Reading: ‘Screen Boy’

School is out and screens are on. Invite author Matthew Patrick Gallagher to discuss his new children’s book, “Screen Boy,” about a young man who gets caught up in the world of technology and gaming and loses his friends, his athleticism, and his priorities. With the help of his trusty dog, he realizes that something needs to change and makes a goal to fix the situation. Gallagher says the book is relevant to anyone wondering about the possible consequences of children spending so much time lost in screens and virtual reality and what parents can do to help their kids. Contact Matthew Patrick Gallagher at (770) 349-9480; mattgallagherga@yahoo.com

15. ==> Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?

Though the 1918 flu killed between 50 million and 100 million people worldwide, it disappeared from our collective memory and the historical record. It eventually became what historian Alfred Crosby called “America’s Forgotten Pandemic.” Theater historian Debra Caplan calls Crosby’s 1989 book a cautionary tale of what happens when people decide to return to “normalcy” before a public health crisis is over and has issued a call to writers, artists, and the media. “We need collective storytelling about this cataclysmic event to process what happened and figure out where to go next.” She adds, “We need to publicly grieve the one million Americans we lost and make plans to try to prevent any more casualties. We need to tell the stories of Long Haulers and survivors.” Debra Caplan is an associate professor of theater at Baruch College, CUNY. Contact her at debra.caplan36@login.cuny.edu, @debra_caplan