01. Will DOGE Cutbacks Cause Major Backlash?
02. Trump’s Shock and Awe Tests American’s Response to Chaos
03. RFK Jr’s Misinformation on Antidepressants Matters
04. An Egg Shortage Solution: Backyard Chickens
05. Black History Month: A Little-Known Champion of Civil Rights
06. Sunday is World Understanding and Peace Day
07. ‘Money Mom’ Answers Your Financial Questions
08. Why Your Image of God Is Holding You Back
09. How to Change Your Life 30 Seconds at a Time
10. 5 Ways to Make Life Easier and Have Fewer Days That Suck
11. What Are Extreme Problem Solving Skills?
12. How Wives and the Men Who Betrayed Them Can Heal
13. The Real History of Africa
14. Don’t Feed the Ducks!
15. This Lifelong Globetrotter Will Inspire Your Next Adventure
1. ==> Will DOGE Cutbacks Cause Major Backlash?
For weeks, the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a special government employee, has conducted a campaign to radically downsize the federal government and terminate numerous agency employees. Elaine Kamarck of the Brookings Institution says the long-term goal is to expand presidential power, but by using an axe instead of a scalpel, they run the risk of throwing out the baby with the bathwater and eliminating essential functions. “In its haste, DOGE is likely to disrupt services the public supports, making the government less effective. Blaming predecessors or changing the subject won’t work when the public can clearly see that something critical went disastrously wrong.” Kamarck says, “If Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency plans survive legal challenges, several major failures could follow—each landing squarely on the president’s shoulders. As President Harry Truman famously said, “The buck stops here.” Elaine Kamarck is an expert on American electoral politics and government innovation and reform in the United States. She’s the author of “Lies That Kill: A Citizen’s Guide to Disinformation.” Contact Brooking’s Government Studies media office at (202) 540-7724; gsmedia@brookings.edu
2. ==> Trump’s Shock and Awe Tests American’s Response to Chaos
Donald Trump’s shock and awe strategy is designed to disrupt the establishment and cause chaos within the government. Jobs are being cut, entire agencies are being dismantled and policies are being changed at breakneck speed. Mental health professionals say even people who don't see themselves as directly affected by the administration’s actions are feeling frazzled by the dizzying pace. "There is an element of chaos right now," says Andrea Bonior, a Georgetown University psychology professor. “A sense of not knowing what's coming and not being able to control what's coming is really hard on the stress response.” She says some people will be able to adjust their brains to the drama and unpredictability, but others will try to tune out. “There's a fine line between burying your head in the sand and trying to protect yourself. I've been working with a lot of folks to try to find that line," she says. "It involves setting some boundaries so that you can stay informed, but also not despair." Andrea Bonior, Ph.D., is host of the Baggage Check podcast and the author of three books including “Detox Your Thoughts: Quit Negative Self-Talk for Good and Discover The Life You’ve Always Wanted.” Contact her at hello@drandreabonior.com
3. ==> RFK Jr’s Misinformation on Antidepressants Matters
Newly confirmed Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., is taking aim at SSRI antidepressants saying they can cause school shootings and are 'harder to get off' of than heroin. Medical experts say he's 'way off base' and is spreading lies and misinformation that could cost lives. Keith Humphreys, an expert in psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University, says,
"Antidepressants and heroin are in different universes when it comes to addiction risk. In my 35 years In the addiction field, I've met only two or three people who thought they were addicted to antidepressants versus thousands who were addicted to heroin and other opioids." Keith Humphreys, PhD MA, focuses on addictive disorders and the translation of science into public policy. In addition to over 400 scientific publications, he has written extensively for outlets like “The Washington Post” and “The Atlantic.” Contact him at (650) 723-9067; KNH@stanford.edu
4. ==> An Egg Shortage Solution: Backyard Chickens
The current egg shortage has some Americans turning to their backyards for their breakfast supply. Interest in home chicken coops has been steadily rising in recent years with more than 11-million US households reporting one or more backyard chickens. But Jenn Tompkins, co-owner of Rent the Chicken, says her phone has been ringing off the hook. "People truly want to know where their food's coming from and they're not trusting that the grocery store is going to have what they need," Tompkins says. Her company offers delivery and setup up of a coop, two to four young egg-laying hens, chicken feed, and food dishes for a five-to-six month rental period. The cost is about $500, so it’s not a cost-saving measure, but Tompkins says there are unexpected perks. Her customers enjoy watching "Chicken TV," as they call it. "The chickens provide a level of therapy that people didn't know that they needed," she says. Contact Jenn Tompkins at (724) 305-0782
5. ==> Black History Month: A Little-Known Champion of Civil Rights
You may not recognize his name, but George Boutwell was a key player in the major issues facing America from the 1840s to the beginning of the 20th century. One of the original founders of the GOP, he worked with Lincoln on the abolition of slavery and granting civil rights for newly emancipated Blacks and was a strong advocate of racial and economic equality. Historian and cousin Jeffrey Boutwell can discuss George’s consequential role in many different aspects of American politics and how he and George share a common ancestor, the indentured servant James Boutwell, who emigrated in 1632 from England to Salem, Massachusetts. Jeffrey Boutwell’s new book is “Boutwell: Radical Republican and Champion of Democracy.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099; johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
6. ==> Sunday is World Understanding and Peace Day
Our social and political divisions — globally, nationally, and even locally — seem so out of control, it’s easy for anybody to feel overwhelmed. But what if there was a way each of us could make a real difference? Danielle Reiff can show us how by guiding us to become peacebuilders. Invite Reiff on your show to explain how any of us in the “exhausted majority” who oppose division and violence can lean into promoting trust, belonging, and cooperation in our own communities. A former diplomat with the U.S. Agency for International Development, founder of the Peacebuilders initia¬tive, and editor of the upcoming book, “Overcoming Information Chaos: A Guide for Cultivating Peaceful Communities in the Digital Age,” Reiff is a wellspring of resources, tools, and strategies for becoming a peacebuilder. Contact her at Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com
7. ==> ‘Money Mom’ Answers Your Financial Questions
Whether you’re wondering what to do with your money right now or you’re trying to figure out why you have no money, you need Monique Gagne, “the Money Mom.” Invite Gagné to share her top money tips to better manage your finances in today’s unpredictable economy. Her common sense advice is a must in a culture that encourages us to buy now and pay later. She’ll debunk common money myths and invite your audience to rethink their financial strategy with proven, transformative advice. Learn how to understand your spending habits and smart techniques to break free from debt, including how to embrace a 30-day plan. With a rich IT and fashion design background, and over two decades as a mortgage agent and financial coach, Monique has empowered thousands to reclaim their economic freedom. She is the author and creator of “The Power of Financial Happiness,” and the bestseller, “Who Took My Money?” Contact her at (343) 644-3121; mgagne@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Why Your Image of God Is Holding You Back
Rocked by economic instability, social unrest, and increas¬ing uncertainty, many people are grappling with spiritual disconnection. According to Pew Research, nearly 30% of adults feel spiritually disconnected. Marcia Fleischman, author of “If God Is Love, Why Do I Feel So Bad?,” believes our internal image of God may be the root cause. Her groundbreaking approach explores how a rigid or punitive view of God keeps people from the peace and guidance they seek. Through practical insights and real-life examples, Fleischman offers a path to reconnect with a compassionate God who can transform your life in trying times. Ask her: How does your image of God affect emotional well-being in uncertain times? Can you share how someone has transformed their life by changing their view of God? Contact Marcia Fleischman (816) 852-3849, mfleischman@rtirguests.com
9. ==> How to Change Your Life 30 Seconds at a Time
Whether you are overwhelmed, underachieving or just struggling to fit it all in, Gerald Robison will show you how to transform your life in the most unexpected way—one 30-second time block at a time! His simple but powerful time management secrets will help maximize every moment. His approach isn’t about finding more time—it’s about making the most of the time we already have. He’ll share his proven tips for turning life’s micro-moments into big wins! Ask him: What’s the craziest thing you’ve managed to do in just 30 seconds? How can micromanaging our time actually give us more freedom? Gerald Robison is the author of “30 Seconds That Can Change Your Life.” Contact him at (904) 867-2449; Grobison@rtirguests.com
10. ==> 5 Ways to Make Life Easier and Have Fewer Days That Suck
Although we’re all unique, we go through similar trials. Give your listeners a little ‘Ray of Sunshine’ this New Year with Deborah Mallow and her positive energy club that offers no nonsense, uncomplicated solutions to deal with difficult people and problematic situations. You’ll learn how to replace unhealthy habits with positive changes, declutter what’s blocking your way, and enjoy more while worrying less. Discover how to reshape your mindset, shift your energy and end self-sabotage with easy-to-implement strategies that will have a huge impact on your daily life. Deborah Mallow is a positivity expert, mindset coach and the author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days that Suck.” Contact her at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com
11. ==> What Are Extreme Problem Solving Skills?
Rising ocean levels. The epidemic of gun violence. Gang and drug crimes. Addiction. The immigration issue. The heated abortion debate. While many of society's problems seem unsolvable, or would take a very long time to remedy, author and businessman Mitch Francis has come up with a plethora of practical, doable, expedient solutions. He can share how we can destroy every assault rifle in 30 days, pay off the entire U.S. deficit and stop inflation, stop the oceans rising from melting polar ice caps, ...and more! Mitch is the author of "Bad-Ass Solutions For Today's Big-Ass Problems." He has an extensive business background as founder and CEO of publicly traded and private companies and has developed, owns, and manages commercial real estate across the U.S. As such, he was able to develop extreme problem-solving skills that he utilized to address 20 of our biggest problems. Contact Mitch Francis at (424) 380-4561; Mfrancis@rtirguests.com
12. ==> How Wives and the Men Who Betrayed Them Can Heal
Infidelity is a leading cause of divorce in the U.S. While many marriages don’t survive such betrayal, marriage therapist Marsha Means says there is hope. “In a number of cases, cheating is a result of sex addiction,” she says. “The problem is the same with any form of addiction, be it sex, heroin, or alcohol, which often is the result of unresolved childhood trauma.” Marsha will share how to address past trauma to break sex addiction for good, and how couples can survive the pain. She is the author of “Learn Empathy: Help Your Betrayed Wife Heal” and “From Betrayal Trauma to Healing & Joy: A Workbook for Partners of Sex Addicts.” Contact Marsha Means at (520) 341-6002; mmeans@rtirguests.com
13. ==> The Real History of Africa
Celebrate the history of Africa’s urban and scholarly past with W.R. Bailey, author of “Into the Light: Reclaiming Africa's Stolen History.” This history upends the colonial-era narrative offered up in movies, the media, and schools. Ask him: Was Africa truly lifted up by a civilized Europe? What efforts have been made to uncover Africa’s former colonial world’s legacy? What other parts of the world are recovering their own history from the colonial savage-versus-civilized narrative? Contacting W.R. Balley at (559) 269 4964; baileyrich1722@gmail.com
14. ==> Don’t Feed the Ducks!
What could be wrong with feeding the ducks at your local park? R. S. Rood, author of “Don't Feed the Ducks: It Makes Them Dependent,” will recount what really happened when the townspeople of Ashland, Oregon fed and spoiled the ducks. Ask him: How were the ducks affected by their acts of love and kindness? What was the amazing solution to this terrible problem? What lesson can children take away from this charming tale about the dangers of feeding ducks on the pond? How can this metaphor for all of God's animals and people teach children about true love. Contact R.S. Rood at (541) 621 4358; bob.rood.qpmceo@gmail.com
15. ==> This Lifelong Globetrotter Will Inspire Your Next Adventure
Due to his father’s work, Dave Schipper, author of “A Glimpse into My Enormity,” set off on a journey abroad with his family at a young age. His memoir chronicles Dave’s incredible coming-of-age adventures in Switzerland and across Europe, leading up to the family’s move to Japan. How did Dave handle the inevitable culture shock of moving abroad? Ask him: What was his experience adapting to different cultures and customs? What advice would he give to readers who want to explore the world for themselves? Contact Dave Schipper at (908) 451 1557; skivisionary@verizon.net
Don’t see any guests or topics for your show? Search through past RTIR Newsletters and find hundreds of show ideas and possible guests at www.rtironline.com
Author: admin
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2/18/2025 RTIR Newsletter: DOGE Backlash, Antidepressant Lies and Backyard Chickens
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How to Master the Art of Patience in a World Filled with Distractions
Instant gratification dominates our culture, but Emilio Justo, MD, shows how mastering patience can transform distractions into opportunities for success. A two-time international TEDx speaker (with over 10.5 million views) and bestselling author of “The Power of Pause,” Dr. Justo combines engaging storytelling with neuroscience-backed strategies to help audiences reclaim focus, boost resilience, and achieve their goals. With a compelling personal story of overcoming challenges as a Cuban refugee, he connects with audiences and offers practical tools to thrive in today’s chaotic world. Contact Dr. Emilio Justo at Ejusto@rtirguests.com (email preferred); (480) 992-6803
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Interview the First Illiterate NBA Player to Get a Master’s Degree
Dean Tolson was functionally illiterate when he joined the Seattle Sonics in the 1970s. He was the all-time rebounder at the University of Arkansas, but that didn’t prepare him for life after four years in the NBA. Tolson believes his greatest achievement was earning a master’s degree magna cum laude and now devotes his life to reach at-risk youth and adults about the power of education. His book, “Power Forward,” is about his experiences on the court and in the classroom. Contact Dean Tolson at (253) 884-8934; dtolson@rtirguests.com
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Good News for Procrastinators: How to Work With Your Brain
One of the more exciting discoveries in recent brain research shows that there are certain areas of the brain that want us to procrastinate, and others that can help prevent it. That’s good news for procrastinators, according to Linda Gannaway, who says you can now stop fighting your brain and work with it to achieve your goals! Gannawayhas found that by using this new science-backed information, even the most die-hard procrastinators can find techniques to help them succeed. Gannaway worked at universities for more than 25 years and taught classes on procrastination to thousands of students. She also researched procrastination for five years and wrote the most comprehensive book available called “FINALLY Stop Procrastinating.” Linda Gannaway learned how to get unstuck, and now as a “recovering procrastinator,” she’s on a mission to help others do the same. Contact her at (559) 234-4572; Lgannaway@rtirguests.com
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What’s a Numerology Blueprint and What is Yours?
For anyone feeling like they’re at a crossroads, unsure of their next career move or just seeking clarity, Suzan Owens might offer some unique assistance. A skilled numerologist, she can quickly reveal key aspects of anyone’s numerology blueprint, answering two essential questions: What am I really good at? and What does my future hold? Whether you’re seeking advice about your career, relationships, or personal growth, Suzan will share a fresh perspective that can guide you toward your fullest potential. “Numerology helps us look beyond the surface, uncovering our deeper purpose and strengths,” Suzan explains. “It aligns us with who we truly are.” Suzan is the author of “Wisdom of Numerology.” Contact her at (509) 315-6515; Sowens@rtirguests.com
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Are Autism and ADHD Actually Superpowers?
Autism and ADHD are generally considered disabilities for individuals who struggle with these. But according to Donna Redman, those individuals are simply more in tune with their senses — which can be viewed as superpowers! “People with autism, ADD, and ADHD (just to name a few) are often overwhelmed by their senses,” she says. “The problem is, they have so much sensory input that it’s hard to process everyday experiences. This can cause them a lot of stress and, in some cases, great pain.” This led Donna to create the Secret Genius of Sensory Processing Program, which allows neurodiverse children and adults to unlock their hidden genius by using their senses to their advantage. Contact Donna Redman at (973) 876-5903 or email her at dredman@rtirguests.com
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Save Kids and Taxpayer Money by Making Neighborhoods Safe
Gangs, child abuse, human trafficking, youth suicide, and drug abuse are not just horrific societal ills, they come at an astonishing cost to the taxpayer: by estimates over $2 trillion annually. The plain fact is that none of this is inevitable, and much of it is preventable. Have child safety expert Stephanie Mann on your show to learn about crime prevention and making neighborhoods safer. As a community leader, neighborhood organizer, county coordinator, and state consultant, Mann has forty years of experience as a crime and violence prevention expert. She is the author of five books on empowering our communities and keeping kids safe. Her first book, “Alternative to Fear: Guidelines to Safer Neighborhoods” helped launch the national Neighborhood Watch Program. She is also the founder of the Safe Kids Now Network LLC. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
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How to Get Out of a Bad Relationship
Breaking up is hard to do, and taking care of yourself afterward is even harder. Author and nurse practitioner Susie Bell has some great tips for dealing with the emotional pain, as well as practical steps to move forward when you know a relationship is over. “From setting boundaries to rediscovering yourself, I can talk about how to process the loss, avoid self-sabotage, and build a future that feels like yours again,” she says. Susie should know. After being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, she underwent a messy, highly complicated divorce from her devout Mormon husband, struggled with being separated from her children, and substance abuse. She is the author of the book “A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine & Men.” Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com
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Feb 23rd: World Understanding and Peace Day
Our social and political divisions — globally, nationally, and even locally — seem so out of control, it’s easy for anybody to feel overwhelmed. But what if there was a way each of us could make a real difference? Danielle Reiff can show us how by guiding us to become peacebuilders.Invite Reiff on your show to explain how any of us in the “exhausted majority” who oppose division and violence can lean into promoting trust, belonging, and cooperation in our own communities. A former diplomat with the U.S. Agency for International Development, founder of the Peacebuilders initia¬tive, and editor of the upcoming book, “Overcoming Information Chaos: A Guide for Cultivating Peaceful Communities in the Digital Age,” Reiff is a wellspring of resources, tools, and strategies for becoming a peacebuilder. Contact her at Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com -
2/13/2025 RTIR Newsletter: Dating Burnout, Civil Service Purge, Learn Your Numerology Blueprint
01. Musk and Trump in Charge: Who’s Guarding the Hen House?
02. The Campaign Against Civil Servants
03. Feb 23rd: World Understanding and Peace Day
04. Winter Weather Tips for Our Four-Legged Friends
05. Celeb Dating Coach: How to Beat Dating Burnout
06. Could an Intuitive Mentalist Improve Your Love Life?
07. How to Get Out of a Bad Relationship
08. Black History Month: Change Happens When People Act
09. Save Kids and Taxpayer Money by Making Neighborhoods Safe
10. Are Autism and ADHD Actually Superpowers?
11. What’s a Numerology Blueprint and What is Yours?
12. Save Your Family History Before the Next Disaster
13. Good News for Procrastinators: How to Work With Your Brain
14. Interview the First Illiterate NBA Player to Get a Master’s Degree
15. How to Master the Art of Patience in a World Filled with Distractions
1. ==> Musk and Trump in Charge: Who’s Guarding the Hen House?
President Trump fired the head of the Office of Government Ethics this week, continuing his purge of any independent officials tasked with holding him and his administration accountable to the law and ethical standards. Noah Bookbinder, president of the government ethics advocacy group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) says Trump is making it easier to personally profit, install loyalists and avoid oversight of corruption and waste. Bookbinder says Elon Musk, who’s been allowed to slash government spending programs, himself has billions of dollars in government contracts. "Is he going to have an incentive to cut other government spending, but not the spending that benefits him? That's the kind of decision-making, based on personal interest, that we never want to see in government,” he says. “A way to give some comfort there would be for him to be totally transparent about what his interests are and very clear about the steps that he's taking to avoid conflicts of interest." CREW is a non-partisan legal watchdog group, founded in 2003. Contact Bookbinder at press@citizensforethics.org
2. ==> The Campaign Against Civil Servants
The Trump administration continues to widen its campaign against the country’s civil service. Max Stier founded the Partnership for Public Service in 2001 and over the years it has trained thousands of government employees and helped agencies devise modernization plans. Stier has devoted his life to making government work better. He says what’s happening now is the destruction of infrastructure and while it’s portrayed as “cost-cutting,” what’s happening is going to cost the American taxpayer and the American public in huge ways. “If your intent were to shrink the workplace in a cost-effective way, this is a crazy way to do it,” he says. He’ll describe the national security risks and how a broken bureaucracy will affect the most vulnerable Americans who utilize services through these systems. Max is the founding president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, a nonprofit organization, and thought leader on federal government management issues. He previously worked in all three branches of the federal government. Contact him at the Partnership for Public Service at (202) 775-9111
3. ==> Feb 23rd: World Understanding and Peace Day
Our social and political divisions — globally, nationally, and even locally — seem so out of control, it’s easy for anybody to feel overwhelmed. But what if there was a way each of us could make a real difference? Danielle Reiff can show us how by guiding us to become peacebuilders.
Invite Reiff on your show to explain how any of us in the “exhausted majority” who oppose division and violence can lean into promoting trust, belonging, and cooperation in our own communities. A former diplomat with the U.S. Agency for International Development, founder of the Peacebuilders initia¬tive, and editor of the upcoming book, “Overcoming Information Chaos: A Guide for Cultivating Peaceful Communities in the Digital Age,” Reiff is a wellspring of resources, tools, and strategies for becoming a peacebuilder. Contact her at Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com
4. ==> Winter Weather Tips for Our Four-Legged Friends
Much of the US is getting hammered with winter storms this week. We can prepare and have our heavy coats and jackets, but what about our animals? Can dogs get frostbite? How do you protect paws from road salt and ice-melting chemicals? Do pets have special nutritional needs in the winter? Integrative veterinarian Carol Osborne can answer your questions and share an archive of helpful tips and advice to keep your pets out of harm’s way during these cold winter months. From spritzing your dog’s feet with water after a winter walk to recognizing the signs of frostbite in animals, your audience will walk away with valuable information that could save you a trip to the vet’s office. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a nationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of functional veterinary medicine and has appeared on “Fox & Friends,” the “Today” show, Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA.” She is the founder and director of the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center and Pet Clinic. Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com
5. ==> Celeb Dating Coach: How to Beat Dating Burnout
Young people today are tired of swiping left and right to find a date, preferring to go it alone or hang with friends. In a recent Forbes Health Survey, 79% of Gen Z respondents reported they had “dating app burnout.” Celebrity dating coach Damona Hoffman, host of the Dates & Mates podcast and author of “F the Fairy Tale: Rewrite the Dating Myths and Live Your Own Love Story,” can share ways to beat dating fatigue and how to have fun and enjoy dating. She’ll discuss the surprising reason many dating app users aren’t really interested in dating or relationships, how to engage online and screen potential dates, and how to find the best dating app for you. Damona Hoffman has been coaching singles on how to find love online and offline for over 15 years. Her articles appear regularly in the “LA Times” and “The Washington Post.” She’s a regular on-air contributor to “The Drew Barrymore Show,” NPR, and NBC’s “Access Daily.” Contact her at asst@damonahoffman.com
6. ==> Could an Intuitive Mentalist Improve Your Love Life?
What is your partner really trying to tell you? Is your relationship moving in the direction you think it is? Dr. Dan Bartlett, a certified metaphysical practitioner with over 30 years of experience will reveal practical ways to develop your natural intuitive abilities to improve your relationships (and other areas of your life!) Dr. Dan says there’s a myth that you need to be born with intuitive gifts. He says they can be developed and will empower listeners by showing them how to tap into their innate intuition and use that knowledge to enhance relationships, increase well-being and find career success. Known for his engaging style as a Magical Mentalist, Dr. Dan can also captivate your audience with live mind-reading demonstrations. A former senior U.S. Army Certified Instructor and a distinguished Drill Seargent, Dr. Dan is the author of “Six Easy Secrets to Psychic Success.” Contact him at (480) 841-0984; dbartlett@rtirguests.com
7. ==> How to Get Out of a Bad Relationship
Breaking up is hard to do, and taking care of yourself afterward is even harder. Author and nurse practitioner Susie Bell has some great tips for dealing with the emotional pain, as well as practical steps to move forward when you know a relationship is over. "From setting boundaries to rediscovering yourself, I can talk about how to process the loss, avoid self-sabotage, and build a future that feels like yours again," she says. Susie should know. After being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, she underwent a messy, highly complicated divorce from her devout Mormon husband, struggled with being separated from her children, and substance abuse. She is the author of the book "A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine & Men." Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com
8. ==> Black History Month: Change Happens When People Act
February is Black History Month and this year’s theme is African Americans and Labor. Invite Dr. Karson Wise Whitehead, the founding executive director of The Karson Institute for Race, Peace & Social Justice, to discuss the significance of the month, especially in the current political atmosphere. She’ll talk about America’s history of racial oppression and the gear-shifting moments when individual people have taken a stand. “Gears shift when we choose to fight, when we choose to stand up, and when we refuse to back down. The moral arc of the universe does not bend on its own toward justice, it bends because we push it and because we are willing to continue to do it until change does happen.” Karsonya Wise Whitehead is a professor of communication and African and African American Studies at Loyola University Maryland. She is the host of the award-winning radio show “Today with Dr. Kaye.” Contact her at (410) 617-2435; kewhitehead@loyola.edu or karsoninstitute@loyola.edu
9. ==> Save Kids and Taxpayer Money by Making Neighborhoods Safe
Gangs, child abuse, human trafficking, youth suicide, and drug abuse are not just horrific societal ills, they come at an astonishing cost to the taxpayer: by estimates over $2 trillion annually. The plain fact is that none of this is inevitable, and much of it is preventable. Have child safety expert Stephanie Mann on your show to learn about crime prevention and making neighborhoods safer. As a community leader, neighborhood organizer, county coordinator, and state consultant, Mann has forty years of experience as a crime and violence prevention expert. She is the author of five books on empowering our communities and keeping kids safe. Her first book, “Alternative to Fear: Guidelines to Safer Neighborhoods” helped launch the national Neighborhood Watch Program. She is also the founder of the Safe Kids Now Network LLC. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
10. ==> Are Autism and ADHD Actually Superpowers?
Autism and ADHD are generally considered disabilities for individuals who struggle with these. But according to Donna Redman, those individuals are simply more in tune with their senses -- which can be viewed as superpowers! "People with autism, ADD, and ADHD (just to name a few) are often overwhelmed by their senses,” she says. “The problem is, they have so much sensory input that it’s hard to process everyday experiences. This can cause them a lot of stress and, in some cases, great pain.” This led Donna to create the Secret Genius of Sensory Processing Program, which allows neurodiverse children and adults to unlock their hidden genius by using their senses to their advantage. Contact Donna Redman at (973) 876-5903 or email her at dredman@rtirguests.com
11. ==> What’s a Numerology Blueprint and What is Yours?
For anyone feeling like they’re at a crossroads, unsure of their next career move or just seeking clarity, Suzan Owens might offer some unique assistance. A skilled numerologist, she can quickly reveal key aspects of anyone’s numerology blueprint, answering two essential questions: What am I really good at? and What does my future hold? Whether you’re seeking advice about your career, relationships, or personal growth, Suzan will share a fresh perspective that can guide you toward your fullest potential. “Numerology helps us look beyond the surface, uncovering our deeper purpose and strengths,” Suzan explains. “It aligns us with who we truly are.” Suzan is the author of “Wisdom of Numerology.” Contact her at (509) 315-6515; Sowens@rtirguests.com
12. ==> Save Your Family History Before the Next Disaster
In the aftermath of the recent wildfires in California, countless families lost not only their homes, but also irreplaceable memories. These heart-wrenching losses should remind everyone: Don’t wait for disaster to strike to protect your family’s legacy. Archivist Rhonda Chadwick, author of “Secrets from the Stacks,” offers essential advice on safeguarding photographs, documents, textiles and more. She’ll provide simple, easy-to-follow steps to create a lasting family archive—perfect for anyone wanting to disaster-proof their cherished memories. With natural disasters on the rise, Rhonda’s guidance is timelier than ever. Contact Rhonda Chadwick at (401) 227-3306; rchadwick@rtirguests.com
13. ==> Good News for Procrastinators: How to Work With Your Brain
One of the more exciting discoveries in recent brain research shows that there are certain areas of the brain that want us to procrastinate, and others that can help prevent it. That’s good news for procrastinators, according to Linda Gannaway, who says you can now stop fighting your brain and work with it to achieve your goals! Gannaway has found that by using this new science-backed information, even the most die-hard procrastinators can find techniques to help them succeed. Gannaway worked at universities for more than 25 years and taught classes on procrastination to thousands of students. She also researched procrastination for five years and wrote the most comprehensive book available called “FINALLY Stop Procrastinating.” Linda Gannaway learned how to get unstuck, and now as a “recovering procrastinator,” she’s on a mission to help others do the same. Contact her at (559) 234-4572; Lgannaway@rtirguests.com
14. ==>Interview the First Illiterate NBA Player to Get a Master’s Degree
Dean Tolson was functionally illiterate when he joined the Seattle Sonics in the 1970s. He was the all-time rebounder at the University of Arkansas, but that didn’t prepare him for life after four years in the NBA. Tolson believes his greatest achievement was earning a master’s degree magna cum laude and now devotes his life to reach at-risk youth and adults about the power of education. His book, “Power Forward,” is about his experiences on the court and in the classroom. Contact Dean Tolson at (253) 884-8934; dtolson@rtirguests.com
15. ==> How to Master the Art of Patience in a World Filled with Distractions
Instant gratification dominates our culture, but Emilio Justo, MD, shows how mastering patience can transform distractions into opportunities for success. A two-time international TEDx speaker (with over 10.5 million views) and bestselling author of “The Power of Pause,” Dr. Justo combines engaging storytelling with neurosci¬ence-backed strategies to help audiences reclaim focus, boost resilience, and achieve their goals. With a compelling personal story of overcoming challenges as a Cuban refugee, he connects with audiences and offers practical tools to thrive in today’s chaotic world. Contact Dr. Emilio Justo at Ejusto@rtirguests.com (email preferred); (480) 992-6803