Author: admin

01. Will Russia Attack Ukraine? What the Troop Massing Means
02. This Guest Set the Precedent for Holding Parents Responsible
03. Maxwell Trial: Why Nothing Will Happen to the Men
04. Inspiration from Former NFL Linebacker Keith Davis
05. The Christmas Mitzvah: A True Interfaith Holiday Story
06. Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of “It’s a Wonderful Life”
07. Don’t Let Family Estrangements Ruin the Holidays
08. The New Year’s Resolution You’ll Be Happy to Keep!
09. Totally Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books
10. Would You Try ‘Magic Mushroom’ Therapy?
11. Could Your Forgetful Spouse Have Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?
12. Science Fiction or Reality? The World of Frozen Embryos
13. Catching Up on Education after COVID
14. Why Aren’t There More Black Doctoral Candidates?
15. Why Santa Needs a Diversity Makeover

1.==> Will Russia Attack Ukraine? What the Troop Massing Means

Russia’s positioning of over 100,000 troops along the Ukrainian border has the world wondering what Vladimir Putin is up to. Is he planning an invasion or merely flexing his muscles? At a time when Ukrainian and Russian troops are as close as 50 yards from each other, retired Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack, who spent two years as the United States senior defense official and attaché to the Russian Federation including the recent 2014 Russia-Ukraine crisis, can share whether the Russians have boxed themselves into a precipice of their own doing. Zwack recently appeared on the international Russian-language TV network RTVI on this topic. He’ll share why the current troop numbers at the border are formidable but not enough for a full Ukraine-wide operation, and whether the Putin regime oligarchs and moneyed interests would be willing to endure the sanctions and other fallout that would likely occur should an invasion take place. Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Peter Zwack currently serves as a Wilson Center Global Fellow within the Kennan Institute and frequently discusses national security and leadership issues in the media. Among his books is “Swimming the Volga.” Contact Terri Beavers at (434) 979-7438; BG.PBZ.r@gmail.com

2. ==> This Guest Set the Precedent for Holding Parents Responsible

The parents of the Michigan school shooter have been arrested for their role in the deadly tragedy that killed four last week, and while rarely used, legal experts say the charges are likely to stick. Discuss the issue with Mark Simon. When he was a teen in 1980, he was terrorized by a group of bullies who attacked his entire family in the front yard. Simon fought back in court and became the first person in the country to successfully use a law holding parents legally responsible for the violent actions of their kids. The author of “Attacked!” can discuss his precedent-setting case, what it takes to successfully try a case against parents, and how the laws can vary from state to state. Mark Simon has done over 100 radio and TV interviews. He’s a writer, story artist and producer/director for live-action and animation. Contact him at (321) 217-1254; marksimonbooks@yahoo.com

3. ==> Maxwell Trial: Why Nothing Will Happen to the Men

Testimony continues in the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell who is accused of procuring girls as young as 12 to have sex with billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. Lee Lakeman notes that the powerful and wealthy men who are also complicit in the sexual assaults will likely never be held accountable. “It’s not an accident that a woman is getting charged while all of these men are not. Part of the dynamic here is how prostitution has become normalized in our society,” she says. Lakeman, a writer, feminist and activist with the Vancouver Rape Relief & Women’s Shelter, says the case also reveals a tremendous level of corruption and anti-democratic functioning at work, noting the lack of serious investigation of Epstein’s death. Contact Lee Lakeman at leelakeman@shaw.ca

4.==> Inspiration from Former NFL Linebacker Keith Davis

Back in the late 1980s, Keith Davis was living the dream: he was signed to play professional football for the New York Giants until a knee injury abruptly ended his career but led to a new one. Davis, who has appeared on ESPN and ABC and in “USA Today” and “Sports Illustrated,” has overcome tremendous obstacles. The former NFL linebacker, Rose Bowl champion, and USC graduate surmounted reading difficulties to obtain a degree in business finance and before that, the loss of his father to drug addiction and suicide and a mother who suffered from addiction and abusive relationships. Davis uses all of his life experiences to inspire others to rise above their challenging circumstances. Contact Peggi Merkey at (281) 346-9528; pmerkey@rtirguests.com

5. ==> The Christmas Mitzvah: A True Interfaith Holiday Story

Invite author Jeff Gottesfeld to share the inspiring true story of the late Al Rosen of Milwaukee, a fiercely Jewish man who loved Christmas and his Christian neighbors and volunteered to do their jobs on Christmas Eve so that they could have the holiday with their families. In time, he sparked a movement, and his Christmas mitzvahs went on for decades and he became a local legend until his death in 1998. Gottesfeld stresses that Rosen did the jobs, not of the rich and famous, but “all the folks easy to dismiss in a world that mistakes wealth for worth.” He says Rosen never sought fame or acclaim, just the joy of being good to others. Gottesfeld speaks to schools about the inspiring story. He’s the author of “The Christmas Mitzvah,” a perfect holiday read-aloud book for families. Contact Jenny Kefauver at (703) 850-3533; jkpublicrelationsdc.com

6. ==> Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of “It’s a Wonderful Life”

For many families, the holidays would not be the same without watching Frank Capra’s 1946 classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” But no matter how familiar the story of life in the small town of Bedford Falls is, there are plenty of things modern audiences do not know about the film on its diamond anniversary. Invite Hollywood entertainment veteran Doug Stebleton to share fascinating facts he learned while researching his new novel, “It’s a Wonderful Time,” which transports readers back to the making of the film. The book has been praised by legendary Hollywood comedian Rich Little who called it “a satisfying, exciting ride back to post-WWII Hollywood. Jimmy Stewart’s character … reminds me how much I miss him.” Doug can answer such questions as … why was the movie a box office disappointment when it came out? What debt did it owe to a Christmas card? What illness did Jimmy Stewart face when he made the film? How did the film crew make 6,000 gallons of fake snow in a heatwave? Doug’s company owns a catalog of songs that are licensed to film and television studios and independent productions. He has also produced several films including “Big Life,” a feature film that will be released soon. Contact Doug at (310) 497-8000; doug@ironmikeent.com

7. ==> Don’t Let Family Estrangements Ruin the Holidays

Many people admit to being estranged from siblings, spouses, parents, children, and in-laws. For those folks, the holidays present extra challenges. What can families do to experience the forgiveness and peace promised by the season? Discuss estrangement’s effect on family dynamics with author and educator Peter Colman, Ph.D., whose book, “The Prodigal Father: A Son’s Hope-Filled Story of Love, Reconciliation and Redemption,” explores how fragile family relationships can be. Many listeners are sure to identify with this topic and be moved to better enjoy the holiday season. Ask him: Why do closely related people drift apart? How can family healing begin? What is so sacred about the bond between father and son? How do the effects and memories of wartime service impact family relationships, especially at holiday time? What is so powerful about saying you’re sorry? Contact Judith Colman at (847) 912-4481; jcolman@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The New Year’s Resolution You’ll Be Happy to Keep!

Ever wondered how to easily learn more about wine? Or how to enjoy and appreciate wine more than you already do? Let Jim Laughren, CWE (certified wine educator) show your audience how. Jim is one of the most interesting, and least intimidating, wine experts available. A veteran of TV and radio, Jim knows how to make listeners glad they tuned in. The author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” as well as “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing & Enjoying Fine Wine” and eBooks “The 15 Minute Guide to Red Wine and “The 15 Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim consistently provides insight and enjoyment to anyone interested in knowing more about wine, especially for the New Year! He’ll share interesting, little-known facts about wine and explain how to end “wine intimidation.” You’ll find out the most important thing to know about wine lists and whether 2022 will be a good year for wine! Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317 9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Totally Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books

In Gainesville, Ga., eating fried chicken with a fork is illegal. In Mississippi, public swearing will get you 30 days in the slammer. “There are a lot of outdated laws that are still on the books that can get you fined or arrested,” says award-winning author, screenwriter and former Universal Studios government affairs executive John Thibault. John can share other bizarre, often hilarious laws that are still in effect, how they came about and why. He can also discuss how average citizens can actually change laws, why writing to Congress is a waste of time, and how to become a lobbyist to effect change in your community. He is the author of the critically acclaimed book “How to Change a Law.” Contact John at (650) 761-7564; Jthibault@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Would You Try ‘Magic Mushroom’ Therapy?

While still prohibited by law, some once-considered “bad boys” of the drug culture (LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA), are now being seriously studied by science and found to be not only completely non-addictive, but more effective in the relief of anxiety, addiction, and depression than any known or traditional treatment. 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 potential pitfalls for their misuse in an addictive and distraction-seeking culture. Ask him: does he see psychedelics as having a broader impact than just improving a few individuals’ personal 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

11. ==> Could Your Forgetful Spouse Have Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?

It’s one thing to overlook paying a bill, or to misplace your keys, or to be unable to remember a stranger’s name. It’s another thing to become so forgetful that you can’t complete a task you have done a thousand times. Or to forget how to find your way home. When such things happen, especially to a loved one who isn’t even 60, you may wonder if it’s early-onset Alzheimer’s, which can strike as early as 30. Discover more about the disease and how to spot its symptoms when you interview Carlen Maddux. A former reporter who chronicled his family’s 17-year Alzheimer’s journey in the award-winning book “A Path Revealed,” Carlen is determined to help others with information and been-there advice. His wife, Martha, was just past her 50th birthday when diagnosed. Carlen will discuss his family experiences, and what it was like to become his wife’s caregiver. Highly articulate, Carlen has done dozens of media interviews. Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Science Fiction or Reality? Dive into the World of Frozen Embryos

What could be cooler than doing a show on frozen embryos? How is it possible that embryos that have been frozen for as long as 27 years can be defrosted and implanted in a woman’s uterus to produce a healthy baby? What sounds like science fiction is happening more and more, and Nate Birt can fill you in on the exciting details. This topic is personal for Birt, the father of a toddler who began life as another couple’s frozen embryo adopted by Birt and his wife, who carried the embryo to term. The author of “Frozen, But Not Forgotten: An Adoptive Dad’s Step-by-Step Guide to Embryo Adoption,” Birt can talk about the frozen embryo adoption journey, the controversies that exist with unclaimed embryos, and much more. Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Catching Up on Education after COVID

The pandemic has caused students to be behind in school. Long-time educator Lori Lynn Ahrends claims that the pressure to catch up is taking a tremendous toll on students. “If we aren’t careful about what we say, we run the risk of children feeling ‘less than.’ insecure, and turning off to school altogether,” she says. Lori Lynn suggests that we should treat learning as a journey, not a destination. She 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 program; and author of the children’s book “I’m a Pig.” Contact Lori Lynn at (402) 235-4292; lahrends@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Why Aren’t There More Black Doctoral Candidates?

According to the National Science Foundation, African American doctoral candidates averaged a modest 5.4 percent during the last 20 years. According to Dr. Dorothy Kegler, Ed.D., the divide is cultural. “African Americans are exposed to sports and entertainment and other quick-money fields, not higher education,” she says. “There are also fewer African American doctors and lawyers because they aren’t exposed to these fields early enough in life.” The youngest of 10 children, Dorothy overcame a learning difficulty to earn a doctorate in higher education administration from Alliant International University in San Diego. She is the author of three books. Contact Dr. Dorothy at (619) 679-9627; dkegler@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Why Santa Needs a Diversity Makeover

Yvonne Vissing says it’s time to transform Santa to fit the needs of today’s children. The pediatric sociologist and “santaologist” suggests making the jolly one diverse and multicultural, female as well as male, faith inclusive and representative of any race or nationality! Furthermore, she’ll say, Santa needs to inspire creativity and goodness while bringing families and communities together in a spirit of lovingkindness that anyone, anywhere can share. By focusing on Santa’s spirit, she’ll say, Santa won’t cost anyone money, parents won’t have to lie about him and groups won’t have to fight over him. Yvonne Vissing, Ph.D., a professor at Salem State University, knows Santa has always been a product of social construction. Her new five-book Santa Spirit series proves Santa isn’t just for kids; he’s been created by adults for adults! Contact Yvonne Vissing at (603) 275-5218; yvissing@gmail.com

01. Corporate Crime: Call It by Its Name
02. Democracy Summit Not So Democratically Organized
03. Beyond Britney: Exposing the Legal Guardianship Swamp
04. Free Job Helpline Reaches Out to Marginalized Workers
05. True Story: He Was Exiled for Exposing Russian Mafia
06. Do a Fun Show on the Wacky World of Celebrity Real Estate
07. PBS Host Shares ‘Simply Delicious’ Holiday Tips
08. Creative Gift Ideas to Stretch Your Holiday Budget
09. The Worst Gifts for Seniors
10. Why You Need Fewer (and Smaller) Goals to be Happy
11. How to Build Your Life Back Better in 2022
12. New Year’s Resolutions Parents Should Make for Themselves
13. Bombed, Shot at, and Nearly Kidnapped: She Knows How to Conquer Stress
14. Signs Your Spouse May Be Bipolar
15. Interview Former Harlem Globetrotter Melvin Adams

1. ==> Corporate Crime: Call It by Its Name

A tweet from the Gravel Institute recently went viral: “Someone stole $950 worth of items from a Walgreens — there were 309 news stories about it. Walgreens was caught stealing $4.5 million from employees — it got just one single story.” Invite Russell Mokhiber, editor of Corporate Crime Reporter, on your show to discuss the issue. He says, “Apparently, major non-corporate institutions are so beholden to the corporate powers that be that they can’t even speak — or write the phrase. Instead they prefer a word that means the opposite of crime. That word? Compliance.” Purdue Pharma and Boeing were two of the largest corporate crimes in recent years. Hear about NYU Law School’s program to study and report on corporate crime (and why it isn’t called that), the biggest corporate crimes in recent years, and why so many corporate executives avoid prosecution, despite evidence of serious crimes. Russell Mokhiber recently wrote the piece “Call Corporate Crime Corporate Crime.” Contact him at russellmokhiber@gmail.com; @corpcrimereport

2. ==> Democracy Summit Not So Democratically Organized

President Biden is holding a “Summit for Democracy” this week with the laudable aim of reenergizing global commitment to democracy during a dangerous period of backsliding and rising authoritarianism. Laura Thornton says the meeting is democratic but the organization, content design, and participant selection have been, ironically, less than democratic. She’ll discuss how Biden’s team can democratize the process moving forward to engender meaningful action. “Keep in mind, autocrats are having summits of their own, sharing tactics and technologies to suppress democracy. We need new, fresh ideas and a commitment to work together across borders to defend democracy,” she says. “Going it alone is not an option.” This week’s summit will launch a “year of action” and a follow-up summit in 2022. Laura Thornton is director and senior fellow at the Alliance for Securing Democracy at the German Marshall Fund. Contact her at press@securingdemocracy.org; @LauraLThornton

3. ==> Beyond Britney: Exposing the Legal Guardianship Swamp

Thanks to the widely publicized Free Britney movement, legally binding adult conservatorships have begun to emerge from the shadows and Léonie Rosenstiel thinks it’s about time. Her elderly mother, a retired professor with dementia, was placed under such an arrangement, with dire results. She’ll explain how the conservator prevented her from seeing her mother for nearly three years, against her mother’s wishes and her own, and forced her mother to remain in her bed for the rest of her life after suffering a broken hip. Originally a classical violinist, Rosenstiel made a promise to her mother to expose the flaws in the guardianship system and empower other families caught in its web. She went back to school to earn a master’s degree in public health and undertook a vigorous research process before writing “Protecting Mama: Surviving the Legal Guardianship Swamp.” Léonie Rosenstiel and her work have been featured in “The New York Review of Books,” ”Los Angeles Times,” “Albuquerque Journal,” “Chicago Tribune,” the “Boston Globe,” the “Cleveland Plain Dealer” and more. Contact her at (505) 317-2405; L.rosenstiel1@gmail.com

4. ==> Free Job Helpline Reaches Out to Marginalized Workers

Nearly 4.7 million fewer Americans are employed now than at the end of 2019, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To help navigate the current job market, outplacement and business and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. is providing free career and job-search advice to callers nationwide. “Right now, we’re experiencing low unemployment, but millions of workers have left the labor market. It’s a perfect time to undo the structures that have kept marginalized people out of the workforce,” says Andrew Challenger. “COVID was particularly hard on people of color, those who have different abilities, older workers, women, and parents and created employment gaps for millions. Now is the time for employers to hire from these groups who are so often overlooked.” For the first time in the firm’s 36 years of holding this event, Challenger is providing a designated number for Spanish-speaking callers. The call-in sessions will be held on December 28 and 29. For details and interviews, contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> True Story: He Was Exiled for Exposing Russian Mafia

John Christmas worked for Parex Bank in Latvia in 2004 when he exposed widespread bank fraud to a major international audit firm and the Latvian government. He was terrorized and fled the country while the firm and the government ignored the information. It eventually led to the bank’s collapse and the 2008 Latvian financial crisis, which continues to this day. Learn how a Western taxpayer-funded development bank covered up the corruption for years while Christmas was exiled for exposing the Russian Mafia bank. Ask him: What’s become of the players you exposed? Were your allegations ever investigated? Are you still in danger? Could a similar situation happen again? The spy thriller “KGB Banker,” co-written with crime fiction author William Burton McCormick, was inspired by John Christmas’ true story. Contact him at (514) 700-9015; jchristmas@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Do a Fun Show on the Wacky World of Celebrity Real Estate

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 new 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 new 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

7. ==> PBS Host Offers ‘Simply Delicious’ Holiday Tips

This year’s holidays have a lot riding on them as we attempt to make up for the physical and emotional distance we have experienced as a nation. With that in mind, it is even more important to make the holidays as special as can be by inviting screenwriter, author, TV/film producer, journalist, and TV host Maryann Ridini Spencer on your program to deliver the tips that can make that happen. By following her advice, your audience will learn how to turn their homes into cozy havens, how to create fun to-do lists, be mindful of mind, body and spirit, create creative connections with loved ones and get everyone to put their electronic devices aside for a change. Maryann is the host of PBS-TV’s “Simply Delicious Living.” She is also a screenwriter, and the author of the award-winning Kate Grace Mystery books, “Lady in the Window” and “The Paradise Table.” Her work has appeared on “Hallmark Hall of Fame” (CBS-TV), the Hallmark Channel, CNN, USA, SyFy, Showtime and many other outlets. Contact Maryann Ridini Spencer at (818) 492-9135; mspencer@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Creative Gift Ideas to Stretch Your Holiday Budget

Many people have been looking forward to this holiday season. The challenges of the past few years have only reinforced and reminded us of what truly matters, spending quality time with our loved ones. While we’d love to shower them all with memorable gifts, finances are tight right now for many families. Invite Peggy Sideratos to share 10 gift ideas that will pull on your loved ones’ heartstrings, but not your purse strings. Simple enough for kids and klutzes, Peggy’s ideas involve photos, personalized items and music, and are affordable (and some are free). A former elementary school teacher, Peggy Sideratos knows how to be creative and resilient on a limited budget. She is also the author of “The Light Giver & Other Stories to Raise Emotionally Healthy Children.” Contact Peggy at (917) 715-8788; perdika1@yahoo.com

9. ==> The Worst Gifts for Seniors

Selecting gifts for older friends and relatives isn’t easy and so it may be tempting to go with objects of comfort like fuzzy slippers, big boxes of candy and the like. But as holistic health practitioner Linda Mac Dougall will tell you, it pays to be safe when it comes to satisfying the needs of this special population. Mac Dougall has worked with hundreds of patients who have opened her eyes to the unmet needs of older Americans. And at 73, she knows a thing or two about aging bodies from personal experience. Mac Dougall can discuss the most impactful and safest gifts you can get an older relative including ways to keep them happy and active, well-nourished, entertained, and included in family outings. Listeners will appreciate the great ideas and smart tips including unexpected places to shop. Linda Mac Dougall is a holistic health practitioner, Certified Massage Therapist, author, teacher, speaker, and mentor who has appeared on multiple podcasts. Contact her at (805) 202-6379; speakerholistic@gmail.com

10. ==> Why You Need Fewer (and Smaller) Goals to be Happy

It’s getting to be the time when people begin thinking about what they want to accomplish next year. Before they do that, invite Dr. Patrick Sanaghan on your program to explain the wisdom behind creating fewer and smaller goals that feed success and eschew disappointment so that your audience members get off to a great start in 2022. Sanaghan (the “g” is silent) heads The Sanaghan Group, an organizational consulting firm. The author of “How to Be a Better Procrastinator” earned a doctorate in education, wrote 12 books, and published 50 academic articles despite being a life-long procrastinator. Ask him: What do people gain by procrastinating? What are some of your favorite strategies for tamping it down? Contact Patrick Sanaghan at (215) 234-1346; psanaghan@rtirguests.com

11. ==> How to Build Your Life Back Better in 2022

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on everything from the economy to our relationships and mental health. Families have lost loved ones, businesses and careers and been forced to make choices they never expected. For those who feel lost, stuck or unsure what to do next, Oreste D’Aversa has four steps to start creating a new life that’s even better and more prosperous than before. Oreste D’Aversa is a life and business coach, corporate trainer, minister and the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook,” his revolutionary step-by-step blueprint to reinvent your life and thrive in the post-pandemic world. Contact him at (201) 949-3002; odaversa@rtirguests.com

12. ==> New Year’s Resolutions Parents Should Make for Themselves

In the year ahead parents will have many challenges as they try to negotiate the demands on their time and attention and plenty of moms and dads will end up putting their own needs last. That’s why Natalie Bonfig wants parents to resolve to put self-care at the top of their list in 2022 so they can give the best of themselves to their demanding roles. Natalie can offer six self-care tips to put into practice that will benefit their entire family. For instance, she’ll explore how to find quiet time to center yourself, how to stay in the moment and how to be kind to yourself even as you give generously to others. Natalie is the author of “Everyday Self-Care and Your High Needs Child.” Contact Natalie at (651) 419-3137; nbonfig@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Bombed, Shot at, and Nearly Kidnapped: She Knows How to Conquer Stress

Everyone could use some tips for handling stress better. Col. Debra M. Lewis (USA, Ret.) has already coached thousands of people on her battle-tested methods to overcome obstacles and use life’s daily stresses to their advantage. Col. Deb will share those tips and tools along with her action-packed life story as one of the first women to attend the Military Academy at West Point, a survivor of the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon, and a commander in combat. She is the author of “Why Is Pono Not Pono Today?” and its companion course, “Take Kids from Stressed to Success.” Ask her why are most reactions to stress destructive? Why do good people make bad decisions under stress? Contact Deb Lewis at (571) 332-7240 (text first) Deb@ MentallyToughWomen.com

14. ==> Signs Your Spouse May Be Bipolar

For nearly 20 years, Shelly Sood lived with a man who suddenly morphed from a picture-perfect spouse into a “cold, vengeful, monster.” Unbeknownst to them, he had bipolar disorder, and, as Shelly will point out, 90 percent of marriages involving a bipolar spouse end in divorce. Shelly separated from her banker husband for nearly two years but never lost hope that the man she fell in love with would re-emerge. She has remained in the marriage, resolved to be his advocate, and helped save his life: “I am a victim of his disorder, not his abuse. If he couldn’t fight for himself, I would fight for him,” she vowed. Her message to anyone coping with a similar spouse is simple: “Never give up or let anyone tell you it is hopeless.” She can discuss the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder and why the mental illness is often misdiagnosed. She is the author of the upcoming memoir, “Untethered,” a mother of three children, and a founding partner of GIOSTAR Chicago, a company that offers regenerative medicine therapies. Her memoir is being modified for film by Hollywood producers. Contact Shelly at (312) 401-3495; shelly@giostarchicago.com

15. ==> Interview Former Harlem Globetrotter Melvin Adams

The Harlem Globetrotters are basketball icons who perform all over the world entertaining audiences with their hoops skills, dunks, leaps, and comedic talents, sometimes to the whistled tune of “Sweet Georgia Brown.” It takes a special brand of athleticism and joviality to be a Globetrotter and Melvin Adams was lucky enough to be a member of the team for four years – including one year as “Mr. Globetrotter.” Invite Adams on your show to talk about life as a Globetrotter as well as how sports saved him when his father died when he was 13, leaving the family in financial peril. Ask him: How did you manage to make the pros when you are only 5 ft. 8? How does one become a Globetrotter? What advice do you have for coping with fatherlessness? Adams is now a popular inspirational speaker. Contact Peggi Merkey at (281) 346-9528; pmerkey@rtirguests.com

01. How NATO Provokes Russia
02. 30th Anniversary of Soviet Union Collapse
03. Testing Bombshell Reveals Trump Clan’s Depravity
04. What Trump Revealed about the Mainstream Media
05. This Hip-Hopper Appeared with Quavo and Waka Flocka!
06. Make a List and Check it Twice: Holiday Safety Tips
07. History Lesson: Ridding the World of Smallpox in the 1960s
08. How to Immunize Yourself from the Virus of Change
09. Wrong! Why Most People Screw up New Year’s Resolutions
10. The New Year’s Resolution You’ll Be Happy to Keep!
11. What ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ Gets Right about Psychedelics
12. Can You Guess the Most Important Minutes of the Day?
13. Mind-Blowing Happiness for Black Women
14. Should We Reward People Who Help the Homeless?
15. Songwriter/Pianist Plays Christmas Music Live on Your Show

1.==> How NATO Provokes Russia

What’s driving Vladimir Putin’s Ukraine brinkmanship? Historian David Gibbs says, “Recent tensions over Ukraine are raising the possibility of a full return to the Cold War between the two powers, the United States and Russia. What is often overlooked in this emerging crisis is that it began with a U.S. provocation against Russia. In 1990, the U.S. government promised that NATO would never be expanded into former communist states in Eastern Europe, “not one inch eastward,” in the words of then Secretary of State James Baker. The U.S. violation of this agreement — its massive expansion into Eastern Europe after 1990 — lay at the heart of the recent U.S.-Russian tensions.” David Gibbs is a professor of history at the University of Arizona and author of the book “First Do No Harm: Humanitarian Intervention and the Destruction of Yugoslavia.” Contact him at dgibbs@email.arizona.edu

2. ==> 30th Anniversary of Soviet Union Collapse

December 26 marks the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Soviet Union, paving the way for a brief experiment with democracy and ultimately, leading to the rise of Vladimir Putin. Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack was a young army captain in the Soviet Union during its waning days, studying Russian at a regional university. Invite him to share his personal, eyewitness account of this remarkable period in world history. Hear how the final chapter of the Cold War ended with the hijacking of Russia’s future by rapacious financiers, pyramid schemes, and a new criminal element, setting the stage for Putin’s arrival. Zwack’s new book, “Swimming the Volga,” was written as the Soviet Union neared the end of its nearly 70-year existence. Zwack spent 34 years as a military intelligence and Eurasian foreign area officer serving in Russia, West Germany, South Korea, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. He is a Global Fellow at The Kennan Institute for Advanced Russia Studies at The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and regularly appears on CNN, PBS, MSNBC, and other major media. Contact Terri Beavers at bg.pbz.r@gmail.com

3. ==> Testing Bombshell Reveals Trump Clan’s Depravity

News that Donald Trump tested positive for COVID-19 just days before the first 2020 presidential debate shows his disregard for rules but Greg Sargent points out that the revelation also implicates members of his family. As former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows reveals in his new book, Melania, Donald Jr., Eric and other family members sat in the debate audience flouting mask requirements, even though they’d been instructed to treat the president as if he was COVID-positive. Sargent says, “In retrospect, now that we know Trump – and likely those around him as well – knew that he’d tested positive for COVID, this stands as yet another example of our total underestimation of this clan’s depraved disregard for rules, norms, and any sense of basic decency and responsibility to those around them.” Greg Sargent writes the Plum Line Blog for the “Washington Post.” Contact him at sargentg@washpost.com; @ThePlumLineGS

4. ==> What Trump Revealed about the Mainstream Media

There’s no denying that Donald Trump has changed the landscape of American journalism. Some say he exposed a lack of ethics and objectivity in the media while others say he used the media to spread misinformation and lies. Is it the media’s fault? Did they create the monster they hate? Invite Dutch American journalist and media trainer Hans Izaak Kriek to share his independent, nonpolitical observations on how the mainstream media have reported on Trump — as a person and president — and how both parties and their leaders played their part in building hatred for Trump and his family. The author of “Trump’s Daily Domination of the News Media” can discuss how journalism changed with the Trump presidency and whether he or the media themselves are responsible for the moniker “fake news.” Hans Izaak Kriek is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Krieksmediaworld.com. He 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

5. ==> This Hip-Hopper Appeared with Quavo and Waka Flocka!

He’s shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the music industry like Quavo and Waka Flocka. But like many other hip-hop artists, Austin Lanier overcame a lot to get where he is, from trouble with the law beginning at age six to bullying, depression, anxiety, fatherlessness, drug addiction, and the loss of friends to suicide. Yet Austin’s story of finding his purpose and helping other people find theirs as a speaker in schools is the perfect, uplifting fit for the New Year. Ask him: How has fame changed you? What are some keys to finding purpose? What role has soccer played in your life? Contact Peggi Mersey at (281) 346-9528; pmerkey@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Make a List and Check it Twice: Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays are here and many people are getting back to their pre-pandemic holiday traditions, many of which can be a little dangerous if you’re not careful. Forgo a holiday trip to the ER by heeding the advice of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Unsafe toys, cooking fires, decorating mishaps, holiday trees and candles all lead to thousands of injuries and deaths each year, according to CPSC’s Alexander Hoehn-Saric. Invite him to share safety tips when shopping for toys, reveal surprising decorating hazards of the season, and explain why you should think twice before using a turkey fryer. The Consumer Product Safety Commission is an independent federal regulatory agency formed in 1972 with a mission to protect the public against unreasonable risks of injury or death from consumer products. For interviews, contact Patty Davis at (301) 504-7601; pdavis@cpsc.gov

7. ==> History Lesson: Ridding the World of Smallpox in the 1960s

For a timely show in light of today’s debate about the role of vaccines in stopping COVID’s spread in the world’s poorest nations, invite Bee Bloeser to share her experiences in Africa after the CDC dispatched her husband Carl to join the global smallpox vaccination campaign in 1969. “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War,” details Bee’s time in Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea (where she was one of only two American women), including brushes with a brutal dictator and a heartbreaking humanitarian crisis unknown to the outside world. 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.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

8. ==> How to Immunize Yourself from the Virus of Change

The past two years brought lots of changes to most people’s lives in ways that could not have been anticipated. In fact, the pace of change has been accelerating exponentially and is likely to continue doing so. That‘s why Tim Winders wants to prepare your listeners to meet future challenges by building up their immunity to “the virus of change.” Tim can offer advice on embracing change so that it doesn’t knock you off course to your hopes and dreams. Ask him what three words help build immunity to change? How can you use the concepts those words illustrate to be better prepared? How did the idea for comparing change to a virus come to you? Tim has over 25 years of experience as a strategic coach for leaders and leadership teams. He also hosts the “SeekGoCreate” podcast and has written his debut novel, “Coach: A Story of Success Redefined,” which tells the story of an executive who contemplates ending his life after personal failures and business problems that could potentially send him to jail but turns his life around when he learns three timeless principles from a mysterious mentor. Contact Tim Winders at (404) 846-4639; winders@rtirguests.com; available as a last-minute guest

9. ==> Wrong! Why Most People Screw up New Year’s Resolutions

Could 2022 be the year that most people make New Year’s Resolutions that stick … or will it continue to be the year that they go south, fail and disappoint? The answer largely depends on whether you have the foresight to book Marc A. Pitman as your guest. Seriously, this success expert can illuminate the latest research on goal-setting including why it’s important to set resolutions in all areas of your life, not just in work, for example. Ask him: Is it more important to focus on resolutions or values? Does faking it until you make it work? Marc has a master’s degree in organizational leadership and 30 years of studying leadership to his credit. He’s been featured in “Real Simple” and “SUCCESS,” and on NBC, and Fox News. Marc is the author of seven books including his latest, “The Surprising Gift of Doubt: Use Uncertainty to Become the Exceptional Leader You Are Meant to Be.” Contact Marc Pitman at (317) 751-1610 (SC); mpitman@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The New Year’s Resolution You’ll Be Happy to Keep!

Ever wondered how to easily learn more about wine? Or how to enjoy and appreciate wine more than you already do? Let Jim Laughren, CWE (certified wine educator) show your audience how. Jim is one of the most interesting, and least intimidating, wine experts available. A veteran of TV and radio, Jim knows how to make listeners glad they tuned in. The author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” as well as “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing & Enjoying Fine Wine” and eBooks “The 15 Minute Guide to Red Wine and “The 15 Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim consistently provides insight and enjoyment to anyone interested in knowing more about wine, especially for the New Year! Ask him what are some interesting, little-known facts about wine? How can you end “wine intimidation”? What is the most important thing to know about wine lists? Will 2022 be a good year for wine? Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

11. ==> What ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ Gets Right about Psychedelics

Hulu’s hit miniseries “Nine Perfect Strangers” tells the story of nine people who come to an avant-garde wellness center called Tranquillum House. Run by Masha, played by Nicole Kidman, Tranquillum gives its guests psychedelics that induce hallucinations. For many viewers, “Nine Perfect Strangers” is the first contact they’ve had with the idea of using once-banned drugs for mental health. Masha is fictional, but now you can interview Sparrow Hart, a genuine expert on the variety of ways to alter and change consciousness. He can discuss both the incredible promise of psychedelics as well as potential pitfalls for their misuse in an addictive and distraction-seeking culture. Sparrow’s varied career also includes being a vision quest guide, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Stanford, a brief stint working in a slaughterhouse, and adventures in the Amazon jungle. 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. ==> Can You Guess the Most Important Minutes of the Day?

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, 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. Ask her: 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

13. ==> Mind-Blowing Happiness for Black Women

Trish Ahjel Roberts says Black women need more support than ever before. “Black people are exhausted, and often Black women bear the burden for the entire community. We support Black men and Black children. We are the epicenter,” she says. The author of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness” is launching a monthly book club for Black women in need of healing, spirituality and connection. Roberts got the idea for Mind-Blowing Happiness™ while studying Maslow’s needs hierarchy in business school. She says, “Freedom is the 12th step to Mind-Blowing Happiness™. Most people think freedom is an external place or situation. I teach Black women how to find freedom within themselves.” After a terrifying car accident in 2018, Roberts left her career as a financial advisor to become a self-actualization coach and happiness expert working primarily with women like her. Contact Trish Ahjel Roberts at (917) 887-3689; hello@trishahjelroberts.com

14. ==> Should We Reward People Who Help the Homeless?

During the holiday season our thoughts traditionally turn to helping the homeless. Let homelessness expert and documentarian Glen Dunzweiler bring fresh inspiration to listeners who want to help but don’t know where to start. Glen says that although no one should get rich helping the homeless, no one should become poor doing so either. He says we need incentives for those who want to lend a hand to people without a support system. Glen will explain his concept of small business homelessness, how to get over the fear of making contact with the homeless, ways neighborhood watches could be turned into neighborhood help and more. Ask him: How do we set the homeless up for failure, then throw them away? Dunzweiler is an independent filmmaker, former college professor and author of two books including “A Degree In Homelessness?” He hosts the YouTube series “Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler” and his documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Songwriter/Pianist Plays Christmas Music Live on Your Show

There’s no better way to experience the joys of the season than by inviting pianist and songwriter Dave Combs on your program to play Christmas music live! Whether he plays his instrumental composition “Happy Christmas Bells” or holiday classic songs off his “My First Christmas Album” (i.e. “Silent Night,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”), Dave will bring smiles to your audience members’ faces along with holiday spirit. In addition, Dave can talk about the power of music — even music without words — to change lives and share the inspiring story behind his most successful composition, “Rachel’s Song.” Dave Combs’ music has been played millions of times on radio, satellite, and internet streaming media. He is also the author of “Touched By the Music: How the Story and Music of Rachel’s Song Can Change Your Life.” Contact him at (336) 655-8320; dave@combsmusic.com

01. Repercussions of South African Travel Bans
02. Expect Big Changes to America’s Abortion Laws
03. Inside the Fast-Food Season of Rebellion
04. Former NFL Player on Overcoming Obstacles
05. How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century
06. ‘The Great Resignation’ Is ‘The Great Upgrade’ in Disguise
07. No Business Plan Needed: Pitch Your Small Biz Idea to This Expert
08. Totally Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books
09. Why Your Laundry Detergent May Be as Bad for You as Smoking
10. What’s a Good Gift for Grandma? (Not Slippers)
11. More than Money: The Secret to Joyous Wealth
12. What this Colonel Knows Can Help You Conquer Stress
13. This Guest Says You Wrote the Book on Your Life, Before Birth
14. Are You a Carrier of the ‘Trauma Virus?’
15. Meet the World’s Most Effective Procrastinator

1.==> Repercussions of South African Travel Bans

New travel bans to stop the spread of the Omicron COVID variant are a brutal blow to Southern African economies and morale and many Southern African leaders, from government to media to the medical community, are angry. Michelle Gavin explains how African states were urged to trust in a global vaccine distribution system that was crippled by the capacity of rich states to cut individual deals that guaranteed their supplies and left little for others. Now, many feel that an act of global solidarity—the sharing of important information about a new variant—has been met with punishment. “Soaring rhetoric about partnerships and mutual respect falls flat when Africans perceive that they have been treated as afterthoughts in vaccine distribution efforts—and then ostracized as the virus inevitably mutates,” she says. Michelle Gavin is the Ralph Bunche senior fellow for Africa policy studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and a former U.S. ambassador to Botswana. Contact her at nquinn@cfr.org or Nolan Quinn at nquinn@cfr.org

2. ==> Expect Big Changes to America’s Abortion Laws

The U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to dramatically weaken legal abortion protections — and it could completely overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling next summer. At a hearing Wednesday, Chief Justice John Roberts signaled he would like to uphold an abortion cut-off at 15-weeks but keep in place the central ruling in Roe that abortion is legal nationwide. But some experts say Justice Barrett appeared uninterested in Roberts’s attempts to move the conversation toward a compromise. “It’s pretty clear that some of the justices are trying to suggest that Roberts’s path is not really available (and that there’s) no way to get rid of viability and salvage some abortion right. Seems as if (Justices) Kavanaugh and Barrett might agree,” tweeted Mary Ziegler, who has written three books on the history of abortion law. “Overruling Roe will not put an end to conflicts about abortion,” Ziegler said before arguments began. “The right-to-life movement is aiming for the recognition of personhood and the outlawing of every abortion, nationwide. Roe is just the beginning.” Mary Ziegler is the Stearns Weaver Miller Professor at Florida State University College of Law. She specializes in the legal history of reproduction, the family, sexuality, and the Constitution. Her latest book is “Abortion and the Law in America: A Legal History, Roe v. Wade to the Present.” Contact her at (850) 645-0364; mziegler@law.fsu.edu or @maryrziegler

3. ==> Inside the Fast-Food Season of Rebellion

The Bureau of Labor Statistics only tracks major stoppages that involve more than 1,000 workers. But Mike Elk, a labor reporter and founder of PayDayReport.com, has compiled a database of 1,600 walkouts since March 2020 that included as many as 100,000 workers. Elk says his organization is now tracking the largest strike wave in the U.S. since 1946. “More than a year and a half ago, Payday was the first outlet to identify a massive strike wave,” he says. “Commentators failed to pick up on the strike wave because the walkouts were fundamentally different from walkouts in the past. Instead of calling upon unions and going on traditional strikes, many non-union workers organized on social media and simply walked out.” Elk can discuss who’s walking out and where, as well as whether these walkouts and strikes are effective and if he expects them to continue or grow. Mike Elk’s work was recently featured in the in-depth piece “‘It’s a walkout!’ — Inside the fast-food workers’ season of rebellion” in the Washington Post. Elk has worked as an advisor on W. Kamau Bell’s Emmy-award winning “United Shades of America” and on the Eva Longoria-produced award-winning documentary “Food Chains.” Contact him at mike.elk@gmail.com; @MikeElk

4.==> Former NFL Player on Overcoming Obstacles

Back in the late 1980s, Keith Davis was living the dream: signed to play professional football for the New York Giants until a knee injury abruptly ended his career but led to a new one. Davis, who has appeared on ESPN and ABC and in USA Today and Sports Illustrated, has overcome tremendous obstacles. The former NFL linebacker, Rose Bowl champion, and USC graduate surmounted reading difficulties to obtain a degree in business finance and before that, the loss of his father to drug addiction and suicide and a mother who suffered from addiction and abusive relationships. Davis uses all of his life experiences to inspire others to rise above their challenging circumstances. Contact Peggi Merkey at (281) 346-9528; pmerkey@rtirguests.com

5. ==> How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century

Former tech CEO Ronald Gruner’s research into American Presidents started with his wanting to understand how and when American politics transitioned from merely polarized to openly hostile. Growing up in Oklahoma then living most of his adult life in Massachusetts, Gruner questioned how Americans had lost the common thread of Presidents over the last century working to build an America that represented and benefitted all. His new book “We the Presidents: How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century” is a presidential history, devoid of politics and instead, a history of what impacted the people and their economic well-being. Gruner will detail the economic growth, personal income, income equality and taxation during each presidency and the influence those policies had through the decades. Ronald Gruner founded, served as chief executive and sold three successful technology firms during his long career: Alliant Computer, Shareholder.com and Sky Analytics. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Briana Caywood at (703) 646-5188 (office)

6. ==> ‘The Great Resignation’ Is ‘The Great Upgrade’ in Disguise

There’s been a lot of talk about “The Great Resignation,” in which low-paid employees are refusing to return to jobs that put their health in jeopardy during the pandemic. But according to Ida Byrd-Hill, CEO of Automation Workz, a cybersecurity reskilling and diversity consulting firm, that’s not what is going on at all. She says, “The so-called Great Resignation is really The Great Upgrade.” By that, she means that during the pandemic, low-wage earners previously fearful of technology were forced to use it to shepherd their children through a virtual learning environment. Now that the pandemic is on the wane, these same employees want to use their newfound tech skills as a path to better jobs and greater compensation. The pandemic exacerbated an American workforce caste system already sharply divided into higher- and lower-paid workers, with most African, Hispanic, Native American and women workers earning the least. Byrd-Hill says these diverse workers are now ready to learn business tech (IoT support, cybersecurity, software development and data analytics) and that companies would be wise to invest in digital reskilling if they want to win the current talent war. Ida Byrd-Hill is an economist, futurist, educator and author of “Invisible Talent Market.” She’s appeared on “Good Morning America” and numerous radio stations and podcasts. Contact her at (313) 483-2126; ida@autoworkz.org

7. ==> No Business Plan Needed: Pitch Your Small Biz Idea to This Expert

For a lively, fun show, have callers pitch Tawn Holstra Auston their small business ideas; she’ll offer them invaluable advice on what they need to be thinking about. Tawn says, “Most people don’t want to get rich… they just want to get a mortgage, put braces on their kids’ teeth, and be able to afford a prom dress for their child. Starting a business does not have to be so uncertain, hard, scary, or stressful.” Tawn developed Launch Like a Pro, an affordable system for helping businesses of one to five people get the support they need to be successful. She’s been advising small business owners for more than 10 years. Ask her: How can people go from vision to first customers in just a few months? What are the top myths that prevent people from acting on their business dreams? Contact Tawn Holstra Auston at (206) 495-6505; tauston@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Totally Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books

In Gainesville, Ga., eating fried chicken with a fork is illegal. In Mississippi, public swearing will get you 30 days in the slammer. “There are a lot of outdated laws that are still on the books that can get you fined or arrested,” says award-winning author, screenwriter and former Universal Studios government affairs executive John Thibault. John can share other bizarre, often hilarious laws that are still in effect, how they came about and why. He can also discuss how average citizens can actually change laws, why writing to Congress is a waste of time, and how to become a lobbyist to effect change in your community. He is the author of the critically acclaimed book “How to Change a Law.” Contact John at (650) 761-7564; Jthibault@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Why Your Laundry Detergent May Be as Bad for You as Smoking

Your laundry may smell like a mountain breeze or fresh meadow after washing, but those seemingly delightful aromas may be as deadly as cigarettes. “Many household products contain fragrance,” says product expert Zorica Denton. “They may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals. But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica should know. She developed asthma, a gastric ulcer and other 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. ==> What’s a Good Gift for Grandma? (Not Slippers)

Selecting gifts for older friends and relatives isn’t easy and so it may be tempting to go with objects of comfort like fuzzy slippers, big boxes of candy and the like. But as holistic health practitioner Linda Mac Dougall will tell you, it pays to be safe when it comes to satisfying the needs of this special population. Mac Dougall has worked with hundreds of patients who have opened her eyes to the unmet needs of older Americans. And at 73, she knows a thing or two about aging bodies from personal experience. Mac Dougall can discuss the most impactful and safest gifts you can get an older relative including ways to keep them happy and active, well-nourished, entertained, and included in family outings. Listeners will appreciate the great ideas and smart tips including unexpected places to shop. Linda Mac Dougall is a holistic health practitioner, Certified Massage Therapist, author, teacher, speaker, and mentor who has appeared on multiple podcasts. Contact her at (805) 202-6379; speakerholistic@gmail.com

11. ==> More than Money: The Secret to Joyous Wealth

Armineh Keshishian isn’t your typical wealth coach. The wealth and wellness expert takes a holistic approach when it comes to finances believing that a truly fulfilling life is about more than money. The author of “Joyous Wealth – 56 Secrets to Riches and Wellness,” will share ways to follow your heart and live abundantly while also making smart money choices. Her advice touches on everything from wealth creation to emotional well-being, courage, female empowerment and embracing multiculturalism. Armineh Keshishian is the founder and CEO of Wealth & Wellness Global. She’s appeared on numerous TV, radio and podcasts in the US and Canada and has been featured in ‘The Powerful’ and ‘Wealth Professional’ and other magazines. Her accolades include ‘Women of Inspiration’ and ‘Most Influential Female Entrepreneur 2021.’ Contact her at (416) 546-9961; Armineh@Arminehk.com

12. == > What this Colonel Knows Can Help You Conquer Stress

Everyone could use some tips for handling stress better. Col. Debra M. Lewis (USA, Ret.) has already coached thousands of people on her battle-tested methods to overcome obstacles and use life’s daily stresses to their advantage. Col. Deb will share those tips and tools along with her action-packed life story as one of the first women to attend the Military Academy at West Point, a survivor of the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon, and a commander in combat. She is the author of “Why Is Pono Not Pono Today?” and its companion course, “Take Kids from Stressed to Success.” Ask her why are most reactions to stress destructive? Why do good people make bad decisions under stress? Contact Deb Lewis at (571) 332-7240 (text first) Deb@ MentallyToughWomen.com

13. ==> This Guest Says You Wrote the Book on Your Life, Before Birth

Imagine that you had written a life outline before you were born. If you can picture that, then as the creator of your life story, any crisis you encounter would take on a new meaning because it was authorized by you. Sana Brauner lives her life by this belief even when her entire family was struck by a tsunami wave. Her husband and son survived but her mother did not and her tiny daughter disappeared without a trace. Sana’s book, “The Borrowed Daughter,” offers insight into parallel worlds of consciousness and a way of understanding the deeper connections and signs behind each story of our lives. She makes a great guest for kicking off the New Year. Contact Sana at sbrauner@rtirguests.com or through Skype: sanabr

14. ==> Are You a Carrier of the ‘Trauma Virus?’

Trauma is embedded in institutions, in our collective stories, and passed down from generation to generation. Scholar and author Dr. Sousan Abadian says that even if you think you haven’t experienced trauma yourself, you can be a carrier of the “trauma virus.” She says, “We see trauma footprints today in the riots, insurrection, and rise of extremists and many of us are unaware of the ways we are carrying the trauma virus that can create fertile ground for radicalization to occur.” She’ll explain how we may be infected by trauma, or a carrier of trauma without being aware of it, because forms of trauma have come to feel ordinary. Dr. Abadian is the author of the forthcoming book “Free Me to Love,” based on her personal experience with “collective trauma” and healing. She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University. Contact Sousan Abadian at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Meet the World’s Most Effective Procrastinator

Patrick Sanaghan is among the 20% of people for whom procrastination is a chronic problem. Despite this terrible habit, Patrick has earned his Ph.D. in education, written 12 books and published 50 academic articles. On your program, he’ll share some of the most effective strategies for managing procrastination from his new book, “How to Be a Better Procrastinator.” You’ll learn that while this habit will never go away there are steps to take to avoid the guilt and anxiety that often accompany it and how to do whatever you dread anyway. You’ll find out why people put things off, the instant reward they get for doing that, and who some famous procrastinators were who nevertheless still managed to do amazing things. Dr. Patrick Sanaghan (the “g” is silent) heads The Sanaghan Group, an organizational consulting firm. Contact him at 215-234-1346; psanaghan@rtirguests.com

01. Omicron Is Coming and We Need a Plan
02. Smallpox Lessons That Put Today’s Pandemic in Perspective
03. Interview a Former Harlem Globetrotter
04. How to Avoid Cyber Holiday Scams
05. Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
06. Songwriter/Pianist Plays Christmas Music Live on Your Show
07. Why Santa Needs a Diversity Makeover
08. The Wacky World of Celebrity Real Estate
09. Spies … Assassins … Corruption: True Story of Intl. Banking Whistleblower
10. Let’s Talk About ‘Fake News’ in America
11. Inside America’s Longest-Running Criminal Conspiracy Against Children
12. Post-Pandemic Tips to Build Your Life Back Better
13. How the First and Last 15 Minutes of Your Day Can Change Your Life
14. Your Secret Weapon During Challenging Times
15. Everything You Wanted to Know about Frozen Embryos but Were Afraid to Ask

1. ==> Omicron Is Coming and We Need a Plan

There’s very little we know for sure about Omicron, the coronavirus variant first detected in South Africa that has caused tremors of panic as winter approaches. Information and technology professor Zeynep Tufekci says this early detection is actually good news and gives us the opportunity to develop a dynamic, information-driven response with tough containment measures that can be modified quickly as evidence comes in, as well as rapid data collection to understand the scope of the threat. But, she adds, “The reason we can even discuss such early, vigorous, responsible attacks on Omicron is because South African scientists and medical workers realized it was a danger within three weeks of its detection, and their government acted like a good global citizen by notifying the world. They should not be punished for their honest and impressive actions.” Zeynep Tufekci is an associate professor at the University of North Carolina, the author of “Twitter and Tear Gas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest” and a “New York Times” Opinion columnist. Contact her at zeynep@technosociology.org; @zeynep

2. ==> Smallpox Lessons That Put Today’s Pandemic in Perspective

For a timely show in light of today’s debate about the role of vaccines in stopping COVID’s spread in the world’s poorest nations, invite Bee Bloeser to share her experiences in Africa after the CDC dispatched her husband Carl to join the global smallpox vaccination campaign in 1969. “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War,” details Bee’s time in Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea (where she was one of only two American women), including brushes with a brutal dictator and a heartbreaking humanitarian crisis unknown to the outside world. 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.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Interview a Former Harlem Globetrotter

The Harlem Globetrotters are basketball icons who perform all over the world entertaining audiences with their hoops skills, dunks, leaps, and comedic talents, sometimes to the whistled tune of “Sweet Georgia Brown.” It takes a special brand of athleticism and joviality to be a Globetrotter and Melvin Adams was lucky enough to be a member of the team for four years – including one year as “Mr. Globetrotter.” Invite Adams on your show to talk about life as a Globetrotter as well as how sports saved him when his father died when he was 13, leaving the family in financial peril. Ask him: How did you manage to make the pros when you are only 5 ft. 8? How does one become a Globetrotter? What advice do you have for coping with fatherlessness? Adams is now a popular inspirational speaker. Contact Peggi Merkey at (281) 346-9528; pmerkey@rtirguests.com

4.==> How to Avoid Cyber Holiday Scams

The days after Thanksgiving contain some of the top shopping and giving times of the year. But online shopping — and donating — isn’t without its risks, since consumers are asked to give out personal and secure financial information over the internet. Invite William Francavilla to share the biggest scams this holiday season (yes, porch pirates are still stealing packages), how to spot a rip-off scheme, and who scammers target most and how they do it. From charity donations to online rip-offs and social media phishing scams, Francavilla will outline ways to make sure your information and your funds don’t fall into the wrong hands. Francavilla is the author of “The Madoffs Among Us: Combat the Scammers, Con Artists and Thieves Who Are Plotting to Steal your Money.” He’s a CFP and former senior vice president, and director of Wealth Management for Legg Mason who has extensive media experience. Contact him at (757) 870-4590; wmfrancavilla@gmail.com

5. ==> Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of “It’s a Wonderful Life”

For many families, the holidays would not be the same without watching Frank Capra’s 1946 classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” But no matter how familiar the story of life in the small town of Bedford Falls is, there are plenty of things modern audiences do not know about the film on its diamond anniversary. Invite Hollywood entertainment veteran Doug Stebleton to share fascinating facts he learned while researching his new novel, “It’s a Wonderful Time,” which transports readers back to the making of the film. The book has been praised by legendary Hollywood comedian Rich Little who called it “a satisfying, exciting ride back to post-WWII Hollywood. Jimmy Stewart’s character … reminds me how much I miss him.” Doug can answer such questions as … why was the movie a box office disappointment when it came out? What debt did it owe to a Christmas card? What illness did Jimmy Stewart face when he made the film? How did the film crew make 6,000 gallons of fake snow in a heatwave? Doug’s company owns a catalog of songs that are licensed to film and television studios and independent productions. He has also produced several films including “Big Life,” a feature film that will be released soon. Contact Doug at (310) 497-8000; doug@ironmikeent.com

6. == > Songwriter/Pianist Plays Christmas Music Live on Your Show

There’s no better way to experience the joys of the season than by inviting pianist and songwriter Dave Combs on your program to play Christmas music live! Whether he plays his instrumental composition “Happy Christmas Bells” or holiday classic songs off his “My First Christmas Album” (i.e. “Silent Night,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”), Dave will bring smiles to your audience members’ faces along with holiday spirit. In addition, Dave can talk about the power of music — even music without words — to change lives and share the inspiring story behind his most successful composition, “Rachel’s Song.” Dave Combs’ music has been played millions of times on radio, satellite, and internet streaming media. He is also the author of “Touched By the Music: How the Story and Music of Rachel’s Song Can Change Your Life.” Contact him at (336) 655-8320; dave@combsmusic.com

7. ==> Why Santa Needs a Diversity Makeover

Yvonne Vissing says it’s time to transform Santa to fit the needs of today’s children. The pediatric sociologist and “santaologist” suggests making the jolly one diverse and multicultural, female as well as male, faith inclusive and representative of any race or nationality! Furthermore, she’ll say, Santa needs to inspire creativity and goodness while bringing families and communities together in a spirit of lovingkindness that anyone, anywhere can share. By focusing on Santa’s spirit, she’ll say, Santa won’t cost anyone money, parents won’t have to lie about him and groups won’t have to fight over him. Yvonne Vissing, Ph.D., a professor at Salem State University, knows Santa has always been a product of social construction. Her new five-book Santa Spirit series proves Santa isn’t just for kids; he’s been created by adults for adults! Contact Yvonne Vissing at (603) 275-5218; yvissing@gmail.com

8. ==> The Wacky World of Celebrity Real Estate

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 new 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 new 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

9. ==> Spies … Assassins … Corruption: True Story of Intl. Banking Whistleblower

John Christmas worked for Parex Bank in Latvia in 2004 when he exposed widespread bank fraud to a major international audit firm and the Latvian government. He was terrorized and fled the country while the firm and the government ignored the information. It eventually led to the bank’s collapse and the 2008 Latvian financial crisis, which continues to this day. Learn how a Western taxpayer-funded development bank covered up the corruption for years while Christmas was exiled for exposing the Russian Mafia bank. Ask him: What’s become of the players you exposed? Were your allegations ever investigated? Are you still in danger? Could a similar situation happen again? The spy thriller “KGB Banker,” co-written with crime fiction author William Burton McCormick, was inspired by John Christmas’ story. Contact him at (514) 700-9015; jchristmas@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Let’s Talk About ‘Fake News’ in America

There’s no denying that Donald Trump has changed the landscape of American journalism. Some say he exposed a lack of ethics and objectivity in the media while others say he used the media to spread misinformation and lies. What is it about DJT that makes it impossible to look away? Is it the media’s fault? Did they create the monster they hate? Invite Dutch American journalist and media trainer Hans Izaak Kriek to share his independent, nonpolitical observations on how the mainstream media have reported on Trump — as a person and president — and how both parties and their leaders played their part in building hatred for Trump and his family. The author of “Trump’s Daily Domination of the News Media” can discuss how journalism changed with the Trump presidency and whether he or the media themselves are responsible for the moniker “fake news.” Hans Izaak Kriek is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Krieksmediaworld.com. He 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

11. ==> Inside America’s Longest-Running Criminal Conspiracy Against Children

Attorney Stephen Rubino will take you behind the curtain of a global scandal he calls America’s longest-running criminal conspiracy perpetrated against children and expose the devastating consequences of hiding sexual predators in plain sight. Rubino’s new novel, “Act of Faith,” incorporates his work as a pioneer in the legal field representing survivors of the Catholic Church’s sex abuse. He can discuss the truths he incorporated into the book set in the early 1960s in “Little Rome,” and how his experiences as a lawyer prepared him to tell the story. Contact Stephen Rubino at (609) 576-2238; scr@stephenrubino.com

12. ==> Post-Pandemic Tips to Build Your Life Back Better

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on everything from the economy to our relationships and mental health. Families have lost loved ones, businesses and careers and been forced to make choices they never expected. For those who feel lost, stuck or unsure what to do next, Oreste D’Aversa has four steps to start creating a new life that’s even better and more prosperous than before. Oreste D’Aversa is a life and business coach, corporate trainer, minister and the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook,” his revolutionary step-by-step blueprint to reinvent your life and thrive in the post-pandemic world. Contact him at (201) 949-3002; odaversa@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How the First and Last 15 Minutes of Your Day Can Change Your Life

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, 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. Ask her: 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

14. ==> Your Secret Weapon During Challenging Times

Amidst the ongoing chaos in the world, many of us are feeling more anxious and uncertain about the future than ever. Best-selling author and intuition expert Kim Chestney says that turning to your inner guidance is the best way to reclaim your personal power. With so much confusion in the world, it is getting harder to be sure of our path forward,” she says. “But there is a part of you that can see from a higher perspective.” Kim is the author of the book “Radical Intuition: A Revolutionary Guide to Using Your Inner Power” and the founder of IntuitionLab. Contact Kim at (412) 214-9502; KChestney@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Everything You Wanted to Know about Frozen Embryos but Were Afraid to Ask

How long does it take to defrost a frozen embryo? (Answer: as little as 30 seconds!) Why would someone choose frozen embryo adoption over IVF or standard adoption? (Answer: Frozen embryo adoption can be cheaper and more likely to “take.”) How many years can an embryo be frozen yet viable? (Answer: up to 27, and the number might be higher.) Let Nate Birt answer the questions you were afraid to ask (or didn’t know you wanted to ask) about the newest form of adoption. For example, are all frozen embryos screened for genetic issues? How costly is it to adopt this way? What is involved? Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com