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01. Rittenhouse Verdict Is a Symptom of Bigger Sickness
02. Burn Pits: This Generation’s Agent Orange
03. General Recalls 30th Anniversary of Soviet Union Collapse
04. Actress Dee Wallace on Fear and Post-Pandemic Reinvention
05. Why You Should Invite Relatives You Disagree with to Dinner
06. The Greatest Thing about Gratitude
07. Celebrate Native American Heritage Month
08. How to Be a Productive Procrastinator
09. Do You Need a Booster? Or Just the Right Information?
10. Totally Ridiculous Laws Still on the Books
11. Should We Reward People Who Help the Homeless?
12. Grief Hits Hard Over the Holidays
13. Your Secret Weapon During Challenging Times
14. Meet the Expert Who Says ‘Don’t Give Up Junk Food!’
15. The Nuttiest News about Thanksgiving Travel

1. ==> Rittenhouse Verdict Is a Symptom of Bigger Sickness

Zeeshan Aleem says to some, the verdict in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial is an outrage and a brazen miscarriage of justice. But, he says, that’s probably not the best way to look at it. He explains the case was decided based on a narrow question of self-defense under a permissive law, not Rittenhouse’s ideological predilections. “Rittenhouse’s judgment regarding bringing and using his gun was catastrophic and should be condemned — and in a sane world, the basis for some form of punishment — but we can’t do that without also condemning the society in which he was able to do what he did so easily.” Zeeshan will explain how the verdict might be distasteful but isn’t unreasonable; at the very least it’s not right to read it as a stamp of approval of Rittenhouse’s behavior. He’ll discuss America’s obsession with guns and the dangers of an armed vigilante culture. Zeeshan Aleem is a political columnist and editor at MSNBC, and the publisher of a politics newsletter called What’s Left. His writing has been published in The “New York Times,” “The Guardian,” “The Atlantic,” “The Nation,” “Esquire” and many other publications. Contact him at zeeshanaleem2@gmail.com; zeeshan.aleem@nbcuni.com or @ZeeshanAleem

2. ==> Burn Pits: This Generation’s Agent Orange

After years of activism by veterans and others, the Biden administration recently announced it would increase support for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits while they were deployed overseas. Retired environmental engineer and professor of environmental health H. Patricia Hynes calls the pits this generation’s Agent Orange. She says, “The barbaric burn pits were operated on over 230 U.S. military bases across Iraq and Afghanistan during our wars there. Every kind of waste — plastics; batteries; old ordnance; asbestos; pesticide containers; tires; biomedical, chemical and nuclear waste; dead animals; human feces; body parts; and corpses — was incinerated in them in the midst of housing, work and dining facilities, with zero pollution controls.” She says tons of waste — an average of 10 pounds per soldier per day — burned in the pits, all day and all night, with base commanders temporarily shutting them down when politicians and high-ranking generals came to visit. H. Patricia Hynes’ awards include the U.S. EPA Lifetime Achievement Award and her books include “The Recurring Silent Spring.” Contact her at hphynes@gmail.com

3. ==> General Recalls 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

4. == > Actress Dee Wallace on Fear and the Post-Pandemic World

As we approach a hopefully post-pandemic new year, who better than the legendary Emmy-nominated actress Dee Wallace to talk about fear, the unknown and self-creation. The star of countless horror and suspense flicks including “CUJO,” “The Howling,” “The Eyes Have Eyes,” and many more can talk about the lessons she learned from her ‘Scream Queen’ roles and how she’s overcome her own fears and reinvented herself over the years. The Emmy-nominated actress is also a best-selling author and the host of a weekly call-in radio show with over 500 episodes to date. Her latest book, “Born,” addresses the realities of reinventing yourself in a post-pandemic world. Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

05. ==> Why You Should Invite Relatives You Disagree with to Dinner

Dreading dinner this week with relatives from across the political aisle? As we gather this holiday season, we might heed the advice of experts like Steven Hassan, who encourages people not to cast judgment or reprimand their loved ones who are immersed in disinformation. Hassan, a former cult member, says instead, keep them close and find common ground on other issues, as hard as that may be. He says, if you cut them off or yell at them, you simply magnify the chances that they’ll remain siloed among like-minded people. The author of “The Cult of Trump” will explain how people can get caught in a self-reinforcing echo chamber of propaganda and mind control and share ways to talk to friends, family members or colleagues who are being unduly influenced by disinformation. Steven Hassan, Ph.D., spent two years in the cult of the Unification Church of Sun Myung Moon (the “Moonies”) until his family successfully deprogrammed him. He is the founder of the Freedom of Mind Resource Center and has helped thousands of families over the past 40 years. Contact him at (617) 396-4638; mediarelations@freedomofmind.com

6. ==> The Greatest Thing about Gratitude

We’re used to thinking of everything we’re grateful for at Thanksgiving, but what about the rest of the year? Is it difficult to feel thankful all year long and can it really improve your outlook? Invite award-winning screenwriter, author, TV/film producer, journalist, and TV host Maryann Ridini Spencer to reveal why gratitude is important for personal health and well-being, improving your relationships, and how it can help support and heal you going through life’s tough times and transitions throughout the year. 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. == > How to Be a Productive Procrastinator

All adults know they have to perform certain tasks even though they may dread doing them (think paying taxes, buying holiday presents, or answering emails). But for some people, about one out of five, these tasks lead to a kind of paralysis in which nothing gets done causing feelings of shame and guilt. Interview Patrick Sanaghan, Ed.D., a “productive” procrastinator who has learned how to do what needs to be done and can pass that real-world advice on to your listeners. He’ll say that there are no silver bullets and the urge to put off for tomorrow what could be done today is likely to persist but we can learn to master it. His new book, “How to Be a Better Procrastinator,” contains 100 strategies to draw from. Dr. Sanaghan (the “g” is silent) heads The Sanaghan Group, an organizational consulting firm. Despite his bad habit, he earned a doctorate in education, has written 12 books and 50 academic articles. Contact him at (215) 234-1346; psanaghan@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

November, the same month as Thanksgiving, is also Native American Heritage Month. And it is the perfect time to consider the crucial roles Native Americans have played in America’s heritage as you explore them with the Sousan Abadian, Ph.D., a Harvard-educated scholar of indigenous cultures. For example, you’ll discover that the American Indian way of giving thanks means that you expect nothing in return. Furthermore, she’ll say that “indigenous cultures have suffered great trauma, and they can teach us how to heal.” Sousan has an independent practice, teaching, speaking and consulting internationally on leadership, innovation and culture change. Contact her at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

8. ==> How to Be a Productive Procrastinator

All adults know they have to perform certain tasks even though they may dread doing them (think paying taxes, buying holiday presents, or answering emails). But for some people, about one out of five, these tasks lead to a kind of paralysis in which nothing gets done causing feelings of shame and guilt. Interview Patrick Sanaghan, Ed.D., a “productive” procrastinator who has learned how to do what needs to be done and can pass that real-world advice on to your listeners. He’ll say that there are no silver bullets and the urge to put off for tomorrow what could be done today is likely to persist but we can learn to master it. His new book, “How to Be a Better Procrastinator,” contains 100 strategies to draw from. Dr. Sanaghan (the “g” is silent) heads The Sanaghan Group, an organizational consulting firm. Despite his bad habit, he earned a doctorate in education, has written 12 books and 50 academic articles. Contact him at (215) 234-1346; psanaghan@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Do You Need a Booster? Or Just the Right Information?

Last week the FDA cleared Moderna’s and Pfizer’s COVID-19 booster shots for all adults over 18. But do you really need one? Dr. Annalee Kitay asks, “For that matter, do you even need an MRNA shot masquerading as a vaccine? Why don’t we concentrate on what we can do to boost or build our immune systems?” Kitay will tell your audience what their doctors won’t, letting them know what they can do to enhance their innate healing powers. Annalee Kitay, D.C., has been in private practice for more than 30 years and did a post-doc in alternative medicine. She is one of the top practitioners of The Neural Organization Technique in the U.S. and teaches the hands-on technique to other doctors. A frequent guest on talk shows, she does not pull any punches. Contact Annalee Kitay at (561) 462-4733; akitay@rtirguests.com

10. ==> 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 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

11. ==> 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

12. ==> Grief Hits Hard Over the Holidays

This holiday season, many families will gather for the first time in a long while and for some, there will be fewer loved ones at the table. Whether the loss is new or old, the holiday season can be difficult for those who are grieving. Interview Meghan Smith Brooks to find out how you can manage holiday grief triggers and enjoy the reason for the season at the same time. Meghan is the author of “Unraveling Grief: A Mother’s Spiritual Journey of Healing and Discovery,” based on the murder of her adult son. A grief expert, she can offer tips and tools to move beyond surviving the impact of loss to begin thriving with meaning and purpose all year. Ask her: What can we do to manage grief, especially over the holidays? How is it possible to move forward after loss? Does the pain ever go away? Contact Meghan Smith Brooks at (816) 820-3836; unravelinggrief@gmail.com

13. ==> 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 “Radical Intuition: A Revolutionary Guide to Using Your Inner Power” and the founder of IntuitionLab. Contact Kim at (412) 214-9502; KChestney@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Meet the Expert Who Says ‘Don’t Give Up Junk Food!’

Who doesn’t love junk food? Yes, we know it’s bad for us and we expect experts to tell us to give it up. But that’s not what Stavros Mastrogiannis says. Rather, he says that we need to make junk food special! Bring him on your show to explain what he means by that along with the other simple habits that will allow your audience members to shed weight and live healthier lives. Also, be sure to ask Stavros about what happened when he recreated Morgan Spurlock’s experiment about eating McDonald’s food (burgers, fries, and Cokes) that became the basis of the 2004 movie “Super Size Me.” In 2011, Stavros did the same thing but unlike Spurlock, Stavros’ blood work was just as good as it had been before he spent two months working and exclusively eating at McDonald’s. He’ll tell you why this experiment proves it’s not what you eat but how you eat that matters! Stavros is the creator of the Live Your Way Thin System. Contact him at (203) 733-0109; stavros@liveyourwaythin.com

15. ==> The Nuttiest News about Thanksgiving Travel

Travel is expected to be nuts in the coming days as we gear up for what some are calling the most anticipated Thanksgiving of the century. Americans are eager to get home, but the holiday rush and wintry weather could cause flight delays and cancelations. To help travelers make the best of the situation, the folks at the American Pecan Council are offering some snacks. Executive director Alex Ott says “While we cannot get your flight out on time, we’re bringing travelers a little taste of home as they await their treasured Thanksgiving meals and moments.” As part of the group’s ‘Pecanceled’ Flights Set Right campaign, passengers with a canceled or delayed flight can get free pecan pie bites at select airports throughout the country. U.S. travelers with a canceled flight can enter for a chance to win first-class Thanksgiving travel for five years. To learn where to find the treats and how to get in on the free flight giveaway, contact Dave Ladetto at (469) 917-6246; dladetto@webershandwick.com

01. The Truth Isn’t Enough to Fight Disinformation
02. ‘The Great Resignation’ Is ‘The Great Upgrade’ in Disguise
03. Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
04. Thanksgiving Travel Will Be Totally Nuts!
05. PBS Host Shares Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious’ Holiday
06. ‘Tis the Season for Crooks: Biggest Holiday Scams
07. Get the Recipe for a Peaceful Holiday Meal with Kids
08. Hilarious World of Selling Luxury Homes to Celebs and Millionaires
09. How to Find the Right Job … Faster
10. He’s Proof You Shouldn’t Underestimate the Flu
11. You’re Putting Your Family’s Health at Risk by Not Doing This
12. Tea Talk: Can a Cuppa Up Your Immunity?
13. This Attorney Proves Anyone Can Overcome Extreme Adversity
14. Songwriter/Pianist Plays Christmas Music Live on Your Show
15. America’s Queen of Inspiration Says ‘It’s Your Turn Now!’

1. ==> The Truth Isn’t Enough to Fight Disinformation

It’s no secret that mis- and disinformation are a huge problem, what might be surprising though, is the scope of the issue. This week the Aspen Institute’s Commission on Information Disorder released a report with 15 steps that governments, technology companies, and others can do to help address the problem. The report notes that “in the past there was a belief that in order to fight bad information, all we need is more good information; however, in reality, merely elevating truthful content is not nearly enough to change our current course.” In some cases, promoting corrective information involving hoaxes or conspiracy theories can actually exacerbate the problem, as disinformation expert Whitney Phillips points out in her 2019 report “The Oxygen of Amplification.” Phillips can discuss whether journalists can make things worse merely by doing their jobs. We know that, in some cases, “sunlight disinfects”; exposing wrongdoers can sometimes cause them to lose their power. But in other cases, Phillips notes, it can function as a hydroponic grow light, “and it’s simply not possible to know what the long-term effect of reporting will be. By then, it might be too late to intervene, because what ended up growing turned out to be poison.” Whitney Phillips is a professor of media studies at Syracuse University. Her work focuses on media literacy, media ethics, and how information issues connect to mental health and wellness issues. Contact her at (315) 443-5137; whphilli@syr.edu

2. ==> ‘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

3. ==> Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’

For many families, the holidays wouldn’t 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 don’t 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 to 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

4. ==> Thanksgiving Travel Will Be Totally Nuts!

Travel is expected to be nuts in the coming days as the U.S. nears perhaps its most anticipated Thanksgiving of the century. Americans are eager to get home for the holidays but they’re worried about flight delays and cancellations. Alex Ott, executive director of the American Pecan Council says, “While we cannot get your flight out on time, we’re bringing travelers a little taste of home as they await their treasured Thanksgiving meals and moments.” As part of the group’s ‘Pecanceled’ Flights Set Right campaign, passengers with a canceled or delayed flight can get free pecan pie snack bites at select airports throughout the country. Any U.S. traveler with a canceled flight can also enter for a chance to win first-class Thanksgiving travel for five years. To find out where the treats are being handed out and how to get in on the free flight giveaway, contact Dave Ladetto at (469) 917-6246; dladetto@webershandwick.com

5. ==> PBS Host Shares Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious’ Holiday

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

6. ==> ‘Tis the Season for Crooks: Biggest Holiday Scams

Nothing can put a damper on your holiday spirit faster than getting tricked out of your hard-earned cash! This year experts say scammers are out in full force looking to fool you, steal your money and more. Invite William Francavilla to share the biggest scams this holiday season (yes, porch pirates are still stealing packages), how to spot a rip-off scheme, and who scammers target most and how they do it. From charity donations to online rip-offs and social media phishing scams, Francavilla will outline ways to make sure your information and 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

7. ==> Get the Recipe for a Peaceful Holiday Meal with Kids

Thanksgiving is arguably the biggest “meal” holiday of the year, and nowadays more of us are opting to do away with the Thanksgiving “kids’ table.” Kids sitting through a meal is a big problem for many parents, and whether you have a kids’ table or not, if your child can’t sit still long enough to join in Thanksgiving dinner, you’re likely to stress about the situation and how it reflects on you. Parenting expert Rebecah Freeling can share ways to solve the problem. Rebecah Freeling specializes in kids with problem behaviors. She’s the owner of Wits End Parenting and the author of “Your Rules Are Dumb: How to Maintain Your Parental Authority While Creating a Partnership With Your Spirited Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

8. ==> Hilarious World of Selling Luxury Homes to Celebs and Millionaires

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 LA,” 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. ==> How to Find the Right Job … Faster

Plenty of people are looking for jobs, from newly minted college graduates to men and women who lost their jobs during the pandemic or delayed seeking something better. Nearly everyone could benefit from the straight-shooting career advice of Beverly Williams, whose book, “Your GPS to Employment Success: How to Find and Succeed in the Right Job,” contains 125 solid tips. She can explain everything from how to motivate yourself physically, mentally and emotionally for the job search to why it isn’t always a good idea to answer every question honestly during a job interview. Beverly is an employment professional, arbitrator, and speaker, and a former HR executive in both the private and public sectors. She also hosts the podcast “Your Employment Matters” with Beverly Williams. She earned an M.P.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a J.D. from Rutgers Law School. Ask Her: How can watching ESPN or the Food Network help with your job search? What are some inconvenient truths job seekers need to hear? What can people learn from LeBron James’ career? Contact Beverly Williams at (973) 769-7823; bwilliams99@comcast.net

10. ==> He’s Proof You Shouldn’t Underestimate the Flu

The CDC and American Medical Association are both warning the public about the dangerous flu season that lies just ahead, a hazard that many people, focused on COVID-19, may be underestimating. Each year, some 45 million people will come down with the flu, which is one of the top ten causes of death. That’s why everyone needs to hear the cautionary tale of Charles (Charlie) Gardner, who in 2011 came “this close” to losing his life from flu complications at age 56, the same age his great-great-grandfather was when the flu claimed his life. As a result of flu that turned into pneumonia contracted while he was on vacation, Charlie suffered 13 strokes, organ failure, and a six-week coma. His son and daughter were present when they pulled the plug on him. Yet Charlie survived. Not only with a great story that serves as a reminder to get your flu shot but also one with miracles, a near-death experience, and appreciating the life you have even if it isn’t the one you expected. Charlie tells his inspiring story in his book “Always Remember This Moment.” Contact him at (650) 995-5626; charlesgardner@rtirguests.com

11. ==> You’re Putting Your Family’s Health at Risk by Not Doing This

When it comes to health, people often think it’s all up to their doctors. Not so, warns Anne McAwley-LeDuc, a retired nurse practitioner (APRN), who says patients have an important role in their own medical team, a role they often shirk out of lack of awareness. Often overlooked, she’ll say, are the patient’s duties for keeping full and accurate records of medical histories, doctor visits, procedures, treatments, medications, vaccinations and more. Parents are responsible for doing so for their children and teens too. In an interview, she can share where and how you should keep and maintain those essential medical records, and the role that COVID-19 has played in making this task more important than ever. Contact Anne McAwley-LeDuc at (860) 300-1603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Tea Talk: Can a Cuppa Up Your Immunity?

The Brits do it. So do little old ladies. But is tea something that belongs in your cupboard and your cup if you want to boost your immunity to flu and viruses, and feel and look your best? Listen to nutritional expert Tilak Silva and learn why you should never overlook tea when it comes to building immunity from disease and other health-zapping dangers. The inventor of CilanTea, Tilak will teach your audience how to literally drink their way to greater strength, healthier skin, more energy, fewer illnesses, and better sleep. Oh, and Tilak will also tell you what beverages are best avoided because they may depress immune systems. Ask him: What’s the best way to take advantage of tea’s benefits? What are the best times of day to drink tea? What foods go best with a cup, and what should you not pair with tea? Contact TIlak Silva at (310) 483-2785, tsilva@rtirguests.com

13. ==> This Attorney Proves Anyone Can Overcome Extreme Adversity

Talk to Francine Tone, and you’ll be surprised that her life turned out so successful and positive, after facing so much adversity. Today she is an accomplished attorney, author, speaker and devoted mother. But things didn’t look that way in her youth. After loss and abandonment as a child, she was molested by her adoptive father while just a little girl. She contemplated suicide nightly as a teen. She suffered a near-fatal car accident, went through a troubling divorce, got cancer and then dealt with a traumatic injury to her only son. So many times she was tempted to give up. But she did not. And she is prepared to tell others how they, too, can overcome difficulties and get their lives in order despite the worst of the worst happening. Today she says she is the luckiest girl in the world — especially as she surfs overhead waves on the North Shore of Hawaii. Among Francine’s successful projects is “What Every Good Lawyer Wants You to Know,” a best-selling book that helps laymen navigate the law. Contact her at (531) 208-1297; FTone@rtirguests.com

14. ==> 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

15. ==> America’s Queen of Inspiration Says ‘It’s Your Turn Now!’

“The New York Times” describes Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook as “Oprah and Billy Graham rolled into one” and she’s often called America’s Queen of Inspiration. Invite her on your show for a fascinating discussion about life’s chapters and how, like a book, the later chapters can often be the richest and most freeing. “Looking back, you realize that at age 20, we worry about what others think of us. At age 40, we don’t care what they think. At age 60, we discover they haven’t been thinking of us at all! It’s your turn now!” She served as President Obama’s U.S. ambassador for international religious freedom after a two-year political battle over her appointment. She previously advised President Clinton and was the first female New York City Police Department chaplain for 21 years. A civil, gender and human rights activist, Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook officiated at the funeral services for her mentor and godmother, civil rights legend, Coretta Scott King. She’s the author of more than a dozen books including her latest, “My Fabulous Fifth Chapter: It’s My Turn Now!” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

01. Inside America’s Fast-Food Season of Rebellion
02. Inflation Fears Rise and News Coverage Comes Up Short
03. What Really Happens When Celebs and Millionaires Go Househunting
04. Fun Thanksgiving Music Show: Bands You Can Eat
05. Earn $1,000 to Watch Betty White’s Work
06. Legal Expert: Is Britney’s Battle Finally Over?
07. Are Baldwin and ‘Rust’ Cast Suffering PTSD?
08. ‘Tis the Season for Relatives You Don’t Like
09. Grief Hits Hard Over the Holidays
10. Are Vaccine Passports an Assault on Freedom?
11. Before You Resign, Consider a Side Hustle
12. The Baby Diet: Eat Like a Toddler to Lose Weight
13. Are You a Kind Parent or a Dictator?
14. 5 Steps to Conquer Bad Stress in Minutes
15. A Kitchen Redo to Help You Live Longer

1. ==> Inside America’s 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

2. ==> Inflation Fears Rise and News Coverage Comes Up Short

Nobody needs to tell you that things are getting more expensive. Everywhere you turn there are signs of inflation with rising prices on groceries, clothes, cars and more (if you can find the items in stock). But “Washington Post” opinion columnist Catherine Rampell says part of the problem right now is in the way the media are covering the current inflation surge. She says too many media outlets are “laboring under the collective delusion” that President Biden can do a lot to address the issue.” Rampell says, “Inflation is painful. It’s causing uncertainty for families and businesses, but there’s not a ton the president can do about it.” Rampell says both left- and right-wing media are poorly explaining what’s going on with the economy and are instead playing politics with the issue. Catherine Rampall is a syndicated op-ed columnist for the “Washington Post,” a CNN commentator and a special correspondent for “PBS NewsHour.“ Contact her at crampell@washpost.com; @crampell

3. ==> What Really Happens When Celebs and Millionaires Go Househunting

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

4. ==> Fun Thanksgiving Music Show: Bands You Can Eat

AXS TV’s popular music countdown series “The Top Ten Revealed” is back with 15 all-new episodes featuring fan-voted lists and an all-star roster of new guests and returning favorites. Executive producer and host Katie Daryl will entertain your audience as she shares hilarious moments from this season along with fun countdown facts. Joining Daryl this season is a rotating panel of entertainers including Black Eyed Peas hitmaker Taboo; reality star and daughter of rocker John Mellencamp, Teddi Mellencamp and Alice Cooper axe-slayer Nita Strauss. Among this season’s countdown themes are Boy Bands, ‘80s Movie Soundtracks, Rain Songs and the Thanksgiving-themed, Bands You Can Eat. “The Top Ten Revealed” airs on Sunday evenings. 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)

5. ==> Earn $1,000 to Watch Betty White’s Work

Beloved actress Betty White will turn 100-years-old on January 17 and to celebrate the milestone, Choice Mutual Insurance Agency is looking to hire a mega-fan and pay them $1,000 to binge-watch some of White’s best work and document the experience on social media. “We’re looking for someone who adores Betty White,” the company says on its website. “This candidate is probably already planning to binge 10 hours of her classics, but now they get paid to do it!” To apply, candidates must explain their favorite Betty White role and their favorite things about the actor. Extra points are given to candidates who include a video explaining why they love her. The prize includes a DVD player and a curated selection of performances and appearances from throughout White’s 80-year career. For more information and interviews contact Anthony Martin at media@choicemutual.com or help@choicemutual.com

6. ==> Legal Expert: Is Britney’s Battle Finally Over?

Britney Spears appears to finally be unshackled! The popstar regained control over her life Friday when Judge Brenda Penny ruled that a 13-year legal conservatorship – which held her under the personal, professional, and financial control of her father – was over. The decision came after Spears’ emotional court address last June detailing her trauma under the arrangement, and just ahead of her 40th birthday next month. David Glass, a certified family law specialist and former clinical psychologist, has been following the case and was at Friday’s hearing. He can explain the judge’s ruling, why there was no mental health exam required, and what it all means for the singer’s future. David Glass has appeared on AP television and “ABC News” to explain the intricacies of the Britney Spears conservatorship story. He’s a regular legal analyst for “Good Morning America” and ‘ABC News Live” and has also appeared on other newscasts including NBC’s “Extra” and “Good Day L.A.” Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 271-2140; Cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com or Shannon Dugger at (303) 619-3949; Shannon@Kerrpr-execuprov.com

7. ==> Are Baldwin and ‘Rust’ Cast Suffering PTSD?

Actors shoot guns all the time on movie sets. Usually, nothing bad happens. But as you know, Alec Baldwin recently pulled the trigger of a prop gun on the set of the film “Rust,” killing the cinematographer and wounding the director. The shooting was shocking, both to the crew and the public. Vern Mathis, a man who spent years on hundreds of Hollywood movie sets as a cameraman, editor, post-production supervisor and as the son of a vice president of MGM-United Artists in Culver City, says he could read the anguish and cry for help in Baldwin’s face during media interviews. He says Baldwin’s past addictions and this recent trauma put him in great danger. Vern can talk about how Baldwin is likely to suffer from this horrible traumatic event. He’ll also discuss how Baldwin is already showing signs of PTSD, and how important it is for him to seek help now. In addition, Vern will say that the other actors and crew members who were on set are also susceptible to the after-effects of the event. Vern worked in the film industry for years and co-hosted a weekly TV show in Vegas. He is the author of the physician-recommended book “PTSD: Living On Edge: A Survivor’s Guide to Recovery.” Reach him at (514) 700-9015; vmathis@rtirguests.com

8. ==> ‘Tis the Season for Relatives You Don’t Like

Many people admit to being estranged from siblings, spouses, parents, children, and in-laws. For those folks, the holidays present extra challenges. Thanksgiving dinners become uncomfortable and Kwanza, Hanukkah and Christmas gatherings end up stressful or even ruined. 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

9. ==> Grief Hits Hard Over the Holidays

This holiday season, many families will gather for the first time in a long while and for some, there will be fewer loved ones at the table. Whether the loss is new or old, the holiday season can be difficult for those who are grieving. Interview Meghan Smith Brooks to find out how you can manage holiday grief triggers and enjoy the reason for the season at the same time. Meghan is the author of “Unraveling Grief: A Mother’s Spiritual Journey of Healing and Discovery,” based on the murder of her adult son. A grief expert, she can offer tips and tools to move beyond surviving the impact of loss to begin thriving with meaning and purpose all year. Ask her: What can we do to manage grief, especially over the holidays? How is it possible to move forward after loss? Does the pain ever go away? Contact Meghan Smith Brooks at (816) 820-3836; unravelinggrief@gmail.com

10. ==> Are Vaccine Passports an Assault on Freedom?

Why should you need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination when you eat out? Attend a concert? Travel? Stay in a hotel? Are these so-called vaccine passports truly about the public good or are they just a form of government control? Find out what your listeners think when you interview Tamara Lashchyk, who worries that what is happening in New York City where she lives and passports are now required will spread across the country. She says, “A two-tiered society is emerging and those who simply want to exercise their right to medical choice are being smeared as ‘others.’” Ask her: Why are so many Americans blindingly trusting corporations and governments that have repeatedly lied to us? How is COVID propaganda brainwashing us? Who stands to gain the most from a vaccine mandate? Who will be held accountable if you sustain a vaccine injury? Tamara Lashchyk has been interviewed by the BBC and featured in Huffington Post and co-hosts “The Bo Peep Podcast” which probes the answers to questions that we are afraid to ask. A career coach, author, and former Wall Street executive, she recently ran for the New York State Assembly. Contact her at (848) 373-3543; TLashchyk@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Before You Resign, Consider a Side Hustle

Thanks to the pandemic, more of us had time to think about our values and what we like and don’t like about our jobs. That soul searching has led to some refusing to go back to work or seeking new opportunities. But, as workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman will tell you, not everyone knows the best way to make these changes. Invite Marc to explain why having a side hustle is more important than ever today and even why having one can make you a more effective employee. He can talk about the steps to take to determine what type of moonlighting is best for you, how to value your time, and eventually, how to resign well. Ask him what does it mean to resign well? Why do moonlighters make good employees? How can you identify what you do well? 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; mpitman@rtirguests.com

12. ==> The Baby Diet: Eat Like a Toddler to Lose Weight

When it comes to losing weight quickly and effectively, one nutritionist claims you should look to the eating habits of toddlers as the perfect example of what diet plan to follow. Nicolette Pace says babies have an organic rhythm when it comes to refueling their bodies and insists that adults could benefit to learn from their food habits. Pace goes on to point out that babies rarely skip meals, while it’s common for adults to forgo food when putting in long hours at work. She adds that babies tend to push food away when they’re no longer hungry and are not likely to spend an entire day snacking on chips like their grown-up counterparts might. Nicolette Pace MS, RDN, CDE, CBC, CDN, CFCS, FAND, founded Nutrisource Inc., in 2002 to provide high-quality education, counseling and nutrition services for a diverse community population. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

13. ==> Are You a Kind Parent or a Dictator?

How can we help make this world a better place? Emily Slingluff believes it starts at home, with people learning to be nice to one another. A long-time advocate of kind parenting, Emily will share how to help newborns, babies and teens grow up to be nice adults and will share two types of parenting and explain the differences between them. “A kind, loving parent will have a different child than a dictator parent,” says Emily. “A kind parent is likely to have a kind child who is happy with life and therefore caring about others. But a dictator parent is likely to have an insecure child because he has not been allowed to help make decisions.” Emily will explain how children of dictator parents grow to be insecure, unhappy people who want to hurt others and share ways parents can replace rules and punishments with guidelines and communication. Emily Slingluff has been writing and speaking about kind parenting for years. She loves listener call-in shows to help parents. Contact her at (757) 428-6167; emilyslingluff@aol.com

14. ==> 5 Steps to Conquer Bad Stress in Minutes

These are stressful times. Whether it’s the horror and fallout of a global pandemic, our unending political strife and culture wars, or just the pressures of everyday living (working, childcare, paying the bills) too many of us are feeling lost and overwhelmed. Nina Ahuja, M.D., has created a framework called ADMIT® (an acronym). It’s an easy-to-remember tool that helps organize the jumble of emotions you experience when feeling overwhelmed. She’ll teach your audience how this framework can be applied anywhere, anytime to help conquer bad stress and bring them clarity and calm in minutes. A sought-after speaker with media experience, Dr. Ahuja is a surgeon, award-winning medical educator, certified EQi2/EQ360 emotional intelligence instructor and the best-selling author of “Stress in Medicine.” Contact Dr. Nina Ahuja at (905) 537-2469; media@docsinleadership.org

15. ==> A Kitchen Redo to Help You Live Longer

We live in a world where medical problems are on the rise, much of them due to choosing convenience foods over nutritious fare. And many times we do it without even thinking about it! Interview bariatric surgeon Franchell Hamilton to learn small changes you can make in your kitchen that will help reprogram your brain to form healthier habits you won’t have to think about, lose weight and reduce your chance of medical problems. Dr. Hamilton has successfully used this method with her family and patients. A board-certified obesity medicine and wellness specialist, bariatric surgeon, author and practice consultant, Dr. Hamilton is the author of “Transformation Is a Mindset: The Journey to Changing Your Input and Your World.” Contact Dr. Franchell Hamilton at (210) 410-9374; Franchell.richardmd@gmail.com

01. A Veteran’s Story: The Mythology of War and Patriotism
02. Can Alec Baldwin Ever Recover?
03. Will Britney Spears’ Be Free on Friday?
04. ‘King Richard’ and the Black Tennis Revolution
05. Free Casserole Sweaters? Listeners Will Eat This Up!
06. She Shares the Recipe for a Peaceful Holiday Meal with Kids
07. Weather Disasters Are Costing the U.S. Big Time
08. A Guide to Mix-and-Match COVID Boosters
09. How We Criminalize Black Children
10. Can Shy People Be Good Leaders?
11. Junk Food: Are You Making It Special Enough?
12. Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good
13. Everything You Wanted to Know about Frozen Embryos but Were Afraid to Ask
14. Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less
15. Do Southerners Know the Secret to Happiness?

1. ==> A Veteran’s Story: The Mythology of War and Patriotism

Discuss military life, the mythology of war and the ideas surrounding American patriotism with Jerad Alexander. While much attention has been paid to military dramas about the upper ranks of highly specialized fields, Alexander shares the story of the average American soldier. Alexander grew up on military bases, from the East Coast of the United States to Japan and was raised on masculine fantasies of heroism and patriotism. As soon as he was old enough, he enlisted in the Marines and was deployed to the Mediterranean, East Africa, and Iraq. Once there, though, he says he learned that much of what he had spent his childhood dreaming about was a mirage. Invite him to discuss the motivations that drive young men and women to enlist in the military, the representations of war in American media, and the closed culture that creates our warriors. Jerad Alexander’s new book is “Volunteers: Growing Up in the Forever War.” 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)

2. ==> Can Alec Baldwin Ever Recover?

Actors shoot guns all the time on movie sets. Usually, nothing bad happens. But as you know, Alec Baldwin recently pulled the trigger on a prop gun that led to the death of one individual and the wounding of another. Will Baldwin ever recover? And if so, what would it take? Vern Mathis, a man who spent years on hundreds of Hollywood movie sets as a cameraman, editor, post-production supervisor and as the son of a vice president of MGM-United Artists in Culver City, says he could read the anguish and cry for help in Baldwin’s face during recent media interviews. He says Baldwin’s past addictions and this recent trauma put him in great danger. Vern can talk about how Baldwin is likely to suffer from this horrible traumatic event. He’ll also discuss how Baldwin is already showing signs of PTSD, and how important it is for him to seek help now. In addition, Vern will say that the other actors and crew members who were on set are also susceptible to the after-effects of the event. Vern worked in the film industry for years and co-hosted a weekly TV show in Vegas. He is the author of the physician-recommended book “PTSD: Living On Edge: A Survivor’s Guide to Recovery.” Reach him at (514) 700-9015; vmathis@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Will Britney Spears’ Be Free on Friday?

The drumbeat over the conservatorship of Britney Spears continues to mount in advance of the next hearing on Friday, with lawyers for both sides urging it be lifted immediately — for different reasons. David Glass, a certified family law specialist and former clinical psychologist, will be at the courthouse on Friday and says even if Judge Brenda Penny terminates the conservatorship of Jamie Spears’ hold over her estate, it doesn’t mean that Britney will be free, altogether. David Glass has appeared on AP television and “ABC News” to explain the intricacies of the Britney Spears conservatorship story. He’s a regular legal analyst for “Good Morning America” and ‘ABC News Live” and has also appeared on other newscasts including NBC’s “Extra” and “Good Day L.A.” Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 271-2140; Cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com or Shannon Dugger at (303) 619-3949; Shannon@Kerrpr-execuprov.com

4. ==> ‘King Richard’ and the Black Tennis Revolution

The highly anticipated movie “King Richard,” starring Will Smith as the father of Serena and Venus Williams, hits theaters next week. The film chronicles the sisters’ amazing journey of overcoming the odds to become tennis royalty, in large part due to the guidance and skill of their sometimes-controversial father. Sportswriter Cecil Harris has interviewed all three and can share his insights on the family, the athletes and the history of race in tennis. Hear the story of how Richard Williams decided his daughters would be tennis champions before they were even born and wrote a 78-page plan to coach them when they were four years old, and why he referred to them as his “Ghetto Cinderellas.” Cecil Harris is the author of “Different Strokes: Serena, Venus, and the Unfinished Black Tennis Revolution.” Contact him at (914) 643-7622; CecilHarris2008@gmail.com

5. ==> Free Casserole Sweaters? Listeners Will Eat This Up!

The folks at Green Giant have come up with an interesting holiday giveaway campaign that reimagines popular Thanksgiving side dishes —green bean and corn casseroles — as ugly holiday sweaters. Jordan Greenberg, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for B&G Foods, says, “We are quite literally giving Americans the opportunity to wear their love of all things casserole on their sleeves!” The company says there are “three stylish casserole designs” in all, and that they’ll give hundreds away randomly, before Thanksgiving. Get details on the sweater giveaway (registration ends November 17) and how listeners can also help raise money to end childhood hunger this Thanksgiving by posting pictures of their holiday table on social media using #PasstheCasserole and tagging @GreenGiant. Contact Lisa Marcellari at (201) 526-4977; lisa@gilliansmallpr.com

6. ==> She Shares the Recipe for a Peaceful Holiday Meal with Kids

Thanksgiving is arguably the biggest “meal” holiday of the year, and nowadays more of us are opting to do away with the Thanksgiving “kids’ table.” Kids sitting through a meal is a big problem for many parents, and whether you have a kids table or not, if your child can’t sit still long enough to join in Thanksgiving dinner, you’re likely to stress about the situation and how it reflects on you. Parenting expert Rebecah Freeling can share ways to solve the problem, whether you have a kids’ table or not, but she says you need to begin the process now, and not on Thanksgiving Day. Rebecah Freeling specializes in kids with problem behaviors. She’s the owner of Wits End Parenting and the author of “Your Rules Are Dumb: How to Maintain Your Parental Authority While Creating a Partnership With Your Spirited Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

7. ==> Weather Disasters Are Costing the U.S. Big Time

According to a new report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Centers for Environmental Information, 2021 is likely to be one of the costliest years ever for the U.S. thanks to weather disasters. The report listed 18 separate weather and climate disasters that have cost us at least $1 billion. Among those increasing disasters have been wildfires that at the moment are burning in California, Montana, Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Available to talk about the impact increased wildfires are having on the country and ways we can be better prepared to fight them is Jim Moseley, whose company, Sun FireDefense, has developed technology whose widespread use could save property and lives. Contact James Moseley at (818) 486-4662; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

8. ==> A Guide to Mix-and-Match COVID Boosters

Millions of American adults are now eligible for COVID booster shots and health officials have approved a mix-and-match approach. But they’ve declined to make specific recommendations beyond that. Should you stick with what you got the first time around? And if you change it up, what’s your best bet? Ask Colleen Kelley, an associate professor in the division of infectious diseases with Emory University School of Medicine. She’ll explain the differences between booster shots, why health officials approved mixing vaccines, and what you should consider in choosing your booster. Ultimately, she says, it’s up to you. “As far as mixing and matching, are you going to achieve any noticeable benefit as far as protection if you had Pfizer and switched to Moderna or vice versa? I don’t think we can say at this point in time — except that they’re both fantastic vaccines,” Kelley says. Contact Colleen Kelley, M.D., MPH, at (404) 712-1823; colleen.kelley@emory.edu

9. ==> How we Criminalize Black Children

Kristin Henning spent more than two decades defending Black children prosecuted for offenses like horseplay on the Metro, throwing snowballs at a passing police car and playing catch with a teacher’s hat. She’s seen kids as young as 9 handcuffed, and counseled countless teens living in persistent anxiety that police will stop, search and interrogate them as they simply take a walk with friends or go for a bike ride. “We live in a society that is uniquely afraid of Black children,” says Henning, who served as a public defender in Washington, D.C., before joining the Georgetown Law faculty in 2001. Now the director of Georgetown’s Juvenile Justice Clinic and Initiative, she’ll talk about the ways our society criminalizes Black adolescence and highlight the traumatic effects of policing on Black children. Listeners will hear about dehumanizing practices like shackling as she traces the roots of current school-based policing to civil rights protests, not Columbine. Henning’s new book is “The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth.” Contact her at (202) 662-9592; hennink@law.georgetown.edu

10. == > Can Shy People Be Good Leaders?

Must good leaders be loud and confident? Or can someone quiet, calm, and introverted be good at inspiring others? Reserved people are often misunderstood in the American workplace, observes workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman. He can talk about why it’s a mistake to assume that quiet people are less ambitious or charismatic and although the way they lead may look different it can be very effective. He can discuss the difference between reserved people and active people who tend to be loud and don’t always think before they speak and how both types can understand each other more. 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, the latest of which is “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

11. ==> Junk Food: Are You Making It Special Enough?

Who doesn’t love junk food? Yes, we know it’s bad for us and we expect experts to tell us to give it up. But that’s not what Stavros Mastrogiannis says. Rather, he says that we need to make junk food special! Bring him on your show to explain what he means by that along with the other simple habits that will allow your audience members to shed weight and live healthier lives. Also, be sure to ask Stavros about what happened when he recreated Morgan Spurlock’s experiment about eating McDonald’s food (burgers, fries, and Cokes) that became the basis of the 2004 movie “Super Size Me.” In 2011, Stavros did the same thing but unlike Spurlock, Stavros’ blood work was just as good as it had been before he spent two months working and exclusively eating at McDonald’s. He’ll tell you why this experiment proves it’s not what you eat but how you eat that matters! Stavros is the creator of the Live Your Way Thin System. Contact him at (203) 733-0109; stavros@liveyourwaythin.com

12. ==> Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good

Adults may continue to experience the effects of a toxic parent long after that parent is dead, without even realizing it. “This may manifest as an ongoing pattern of unhealthy romantic relationships, dead-end jobs and debilitating low self-esteem,” says Arnoux Goran. His horrific childhood led Arnoux to create the “7 Steps to Reprogramming Yourself” program, which has helped countless people to overcome their childhood trauma to achieve lasting health, wealth and happiness. He is the author of three upcoming books including “The 5 Secrets of Ending Drama in Relationships,” and an online workshop. Contact Arnoux at (878) 203-8231; agoran@rtirguests.com

13. ==> 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 actually 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

14. ==> Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less

Even in the best of times, living with anxiety is a way of life for many people. How can someone go from an anxious state to one of peace in a matter of seconds? Interview Reiki Master and energy work expert Rhonda Harris-Choudhry to find out. Rhonda will talk about ways to use self-healing energy work she calls “Feel Good Reiki” to help people calm down so they can focus on improving their lives. Ask her: What are the connections between anxiety and adrenaline addiction? How can people identify the source of their anxiety? How can people stay calm and focused throughout the day? Rhonda is the author of “You Are Not Broken: How to Retrain Your Brain, Clean Up Your Energy and Use Emotional Shapeshifting to Raise Your Vibration and Manifest Your Desires.” Contact Rhonda Harris-Choudhry at (505) 239-7729; azjua7@gmail.com

15. ==> Do Southerners Know the Secret to Happiness?

As many Yankees may have noticed, Southern folks have a unique, laid back charm, colorful ways of expressing themselves and a deep love of humor. According to former Miss America contestant, best-selling author and humorist Jane Jenkins Herlong, y’all could learn how to be happier by emulating our Southern kinfolks. “Southerners remember their heritage and all that makes us unique and curious to others,” says the native of South Carolina. “We hold on to our traditions like we grip moon pies.” Jane is the award-winning author of numerous books including the upcoming “Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep Fried South,” and has recorded music CDs and personal growth and comedy DVDs. As a humorist, her comedy is featured on Sirius XM 97. Contact Jane at (803) 599-2941; JHerlong@rtirguests.com

01. Mark the 30th Anniversary of the Soviet Union’s Collapse
02. Air Force Historian Delivers Veterans Day Show
03. Where Will We Be Living in 2030 and Beyond?
04. Supreme Court and America’s Infatuation with Guns
05. America’s Queen of Inspiration: Living Your 5th Chapter
06. Dealing with Family Estrangements During the Holidays
07. Host of PBS’ ‘Simply Delicious Living’ Offers Holiday Tips
08. Help Your Listeners with Their Holiday Buying
09. Is it Time for a Side Hustle?
10. Simple Habits to Combat Climate Change
11. Is Your Fresh-Smelling Laundry Making You Sick?
12. November Is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
13. He’s Proof You Shouldn’t Underestimate the Flu
14. What’s Behind the Increase in Post-COVID Homeschooling?
15. 3-Steps to Find Treasure in Trauma

1.==> Mark the 30th Anniversary of the Soviet Union’s Collapse

The 30th anniversary of the fall of the Soviet Union is a little more than a month away (December 26), 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

2. ==> Air Force Historian Delivers Veterans Day Show

Steve Snyder will take your listeners back in history and inside the 8th Air Force and the air war over Europe during World War II. His book, “Shot Down,” is a true story about Steve’s father, pilot Howard Snyder, and the crew of the B-17 bomber plane Susan Ruth. In time for Veterans Day, he’ll recount the dramatic experiences of the crew after their plane was knocked out of the sky by German fighters over the French/Belgium border in 1944. Some men died. Some were captured and became prisoners of war. Some men evaded capture and were missing in action for months before making it back to England. Hear their remarkable stories and those of the courageous Belgian people who risked their lives to help. Contact Steve Snyder at (562) 355-0461; Steve@SteveSnyderAuthor.com

3. ==> Where Will We Be Living in 2030 and Beyond?

Do your listeners want to know where they should live in 2030, 2040, and beyond — where they should buy property, invest for their children, relocate their businesses — to prepare for a world of constant disruptions from pandemics and economic crises to global wars and climate change? Are the “preppers” right that we’re heading towards a depopulated and nomadic world? Parag Khanna, author of “Move: The Forces Uprooting Us,” has the answers. He‘ll discuss which cities and countries will be the winners and losers in the 21st-century war for talent and whether passports could be put on the blockchain to allow humans to circulate according to their merits and where they’re needed most. Parag Khanna advises governments and companies and has traveled to more than 150 countries and written seven internationally best-selling books including “The Second World: Empires and Influence in the New Global Order” and “Connectography.” Want to talk about something else? Parag can also speak about: What will happen to Afghanistan and how to confront China, the charms of Libya and Uzbekistan, where to retire in America as climate change accelerates, why he loves barefoot running, and his other life hacks for peak performance. 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)

4. ==> Supreme Court and America’s Infatuation with Guns

As the Supreme Court takes up a case that could do away with restrictions on concealed weapons, discuss the issue and what’s at stake with Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney and legal analyst. McQuade argues that America’s infatuation with guns is already a national security risk and that the high court’s decision could make the situation even worse. She adds that the rights described in the Second Amendment are not absolute. “Our Constitution carefully balances the rights of individuals with important governmental interests like public safety, and laws regarding guns need to be viewed with both interests in mind.” McQuade is one of 30 former national security officials to sign on to an amicus brief arguing that unrestricted access to concealable firearms poses a great threat to public safety. Barbara McQuade is an NBC legal analyst and a professor at the University of Michigan Law School. Contact her at (734) 763-3183 (MI); bmcquade@umich.edu

5. ==> America’s Queen of Inspiration: Living Your 5th Chapter

“The New York Times” describes Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook as “Oprah and Billy Graham rolled into one” and she’s often called America’s Queen of Inspiration. Invite her on your show for a fascinating discussion about life’s chapters and how, like a book, the later chapters can often be the richest and most freeing. “Looking back, you realize that at age 20, we worry about what others think of us. At age 40, we don’t care what they think. At age 60, we discover they haven’t been thinking of us at all! It’s your turn now!” She served as President Obama’s U.S. ambassador for international religious freedom after a two-year political battle over her appointment. She previously advised President Clinton and was the first female New York City Police Department chaplain for 21 years. A civil, gender and human rights activist, Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook officiated the funeral services for her mentor and godmother, civil rights legend, Coretta Scott King. She’s the author of more than a dozen books including her latest, “My Fabulous Fifth Chapter: It’s My Turn Now!” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

6. ==> Dealing with Family Estrangements During the Holidays

Many people admit to being estranged from siblings, spouses, parents, children, and in-laws. For those folks, the holidays present extra challenges. Thanksgiving dinners become uncomfortable and Kwanza, Hanukkah and Christmas gatherings end up stressful or even ruined. 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

7. ==> Host of PBS’ ‘Simply Delicious Living’ Offers Tips for Memorable Holidays

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 show to deliver tips to 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. ==> Help Your Listeners with Their Holiday Buying

The upcoming holidays will give us much to celebrate as we consider how lucky we are to have survived the pandemic, lockdowns, social isolation and all that streaming, Zooming, and staying away from our favorite restaurants. Before they arrive, though, let Certified Wine Educator Jim Laughren share the latest insider tips and techniques to smart wine buying. Help your audience celebrate like never before by sharing his knowledge, fun facts, and favorite wine bargains. An appearance by Jim is every bit as entertaining as an in-person wine tasting. Jim is the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine,” as well as two short eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine.” Ask him what wines are you most looking forward to imbibing this holiday? How about champagnes? Do you have some suggestions for gifting wine that will knock people’s socks off? Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is always an excellent and entertaining guest. Contact Jim at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Is It Time for a Side Hustle?

Thanks to the pandemic, more of us had time to think about our values and what we like and don’t like about our jobs. That soul searching has led to some refusing to go back to work or seeking new opportunities. But, as workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman will tell you, not everyone knows the best way to make these changes. Invite Marc to explain why having a side hustle is more important than ever today and even why having one can make you a more effective employee. He can talk about the steps to take to determine what type of moonlighting is best for you, how to value your time, and eventually, how to resign well. Ask him what does it mean to resign well? Why do moonlighters make good employees? How can you identify what you do well? 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; mpitman@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Simple Habits to Combat Climate Change

Did you know that agriculture is the second leading contributor to greenhouse gases? How we grow our food and our agricultural practices exert critical burdens on soils, water, and biodiversity and have caused a large part of the environmental degradation and loss of biological diversity. These environmental pressures aggravate the problem of climate change around the world. Invite health coach Ximena Yanez Soto (pronounced He-men-a) to explain how our current diet and lifestyle have contributed to global warming. Ask her: Is what we eat damaging the planet? Have we been manipulated about the importance of animal protein in our diets? What’s so bad about GMO ingredients? Does eating organic produce really matter? How can we eat to reverse climate change? Ximena is the author of “Healthy Planet, Healthy You: Simple Habits to Create a Brighter Future” and the former CFO of an environmental fund. Contact her at (720) 277-8617; xiyaso@gmail.com

11. ==> Is Your ‘Fresh-Smelling Laundry Making You Sick?

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. Invite her on your show and learn how to tell what’s really in household products and what consumers should steer away from. Zorica Denton founded the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu. She’s also the author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact Zorica at (213) 616-7904; Zdenton@rtirguests.com

12. ==> November Is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Many people think of Alzheimer’s as a disease of the old. But people as young as 30 can get it. And it can strike when least expected, forcing fairly young spouses into the role of caregiver with little ones at home. Discover the truth about this memory-robbing disease 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.” His wife, Martha, was just past her 50th birthday when diagnosed. Your audience will hear about the signs and symptoms of this unforgiving condition, along with coping skills and lifestyle improvements that could help many families. Highly articulate, Carlen has done dozens of interviews about this moving topic. Ask him: How are people blindsided by the first signs of early-onset Alzheimer’s? Is the disease ever mistaken for something else? Will this be the new boomer pandemic? Who might be especially susceptible? What treatments are available to enhance health and quality of life? What does caregiving involve? Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

13. ==> He’s Proof You Shouldn’t Underestimate the Flu

The CDC and American Medical Association are both warning the public about the dangerous flu season that lies just ahead, a hazard that many people, focused on COVID-19, may be underestimating. Each year, some 45 million people will come down with the flu, which is one of the top ten causes of death. That’s why everyone needs to hear the cautionary tale of Charles (Charlie) Gardner, who in 2011 came “this close” to losing his life from flu complications at age 56, the same age his great-great-grandfather was when the flu claimed his life. As a result of flu that turned into pneumonia contracted while he was on vacation, Charlie suffered 13 strokes, organ failure, and a six-week coma. His son and daughter were present when they pulled the plug on him. Yet Charlie survived. Not only with a great story that serves as a reminder to get your flu shot but also one with miracles, a near-death experience, and appreciating the life you have even if it isn’t the one you expected. Charlie tells his inspiring story in his book “Always Remember This Moment.” Contact him at (650) 995-5626; charlesgardner@rtirguests.com

14. == > What’s Behind the Increase in Post-COVID Homeschooling?

The U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey showed a substantial increase in homeschooling during COVID-19. Is this increase here to stay and which ethnic groups are leading the charge? Interview Linda Karimo to school your audience on the latest on homeschooling. Ask her: Is homeschooling legal in all states? Can a parent start homeschooling before kindergarten? How is it different from unschooling? Is homeschooling popular with Black families? Are most homeschooled children well-prepared for college? An educator and children’s book author, Linda is currently offering a 2021 International Post-COVID Child Education Summit for parents and a free PDF playbook with advice from the 40 expert participants. The Summit covers a wide range of childhood education topics including mental health. Contact Linda Karimo at (914) 944-1474: Lkarimo@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How to Get Turned-Off Students to Tune In

Many students across America are feeling disengaged and uninspired. Their schools are not deliberately creating a negative, tune-out atmosphere. So what’s happening and how can educators, administrators, coaches and parents help our centers of learning improve? Educator and author Paul Bernabei is spearheading a movement to encourage and benefit students, which ultimately boosts our nation’s future. Bernabei is the author of “Why Students Disengage in American Schools and What We Can Do About It.” Ask him: What has become seemingly invisible for school students these days? How has an epidemic of “I’m neither good enough nor smart enough” started attacking student populations nationwide? What easily implemented strategies will create a safe environment for students, especially during stressful times? Contact Paul at (651) 362-9128; PBernabei@rtirguests.com

15. ==> 3-Steps to Find Treasure in Trauma

Everyone experiences trauma and grief differently and many stay stuck in their pain. Interview trauma expert Mareena Mathai Ph.D., and hear about her 3-Step Process to heal and recover emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Dr. Mareena has helped women through this process and overcame trauma herself when her youngest son had a massive brain seizure and her youngest daughter experienced epilepsy, all in the same year. Dr. Mareena is a Christian counselor and the author of the soon-to-be-released 40-day devotional, “Treasure from Trauma.” Ask her: Can you really find treasure from trauma? What’s the first step to start the healing process? Contact Dr. Mareena Mathai at (239) 826-3036; mareena.media@gmail.com

01. Stunt/Firearms Expert on Alec Baldwin ‘Rust’ Shooting
02. Don’t Blame Manchin for Climate Obstruction
03. Build Back Better: What’s In It for Immigrants?
04. One Year Later: Ethiopia’s Tigray Crisis Deepens
05. Veterans Day Show – Why Young Men and Women Enlist
06. During Holiday Time, Don’t Spend Your Last Dime
07. How to Switch Gears and Change Careers
08. 5 Biggest Mistakes Paying for College
09. Help! My Kid Can’t Sit Still at the Holiday Table
10. Meet the Expert Who Says ‘Don’t Give Up Junk Food!’
11. 5 Steps to Conquer Bad Stress in Minutes
12. How to Find Inner Peace Again
13. From Broke and Homeless to Working and Traveling in a 39-Ft. RV
14. Why Debbe Magnusen Is ‘The Baby Saver’
15. Interview Judge Judy’s Former Bailiff

1. ==> Stunt/Firearms Expert on Alec Baldwin ‘Rust’ Shooting

The world was stunned to learn of the passing of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and the injury of director Joel Souza due to an improperly prepared gun on the movie set of “Rust” in New Mexico. Alec Baldwin, who was pointing the gun at the camera while rehearsing for a scene when it went off, is calling it a tragic accident – but other reports are citing crew members had raised numerous red flags about safety on set. Stunt and FX coordinator and theatrical firearms safety expert Steve Wolf can discuss what he thinks went wrong on the set. Hear how a prop gun differs from a real one and the safety protocols that should have prevented the tragedy. Wolf can explain the differences between live ammunition, dummy ammunition, and blanks, who is ultimately to blame for the shooting, and whether real guns should be used in movies going forward. Contact him at (512) 653-9653; wolf.steve@gmail.com

2. ==> Don’t Blame Manchin for Climate Obstruction

The Biden administration is pressing Congress to pass the Build Back Better Act, touted as the most substantial investment in climate action in the nation’s history. But Mitch Jones of Food and Water Watch says, “The intense focus on the success of this spending bill takes some of the spotlight away from the actions that the Biden administration could be taking on its own to rein in fossil fuel production. The White House has extraordinary powers to limit the supply of fossil fuels that do not require the blessing of Senator Joe Manchin or the entirety of the Republican Party. Biden campaigned on a promise to stop oil and gas drilling on federal land — but since the election has not taken aggressive action to rein in this drilling. In fact, the Biden administration is approving new drilling permits at an astonishing pace.” Jones is policy director at the national advocacy organization Food and Water Watch. He recently wrote the piece “‘Compromising’ on Climate Is Horrible Politics, Deadly Policy, and Stupid Economics.” Contact Seth Gladstone at sgladstone@fwwatch.org

3. ==> Build Back Better: What’s In It for Immigrants?

As Democrats inch closer to finalizing their large social policy bill that includes targeted benefits for middle- and working-class families, 3- and 4-year-olds, and older Americans, another population is poised to receive a windfall: undocumented immigrants. Invite immigration attorney Altagracia Pierre-Outerbridge to explain how the bill could also change the lives of over 7 million undocumented immigrants. Hear how the plan earmarks $100 billion toward immigration issues including expanded legal representation and bolstering the asylum system, and how it could provide an expedited pathway to green cards for as many as two million people. Altagracia Pierre-Outerbridge is the founder and owner of New York City-based law firm Outerbridge Law P.C. An immigrant from Haiti, she understands the struggles to become a U.S. citizen and has dedicated a large portion of the firm to providing immigration assistance to those seeking asylum, facing deportation, or pursuing citizenship. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

4. == > One Year Later: Ethiopia’s Tigray Crisis Deepens

This week marks a year since the start of the conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region and Michelle Gavin says, “Twelve months in, the conflict is widening, the human toll is devastating, and the prospects for peace more remote than ever.” The future of the Ethiopian state is so uncertain that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) declined to release a forecast for the country in the latest World Economic Outlook and Gavin says, “The only strong card in the weak hand of diplomats trying to douse the flames in Ethiopia is the increasing likelihood that if Ethiopian leaders stay their current course, the country is headed for collapse.” Michelle Gavin is the Ralph Bunche senior fellow for Africa policy studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. She has over 20 years of experience in international affairs in government and nonprofit roles and was formerly the managing director of The Africa Center, a multidisciplinary institution dedicated to increasing understanding of contemporary Africa. From 2011 to 2014 she was the United States ambassador to Botswana. Contact her at (212) 434-9898; mgavin@cfr.org

5. == > Veterans Day Show – Why Young Men and Women Enlist

Veterans Day is Thursday, November 11, and an excellent opportunity to discuss military life, the mythology of war and the ideas surrounding American patriotism. Jerad Alexander grew up on military bases, from the East Coast of the United States to Japan and was raised on masculine fantasies of heroism and patriotism. As soon as he was old enough, he enlisted in the Marines and was deployed to the Mediterranean, East Africa, and Iraq. Once there, though, he says he learned that much of what he had spent his childhood dreaming about was a mirage. Invite him to discuss the motivations that drive young men and women to enlist in the military, the representations of war in American media, and the closed culture that creates our warriors. Jerad Alexander’s new book is “Volunteers: Growing Up in the Forever War.” 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. ==> During Holiday Time, Don’t Spend Your Last Dime

These are difficult financial times for many and experts predict that this holiday season things will be more expensive than ever. Patricia Davis can talk about ways to avoid excessive holiday spending while still being generous. Filled to the brim with creative ideas, Davis will encourage listeners to substitute material gifts for gifts of their time such as running errands for friends, neighbors, and family members and, where appropriate, re-gifting new unused items to others who will get more use from them. She’ll also share ways to raise cash that can be used to buy presents by selling their opinions and new or gently used items on sites like Poshmark. Ask her: How much money could someone pick up if they do what you suggest? Isn’t re-gifting tacky? What are your favorite small gifts with a big impact? The author of “Going Broke Is No Joke!,” she is an experienced guest with a B.S. from Howard University, an MBA from Stanford, an M.S. in Personal Financial Planning from Golden Gate University, and a Diploma of Graduation from Georgetown University’s Stonier Graduate School of Banking and Finance. Contact Patricia Davis at (301) 517-6304; pdavis@rtirguests.com

7. == > How to Switch Gears and Change Careers

Many people are thinking about switching careers right now. Maybe they were hit with furloughs or layoffs, company closings, job burnout, or just plain dissatisfaction. Others may have moved or finally finished schooling. As your guest, Geraldine Hogan can offer them hope and guidance. She has helped countless educators, business professionals and entrepreneurs explore new challenges and can offer tips for anyone who wants to apply their skills in a new direction. Hogan is the author of “Career Moves for Teachers and Other Professionals: Strategies for a Successful Job Change.” Ask her: What are the three simple, life-changing questions to ask yourself before making any career move? Should salary be your primary motivation? How do you overcome obstacles, hesitation and fear of the unknown? Contact Geraldine Hogan at (305) 902-3869; ghogan@rtirguests.com

8. ==> 5 Biggest Mistakes Paying for College

It’s not news that college is expensive or that students are graduating with crushing student debt, but Justin Duncombe says nobody talks about how families actually pay for higher education and there’s little information out there about how they SHOULD be doing it. Invite the author of “College Bound Strategies” to reveal the five biggest mistakes families make that can cost them thousands of dollars. Learn how schools differ in distributing financial aid, ways to minimize student debt, and how higher ed. can be less expensive than conventional wisdom leads us to believe. Justin can also discuss different college options and the advantages and challenges involved in applying for them. Justin Duncombe is a financial advisor who has counseled thousands of families and appeared on numerous talk shows. Ask him about a new law he’s championing that would make college more affordable for disadvantaged and middle-income families. Contact Justin Duncombe at (661) 714-1890; justin@collegeboundstrategies.com

9. == > Help! My Kid Can’t Sit Still at the Holiday Table

Thanksgiving is arguably the biggest “meal” holiday of the year, and nowadays more of us are opting to do away with the Thanksgiving “kids’ table.” Kids sitting through a meal is a big problem for many parents, and whether you have a kids table or not, if your child can’t sit still long enough to join in Thanksgiving dinner, you’re likely to stress about the situation and how it reflects on you. Parenting expert Rebecah Freeling can share ways to solve the problem, whether you have a kids table or not, but she says the time to work on it is now, and not on Thanksgiving Day. Rebecah Freeling specializes in kids with problem behaviors. She’s the owner of Wits End Parenting and the author of “Your Rules Are Dumb: How to Maintain Your Parental Authority While Creating a Partnership With Your Spirited Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

10. == > Meet the Expert Who Says ‘Don’t Give up Junk Food!’

Who doesn’t love junk food? Yes, we know it’s bad for us and we expect experts to tell us to give it up. But that’s not what Stavros Mastrogiannis says. Rather, he says that we need to make junk food special! Bring him on your show to explain what he means by that along with the other simple habits that will allow your audience members to shed weight and live healthier lives. Also, be sure to ask Stavros about what happened when he recreated Morgan Spurlock’s experiment about eating McDonald’s food (burgers, fries, and Cokes) that became the basis of the 2004 movie “Super Size Me.” In 2011, Stavros did the same thing but unlike Spurlock, Stavros’ blood work was just as good as it had been before he spent two months working and exclusively eating at McDonald’s. He’ll tell you why this experiment proves it’s not what you eat but how you eat that matters! Stavros is the creator of the Live Your Way Thin System. Contact him at (203) 733-0109; stavros@liveyourwaythin.com

11. ==> Five Steps to Conquer Bad Stress in Minutes

These are stressful times we are living in. Whether it’s the horror and fallout of a global pandemic, our unending political strife and culture wars, or just the pressures of everyday living (working, childcare, paying the bills) too many of us are feeling lost and overwhelmed. Nina Ahuja, M.D., has created a framework called ADMIT® (an acronym). It’s an easy-to-remember tool that helps organize the jumble of emotions you experience when feeling overwhelmed. She’ll teach your audience how this framework can be applied anywhere, anytime to help conquer bad stress and bring them clarity and calm in minutes. A sought-after speaker with media experience, Dr. Ahuja is a surgeon, award-winning medical educator, certified EQi2/EQ360 emotional intelligence instructor and the best-selling author of “Stress in Medicine.” Contact Dr. Nina Ahuja at (905) 537-2469; media@docsinleadership.org

12. ==> How to Find Inner Peace Again

In the aftermath of the virulent pandemic shattering lives around the world, even those who once felt optimistic and secure are reeling and grieving. How do we reclaim our inner peace after such a horrific event? Perhaps by listening to the wise advice of Sana Brauner, who once lost everything and survived. In 2004, Sana was in Thailand on vacation when a tsunami hit. Sana almost drowned, her mother died and her two-year-old daughter was never found. Yet Sana found a way to go on and a mission of helping other people to find hope and resilience. She is the author of “The Borrowed Daughter,” a memoir containing lessons to help anyone going through a life crisis. Ask her why do you say that every day is a traineeship for some big unexpected event? What are the nine things that restored your inner peace? Which was the most important? Contact Sana at SBrauner@rtirguests.com or through Skype: sanabr

13. ==> From Broke and Homeless to Working and Traveling in a 39-Ft. RV

It’s easy to be jealous of Tim Winders’ life; he has the ability to take off to out-of-the-way places on a whim, leaving the beaten path for something simpler and better. Tim and his wife live and work out of their 39-foot RV named Theo. They travel full time, making money as they go, living an abundant life that is as far removed from “cookie-cutter” as could be. Tim went from owning seven-figure businesses and over 100 properties to bankruptcy, homelessness and having $100 in his bank account before rebounding to his current, more intentional lifestyle. He has over 25 years’ 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. Tim and his wife have enjoyed the nomadic lifestyle in New Zealand, Australia and all over North America. Contact Tim Winders at (404) 846-4639; winders@rtirguests.com; available as a last-minute guest

14. ==> Why Debbe Magnusen Is ‘The Baby Saver’

For 25 years, Debbe Magnusen has poured her heart and soul into rescuing babies from abandonment. In that time she has saved over 845 babies, many while being a foster mother to over 30 drug-exposed children, five of whom she eventually adopted. The founder and CEO of Project Cuddle can discuss the reasons girls and women abandon their babies, what pregnexia is, and what causes it to happen to victims of rape and incest and “good” girls who happen to get pregnant. She’ll share real stories of rescuing newborns from all types of situations, all while dealing with her own health struggles. When her weight topped 400 lbs. due to medication for a heart issue, Lifetime TV documented her lifesaving surgery. She then went on to lose more than half her body weight. Debbe Magnusen has been featured many times in the media including the “New York Times,” “People,” “Marie Claire” and “Time” magazines. She was also honored by The Oprah Winfrey Show for her work with abandoned babies. Contact her at (714) 448-8323 (call/text)

15. ==> Interview Judge Judy’s Former Bailiff

As you may have read in the news, after 25 years, Judge Judy has dropped her loyal bailiff, Petri Hawkins Byrd (Byrd), without explanation. But Petri’s not bitter. He took the insult in stride and has pursued other opportunities, most recently guest-starring on “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Petri can discuss how he got the job with Judge Judy, his favorite memories on the show, and his current project with his wife, Emmy-nominated producer Makita Bond-Byrd. The couple created the YouTube Channel “Bonding with Byrd” after Makita was diagnosed with a brain tumor last March, to share their inspiring journey and connect with friends and extended fan family. Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

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

01. Will Build Back Better Deliver?
02. Taxing Billionaires Is a Good Start
03. Could America Lose a Great Power War to China?
04. Charlottesville Trial Sets Out to Prove Words Can Hurt
05. Great Veterans Day Show: Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack
06. Prepare for a Bad Flu Season
08. Does Faking It Until You Make It Work?
07. Your Fresh-Smelling Laundry May Be Making You Sick
09. Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good
10. Everything You Wanted to Know about Frozen Embryos but Were Afraid to Ask
11. Why is the U.S. C-Section Rate So High?
12. Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity
13. Is It Time for a Life-Changing Pilgrimage?
14. Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less
15. His Simple Instrumental Song Has Changed Millions of Lives

1.==> Will Build Back Better Deliver?

Democratic lawmakers are scrambling to forge an agreement on President Biden’s Build Back Better plan to address the country’s pressing human and climate change needs. Chuck Collins and Sarah Anderson can discuss the social investments in the deal, including universal pre-K, expanded child tax credits, paid leave, and Medicare expansion, which have the potential to be the most consequential for workers, children, and seniors since the 1930s. They can also talk about the proposed tax on billionaires gaining momentum as one of the key options to pay for these vital public investments. Chuck Collins directs the Program on Inequality and the Common Good and co-edits Inequality.org at the Institute for Policy Studies. The author of “The Wealth Hoarders,” Collins made headlines this year for his work tracking the explosion of billionaire pandemic wealth. Sarah Anderson directs the Global Economy Project and co-edits Inequality.org at the Institute for Policy Studies. Anderson and Collins have just published an analysis of the billionaire tax in play on Capitol Hill. Contact Olivia Alperstein at olivia@ips-dc.org or Robert Alvarez at robert@ips-dc.org

2. ==> Taxing Billionaires Is a Good Start

Edward McCaffery says the Billionaires’ Tax Plan being floated in the Senate is an excellent first step in getting the wealthiest Americans to pay something, after a century of nothingness. He says the move isn’t some strange new beast or a “wealth tax,” potentially liable to Constitutional challenge. “The plan, however complex it may end up being in its many devilish details, rests on a surprisingly simple idea: that billionaires should pay tax on their incomes, just like tens of millions of working Americans do every year. That’s hardly radical stuff.” McCaffery would prefer a progressive spending tax, which would tax all Americans when they spend, not when they work, save, give or die. “But the morality of the moment comes down to simple math: Something is better than nothing,” he says. “A century is a long time to wait for the wealthiest persons in the history of the world to pay something to their home country.” Edward McCaffery is a professor of law, economics and political science at the University of Southern California. He is the author of “Fair Not Flat: How to Make the Tax System Better and Simpler” and founder of the People’s Tax Page. Contact him at (213) 740-2567; emccaffery@law.usc.edu

3. ==> Could America Lose a Great Power War to China?

For the first time since the Cold War, American officials are warning that the United States could lose a great power war, specifically to China. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby says the U.S. can’t rely on its military to overwhelm an opponent, as in previous generations. He believes the country must make choices —deciding where to focus and where not to, what to do and what not to. And that failing to adopt the right strategy will result in crisis — and very possibly war and even defeat. Colby argues that with the return of great power competition, the United States will be required to reorient its defense thinking on a scale not seen since the Cold War — or risk military loss, with enormous costs to Americans’ real and concrete interests. Eldridge Colby served as the lead architect of the 2018 National Defense Strategy and is co-founder and principal of The Marathon Initiative. His new book is “The Strategy of Denial: American Defense in an Age of Great Power Conflict.” 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)

4. ==> Charlottesville Trial Sets Out to Prove Words Can Hurt

A historic civil trial is underway in the federal lawsuit against the organizers of the 2017 “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. The case aims to hold two dozen leaders of white supremacist and extremist groups accountable for conspiring to commit violence at that rally. Cynthia Miller-Idriss says this type of legal action, spearheaded by the nonprofit Integrity First for America, is unusual and historic in multiple ways. “As the trial gets underway, we can expect many more impacts to come — including the potential to firmly establish the dangerous ways that coded racist and cloaked speech can threaten individuals and incite violence. Hiding hate in a meme, a joke or an innuendo doesn’t create the plausible deniability that white supremacists hoped for. On the contrary: When coded speech demonstrably incites violence, the perpetrators of that violence must be held accountable.” Cynthia Miller-Idriss is a professor in the School of Public Affairs and the School of Education at American University, where she directs the Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab. Her most recent book is “Hate in the Homeland: The New Global Far Right.” Arrange interviews through the American University Communication office at (202) 885-5950; cynthia@american.edu

5. ==> Great Veterans Day Show: Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack

What will happen now that the U.S. has physically departed Afghanistan? How will major nations including the United States, Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Turkey continue to grapple with serious Afghan-related challenges that extend beyond its borders? Ret. Brig. Gen. Peter Zwack, who served as the director of the Joint Intelligence and Operations Center in Afghanistan from 2008-2009, can discuss the forces at play in that country and the brutal history of the region while providing insight into the Afghani people and culture. Zwack’s new book, “Afghanistan Kabul Kurier,” provides an eyewitness account of the complexities of Afghanistan through a series of letters he wrote while serving as a U.S. top military intelligence officer on the ground during a particularly tumultuous period. He spent more than 34 years of U.S. military service in senior command and staff positions in Afghanistan, Germany, Kosovo, South Korea, and Moscow. He currently serves as a Wilson Center Global Fellow within the Kennan Institute and frequently discusses national security and leadership issues in the media. Contact Terri Beavers at (434) 979-7438; BG.PBZ.r@gmail.com

6. ==> Prepare for a Bad Flu Season

The CDC and American Medical Association are both warning the public about the dangerous flu season that lies just ahead, a hazard that many people, focused on COVID-19, may be underestimating. Each year, some 45 million people will come down with the flu, which is one of the top ten causes of death. That’s why everyone needs to hear the cautionary tale of Charles (Charlie) Gardner, who in 2011 came “this close” to losing his life from flu complications at age 56, the same age his great-great-grandfather was when the flu claimed his life. As a result of flu that turned into pneumonia contracted while he was on vacation, Charlie suffered 13 strokes, organ failure, and a six-week coma. His son and daughter were present when they pulled the plug on him. Yet Charlie survived. Not only with a great story that serves as a reminder to get your flu shot but also one with miracles, a near-death experience, and appreciating the life you have even if it isn’t the one you expected. Charlie tells his inspiring story in his book “Always Remember This Moment.” Contact him at (650) 995-5626; charlesgardner@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Does Faking It Until You Make It Work?

Americans are good at projecting confidence when they lack it. We’re often told to “act as if” we already have the things we need to make our dreams come true and the rest will follow. But does faking it until you make it work? According to workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman, pushing down that inner voice that tells you that you doubt yourself is a poor idea. Unlike faking it until you make it, Marc says you need to do the inner work so you can eventually trust your gut and become your best self. He’ll offer some guidance on how to do that. 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, the latest of which is “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

8. ==> Your Fresh-Smelling Laundry May Be Making You Sick

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. Invite her on your show and learn how to tell what’s really in household products and what consumers should steer away from. Zorica Denton founded the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu. She’s also the author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact her at (213) 616-7904; Zdenton@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Dead Parents Haunting You? Exorcise Childhood Trauma, for Good

Adults may continue to experience the effects of a toxic parent long after that parent is dead, without even realizing it. “This may manifest as an ongoing pattern of unhealthy romantic relationships, dead-end jobs and debilitating low self-esteem,” says Arnoux Goran. His horrific childhood led Arnoux to create the “7 Steps to Reprogramming Yourself” program, which has helped countless people to overcome their childhood trauma to achieve lasting health, wealth and happiness. He is the author of three upcoming books including “The 5 Secrets of Ending Drama in Relationships,” and an online workshop. Contact Arnoux at (878) 203-8231; agoran@rtirguests.com

10. ==> 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 actually 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

11. ==> Why is the U.S. C-Section Rate So High?

In the United States, C-sections are performed more than any other surgery and account for about 34% of all deliveries. While sometimes needed to save the lives of mothers and their babies, the risk of complications can be higher than with vaginal births. When Dr. Alan Lindemann was in his OB/GYN residency 40 years ago, the C-section rate at his hospital was about 11%. What’s happened? Dr. Lindemann can answer your questions about why this rate is so high and reveal ways mothers can avoid unnecessary surgery. He has produced a video course for women on how to navigate through their pregnancy safely and is completing the book “Pregnancy Your Way.” Contact Alan Lindemann, M.D., at (701) 399-9556; ALindemann@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity

The Brits do it. So do little old ladies. But is tea something that belongs in your cupboard and cup if you want to boost your immunity to flu and viruses, and feel and look your best? Listen to nutritional expert Tilak Silva and learn why you should never overlook tea when it comes to building immunity from disease and other health-zapping dangers. The inventor of CilanTea, Tilak will teach your audience how to literally drink their way to greater strength, healthier skin, more energy, fewer illnesses, and better sleep. Oh, and Tilak will also tell you what beverages are best avoided because they may depress immune systems. Ask him: What’s the best way to take advantage of tea’s benefits? What are the best times of day to drink tea? What foods go best with a cup, and what should you not pair with tea? Contact TIlak Silva at (310) 483-2785, tsilva@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Is It Time for a Life-Changing Pilgrimage?

Need help deciding on how to spend the next decades of your life? You might want to do what Cathay Reta did. After finding herself a widow at 64, Cathay took a 37-day pilgrimage to Camino de Santiago in Spain where the apostle Saint James the Great is reportedly buried. In doing so she realized that she already knew what she wanted to do but needed the courage and commitment to do it. Let Cathay describe how she went from a sense of loss to a sense of power. Cathay worked for nearly 40 years in adult literacy and shared a ministry with her husband. She is the author of “Keep Walking, Your Heart Will Catch Up: A Camino de Santiago Journey.” Ask her: Why walk so far, can’t you accomplish the same thing by meditating? What are the top three lessons you learned? Contact Cathay Reta at (626) 788-7877; cathay@cathayreta.com

14. ==> Go from Crises to Calm in 30 Seconds or Less

Even in the best of times, living with anxiety is a way of life for many people. How can someone go from an anxious state to one of peace in a matter of seconds? Interview Reiki Master and energy work expert Rhonda Harris-Choudhry to find out. Rhonda will talk about ways to use self-healing energy work she calls “Feel Good Reiki” to help people calm down so they can focus on improving their lives. Ask her: What are the connections between anxiety and adrenaline addiction? How can people identify the source of their anxiety? How can people stay calm and focused throughout the day? Rhonda is the author of “You Are Not Broken: How to Retrain Your Brain, Clean Up Your Energy and Use Emotional Shapeshifting to Raise Your Vibration and Manifest Your Desires.” Contact Rhonda Harris-Choudhry at (505) 239-7729; azjua7@gmail.com

15. ==> His Simple Instrumental Song Has Changed Millions of Lives

Dave Combs has written 120 songs and recorded 15 albums, and his music has been heard by millions around the world. But one song in particular, with a simple melody and no lyrics, has become an international standard, inspiring more than 50,000 written notes from adoring fans. On your show, Combs will reveal the tragic event behind “Rachel’s Song” and the woman for whom it’s named. You’ll also learn why the song has meant so much to so many and hear real stories of how the piece has affected people’s lives. It also changed Combs’ life. At the time he came up with his signature song, Combs was a traveling consultant for AT&T and it took him three years to move the music forward. Dave Combs’ new book is “Touched By the Music: How the Story and Music of Rachel’s Song Can Change Your Life.” Combs has been featured in the “Winston-Salem Journal,” “Spectrum News,” “Guideposts” and other media outlets. “Rachel’s Song” can be heard on Spotify, Pandora, iTunes, iHeart, YouTube and Amazon. Contact Dave Combs at (336) 655-8320; dave@combsmusic.com

01. Best Haunted Attractions: Nightmares, Screams and Laughs
02. No Pumpkin? How about a Halloween Pineapple?
03. How to Carve a Pumpkin Like a Pro
04. Candy or Cash? Financial Fun for Trick-Or-Treaters
05. Scary Stories: Top 10 Terrifying Tales
06. Squash the ‘Squid Game’ Costumes
07. How to Handle the Halloween Haul
08. When Kids See Spirits
09. Bracing for Extreme Weather: The Enormous Price Tag Grows
10. Do Shy People Make Good Leaders?
11. What No One Tells You about Critical Race Theory
12. Behind the Increase in Post-COVID Homeschooling
13. 10 Things You Need to Know about Alzheimer’s Before It Strikes Your Family
14. The Surprising Truth about Bipolar Disease
15. Comics Expert: The History of American Comics

1. ==> Best Haunted Attractions: Nightmares, Screams and Laughs

What makes something a great haunted attraction? Ask Amber Arnett-Bequeaith, aka the Queen of Haunts. She says the most critical attribute is scariness. “If we can get nightmares, we really did our job. Although the true measure of success is screams and laughter.” Amber annually ranks the best mega-haunts around the country and says there’s likely a scary attraction within driving distance, no matter where you live. She’ll run down her best-of list from the Bates Motel in Philadelphia to Netherworld in Atlanta and Nightmare on 13th in Salt Lake City and can also talk about the trend of people creating haunted houses as a hobby, offering limited public viewings via word-of-mouth. She can even share tips on how to create horror décor at home! Amber Arnett-Bequeaith was born into the haunt industry. Her mother and grandmother created The Edge of Hell Haunted House 47 years ago. Today, Amber’s company, Full Moon Productions, operates three commercial haunts and a ghost tour in Kansas City, Missouri. Contact her at (913) 406-7833

2. ==> No Pumpkin? How about a Halloween Pineapple?

It might seem weird to suggest you replace your gourds with tropical fruit, but in some parts of the country pumpkins are scarce and prices are pretty steep so the Dole Food company thinks this may be the year their annual Pineapple-O’-Lantern campaign really takes off. The company created the initiative to promote the nutrition and convenience benefits of the pineapple to help Halloween lovers without a pumpkin to carve. “For years we’ve been encouraging fruit-loving families to try something new by carving a pineapple at Halloween and are now expanding our efforts in light of any possible pumpkin scarcity,” says Melanie Marcus, RD, M.A. Dole’s nutrition and health communications manager. “Of course, pineapples have an important nutritional profile and are so much easier to prepare and enjoy than pumpkins since you don’t have to cook them.” According to Marcus, the fruit is low in fat and sodium and high in vitamin C and antioxidants – making it the perfect sweet treat after a night of trick-or-treating. Ask about free, downloadable pineapple Jack-O’-Lantern carving templates and fall recipes. Contact Bob Ochsner or Gemma Stewart at (714) 694-7190

3. ==> How to Carve a Pumpkin Like a Pro

If you’ve gotten your hands on a pumpkin this year, you don’t want to ruin it (or wind up in the ER with a nasty injury.) Safely tap into your inner artist when you grab your gourd and up your game with some expert tips, starting with what shape of pumpkin is best. Don’t be afraid to get one that’s more visually interesting or even misshaped as long as it doesn’t have any soft spots, according to Masterpiece Pumpkins’ Gene Granata, who has been expertly carving pumpkins for more than 20 years. He’ll share hacks that will simplify the job like cutting open the bottom instead of the top around the stem. “When you pull that plug out, a lot of the seeds and stringy stuff comes out with it. Half your job of cleaning out the pumpkin is already done,” he says. Gene Granata custom carves pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns, and designs carving patterns and stencils. He specializes in camera-ready pumpkins for movie and theater props, homes, businesses, and weddings. Contact him at (949) 874-4503; gene@masterpiecepumpkins.com

4.==> Candy or Cash? Financial Fun for Trick-Or-Treaters

A group of financial educators is urging parents, families, neighbors and local businesses to make Halloween a little sweeter this year — and a whole lot healthier — by exchanging cash for candy and teaching money management and savings lessons in the process. “Getting involved in the Cash for Candy campaign is a great way to strengthen both the physical and financial well-being of the youngest members of your community,” says Vince Shorb, CEO of the National Financial Educators Council. “None of us need as much candy as our kids can collect on Halloween night, but we could all use a reminder of money-saving tips.” Shorb will share simple, hands-on tools to use the holiday as a teachable financial education moment and to reduce the amount of sweet treats kids consume after trick-or-treating. Get a free, downloadable guide for parents, treat-givers, and organizations with simple financial literacy activities to help kids learn about money and find out about the Cash for Candy Toss Contest. Contact Trevor Stoll at (702) 620-3059; 320991@email4pr.com

5. ==> Scary Stories: Top 10 Terrifying Tales

Want to talk scary books? Invite Mary Oves to share the “Top Ten Scariest Novels Ever Written” and hear why it’s so hard to write literature that goes bump in the night. Oves, an English professor and Halloween fanatic, devours (no pun intended) scary novels. She also loves Halloween lore and grew up hearing haunted tales and watching documentaries about the Jersey Devil. To this day, she keeps a wary eye out for the Jersey Devil and his wayward mother while on weekend hikes! If you’re in the New Jersey area, ask her about the story and where to go to try and spot him, and see where he grew up! Oves’ writing has appeared in the “New York Times,” “Philadelphia Inquirer,” the Erma Bombeck Humor website and many other publications. She teaches English at Stockton University and is the author of “The Chrysalis Collective.” Contact Mary Oves at (609) 408-8762; maryoveschrysaliscollective@gmail.com

6. ==> Squash the ‘Squid Game’ Costumes

“’Squid Game’ has become the new addiction — and it is not all fun and games!” according to Dr. Carole Lieberman, a forensic psychiatrist and former head of the National Coalition on TV Violence. She says, “The violence is strangely sanitized and sadistic at the same time, and it mesmerizes viewers like a grotesque car accident, where we can’t look away.” Dr. Lieberman says society is already on edge and extremely vulnerable to becoming violent. “The popularity of this show, especially so close to Halloween, will make it the costume of choice for many kids. This is dangerous because it shows kids that their parents validate the violence, and — just like with any costume — the wearer naturally acts out like the character they are dressed up to be.” Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has testified before Congress three times about the impact of media violence. She hosts a radio show and podcast and is the author of several books. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

7. ==> How to Handle the Halloween Haul

Trick or Treat! A lot of parents are thinking about Halloween costumes and safety, but another concern is the battle that ensues once the trick-or-treating is over and parents want to bring some semblance of balance to their kids’ candy intake. Rebecah Freeling says the struggle is real: “All that candy is NOT good for kids, it causes kids with bad behavior to behave even worse, and it can be a real problem for parents.” A family coach with exceedingly practical and creative problem-solving tips, Rebecah will share ways parents can get control over the situation using effective and outside-the-box solutions. Ask her about the Halloween Fairy! Rebecah Freeling, the owner of Wits End Parenting, specializes in kids with problem behaviors. In addition to working with individual families, she also consults with schools and speaks about parenting issues. Rebecah is the author of “Your Rules Are Dumb: How to Maintain Your Parental Authority While Creating a Partnership With Your Spirited Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

8. ==> When Kids See Spirits

For most kids, Halloween is all fun and games and pretend, but what about children who see real spirits in the world? Alicia McBride saw her first memorable spirit apparition at 12 years old. Invite her on your show to discuss her experiences as a child and how she learned to overcome the fear associated with seeing ghosts and sharing the details of her encounters with other people. She’ll openly talk about going through a spiritual awakening and communicating with spirits, living and deceased. Alicia McBride is the author of the international best-seller “I Feel Too Much: A How-to Guide for the Beginner Empath.” Contact her at healinglightempath@gmail.com

9. ==> Bracing for Extreme Weather: The Enormous Price Tag Grows

Severe weather is headed for much of the country this week as we batten down the hatches once again. According to a new report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Centers for Environmental Information, 2021 is likely to be one of the costliest years ever for the U.S. thanks to weather disasters. The report listed 18 separate weather and climate disasters that have cost us at least $1 billion. Among those increasing disasters have been wildfires that at the moment are burning in California, Montana, Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Available to talk about the impact increased wildfires are having on the country and ways we can be better prepared to fight them is Jim Moseley, whose company, Sun FireDefense, has developed technology whose widespread use could save property and lives. Jim will discuss how new technology can protect homes, why the western U.S. and Canada are so prone to damaging wildfires and ways new technologies can protect wildlife, the environment and communities at risk. Contact James Moseley at (818) 486-4662; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Do Shy People Make Good Leaders?

Must good leaders be loud and confident? Or can someone quiet, calm, and introverted be good at inspiring others? Reserved people are often misunderstood in the American workplace, observes workplace specialist Marc A. Pitman. He can talk about why it’s a mistake to assume that quiet people are less ambitious or charismatic and although the way they lead may look different it can be very effective. He can discuss the difference between reserved people and active people who tend to be loud and don’t always think before they speak and how both types can understand each other more. 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, the latest of which is “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

11. ==> What No One Tells You about Critical Race Theory

One of the most talked-about topics today is critical race theory and removing it from the classroom. But what is this theory and is it really being taught in classrooms? Moreover, should children learn about slavery and racism in school? Talk about these issues with Patrick (Pat) Bishop, the white author of “A Class Divided: A Story About Racism,” the first in a “Kids Empathy” series he wrote with his wife and 8-year-old daughter meant to prompt discussions between adults and children. Pat says that according to a recent study, 90% of parents admit that they rarely talk to their kids about race. He says such discussions are needed more than ever. Ask him: Should Black history be taught in schools? Who was Jane Elliot and how did she inspire you? Does learning about past racial inequalities throughout history make white children feel guilty? Contact Pat Bishop at (405) 999-2686; patbishop100@yahoo.com

12. ==> Behind the Increase in Post-COVID Homeschooling

The U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey showed a substantial increase in homeschooling during COVID-19. Is this increase here to stay and which ethnic groups are leading the charge? Interview Linda Karimo to school your audience on the latest on homeschooling. Ask her: Is homeschooling legal in all states? Can a parent start homeschooling before kindergarten? How is it different from unschooling? Is homeschooling popular with Black families? Are most homeschooled children well-prepared for college? An educator and children’s book author, Linda is currently offering a 2021 International Post-COVID Child Education Summit for parents and a free PDF playbook with advice from the 40 expert participants. The Summit covers a wide range of childhood education topics including mental health. Contact Linda Karimo at (914) 944-1474: Lkarimo@rtirguests.com

13. ==> 10 Things You Need to Know about Alzheimer’s Before It Strikes Your Family

Many people regard Alzheimer’s as a disease of the old. But did you know that people as young as 30 can get it? Or that it can strike when least expected, forcing fairly young spouses into the role of caregiver with young children at home? Discover what you should know about this memory-robbing disease when you interview Carlen Maddux, a former reporter who chronicled his family’s 17-year Alzheimer’s journey in “A Path Revealed.” His wife, Martha, was just past her 50th birthday when diagnosed. Your audience will hear about the signs and symptoms of this unforgiving condition, along with coping skills and lifestyle improvements that could help many families. Highly articulate, Carlen has done dozens of interviews about this moving topic. Ask him: How are people blindsided by the first signs of early-onset Alzheimer’s? Is the disease ever mistaken for something else? Will this be the new boomer pandemic? Who might be especially susceptible? What treatments are available to enhance health and quality of life? What does caregiving involve? Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

14. ==> The Surprising Truth about Bipolar Disease

Invite Diana Grippo on your show to engage listeners with her story of battling back from debilitating aspects of bipolar disease, explaining why it is difficult to think your way out of a depression but you can often act your way out of one. Her gritty yet inspiring story will touch on what it was like to be homeless in San Francisco’s legendary Tenderloin area, why she is certain she would have a police record if she were Black, and how it is possible to be a highly functioning employee with a bipolar diagnosis. She’ll also share the three-pronged approach she recommends for people who are depressed. Diana is a former high school English teacher and the author of “Bipolar Chronicles: From Crazed to Content.” Contact her at (650) 417-1242; dianagrippo@gmail.com

15. ==> Comics Expert: The History of American Comics

From cartoons to comic strips and graphic novels, invite acclaimed author and Columbia University professor Jeremy Dauber to discuss comics and their century-long hold on the American imagination. Listeners will hear about the unlikely heroes (and villains) of comics history, from the golden age of newspaper comic strips and the first hero boom that brought us Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and hundreds of others to the grim and gritty fallen heroes of the 1990s and the graphic novel’s brilliant rise. Dauber says we can understand how America sees itself through whose stories comics tell. His new book, “American Comics: A History,” chronicles the last 150 years of American history through the lens of its comic strips, political cartoons, superheroes, graphic novels, and more. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703)-646-5137 or (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Brittany Odoms, publicity assistant at (703) 646-5188 (office).