Why Joint Pain Isn’t Just “Aging” for Menopausal Women: It’s Inflammation, Hormones, and How You Move

Many women are told joint pain is simply part of getting older, especially during perimenopause and menopause. But according to Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MSN, that explanation often misses what’s really happening inside the body.

Roberts explains that declining estrogen reduces the body’s natural anti-inflammatory protection, making joints more sensitive to stress, movement patterns, and even food sensitivities. Over time, poor biomechanics and compensation after old injuries can quietly worsen inflammation, even without visible damage.

“Pain isn’t just about wear and tear,” says Roberts. “It’s about how hormones, inflammation, and movement interact.”

With more than 30 years of experience working with everyday women and professional athletes, Roberts helps patients address pain without surgery, injections, or long-term medication by restoring balance and mobility.

Sample Questions:
Why is joint pain so common during menopause? How do different hormones influence inflammation and pain? Do movement patterns need to be changed during perimenopause or menopause?

CONTACT: Stacey Roberts (414)522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com

The Mental Health Cost of Building a Business from Nothing

Nearly half of all entrepreneurs report chronic stress or burnout, but Darius Ross says the real danger isn’t the workload. It’s the unresolved trauma many carry into the grind. He says when you build a business from nothing, the survival mindset that once kept you alive can quietly start working against you as success grows.

In this timely conversation, Ross explores how urban trauma, financial insecurity, and constant pressure quietly shape decision-making, relationships, and leadership. A former homeless teen turned entrepreneur and community leader, he explains why success can actually amplify anxiety, and why mindset, not hustle, determines who breaks through and who breaks down.

As the author of Mastering the TPS Blueprint, Ross offers street-tested insights on managing fear, stress, and self-sabotage while building something meaningful, especially for entrepreneurs who never had a safety net.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS

  • Can trauma make you successful and still destroy you later?
  • Why do some entrepreneurs feel less safe as they earn more?

CONTACT: Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

Whistleblower Reveals What Happens When Speaking Up Becomes Dangerous

Karen Horwitz, an award-winning public school teacher and whistleblower, describes what happens when educators raise concerns inside their school districts. “Schools are often described as the foundation of democracy,” Horwitz says. “What I witnessed was how quickly that foundation cracks when people are afraid to speak.”

Horwitz says the pattern she documented was consistent: teachers raised concerns internally, and instead of problems being addressed, they quietly lost their careers. After speaking publicly, she co-founded an organization to prevent teacher abuse and began hearing similar accounts from more than 2,000 teachers who reported retaliation.

She explains how silence is enforced through fear, power imbalances, and institutional self-protection. Horwitz is the author of A Graver Danger, which draws directly from teacher whistleblowers to examine systemic failures.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:Why do people stay silent inside institutions? When did you realize your experience wasn’t unique? What impact does silencing teachers have on democracy? 

CONTACT: Karen Horwitz at (312) 498-9074 : khorwitz@rtirguests.com

2/10/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Bad Bunny Wins the Super Bowl, Dating After 50 and the First African American Rockette

01. The Real Super Bowl Winner Is Bad Bunny
02. Trump’s Racist Meme Isn’t an Outlier, Expert Says — It’s a Political Tool
03. The United States’ 250th Birthday: A History Test for the Nation
04. Love After 50: Bigger Frogs, Brighter Red Flags
05. Interview the First African American Rockette
06. Forget Role Models: Leadership Lessons from Rebels, Pirates, and Outlaws
07. Political Insider Reveals: Why Would Anyone Run for Office?
08. Are You Addicted to Caffeine—and Don’t Even Know It?
09. Joint Pain Isn’t ‘Just Menopause’: It’s Inflammation, Hormones, and How You Move
10. 5 Things You Never Knew About the Women’s Movement
11. The Mental Health Cost of Building a Business from Scratch
12. How to Talk Across Differences Without Burning Out or Blowing Up
13. The Dark Side of Positive Thinking No One Talks About
14. ‘Out of the Chair’ Thinking to Help Kids Focus and Learn
15. Breaking the Cycle: When You Don’t Want to Be Your Mom


1. ==> The Real Super Bowl Winner Is Bad Bunny

The Seattle Seahawks may have won the Super Bowl, but it was the man at the center of the halftime show who was the real star of the game. Performing a mix of his greatest hits, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny took on the task of reminding viewers that Puerto Rican culture is American culture – and that he has completely earned his spot in the zeitgeist. Music journalist Leila Cobo says, “Bad Bunny is the Super Bowl’s unofficial MVP because he shapes the culture that surrounds the game—fashion, music, social media, and the energy of the broadcast itself.” In the United States, 1 in 5 people are Hispanic or Latino, according to census data. Leila Cobo can discuss the rise of Latin music, both in the U.S. and the world, and Bad Bunny’s career. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities in Latin music and the Latin music industry, Leila Cobo is a novelist, speaker, journalist, TV host and Billboard’s chief content officer for Latin/Español, overseeing the brand’s coverage of Latin music in all its platforms, as well as all its Spanish-language content. Contact her at contactleilacobo@gmail.com

2. ==> Trump’s Racist Meme Isn’t an Outlier, Expert Says — It’s a Political Tool

President Trump has refused to apologize after posting a racist meme of former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle on social media — a video clip showing the Obamas' faces on apes. The post was eventually deleted, but civil rights historian Dr. Peniel Joseph says the damage is already done. “Depicting Black Americans as apes is one of the oldest and most violent racist tropes in U.S. history. When a president amplifies that imagery, it’s not just offensive — it’s dangerous. It signals permission for dehumanization.” Peniel, the founding director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy can explain the history of the racist trope, as well as Trump’s personal history of making racist remarks toward Black people and other people of color. He’ll also discuss how political leaders use race to mobilize supporters and what he thinks about Trump insisting he’s “the least racist president.” Joseph Peniel is a frequent media commentator on issues of race, democracy and civil rights. He is a professor at the University of Texas, Austin and the author of several books including “The Sword and the Shield: The Revolutionary Lives of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.” Contact him at (512) 471-4263; peniel.joseph@austin.utexas.edu

3. == > The United States’ 250th Birthday: A History Test for the Nation

Throughout 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. But what about America’s history will be showcased and what will be left out? Professional historians have expressed deep concern that the Trump administration is trying to impose a nationalist narrative that erases difficult issues, conflicts, and failures from the national conversation. Julian Zelizer says it’s not the first time a historic birthday celebration has generated controversy. “Fifty years ago, Americans debated the bicentennial, and the way history would be presented was widely seen as a test of what the country had learned from the political struggles of the 1960s.” Zelizer can discuss what happened back in the 1970s and what’s at stake now. “The choices made by state and local officials, museum curators, scholars, teachers, and those charged with preserving national spaces in response to political pressure will be critical. The 250th will serve as a test of how much freedom Americans retain to study and debate their own history—the good, the bad, and everything in between—and whether we are entering an era in which the heavy hand of government dictates how the past is understood.” Julian Zelizer is a columnist at “Foreign Policy” and a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. He is the author of The Long View, a newsletter putting the news in perspective. Contact him at (609) 258-8846; jzelizer@princeton.edu or Bernadette Yeager at byeager@princeton.edu

4. ==> Love After 50: Bigger Frogs, Brighter Red Flags

Millions of Americans over 50-years-old are reentering the dating world and discovering it’s more complicated than ever. Dating coach Dr. Victoria Vaughn says many overlook critical warning signs from charming manipulators to financial risk and emotional dependency. A great guest for a Valentine’s Day segment, she’ll reveal the most common red flags mature singles miss, why loneliness can cloud judgment, and how men, women, and same-sex couples can date confidently without settling. Her insights help listeners avoid costly emotional mistakes while staying open to real connection later in life. Blending humor with hard-earned wisdom, her stories offer a practical “buyer beware” guide to modern love after 50. Dr. Victoria Vaughn is the author of “Oh the Frogs I Kissed Before I Finally Found My Prince” and speaks on love, loss, and reinvention in later life. Contact Dr. Victoria Vaughn at (512) 580-8531; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Interview the First African American Rockette

The Rockettes recently celebrated 100 years of precision, athleticism and sisterhood. The all-female dance group from Missouri became an iconic part of American culture soon after they arrived at Radio City Music Hall in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until 1988—more than 50 years later—that an African American dancer was hired, breaking the troupe’s longstanding policy. Meet Jennifer Jones, the woman who made history performing at the Super Bowl XX11 halftime show as a Rockette. Since then, Jones has become an award-winning performer celebrated for her pioneering achievements and unwavering advocacy for equal rights in the arts. Her groundbreaking journey has captivated audiences for decades and she remains a symbol of resilience and determination. She is the author of the children’s book "On The Line: My Story of Becoming the First African American Rockette,” and her memoir, "Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience" and is featured in a tribute to black artists, singers, actors and writers this month at the Hollywood Museum entitled “This Joint is Jumping.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

6. ==> Forget Role Models: Leadership Lessons from Rebels, Pirates, and Outlaws

What if the most powerful leadership lessons didn’t come from heroes—but from history’s most notorious figures? Author and leadership coach Steve Williams reveals 20 bold, practical lessons drawn from rebels, outlaws, pirates, and power players you won’t find in a typical business book. From Attila the Hun to Al Capone, he strips away myth to uncover the strategies that made these figures astonishingly effective leaders. Williams is the author of six books including “Notorious: Leadership Lessons from History’s Most Notorious Leaders,” and a certified leadership coach and QMS expert. Ask him: What are some examples of how these notorious people made great leaders? What are the comparisons between these and effective leaders of today? Contact Steve Williams at (920) 280-1068; swilliams@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Political Insider Reveals: Why Would Anyone Run for Office?

Most people think running for office is about speeches, slogans, and shaking hands. Rob Curnock knows better. As a former TV political reporter, party leader, and unlikely congressional candidate, he’s seen the process from every angle. He pulls back the curtain on the physical exhaustion, emotional toll, family strain, and political hardball that define modern campaigns. After challenging and almost winning after running against an “unbeatable” incumbent, he discovered how power really works behind closed doors. “I experienced the often brutal realities of running for office—and learned how ordinary citizens can shake up the system,” he says. Rob is a long-time broadcast journalist and the author of “Dead Man Running.” Ask him: Are politics really as down and dirty as the media makes it out to be? What are some of your most challenging experiences while running for office? Contact Rob Curnock at (254) 822-3741; rcurnock@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Are You Addicted to Caffeine—and Don’t Even Know It?

More than two-thirds of American adults, and increasingly children and teenagers, consume caffeine every day, yet few consider it an addiction. Health researcher and author Norbert Heuser says caffeine isn’t just in coffee. It’s in soda, energy drinks, green, black, and white teas, and even an increasing number of snacks. And it’s quietly shaping our brains, moods, sleep, and long-term health. Drawing on more than 45 years of research and insights from his book “Coffee Addiction & Caffeinism,” Norbert challenges the belief that caffeine is harmless. He’ll explore how everyday use may contribute to anxiety, chronic fatigue, sleep disorders, fertility issues, reduced gray brain matter, cognitive decline, and even harm to the unborn, while also explaining why most people never question its impact. Norbert will reveal what science is starting to show, why caffeine dependence has become socially acceptable, how to recognize addiction, and practical ways to reduce its hidden effects—without sacrificing energy or performance. He also shares great-tasting, caffeine-free alternatives to coffee. Contact Norbert Heuser at (727) 261-2313; nheuser@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Joint Pain Isn’t ‘Just Menopause’: It’s Inflammation, Hormones, and How You Move

Many women are told joint pain is simply part of getting older, especially during perimenopause and menopause. But according to Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MSN, that explanation often misses what’s really happening inside the body. Invite Roberts to explain how declining estrogen reduces the body’s natural anti-inflammatory protection, making joints more sensitive to stress, movement patterns, and even food sensitivities. Over time, poor biomechanics and compensation after old injuries can quietly worsen inflammation, even without visible damage. “Pain isn’t just about wear and tear,” says Roberts. “It’s about how hormones, inflammation, and movement interact.” With more than 30 years of experience working with everyday women and professional athletes, Roberts helps patients address pain without surgery, injections, or long-term medication by restoring balance and mobility. Ask her: Why is joint pain so common during menopause? How do different hormones influence inflammation and pain? Why do women need to change the way they move during perimenopause and menopause? Contact Stacey Roberts (414) 522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com

10. ==> 5 Things You Never Knew About the Women’s Movement

Did you know that in the 1950s and 60s, women couldn’t buy property, get a credit card or passport in their names or open a bank savings or checking account without a male co-signer? That it was mandatory for stewardesses to wear girdles and submit to “flick checks” to ensure they did? Just in time for Women’s History Month in March, award-winning author Elaine Rock will share little-known facts about the Women’s Movement and the forgotten civil rights trailblazer, Barbara “Dusty” Roads, an American Airlines stewardess and flight attendant, union organizer and lobbyist to Congress. Elaine says she was the hidden figure who really ignited the Women’s Movement— before it had a name. Among her many achievements, Dusty played a pivotal role in fighting and overturning the airlines’ ban on marriage and the industry-wide practice that fired stewardesses once they reached the age of 32. Rock met and interviewed Dusty numerous times and even appeared with her in the PBS documentary Fly With Me. Elaine Rock is a women’s rights advocate, a former history teacher and the author of “Dusty Roads.” Contact her at (707) 293-0000; ElaineRockAuthor@gmail.com

11. ==> The Mental Health Cost of Building a Business from Scratch

Nearly half of all entrepreneurs report chronic stress or burnout, but Darius Ross says the real danger isn’t the workload. It’s the unresolved trauma many carry into the grind. He says when you build a business from nothing, the survival mindset that once kept you alive can quietly start working against you as success grows. In this timely conversation, Ross explores how urban trauma, financial insecurity, and constant pressure quietly shape decision-making, relationships, and leadership. A former homeless teen turned entrepreneur and community leader, he explains why success can actually amplify anxiety, and why mindset, not hustle, determines who breaks through and who breaks down. The author of “Mastering the TPS Blueprint” offers street-tested insights on managing fear, stress, and self-sabotage while building something meaningful, especially for entrepreneurs who never had a safety net. Ask him: Can trauma make you successful and still destroy you later? Why do some entrepreneurs feel less safe as they earn more? Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How to Talk Across Differences Without Burning Out or Blowing Up

Americans are talking more than ever, yet we are understanding each other less. Differences in politics, faith, and values are making even simple conversations feel risky. National Muslim leader and peacebuilding expert Daisy Khan explains that many well-meaning attempts to bridge differences actually make conflict worse. She’ll explain why facts alone rarely change minds, how silence and cancel culture fuel division, and how simple language shifts can de-escalate conflict in real time. Drawing on her work training schools, workplaces, and communities, Khan will reveal practical tools for confronting bias without escalating conflict and share insights from her book “30 Rights of Muslim Women,” which challenges common assumptions about faith, identity, and equality. Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

13. ==> The Dark Side of Positive Thinking No One Talks About

Positive thinking is often sold as the cure for everything: pain, loss, confusion, or even a world that feels like it’s falling apart. But what happens when optimism stops working? Author Lydia Samaniego offers a counterintuitive perspective rooted in lived experience, rather than theory. She argues that forced positivity and manifestation culture can actually disconnect people from truth, responsibility, and the guidance of their own hearts. Lydia will explore why the deepest betrayal isn’t a broken relationship, but the realization that our trusted systems, from society to culture and even religion, can’t actually tell us who we are or how to live. She’ll share why real change doesn’t come from thinking harder or “staying positive,” but from noticing the conflict between the mind and the heart, catching inherited beliefs that no longer serve us, and choosing an inside-out path forward. Her story resonates with anyone questioning what to trust when old answers fall apart. Contact Lydia Samaniego at (530) 443-5826: samaniego@rtirguests.com

14. ==> ‘Out of the Chair’ Thinking to Help Kids Focus and Learn

Think kids need to sit still to concentrate? Research says the opposite, and so does math educator Suzy Koontz. With screen time up and attention spans down, Suzy offers a powerful, practical solution: movement-based learning. Suzy is the creator of Math & Movement, a program used in schools nationwide to boost focus, memory, and academic performance through full-body learning. In her segment, she’ll explain how jumping, hopping, and dancing can help kids grasp math and reading faster—no tech required. She’ll also share simple, at-home activities parents can use to help restless kids refocus after school. Suzy has reached over 1 million students and authored 20+ books packed with easy, energizing takeaways your audience can use right away. Contact Suzy Koontz at (607) 366-9588; skoontz@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Breaking the Cycle: When You Don’t Want to Be Your Mom

Many women fear repeating the emotional patterns they grew up with, but few know how to break them. When her own mother ran away with her boyfriend at age 13, Sabrina Ciceri learned early how deeply a parent’s choices can shape a child’s identity, relationships, and future. In her book “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Mother,” she shares how she stopped inherited dysfunction, rewrote her family story, and built a healthy life as a mother of six and grandmother of five. In an interview, Sabrina will explore why we unconsciously mirror our parents, how to interrupt toxic cycles, and why healing doesn’t always require confrontation or forgiveness. Her perspective blends family psychology, faith, and real-life experience in ways audiences rarely hear. Ask her: Why do we often become the very parent we promised never to be? Can you heal from a toxic parent without cutting them out of your life? Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308 1596; sciceri@rtirguests.com






RTIR Newsletter: SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY ISSUE



01. Aphrodisiac, Anyone? Love Potions for the Modern Romantic
02. Can Love Survive Deep Differences in Beliefs?
03. Restoring Romance While Trying to Conceive
04. Dating Red Flags for Singles Over 50
05. How to Have a Valentine’s Day That Doesn’t Suck
06. Why You Keep Choosing the Wrong Partner – and How to Stop
07. The Surprising Secrets to a 65-Year Marriage
08. What Dogs Know About Love That We Forget
09. Everlasting Love: Priest Shares Afterlife Love Stories
10. Should You Stay… or Go? The Intuitive Way to Decide
11. When “Staying Positive” Hurts Love Instead of Helping It
12. Love After Loss
13. What Your Past Lives Reveal About Your Current Romantic Choices

1. ==> Aphrodisiac, Anyone? Love Potions for the Modern Romantic

Can you find love in a bottle? Well, not quite, but aphrodisiacs have been used for thousands of years to increase libido and attraction. Do these legendary foods, spices and potions really work? And how? Many years ago, Lillian Zeltser accidentally stumbled on an old love potion recipe, which sparked her interest in aphrodisiacs and natural stimulants. Together with her husband, a medical doctor, she researched, experimented with, and hunted for them around the world for over 30 years. In the process, Lillian personally experienced hundreds of effective legendary aphrodisiacs. She’ll explain the link between food, love and sexuality, how aphrodisiacs can help you feel more attractive and increase mental clarity and focus, and ways to incorporate them into your daily life. She’ll also share all-natural recipes and tips to maintain and enjoy your sexual energy. Lillian Zeltser is the founder of Aphrodope and the author of “Aphrodisiac Adventures.” Contact her at lvez@bigpond.com or +61 419335631

2. ==> Can Love Survive Deep Differences in Beliefs?

As deepening political and cultural divisions reach the family dinner table, more couples are being pushed to confront a deeply personal question: Can love survive when beliefs don’t align? Daisy Khan says the answer is yes, but only when couples understand the hidden dynamics that turn differences into division. Drawing on decades of work in interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution, she’ll explain why most couples argue about values the wrong way, how empathy—not agreement—keeps relationships strong, and what truly threatens love across belief systems. As polarization reshapes families and communities, her insights offer a timely roadmap for turning conflict into deeper connection through curiosity, humility, and emotional intelligence. Daisy Khan is an internationally recognized leader in interfaith relations and author of “30 Rights of Muslim Women.” Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Restoring Romance While Trying to Conceive

For many couples, the journey to pregnancy quietly transforms intimacy into pressure, which often drains romance from the relationship. OB/GYN Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says this “scheduled sex” mindset can actually work against conception. She explains how stress hormones disrupt fertility, why emotional disconnect can affect both partners, and the surprising ways pressure can reduce the chances of pregnancy. Drawing on more than 30 years in women’s health, Dr. Straszak-Suri offers practical, science-based strategies to help couples restore intimacy, lower stress, and support reproductive health without turning their relationship into a fertility project. A relatable and timely Valentine’s conversation for couples navigating infertility, feeling discouraged, or trying to reconnect while pursuing parenthood. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Dating Red Flags for Singles Over 50

Millions of Americans over 50-years-old are reentering the dating world and discovering it’s more complicated than ever. Dating coach Dr. Victoria Vaughn says many overlook critical warning signs from charming manipulators to financial risk and emotional dependency. She reveals the most common red flags mature singles miss, why loneliness can cloud judgment, and how men, women, and same-sex couples can date confidently without settling. Her insights help listeners avoid costly emotional mistakes while staying open to real connection later in life. Blending humor with hard-earned wisdom, her stories offer a practical “buyer beware” guide to modern love after 50. Dr. Victoria Vaughn is the author of “Oh the Frogs I Kissed Before I Finally Found My Prince” and speaks on love, loss, and reinvention in later life. Contact Dr. Victoria Vaughn at (512) 580-8531; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

5. ==> How to Have a Valentine’s Day That Doesn’t Suck

Not everyone looks forward to Valentine’s Day. For many, it brings pressure, awkward expectations, lonely moments, or memories they’d rather skip. But happiness and positive energy expert Deborah Mallow says you don’t have to love Valentine’s Day, but you shouldn’t let it ruin an otherwise perfectly good day! She’ll explain how to get out of your own way, rediscover your true self, reshape your mindset, and get unstuck. "It’s not about forcing positivity or ignoring real problems; it’s about making the daily decision to approach life differently and find more joy in everyday living.” Deborah’s transformational approach is based on choosing positivity as a daily decision. She says the effects are transformative and will make you happier and healthier. Deborah is the author of "6 Steps To Fewer Days That Suck." Contact her at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Why You Keep Choosing the Wrong Partner – and How to Stop

Many people promise themselves, “This time will be different”, yet find that they continue to repeat the same relationship patterns over and over again. Sabrina Ciceri says unconscious emotional conditioning often drives partner choice more than logic or intention. Drawing on her own experience of generational dysfunction and betrayal, she explains why people are drawn to familiar but unhealthy dynamics, how childhood patterns shape adult love, and what it takes to truly break the cycle. Her insights offer hope for anyone ready to stop repeating painful relationship stories and build healthier connection. Sabrina Ciceri is an author and health advocate who helps women understand emotional patterns, attachment influences, and practical steps for rewriting their life narrative. Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308‑1596; sciceri@rtirguests.com

7. ==> The Surprising Secrets to a 65-Year Marriage

As many marriages struggle to last a decade, one couple has managed to stay deeply connected for 65 years. What has made the difference? David Selley says it isn’t luck. It’s mindset, habits, and emotional discipline that are rarely taught today. He shares the overlooked behaviors that sustain long-term love, why conflict can strengthen rather than weaken relationships, and what modern couples misunderstand about commitment. His perspective offers powerful lessons for newlyweds, struggling couples, and anyone curious about lasting partnership. David Selley is a longtime relationship observer and author who draws on decades of real-life marital experience to reveal what truly keeps love strong over time. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985); dselley@rtirguests.com

8. ==> What Dogs Know About Love That We Forget

Why do dogs often show us the kind of love humans struggle to give? Animal welfare advocate Jean Alfieri says our closest companions model powerful emotional truths about loyalty, presence, and unconditional connection that people often forget. Drawing from her experience with rescue and senior dogs, she explains what dogs reveal about trust, forgiveness, and living in the moment as well as how applying these lessons can deepen human relationships. In a fast-paced, distracted world, her message resonates with anyone seeking more authentic connection and emotional clarity. Jean Alfieri is an author who shares heartfelt insights from her work with rescue dogs about love, gratitude, and the emotional intelligence of animals. Contact Jean Alfieri at (480) 725-7921; jalfieri@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Everlasting Love: Priest Shares Afterlife Love Stories

What if love doesn’t end when life does? Catholic priest and spiritual counselor Nathan Castle has spent decades accompanying people through death, grief, and profound spiritual experiences. He says many report something extraordinary: love continuing beyond this world. As more people quietly wrestle with loss, unfinished goodbyes, and the longing to feel connected to loved ones who have passed, his insights offer both mystery and comfort. Castle shares remarkable stories of connection beyond death, what people commonly experience at life’s end, and why unresolved love often remains the strongest human bond. He also explains how grief can deepen, not diminish, our understanding of love. Father Nathan Castle is author of the “Afterlife, Interrupted” series and a longtime spiritual counselor working with those facing death, loss, and healing. Contact Nathan Castle at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Should You Stay… or Go? The Intuitive Way to Decide

Every relationship hits hard seasons, but how do you know when it’s a temporary storm…and when it’s time to walk away? Intuitive expert Dan Bartlett says most people already sense the answer, but fear, conditioning, and emotional noise cloud their clarity. He explains how intuition communicates in relationships, the subtle signals people ignore before major turning points, and why logic alone often leads people astray. Bartlett reveals how to distinguish fear from truth, attachment from love, and a temporary rough patch from deeper incompatibility. His perspective offers powerful insight for anyone questioning their current relationship or rebuilding after heartbreak. Dan Bartlett is an intuitive counselor who helps individuals distinguish fear from inner knowing when facing major life and relationship decisions. Contact Dr. Dan Bartlett at (480) 841-0984 or dbartlett@rtirguests.com

11. ==> When “Staying Positive” Hurts Love Instead of Helping It

Positive thinking is often praised, especially in relationships. But what happens when “staying positive” begins to hide problems instead of healing them? Author Lydia Samaniego says forced optimism can suppress honest emotion, block real communication, and quietly create distance between partners. Drawing from lived experience and the themes in her book “To Hell With You,” she explores why love deepens not through constant positivity, but through truth, emotional honesty, and personal responsibility. Lydia explains why avoiding difficult feelings weakens intimacy, how the conflict between the mind and the heart shows up in relationships, and why real connection begins when people stop pretending everything is fine. In a culture that often promotes positivity over authenticity, her perspective offers a grounded and thought-provoking conversation about what actually strengthens love. Contact Lydia Samaniego at (530) 443-5826; lsamaniego@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Love After Loss

Loss changes how people experience love, but it doesn’t end the story. After losing her mother at nine, surviving foster care, and later overcoming breast cancer, author Kat Perkins understands how grief reshapes identity, relationships, and emotional resilience. She shares why healing isn’t about “moving on,” how vulnerability can rebuild connection, and why many people discover deeper meaning and love after heartbreak. Her message resonates with anyone navigating grief, major life setbacks, or emotional reinvention. Kat Perkins is a speaker and author who inspires audiences with her story of resilience, healing, and redefining life and hope after loss. Contact Kat Perkins at (404) 800-3916; kperkins@rtirguests.com

13. ==> What Your Past Lives Reveal About Your Current Romantic Choices

Do you feel like you’ve known your partner forever? Could you have been together in a past life? And can your past lives explain your current romantic choices? Alla Kaluzhny—licensed therapist, hypnotherapist, and author of two thought-provoking reincarnation memoirs including “Turning New Pages,” uncovers the hidden ways your soul’s journey shapes love, habits and decisions. With vivid memories of her own past lives and spiritual expertise, Alla delivers insight that will inspire your audience to rethink their connections and choices. During this one-of-a-kind show, Alla will share her most unforgettable past-life experiences and explain how past lives influence love, friendships, and behaviors. Contact Alla Kaluzhny at (213) 459-3509; akaluzhny@rtirguests.com






2/5/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Consumer Confidence Plummets, Stop Telling Women to Smile, and Signs Your Partner is a Narcissist


01. Consumer Confidence is Now Below Pandemic Levels
02. The AI Bubble Is Getting Closer to Popping
03. Trump Slams Reporter for Not Smiling Enough
04. Study Finds Dads Matter More Than We Thought
05. Sneaky Signs Your Partner Is a Narcissist
06. How to Stay Indispensable in an Unstable Job Market
07. Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs — But No One Teaches
08. How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Sons
09. Reduce Test Anxiety by Changing How Kids Think
10. Former Nurse and Stand-Up Comic Gets Serious About Healthcare's Darkest Secret
11. Healing Doesn’t Always Follow a Straight Line
12. The 3 Habits That Build Trust and Cut Division in Your Life
13. How to Reclaim Attention in a World Built to Distract
14. 3 Million Mom-Owned Businesses Fuel the U.S. Economy
15. Spiritual Teachers Get Physical: The Body as Your Gateway to Higher Consciousness

1. ==> Consumer Confidence is Now Below Pandemic Levels

U.S. consumer confidence slumped to the lowest level since 2014 in January, sinking below pandemic-era lows as Americans are concerned about the labor market. "Confidence collapsed in January, as consumer concerns about both the present situation and expectations for the future deepened," says Dana M. Peterson, chief economist of The Conference Board. "All five components of the Index deteriorated, driving the overall Index to its lowest level since May 2014 (82.2) – surpassing its COVID-19 pandemic depths." The Conference Board's present situation index, which measures consumers' views of current business and labor market conditions, fell 9.9 points and the expectations index – which is based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions – declined by 9.5 points to 65.1, which is well below the threshold of 80 that usually signals a recession is ahead. Confidence among all generations and across all political affiliations trended downward in the month, with the sharpest decline among Independents. The Conference Board is a member-driven non-profit think-tank that publishes the Consumer Confidence Index each month. Contact Joseph DiBlasi at (781) 308-7935; jdiblasi@tcb.org

2. ==> The AI Bubble Is Getting Closer to Popping

AI is driving the S&P 500 index and the broader US economy forward. But the line between hype and reality has blurred and according to Shannon O’Neil, what may burst the AI bubble are not the flagged worries over circular financing, growing debt or Chinese competition. Instead, she says the unanticipated drag of tariffs and fall in the number of migrants in the US may be what brings AI back down to earth. “AI’s success or failure will depend on whether it can start to show the worth of massive investments. But even if it succeeds in transforming the way industry after industry works, cost and time will determine who gains, and when. And today, the Trump administration’s tariffs and immigration policies are a big part of what’s holding back US models and companies.” Shannon O’Neil is a leading authority on global trade, supply chains, Mexico, and Latin America and senior vice president of studies and Maurice R. Greenberg chair at the Council on Foreign Relations. Contact her at (212) 434-9632; soneil@cfr.org

3. ==> Trump Slams Reporter for Not Smiling Enough

President Trump slammed CNN political reporter Kaitlyn Collins after she asked about the Epstein files, ignoring the question and telling her “You are the worst reporter. I never see you smile.” Dr. Jennifer Mercieca says, “Comments policing a woman journalist’s facial expression aren’t incidental—they’re a rhetorical move to reassert dominance in an interaction where the press is supposed to hold power.” The exchange isn’t the first time Trump lashed out at Collins and other reporters. In December, he called her nasty and stupid in a social media post after she asked about the cost of White House ballroom renovations. Merceica says Trump’s comments on women’s demeanor fit into broader patterns of control and diminishment. Dr. Jennifer Mercieca is an historian of American political rhetoric. She is Professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. She is the author of several books including “Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump.” Contact her at mercieca@tamu.edu

4. ==> Study Finds Dads Matter More Than We Thought

For much of the 20th century and beyond, social scientists attributed a range of chronic mental health problems to dysfunction between infants and their mothers, but a team of researchers from Penn State University has found that the early parenting behavior of fathers may have a greater impact on children’s health. For their study, scientists observed three-way interactions between 10-month-old infants, their fathers and their mothers, and then checked in on the families when the children were 2 and 7. They found that fathers who were less attentive to their 10-month-olds were likely to have trouble co-parenting and at age 7, the children of those fathers were more likely to have markers of poor heart or metabolic health, such as inflammation and high blood sugar. Mothers’ behavior did not have the same effect. “This does not mean that only the dads matter, not the moms,” says Hannah M.C. Schreier, an associate professor of biobehavioral health at Penn State and an author of the paper. Instead, Dr. Schreier says, it suggests that positive engagement by fathers during infancy and toddlerhood improves the health of the whole family. The study was published in the journal Health Psychology. Contact Hannah Schreier at (814) 863-5767; hannah.schreier@psu.edu

5. ==> Sneaky Signs Your Partner Is a Narcissist

While anyone can spot the loud, attention-seeking narcissist, it's the charming "nice guy" covert narcissists who cause the most damage—and Dr. Valerie Sussman should know. After 20 years trapped in a narcissistic marriage, this retired pediatrician traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush and became a certified Narcissistic Abuse Specialist dedicated to helping others recognize these wolves in sheep's clothing. Sussman will reveal the "6 E's" that show your partner is a narcissist and explain why victims stay "hooked on hopium"—the dangerous hope that keeps them trapped. Drawing from her book “Love, Lies, and Narcissists in Disguise: The A-Z Guide for Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse,” she'll share how to spot the charm-to-harm cycle before it's too late. Listeners will learn the red flags they're missing, why asking "Am I the narcissist?" means you're not, and how creativity can heal emotional wounds. Ask her: What's the difference between overt and covert narcissists—and why are covert ones more dangerous? You call it "hopium"—why is hope so toxic in these relationships? What are the "6 E's" and how do they reveal a narcissist? Contact Valerie Sussman at (805) 407-5635; Vsussman@rtirguests.com

6. ==> How to Stay Indispensable in an Unstable Job Market

With mass layoffs back in the headlines and economic anxiety rising, employees at every level are asking the same question: How do I make sure I’m not next? Business transformation expert Shawn Fry says the key isn’t working harder, it’s thinking differently. After leading organizational change in 60+ companies across 17 countries, Fry noticed a surprising pattern: the people who kept their jobs during uncertainty weren’t the loudest or the busiest. They were the most focused, adaptive, and connected. Shawn will share why traditional goal-setting doesn’t work in today’s market and the counterintuitive steps employees can take to become indispensable, even when their company feels shaky. Ask him: Is visibility more important than performance in times of layoffs? What’s one daily habit that protects your job better than your resume? Contact Shawn Fry at (330) 422-4090; sfry@rtirguests.com


7. ==> Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs — But No One Teaches

Great leaders aren’t just decisive—they’re deliberate. “In high-stakes rooms where every word carries weight, success depends on skills rarely taught in business school: listening with precision, speaking with intention, and navigating conflict without escalating it,” says author and former diplomat Dianne Olvera. Drawing from real-world diplomacy and leadership experience, her approach reveals how to manage tough conversations, defuse tension, and influence outcomes without overpowering the room. It’s about knowing when to speak, when to pause, and how to choose language that builds trust instead of resistance. Dianne is a board-certified educational therapist and the author of “The Power of Connection: Understanding Individual Differences to Uplift and Empower.” She’s also a former diplomat and spy. Contact Dianne Olvera at (805) 779-3558; dolvera@rtirguests.com


8. ==> How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Sons

In a world where boys are often taught to suppress their feelings, parenting expert and author C. Lynn Williams is changing the conversation. She offers practical, compassionate guidance for raising sons who are emotionally aware, resilient, and confident. “We need to focus on challenging outdated myths about masculinity and replace fear-based parenting with connection, communication, and trust,” she says. “When boys are given permission to feel, communicate, and be understood, they grow into healthier men and create stronger families and communities.” C. Lynn is the author of five parenting books including “Trying to Stay Sane While Raising Your Teen.” She’s an educator, speaker, and family dynamics strategist. Ask her: What challenges do boys face in modern society? How can parents raise sons who are strong without being aggressive? Contact C. Lynn Williams at (224) 357-6315; Cwilliams@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Reduce Test Anxiety by Changing How Kids Think

Most parents try to reduce test anxiety by pushing kids to study harder. Sharon Emily says that approach often backfires. When children feel pressured to perform, their brains shift into fear mode, which actually makes learning harder. A former counselor, Franklin Covey-trained facilitator, and educator, Sharon helps families understand how thoughts quietly shape behavior, confidence, and results. She teaches why creativity, repetition, and imagination can be more effective than checklists, rewards, or threats. Her book “Mirror of Myself” grew out of a simple insight: when kids learn to focus on possibility instead of fear, their choices change naturally. Sharon explains why positive thinking is not about ignoring reality, why mistakes can build confidence faster than success, and how the same mindset tools work across parenting, school, and life. Her approach gives families practical ways to calm anxiety and improve performance during high-stakes testing seasons. Contact Sharon Emily at (480) 470-3893 or semily@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Former Nurse and Stand-Up Comic Gets Serious About Healthcare's Darkest Secret

Kathy Allan spent 20 years as a hospital nurse before witnessing something that changed everything: cleaning staff in scrubs discharging new mothers, while administrators threatened her for asking questions. She realized healthcare had become addicted to profits over patients. Her shocking revelation: nurses are 18% more likely to commit suicide than the general population. This Board Certified Holistic Nurse and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner channeled her trauma expertise and comedy background into Gutsy Nurses—a program teaching nurses how to survive a broken system. Inspired by recovery principles, she developed the 12 Steps of Healing Care to beat the industry's profit addiction. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; Kallan@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Healing Doesn’t Always Follow a Straight Line

Healing is not neat, inspiring, or Instagram-ready, and pretending it is leaves people feeling broken. Avonley Lightstone can explain why healing often looks messy, slow, and unresolved, and why lingering pain does not mean failure. She’ll challenge the belief that healing requires closure and reframe progress as something that can happen even when wounds remain. Lightstone speaks from lived experience. After losing her mother in a childhood house fire and facing abandonment soon after, she learned that healing comes in small, honest steps, not sudden breakthroughs. She is the author of “Strength of Scars,” a memoir on resilience and faith, and her story has gained media attention as it moves toward a potential film or television adaptation. Contact Avonley Lightstone at (801) 980-0447; alightstone@rtirguests.com

12. ==> The 3 Habits That Build Trust and Cut Division in Your Life

Tired of the conflict in your office, community, or even your own family? Dr. Dionne Poulton says building unity isn’t about avoiding tough topics. It’s about mastering three powerful habits: Decency, Excellence, and Integrity. She’ll reframe what it means to lead, communicate, and connect across differences without ever saying “DEI.” Her message? You don’t need a title to be a leader. You just need a standard. From how we treat others to how we hold ourselves accountable, Dr. Dionne shows how small shifts in behavior can transform relationships, rebuild trust, and prevent conflict before it starts. According to a recent study, 76% of people say they avoid hard conversations at work and home often out of fear, frustration, or not knowing what to say. Dr. Dionne’s framework helps audiences replace avoidance with practical strategies that foster trust and real connection. Ask her: What’s one habit that can instantly defuse rising tension? Can integrity really be taught, or is it innate? Dionne Poulton, Ph.D., is the author of “Excellence Without Exclusion.” Contact her at (404) 383-8924; dpoulton@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How to Reclaim Attention in a World Built to Distract

We live in a world designed to hijack our attention. The average adult now spends over seven hours a day on screens, yet many feel more scattered, reactive, and stuck than ever. Author and senior UCLA mindfulness educator Mitra Manesh says this isn’t just a focus issue; it’s an attention crisis quietly eroding our freedom to choose. On your show, Mitra will reveal why even intelligent, successful people often live in “survival mode,” how constant stimulation weakens our decision-making, and why reclaiming attention is the first and most important step toward true freedom. Drawing from her inspirational fiction, “The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World”—a parable in the spirit of “The Alchemist”—she offers a transformative blend of storytelling and insight, packed with techniques and practices for improving attention as a transformative force in all aspects of life. Mitra Manesh This is a timely invitation to shift from reaction to creation, and a powerful case for why reclaiming attention may be the most radical act of personal power in our time. Contact Mitra Manesh at (310) 807-3031; mmanesh@rtirguests.com

14. == > 3 Million Mom-Owned Businesses Fuel the U.S. Economy

Last year, mom-owned businesses generated more than $1.8 trillion in revenue, but this powerhouse movement didn’t start with TikTok side hustles. It began a century ago, in kitchens, basements, and living rooms, led by women with big ideas and little recognition. Roy Martin, Nashville Women’s Entrepreneur Coach and founder of the WFH Empowerment Academy, is spotlighting these early pioneers and empowering post-COVID mompreneurs to follow in their footsteps. His upcoming book, “But She Can’t Vote,” draws a direct line from women like Jean Nidetch (Weight Watchers) and Tupperware trailblazer Brownie Wise to today’s online work-from-home moms. Roy encourages motivated mompreneurs to claim their 20th century history while building a New Age WFH empowerment movement. Ask him: What can today’s moms learn from the original work-from-home pioneers? How can women start a purpose-driven home business in 2026? Contact Roy Martin at (629) 265 0570; rmartin@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Spiritual Teachers Get Physical: The Body as Your Gateway to Higher Consciousness

Doreen Mary Bray, who has worked between worlds for over 40 years as a naturopath and mystical guide, carries a radical message: your body isn't a vehicle you're trapped in—it's what your soul longed for and chose. She teaches that souls wait lifetimes for the privilege of embodiment, selecting parents, place, and form to walk on beaches, feel touch, and experience love. In interviews, Bray will reveal how souls choose incarnation and what that means for how we live. She'll explain why anxiety and depression may be your soul's language trying to break through and why learning to honor the body as sacred—not fix or transcend it—is the awakening our time demands. Listeners will discover practices for hearing their soul's voice and understanding embodiment as the miracle it truly is. Doreen Mary Bray is the author of “The Angel and the Avatar.” Contact Doreen Bray at (438) 802-0280; Dbray@rtirguests.com





2/3/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Inside ICE Detention Centers, Nicole Simpson’s Ex Speaks Out and Meet A ‘Hire-a-Daughter’


01. Inside the Immigration Detention System Trump is Building
02. Economist David Woo: Gold, Fed, Geopolitics, Wall Street Impacts
03. The Making of A Navy SEAL
04. Black History Month: A Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?
05. Nicole Simpson's Ex Boyfriend: “It Could Have Been Me”
06. This "Hire-a-Daughter" Saves Families from Elder Care Nightmares
07. In a Season of Political Chaos, This Activist is Planting Hope
08. 70% of Professionals Feel Like Frauds—We're Ignoring a Leadership Crisis
09. Gain Clarity and Direction: Interview This Certified Metaphysician
10. Don’t Raise Your Child for a World That No Longer Exists
11. Stuck in a Funk? Mini Mindset Shifts Lead to Fewer Days That Suck
12. Drawing Badly Could Be the Secret to Business Breakthroughs
13. Why Emotional Baggage Doesn’t Start in This Lifetime
14. "You Can't Teach What You Haven't Done" - He's Done It All
15. The Hidden Letter That Can Unite Jews, Christians, and Muslims

1. ==> Inside the Immigration Detention System Trump is Building

A new report by the American Immigration Council shows that the Trump administration is locking up hundreds of thousands of people— most with no criminal record—into a harsh immigration detention system that makes it near impossible to fight their cases or secure release. The report reveals how historic funding increases and aggressive enforcement tactics have pushed immigration detention to the highest level in U.S. history. “This has absolutely nothing to do with law and order. Under mass deportation, we’re seeing the construction of a mass immigration detention system on a scale the United States has never seen, in which people with no criminal record are routinely locked up with no clear path to release,” says Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council. “Over the next three years, billions of more dollars will be poured into a detention system that is on track to rival the entire federal criminal prison system.” According to the report, there is a dramatic shift in who is being arrested, with 41 percent of new detainees having no criminal record. And with more than 60-thousand people being held, conditions are worsening and some are being housed in hastily constructed outdoor tent encampments. With Congress authorizing $45 billion dollars in new detention funding, the report warns that the system could more than triple in size over the next four years. The American Immigration Council is a nonprofit organization and advocacy group. For more information on the report “Immigration Detention Expansion in Trump’s Second Term” and interviews contact press@immcouncil.org

2. ==> Economist David Woo: Gold, Fed, Geopolitics, Wall Street Impacts

David Woo is a veteran global macro strategist known for his out-of-consensus calls and ability to connect markets, geopolitics, and policy in plain language. As markets move through February and March, he argues that gold’s explosive rally is not a speculative sideshow but a signal that the global financial system is undergoing a structural shift that other markets have yet to price in. He’ll explain why rallies of this magnitude have historically coincided with major breaks in the global order and assess whether upcoming inflation and growth data validate gold’s message or expose complacency elsewhere. He’ll also explain why Fed leadership matters less than markets think and how structural forces, fiscal deficits, geopolitics, and capital flows now dominate bond pricing, meaning the upcoming Fed leadership change may matter less than incoming data on growth, inflation, and financing conditions. David Woo analyzes global markets for professional investors around the world through his independent platform David Woo Unbound. In addition to his market commentary, Woo is also the co-author of the new novel, “Merry-Go-Round Broke Down,” which explores globalization and its consequences through interconnected lives across China, the U.S., Europe, and beyond. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell)

3. ==> The Making of A Navy SEAL

Jack Ratliff served aboard destroyers and with Underwater Demolition Team 11, the elite unit that laid the foundation for today’s Navy SEALs. Invite him to share a rare, insider account of how SEAL-level discipline, resilience, and judgment are forged long before combat through training, failure, fear, and responsibility. He’ll outline the relentless physical and psychological training that prepares young men to operate under fear, exhaustion, cold, uncertainty, and risk long before they ever face real-world missions. Hear the realities of cold-water conditioning, exhaustion, risk tolerance, and decision-making under pressure—revealing how elite training strips away ego and forces individuals to confront who they are when comfort, certainty, and safety disappear. Jack Ratliff’s new memoir is “Riding the White Bull: The Making of a Navy SEAL.” Contact Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5138

4. ==> Black History Month: A Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?

Lauraine White warns America’s reckoning with slavery can’t wait another generation. Just last month, President Trump’s Justice Department abruptly removed a display on the history of slavery at the site of the former President’s House on Independence Mall in Philadelphia. White says Trump is trying to rewrite history and the time for denial is over. With both enslaved and Confederate blood in her family line, White argues that real healing requires more than apologies. Her Freedom Wealth Fund lays out measurable steps that include erasing student-loan debt for descendants of slaves, free education, and rewriting U.S. history curricula to tell the full truth about the transatlantic slave trade. White insists this isn’t about relitigating the past—it’s a practical blueprint for a just future. With nearly 60% of Americans saying slavery still affects Black people’s position in society today (Pew Research), her plan will spark headlines, debate and the uncomfortable, but necessary, conversation America keeps postponing. Sample questions: Can a Confederate descendant credibly lead the call for reparations, or is that exactly why she should? Is student-debt forgiveness for descendants a fair, targeted form of reparations that taxpayers can accept? Contact lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred) or (770) 525-8743

5. ==> Nicole Simpson's Ex Boyfriend: “It Could Have Been Me”

In June 1994, Nicole Simpson, ex-wife of NFL legend OJ Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, became the victims of one of the most infamous crimes of the second half of the 20th century and she became a rallying cry for police to change the way they dealt with reports of domestic violence. Now, more than 30-years later, Simpson’s ex-boyfriend, Keith Zlomsowitch, is speaking out about their relationship and how OJ stalked and threatened him while they were dating. Invite the author of “Stalked: It Could Have Been Me” to explain why he is speaking out now, what he can finally share, and what he remembers about Nicole and the ‘Trial of the Century.’ Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

6. ==> This "Hire-a-Daughter" Saves Families from Elder Care Nightmares

Most adult children wait until it's too late—when Mom falls in the bathroom or Dad has a heart attack—to learn what they should've asked, who to call, or where to turn. Debbie C. Miller has spent 30 years as a professional "hire-a-daughter," helping hundreds of families navigate the overwhelming process of caring for aging loved ones. Her book, “Doing the Right Thing,” provides the insider knowledge families desperately need but don't know exists. Miller has seen it all: the millionaire miser dead in his driveway for months, properties requiring HazMat suits, extreme hoarding cases, and grief-stricken families being ripped off by unscrupulous estate sale companies. She knows the 40+ questions to ask assisted living facilities, the myths about aging-in-place that endanger seniors, and how to help families make impossible decisions before it's too late. Family therapists and aging life care managers use her systematic approach nationwide. Contact her at (703) 844-4074; dmiller@rtirguests.com

7. ==> In a Season of Political Chaos, This Activist is Planting Hope

While headlines scream division and despair, Sam Daley-Harris is quietly leading a revolution in how ordinary citizens engage with democracy. The activist and author of “Reclaiming Our Democracy,” Daley-Harris teaches "transformational advocacy"—where working to change an issue transforms you in the process. His approach has helped people move from political paralysis to powerful action. Invite Daley-Harris on your show to hear stories of everyday citizens discovering their political power. He'll explain how feeling overwhelmed isn't weakness—it's the starting point for meaningful change. From his own journey as a musician-turned-activist to guiding others through civic engagement some call "sacred and profound," Daley-Harris offers practical tools for anyone ready to move from anxiety to agency. Ask him: What is transformational advocacy and how does it differ from traditional activism? How did you go from performing music to teaching people to reclaim their democracy? Contact Sam Daley-Harris at (202) 804-2504; Sdaley@rtirguests.com

8. ==> 70% of Professionals Feel Like Frauds—We're Ignoring a Leadership Crisis

Imagine sitting at dinner beside a Fortune 500 CEO—and being consumed by the fear that you don't belong there. That was Mike Sealy's reality during Hewlett-Packard's accelerated leadership program, and it sparked a decades-long mission to understand imposter syndrome. Now the author of “Mindset Unlocked” reveals how this silent epidemic costs organizations untold innovation and burnout. Invite Sealy on your show to discuss how imposter syndrome quietly sabotages talented professionals, keeping brilliant ideas unspoken and promotions out of reach. He’ll share his multi-industry leadership journey—where he deliberately took roles in new industries to stay on steep learning curves—and offers practical tools from his 10-step framework for developing a growth mindset. Contact Mike Sealy at (484) 477-4220; msealy@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Gain Clarity and Direction: Interview This Certified Metaphysician

Is your audience facing tough decisions, feeling stuck, or searching for a breakthrough? Dr. Dan Bartlett’s Magical Intuitive Readings help people gain the insight and clarity they need to move forward with confidence. A certified metaphysician and expert in Tarot and numerology, Dr. Dan has helped thousands transform confusion into clarity by offering practical guidance they can use immediately. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Dan combines intuition and compassion to help people overcome life’s curveballs, whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. Interview him to give your audience a new way to access answers, tap into inner wisdom, and start living with purpose and peace. Contact Dan Bartlett at (480) 841-0984 or dbartlett@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Don’t Raise Your Child for a World That No Longer Exists

While parents tell kids to "study hard and get a good job," AI is already doing those jobs—faster and cheaper. Award-winning author George Lee has a wake-up call: we're using 1980s parenting in an AI-driven world.
Drawing from "SMART Parenting 5.0," Lee explains why college degrees aren't golden tickets and authoritarian parenting fails in the AI era. His unique perspective—traditional Chinese education meets Western innovation—reveals what schools won't teach. Listeners will discover which essential skills schools ignore and how to build them at home. Ask him: You say we're overeducating their minds and underpreparing their spirit. What does that look like? Your teenager makes more on TikTok than you made last month. How do parents stay relevant? You argue too much love can hurt. How can love without challenge weaken a child? Contact George Lee at (604) 330-8697; glee@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Stuck in a Funk? Mini Mindset Shifts Lead to Fewer Days That Suck

Most people assume feeling stuck means something is wrong with their life. Deborah Mallow reminds us that sometimes nothing is wrong, except the voice in our head that refuses to stop narrating everything like a dramatic movie trailer. Surveys support this: nearly 60% of adults say they feel emotionally burned out, even when nothing “major” is wrong. That’s proof that mindset, not circumstance, often drives our mood. Deborah explains why advice like “just think positive” often backfires and how tiny mental shifts can change the trajectory of an entire day. She’ll share surprising tools that help quiet your inner critic, break out of emotional autopilot, and find momentum without forcing motivation. Ask her: Can focusing less on goals and more on what truly matters actually make you happier? Why do so many people feel behind even when so much in their lives is actually working? Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Drawing Badly Could Be the Secret to Business Breakthroughs

What if your messy stick figures could transform stalled meetings into breakthrough moments? Lisa Rothstein, “New Yorker” cartoonist and former advertising creative, has discovered that imperfect doodles beat perfect presentations every single time—and the science backs her up. In interviews, Rothstein will reveal how simple sketches get buy-in faster than any PowerPoint deck, why drawing badly creates psychological safety that "perfect" can't match, and how to use visual thinking in the age of AI to stand out as authentically human. Drawing from her book “Drawing Out Your Genius,” she'll share quick techniques anyone can use to simplify complex ideas, kickstart innovation, and finally get teams speaking the same language. Ask her: You say "the worse it looks, the better it works"—how does that make sense? What kinds of problems can this technique help you solve? How can non-artists use drawing to get breakthrough results this week? Contact Lisa Rothstein at (310) 388-8093; Lrothstein@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Why Emotional Baggage Doesn’t Start in This Lifetime

Why do some people carry deep anxiety, relationship struggles, or fears they can’t explain despite years of self-work? According to Alla Kaluzhny, these emotional patterns may not begin in this lifetime at all. Alla is a licensed marriage and family therapist, spiritual psychologist, and clairvoyant who helps people uncover unresolved experiences that could stem from the soul’s past. Drawing from vivid memories of her own past lives and the award-winning stories in her books “Turning the Pages” and “Turning New Pages,” Alla offers insight into how inherited spiritual clutter can quietly shape our lives. Whether people believe in reincarnation or not, Alla’s intuitive approach invites deep self-reflection, healing, and possibility. Contact Alla Kaluzhny at (213) 459-3509; akaluzhny@rtirguests.com

14. ==> "You Can't Teach What You Haven't Done" - He's Done It All

At 87, David Selley has lived in three countries, built three careers, and stayed married for 65 years—and he's completed a Guinness Record as the oldest author to publish the most books in one year. Now his message about entrepreneurship is turning heads. In "PAPA3$ The Entrepreneur," Selley reveals why modern education creates worker bees instead of entrepreneurs. The statistics are shocking: 87% of college graduates never use their degrees, 56% experience job turnover, and creativity gets systematically crushed. He'll share why real-world experience trumps classroom theory, how he's helping 700 million entrepreneurs worldwide, and what his 65-year marriage taught him about building anything that lasts. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; dselley@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Hidden Letter That Can Unite Jews, Christians, and Muslims

What if the answer to centuries of religious division and warfare was hiding in plain sight—in a short letter at the back of the New Testament? Scientist, John Hageman, spent over 30 years analyzing scriptures with scientific rigor. He believes what he found could change everything: all three faiths share one scripture that can unite us all. Drawing from his soon to be published book, "Uniting Humanity Through Our Scriptures’ Hidden Secrets - Putting Our Religious Differences on Trial," Hageman will reveal how the epistle of James contains core truths all three religions can agree upon. He’ll also show why false prophets’ words were allowed in our scriptures; they are a test from our Lord, like the liars Job faced. Listeners will discover why scriptural errors don't disprove God's perfection—they prove we're being tested to defeat our common enemy. Contact John Hageman (210) 806-7961; jhageman@rtirguests.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




1/29/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Leadership in Times of Turmoil, the Protein Myth Keeping You Sick and Meet the Dear Abby for Dogs


01. New Cyber Strategy Seriously Misunderstands China’s Threat
02. ‘Board of Peace’ Resolution Outlines U.S.-Led Plan to Rule Gaza
03. Scholars Warn: Government Social Media Posts Echo Extremist Rhetoric
04. Steady Leaders Are Needed in Times of National Turmoil
05. This Global Investor Spent His Childhood Helping Heroin Addicts
06. Why Evangelicals Are Losing Credibility with the Next Generation
07. Could Latest Amazon Layoffs Be Your Career Wake-Up Call?
08. Hidden Red Flags You're Dating a Narcissist
09. The Protein Myth That Keeps Americans Sick
10. Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes
11. Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead
12. Why Are Strokes in Young Adults Rising?
13. Meet The Dear Abby for Dogs
14. You Don’t Need a New You — The Real You Is Enough
15. Help Kids Find Freedom in a Screen-Filled World


1. ==> New Cyber Strategy Seriously Misunderstands China’s Threat

Cybersecurity expert Matthew Ferren says the Trump Administration’s offense-first cyber strategy is a dangerous miscalculation that is doomed to fail because it doesn’t address the significant deterioration of cyber defenses in the U.S. “Doubling down on offense while neglecting defense will leave the United States more vulnerable, not less,” he says. His solution? “Chinese cyber campaigns will continue regardless of U.S. offensive operations. The goal must be to prevent them from causing systemic harm. The United States’ endemic cyber vulnerabilities represent a market failure that government action is required to fix. The Trump administration is unlikely to pursue new cybersecurity regulations, but they remain the right answer. Minimum requirements for critical infrastructure, harmonized across sectors, would benefit everyone.” Matthew Ferren is an international affairs fellow in national security, sponsored by Janine and J. Tomilson Hill, at the Council on Foreign Relations. An expert in cybersecurity, military operations, and emerging technologies, he has served at the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of the Treasury, and the White House. Contact him at (202) 509-8412; MFerren@cfr.org

2. ==> ‘Board of Peace’ Resolution Outlines U.S.-Led Plan to Rule Gaza

According to Jonathan Whittall, the executive director of the Keys Initiative, a draft of the first of Donald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ resolutions details the structure of a U.S.-backed governing authority that would assume full legislative, executive, and judicial control over Gaza, including ’emergency powers.’ “The draft resolution formalizes a hierarchical structure for the Board of Peace, with Trump as the chairperson and an executive board that has the power to ‘enact new law or modify or repeal prior’ civil and criminal laws in Gaza. Whittall says, “The board, which critics say is an attempt to circumvent any meaningful U.N. oversight or even to position itself as a privatized alternative to the world body, envisions operating in an environment where it answers exclusively to Trump.” Whittall notes that no Palestinians were included though Trump did give a spot to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who remains under war crimes indictment and is subject to an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court. Jonathan Whittall is formerly a senior official with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Palestine and with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières. Contact him at whittall@keysinitiative.com, @_jwhittall

3. ==> Scholars Warn: Government Social Media Posts Echo Extremist Rhetoric

In the past month, government agencies have made dozens of social media posts that include iconography associated with far-right extremist groups. To some, the posts look patriotic. To others, they just look odd. For example: A New Year’s Eve post from the White House on X featured a photo of Trump alongside the word “remigration,” a decades-old European concept centered on expelling nonwhites and immigrants and a recent Labor Department video featured a caption resembling a Nazi slogan. Those who study the online right said one or two posts might be coincidental. But when added together, it’s much harder to dismiss. They appear to be an appeal to “a very specific segment” of Americans, young men who live online and are disaffected by what they see as unwanted changes in American life, says Pete Simi, a Chapman University sociologist who has studied extremist groups for more than 25 years. He says recent posts from the administration with content that can be read as extremist have “gone from episodic to more consistent, and it’s gone from more gray area to more clear cut.” Simi says the posts, even as clear as they are to people versed in extremist rhetoric, offer some cover for the administration to say they are patriotic. “And so even in a pretty overt kind of post, there is an effort to create plausible deniability, and that is a very common strategy in the kind of creation of propaganda on the far right,” he says. Government officials have dismissed any connections between government posts and extremism. Contact Pete Simi at (714) 744-7611; simi@chapman.edu

4. ==> Steady Leaders Are Needed in Times of National Turmoil

Employers are encountering a tired and distrustful workforce after the shocking fatal shootings in Minneapolis during ICE enforcement operations. “These shootings have inflamed political tensions nationally, and the strong feelings evoked from them are not isolated to workers in Minneapolis or Portland, Los Angeles or Chicago,” says workplace expert John Challenger. He can offer tips to human resources and leadership teams about how to address the issue in the workplace. “In moments like this, people aren’t necessarily looking for answers. They’re looking for steadiness,” he says, adding that political discussions should be kept to a minimum. “Political dialogue can help build connection and morale at work, but it can just as easily erode it. With tensions as high as they are, leaders should keep the temperature even. Workers risk credibility and upward momentum if their views do not align with their bosses. Meanwhile, bosses risk trust and productivity if theirs differ from their teams.” Challenger also warned that moments like this can increase the potential for conflict between workers and says everyone should remember that “regardless of anyone’s political views, people are being exposed to disturbing and violent images and stories. That can weigh heavily on everyone.” John Challenger is CEO of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a global outplacement and executive coaching firm. Contact Coleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> This Global Investor Spent His Childhood Helping Heroin Addicts

Long before Jonathan Tepper became the CIO of Prevatt Capital, he was a seven-year-old child walking the heroin-ravaged streets of Madrid. Instead of schoolyards and playdates, his days were shaped by the work his missionary parents asked of him and his three brothers: find addicts, bring them home, and care for them. That childhood, immersed in Europe’s devastating heroin and AIDS epidemics of the 1980s and 1990s, is the foundation of his new book “Shooting Up: A Memoir of Love, Loss and Addiction.” Tepper shares what it was like inside the radical rehabilitation community his parents built from scratch, how the addicts became his childhood companions, and how the family grappled with the loss of his younger brother in a car accident at the age of nine. The story shows how years spent observing human fragility, resilience, and moral tradeoffs shaped the judgment, discipline, and clarity Tepper would later bring to finance. Jonathan Tepper is the chief investment officer at Prevatt Capital and the author of numerous financial books including his latest, “The Myth of Capitalism.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> Why Evangelicals Are Losing Credibility with the Next Generation

From Gen Z’s exodus from church pews to viral TikToks calling out hypocrisy, one thing is clear: younger Americans are increasingly skeptical of evangelical Christianity. Former preacher Rick Patterson believes it’s not a loss of faith. It’s a loss of trust. Rick says that many churches have aligned themselves with power and culture wars instead of compassion and character. As a former ardent atheist who now holds master's and doctoral degrees in Christian MInistry, Rick has a rare insider-outsider perspective on how the pursuit of being “great again” has distorted the message of Jesus as well as why the next generation isn’t buying it. Rick blends theology, psychology, and real-world stories to help audiences understand why this credibility gap exists and what must change to close it. Ask him: What do younger generations find most hypocritical about today’s evangelical church? Can politics and faith ever mix without compromising the core of either? Rick’s thought-provoking new book is “The Matthew Challenge.” Contact him at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Could Latest Amazon Layoffs Be Your Career Wake-Up Call?

Just this week Amazon announced another round of corporate lay-offs. This one, slicing 16-thousand jobs. And that’s just the most recent layoff news. Right now it seems harder than ever to get a job and easier than ever to be replaced by AI. Greg Mohr has helped over 250 people escape corporate instability by placing them into 500+ franchise locations—and he says recent mass layoffs are forcing workers to ask the right question: "Why am I building someone else's wealth?" As the only franchise consultant with a Wall Street Journal bestselling book about franchising (Real Freedom), Mohr reveals why waiting for the next layoff is the riskiest career strategy of all. He'll explain how franchise ownership provides what corporate jobs can't—true control and wealth-building. He'll share his process for finding the right franchise fit, debunk the myth that everyone should franchise (some shouldn't) and reveal why former executives often struggle with franchise ownership. Greg will offer listeners a free PDF copy of his book. Contact Greg Mohr at (361) 204-5470; gmohr@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Hidden Red Flags You're Dating a Narcissist

While anyone can spot the loud, attention-seeking narcissist, it's the charming "nice guy" covert narcissists who cause the most damage—and Dr. Valerie Sussman should know. After 20 years trapped in a narcissistic marriage, this retired pediatrician traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush and became a certified Narcissistic Abuse Specialist dedicated to helping others recognize these wolves in sheep's clothing. Sussman will reveal the "6 E's" that show your partner is a narcissist and explain why victims stay "hooked on hopium"—the dangerous hope that keeps them trapped. Drawing from her book “Love, Lies, and Narcissists in Disguise: The A-Z Guide for Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse,” she'll share how to spot the charm-to-harm cycle before it's too late. Listeners will learn the red flags they're missing, why asking "Am I the narcissist?" means you're not, and how creativity can heal emotional wounds. Ask her: What's the difference between overt and covert narcissists—and why are covert ones more dangerous? You call it "hopium"—why is hope so toxic in these relationships? What are the "6 E's" and how do they reveal a narcissist? Contact Valerie Sussman at (805) 407-5635; Vsussman@rtirguests.com

9. ==> The Protein Myth That Keeps Americans Sick

A heart attack at age 70 forced Dorothy Greet to rethink everything she believed about nutrition—especially protein. After she and her 80-year-old husband ditched all animal products, their results were dramatic: normalized blood pressure and cholesterol, effortless weight loss, and energy levels they hadn't felt in decades. Now at 85, Greet is credentialed in plant-based nutrition from Cornell and ready to debunk the protein myth keeping millions sick. In interviews, Greet will reveal how Americans have been misled about protein requirements and why plant foods provide all the protein needed for optimal health. Drawing from her book “Go Veg with Class,” she'll share how two lifelong carnivores reversed heart disease through dietary change alone—and why it's never too late. Listeners will learn simple swaps to "ditch dairy" and "remove meat" while discovering how this shift could eliminate up to 80% of chronic diseases. Ask her: Where do you actually get your protein on a plant-based diet? You reversed heart disease at 70—what happened to your health markers? Why don't doctors tell patients about the power of dietary change? Contact Dorothy Greet at (302) 314-6010; dgreet@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes

Cancer has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in many developed countries and the US and is the leading cause of healthcare expenditure worldwide. That’s the bad news. The good news is that half of all cancer deaths could be preventable through lifestyle changes and social reforms. Dr. Adam Barsouk will discuss cancer’s true origins and make the case for why cancer prevention must become a central priority in public and personal health. He’ll explore a wide range of overlooked and misunderstood risk factors, as well as how inequities in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention disproportionately impact underserved populations. You’ll learn what’s behind the young adult cancer epidemic, how Medicaid cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill will increase cancer risk and how microplastics, and water and air pollution, cause cancer. Dr. Barsouk can also discuss the link between obesity and cancer, and the role GLP-1s (like Ozempic) may play in cancer prevention, and how smoking, diet, and alcohol remain the most common and well-known causes of cancer, but others—including an invisible gas found in most of our basements—may be to blame. Adam Barsouk, MD, is a resident-physician at the University of Pennsylvania. His articles about science, medicine, and policy have been featured in “Forbes” “Newsweek,” Fox News, and Business Insider. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

11. ==> Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead

Contrary to what most of us believe, our younger years are not the best years of our lives. Laura Carstensen, a professor of psychology and founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity says our best years come much later in life. Carstensen’s research consistently suggests that starting in our mid-20s we begin experiencing fewer negative emotions and our emotional balance improves as we age. So, should we look forward to old age? “In many ways, it’s the best time of life,” says Carstensen. “People have a better emotional experience. They’re more satisfied with their relationships and more at peace with themselves, and as we get older, we stop caring so much about these trivial matters that can drive us crazy at earlier stages of life.” She explains that older people aren’t happier, but they experience less anger and sadness, and fear and anxiety. She’ll explain how these changes happen and exactly when they peak, as well as other interesting takeaways from her years of studying aging and longevity. Contact Joleen Castro at (650) 725-0347; jpcastro@stanford.edu

12. ==> Why Are Strokes in Young Adults Rising?

Stroke is no longer a disease of old age. New CDC data show stroke prevalence among U.S. adults aged 18–44 has jumped nearly 15 percent in the past decade, with many younger patients overlooking early warning signs. Vascular neurologist Dr. Jeremy Liff says subtle symptoms like brief vision changes, unexplained dizziness, or tingling that disappears can signal a “mini-stroke” — a transient ischemic attack (TIA) that standard exams often miss. As more young adults face rising cardiovascular and stress-related risks, Dr. Liff is urging people not to dismiss fleeting neurological episodes that could be their body’s early alarm. Jeremy Lif, MD, is a board-certified neurologist specializing in stroke, brain aneurysms, and venous outflow conditions. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

13. ==> Meet the Dear Abby for Dogs

Author and longtime dog behaviorist Kathleen Troy answers real questions from dog owners with warmth, humor, and hard-earned experience. Dubbed the Dear Abby for dogs, Kathleen tackles everyday canine challenges while debunking one of the biggest myths of all: some dogs cannot be trained. She got her inspiration from her remarkable rescue pup, Dylan, a former “problem dog” who went on to become a certified therapy and hospice service dog. She combines practical guidance with unforgettable stories. Audiences will learn how patience, consistency, and respect can transform both dogs and their humans. Kathleen is the author of the Dylan’s Dog Squad series, as well as a book about dog training. Contact Kathleen Troy at (714) 975-9807; ktroy@rtirguests.com

14. ==> You Don’t Need a New You — The Real You Is Enough

Millions of Americans vow to chase a new and better version of themselves, yet research shows perfectionism and self-criticism are rising, fueling burnout and anxiety instead of change. Leadership coach and TEDx speaker Barbara Stone says the problem isn’t motivation, it’s identity. After 25 years hiding her alopecia under a wig and her voice behind corporate success, Barbara took off the wig on stage and discovered a surprising truth: real growth begins when we stop trying to fix ourselves. In this segment, she shares what shedding perfection taught her about self-worth, authenticity, and why flaws, not upgrades, are often the key to confidence. Whether your audience is hiding a condition, insecurity, or impossible expectations, Barbara offers practical ways they can stop performing and start living more honestly. Ask her: Can trying to “improve yourself” actually make you less confident? What did losing your hair teach you that success never did? Contact Barbara Stone at (315) 840-2845; bstone@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Help Kids Find Freedom in a Screen-Filled World

Jonathan Haidt’s blockbuster book “The Anxious Generation” sparked a global conversation about the effects of smartphones and social media on young people’s development, inspiring millions of parents, teachers, and leaders to take action. Now, Haidt and Catherine Price — author of the bestselling “How to Break Up with Your Phone” — have teamed up to empower young people to stand up for themselves by choosing a life not dominated by screens. Their new book, “The Amazing Generation,” is aimed at 9-12 year-olds — whether or not they already have smartphones or social media — and features surprising facts, a graphic novel, interactive challenges, and secrets tech leaders don’t want kids to know. It also includes real-life stories from young adults who regret getting smartphones too early and want to help the next generation make different choices. The authors can discuss why they believe smartphones should be banned for kids under 16, how parents can help their kids disconnect and why they say doing so is critical. Request interviews with Jonathan Haidt and/or Catherine Price through the media request form at www.anxiousgeneration.com/contact







1/27/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Super Bowl Ads, Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ and City Dwellers’ Unique Stress



01. Legal Issues Grow After Latest ICE Shooting
02. Anger Toward Police is Nothing New
03. What is Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’?
04. Get Set for This Year’s Super Bowl Ads!
05. The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend
06. Today’s Diversity Debate is Actually 200 Years Old
07. Why Millions of Urban Dwellers Are Living in PTSD-Like States
08. The Lifestyle Choices Quietly Undermining Fertility
09. Could Hormones Be Behind Your Chronic Pain?
10. The Mindset Makeover You Need to Break Out of a Health Rut
11. United States Postal Service - Behind the Scenes
12. Humor Is the Only Topic That's Never Untimely
13. This Catholic Priest Helps ‘Stuck’ Souls Cross Over
14. "My Grandfather Was a Russian Spy"
15. Meet the 90-Year-Old With a Ten-Year Plan


1. ==> Legal Issues Grow After Latest ICE Shooting

Criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota is intensifying after the death of two U.S. citizens in three weeks. More than 3,000 ICE agents have been deployed to the state with some arguing that it has crossed the line into an unconstitutional and illegal occupation. Invite Bryna Godar with the State Democracy Research Initiative to discuss the legal issues involved and whether Minnesota can prosecute the ICE agents responsible for the shootings, and whether President Trump could pardon them. Bryna Godar frequently appears in the media to discuss and explain legal issues in the news. She is a staff attorney with the State Democracy Research Initiative. Her research focuses on state institutions, state constitutional law and election law. Contact Bryna Godar at (608) 262-4645; bryna.godar@wisc.edu

2. ==> Anger Toward Police is Nothing New

Crime and violence prevention specialist Stephanie Mann says anger toward the police has been a long-standing issue. “When people feel the police are overstepping boundaries, their anger increases, leading to protests and sometimes violence.” Mann says we can rebuild trust and community peace, but it requires citizens working together. “In neighborhoods with high crime rates where residents are angry and hostile toward police, responsible community leaders should consider forming a citizens’ Crime Prevention Committee to evaluate crime and recruit and train “Neighborhood Safety Experts” to bring neighbors together.” Invite her to discuss the Safe Kids Now movement, the benefits of collaboration between neighbors and police, and share success stories of communities that have become involved. Stephanie Mann is the executive director of the Safe Kids Now National Network and author of 5 books. She helped launch the National Neighborhood Watch Program in the 1970s. Contact her at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

3. ==> What is Trump’s Board of Peace?

President Donald Trump inaugurated his “Board of Peace” last week to lead efforts at maintaining a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas, insisting that “everyone wants to be a part” of the body he said could eventually rival the United Nations — despite many U.S. allies opting not to participate. Middle East expert Asaf Romirowsky can explain what the “Board of Peace” is and what it is expected to accomplish. Asaf Romirowsky PhD is the executive director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME). Trained as a Middle East historian he holds a PhD in Middle East and Mediterranean Studies from King’s College London, UK and has published widely on various aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict and American foreign policy in the Middle East, as well as on Israeli and Zionist history. Romirowsky is co-author of “October 7:The Wars Over Words and Deeds.” Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com

4. ==> Get Set for This Year’s Super Bowl Ads!

As brands prepare to spend a record-setting $8 million for 30 seconds on advertising's biggest stage, Charles Taylor, professor of marketing at the Villanova School of Business, is available to discuss the defining trends shaping Super Bowl advertising in 2026, including the long-anticipated arrival of AI-assisted creative, a return to patriotic storytelling tied to America's 250th anniversary, and why consistency may matter more than celebrity this year. Taylor will explain what separates ads that entertain from those that deliver long-term brand value. He’s available to book before, during, and after the game to analyze ads in real time and assess brand impact. Charles R. Taylor, PhD, is a nationally recognized expert on advertising and marketing with deep expertise in Super Bowl advertising. He is editor of the “International Journal of Advertising,” past president of the American Academy of Advertising, and has consulted for brands including General Motors and Clear Channel Communications. He is the author of “Winning the Advertising Game: Lessons from the Super Bowl Ad Champions.” Contact Colleen Frerichs at cfrerichs@teamavoq.com

5. ==> The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend

You may think of Artificial Intelligence in terms of jobs, but what about the implications it has on our relationships? 2023 Google Trends indicated a 2,400 percent increase in searches for “AI girlfriends” and millions of people are currently in what they consider to be serious relationships with AI. What benefits do AI companions present to humans that a traditional human partner might not—and what dilemmas might this technology present? These are questions that Victoria Hetherington asks and answers in her book, “The Friend Machine: On the Trail of AI Companionship.” Hetherington will delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI companionship, asking what it means to be alone, and to be in love, in a world where artificial intelligence is increasingly present and can share the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds who have sought and found companionship in AI. Victoria Hetherington is an author, screenwriter, instructor, and communications specialist who has written for Yahoo! Finance and Hazlitt and served as a frequent panelist at universities and conferences. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

6. ==> Today’s Diversity Debate is Actually 200 Years Old

Many people assume the debate surrounding diversity emerged in the late 20th century but legal historian David B. Oppenheimer traces the long and largely forgotten history behind the concept and follows the evolution of the “diversity principle” from early 19th-century Prussia to today’s legal and cultural debates. He’ll show how the value of diversity quietly shaped modern universities, free speech doctrine, and democratic institutions over the past two centuries. Oppenheimer will also share moments of resistance and reversal, showing how the same idea has been embraced, narrowed, contested, and rejected at different historical junctures, often by unlikely coalitions. David Oppenheimer is a Berkeley law professor and the author of “The Diversity Principle: The Story of a Transformative Idea.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

7. ==> Why Millions of Urban Dwellers Are Living in PTSD-Like States

PTSD isn’t just for war veterans anymore. Author Darius Ross reveals that nearly one-third of urban residents now show signs of trauma from chronic chaos, violence, and generational hardship. In his book “Success DNA,” Ross argues that urban PTSD is often harder to treat than combat trauma, and yet it remains invisible. Once homeless himself, Ross rebuilt his life as an entrepreneur and community leader. On air, he shares hard truths about why toxic environments feel “safe” to many, and how people can finally break free. He’ll tackle tough topics like why urban trauma is rising so fast and how people can break free of destructive environments. Darius Ross is a former homeless teen – turned – entrepreneur, investor, and community leader who now mentors others on resilience and success. Contact Darius at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Lifestyle Choices Quietly Undermining Fertility

Fertility challenges are rising, and Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says lifestyle factors are often overlooked. She explains how nutrition, stress, toxins, and daily habits affect reproductive health long before conception. Her insights help audiences understand fertility as a whole-body issue, not just a medical one. Dr. Marina is a fertility and women’s health expert focused on optimizing reproductive outcomes through lifestyle and preventative care. Contact her at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Could Hormones Be Behind Your Chronic Pain?

Millions of women live with daily pain, from back aches and migraines to joint stiffness, and most instinctively reach for an anti-inflammatory. But what if the real culprit isn’t your joints, it’s your hormones? Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MBA, has spent more than three decades helping people move beyond chronic pain, from everyday women to elite athletes, across Australia and the United States. “Hormonal fluctuations can lead to inflammation, joint pain, and muscle pain,” she says. “There’s a ‘Goldilocks’ moment when hormones are just right, not too high, not too low, giving your body its natural anti-inflammatory boost. But as women enter perimenopause and menopause, we lose that natural protection.” With training as a nurse, physical therapist and MBA, she bridges medicine movement and empowerment. Contact her at (414) 310-7845; sroberts@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Mindset Makeover You Need to Break Out of a Health Rut

When health goals stall, mindset is often the barrier. Mike Sealy shows how self-doubt, fear, and limiting beliefs quietly sabotage progress, even when people “know what to do.” He offers practical mental tools to rebuild confidence, consistency, and motivation so change feels achievable again. His approach resonates with listeners stuck in cycles of starting and stopping. Mike is a mindset coach and author specializing in helping people break through mental blocks that limit personal and health transformation. Contact him at msealy@rtirguests.com

11. ==> United States Postal Service - Behind the Scenes

After fifteen years, countless accusations, and five terminations, B.J. Sherman was officially (and finally) let go from the United States Postal Service. A career filled with discrimination, mismanagement, and lack of care prompted Sherman to share his experiences with the world. What is going on behind the scenes of the postal service? How can one of the nation’s most used resources be so poorly managed? Does Sherman have hope that the issues he’s experience will be resolved for younger generations? Invite him for an interview to discuss the details. He can be reached at (502) 649-6011; sharonlhuddleston@gmail.com

12. ==> Humor Is the Only Topic That's Never Untimely

Bill Williams has been sending daily humor emails for three decades. What started in the 1990s as a way to get his sales staff to read emails has grown into a beloved ritual for hundreds of subscribers globally—and he's never made a dime doing it. Drawing from "20 Years of Internet Humor ... and Other Interesting Things," Williams will explain why humor works in any news cycle, for any audience. Listeners will discover how he turned a workplace tool into a lifelong practice of spreading joy, and why his college friend John Denver influenced his view on taking creative risks. Ask him: You've done this for 30 years without making money—what keeps you going? You say humor is never untimely. What makes it work when other topics go stale? How did your friendship with John Denver shape your approach to life? Contact Bill Williams at (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com

13. ==> This Catholic Priest Helps ‘Stuck’ Souls Cross Over

For more than 25 years, Dominican priest Father Nathan Castle, O.P., has helped over 500 people who died suddenly—through accidents, suicides, and other traumas—adjust to life after death. These souls come to him in dreams, seeking healing for what he calls Interrupted Death Experiences™. Invite Father Nathan to share real-life stories that gently dispel common misconceptions about stuck souls and offer comfort to those grieving a loss. He’ll reveal how these extraordinary encounters became his spiritual calling—and how they’ve brought healing and transformation on both sides of the veil. Along the way, he’ll offer practical insights and spiritual tools to help the living find peace and move forward. Whether your audience is grieving, curious, or seeking peace, Father Nathan offers a deeply compassionate perspective on life after life. He is the author of the “Afterlife, Interrupted” series, a three-book collection and the host of The Joyful Friar podcast. Contact Father Nathan at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com

14. ==> "My Grandfather Was a Russian Spy"

Have an interest in stories of real-life spies? Tatiana Ovanessoff wrote an entire book based on the true events of her grandfather and uncle who were involved in Russian espionage. What was the cover story given to explain her grandfather’s death? How did Tatiana discover the actual truth about her family’s secrets? And why did she decide to bring those secrets to light in her novel, “The Spy’s Apprentice”? Invite her to discuss these questions and more! Tatiana can be reached at (760) 695-8896; tatianaovanessoff@gmail.com

15. ==> Meet the 90-Year-Old With a Ten-Year Plan

At 90, Jim Flaherty is ramping up, not winding down. This former ‘Mad Men’ ad exec turns 90 this year with a mission: reach 7.5 million depressed seniors living alone in America. His secret? A mindset that refuses to accept aging as decline. Drawing from "Loving Longevity: Make Your Next Years Your Best Years," Flaherty shares lessons from launching a country inn at 45 with zero experience, moving his kids to Buenos Aires, and caregiving his partner through dementia. Listeners will learn how to embrace aging with purpose and creativity. Ask him: You once said, "I'm 89 going on 49"—what does that mindset look like daily? What made you "crap-shoot" with your life by starting a business you knew nothing about? What did caregiving through dementia teach you that your previous 85 years didn't? Contact James B. Flaherty (914) 326-2697; jflaherty@rtirguests.com

1/22/2026 RTIR Newsletter: ICE Anger, the Spiritual Power of Money and a Great White Shark Returns

01. It’s Time for a New US Grand Strategy
02. Let’s Get Real About ICE, Police, and Anger!
03. The Quiet Spiritual Power of Everyday Money Decisions
04. Timely Pet Topics: Emotional Support Animals, Vaccines and More
05. Is He Looking for Love? Great White Shark Returns to Florida
06. How to Protect Your Mental Health Amid Bad News
07. Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts
08. Medicare Mistakes That Quietly Undermine Your Health After 65
09. Quitting Caffeine Is the Health Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed
10. The Most Important Skill to Teach Kids: Resilience
11. Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body
12. Can Psychedelic Therapy Heal Trauma When Nothing Else Has?
13. The Emotional Root of Chronic Stress No One Talks About
14. Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain
15. The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice

1. ==> It’s Time for a New US Grand Strategy

The United States faces the most dangerous international circumstances since the end of World War II, and perhaps in its history. CFR Senior Fellow Robert D. Blackwill says that’s why we urgently need an effective U.S. grand strategy to deal with the threats. Blackwell can discuss the history of US grand strategies and five grand strategy schools from primacy to international liberalism and Trumpism. And the best way forward? Blackwell proposes an alternative American grand strategy: resolute global leadership. He’ll explain what exactly that is and why, even if the current president or the current Republican Party refuses to embrace it, there’s still reason for hope. “The fact remains that there is no irreparable break in the post–World War II order. Most of Trump’s dangerous initiatives can, with concerted effort, be reversed. A visionary next president, wedded to constitutional constraints at home and drawing on the enormous inherent power of the United States and its alliances abroad, can, through prudent choices and skillful implementation, restore the United States’ preeminent role in shaping a favorable world order, while promoting and defending vital U.S. national interests.” Robert D. Blackwill is the Henry A. Kissinger senior fellow for U.S. foreign policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, a senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, and a distinguished visiting fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Under President George W. Bush, he was deputy national security advisor for strategic planning, presidential envoy to Iraq, and U.S. ambassador to India from 2001 to 2003. Contact Turner Ruggi at truggi@cfr.org

2. ==> Let’s Get Real About ICE, Police, and Anger!

The shooting of a woman in Minneapolis, who was fleeing after an ICE agent told her to exit her vehicle, has sparked outrage from activists and citizens and anti-ICE protests are taking place in several cities. Crime and violence prevention specialist Stephanie Mann says anger toward the police has been a long-standing issue. “When people feel the police are overstepping boundaries, their anger increases, leading to protests and sometimes violence.” Mann says we can rebuild trust and community peace, but it requires citizens working together. “In neighborhoods with high crime rates where residents are angry and hostile toward police, responsible community leaders should consider forming a citizens’ Crime Prevention Committee to evaluate crime and recruit and train “Neighborhood Safety Experts” to bring neighbors together.” Invite her to discuss the Safe Kids Now movement, the benefits of collaboration between neighbors and police, and share success stories of communities that have become involved. Stephanie Mann is the executive director of the Safe Kids Now National Network and author of 5 books. She helped launch the National Neighborhood Watch Program in the 1970s. Contact her at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

3. ==> The Quiet Spiritual Power of Everyday Money Decisions

Why do so many of us have so many problems revolving around money? What if the problem isn’t money itself, but what we believe about it? John Coleman is co-CEO of Sovereign's Capital and a co-founder of the Faith Driven Investor movement. Coleman challenges Christians to rethink money not as a moral neutral or a necessary evil, but as a spiritual tool that quietly forms our loves, habits and priorities. As John puts it, “Money is meant to serve us, not rule us.” He believes when placed in its proper role, it can become one of God’s most powerful instruments for good. With a deep expertise in global finance and a theologically grounded view of stewardship, he speaks fluently to those who feel tension between faithfulness and ambition, generosity and security, calling and career. His message isn’t about budgeting or beating the market. It’s about earning with purpose, consuming wisely, giving generously, investing for impact, and even rethinking retirement as freedom for ongoing vocation rather than withdrawal from it. John Coleman’s new book is “Good Money: Six Steps to Building a Financial Life with Purpose.” Contact Marianna Gibson at marianna@jonesliterary.com

4. ==> Timely Pet Topics: Emotional Support Animals, Vaccines and More

What’s the healthiest diet to feed your pet? Is a raw diet necessary? And is it even healthy? Is there really a rise in fraudulent emotional support animals? The discourse surrounding the do’s and don’ts of caring for your furry friends can be nearly impossible to sift through alone, but integrative veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne has heard it all! With more than 20 years of running her own pet clinic, Dr. Carol is available to clear the air, debunk the myths, and educate pet owners with the facts they need to sift through the noise and make the right choices to properly care for their fur babies. Ask her: Should some breeding be restricted because of health issues? What about declawing cats? Is it cosmetic or inhumane? Do pets need vaccinations? And if so, which ones and are there side-effects? Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian and a nationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of functional medicine. She is the founder and director of the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center and Pet Clinic and an Emmy-nominated television journalist. She is also a regular contributor to several TV shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

5. ==> Is He Looking for Love? Great White Shark Returns to Florida

The Atlantic’s largest recorded male great white shark is back! “Contender” was tagged last year in Florida and researchers have been following his travels up and down the Eastern Seaboard ever since. After traveling as far north as the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the 14-foot, 1,700-pound shark has resurfaced in warmer coastal waters and experts think it may be because he’s looking for love. Chris Fischer, founder of OCEARCH, a U.S.-based marine research group that monitors shark movements globally, says researchers hope to gain new insight into the largely unknown reproductive habits of great white sharks. "Of the few clues we have, it seems like we need to be paying attention to the late winter and early spring area," Fischer told news agency SWNS. Contender has made one of the longest recorded migrations by a great white in the Atlantic. The shark has been recorded off the coasts of New Jersey and Canada, as well as near Jacksonville. He was spotted this summer near Nantucket, Massachusetts and then near Cape Hatteras, off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Contact Chris Fischer at chris@ocearch.org or chris@fischerproductions.com

6. ==> How to Protect Your Mental Health Amid Bad News

If reading the headlines makes you want to sigh loudly, hide your phone, or mutter “I can’t do this today,” you’re not alone. Happiness and mindset expert Deborah Mallow explains why nonstop negative news quietly drains energy, clouds decision-making, and leaves people feeling edgy or discouraged without realizing what’s happening. She shares simple, realistic ways to stay informed without letting the news hijack your mood, including quick techniques to interrupt stress spirals and reset perspective in minutes. Deborah’s upbeat, relatable approach reassures audiences that they don’t need to unplug completely to feel better, they just need smarter boundaries and a few mental tools that actually work. Deborah is the author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck” and a nationally recognized expert on mindset, resilience, and emotional well-being. Contact her at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts

Studies show that up to 85% of workplace conflict stems from communication breakdowns, but most people don’t address issues until it’s too late. Samuel Bentil, a global dispute avoidance expert and the author of “Avoid Construction Disputes,” will teach listeners how to spot and stop conflict before it starts. With workplace tension, team burnout and leadership turnover on the rise, his message is right on time. Samuel’s proven strategies focus on emotional intelligence, trust-building and collaboration, the skills that turn daily friction into productivity. And these same tools don’t just work on the job. They improve communication and reduce tension at home and in the community too. Contact Samuel at (778) 656-0067; sbentil@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Medicare Mistakes That Quietly Undermine Your Health After 65

Many seniors delay care or experience unnecessary stress because their Medicare is set up incorrectly. Toni King explains how common enrollment mistakes can limit access to doctors, prescriptions, and treatments, which directly affect health outcomes. She helps audiences understand Medicare as a health decision, not just paperwork. Toni King is a nationally recognized Medicare expert, columnist, and author of “The Medicare Survival Guide.” She has helped over 25,000 Americans navigate Medicare successfully. Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736; tking@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Quitting Caffeine Is the Health Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed

Coffee is celebrated as harmless, even healthy, but Norbert Heuser says caffeine may be one of the most overlooked addictions affecting sleep, anxiety, and long-term health. He shares what happened when he intentionally became addicted to coffee to study its effects firsthand, and what withdrawal revealed about energy, mood, and mental clarity. Heuser explains why caffeine dependence is rarely questioned, how it interacts with sugar addiction, and what people experience when they finally quit. His insights challenge deeply ingrained habits and spark powerful listener reactions. Norbert is a health and life coach, inventor, and author of “Every Coffee Drinker Is a Drug Addict,” with over 45 years of experience studying addiction and human health patterns. Contact him at (727) 261-2313; nheuser@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Most Important Skill to Teach Kids: Resilience

Today’s students are under more pressure than ever—from academics to social media to the expectation to “do it all.” Jack Gindi, founder of the I Believe in Me program, says the answer isn’t perfection—it’s resilience. He shares practical, real-world tools for helping kids bounce back from failure, manage big emotions, and believe in themselves no matter what’s won the test or scoreboard. Drawing on his own difficult childhood and decades of experience as a father, grandfather, and mentor, Jack will show parents how to replace constant correction with confidence-building habits. It’s a high-energy, relatable segment packed with easy takeaways listeners can start using tonight. Jack Gindi is the founder of the I Believe in Me program, dedicated to helping young people develop resilience and self-worth through emotional skill-building. Contact him at (719) 751-8807; jgindi@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body

When symptoms don’t respond to traditional approaches, Marilyn Mercado looks at energy. She explains how emotional stress and unresolved experiences can disrupt the body’s energy centers, often showing up as pain, fatigue, or recurring illness. Mercado helps audiences understand how chakra balance supports physical and emotional health and how simple awareness practices can restore flow. Her perspective offers an intriguing complement to conventional wellness conversations. Marilyn is an energy practitioner and holistic wellness expert specializing in chakra balance and mind-body healing. Contact her at (805) 332-4863; mmercado@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Can Psychedelic Therapy Heal Trauma When Nothing Else Has?

For people who feel stuck after years of traditional therapy, Anjalia McGoldrick explores why psychedelic-assisted healing is gaining attention. She discusses its potential benefits, risks, and limitations—grounded in both clinical understanding and personal experience. Her balanced perspective helps audiences navigate a complex, emerging topic responsibly. She is a licensed psychotherapist and author who integrates trauma-informed therapy with spiritual and emotional healing practices. Contact her at (540) 616-3200; amcgoldrick@rtirguests.com

13. ==> The Emotional Root of Chronic Stress No One Talks About

Many people eat well, exercise, and still feel depleted. Doreen Mary Bray believes the missing piece is emotional awareness. She explains how unprocessed emotions quietly drive chronic stress, fatigue, and burnout as well as why ignoring the inner world undermines physical health. Bray offers accessible ways to recognize emotional overload, reconnect with intuition, and restore balance without piling on to your to-do list. Her approach resonates with audiences overwhelmed by constant pressure and seeking a gentler path to wellness. Doreen is an intuitive guide and author whose work focuses on emotional healing, self-connection, and reducing stress through inner awareness. Contact Doreen Mary Bray at (438) 802-0280; dbray@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain

We’ve all heard the adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” Long-time chronic pain survivor Vita Oyler is living proof of that. When she was a young, highly athletic woman, she accidentally stepped on a rock, after which she developed reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), a severe malfunction of the nervous and immune systems. This led to decades of excruciating pain and, ultimately, the amputation of her foot and part of her leg. But she has managed to survive, and thrive, via incorporating humor into her healing journey. “Laughter releases the body’s natural painkillers known as endorphins,” she says. “Researchers have found that humor can increase tolerance to pain.” Vita is a rehabilitation counselor and doctoral candidate at San Diego State University. She is the author of “Got Pain? Now What?” Contact Vita Oyler at (209) 255-2962; Voyler@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice

You might think that worry, self-doubt, and complicated emotions are just a fact of life—the unavoidable side effects of growing up and achieving adulthood. But Ron Schneebaum, M.D. knows that not only is this NOT the case, we each have the ability to reconnect with our innate capacity for love, joy, and living a more meaningful life. “Reconnecting with our capacity for love starts with appreciating that love lives within,” Schneebaum says. “It’s part of our human birthright. We know this by exploring compassion, for compassion is love put into action.” The author of “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life,” Schneebaum draws on his decades of experience as an educator and primary care physician to prescribe common sense, practical techniques to help us break free from limiting beliefs and emotions. Contact him at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com