Category: RTIR Newsletter Special Issues

Back-to-school season brings more than supply lists and schedules. It brings pressure, self-doubt and parenting dilemmas that don’t come with a handbook. This compelling group of guests offers exactly the kind of fresh, real-world insight listeners need right now. Whether you want bold takes on educational equity, tools for raising confident kids, or brain-based strategies to beat procrastination, these guests deliver timely, story-rich conversations that resonate with every listener.

01. This NBA Player Couldn’t Read. Today He has a Master’s Degree
02. Bias on Campus? Here’s How to Talk About It
03. A Lost School Model That Could Fix Education Today
04. The Math Fix That Could Change Your Teen’s Year
05. Procrastination Starts Young—Here’s How to Stop It
06. Keep the ‘Summer Groove’ Going: Stay Connected With Kids
07. Why Pushing Your Kids Could Break Them
08. The Bigger-Hearted Way to Parent This School Year
09. The Most Important Skill to Teach: Resilience
10. Is Your Child Struggling with Back-to-School Doubt?

----------------------------------------------------------
1. ==> This NBA Player Couldn’t Read. Today He has a Master’s Degree

Dean Tolson was functionally illiterate when he joined the Seattle Sonics in the 1970s. He was the all-time rebounder at the University of Arkansas, but that didn’t prepare him for life after four years in the NBA. Tolson believes his greatest achievement was earning a master’s degree magna cum laude and now devotes his life to reach at-risk youth and adults about the power of education. His book, “Power Forward,” is about his experiences on the court and in the classroom. Contact Dean Tolson at (253) 884-8934; dtolson@rtirguests.com

2. ==> Bias on Campus? Here’s How to Talk About It

With DEI programs under fire and campus conversations growing more polarized, many schools are unsure how to address bias productively. Dr. Dionne Poulton, PhD-trained educator and author of “DEI 2.0,” teaches students and educators how to unpack bias without shame—and rebuild a culture of belonging with decency, excellence, and integrity. Her CHECK method creates space for real dialogue in classrooms, cafeterias, and campus meetings, even when opinions clash. In this interview, she shares practical tips for handling bias incidents, opening up tough conversations, and making inclusion more than a buzzword. Dr. Dionne Poulton is an educator, corporate diversity strategist, and author with 20+ years of experience helping organizations and schools tackle bias and build stronger communities. Contact her at dpoulton@rtirguests.com or (404) 383-8924

3. ==> A Lost School Model That Could Fix Education Today

In the 1970s, a racially diverse California high school created a thriving culture of belonging, student voice, and academic success—long before DEI became a buzzword. Brandeis Prof. Emerita Dr. Karen Hansen tells the remarkable true story in her new book, “Working-Class Kids and Visionary Educators,” drawing on over 100 interviews and rich archival material. In this segment, she reveals how the school’s inclusive programs, teacher-student relationships and culturally relevant curriculum transformed outcomes—and how schools today can replicate its success. It’s a hopeful, history-meets-solutions conversation for anyone concerned about education reform. Dr. Karen V. Hansen is a historical sociologist and professor emerita at Brandeis University specializing in education, race, and community. Contact Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

4. ==> The Math Fix That Could Change Your Teen’s Year

Hate math? Your teen probably does too—and Dr. Craig Hane says it’s often because they’ve been taught the wrong way. Known as “Dr. Del,” he developed a system to help struggling students find real-world meaning in math, rebuild confidence, and even start to enjoy it. In this back-to-school conversation, he’ll show parents how to stop the nightly homework battles and start sparking curiosity, from basic algebra to practical problem-solving. His approach works especially well for students who feel “behind” or disconnected from traditional methods. Dr. Craig Hane is an educator, author, and creator of the Triad Math program, with decades of experience making math accessible and relevant for teens. Contact him at (812) 408-8047; chane@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Procrastination Starts Young—Here’s How to Stop It

If your child waits until the last minute to start homework, the problem isn’t laziness—it’s brain wiring. Neuroscientist and educator Dr. Linda Gannaway says procrastination is a learned habit that can be rewired with the right tools. In this segment, she explains how to help students break the cycle of distraction, delay, and dread, and replace it with focus, planning, and follow-through. Her approach is rooted in the latest cognitive science and works for kids of all ages—from elementary school to college-bound teens. She’ll share simple strategies parents and teachers can use right away to make schoolwork less stressful and more productive. Dr. Linda Gannaway is a neuroscientist, educator and author of “Finally Stop Procrastinating,” specializing in brain-based behavior change. Contact her at (559) 234-4572; lgannaway@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Keep the ‘Summer Groove’ Going: Stay Connected With Kids 

Summer’s easygoing rhythm often gives parents more time and space to connect with their kids—but the school year can change that overnight. Parenting expert Richard Ramos says families don’t have to lose that bond when the homework and sports schedules kick in. In his Parents on a Mission program, he teaches parents how to keep communication open, set healthy boundaries, and reduce screen time without constant battles. In this segment, he’ll share how to recognize early signs of disconnection, the “Home Field Advantage” strategy to strengthen relationships, and how to balance academic demands with family time. Richard Ramos is the founder of Parents on a Mission and a nationally recognized parenting coach who has helped thousands of families reconnect. Contact him at (805) 456-1407; rramos@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Why Pushing Your Kids Could Break Them

Back-to-school season can turn into a pressure cooker for kids when parents push too hard for high grades, top sports performance, or constant achievement. Former LPGA Tour Player and mindset coach Cindy Miller has seen how perfectionism, comparison and performance pressure can crush kids’ confidence. In this conversation, she shares what parents should (and shouldn’t) say after a bad grade or tough loss, why mistakes are essential for growth, and how to raise resilient kids without breaking their spirit. Her advice applies on and off the field, helping families set goals while keeping perspective. Cindy Miller is a former LPGA Tour Player, Hall of Fame LPGA Professional and certified mindset coach with decades of experience developing confident young athletes. Contact her at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Bigger-Hearted Way to Parent This School Year

The start of a new school year doesn’t just test students—it challenges parents, too. Retired pediatrician Dr. Ron Schneebaum spent 40 years guiding families through the stress of new routines, academic pressure and social changes. He blends developmental expertise with a compassionate approach to parenting and shows how empathy and connection can strengthen family bonds even in hectic times. He’ll share simple, heart-based strategies to help parents feel confident in their choices, defuse conflicts and model resilience for their kids. Dr. Ron Schneebaum is the author of “Bigger Hearted.” Contact him at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com

9. ==> The Most Important Skill to Teach: 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 on the test or scoreboard. Drawing on his own difficult childhood and decades of experience as a father, grandfather, and mentor, Jack shows 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

10. ==> Is Your Child Struggling with Back-to-School Doubt?

What if your child’s biggest back-to-school hurdle isn’t math or reading—but mindset? Bilingual teacher and children’s author Armida Espinoza helps kids overcome imposter syndrome and negative self-talk before it sabotages their learning. Drawing on her own experience as a first-generation student who once stayed silent in class out of shame, she offers practical, heart-centered strategies parents and teachers can use right now. She’ll explain how to reframe failure, help kids challenge their inner critic, and build confidence that lasts far beyond the first report card. A timely conversation for any show tackling school anxiety, self-esteem, or the challenges facing diverse classrooms today. Armida Espinoza is a bilingual teacher and creator of the Brave Lolis children’s book series, inspired by her work helping students embrace their strengths. Contact her at (559) 234-3516; aespinoza@rtirguests.com

The Story Behind the Story

Headlines grab attention, but if you want to get to the meat of an issue, you need to dig a little deeper. Listeners will hear the story behind the story when you book one of these experts. Get ready to unpack the complexities behind today’s most talked-about issues.

1. Are Tariffs the Answer to Saving American Jobs? This Economist Says Yes 
2. We’re in the Middle of a Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care
3. Inside Today’s High-Profile Court Cases: Is Justice for Sale?
4. The Real Impact of Foreign Aid Cuts and the Dismantling of Diplomacy
5. What's Behind the War on Diversity? How Bias Training Could Actually Unite America
6. He’s White, A Former Evangelical Minister —and Tackling Race Head-On

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. ==> Are Tariffs the Answer to Saving American Jobs? This Economist Says Yes

Forget what you think you know about tariffs. Wealth manager and geopolitical commentator Rodger Friedman makes a bold case: tariffs, if used strategically, are not a relic—they’re a solution. “Tariffs protect workers, secure sovereignty and check global manipulation,” he says. Drawing from decades in finance and policy, Friedman warns against free-trade idealism and shares why smart protectionism may be key to rebuilding U.S. manufacturing. As the author of the Equal Opportunity Times column, he brings hard data and harder truth—without the political spin. Great for any segment on inflation, labor policy or America’s economic future. Contact Rodger Friedman at (301) 327-2255; rfriedman@rtirguests.com

2. ==> We’re in the Middle of a Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care

America’s birth rate has plunged to its lowest level ever, with the CDC reporting fewer than 1.6 children per woman in 2024. Meantime, a recent study shows the odds of having a boy or girl are no longer 50-50.  Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says both are symptoms of a much bigger fertility crisis. “Declining birth rates will reshape everything—from who cares for the elderly to who fuels the workforce,” the OB/GYN warns. Dr. Marina’s book, Optimize Your Fertility Naturally, offers a lifestyle-based approach to fertility and menstrual health—but she also sounds the alarm on the broader costs of reproductive neglect. She’ll bust myths, explain the falling boy birth ratio and share what needs to change—at home and in policy. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com 

3. ==> Inside Today’s High-Profile Court Cases: Is Justice for Sale?

Whether your listeners are trying to follow high-profile criminal trials or understand the role of politics within the courts, it can be hard to make sense of how our legal system really works. James Porfido has decades of experience on both sides of the bench as a former prosecutor and a defense attorney. He says justice may be blind, but it’s certainly not cheap and will reveal how money plays an outsized role in who wins in court, and who loses everything. He’ll expose how wealth tips the scales: from bail to legal strategy to sentencing. His book, Unequal Justice, dives deep into the systemic gaps that disadvantage the poor and protect the powerful. With high-profile trials in the news and court cases continually making headlines, this is the perfect time to explore whether the justice system is truly fair—or just for sale. Contact James Porfido at (973) 620-2157; jporfido@rtirguests.com

4. ==> The Real Impact of Foreign Aid Cuts and the Dismantling of Diplomacy 

The U.S. recently gutted its diplomatic corps—eliminating thousands of positions in one sweeping move. Danielle Reiff, a former USAID diplomat with 20 years of experience, says the impact goes far beyond the loss of jobs. “We’ve quietly dismantled one of our strongest tools for global influence,” she says. Reiff offers a rare insider look at what U.S. diplomacy actually does, why it matters now more than ever, and what happens when our “soft power” disappears. She also leads the Peacebuilders Initiative, empowering citizens to unite across divides—something she says is more urgent now than at any point in her career. Timely, global, and eye-opening. Contact Danielle Reiff at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com

5. ==> What's Behind the War on Diversity? How Bias Training Could Actually Unite America

DEI fatigue is real. But Dionne Poulton says the problem isn’t the goal—it’s the delivery. Her CHECK method helps executives, educators and everyday citizens rethink bias without shame or shutdown. “We all have biases,” she says. “It’s how we deal with them that shapes culture.” A PhD-trained educator and former national athlete, Dionne is the author of DEI 2.0: Decency, Excellence, Integrity. She offers a bold but unifying message: when done right, bias education can actually heal divisions. She’ll also share where DEI goes wrong, how to talk about inclusion without inflaming tensions, and why humility—not outrage—is the secret to change. Contact Dionne Poulton at dpoulton@rtirguests.com or (404) 383-8924

6. == > He’s White, A Former Evangelical Minister —and Tackling Race Head-On

He raises bulls, quotes scripture and has four adopted Black children. Meet Rick Patterson, the former pastor turned corporate exec who’s challenging how America talks about race, masculinity and power. “I used to preach certainty,” he says. “Now I lead with questions.” With humor and humility, Patterson offers a surprising voice both sides of the culture war can actually hear. He’s the author of Shame Unmasked and The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth, and says faith-based leaders need a new playbook for connection. Don’t miss this guest’s fresh take on reconciliation, manhood and what true leadership looks like in divided times. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com

The World of Work Vol. 1

Americans are feeling worse about the labor market outlook and for good reason. There are clear signs of a slowdown all over the place right now. The hiring rate is near its lowest level in more than a decade and the outlook for certain cohorts of the labor market, like tech workers and new college graduates, is worse than before the pandemic. Here are four guests who can prop up your listeners’ work game, whether they’re searching for a new job, want to create a better work/life balance, or are looking for inspiration for their next gig.

1. ==> What Hustle Culture Gets Wrong About Success

Hustle culture myth says long hours are the only path to success. Shawn Fry is here to prove that wrong. The author of “Sustained Business Growth: How to Lead Radical Change, Overcome Adversity, and Ignite Explosive Growth Without Sacrificing Those That Matter Most,” will reveal battle-tested principles and a formula for skyrocketing success—without burnout. A global business leader who has impacted 60+ companies across 17 countries, Shawn delivers real-world strategies for new grads, working parents, entrepreneurs and executives to work smarter, lead better and thrive personally and professionally—at any stage of their career. Contact Shawn at (330) 422-4090; Sfry@rtirguests.com

2. ==> This Broadway Producer and Radio Host Helped Launch Andy Kaufman’s Career

Want to know what it’s like to produce a one-man show with Andy Kaufman— in college? Or coach Jim Carrey for Man on the Moon? Have Al Parinello on your show to find out. Al is a media entrepreneur, Broadway producer, former radio host of Your Own Success, and creator of a six-step formula for achieving the “impossible” regularly. With over 3,000 interviews under his belt—including Donald Trump, Steve Allen, Merv Griffin, and rock stars galore—Parinello’s boiled down what truly works when it comes to personal and professional success. His fresh, counterintuitive strategies have inspired students, professionals, and creatives alike. He’s got the stories, the strategy, and the showbiz sparkle to light up any mic. Contact Al Parinello at (201) 730-9769; aparinello@rtirguests.com

3. ==> How to Silence Imposter Syndrome

Ever feel like you’re just one mistake away from being “found out”? You’re not alone. Imposter syndrome affects up to 70% of people—including CEOs, creatives, and high-achievers. Former corporate leader-turned-author and coach Mike Sealy says many people who look confident on the outside are battling intense self-doubt within. On your show, he’ll reveal the mindset tools that helped him—and countless others—break free from the fear of not being good enough. Whether you’re a leader, learner, or dreamer, his 10 keys to a growth mindset offer a roadmap to step into your full potential. Mike is the author of “Mindset Unlocked.” Contact Mike Sealy at msealy@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Garage Sale Millionaire – Tips and Tricks for a Successful Reselling Side Gig

Looking for a side gig to make extra money? Have you thought about reselling online? Want to have a 5-figure garage sale?  Aaron LaPedis, the Garage Sale Millionaire, is the perfect guest to talk about creative ways to make money. Aaron’s journey as an entrepreneur started when he was 9, flipping coins, stamps and baseball cards. By 21 he was a millionaire. Invite him on your show and learn how to have a five-figure garage sale, how to buy and sell online marketplaces and eBay, and the five top scams people are losing money to while buying and selling online. Aaron had a TV show on PBS for many years and continues to be an expert for the FBI. Contact him at alapedis@rtirguests.com 

01. What My Kids Taught Me About Race, Masculinity and Becoming a Better Man
02. When Father’s Day Isn’t Picture-Perfect: Healing from a Parent Who Let You Down
03. How to Be a Dad Your Kids Will Remember for All the Right Reasons
04. Fatherly Wisdom for Raising Strong Kids in an Uncertain World
05. Timeless Father’s Day Wisdom from an 87-Year-Old Dad
06. The Science of Love, Joy & Fatherhood: A Doctor’s Prescription for a Happier Life


1. ==> What My Kids Taught Me About Race, Masculinity and Becoming a Better Man

Father’s Day is the perfect time to explore how parenting transforms us, and no one tells that story quite like Rick Patterson. A former evangelical pastor and father of four adopted Black children, Rick shares how fatherhood challenged everything he thought he knew about race, masculinity and leadership. Producers can expect a compelling, courageous conversation that covers what it’s like to parent across racial lines in America, how dads can unlearn harmful messages about toughness and why vulnerability—not control—is the mark of true strength. He’s the author of “Shame Unmasked” and “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth,” and brings bold, bridge-building insights to every interview. Rick is ideal for shows looking to go beyond surface-level Father’s Day chatter and offer something truly transformative. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com

2.==> When Father’s Day Isn’t Picture-Perfect: Healing from a Parent Who Let You Down

For many, Father’s Day stirs up more pain than celebration. Sabrina Ciceri knows that feeling well. Her own mother ran off with her boyfriend. In her inspiring book “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Mother,” she shares how she broke free from generational trauma and built a healthy family of her own. On your show, Sabrina can walk your audience through the three emotional boundaries that helped her begin healing and share her “permission slip” mindset for those who feel guilty about cutting ties or skipping the holiday altogether. Book her to help your audience reframe Father’s Day with strength, grace and the power to write a new story, even if their past is far from perfect. Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308-1596; Sciceri@rtirguests.com

3.==> How to Be a Dad Your Kids Will Remember for All the Right Reasons

Today’s dads are feeling stretched and disconnected. For a Father’s day show that speaks directly to modern dads, invite Richard Ramos, a former Corrections Officer and at-risk youth counselor on your show. Ramos can talk about what kids really need in today’s world and how fathers can stay relevant and remain a strong influence in their kids’ lives. As the creator of the Home Field Advantage method and author of “Parents on a Mission,” he’s helped thousands of fathers strengthen connection, rebuild trust and lead with love. Richard will share with your audience practical tools to help dads improve communication, set healthy boundaries and create a home environment where their kids feel safe and proud to return to. Whether it’s navigating teen pushback, blended families or social media overload, his insights are actionable, heartfelt and rooted in years of experience with real families. Contact Richard Ramos at (805) 456-1407; rramos@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Fatherly Wisdom for Raising Strong Kids in an Uncertain World

Jack Gindi has raised four kids, mentored hundreds more and built his “I Believe in Me” program to help children develop the confidence and emotional resilience that life demands from anyone aiming to be successful. But here’s the inspiring part: Jack still carves out time every day to write a short, motivational letter to his kids, and they’re all grown up! It’s that fatherly thoughtfulness and intention that Jack aims to bring to every audience. He shares how small, consistent actions like this create lasting connection and trust, even through the teen years and tough conversations. He also introduces his signature “3 Cs” tool—Clarity, Confidence and Consistency—so dads can model emotional strength in a way kids actually respond to. With a heartfelt message and real-life strategies, Jack’s Father’s Day interview is a meaningful mix of humor and practical parenting tools every father can use. Contact Jack Gindi at (719) 751-8807; jgindi@rtirguests.com


5. ==> Timeless Father’s Day Wisdom from an 87-Year-Old Dad

With 87 years of life experience, 65 years of marriage and four grown kids, author David Selley has plenty of fatherhood wisdom to spare. He’s on a mission to set a Guinness World Record for most books published in a single year, but his true legacy is the perspective he offers on love, family and what truly matters. On your show, David can share the three questions every dad should ask their children before it’s too late as well as his “golden rule” for staying connected through every stage of fatherhood. With warmth, humility and a gentle sense of humor, he brings timeless advice that resonates across generations. Book him for a Father’s Day segment that is equal parts heart, history and hope. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; dselley@rtirguests.com

6. ==> The Science of Love, Joy & Fatherhood: A Doctor’s Prescription for a Happier Life

Dr. Ron Schneebaum spent 40 years caring for children as a pediatrician, and during his long career he discovered something profound: being “bigger-hearted” isn’t just good for your kids, it’s essential for your own happiness. Invite Dr. Ron to share simple, research-backed habits that strengthen father-child connection and reveal how a daily gratitude practice can improve family dynamics and personal well-being. He also offers practical ways for fathers to regulate stress and avoid emotional shutdown, especially in high-pressure parenting moments. Dr. Ron Schneebaum is the author of “Bigger Hearted,” a blend of science, spirituality and real-world experience to help parents reconnect with love, purpose and emotional presence. A warm, thoughtful guest, Dr. Ron is ideal for shows seeking uplifting, grounded advice this Father’s Day. Contact him at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com