Category: Uncategorized

01. Let’s Talk about Trump’s Twitter Ban
02. Presidents Who Snubbed Their Successors
03. Former Staffer: How to Fix Our Crippled Congress
04. Inside the Latest Jobs Report
05. How to Cope with 2020 Losses
06. Could COVID End the War on Drugs?
07. What to Do If Shots Erupt
08. Why We Think People are Lying When They’re Not
09. The Secret Skill Missing from Most Leaders
10. The Nursing Shortage is Here
11. Do a Funny Show on Caring for Aging Parents
12. College and COVID: Is Virtual Learning Better than YouTube?
13. Learning from Home: Tips to Keep Kids Tuned In
14. Sick and Misunderstood: Mother of Four with Rare Disease
15. Award-Winning Medium Answers Your Questions

1.==> Let’s Talk about Trump’s Twitter Ban

In the wake of the Capitol riot last week, Twitter, Facebook and several other tech giants have banned Donald Trump from the platforms, some permanently. But Michael Brennan says, “While people may laugh at the absurdity of the Twitter President being put in permanent timeout, it raises a serious question about decision-making.” Brennan warns, “There is an ongoing constitutional crisis occurring within and between the executive and legislative branches of the U.S. government. Citizens depend on media to communicate events and narratives as they unfold in real-time, but the means of communication have long been unaccountable to users, workers, or governments. What are the implications of platform monopolies’ direct intervention in political conflict?” Brennan can also discuss why debate on the issue of tech monopolies is still narrowly focused on “increasing competition” rather than a full-scale re-imagination of the platform economy away from surveillance capitalism and toward democratic control. Brennan is a policy organizer at the Democracy Policy Network and a research fellow at The Democracy Collaborative, a non-profit, American think-tank and research center at the University of Maryland. Contact him at mb@democracypolicy.network; @mrbrnn

2. ==> Presidents Who Snubbed Their Successors

The presidential election of 2020 is already one for the history books. President Trump’s term expires at noon on January 20, but Trump, who challenged the results of the election for two months, says he will not attend his successor’s inauguration. Presidential historian Thomas Balcerski says Trump isn’t the first sore loser to skip the proceedings. “John Adams in 1801, John Quincy Adams in 1829 and Andrew Johnson in 1869, refused to attend their successors’ inaugurations. Poor form even then, they all the same provide an apt example for what may follow in today’s divided political climate.” He’ll describe the circumstances of each snub, how the acts played out afterward, and why Trump’s recalcitrance is no surprise and shouldn’t bother Democrats. Thomas Balcerski teaches history at Eastern Connecticut State University. He is the author of “Bosom Friends: The Intimate World of James Buchanan and William Rufus King.” Contact him at (860) 465-4005; balcerskit@easternct.edu

3. ==> Former Staffer: How to Fix Our Crippled Congress

Even before last week’s chaos, one look at the way Capitol Hill operates shows how crippled the U.S. political system is. Former deputy chief of staff to Senator Harry Reid (D-NV), Adam Jentleson will map out the U.S. Senate’s decline from a great deliberative body to the nexus of partisan gridlock. He traces the gridlock back to the early 20th century when southern senators fought to protect Jim Crow laws and instituted the filibuster. He’ll explain how the filibuster and entrenched party loyalties became a “kill switch” that cuts off broad-based solutions and shuts down our democratic process. He can discuss the history of the Senate and how reform is necessary, reforms that “fix” filibuster rules to allow real debate, and the challenges of advancing popular policy in a minority-controlled Senate. Jentleson is the public affairs director at Democracy Forward, a columnist for GQ and a frequent political commentator on MSNBC. His new book is “Kill Switch The Rise of the Modern Senate and the Crippling of American Democracy.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 991-8328; jboyer@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Inside the Latest Jobs Report

According to the latest government job report, the U.S. lost 140,000 jobs in December as the pandemic continues to ravage consumer demand and lockdowns limit business operations. “The longer the pandemic continues — the longer it takes for vaccines to be administered — the greater the destruction of jobs and businesses, particularly small businesses, will be,” says Andrew Challenger, of the global outplacement and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. “The job-letting will not end before the pandemic. In fact, we likely will not see the full ramifications of this downturn until years after the pandemic ends, when we get a better picture of just how many jobs were wiped out completely during this period.” He’ll discuss which sectors of the economy have been hardest hit, where and when jobs may return, and what will determine which companies survive. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> How to Cope with 2020 Losses

2020 might be described as “the year of losses.” As a result of the pandemic, people endured the pain of losing loved ones, jobs and marriages, and the death of the idea that they are safe from harm. For many, their world is standing still as they try to grapple with what happened and how to live again. After coping with the loss of two husbands and other close relatives, Emily Thiroux Threatt has become a guide for others who need support to find positivity in grieving. The author of “Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief” can discuss how to find joy and gratitude in dark moments, what people can say to others so that they can better understand and help them in their recovery journey, and what “mindful grieving” is and the role meditation can play in its practice. Emily Thiroux Threatt is an author and lecturer who taught writing and composition at the college and university level for over 30 years. Contact her at (661) 428-3610; emily@lovingandlivingyourwaythroughgrief.com

6. ==> Could COVID End the War on Drugs?

In the 2020 election, nine out of nine measures to decriminalize or legalize drugs passed with clear margins. What will 2021 bring? Attorney Colleen Cowles will share the myths about addiction held by both political parties and discuss what’s ahead for drug policy in the U.S. thanks to COVID and the election. Ask her: Will the rampant spread of COVID in overcrowded prisons bring further scrutiny to mass incarceration? Will movements to defund police result in less punitive measures for those with substance use disorders, or will decreases in law enforcement personnel lead to increased crime rates and other issues? Will public sentiment and fiscal concerns brought on by COVID lead more states to legalize cannabis in 2021? Will the federal government end cannabis prohibition? Cowles is an attorney, advocate, and the author of “War On Us: How the War on Drugs and Myths About Addiction Have Created a War on All of Us.” She also created the online class “Protecting Your Assets When Addiction Finds Your Family.” Contact her at (715) 828-0293; Colleen@WarOnUs.com

7. ==> What to Do If Shots Erupt

Last week’s Capitol riot reminds us that violence can erupt anywhere. Would you know what to do if you were in a public place and someone started shooting? Whether you’re on public transportation, at work or sitting on your front stoop, you could unwittingly find yourself in an active shooter situation. How can you and your loved ones stay safe when shots ring out? Would you be able to react, escape, find cover, seek help, or shield others? Would you notice dangers before they put anyone at risk? What actions should you always take or never take? Explore the vital answers with personal protection specialist Allen Banks, CEO of Proactive Protection Agency. He’s the developer of Active Shooter Prevention and Workplace Violence Prevention Training, plus special programs for schools and other locations. Contact him at (661) 417-0786; abanks@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Why We Think People are Lying When They’re Not

The truth seems to be in short supply these days. But is it? “Most people accuse whoever is on the opposite side of a political debate with lying or dishonesty when an honest evaluation of the situation is that they disagree with their opinion about something,” says author and leadership expert Steven Mays. Mays can talk about why we toss around labels like “racist,” “tyrant,” and “Snowflake,” as a way of disavowing other people’s experiences and opinions and why poor leadership leads to catastrophic unintended consequences like riots and pandemics. Mays is the author of “Power of 3 Leadership, Lessons in Leadership.” A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis who served on nuclear submarines, he was a mathematician, electrical engineer, and nuclear engineer who worked in private industry and at the Nuclear Regulation Commission. Contact him at (703) 552-5672; smays@rtirguests.com

9. ==> The Secret Skill Missing from Most Leaders

If leadership coach and expert Tim Winders had only one message to share right now — and he has many — it would be that businesses and organizations need to inject more love in their day-to-day operations to reduce racism, sexism, divisiveness, turnover, and productivity problems. Invite Winders, who has over 25 years’ experience as a coach for business owners, executives, and leaders, to share ways employers can utilize kindness and skillful communication to motivate employees to do better and increase the bottom line. Winders, who along with his wife, lives and works in a large RV while traveling around the country, survived several business failures before finding a better path in life. He hosts the “SeekGoCreate” podcast. Contact him at (404) 846-4639; twinders@rtirguests.com. Ask about last-minute availability

10. ==> The Nursing Shortage is Here

Thanks in no small degree to the pandemic, burnout, and an older workforce, rural areas and small hospitals are scrambling for nurses with some ERs operating with fewer nurses than they should. How can we help prevent these nursing shortages which are likely to worsen as our aging population needs more care? You’ll want to explore this timely topic and the nursing experience with all its implications by interviewing Nancy Congleton. In addition to offering solutions to help today’s nurses and ultimately everyone they serve, she will reveal the unexpected realities of the nursing profession, five relationship dynamics that nurses face, legal issues, and the concerns everyone should have when nurses feel so unprepared and overworked that they leave. An outspoken registered nurse known as Nurse Nancy, Nancy has worked in the NICU, ER, and case management. She’s the author of “Autopsy of the NP: Dissecting the Nursing Profession Piece By Piece.” Contact Nancy Congleton at (918) 992-4616; NCongleton@rtirguests.com

11. == > Do a Funny Show on Caring for Aging Parents

In tough times, a laugh can help keep our spirits up. Kathleen Lenane is here to explore the humorous side of family caregiving. Yes, even in a pandemic. Kat is the creator of the hilarious website The Clueless Caregiver and blog. Expect to chortle and guffaw as she answers, in an entertaining Q&A format, questions like: How do I tell my 85-year-old father he shouldn’t be driving anymore? And: Where does Mom hide the hearing aids, iron supplements and medical alert pendant she should be using — but insists “she doesn’t really need”? Kat’s mix of wit and tips includes personal stories of, for instance, rounding up discarded hospital meal-tray bananas for a Super Bowl party her father threw in the Intensive Care Unit (way before COVID times). Kat has worked as a book ghostwriter and staff writer and editor for SELF and Cosmopolitan — in addition to caring for two mischievous parents who refused to act old into their 90s. Contact Kat at (860) 500-1524; klenane@rtirguests.com

12. ==> College and COVID: Is Virtual Learning Better than YouTube?

With U.S. college campuses dealing with COVID outbreaks and many classes taking place online the time is right to think about the value of a college education, the debt that is typically involved in acquiring one and whether a trade school or associate degree may be a better fit for high school seniors contemplating their future. Former college professor Glen Dunzweiler wants to help parents frame this discussion, thereby helping Gen Zs to plot a well-paying, satisfying future that puts their needs ahead of those of a future employer, college bursar or loan officer. Glen will explain why a traditional college education does not lead to a secure future for most students, why trade schools and work experience can be a better option and ways students can monetize their skills once they graduate. In addition to his former role as a college professor, Glen is a documentarian and the author of two books. His latest is “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills for Students.” Contact Glen at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Learning from Home: Tips to Keep Kids Tuned In

Education has been profoundly affected as today’s pandemic drags on. From kindergarten to college, for many school administrators, the alternative to spreading COVID-19 has meant the introduction of virtual classrooms. Educator, speaker, and author Barbara Daniels will discuss virtual teaching options and whether students benefit from them. Author of the award-winning Timmy Teacup book series, Daniels will reveal how to eliminate common school problems, engage students more and encourage teachers to be more compassionate. She’ll discuss how to keep order and minimize distractions in virtual classrooms, what’s currently missing and what’s more effective, and how we can help teachers improve. Contact Barbara Daniels at (636) 220-5495; BDaniels@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Sick and Misunderstood: Mother of Four with Rare Disease

Having one child with a rare, incurable and often misunderstood genetic disease is tough enough but Ann S. Woodbury has four children — and a husband — with myotonic dystrophy ((Dystrophia Myotonica, DM), a disease that is characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness. Ever since their diagnosis in 1998, Woodbury has been advocating for families like hers and educating physicians about the symptoms that can vary from individual to individual and affect multiple organs. Invite her on your show to learn why as many as 50% of those with this disease remain undiagnosed, and how symptoms of the disease can alienate sufferers because of their “different” behavior. Ann Woodbury has been caregiving and advocating for her family since their diagnoses in 1998, at a time when even doctors didn’t know all of the effects of DM or that it was a brain disorder. She has shared her knowledge of the disease and its treatment as the former head of Utah’s DM support group. She is the author of “Surviving Myotonic Dystrophy.” Contact her at (801) 554-1258; annswoodbury@gmail.com

15. ==> Award-Winning Medium Answers Your Questions

What does a medium really do? How can a psychic help people who are struggling in life? Find out when you bring Beth Lynch on your show. She’ll reveal how a deeper sense of spirituality can heal us at any age. Learn what’s missing in modern life, the surprising benefits of prayer and meditation, and spiritual-based remedies for anxiety and loss. Whether your show is about relationships, news, family, business, money, health, or the unexplained — there’s an audience for Beth Lynch! Ask her: What do dreams often signify? How do you strengthen your ideals in such a difficult year? How does spirituality enhance wellness, relationships, and even finances? What does it take to communicate with the afterlife? Beth Lynch has been practicing and teaching spiritual principles and meditation for over 25 years. She is a popular author, speaker and media guest. Contact Beth at (484) 705-2818; BLynch@rtirguests.com

01. When Dangerous Rhetoric Turns to Action
02. Just the Facts, Please
03. Housing Predictions for 2021
04. DOTUS: Welcome to the New White House Dogs!
05. Was That Who You Thought It Was?
06. Achieve Joy, Purpose and Fulfillment after Disastrous 2020
07. Make More Peace in 2021
08. Immune-Boosting Tips to Stay Healthy This Winter
09. Sloppy Record-Keeping Could Cost You Your Life
10. Why Other Nations are Better at Easing the Opioid Epidemic
11. You’ve Probably Had a Concussion and Didn’t Know
12. Will the Supreme Court Take IVF Away?
13. Become a Wine Whiz in 15 Minutes
14. Advantages Self-Doubters Have that Self-Confident People Lack
15. Would You Sacrifice Your Career for Your Child’s?

1.==> When Dangerous Rhetoric Turns to Action

Is President Trump to blame for yesterday’s storming of the Capitol by his supporters? Invite communication expert Helio Fred Garcia, author of “Words On Fire: The Power of Incendiary Language and How to Confront It,” to discuss the language President Trump uses and how that conditions his followers to accept, condone, and commit violence against a targeted group, rival, or critic and the history of such rhetoric. He’ll explain “lone-wolf whistle violence” ¬— a term he coined to describe rhetoric that provokes violence on the model of “dog whistle” politics, where politicians use coded language that conveys benign meaning to most people, but a different meaning to members of a certain group or followers of a certain ideology. Learn the playbook of 12 forms of communication that typically precede acts of mass violence and how civic leaders and engaged citizens can hold leaders accountable to prevent such harm. Helio Fred Garcia is president of the crisis management firm Logos Consulting Group and is on the adjunct faculties of New York University and Columbia University. He is a senior fellow at the Institute of Corporate Communication at Communication University of China and a contract lecturer at the Defense Information School and at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Garcia’s previous books include “The Agony of Decision: Mental Readiness and Leadership in a Crisis” and “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively.” Contact Johanna Ramos Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 646-5188

2. ==> When You Want Facts and Only Facts

Tired of listening to politicians and officials spinning numbers, making things up and downright lying? Skeptical about the news media? Americans need unbiased information and facts to make informed decisions. What’s in the latest coronavirus relief package? How much money was spent on the Georgia Senate race? How often do police use excessive force in arrests? USAFacts is a nonpartisan civic initiative that provides a data-driven portrait of the population, government’s finances, and government’s impact on society. USAFacts presents metrics on all U.S. governments, from federal records to a growing collection of state and county data, including coronavirus data. It provides vital spending, revenue, demographic, and performance information as a free public service and commits to maintaining and expanding their available data in the future. For interviews, contact Lisa Conquergood at (425) 332-4196; lisac@usafacts.org

3. ==> Housing Predictions for 2021

The way the real estate market has been moving has been a surprise to most of us, especially during the second quarter of last year when there was so much uncertainty. As for 2021, real estate expert Andrew Ragusa says a big flood gate will open once the courts start to move forward with evictions and foreclosures. Invite him on your show to share his perspectives and predictions for the housing market in 2021. Hear why he believes home buyers will have a very small window of opportunity to purchase property at a more affordable price and when that will be. Ragusa will discuss how remote working will affect real estate, his predictions for the rental market, and why he believes the gig economy is here to stay. A media regular on TV and radio, Andrew Ragusa is the CEO/Broker of REMI Realty on Long Island, New York. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; (919) 377-1200 or ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

4.==> DOTUS: Welcome to the New White House Dogs!

The White House has been without a presidential pet since the Obama’s moved out, but that will change when the Biden family moves in with their German shepherds. Alexandra Horowitz, author of “Our Dogs Ourselves: The Story of a Singular Bond,” says nearly every president since George Washington has had a presidential pet of some sort — including a ram, a cow, a badger, raccoons, and a couple of parakeets. She says dogs in particular help make the White House and its occupants more relatable. “Who doesn’t get a kick out of the images of President Theodore Roosevelt’s dog Pete chasing the French ambassador up a tree? Thinking about Champ and Major scampering through the Biden White House, knocking over a precious lamp or two, chewing the occasional executive desk leg or soiling the rug during a long night reminds us of the pleasures, and sometimes difficulties, of living with animals.” Major and Champ are already featured on Instagram fan accounts, with thousands of followers. Alexandra Horowitz is a professor and senior research fellow at Barnard College. Contact her at alexandra.c.horowitz@gmail.com or Kathryn Gerlach at (212) 854-8037; mediarelations@barnard.edu

5. ==> Was That Who You Thought It Was?

This holiday season many people had empty places at their dinner tables. Some families stayed apart to stay safe, but others were mourning the recent loss of a loved one. With millions feeling lonely and grieving, Margo Lenmark offers evidence that the dearly departed aren’t really gone and they are trying to communicate with us! Invite Margo to share what she learned growing up in a Midwestern funeral home where her father was an undertaker. “People send messages in death that are very clear,” she says. “Death is not the end. I have gotten messages from dead people that have helped me to live a better life.” She shares her fascinating experiences and insights in her book “Light in the Mourning: Memoirs of an Undertaker’s Daughter.” The book has received glowing reviews from a number of prominent authors and spiritual leaders including Deepak Chopra. Contact Margo at (484) 928-7824, MLenmark@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Achieve Joy, Purpose, and Fulfillment after Disastrous 2020

What happened to Trish Ahjel Roberts two years ago may very well help people coping with the lingering effects of 2020. When Roberts’ VW was hit by a truck, the collision changed her life. Invite her on your show and hear how she was able to use the accident as a catalyst to redefine herself, reclaim her life and create her dream business, and how those struggling right now can do the same. Learn the biggest misconception about happiness and why it endures, how to stop worrying about the future, and the difference between being outraged and enraged and why it matters. A former sales exec and financial advisor, Trish Ahjel Roberts is a self-actualization coach, blogger, freelance writer and yoga and meditation instructor. She’s the founder of HoneyButterflyz LLC and Black Vegan Life™ and the author of several books including of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness: A Journal of Insights, Quotes & Questions to Juice Up Your Journey.” Contact Trish Ahjel Roberts at (917) 887-3689; trish@mindblowinghappiness.com

7. ==> Make More Peace in 2021

Last year is finally behind us and 2021 has just begun with people eagerly hoping for more peace and prosperity. But, as Donna Melanson will tell you, that reality won’t occur without some practice. She says, “We get good at what we practice whether it is public speaking, riding a bike, or learning anything new. You don’t just wake up one day and become like the Buddha. Practicing peace needs to be a non-negotiable daily commitment, like brushing your teeth.” Invite her on your show and learn how to ground yourself wherever you are in any particular moment. She’ll also reveal what it means to “let yourself go” and why it might be the skill to master this year. An experienced yoga teacher, Donna Melanson is best known for her daily beach sunrise broadcast on Periscope.tv. She is the host of “The Silent Bit” podcast and the author of “A Yogi’s Path to Peace: My Journey to Self-Realization.” Contact her at (828) 215-1212; donna.melanson@gmail.com

8. ==> Immune-Boosting Tips to Stay Healthy this Winter

Coronavirus cases are up all across the U.S., hospitals are filled to capacity and the staff is overwhelmed, exhausted and begging the public to stay home and healthy. Dr. Annalee Kitay has seldom-heard advice on how to keep your immune system boosted so that you don’t fall prey to viruses. If you’re looking for a guest who is timely, unusually candid and knowledgeable, you have found her. Dr. Kitay says, “With traditional medicine in a questionable state, not providing sound health care, and everything going on threatening our health, it is imperative to look at other natural choices that will boost your immune system.” She also trains other doctors in a revolutionary protocol that enables the body to achieve optimum wellness. Dr. Kitay worked with and did a radio show with the late Dr. Robert Atkins. Contact Dr. Kitay at (561) 462-4733; akitay@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Sloppy Record-Keeping Could Cost You Your Life

In the middle of the coronavirus crisis, keeping your own medical records in order is more important than ever. In a medical emergency, anyone can be rattled enough to forget important details, finding themselves unable to answer physicians’ important questions about their health or that of a loved one. Anne McAwley-LeDuc, a retired nurse practitioner (APRN), learned this the hard way after her husband fell down the stairs and showed signs of paralysis. At the hospital, physicians sought answers about his medical history, but she couldn’t answer vital questions. McAwley-LeDuc wants to help others — especially ordinary folks with no medical background — advocate for themselves and their loved ones for better and safer health care. She’ll discuss the role patients play in reducing medical errors, ways disorganized medical records can be deadly, and why so few patients keep good medical records or grasp the need to do so. Anne McAwley-LeDuc developed the “Personal Health Organizer” to keep essential medical information in one place and provide a snapshot of your health history. Contact her at (860) 300-1603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Why Other Nations are Better at Easing the Opioid Epidemic

In 2020, the U.S. had more than 320 million people while the European Union was home to more than 510 million. Which country should have the worst problem with opioid abuse? You’d think it would be Europe, but you would be wrong. Pain relief expert Maggie Phillips, Ph.D., says it’s time the U.S. embraced better forms of healing that are common in Europe and other nations/regions. This is especially timely as we face not only the opioid epidemic but also the ongoing effects of COVID-19. As your guest, Dr. Phillips can talk about using skills (not pills!) to ease pain. Ask her: How do we work with the rhythms of our nervous systems? What about the importance of using diet, exercise and drug-free supplements? What should we know about meditation, hypnosis, and other safe ways to build healing pathways and recovery? Dr. Phillips is the author of “Freedom From Pain and Reversing Chronic Pain.” Contact her at (510) 561-1645; mphillips@rtirguests.com

11. ==> You’ve Probably Had a Concussion and Didn’t Know

Is it possible to have a concussion and have no idea? “Absolutely!” says Paul Wand, M.D. “Sometimes symptoms relating to the concussion don’t show up until months or years later! And about 20% of people who actually do go to the emergency room for CT or MRI scans are told they are perfectly fine … when they aren’t.” Interview Dr. Wand, a neurologist, to learn how your child, or you for that matter, could have a concussion and have no idea. Dr. Wand, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of concussions, will explain his unique protocol that enables doctors to do both faster and easier. Paul Wand, M.D., PA, has been a medical doctor for 35 years. He’s the author of “The Concussion Cure: Three Proven Methods to Heal Your Brain.” Contact him at (954) 743-5380; PWand@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Will the Supreme Court Take IVF Away?

Expect controversy when Nate Birt discusses in vitro fertilization (IVF) and whether it could become a casualty when the new conservative Supreme Court addresses reproductive rights. Birt, the father of a toddler who began life as another couple’s embryo, can discuss what Roe v. Wade has to do with IVF, whether this is more than a pro-life issue, and what may happen if parents are denied the chance to give birth to or adopt a baby if IVF is no longer allowed. Nate Birt is the author of “Frozen, But Not Forgotten: An Adoptive Dad’s Step-by-Step Guide to Embryo Adoption.” Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; NBirt@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Become a Wine Whiz in 15 Minutes

Wine sales have been climbing during the pandemic as people stuck at home turn to vino to lift their spirits. With heightened interest in wine, Jim Laughren, CWE, could be the perfect guest for COVID-19 times as he shares how to master the essentials of wine in 15 minutes. He can answer such questions as: why have COVID times been good for wine-drinkers and how important is the right glass? Jim is the author of two short new eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine.” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Advantages Self-Doubters Have That Self-Confident People Lack

In our culture, self-confidence is lauded as a virtue. So, what happens to self-doubters? Are they broken? Or could they have an advantage that others lack? Invite leadership expert Marc A. Pitman to reveal why doubt can be a surprising gift that forces leaders to look inward to gain special insight. He can reveal how the words in your head could be sabotaging your efforts and why people experiencing doubt are some of the strongest leaders. His forthcoming book, “The Surprising Gift of Doubt,” provides a framework for leaders to move past feeling like a fraud and manage teams more effectively. Contact Marc Pitman at (317) 751-1610; mpitman@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Would You Sacrifice Your Career for Your Child’s?

How far should parents be willing to go to help grown children? Should they lend adult children money that they might need for retirement, raise their grandchildren due to addiction issues or move closer to their children to provide childcare? Oliver Akamnonu, M.D., went about as far as a parent could go, giving up his medical practice (as did his wife) to help his daughter Nena make it through medical school, childbirth, and early parenting while the latter’s husband was abroad. Was what Dr. Akanmnonu and his wife did excessive? Do they have any regrets? Would they encourage others to take the same path? Find out when you explore this heartwarming story told in “Little Baby Lydia, Grandma, Grandpa and Student Mom: Saga of Family Role Reversal and the New Times.” Contact Oliver Akamnonu at (413) 206-6753; oakamnonu@rtirguests.com

01. A COVID Vaccine Before Christmas?
02. DOTUS: The White House is Going to the Dogs!
03. Thanksgiving: How to Feel Grateful When Life Stinks
04. Billionaire Wealth vs. Essential Workers’ Health
05. In a Divided America, What is Post-Election Unity?
06. Do We Really Get the Leaders We Deserve?
07. December 8th – 40th Anniversary of Lennon’s Murder
08. What Really Happened in Waco?
09. Family Members Explained: Why They Do What They Do
10. Why Other Nations are Better at Easing the Opioid Epidemic
11. Are Students Learning or Losing Out in Virtual Classrooms?
12. How Do We Heal from 2020?
13. Put More Yay in Every Day
14. Characteristics of People Who Make the Biggest Impact
15. Live Your Best Life in the Worst of Times

1. ==> A COVID Vaccine Before Christmas?

Last weekend the head of Operation Warp Speed said the first doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine could be given to Americans as soon as December 11. Dr. Moncef Slaoui predicted that 70% of the population could be vaccinated by May, allowing life to return to normal across the country. Invite pharmaceutical technologies expert Dean Fanelli to discuss whether that’s likely to happen, who would get the vaccine first, and how long it would take to vaccinate the entire U.S. He’ll also discuss what’s happening with other vaccines in development, and whether Americans should be worried about the accelerated pace of the testing and approval process. Dean Fanelli, Ph.D., is a partner in the intellectual property department of Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Washington D.C. office. His focus is on pharmaceutical- and chemical-related technologies. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; (919) 377-1200 or ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

2. ==> DOTUS: The White House is Going to the Dogs!

The White House has been without a presidential pet since the Obama’s moved out, but that will change come January when the Biden family brings their German shepherds with them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of “Our Dogs Ourselves: The Story of a Singular Bond,” says nearly every president since George Washington has had a presidential pet of some sort — including a ram, a cow, a badger, raccoons, and a couple of parakeets. She says dogs in particular help make the White House and its occupants more relatable. “Who doesn’t get a kick out of the images of President Theodore Roosevelt’s dog Pete chasing the French ambassador up a tree? Thinking about Champ and Major scampering through the Biden White House, knocking over a precious lamp or two, chewing the occasional executive desk leg or soiling the rug during a long night, reminds us of the pleasures, and sometimes difficulties, of living with animals.” Major and Champ are already featured on Instagram fan accounts, with thousands of followers. Alexandra Horowitz is a professor and senior research fellow at Barnard College. Contact her at alexandra.c.horowitz@gmail.com or Kathryn Gerlach at (212) 854-8037; mediarelations@barnard.edu

3. ==> Thanksgiving: How to Feel Grateful When Life Stinks

This Thanksgiving will be especially difficult for many people. Some may even skip the holiday, feeling that there’s nothing to celebrate. During these difficult times, how can we develop gratitude when we’re feeling anything but thankful? Myke Merrill, D.Min., says, “One great challenge everyone faces is how to manage your internal response in spite of the external circumstances.” The author of “Why Do People Act that Way? (And What Can I Do About It?)” will discuss how perceptions, emotions, motivations and behaviors work together and how you have the power to change how you feel and act if you truly want. He says it’s not hard but requires effort. “Developing an internal skill is just like developing a physical skill: know what you want to do, break it down into basic parts, and practice each part.” Dr. Myke Merrill was a panelist on the national television show “Ask the Pastor” for 18 years. Contact him at (585) 615-6383; myke@grippingreality.com

4.==> Billionaire Wealth vs. Essential Workers’ Health

A new report finds that essential workers continue to suffer financially and otherwise as U.S. billionaires gained almost $1 trillion during the pandemic. Chuck Collins, a co-author of the report, says, “Billionaires are sequestered in protective bubbles and private jets while essential workers are without adequate personal protective equipment.” The report highlights the handful of billionaires and corporations that have seen their wealth surge to record levels, in part as a result of their monopoly status and opportunism during the pandemic. “For example, Walmart, Target, and Amazon benefited from their monopoly positions in the economy, with these three retailers considered ‘essential’ while their retail competitors were shut down. But the success of these businesses hasn’t translated into better pay or safer working conditions for the employees showing up to work in a pandemic,” says Collins. The report by the Institute for Policy Studies, Bargaining for the Common Good, and United for Respect focuses on a list of 12 emblematic bad actors including Amazon, Walmart, Target, Instacart, Tyson Foods, Dollar General and more. Chuck Collins is director of the Program on Inequality and the Common Good at the Institute for Policy Studies. Contact Olivia Alperstein at olivia@ips-dc.org; @inequalityorg or Sara Myklebust (as liaison to connect workers for interviews) at Sara.Myklebust@georgetown.edu

5. ==> In a Divided America, What is Post-Election Unity?

Peniel Joseph says the controversy over the election results is a testament to the enormity of the challenges now facing the nation. Everyone agrees the nation is bitterly divided, so how does a new administration unify the country? Joseph says, “Americans are not just living in a nation divided into red and blue — we are existing in two separate realities. Unity isn’t placating the feelings on the ‘other side.’ Recognizing that the over 73 million Americans who voted for Trump seem committed to a presidency based on racial division and a party that revels in voter suppression is the first step toward achieving any kind of national unity under a Biden-Harris administration.” He suggests looking to the past for inspiration. “The most transformative presidential administrations have paired soaring idealism with strategic pragmatism to produce a combination deft enough to pass consequential legislation while remaining tethered to core political values.” Peniel Joseph holds a joint professorship appointment at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and the History Department in the College of Liberal Arts at The University of Texas at Austin. Contact him at 512) 475-7241; peniel.joseph@austin.utexas.edu

6. ==> Do We Really Get the Leaders We Deserve?

Americans just lived through a bitter, chaotic election in which questions about civility, leadership, honesty and courage abounded. What lessons can we learn from the experience? Interview leadership expert Steven Mays who will tell you why he says whether for good or bad, the public gets the leaders they deserve. “We get the leaders we deserve because we fail to provide for their foundation development due to overemphasis on talent,” he says. “Why aren’t there college classes in Honesty 101 or capstone courses in courage? Instead, our reliance on talent alone causes an imbalance, which can lead to catastrophic leadership failures.” Mays is the author of “Power of 3 Leadership, Lessons in Leadership.” A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis who served on nuclear submarines, he was a mathematician, electrical engineer and nuclear engineer who worked in private industry and at the Nuclear Regulation Commission. Contact him at (703) 552-5672; smays@rtirguests.com

7. ==> December 8th – 40th Anniversary of Lennon’s Murder

It’s hard to “Imagine” what John Lennon would be like as an 80-year-old. After all, he was only 40 when he was murdered by Mark David Chapman outside Lennon’s Manhattan apartment house 40 years ago, on Dec. 8, 1980. For a fascinating show that celebrates Lennon’s legacy invite Susan Shumsky to discuss John, the Beatles, and their relationship with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation (TM.) You’ll hear why Lennon was the Beatles’ unofficial leader, leading the way in all things, including their love affair with psychedelics and their spiritual seeking. Learn the hidden significance of the Lennon-penned song “Across the Universe,” why Lennon fell out with Maharishi, and the devastating remark Maharishi made when he tried to reconcile. Susan spent 22 years in the ashrams and six years on the personal staff of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. She’s appeared on more than 1,200 programs and is the author of 18 books including “Maharishi & Me: Seeking Enlightenment with the Beatles’ Guru.” Contact her at (917) 336-7184; SShumsky@rtirguests.com

8. ==> What Really Happened in Waco?

It has been nearly 28 years since the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) and the National Guard were ambushed during the execution of a search and arrest warrant at the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas. Since then there have been multiple movies and TV mini-series (the last in 2018) and books but according to former ATF agent Mark Rusin, the public still doesn’t know what really happened. How was the ATF compromised so badly? Who was ultimately responsible for the deaths of four ATF agents? Who fired the first shot? Who set the fires after the 51-day siege? Get the answers from Rusin, who, as the ATF representative to the Drug Czar’s office at the White House briefed President Clinton in 1993 regarding the families of the slain ATF agents at Waco. Rusin also met several U.S. presidents while protecting them. He has been a consultant to “CSI” and other shows and is the author of the upcoming book “METRO: Sin City Chronicles.” An earlier novel, “Justice For Dallas,” was based on real events and is being turned into a screenplay. Contact Mark Rusin at (520) 205-1113; msrusin@comcast.net

9. ==> Family Members Explained: Why They Do What They Do

Have you ever wondered why Uncle Mike always has to have the last word? Why your mother never puts herself first? Or why your sister-in-law can’t seem to make up her mind? You can stop wondering because science has the answers! Just in time for the holidays, Linda L. McIssac, Ph.D., can give your listeners the gift of insight into the way people think! The “aha” moments will flow as she discusses human behavior and why it’s a lot more predictable than you’d expect! Dr. Linda McIssac is president of Xyte, Inc. and the developer of Science of the Mind. She was the first female superintendent of schools in Wisconsin and has worked analyzing audiences for CBS. Contact her at (608) 699-6855; lmcisaac@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Why Other Nations are Better at Easing the Opioid Epidemic

In 2020, the U.S. has 320+ million people. The European Union is home to 510+ million. Which country should have the worst problem with opioid abuse? You’d think it would be Europe, but you would be wrong. Pain relief expert Maggie Phillips, Ph.D., says it’s time the U.S. embraced better forms of healing that are common in Europe and other nations/regions. This is especially timely as we face not only the opioid epidemic but also the ongoing effects of COVID-19. As your interview guest, Dr. Phillips can talk about using skills (not pills!) to ease pain. Ask her: How do we work with the rhythms of our nervous systems? What about the importance of using diet, exercise and drug-free supplements? What should we know about meditation, hypnosis, and other safe ways to build healing pathways and recovery? Dr. Phillips is the author of “Freedom From Pain and Reversing Chronic Pain.” Contact her at (510) 561-1645; mphillips@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Are Students Learning or Losing Out in Virtual Classrooms?

Education has been profoundly affected as today’s pandemic drags on. From kindergarten to college, for many school administrators, the alternative to spreading COVID-19 has meant the introduction of virtual classrooms. Educator, speaker, and author Barbara Daniels will discuss virtual teaching options and whether students benefit from them. Author of the award-winning Timmy Teacup book series, Daniels will reveal how to eliminate common school problems, engage students more and encourage teachers to be more compassionate. She’ll discuss how to keep order and minimize distractions in virtual classrooms, what’s currently missing and what’s more effective, and how we can help teachers improve. Contact Barbara Daniels at (636) 220-5495; BDaniels@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How Do We Heal from 2020?

A contentious election. Unarmed Black people shot by police. A pandemic claiming the lives of several hundred thousand loved ones. Record unemployment and social isolation. Most people will be glad to put 2020 behind them but will need some help dealing with the lingering grief of loved ones gone too soon, their deferred or shattered dreams, and feelings of hopelessness. Meghan Smith Brooks can address these issues as well as share the hidden gift contained in the year gone by. She is a certified grief expert, ordained Unity Minister, and licensed spiritual educator whose youngest son was murdered. She is also the author of the “Unraveling Grief: A Mother’s Spiritual Journey of Healing and Discovery.” Ask her: How can forgiveness, acceptance, and gratitude help us put things in perspective? Do you have some advice for coping with the holidays this year? Contact Rev. Meghan Smith Brooks at (816) 844-6783; mbrooks@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Put More Yay in Every Day

It’s been a tough year, one unlike any most of us can remember. But one of the things that have saved many of us and will continue to save us as 2021 rolls around is having a hobby or two. For those who have procrastinated on finding one or still aren’t giving enough time to what brings them joy listening to award-winning author Mary K. Savarese could be a lifesaver. Mary’s own hobby — writing books — came after her last child left home and she overcame significant anxiety about her new family dynamic. Mary can talk about why it is important to find yourself, and even how to find a new hobby (that could turn into a career) that’s best for you. Mary has appeared in local publications, Mindalia TV, iHeartRadio and podcasts. Her latest book is “Tigers Love Bubble Baths & Obsession Perfume, (who knew!).” Her latest project, “The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper” is a trilogy that will be published in the spring. Contact Mary at (860) 550-3344; maryksavarese@gmail.com

14. ==> Characteristics of People Who Make the Biggest Impact

We all know or have heard of people who influence lives, affect history, lead by example, and even change the future. What do those powerful individuals have in common? How could you become such a leader? Teruni Lamberg, a sought-after leadership expert and author of “Leaders Who Lead Successfully,” will tell you how as she discusses everything from recognizing and strengthening good ideas to having a good sense of humor and overcoming mistakes. Discover what kinds of leadership skills are important and why, as well as how to look at problems from a fresh perspective. Contact Teruni Lamberg at (775) 451-3086: TLamberg@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Live Your Best Life in the Worst of Times

Life’s challenging, even at the best of times, but what can you do when life keeps kicking you when you’re already down? Invite author and inspirational speaker Danielle Harris-Branch to share why bad things happen and how to handle life when you’re at your lowest. Her book, “From the Other Side of the Bed: Allow Faith to Transform Your Perspective Through Life’s Hardest Blows,” shares her unimaginable journey of surviving two types of cancer at the same time her husband struggled through needing a kidney transplant. This inspirational couple experienced the worst of life while discovering the best of life. Ask her: What are the essential tools for overcoming negative thinking in painful situations? How can you use a painful situation to become a better version of yourself and even start earning income from it? Contact Danielle Harris-Branch at (804) 373-8195; Harrisbranch@rtirguests.com

01. Lessons from Electoral History
02. How Democracies Die Across the Globe
03. Hate Your Job? It’s Not You, It’s 2020
04. Thanksgiving: How to Feel Grateful When Life Stinks
05. Don’t Be a Turkey: How to Choose Holiday Wine
06. How Tragedies Inspired Kids to Activism
07. Why Biden Alone Can’t Heal the Nation
08. Racist Cops? Are Their Numbers Exaggerated?
09. The Nursing Shortage is Here … What Now?
10. Work Talk: How to Speak So People Listen
11. Saving Your Career is Simple. Just Answer Yes or No
12. Would You Sacrifice Your Career for Your Child’s?
13. What Took Sean Connery Might Take Someone You Love
14. Can You Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity?
15. He Helped a First Lady Set an Underwater Speed Record

1. ==> Lessons from Electoral History

One can hardly imagine a time when an election seemed more chaotic. But how about 2000? Alan Hirsch also points to the presidential election of 1876. “In each of these three elections, the outcome came down to one or more disputed states,” he says. “The (1876) resolution came only when Republicans assured Democrats in Congress that, if they went along with Rutherford B. Hayes’s election, they would cease implementing Reconstruction. The nation paid a terrible price for the backroom dealing. In 2000, the election was resolved by the Supreme Court intervening.” Hirsch can discuss what most history books get wrong about how the 1876 election was eventually decided, the many similarities in all three elections, and how to use the lessons from the past election chaos to navigate the current situation. Hirsch, who is chair of the Justice and Law Studies program at Williams College, serves as a trial consultant and expert witness on interrogations and criminal confessions. His writing has appeared in the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Washington Times, Newsday, and the Village Voice. His latest book is “A Short History of Presidential Election Crises (And How to Prevent the Next One).” Contact him at 413) 458-2192; ahirsch@williams.edu

2. ==> How Democracies Die Across the Globe

When the Cold War ended in the early 1990s, it seemed democracy had triumphed among political systems. But more recently, many democracies have run into a common set of troubles, with authoritarian leaders grasping enough power to create illiberal regimes. “Democracies do not die the way they used to die,” said Steven Levitsky, a professor of government at Harvard University. “Democracies used to die at the hands of men with guns. During the Cold War, three out of every four democratic breakdowns took the form of a classic military coup. … Today democracies die in a much more subtle way. They die at the hands not of generals, but of elected leaders, presidents, prime ministers who use the very institutions of democracy to subvert it.” From Hungary to Venezuela and Poland, Levitsky will describe three common steps as a country slips into authoritarianism and discuss what’s happening across the globe and here in the United States. “It happens behind a pretty credible façade of democracy,” Levitsky says. “Many citizens aren’t fully aware of what is happening often until it is too late.” Steven Levitsky is co-author of “How Democracies Die.” Contact him at (617) 495-9997, ext. 1737; levitsky@wcfia.harvard.edu

3. ==> Hate Your Job? It’s Not You, It’s 2020

Job burnout — a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress — is increasing across the country as Americans continue to endure the fallout of a polarizing presidential election, civil unrest and a pandemic that just keeps getting worse. “It’s feeling like you’re stuck in a rut, but you don’t have the efficacy to make a change,” says Theresa Nguyen, the chief program officer and vice president of research and innovation at Mental Health America. Nguyen says, “Those two things lead you to feel really cynical about your job, hate your job, feel dread when you wake up and dislike your co-workers and clients over time. It happens in any job.” She says the biggest issue in 2020 has been about overwhelming, uncontrollable stress. “A lot changed for us that we cannot control, and we’ve had to deal with our jobs on top of that change. That’s a slippery slope towards exhaustion.” She’ll share ways to deal with burnout and tips to make things more manageable, like finding “micro-spaces of relief” and aiming for moments of replenishment that will give you enough energy to keep going. Mental Health America (MHA) is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all. Contact Theresa Nguyen at (703) 684-7722; tnguyen@mhanational.org

4. ==> Thanksgiving: How to Feel Grateful When Life Stinks

This Thanksgiving will be especially difficult for many people. Some may even skip the holiday feeling that there’s nothing to celebrate. During these difficult times, how can we develop gratitude when we’re feeling anything but thankful? Myke Merrill, D.Min., says, “One great challenge everyone faces is how to manage your internal response in spite of the external circumstances.” The author of “Why Do People Act that Way? (And What Can I Do About It?)” will discuss how perceptions, emotions, motivations and behaviors work together and how you have the power to change how you feel and act if you truly want. He says it’s not hard but requires effort. “Developing an internal skill is just like developing a physical skill: know what you want to do, break it down into basic parts, and practice each part.” Dr. Myke Merrill was a panelist on the national television show “Ask the Pastor” for 18 years. Contact him at (585) 615-6383; myke@grippingreality.com

5. ==> Don’t Be a Turkey: How to Choose Holiday Wine

It’s been an unconventional year and the holidays are sure to be the same. No matter what you’re roasting or who you’re with, there will likely be some adult beverages involved and Jim Laughren, CWE, can help your listeners figure out the perfect wine for the occasion, whether they’re looking for a comforting favorite or something out of the ordinary. He can also suggest creative gift ideas for the wine lovers on your shopping list like special glasses and accessories, wine club memberships and more. An encyclopedia of wine knowledge, Jim is the author of two short new eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine.” He’s appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

6. ==> How Tragedies Inspired Kids to Activism

Take a closer look at today’s young activists in the new documentary “The Day I Had To Grow Up.” The film showcases six activists and the events that shaped their political lives including the Parkland shooting, BLM, student debt, women’s roles in today’s society, the climate crisis and others. “Each year, we witness national tragedies to a numbing effect. There are no faces and no names to these crises. Our film puts a face and a name to the young children impacted. It allows the viewer a rare chance to intimately understand youth activism in America,” say co-directors and coproducers Laura Pellegrini and Stefano Da Frè. Invite them on your show to discuss why they pursued this project, what you’ll learn by watching it, and what surprised them most about the young people profiled. “The Day I Had To Grow Up” is currently airing on Amazon Prime. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988; mark@goldmanmccormick.com

7. ==> Why Biden Alone Can’t Heal the Nation

Americans’ anxiety around the election was palpable. When news networks called the race after days of counting ballots, it was as if the country finally exhaled and spontaneous celebrations erupted across the country and the globe. Joe Biden has called for this to become a moment of national healing, but Donald Trump still hasn’t conceded the race. Sankarshan Das says if and when he does, peace still won’t prevail. “This election will not heal our country. There are deep, deep wounds which Joe Biden is incapable of healing.” Invite the spiritual master to discuss what’s broken in our society, what we need to heal, and whether any politician can provide it. Sankarshan Das is the author of the upcoming book “Conquer Your Mind and Deliver the World: Empowering You to Awaken Your Divine Consciousness and Create Global Happiness.” He is also a singer-songwriter who once appeared onstage between Jefferson Airplane and the Grateful Dead. His song, “The Peace Formula,” has been praised by Barack Obama. Contact him at (512) 643-6740; sdas@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Racist Cops? Are Their Numbers Exaggerated?

Mark Rusin, a former Las Vegas METRO police officer and retired ATF special agent with nearly 30 years as a law enforcement official, wants to talk about Black Lives Matter, Blue Lives Matter, and defunding the police. He says although there are some bad apples, all cops are being unfairly painted as racist when “99% of cop shootings of ‘unarmed’ people occur when they resist arrest or fail to follow commands.” He adds, “It is a known fact that when an ‘unarmed’ subject refuses to follow lawful police commands and chooses to physically engage in hand-to-hand combat with an officer they must be treated as ‘armed’ because every officer has a loaded gun at their side.” Rusin will also share why allegations of racism have led to police apathy in America and what that means for public safety. A consultant to “CSI” and other shows, he is the author of the upcoming book “METRO: Sin City Chronicles.” An earlier novel, “Justice For Dallas,” based on real events, is being turned into a screenplay. Contact Mark Rusin at (520) 205-1113; msrusin@comcast.net

9. ==> The Nursing Shortage is Here … What Now?

Thanks in no small degree to the pandemic, burnout, and an older workforce, rural areas and small hospitals are scrambling for nurses with some ERs operating with fewer nurses than they should. How can we help prevent these nursing shortages which are likely to worsen as our aging population needs more care? You’ll want to explore this timely topic and the nursing experience with all its implications by interviewing Nancy Congleton. In addition to offering solutions to help today’s nurses and ultimately everyone they serve, she will reveal the unexpected realities of the nursing profession, five relationship dynamics that nurses face, legal issues, and the concerns everyone should have when nurses feel so unprepared and overworked that they leave. An outspoken registered nurse known as Nurse Nancy, Nancy has worked in the NICU, ER, and case management. She’s the author of “Autopsy of the NP: Dissecting the Nursing Profession Piece By Piece.” Contact Nancy Congleton at (918) 992-4616; NCongleton@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Work Talk: How to Speak So People Listen

Public speaking is considered the #1 fear. And while most of us will never have to debate someone in a national forum (think the 2020 election debates), we’re now challenged with audiences who are spread out, behind masks, and even virtual. Moreover, many people would rather quit their job than speak on stage, be interviewed on camera, or present on Zoom. A groundbreaking approach could change all that, and Jill Jaysen has one. She’ll identify the five biggest public speaking blunders and replace them with five strategic power-up principles. Not only will your audience feel transformed, but they will also finally believe they can win big (consistently) at public speaking! Contact Jill Jaysen at (203) 442-9301; jjaysen@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Saving Your Career is Simple. Just Answer Yes or No

Should you go on that job interview? Or accept that offer? Are you feeling comfortable enough to sign that contract or take that promotion? Are you ready to quit your current job? Go part-time? Or finally retire? Just like every other move you make in your personal or professional life, you have “Just 2 Choices.” That’s the message of Rico Racosky, who has already gained a substantial following with his “Just 2 Choices” book, speaking engagements, webinars and radio program. Ask Rico: Why do people make their career moves far more complicated than necessary? What fears keep many people from moving up? How can the “Just 2 Choices” strategy strengthen someone’s situation, even during a pandemic? Rico can help your listeners navigate their careers and reach their goals with a yes or no answer! Contact him at (730) 572-1322; Racosky@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Would You Sacrifice Your Career for Your Child’s?

How far should parents be willing to go to help grown children? Should they lend adult children money that they might need for retirement, raise their grandchildren due to addiction issues or move closer to their children to provide childcare? Oliver Akamnonu, M.D. went about as far as a parent could go, giving up his medical practice (as did his wife) to help his daughter Nena make it through medical school, childbirth, and early parenting while the latter’s husband was abroad. Was what Dr. Akanmnonu and his wife did excessive? Do they have any regrets? Would they encourage others to take the same path? Find out when you explore this heartwarming story told in “Little Baby Lydia, Grandma, Grandpa and Student Mom: Saga of Family Role Reversal and the New Times.” Contact Oliver Akamnonu at (413) 206-6753; oakamnonu@rtirguests.com

13. ==> What Took Sean Connery Might Take Someone You Love

When Sean Connery passed away last month, millions mourned the original and arguably best James Bond. And even though it was dementia — not Spectre —that took 007 and quieted his memory in his last years, the public will never forget his masterful MI-6 skills, his suaveness, and Connery’s superb acting career. Connery was married for 45 years and his wife will experience his loss most of all. As the spouse of someone who had early Alzheimer’s, Carlen Maddux can identify with her and inform your audience about what it is like to have a family member who fades away even as they continue to live. He can also offer tips for those who find themselves in the same situation. Carlen served for 17 years as a caregiver for his once-dynamic wife Martha — who was her family’s super-hero and only in her fifties when diagnosed. Carlen shares his insights in the book “A Path Revealed.” Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Can You Drink Your Way to Increased Immunity?

Since the coronavirus outbreak began, everyone has been talking about immunity. How can your body be healthier to ward off disease? Can we be wiser in what we eat and drink? What’s the best natural way to bring about strength, energy, healthier skin and ultimately longer life? For the answers, listen to Tilak Silva, an expert in nutrition and health research and the inventor of CilanTea. Ask him: What makes cilantro an unexpected health food? What’s the best way to take advantage of its benefits? Which commonly imbibed beverages decrease immunity? Contact Tilak Silva at (310) 483-2785, tsilva@rtirguests.com

15. ==> He Helped a First Lady Set an Underwater Speed Record

Few of us have had close contact with a president and first lady the way Steven Mays did, and he has a great story to tell. Mays was serving on a nuclear submarine at the time when this particular president and first lady came aboard his “stinky, smelly, hot tube 400 feet below the water” to get a behind-the-scenes tour of what his high-tech vessel could do. On your show, Mays will share all the details: who the president and first lady were, the feverish preparations for their visit including the banning of some overweight crew members, what happened when the first couple visited his engine room, and how the first lady perked up when informed that she was “the first female to break an underwater speed record.” Mays is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis who served on nuclear submarines. He was also a mathematician, electrical engineer and nuclear engineer who worked in private industry and at the Nuclear Regulation Commission. Contact Steven Mays at (703) 552-5672; smays@rtirguests.com

 

 

01. Americans Blame Trump’s Actions for His COVID Infection
02. Wildfire Survivor – Living Thru Fire Season
03. Celebrate John Lennon’s 80th Birthday, Oct. 9
04. You’ve Been Booed! Better than Trick or Treating
05. A Near-Death Experience You Won’t Forget
06. Do a Show about Growing Up with Ghosts … and their Stories
07. What Your Favorite TV Commercials Can Teach You
08. October: The Eyes Have It!
09. This Neurologist Could Solve Football’s Concussion Problem
10. How the Law of Unintended Consequences Shapes Our Lives
11. Help for Homeschooling Gifted Students
12. Save 2 Lives by Adopting a Shelter Dog
13. Former Paraplegic on Disabilities Employment Awareness Month
14. A Snapshot of Modern Society and Sexual Assault
15. ‘The Great Realization’— Easing Kids’ COVID Fears Worldwide

1.==> Americans Blame Trump’s Actions for His COVID Infection

According to a new Yahoo News/YouGov Poll, a majority of registered voters think President Donald Trump could have avoided contracting COVID-19 if he had been following public health guidelines like social distancing and wearing a face mask. The poll, conducted October 2–3, finds three in five registered voters think the president underestimated the risks of the virus (59% vs 21%) that has killed more than 209,000 Americans. Psychiatrist Dr. Carol Lieberman can discuss how Americans view Trump’s illness, what his motorcade hospital spin says about his current state of mind, and what the president means when he says “I get it now” about the virus (and whether he really does!). Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified psychiatrist, forensic psychiatrist/expert witness and author. She has appeared on “Oprah,” the “Today” show, “Good Morning America,” CNN and other media outlets and hosts two podcasts. Her latest book is “Lions and Tigers and Terrorists, Oh My! How to Protect Your Child in a Time of Terror.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; (919) 377-1200 or ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

2. ==> Wildfire Survivor – Living Thru Fire Season

The Swall Meadows area of California’s Eastern Sierra Nevada region has long been the home to dry, arid land and wildfires. This year is no exception. Writer Kendra Atleework lives in the small town of Bishop, which is surrounded by fires and last week had the worst air quality in the country. Invite the author to discuss what it’s like living in 100-degree heat with windows closed and no air-conditioning, how the situation has become the new normal in the West, and why Americans should care about the increasing drought conditions in California and the impact on U.S. agricultural markets. Atleework’s new book, “Miracle Country: A Memoir,” is the story of a family’s loss — the loss of her mother at 16 — as it parallels her growing understanding of the losses experienced by her community and home as a result of years of drought and wildfires. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 991-8328; jboyer@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Celebrate John Lennon’s 80th Birthday, Oct. 9

It’s hard to “Imagine” what John Lennon would be like as an 80-year-old. After all, he was only 40 when he was murdered by Mark David Chapman outside Lennon’s Manhattan apartment house 40 years ago. Whether Lennon would have been cranky or inspiring as a senior and what he might have to say about current events, we’ll never know. But there’s still plenty to talk about Lennon — namely his enduring legacy in what seems like a lifetime after his death. From baby boomers to millennials, Lennon and the Beatles remain a favorite. So why not devote a show on his birthday on Oct. 9? For proof of the Fab Four’s appeal, look no further than the Beatles’ “White Album,” which made it into the Billboard Top 10 – 50 years after its release. The Fab Four wrote this album while on retreat in Rishikesh, India, with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of Transcendental Meditation (TM). Susan Shumsky is that rare insider who spent 22 years in the ashrams and six years on the personal staff of Maharishi. Her tell-all memoir, “Maharishi & Me: Seeking Enlightenment with the Beatles’ Guru,” which has received 13 prestigious book awards, reveals hidden information about Maharishi’s influence on the Beatles. Susan Shumsky has 18 books in print and has proven to be an enthralling guest during more than 1,200 media appearances. Contact her at (917) 336-7184; SShumsky@rtirguests.com

4.==> You’ve Been Booed! Better than Trick or Treating

As the Center for Disease Control warns against traditional trick-or-treating, families wonder what a socially distant Halloween will look like this year. Grocery retailer Meijer believes “Boo Bags” may be the go-to way to celebrate the season. “Boo Bags” come from the “You’ve Been Booed” Halloween trend increasing in neighborhoods in recent years. What’s that? It’s when families fill bags with a variety of Halloween goodies and leave them at neighbors’ or friends’ doors with a sign saying they’ve been “booed” and must now pass a ghostly surprise on to someone else. According to Meijer’s Shawn Sinicrope, “What makes this such a fun way to celebrate the holiday is that it teaches kids about the joys of giving on a holiday that focuses so much on receiving. It also allows families to enjoy many of the elements of traditional trick-or-treating — the joys of wandering the neighborhood together as a family — while still respecting social-distancing guidelines.” He’ll share how to get involved, where to find free printables and other fun ideas for safely celebrating the holiday. Contact Christina Fecher at christina.fecher@meijer.com; (616) 735-7968 or (616) 249-6334

5. ==> A Near-Death Experience You Won’t Forget

Sure, near-death experiences are fairly common, but Charles (Charlie) Gardner’s experience may take the cake when it comes to pathos, humor, and life lessons. Nine years ago, when he developed sepsis while recovering from the flu, Charlie spent six weeks in a coma, suffered 13 strokes and major organ failure. In the near-death experience that accompanied that ordeal, Charlie had the requisite out-of-body experience but the bright light he saw was a green disco ball! Charlie can relate what happened including how one day before his family planned to pull the plug on him his 14-year-old daughter’s words brought him back to his body. He can talk about the difference between Heaven time and Earth time, the angels he met. and why he believes he was spared to tell other people about the miracles he has experienced and serve as an example for how to appreciate the life you have even if it isn’t the one you expected. Charlie tells his inspiring story in “Always Remember This Moment.” Contact Charlie Gardner at (650) 995-5626; charlesgardner@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Do a Show about Growing Up with Ghosts … and their Stories

What’s it like growing up in family homes surrounded by ghosts and their stories? Interview Ivan Obolensky and find out! Ivan’s rich personal history includes his grandfather Serge, the famed “Prince of New York,” and his grandmother Alice (of the famed Astor family) who died holding an “Egyptian Book of the Dead” on her chest. Convinced that people lived on after death, she proved it by scaring off governesses and attracting a large number of black cats that kept returning to her home on 61st Street in New York City, even after extermination was tried. The family home was finally exorcised. Alice’s husband, Serge, had ghost stories of his own to tell including one of a captain reportedly recovering from TB in the Crimea appearing to Serge’s mother and a butler at the family country home many miles away … and then vanishing before their eyes! They learned later the soldier had died before his appearance. Ivan Obolensky is a true Renaissance man in his own right and the author of “Eye of the Moon.” Contact Ivan at (818) 495-8731; IObolensky@rtirguests.com

7. ==> What Your Favorite TV Commercials Can Teach You

Everybody loves Super Bowl commercials, but the truth is that brands and companies do their best to entertain us with commercials throughout the year, commercials that can pack some powerful lessons. Let marketing professional Steve McChesney unpack those lessons as he shares why the best commercials don’t try to sell us anything. He’ll reveal some of his favorite examples of “brilliant” ads (ask him about Barbie and Nike) and discuss yours, giving you a glimpse into the minds that came up with such winners as Mayhem for Allstate and Flo for Progressive. A former stunt man and actor, Steve McChesney has been on CBS, ABC, NBC and other large media outlets. His new book is “Rearranging Change: How You Market to an Ever-Changing World” and his podcast with the same name is available on all major channels. He is available as a last-minute guest. Contact Steve McChesney at (321) 414-2147; smcchesney@rtirguests.com

8. ==> October: The Eyes Have It!

You may think of October as the time the leaves start to fall, the air cools and Halloween works its magic. But in many ways, October is all about the eyes as we celebrate Vision Awareness Month, World Sight Day (Oct. 8) and Eye Injury Prevention Month. That’s why this month is the perfect time to have vision educator Linda Odubayo Thompson on your program to talk about ways all adults can protect their vision. An excellent guest, she can share the six biggest myths that could endanger your eyesight, why you need sunglasses on cloudy days, and what you need to know about cataracts and glaucoma. Linda knows not to take her vision for granted; she has suffered from glaucoma for more than 30 years. Contact her at (914) 944-1474; lthompson@rtirguests.com

9. ==> This Neurologist Could Solve Football’s Concussion Problem

NFL, college and high school football are under attack. All because of the high risk of concussions and the resulting health consequences. But what if there was a way to make concussions a thing of the past? Or at least a way to diagnose and treat traumatic brain injuries (TBI’s) more easily and quickly? Interview Dr. Paul Wand to hear about the “Wand Protocol” that could do all that and more. He along with other private practitioners has created ways to diagnosis and treat concussions which if put into place could save the NFL, as well as other sports where concussions happen on a regular basis. Paul Wand, M.D., P.A., has been a medical doctor for 35 years specializing in the field of Neurology and is the author of “The Concussion Cure: 3 Proven Methods to Heal Your Brain.” Contact Dr. Wand at (954) 743-5380; PWand@rtirguests.com

10. ==> How the Law of Unintended Consequences Shapes Our Lives

You’ve heard of the law of gravity, the laws of electricity and magnetism and general relativity. Each has an enormous impact on life in the universe. But Steve Mays has discovered what may be an even more powerful law — the law of unintended consequences, which he likes to think of as “a law created by God to let us silly humans know that we are not quite as smart and clever as we think we are.” On your show, Steve can look at ways unintended consequences played out in the past and continue to do so today. For example, he says Watergate was an unintended consequence of Nixon’s paranoia. Impeachment, loss of law license, thousands of dollars in settlements, and loss of control of the House and Senate were Clinton’s unintended consequences from his association with Monica. The more unintended consequences that occur as a result of a leader’s actions and the more significant they are, the clearer the signal that the leader is in trouble, Steve says. No one can completely avoid unintended consequences because none of us is that good. Ask him what leaders can do instead. Mays is the author of “Power of 3 Leadership, Lessons in Leadership.” A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis who served on nuclear submarines, he was a mathematician, electrical engineer and nuclear engineer who worked in private industry and at the Nuclear Regulation Commission. Contact Steven Mays at (703) 552-5672; smays@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Help for Homeschooling Gifted Students

How do you keep your homeschooled, gifted student interested in learning? Marilyn Wickstrom, a long-time educator, can share activities and information to help parents struggling to be their kids’ teachers. From field trips and treasure hunts to making and selling products, service projects and more, Wickstrom’s tips will keep all kids engaged, especially gifted ones, and help parents looking for ways to keep learning fun and interesting. Marilyn Wickstrom has been a teacher for more than 27 years and has been nominated for Teacher of the Year. She is the author of “A Gift is for Giving.” Contact her at (727) 771-7426; mrw228@gmail.com

12. ==> Save 2 Lives by Adopting a Shelter Dog

Most of us do not get the opportunity to save a life. But as children’s author Jean Alfieri will tell you, this month all of us can save at least two lives by adopting a shelter dog. She’ll point out that not only do you save the life of the pet you are about to adopt but you also make it possible for the shelter to have space for another pet. In addition, Jean will argue that you just might be saving your own life as having a dog can lower stress, decrease loneliness and depression, and improve your heart health. October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month so no time like the present and Jean is donating this month’s sales from her upcoming release “Zuggy the Rescue Pug — Adoption Day” to her local Humane Society. Alfieri is an avid proponent of adoption for all dogs: pure breeds, mixed breeds, young or “vintage” (her preference) who need a “fur-ever” home. During the last 15 years, she has cared for ten senior rescue dogs. Contact Jean Alfieri at (602) 397-1344; ZuggythePug@gmail.com

13. ==> Former Paraplegic Reveals Why National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month is a Time to Be Inspired

More than 55 percent of Americans between the ages of 16 and 64 who have disabilities hold down jobs, according to government figures from last year. The role that these 18.5 million people play in American businesses and the challenges they face as they do so deserve to be honored in October, for National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month, says Barry Shore, a former paraplegic and an advocate for the disabled. A successful serial entrepreneur, in 2004 Barry became a quadriplegic overnight from a rare disease. Today he’s known as the Ambassador of Joy, and although it still takes him ten minutes to get out of bed each morning, Shore has pushed himself to regain some of his functioning and inspires other people to see the disabled as individuals capable of contributing much and with greater empathy because of the limitations they face and surmount. Shore is the host of the weekly radio show-podcast “The Joy of Living.” He is the founder of the JOY of Living Institute and has been featured on CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox and in O Magazine, Forbes and many other publications. Contact him at (310) 770-4685; barry@barryshore.com

14. ==> A Snapshot of Modern Society and Sexual Assault

“Look the Other Way” is a passion project between native Michigan screenwriters Michael Mohan Joshua and Patrick Foley. Over the years, Joshua has kept editing the story into what it is today, a snapshot of modern society. With daily news of sexual assault prevalent throughout society, Joshua says, “No longer can we as a global community look the other way. Through education and communication, citizens can change the norms of ‘bad behavior.’” Michael Mohan Joshua has written several other works of fiction and poetry including “Life of a Photographer,” “Walking and Thinking in Manhattan,” “Rambling and Other Thoughts: A Collection of Modern Poetry” and “With Nobody,” Joshua’s debut screenplay which was produced into a feature film. Contact Michael Joshua at (616) 821-6520; entropy20010@aol.com

15. ==> ‘The Great Realization’— Easing Kids’ COVID Fears Worldwide

Millions of people around the globe have viewed Tomos Roberts’ touching video in which he reads his heartfelt poem “The Great Realization.” The hopeful tale for a post-COVID world became a viral sensation viewed tens of millions of times; covered by major media outlets from London’s Daily Mail to the Washington Post; and praised by celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore and Khloé Kardashian. Tomos, a poet/filmmaker based in London, wrote the poem to provide comfort to his younger brother and sister, both 7, amidst the pandemic, and in the video, he reads it to them as a bedtime story. Invite Tomos Roberts to discuss the worldwide reaction to “The Great Realization” (which continues to inspire thousands every day), his hopes for a post-COVID 19 world, and his belief that “hindsight is 2020.” “The Great Realization” is now a beautifully illustrated children’s book to help ease kids’ anxiety about coronavirus. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com

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

01. Why Tuesday’s Debate Went Terribly Wrong
02. Proud Boys Heard Trump’s Whistle
03. Just the Facts, Please
04. America’s Deadly Divorce from Science
05. Former Stuntman Takes You Behind the Scenes
06. Can We Eliminate Racism in the U.S.?
07. Flood Your Family (and Community) with Kindness
08. What Happens in Vegas … No Longer Stays There
09. This ‘Sugar Witch’ Takes the Sugar Out of Halloween
10. She Conquered Breast Cancer Twice by Doing This Simple Thing
11. 4 Clever Ways to Make Extra Cash
12. How to Come Back from a 70% Revenue Drop
13. What He Learned from 100 First Dates in One Year
14. Does Mother Nature Have It in for Us?
15. Make Positive Changes and Choices During Negative Times

1. ==> Why Tuesday’s Debate Went Terribly Wrong

“That was the worst debate in the history of presidential debating. And I’m including primary debates. Nothing else comes close,” says Todd Graham, a debate coach at Southern Illinois University. “Unfortunately, (Chris) Wallace decided to be invisible in his primary job here, as leader of a worthwhile debate. Like a bad parent, he was absent when needed and overbearing when it was too late.” Graham gives an F to Wallace and another to President Trump, for his boorish, bombastic babbling. Joe Biden, he gives a barely passing grade of C. “The election of the United States president is serious business. It was not treated that way last night. There were no winners in that nonsense. Only losers. Us.” Todd Graham’s debate teams have won five national championships. Contact him at (618) 453-5090; tgraham@siu.edu

2. ==> Proud Boys Heard Trump’s Whistle

Members of the violent hate group known as the Proud Boys celebrated after a callout from President Donald Trump in Tuesday’s presidential debate. Before the night was over, Proud Boys were already sharing the group’s logo with Trump’s words “stand back” and “stand by” written on it. Political communications expert Helio Fred Garcia isn’t surprised. He says Trump is desperate and ratcheting up the intensity and frequency of his rhetoric before the upcoming election. “He demonizes groups and rivals. He glorifies white supremacists. And he invents an existential threat that requires an armed response. He did so before the 2016 election; he did so before the 2018 mid-term, with fatal consequences. And he’s doing it now.” In “Words on Fire: The Power of Incendiary Language and How to Confront It” Garcia predicts the patterns being used by President Trump to inspire and encourage violence. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 991-8328; jboyer@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Just the Facts, Please

Tired of listening to politicians and officials spinning numbers, making things up and downright lying? What does the data say about COVID-19 and the economy? How many Americans are living without health insurance? How often do police use excessive force in arrests? USAFacts’ “Change the Story” campaign demonstrates how decisions grounded in real data can allow Americans to make informed choices. The nonpartisan civic initiative provides a data-driven portrait of the population, government’s finances, and government’s impact on society. According to Steve Ballmer, founder of USAFacts and former CEO of Microsoft, “As we head into the election, our nation’s citizens are looking to inform their vote based on the facts.” USAFacts presents metrics on all U.S. governments, from federal records to a growing collection of state and county data, including coronavirus data. It provides vital spending, revenue, demographic, and performance information as a free public service and commits to maintaining and expanding their available data in the future. Contact Lisa Conquergood at lisac@usafacts.org; (425) 332-4196

4. ==> America’s Deadly Divorce from Science

Harvard University professor Naomi Oreskes believes the social contract between science and American society is broken beyond repair. “The unfortunate reality is that our elected government is increasingly populated with many men and women who do not merely ignore scientific facts, they appear to despise them and the people who produce them. They see science as something that stands in the way of their political goals, and therefore must be pushed out of the way.” The author of “Why Trust Science?” says the solution isn’t a call for more science or the restoration of “scientific integrity,” whatever that is. She says, “As scientific conclusions become more indisputable, the machinations of those who are threatened by it become more outrageous. There comes a point when maybe one simply has to accept that the dream has died, and it is time for a new one.” Naomi Oreskes is professor of the history of science at Harvard University and the author of nearly 200 books, scholarly papers, and articles. Her opinion pieces have appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post and other major publications. Contact her at oreskes@fas.harvard.edu

5. ==> Former Stuntman Takes You Behind the Scenes

Steve McChesney knows what it was like to put his life on the line for the sake of entertainment. As a Hollywood stuntman, actor, or extra he appeared in more than 350 TV shows and movies, Part of that time, Steve earned money by falling off of high places, being knocked off of walls, performing stunts in automobiles and other things designed to make the audience’s hearts race. To the delight of baby boomers and others who love classic TV and movies, he can talk about the work he did on “Star Trek 6,” the last movie with the show’s original cast, “Starsky and Hutch,” “Battlestar Galactica”, “Wonder Woman” and more, and why professional stunt people are the safest people to hang around with. Now a marketing expert, Steve McChesney has been on CBS, ABC, NBC, and other large media outlets. His new book is “Rearranging Change: How You Market to an Ever-Changing World” and his podcast with the same name is available on all major channels. He is available as a last-minute guest. Contact Steve McChesney at (321) 414-2147; smcchesney@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Can We Eliminate Racism in the U.S.?

When it comes to race, most of us exist in a bubble. Too often we associate with people like ourselves, limiting our ability to identify with those who are different. Nadia Al-Samarrie is the exception. As the child of an American Catholic mother and an Iraqi Moslem diplomat father, she has lived in Iraq and Iran, and in California, where she went to high school. She experienced racial and cultural tensions for being American in the Middle East and in Iran for being an Iraqi and the racial crossfire between the white and Black communities in the U.S. She sees herself and others as spirits defined not by their ethnic background but by their unique life experiences. A conversation with Nadia will make the world seem smaller and more universal. She says, “We need to remember that tolerance unites us. We need to see and accept people as they are, understanding that no matter how different they may appear, they all want to feel safe, loved, and accepted.” Ask her how we can eliminate racism in the U.S. Nadia is the author of the new memoir, “From Bagdad to Berkeley: A Woman’s Affair.” As an author and diabetes expert, she has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, and other major cable networks. Contact her at (415) 741-3545; nalsamarrie@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Flood Your Family (and Community) with Kindness

With the COVID pandemic and the long-term pain of racial injustice recently boiling to a head, educator and creative activist Laurie Marshall shares practical ways that parents can flood their families and communities with kindness. She’ll discuss creating a family story that captures your family’s values. In addition, she will share small daily practices, fun family projects, ways of turning daily chores into games that help your children (and you) be kinder, and ideas for being in service to your community in kindness. Marshall is a project-based learning and arts integration specialist who has worked with underserved youth for over 30 years. Her partners include FEMA and Project Drawdown, the World’s Leading Resource for Climate Solutions. She has trained over 6,000 teachers in project-based learning and facilitated 125 nature-based murals with over 25,000 people in schools, nonprofits, and government agencies. Contact Laurie Marshall at (415) 360-3304; lmarshall@rtirguests.com

8. ==> What Happens in Vegas … No Longer Stays There

Las Vegas has earned its reputation as Sin City. And back in the early 1980s when Mark Rusin was a young police officer there, his job brought him face-to-face with some crazy situations which he’ll detail on your show. Ask him about the role his uniformed partner played in a bar’s wet T-shirt contest, about the time a john showed him what $70,000 in cash looked like, and about the “small” detail he missed while interviewing a stabbing victim. On a more serious note, he can also share the police call that has haunted him every day since he was called to the MGM Grand Hotel on Nov. 21, 1980. Rusin is a former ATF special agent who knows what “really” happened at Waco and has met several U.S. presidents while protecting them. Rusin has also been a consultant to CSI and other shows. He is the author of the upcoming book “METRO: Sin City Chronicles” and an earlier novel, “Justice For Dallas,” which was based on real events. Contact Mark Rusin at (520) 205-1113; msrusin@comcast.net

9. ==> This ‘Sugar Witch’ Takes the Sugar Out of Halloween

Trick or Treating may be different this year due to COVID, but candy is still likely to play a starring role for most families. Yet too much sugar depresses immune systems and leads to empty calories and weight gain. But a good witch can save the day. Marsha Allen — known as The Sugar Witch — will help families celebrate the Halloween season sweetly without overdoing the sugar. Ask Marsha how to quell sugar cravings and even overcome sugar addiction and how to replace traditional Halloween candies with healthier treats children will love. She can also help people identify the hidden sugars hiding in everyday foods. Marsha hosts “Sugar Addicts” on Crown City News TV. She is the author of “Spoiled Rotten on a Diet: Gluten, Sugar & Dairy-Free Made Simple.” Contact Marsha at (902) 906-5231; MAllen@rtirguests.com

10. ==> She Conquered Breast Cancer Twice by Doing This Simple Thing

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Carol Edmonston can share the one thing she did that helped her through two bouts with breast cancer. Doodling! A breast cancer diagnosis is always stressful but this year when the entire U.S. population is under stress, it is arguably more important than ever to offer your audience tools for coping that are simple, repeatable, free, and fun. Carol can talk about the 3 R’s of doodling and how to use doodling to cope with unexpected challenging times, prevent meltdowns, and achieve inner calm for pennies a day; she can also explain the five guiding principles for disarming fear when you find yourself on a life detour. An inspirational speaker known as The Doodle Lady™, Carol Edmonston is committed to weaving a connection between mind, body, and spirit through the creativity of doodling. She’s the author of several books including “The Healing Power Of Doodling: Mindfulness Therapy To Deal With Stress, Fear & Life Challenges.” Her story appears in “Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor’s Soul” and has been profiled in The New York Times among other publications. Contact her at (714) 609-4654; carol.edmonston@gmail.com

11. ==> 4 Clever Ways to Make Extra Cash

Millions of Americans have lost jobs or taken pay cuts since the pandemic began six months ago. With so many people unemployed and bills mounting up, people are anxious to hear about ways they can make money now and in the future. Patricia Davis, author of “Going Broke Is No Joke!,” wants to help with fresh ideas. She’ll talk to your listeners about ways to bring in extra bucks by doing things like selling their cellphone images, agreeing to test websites and products, selling unused gift cards, and selling their opinions to focus groups. Davis can also prepare your audience to spot scammers trying to tempt them with bogus job opportunities and offer tips on what household goods could be sold for needed cash without being missed. An experienced guest, Davis holds degrees from Howard University, Stanford, and Golden Gate University, and a Diploma of Graduation from Georgetown University’s Stonier Graduate School of Banking and Finance. Contact Patricia Davis at (301) 517-6304; pdavis@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How to Come Back from a 70% Revenue Drop

Because of the pandemic, the bottom has fallen out of many businesses, affecting not only their owners but also the employees who work for them who have been furloughed or had their hours cut. What are some specific things small businesses can do to recover? Rami Odeh (Oh-DAY) has answers culled from his experience bringing his personal training company back from a 70% drop in revenue that resulted from the 2008 recession. Invite Rami on your show to hear about the big risk he took that started his company’s return to healthy profitability and the importance of seeking help when you need it. The lessons Rami learned along the way are valuable to every business owner whether on the way up, the way down, plateaued, or trying to build a saleable business. Rami is an author, certified exercise physiologist, personal trainer and corporate presenter with dual master’s degrees in industrial psychology and exercise physiology. Rami is the author of the three-volume series “Quiet The Noise.” Contact him at (770) 773-6970; rami@quietthenoisebook.com

13. ==> What He Learned from 100 First Dates in One Year

Every time you go on a date you learn something but imagine how much you could learn if you went on 100 first dates in just one year! That’s what author, speaker, and personal transformation expert Arnoux Goran did in his quest to learn what women really want and what makes relationships work. He can reveal what he discovered and the techniques to help you find your perfect match. Invite him to share what red flags to look for on a first date, what really impresses women, and how you can make sure you get a second date. Goran has developed a method to reprogram yourself that was studied by the University of California, Irvine, and proven to be 100% effective. His latest program is HowToAttractYourSoulmate.com. Goran has been featured on radio and television nationwide. Contact him at (878) 203-8231; AGoran@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Does Mother Nature Have It in for Us?

Pandemic. Wildfire. Tornado. Earthquake. Hurricane. Tsunami. When it comes to inspiring fear, Mother Nature can sure dish it out. No one knows that better than Sana Brauner, who nearly died in a tsunami that came out of nowhere, claiming her mother and young daughter. In the 16 years since then, Sana has learned a lot about facing sudden, unexpected events and the fear they engender and can share lessons we need as we face the continued disruption of our lives from COVID-19. She can inspire audience members to see the future and create the life they need to get there. She is the author of “The Borrowed Daughter.” Contact Sana Brauner at s.brauner@ihr-einkauf.at Skype: sanabr

15. ==> Make Positive Changes and Choices During Negative Times

Remember when you used to dread rush-hour traffic, thought how sweet it would be to stay home instead of going to work, or dreamed about taking a sick day? Times have changed. Now many of us wish we didn’t have to stay at home and long to have more choices. But as former radio host and award-winning author Rico Racosky will tell you, we all have the power to change our life stories and form new habits even during the most trying times. Known as the New Story Guy, Rico can share his “Just 2 Choices” concept with your listeners. In addition to his work in radio, this upbeat guest is a keynote speaker and thought leader on overcoming personal and work-related obstacles. Ask about his free downloads for clear thinking. Contact Rico at (730) 572-1322; rracosky@rtirguests

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