Category: Weekly Ezine Archives

01. 10 Ways Trump Has Made America Weaker
02. National Security Expert: America's Biggest Threats 
03. America’s Murder Rate Hits 70-Year Low
04. The Problem Parents Will Feel in the Classroom This Fall
05. Time for One More Summer Trip! 10 Hidden Travel Gems
06. Caregiver Fraud: How an Elderly Couple Lost $3 Million
07. 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come
08. How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children	
09. Forty Years of Life Lessons from an Alaska Garden
10. Life As A Closeted Clairvoyant
11. Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation
12. Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker
13. Signs Your Body is Asking for Change
14. Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool 
15. Did You Chose This Life Before You Were Born?

1. ==> 10 Ways Trump Has Made America Weaker

Donald Trump has been one of the most consequential presidents in U.S. history, but Stephen Walt says, “Unfortunately, almost all the consequences of his actions have been harmful, not just for most people in the United States but also for America’s relative power and standing in the world. His cronies and family members may be reaping the benefits, but the cumulative impact of his actions will be not a return to greatness, but a weaker and more divided America.” Walt lists ten ways Trump has made America weaker including destroying confidence in U.S. promises reducing U.S. military capability, eroding the rule of law and threatening election integrity. He says Trump’s main accomplishment during his second term has been to enrich himself and his cronies. “His family will be a lot richer when his term ends, but the country will be weaker, sicker, and angrier. If it wasn’t obvious before, it certainly is now: ‘Make America Great Again’ was always just a scam.” Stephen M. Walt is a columnist at “Foreign Policy” and the Robert and Renée Belfer professor of international relations at Harvard University. Contact him at stephen_walt@hks.harvard.edu or Leah Marshall at (617) 496-2737; leah_marshall@hks.harvard.edu

2. ==> National Security Expert: America's Biggest Threats 

In today’s volatile, fast-moving environment, how do intelligence professionals distinguish headline-grabbing security risks from vulnerabilities that deserve greater attention? Recently retired senior CIA executive Steve Hirsch can explain how the intelligence community assesses threats and makes decisions and reveal the threats America may be underestimating. From biological threats and food security to cyberattacks and critical infrastructure, he’ll discuss what could lead to the next national security crisis and why. During his CIA career, Hirsch served in senior leadership positions spanning counterterrorism, intelligence analysis, public affairs, workforce and organizational transformation, and the Agency’s business analytics modernization. Following 9/11, he served as a President’s Daily Briefer, briefing Cabinet-level officials as the intelligence community adapted to a dramatically different threat environment. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 (office)

3. ==> America’s Murder Rate Hits 70-Year Low

Survey after survey finds that Americans believe that crime is getting worse but new crime statistics from the FBI show that 2025 murder rates fell to 4.1 per 100,000 people. That’s the same rate recorded in 1955 and 1956 and is the lowest ever measured. The country’s violent crime rate also fell 9.7 percent, the largest drop since J. Edgar Hoover was running the bureau in 1936. Longtime crime and violence prevention educator and expert Stephanie Mann says there is no single or easy explanation for the historic lows. Invite her to discuss what programs are working to decrease crime and share real life stories of communities and lives that have been transformed. Mann says real, lasting change often starts at the community level and will reveal specific strategies communities are using to take ownership of their environment and reduce dependence on reactive systems. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
  
4. ==> The Problem Parents Will Feel in the Classroom This Fall

The teacher shortage isn't simply about finding enough people to fill classrooms. Deanna Gilmore, Ph.D., says the bigger problem is keeping great teachers from walking away. On your show, she'll reveal what is driving talented educators away, what could actually convince them to stay, and why rebuilding schools requires valuing the entire ecosystem supporting children, including principals, bus drivers, coaches, cafeteria workers, and paraprofessionals. She'll also share concrete steps communities and lawmakers can take to strengthen schools. With 26 years in the classroom plus experience as a school principal and university professor training future educators, Gilmore has seen the challenges facing schools from multiple perspectives. Her book, “There's a Pig on the Playground: Memorable Stories from the Schoolyard,” celebrates the people who make school communities work. Contact Deanna Gilmore at (208) 285-7567; dgilmore@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Time for One More Summer Trip! 10 Hidden Travel Gems 

Thinking about squeezing in a last-minute summer trip? You’ll want to hear from Natalie and Evelyn Kelly, who say many of the country’s most memorable destinations aren’t the ones topping travel lists. After exploring all 50 states together over three decades, the mother-daughter travel experts say some of America’s greatest experiences are tucked away in small towns, scenic byways, and overlooked attractions that most travelers drive right past. From breathtaking natural wonders to charming Main Streets and unforgettable local eateries, they’ll share ten hidden gems perfect for families, couples, retirees, and adventure seekers looking to skip the crowds and discover something new. They’ll also reveal simple ways to plan a more meaningful vacation without spending a fortune. Their book, “Love Affair with the USA,” celebrates the people, places, and stories that make America worth exploring one road trip at a time. Contact Evelyn and Natalie Kelly at (352) 661-2493; ekelly@rtirguests.com 

6. ==> Caregiver Fraud: How an Elderly Couple Lost $3 Million

A gas station charge can trigger a fraud alert and temporarily freeze a credit card but according to a lawsuit filed in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Commercial Division, three of America’s largest financial institutions failed to detect or stop nearly $3 million in alleged fraud against an elderly New Jersey couple. The lawsuit alleges that JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and American Express allowed a caregiver to allegedly drain millions from Raphael and Jane Bern, despite transactions that the family says should have raised immediate red flags. Charles Gallo, who was entrusted to care for the couple, was later convicted of federal wire fraud and sentenced to prison. According to the lawsuit, in a single month alone, more than $161,000 in questionable charges occurred yet the banks allegedly failed to issue fraud alerts or intervene. Raphael Bernstein is 94 years old. His wife Jane is 89 and living with Alzheimer’s disease. Their sons, John and Daniel Bernstein, are seeking accountability and answers about whether banks are doing enough to protect vulnerable elderly customers from financial exploitation. For interviews, contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com  

7. ==> 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the largest food assistance program in the country, is undergoing a massive overhaul, with major changes set to take effect this fall. Already, more than 4 million people – many them children – are estimated to have lost the critical food aid since last July when a sweeping Republican tax and spending package became law. Starsky Wilson, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, a child advocacy group, says he has been alarmed by the speed of the tax law’s impact and warns that more cuts will take effect later this year. “There could be an even greater sense of desperation among children and their families,” he says. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act included major changes to the food assistance program. SNAP has already been tightening eligibility, but the biggest shift will come in October when states will need to pay if they want to keep the program going. If they don’t, neither food banks nor existing government programs would have the capacity to fill the gap, according to Wilson. “There’s no replacement for SNAP if a state gets rid of it,” he says. Contact CDF media relations manager John Henry at (708) 646-7679; jhenry@childrensdefense.org

8. ==> How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children

As the country’s schools, libraries, museums, and government institutions face an escalating campaign to erase Black history—as political leaders are banning books, sanitizing slavery, and claiming to protect white children from the discomfort of America’s racial past—award-winning journalist, author and historian, Stacey Patton, reveals how white parenting culture trained generations of its own children for racial terror. She exposes the grotesque historical contradiction at the center of today’s censorship campaigns: The same nation now insisting that white children are too fragile to learn about racism once deliberately brought them to lynchings, exposed them to communal homicide, and taught them to regard the barbaric destruction of Black bodies as “law and order,” protection, entertainment, and family bonding. She says lynching did more than terrorize Black communities. It functioned as a multisensory public curriculum in racial domination that trained white children through sight, sound, touch, smell, and spectacle so they would become desensitized to racial terror, and so that terror would have heirs. Stacey Patton, Ph.D., is a nationally recognized child advocate. Her writing has appeared in the “New York Times,” “The Washington Post,” “The Chronicle of Higher Education,” and other national outlets. Her new book, “Strung Up: How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children,” will be released in October. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

9. ==> Forty Years of Life Lessons from an Alaska Garden

With over 71 million U.S. households tending gardens, it remains America's top outdoor hobby. Marion Owen has spent 40 years gardening in Kodiak, Alaska, and built her career on one idea: the garden is a place of healing, not just a hobby. On your show, she’ll reveal life lessons we can all learn from tending the earth, including gratitude, patience, and slowing down in an increasingly hectic world. Ask her: Why do you call the garden "a place of healing" instead of just a hobby? How did a single plant help a hospitalized veteran move for the first time in years? What's one gardening myth you wish would finally die? Marion Owens is the “New York Times” bestselling co-author of “Chicken Soup for the Gardener's Soul” and is now writing “Cultivating Joy Through Gardening: 365 Daily Meditations.” 
Contact Marion Owen at (907) 891-7980; mowen@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Life As A Closeted Clairvoyant

Nearly half of Americans say they've had a spiritual experience they can't explain, yet most never talk about it. Former television executive Kim Bantle spent more than two decades working at Paramount, Viacom, and Group W Productions while keeping her own extraordinary experiences private. She says she could read minds, predict events, sense energy, and communicate with those who had passed – abilities that intensified after a near-death experience in college. On your show, Bantle explores why successful professionals often trust instincts they can't explain, why intuition remains one of society's least-discussed human experiences, and what the growing interest in spirituality says about a culture searching for meaning beyond traditional institutions. She also discusses dreams, signs, synchronicities, and why skeptics and believers may have more in common than they think. Having spent 23 years producing content for mainstream audiences, she knows how to discuss extraordinary topics in a way that is thoughtful, relatable, and engaging. Bantle shares her experiences with honesty, humor and self-awareness in her new memoir “Confessions of a Closeted Clairvoyant.” Contact Kim Bantle at ksbantle@gmail.com; (310) 418-5758

11. ==> Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation

America is facing what the U.S. Surgeon General recently called an epidemic of loneliness. Nearly half of adults say they feel isolated at times, and that isolation often deepens during life’s hardest moments: serious illness, caregiving, grief, infertility, or financial uncertainty. Author and loneliness coach Karen Kay Smith asserts these “waiting room seasons” can quietly push people away from the very support they need most. On your show, Smith explains why people often shift into “functioning versus feeling” during crises, how emotional suppression fuels loneliness, and why many struggle to communicate what they truly need. She offers practical, yet life-changing tools listeners can use immediately, including how a simple “breath prayer” can replace pressure-filled spiritual routines, why naming emotions out loud can be more healing than staying strong, and how her “3 C’s” framework—confidence, communication, and community—helps people rebuild connection step by step. Drawing from 15 years caring for her husband during his battle with multiple sclerosis, along with years in women’s ministry and training as a transformational life coach, Smith brings a rare blend of lived experience and practical guidance to conversations about loneliness and connection. She is the author of “Nearsighted: Choosing to See Eating Disorders Differently” and the upcoming “Hope Has a Seat in Every Waiting Room.” Contact Karen Kay Smith at (256) 812-5106; ksmith@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker

Most people believe that persuasive speaking is a natural talent. But retired Army Colonel Larry Tracy says it's a skill that anyone can master. Drawing on decades of high-stakes experience briefing military leaders, defending U.S. policy before hostile audiences, and training professionals competing for multimillion-dollar government contracts, Larry developed an easy-to-follow 6-step system to help speakers communicate with confidence, clarity, and credibility in any setting. Praised by President Ronald Reagan as "an extraordinarily effective speaker," Larry shows that persuasion isn't about charisma—it's about preparation. His battle-tested approach can help anyone influence audiences, overcome speaking anxiety, and deliver messages that truly change minds. Larry’s proven system is featured in his book “How to Bring Home the Bacon: Becoming a Persuasive Speaker.” Contact Larry Tracy at (571) 336-0507; Ltracy@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Signs Your Body is Asking for Change 

6 in 10 U.S. adults are living with chronic disease, yet many health resets often focus on surface fixes. Lasting improvement requires looking beyond symptoms and asking what the body may be responding to beneath the surface. On this timely show, Marcel Vögeli will share common signs your body is asking for change and explore how long-term stress, suppressed conflict, and emotional overload can influence physical health. Listeners may be surprised to learn why two people with the same diagnosis can heal at very different rates. After eight years of intensive autoimmune treatment that managed symptoms but didn’t restore his life, Marcel began examining deeper stress patterns in his own story. He has been hospital-free since 2012. Marcel Vögeli is spokesperson for The Key to Self-Liberation by the late Christiane Beerlandt. Contact Marcel Vögeli at Mvogeli@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool 

Most parents see children's books as entertainment. Kenneth Korber, a health literacy expert, believes they can also be powerful tools for improving children's health. After two decades as a clinician, he wrote and published “The Musical Adventures of Grace” series to extend the patient office visit into bedtime reading, helping families reinforce important health and wellness lessons at home. His engaging stories and characters transform complex medical topics into age-appropriate adventures that children actually enjoy. Ken’s approach encourages healthy habits, eases childhood anxiety and fears, and strengthens literacy at the same time. “Storytelling may be one of the most effective—and overlooked—ways to improve public health, empower families, and help children build lifelong healthy behaviors, one bedtime story at a time,” he says. Contact: Kenneth Korber at (847) 238-8936; kkorber@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Did You Chose This Life Before You Were Born?
  
What if the life you’re living—including its struggles, its losses, and its ordinary moments—was chosen by you before you arrived? Doreen Mary Bray, who has worked between worlds for over 40 years as a naturopath and mystical guide, teaches that souls don’t stumble into human life. They long for it, wait for it, and select it with intention — choosing parents, place, and form for the privilege of embodiment. Bray will reveal what it means to live as a soul that chose this life, and why that single shift in understanding transforms everything. She’ll explore how souls navigate the journey toward incarnation and why being human is not a burden to transcend, but a gift of extraordinary rarity. For anyone who has ever felt that life is happening to them, Bray offers a radical reframe: you didn’t land here by accident. Doreen Mary Bray is the author of “The Angel and the Avatar.” Contact her at (438) 802-0280; Dbray@rtirguests.com

01. Twenty-Five Years After 9/11: Can It Teach Us How to Bridge America's Divides?
02. Has Trump’s Operation Southern Spear Opened a Hidden Front?
03. Why America Is Running Out of Munitions
04. ‘Dirty Girls Come Clean’ Author: What Drives Women to Porn?
05. Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’
06. He Lost $200,000. Fear Tactics Scammers Use
07. The Real Reason Successful Professionals Feel Stuck
08. New Tool Helps Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts	
09. How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire
10. Caregiving is a Workplace Issue
11. Heart-Healthy Labor Day Cookout Tips
12. Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late
13. What Your Golf Game Reveals About Your Mindset
14. What Working With Hollywood Stars Taught Him About Fame & Fortune
15. From Heartache to Healing to Humor in 5 Steps

1. ==> Twenty-Five Years After 9/11: Can It Teach Us How to Bridge America's Divides? 

As America prepares to commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, many conversations will look back at the events of that day. Scott Gibbs offers a conversation about what the past quarter century has taught us about conflict, belonging, and how Americans can build stronger connections across political, cultural, and religious differences for a better future. Learn why our need to belong shapes everything from personal relationships to international conflict, and how "us versus them" thinking develops and how individuals and communities can move beyond it. Gibbs believes a deeper understanding of 9/11 can help us move from polarization toward dialogue, trust, and shared purpose. Scott Gibbs is a psychotherapist and the author of “Toward the Turning: Rethinking the Meaning of 9/11, the Clash of Civilizations, and a Post-Modern World.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 (office)

2. ==> Has Trump’s Operation Southern Spear Opened a Hidden Front?

New reporting indicates that Trump’s boat strike program could be more secretive, larger, and more resistant to oversight than previously known. Will Freeman, whose research focuses on organized crime in Latin America, traveled to coastal Ecuador to interview the survivors and the families of those who crewed a missing Ecuadorian fishing vessel, the Fiorella. Freeman published one of the first investigations into the boat’s disappearance back in June in the “New Yorker.” Last week, building on the investigation, the “Washington Post” and “New York Times” published reports indicating a covert U.S. operation may be responsible. All three stories concern the same events: the January disappearance of the Fiorella and eight of its ten crew, and March attacks on two more boats. Freeman says, “Read together, the three accounts point to something larger: Operation Southern Spear—the Trump administration’s campaign of strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels, ongoing since September 2025—could be bigger, more secretive, and run by more actors than previously understood, making congressional oversight both more important and harder.” Will Freeman is a fellow for Latin America studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. Contact him at wfreeman@cfr.org

3. ==> Why America Is Running Out of Munitions

The United States is burning through some of its most advanced munitions in its war with Iran. Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) says the U.S. arsenal is “depleted,” with some munitions “quite depleted,” and that rebuilding inventories will take 1–5 years. He says use during the war against Iran is a major driver of the issue, but not the only one and that transfers to Ukraine are a minor factor—with one important exception; Patriot missiles. Cancian can explain why current munitions are low and how that effects the wars in Iran and Ukraine. “The immediate problem is not money, but time. With time, production will equal demand, but that is several years in the future. Until then, there is a window of vulnerability. The question facing the United States is whether the risk in a future conflict arising from reduced inventories is worth the gain in the current conflict.” He adds, “That is a political question about which the country is deeply divided.” The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. For interviews with Mark F. Cancian (Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, ret.), contact the CSIS media relations department at press@csis.org or (202) 775-7317

4. ==> ‘Dirty Girls Come Clean’ Author: What Drives Women to Porn?

When we talk about pornography, it’s usually as a male problem. But Crystal Renaud Day has spent close to twenty years sitting with the women nobody was counting. Back in 2011 she wrote “Dirty Girls Come Clean,” the first Christian book for women struggling with pornography. At the time, many people didn't believe that audience even existed. Her new book, “What Drives Women to Porn?” comes out of an original survey she ran of more than 1,300 women in 58 countries, and it digs into what's driving the behavior in the first place. She says the question women keep asking, "what's the matter with me?" is the wrong one. The better one is "what happened to me?" She’ll reveal the most common trigger for women, why "pray harder" and "try harder" keep failing women, and what the willpower model gets wrong about the brain. Crystal Renaud Day is a pastoral counselor and the founder of SheRecovery. Contact Zoe Moody at zoe@jonesliterary.com

5. ==> Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’

Critics are calling Hulu's crime thriller, Furious, savage, smart and addictive. Written by Elizabeth Meriwether and inspired by the 1987 film ‘Black Widow,’ the series stars Emmy Rossum as an FBI agent obsessed with a female serial killer who is targeting the city’s elite. Actor Clark Moore plays Caleb Easton, a judge and the son of a billionaire. He’s also the killer's first victim. Invite Moore to talk about the show and his pivotal role and share behind-the-scenes stories from the twisty, funny thriller. Moore's career highlights include a recurring role as D.A. Stanny Sanders in the ABC limited series Women of the Movement, executive produced by Will Smith and Jay-Z, and a leading performance in the Amazon Prime series Lore. Contact Sean Dubravac at (323) 746-5003; 419815@email4pr.com

6. ==> He Lost $200,000. Fear Tactics Scammers Use 

Every 60 seconds, more than 107 Americans fall victim to scams, yet most people still believe they're too smart to become another one. Dentist and scam prevention expert Ed "Doc" Holliday knows otherwise. After losing more than $200,000 in a sophisticated AI-assisted scam, he discovered how criminals use fear, urgency, and psychological manipulation to override rational thinking. Drawing from firsthand experience, extensive scam research, and years educating others, Dr. Holliday offers practical insights audiences can use immediately. On your show, he’ll reveal the warning signs nearly everyone misses, why educated professionals are increasingly being targeted, and practical strategies families can use to protect themselves before it's too late. He’ll also explain how AI is making scams more convincing than ever, from fake company emails to cloned voices of loved ones. His book, “My 200K Nightmare: 10 Ways to Avoid Financial Scams I Wish I'd Known,” shares his remarkable story and prevention strategies. Contact Ed "Doc" Holliday at eholliday@rtirguests.com; (662) 472-4980

7. ==> The Real Reason Successful Professionals Feel Stuck

Chad Betz was sitting alone in a parking garage after work, convinced he was a failure. Despite working hard, building a career, and doing everything society dictated he should do, he did not feel successful. This led him on a journey to reinvent himself and help others who find themselves stuck, even after years of success. Chad says you don’t have to start over to create a successful next chapter and will help your listeners redefine success. He’ll also help them tackle the hidden forces behind their stagnation, like outdated definitions of success and beliefs that age limits future opportunity. Ask him: What is sunk-cost thinking and how can it sabotage careers? What is the Frustration Energy Cycle? What's one sign someone's chasing an expired version of success? Chad Betz is a leadership coach and black belt in three martial arts. He is the author of “An Authentic Success: You Aren't Too Old and It's Not Too Late!” Contact him at (203) 439-3564; cbetz@rtirguests.com

8. ==> New Tool Helps Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts

Most people should know by now that posting things online can come back to haunt you. It can also get you fired. Or keep you from being hired! According to research by CareerBuilder, 34% of employers have reprimanded or terminated an employee because of online activity, while 57% have discovered social media content that caused them not to hire a candidate. For those who are worried about their ability to self-check, or who are unclear about boundaries, a new tool called PostCheck could help you avoid becoming the next cautionary tale. Unlike traditional AI writing or sentiment tools, PostCheck analyzes draft social media posts, emails, direct messages, and other digital communications for potential career, legal, financial, and reputational risk before they're published. The platform was developed using real-world crisis communications and public relations expertise, giving users a practical "five-second reality check" before they hit send. Ask creator Ryan McCormick: What are the worst cases of posts destroying entire careers? How fast does it happen? Should people share their political/social views online, especially if they're friends with co-workers? What makes PostCheck unique? Couldn't people use regular AI and get the same response? Ryan McCormick is cofounder of Goldman McCormick Public Relations. Contact him at ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

9. ==> How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire

The phrase “AI layoff” went from a niche concern in 2023 to the single most-cited reason for U.S. job cuts in both March and April of 2026. Over those two months alone, employers tied 36,831 layoffs directly to artificial intelligence. But are businesses sacrificing the very qualities that drive long-term success? Startup strategist and attorney Douglas Park says the companies that thrive in the AI era won't simply have the best technology—they'll know how to combine AI with human creativity, judgment, and smart strategy. Drawing on more than 25 years advising companies, Park reveals the costly AI mistakes many leaders are making, why products are becoming easier to copy, and why people and competitive positioning matter more than ever. Douglas is a Silicon Valley attorney, former business professor, startup advisor and the author of “Starting Startups.” His research-based 3P Framework helps organizations align their people, products, and position to compete in a rapidly changing economy. Contact Douglas Park at (650) 629-1424; dpark@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Caregiving is a Workplace Issue

Millions of Millennial and Gen X workers are caught between aging parents who need care and children who still depend on them. They are also the employees that companies have spent years developing into leaders, and the ones most likely to walk if that squeeze goes unaddressed. Workplace expert Andy Challenger says, "This is a workforce issue, not a personal issue. Sandwiched caregivers cut hours, decline promotions, and sometimes leave their organizations entirely. That's talent walking out the door, and it's often the experienced, mid-career talent you spent years developing." He says, "Flexibility is the single most important thing employers can offer to caregivers. A doctor's appointment for an aging parent doesn't respect a 9-to-5 calendar. Neither does a sick kindergartener. Remote and hybrid schedules, flexible start and stop times, and compressed workweeks let caregivers manage the unpredictable without stepping off their career track." He says other ways employers can support caregiving workers include normalizing eldercare (not just childcare), offering caregiving leave and making it usable, and training managers to ask and listen. Andy Challenger is chief revenue officer for Challenger, Gray & Christmas, an outplacement and executive coaching firm. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

11. ==> Heart-Healthy Labor Day Cookout Tips

Cookouts are big part of Labor Day celebrations, but the typical menu of hot dogs and burgers isn’t exactly health food. Dorothy Greet can share ways to enjoy a BBQ without the meat. After suffering a heart attack at age 70, Dorothy and her husband. both lifelong meat-and-dairy lovers, made a dramatic change by adopting a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. Within weeks, they experienced improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, energy, and overall well-being. Today, Greet says summer is one of the easiest seasons to enjoy fresh, flavorful plant-based meals without feeling deprived. She'll share simple ways to create heart-healthier cookouts, practical ideas for replacing meat and dairy, and explain why many Americans consume far more protein than they actually need. She'll show listeners that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated, and that it's never too late to make changes that can improve both health and quality of life. Credentialed in plant-based nutrition through Cornell, Dorothy Greet has spent more than a decade teaching, blogging, and encouraging others to discover the life-changing benefits of whole-food, plant-based eating. She’s the author of “Go Veg with Class.” Contact Dorothy Greet at (302) 314-6010; dgreet@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late

More women are waiting longer to start families, but many are shocked to learn their fertility may have declined years earlier. OB/GYN Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says the problem isn’t just age, it’s a lack of awareness about the early signals the body provides. She’ll explain why many women don’t discover issues until they’re struggling to conceive, how modern lifestyles may quietly accelerate fertility decline, and why relying on IVF as a backup plan can be misleading. Drawing on more than 30 years in women’s health she shares what women and couples should be tracking now—long before they’re ready for pregnancy. She’ll reveal fertility warning signs women are missing in their 20s and 30s and explain why so many women overestimate what IVF can actually do. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri is the author of “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally.” Contact her at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

13. ==> What Your Golf Game Reveals About Your Mindset 

Most golfers blame their swing when they play poorly. Former LPGA Tour player and LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member Cindy Miller says the real problem is usually the six inches between their ears. In this timely summer segment, she reveals how fear, frustration, self-doubt, and unrealistic expectations sabotage performance long before golfers reach the green. Cindy shares practical strategies to quiet negative self-talk, recover after mistakes, and play with greater confidence and consistency. She also explains why the same mental habits that improve your golf game can strengthen leadership, relationships, and resilience long after you leave the course. Her book, “Take Another Shot,” reinforces these lessons through real stories of perseverance, second chances, and personal growth. Cindy Miller is a former LPGA Tour player, LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member, and nationally recognized golf instructor who has spent decades helping golfers improve both their game and their mindset. Contact Cindy Miller at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com

14. ==> What Working With Hollywood Stars Taught Him About Fame & Fortune

Everyone thinks they want fame and fortune — until they see what it ac¬tually looks like. Keith Ingersoll spent nearly a decade behind the scenes at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, working alongside the biggest names in film, television, and professional sports. What he witnessed up close was nothing like the glossy image sold to the public. Ingersoll will share candid, surprising, and sometimes sobering stories including his account of Elvis Presley’s personal Bible and what it reveals about the man behind the legend. He’ll offer listeners a rare insider’s perspective on what separates genuine fulfillment from the hollow pursuit of celebrity. Ask him: What’s the biggest misconception people have about fame and wealth? What was your most surprising encounter with a major celebrity at Caesars Palace? Keith Ingersoll is the author of “Fame and Fortune.” Contact him at (208) 812-5346; kingersoll@rtirguests.com

15. ==> From Heartache to Healing to Humor in 5 Steps

Nikki Goldman, Ph.D., spent decades labeled as a lazy learner before discovering her undiagnosed dyslexia and turning that heartache into two rewarding careers. As an award-winning author, Goldman tells her story in “Lunacy is in My Family's DNA,” where she explores how humor evolved from her hurts and helped her find a more peaceful heart. In her hypnotherapy practice, she teaches a five-step HEART program for overcoming sorrow and living a happier life that involves honoring reality, embracing empathy, altering your perspective, recognizing gifts and tickling your funny bone. Ask her: During the holidays and other gatherings, what causes people to trigger old family hurts — and how can we stop reenacting the outdated drama? Can something be both painful and hilarious without diminishing how much it hurt? Is acceptance giving up, or finally putting down the rope in the tug-of-war? Contact Nikki Goldman at (858) 544-6899; ngoldman@rtirguests.com

01. What Caused Spain’s Border Surge?
02. The Modern Prophecy Debate (and What Happens When it Enters Politics)
03. Crypto Bill Crafted by and for Crypto Billionaires
04. How to Avoid a Tick Bite
05. End-of-Life Conversations Every Parent Needs to Have
06. Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones
07. Planning a Last-Minute Summer Trip? Best US Travel Spots
08. How Americans Can Reclaim Our Democracy	
09. Iconic Moments in Broadcast History: Live Via Satellite
10. Expert Shares Financial Tips for Gen Z
11. Why Your Brain Is Drowning in Notifications
12. Are You Addicted to Caffeine—and Don’t Even Know It?
13. The First Step to Rewrite Your Story
14. Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even if They Aren’t Religious
15. From Birthdays to Business Names: The Energy Behind Your Numbers

1. ==> What Caused Spain’s Border Surge?

Tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco into Ceuta, an autonomous Spanish territory in North Africa, during a two-day surge last month. It created an unexpected crisis, overwhelming local authorities and infrastructure and came as a shock because migration to the EU is generally more of a trickle than a deluge. Migration expert Rita Fernández says there was no single cause, but a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling could have played a part. She says misinformation about the situation spread rapidly online, prompting tens of thousands to make the journey. Many believed a rumor that those who reached the city would not be deported. “While Spanish authorities have also claimed that larger trafficking networks were involved, migrants on the ground told reporters that information on social media, not smugglers, mainly drove their decision to cross,” she says. Most of the migrants have returned to Africa but the situation in Ceuta was the first real test of the EU’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which is intended to move the bloc toward a more coordinated system for managing migration. Rita Fernandez is an expert on immigration policy at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a nonpartisan, independent national membership organization, think-tank, educator, and publisher of “Foreign Affairs.” Contact the CFR media relations department at Communications@cfr.org

2. ==> The Modern Prophecy Debate (and What Happens When it Enters Politics)

Filmmaker Matthew Thayer spent years wrestling with a question — does God still speak through prophets, and if he does, how would we know? And are we listening? His new documentary, ‘Can You Hear Me Now?’ looks at the modern prophetic movement and attempts to address what happens when prophecy enters our elections and our politics. Whether your audience leans true believer or raised eyebrow, the film is relevant, as it includes one of the last sit-down interviews Charlie Kirk ever gave, recorded two weeks before he was assassinated in Utah. Other widely known personalities interviewed in the film include William Federer, Hank Kunneman, Kelly Shackelford and Johnny Enlow. Matt Thayer’s previous work includes the film ‘State of Denial,’ about the contentious 2022 elections in Arizona. ‘Can You Hear Me Now?’ premieres next month on SalemNOW. Contact Marianna Gibson at marianna@jonesliterary.com

3. ==> Crypto Bill Crafted by and for Crypto Billionaires

Once back from their August recess, Senators will vote on The Clarity Act, a bill to set a legal structure for most cryptocurrency activity in the United States. If passed, the legislation would mark a major victory for President Donald Trump and the cryptocurrency industry, while reshaping how digital assets are regulated by federal agencies. Patrick Woodall, managing director at Americans for Financial Reform, opposes the legislation saying it was created by and for crypto billionaires and will hurt average Americans. “The bill locks-in weak protections for people and the economy and greenlights Trump’s crypto corruption as well as the crypto industry’s endemic scams, illicit finance, and volatility.” He adds, “Even crypto-sympathetic Senators demanded tough, binding ethics rules to stop the president’s crypto corruption, but the pitiful provisions do essentially nothing to address the Trump family’s multibillion dollar crypto empire. The president has already given pardons to crypto criminals, folded enforcement cases, and weakened oversight of the widespread crypto ripoffs and market manipulation. Senators will face a stark choice: whether they will stand up for people or cast their vote to enrich the crypto oligarchs and the president.” Americans for Financial Reform is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization founded in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis to fight for a just economy and financial system that works for everyone. Contact Jarice Thompson at jarice@ourfinancialsecurity.org

4. ==> How to Avoid a Tick Bite

Ticks weren’t a big worry for most of the U.S. a few decades ago, but times have changed. Tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease have reached epidemic levels with tick populations surging and spreading into new regions. Invite wilderness medicine specialist Christopher Bazzoli, MD, of the Cleveland Clinic to share tips to stay safe. He’ll explain when and where ticks are active, what type of clothing will protect you best and which bug sprays are safe and effective against ticks. He also recommends checking pets if they’ve been outside when ticks are active. But Dr. Bazzoli says not all tick bites can cause illness, and nobody should stay locked up inside to avoid potential contact. “It’s physiologically important for us to spend time in nature, so we don’t want to discourage that,” he says. “What we do want to do is encourage exploring the outdoors in a safe and mindful manner.” Contact the Cleveland Clinic media relations team at  newsroom@ccf.org; (216) 444-0141

5. ==> End-of-Life Conversations Every Parent Needs to Have

No parent wants to leave their children wondering, "Is this what Mom would have wanted?" or "Are we making the right decision?" Yet that's exactly what happens every day because families wait until a medical crisis to talk about end-of-life care. After more than a decade of research and more than 120 interviews with patients, caregivers, physicians, hospice and palliative care clinicians, funeral directors, and death doulas, Karen Lutfey Spencer, PhD, found that the families who navigate serious illness with the least conflict and regret aren't simply the ones with advance directives. They're the ones who had honest conversations long before anyone was hospitalized. The University of Colorado Denver medical sociologist will discuss the conversations every parent should have while they're still healthy, including: What does a good quality of life mean to you? What does a "good death" look like for you? Who do you trust to make healthcare decisions if you can't, and have you shared your wishes with them?  Spencer offers a roadmap for preserving family relationships, reducing conflict, and ensuring that your values, not a medical crisis, guide the care you receive. A medical sociologist and professor at the University of Colorado Denver, she’s the author of the upcoming book, “Your Good Death: Why End-of-Life Healthcare Is So Difficult and How to Make It Work for You.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office) (703) 400-1099 or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones

Is your audience overwhelmed by the complexities of elder care? Debbie C. Miller has the answers—and the empathy. With over 30 years of experience working with senior care issues, Miller delivers practical, compassionate advice that empowers caregivers to make confident, informed decisions. She’ll discuss: The biggest mistakes families make when trying to care for aging loved ones, the most pervasive myths about elder care—and how they derail good intentions and how to plan ahead without panic, guilt or guesswork. You’ll also learn why “aging in place” is a deeply personal choice that requires smart strategy. Whether your audience is navigating a sudden crisis or planning for long-term care, Debbie offers a step-by-step approach that’s clear, actionable, and emotionally grounded. Her insights resonate with adult children, caregivers, and professionals alike. A Certified Senior Advisor® and Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist®, Miller is the author of “Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips, & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones,” a trusted guide for families facing the emotional and logistical maze of senior care. Contact Debbie Miller at (703) 844-4074; dmiller@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Planning a Last-Minute Summer Trip? Best US Travel Spots

Many people are trying to get out of town before the end of summer and need some ideas. Evelyn and Natalie Kelly have visited 90 countries, all 50 states, and seven continents and say some of the most fascinating destinations are right here at home! They’ll reveal the overlooked places, quirky towns, remarkable people, historic sites, and cultural traditions that most Americans miss while dreaming of overseas travel. This mother/daughter pair will share why small-town America often tells the nation's biggest stories, how history comes alive through travel, and why the USA may be the world's most underrated travel destination. Evelyn and Natalie Kelly are the authors of “Have a Love Affair with the USA.” Contact them at (352) 661-2493; ekelly@rtirguests.com 

8. ==> How Americans Can Reclaim Our Democracy 

Millions of Americans are tired of feeling helpless—or furious—about what’s going on in politics today. “Agonizing, protesting, and turning off the news” aren’t our only options according to Sam Daley-Harris, activist and author of “Reclaiming Our Democracy.” He offers a proven alternative: transformational advocacy, a form of advocacy where you work to change an issue and you are changed in the process. Daley-Harris will share stories of ordinary people who used transformational advocacy to go from feeling clueless about activism to feeling euphoric; from experiencing what they called ‘climate trauma’ to experiencing engagement as sacred and profound. Feeling fed up with what’s going on in the world isn’t a flaw, Daley-Harris says it’s fuel and he’ll show your audience how to use it. Contact Sam Daley-Harris at (202) 804-2504; Sdaley@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Iconic Moments in Broadcast History: Live Via Satellite

Before Netflix. Before YouTube. Before anyone could imagine watching the moon landing or the fall of the Berlin Wall on demand, someone had to get that signal there—live, flawlessly, the first time. Bob Patterson was at the center of it. A pioneer in satellite broadcasting, Patterson helped deliver some of history’s most-watched moments, including major MLB, NBA, and NHL broadcasts, the first satellite news distribution service, and the world’s first international HDTV satellite transmission. On your show, he can take audiences behind the scenes of the moon landing and several other high-stakes, live television moments—where one failure could impact millions—and explain how those early breakthroughs shaped today’s always-connected world. Drawing from his book “Iconic Moments in Broadcast History: Live Via Satellite,” Patterson answers the question few think to ask: How did we go from limited signals to global, real-time connection? He’s a timely guest for shows on media, technology, innovation, and behind-the-scenes storytelling. Contact Bob Patterson at (818) 210-4965; bpatterson@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Expert Shares Financial Tips for Gen Z

Nearly half of Gen Z says they don’t feel financially prepared for adulthood, yet many graduates are already taking on credit card debt before building savings or assets. Real estate investor and wealth educator Janet Tonkins says the biggest financial mistake young adults make isn’t earning too little. It’s waiting too long to invest. On your show, she’ll explain how new graduates can begin building wealth with as little as $5 to $10 a month, why understanding assets matters more than chasing status symbols, and how first-time buyers can take advantage of overlooked grants and programs. She’ll also reveal why “perfect credit” is often overrated and how small financial decisions made in your 20s can shape your entire future. Drawing from themes in her upcoming book “Purses, Heels & Houses You Choose,” Tonkins helps audiences rethink spending, ownership, and generational wealth from day one. Beyond coaching investors nationwide, Tonkins develops affordable housing projects and mentors first-generation wealth builders through the Cashflow Diva Academy and TheCashflowDiva.com. Contact Janet Tonkins at (410) 421-0930; jtonkins@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Why Your Brain Is Drowning in Notifications

The average person checks their phone nearly 100 times a day. Between texts, emails, alerts, social media, and breaking news, many people feel mentally exhausted before lunch. Senior mindfulness educator at UCLA Mindful Mitra Manesh says the real crisis isn't technology. It's what constant interruption is doing to our attention. On your show, she'll explain how endless notifications train the brain toward distraction, anxiety, and reactivity, why so many people feel overwhelmed despite working harder than ever, and what it takes to reclaim focus in a world designed to steal it. Building on concepts from her novel “The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World," Mitra offers practical tools for improving concentration, decision-making, and emotional well-being. Having lived on four continents and spent decades teaching mindfulness and human behavior, Mitra brings a rare global perspective to one of today's most urgent challenges. Contact Mitra Manesh at (310) 807-3031; mmanesh@rtirguests.com

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

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

13. ==> The First Step to Rewrite Your Story

Most people want the world to believe they’re strong—that they can push through, hold it together, and smile, completely unfazed by the weight they carry. But the truth is far more human. Many are terrified, overwhelmed, and quietly collapsing on the inside. For most of her adult life, author Kat Perkins lived this way too. She would always say, “It’s all good.” But after losing her mother at nine, surviving foster care, and later facing breast cancer, things were anything but “all good.” One day, a friend told her, “You need to stop saying it’s all good. It’s not. And it’s okay to feel what you feel.” That moment something cracked open. Kat learned what no one teaches us: you cannot rewrite the meaning of your pain until you understand it—not avoid it, outrun it, or dress it up in strength. You have to face it. Drawing from her memoir, “Girls with Pearls Have Power,” Kat now teaches women how to turn setbacks into turning points, reclaim authorship of their stories, and rise with clarity and courage rather than fear or pretending. Contact Kat Perkins at (404) 800-3916; kperkins@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Why Top Students Know the Bible, Even if They Aren’t Religious

Top students often excel due to their understanding of cultural references, and a surprising factor behind their success is knowledge of the Bible. Studies show that students with a strong knowledge of biblical references tend to score higher on standardized tests. Research indicates these students score 10-15% higher on SAT Critical Reading and AP English Literature exams compared to peers without this knowledge. Tamara Berkman, a Texas State Certified Teacher, created the “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP” curriculum to help students quickly grasp the Bible’s storyline. In just 20 short lessons, students improve their understanding of literature, identify cultural references, and sharpen critical thinking skills— key elements for academic success. Berkman’s book, “Learn the Whole Bible ASAP,” offers a fast, effective way for students and families to understand the Bible’s story while boosting academic performance and cultural literacy. Contact Tamara Berkman at (830) 201-3160; tberkman@rtirguests.com

15. ==> From Birthdays to Business Names: The Energy Behind Your Numbers

Most people would agree that we are in the midst of uncertain times, so is it really any wonder that so many are searching for ways to make sense of things? Ancient practices are getting a second look, including some surprising ones like numerology. Suzan Owens will explain how numbers that surround people in their everyday lives — from addresses and birthdays to business names — carry living energy that can influence success, relationships and overall well-being. A skilled numerologist, she’ll tell listeners how to work with these hidden numeric energies to influence their lives in positive ways. Whether you’re seeking advice about your career, relationships, or personal growth, Suzan will share a fresh perspective that can guide you toward your fullest potential. “Numerology helps us look beyond the surface, uncovering our deeper purpose and strengths,” Suzan explains. “It aligns us with who we truly are.” Suzan is the author of “Wisdom of Numerology.” Contact her at (509) 315-6515; suzanowens@gmail.com

01. The United States is Low on Missiles. Why?
02. Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?
03. The Difference Between Democratic Socialism and Communism
04. UFOs, Aliens and God
05. How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children
06. What Our Schools Forget to Teach About Democracy
07. America is Bitterly Divided: Small Steps to Bridge Our Differences
08. Can’t Get Away? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere	
09. AI Summer Travel Scams
10. The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer
11. Seniors and Depression: It’s Not Just Old Age
12. Is a Job the Only Path? What New Grads Should Consider
13. Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker
14. Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation
15. There’s Still Time to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck

1. ==> The United States is Low on Missiles. Why?

The United States has a munitions problem. Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) says the U.S. arsenal is “depleted,” with some munitions “quite depleted,” and that rebuilding inventories will take 1–5 years. He says use during the war against Iran is a major driver of the issue, but not the only one and that transfers to Ukraine are a minor factor—with one important exception; Patriot missiles. Cancian can explain why current munitions are low and how that effects the wars in Iran and Ukraine. “The immediate problem is not money, but time. With time, production will equal demand, but that is several years in the future. Until then, there is a window of vulnerability. The question facing the United States is whether the risk in a future conflict arising from reduced inventories is worth the gain in the current conflict.” He adds, “That is a political question about which the country is deeply divided.” The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. For interviews with Mark F. Cancian (Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, ret.), contact the CSIS media relations department at press@csis.org or (202) 775-7317

2. ==> Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?

A wave of victories for democratic socialists in mayoral elections and congressional primaries over the past year has shocked the Democratic Party establishment, but not India Walton. “I’m excited to see so many candidates running unapologetically on bold, people-first agendas in cities across the country,” says Walton, a longtime community activist and democratic socialist who won the Democratic primary election for mayor of Buffalo in 2021 against a 16-year incumbent.  “From New York to Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, these victories remind us that when everyday people organize, they can overcome enormous political and financial barriers,” Walton says. “I know firsthand how difficult it is to challenge entrenched political machines. These campaigns show that voters are hungry for leaders who will take on inequality, fight for working families, and put communities ahead of corporations. This can no longer be considered a fluke – these victories represent a growing movement demanding a more just, democratic future.” Walton is currently the senior strategist for RootsAction, a progressive advocacy organization focused on social and economic justice. Contact her at india@rootsaction.org

3. ==> The Difference Between Democratic Socialism and Communism

Socialism has long been considered a “dirty word” in American politics and is often confused with communism. So, what’s the difference? Michael Kazin says democratic socialists support expanding social ownership and public programs through democratic elections, civil liberties, and multi party competition. Communists, on the other hand, seek to abolish capitalism and private property entirely, often through revolutionary means and typically under a single ruling party. “Communists want to do away with capitalism altogether. They don't want any private enterprise. They don't want any private means of production. And they want a whole world run by people like that,” he says. “Democratic socialists are willing to have themselves voted out of power… if people don’t want to keep it, then they can go back to a more capitalist society.” Michael Kazin is an American historian and professor at Georgetown University. He’s the author of several books and is a frequent contributor to publications including the “New York Times,” the “Washington Post” ad “Foreign Affairs.” Contact him via his website at mkazin.com/contact

4. ==> UFOs, Aliens and God

The UFO conversation has moved from the fringe to the front page. The White House has directed the Pentagon to open its files, Congress keeps holding disclosure hearings, and lawmakers are talking about immunity for whistleblowers who claim knowledge of recovered "nonhuman biologics." Whatever anyone makes of it, a lot of people are watching, and plenty of them are asking spiritual questions. Not many are finding many places that will take the questions seriously - including and specifically the church. LA filmmaker Derrick Warfel, author of “UFOs and God” and a companion feature documentary, can explain what the Bible says about aliens, why he believes UFOs are fallen supernatural powers, and whether this could be the next Darwin moment for the church. Derrick became increasingly concerned by the growing normalization of UFO narratives in popular media—particularly the claim that alleged extraterrestrial messages are guiding humanity toward a new stage of evolution. Derrick Warfel was born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in the heart of the PA Bible Belt. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Princeton University, a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, and an MFA in Cinema from the University of Southern California. Contact Mark Breta at mark@jonesliterary.com

5. ==> How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children

As the country’s schools, libraries, museums, and government institutions face an escalating campaign to erase Black history—as political leaders are banning books, sanitizing slavery, and claiming to protect white children from the discomfort of America’s racial past—award-winning journalist, author and historian, Stacey Patton, reveals how white parenting culture trained generations of its own children for racial terror. She exposes the grotesque historical contradiction at the center of today’s censorship campaigns: The same nation now insisting that white children are too fragile to learn about racism once deliberately brought them to lynchings, exposed them to communal homicide, and taught them to regard the barbaric destruction of Black bodies as “law and order,” protection, entertainment, and family bonding. She says lynching did more than terrorize Black communities. It functioned as a multisensory public curriculum in racial domination that trained white children through sight, sound, touch, smell, and spectacle so they would become desensitized to racial terror, and so that terror would have heirs. Stacey Patton, Ph.D., is a nationally recognized child advocate. Her writing has appeared in the “New York Times,” “The Washington Post,” “The Chronicle of Higher Education,” and other national outlets. Her new book, “Strung Up: How White America Learned to Lynch Black Children,” will be released in October. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

6. ==> What Our Schools Forget to Teach About Democracy
 
America's education debate usually focuses on test scores, funding, and curriculum. But retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, educator, and education reform advocate Elissa Mohan believes we're overlooking a far more urgent issue: preparing citizens for self-government. In her forthcoming book, “ENOUGH: Why America Is Failing at Education and What to Do About It,” Elissa argues that today's fragmented education landscape leaves too many students unprepared to evaluate information, engage in civil discourse, and understand the Constitution. Drawing on her experience as a military leader, homeschool parent, public school teacher, and educational psychologist, she offers a bold blueprint for rebuilding education to meet the challenges of democracy in the AI age. Contact: Elissa Mohan at (405) 346-8358; emohan@rtirguests.com

7. ==> America is Bitterly Divided: Small Steps to Bridge Our Differences

Most people aren't losing relationships over big ideological battles. They're losing them over Tuesday night dinners and team meetings — the small moments where someone says the wrong thing and the damage is done before anyone realizes it. Peacebuilding expert Daisy Khan says the problem is rarely what we believe. It's that nobody taught us how to say it. Drawing from years of training organizations, schools, and communities, Khan gives your audience something practical and immediately usable: specific language shifts that let people hold their ground without triggering defensiveness, avoid the two most common communication mistakes that escalate disagreements, and stay in relationships with people they fundamentally disagree with. This isn't conflict avoidance. It's conflict navigation. And in a climate where audiences are exhausted by division but don't know how to do it differently, Khan is the guest who hands them a tool, not just a talking point. Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Can’t Get Away? How to Recharge Anytime, Anywhere

Vacations are supposed to help us recharge, yet many people just can’t get away right now. How can you get the benefits of a break without leaving home? Artist Edi Matsumoto believes joy isn’t something we find after everything slows down. It’s something we can practice in the middle of everyday life. She’ll introduce her simple 60-second Joy Reset, a creative mindfulness technique that helps people pause, reconnect with the present moment, and experience more gratitude wherever they are. Through heartwarming stories, playful exercises, and lessons inspired by her beloved otter paintings, Edi shows that even the busiest lives have room for wonder. It’s a refreshing reminder that happiness often begins with noticing what’s already around us. Edi Matsumoto is an award-winning artist and internationally collected painter. She wrote “Otter Therapy” to help people cultivate more joy every day. Contact her at (831) 290-6491; ematsumoto@rtirguests.com

9. ==> AI Summer Travel Scams 

Travel should create lasting memories, not costly scams. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, criminals are using AI to create convincing travel websites, fake customer service representatives, voice cloning, phishing emails, and fraudulent booking confirmations that can fool even experienced travelers. Cybersecurity expert Jocelyn King explains how these scams work, why they're becoming harder to recognize, and the simple precautions every traveler should take before booking a trip or responding to unexpected messages while away from home. She'll also discuss practical ways families can verify information, protect personal data, and avoid becoming victims before vacation even begins. Jocelyn helps audiences navigate today's digital world with greater awareness and confidence. She is a cybersecurity strategist, host of the Smarter Online Safety podcast and the author of “Digital Self-Defense in an AI World: How to Protect Yourself Online.”  Contact Jocelyn King at (970) 514-5150; jking@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Medicare Mistake That Could Cost You This Summer

Summer travel is in full swing, but many Medicare beneficiaries don't realize their health coverage may not work the way they expect once they're away from home. Medicare expert Toni King says misunderstanding your benefits before traveling can lead to unexpected medical bills, delayed care, and unnecessary stress during what should be a relaxing vacation. She'll explain what Original Medicare does and doesn't cover while traveling, when Medicare Advantage plans may have network limitations, and the questions every beneficiary should ask before leaving home. She'll also discuss common enrollment misunderstandings that continue to surprise retirees long after they've signed up. It's essential information for anyone who wants to travel with greater confidence and peace of mind this summer. Toni King has spent decades helping Americans understand Medicare through her books, seminars, and consumer education programs. Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736 or tking@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Seniors and Depression: It’s Not Just Old Age

Seven and a half million American seniors are living with depression — and most of them will never be diagnosed, never be treated, and never hear from a doctor that what they’re feeling isn’t just “getting old.” James B. Flaherty is 90, and he has something to say about that. A former Madison Avenue advertising executive, innkeeper, and author of five books written in his 80s — with a fifth one just published — Flaherty has built a second life devoted to proving that the final decades can be the richest ones. In inter-views, he’ll share what he’s learned about purpose, connection, and the daily choices that keep a 90-year-old not just alive — but genuinely thriving — and why the antidote to senior depression is simpler than anyone thinks. Ask him: Why are 7.5 million depressed seniors being ignored — and who’s responsible? What’s the single most important choice a senior can make to stay vital? Contact James Flaherty at (914) 326-2697; jflaherty@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Is a Job the Only Path? What New Grads Should Consider 

For decades, college graduates were told the formula for success was simple: earn a degree, land a job, climb the ladder. But with layoffs rising, AI reshaping industries, and many young professionals already questioning traditional career paths, franchise consultant and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Greg Mohr says graduates should pause before automatically sending out résumés. On your show, he’ll explain why entrepreneurship and business ownership are becoming more attractive to younger generations seeking flexibility, control, and long-term wealth-building opportunities. He’ll also break down the biggest misconceptions about franchising, why some grads are better suited for ownership than corporate life, and what questions families should ask before taking on years of career uncertainty or debt. Drawing from years helping professionals transition into franchise ownership, Mohr offers a practical, eye-opening conversation about rethinking success in today’s economy. Greg Mohr is the author of “Real Freedom.” Contact him at (361) 204-5470; gmohr@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Want People to Listen to You? Six-Steps to Become a More Persuasive Speaker

Most people believe that persuasive speaking is a natural talent. But retired Army Colonel Larry Tracy says it's a skill that anyone can master. Drawing on decades of high-stakes experience briefing military leaders, defending U.S. policy before hostile audiences, and training professionals competing for multimillion-dollar government contracts, Larry developed an easy-to-follow 6-step system to help speakers communicate with confidence, clarity, and credibility in any setting. Praised by President Ronald Reagan as "an extraordinarily effective speaker," Larry shows that persuasion isn't about charisma—it's about preparation. His battle-tested approach can help anyone influence audiences, overcome speaking anxiety, and deliver messages that truly change minds. Larry’s proven system is featured in his book “How to Bring Home the Bacon: Becoming a Persuasive Speaker.” Contact Larry Tracy at (571) 336-0507; Ltracy@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Let’s Unpack America’s Loneliness Epidemic: Why Life's Hardest Moments Push Us Into Isolation

America is facing what the U.S. Surgeon General recently called an epidemic of loneliness. Nearly half of adults say they feel isolated at times, and that isolation often deepens during life’s hardest moments: serious illness, caregiving, grief, infertility, or financial uncertainty. Author and loneliness coach Karen Kay Smith asserts these “waiting room seasons” can quietly push people away from the very support they need most. On your show, Smith explains why people often shift into “functioning versus feeling” during crises, how emotional suppression fuels loneliness, and why many struggle to communicate what they truly need. She offers practical, yet life-changing tools listeners can use immediately, including how a simple “breath prayer” can replace pressure-filled spiritual routines, why naming emotions out loud can be more healing than staying strong, and how her “3 C’s” framework—confidence, communication, and community—helps people rebuild connection step by step. Drawing from 15 years caring for her husband during his battle with multiple sclerosis, along with years in women’s ministry and training as a transformational life coach, Smith brings a rare blend of lived experience and practical guidance to conversations about loneliness and connection. She is the author of “Nearsighted: Choosing to See Eating Disorders Differently” and the upcoming “Hope Has a Seat in Every Waiting Room.” Contact Karen Kay Smith at (256) 812-5106; ksmith@rtirguests.com

15. ==> There’s Still Time to Have a Summer That Doesn't Suck

Summer is supposed to be a season to relax, reconnect, and recharge, yet many people finish it feeling exhausted, overscheduled, and wondering where the time went. Happiness expert Deborah Mallow says creating a memorable summer doesn't require expensive vacations or a perfectly planned calendar. It starts with making intentional choices that increase joy and reduce stress. She'll share practical ways to avoid burnout, set healthy boundaries, embrace small moments of happiness, and create experiences that leave families feeling more connected instead of more overwhelmed. Whether you're balancing work, caring for loved ones, or simply trying to enjoy the season, these simple strategies can help you make the most of the weeks ahead. Based on the principles in “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck,” Deborah offers realistic tools for creating a summer you'll actually remember for the right reasons. Known as America's Happiness Coach, Deborah Mallow is a nationally recognized speaker who helps individuals and organizations build happier, healthier, and more resilient lives. Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

01. How AI Is Already at Work in Your Healthcare
02. 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come
03. Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’
04. The Sandwich Generation is a Workplace Retention Issue
05. New Tool to Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts
06. How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire
07. Great Business Show: How to Use Visual Thinking in the Age of AI
08. The Reason You’re Stuck Has Nothing to Do with Willpower	
09. This Guest Turns Problem Pooches into Perfect Pups
10. The Real Cost of Crime and Who Pays
11. High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
12. Signs Your Body is Asking for Change This Summer
13. Are You Asking the Wrong Questions About God?
14. What if Before You Were Born, You Chose This Life?  
15. Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool

1. ==> How AI Is Already at Work in Your Healthcare

Most Americans think AI in healthcare is still experimental. Anmol Madan says we’re already living through one of the biggest transformations in modern medicine, and most people just don't see it. As founder and CEO of RadiantGraph, former Chief Data Scientist at Livongo and Teladoc Health, and founder of Ginger, one of the first AI-powered behavioral healthcare companies, Anmol has spent more than two decades building the technology that's reshaping healthcare from the inside. He can pull back the curtain on what's actually happening inside health plans, hospitals, and healthcare organizations, separating reality from hype and explaining the changes that are quietly affecting millions of Americans today. He’ll explain how healthcare is quietly becoming autonomous, the ways AI is making the experience increasingly personalized and why he believes that’s a good thing. Anmol Madan is the author of “The Machines Will See You Now: A Human Roadmap to Autonomous Health Care.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 (office)

2. ==> 4 Million Americans Have Lost Food Aid. More to Come

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the largest food assistance program in the country, is undergoing a massive overhaul, with many changes yet to come. Already, more than 4 million people – many them children – are estimated to have lost the critical food aid since last July when a sweeping Republican tax and spending package became law. Starsky Wilson, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, a child advocacy group, says he has been alarmed by the speed of the tax law’s impact and warns that more cuts will take effect later this year. “There could be an even greater sense of desperation among children and their families,” he says. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act included major changes to the food assistance program. SNAP has already been tightening eligibility, but the biggest shift will come in October when states will need to pay if they want to keep the program going. If they don’t, neither food banks nor existing government programs would have the capacity to fill the gap, according to Wilson. “There’s no replacement for SNAP if a state gets rid of it,” he says. Contact CDF media relations manager John Henry at (708) 646-7679; jhenry@childrensdefense.org

3. ==> Actor Clark Moore From Hulu's ‘Furious’

Critics are calling Hulu's new crime thriller, Furious, savage, smart and addictive. Written by Elizabeth Meriwether and inspired by the 1987 film ‘Black Widow,’ the series stars Emmy Rossum as an FBI agent obsessed with a female serial killer who is targeting the city’s elite. Actor Clark Moore plays Caleb Easton, a judge and the son of a billionaire. He’s also the killer's first victim. Invite Moore to talk about the show and his pivotal role and share behind-the-scenes stories from the twisty, funny thriller. Moore's career highlights include a recurring role as D.A. Stanny Sanders in the ABC limited series Women of the Movement, executive produced by Will Smith and Jay-Z, and a leading performance in the Amazon Prime series Lore. Contact Sean Dubravac at (323) 746-5003; 419815@email4pr.com

4. ==> The Sandwich Generation is a Workplace Retention Issue

Millions of Millennial and Gen X workers are caught between aging parents who need care and children who still depend on them. They are also the employees that companies have spent years developing into leaders, and the ones most likely to walk if that squeeze goes unaddressed. Workplace expert Andy Challenger says, "This is a workforce issue, not a personal issue. Sandwiched caregivers cut hours, decline promotions, and sometimes leave their organizations entirely. That's talent walking out the door, and it's often the experienced, mid-career talent you spent years developing." He says, "Flexibility is the single most important thing employers can offer to caregivers. A doctor's appointment for an aging parent doesn't respect a 9-to-5 calendar. Neither does a sick kindergartener. Remote and hybrid schedules, flexible start and stop times, and compressed workweeks let caregivers manage the unpredictable without stepping off their career track." He says other ways employers can support caregiving workers include normalizing eldercare (not just childcare), offering caregiving leave and making it usable, and training managers to ask and listen. Andy Challenger is chief revenue officer for Challenger, Gray & Christmas, an outplacement and executive coaching firm. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074 (office); (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> New Tool to Avoid Career-Damaging Social Media Posts

Most people should know by now that posting things online can come back to haunt you. It can also get you fired. Or keep you from being hired! According to research by CareerBuilder, 34% of employers have reprimanded or terminated an employee because of online activity, while 57% have discovered social media content that caused them not to hire a candidate. For those who are worried about their ability to self-check, or who are unclear about boundaries, a new tool called PostCheck could help you avoid becoming the next cautionary tale. Unlike traditional AI writing or sentiment tools, PostCheck analyzes draft social media posts, emails, direct messages, and other digital communications for potential career, legal, financial, and reputational risk before they're published. The platform was developed using real-world crisis communications and public relations expertise, giving users a practical "five-second reality check" before they hit send. Ask creator Ryan McCormick: What are the worst cases of posts destroying entire careers? How fast does it happen? Should people share their political/social views online, especially if they're friends with co-workers? What makes PostCheck unique? Couldn't people use regular AI and get the same response? Ryan McCormick is cofounder of Goldman McCormick Public Relations. Contact him at ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

6. ==> How Replacing Workers With AI Could Backfire

AI has already been cited in more than 100,000 U.S. job cuts this year. That’s more than any other reason companies give for layoffs, according to Newsweek. But are businesses sacrificing the very qualities that drive long-term success? Startup strategist and attorney Douglas Park says the companies that thrive in the AI era won't simply have the best technology—they'll know how to combine AI with human creativity, judgment, and smart strategy. Drawing on more than 25 years advising companies, Park reveals the costly AI mistakes many leaders are making, why products are becoming easier to copy, and why people and competitive positioning matter more than ever. Douglas is a Silicon Valley attorney, former business professor, startup advisor and the author of “Starting Startups.” His research-based 3P Framework helps organizations align their people, products, and position to compete in a rapidly changing economy. Contact Douglas Park at (650) 629-1424; dpark@rtirguests.com

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

8. ==> The Reason You’re Stuck Has Nothing to Do with Willpower

If willpower were enough, you'd already be free from negativity in your life. “What keeps people stuck isn’t a lack of motivation, it’s the nervous system holding unresolved survival responses from the past,” according to Lisa Morgan. “Real change happens when we work with the body, not against it.” Lisa’s world fell apart when panic and anxiety brought her to her knees. This became the foundation of her life’s work. Lisa is a master coach, intuitive guide, and soul-level healer who helps people break free from hidden blocks and rediscover who they truly are. Through her signature framework, Free Your Soul to Soar™, she bridges neuroscience and energy psychology to help people transform to reclaim their joy, worth, and wings. Contact Lisa Morgan at (314) 265-3491; lmorgan@rtirguests.com

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


10. ==> The Real Cost of Crime and Who Pays 

Crime isn’t just a public safety issue—it’s a major financial burden. In fact, it costs U.S. taxpayers an estimated $100 billion every year. Crime prevention consultant Stephanie Mann says most strategies focus on reacting after crimes occur rather than addressing the conditions that allow them to grow. Drawing from more than 40 years of experience, she explains why traditional enforcement-heavy approaches often fail to reduce long-term costs and what’s working instead. On your show, she’ll reveal how community-based strategies reduce crime, lower taxpayer expenses, and create safer neighborhoods without increasing budgets. She also explains why trust, local engagement, and prevention are more cost-effective than punishment alone. This is a practical, solutions-driven conversation that reframes crime as an economic issue and gives audiences a new way to think about where their tax dollars go. Contact Stephanie Mann at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

11. ==> High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis

A third of Americans now spend more than 30% of their income on rent, and in major cities, it’s often over 50%. But the financial strain is only half the story. Darius Ross says the mental toll of this affordability crisis is eroding resilience, fueling chronic stress, and keeping people stuck in survival mode. As a former homeless teen who became a successful entrepreneur, Darius offers a grounded, street-smart perspective that connects with audiences of all backgrounds. His mindset strategies blend lived experience with real-life tools for navigating uncertainty, managing trauma, and staying motivated—even when the math doesn’t add up. In this timely conversation, Darius doesn’t just unpack the crisis, he helps audiences cope, shift their mindset, and take their next step forward. Darius Ross is the author of “Mastering the TPS Blueprint,” a speaker on trauma and transformation, and a community advocate who helps underserved youth rise. Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956 or dross@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Signs Your Body is Asking for Change This Summer

With 6 in 10 U.S. adults living with chronic disease, summer health resets often focus on surface fixes. But what if lasting improvement requires looking beyond symptoms and asking what the body may be responding to beneath the surface? On this timely summer show, Marcel Vögeli explores how long-term stress, suppressed conflict, and emotional overload can influence physical health, and why two people with the same diagnosis can heal at very different rates. After eight years of intensive autoimmune treatment that managed symptoms but didn’t restore his life, Marcel began examining deeper stress patterns in his own story. He has been hospital-free since 2012. Marcel Vögeli is spokesperson for The Key to Self-Liberation by the late Christiane Beerlandt. Contact Marcel Vögeli at Mvogeli@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Are You Asking the Wrong Questions About God?

A growing number of Americans are walking away from organized religion. Yet, many continue searching for meaning, purpose, and truth. Author Gary Meisner believes the problem may not be a lack of interest in God—but the questions we're asking about God in the first place. After spending more than 20 years as a skeptical, materialist agnostic, Gary experienced something he could not explain through reason alone, prompting him to reexamine his assumptions. Known internationally for his work on the golden ratio and patterns in nature, he now explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and faith. In his book “Life Through a New Lens—Finding God Where Reason and Faith Meet,” Gary invites skeptics, agnostics, and seekers to consider whether their doubts may be based on misconceptions about what God is—or could be. Contact  Gary Meisner at (615) 703-3637; gmeisner@rtirguests.com

14. ==> What if Before You Were Born, You Chose This Life?  

What if the life you’re living—including its struggles, its losses, and its ordinary moments—was chosen by you before you arrived? Doreen Mary Bray, who has worked between worlds for over 40 years as a naturopath and mystical guide, teaches that souls don’t stumble into human life. They long for it, wait for it, and select it with intention — choosing parents, place, and form for the privilege of embodiment. Bray will reveal what it means to live as a soul that chose this life, and why that single shift in understanding transforms everything. She’ll explore how souls navigate the journey toward incarnation and why being human is not a burden to transcend, but a gift of extraordinary rarity. For anyone who has ever felt that life is happening to them, Bray offers a radical reframe: you didn’t land here by accident. Doreen Mary Bray is the author of Drawing “The Angel and the Avatar.” Contact her at (438) 802-0280; Dbray@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Children's Books: The Most Underrated Health Tool 

Most parents see children's books as entertainment. Kenneth Korber, a health literacy expert, believes they can also be powerful tools for improving children's health. After two decades as a clinician, he wrote and published “The Musical Adventures of Grace” series to extend the patient office visit into bedtime reading, helping families reinforce important health and wellness lessons at home. His engaging stories and characters transform complex medical topics into age-appropriate adventures that children actually enjoy. Ken’s approach encourages healthy habits, eases childhood anxiety and fears, and strengthens literacy at the same time. “Storytelling may be one of the most effective—and overlooked—ways to improve public health, empower families, and help children build lifelong healthy behaviors, one bedtime story at a time,” he says. Contact: Kenneth Korber at (847) 238-8936; kkorber@rtirguests.com

01. ‘Mind-Blowing’ El Nino Stuns Scientists
02. It’s Shark Week! Expert Separates Fact From Fiction
03. The Wreck of the Mentor: Lessons From the 1831 Whaling Disaster
04. Sell By, Use By, Best Before: What Does it All Mean?
05. It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset
06. Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?
07. The Elderly Are Holding America Back
08. Why Women in Leadership Keep Hitting the Same Wall	
09. The Push for Peak Productivity Is Making Professionals Miserable
10. What it’s Really Like to Run for Office in America Today
11. The Trauma No One Talks About in American Healthcare
12. Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late
13. Love, Sex & Second Chances After 50
14. From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Guest Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption
15. Listeners Want Uplifting Stories: This Guest Has 80 of Them


1. ==> ‘Mind-Blowing’ El Nino Stuns Scientists

A new analysis by Berkeley Earth climate scientist Zeke Hausfather paints a worrying picture of the climate phenomenon currently developing in the Pacific Ocean. “This year’s El Nino is not only very likely to be the strongest event since reliable records began, it may end up the strongest by a truly mind-blowing margin,” he says. Experts say this year’s climate event could cause a massive global temperature spike with economic losses of $10 trillion by 2032. Hausfauther’s analysis also reveals that the phenomenon is developing faster than usual. He can discuss when we’ll see the full impact of this year’s Pacific heat wave on global temperatures, what that might mean for Americans, and talk about the challenges of forecasting an El Nino, including the lack of historical analogues. Zeke Hausfather is a climate scientist and energy systems analyst. He currently serves as the climate research lead at Stripe and is also a research scientist at Berkeley Earth. His work primarily focuses on observational temperature records, climate models, and mitigation technologies. Contact him at hausfath@gmail.com

2. ==> It’s Shark Week! Expert Separates Fact From Fiction

Fans of Discovery’s annual sharkfest wait all year for the week-long shark-related programming. Sharks have also become big news this summer along the US coastline with numerous sightings close to beaches. Sharks are frequently portrayed as intimidating predators, but researchers continue to uncover a much more complex story about their behavior, biology and the critical role they play in healthy ocean ecosystems. Invite Maggie Winchester-Weiler, senior manager of Florida conservation at Ocean Conservancy, to separate fact from fiction. She’ll discuss what researchers have learned from working with sharks up close, the surprising ways sharks respond to stress and survive and common misconceptions about shark behavior and encounters. A marine biologist with extensive field research experience, Winchester has worked with some of the world’s most fascinating shark species, including Greenland sharks, one of the longest-living vertebrates on Earth. Contact Sabrina Hennessy at Sabrina@CatalystCG.com or Jordana Lewis at jlewis@oceanconservancy.org

3. ==> The Wreck of the Mentor: Lessons From the 1831 Whaling Disaster

Invite maritime historian Jay Dolin to take your listeners on the water as he tells the remarkable story of an 1831 whaleship that left New Bedford, then the wealthiest whaling port in the world, and ended in disaster in the western Pacific. After striking a reef near Palau, surviving crew members made it ashore and lived among island communities for months and in some cases years. Some eventually returned home. Others did not. Their story offers a rare window into early encounters between American sailors and Pacific Island societies. Dolin can discuss America’s global reach during the whaling era, survival and daily life in the Age of Sail, and lessons in resilience, cross-cultural understanding, and survival that mirror today’s conversations about global interdependence, migration, and how societies respond to crisis. Dolin’s new book, “The Wreck of the Mentor: A True Story of Death, Despair, and Deliverance in the Age of Sail,” has been praised as one of the most gripping maritime sagas of the nineteenth century. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

4. ==> Sell By, Use By, Best Before: What Does it All Mean?

What’s the difference between a ‘sell by’ and ‘best before’ date when stamped on your food? If you think they all mean the same thing you’re probably among the many people who throw away perfectly good food. But you’re hardly alone. Many Americans misunderstand the food stamps and what they mean, resulting in a lot of confusion and billions of dollars in food waste. “Food product dating rarely indicates when the food is safe to eat,” says Nicole Arnold, an assistant professor and food safety field specialist at the Ohio State University. Instead, she adds, “almost all food product dating in the United States represents how long a product will maintain its peak quality.” So, when should you respect the date on the package? Experts say you should always toss any meat, poultry or fish with an expired safety date because you can’t use appearance, smell or taste to detect the invisible pathogens. But Arnold says there’s some wiggle room with dairy products like hard cheeses, yogurt and eggs. And when assessing snacks, cereals and condiments that may or may not have a date stamp, she says it’s smart to use your senses to gauge freshness. “When in doubt, throw it out,” she advises. “When you notice funky smells or striking changes in texture, toss the items.” She can also discuss a bill now pending in Congress that would limit the jargon on food to just two terms: ‘best if used by’ for peak quality and ‘use by’ for safety. Contact Nicole Arnold at arnold.1363@osu.edu

5. ==> It’s Golf Season: What Your Game Reveals About Your Mindset 

Most golfers blame their swing when they play poorly. Former LPGA Tour player and LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member Cindy Miller says the real problem is usually the six inches between their ears. In this timely summer segment, she reveals how fear, frustration, self-doubt, and unrealistic expectations sabotage performance long before golfers reach the green. Cindy shares practical strategies to quiet negative self-talk, recover after mistakes, and play with greater confidence and consistency. She also explains why the same mental habits that improve your golf game can strengthen leadership, relationships, and resilience long after you leave the course. Her book, “Take Another Shot,” reinforces these lessons through real stories of perseverance, second chances, and personal growth. Cindy Miller is a former LPGA Tour player, LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame Member, and nationally recognized golf instructor who has spent decades helping golfers improve both their game and their mindset. Contact Cindy Miller at (716) 670-5341; cimiller@rtirguests.com



6. ==> Why Are Socialists Unseating Democratic Incumbents?

A wave of victories for democratic socialists in mayoral elections and congressional primaries over the past year has shocked the Democratic Party establishment, but not India Walton. “I’m excited to see so many candidates running unapologetically on bold, people-first agendas in cities across the country,” says Walton, a longtime community activist and democratic socialist who won the Democratic primary election for mayor of Buffalo in 2021 against a 16-year incumbent.  “From New York to Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, these victories remind us that when everyday people organize, they can overcome enormous political and financial barriers,” Walton says. “I know firsthand how difficult it is to challenge entrenched political machines. These campaigns show that voters are hungry for leaders who will take on inequality, fight for working families, and put communities ahead of corporations. This can no longer be considered a fluke – these victories represent a growing movement demanding a more just, democratic future.” Walton is currently the senior strategist for RootsAction, a progressive advocacy organization focused on social and economic justice. Contact her at india@rootsaction.or

7. ==> The Elderly Are Holding America Back

The age of America's leaders is always in the headlines, from worries about fitness for office to fights over term limits. Samuel Moyn, a Yale law and history professor, thinks that debate misses the deeper story. He argues that older Americans dominate not just elected office, but the money and institutions that set the country's direction. Invite the author of Moyn to discuss how America became so decrepit and why it matters. He says the elderly hoard housing, create a drag on innovation, and have an aversion to addressing long-term social problems, especially those prejudicial to their financial interests. He also says, because they’re living longer than ever before, they’re occupying elite cultural, academic and social positions for too long and blocking opportunities for those in their prime. Moyn proposes several ways to fix the problem including imposing age limits for political office and mandatory retirement ages and floats some unorthodox ways to shift more power back to younger generations, like weighing their votes more heavily and abolishing the US Senate. Samuel Moyn is the Kent professor of Law and History at Yale University, where he also serves as head of Grace Hopper College. Contact him at (203) 432-1994; Samuel.moyn@yale.edu

8. ==> Why Women in Leadership Keep Hitting the Same Wall

Women in leadership roles have spent decades doing what they were told. Speak up. Work harder. Adapt. Many have done exactly that and still find themselves running on empty. Amanda Christian spent 33 years in global banking and technology, reaching executive level in industries that weren’t built with her in mind. What she found wasn’t that women weren’t working hard enough. The model itself was wrong. On your show, she talks about the “translation tax”: the invisible cost of adjusting how you communicate and lead just to be taken seriously, and what a more sustainable model looks like. Her book, “SoulFIRE Leadership,” lays out the framework. Ask her: Can doing everything “right” actually work against you as a senior leader? What does sustainable leadership look like for women who’ve already proven they can perform? Contact Amanda Christian at (704) 610-1637; achristian@rtirguests.com

9. ==> The Push for Peak Productivity Is Making Professionals Miserable

Productivity has become a badge of honor. Yet despite countless apps, systems, and productivity hacks, many high achievers feel more exhausted, disconnected, and dissatisfied than ever before. Entrepreneur and award-winning author David Hampson says the problem isn't a lack of productivity—it's an unhealthy obsession with it. Invite him to explain why the relentless pursuit of optimization often leads to burnout and how professionals can build careers that create both achievement and meaning. Hampson will challenge conventional thinking about work, ambition, and what a successful life actually looks like. Hampson built and led successful businesses while questioning many of the assumptions behind modern work culture giving him both entrepreneurial credibility and hard-earned perspective. He’s the author of “Rainbow Gold: Building a Business That's Both the Journey and the Destination.” Contact David Hampson at dhampson@rtirguests.com or (603) 605-8594

10. ==> What it’s Really Like to Run for Office in America Today

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

11. ==> The Trauma No One Talks About in American Healthcare

America’s healthcare system is in crisis—but what’s often ignored is the trauma beneath the surface. Kathy Allan, a board-certified holistic nurse with over two decades of experience in trauma recovery, says many nurses today are emotionally broken, betrayed by the very system they once trusted. Patients, too, are suffering from care that feels cold, rushed, and disconnected. In interviews, Allan reveals how this hidden trauma plays out, much like in the TV show, “The Pitt.” Drawing on her “12 Steps of Healing Care” and years as a healing touch instructor and somatic experiencing practitioner, Allan offers a spiritual and body-centered roadmap for transforming pain into purpose. Her stories and insights will resonate with nurses, healthcare workers, and anyone who’s ever felt harmed by the system that was supposed to help them. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; kallan@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Why So Many Women Are Discovering Fertility Issues Too Late

More women are waiting longer to start families, but many are shocked to learn their fertility may have declined years earlier. OB/GYN Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says the problem isn’t just age, it’s a lack of awareness about the early signals the body provides. She’ll explain why many women don’t discover issues until they’re struggling to conceive, how modern lifestyles may quietly accelerate fertility decline, and why relying on IVF as a backup plan can be misleading. Drawing on more than 30 years in women’s health she shares what women and couples should be tracking now—long before they’re ready for pregnancy. She’ll reveal fertility warning signs women are missing in their 20s and 30s and explain why so many women overestimate what IVF can actually do. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri is the author of “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally.” Contact her at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Love, Sex & Second Chances After 50

More than 37 million single adults over 50 are reentering the dating world and discovering it’s nothing like they remember. Known as the next “Dr. Ruth,” Dr. Victoria Vaughn brings candid, humorous insight into love, sex, and starting over later in life. She’ll share lessons from her own dating journey: spotting red flags like financial instability and emotional un-availability, avoiding the pressure to “settle,” and why loneliness often leads smart people to relationship mistakes. Her stories resonate with men and women, including same-sex couples, offering a practical “buyer beware” guide to dating after 50. Ask her: Why do smart people ignore red flags after 50? Is it really possible to have more than one true love? Vaughn is the author of “Oh the Frogs I Kissed Before I Finally Found My Prince.” Contact her at (512) 585-1876; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

14. ==> From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Guest Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption

What happens when a devout Mormon mother of five dares to question everything she’s ever known? Meet Susie Bell—a nurse practitioner who went from being excommunicated from the Mormon Church, a heart-wrenching divorce, and single motherhood in Las Vegas to self-made success. With honesty and grit, Susie recounts her journey through addiction recovery, being drugged and raped by a famous athlete who relentlessly harassed her, and even a surreal moment in the hospital room with the body of Tupac Shakur following his murder. Her story is not just about leaving religion—it’s about reclaiming power and purpose. She is the author of the memoir "A Piece of Me: Finding My Voice After Mormonism, Marriage, Medicine and Men." Contact Susie Bell at (213) 816-3622; sbell@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Listeners Want Uplifting Stories: This Guest Has 80 of Them

After 56 years in the movie business, Dan Klusmann learned that audiences rarely remember explosions or special effects. They remember the stories that made them feel something. That realization inspired “Life Answers Back,” a collection of stories gathered over 15 years from more than 80 contributors. Klusmann can discuss why certain stories stay with us forever, what makes audiences emotionally connect to a story, and why uplifting storytelling is resonating again in today’s stressful and negative world. Drawing from decades spent studying audience reactions in the movie business, Klusmann shares how stories can inspire hope, create emotional connection, and help people feel understood, comforted, and less alone. Ask him: Why do certain stories stay with us forever? What did decades in the movie business teach you about emotional connection? Why are uplifting stories making a comeback right now? Can one simple story change the way someone sees life? Contact Dan Klusmann at (406) 578-7999; dklusmann@rtirguests.com

01. Will AI Help or Hurt Election Integrity?
02. What Wildfire Smoke Does to Your Body
03. Why 12 States Are Challenging Huge Hollywood Merger
04. America Unfinished: 250 Years of Law and Governance
05. Behind the Call to Boycott ‘The Odyssey’
06. Former TV Exec Reveals Life As A Closeted Clairvoyant
07. Comedy Writer/Doctor on Stuttering, Humor and Challenging Beliefs
08. Why Your Brain Is Drowning in Notifications	
09. Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones
10. The Truth About Coffee and Caffeine
11. Are Children's Books the Most Underrated Health Tool in America?
12. The Biggest Financial Mistake Gen Z Makes
13. How to Rewrite Your Story 
14. The Truth About Healing (It Doesn’t Follow a Straight Line)
15. Is "Good Vibes Only" Making Your Audience Worse Off?

1. ==> Will AI Help or Hurt Election Integrity?

As debates over election integrity continue to shape American politics, one question remains unresolved: how can citizens trust election results regardless of which candidate wins? Beth Simone Noveck argues that the future of election security will depend not only on laws and procedures but also on how governments use technology to strengthen transparency, accuracy, and public confidence. Noveck will explain how artificial intelligence is already changing the way elections are administered in the United States and what voters should understand about where the technology is headed next. Drawing on examples from the United States and democracies around the world, Noveck explores how artificial intelligence can help election officials maintain accurate voter rolls, improve voter registration, combat misinformation, expand access for disabled voters, and provide citizens with reliable election information. She’ll examine both the risks and opportunities of emerging technologies, showing how AI can be used either to undermine trust or to reinforce it. Beth Simone Noveck, PhD is an AI and technology expert, a Northeastern University professor, and director of The Burnes Center for Social Change and The Governance Lab. Her new book is “REBOOT: AI and the Race to Save Democracy.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell)

2. ==> What Wildfire Smoke Does to Your Body

It’s been a rough summer all across North America, from sweltering temperatures to dangerous air quality alerts from raging Canadian wildfires. Stephanie Cleland is a Simon Fraser University professor who studies how wildfire smoke and extreme heat negatively impact human health. She’ll discuss the link between wildfire smoke exposure and childhood respiratory health and how long-term exposure to wildfire smoke can cause chronic lung and neurologic disease. She can explain why wildfire smoke is so dangerous, ways to lessen the risks and what type of air filters work best. Contact Robyn Stubbs at (604) 376-0971; robyn_stubbs@sfu.ca

3. ==> Why 12 States Are Challenging Huge Hollywood Merger

A federal judge has temporarily blocked Paramount Skydance’s efforts to complete its Warner Bros. Discovery merger, ruling the proposed $111 deal may violate U.S. antitrust law. The move freezes the deal while the court delves more closely into its impact on markets. The combined company would consolidate Hollywood into four major studios controlling 85 percent of wide-release films. The company would have a 27 percent market share of box office revenue and a 27 percent market share of basic cable. “One out of every four dollars in basic cable and theatrical releases would flow to this merged company,” says journalist David Dayen. “The 12 state attorneys general have put together a strong case that exemplifies what happens when companies merge: their leverage in the market grows, and their business partners, workers and consumers lose out. Paramount is less trying to fight on the merits than trying to intimidate the AGs and game the system. I don’t think they will succeed.” David Dayen is executive editor of “The American Prospect.” Contact him at ddayen@prospect.org 

4. ==> America Unfinished: 250 Years of Law and Governance

America is celebrating its 250th birthday at a time when longstanding values of pluralism are being challenged, the nation is beset by deep political polarization and a fear that the economic order is no longer providing opportunities for all, and a technological revolution may unsettle what it means to be uniquely human. Harvard Law School professors Alexandra Natapoff and Guy Charles have assembled 64 of the country’s leading legal scholars and experts to share their thoughts on the current issues facing the U.S. Their new book, “America Unfinished” features pieces by Jody Freeman on the dangers of dismantling the federal regulatory apparatus, Noah Feldman, on the role of the judiciary—especially the Supreme Court—in keeping the constitutional order functioning, and Alex Whiting, who focuses on international criminal law, among others. Charles says, “Collectively, the pieces cover an extraordinary range of windows into law, from the Supreme Court to the presidency and the changing of the federal infrastructure itself, criminal law, voting rights, election law, corporate law, bankruptcy law. They grapple with the role of race and identity, citizenship, community, even the nature of legal interpretation itself.” “American Unfinished: 250 Years of Law and Governance” is a collection of 1000-word essays by Harvard Law School faculty members. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com or @Lissa_Warren

5. ==> Behind the Call to Boycott ‘The Odyssey’

Christopher Nolan’s film “The Odyssey” is getting rave reviews from film critics and audiences, but there are growing calls to boycott the movie over a segment filmed in the occupied nation of Western Sahara. Human rights groups have ranked Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara as among the most politically repressed nations in the world. Steven Zunes, a professor of politics and director of the Middle Eastern Studies program at the University of San Francisco, says, “Three-quarters of the country, including the coastal areas where the filming took place, is under a repressive military occupation by the Kingdom of Morocco.” He says Morocco wants to turn the Dahkla region, where the segments of the movie were filmed, into a major tourist destination and film set. “In accepting generous subsidies from the Moroccan regime, the film’s producers have provided legitimacy to the illegal occupation. It would be the equivalent of filming in Israeli or Russian-occupied territories in collaboration with those governments.” Contact Steven Zunes latest book, co-authored with Jacob Mundy, is “Western Sahara: War, Nationalism, and Conflict Irresolution.” Contact him at zunes@usfca.edu  

6. ==> Former TV Exec Reveals Life As A Closeted Clairvoyant

Nearly half of Americans say they've had a spiritual experience they can't explain, yet most never talk about it. Former television executive Kim Bantle spent more than two decades working at Paramount, Viacom, and Group W Productions while keeping her own extraordinary experiences private. She says she could read minds, predict events, sense energy, and communicate with those who had passed – abilities that intensified after a near-death experience in college. On your show, Bantle explores why successful professionals often trust instincts they can't explain, why intuition remains one of society's least-discussed human experiences, and what the growing interest in spirituality says about a culture searching for meaning beyond traditional institutions. She also discusses dreams, signs, synchronicities, and why skeptics and believers may have more in common than they think. Having spent 23 years producing content for mainstream audiences, she knows how to discuss extraordinary topics in a way that is thoughtful, relatable, and engaging. Bantle shares her experiences with honesty, humor and self-awareness in her new memoir “Confessions of a Closeted Clairvoyant.” Contact Kim Bantle at ksbantle@gmail.com; (310) 418-5758

7. ==> Comedy Writer/Doctor on Stuttering, Humor and Challenging Beliefs

Millions of Americans stutter and many are told they need to accept it. Dr. Jeffrey Gurian refused to. A New York-based former cosmetic dentist, clinical professor, and one of the most connected figures in American comedy, Gurian spent decades writing material for Rodney Dangerfield, Joan Rivers, Andrew "Dice" Clay, and Phil Hartman while quietly battling the stutter that once made it impossible to say his own last name. When traditional speech therapy failed him, he built his own method. His approach is cognitive, a body, mind and spirit framework rooted in the idea that stuttering is situational and psychological rather than physical. If you can speak freely when alone but lock up in front of others, he argues, the problem is not in your body. It is in your belief system. And beliefs can change. Gurian has worked with Kevin Hart, John Mulaney, and Nick Kroll. His YouTube channel, Comedy Matters TV, features interviews with Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Jimmy Fallon, Jim Carrey, and hundreds of others. He has also made numerous radio appearances throughout his career. He now offers group workshops, private sessions, and complimentary consultations to help others move past stuttering. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

8. ==> Why Your Brain Is Drowning in Notifications

The average person checks their phone nearly 100 times a day. Between texts, emails, alerts, social media, and breaking news, many people feel mentally exhausted before lunch. Senior mindfulness educator at UCLA Mindful Mitra Manesh says the real crisis isn't technology. It's what constant interruption is doing to our attention. On your show, she'll explain how endless notifications train the brain toward distraction, anxiety, and reactivity, why so many people feel overwhelmed despite working harder than ever, and what it takes to reclaim focus in a world designed to steal it. Building on concepts from her novel “The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World," Mitra offers practical tools for improving concentration, decision-making, and emotional well-being. Having lived on four continents and spent decades teaching mindfulness and human behavior, Mitra brings a rare global perspective to one of today's most urgent challenges. Contact Mitra Manesh at (310) 807-3031; mmanesh@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones

Is your audience overwhelmed by the complexities of elder care? Debbie C. Miller has the answers—and the empathy. With over 30 years of experience working with senior care issues, Miller delivers practical, compassionate advice that empowers caregivers to make confident, informed decisions. She’ll discuss: The biggest mistakes families make when trying to care for aging loved ones, the most pervasive myths about elder care—and how they derail good intentions and how to plan ahead without panic, guilt or guesswork. You’ll also learn why “aging in place” is a deeply personal choice that requires smart strategy. Whether your audience is navigating a sudden crisis or planning for long-term care, Debbie offers a step-by-step approach that’s clear, actionable, and emotionally grounded. Her insights resonate with adult children, caregivers, and professionals alike. A Certified Senior Advisor® and Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist®, Miller is the author of “Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips, & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones,” a trusted guide for families facing the emotional and logistical maze of senior care. Contact Debbie Miller at (703) 844-4074; dmiller@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Truth About Coffee and Caffeine

In a review of the latest research, the American Heart Association has issued a statement saying that multiple cups of your morning brew won't have negative health impacts on your heart. That sounds like great news for the millions of American adults who consume caffeine daily, but health researcher Norbert Heuser says that doesn’t mean coffee is good for you! Drawing from over 45 years of study and insights from his book “Coffee Addiction & Caffeinism,” Heuser says caffeine doesn’t truly create energy, it often masks withdrawal and disrupts the body’s natural balance. He explains how everyday caffeine use may contribute to anxiety, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, fertility challenges, and reduced gray brain matter while remaining culturally normalized. On your show, Norbert breaks down how caffeine dependency develops, what really happens during withdrawal, and how to reset your nervous system without sacrificing productivity. He also shares realistic strategies and satisfying alternatives for those ready to try a caffeine detox. Contact Norbert Heuser at (727) 261-2313; nheuser@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Are Children's Books the Most Underrated Health Tool in America?

Most parents see children's books as entertainment. Kenneth Korber, a health literacy expert, believes they can also be powerful tools for improving children's health. After two decades as a clinician, he wrote and published “The Musical Adventures of Grace” series to extend the patient office visit into bedtime reading, helping families reinforce important health and wellness lessons at home. His engaging stories and characters transform complex medical topics into age-appropriate adventures that children actually enjoy. Ken’s approach encourages healthy habits, eases childhood anxiety and fears, and strengthens literacy at the same time. “Storytelling may be one of the most effective—and overlooked—ways to improve public health, empower families, and help children build lifelong healthy behaviors, one bedtime story at a time,” he says. Contact: Kenneth Korber at (847) 238-8936; kkorber@rtirguests.com

12. ==> The Biggest Financial Mistake Gen Z Makes

Nearly half of Gen Z says they don’t feel financially prepared for adulthood, yet many graduates are already taking on credit card debt before building savings or assets. Real estate investor and wealth educator Janet Tonkins says the biggest financial mistake young adults make isn’t earning too little. It’s waiting too long to invest. On your show, she’ll explain how new graduates can begin building wealth with as little as $5 to $10 a month, why understanding assets matters more than chasing status symbols, and how first-time buyers can take advantage of overlooked grants and programs. She’ll also reveal why “perfect credit” is often overrated and how small financial decisions made in your 20s can shape your entire future. Drawing from themes in her upcoming book “Purses, Heels & Houses You Choose,” Tonkins helps audiences rethink spending, ownership, and generational wealth from day one. Beyond coaching investors nationwide, Tonkins develops affordable housing projects and mentors first-generation wealth builders through the Cashflow Diva Academy and TheCashflowDiva.com. Contact Janet Tonkins at (410) 421-0930; jtonkins@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How to Rewrite Your Story 

Most people want the world to believe they’re strong—that they can push through, hold it together, and smile, completely unfazed by the weight they carry. But the truth is far more human. Many are terrified, overwhelmed, and quietly collapsing on the inside. For most of her adult life, author Kat Perkins lived this way too. She would always say, “It’s all good.” But after losing her mother at nine, surviving foster care, and later facing breast cancer, things were anything but “all good.” One day, a friend told her, “You need to stop saying it’s all good. It’s not. And it’s okay to feel what you feel.” That moment something cracked open. Kat learned what no one teaches us: you cannot rewrite the meaning of your pain until you understand it—not avoid it, outrun it, or dress it up in strength. You have to face it. Drawing from her memoir, “Girls with Pearls Have Power,” Kat now teaches women how to turn setbacks into turning points, reclaim authorship of their stories, and rise with clarity and courage rather than fear or pretending. Contact Kat Perkins at (404) 800-3916; kperkins@rtirguests.com

14. ==> The Truth About Healing (It Doesn’t Follow a Straight Line)

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

15. ==> Is "Good Vibes Only" Making Your Audience Worse Off?

Millions of people who are struggling try to be positive by setting intentions and making vision boards, but what if that relentless optimism is actually working against them? Author Lydia Samaniego is the guest your audience didn't know they needed. She brings a rare, refreshing honesty to a conversation that's long overdue: why positive thinking culture can quietly disconnect people from their own inner truth, and what to do instead. Summer is the perfect time to explore this. Audiences are already asking, "Why isn't this working for me?" Lydia helps them understand that real transformation isn't about thinking harder or "manifesting more." It's about listening to the quiet conflict between the mind and the heart, shedding inherited beliefs that no longer fit, and building an inside-out life. Contact Lydia Samaniego at (530) 443-5826; lsamaniego@rtirguests.com