Category: Weekly Ezine Archives

01. U.S. Life Expectancy Plunges
02. Cough! Cough! Why Wildfires Are Now Everyone’s Business
03. Father’s Day When You’re Estranged
04. Best and Worst Places to Raise a Family
05. Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come With Equality?
06. Pride Month: Parenting an LGBTQ+ Child
07. Summer Tips to Set Up a Successful College Start
08. This Guest Uncovers Your Unconscious Biases in 10 Seconds
09. Comedian Turned Animal Activist Shares Why Saving Elephants Is No Joke
10. Americans Are Wasting Millions on Health Insurance They Don’t Need
11. Can You Talk Yourself Out of Being Sick?
12. Do a Show on the Healing Power of Music
13. Is Life a Vacation from the Afterlife?
14. The Hidden Demons Returning Veterans Face
15. Should You View Foods You Eat as an Investment?

1. ==> U.S. Life Expectancy Plunges

Life expectancy in the U.S. last year saw the largest one-year drop since World War II. The study, published in the “American Journal of Public Health,” also shows more than 50 countries have surpassed the U.S. in life expectancy since the 1930s, and a handful of states may be partly responsible. “The scale of the problem is bigger than we ever thought … older than we thought, (and) the number of countries outperforming the United States is much larger than we thought,” says study author Dr. Steven Woolf. Experts say the findings offer a new perspective on U.S. life expectancy and shed light on how to reverse the trend. Dr. Steven Woolf is director emeritus of the Center on Society and Health at Virginia Commonwealth University. Contact him at (804) 628-2462; steven.woolf@vcuhealth.org

2. == > Cough! Cough! Why Wildfires Are Now Everyone’s Business

If you’re among the almost 58 million people in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic U.S., you’ve seen the unmistakable haze caused by 416 Canadian wildfires. The smoky pollution has been detected in many states, provinces and cities in the region, leaving little doubt that the damage from wildfires is affecting huge swaths of people. For a timely take on this, interview wildfire expert Jim Moseley, who will explain what this wildfire threat encompasses, and how we can protect ourselves. Jim has developed patented products and methods to ease the danger and even prevent wildfires. Invite Jim to discuss what causes the wildfire scourge, what we should be doing, which locations and populations are in the worst wildfire and polluting danger zones, and even how NASA is involved with fighting the war against wildfires. Contact Jim at (818) 217-1270; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

3. ==> Father’s Day When You’re Estranged

Sunday is Father’s Day when we celebrate dads, but for some, the holiday will be a sad reminder of a broken relationship. Is yours one of the millions of families harboring an estrangement? Arguments, regrets, rivalries, miscommunication, avoidance and lack of forgiveness are sadly, very common. After all, we often hurt the ones we love. So what does it take to heal such troubled family dynamics? Discuss reconciling and rebuilding family relationships with Peter Colman, Ph.D., a speaker, missionary and author of “The Prodigal Father: A Son’s Hope-Filled Story of Love, Reconciliation and Redemption.” Dr. Colman will explore why people often accuse those closest to them of mistreatment, hold grudges and drift apart. He’ll help family members understand each other and learn to lean on their shared faith and heritage to heal. Ask him: What’s the first step away from regrets and blame, toward forgiveness and healing? How do the effects of wartime service impact family relationships? What is sacred about family bonds, especially between father and son? Contact Judith Colman at (847) 912-4481; judykcolman@gmail.com

4.==> Best and Worst Places to Raise a Family

Families move often and for various reasons. In fact, the average American can expect to move an estimated 11.7 times in a lifetime. With families in mind, WalletHub compared more than 180 U.S. cities based on 45 key metrics. Topping the list of best places are Fremont, California, Overland Park, Kansas, and Irvine, California. The worst cities for families, according to the study, are Cleveland, Ohio, Memphis, Tennessee and Detroit, Michigan. Does where you live really affect a family’s quality of life? What should families consider when choosing a place to set down roots? Ask Adrienne Duke, an associate professor of Human Development and Family Studies at Auburn University. She can discuss the most important steps parents can take to help their children grow up healthy, no matter where they live. Contact Adrienne Duke, Ph.D., at (334) 844-4091; amd0046@auburn.edu

5.==> Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come With Equality?

June 19 is Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. For many, that means celebrating Black culture but it can be more than that: it can be a time for the nation to examine how far we’ve come with race relations in the U.S., what we’ve done right and what still needs to be done. And that is a topic that former diplomat and life story writer Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans) can address. Judith says, “Since slavery, despite the setbacks of post- Reconstruction and Jim Crow, Blacks have made gains and held onto them even as they endured losses. They are at the forefront of the fight for America to realize her full potential. They are an iron-clad part of the many that make one.” Starting in 1975 and for the next 30 years, the former English major and Fulbright Scholar who grew up in the Jim Crow South was a diplomat in the Foreign Service in New Delhi, Mumbai, Dhaka, Taipei, Hong Kong, Brussels, Libreville, Bujumbura, and Brazzaville. Her memoir is “Chocolates for Mary Julia: Black Woman Blazes Trails as a Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

6. ==> Pride Month: Parenting an LGBTQ+ Child

All parents want what’s best for their kids. But providing support isn’t always easy — especially if you are the parent of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning/queer (LGBTQ) child. In many ways no different from their peers, LGBTQ youth face some unique challenges that parents often feel unprepared to tackle. Invite Rebecah Freeling to discuss the many issues involved from how to respond to a child’s coming out to navigating your own personal feelings and beliefs. Both liberal and conservative listeners will benefit from Freeling’s advice as she shares tips on how to respond to family or friends who are unsupportive and discusses ways to support your child without imposing your own values on them. Rebecah Freeling is the owner of Wits End Parenting. In addition to working with individual families, she also consults with schools and speaks on parenting issues. Her book is “Your Rules Are Dumb: Parenting Your Strong-Willed, Oppositional or Defiant Child.” Contact her at (510) 619-5920; witsendparenting@gmail.com

7. ==> Summer Tips to Set Up a Successful College Start

For high school graduates who plan to attend college this fall, this summer is the time to check off last-minute items to prepare for the journey and set things up to start strong. Invite college readiness coach Alicia J. Moore to share concrete tips to “Get Ready. Get Set. And Go!” and start your college career off right. She’ll explain why it’s important for high school grads to set a college mindset and expand their “adulting” skills this summer, why they should take time to envision their college journey and plan their course route, and the importance of creating a successful environment from the get-go. Moore is the author of “Crushing It in College: Your 7-Step Guide to an Awesome Adventure.” Moore talks to audiences at high schools and colleges across the country about why a college education is even more important today, despite the costs, when it comes to future employment prospects, and developing self-confidence and critical thinking. Contact Alicia J. Moore at (408) 569-1267; aliciajmoore@comcast.net

8. ==> This Guest Uncovers Your Unconscious Biases in 10 Seconds

Everybody has biases, even the best among us, many without realizing it. Author Sara Ting has made it her life’s mission to help people overcome this and will help your listeners identify their biases in just 10 seconds. As a first-generation Asian American woman, she frequently experienced the insidious effects of discrimination. Then one day she experienced an epiphany while riding a bus that led her to write “The Sun Poem” for a campaign to promote racial and ethnic harmony. Sara is a diversity-and-inclusion educator, speaker, consultant and author of “Small Book with a Big Idea: The Key to a Fulfilling Life—Self-Awareness.” She is also the founder and president of World Unity, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the elimination of all forms of bigotry. Contact Sara at (508) 715-3370; Sting@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Comedian Turned Animal Activist Shares Why Saving Elephants Is No Joke

Former standup comedian Georja Umano loved to make audiences laugh. But after adopting a dog in 1997, her passion turned to animal and environmental activism, with a particular focus on saving endangered elephants. “Elephants are crucial to the health of our environment and ecosystems, and are sadly endangered because of poaching, trophy hunting and habitat loss due to land development,” she says. Georja is the author of the book “Terriers in the Jungle.” She has lived in Kenya and is in the process of launching a nonprofit called the Elephant Matriarch Project to educate and train young, underprivileged African woman and girls for careers in wildlife conservation. Contact Georja at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Americans Are Wasting Millions on Health Insurance They Don’t Need

For many Americans, health insurance costs can range from a significant expense to an exorbitant cost they can’t afford. Even those with free or low-cost policies often end up paying a lot out of pocket for co-pays and specialized care. What if you could reduce what you pay for health care by 30% or more, as well as your reliance on health-care visits and pharmaceuticals? Dr. Dinesh Verma shows your audience how to integrate self-administered alternative therapies with modern medicine for incredible results. With more than 45 years as a doctor and 18 years of research and experience in integrative medicine, he delivers science-backed methods to heal faster and recover from even serious illness — so you’ll spend less money on health care and more time feeling great. Ask him: How did your mother miraculously recover from late-stage breast cancer? How does integrative medicine make modern treatments even more effective? What is the REMIM technique? Why did you write your latest book, “Ipsicura Effect?” Contact Dinesh Verma at (248) 817-8296; dverma@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Can You Talk Yourself Out of Being Sick?

Being healthy is harder than ever. In the United States, nearly half of the population — around 133 million people — suffer from a chronic condition or serious illness, and almost 50 million people undergo surgery each year. Combine that with a resource-strained health-care industry, and you have millions living with poor health on a daily basis. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Stan Munslow shows your audience how to take control of their healing and recoveries. The author of “Get Weller Sooner: 12 Powerful, Proven Ways to Speed and Improve Your Recovery from Illness or Surgery,” Stan reveals 12 powerful ways your audience can enhance their professional medical care and feel better, faster — with less pain, less time in the hospital, lower costs, and much more. Ask him: How did you help your father beat 30% survival odds and fully recover from Stage 4 lymphoma? Why does being the “perfect patient” help you shorten and improve a hospital experience? How can we optimize the mind-body connection for better health? Contact Stan Munslow at (401) 337-7436; smunslow@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Do a Show on the Healing Power of Music

Music is a huge part of every culture the world over. Beyond providing entertainment, music can instantly affect our moods — but did you know that music can also heal? John Campbell talks about the tremendous power of music to soothe us body and soul. He’ll share examples from personal experiences of Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers responding to music, tips and advice on choosing the best music for healing, unconventional ways to bring healing music into your life, and more. An entrepreneur and songwriter, John is the author of four books. His latest, “Beyond the Fading Memories: Guiding Words for Dementia Caregivers,” includes stories, advice, and lessons learned from six years as the primary caregiver for his mother after she was diagnosed with dementia. Ask him: How does music help your mind and body heal? Why are old songs so ingrained in our brains? What can caregivers do to help patients or loved ones (and themselves) during difficult times? Contact John Campbell at (608) 975-2714; jcampbell@rtirguests.com

13. == > Is Life a Vacation from the Afterlife?

According to psychic medium June Edward, no matter how tough your present life may seem, it represents a vacation from what happens after you die. As June will explain, having a body that can taste, smell and have sex — among other things — is a treat because those senses will not be present after death; that is why people who have passed on live vicariously through us. With June as your guest, you can have a fascinating discussion about what your life circumstances may be trying to teach you, what the Other Side is like, the difficult process involved before being reborn and more. June is a psychic medium who passed to the Other Side during surgery at the age of 27 and came back by choice. She fully embraced her gifts at 52 and has since worked on missing person cases and consulted with many well-known paranormal groups and authors. She is the author of “The 5 Love Lessons” and other books. Ask her: Can you tell us about the spirit who showed up in your shower? Are angels a separate race? Can people who passed away see everything we do? Are jerks still jerks in the afterlife? Contact June Edward at (508) 259-1231; juneedward111@gmail.com

14. ==> The Hidden Demons Returning Veterans Face

Although they risk their lives to protect our country, returning veterans are often underserved and neglected by society. Former Navy chaplain, author and life coach Carl Barnes is all too aware of the challenges veterans encounter. “What’s crucial is being resilient in transitioning out of the military, continuing to find purpose, seeking community and, most importantly, keeping your mental health at the forefront,” he says. “If overlooked, this can become overwhelming if you don’t seek professional help.” Carl is the author of “Resilient Sailing: 10 Lessons to Persevere in Life’s Stormy Seas” and conducts life coaching workshops and online courses. Contact Carl at (407) 809-8047; cbarnes@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Should You View Foods You Eat as an Investment?

While growing up on his family’s organic farm on the idyllic Caribbean island of Dominica, which has the highest percentage of centenarians per capita in the world, master herbalist Gladstone Etienne rarely got sick or went to a conventional doctor. “My mother was a traditional island herbalist, who used herbal remedies to treat everything from the flu to sprains and cuts,” he says. At 16, he traveled to Washington, D.C., in order to share his wisdom with Americans. “Many people see food as an expense,” he says. “Instead, we should look at it as an investment in your body.” He also believes that herbal teas should be a cornerstone of health and wellness. He is the founder of ZABIOLife herbal tea company. Contact Gladstone at (301) 820-7656; Getienne@rtirguests.com

If you’re among the almost 58 million people in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic U.S., you may have seen the unmistakable haze caused by 416 Canadian wildfires. The smoky pollution has been detected in many states, provinces and cities in the region, leaving little doubt that the damage from wildfires is affecting huge swaths of people. For a timely take on this, interview wildfire expert Jim Moseley, who will explain what this wildfire threat encompasses, and how we can protect ourselves. Jim has developed patented products and methods to ease the danger and even prevent wildfires. Invite Jim to discuss what causes the wildfire scourge, what we should be doing, which locations and populations are in the worst wildfire and polluting danger zones, and even how NASA is involved with fighting the war against wildfires. Contact Jim at (818) 217-1270; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

01. Holy Smokes! What’s Going on With the Air?
02. Doctor Answers Your Air Quality Questions
03. The Saudi/PGA Deal Is Good for Golf
04. For Juneteenth: Black Soldiers in American History
05. Grammy-Nominated Hip-Hop Artist Yo-Yo
06. Better than BBQ Tools: Father’s Day Ideas Dad Will Love
07. Taking Fido on Your Trip? Tips for a Pet-Friendly Vacation
08. Beyond Vacation: How to Become a Traveler
09. The Most-Banned Books in Schools
10. Why Falling College Applications Are Bad for America
11. Why Do Women Feel Ashamed of Their Success?
12. Does Enduring Tough Times Make Us Stronger?
13. Do a Show on the Craziest Courtroom Antics
14. Expert Offers Proven Answers to Afterlife Questions
15. Why You Have to Move On to Move Up

1.==> Holy Smokes! What’s Going on With the Air?

From South Carolina to New Hampshire and up into the Northeast, the air quality is currently some of the worst on the planet due to wildfires in eastern Canada. The smoke is so dense in some places that people can smell it and the skies appear hazy. Daniel Westervelt, an assistant research professor at Columbia University’s Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory and an air-pollution adviser to the U.S. State Department can explain the science behind the current haze and how the tiny smoke particles can travel thousands of miles and last for weeks. Learn what the current air quality readings mean, how long the dangerous conditions could last, and why you should prepare for more of these types of events in the future. Contact Daniel Westervelt at (845) 365-8194; danielmw@ldeo.Columbia.edu

2. ==> Doctor Answers Your Air Quality Questions

With millions of Americans under air quality alerts, medical preparedness advocates Dr. Joe Alton and Amy Alton can discuss the long and short-term health effects of air pollution, who is most at risk, and how to protect yourself when the air quality is bad. Joseph Alton, M.D., is a board-certified obstetrician and pelvic surgeon. Amy Alton is an advanced registered nurse practitioner and a certified nurse-midwife. They are the authors of several books including “The Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is NOT on the Way” and operate the survival website DoomandGloom.net. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

3. == > The Saudi/PGA Deal Is Good for Golf

The PGA Tour has agreed to merge with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, a deal that would combine the two commercial businesses and rights into a new for-profit enterprise. The news came as a surprise, with many blasting the move as hypocritical after the PGA spent the past year speaking out against LIV Golf. But Lisa Delpy Neirotti thinks this is great news for the sport. “Competition makes us all better and the merged product will enhance the experience for both players and fans,” she says. Neirotti has been following the new league closely and can discuss the merger. Lisa Delpy Neirotti is an associate professor of sport management at George Washington University. Contact her at (202) 994-6623; (202) 994-6623

4.==> For Juneteenth: Black Soldiers in American History

Explore the complex history of Black soldiers in the United States military when you interview Dru Holley, the director and producer of the award-winning documentary “Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts.” The film tells the story of how newly free Black Americans enlisted in the U.S. Army, a reliable path to income and greater respect, and in the process helped to both fulfill America’s Manifest Destiny and disrupted the lives of Indigenous peoples. “The story of the Buffalo Soldiers involves historical complexities like race, class, power, colonialism and Western expansion. It is particularly relevant today as our country is roiling with the agony of racial strife,” says Holley. “As a Black filmmaker, I feel a responsibility to tell our story, to provide an inspiring story about history often left out of school textbooks. We want young kids to know the accounts of people like them that stretch across the nation, to have more knowledge of their past than we did.” “Buffalo Soldiers” will begin airing on Juneteenth, June 12 on PBS. Contact Jesse Thompson at jesse@smarthousecreative.com

5. ==> Grammy-Nominated Hip-Hop Artist Yo-Yo

Hip-hop queen Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker shows off her culinary skills in the new cooking series “Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo.” Dish with the diva about the new show where she whips up some of her favorite meals, cocktails, desserts and more. Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker is a Grammy-nominated hip-hop entertainer, actress, educator and philanthropist, and a cast member of VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop Hollywood” series. She cohosts Café Mocha, a nationally syndicated radio show for women of color, alongside Loni Love and Angelique Perrin. “Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo” is airing now on aspireTV. Contact Jesse Metres at jesse@strategicheights.com

6. ==> Better Than BBQ Tools: Father’s Day Ideas Dad Will Love

Dads are notoriously hard to shop for but Alisha Allen can share some fun and meaningful ways to show Dad you love him. “Father’s Day is a great opportunity to dedicate quality time to your dad. Plan activities or outings that he enjoys, like a boat ride or booze cruise, or a round of golf,” she says. If you’re across the country and want to send a gift, Allen suggests a personalized present. “Instead of opting for generic gifts, consider creating something amazing for your dad. It could be a TikTok video with his favorite song with photos from his life or a customized gift that reflects his hobbies.” And for those low on funds, Allen says there are plenty of low- and no-cost ways to help Dad relax and unwind like taking out the garbage and doing chores, bringing him to the barber shop for a hot towel shave, or organizing a relaxing day at the golf course while being his caddy.” Alisha Allen is the “Party Princess” for The Party Nuptual Network, an online marketing/advertising platform. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988; markgoldman73@gmail.com

7. ==> Taking Fido on Your Trip? Tips for a Pet-Friendly Vacation

A family vacation isn’t a family vacation unless Fido and/or Fluffy come along for the adventure. But travel can be stressful for pets and owners alike. Carol Osborne, DVM, offers must-have advice for those who ‘have pet, will travel’! Dr. Osborne will share important questions to ask yourself before packing up your pet, starting with if they’re well-trained and healthy enough for travel. Whether you’re taking a plane or hitting the highway, learn what to bring, how to prepare your pet beforehand, and natural remedies to help if your furry friend gets anxious on the trip. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian. She is a regular contributor to several TV shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” Discovery’s “Animal Planet,” and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

8. ==> Beyond Vacation: How to Become a Traveler

There’s nothing wrong with sitting on the beach and relaxing with an umbrella drink this summer, but if you want to come back from your next trip with more than a tan, consider using your time off to really travel. “The greatest thing to feed our mind, body and spirit is new discovery!” says Tammy Adams. As an intuitive life coach for over 30 years, Tammy has seen many amazing places while taking people on spiritual retreats around the world. She’ll discuss the benefits of leaving your hotel room and getting into the local community, how to take the stress out of travel and enjoy it to the fullest, and the many ways that travel can change your life. Tammy Adams is an international speaker, podcast host and the author of “Secrets to Your Chakras” and the upcoming “Spiritual Table Talk: The Elements of Healing.” Contact her at (833) 742-6268; info@lifepurposeshaman.com

9. ==> The Most-Banned Books in Schools

The recent surge in book bans in U.S. school districts and libraries is the latest front in a long-running battle that has swept up even literary masterpieces of John Steinbeck, J.D. Salinger and Toni Morrison. But the dramatically increasing censorship attempts have evolved, says Allison Lee, Los Angeles director of PEN America, a century-old writers’ organization that works to defend freedom of expression. Prior to the current wave, communities usually banned books on a case-by-case basis, often in response to complaints about violent or sexual content. Now, Lee says, “Large swaths of books, sometimes even entire school or classroom libraries are being removed.” Many activists and politicians object to an entire genre of books that deal with LGBTQ+ topics or issues. Other targeted books deal with race. Lee can discuss the most banned books this school year and some surprising, notable books that have been banned or challenged over the years. Contact her at alee@pen.org

10. ==> Why Falling College Applications Are Bad for America

Nationwide, undergraduate college enrollment dropped 8% from 2019 to 2022, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. The slide is the steepest on record, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bring Alicia J. Moore on your show to explain why if the trend toward fewer college graduates continues the U.S. may lose its edge as the leading global innovator to China — in addition to creating worsening labor shortages and causing the American public to have an even more difficult time determining what is fake news. Moore is the author of “Crushing It in College: Your 7-Step Guide to an Awesome Adventure.” Moore talks to audiences at high schools and colleges across the country about why a college education is even more important today, despite the costs when it comes to future employment prospects and developing self-confidence and critical thinking. Contact Alicia J. Moore at (408) 569-1267; aliciajmoore@comcast.net

11. ==> Why Do Women Feel Ashamed of Their Success?

Why do women so often feel unworthy, even ashamed, of their success? And why do so many brilliant, talented women hold themselves back from being, achieving, and having their best lives? Just as she does in her new book, “In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life,” life coach and speaker Tonya Comer, will explore the answers to those questions and more on your program. She’ll also share her compelling life story: Raised in the projects of Pittsburgh, Pa., Tonya has been named one of the top 20 African American Interior Designers in the United States. Although she has held her own among A-listers and power players, like so many other women, Tonya was beset by doubts and insecurities that made her feel like a fraud until she did the work she needed to become the confident person she had only pretended to be. Tonya Comer holds an MBA from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad Graduate School of Management and a B.A. from Duquesne University. She studied interior design at London Metropolitan University. Tonya formerly worked in broadcasting, and in sales, marketing, advertising, and consulting for corporate America. Contact Tonya at (215) 667-8464 trc@tonyacomer.com

12. ==> Does Enduring Tough Times Make Us Stronger?

“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” You’ve probably heard the phrase, but is it really true? Invite Hillary Saffran to share stories of famous people like Albert Einstein, Ludwig van Beethoven and Oprah, and others who have accomplished great things despite going through great adversities. The author of “Fill Your Glass with Gold: When It’s Half Full or Even Completely Shattered” faced significant challenges throughout her life and tells others, “Whatever you have gone through — no matter how difficult it seems — it will be useful for you in the future. Out of great difficulty many have created nonprofits, formed ministries, and have gathered more skill sets for a new or better career.” Hillary Saffran is an author, therapist, transformational coach, speaker, actress, singer, musician, voiceover artist, and ventriloquist. As a single parent of three children, she made extra money by becoming a birthday party clown and performing singing telegrams. Her books include “Laughing in the Rain: Self-Care for the Storms of Life” and “The Little Coach Engine That Could Because It Stopped Sabotaging Itself.” Contact her at (907) 707-7556; hillarysaffran@gmail.com

13. ==> Do a Show on the Craziest Courtroom Antics

Have you ever seen a chicken playing tic-tac-toe in court as evidence in a case? Experienced attorney J.D. Mortmain has! Movies and television portray the courtroom as a dramatic place full of nail-biting tension, but in real life, that’s not always the case. In fact, there’s often more humor than horror happening behind closed doors — such as the psychologist who failed his own test trying to prove a defendant was disabled. J.D. shares stories of the lighter side of the law with your audience. He has helped thousands of clients, many with unusual experiences like fighting for custody of a roulette wheel and the couple who divorced and remarried every year to profit from tax breaks. An author and experienced media guest, J.D.’s latest book is “The Fuzzy Pink Bathrobe and Other Tales of the Law.” Contact J.D. Mortmain at (860) 969-2693; jmortmain@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Expert Offers Proven Answers to Afterlife Questions

Got a question about the afterlife or afterlife communication? R. Craig Hogan, Ph.D., has the answer and the research to back it up. Want to know how to communicate with deceased loved ones without using a medium? Wonder if you will hold beloved dead pets again? Or what the afterlife will be like and whether death will be scary? He knows and soon you will too. Hogan is an acknowledged expert on afterlife and afterlife communication, the president of the Afterlife Research and Education Institute, the co-founder of Seek Reality, and the author of eight afterlife-themed books including “Evidence Beyond a Reasonable Doubt That You Will Never Die.” Contact R. Craig Hogan, Ph.D., at (309) 808-2651; craig@seekreality.com

15. ==> Why You Have to Move On to Move Up

Are your listeners ready to take the journey from poverty to prosperity? Sylvia O’Connor, the “Moving On Expert,” did so and says if you believe it, you can achieve it! Invite Sylvia to share her personal story of overcoming poverty and how others can do the same. You’ll learn why you have to move on in life to move up, the power of the gift of goodbye and how to discover opportunities and successes available by moving on. Sylvia grew up poor in a small town in Louisiana but shed the seeming restraints that held her back and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees and succeeded in a 30-year career in the health-care industry while being an adjunct professor. Proving that it is never too late, she has now ventured into entrepreneurship by forming her own company. Contact Sylvia O’Connor at (225) 916-3588; sdanielrich@yahoo.com

01. How a Debt Ceiling Default Could Affect You
02. What We Really Want From Local News
03. Can Books Make Kids Queer?
04. 5 Ways to Commemorate Memorial Day
05. A Historic Road Trip With 4 American Legends
06. ‘Scamanda’ – True Story of a Blogger’s Fake Cancer
07. The Dangerous Distortion of ‘Queen Charlotte’
08. Got Career Questions? Get a Psychic’s Perspective
09. How to Give Up the Ghost When You’ve Been Ghosted
10. Be More Resilient in 5 Minutes a Day
11. Advantages Doubters Have That Self-Confident People Miss
12. Why You Have to Move On to Move Up
13. Everything You Never Knew About Elephants
14. How This Former Drug Dealer Turned Her Life Around
15. Small Steps Can Avert Big Health Issues

1. ==> How a Debt Ceiling Default Could Affect You

What could happen on Main Street if Washington’s political showdown over the debt ceiling stopped the government from cutting checks that fund a quarter of the economy? Experts say Americans could quickly notice painful blows to their retirement accounts as stock markets drop, and within days the lack of federal payments could weigh heavily on doctors’ offices, retirees and workplaces throughout the country. According to Shai Akabas, director of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, people would keep one eye on their bank accounts for missed deposits and the other on Wall Street. One eye is focused on “days of delays for their Social Security check, and the other is a 20% drop in their 401(k),” she says. The Bipartisan Policy Center is a not-for-profit think tank that estimates Washington’s day-to-day schedule of bills due. Contact Erin Meade at emeade@bipartisanpolicy.org

2. ==> What We Really Want From Local News

TV stations continue to have the widest reach when it comes to local news but digital outlets are an important part of the equation as local newspapers disappear from many areas of the country. The American Journalism Project recently surveyed 5,000 people in eight local markets across the country about their experience with journalism in their communities and what kinds of local information would be most useful to them. Researchers found a number of common themes across every market, that aren’t centered on topics. Among them: Americans want more local news, a shared, trusted source of facts, and they want the full stories of their communities to be told. They also want newsrooms to play a role in connecting and convening communities. The American Journalism Project provides grants to nonprofit news organizations, partners with communities to launch new organizations, and coaches leaders as they grow and sustain their newsrooms. For more information and survey results, contact Roshni Neslage at roshni@theajp.org or Hannah Ross at hannah@theajp.org

3. ==> Can Books Make Kids Queer?

Books about LGBTQ people are fast becoming the main target of a historic wave of school book challenges. An analysis of all book challenges in the 2021-2022 school year by “The Washington Post” found the main factor in the push is a stated wish to shield children from sexual content. Nearly half of the filings targeted titles with LBBTQ characters or themes, with many challengers believing that reading books about LGBTQ people could cause children to alter their sexuality or gender. There is little research into the effects of LGBTQ literature on children, in part because the books have only recently become widely available. But “we do have a lot of data about other topics that don’t lead us to think that reading a book would make a child suddenly become gay,” says Amy Egbert, a University of Connecticut assistant professor who studies youth mental health. And, she says, there is a clear risk to removing the books. “Any time a certain identity is stigmatized, that tends to lead to more discrimination, more bullying, increased mental health challenges,” she says. “Everything we know suggests this is very harmful to LGBTQ kids.” Contact Amy Egbert at (860) 486-4936; amy.egbert@uconn.edu

4. ==> 5 Ways to Commemorate Memorial Day

Memorial Day is seen as the unofficial start of summer, marked by picnics, BBQs and relaxing with family and friends, but the real meaning behind the day is to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Retired Air Force pilot Col. Lee Ellis can discuss ways to include that aspect into your weekend activities. Many communities will hold local parades and ceremonies and flags will be flying, but Ellis says you can also honor fallen veterans by expressing gratitude to present and former military personnel who are among us today. Listeners will learn why the poppy holds great significance in relation to Memorial Day and how disabled and disadvantaged veterans in VA hospitals have been crafting Buddy Poppies since 1924. Lee Ellis is the founder and president of Leadership Freedom® LLC and FreedomStar Media®. He is a leadership coach and the co-author of “Captured by Love,” with love expert Greg Godek. The book features inspiring stories of POWs who returned from the Vietnam War after years of incarceration and mistreatment and offers a rare glimpse into the resilient and enduring love and romance that emerged from such a challenging and heartbreaking situation. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

5. ==> A Historic Road Trip With 4 American Legends

For a fun show that paints a nostalgic portrait of rural America, invite writer, historian, and Yale University professor Wes Davis to share the story of historic road trips four American legends took in August 1918. Hear about the friendships that sprang up among automobile tycoon Henry Ford, naturalist John Burroughs, inventor Thomas Edison, and tire industrialist Harvey Firestone as they took road trips together in Ford’s miraculous vehicle, exploring parts of rural America that had been largely inaccessible. Learn how the relationship began in 1913 between Burroughs, then 75, and Ford, nearly 50, when Burroughs wrote in an article in “Atlantic Monthly” that the automobile “was going to kill the appreciation of nature.” In response, Ford sent him a new Model T, which changed the old naturalist’s life by prompting him to set out on wide-ranging road trips beyond his Hudson River homestead. Wes Davis is the author of several books including his latest, “On the Road with Henry Ford, Thomas Edison and John Burroughs.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

6. ==> ‘Scamanda’ – True Story of a Blogger’s Fake Cancer

The story of infamous cancer-faking early social media influencer Amanda C. Riley, who is now behind bars for fraud, is the topic of a new podcast. Through exclusive access to her now-defunct blogs and new interviews with the people who thought they knew her best, award-winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable tale of a scam that ripped a family apart and left a community in shock. The series unravels the surprising and bizarre story behind Riley’s long-running scam to use her growing online presence to take advantage of the social media community. Ultimately, the young woman pleaded guilty to soliciting over $100,000 in donations to help pay for cancer treatments that she never received. Webster says, “The psychology of what this woman did to manipulate and infiltrate her community using the power of social media is fascinating and I know listeners will be enthralled by what unfolds in the series.” The eight-episode limited series podcast Scamanda is available now. Contact Katie Fuchs at (646) 493-0215 (NY); kfuchs@lippingroup.com or Kevin Broderick at kevin@lippingroup.com

7. ==> The Dangerous Distortion of ‘Queen Charlotte’

At the center of Shonda Rhimes’ latest Netflix historical miniseries is the “Great Experiment,” an attempt to introduce, by royal fiat, greater racial and social equity in the realm and the show features a Black noblewoman married to the King of England. But historian Shaun Armstead reminds us that “Queen Charlotte” is fantasy. “The series offers viewers a racially integrated world that upholds Eurocentric paradigms. The diversity championed in these shows is one in which Black and Asian characters are welcomed as long as they conform to the values and norms governing Western societies,” she says. “Reimagining history in this way ignores the painful truths of the era: Imperial domination and dispossession as well as slavery.” She adds, “We are served a sanitized version of history at the very moment when more accurate narratives of the past are under attack.” Shaun Armstead is a historian whose research centers on Black women’s international activism in the 20th century. She will be a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Africana Studies at Brown University this fall. Contact her at sta50@history.rutgers.edu

8. ==> Got Career Questions? Get a Psychic’s Perspective

Although many economists predict a downturn in the job market over the next year, more than half of workers (56%) are likely to look for a job within that same timeframe, Bankrate’s 2023 job seeker survey found. With unemployment recently at its lowest level in decades, the tight labor market has given many workers the confidence to do things like switch jobs and even careers. But how do you know where to go when thinking about a new career? Find out when you talk to top psychic Ann Johnson. Ann can guide your audience toward job success as well as provide instant personality analysis, relationship advice, and more. The real deal among psychics, Ann has been featured by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone.” She is the author of “Facing Forward: A Memoir About Choices, Intuition, and Insights in a Show Busy Life.” Contact Ann Johnson at (516) 862-4405; ajohnson@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How to Give Up the Ghost When You’ve Been Ghosted

Relationships are important. So whether it is a lover, former love, date, friend, parent, or sibling, no one likes being ghosted — having their texts, phone calls, and emails ignored leaves them in limbo and feeling minimized. Some research indicates that as many as 23% of us have been ignored by people we care about. Marcia Chang Vogl, a pastor and mentor in “spiritual maturity,” says we can’t prevent people from ghosting us but we can control how we react when it happens. Invite Marcia to explain the process she recommends people go through and what to say to yourself out loud that will help you move on from the most challenging relationships. Vogl has been ghosted by a relative for decades and is an expert on forgiveness as a powerful weapon in one’s mental health arsenal. She is the author of “The Path Forward.” Marcia Chang Vogl is an ordained minister with more than 30 years of experience in pastoral counseling, teaching and mentoring. Vogl is the director of Bethany Projects of Hidden With Christ Ministries. She is a former public school music teacher, university lecturer, and mortgage industry professional. Contact Marcia at (714) 454-7194; marciavogl@gmail.com

10. ==> Be More Resilient in 5 Minutes a Day

Why are some people better able to handle life’s blows than others? Can you learn how to bounce back from your challenges? Linda Karimo, who has developed a course on being more resilient, has researched this issue and says she can teach anyone — even those whose personalities struggle with change — to be more resilient, starting with a personalized five-minute activity that will lower your stress and help you think clearly about what you can change, what you can’t and how to deal with the difference. In addition to her upcoming resilience course, Linda is the developer of Initiative: “After Hours” by Linda Karimo, an education-focused community of individual and family members concerned about eye and mental health, and the author of her mother’s story, “I Know My Way Memoir,” which explores how normal living is possible with a little bit of adaption. Contact Linda Karimo at (914) 944-1474; lkarimo@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Advantages Doubters Have That Self-Confident People Miss

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

12. ==> Why You Have to Move On to Move Up

Are you ready to take the journey from poverty to prosperity? Sylvia O’Connor, the “Moving On Expert,” did so and says if you believe it, you can achieve it! Invite Sylvia to share her personal story of overcoming poverty and how listeners can do the same. You’ll learn why you have to move on in life in order to move up, the power of the gift of goodbye and how to discover opportunities and successes available by moving on. Sylvia grew up poor in a small town in Louisiana but shed the seeming restraints that held her back and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees and succeeded in a 30-year career in the health-care industry while being an adjunct professor. Proving that it is never too late, she has now ventured into entrepreneurship by forming her own company. Contact Sylvia O’Connor at (225) 916-3588; sdanielrich@yahoo.com

13. ==> Everything You Never Knew About Elephants

People the world over have a deep affection for elephants. But did you know that they could help save the planet? “Not only are elephants adorable, super-loving and brilliant, they are also important ecosystem engineers,” says author and animal/environmental advocate Georja Umano. “They are so large that rain in an elephant’s footprint can create a microsystem that can provide a home for tadpoles and other organisms. The effects of their movements in both savannahs and forests help restore and maintain the balance of nature.” Georja can share why it’s so important to protect this endangered species, and other fascinating pachyderm facts, as well as her experiences living in Kenya. She is the author of “Terrier in the Jungle.” Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How This Former Drug Dealer Turned Her Life Around

As a single teenage mother who grew up in a highly dysfunctional broken home, author Tressa Mitchener fell in with a bad crowd and turned to drug dealing. She was ultimately arrested and received a 30-year-to-life federal prison sentence. Miraculously, that sentence was reduced to five years, something she attributes to her strong belief in a higher power. Tressa went on to earn a B.A. in psychology, became a respected Christian counselor and best-selling author, and married the love of her life. “While I was in prison, I was strongly focused on God,” she says. “He was giving me instructions and guiding me. My mind began to change.” She is the author of “Looking Out from the Inside: The United States v. Tressa Oliva Parker.” Contact Tressa at (919) 582-5992; Tmitchener@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Small Steps Can Avert Big Health Issues

You probably have some lifestyle choices that are hurting you, but it can seem overwhelming (not to mention unappealing) to tackle them. But Emily Gold Mears says you only need to take small steps toward better health to postpone the onset of chronic disease. “Forget the urge to change everything at once,” Mears says. “Every incremental change you make will result in a positive impact. Every lifestyle alteration will contribute to your living a longer, healthier and happier life.” She’ll share ways to reduce your toxin exposure at home, explain why you should prioritize your oral health, and reveal the surprising benefits of optimizing your indoor light exposure. Emily Gold Mears is a former attorney and a citizen scientist whose research focuses on the intersection of functional and allopathic medicine and the critical requirements for individuals to become their own health-care advocates. She is the author of “Optimizing Your Health: An Approachable Guide to Reducing Your Risk of Chronic Disease.” Contact her at emily@emilygoldmears.com; egoldmears@aol.com

01. Great Memorial Day Show: ‘Black Hawk Down’ Legend
02. Military Historian on WWII Heroes on the Homefront
03. The Changing Religious Landscape and the 2024 Election
04. How Gen Zs Are Different from Boomers, GenXers, and Millennials
05. An Epidemic of Spouse Killing: What’s Love Got to Do With it?
06. The Grad Speech Parents Need to Hear
07. Is a College Education Still Worth It?
08. Why Are There So Few Women in U.S. Politics?
09. Journalist Shares Surprising Stories With Biggest Impact
10. How to Get Over Being Ghosted
11. How Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell Performed With Memory Loss
12. The Stigma of Infertility Within the Black Community
13. Is Satan Real?
14. This Guest Inspires Others to Never Give Up
15. Boost Your Immun-a-Tea for a Healthier Summer

1.==> Great Memorial Day Show: ‘Black Hawk Down’ Legend

As we remember those who gave their lives in service to our country this Memorial Day, consider a show with Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Tom Satterly. Depicted in the 2001 Oscar-winning film, “Black Hawk Down,” Satterly led hundreds of critical military campaigns, including Operation Red Dawn, which led to the capture of Saddam Hussein. For 20-plus years a member of Delta Force — the most elite and secretive special operations force in the U.S. military — he was the recipient of 64 medals, including five Bronze Stars and two for Valorous Acts. But the military hero says when he finally got back home, he struggled to reclaim his life. He and his wife, Jen, have spent many years in counseling and therapy battling complex PTSD and are now not only serving veterans but first responders and others hard hit by the COVID crisis. Tom Satterly details his and other veterans’ desperate attempts to overcome PTSD, addiction and other mental health issues in his book, “All Secure: A Delta Force Operator’s Fight to Survive on the Battlefield and the Homefront.” Contact Jason Jones at jason@jonesliterary.com

2. ==> Military Historian on WWII Heroes on the Homefront

This Memorial Day, take your listeners back to WWII and hear how FDR confronted a nation antagonistic to war in Europe, skillfully won their support, and pushed the government and big business to build the secret weapons that won the war. Invite WWII historian Craig Nelson on your show and learn how corporate and government managers worked together to organize the war effort with leaders turning their factories into assembly lines churning out ships, planes, and tanks. You’ll also hear surprising revelations about Winston Churchill and incredible stories of women at war. Craig Nelson is the author of many books including his latest, “V is for Victory: Franklin Roosevelt’s American Revolution and the Triumph of World War II.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

3. ==> The Changing Religious Landscape and the 2024 Election

One of the most significant shifts in American politics and religion just took place over the past decade and it barely got any notice: the share of Americans who associate with religion dropped by 11 points. Ryan Burge says the impact of that will ripple across the political landscape at every level and especially in presidential politics. Burge, research director for Faith Counts, says people are not fleeing organized religion at equal rates across the United States and points to the industrial Midwest as the region with the biggest drop in religious adherents. That bodes well for Democrats, but Burge says there are a few areas in the U.S. where religion is growing, like Miami, Florida, and some heavily Hispanic communities near the Mexican border. Burge can discuss other findings in the 2020 U.S. Religion Census, which was released late last year, and why both political parties have been slow to react to the changing religious landscape. Ryan Burge is an expert on the links between religion and society. He’s an associate professor of political science at Eastern Illinois University, regularly appears as an expert in major news outlets, and has been published in the “Washington Post,” “New York Times,” and “Wall Street Journal.” Contact Kerry Troup at (202) 679-2702; ktroup@faithcounts.com

4. ==> How Gen Zs Are Different from Boomers, GenXers, and Millennials

Does it seem that today’s kids, teens and young adults are somehow different from previous generations? They are! Jean Twenge makes the case that Gen Z (or iGen, as she calls them) is growing up in a way that is fundamentally different from previous generations. “Twelfth graders now are more like eighth-graders from previous generations, waiting longer to take part in activities associated with independence and adulthood,” she says. They are less likely to go out with friends, drive, go to prom or drink alcohol than Gen-X 12th-graders were and are more likely to lie on their beds and scroll through social media. Twenge says they may be physically safer, but the long-term effect on their mental and brain health is a big question mark. She’ll discuss their attitudes about work, what motivates them, and how they view gender and politics. Jean Twenge is a professor of psychology at San Diego State University and the author of several books including her latest, “iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy – and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood – and What That Means for the Rest of Us.” Contact her at twenge@sdsu.edu; jeantwenge@gmail.com or atriapublicity@simonschuster.com

5.==> An Epidemic of Spouse Killing: What’s Love Got to Do With it?

There seems to be no shortage of news stories recently about spouses accused of killing one another. Recent headlines include a dentist charged with putting cyanide and arsenic in his wife’s workout shakes and a woman who wrote a children’s book about grief after her husband’s sudden death who is now accused of giving him a fatal dose of fentanyl. David J. Glass is all too familiar with the states of mind of those who murder their spouses or family members. A certified family law specialist who also holds a Ph.D., in psychology, Glass can address today’s “Family Annihilation” crisis. Ask him: What motivates people to kill their spouses? Is it simply jealousy? A misconception about love? Is there a particular “profile” of a spouse-killer or family annihilator? Are there red flags or signals that your spouse may kill you? Glass calls this proliferation of killings a societal epidemic and can bring clarity as to why, and, as a society, what we can do to prevent it. David J. Glass is the host of The HourGlass podcast and managing partner at EPGLawyers. Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com

6. == > The Grad Speech Parents Need to Hear

Whether your kid is heading to college, starting a job, taking a gap year or whatever else awaits in the next phase of life, this is a big moment —for them — and YOU! “No matter what kind of parent you’ve been —attached, detached, tiger mom, baseball dad — the dynamic between you and your child changes now, forever,” says Mary Laura Philpott. When she was left with an unexpected hole In her life when her son went off to college, Philpott was surprised at her reaction. She’ll share the lessons she learned from the experience, why she’ll do things differently when her daughter leaves the nest, and what soon-to-be empty nesters can do now to ease their transition. She’ll explain what a “planned breather” is and why you should plan one now to begin immediately after your teen departs. Mary Laura Philpott’s books include “I Miss You When I Blink” and “Bomb Shelter: Love, Time, and Other Explosives.” Her writing has been featured in the “New York Times,” “Washington Post,” and “The Atlantic,” among many other publications. She is a cohost of “A Word on Words” on Nashville Public Television. Contact Falon Kirby at falon.kirby@simonandschuster.com

7. ==> Is a College Education Still Worth It?

The average tuition per year at a four-year college is more than $25,000, with in-state students or their parents spending upwards of $102,000 to get that degree. What is more, the average in-state student begins their life after graduation with $37,000 in debt. With those kinds of numbers it is incumbent on doing all one can to be sure that a college investment — in time, dollars, and effort — pays off. And that’s where the advice of author and college readiness coach Alicia J. Moore can be crucial to your audience, particularly at high school graduation time. Moore is the author of “Crushing It in College: Your 7-Step Guide to an Awesome Adventure.” Moore talks to audiences at high schools and colleges across the country about why a college education is even more important today, despite the costs, when it comes to future employment prospects, and developing self-confidence and critical thinking. Contact Alicia J. Moore at (408) 569-1267; aliciajmoore@comcast.net

8. ==> Why Are There So Few Women in U.S. Politics?

More than a century after women gained the right to vote, the U.S. still compares poorly to most other countries in terms of gender equality in politics — including to our nearest neighbors, Canada and Mexico. Debbie Peterson will discuss five reasons we need to elect more women beyond merely for purposes of equal representation. She’ll talk about why women are more likely to reach across the aisle to get things done, are better at fast-tracking the implementation of new ideas and more. Peterson is the former mayor of Grover Beach, Calif., and the host of the podcast The Corruption Chronicles. Peterson’s Integrity 101 book series includes “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies & Suicide in a California Beach Town,” and the newly released “City Council 101: Insider’s Guide for New Councilmembers.” Ask her: What do studies show about female leaders in terms of happiness, crime figures, and government? How does the U.S. fare in relation to other countries? Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; DebbiePeterson805@gmail.com

9. ==> Journalist Shares Surprising Stories With Biggest Impact

One of America’s top investigative journalists, Michael Bowker has been up close and personal with celebrities, presidents, and even serial killers. However, the most incredible events he’s covered have been ordinary people doing extraordinary things — and those stories transform the world more than the juiciest celebrity gossip. Meet everyday heroes whose “small” acts have resulted in ripple effects that make the world a better place, such as the man who saved a million lives . . . so far. Show your audience how they can truly change the world when you interview this seasoned media guest who’s been featured by “Good Morning America,” “Reader’s Digest,” and many more. Ask him: What’s the biggest ripple effect you’ve seen from a non-famous person’s actions? Which two stories led to death threats against you? What happened after you ran a story about a convicted criminal who saved an autistic child from a burning house? Contact Michael Bowker at (530) 296-6301; mbowker@rtirguests.com

10. ==> How to Get Over Being Ghosted

Relationships are important. So whether it is a lover, former love, date, friend, parent, or sibling, no one likes being ghosted — having their texts, phone calls, and emails ignored leaves them in limbo and feeling minimized. Some research indicates that as many as 23% of us have been ignored by people we care about. Marcia Chang Vogl, a pastor and mentor in “spiritual maturity,” says we can’t prevent people from ghosting us but we can control how we react when it happens. Invite Marcia to explain the process she recommends people go through and what to say to yourself out loud that will help you move on from the most challenging relationships. Vogl has been ghosted by a relative for decades and is an expert on forgiveness as a powerful weapon in one’s mental health arsenal. She is the author of “The Path Forward.” Marcia Chang Vogl is an ordained minister with more than 30 years of experience in pastoral counseling, teaching and mentoring. Vogl is the director of Bethany Projects of Hidden With Christ Ministries. She is a former public school music teacher, university lecturer, and mortgage industry professional. Contact Marcia at (714) 454-7194; marciavogl@gmail.com

11. ==> How Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell Performed With Memory Loss

Dementia comes with devastating effects that destroy quality of life, yet both Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell performed live tours while suffering from the condition. How did they do it, and do it so well? John Campbell can explain the healing effect of music, especially in patients with memory loss. He’ll provide tips and advice for caregivers and those with family members suffering from dementia on how to incorporate music into their routines, to tremendous positive effect. An entrepreneur and lyricist/songwriter, John is the author of “Beyond the Fading Memories: Guiding Words for Dementia Caregivers.” Contact him at (608) 975-2714; jcampbell@rtirguests.com

12. ==> The Stigma of Infertility Within the Black Community

Did you know that experts say that the infertility rate among Black women is possibly twice as high (if not higher) than that of white women? Moreover, Black women face much higher barriers to fertility services like IVF due to lack of insurance, sperm donors and underrepresentation in research trials. And as if that were not daunting enough, Frances Jones will explain that Black women are often ashamed of being infertile and unable to talk about this health issue with their friends and family. Frances is the author of “Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed,” a book that tells the story of her over 20-year journey of never conceiving children and offers tips for couples traveling a similar journey. She is a global women empowerment speaker, an advocate, and a transformational coach who has been featured on CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox affiliates, and in the “Los Angeles Tribune,” and other media. Contact her at (901) 910-0915; fjones@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Is Satan Real?

There has been much debate, even in Christianity, about the existence of the devil, as some wonder whether it’s just a metaphor. Interview Valerie Galloway to talk about the realities of “the enemy” and how Satan infiltrates our lives and our psyches. She’ll share her personal experiences with loss due to the devil’s influence and help your audience banish evil from their lives to achieve fulfillment, joy, and purpose. A certified ICF coach with a bachelor’s degree in community health and a master’s degree in social science, Valerie is the author of “Addiction Steal, Kill & Destroy: A Spiritual Guide to Overcoming Addiction and Loss.” Contact Valerie Galloway at (917) 994-8841; vgalloway@rtirguests.com

14. ==> This Guest Inspires Others to Never Give Up

Most of us have plenty of obstacles standing in the way of happiness or success — and most of us give up too soon, settling for less than what we really want out of life. Are some issues simply too challenging to overcome? According to author and inspirational speaker Jesse Fiedor, no challenge is insurmountable! Jesse overcame a serious disability to achieve his dream of working in Hollywood. He can help your audience find the motivation to accomplish anything, no matter what stands in their way. Like Beethoven continuing to make music after he lost his hearing, you can realize any goal and live your best life. Ask him: How did you conquer your obstacles, and how can others do the same? Did you meet any celebrities during your time in Hollywood? Why do you say, “If I can do it, anyone can”? Contact Jesse Fiedor at (714) 683-2353; jfiedor@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Boost Your Immun-a-Tea for a Healthier Summer

Want to have a happy, healthy summer? As you look for ways to be healthier and ward off disease, Tilak Silva says you should pay closer attention to what you eat and drink. He’ll share the best natural way to bring about strength, energy, healthier skin and ultimately longer life. Silva is an expert in nutrition and health research and the inventor of CilanTea, which helps people of all ages find their ideal path to a healthier life. Ask him: What makes cilantro an unexpected health food? What’s the best way to take advantage of its benefits? Which commonly imbibed beverages should we watch out for, since they decrease immunity, especially in difficult times? Contact Tilak Silva at (310) 421-4680, tsilva@rtirguests.com

01. There’s No Going Back: The New World of Artificial Intelligence
02. How Workers Really Feel About ‘Woke’ Workplaces
03. The Most-Banned Books in Schools This Year
04. CBD Products Are Everywhere, But Do They Work?
05. Under the Sea: Mysteries of the Octopus
06. The Amazing Healing Power of Pets
07. New Measures to Make the Internet Safer for Kids
08. Surprising Skills That Could Help Young Students Most
09. How to Raise Fearless Kids in Scary Times
10. Beyond Vacation: How to Become a Traveler
11. More People Are Going It Alone: The Best Cruises for Singles
12. This Bookie’s Son Is a Sure-Bet Guest
13. Why the First and Last 15-Minutes of the Day Are the Most Important
14. He Succeeded Despite the Odds. You Can Too
15. How to Get Back Up After One of Life’s Gut Punches

1.==> There’s No Going Back: The New World of Artificial Intelligence

It’s been about 25 weeks since AI chatbots have become available to the general public and there’s no turning back now. What exactly is artificial intelligence and is it good or bad for the future? Invite Calum Chace to discuss the big picture and how AI is likely to play out in the years to come. He can discuss how big tech and governments are responding to the new technology, including the proposed European AI Act. Calum Chace is a sought-after keynote speaker and best-selling writer on artificial intelligence. He focuses on the medium- and long-term impact of AI on all of us, our societies and our economies. He is the author of several books on artificial intelligence including “Surviving AI,” about strong AI and super intelligence, and “The Economic Singularity,” about the prospect of widespread technological unemployment. Contact him at cccalum@gmail.com

2. ==> How Workers Really Feel About ‘Woke’ Workplaces

As conservatives rail against “woke” workplaces, and target diversity, equity and inclusion programs in businesses, a new report from Pew Research shows that most Americans think DEI policies make offices better. The survey comes at a time when DEI efforts are facing some backlash and many major companies are laying off their DEI professionals. DEI is broadly described as policies and principles that promote belonging in an organization, especially among historically marginalized groups like women, racial minorities and people with disabilities. More than half of Black and Asian people in the survey said that being white makes it easier at work, while only 24% of white people said the same. Very low percentages of people of each race said that being a person of color can put them ahead, suggesting the idea that workplace DEI policies hold back white workers is not a very popular one. For more information on the survey and interviews, contact Tanya Arditi at (202) 419-3623; tarditi@pewresearch.org

3. ==> The Most-Banned Books in Schools This Year

The recent surge in book bans in U.S. school districts and libraries is the latest front in a long-running battle that has swept up even literary masterpieces of John Steinbeck, J.D. Salinger and Toni Morrison. But the dramatically increasing censorship attempts have evolved, says Allison Lee, Los Angeles director of PEN America, a century-old writers’ organization that works to defend freedom of expression. Prior to the current wave, communities usually banned books on a case-by-case basis, often in response to complaints about violent or sexual content. Now, Lee says, “Large swaths of books, sometimes even entire school or classroom libraries are being removed.” Many activists and politicians object to an entire genre of books that deal with LGBTQ+ topics or issues. Other targeted books deal with race. Lee can discuss the most banned books this school year and some surprising, notable books that have been banned or challenged over the years. Contact her at alee@pen.org

4. ==> CBD Products Are Everywhere, But Do They Work?

You’ve probably run into a product containing cannabidiol, also known as CBD. It’s in everything from drinks and pet products to lotions and chewable gummies. But many people still don’t really know what CBD is. Is it marijuana? Is it legal? Does it actually work? Is it safe? Invite Mary Lopez Carter, the founder of Carolina Hemp Hut and an expert on CBD, to answer all your CBD questions. She’ll discuss how CBD can help with various health issues from insomnia to chronic pain, anxiety and even cancer. Learn what conditions can benefit from CBD, the different ways it can be consumed, and how to choose the right product and make sure it’s legit. Carolina Hemp Hut is the largest CBD-dedicated hemp store in North Carolina and a trusted leader in the hemp and CBD industry. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

5. ==> Under the Sea: Mysteries of the Octopus

With their bulbous heads, big eyes, eight limbs and the ability to shape-shift, octopuses (or octopi if you prefer) remain one of the most fascinating sea creatures, but their elusive behavior and the changing nature of their appearances make them difficult to locate, identify, and study. Marine biologist David Scheel has been studying octopuses for more than 25 years and has witnessed a sea change in what we know and can discover about octopus physiology and behavior — even an octopus’s inner life. Perhaps most surprising of all, Scheel has discovered that “despite their solitary reputation, octopuses like closeness.” Invite him to share what he’s learned about octopuses, how climate change is affecting the species, and stories and legends of Indigenous peoples that illuminate our relationship with these creatures across centuries. David Scheel is a field-oriented ecologist with experience in remote and wilderness settings in Africa and Alaska. He joined Alaska Pacific University in 2000 and teaches courses in marine biology, aquarium husbandry, and animal behavior. His new book is “Many Things Under a Rock: The Mysteries of Octopuses.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> The Amazing Healing Power of Pets

We love our pets! They offer companionship, love, exercise, and inclusion. May is National Pet Month and a great time to discuss the many ways pets can help us lead healthier lives. Medical researchers have found the simple act of petting a dog lowers our blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety. Larry Grogan has seen firsthand how pets can work wonders for people struggling with mental and physical health issues. Larry and his tiny dog Scrappy were a pet therapy team for eight years at a children’s hospital where they worked with thousands of suffering children. With the need for pet therapy outpacing the supply, he is on a mission to increase the number of pet therapy teams worldwide. Larry can talk about what your listeners need to know about accessing pet therapy or training to become a therapy team, which he says is easier than you think! Contact Larry Grogan at (423) 557-1908; larrygrogan5@gmail.com

7. ==> New Measures to Make the Internet Safer for Kids

In just the last few months there has been a flurry of bills introduced across the country purporting to make the internet safer for children and teenagers. Tate Ryan-Mosley, a senior tech policy reporter for “MIT Technology Review,” says the content of the child safety bills varies from state to state. Some focus on limiting data collection from users who are minors. In California, the bills focus on shifting the incentive model for data and online advertising; currently, companies can profit from minors’ online data. Ryan-Mosley can discuss what’s behind the new push, the likelihood the bills can get bipartisan support, how they’ll be enforced if enacted, and why Europe is years ahead of the U.S. on this front. Contact Tate Ryan-Mosley at tate.ryan-mosley@technologyreview.com

8. ==> Surprising Skills That Could Help Young Students Most

Teaching computer science to students in grades pre-K through 5 is now a major focus in schools. Children’s author and longtime STEM educator Chris Goldberg, Ed.D., has worked with even the youngest elementary school students and can speak to the need for teaching these skills to young children. “Research shows that these skills help students in mathematics, problem-solving and critical thinking and may help create a path of interest for students who have the aptitude for programming one day,” he says. “There also must be a focus on making sure underrepresented populations receive exposure to computer science skills.” Chris is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact him at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How to Raise Fearless Kids in Scary Times

School shootings. Widespread bullying. The perils of social media. Today’s kids have a lot to be afraid of. Author and father of six Jerry Bures insists there is hope. “Today’s parents are under a lot of stress,” he says. “There are a record number of special needs kids, financial struggles, relationship failures, declining political discourse, distrust in leadership, systemic failures in our current health model, moral decay across a wide range of industries and communities, and more. Now is the time for caring, eager adults to buckle up and double down on building better kids.” Jerry is the author of “When Kids Leave Clues: 26 Timeless Stories of Inspiration and Essential Life Lessons Taught to Us by Our Own Children.” Contact him at (920) 796-9160; jbures@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Beyond Vacation: How to Become a Traveler

There’s nothing wrong with sitting on the beach and relaxing with an umbrella drink, but if you want to come back from your next trip with more than a tan, consider using your time off to travel — really travel. “The greatest thing to feed our mind, body and spirit is new discovery!” says Tammy Adams. As an intuitive life coach for over 30 years, Tammy has seen many amazing places while taking people on spiritual retreats around the world. She’ll discuss the benefits of leaving your hotel room and getting into the local community, how to take the stress out of travel and enjoy it to the fullest, and the many ways that travel can change your life. Tammy Adams is an international speaker, podcast host and the author of “Secrets to Your Chakras” and the upcoming “Spiritual Table Talk: The Elements of Healing.” Contact her at (833) 742-6268; info@lifepurposeshaman.com

11. ==> More People Are Going It Alone: The Best Cruises for Singles

The cruise industry has traditionally focused on couples and families with kids. But because there are more single people than ever, the industry is now offering options for those who are sailing solo. Travel marketing expert Cindy Bertram says, “There are now more options available to do this. It’s a great way to meet other people with whom you can go on shore excursions, and to hang out in common areas where you can meet other singles.” Cindy has lots of tips to offer solo cruisers. She is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry. Cindy is the author of “How Six Women Executives Steer the Cruise Industry Today” and “Message from the Dog…Learning from Great Humans.” Contact her at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

12. ==> This Bookie’s Son Is a Sure-Bet Guest

As the son of a big-time bookie, Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., learned a lot about the world as he watched his father’s 24/7 gambling lifestyle including losing the equivalent of $90,000 on a single football game. “My life was a training ground for the handling and mishandling of uncertainty,” Dr. Feinberg observes. Now, Steven is ready to share with your audience stories about his father and how Steven managed to see the film “The Godfather” with an actual wise guy at his side. He’ll also share the three steps he learned about winning more from life by utilizing the Bookie vantage point. A one-of-a-kind guest, Steven is a top 1% executive consultant who taught for nearly 30 years at the University of San Francisco School of Management and leadership and has guest lectured at Stanford, Cal Poly and UC Berkeley Extension. His latest book is “Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play the Meta-Game,” and features interviews he conducted with 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs. Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540; sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

13. ==> Why the First and Last 15-Minutes of the Day Are the Most Important

Did you know that you can change your life, get rid of stress, and feel more in control of your destiny in only 30 minutes a day? Interview Theo Prodromitis, the author of “The Balance Between the Hustle and the Flow: Knowing When to Make Things Happen and When to Let Them Happen,” to discover why the first and last 15 minutes of your day are the most important and how to maximize them. Theo is an award-winning entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and best-selling author of “The Success Formula” with Jack Canfield. Ask her: What does neuroscience tell us about our brain activity at the beginning and end of each day? What are the four things we should do every morning? Contact Theo Prodromitis at (813) 701-5414; tprodromitis@rtirguests.com

14. ==> He Succeeded Despite the Odds. You Can Too

Many people go through life experiencing failure after failure and ultimately give up trying to succeed. In fact, society may set people up to fail, due to their family backgrounds, ethnicity and/or socio-economic circumstances. But after experiencing numerous setbacks in his personal and professional life, Dr. Carl Barnes went on to a 35-year career in the military, ultimately becoming a Navy chaplain; and earned five degrees, including a doctorate of ministry in leadership. “Failure is a great learning tool,” he says. “The key to succeeding against all odds is unbridled resilience and turning pain into purpose.” Carl is the author of “Resilient Sailing: 10 Lessons to Persevere in Life’s Stormy Seas,” and conducts life coaching workshops and online courses. Contact him at (407) 809-8047; cbarnes@rtirguests.com

15. ==> How to Get Back Up After One of Life’s Gut Punches

There’s plenty of advice out there on coping with day-to-day stress, but how do you handle a situation that turns your life inside out? Most methods don’t work with major life changes ranging from losing a job to the death of a loved one — because they don’t address the grief that accompanies these events. Frank DiMaio has been there. After losing his wife to breast cancer, he found no real support or guidance for surviving husbands and set out to change that. He developed a way to help anyone deal with grief and move forward from being emotionally stuck. Ask him: Do men grieve differently than women? How can we move forward after a chaotic, life-changing event? Frank is the author of “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Contact him at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

01. How the Federal Government Is Still Failing Border Kids
02. Clarence Thomas Is Running Out of Excuses
03. Mass Shooters Are Disproportionally Military Vets
04. How Did You Become a Mom? Why It Doesn’t Matter
05. Last-Minute, No- and Low-Cost Ways to Honor Mom
06. Could a Later School Start Help Teen Mental Health Crisis?
07. ‘New Yorker’ Writer Adam Gopnik – The Mystery of Mastery
08. 50th Anniversary of Title IX: This Guest Was There from the Start
09. Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Her Wrongful Conviction and More
10. Should You Take Parenting Advice from Kids?
11. Time for a Spring Friendship Cleanse
12. Live Your Best Life in the Worst of Times
13. How to Stop Beating Yourself Up
14. This Senior Athlete Proves Age Is Just a Number
15. How Elephants Can Save the Planet!

1. ==> How the Federal Government Is Still Failing Border Kids

Anyone who follows the news has heard about an expected migrant surge with this week’s expiration of a pandemic-era border restriction, but the U.S. has been struggling with a crisis at the border for decades. According to author and international authority on immigration issues and foster families Richard Villasana, few people realize just how badly the kids suffer. “The federal government still has more than 1,000 families that have not been reunited,” he says. “One of the biggest failings of the Trump administration was the lack of successful efforts to stay in communication with the thousands of children who were placed with sponsors.” As an insider, Richard can reveal the little-known, shocking reasons for this, and why the border crisis continues. He is the author of “Do No Harm: The U.S. Border Child Tragedy Continues,” founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids and has appeared as an expert on CNN and ABC. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

2. ==> Clarence Thomas Is Running Out of Excuses

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has come under fire recently for not disclosing lavish vacations and gifts, including private school tuition, from a wealthy Republican donor. Steven Lubet says Thomas’ explanations for decades of omissions on his annual financial reports are flimsy and based on a dubious interpretation of the law. “A justice who respects the public’s right to information – codified in the ethics law in 1978 by a bipartisan congressional majority – would always err in favor of disclosure. He would not blame unnamed, and perhaps deceased, colleagues for his own decisions or assert improbable misunderstandings of straightforward rules or conjure the narrowest possible interpretation of his obligations.” Lubet says with lifetime tenure, short of impeachment, the only corrective for a justice’s questionable conduct is public criticism, which makes full compliance with financial disclosure laws so important, and why Thomas’ evasiveness is so wrong. Steven Lubet is the Williams Memorial Professor Emeritus at the Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. He is the coauthor of “Judicial Conduct and Ethics.” Contact him at (312) 503-6605; slubet@law.northwestern.edu

3. ==> Mass Shooters Are Disproportionally Military Vets

According to the USA TODAY/Northeastern University/Associated Press Mass Killings Database, there have been 22 mass killings so far this year, the most ever. The latest attack in Texas was carried out by a man who spent three months in Army basic training. While technically not a veteran, David Swanson says he fits a pattern. “Of course statistically virtually all veterans are not mass shooters, because very few people are mass shooters. But disproportionately mass shooters are veterans — at least 36 percent last time I reviewed the data,” he says. “If we are going to take an interest in other demographic trends regarding this tiny group of people — their gender, mental health, criminal records, racist ideologies — we can take an interest in the fact that our tax dollars trained many of them to shoot. We can also notice that many non-veteran mass shooters dress, speak, and act — in the commission of their crime — as if they are participating in a military.” Swanson, the director of World BEYOND War, a global nonviolent movement, believes there’s a structural problem in training so many people to kill — including the recent killer on a New York subway — and a cultural problem in glorifying it. David Swanson is an author, activist and the host of Talk Word Radio. Contact him at davidcnswanson@gmail.com; @davidcnswanson

4. ==> How Did You Become a Mom? Why It Doesn’t Matter

There are many ways for a woman to become a mother and just as many reasons to honor the strength, courage, and selflessness that go into being a mother, whether by birth or by adoption. Mikki Shepard will discuss common myths about adoption and share her own adoption story spanning multiple generations. Listeners will learn why it doesn’t take biology to make a family as Mikki reveals lessons she learned from her father. Mikki Shepard is the author of “In a Heartbeat: The Miracle of a Family that Was Meant to Be.” Her diverse career spans multiple industries, successful entrepreneurship, and a strong background in speaking and real estate. Mikki has appeared on radio and in numerous publications. Contact her at (845) 733-8077; sea2sea@twc.com

5. ==> Last-Minute, No- and Low-Cost Ways to Honor Mom

Mother’s Day is Sunday and it’s a good time to celebrate with the incredible women who have fashioned our lives. But Alisha Allen says celebrating motherhood doesn’t have to break the bank. Invite the Party Princess to share some great, last-minute, no- and low-cost ideas to recognize Mom and make her feel appreciated. Alisha’s ideas run the gamut from becoming Mom’s personal assistant for a day to treating her to an at-home spa day or even creating a playlist full of her preferred songs and significant tunes that remind her of your bond. “Don’t be amazed if she breaks out into spontaneous dance actions or begins belting out her favorite power ballads,” Alisha says. “Feel free to enroll in and have an impromptu dwelling room dance party!” Alisha Allen is the Party Princess for The Party Nuptual Network, an online platform for planning a party or day or night out. Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988; markgoldman73@gmail.com

6. ==> Could a Later School Start Help Teen Mental Health Crisis?

It’s a long-held stereotype that teenagers love to sleep in, but it’s also a physiological fact: Young people need more rest during such an important stage of growth and development. With the current mental health crisis affecting teens across the country, the idea of starting school later is getting a fresh look. “These mental health challenges are already going to happen and then, with the absence of sleep, are much worse,” says Orfeu Buxton, director of the Sleep, Health & Society Collaboratory at Penn State University. “The same with decision-making, suicidal ideation, those kinds of things.” The reasons why high schools start as early as they do — many begin their day before 7:30 a.m. — are “lost to the sands of history,” Buxton says. But now, he says, “Everything is baked into that: traffic light patterns, bus schedules and adults’ work.” Nationally, at least nine states are considering legislation related to school start times and large school systems including Denver, Philadelphia and Anchorage have been looking into later start times. Orfeu Buxton’s research focuses on the causes and consequences of sleep deficiency. Contact him at (814) 867-5707; orfeu@psu.edu

7. ==> ‘New Yorker’ Writer Adam Gopnik – The Mystery of Mastery

Award-winning writer for the “New Yorker” Adam Gopnik has turned his attention to a fundamental human mystery: How do masters learn their miraculous skills? Whether it’s drawing a museum-ready nude or baking a perfect sourdough loaf, how does someone master a profession? A skill? A hobby? How could anyone become so good at anything? Is it possible to unravel the mystery of mastery? For his new book, “The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery,” Gopnik tried his hand at several new skills he assumed were beyond him, including drawing, baking, driving, magic, boxing, and dancing. Invite him to share what he learned during the process including how we can tackle learning a new skill – and how we then move on from mere accomplishment to expertise. Adam Gopnik is the author of numerous books including “Paris to the Moon.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Sasha Beatty at (703) 646-5188

8. ==> 50th Anniversary of Title IX: This Guest Was There from the Start

Fifty years ago this summer, the U.S. government enacted Title IX, a groundbreaking amendment that prohibited sex-based discrimination in education programs and activities, including athletics. Three-time Olympic track and field coach Sue Humphrey was there for it all. Sue began coaching in the late 1960s and has faced plenty of discrimination and sexual harassment in her career. This experienced, accomplished guest can discuss what it was really like for women in athletics both before and after Title IX, what it’s like to coach Olympic athletes, the challenges that women in sports still face today, and more. The author of “I Want to Run: The Olympic Developmental Training and Nutritional Guide for Young and Teen Track Runners Ages 10 to 18,” Sue has more than 50 years of experience and is a frequent media guest. Contact Sue Humphrey at (512) 881-9648; shumphrey@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law on Her Wrongful Conviction and More

Rita Ali was a distinguished Philadelphia socialite and among the few African American women boxing PR professionals who hobnobbed with such famous fighters as Muhammad Ali, Michael Spinks, and Mike Tyson, who is now her son-in-law. Then it all came crashing down when she — along with her daughter and son — was wrongly convicted and imprisoned for allegedly funneling public funds through a partnership between the Sister Clara Muhammad School and the Community College of Philadelphia. The indictment alleged that the defendants profited off of a ghost employee scam to provide adult education classes. “I was convicted and sentenced three times on virtually the same charges for a crime I didn’t commit, which amounted to triple jeopardy,” she says. She is the author of “Triple Jeopardy: 3 Strikes But Not Out,” a life coach, and founder of the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Contact Rita Ali at (917) 243-9214; rali@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Should You Take Parenting Advice from Kids?

Most parents think they know what’s best for their kids. But author Jerry Bures claims we have it all wrong. “We can learn a lot about parenting from our kids by taking cues from them,” he says. “They will give you clues on how to handle them.” As a dad to six kids, including one with significant special needs, Jerry had to learn how to deal with the pressures of what he calls “crisis parenting,” which made him a better dad. He can share how parents can best connect with their children, so that they may become successful adults. Jerry is the author of “When Kids Leave Clues: 26 Timeless Stories of Inspiration & Essential Life Lessons Taught to Us by Our Own Children.” Contact him at (920) 796-9160; jbures@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Time for a Spring Friendship Cleanse

We all have them – friends (or family) who do nothing but criticize, complain about anything and everything and make us feel small and undeserving. Well, it’s time to call them out on their negativity, start a dialog and if that doesn’t work, take a break or walk away from that relationship. Annie Evans believes that if you don’t deal with them, there’s a really good chance you’ll turn out just like them. Evans personally knows how negativity breeds negativity. Combined with some serious life challenges, she went on her own downward spiral. Being raised by a severely mentally ill mom and losing two life partners was just the tip of the iceberg. Evans will share her startling story, and help listeners learn real strategies to change their mindsets and interactions and take charge of their attitudes. Contact her at (310) 621-0456; aevans@rtirguests.com

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

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

13. ==> How to Stop Beating Yourself Up

“I’m not good enough … I always mess up … I’m a failure.” Many people get trapped in the never-ending cycle of low self-esteem and negative self-talk, often without even realizing it. But psychologist/author Dr. Adriana Popescu says it’s possible to stop the inner critic and start feeling good about yourself. “Over the last 25 years, I’ve worked with thousands of people, empowering them to overcome their imagined limitations, release their self-judgments and discover the brilliance within − creating a life of infinite possibilities,” she says. Adriana is a licensed clinical psychologist, addiction and trauma specialist, speaker, thought leader and empowerment coach, and author of “What If You’re Not as F***ed Up As You Think You Are?: How We Come to Believe Lies About Ourselves and What We Can Do to Change Them.” Contact her at (415) 707-5054; Apopescu@rtirguests.com

14. ==> This Senior Athlete Proves Age Is Just a Number

They say you’re only as old as you feel. Yet if you’re struggling with your health and fitness, this motivational phrase can backfire. What if you’re in your 30s or 40s, but you feel 100 years old whenever you try to jog or hit the gym? National champion senior athlete John Hurd can help you turn things around with simple ways for anyone to improve their health at any age. John is proof that his methods work. He didn’t start competitive running until he was 61 years old. He has since won a total of 162 gold medals, including two National Senior Olympic Sprint Champion titles. Interview this motivating, inspiring guest today and help your listeners truly feel young. Ask him: Why did you decide to start getting in shape at 61? How did you train yourself without having to pay fitness experts? Contact John Hurd at (850) 367-8411; jhurd@rtirguests.com

15. ==> How Elephants Can Save the Planet!

Pachyderms aren’t just majestic, highly intelligent, loving and adorable. They are vital to the health and well-being of the entire world. “Elephants are very important ecosystem engineers,” says author and animal/environmental advocate Georja Umano. “They are so large that rain in an elephant’s footprint can create a microsystem that can provide a home for tadpoles and other organisms. The effects of their movements in both savannahs and forests help restore and maintain the balance of nature.” Sadly, their numbers are dwindling, due to poaching, over-development, logging and zoo captures. Georja can share how we can help our elephant friends and other fascinating pachyderm facts, as well as her experiences living in Kenya. She is the author of “Terrier in the Jungle.” Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

01. The Border Surge Is Biden’s to Solve
02. The Problem With Our Royal Obsession
03. ‘Scamanda’ – True Story of Blogger’s Fake Cancer
04. Friday Is Military Spouse Appreciation Day
05. Why Some People Hate Mother’s Day
06. Mother’s Day and the Stigma of Infertility
07. How to Celebrate Mother’s Day When Your Mom Wasn’t Great
08. Working Mothers: The Benefit That Would Change the Game
09. It’s Grad Season: Is a College Education Still Worth It?
10. Should You Take Career Advice from a Psychic?
11. Journalist Shares Surprising Stories With Biggest Impact
12. Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All
13. How Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell Performed With Memory Loss
14. How to Hold It Together When Life Falls Apart
15. Interview the Python Huntress

1. ==> The Border Surge Is Biden’s to Solve

The United States is bracing for the expiration of a pandemic-era border restriction this week, with officials fearing it will spur a surge of migrants and exacerbate an already challenging humanitarian crisis at the southern border. Patrick T. Brown says there is plenty of blame to go around for the crisis, but Democrats will be left holding the hot potato if they don’t treat the end of Title 42 as a substantive policy problem to be solved rather than a political optics challenge to be managed. But doing so will require them to stand up to their leftmost flank. “The Biden administration has at least some of the tools to mitigate some of the blowback. It can ramp up border enforcement, speed up deportation proceedings and consider reviving policies like the ‘Remain in Mexico’ approach.” He adds, “If undertaken seriously, achieving stability on the border could help send a message to the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, where many of the migrants’ journeys originate, that they should stop undertaking the perilous journey.” Patrick T. Brown is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC), a conservative, Washington, D.C.-based think tank and advocacy group. He is also a former senior policy adviser to Congress’ Joint Economic Committee. Contact him at pbrown@eppc.org

2. ==> The Problem With Our Royal Obsession

Everywhere you turned this weekend the media were slavering over the British Royals and the coronation of King Charles. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event, but psychologist Frank Farley says Americans’ obsession with the monarchy is problematic, especially now, with the rise of authoritarian leaders. “The mere presence of any monarchies in the 21st century, with or without power, is the wrong symbol for the increasingly sophisticated, enlightened, educated, cognitive cultures that give hope for the global expansion of democracy.” He adds, “Our British friends can of course do whatever they want, even holding on to the last vestiges of medieval pomp and privilege. But America has stood for many as a beacon of freedom, opportunity for all, and equality.” Frank Farley is a professor emeritus at Temple University and the former president of the American Psychological Association. Contact him at (215) 668-7581; frank.farley@comcast.net

3. ==> ‘Scamanda’ – True Story of Blogger’s Fake Cancer

The story of infamous cancer-faking early social media influencer Amanda C. Riley, who is now behind bars for fraud, is the topic of a new podcast. Through exclusive access to her now-defunct blogs and new interviews with the people who thought they knew her best, award-winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable tale of a scam that ripped a family apart and left a community in shock. The series unravels the surprising and bizarre story behind Riley’s long-running scam to use her growing online presence to take advantage of the social media community. Ultimately, the young woman pleaded guilty to soliciting over $100,000 in donations to help pay for cancer treatments that she never received. Webster says, “The psychology of what this woman did to manipulate and infiltrate her community using the power of social media is fascinating and I know listens will be enthralled by what unfolds in the series.” The eight-episode limited series Scamanda will premiere on Monday, May 15 with new chapters dropping weekly. Contact Katie Fuchs at (646) 493-0215 (NY); kfuchs@lippingroup.com or Kevin Broderick at kevin@lippingroup.com

4. ==> Friday Is Military Spouse Appreciation Day

Military Spouse Appreciation Day was first recognized by President Ronald Regan in 1984. Celebrated on the Friday before Mother’s Day, the holiday honors husbands, wives and partners of service members. Invite Lee Ellis to share ways to express gratitude to a military spouse, including the simplest of all, saying a heartfelt “thank you.” A fighter pilot in Vietnam, Lee Ellis was shot down, captured and repatriated in 1973 after more than five years as a POW in Hanoi. He is president of Leading with Honor, a leadership and team development training and coaching company and the author of the upcoming book “Captured by Love: Inspiring True Romance Stories from Vietnam POWs.” Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com

5. ==> Why Some People Hate Mother’s Day

Celia Viggo Wexler hates Mother’s Day. She says, “Mothers don’t need more blenders or bread makers or greasy scrambled eggs. They need a lot more help.” She says the pandemic revealed just how much mothers hold their families together, many times without much support from the larger community. She believes celebrating motherhood should be more than gifting tokens and going out to brunch. “What might be a step in the right direction is an effort to change the culture of Mother’s Day: Make it less focused on individual families and tributes to specific mothers, and more about communities recognizing the mothers in their midst.” Viggo Wexler can discuss our distinctly American view of Mother’s Day and the ways other cultures around the world celebrate motherhood. Celia Viggo Wexler is the author of “Catholic Women Confront Their Church: Stories of Hurt and Hope.” Contact her at cvwexler@gmail.com

6. ==> Mother’s Day and the Stigma of Infertility

Mother’s Day can be very painful when you’re battling infertility, but especially so in the Black community where the subject is rarely discussed. Did you know that experts say that the infertility rate among Black women is possibly twice as high (if not higher) than that of white women? Moreover, Black women face much higher barriers to fertility services like IVF due to lack of insurance, sperm donors and underrepresentation in research trials. And as if that were not daunting enough, Frances Jones will explain that Black women are often ashamed of being infertile and unable to talk about this health issue with their friends and family. Frances is the author of “Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed,” a book that tells the story of her over 20-year journey of never conceiving children and offers tips for couples traveling a similar journey. She is a global women empowerment speaker, an advocate, and a transformational coach who has been featured on CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox affiliates, and in the “Los Angeles Tribune,” and other media. Contact her at (901) 910-0915; fjones@rtirguests.com

7. ==> How to Celebrate Mother’s Day When Your Mom Wasn’t Great

On Mother’s Day, many of us will be thinking of or celebrating the day with our moms, but not everyone had a great childhood and some people may not even know their mother. Tammy Adams was abused and neglected as a child and yet says she approaches the day with love and forgiveness. “For me, Mother’s Day is very much like the celebration of life and being thankful.” Invite the minister and master psychic on your show to share what saved her from living a bitter life after a childhood filled with neglect and abuse. A mother herself to four children, Tammy can discuss how she healed, why she is now thankful for her mother, and how others can break free from traumas that continue to haunt them. Tammy Adams is an international speaker, podcast host and the author of “Secrets to Your Chakras” and the upcoming “Spiritual Table Talk: The Elements of Healing.” Contact her at (833) 742-6268; info@lifepurposeshaman.com

8. ==> Working Mothers: The Benefit That Would Change the Game

What benefit should companies offer employees that would be a win-win for everyone? Get the surprising answer from Beverly Williams, J.D., an employment professional, arbitrator, and former HR executive. She’ll explain why paying for employees’ childcare would lead to better outcomes for children and their parents, more workplace productivity, and even lower income disparities. She believes offering a free daycare benefit to employees would be more impactful than paying off their college debt, benefiting society in many ways. Ask her: How would free daycare be paid for? Can most companies afford to do this? Would this be the end of living paycheck to paycheck? A partner at Wong Fleming PC in Princeton, N.J. specializing in labor and employment law, Williams also hosts the podcast Your Employment Matters with Beverly Williams. Her latest book is “Your GPS to Employment Success: How to Find and Succeed in the Right Job.” Contact Beverly Williams at (973) 576-5841; bwilliams@rtirguests.com

9. ==> It’s Grad Season: Is a College Education Still Worth It?

The average tuition per year at a four-year college is more than $25,000, with in-state students or their parents spending upwards of $102,000 to get that degree. What is more, the average in-state student begins their life after graduation with $37,000 in debt. With those kinds of numbers it is incumbent on doing all one can to be sure that a college investment — in time, dollars, and effort — pays off. And that’s where the advice of author and college readiness coach Alicia J. Moore can be crucial to your audience, particularly at high school graduation time. Moore is the author of “Crushing It in College: Your 7-Step Guide to an Awesome Adventure.” Moore talks to audiences at high schools and colleges across the country about why a college education is even more important today, despite the costs, when it comes to future employment prospects, and developing self-confidence and critical thinking. Contact Alicia J. Moore at (408) 569-1267; aliciajmoore@comcast.net

10. ==> Should You Take Career Advice from a Psychic?

America’s job market is confusing right now and many people are wondering if they should switch gears and change professions. How do you know where to go when thinking about a new career? Find out when you talk to top psychic Ann Johnson. Ann can guide your audience toward job success as well as provide instant personality analysis, relationship advice, and more. The real deal among psychics, Ann has been featured by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone.” She is the author of “Facing Forward: A Memoir About Choices, Intuition, and Insights in a Show Busy Life.” Contact Ann Johnson at (516) 862-4405; ajohnson@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Journalist Shares Surprising Stories With Biggest Impact

One of America’s top investigative journalists, Michael Bowker has been up close and personal with celebrities, presidents, and even serial killers. However, the most incredible events he’s covered have been ordinary people doing extraordinary things — and those stories transform the world more than the juiciest celebrity gossip. Meet everyday heroes whose “small” acts have resulted in ripple effects that make the world a better place, such as the man who saved a million lives . . . so far. Show your audience how they can truly change the world when you interview this seasoned media guest who’s been featured by “Good Morning America,” “Reader’s Digest,” and many more. Ask him: What’s the biggest ripple effect you’ve seen from a non-famous person’s actions? Which two stories led to death threats against you? What happened after you ran a story about a convicted criminal who saved an autistic child from a burning house? Contact Michael Bowker at (530) 296-6301; mbowker@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All

Many people struggle with worry and stress on a day-to-day basis. What if you could let go of the burden of worry and enjoy peace every day, regardless of what’s happening in your life? Certified life coach and author Valerie Galloway can help your audience stop worrying and start living. Whether you’re struggling with grief, a major life change, addiction or dependency, or concerned that your future prospects seem less than bright, Valerie will empower you to tap into your own internal resources and trade worry for wonder and joy. Learn how to accomplish personal goals, improve relationships, and move forward with confidence by unlocking your potential when you interview this powerful and inspiring guest! A certified ICF coach with a bachelor’s in community health and a master’s in social science, Valerie is the author of “Steal, Kill & Destroy: A Spiritual Guide to Overcoming Addiction and Loss.” Contact Valerie Galloway at (917) 994-8841; vgalloway@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell Performed With Memory Loss

Dementia comes with devastating effects that destroy quality of life, yet both Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell performed live tours while suffering from the condition. How did they do it, and do it so well? John Campbell can explain the healing effect of music, especially in patients with memory loss. He’ll provide tips and advice for caregivers and those with family members suffering from dementia on how to incorporate music into their routines, to tremendous positive effect. An entrepreneur and lyricist/songwriter, John is the author of “Beyond the Fading Memories: Guiding Words for Dementia Caregivers.” Contact him at (608) 975-2714; jcampbell@rtirguests.com

14. ==> How to Hold It Together When Life Falls Apart

There’s plenty of advice out there on coping with day-to-day stress, but how do you handle a situation that turns your life inside out? Most methods don’t work with major life changes ranging from losing a job to the death of a loved one — because they don’t address the grief that accompanies these events. Frank DiMaio has been there. After losing his wife to breast cancer, he found no real support or guidance for surviving husbands and set out to change that. He developed a way to help anyone deal with grief and move forward from being emotionally stuck. Ask him: Do men grieve differently than women? How can we move forward after a chaotic, life-changing event? Frank is the author of “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Contact him at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Interview the Python Huntress

Amy Siewe is a former real estate professional who took a flying leap off a cliff and landed in the Florida swamp to wage battle against the invasive pythons whose insatiable eating habits are driving thousands of mammals to extinction. Invite Amy to tell you how she got over her fears that other people will think she is crazy, describe the ecological problem, and reveal how she is living her best life as The Python Huntress. Amy has been featured on the “Today” show, “Fox and Friends” and CNN and in the “Los Angeles Times.” Ask her: How did a hater let you know you were onto something big? What are three shocking reasons to buy leather products sourced from invasive pythons instead of Asian python farms? Contact Amy Siewe at (317) 605-0081; amysiewe@gmail.com

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