Category: Weekly Ezine Archives

  • 4/11/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Transgender Athletes, A Gun-toting Environmentalist, Marijuana’s Racist History

    01. Why the Abortion Pill Decision Is So Dangerous
    02. Why Doesn’t the U.S. Hold Autocrats Accountable?
    03. The Growing Debate Over Transgender Athletes
    04. Earth Day Interview: Why Environmentalists Should Hunt
    05. College Students to Send First American Rover to Moon
    06. Is a College Education Still Worth It?
    07. For 4/20: The Racist History of Cannabis
    08. What is Kratom and Why Does the FDA Want to Ban it?
    09. Spring Health: How to Be Your Own Health Advocate
    10. April Is Math Awareness Month: Myths About Girls and Math
    11. Were You Programmed to Fail?
    12. Is Life Coaching the Answer to Improving Kids’ Mental Health?
    13. How to Afford Everything You Want
    14. This Guest May Change Your Mind about Reincarnation
    15. Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy

    1. ==> Why the Abortion Pill Decision Is So Dangerous

    Joshua M. Sharfstein calls a federal judge’s decision to invalidate the Federal Drug Administration’s approval of mifepristone shocking and irresponsible. Sharfstein, who worked at the FDA, says undermining the agency is a threat to the health and safety of millions of Americans. He says the medication has been used safely by hundreds of thousands of women each year to help terminate pregnancies as part of a two-pill regimen. “For what appears to be the first time, a court has invalidated an agency drug approval — an approval that was based on extensive review of scientific evidence, earned the unanimous support of outside experts and retains, after two decades, the full backing of major professional medical organizations.” Sharfstein says the decision is so stunning that it is reasonable to ask whether courts should have any role in reviewing the FDA.’s scientific decision-making at all. Dr. Joshua Sharfstein is a professor at the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins. He was principal deputy commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration from 2009 to 2011. Contact him at (443) 424-8490; joshua.sharfstein@jhu.edu

    2. ==> Why Doesn’t the U.S. Hold Autocrats Accountable?

    President Joe Biden recently held his second Summit for Democracy to galvanize democratic countries to work toward advancing democracy within their own borders. But with authoritarianism on the rise across the globe, Jon Temin says the U.S. needs a plan to hold autocrats accountable for their actions. “Biden has rightly emphasized humility in foreign policy, given that the health of the United States’ own democracy is not what it once was. But to mount a credible defense of democracy abroad, Washington and its partners would need to challenge authoritarian and authoritarian-leaning governments, not just bolster democratic reformers.” He says, “Washington cannot advance the cause of democracy simply by bolstering those who champion it, as the first two years of the Biden administration have shown. The United States must also confront the authoritarians responsible for democratic decline.” Jon Temin is vice president of policy and programs at the Truman Center for National Policy. From 2014 to 2017, he served on the U.S. Department of State’s Policy Planning staff. Contact him at press@trumancnp.org

    3. ==> The Growing Debate Over Transgender Athletes

    Schools and colleges across the U.S. would be forbidden from enacting outright bans on transgender athletes under a proposal by the Biden administration, but teams could create some limits in certain cases — for example, to ensure fairness. The proposed rule sends a political counterpunch toward a wave of Republican-led states that have sought to ban trans-athletes from competing in school sports that align with their gender identities. If finalized, the proposal would become enshrined as a provision of Title IX, the landmark gender-equity legislation enacted in 1972. Invite John Sovec, a psychotherapist who specializes in working with LGBT teens and their families, to discuss the issue and what he sees as the way to solve it. Sovec is the author of “Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid Through Coming Out and Beyond.” He has been featured on “The Riki Lake Show,” OWN, Fox, “The Advocate,” LA Talk Radio, “The Huffington Post” and more. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

    4. ==> Earth Day Interview: Why Environmentalists Should Hunt

    Can an environmentalist also be a hunter? Brant MacDuff is a conservation historian and jack-of-many-trades who lives in Brooklyn, New York, and defies common perceptions of who hunts and why. Invite the avid environmentalist on your show to gain a deeper understanding of how hunting protects public lands, supports sustainable ecosystems, encourages biodiversity, can help bridge social and political divides — and how hunting can be an act of conservation. MacDuff will share his personal journey from hating hunting as a child to learning whole-animal butchering at one of New York’s most prestigious butchers to working as a taxidermist and holding hunting licenses in four states. Hear the provocative, humorous, and insightful story of how he became a hunter and the colorful characters, big personalities, and firsthand research that helped change his mind.
    MacDuff is the author of “The Shotgun Conservationist: Why Environmentalists Should Love Hunting.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell)

    5. ==> College Students to Send First American Rover to Moon

    On May 4, the first American-made lunar rover, dubbed Iris, will begin its month-long journey to the moon. In addition to being the first American device of its kind, Iris is unique in that the people manning the mission controls aren’t NASA scientists — they’re college students. “Hundreds of students have poured thousands of hours into Iris. We’ve worked for years toward this mission,” says Raewyn Duvall, a research associate at Carnegie Mellon University and the mission commander. Once Iris is launched to space aboard the Peregrine lunar lander next month, students will monitor and control the rover — which is also the smallest and lightest moon rover in history — from Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus, working in shifts to maintain constant contact. And in a fun coincidence for sci-fi nerds, the launch date coincides with Star Wars Day, the informal holiday celebrated on “May the fourth” because of the film franchise’s catchphrase, “May the force be with you.” Contact Aaron Aupperlee at (412) 268-9068; aaupperlee@cmu.edu

    6. ==> 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

    7. ==> For 4/20: The Racist History of Cannabis

    4/20 has become known as a national holiday for cannabis culture. It’s also an opportunity for a discussion about the racist history of cannabis. Hear how the War on Drugs targeted Black, brown, and indigenous Americans already disadvantaged by a system stacked against them and whether the current legalization movement and booming cannabis industry are doing enough to repair the damage. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah and Tahira Rehmatullah call the War on Drugs one of the worst social and political failures in the nation’s history. The authors of “Waiting to Inhale: Cannabis Legalization and the Fight for Racial Justice” argue that with attitudes toward cannabis shifting, now is the time to expunge marijuana convictions and make a place in the burgeoning legal cannabis market for Blacks and other underrepresented groups who have borne the brunt of harsh cannabis laws. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah is a sociology professor at the University of Toronto, an affiliate scientist at Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and the director of research for the Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty. Tahira Rehmatullah is a partner at Highlands Venture Partners, co-founder and CEO of Commons, and a member of the board of directors for Akerna Corp and Last Prisoner Project. She is often referred to in the trade press as “the most powerful woman in cannabis.” Contact Lissa Warren at LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com; (617) 233-2853

    8. ==> What Is Kratom and Why Does the FDA Want to Ban It?

    Cindy Perlin believes kratom could help end the opioid crisis. The Southeast Asian herb has been used for centuries to relieve pain and has helped millions to overcome opioid addiction because it relieves withdrawal symptoms. But Perlin says the FDA has gone to extraordinary lengths to keep it from patients, even asking the WHO to ban it internationally (they declined). Perlin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified biofeedback practitioner and chronic pain survivor, will explain how the herb works, who could benefit from it, and why the FDA is against it. She says getting this information to your audience could save lives. The author of “The Truth About Chronic Pain Treatments: The Best and Worst Strategies for Becoming Pain Free” and the founder and CEO of the Alternative Pain Treatment Directory, is a seasoned radio guest who has appeared on dozens of radio shows and podcasts. Contact her at (518) 439-6431 cindyperlin@gmail.com

    9. ==> Spring Health: How to Be Your Own Health Advocate

    Chances are your lifestyle choices are hurting you, but there are countless things you can do to improve your health and postpone the onset of chronic disease. Emily Gold Mears says spring is the perfect time to take small steps toward better health. 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

    10. ==> April Is Math Awareness Month: Myths About Girls and Math

    It’s long been believed that girls lack math skills. “That’s a myth!” says author and STEM professor Chris A. Goldberg. “In fact, female students tend to perform better than boys in math. But they suffer from lower confidence and a lack of role models in the STEM-related fields and do not pursue these careers, according to a recent study.” Chris can share how girls can get their inspiration from such role models as mathematician Dr. Gladys B. West, an African American woman credited for the major calculations that led to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). He is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact Chris at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Were You Programmed to Fail?

    Many parents, teachers and society in general set kids up for failure due to their family backgrounds, ethnicity and or socio-economic circumstances. Sadly, this programming often lasts into adulthood. But Dr. Carl Barnes claims that embracing failure as a path to success is the key to overcoming this programming. “Failure is a great learning tool,” he says. “The key to succeeding against all odds is unbridled resilience and turning pain into purpose.” Carl was repeatedly rejected in the realms of academia, career and romance. But he eventually overcame the odds and 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. 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

    12. ==> Is Life Coaching the Answer to Improving Kids’ Mental Health?

    With child mental health declared a national emergency, experts calling for new solutions, parents looking for help, and children suffering needlessly, there’s never been a more urgent time to talk about the gap in children’s mental health: prevention. Renaye Thornborrow can share how life coaching can help children navigate the ups and downs of growing up so that they are confident and prepared to thrive in life. Since 2013, Renaye has certified hundreds of child life coaches in 30-plus countries who use her story-based coaching curriculum to help children develop 27 mindset skills for self-esteem, confidence, resilience, happiness, and success. Renaye is the CEO of Adventures in Wisdom and creator of the WISDOM Coach Certification Program. Ask her: What is life coaching for kids? How is life coaching different from counseling? How can coaching benefit children? Contact Renaye Thornborrow at (512) 222-6659; renaye@AdventuresInWisdom.com

    13. ==> How to Afford Everything You Want

    Stop living paycheck to paycheck. Stop drowning in debt. Stop robbing Peter to pay Paul. April is Financial Literacy Month and a great time to start on a path to achieve your financial dreams. Invite financial literacy coach Jill Russo Foster to share her personal story so you don’t make the mistakes she did. “In my 20s, I maxed out 27 credit cards!” she says. “I was able to pay off all my debt and learn how to have thriving finances. My credit cards are paid in full each month, my FICO credit score is 800-plus and I have money saved in the bank to buy or do whatever I want.” She’ll share how she did it and how you can afford anything you want. Jill is the author of “Cash, Credit and Your Finances: The Teen Years,” “Thrive in Five: Take Charge of Your Finances in 5 Minutes a Day” and “111 Ways to Save.” Contact Jill Russo Foster at jill@jillrussofoster.com

    14. ==> This Guest May Change Your Mind about Reincarnation

    After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, author Jennifer Maag became extremely empathic and developed a keen sense that she has lived before. “I have been provided with some jarring past life experiences that I seemingly did nothing to stir up,” she says. “Reliving these past-life experiences proved insightful; it allowed me to make peace with the emotions I had carried into this present life.” Jennifer can demonstrate how to determine if we have lived before, and the ways our past lives impact our current lives. She is a licensed massage therapist and co-author along with her son, Alexander Maag, of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform our inner battles into healing tools to live our best lives. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy

    People tend to avoid things like rejection, discomfort, criticism, and failure. However, most people are unaware of how quickly this can lead to unhappiness. Jennifer Hughes reveals the surprising things we try to steer clear of that can make us happy. She’ll also reveal what won’t make you happy — such as being right, doing whatever you want, and making no mistakes. This author, parenting expert, and certified life coach who has worked with Jack Canfield points out the many ways people choose to be unhappy without knowing it. Interview her for an eye-opening show and some shocking advice your audience won’t forget. Ask her: What are some ways people choose to be unhappy? How does avoiding rejection, criticism, and failure make you unhappy? Why is focusing on yourself counterproductive to your happiness? Can being late make you happy? Contact Jennifer Hughes at (480) 745-2113; jhughes@rtirguests.com

  • 4/6/2023 RTIR Newsletter: ‘Woke’ Gaslighting, Artemis Astronauts, Why You Need a Microadventure

    01. The Fight Against ‘Woke’ Is Really Conservative Gaslighting
    02. We’re Going to the Moon Again!
    03. ChatGPT Says AI Could Cost 4.8M American Jobs
    04. How a Tech Giant Is Helping Decipher Mysteries of Long COVID
    05. The Amazing Health Benefits of ‘Microadventures’
    06. Why Spring Is the Best Time to Negotiate a Raise
    07. It’s Financial Literacy Month: Tips for Adults with Aging Parents
    08. From Tic-Tac-Toe Chickens to Roulette Wheel Custody Battles: Crazy Stories from the Courtroom
    09. Why This Bookie’s Son Is a Sure-Bet Guest
    10. Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All
    11. Let’s Blow the Minds of Your Audience!
    12. How to Jump-Start Your Weight-Loss Journey
    13. 10 Simple Ways to Start Putting Yourself First
    14. Can Perfume Cause Infertility?
    15. Could You Be an Empath? How to Tell

    1. ==> The Fight Against ‘Woke’ Is Really Conservative Gaslighting

    How did “woke” become the new scary term? Do people even know what it means? Clay Cane is calling out the “anti-woke” movement, saying the distortion of the word’s meaning is particularly insidious. “Being ‘woke’ is not a term exclusive to the realm of social justice; it’s a decades-old slang in Black communities, meaning to be aware. In other words, be alert, keep your eyes open and watch your back — figuratively and literally.” Cane says even more dangerous than misappropriation is the way that attacks on “woke-ism” have made their way into policy, like Ron DeSantis’ Stop WOKE Act, which is wreaking havoc on Florida’s colleges, universities, libraries and schools. He says, “There are no ‘woke’ villains attempting to take over America. Is there sometimes unnecessary word policing? Can people be oversensitive? Can corporations overreact to the latest scandal or a trending topic? Absolutely, but that is not ‘woke-ism.’ Labeling so-called overreactions or something you don’t like with a term rooted in Black communities, racializes — and shuts down — discourse many people claim we need.” Clay Cane is a Sirius XM radio host and the author of “Live Through This: Surviving the Intersections of Sexuality, God, and Race.” Contact him at info@claycane.net; @claycane

    2. ==> We’re Going to the Moon Again!

    NASA and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) have announced the four astronauts who will venture around the moon on Artemis 11, the first crewed mission on NASA’s path to establish a long-term presence on the moon for science and exploration. “For the first time in more than 50 years, these individuals will be the first humans to fly to the vicinity of the Moon. Among the crew are the first woman, the first person of color, and first Canadian on a lunar mission, and all four astronauts will represent the best of humanity as they explore for the benefit of all,” says Vanessa Wyche, director of the NASA Johnson Space Center. For interviews and information on the crew and the Artemis missions, contact Rachel Kraft at (202) 358-1100; Rachel.h.kraft@nasa.gov or Dan Huot at (281) 483-5111; Daniel.g.huot@nasa.gov

    3. ==> ChatGPT Says AI Could Cost 4.8M American Jobs

    In the face of new artificial intelligence models like ChatGPT, labor experts are struggling to understand the implication on the labor market. Goldman Sachs estimated 18% of jobs could be eliminated due to AI technology globally. To see what the software itself thought it could replace, Andrew Challenger asked ChatGPT directly. If its answer is correct, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 4.8 million American jobs could be replaced by this artificial intelligence. “Right now, artificial intelligence should be viewed as a tool to support workers and not as a replacement for their roles. Certainly, predictive language models can be used to automate tasks, giving workers more time to focus on those involving higher thinking,” says Challenger, senior vice president of global outplacement and executive coaching firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas. To the question, “What jobs can ChatGPT replace?” the software answered that it could replace functions centered on language that were repetitive and predictable including data entry, copywriting, translating and technical writing. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    4. ==> How a Tech Giant Is Helping Decipher Mysteries of Long COVID

    Nobody knows exactly how many people are suffering from long COVID, but millions have reported a mysterious cocktail of symptoms that persist in some patients more than 12 weeks after initial infection. Researchers have been working to understand this illness, but it’s been slow progress so far. That’s because long COVID isn’t just a medical problem — it’s also a data problem — says Indra Joshi, director of health, research, and artificial intelligence at Palantir, a company that specializes in analyzing big data. Palantir worked with the National Institutes of Health to create what Joshi describes as one of the largest collections of COVID-19 health records in the world. The National COVID Cohort Collaborative, aka N3C, now includes 2.1 billion clinical observations. Joshi can discuss how it will help clinicians and researchers answer some of the mysteries of long COVID from symptoms to who is most susceptible and what treatments are most effective. Contact Lisa Gordon at media@palantir.com

    5. ==> The Amazing Health Benefits of ‘Microadventures’

    Dacher Keltner defines awe as “an emotion that we feel when we encounter vast mysteries that we don’t understand.” That sounds big, but it turns out it doesn’t have to be. “It can happen when we encounter somebody’s extraordinary kindness, we listen to a moving piece of music, we’re out in nature, [or] we hear a big idea that really moves us,” he says. Keltner champions “microadventures” — simple, easy-to-achieve excursions that inspire a sense of awe and allow us to tap into the emotion’s health and well-being benefits, without having to travel all the way to the Grand Canyon or the Taj Mahal. The author of “Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life” will share the benefits of awe as well as “micro-adventure” ideas. Dacher Keltner, Ph.D., is the founding director of the Greater Good Science Center and a professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is the host of the award-winning podcast The Science of Happiness and is a co-instructor of the GGSC’s popular online course of the same name. Contact him at (510) 642-2490; Greater@berkeley.edu

    6. ==> Why Spring Is the Best Time to Negotiate a Raise

    Experts may not agree on who holds the balance of power in the post-COVID world of salary negotiations, but Cindy Watson says if you’ve been thinking about asking for a raise, right now may be a good time to do it. The master negotiator says, “The first quarter is under everyone’s belt with a clearer sense of what the rest of the year holds. It’s a great time to take stock of where you are in your employment relationship and set the groundwork for where you want to be.” Watson, the author of “The Art of Feminine Negotiation,” says, “Be bold! Ask for a meeting to discuss next steps and do your preparation to build a case for your value.” Her tips include creating a “brag list” of everything you bring to the table (Pro Tip: be sure to include past, present and future anticipated contributions), checking out comparable salaries in your organization and industry, and getting clarity about what you want. Watson also suggests considering the FULL compensation package and beyond (not just salary.) Cindy Watson is the founder of Women On Purpose, creator of the Art of Feminine Negotiation programs and a women’s empowerment coach. She’s also an attorney specializing in social justice law. Contact her at (705) 646-3851; cindy@womenonpurpose.ca

    7. ==> It’s Financial Literacy Month: Tips for Adults with Aging Parents

    Fidelity estimates that it costs a healthy senior couple more than $300,000 just for their health care during retirement. If one of them becomes seriously ill, the costs mushroom and Medicare doesn’t cover everything. April is Financial Literacy Month and Leonie Rosenstiel says it’s a good time to ask yourself a few key questions: Do your parents have that amount in total assets, let alone in a dedicated account? Do you even know? Originally a classical violinist, Rosenstiel earned a master’s degree in public health after her mother, a retired professor with dementia, was put in a conservatorship, with dire results. The founder of Dayspring Resources, Rosenstiel now educates families about the real cost of taking care of aging parents and how to withstand what can be a difficult journey. She’ll offer a realistic look at where money goes and the various reasons why even adult children who believe they are in line for an inheritance may be in for a shock. Contact Leonie Rosenstiel at (505) 317-2405; leonie@DayspringResources.com

    8. ==> From Tic-Tac-Toe Chickens to Roulette Wheel Custody Battles: Crazy Stories from the Courtroom

    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

    9. ==> Why 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

    10. ==> 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

    11. ==> Let’s Blow the Minds of Your Audience!

    Your audience will discover an unexpectedly easy way to boost popularity for themselves, their ideas, and their products while leveling up their potential, and skyrocketing their sales and profits when you interview Jim Bond. As one of America’s leading behavioral management specialists and the author of “Brain Glue,” which Jack Canfield has called, “Mind-blowing… Clearly, one of the most valuable persuasion books I have ever experienced,” Jim reveals the brain science method for making your ideas “sticky” that leads to prospects saying yes to your products, ideas, and more. Thousands of entrepreneurs and big businesses have used Jim’s simple secret to boost the power of social media posts and marketing efforts and achieve blockbuster success. Jim can talk about the ice cream maker who used a surprising twist to explode sales, how Marilyn Monroe’s beauty mark made her famous, the Utah couple who went from zero to $100 million in 18 months, how people like Kurt Cobain, Snoop Dogg, Warren Buffett, and Malcolm X used “brain glue”-type phrases that made them stand out from the crowd and more. Contact Jim Bond at (805) 424-8611; jbond@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How to Jump-Start Your Weight-Loss Journey

    Millions of Americans carry 10, 20 or more pounds of excess weight but feel overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose it and get in shape. For anyone who is tired of being overweight but doesn’t know how to get started on their weight-loss journey, Alvin Perry has simplified the process to lose 3-5 pounds in seven days! This is not a quick fix, says Perry, but a process that sets in motion everything you need to reach your health goals. Invite him on your show to inspire listeners with his own weight struggles that began in college after losing his football scholarship. Now a successful entrepreneur and small business expert, Perry will share the unique system he used to drop 80 pounds and transform his life, with just three basic principles. Alvin Perry, DBA, is also ISSA certified in personal training, fitness and nutrition. He’s the author of numerous books including his latest, “Just Fat!” Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> 10 Simple Ways to Start Putting Yourself First

    When was the last time you did something for yourself? Our lives are busier than ever before. Between jobs, families, and social obligations, it can often feel like every day is precisely scheduled from the minute your alarm goes off until the time you go to bed and set it for the next day. Not only is there zero time for yourself, but you feel guilty when you do take time out — because there’s always something you could be getting done. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to talk to Valerie Whetstone. She’ll show your audience ten simple ways to carve out me-time every day so you can rest and recharge, no matter how busy your life has become. This best-selling author and coach who has trained with Jack Canfield and Oprah Winfrey reveals not only how to put yourself first, but why you must do so today! Ask her: How can you instantly stop feeling guilty about putting yourself first? Why does slowing down make you more productive than ever? How did she nearly die by not taking time for herself? Contact Valerie Whetstone at (408) 752-5943; vwhetstone@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Can Perfume Cause Infertility?

    Not only can fragrances in everyday products such as soap, body lotion and laundry detergent cause a variety of health ailments, but products expert Zorica Denton learned that these could also cause infertility in women and men. “Studies show that fragrances affect male sperm and women’s fertility, making it more difficult to get pregnant,” she says. “Products with fragrances may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals. But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica developed long-term, debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model. She is the founder of the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu, and the author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact her at (213) 616-7904; zdenton@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Could You Be an Empath? How to Tell

    Do you sometimes know something is going to happen before it does? Do you actually feel the pain of others? Do you experience keen physical discomfort in the presence of certain people? If so, you may be an empath or perhaps you may find that you know someone who is, someone like Jennifer Maag. She says, “After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, I became extremely empathic, which was a gift.” While being highly empathic can cause people to be hyper-sensitive, Jennifer can share how mastering the emotions that accompany this trait can greatly benefit one’s existence. Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform inner battles into healing tools to live one’s best life. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

  • 4/4/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Two Truths of Trump Indictment, Broken Workplaces, Spring Has Sprung

    01. The Former President’s Historic Indictment
    02. Trump Indictment: Two Truths at the Same Time
    03. The Painful Lesson Trump Could Learn from R. Kelly
    04. White, Rose, Sparkling? Holiday Wine Tips
    05. Welcome to Spring Break’s Unfriendly Skies
    06. Cruising Is Back! How to Get Onboard This Spring
    07. Interview Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law, Who Was Wrongly Convicted of a Crime
    08. Can We Fix America’s Broken Workplaces?
    09. Where Did All the Older Workers Go? (and What That Means for the Economy)
    10. How to Stop Thinking You’re Messed Up
    11. Are Girls Really Bad at Math? This Expert Reveals the Truth
    12. How Your Kids Can Teach You to Be a Better Parent
    13. Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?
    14. New Book Explores Human Side of Jesus
    15. How to Practice Positive Peace This Spring

    1.==> The Former President’s Historic Indictment

    After multiple investigations over half a dozen years, Donald Trump has become the first ex-president to face criminal charges with his indictment by a New York grand jury. Invite legal analyst Jennifer Rodgers to discuss what led to the charges, the historic significance of the indictment, and how the former president is likely to fight back. Ask her: How long could a trial be delayed? Can he continue his presidential campaign? What if he wins reelection? Jennifer Rogers is a former federal prosecutor, adjunct professor of clinical law at New York University School of Law, and a lecturer in law at Columbia Law School. Contact her at (212) 854-8379; jrodgers@law.columbia.edu

    2. ==> Trump Indictment: Two Truths at the Same Time

    Regardless of what side of the political spectrum you are on, the New York grand jury indictment of a former president is big news. It’s never happened before. But are the charges politically motivated or are they justified? “Two things can be true at the same time,” says attorney Mark Bello. “If an elected prosecutor believes that the evidence supports an indictment, it is his duty to indict.” He adds, “The decision to bring charges against Trump might be politically motivated. However, whether you are the biggest Trump fan in America or his biggest hater, you must admit that his own behavior (perhaps criminal) and questionable business practices have brought us to this moment.” Bello can also discuss the grand jury process and why a prosecutor would choose it over a preliminary hearing. Mark M. Bello is an attorney, civil justice advocate and award-winning author of the “Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Series.” Contact Adrienne Mazzone at (561) 908-1683; amazzone@transmediagroup.com

    3. ==> The Painful Lesson Trump Could Learn from R. Kelly

    The New York hush-money case might be legally weak, but former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti says Donald Trump also faces more indictments in other courts, not unlike R. Kelly and Michael Avenatti, who once represented Trump accuser Stormy Daniels. Mariotti says defendants who face multiple indictments simultaneously often find themselves overwhelmed and ultimately convicted. “Even if he ultimately beats the charges in Manhattan, the mere fact that he is facing charges there will make it more difficult for him to defend himself in criminal cases elsewhere, be it Fulton County, federal court in Washington, or Florida where a classified documents case might be filed,” says Mariotti. He adds that while Trump and his team can take solace that the first prosecutor up to the plate has a relatively weak case, they face the prospect of a multi-front war and may not have the luxury of fighting one battle at a time. Renato Mariotti is a legal affairs columnist for “Politico” magazine.” He is a former federal prosecutor and co-host with Asha Rangappa of the It’s Complicated podcast. Contact him at (312) 602 5037; renato.mariotti@bclplaw.com

    4. ==> White, Rose, Sparkling? Holiday Wine Tips

    Family holiday gathering is in full swing this week for those who celebrate Passover and Easter. Get some help with what to pour your guests when you bring CWE (certified wine educator) Jim Laughren, on your show for fun, fascinating tips for buying, drinking, and enjoying wine! A veteran of TV and radio, Jim’s down-to-earth approach makes wine more interesting and less intimidating. He’ll explain how to choose wine for a crowd, what type of wine a guest should bring to a gathering, the most important thing to know about buying wine at a restaurant, and what’s going on in the wine world right now. Jim Laughren is the author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” as well as “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing & Enjoying Fine Wine” and the eBooks “The 15 Minute Guide to Red Wine and “The 15 Minute Guide to White Wine.” Contact him at (954) 317 9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

    5. ==> Welcome to Spring Break’s Unfriendly Skies

    It’s Spring Break season and it seems everyone is traveling. Unfortunately, reports of unruly passengers are up so your chances of encountering a nasty seatmate are higher than ever. Dr. Carole Lieberman traces the rise in bad behavior to the pandemic and the isolation of lockdown. She says many people lost their ability to socialize appropriately, and some have tossed etiquette out the airplane window. But Dr. Carole says if you’re sitting next to an unruly passenger, there are many things you can do — and a few things you should avoid. She’ll share ways to de-escalate a travel situation and how to not let it ruin your vacation. Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., is a forensic psychiatrist. She frequently appears in the media commentating on news headlines from a psychological and socio-political point of view. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

    6. ==> Cruising Is Back! How to Get Onboard This Spring

    Whether you’re looking for a romantic cruise between the Hawaiian islands, want a more intimate riverboat voyage, or you’re in search of a fun singles sail, travel marketing expert Cindy Bertram can steer you in the right direction and share the latest news in cruise travel. She’ll explain the differences in ocean versus river sailing and share tips on finding the perfect cruise for your travel style. Cindy Bertram 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

    7. ==> Interview Mike Tyson’s Mother-in-Law, Who Was Wrongly Convicted of a Crime

    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,” and a life coach and founder of the nonprofit We 2 Matter, which provides resources for previously incarcerated women. Contact Rita Ali at (917) 312-5729; rali@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Can We Fix America’s Broken Workplaces?

    Driven in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, America’s workplaces are changing faster than ever. The good news is that we are no longer shackled to desks and office cubicles. The bad news is that workplaces are changing faster than workplace culture can keep up with. Elizabeth Power can talk about why people need more emotional intelligence to survive and thrive in the workplace and how they can achieve that goal. Among her tips: go out of your way to capture good workplace moments so they are at your fingertips and “walk the talk” of the company values. Elizabeth is the founding director of The Trauma-Informed Academy and the author of “Healer: Reducing Crises,” which offers everyday actions people can take to recover from traumatic experiences and be more resilient in the face of stress and discomfort. She is an adjunct instructor in psychiatry at Georgetown Medical Center and has been on NBC News, NPR, and in the “Wall Street Journal.” Contact her at (615) 903-0906; epower@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Where Did All the Older Workers Go? (and What that Means for the Economy)

    While most Americans are working or looking for work at close to their pre-pandemic rate, many older folks remain on the sidelines. Experts expected everyone to jump back into the workforce once COVID was over, but it appears there are a lot of Americans over 65 who are in no hurry to return. “My optimism has waned,” says Wendy Edelberg, director of the Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution. “We’re now talking about people who have reorganized their lives around not working.” The result is a labor shortage that is reverberating through the economy. So what does that mean? Having fewer workers available “lowers the landing pad that the Fed has to lower the economy unto,” Edelberg says. “Because of what’s happened in the labor force, they just have to soften growth even more.” While retirements could help keep workers in short supply across America, Edelberg can discuss other factors that could bolster the workforce including immigration, which is rebounding. Wendy Edelberg is a macroeconomist whose research has spanned a wide range of topics, from household spending and saving decisions to the economic effects of fiscal policy and systemic risks in the financial system. She joined Brookings in 2020, after more than 15 years in the public sector. Contact Marie Wilken at (202) 540-7738; mwilken@brookings.edu

    10. ==> How to Stop Thinking You’re Messed Up

    Many people get trapped in a seemingly never-ending cycle of low self-esteem and are convinced that they are stuck in their limitations. They turn to self-judgment, self-abuse, poor choices and believing lies about themselves. But psychologist/author Dr. Adriana Popescu says it’s possible to stop the inner critic and stop feeling bad 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. She’s the 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

    11. ==> Are Girls Really Bad at Math? This Expert Reveals the Truth

    It’s long been believed that girls lack math skills. “That’s a myth!” says author and STEM professor Chris A. Goldberg. “In fact, female students tend to perform better than boys in math. But they suffer from lower confidence and a lack of role models in the STEM-related fields and do not pursue these careers, according to a recent study.” Chris can share how girls can get their inspiration from such role models as mathematician Dr. Gladys B. West, an African American woman credited for the major calculations that led to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). He is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact Chris at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How Your Kids Can Teach You to Be a Better Parent

    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

    13. ==> Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?

    Growing up in a highly dysfunctional broken home, author Tressa Mitchener became a single teenage mother and drug dealer who was facing a 30 years-to-life sentence in federal prison. But thanks to her strong belief in a higher power, her sentence was miraculously reduced to five years, and she went on to earn a B.A. in psychology, become a respected Christian counselor and best-selling author, and marry her dream man. She credits her newfound faith for enabling her to dramatically turn her life around. “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. I became a change-maker for others.” Tressa shared her incredible story on “The 700 Club,” and can reveal how anyone can transform his or her life through faith. 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

    14. ==> New Book Explores Human Side of Jesus

    How would you react if you met Jesus Christ? In his new novel, “Saving Christ,” former TV writer and actor Francis T. Perry Williams examines through a new lens the most influential man in the world. In this genre-bending love story, a modern-day woman travels back in time to the last seven days of Jesus’s life. Williams, through a blending of science fiction and religion, asks, what can we learn from exploring the human side of Jesus? And how can a modern viewpoint elevate our understanding of the man? Contact Francis T. Perry Williams at (310) 625-9238; pollen007@hotmail.com

    15. ==> How to Practice Positive Peace This Spring

    Spring is here but how can we approach the season of rebirth and hope when many of us are suffering lingering anxiety from all that’s happened over the past few years? Find out when you interview Miami public school teacher Sharon Wallen and she introduces you to the concept of positive peace. “We are all searching for answers to calm our troubled minds and soothe our anxious hearts,” Sharon says and she is sure to deliver on providing them. Learn what you can say to yourself to practice positive peace and discover how doing so can improve your relationships with people who are important to you. She is a National Board-Certified Teacher with degrees in psychology, sociology, and elementary education. Wallen is the author of “Grateful Reflections Journal” and the new program “Pace Yourself for Personal Focus, Productivity and Victorious Living.” Contact her at (786) 473-4026; solaceplace07@aol.com

  • 3/28/2023 RTIR Newsletter: March Madness at Work, Roy Rogers’ Granddaughter, The Shotgun Conservationist

    01. Medical Preparedness Experts on Post-Tornado Survival
    02. How Smart Bosses Embrace March Madness
    03. America’s Royal Western Couple – Roy Rogers and Dale Evans
    04. For Earth Day: The Shotgun Conservationist
    05. Interview The CW’s ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain
    06. Go Behind the Scenes with This Veteran Investigative Journalist
    07. How Democracy Can Win: Are Authoritarians on the Way Out?
    08. Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports
    09. What Can We Do to Protect Against Wildfires?
    10. Psychic’s Tips to Tap Into Your Intuition
    11. Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy
    12. How a Traumatic Brain Injury Revealed a Gift
    13. Surviving Loss: The 5 HABITs of Grief
    14. This Guest Says You Can Afford Anything You Want
    15. Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience

    1.==> Medical Preparedness Experts on Post-Tornado Survival

    A spate of tornadoes and treacherous weather over the weekend killed 26 people in the South and left a trail of destruction across the region. Interview medical preparedness advocates Dr. Joseph (Joe) Alton and Amy Alton for lifesaving advice on how to survive a natural disaster when professional medical help is not available. From treating injuries to preventing infections and keeping food and water free from contamination, you’ll learn what to do during an emergency as well as how to prepare for the next one. Joseph Alton practiced as a board-certified obstetrician and pelvic surgeon for more than 25 years. Amy Alton is an advanced registered nurse practitioner and a certified nurse-midwife. They run the popular survival website Doom and Bloom and are the authors of “Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is Not on the Way.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

    2. ==> How Smart Bosses Embrace March Madness

    There may have been a lot of goofing off in the office this month, but workplace expert Andrew Challenger says that’s OK. Employers will lose an estimated $17.3 billion due to lost productivity because of the NCAA tournament, but Challenger says smart bosses have been using March Madness as a tool to engage and motivate workers. “Layoff announcements are rising, the Fed is likely to increase rates aggressively to combat inflation. For companies that have experienced recent layoffs, the tournament can bring a welcome distraction to those workers currently experiencing survival syndrome,” he says. Challenger can discuss the importance of company morale, offer tips to boost it, and suggest ways to engage in-person and remote teams during March Madness and beyond. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    3. ==> America’s Royal Western Couple – Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

    They were one of the most famous couples in western film and television history, but to her, they were just Grandma and Grandpa. Invite Julie Rogers Pomilia to share a different view of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, the Brad and Angelina of the 1950s. The youngest daughter of Dale Evans’ only biological son, Julie reveals little-known facts and unique insights into her grandparents including their adoption of five children from different walks of life and cultures. In fact, Grandma and Grandpa were seldom photographed by the press without their brood of nine kids, usually all lined up in little matching western outfits. Julie Rogers Pomilia’s new book is “Your Heroes, My Grandparents.” Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 296-3757; harlan@bhbpr.com

    4.==> For Earth Day: The Shotgun Conservationist

    Think an environmentalist can’t possibly be a hunter? Think again. Brant MacDuff is a conservation historian and jack-of-many-trades who lives in Brooklyn, New York, and defies common perceptions of who hunts and why. Invite the avid environmentalist on your show and gain a deeper understanding of how hunting protects public lands, supports sustainable ecosystems, encourages biodiversity, can help to bridge social and political divides and can be an act of conservation. MacDuff will share his personal journey from hating hunting as a child to learning whole-animal butchering at one of New York’s most prestigious butchers to working as a taxidermist and holding hunting licenses in four states. Hear the provocative, humorous, and insightful story of how he became a hunter and the colorful characters, big personalities, and firsthand research that helped change his mind.
    MacDuff is the author of “The Shotgun Conservationist: Why Environmentalists Should Love Hunting.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell)

    5. ==> Interview the CW’s ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain

    Critically acclaimed actor Chad Coleman takes on a villainous role in the new season of The CW’s “Superman and Lois.” Coleman plays the infamous DC Comics baddie Bruno Mannheim, known to most of Metropolis as a local hero and philanthropist who has revived the struggling neighborhoods of the city. For years, Lois Lane has worked to prove that behind the façade is a career criminal and the head of the notorious organization Intergang. Coleman can discuss the new season’s twists and turns as well as his new horror-thriller, “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” which recently premiered at SXSW.
    Chad Coleman is best known for his TV roles in “The Walking Dead,” “The Wire,” and “The Orville.” He’s also had numerous film and stage roles. The new season of “Superman and Lois” is now airing on The CW. Contact Lilyan or JT at (323) 655-1008; AGPR@AndersonGroupPR.com

    6. ==> Go Behind the Scenes with This Veteran Investigative Journalist

    Over an extraordinary career in journalism, Michael Bowker has interviewed celebrities, athletes, adventurers, presidents, and even serial killers. He has narrowly escaped mountain lions and exploding volcanoes and been up close and personal with the Golden State Killer. Michael shares behind-the-scenes stories of famous figures and inspiring tales of ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things. Ask him: Who is your favorite person that you’ve interviewed in your career? What happened after you ran a story about the convicted criminal who saved an autistic child from a burning house? Why did you testify for over 40 hours in Congress? An expert media guest who has been featured on hundreds of radio, podcast, and TV shows including “Good Morning America,” Michael has written more than 20 books and thousands of articles appearing in such publications as the “Los Angeles Times” and “Reader’s Digest.” His latest book is “Michael Bowker’s No Ordinary Days.” Contact him at (530) 296-6301; mbowker@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> How Democracy Can Win: Are Authoritarians on the Way Out?

    Many people worry that democracy is in danger of dying amid the rise of populism and authoritarians, but Samantha Power sees signs of hope. Power, the head of the U.S. Agency for International Development, can discuss the recent assaults on democracy and the right way to fight autocracy. “After years of democratic backsliding, the world’s autocrats are finally on the defensive. But to seize this moment and swing the pendulum of history back toward democratic rule, we must break down the wall that separates democratic advocacy from economic development work and demonstrate that democracies can deliver for their people,” Power says. Samantha Power served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations from 2013 to 2017. Her latest book is “The Education of an Idealist.” Contact her at @SamanthaJPower or Kendra Newton at kendra.newton@harpercollins.com

    8. ==> Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports

    Although things have improved since the late 1960s when Sue Humphrey began her athletic coaching career, there is still plenty of discrimination against women athletes, from grade school competitions to the Olympic Games. With more than 50 years of experience, Sue has lived through the history of women in sports, beginning with the groundbreaking Title IX amendment that prohibited sex-based discrimination in athletics and other programs. Interview this author and seasoned media guest who has worked with sports legends such as Wilt Chamberlain, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and Florence Griffith Joyner for an eye-opening look at sports discrimination and how today’s women (and future athletes) can best prepare for success. Contact Sue Humphrey at (512) 881-9648; shumphrey@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> What Can We Do to Protect Against Wildfires?

    Will this be another year of wildfires that kill people and wildlife, destroy homes, flatten forests, ravage farmland and endanger communities? As climate change and global warming imperil our planet, audiences want to know what they can do to protect lives and property. You’ll want to interview wildfire expert James Moseley to learn what we can do before more acres become uninhabitable. He will explain which advanced new technologies, tools and trends are designed to prevent wildfire devastation. His Sun FireDefense for Wildfire Coating Technology is now patented. Ask him: How is NASA connected to the war against wildfires? Which North American locations are especially endangered in our drought-prone world? When does “wildfire season” become its worst? Contact James Moseley at (818) 486-4662; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Psychic’s Tips to Tap Into Your Intuition

    Are you looking to achieve the life of your dreams? The powerful force of intuition can allow you to accomplish all you’ve ever wanted, and Ann Johnson can help your audience tap into that force today. When it comes to intuitive psychics, Ann is the real deal. She’s been featured by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone.” The author of “Facing Forward: A Memoir About Choices, Intuition, and Insights in a Show Busy Life,” Ann brings powerful insights and recommendations for your audience that will lead them toward living their best lives. She can also provide an instant personality analysis on-air for your show host. Ask her: How can we use intuition to look and feel better at any age? What can intuition help us with when it comes to relationships and finding love? What can we look forward to this year? Contact Ann Johnson at (516) 862-4405; ajohnson@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy

    People tend to avoid things like rejection, discomfort, criticism, and failure. However, most people are unaware of how quickly this can lead to unhappiness. Jennifer Hughes reveals the surprising things we try to steer clear of that can make us happy. She’ll also reveal what won’t make you happy — such as being right, doing whatever you want, and making no mistakes. This author, parenting expert, and certified life coach who has worked with Jack Canfield, points out the many ways people choose to be unhappy without knowing it. Interview her for an eye-opening show and some shocking advice your audience won’t forget. Ask her: What are some ways people choose to be unhappy? How does avoiding rejection, criticism, and failure make you unhappy? Why is focusing on yourself counterproductive to your happiness? Can being late make you happy? Contact Jennifer Hughes at (480) 745-2113; jhughes@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How a Traumatic Brain Injury Revealed a Gift

    After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, author Jennifer Maag realized this was a blessing in disguise. “I became extremely empathic, which was a gift,” she says. One of those gifts was developing an understanding of what happens after we die. “When we pass over, we go to a ‘soul hospital’ and then ‘soul school’ where we learn valuable lessons. Those who have passed over often communicate with us through our dreams.” Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform our inner battles into healing tools to live our best lives. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Surviving Loss: The 5 HABITs of Grief

    The death of a loved one can be a crippling blow from which you never seem to recover, especially since most people have no idea how to deal with such a loss. Frank DiMaio has been there. After losing his wife to breast cancer, he found there was no real support or guidance for surviving husbands — so he set out to change that. Now, Frank shares insights from his journey of healing with your audience. He can help anyone say NO to defeat and move forward from being emotionally stuck, whether through the loss of a loved one or grief stemming from major life changes, through his system of positive HABITs. Frank’s new book is “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Ask him: What does HABITs stand for, and how does it help people to deal with grief? Why did you sail to Bermuda following your wife’s passing? What is the best way to address survivor’s guilt after losing a loved one? Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> This Guest Says You Can Afford Anything You Want

    Stop living paycheck to paycheck. Stop drowning in debt. Stop robbing Peter to pay Paul. April is Financial Literacy Month and a great time to start on a path to achieve your financial dreams. Invite financial literacy coach Jill Russo Foster to share her personal story so you don’t make the mistakes she did. “In my 20s, I maxed out 27 credit cards!” she says. “I was able to pay off all my debt and learn how to have thriving finances. My credit cards are paid in full each month, my FICO credit score is 800-plus and I have money saved in the bank to buy or do whatever I want.” She’ll share how she did it and how you can afford anything you want. Jill is the author of “Cash, Credit and Your Finances: The Teen Years,” “Thrive in Five: Take Charge of Your Finances in 5 Minutes a Day” and “111 Ways to Save.” Contact Jill Russo Foster at jill@jillrussofoster.com

    15. ==> Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience

    Millions of Americans love “The Golden Girls,” an iconic network television staple that featured a unique premise, a mesmerizing cast, and the tendency to tackle groundbreaking social issues that few sitcoms at the time dared to incorporate. But what was it really like on the set of this treasured show? Interview Jesse Fiedor to find out! An author and inspirational speaker, Jesse overcame a serious disability to achieve his dream of working in Hollywood. He’ll not only regale your guests with tales of meeting stars like the late Betty White, who was one of America’s most beloved actresses but also help them find the motivation to overcome their obstacles and succeed in life. Ask him: What was Betty White like in person? Did you meet anyone else? What did you do on the set of the show? How did you overcome your disability, and how can others do the same? Why do you say, “If I can do it, anyone can”? Contact Jesse Fiedor at (714) 683-2353; jfiedor@rtirguests.com

  • 3/23/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Biden’s Failings, Sexist Beer Ads, What to Expect This Spring

    01. Why Red Staters Should Welcome Blue Staters
    02. Has Joe Biden’s Presidency Been a Failure?
    03. Turning Sexist Beer Ads into Something Good
    04. Why This Bookie’s Son Is a Sure-Bet Guest
    05. The Kosher Baker Lightens Up Passover Favorites
    06. More People Are Going It Alone: The Best Cruises for Singles
    07. Sports Fanatics, Doggie Daters, Baby Talkers: 99 Types of Men
    08. Why Going Vegan Could Be Disastrous for Your Health
    09. Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?
    10. Yes, You Can Buy Love
    11. Advantages Doubters Have That Self-Confident People Miss
    12. Take an Adult Look at Fairy Tales
    13. Eat These Foods for a Better Brain During National Nutrition Month
    14. The 2 Things You Should Never Leave Home Without
    15. Top Psychic Reveals What to Expect This Spring

    1. ==> Why Red States Should Welcome Blue Staters

    Would red states be better off without people from blue states moving in, bringing with them their “woke ideas,” as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has suggested? Not really, says Eleanor Clift, who covers politics for The Daily Beast. In fact, Clift says red states should encourage college-educated liberals to move in. She writes, “Life in a bubble may sound good, but it’s a mirage in a country with a rapidly changing economy and demographics that favor cities. … Blue staters moving to red states can be beneficial for both sides of the divide. The economic dividends are obvious. And blue state reinforcements can be welcomed to challenge the entrenched mainly male politicians in GOP-dominated state legislatures. Their extreme restrictions on reproductive health care and gender issues are as out of touch with many red-state voters, just as they are with the Democrats in their state. Eleanor Clift is a regular panelist on the McLaughlin Group. Reach her at @eleanorclift

    2. ==> Has Joe Biden’s Presidency Been a Failure?

    According to a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll, 62% of Americans would be “dissatisfied” or “angry” if Joe Biden were reelected in 2024. A mere 7% say they are enthusiastic about the president’s second term. Nathan Robinson, founder and editor of “Current Affairs Magazine,” says it’s clear that Biden’s presidency has been a disaster yet the Democratic Party leadership is pushing for his re-election going so far as to rig the primary schedule to improve Biden’s chances of beating any challengers. Robinson says, “I don’t want Donald Trump to return to office. … To stop this outcome requires, one would think, Democrats to have a candidate that people actually want to vote for. All of the evidence right now indicates that most votes for Biden would be grudging at best. That’s not a good sign, and anyone who doesn’t want to see a Trump or DeSantis presidency … should want the Democrats to have a strong candidate running.” Nathan Robinson is the founder and editor of “Current Affairs Magazine.” He is the author of several books, including “Why You Should Be a Socialist” and “Responding to the Right.” He recently published a piece entitled Democratic Voters Want to Get Rid of Biden — But Will The Party Let Them? Contact Robinson at nathan@currentaffairs.org; @NathanJRobinson

    3. ==> Turning Sexist Beer Ads into Fertilizer

    For years, beer commercials have objectified women. Now one beer brand, Miller Lite, has announced that it is converting sexist beer advertising into fertilizer to grow hops that will be donated to over 200 female brewers to make approximately 330,000 beers. The beer brand is teaming up with producer, comedian, and actor Ilana Glazer, perhaps best known for the TV show “Broad City.” According to Elizabeth Hitch, senior director of marketing for Miller Lite, the initiative, called Bad $#!T to Good $#!T, recognizes that there would be no beer without women like Mary Lisle —the first female brewer in American history. Miller Lite has been collecting outdated, age-old, no-thank-you sexist ads, displays and posters for months. Hundreds of pieces have already been brought in and removed from the internet. Miller Lite will also be donating to the Pink Boots Society to support women in advancing their careers through brewing education. The Bad $#!T to Good $#!T campaign was conceived by an all-female marketing team. For more, visit www.millerlite.com/badsht2goodsh

    4. ==> Why 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

    5. ==> The Kosher Baker Lightens Up Passover Favorites

    Passover begins April 5 at sundown and many families will be enjoying Seder dinners and special foods they look forward to having all year long. Skip the calorie-loaded dishes and opt for a healthier Passover when you invite Paula Shoyer, aka the Kosher Baker, to share ways to lighten up your favorite family recipes. Whether you’re cooking keto, Whole30 or are just trying to cut calories, Paula will help you makeover your holiday table with dishes every generation will appreciate. She’ll also help you create a stress-free holiday with great ideas for room-temperature dishes and freezer-friendly make-ahead recipes that are perfect for delivery to the loved ones you can’t gather with right now. Paula Shoyer has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and even competed on Food TV. A graduate of Ritz Escoffier Ecole de Gastronomie Francaise, she is the author of several cookbooks including “The Healthy Jewish Kitchen.” Contact her at (301) 404-8998; pshoyer@hotmail.com

    6. ==> 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

    7. ==> Sports Fanatics, Doggie Daters, Baby Talkers: 99 Types of Men

    For a fun show guaranteed to provide laughs and encouragement for anyone in the dating pool, book an interview with long-time love coach and expert Stephanie Bailey. She’ll share a tongue-in-cheek guide to 99 types of men and how to date them. Learn about: the Doggie Dater who makes you question if he is dating you — or his dog; the Baby Talker who thinks baby talk is sexy; the Holiday Saboteur who breaks up with you on your birthday, anniversary or some other celebratory date that will forever be ruined; and the Sports Fanatic who is addicted to football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and more. Bailey encourages daters to ditch timelines and expectations and reminds them that she found her true love at 47 years old. Her new book, “99 Types of Guys: A Humorous Collection of Dating Tips and Misadventures” (a #1 best-seller on Amazon) is based on almost 30 years of dating experience. ”I’ve dated enough men to piece together my simple philosophy — and no, it isn’t revolutionary. I’ve learned the more you date, the better you understand yourself and your relationship essentials; therefore, the more equipped you are to find your ultimate match.” Stephanie Bailey, CEO of Miss-Adventures, LLC, offers in-person and virtual love coaching sessions. Contact her at (720) 276-2226; missadventuresseries@yahoo.com

    8. ==> Why Going Vegan Could Be Disastrous for Your Health

    March is National Nutrition Month. Plant-based eating is all the rage and touted as the “healthiest” but what if your genes have issues converting nutrients from plants? You could wind up with severe and catastrophic nutrient deficiencies. Take it from licensed dietitian Kristina Hess, who didn’t know her genetic profile when she went vegan 15 years ago and wound up with fractured bones and reduced bone density. Keto is all the rage too, but some people don’t feel good with this type of plan for a reason. Kristina can talk about the little-known field of nutrigenomics that can provide you with the right strategy and eating plan for your genetic blueprint, and help you optimize your health and longevity. Kristina Hess is a premier health coach and licensed dietitian-nutritionist with a functional and integrative approach. Contact her at (203) 984-7989; kristinaihess@gmail.com

    9. ==> Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?

    Growing up in a highly dysfunctional broken home, author Tressa Mitchener became a single teenage mother and drug dealer who was facing a 30 years to life sentence in federal prison. But thanks to her strong belief in a higher power, her sentence was miraculously reduced to five years, and she went on to earn a B.A. in psychology, become a respected Christian counselor and best-selling author, and marry her dream man. She credits her new-found faith for enabling her to dramatically turn her life around. “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. I became a change-maker for others.” Tressa shared her incredible story on “The 700 Club,” and can reveal how anyone can transform his or her life through faith. 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

    10. ==> Yes, You Can Buy Love

    Sure, the Beatles said that “money can’t buy me love” and most of us assume that the Beatles knew what they were singing about. But according to Barry Shore, you can buy love — the real, authentic good stuff — as long as you apply his simple ASK formula. Let Barry, a former quadriplegic turned happiness expert, share the three things you need to do so that “in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” Shore’s mission is spreading the joy of being alive no matter what adversities people face. He hosts The Joy of Living radio program and podcast and has been featured in or appeared on “O Magazine,” Fox, NBC, ABC, and Forbes. Contact him at (310) 770-4685; barry@barryshore.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. ==> Take an Adult Look at Fairy Tales

    We normally think of fairy tales as kids’ fare, but are these stories worth a second look during the second half of life? Invite Bill Randall, Andy Achenbaum and Barbara Lewis, two seventy-something gerontologists and a seventy-something psychoanalyst, to revisit the stories that previously made a profound impact on them such as fairy tales, Aesop Fables, the works of the Brothers Grimm, and parables from the Bible. They’ll share fresh insights and encourage older adults to celebrate the wisdom that lurks between the lines of their own lives. Randall, Achenbaum, and Lewis spent five years collaborating on the book “Fairy Tale Wisdom: Stories for the Second Half of Life.” Contact Andy Achenbaum at (713) 516-8580; achenbaum@gmail.com

    13. ==> Eat These Foods for a Better Brain During National Nutrition Month

    What we eat is closely tied to brain (and heart) health. So what can you eat that will reduce inflammation and help you think better? Interview husband and wife duo Melissa and David Bernstein to find out. Melissa is an occupational therapist who specializes in working with patients with neurological disorders and David is board certified in internal medicine and gerontology. Both of them are book authors. Learn why you should eat more of the condiment you may think only belongs on a hot dog, how to get more of your protein from vegetables, the best type of coffee to consume, what is meant by their Power of 5 lifestyle and more from these inspiring and upbeat guests. Contact David at (727) 480-4313; dbernstein2200@gmail.com, or Melissa at (727) 424-2312; melissa.dynamic1@gmail.com

    14. ==> The 2 Things You Should Never Leave Home Without

    Few people would dream of leaving the house without their cell phone, car keys and wallet. But there are two other things that most people don’t consider bringing along with them because they are unaware that their use could lead to greater problem-solving abilities, clarity, and relaxation. Bring Arlene Duane Hemingway on your program to identify what those two objects are and their connection to Drabbling, a literary art form inspired by Monty Python that uses just 100 words to tell a complete story. Arlene can read some examples of drabbles to get your audience started and has even created a Drabble on Drabbles. She is the author of “A Twist of Lemon: 100 Curious Stories in Exactly 100 Words” and has a master’s degree from the Juilliard School of Music. She was a respected piano and vocal music teacher in a Long Island public school system, and a professional organist, choir director, and vocalist. She performed with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at Radio City Music Hall and launched a composer’s original work at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Contact Arlene at (828) 684-9840; adh7@att.net

    15. ==> Top Psychic Reveals What to Expect This Spring

    Spring has sprung. Want to know what it has in store for you and yours? Find out when you interview Ann Johnson, a frequent media guest and top psychic based in New York. Over her career, she has read the fortunes of thousands of clients and helped them discover answers to their questions about relationships, health, wealth, and careers. Ann can provide instant personality analysis, relationship advice, and more. Her abilities and services have been covered by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone” magazine, who said, “She has a unique gift for connecting with people.” Ann 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

  • 3/21/2023 RTIR Newsletter: 20 Years After Iraq Invasion, Border Update, Unbreakable Resilience

    01. 20 Years Later: The Leak That Almost Stopped the Iraq Invasion
    02. What’s Behind the ‘Partisan Pandemic’ Narrative?
    03. Update: The Federal Government and Border Kids
    04. The Dark History and Troubling Present of Eugenics
    05. From Jane Fonda to CrossFit: How American Exercise Has Changed
    06. Attorney Shares 5 Brutal Divorce Truths No One Tells You
    07. Why Women-Led Countries Are Happier
    08. Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports
    09. Is Postpartum Depression Preventable?
    10. Does the Black Community Normalize Obesity?
    11. Can You Really Be Worry-Free?
    12. Do You Know the 5 HABITs of Grief?
    13. #1 Thing Adults Get Wrong About Parenting
    14. How to Have Unbreakable Resilience
    15. Things That Make You Happy That Most People Avoid

    1.==> 20 Years Later: The Leak That Almost Stopped the Iraq Invasion

    In 2003, Katharine Gun was an analyst with GCHQ, the British equivalent of the secretive NSA. As the U.S. government ramped up to invade Iraq, it sought a U.N. Security Council resolution authorizing the invasion. To help get that authorization, the NSA put out a memo ordering a spy surge on other members of the U.N. Security Council to find ways to blackmail and bribe them into voting for authorization. Gun was sent this memo and she exposed it, and on March 2, 2003, the “Observer” published the memo on their front page. Invite Gun to discuss the story that ricocheted around the world, causing the U.S. government to fail to get U.N. authorization. Gun, who lives in Turkey with her husband and child, says, “I wouldn’t change anything that I did. I did what I was capable of. I felt genuinely alone in the process of trying to stop the war by exposing the U.S. government’s illegal actions.” Her story was eventually told in the 2019 film “Official Secrets” with Keira Knightley playing Gun. Contact Katharine Gun at kthgun@yahoo.co.uk

    2. ==> What’s Behind the ‘Partisan Pandemic’ Narrative?

    In a new piece for “PESTE” magazine, public-health researcher Abby Cartus challenges the mainstream narrative that the badly botched pandemic response in the U.S. was because of the country’s deep partisan polarization. The framing provides an “easy answer,” she writes, indicating that it was the public’s “stubborn attachment to our partisan identities and mistrust of one another that ultimately scuttled an effective response.” She argues that that narrative blames the public for what she sees as the government’s failures. “The partisan gaps are real. But they’re being endowed with an outsized explanatory power. The narrative is doing a lot of work to cover up for policy failures that did not need to happen. It also does a lot of work to shield public figures from public outcry and response. The U.S. pandemic response failed so badly because of structural and material things — policy decisions made decades ago, pandemic policy decisions, and the economic imperatives of running a capitalist economy.” Abby Cartus is a postdoctoral research associate with the People, Place, and Health Collective at Brown University School of Public Health. Contact her at abigail_cartus@brown.edu

    3. ==> Update: The Federal Government and Border Kids

    Anyone who follows the news is well aware that 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. Richard is the founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids and the author of the critically acclaimed book, “Do No Harm: The U.S. Border Child Tragedy Continues.” Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

    4.==> The Dark History and Troubling Present of Eugenics

    Geneticist Adam Rutherford may startle listeners as he explains why eugenics still figures prominently in the 21st century, despite its genocidal past. With disarming wit and scientific precision, he’ll confront the insidious recurring questions — did eugenics work in Nazi Germany? And could it work today? — revealing the intellectual bankruptcy of the idea, and the scientific impossibility of its realization. Adam Rutherford is a geneticist and lecturer in biology and society at University College London, where he teaches the history of eugenics, race science, genetics, and science communication. He co-hosts the popular BBC science podcast The Curious Cases of Rutherford and Fry and appears frequently on radio and television. Rutherford’s new book is “Control: The Dark History and Troubling Present of Eugenics.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell)

    5. ==> From Jane Fonda to CrossFit: How American Exercise Has Changed

    Goodbye treadmill and elliptical trainer, hello dumbbells, squat rack and bench press. Strength training (aka weight or resistance training) is the exercise of choice these days, driven by new research on its health benefits and popularity of gyms like CrossFit. “Strength training has become so much more widely embraced and accepted for all kinds of outcomes – aesthetic, weight loss, bone health and balance,” says Natalia Mehlman Petrzela, an associate professor of history at the New School and author of “Fit Nation: The Gains and Pains of America’s Exercise Obsession.” She says it’s just the latest in a series of radical shifts over decades in how Americans exercise. She can discuss the history of America’s obsession with exercise including early 20th- century gyms, women’s “reducing salons,” and the cardio revolution that included Jane Fonda workout videos and aerobics. Contact Natalia Mehlman Petrzela at natalia@nataliapetrzela.com; @nataliapetrzela

    6. ==> Attorney Shares 5 Brutal Divorce Truths No One Tells You

    While the fundamentals of divorce are known to most people because when you go through a divorce everyone thinks they are a lawyer, the ugly truth about divorce can only be passed on by someone like Nancy Perpall. She’s a divorce attorney with over 30 years of experience, who shares the five brutal truths about divorce that no one tells you. The root meaning of divorce is the Latin word diverte, which means to divert. Nancy believes that divorce is a diversion. Ask her: how can people evaluate whether to stay or go in a marriage? Nancy is an experienced media guest, a former critical care nurse, and the author of the novel about relationships, “Around Which All Things Bend,” and the upcoming book, The Malnourished Marriage: 5 Essential Emotional Nutrients for a Healthy Relationship. Contact Nancy Perpall at (610) 360-9822; nap@nancyperpall.com

    7. ==> Why Women-Led Countries Are Happier

    For more than a century, women have crusaded for health and safety issues. Today, in countries where there are more women in elected office, people are healthier, both physically and mentally, and they say they are happier. That’s just one reason Debbie Peterson believes we need to elect more women, beyond the issue of equal representation. The former mayor of Grover Beach, California, will discuss 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’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.” She also hosts The Corruption Chronicles podcast. Ask her: What do studies show about female leaders in terms of happiness, crime figures, and government? How does the U.S. fare compared to other countries? Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; DebbiePeterson805@gmail.com

    8. ==> Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports

    Although things have improved since the late 1960s when Sue Humphrey began her athletic coaching career, there is still plenty of discrimination against women athletes, from grade school competitions to the Olympic Games. With more than 50 years of experience, Sue has lived through the history of women in sports, beginning with the groundbreaking Title IX amendment that prohibited sex-based discrimination in athletics and other programs. Interview this author and seasoned media guest who has worked with sports legends such as Wilt Chamberlain, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and Florence Griffith Joyner for an eye-opening look at sports discrimination and how today’s women (and future athletes) can best prepare for success. Contact Sue Humphrey at (512) 881-9648; shumphrey@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Is Postpartum Depression Preventable?

    Giving birth is supposed to be joyous. But for about one in seven women in the U.S., that new baby comes with hopelessness, mood swings, inconsolable crying, anxiety, difficulties bonding with their infants, extreme tiredness, and loss of appetite, symptoms that can last from three to six months and be shared by their partners. But what if their agony could be prevented? What would we need to do to make that happen? Alan Lindemann has the answers, having practiced obstetrics for 45 years, delivered more than 6,000 babies, and been a pioneer in treating postpartum depression. The now-retired doctor is devoting his time to reaching out to women about maternal health, especially those who may have limited access to care and information based on where they live. Ask him: Why is it key to combat postpartum depression before birth takes place? Why is postpartum depression so common? How do “maternity deserts” impact the problem? Contact Michele at (828) 749-3200; Michelle@WasabiPublicity.com

    10. ==> Does the Black Community Normalize Obesity?

    Obesity is an epidemic across America but especially so in Black communities where nearly half of all adults and a staggering 82% of women are overweight. The statistics are even more alarming when considering the many health risks that are most commonly associated with obesity. Invite Dr. Alvin Perry to discuss the genetic, behavioral, and sociocultural factors at play in the Black community and how to change the equation to create healthier communities. Alvin Perry, DBA, is a successful entrepreneur and small business expert. He is ISSA certified in personal training and nutrition. His book, “Just Fat!,” chronicles his 80-pound weight-loss journey and shares a simple system he created that changed the course of his life and led him to the path of personal wellness. Ask him: Are Blacks genetically predisposed to being overweight? Has the community normalized obesity? Why are Black women less likely to exercise (and what is the simple solution that gets around that)? Contact Alvin Perry at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

    11. == > Can You Really Be Worry-Free?

    Everyone struggles 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 empowers 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

    12. ==> Do You Know the 5 HABITs of Grief?

    The death of a loved one can be a crippling blow from which you never seem to recover, especially since most people have no idea how to deal with such a loss. Frank DiMaio has been there. After losing his wife to breast cancer, he found there was no real support or guidance for surviving husbands — so he set out to change that. Now, Frank shares insights from his journey of healing with your audience. He can help anyone say NO to defeat and move forward from being emotionally stuck, whether through loss of a loved one or grief stemming from major life changes, through his system of positive HABITs. Frank’s new book is “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Ask him: What does HABITs stand for, and how does it help people to deal with grief? Why did you sail to Bermuda following your wife’s passing? What is the best way to address survivor’s guilt after losing a loved one? Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> #1 Thing Adults Get Wrong about Parenting

    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

    14. ==> How to Have Unbreakable Resilience

    It’s easy to appear resilient when life is going great. But the true test of one’s flexibility comes when life is difficult and unpredictable as it has been for Kiden Jonathan. Invite Kiden on your show to learn how anyone can develop unbreakable resilience by listening to her as she passes along what she learned after she fled worn-torn Sudan at age 20 with her two-month-old baby, lived with an abusive man and spent time in a women’s shelter and the world’s largest refugee camp. Now she lives in Canada where she is a full-time college student, speaker, and the author of “Resilience: The Journey of Self-Discovery.” She has been quoted in CBC News and the “Toronto Star.” Ask her: What was it like living in the world’s largest refugee camp? What are some specific things people can do to become more resilient? Contact Kiden Jonathan at (647) 503-5092; kjonathan@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Things That Make You Happy That Most People Avoid

    People tend to avoid things like rejection, discomfort, criticism, and failure. However, most people are unaware of how quickly this can lead to unhappiness. Jennifer Hughes reveals the surprising things we try to steer clear of that can make us happy. She’ll also reveal what won’t make you happy — such as being right, doing whatever you want, and making no mistakes. This author, parenting expert, and certified life coach who has worked with Jack Canfield points out the many ways people choose to be unhappy without knowing it. Interview her for an eye-opening show and some shocking advice your audience won’t forget. Ask her: What are some ways people choose to be unhappy? How does avoiding rejection, criticism, and failure make you unhappy? Why is focusing on yourself counterproductive to your happiness? Can being late make you happy? Contact Jennifer Hughes at (480) 745-2113; jhughes@rtirguests.com

  • 3/16/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Public Health Danger, Country Music Star, Sesame Street in Russia

    01. Medical Preparedness Experts on Post-Tornado Survival
    02. How Smart Bosses Embrace March Madness
    03. America’s Royal Western Couple – Roy Rogers and Dale Evans
    04. For Earth Day: The Shotgun Conservationist
    05. Interview The CW’s ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain
    06. Go Behind the Scenes with This Veteran Investigative Journalist
    07. How Democracy Can Win: Are Authoritarians on the Way Out?
    08. Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports
    09. What Can We Do to Protect Against Wildfires?
    10. Psychic’s Tips to Tap Into Your Intuition
    11. Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy
    12. How a Traumatic Brain Injury Revealed a Gift
    13. Surviving Loss: The 5 HABITs of Grief
    14. This Guest Says You Can Afford Anything You Want
    15. Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience

    1.==> Medical Preparedness Experts on Post-Tornado Survival

    A spate of tornadoes and treacherous weather over the weekend killed 26 people in the South and left a trail of destruction across the region. Interview medical preparedness advocates Dr. Joseph (Joe) Alton and Amy Alton for lifesaving advice on how to survive a natural disaster when professional medical help is not available. From treating injuries to preventing infections and keeping food and water free from contamination, you’ll learn what to do during an emergency as well as how to prepare for the next one. Joseph Alton practiced as a board-certified obstetrician and pelvic surgeon for more than 25 years. Amy Alton is an advanced registered nurse practitioner and a certified nurse-midwife. They run the popular survival website Doom and Bloom and are the authors of “Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help Is Not on the Way.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

    2. ==> How Smart Bosses Embrace March Madness

    There may have been a lot of goofing off in the office this month, but workplace expert Andrew Challenger says that’s OK. Employers will lose an estimated $17.3 billion due to lost productivity because of the NCAA tournament, but Challenger says smart bosses have been using March Madness as a tool to engage and motivate workers. “Layoff announcements are rising, the Fed is likely to increase rates aggressively to combat inflation. For companies that have experienced recent layoffs, the tournament can bring a welcome distraction to those workers currently experiencing survival syndrome,” he says. Challenger can discuss the importance of company morale, offer tips to boost it, and suggest ways to engage in-person and remote teams during March Madness and beyond. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    3. ==> America’s Royal Western Couple – Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

    They were one of the most famous couples in western film and television history, but to her, they were just Grandma and Grandpa. Invite Julie Rogers Pomilia to share a different view of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, the Brad and Angelina of the 1950s. The youngest daughter of Dale Evans’ only biological son, Julie reveals little-known facts and unique insights into her grandparents including their adoption of five children from different walks of life and cultures. In fact, Grandma and Grandpa were seldom photographed by the press without their brood of nine kids, usually all lined up in little matching western outfits. Julie Rogers Pomilia’s new book is “Your Heroes, My Grandparents.” Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 296-3757; harlan@bhbpr.com

    4.==> For Earth Day: The Shotgun Conservationist

    Think an environmentalist can’t possibly be a hunter? Think again. Brant MacDuff is a conservation historian and jack-of-many-trades who lives in Brooklyn, New York, and defies common perceptions of who hunts and why. Invite the avid environmentalist on your show and gain a deeper understanding of how hunting protects public lands, supports sustainable ecosystems, encourages biodiversity, can help to bridge social and political divides and can be an act of conservation. MacDuff will share his personal journey from hating hunting as a child to learning whole-animal butchering at one of New York’s most prestigious butchers to working as a taxidermist and holding hunting licenses in four states. Hear the provocative, humorous, and insightful story of how he became a hunter and the colorful characters, big personalities, and firsthand research that helped change his mind.
    MacDuff is the author of “The Shotgun Conservationist: Why Environmentalists Should Love Hunting.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell)

    5. ==> Interview the CW’s ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain

    Critically acclaimed actor Chad Coleman takes on a villainous role in the new season of The CW’s “Superman and Lois.” Coleman plays the infamous DC Comics baddie Bruno Mannheim, known to most of Metropolis as a local hero and philanthropist who has revived the struggling neighborhoods of the city. For years, Lois Lane has worked to prove that behind the façade is a career criminal and the head of the notorious organization Intergang. Coleman can discuss the new season’s twists and turns as well as his new horror-thriller, “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” which recently premiered at SXSW. Chad Coleman is best known for his TV roles in “The Walking Dead,” “The Wire,” and “The Orville.” He’s also had numerous film and stage roles. The new season of “Superman and Lois” is now airing on The CW. Contact Lilyan or JT at (323) 655-1008; AGPR@AndersonGroupPR.com

    6. ==> Go Behind the Scenes with This Veteran Investigative Journalist

    Over an extraordinary career in journalism, Michael Bowker has interviewed celebrities, athletes, adventurers, presidents, and even serial killers. He has narrowly escaped mountain lions and exploding volcanoes and been up close and personal with the Golden State Killer. Michael shares behind-the-scenes stories of famous figures and inspiring tales of ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things. Ask him: Who is your favorite person that you’ve interviewed in your career? What happened after you ran a story about the convicted criminal who saved an autistic child from a burning house? Why did you testify for over 40 hours in Congress? An expert media guest who has been featured on hundreds of radio, podcast, and TV shows including “Good Morning America,” Michael has written more than 20 books and thousands of articles appearing in such publications as the “Los Angeles Times” and “Reader’s Digest.” His latest book is “Michael Bowker’s No Ordinary Days.” Contact him at (530) 296-6301; mbowker@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> How Democracy Can Win: Are Authoritarians on the Way Out?

    Many people worry that democracy is in danger of dying amid the rise of populism and authoritarians, but Samantha Power sees signs of hope. Power, the head of the U.S. Agency for International Development, can discuss the recent assaults on democracy and the right way to fight autocracy. “After years of democratic backsliding, the world’s autocrats are finally on the defensive. But to seize this moment and swing the pendulum of history back toward democratic rule, we must break down the wall that separates democratic advocacy from economic development work and demonstrate that democracies can deliver for their people,” Power says. Samantha Power served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations from 2013 to 2017. Her latest book is “The Education of an Idealist.” Contact her at @SamanthaJPower or Kendra Newton at kendra.newton@harpercollins.com

    8. ==> Female Olympic Coach on the History of Women in Sports

    Although things have improved since the late 1960s when Sue Humphrey began her athletic coaching career, there is still plenty of discrimination against women athletes, from grade school competitions to the Olympic Games. With more than 50 years of experience, Sue has lived through the history of women in sports, beginning with the groundbreaking Title IX amendment that prohibited sex-based discrimination in athletics and other programs. Interview this author and seasoned media guest who has worked with sports legends such as Wilt Chamberlain, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and Florence Griffith Joyner for an eye-opening look at sports discrimination and how today’s women (and future athletes) can best prepare for success. Contact Sue Humphrey at (512) 881-9648; shumphrey@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> What Can We Do to Protect Against Wildfires?

    Will this be another year of wildfires that kill people and wildlife, destroy homes, flatten forests, ravage farmland and endanger communities? As climate change and global warming imperil our planet, audiences want to know what they can do to protect lives and property. You’ll want to interview wildfire expert James Moseley to learn what we can do before more acres become uninhabitable. He will explain which advanced new technologies, tools and trends are designed to prevent wildfire devastation. His Sun FireDefense for Wildfire Coating Technology is now patented. Ask him: How is NASA connected to the war against wildfires? Which North American locations are especially endangered in our drought-prone world? When does “wildfire season” become its worst? Contact James Moseley at (818) 486-4662; jmoseley@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Psychic’s Tips to Tap Into Your Intuition

    Are you looking to achieve the life of your dreams? The powerful force of intuition can allow you to accomplish all you’ve ever wanted, and Ann Johnson can help your audience tap into that force today. When it comes to intuitive psychics, Ann is the real deal. She’s been featured by top media outlets including “New York Magazine,” MTV Network, and “Rolling Stone.” The author of “Facing Forward: A Memoir About Choices, Intuition, and Insights in a Show Busy Life,” Ann brings powerful insights and recommendations for your audience that will lead them toward living their best lives. She can also provide an instant personality analysis on-air for your show host. Ask her: How can we use intuition to look and feel better at any age? What can intuition help us with when it comes to relationships and finding love? What can we look forward to this year? Contact Ann Johnson at (516) 862-4405; ajohnson@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Surprising Things We Avoid That Can Actually Make Us Happy

    People tend to avoid things like rejection, discomfort, criticism, and failure. However, most people are unaware of how quickly this can lead to unhappiness. Jennifer Hughes reveals the surprising things we try to steer clear of that can make us happy. She’ll also reveal what won’t make you happy — such as being right, doing whatever you want, and making no mistakes. This author, parenting expert, and certified life coach who has worked with Jack Canfield, points out the many ways people choose to be unhappy without knowing it. Interview her for an eye-opening show and some shocking advice your audience won’t forget. Ask her: What are some ways people choose to be unhappy? How does avoiding rejection, criticism, and failure make you unhappy? Why is focusing on yourself counterproductive to your happiness? Can being late make you happy? Contact Jennifer Hughes at (480) 745-2113; jhughes@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How a Traumatic Brain Injury Revealed a Gift

    After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, author Jennifer Maag realized this was a blessing in disguise. “I became extremely empathic, which was a gift,” she says. One of those gifts was developing an understanding of what happens after we die. “When we pass over, we go to a ‘soul hospital’ and then ‘soul school’ where we learn valuable lessons. Those who have passed over often communicate with us through our dreams.” Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform our inner battles into healing tools to live our best lives. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Surviving Loss: The 5 HABITs of Grief

    The death of a loved one can be a crippling blow from which you never seem to recover, especially since most people have no idea how to deal with such a loss. Frank DiMaio has been there. After losing his wife to breast cancer, he found there was no real support or guidance for surviving husbands — so he set out to change that. Now, Frank shares insights from his journey of healing with your audience. He can help anyone say NO to defeat and move forward from being emotionally stuck, whether through the loss of a loved one or grief stemming from major life changes, through his system of positive HABITs. Frank’s new book is “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept: A Husband’s Journey Through Journaling to Heal the Loss of His Spouse.” Ask him: What does HABITs stand for, and how does it help people to deal with grief? Why did you sail to Bermuda following your wife’s passing? What is the best way to address survivor’s guilt after losing a loved one? Contact Frank DiMaio at (401) 205-3325; fdimaio@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> This Guest Says You Can Afford Anything You Want

    Stop living paycheck to paycheck. Stop drowning in debt. Stop robbing Peter to pay Paul. April is Financial Literacy Month and a great time to start on a path to achieve your financial dreams. Invite financial literacy coach Jill Russo Foster to share her personal story so you don’t make the mistakes she did. “In my 20s, I maxed out 27 credit cards!” she says. “I was able to pay off all my debt and learn how to have thriving finances. My credit cards are paid in full each month, my FICO credit score is 800-plus and I have money saved in the bank to buy or do whatever I want.” She’ll share how she did it and how you can afford anything you want. Jill is the author of “Cash, Credit and Your Finances: The Teen Years,” “Thrive in Five: Take Charge of Your Finances in 5 Minutes a Day” and “111 Ways to Save.” Contact Jill Russo Foster at jill@jillrussofoster.com

    15. ==> Behind-the-Scenes: A ‘Golden Girls’ Experience

    Millions of Americans love “The Golden Girls,” an iconic network television staple that featured a unique premise, a mesmerizing cast, and the tendency to tackle groundbreaking social issues that few sitcoms at the time dared to incorporate. But what was it really like on the set of this treasured show? Interview Jesse Fiedor to find out! An author and inspirational speaker, Jesse overcame a serious disability to achieve his dream of working in Hollywood. He’ll not only regale your guests with tales of meeting stars like the late Betty White, who was one of America’s most beloved actresses but also help them find the motivation to overcome their obstacles and succeed in life. Ask him: What was Betty White like in person? Did you meet anyone else? What did you do on the set of the show? How did you overcome your disability, and how can others do the same? Why do you say, “If I can do it, anyone can”? Contact Jesse Fiedor at (714) 683-2353; jfiedor@rtirguests.com

  • 3/14/2023 RTIR Newsletter: ‘Superman’ Villain, Who Was St. Patrick? Secrets and Sickness

    01. Feeling Off this Week? Daylight Savings Time and Your Health
    02. Who Was St. Patrick?
    03. ‘Irish Times’ Columnist Fintan O’Toole
    04. Attorney on Murdaugh Civil Suits and Story Profits
    05. Meet New ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain
    06. It’s a Philly Thing – ‘Cheesesteaks and Tastykakes’ Anthem
    07. Why This Bookie’s Son Is a Sure-Bet Guest
    08. How to Earn a College Degree on YouTube
    09. Surprising Parallels Between Trump and Lincoln
    10. The Dangerous Connection between Keeping Secrets and Getting Sick
    11. Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?
    12. Disability Awareness Month: Equality for the Disabled
    13. Were You Programmed to Fail?
    14. Is Life Coaching the Answer to Improving Kids’ Mental Health?
    15. Why Your Next Cruise Should Be a River Voyage

    1.==> Feeling Off this Week? Daylight Savings Time and Your Health

    It’s not your imagination, the transition to Daylight Saving Time can be tough on our bodies and minds. It’s not just the lost hour of sleep that’s difficult. The abrupt shift leads to a host of challenges, including serious health impacts for some people. Dr. Carole Lieberman can help explain why that happens and what you can do to help feel better. She’ll discuss how the disruption of circadian rhythms can increase feelings of anxiety and depression and the social and environmental changes that accompany daylight saving time that can impact your overall well-being. Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H., is a forensic psychiatrist. She frequently appears in the media commentating on news headlines from a psychological and socio-political point of view. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

    2. ==> Who Was St. Patrick?

    On St. Patrick’s Day we’ll eat green bagels, wear shamrocks and hoist beers to our Irish heritage, but what do you really know about St. Patrick, the man? He’s Ireland’s beloved patron saint and he’s celebrated worldwide each March 17. What did he do during his remarkable life, more than 1,500 years ago? What will most Americans, including those of Irish ancestry, be surprised and intrigued and inspired to learn? Invite acclaimed historian William Federer on-air to explore the compelling true story of Saint Patrick! With quiz questions and little-known stories, Federer will separate fact from folklore, helping everyone observe Saint Patrick’s Day with newfound appreciation and fascination. William Federer is president of Amerisearch, Inc. He is the author of many books including “Saint Patrick: The Real Story of his Amazing Life from Tragedy to Triumph.” Contact him at (314) 502-8924 or wjfederer@gmail.com

    3. ==> ‘Irish Times’ Columnist Fintan O’Toole

    “Irish Times” columnist and Princeton University professor Fintan O’Toole was born in the year the Irish revolution began. It was 1958, and the Irish government opened the country to foreign investment and popular culture, beginning a decades-long transformation of the nation’s identity. Invite him to share his take on modern Ireland’s history. The author of “We Don’t Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Modern Ireland” will touch on everything from the horrific story of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, which led most Irish to reject violent nationalism, to the once-unthinkable collapse of the Catholic Church, brought down through a combination of scandal and committed activism by the Irish people. In O’Toole’s telling, America became a lodestar, from John F. Kennedy’s 1963 visit, when the soon-to-be martyred American president was welcomed as a native son, to the emergence of the Irish technology sector in the late 1990s, driven by American corporations, which set Ireland on the path toward disaster during the 2008 financial crisis. Fintan O’Toole is a columnist for the “Irish Times” and a professor of Irish letters at Princeton University. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Sasha Beatty at (703) 646-5188

    4.==> Attorney on Murdaugh Civil Suits and Story Profits

    Will Alex Murdaugh’s victims get their money? Will Murdaugh profit from book and movie deals? Will Murdaugh’s surviving son, Buster, be the sole beneficiary of Alex’s estate? Will he also assume his father’s liabilities? Invite trial attorney Jesse Bolling to break it all down. He’ll discuss whether Alex Murdaugh’s estate will be ordered to reimburse his law settlement victims and if it will be allowed to profit on any pending or upcoming book and movie deals. Bolling can talk about the variety of lawsuits Murdaugh faces, whether his victims will ever retrieve the money they’re due, and the likelihood the court will go after Buster. Jesse Bolling frequently appears in the media to explain complicated and messy legal issues. He is a partner at EPGLawyers. Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com or Shannon Dugger at (303) 619-3949

    5. ==> Meet New ‘Superman and Lois’ Villain

    Critically acclaimed actor Chad Coleman takes on a villainous role in the new season of The CW’s “Superman and Lois.” Coleman plays the infamous DC baddie Bruno Manheim, known to most of Metropolis as a local hero and philanthropist who has revived the struggling neighborhoods of the city. For years, Lois Lane has worked to prove that behind the façade is a career criminal and the head of the notorious organization Intergang. Coleman can discuss the new season’s twists and turns as well as his new horror-thriller, “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” which premiered at SXSW last weekend.
    Chad Coleman is best known for his TV roles in “The Walking Dead,” “The Wire,” and “The Orville.” He’s also had numerous film and stage roles. The new season of “Superman and Lois” starts March 14 on The CW. Contact Lilyan or JT at (323) 655-1008; AGPR@AndersonGroupPR.com

    6. ==> It’s a Philly Thing – ‘Cheesesteaks and Tastykakes’ Anthem

    Who doesn’t love a cheesesteak? Or a catchy tune? National Cheesesteak Day is Friday, March 24 and a great time to celebrate Philadelphia’s most famous foods. And while you’re getting your cheesesteak on, debating the merits of “with wiz” or without, share a fun, Philly anthem and video called Cheesesteaks & Tastykakes. Created by Philly ex-pat Pitz Quattrone and his guitarist friend Chris Robertson, the catchy ode is certain to put a smile on listeners’ faces, especially those who grew up in Philadelphia. Pitz, an international didgeridoo performer and maverick now based in Vermont, is a lively, entertaining guest. Check out the fun song and video on Pitz Quattrone’s YouTube channel. There’s even a karaoke version! Contact him at pitzquattrone@gmail.com

    7. ==> Why 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

    8. ==> How to Earn a College Degree on YouTube

    For many people, a college education comes with many obstacles including high cost and accessibility, but a new partnership between Arizona State University and YouTube aims to make earning college credits from a top university easier and more affordable than ever. With the new program called Study Hall, students take ASU college classes online via YouTube at a fraction of the cost of traditional college tuition. YouTube’s Hema Bajaj Misra can share details of the program including what type of classes are offered, who teaches them, and who accepts the credits earned. Many will find the best part of the new program is that you can take a class as many times as you like and don’t pay until you’re satisfied with your grade. Contact John Angelo at john@premieretv.com

    9. ==> Surprising Parallels Between Trump and Lincoln

    Donald Trump has been one of the most controversial presidents of our times, with a love-him-or-hate-him line that practically divides the country in half. He has even drawn fire from members of his own party, leading some to claim that he has ruined the Republican Party. However, author Gretchen Wollert will argue that’s not the case. This guest, who has a degree in history, will share the many startling similarities between Donald Trump and Abraham Lincoln. She’ll discuss why Trump will determine the future of the Republican party, and much more. An educator, entrepreneur, and farmer with appearances in local, regional, and national shows, Gretchen is the author of “Born to Fight: Lincoln & Trump.” Ask her: What is the only thing standing in the way of a socialist America? Why do you say that Trump can’t be “canceled”? What do you see ahead for the Republican party in American politics? Contact Gretchen Wollert at (307) 338-2807; gwollert@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Dangerous Connection between Keeping Secrets and Getting Sick

    We all know that keeping secrets can be stressful. But what most people don’t know is that it can also lead to illnesses (including cancer), especially if you keep secrets from your doctor. Attorney, author and cancer survivor Francine Tone can discuss the worst things to keep to yourself that can lead to sickness, suffering and even loss of life. Among the secrets are the pains, lumps, moles, nagging symptoms and other experiences you never mention to your doctor. Worse yet would be missing important screenings like mammograms or colonoscopies — and lying about it. Francine will also warn about keeping it to yourself when you consume the wrong foods, drink or smoke to excess, use illicit drugs, don’t exercise, or hide domestic violence. Francine is a sought-after guest on legal matters and overcoming everything from abuse to debilitating accidents. She’s the author of the best-selling book “What Every Good Lawyer Wants You to Know.” Contact her at (531) 208-1297; FTone@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Can Faith Really Get You Through Anything?

    Growing up in a highly dysfunctional broken home, author Tressa Mitchener became a single teenage mother and drug dealer who was facing a 30-year to life sentence in federal prison. But thanks to her strong belief in a higher power, her sentence was miraculously reduced to five years, and she went on to earn a B.A. in psychology, become a respected Christian counselor and best-selling author, and marry her dream man. She credits her new-found faith for enabling her to dramatically turn her life around. “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. I became a change-maker for others.” Tressa shared her incredible story on “The 700 Club,” and can reveal how anyone can transform his or her life through faith. 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

    12. ==> Disability Awareness Month: Equality for the Disabled

    More than 6 million Americans live with developmental disabilities that include autism, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy and traumatic brain injuries. Sadly, many of them face discrimination daily. March is Disability Awareness Month and a great opportunity to discuss the issue of equality for the disabled with Zylo Marshall. Zylo suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident when he was just 11 months old. Remarkably, he overcame the odds, has lived on his own since he was a teen and even became a Realtor. Unfortunately, Zylo lost his career and inheritance when he was taken advantage of due to his disability. He’ll explain how it happened and how it has made him even more passionate about stopping the exploitation of disabled people and recognizing them as equals. Zylo Marshall is a TBI survivor and motivational speaker. Contact him at (561) 203-9061; zylomarshall@gmail.com

    13. ==> Were You Programmed to Fail?

    Many parents, teachers and society in general set kids up for failure due to their family backgrounds, ethnicity and or socio-economic circumstances. Sadly, this programming often lasts into adulthood. But Dr. Carl Barnes claims that embracing failure as a path to success is the key to overcoming this programming. “Failure is a great learning tool,” he says. “The key to succeeding against all odds is unbridled resilience and turning pain into purpose.” Carl was repeatedly rejected in the realms of academia, career and romance. But he eventually overcame the odds and went on to a 35-year career in the military, becoming a Navy chaplain; and earned five degrees including a doctorate of ministry in leadership. 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

    14. ==> Is Life Coaching the Answer to Improving Kids’ Mental Health?

    With child mental health declared a national emergency, experts calling for new solutions, parents looking for help, and children suffering needlessly, there’s never been a more urgent time to talk about the gap in children’s mental health: prevention. Renaye Thornborrow can share how life coaching can help children navigate the ups and downs of growing up so that they are confident and prepared to thrive in life. Since 2013, Renaye has certified hundreds of child life coaches in 30-plus countries who use her story-based coaching curriculum to help children develop 27 mindset skills for self-esteem, confidence, resilience, happiness, and success. Renaye is the CEO of Adventures in Wisdom and creator of the WISDOM Coach Certification Program. Ask her: What is life coaching for kids? How is life coaching different from counseling? How can coaching benefit children? Contact Renaye Thornborrow at (512) 222-6659; renaye@AdventuresInWisdom.com

    15. ==> Why Your Next Cruise Should Be a River Voyage

    If you’re thinking of booking a cruise, travel marketing expert and author Cindy Bertram can share the wonders of traveling on rivers throughout the U.S. and Europe, versus ocean voyages. “The ships are much smaller, with fewer guests,” she says. “Most are all-inclusive. They also offer immersive excursions and special interest tours. It’s a beautiful way to explore the wonderful areas of Europe and the U.S. in a more seamless way.” Cindy is a communications, media and branding specialist who has spent many years in the travel and cruise industry and 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

  • 3/9/2023 RTIR Newsletter: Best Oscar Speeches, St. Patrick’s Day, Pioneering Women

    01. The Public Has a Vested Interest in COVID Vaccines
    02. The Best and Worst Oscar Speeches
    03. Chris Rock Hits Back: Lessons from the Oscar Slap
    04. For St. Patrick’s Day – ‘Irish Times’ Columnist Fintan O’Toole
    05. Interview Actor Jim Meskimen on ‘Welcome to Chippendales’ and More
    06. Women’s History Month: Why Women-Led Countries Are Happier
    07. Interview a Pioneering Female Diplomat
    08. How the Most Productive, Creative People Get Things Done
    09. Are You Drowning in Worry? How to Rise Above It All
    10. What Really Goes On in the Courtroom: Crazy Lawyer Stories
    11. Can Perfume Cause Infertility?
    12. Could You Be an Empath? How to Tell
    13. Jumpstart Your Weight-Loss Journey in One Week
    14. Boost Your Immun-a-Tea for a Healthier Winter
    15. Do You Keep Getting Bad Service? Maybe It’s You!

    1. ==> The Public Has a Vested Interest in COVID Vaccines

    A retrospective cohort study published this month in “The BMJ” found that 34 research grants funded by the National Institutes of Health were involved in the development of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, with public financing totaling $31.9 billion. Shawn Fremstad, a senior advisor at the Center for Economic and Policy Research says the study comes at the same time as the U.S. government COVID-19 vaccine supply is running out. “Pharmaceutical companies have not committed to providing free or low-cost vaccines to all people in the United States, even though each dose costs only $1 to $3 to manufacture,” he says. “Since the U.S. people and government made the investments and took on the risks that were needed to produce the vaccines, we also need to be the ones to direct how the value we created is used. That should include ensuring that the vaccines remain free without creating new administrative or insurance barriers to access them.” Fremstad says the U.S. should pursue Operation Global Vaccination, and build public options to manufacture vaccines and other critical health technologies. Fremstad is the director of law and political economy and a senior advisor at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. Contact him at fremstad@cepr.net

    2. ==> The Best and Worst Oscar Speeches

    The most coveted statue in Hollywood, the Oscar, will be handed out this Sunday at the Academy Awards ceremony and you can bet we’ll all be talking about the show on Monday. Book Nina Surya to discuss the best and worst acceptance speeches of the night. The celebrity public-speaking coach will share what makes a great acceptance speech, why so many actors are nervous about winning an award, and how to keep your cool when things go awry during a live event. Nina has worked with many famous people and can reveal the secrets to successful communication on stage and in everyday life. She is the president and CEO of UniqueSpeak Consulting and has served as a speech and communication coach to celebrities, top-level executives, politicians, and other public figures. Contact Nina at (310) 359-0787; nsurya@rtirguests.com

    3. ==> Chris Rock Hits Back: Lessons from the Oscar Slap

    A year later, Chris Rock finally addresses the Oscar slap from Will Smith in a new Netflix stand-up special. The assault clearly impacted Rock and led to Smith being banned from the awards show for ten years, but Cindy Watson says there are valuable lessons in this fiasco. Watson, creator of The Art of Feminine Negotiation, can discuss reframing masculine toxicity, masculine vs. feminine approaches to conflict and negotiating our mindset, including the fears that drive us to take ill-informed actions. She’ll reveal the seven deadly sins of negotiating (including ego, attachment and reactivity, each of which played a role in Will Smith’s actions), the importance of perspective (joke vs. insult) and impact vs. intention (Rock’s intention to be funny vis-à-vis the impact on Smith when Jada reacted negatively). An attorney specializing in social justice law, Cindy Watson is the founder of Women on Purpose. “The Art of Feminine Negotiation” is the title of her new book and podcast. Contact her at (705) 646-3851; cindy@womenonpurpose.ca

    4.==> For St. Patrick’s Day – ‘Irish Times’ Columnist Fintan O’Toole

    “Irish Times” columnist and Princeton University professor Fintan O’Toole was born the year the Irish revolution began. It was 1958, and the Irish government opened the country to foreign investment and popular culture, beginning a decades-long transformation of the nation’s identity. Invite him to share his take on modern Ireland’s history. The author of “We Don’t Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Modern Ireland” will touch on everything from the horrific story of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, which led most Irish to reject violent nationalism, to the once-unthinkable collapse of the Catholic Church, brought down through a combination of scandal and committed activism by the Irish people. In O’Toole’s telling, America became a lodestar, from John F. Kennedy’s 1963 visit, when the soon-to-be martyred American president was welcomed as a native son, to the emergence of the Irish technology sector in the late 1990s, driven by American corporations, which set Ireland on the path toward disaster during the 2008 financial crisis. Fintan O’Toole is a columnist for the “Irish Times” and a professor of Irish letters at Princeton University. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (o); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Sasha Beatty at (703) 646-5188

    5. ==> Interview Actor Jim Meskimen on ‘Welcome to Chippendales’ and More

    You’ll likely recognize Jim Meskimen from his many TV and film roles over the past thirty-some years. His latest is playing Phil Donahue in the new Hulu mini-series “Welcome to Chippendales,” but you may have also seen him alongside Julia Roberts and Sean Penn in “Gaslit,” on the Amazon series “Hunters,” starring Al Pacino, or up on the big screen in one of five movies directed by Ron Howard (“Apollo 13” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” to name a couple). Invite Jim on your show to talk about his work in those productions and his recurring role on Apple TV’s upcoming series “The Big Door Prize,” by the creators of “Schitt’s Creek.” Jim currently plays Colonel Sanders in KFC commercials, as well as President George Washington crossing the Delaware Turnpike for GEICO, which led his mother, Marion Ross (Mrs. C. from Happy Days), to claim that she is now the mother of the father of our country! Contact Harlan Boll at (626) 296-3757; harlan@bhbpr.com

    6. ==> Women’s History Month: Why Women-Led Countries Are Happier

    For more than a century, women have crusaded for health and safety issues. Today, in countries where there are more women in elected office, people are healthier, both physically and mentally, and they say they are happier. That’s just one reason Debbie Peterson believes we need to elect more women, beyond the issue of equal representation. The former mayor of Grover Beach, California, will discuss 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’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.” She also hosts The Corruption Chronicles podcast. 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

    7. ==> Interview a Pioneering Female Diplomat

    Starting in 1975 and for the next 30 years, Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans lived her dream life. 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. Moreover, she did it as a Black single mother. If you have ever wondered what a diplomat does, what being in the Foreign Service is like, or what it was like to be stationed in a country where coups were commonplace, this is your chance to find out. Ask her: which place did you like best? How could you represent a country which didn’t always treat you fairly? Who were some of the famous people you met? What lessons have you learned that are applicable to others with big dreams? Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans’s new memoir is “Chocolates for Mary Judith: Black Woman Blazes Trails as a Career Diplomat.” She rose from the military equivalent of a first lieutenant to a major general. Contact Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> How the Most Productive, Creative People Get Things Done

    For a great interview filled with new ways to attack your to-do list, grow your network of important relationships, and move from underdog to high achiever, invite Steve Rosenberg to share his entertaining, no-nonsense approach to accomplish more than you thought you could. A serial entrepreneur with an impressive career in sports, hospitality and nonprofits, Rosenberg will reveal practical secrets and sound wisdom on how to be the can-do person you always wanted to be while building a large network of friends and colleagues who can be tapped to find answers you need. Rosenberg says, “I am a grinder and subscribe to the theory that when opportunity isn’t knocking, it’s time to build a door.” Steve Rosenberg has worked for the Washington Bullets (now Wizards), the National Constitution Center and the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. He is currently principal of GSD Group, a company that helps organizations achieve greater efficiency, success, productivity, and cultural competency. A frequent media guest, he has appeared in “The New York Times” and on “The Michael Smerconish Show” on Sirius XM, Fox 29, and other national media. His new book is “Make Bold Things Happen.” Contact him at (215) 435-2400; sr@theteamgsd.com

    9. ==> 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

    10. ==> What Really Goes On in the Courtroom: Crazy Lawyer Stories

    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. J.D. shares stories of the lighter side of the law with your audience, such as 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.” Ask him: What happened during the case of the fuzzy pink bathrobe mentioned in your book title? How did you win a case for a client when an Army psychologist failed his own disability test? What are some interesting custody and paternity cases you’ve been involved in? Contact J.D. Mortmain at (860) 969-2693; jdmortmain@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Can Perfume Cause Infertility?

    Not only can fragrances in everyday products such as soap, body lotion and laundry detergent cause a variety of health ailments, but products expert Zorica Denton learned that these could also cause infertility in women and men. “Studies shows that fragrances affect male sperm and women’s fertility, making it more difficult to get pregnant,” she says. “Products with fragrances may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals. But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica developed long-term, debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model. She is the founder of the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu, and the author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact her at (213) 616-7904; zdenton@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Could You Be an Empath? How to Tell

    Do you sometimes know something is going to happen before it does? Do you actually feel the pain of others? Do you experience keen physical discomfort in the presence of certain people? If so, you may be an empath or perhaps you may find that you know someone who is, someone like Jennifer Maag. She says, “After experiencing a traumatic brain injury due to falling at home, I became extremely empathic, which was a gift.” While being highly empathic can cause people to be hyper-sensitive, Jennifer can share how mastering the emotions that accompany this trait can greatly benefit one’s existence. Jennifer, a licensed massage therapist, and her son, Alexander Maag, are the co-authors of the critically acclaimed book “Take on God,” which explores how to transform inner battles into healing tools to live one’s best life. Contact her at (419) 969-3259; jmaag@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Jumpstart Your Weight-Loss Journey in One Week

    Millions of Americans carry 10, 20 or more pounds of excess weight but feel overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose it and get in shape. For anyone who is tired of being overweight but doesn’t know how to get started on their weight-loss journey, Alvin Perry has simplified the process to lose 3-5 pounds in seven days! This is not a quick fix, says Perry, but a process that sets in motion everything you need to reach your health goals. Invite him on your show to inspire listeners with his weight struggles that began in college after losing his football scholarship. Now a successful entrepreneur and small business expert, Perry will share the unique system he used to drop 80 pounds and transform his life, with just three basic principles. Alvin Perry, DBA, is also ISSA certified in personal training, fitness and nutrition. He’s the author of numerous books including his latest, “Just Fat!” Contact him at (678) 788-7529; aperry@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Boost Your Immun-a-Tea for a Healthier Winter

    Nobody wants to get sick, and there are quite a few nasty illnesses going around this winter. 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

    15. ==> Do You Keep Getting Bad Service? Maybe It’s You!

    Ask anyone and you are sure to hear some version of “customer service stinks” as well as the details of the latest incident in which they were treated as though their patronage didn’t matter. Your audience would love to hear how they can benefit from receiving A-1 service instead of mediocre service and Tawn Holstra Auston has the answers. She can offer some tips on what you can do to receive excellent service every time by being a better customer! Tawn has been advising small business owners for a decade and is working on a book that will tentatively be titled “Changing Gears: What It Takes to Make Huge Life Changes with Confidence and Grace.” Contact Tawn at (206) 495-6505; tauston@rtirguests.com

  • 3/7/2023 RTIR Newsletter: When Spouses Kill, Jimmy Carter, National Cheesesteak Day

    01. Murdaugh’s Guilty Verdict: When Spouses Kill
    02. Good News on Medicare and Drug Prices
    03. Jimmy Carter and Progressive Evangelicalism
    04. Oscar Night: A Surprising Nominee Fear
    05. It’s a Philly Thing – ‘Cheesesteaks & Tastykakes’ Anthem
    06. International Women’s Day – Why Men Should Embrace Their Feminine Side
    07. Is the Federal Government Still Failing Border Kids?
    08. Extreme Wealth: Survival of the Richest
    09. This Expert Shares How to Stop Thinking You’re Messed Up
    10. How to Use Brain Glue to Make Your Ideas Stick
    11. Rewriting Illness: When a Witty Novelist Gets Sick
    12. Disability Awareness Month: Equality for the Disabled
    13. April Is Math Awareness Month: Myths About Girls and Math
    14. How Trying to be the Perfect Parent Can Ruin Your Kids
    15. This Guest Loves to Talk About the Elephants in the Room

    1.==> Murdaugh’s Guilty Verdict: When Spouses Kill

    Alex Murdaugh was sentenced to life in prison on Friday for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son Paul. While the trial is over, many questions remain, including why the disgraced attorney would kill his family. Certified family law specialist Steve Mindel handles many celebrity and high-profile family law matters and is no stranger to cases where one spouse kills another. Ask him: What drives a person to commit murder? What additional factors may have been at play, other than those presented in court, that drove Alex Murdaugh to kill his family? What might Buster Murdaugh have been hiding? Or what is he still hiding? Mindel has theories other than those presented in court and suggests there are more “skeletons” in Murdaugh’s closet. Steve Mindel is the managing partner at FMBK Law in West Los Angeles and is regularly featured as a legal analyst on TV, radio and in print. Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; (714) 271-2140 or cherie@kerrpr-execuprov.com

    2. ==> Good News on Medicare and Drug Prices

    Recent analysis in the “Journal of Managed Care and Specialty Pharmacy” predicts that Medicare will most likely negotiate prices for 38 Medicare Part D drugs and two Part B drugs between 2026 and 2028. The 40 products eligible for negotiation –– including inhalers, antidiabetics, anticoagulants and more –– accounted for $67.4 billion in gross Medicare spending in 2020. Inmaculada Hernandez says out-of-pocket costs will go down for those drugs and make a “big difference in spending.” Invite Inmaculada Hernandez to discuss what drugs are set to be negotiated and when consumers will see the savings. The analysis also found that most high-priced drugs that are ineligible for negotiation already have a biosimilar or generic version on the market. Inmaculada Hernandez is an associate professor of clinical pharmacy at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at UC San Diego. Contact her at inhernandez@health.ucsd.edu

    3. ==> Jimmy Carter and Progressive Evangelicalism

    Many people are sharing stories about Jimmy Carter now that the 98-year-old former president has entered hospice care. As tributes pour in from around the globe, biographer Randall Balmer says there’s one source of inspiration for Carter that’s been overlooked –– his distinctive brand of progressive white evangelical Christianity. “At one time, there was a strong element within the [Southern Baptist] Convention that would be identified as progressive evangelicalism, but now that’s pretty much been obliterated,” he says. Today’s evangelical Christians are associated with conservative theological and political stances, but progressive evangelicals once led campaigns against slavery, fought for women’s rights and became leaders in social justice reform efforts. Balmer will recount how Carter defended a Black Naval Academy classmate and refused to join a white supremacist group, and how he is a feminist who appointed more women to his administration than any other president before him. Randall Balmer frequently appears in the media to comment on religion in American life. The author of “Redeemer: The Life of Jimmy Carter” is a professor at Dartmouth College. Contact him at (603) 646-9389; randall.balmer@dartmouth.edu

    4.==> Oscar Night: A Surprising Nominee Fear

    This Sunday, when Oscar-nominated celebrities attend the Academy Awards, they won’t just be concerned about the possibility of losing out on the coveted golden statue. They may be anxious about winning. “Acceptance speeches can cause anxiety,” says celebrity public-speaking coach Nina Surya.” Winners may feel judged by their peers and mistakes don’t go away.” This year people are also nervous about disruptions or someone acting out, like Will Smith’s infamous slap last year. Nina has worked with many famous people and can reveal the secrets to successful communication on stage and in everyday life. She is the president and CEO of UniqueSpeak Consulting and has served as a speech and communication coach to celebrities, top-level executives, politicians, and other public figures. Contact Nina at (310) 359-0787; nsurya@rtirguests.com

    5. ==> It’s a Philly Thing – ‘Cheesesteaks and Tastykakes’ Anthem

    Who doesn’t love a cheesesteak? Or a catchy tune? National Cheesesteak Day is Friday, March 24 and a great time to celebrate Philadelphia’s most famous foods. And while you’re getting your cheesesteak on, debating the merits of “with wiz” or without, share a fun, Philly anthem and video called “Cheesesteaks & Tastykakes.” Created by Philly ex-pat Pitz Quattrone and his guitarist friend Chris Robertson, the catchy ode is certain to put a smile on listeners’ faces, especially those who grew up in Philadelphia. Pitz, an international didgeridoo performer and maverick now based in Vermont, is a lively, entertaining guest. Check out the fun song and video on Pitz Quattrone’s YouTube channel. There’s even a karaoke version! Contact him at pitzquattrone@gmail.com

    6. ==> International Women’s Day – Why Men Should Embrace their Feminine Side

    Wednesday is International Women’s Day, a day to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to drive gender parity. Cindy Watson believes the world is out of balance because for far too long, we’ve defined success almost exclusively based on a masculine, competitive mode. “Ironically,” she says. “The true path to success is in leaning in to our feminine. Those traits typically regarded as feminine are the key skills necessary for effective negotiation.” Invite her on your show to discuss how leaning into your feminine side (whatever your gender) will secure better outcomes, healthier relationships, more creative solutions and more. She’ll also reveal the myths that have held women (and men) back from stepping into the full force of their feminine power. An attorney specializing in social justice law, Cindy Watson is the founder of Women on Purpose, the author of “The Art of Feminine Negotiation” and has a podcast with same title as her book. Contact her at (705) 646-3851; cindy@womenonpurpose.ca

    7. ==> Is the Federal Government Still Failing Border Kids?

    Anyone who follows the news is well aware that 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. Richard is the founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids and the author of the critically-acclaimed book, “Do No Harm: The U.S. Border Child Tragedy Continues.” Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Extreme Wealth: Survival of the Richest

    The new report Extreme Wealth estimates that over the last decade: the global billionaire class has more than doubled and their wealth has skyrocketed at a similar rate: 99.6%; Wealth in the U.S. has been steadily concentrated in fewer hands. U.S. households with more than $50 million have seen their wealth increase by 53.9% since 2012; for every $100 of wealth created over the last decade, $37.40 went to the top 1%. The bottom half of U.S. households only saw a $2 gain. Report co-authors Chuck Collins and Omar Ocampo can discuss the extreme levels of concentration of wealth and power across the globe, what it would take to even the playing field, and how the pandemic boosted the bottom line of billionaires. The report was released by the Institute for Policy Studies, Oxfam, Patriotic Millionaires, and Fight Inequality Alliance. It is a complement to Oxfam’s recently released Survival of the Richest. Contact Olivia Alperstein at olivia@ips-dc.org

    9. ==> This Expert Shares How to Stop Thinking You’re Messed Up

    Many people get trapped in a seemingly never-ending cycle of low self-esteem and are convinced that they are stuck in their limitations. They turn to self-judgment, self-abuse, poor choices and believing lies about themselves. But psychologist/author Dr. Adriana Popescu says it’s possible to stop the inner critic and stop feeling bad 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 the critically-acclaimed book “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

    10. ==> How to Use Brain Glue to Make Your Ideas Stick

    James Bond (no, not THAT one!) knows how to get to yes in surprising and unexpected ways. And whether you’re looking to sell more of your products or services, level up your career with a raise or promotion, or boost your personal life through better relationships, you need to hear from this guest. He reveals the incredible secrets to highly effective persuasion that will have more people than you ever imagined saying “yes!” to your ideas, offerings, and so much more by applying “brain glue” to make yourself unforgettable. A top behavioral management and business marketing specialist, James has worked with a virtual Who’s Who of American business as well as numerous Fortune 500 companies. This popular and frequent media guest has been featured in “Forbes” and the “Los Angeles Times” and appeared on ABC News, CBS News, and Fox News, among many others. Jack Canfield calls his new book, “Brain Glue,” “mind-blowing…this should be required reading for anyone in business.” Contact James Bond at (805) 424-8611; jbond@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Rewriting Illness: When a Witty Novelist Gets Sick

    What happens when a witty novelist with a lifetime of fear about getting sick finds a lump where no lump should be? Months of medical mishaps, coded language, and doctors who don’t get It. With wisdom, self-effacing wit, and the story-telling artistry of an acclaimed novelist, Elizabeth Benedict will share the journey of her cancer diagnosis and treatment after discovering multiplying lumps in her armpit. From a muddled diagnosis to “natural remedies” and debilitating treatments, she’ll share what she learned from the experience and how she gathered sustenance from family, an assortment of friends, and a fearless “cancer guru.” Ask her: Is there a cancer personality? How do doctors’ own fears influence their comments to patients? After a diagnosis, which fear is worse, the fear of knowing or the reality of knowing? Benedict’s new book is “Rewriting Illness: A View of My Own.” Her novels include the national best-seller, “Almost,” and the classic book on writing about sex in fiction, “The Joy of Writing Sex,” in print for 25 years. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

    12. ==> Disability Awareness Month: Equality for the Disabled

    More than 6 million Americans live with developmental disabilities that include autism, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy and traumatic brain injuries. Sadly, many of them face discrimination daily. March is Disability Awareness Month and a great opportunity to discuss the issue of equality for the disabled with Zylo Marshall. Zylo suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident when he was just 11 months old. Remarkably, he overcame the odds, has lived on his own since he was a teen, and even became a Realtor. Unfortunately, Zylo lost his career and inheritance when he was taken advantage of due to his disability. He’ll explain how it happened and how it has made him even more passionate about stopping the exploitation of disabled people and recognizing them as equals. Zylo Marshall is a TBI survivor and motivational speaker. Contact him at (561) 203-9061; zylomarshall@gmail.com

    13. ==> April Is Math Awareness Month: Myths About Girls and Math

    It’s long been believed that girls lack math skills. “That’s a myth!” says author and STEM professor Chris A. Goldberg. “In fact, female students tend to perform better than boys in math. But they suffer from lower confidence and a lack of role models in the STEM-related fields and do not pursue these careers, according to a recent study.” Chris can share how girls can get their inspiration from such role models as mathematician Dr. Gladys B. West, an African American woman credited for the major calculations that led to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). He is the author of “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact Chris at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com
    14. ==> How Trying to be the Perfect Parent Can Ruin Your Kids

    Many parents attempt to be perfect and expect the same from their kids. But author Jerry Bures claims that this does a lot more harm than good. “Striving for perfection in parenting is both unrealistic and unnecessary,” he says. ” It’s the curse of parenting. It’s more about getting it mostly right, most of the time, and celebrating more of what goes well and beating yourself up less for what goes wrong.” Jerry should know. As a dad to six kids, including one with significant special needs, he had to learn how to deal with the pressures of what he calls “crisis parenting.” He 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

    15. ==> This Guest Loves to Talk About the Elephants in the Room

    Elephants are very popular in modern culture, with good reason. They are majestic, lovable and highly intelligent. But according to animal/environmental welfare activist Georja Umano, pachyderms are more than just adorable. “They 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 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 the award-winning book “Terriers in the Jungle,” and is launching a nonprofit called the Elephant Matriarch Project for Mothers and Children, the goal of which is to educate and train young underprivileged African women and girls for careers in wildlife conservation. Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com