Category: Weekly Ezine Archives

  • 7/12/2022 RTIR Newsletter: New Virus Worries, True Crime, Save the Firefly

    01. Will SCOTUS Endorse Dangerous Election Theory?
    02. Monkey Pox – Is it a Public Health Emergency?
    03. True Crime – Mormons, Murder and Mexican Drug Lords
    04. Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti
    05. Are Fireflies Disappearing?
    06. The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings
    07. Interview a Former Pioneering Black Diplomat
    08. How to Be Happy Right Now
    09. Can You Be Allergic to a Spouse?
    10. This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s
    11. How to Have a Better Brain This Summer
    12. Is Adoption Always the Answer to Infertility?
    13. How to Survive a Toxic Mother
    14. Outrageous Stuff that Happens at Open Houses
    15. Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season

    1.==> Will SCOTUS Endorse Dangerous Election Theory?

    On the heels of groundbreaking decisions on Roe v. Wade and gun rights, the U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to take up another case with the potential to profoundly reshape American life – this time at the ballot box. Joshua Douglas can discuss Moore v. Harper and how it raises the question of whether there are any limits to the kinds of election rules that state legislatures may pass. He believes it could make it easier for political incumbents to entrench themselves in office and could even put the 2024 election in peril. “We already have a skewed democracy thanks to partisan gerrymandering and restrictive elections, which make it easier for incumbents to craft rules to help keep themselves in power. If the Supreme Court agrees with North Carolina Republicans in this new case, then our democracy will become even more tilted in favor of those powerful interests.” Joshua Douglas is a professor at the University of Kentucky. He is the author of “Vote for US: How to Take Back Our Elections and Change the Future of Voting.” Contact him at (859) 257-4935; joshuadouglas@uky.edu

    2. ==> Monkey Pox – Is it a Public Health Emergency?

    Seven weeks since the first monkeypox case was identified in the U.S., around 5,000 cases have been identified in 58 nations around the world. Late last month, the CDC announced its mass monkeypox vaccination plan but the World Health Organization has declined to declare monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), although much of the criteria for the category are already met. Some experts expressed surprise, calling it a “missed opportunity.” Gregg Gonsalves began writing about monkeypox more than a month ago for “The Nation.” It’s not getting better,” Gonsalves says. “There is the sense that many of the cases are undiagnosed,” he noted. Things are “much worse than they were a week ago.” The risks of not declaring a PHEIC, Gonsalves says, are that “frankly we won’t be able to contain it. The more cases you have, the harder it is to do cleanup.” Gregg Gonsalves is an expert in policy modeling on infectious diseases and substance use at Yale University. Contact him at gregg.gonsalves@yale.edu

    3. ==> True Crime – Mormons, Murder and Mexican Drug Lords

    On the morning of November 4, 2019, an unassuming caravan of women and children was ambushed by masked gunmen on a desolate stretch of road in northern Mexico controlled by the Sinaloa drug cartel. The attackers killed nine people and gravely injured five more. The victims were members of the LeBarón and La Mora communities—fundamentalist Mormons whose forebears broke from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) Church and settled in Mexico when the church outlawed polygamy in the late 19th century. Invite best-selling investigative journalist Sally Denton to discuss the still-ongoing case and why she believes it is a cautionary tale about the impending water wars in the U.S. Southwest, with a drying up water supply and armed violence. Her new book, “The Colony: Faith and Blood in a Promised Land,” begins as the story of a massacre and unfurls into the strange, violent history of the LeBaron clan in a land much stranger than fiction. Sally Denton has an extensive background in print and broadcast journalism, as well as magazine and book writing. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

    4.==> Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti

    Anyone with an unusual name will be able to relate to Ashanti’s new book, “My Name Is A Story.” inspired by the Grammy-Award winner’s childhood experiences, it’s an empowering tale about a self-conscious young girl who learns to love her unique name. Ashanti can talk about why she chose to write a children’s book. Also ask her about her upcoming summer concerts and what else she’s working on now. “My Name Is A Story,” the debut picture book from singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist Ashanti, with illustrations by Monica Mikai, is currently available for purchase. For interviews, contact Michelle Huff Elliott at michelle@strategicheights.com

    5. ==> Are Fireflies Disappearing?

    Chasing lightning bugs on a summer night has long been a rite of passage for many youngsters. But you may feel as if you are seeing fewer flashes across the night sky compared to when you were younger. Sérgio Henriques, the invertebrate conservation coordinator for the Indianapolis Zoo’s Global Center for Species Survival, can explain “little and easy” things listeners can do to help increase lightning bug populations including reducing lights at night, planting native species, installing a rain garden and reducing the chemicals you use on your yard or in your house. You’ll also learn how you can participate in Firefly Watch, an ongoing initiative to better survey and know the extent of lightning bug populations across the nation. “Fireflies are a privilege,” Henriques says. “It would be such a waste of a treasure if they were to decline or be gone.” Contact Kelly Griese at (317) 735-6381; kgriese@indyzoo.com or Judy Palermo at (317) 630-2010; jpalermo@indyzoo.com

    6. ==> The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings

    The world continues to watch the seemingly never-ending mass shootings in the U.S. − particularly in schools such as Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas − in shock and horror. While social observers remain baffled about the “whys” and “hows” of these horrific tragedies, renowned scholar Sousan Abadian, Ph.D., claims the reasons are shockingly simple. “It’s all about fear,” she says. ” All those people owning/carrying guns are the most frightened people around. How did they become so fearful, and how do we reassure them?” Dr. Sousan can discuss some of the reasons why American society may be so fear-based, including spiritual trauma, and that we are collectively suffering from the “trauma virus.” She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University and conducts workshops on healing from spiritual trauma. Contact Sousan at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> Interview a Former Pioneering Black 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 to Be Happy Right Now

    A recent Gallup poll revealed that happiness in the United States is at an all-time low, with just 38% of Americans saying they’re satisfied. Millions are suffering from depression, anxiety, and a general sense of unhappiness that has caused many to lose hope for the future. Valerie Whetstone can help your audience turn things around and find the happiness that keeps eluding them. A best-selling author and life and wellness coach who has trained with Oprah Winfrey and Jack Canfield, she reveals five easy steps to being happy NOW that anyone can follow – no matter what kind of day (or life) they’re having! Ask her: What is the worst enemy of happiness that we all face? Why does she say that we have to slow down in order to speed up? How can we get rid of negativity when we’re surrounded by bad news every day? Contact Valerie Whetstone at (408) 752-5943; vwhetstone@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Can You Be Allergic to a Spouse?

    Do you sneeze uncontrollably whenever your wife or hubby tries to hug you? Do you wake up with a headache after sleeping next to your other half? According to products ingredients expert Zorica Denton, you may be allergic to the fragrances in their soap, body lotion or something else they use, and not even know it. “Products with fragrances may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals,” she says. “But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica developed asthma and other long-term, debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model, and almost died. 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 Zorica at (213) 616-7904; zdenton@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s

    Most people over 60 who wish to continue working fear age discrimination and a workforce that seems to favor younger employees. But Judy Balloff claims that’s nonsense. “I started a new career at age 64 in a job I had never done before, and I have made over half a million dollars at an age when many take social security,” she says. “Treat looking for a job like a job. Be open-minded about doing something with your skills that never occurred to you before.” Judy can share these and other tips for landing your dream job in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> How to Have a Better Brain This Summer

    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 their caregivers, and David is a board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine and geriatrics. 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 or Melissa at (813) 922- 2876; david@powerof5life.com or melissa@powerof5life.com

    12. ==> Is Adoption Always the Answer to Infertility?

    If you have never grappled with infertility you may wonder why infertile couples don’t simply adopt a child. You may even think it is OK to suggest this to couples who share their infertility issue with you. But as Frances Jones will tell you, the suggestion that such couples adopt may be considered insulting or insensitive. Bring Frances on your show to talk about infertility including what you should not say to couples who are not childless by choice. She’ll also explain why adoption is often not the answer and why the issues it raises are not just about having a child in the home. Frances Jones is the author of “Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed,” a book that tells the story of her over 20-year journey of never conceiving children and offers tips for couples traveling a similar journey. Ask her how adopting two children affected the shame, hurt, and disappointment she experienced in not having biological children. How do well-intentioned people sometimes make infertility issues worse? She’s a global women empowerment speaker, an advocate, and a transformational coach who has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox Soul’s “The Tammi Mac Late Show,” Fox affiliates, the “Los Angeles Tribune,” and other media. Contact Frances Jones at (901) 910-0915; fjones@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How to Survive a Toxic Mother

    When a boy has a toxic mother — someone who is abusive, addicted to drugs, or mentally ill — he will have a difficult time as an adult. The early collateral damage he suffers is rarely discussed but likely will lead to difficulties with his spouse, lovers, and children. Guy Arcuri, Ph.D., who suffered for years as the son of a verbally, mentally, and emotionally abusive mother, is now a married father of two who trains other people to heal themselves. Ask him how and why do men shy away from addressing the deep wounds caused by growing up with a toxic mother? What are some of the ways the voices of the sons of toxic mothers are underrepresented in our culture? The author of “Toxic Mothers: A Son’s Guide to Healing and Moving On,” he is an educational consultant, author, trainer, coach, retreat provider, experienced talk show guest, and voiceover artist. Contact Guy at (336) 345-4891; drguyteacher@gmail.com

    14. ==> Outrageous Stuff that Happens at Open Houses

    An open house is supposed to induce sales, not mirth. But people sometimes do weird things at open houses and other showings, especially if they are looking at multimillion-dollar properties. Usually known only to real estate professionals, these zany stories can be yours when you interview top Realtor Valerie Fitzgerald, cohost of the new podcast “Real Estate, Real Laughs.” She can talk about people who show up to see luxurious manses in broken-down jalopies or on foot — somehow negotiating the freeway — the guy who wanted a limo to pick him up at a seedy motel where he was living, or the couple having sex in the backyard of a house that was being shown. The former star of HGTV’s “Selling L.A,” former Ford model and TEDx speaker, is one of Coldwell Banker’s Top 10 Agents, with $3 billion in sales. Valerie has 30,000 followers on Instagram. Her new weekly podcast proves there is a side to real estate most people don’t know about: the fun side. Contact Valerie Fitzgerald at (310) 861-3238; vfitzgerald@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season

    It’s summertime and Americans are headed to the beach, but beware, especially if you’re on Cape Cod, there are sharks in the water. According to great white shark researchers on the Cape, early July coincides with warmer waters that lead into the primary shark sighting season from August through October. Greg Skomal, a state marine biologist in Massachusetts, advises beachgoers to be most vigilant when swimming off beaches where the shoreline quickly drops off into deeper waters to reduce the risks of bumping into a shark. “Sharks will come close to the shore when they have water depth,” Skomal says. Cape Cod is the only known place in the Northwest Atlantic where great white sharks are known to aggregate, and the number of sightings has likely increased as their primary prey species, the gray seal, began to recover. Gregory Skomal, Ph.D., heads up the Massachusetts Shark Research Program (MSRP) and is an adjunct scientist with the Center for Shark Research in Sarasota, Florida. Contact him at (508) 742-9745; gregory.skomal@mass.gov

  • 7/6/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Grammy Winner Ashanti, Sharks, Mental Health Myths

    01. Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti
    02. Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season
    03. Are There Warning Signs Before a Mass Shooting?
    04. Another Devastating Supreme Court Decision
    05. Mental Health Myths about Women and Abortion
    06. Are the Jan. 6 Commission Hearings Just Politics?
    07. What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mexican Border?
    08. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
    09. Why Going Vegan Could Be Disastrous for Your Health
    10. Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
    11. 4 Tips to Ease Social Anxiety
    12. COVID’s Toll on Alzheimer’s Patients
    13. Can We Make Pregnancy Safer for Women?
    14. Quick-Start Your COVID Weight Loss
    15. Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

    1. ==> Interview Grammy Winner Ashanti

    Anyone with an unusual name will be able to relate to Ashanti’s new book, “My Name Is A Story.” inspired by the Grammy-Award winner’s childhood experiences, it’s an empowering tale about a self-conscious young girl who learns to love her unique name. Ashanti can talk about why she chose to write a children’s book. Also ask her about her upcoming summer concerts and what else she’s working on now. “My Name Is A Story,” the debut picture book from singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist Ashanti, with illustrations by Monica Mikai, is currently available. For interviews, contact Michelle Huff Elliott at michelle@strategicheights.com

    2. ==> Great White Worries – It’s Shark Season

    It’s summertime and Americans are headed to the beach, but beware, especially if you’re on Cape Cod, there are sharks in the water. According to great white shark researchers on the Cape, early July coincides with warmer waters that lead into the primary shark sighting season from August through October. Greg Skomal, a state marine biologist in Massachusetts, advises beachgoers to be most vigilant when swimming off beaches where the shoreline quickly drops off into deeper waters to reduce the risks of bumping into a shark. “Sharks will come close to the shore when they have water depth,” Skomal says. Cape Cod is the only known place in the Northwest Atlantic where great white sharks are known to aggregate, and the number of sightings has likely increased as their primary prey species, the gray seal, began to recover. Gregory Skomal, Ph.D., heads up the Massachusetts Shark Research Program (MSRP) and is an adjunct scientist with the Center for Shark Research in Sarasota, Florida. Contact him at (508) 742-9745; gregory.skomal@mass.gov

    3. ==> Are There Warning Signs Before a Mass Shooting?

    There have been at least 314 mass shootings in the U.S. this year. On July Fourth alone there were at least six, including one at a holiday parade in a Chicago suburb that left six dead and dozens injured. Jaclyn Schildkraut, a national expert on mass shootings, looks at the behavior of shooters before a tragedy. She says things usually start with a grievance, like a break-up or loss of a job. She’ll discuss warning signs and red flags, and why, despite most shooters posting on social media and telling others of their plans, these mass killings continue. For those who are anxious about being in public these days, she’ll also share ways to feel safer when you’re in a crowd. “I always walk in somewhere and do a quick scan and check where the exits are. I’m also situationally aware of what’s going on around me. But I don’t stop living my life because the reality is this can happen anywhere at any time, and even in our own homes,” she says. Jaclyn Schildkraut, Ph.D., is an associate professor of criminal justice at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego. Contact her at (561) 609-8035 (cell); info@jaclyn.schildkraut.com

    4. ==> Another Devastating Supreme Court Decision

    The Supreme Court’s decision to severely limit the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency to combat greenhouse gas emissions not only endangers the planet, legal expert Erwin Chemerinsky says it also poses a broad and serious threat to the power of federal agencies to adopt regulations to protect public health and safety in other fields. He says, “The decision reflects an aspect of the Roberts court that has not gotten as much attention as it has overturned precedents on abortion, guns and religion. This is a court that is profoundly pro-business, even in the face of clear threats to public health and safety.” Believing this decision will have huge long-term effects, he adds, “The court’s hubris and its decision to give businesses a way to challenge every sort of federal regulatory power will do this nation great damage.” Erwin Chemerinsky is dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law and a contributing writer to Opinion. He is the author, most recently, of “Presumed Guilty: How the Supreme Court Empowered the Police and Subverted Civil Rights.” Contact him at echemerinsky@law.berkeley.edu

    5. ==> Mental Health Myths about Women and Abortion

    “There’s so much misinformation, so many myths about abortion. Abortion will lead to substance abuse, depression, suicidal thoughts; abortion is bad for your health; every woman is going to regret it,” says social psychologist Brenda Major, a distinguished professor emeritus in the department of psychological and brain sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In reality, decades of research have shown that “the vast majority of women feel they made the right choice, and they don’t experience regret,” says Major, who led a 2008 American Psychological Association task force exploring the science on abortion and mental health. Women who had an abortion in the first trimester were no more likely to have mental health problems than women who continued with an unplanned pregnancy, the APA review concluded. Contact Brenda Major at (805) 893-7238; brenda.major@psych.ucsb.edu

    6. ==> Are the Jan. 6 Commission Hearings Just Politics?

    As the Jan. 6 Commission continues its public hearings, it’s reasonable to wonder what effect they will have on the country. Sure, they represent 10 months of investigatory work, the collection of more than 130,000 documents, and testimony from more than 1,000 witnesses, but is the committee preaching to the choir? Is the committee guilty of demonizing Donald Trump without giving him the right to defend himself? Are the hearings dividing the country even more? Are they all about politics or should Trump be prosecuted and banned from running again? And what about the paradoxical way former Attorney General William Barr admitted that Trump’s claims of election fraud were “detached from reality” yet still said he would support him once again should he be the GOP nominee? Interview Sheryl White, DDiv, to discuss the questions on your listeners’ minds. A self-described independent conservative, White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact her at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

    7. ==> What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mexican Border?

    The world looked on in horror when families emigrating to the U.S. from Mexico were separated at the border in 2017 and 2018. “This was because of the U.S. government’s ineptitude, losing contact with thousands of families and its faltering efforts at reunification for these families,” says Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids. But thanks in part to his valiant efforts, 2,000 of those 5,000 kids have been reunited with their families. Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

    As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the “Los Angeles Times” to the BBC and Scripps Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, California, and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; info@DebbiePeterson.com

    9. ==> Why Going Vegan Could be Disastrous for Your Health

    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. She is the co-founder of the first-of-its-kind Keto Symposium to be held in the New York tri-state area on Sept. 23 and Sept. 24, at the New York Library Performing Arts at Lincoln Center — Bruno Walter Auditorium. Contact her at (203) 984-7989; kristinaihess@gmail.com

    10. ==> Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
    The feeling of being stuck in a rut or trapped by life’s circumstances is all too common, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that has left us with fewer choices than ever. Laura Brennan Ballet is here to help us break free of the negative patterns that keep us stuck in unhappy jobs, relationships, or situations – simply by changing the way we think. An experienced life coach and the author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura can teach your audience how to not just think differently, but to actually recalibrate your brain and move forward with intent, free of the negativity that’s been holding you back. Ask her: Is it really possible to live without regrets? Why does she say that we all become algorithms of the people around us? How can we “think better?” Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435 or lballet@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> 4 Tips to Ease Social Anxiety

    Are you worried about going out in public because you fear that other people will judge you? Do you struggle to interact with strangers? Have you avoided speaking up for yourself at work or at home because you’re afraid that you won’t be liked enough to be taken seriously? You may be relieved to know that you’re not alone – and that you don’t have to struggle with these and other common symptoms of social anxiety. Collectively, our social anxiety has only gotten worse since the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Interview Lee Vallely, the author of “Kick the Sh*t out of Social Anxiety,” to help your audience ease the stress of social anxiety and start enjoying their lives. Ask him: What are four things you can do right now if you’re experiencing social anxiety? Why is “feel the fear and do it anyway” terrible advice? How can simple breathing help you overcome social anxiety? Contact Lee Vallely at (561) 658-1266 or lvallely@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> COVID’s Toll on Alzheimer’s Patients

    Isolation was a huge issue for many during the COVID pandemic, but for those in memory care facilities suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s the isolation triggered faster declines in cognitive health due to loneliness and not being connected. Lisa Skinner, a behavioral specialist, says she’s now seeing a shift in caring for Alzheimer’s patients, with more adult children caring for ailing parents in their homes. Lisa Skinner and Douglas Collins are the authors of “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces.” Singer/songwriter Phil Vassar shares his personal story in a chapter called “Bringing Mom Home” which details how his family was proactive during the course of Alzheimer’s disease and had a plan in place for each stage of it. Lisa Skinner has appeared on “CBS News,” “NBC News,” ”Fox News,” and “ABC News,” and in “USA Today,” “Health & Fitness,” and many other publications. Phil Vassar’s signature songs include 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits. Contact Dianemarie (DM) Collins at (775) 825-1727; DM@DMProductionsLLC.com or @DMCollins. Contact Phil Vassar by texting (615) 727-2323; or bqsdad@yahoo.com

    13. ==> What Can We Do to Make Pregnancy Safer for Women?

    Even in the 21st century, pregnancy is rough for most women. And it can be unsafe and even fatal, particularly in the U.S. which has the highest rate of maternal fatalities in the developed world. To find out why, and how we can do better for mothers and babies especially after the end of Roe v. Wade, interview OB specialist obstetrician Alan Lindemann, M.D., who in his 40-year rural practice has delivered more than 6,000 babies without a single maternal death. Dr. Lindemann is the author of “Safe Pregnancy Explained: Three Steps to a Safer Pregnancy.” He can also answer questions about morning sickness, lifestyle changes, and what expectant fathers can do to improve the health of their partners. Ask him: Why do we lose so many women in childbirth? How can complications be prevented? What can be done about “maternity deserts” that keep expectant moms far from hospitals and care? What are some of the biggest lessons learned from patients? What should women know about C-sections? Contact Dr. Lindemann at (701) 399-9556; ALindemann@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Quick-Start Your COVID Weight Loss

    Millions of Americans are walking around with ten, 20 or more COVID pounds and are overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose the weight 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 lbs. 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

    15. ==> Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

    Most people believe it takes willpower, smarts and motivation to accomplish great things, but do you know the actual secret ingredient that world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives rely on to create their exceptional outcomes? Invite Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., on your show to discuss the power of patterns and how an awareness of what he calls the game of patterns can up-level your personal, professional and business life. Dr. Feinberg will show your audience how to recognize hidden patterns in their daily interactions and decisions so they can accomplish life goals they never dreamed possible. Ask him: What is Shutdown Syndrome? Why do you say that persistence is a problem? What do you mean by “first adapter”? What is the Meta-Game? With 40 years of experience as an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs in companies like Google, Visa, Apple, and more, Dr. Feinberg has unlocked the secrets to achieving what people say can’t be done. For his new book, “Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play The Meta-Game,” he interviewed over 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs. Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540; sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

  • 6/28/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Post-Roe America, Secrets that Kill, What Your Neighbors Know

    01. Handbook for a Post-Roe America
    02. Will Conservative Court Strike Down Other Precedents?
    03. The High Court and Affirmative Action
    04. Metallica, Coldplay, Rolling Stones: Test Your Rock Band Knowledge
    05. Must-Know July 4th Safety Tips
    06. The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings
    07. The ‘Perfect Storm’ in the Workplace Now
    08. Feeling Helpless? Hopeless? How to Be Happy Now
    09. Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns
    10. The Two Choices the Most Successful People Make
    11. Are You Keeping Secrets That Can Kill You?
    12. Surprising Reason Your Neighbors May Outlive You
    13. How Does Alzheimer’s Impact Families?
    14. Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained
    15. How to Live Your Best Life in Your 50s and Beyond

    1.==> Handbook for a Post-Roe America

    The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday struck down the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion in the United States. Some 13 U.S. states have “trigger laws” to immediately ban abortion in those states following Roe’s reversal, and a similar number are moving to restrict or ban access to abortion in their states, which will lead to an estimated 40 million women losing access to abortion in their states, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a public-health think tank that supports abortion access. Robin Marty, director of operations at West Alabama Women’s Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, can discuss who will be most affected by the High Court’s ruling and why she is so concerned. “There’s no end to the desperation of people who want to terminate a pregnancy,” she says. Marty is the author of the book “Handbook for a Post-Roe America.” She was just featured by NPR in the piece “Patients in ‘Trigger Law’ States Reorient after Access to Abortion Care Halts.” Contact Ruth Weiner at ruth@sevenstories.com; @robinmarty

    2. ==> Will Conservative Court Strike Down Other Precedents?

    With the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, many wonder what rights the court’s conservative majority will strike down next. Legal expert Francis Boyle says, “The Federalist Society, with its complete distortion of the Constitution and phony concept of ‘Originalism,’ is ultimately going to target much of FDR’s New Deal and the Warren Court precedents including even Brown v. Board of Education. Also, freedom of the press — they will seek to overturn New York Times v. Sullivan protecting America’s Fourth Estate.” Boyle says the group has been packing the courts since the Reagan administration and suggests Democrats embrace counter-packing and also consider expanding the court. “Contrary to what many claim, FDR’s plan to expand the Supreme Court was a great success. The court got the message and began to uphold his New Deal legislation after previously striking it down, which prompted his scheme in the first place. So he did not have to pack the court. But these Federalist Society members are so hardcore, it will be needed now.” Francis Boyle is a professor of law at the University of Illinois. His books include “Tackling America’s Toughest Questions.” Contact him at fboyle@illinois.edu

    3. ==> The High Court and Affirmative Action

    Affirmative action came out of the civil rights movement as a means to address inequalities experienced by minorities. It became law through an executive order made by John F. Kennedy in 1961. Given the current make-up of the Supreme Court, and with two upcoming cases challenging it, now is a good time to talk about affirmative action’s past and future with author Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans). She can discuss whether affirmative action is reverse discrimination, how effective it has been and who it benefits, and whether it has always been controversial. Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans, a Fulbright Scholar, was one of the first Black women in the Foreign Service. A child of educators, she grew up in public housing in the Jim Crow South where Blacks were told they lived in a separate, but equal society. She is the author of “Flowers for Brother Mudd: One Woman’s Path from Jim Crow to Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtir.com

    4.==> Metallica, Coldplay, Rolling Stones: Test Your Rock Band Knowledge

    AXS TV hits the concert scene this summer to put music fans to the ultimate test in the all-new trivia series “Parking Lot Payday.” The show puts a fun and unique spin on the traditional game show experience as host Zach Selwyn visits concert parking lots and asks attendees to prove how much they really know about the iconic acts they’re about to see. From Coldplay to Metallica and The Rolling Stones, select fans have the opportunity to answer up to ten multiple-choice questions worth cash prizes up to $2,500. The show premieres July 12 on AXS TV. Zach Selwyn has appeared on “Around the Horn” (ESPN), “Attack of the Show!” and “America’s Secret Slang,” among other TV shows. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

    5. ==> Must-Know July 4th Safety Tips

    Nothing can ruin a holiday gathering more than a trip to the emergency room or a visit from your local firefighters! Whether it’s a grill fire as you’re preparing dinner, someone slipping around the pool, or a serious burn from a sparkler, the Fourth of July holiday is filled with opportunities for accidents and mishaps. Former chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Hon. Nancy Steorts will reveal the biggest threats this holiday weekend and share ways to make sure your family enjoys the summer season without anyone having to call 911. Nancy Steorts is the author of several books including “Your Home Safe Home” and “Safe Living in a Dangerous World.” Contact her at (703) 790-5116; (240) 401-7782 (cell); nancysteorts@cox.net

    6. ==> The Real Reason Behind America’s Mass Shootings

    The world continues to watch the seemingly never-ending mass shootings in the U.S. − particularly in schools such as Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas − in shock and horror. While social observers remain baffled about the “whys” and “hows” of these horrific tragedies, renowned scholar Sousan Abadian, Ph.D., claims the reasons are shockingly simple. “It’s all about fear,” she says. ” All those people owning/carrying guns are the most frightened people around. How did they become so fearful, and how do we reassure them?” Dr. Sousan can discuss some of the reasons why American society may be so fear-based, including spiritual trauma, and that we are collectively suffering from the “trauma virus.” She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University and conducts workshops on healing from spiritual trauma. Contact Sousan at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> The ‘Perfect Storm’ in the Workplace Now

    When unhappy workers started quitting their jobs in unprecedented numbers the phenomenon was dubbed “The Great Resignation,” but Oreste D’Aversa says yet another shift is occurring as aging baby boomers leave the workforce. “I view this ‘perfect storm’ as creating not so much a revolution, but more of an evolution of the way business needs to hire, retain, and motivate employees so everyone can be content, productive, and prosperous.” Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” on your show and learn how to navigate this evolving world of work. He’ll share his revolutionary step-by-step blueprint to reinvent your life and thrive, explain what people get wrong about happiness and money, and help listeners get unstuck, define their life’s purpose, and be more prosperous in every aspect of life. Oreste D’Aversa is a life and business coach, corporate trainer and all-faith minister. Contact him at (201) 949-3002; odaversa@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Feeling Helpless? Hopeless? How to Be Happy Now

    A recent Gallup poll revealed that happiness in the United States is at an all-time low, with just 38% of Americans saying they’re satisfied. Millions are suffering from depression, anxiety, and a general sense of unhappiness that has caused many to lose hope for the future. Valerie Whetstone can help your audience turn things around and find the happiness that keeps eluding them. A best-selling author and life and wellness coach who has trained with Oprah Winfrey and Jack Canfield, she reveals five easy steps to being happy NOW that anyone can follow – no matter what kind of day (or life) they’re having! Ask her: What is the worst enemy of happiness that we all face? Why does she say that we have to slow down in order to speed up? How can we get rid of negativity when we’re surrounded by bad news every day? Contact Valerie Whetstone at (408) 752-5943 or vwhetstone@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Can You Rewire Your Own Brain? How to Break Negative Patterns

    The feeling of being stuck in a rut or trapped by life’s circumstances is all too common, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that has left us with fewer choices than ever. Laura Brennan Ballet is here to help us break free of the negative patterns that keep us stuck in unhappy jobs, relationships, or situations – simply by changing the way we think. An experienced life coach and the author of “The Science of Empowerment,” Laura can teach your audience how to not just think differently, but to actually recalibrate your brain and move forward with intent, free of the negativity that’s been holding you back. Ask her: Is it really possible to live without regrets? Why does she say that we all become algorithms of the people around us? How can we “think better?” Contact Laura Ballet at (860) 831-4435 or lballet@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Two Choices the Most Successful People Make

    What do highly savvy people do on their way to great accomplishments, wealth, power and influence? How do they become confident and fulfilled? Choice expert Rico Racosky — with an impressive career as a fighter pilot, airline pilot, and creator of the Choice Revolution — has the answers. Ask him: How has the way people make choices changed in recent years? How has it opened up more opportunities? How can you recognize a poor choice before you make one? The author of “Just 2 Choices” also speaks nationwide on making choices that will reward you with relationship happiness, better income and savings, career and entrepreneurial success, wellness and fitness, and even longevity. Contact Rico Racosky at (720) 572-1321; RRacosky@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Are You Keeping Secrets That Can Kill You?

    Everyone knows that keeping secrets can be stressful. But what most people don’t know is that it can also lead to illnesses including cancer. Attorney, author and cancer survivor Francine Tone discusses the worst things to keep to yourself that can lead to illness, suffering and even the loss of life. She’s not merely talking about what you don’t tell your doctor or what happens with missed screenings. She’s talking about traumas, big and small, that happen to everyone that you keep hidden out of shame. Francine is a sought-after interview guest on legal matters and overcoming everything from abuse to debilitating accidents. She is the author of “What Every Good Lawyer Wants You to Know.” Contact her at (531) 208-1297; FTone@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Surprising Reason Your Neighbors May Outlive You

    Most of us look at our neighbors and make silent comparisons. Some certainly look worse than we do, older, paunchier, and perhaps grayer. But we may concede that some look better, more active, upbeat, and healthier, making us wonder what they know that we don’t. You could ask them, but you probably won’t. Instead, why not ask nurse practitioner (APRN) Anne McAwley-LeDuc, an award-winning author? Anne says the healthiest people don’t just see physicians regularly, stick to a healthful diet and exercise program, take prescription medicines correctly and avoid bad habits. According to Anne, they also keep accurate health histories and records. She’ll reveal the importance of maintaining key information about every doctor visit, and all procedures, tests, treatments, vaccinations, and prescriptions for every family member. Anne is the creator of the “Personal Health Organizer.” Contact her at (860) 300- 603; AMcAwley@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> How Does Alzheimer’s Impact Families?

    Alzheimer’s disease affects some 5.8 million American families with loved ones over 65 while its younger version, early-onset, affects at least 200,000 more. Whenever this progressive, memory-robbing disease strikes, families are tested on so many levels: emotionally, physically, financially, and mentally, in ways most of us can’t imagine.
    For a look at Alzheimer’s hidden toll on families, interview Carlen Maddux, a former reporter who cared for his wife for 17 years after she was diagnosed at 50. He can talk about how his wife’s illness affected their children and his marriage and the lessons he learned along the way. He is the author of “A Path Revealed” and has done dozens of interviews. Contact him at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Ice, Ice Baby: Frozen Embryo Adoption Explained

    Adoption is certainly a beautiful, loving way to bring a new child into one’s family. But like many couples, Nate Birt and his wife wanted to make their adoption journey particularly special. They chose to adopt a frozen embryo that was implanted, carried, and delivered by Nate’s wife. Now the Birts are delighted to be the parents of a lovely little daughter and have written a “how-to” book about the process. Invite Nate on-air to explain how all this happened and what others can do to turn a frozen embryo into a joyful birth. Contact Nate Birt at (417) 221-9045; Nbirt@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> How to Live Your Best Life in Your 50s and Beyond

    Author Judy Balloff met and married the love of her life in her 50s and landed her dream job in her 60s. She can share specific tips for living your best life in your later years. “You are definitely not too old to find love; there are five sure-fire steps to finding it,” she says. “I can also show people how to control their thoughts to create their own reality.” In addition, Judy can share how running on autopilot can cut years off of your life, the 12 Universal Laws for living a healthier and happier life and other tips for finding your dream life in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

  • 6/23/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Roe v. Wade, Student Loans, Toxic Moms

    01. The Real People of Roe v. Wade
    02. Liberals Should Rethink Their View of Supreme Court
    03. More than Half of All Americans Say Democracy Is Doomed
    04. Is the Jan. 6 Commission Changing Minds?
    05. Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?
    06. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
    07. Freelance Expert Shares Tips to Get Gigging
    08. Quick-Start Your Summer COVID Weight Loss
    09. Summer Jobs Are More than Extra Cash for Teens
    10. Mamma Deadliest: Sons and Toxic Moms
    11. ‘Couple’s Whisperer’ Helps Opposites Communicate
    12. Love at First Sight: What’s Behind It?
    13. What Not to Say to an Infertile Couple
    14. 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain
    15. TV Host Shares 5 Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious Summer’

    1. ==> The Real People of Roe v. Wade

    Abortion rights are poised to fall with the Supreme Court’s impending decision on overturning Roe v. Wade. Investigative journalist Joshua Prager’s “The Family Roe: An American Story” offers extraordinary insight into the Supreme Court’s most divisive case and its plaintiff, Norma McCorvey. A finalist for the 2022 Pulitzer Prize, the book captures the sweeping, 50-year history of America’s pro-choice pro-life schism, the politicization of Roe, and the lives of the individuals at the heart of the case. Prager spent years with Norma; discovered her personal papers, a previously unseen trove; and witnessed her final moments. He also found the unknown Roe baby, Shelley Thornton, whose conception occasioned the lawsuit. Joshua Prager has written for “The Atlantic,” “Vanity Fair,” the “New York Times,” and the “Wall Street Journal.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

    2. ==> Liberals Should Rethink Their View of Supreme Court

    The last time liberals controlled a majority of the U.S. Supreme Court was 53 years ago – June 23, 1969. Since then, conservatives have spent decades developing a constitutional theory – originalism. Liberals meanwhile adopted a strategy of searching for a swing vote. Brad Snyder calls that a “fool’s errand” today and suggests they reconsider a constitutional theory that many liberals championed for the first half of the 20th century yet abandoned during the 1960s – judicial restraint. “Judges who practiced judicial restraint often upheld state and federal laws and rarely overturned precedents. This approach appealed to liberals who believed that the court should defer to democratically elected bodies while ensuring that minorities were not discriminated against or shut out of the political process.” Snyder believes a more robust theory of judicial restraint could curb the court’s excesses and reinforce the country’s commitment to democracy. Brad Snyder is a professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center and the author of the forthcoming “Democratic Justice,” a biography of Felix Frankfurter, an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1939-1962. Contact him at brad.snyder@law.georgetown.edu

    3. ==> More than Half of All Americans Say Democracy Is Doomed

    According to a new Yahoo News/YouGov poll, 55% of Democrats AND 53% of Republicans think it’s “likely” that America will “cease to be a democracy.” In another stunning sign of pessimism about the country’s future, the poll found that a majority of Republicans say it’s likely that “there will be a civil war in the United States in [their] lifetime,” with half of independents and 46% of Democrats agreeing. Strategic advisor Dr. Harlan Ullman can discuss what’s going on in the country and whether the nation will soon cease to exist because people can no longer get along. Ask him: Why do so many Americans believe a second civil war will occur? Are we more pessimistic today or is the likelihood of war actually greater? Harlan Ullman’s career spans the worlds of business and government. Chairman of several companies and an advisor to the heads of major corporations and governments, he was the principal author of “Shock and Awe.” His latest book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

    4. ==> Is the Jan. 6 Commission Changing Minds?

    As the Jan. 6 Commission continues its public hearings, the first of which drew some 2 million viewers, it is reasonable to wonder what effect they will have on the country. Sure, they represent 10 months of investigatory work, the collection of more than 130,000 documents, and testimony from more than 1,000 witnesses, but is the committee preaching to the choir? Is the committee guilty of demonizing Donald Trump without giving him the right to defend himself? Are the hearings dividing the country even more? Are they all about politics or should Trump be prosecuted and banned from running again? And what about the paradoxical way former Attorney General William Barr admitted that Trump’s claims of election fraud were “detached from reality” yet still said he would support him once again should he be the GOP nominee? Interview Sheryl White, Ph.D., to discuss the questions on your listeners’ minds. A self-described independent conservative, Dr. White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact Dr. White at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

    5. ==> Student Loan Forgiveness: Is This the Answer?

    President Biden told reporters on Monday that he’s nearing a decision on student-loan forgiveness. He also says another extension of the student-loan payment pause is “on the table.” Recent reports suggest Biden is considering $10,000 in relief for borrowers making under $150,000 a year. Millions of struggling student-loan borrowers are anxiously awaiting an announcement in the coming weeks, but is this the answer? According to former college professor Glen Dunzweiler, students should not waste their time thinking about loan forgiveness. “It’s a waste of energy,” he says, “because there is no incentive for anyone to forgive your debt. Instead, the discussion can provide an opportunity to figure out the leverage that individual students do have.” Glen is the author of two books including “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills For Students.” He is an independent filmmaker and the host of the YouTube series Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler. His documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

    6. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

    As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the “Los Angeles Times” to the BBC and Script Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, Calif., and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; DebbiePeterson805@gmail.com

    7. ==> Freelance Expert Shares Tips to Get Gigging

    Whether you’re looking for a career that better wraps around your family or you want a side gig to increase your income, Sherry Beck Paprocki says the current conditions are perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of freelancing. Invite Sherry on your show and learn how to create a lucrative freelance business, tips to create the gig lifestyle you’ve dreamed about, and why some people have satisfying careers while others don’t. Certified work-life balance coach Sherry Beck Paprocki has earned more than six figures a year as a freelance writer, editor and gig specialist. She is the author of “Freelance Fancy: Your Guide to Capturing Spiritual Health, Wealth and Happiness from Gig Work.” Contact her at (614) 537-7159; paprockiltd@cs.com

    8. ==> Quick-Start Your Summer COVID Weight Loss

    COVID may not be on our minds much anymore, but millions of Americans are still carrying around the ten, 20 or more pounds they gained during the pandemic, and many are overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose the weight and get in shape — especially now that summer is here. For anyone who is tired of being overweight but doesn’t know how to get started on their weight-loss journey, Alvin Perry, DBA, has simplified the process to lose 3-5 lbs. in seven days! This is not a quick fix, says Dr. 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, Dr. 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

    9. ==> Summer Jobs Are More than Extra Cash for Teens

    The summer job has historically been a rite of passage for American teens, but in the last few decades, that has changed dramatically. In the summer of 1978, 60% of teens were working or looking for work. Last summer, just 35% were. And during the school year, even fewer teens held jobs. Whether it’s because they’re studying or involved in sports or afraid of getting sick, life and business coach, corporate trainer, and interfaith minister Oreste D’Aversa says the result is that many young adults now enter the workforce unprepared for what is expected of them. Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” to discuss how to instill a strong work ethic in adolescents and why it’s more important than ever in today’s Digital Age. Ask him: Shouldn’t teens concentrate on school? What are the benefits of a part-time job? How can parents ensure their teens are prepared for the adult workplace? Contact Oreste D’Aversa at (201) 949-3002; daversa@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Mamma Deadliest: Sons and Toxic Moms

    When a boy has a toxic mother — someone who is abusive, addicted to drugs, or mentally ill — he will have a difficult time as an adult. The early collateral damage he suffers is rarely discussed but likely will lead to difficulties with his spouse, lovers, and children. Guy Arcuri, Ph.D., who suffered for years as the son of a verbally, mentally, and emotionally abusive mother, is now a married father of two who trains other people to heal themselves. Ask him how and why do men shy away from addressing the deep wounds caused by growing up with a toxic mother? What are some of the ways the voices of the sons of toxic mothers are underrepresented in our culture? The author of “Toxic Mothers: A Son’s Guide to Healing and Moving On,” he is an educational consultant, author, trainer, coach, retreat provider, experienced talk show guest, and voiceover artist. Contact Guy at (336) 345-4891; drguyteacher@gmail.com

    11. ==> ‘Couple’s Whisperer’ Helps Opposites Communicate

    Did you know that there are 22 pairs of opposite behaviors that can trip couples up? This complexity explains why many couples have different versions of the same fights repeatedly but never seem to know it. For example … he wants to direct things his way but she needs to collaborate. She ignores her partner’s need for meticulous plans and embraces spontaneous change. Or he needs to keep to “just the facts” while his partner must share feelings. Join Chris Shaver — The Couple’s Whisperer — as he shares stories that illustrate a better way for couples to relate and navigate the opposites that can both attract and repel. Chris Shaver is a motivational psychology expert and creator of the Better Way to Relate Program which is based on a professional-grade assessment that’s been used for 71 years for 50 million assessments. Contact Chris at (610) 417-5342; chris@marriagecure.com

    12. ==> Love at First Sight: What’s Behind It?

    If you haven’t experienced it yourself you’ve probably seen it portrayed in a movie: two people who have an instant attraction, a soul connection, and a feeling they belong together. Alicia McBride, an empath, psychic, and author of three books, can discuss the powerful emotions behind love at first sight. Whether they are believers or not, your audience will get a kick out of exploring this unusual topic. In an interview, Alicia will say that intense instant attraction may be the result of recognizing someone from a past life, or from one of the participants having psychic abilities even though they may be hidden. She’ll explain that what we think of as love at first sight may not last or even be mutual. Be sure to ask her what happened when she met a man she had pictured in her head for two years. Alicia McBride is the author of “The Empath Effect,” “I Feel Too Much” and “I Love You When.” Reach her at (484) 369-1464; Healinglightempath@gmail.com

    13. ==> What Not to Say to an Infertile Couple

    If you have never grappled with infertility you may wonder why infertile couples don’t simply adopt a child. You may even think it is OK to suggest this to couples who share their infertility issue with you. But as Frances Jones will tell you, the suggestion that such couples adopt may be considered insulting or insensitive. Bring Frances on your show to talk about infertility including what you should not say to couples who are not childless by choice. She’ll also explain why adoption is often not the answer and why the issues it raises are not just about having a child in the home. Frances Jones is the author of “Overcoming the Emotional Stigmas of Infertility: Barren But Not Ashamed,” a book that tells the story of her over 20-year journey of never conceiving children and offers tips for couples traveling a similar journey. Ask her how adopting two children affected the shame, hurt, and disappointment she experienced in not having biological children. How do well-intentioned people sometimes make infertility issues worse? She’s a global women empowerment speaker, an advocate, and a transformational coach who has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, “Fox Soul The Tammi Mac Late Show,” Fox affiliates, the “Los Angeles Tribune,” and other media. Contact Frances Jones at (901) 910-0915; fjones@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> 3 Surprising Ways to Lessen Pain

    Living with chronic pain is no fun and was even less so during the pandemic when care was restricted and stress levels were through the roof. Why not help make listeners’ lives more comfortable by interviewing Trevor Campbell, M.D., who can share tips for controlling stress, managing negative thoughts, and paying attention to the story they tell their friends and family members about their illnesses, all things that can lead to lessening pain? Ask him how can what we are thinking affect our pain levels? How can people feel less stressed when they hurt? Dr. Campbell is a family physician who has worked in multidisciplinary pain management and opioids reduction programs and has served as a medical director for a leading pain management provider in Western Canada. He graduated from the University of Cape Town. He hosts the holistic “Healthscape” podcast. Dr. Campbell’s book is “The Language of Pain: Fast Forward Your Recovery to Stop Hurting.” Contact Trevor Campbell at (250) 217-7832; tcampbell@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> TV Host Shares 5 Tips for a ‘Simply Delicious Summer’

    Summer has arrived! For tips on making the most of the season, interview Maryann Ridini Spencer, an award-winning screenwriter, author, TV/film producer, journalist, and host of the Telly Award-winning “Simply Delicious Living” PBS-TV series. She’ll discuss how to create a healthy plate you’ll “want” to eat, offer five tips for getting in shape and more. Ask her what are your mind, body, and spirit tips as the weather heats up? How can people get moving again after being isolated and dormant for so long? What’s the best way to get into summer mode? Maryann is the author of the award-winning Kate Grace novels “Lady in the Window,” “The Paradise Table,” “Secrets of Grace Manor,” and the “Simply Delicious Living” cookbooks. Her work has appeared on “Hallmark Hall of Fame” (CBS-TV), the Hallmark Channel, CNN, USA, SyFy, Showtime, PBS, and many others. Contact Maryann Ridini Spencer at (818) 492-9135; mspencer@rtirguests.com

  • 6/21/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Renters Revolt, Rock Trivia, Summer Boat Safety

    01. Jan. 6 Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations
    02. 50th Anniversary of Watergate Break-In
    03. Trailer Park Residents Take on Venture Capitalists … and Win!
    04. Fun Music Trivia Show: ‘Parking Lot Payday’
    05. Sober Skippers Wanted: Summer Water Safety Tips
    06. How to Cool Your Temper This Summer
    07. What History Can Tell Us about Ending Polarization
    08. Is Affirmative Action Reverse Discrimination?
    09. Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?
    10. How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done
    11. Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?
    12. It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story
    13. Could You Forgive a Cheating Spouse?
    14. How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs
    15. Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

    1. ==> Jan. 6 Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations

    This week, public hearings by the House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection continue as lawmakers attempt to answer the question of whether former President Donald Trump and his political allies broke the law in seeking to overturn the 2020 election results. Jennifer Selin says the hearings are a part of a long history of congressional investigation. She says the first congressional inquiry was held in the House in 1792 and the Senate conducted its first official investigation in 1818 with several noteworthy investigations since then from the Teapot Dome scandal to Watergate. While the hearings deal with unprecedented events in American history, Selen says the very investigation of these events has strong precedent. “Congress has long exercised its power to investigate some of the greatest problems facing the nation. In that way, the upcoming hearings fit squarTely into the mainstream of American government oversight.” Jennifer Selin is co-director of the Washington office for the Carl Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy at Wayne State University. Contact her at (614) 266-1860; jennifer.selin@wayne.edu

    2. ==> 50th Anniversary of Watergate Break-In

    This month marks the 50th anniversary of the Watergate break-in. Invite Jefferson Morley, author of “Scorpions’ Dance: The President, the Spymaster and Watergate,” to discuss the relationship between President Richard Nixon and then-CIA Director Richard Helms and why documents that have since been partly released suggest a reexamination of overlooked portions of Nixon’s tapes. He says, “We can now say with confidence what the CIA denied: that Howard Hunt was a CIA asset at the same time he was a Watergate burglar.” In “The (Redacted) Truth About the CIA’s (Redacted) Role in Watergate,” his recent piece for the Daily Beast, Morley writes: “A redacted FBI memo from May 1973 conceals details about Hunt’s role in breaking into the office of the psychiatrist of Daniel Ellsberg, the former Defense Department analyst who leaked the Pentagon Papers to ‘The New York Times.’ The memo was addressed to Acting FBI Director Mark Felt who was serving as a confidential source, known as Deep Throat, for ‘Washington Post’ reporter Bob Woodward.” Contact Jefferson Morley at morleyj@gmail.com; @jeffersonmorley

    3. ==> Trailer Park Residents Take on Venture Capitalists … and Win!

    Journalist Joseph Bullington writes about a recent case of trailer park homeowners in Durango, Colorado, taking on the venture capitalists who own the land they live on. Invite him on your show to hear the story of 30-year-old Alejandra Chavez, who along with other residents, formed a cooperative, elected representatives, and voted to try and buy the park themselves. “The $5.46 million asking price was daunting, but residents knew the cost of failure,” writes Bullington, who says most residents of trailer parks own their homes but not the land beneath them. Invite him on your show to talk about what he calls this new, outdoorsy form of gentrification thanks to an inrush of tourists, remote workers and investors who have driven land and housing prices out of control in Durango and across the West. Bullington is the rural editor for “In These Times.” Contact him at joseph@inthesetimes.com

    4. ==> Fun Music Trivia Show: ‘Parking Lot Payday’

    AXS TV hits the concert scene this summer to put music fans to the ultimate test in the all-new trivia series “Parking Lot Payday.” The show puts a fun and unique spin on the traditional game show experience as host Zach Selwyn visits concert parking lots and asks attendees to prove how much they really know about the iconic acts they’re about to see. From Coldplay to Metallica and The Rolling Stones, select fans have the opportunity to answer up to ten multiple-choice questions worth cash prizes up to $2,500. The show premieres July 12 on AXS TV. Zach Selwyn has appeared on “Around the Horn” (ESPN), “Attack of the Show!” and “America’s Secret Slang,” among other TV shows. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

    5. ==> Sober Skippers Wanted: Summer Water Safety Tips

    Millions of boaters and paddlers are expected to head out on the water this summer, including more than 830,000 first-time buyers who purchased boats during the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in crowds coupled with the number of inexperienced new boaters has some folks worried. “We’re anticipating a major wave of inexperienced boaters on the water and we need everyone – our experienced boaters and our newcomers alike – to plan accordingly and be well prepared,” says Water Sports Foundation Executive Director Jim Emmons. He’ll share ten tips to maximize boating fun and safety this summer, from wearing life vests to designating a sober skipper and keeping on top of changing weather. The Water Sports Foundation (WSF) is the non-profit educational arm of the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA). Contact Joel Staley at (407) 242-9994; 338619@email4pr.com

    6. ==> How to Cool Your Temper This Summer

    This summer tempers are running hot around the country as the nation awaits several big rulings from the Supreme Court, the findings of the Jan. 6 Committee and whether or not there will be any movement to end the mass shootings that have been cropping up like dandelions. Yet even people who aren’t getting hot about changes to society may still be finding themselves in a lather about post-pandemic life, high gas prices and summer traffic. Invite happiness expert Trish Ahjel Roberts to share ways to put the chill back in your life. The author of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness,” has created a 5-hour online course that provides tools and resources to make the summer season relaxing, fun and freeing just as it is supposed to be. After a terrifying car accident in 2018, Roberts founded Mind-Blowing Happiness LLC in 2019 and left her career as a financial advisor to become a self-actualization coach and happiness expert working primarily with Black women like herself. Contact her at (917) 887-3689; hello@trishahjelroberts.com

    7. ==> What History Can Tell Us about Ending Polarization

    Americans are so deeply divided today that one might wonder if anything could possibly bring us together. But author and theologian Sheryl White, D. Min., says that history can offer us some comfort, particularly Civil War history. Dr. White says we need to stop choosing sides on every issue, bridging issues instead. It’s not an all-or-nothing siding with pro-lifers or pro-abortionists, pro-gun or anti-gun, Democrat or Republican, conservatives or progressives. Dr. White can offer steps we can take to bridge that divide including ways we can strip away labels and stereotypes and make friends with people who represent different religions, races and positions on issues. Dr. White is a YouTube channel creator and the author of historical fiction based on the life of abolitionist and suffragist Laura Smith Haviland. Contact Dr. White at (620) 672-1596; sdw1001@gmail.com

    8. ==> Is Affirmative Action Reverse Discrimination?

    Affirmative action came out of the civil rights movement as a means to address inequalities experienced by minorities. It became law through an executive order made by John F. Kennedy in 1961. With two upcoming cases challenging it before the Supreme Court, now is a good time to discuss affirmative action’s past and future with author Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans). Ask her: Is affirmative action reverse discrimination? How effective has it been? Was it always controversial? Does it benefit everyone or just a few? Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans, a Fulbright Scholar, was one of the first Black women in the Foreign Service. A child of educators, she grew up in public housing in the Jim Crow South where Blacks were told they lived in a separate, but equal society. She is the author of “Flowers for Brother Mudd: One Woman’s Path from Jim Crow to Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?

    Today’s highly polarized society makes it hard for people from opposing sides to agree on anything, let alone work together, even if the goal is for the common good. It’s possible, though not easy, as Bee Bloeser personally witnessed in the middle of the Cold War when despite their vast differences, leaders across the globe joined forces to rid the world of smallpox. Bee and her family became involved in the global campaign when the CDC dispatched her husband to West Africa in 1969. Invite her to share what it was like to be an American woman in Africa at that time and the unexpected challenges she and her family faced, including brushes with a brutal dictator’s regime and living in an isolated region suffering a humanitarian crisis the rest of the world knew nothing about. An award-winning author and engaging public speaker, Bee Bloeser has been featured on NPR’s “Journeys of Discovery” and NPR KCBX Radio’s show, “Issues and Ideas.” Her book is, “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Brains, Games, and Foes: How to Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done

    Most people believe it takes willpower, smarts and motivation to accomplish great things, but do you know the actual secret ingredient that world-class leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives rely on to create their exceptional outcomes? Invite Steven Feinberg, Ph.D., on your show to discuss the power of patterns and how an awareness of what he calls the game of patterns can up-level your personal, professional and business life. Dr. Feinberg will show your audience how to recognize hidden patterns in their daily interactions and decisions so they can accomplish life goals they never dreamed possible. Ask him: What is Shutdown Syndrome? Why do you say that persistence is a problem? What do you mean by “first adapter”? What is the Meta-Game? With 40 years of experience as an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs in companies like Google, Visa, Apple, and more, Dr. Feinberg has unlocked the secrets to achieving what people say can’t be done. For his new book, “Do What Others Say Can’t Be Done … Play The Meta-Game,” he interviewed over 50 world-class leaders and entrepreneurs. Contact Dr. Steven Feinberg at (650) 374-4540; sfeinberg@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?

    Fatima Bustos-Choy believes we all have an inner voice that guides us to our true north, but that many entrepreneurs can’t hear the voice. She says, “Believing that answers come from the outside, we’ve learned to not trust ourselves and our answers from within. The inner voice has become fainter and fainter, almost negligible. We have become deaf to our own inner voice.” To research her new book, “More Than Money: Five Paths to Abundance and Success for Inner-Centered Entrepreneurs,” Bustos-Choy interviewed 30 entrepreneurs to understand their minds and hearts, their joys and sorrows, wins and losses, and whether an inner voice spoke to them. She’ll share what she discovered, including the five ways the inner voice comes through. Fatima Bustos-Choy, Ph.D., is president of R&F Holistic Services and Gaia Flow Consulting. She has more than 30 years of frontline and senior leadership positions in the financial services, aerospace and nonprofit industries. Contact her at (818) 209-3775; fbustoschoy@gmail.com

    12. ==> It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story

    It is the peak time of year for couples to exhaust themselves, and often their bank accounts, by investing in the “perfect” wedding day. But Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., says couples rarely invest the same level of time or resources to growing the marriage after they tie the knot. The psychologist and author of “Growing Married: Creating Stories for a Lifetime of Love,” says, “Unfortunately couples spend lots to marry, plan lots to retire and check out during the long in-between.” Skerrett pulls together cutting-edge thinking and research to offer practical strategies for newlyweds to have enduring marriages. She’ll share five pieces of advice to help couples flourish in every stage of their lives. Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and registered nurse. She is the co-author of “Positive Couple Therapy,” co-editor of “Couple Resilience,” and author of “Tell Me Again How I Know You?” Contact her at (630) 292-4108 (cell); (708) 579-5911 (office); karen.skerrett@gmail.com

    13. ==> Could You Forgive a Cheating Spouse?

    Infidelity is the leading cause of divorce. But author Valentina Tjan claims it doesn’t have to be the end of a marriage. “If your spouse does not possess the deal-breaker traits such as addiction to sex, drugs, alcohol or assault, and they are prepared to immediately stop the affair, then you should stay as the devil you know is better than the one you don’t know,” she says. “Do not leave any stones unturned before you abandon your spouse just because you caught them with their hand in the cookie jar.” She is the author of “The Best Is Yet to Come: Real-Life Journey to Riches to Inspire You to Wisdom and Wealth,” and has first-hand experience with marital infidelity. Contact Valentina at (647) 493-1694; vphoey@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs

    No parent consciously decides to raise children who will get involved in gangs, cults, or drug use. Yet the families of children who take these paths share common traits that can be identified and, more importantly, used to prevent kids from sustaining injury, a criminal record and more. Interview Pat Tamakloe, Ph.D., author of the upcoming book “Finding Your O: Four Stages to Self-Discovery from Adolescence to Adulthood” to find out more. Pat Tamakloe was born in New York City, raised in West Africa, Southern Africa, and England and became independent of his parents at age 20. An expert on the existing gaps between adolescence and adulthood, he spent 23 years in military service rising from enlisted to a commissioned officer in the U.S. before switching to his passion, helping young adults reach their potential. Ask him: What are the indicators that a child will become involved in drugs, cults, or gangs? What are the four O’s in your book title? What are some of the mental health challenges some adolescents have that prevent them from finding productive occupations? Contact Dr. Pat Tamakloe at (757) 210-7903; ptamakloe@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Summer Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

    Looking to take a summer trip that combines the pleasures of wine and travel? Helping audiences make the most of their wine adventures is expert guide Jim Laughren, CWE, with suggestions from how to enjoy local wineries to where in the world we can find the “wildest” wine vacations of all. Whether you’re looking for fabulous food, incredible scenery, or amazing hospitality, all to enjoy with some gorgeous wines, Jim can steer you in the right direction. Ask him: Why should people visit Mendoza, Argentina, the Republic of Georgia and the Napa Valley? Where can you not only tour 1,500 acres of grapes but also buy a piece of the vineyard AND return for the harvest to make your own wine? The author of two short eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

  • 6/16/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Juneteenth, Summer Jobs, Estranged Dads

    01. Jan. 6 Hearings Expose How Divided America Has Become
    02. Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come with Equality?
    03. What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?
    04. Estranged from Your Father? How to Heal and Reconcile
    05. LGBTQ Enviro Activist: Growing Up Gay in Middle America
    06. What Happened to Teens and Summer Jobs?
    07. This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s
    08. Do a Show on the Ladies Who Run the Cruise Industry
    09. Can You Be Allergic to a Spouse?
    10. The Real Cost of Post-Disaster Clean-Up
    11. Will Someone You Love Get Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?
    12. Do Successful People Make Healthier Choices?
    13. 3 Antidotes for Teen Anxiety
    14. Children’s Summer Reading: ‘Screen Boy’
    15. Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?

    1. ==> Jan. 6 Hearings Expose How Divided America Has Become

    Is the nation as divided as it was in 1861 or even 1776, when most American colonists favored remaining part of Great Britain? Or is this phenomenon a consequence of social media and the ubiquitous coverage and sensationalism of the news cycle? Dr. Harlan Ullman says the answer is chilling. A foreign relations expert and former Pentagon advisor, Ullman can discuss the dangerous state of America today, how every issue has become a single massive attack of disruption, and why he believes the Jan 6th Commission has opened Pandora’s Box. Harlan Ullman’s career spans the worlds of business and government. Chairman of several companies and an advisor to the heads of major corporations and governments, he was the principal author of “Shock and Awe.” His latest book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

    2. ==> Juneteenth: How Far Have We Come with Equality?

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

    3. ==> What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?

    The world looked on in horror when families emigrating to the U.S. from Mexico were separated at the border in 2017 and 2018. “This was because of the U.S. government’s ineptitude, losing contact with thousands of families and its faltering efforts at reunification for these families,” says Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids. But thanks in part to his valiant efforts, 2,000 of those 5,000 kids have been reunited with their families. Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

    4. ==> Estranged from Your Father? How to Heal and Reconcile

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

    5. ==> LGBTQ Enviro Activist: Growing Up Gay in Middle America

    Calling it the first environmental queer memoir from the Great Plains/Intermountain West, Taylor Brorby’s “Boys and Oil: Growing Up Gay in a Fractured Land” brings new focus to an ignored region of the country whose rich resources—its land and its people—are often unappreciated. In his hometown of Center, North Dakota, there are no stoplights, grocery stores, or motels, just a few bars and churches, with pews filled on Sundays by men who will return to the coal mine or the power plant on Monday. He can discuss his experience growing up gay in rural America, his family’s multigenerational relationship with the fossil fuel industry, and his environmental education and activism including an arrest while living in the Bakken oil fields while protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline in Iowa. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

    6. ==> What Happened to Teens and Summer Jobs?

    The summer job has historically been a rite of passage for American teens, but in the last few decades, that has changed dramatically. In the summer of 1978, 60% of teens were working or looking for work. Last summer, just 35% were. And during the school year, even fewer teens hold jobs. Whether it’s because they’re studying or involved in sports or afraid of getting sick, life and business coach, corporate trainer, and interfaith minister Oreste D’Aversa says the result is that many young adults now enter the workforce unprepared for what is expected of them. Invite the author of “Life Beyond the Pandemic: A Practical New Journey Handbook” to discuss how to instill a strong work ethic in adolescents and why it’s more important than ever in today’s Digital Age. Ask him: Shouldn’t teens concentrate on school? What are the benefits of a part-time job? How can parents ensure their teens are prepared for the adult workplace? Contact Oreste D’Aversa at (201) 949-3002; daversa@rtirguests.com

    7. ==> This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s

    Most people over 60 who wish to continue working fear age discrimination and a workforce that seems to favor younger employees. But Judy Balloff claims that’s nonsense. “I started a new career at age 64 in a job I had never done before, and I have made over half a million dollars at an age when many take social security,” she says. “Treat looking for a job like a job. Be open-minded about doing something with your skills that never occurred to you before.” Judy can share these and other tips for landing your dream job in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Do a Show on the Ladies Who Run the Cruise Industry

    Most people think of cruise ship honchos as men. However, more and more women are manning the helm in the industry, and making waves. “Today, there are numerous women cruise line presidents and vice presidents, as well as the first and only American woman captain of a cruise ship for a well-known cruise line, and another woman who is a co-founder and co-owner,” says author and travel industry expert Cindy Bertram. Cindy can talk about the numerous women cruise line bigwigs who have sailed on to dazzling careers in an industry long dominated by men. She 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 Cindy at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Can You Be Allergic to A Spouse?

    Do you sneeze uncontrollably whenever your wife or hubby tries to hug you? Do you wake up with a headache after sleeping next to your other half? According to products ingredients expert Zorica Denton, you may be allergic to the fragrances in their soap, body lotion or something else they use, and not even know it. “Products with fragrances may contain anywhere from 100 to 1,000 chemicals,” she says. “But they don’t have to be listed due to trade secret policies.” Zorica developed asthma and other long-term, debilitating health problems as a result of working as a perfume model, and almost died. She is the founder of the natural personal care products company Zorica of Malibu and author of an upcoming book about toxic chemicals in products. Contact Zorica at (213) 616-7904; zdenton@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Real Cost of Post-Disaster Clean-Up

    Disasters cause catastrophic damage, but they also leave behind pulverized toxic debris that can cause further environmental and health damage when it’s released during clean-up. Building, solid hazardous material and coating expert George Keefe says exposure to the toxic debris has been linked to illnesses like the recently classified “Tornado cough” and other respiratory conditions. He’ll discuss ways to contain and minimize exposure to toxic debris during disaster cleanup and how to fortify buildings before disaster strikes. George Keefe was brought in to make recommendations and help with the lockdown and control of radioactive debris from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant disaster in Japan. A consultant, contractor and coach, Keefe wrote “Just Encase They Think You’re Stupid” to demystify the complicated issues of solid hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead-based paint in buildings. Contact Lydia Ng’etich at (800) 228 5507; ask@encasementguy.com

    11. ==> Will Someone You Love Get Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?

    The ravages of Alzheimer’s are not limited to the aged. In fact, thousands of relatively young people and their families will be affected by early-onset Alzheimer’s this year alone. Interview Carlen Maddux, author of “A Path Revealed,” about the journey he took with his late wife, Martha, after she was diagnosed at 50. Carlen has many insights to share about the first signs of the disease, and ultimately on caregiving, single parenting, learning about a memory-robbing illness with no cure, and what lifestyle changes and treatments gave his spouse additional quality years. Contact Carlen Maddux at (727) 351-8321; CMaddux@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Do Successful People Make Healthier Choices?

    According to author Rico Racosky, the world’s most successful people know that whatever they do, buy, develop, interact with or say can impact their physical, emotional, mental, relational and financial health. In fact, Rico says these people (who have achieved great accomplishments in life) are part of something he calls a Healthy Choice Revolution that’s amazingly simple, surprisingly obvious, and profoundly practical. Anyone is capable of embracing this, with all their choices going forward. Rico’s popular book is “Just 2 Choices” and he can instantly teach your audience some of the choice-making skills contained in that book and his online classes that we all need for greater happiness and wellness. Contact him at (720) 572-1321; RRacosky@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> 3 Antidotes for Teen Anxiety

    Teen anxiety has been on the rise since the turn of the century, and it has accelerated in recent years, especially during the pandemic. When Clint Rutledge heard the staggering statistics, the author and father of teens decided to do something to help families fight the growing epidemic. Clint’s new book, “Strong and Courageous,” shares three biblical secrets to help teens protect themselves. Invite him on your show and learn how parents can empower their teens to stand strong in their convictions, overcome discouragement, and become leaders others want to follow. Discover the activity parents can do with their teens to improve decision-making, the key to controlling focus and overcoming discouragement, and how stories are the secret weapon for teaching a lesson. Clint Rutledge is a keynote speaker and author. He has worked with thousands of teens, coaches, and teachers over the last 20 years. Contact him at (830) 660-1052; clint@clintrutledge.com

    14. ==> Children’s Summer Reading: ‘Screen Boy’

    School is out and screens are on. Invite author Matthew Patrick Gallagher to discuss his new children’s book, “Screen Boy,” about a young man who gets caught up in the world of technology and gaming and loses his friends, his athleticism, and his priorities. With the help of his trusty dog, he realizes that something needs to change and makes a goal to fix the situation. Gallagher says the book is relevant to anyone wondering about the possible consequences of children spending so much time lost in screens and virtual reality and what parents can do to help their kids. Contact Matthew Patrick Gallagher at (770) 349-9480; mattgallagherga@yahoo.com

    15. ==> Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?

    Though the 1918 flu killed between 50 million and 100 million people worldwide, it disappeared from our collective memory and the historical record. It eventually became what historian Alfred Crosby called “America’s Forgotten Pandemic.” Theater historian Debra Caplan calls Crosby’s 1989 book a cautionary tale of what happens when people decide to return to “normalcy” before a public health crisis is over and has issued a call to writers, artists, and the media. “We need collective storytelling about this cataclysmic event to process what happened and figure out where to go next.” She adds, “We need to publicly grieve the one million Americans we lost and make plans to try to prevent any more casualties. We need to tell the stories of Long Haulers and survivors.” Debra Caplan is an associate professor of theater at Baruch College, CUNY. Contact her at debra.caplan36@login.cuny.edu, @debra_caplan

  • 6/14/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Watergate Anniversary, Cheap Healthy Eating, Workplace Fears

    01. 50th Anniversary of Watergate
    02. Mass Shootings: When Employees Fear the Workplace
    03. Pandemic Policies: What Worked Where?
    04. The Latin King of Country Music’ is Still Alive
    05. Do a Show for Fans of TV’s ‘Bones’
    06. Father’s Day Is No Picnic for Estranged Dads
    07. Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption
    08. Jumpstart Your COVID Weight Loss: Lose 3-5 LBS in 7 Days
    09. The Current Epidemic of Postpartum Depression
    10. The Truth About Caring for Someone with Dementia
    11. How to Cope with Rising Teen Anxiety
    12. Can Teenage Lifers Be Rehabilitated?
    13. Why Teaching Kids STEM Skills Can Save the Planet
    14. Raise a Reader this Summer (One Book at a Time)
    15. How to Make Healthy Eating Cheaper

    1.==> 50th Anniversary of Watergate

    The 50th anniversary of the Watergate break-in is June 17. Invite Jefferson Morley, author of “Scorpions’ Dance: The President, the Spymaster and Watergate,” to discuss the relationship between President Richard Nixon and then-CIA Director Richard Helms and why documents that have since been partly released suggest a reexamination of overlooked portions of Nixon’s tapes. He says, “We can now say with confidence what the CIA denied: that Howard Hunt was a CIA asset at the same time he was a Watergate burglar.” In his recent piece “The (Redacted) Truth About the CIA’s (Redacted) Role in Watergate” for the Daily Beast, Morley writes: “A redacted FBI memo from May 1973 conceals details about Hunt’s role in breaking into the office of the psychiatrist of Daniel Ellsberg, the former Defense Department analyst who leaked the Pentagon Papers to The New York Times. The memo was addressed to Acting FBI Director Mark Felt who was serving as a confidential source, known as Deep Throat, for Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward.” Contact Jefferson Morley at morleyj@gmail.com; @jeffersonmorley

    2. Mass Shootings: When Employees Fear the Workplace

    Recent mass murders at previously-thought “safe spaces” – churches, hospitals, schools – are also workplaces for thousands of Americans nationwide. No doubt American workers are assessing this prominent risk, as employers grapple with increasing quits and return-to-office plans, according to workplace authority Andrew Challenger. “The overwhelming feeling right now is that a mass shooting could happen anywhere at any time to anyone. Americans are worried for their safety. Many workers are already pushing back on their employers’ return-to-office plans, for their mental health, for flexibility, to alleviate burnout. Others are leaving their jobs entirely.” Challenger says it’s crucial for employers to focus on mental health and provide support right now. “This may mean allowing workers to remain remote, offering mental health benefits, or even hosting some sort of group counseling for your teams on this issue,” he says. “In the past, employers addressed this issue by hiring consultants to run active shooter drills and shore up building security. While very important tools, leaders may want to really connect with teams to ensure they feel safe.” Andrew Challenger is senior VP of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. Contact Colleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

    3. ==> Pandemic Policies: What Worked Where?

    As COVID-19 spread across the nation in 2020, states enacted policies that had the goal of mitigating the pandemic and its economic consequences. There’s now a database that documents the dates and components of economic relief and public health measures issued at the state level in response to the pandemic. The Covid-19 U.S. State Policy database has provided continually updated information documenting the “widespread variation in state policy decisions and implementation dates” across the country. It has also already been used to shape pandemic response. Julia Raifman, one of the creators of CUSP says, “Researchers have used CUSP to conduct important research on eviction freezes, mask mandates, physical distancing policies, unemployment insurance and minimum wage. We hope the database will be useful for informing further learning about policy impacts in the years ahead, to better prepare us for future outbreaks or crises.” Raifman is an assistant professor of health law, policy and management at Boston University. She conducts research on population health and health disparities. Contact her at jraifman@bu.edu; @JuliaRaifman

    4. ==> The Latin King of Country Music’ is Still Alive

    Despite internet rumors to the contrary, Johnny Rodriguez is alive and well. In fact, “The Latin King of Country Music” has been writing and recording new music during the pandemic. His new Country/Mariachi CD “Building Bridges” includes two songs written by actor and singer/songwriter Dennis Quaid and a duet with two-time Grammy Winner and friend, Tanya Tucker. Johnny’s Latin-infused hits made him one of the most successful county singers of the ‘70s and ’80s. His new memoir, “Desperado: Pieces of My Soul” details his meteoric rise to fame and his plunge into personal despair and getting back in the saddle, again. Invite him to talk about his arrival in Nashville, his friendships and adventures with country music’s biggest stars, and the missed opportunities and missteps he made along the way. Contact Pauline Vega at (661) 387-3174; pvega@rtirguests.com

    5. == > Do a Show for Fans of TV’s ‘Bones’

    Kathy Reichs’ best-selling book series featuring Temperance “Bones” Brennan was the inspiration for Fox TV’s longest-running scripted drama. Bring the author and certified forensic anthropologist on your show and discuss “Bones,” how the series and forensic anthropology in general have changed over the past two decades, and what’s in store for Tempe in the 21st installment, “Cold, Cold Bones.” The new book, which hearkens back to many of Tempe’s most fascinating—and gruesome—cases, is sure to captivate longtime fans and new readers alike. Kathy Reich is available beginning Tuesday, July 5. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer with preferred date/time at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com or Briana Caywood at (703) 646-5188

    6. ==> Father’s Day Is No Picnic for Estranged Dads

    Father’s Day is a time when we consider the value fathers play in their children’s lives. But the holiday can also be a time of considerable pain for fathers suffering from parental alienation, a family dynamic in which a child has aligned with one parent and rejected the other for no legitimate reason. Currently, about 22 million parents in the U.S., both male and female, have been alienated from their children. Lynn Steinberg, Ph.D., can explain how this happens and why part of the U.S. Violence Against Women’s Act is likely to make the situation worse. The author of “You’re Not Crazy: Overcoming Parent/Child Alienation” will reveal the signs of parental alienation, effective intervention treatments for parents and children, and what’s wrong with Kayden’s Law and why it should be opposed. Lynn Steinberg is on the board of directors of The Parental Alienation Legislative Fund, whose mission is to pass legislation that would mandate training and reporting of parental alienation as child abuse. Contact Chloe Busch at (323) 449-2203; lynnsteinbergphd@gmail.com

    7. ==> Former Mayor – How to Spot Local Government Corruption

    As a former mayor, council member, planning commissioner, and an advocate for good government with a propensity for “telling it like it is,” Debbie Peterson spent years serving communities, seeing people’s needs go unmet because of gross misappropriation of funds. With her new book, “The Happiest Corruption: Sleaze, Lies and Suicide in a California Beach Town,” Peterson combines insider political analysis, breaking-news thrills, and a historical account into a true-crime story that follows determined citizens who worked out how local government corruption happens, how to spot it, and how to fix it. Peterson has been interviewed by everyone from the Los Angeles Times to the BBC and Script Networks. She is the former mayor of Grover Beach, Calif. and the host of the new weekly podcast “The Corruption Chronicles.” Contact Debbie Peterson at (805) 550-4490; info@DebbiePeterson.com

    8. ==> Jumpstart Your COVID Weight Loss: Lose 3-5 LBS in 7 Days

    Millions of Americans are walking around with ten, twenty or more COVID pounds and overwhelmed by the thought of trying to lose the weight 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 lbs. in 7 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

    9. ==> The Current Epidemic of Postpartum Depression

    Many new moms attribute their feelings of sadness and emptiness to exhaustion, hormonal changes and the non-stop attention babies require. But for many women, this is more than just “the baby blues.” “Postpartum depression had been on the rise pre-COVID, but the pandemic has made the rise more significant,” says OB/GYN Dr. Florence Akindele. “A lot of women are not getting support after giving birth, and there’s not enough at-home planning.” Dr. Florence will share how new moms can get the support they need to overcome this very real mental illness. She is the founder of Florence Women’s Health Services in Alberta, Canada, and author of the book “Your Joyous Birth Experience: Empowering Moms to Participate in Their Labour And Delivery.” Contact Dr. Florence at (780) 614-5219; fakindele@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Truth About Caring for Someone with Dementia

    Having a loved one with a brain disease like Alzheimer’s or dementia can be difficult and confusing but Lisa Skinner has helped thousands of families and caregivers understand the daunting challenges. Skinner cuts through the confusion and overwhelming fear that loved ones experience in taking care of people with dementia and can provide a new set of tools to allow caregivers to enjoy more of the time they spend together. Skinner’s new book is “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s: Its Secret Faces.” A behavioral specialist with more than a quarter-century of experience in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, Skinner has appeared on national and regional media including CBS, NBS, ABC and in “USA Today” and other publications. Contact Dianemarie Collins at (775) 825-1727; DM@DMProductionsLLC.com or @DMCollins

    11. ==> How to Cope with Rising Teen Anxiety

    U.S. teenagers have more reasons than ever to be anxious, and it’s costing them. Normal teen pressures were bad enough, but today’s youth are dealing with additional stresses in the form of pandemic isolation, increased violence, heightened social pressure, and a rapidly changing global landscape that can make entry into adulthood a terrifying prospect. With suicide rates spiking among teens and young adults, and even in preteen children, now is the right time to interview author and teen coach Lee Vallely (pronounced Vall-ELL-ee). Lee offers strategies your listeners can use to help teens manage stress levels in today’s highly charged world and find real happiness. Ask him: How can positive thinking be bad for your health? Why does he call his program for students “Shift Happens”? What steps can parents and educators take to help struggling teens today? Contact Lee Vallely at (561) 658-1266; lvallely@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> Can Teenage Lifers Be Rehabilitated?

    Lengthy prison sentences for youth offenders are becoming common in the U.S., and the costs – both personal and financial – are staggering. Not only do many people believe life sentences for teenagers are unjust, but the costs to governments and taxpayers are three times higher for youth than for incarcerated adults. Through correspondence with youth offenders, Mary Mitchell has seen firsthand that rehabilitation is possible. An experienced guest and the author of seven books as well as hundreds of articles, and host of a weekly radio show, Mary can share her 13-year relationship with a man incarcerated at 19 (now 50) who has found transformation in prison and talks about the prison system reform we need to offer rehabilitation and hope. Ask her: Can the U.S. prison system truly rehabilitate anyone? Why is solitary confinement both cruel and ineffective? How can you offer real support to incarcerated loved ones? Contact Mary Mitchell at (530) 561-5945; mmitchell@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Why Teaching Kids STEM Skills Can Save the Planet

    We all know about recycling and that plastics and toxic chemicals are harmful to the Earth. But we can accomplish much more by empowering children to acquire science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to become stewards for the environment. “STEM education can help students of all backgrounds to develop the skills, awareness of and solutions to environmental issues,” says author, speaker, former STEM teacher and adjunct college professor Dr. Chris A. Goldberg. He is author of the soon-to-be published book “Aliyah and The STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact him at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> Raise a Reader this Summer (One Book at a Time)

    Despite their hectic schedules and the distractions of social media and modern technology, parents can dramatically improve their children’s lives by setting aside time to read with them this summer – and beyond. “A relaxing reading ritual not only fuels your child’s reading journey, it also builds a bond, and creates memories that last,” says author and long-time educator Lori Lynn Ahrends. “The right books will not only be fun, but will build your child’s self-confidence.” Lori Lynn is an award-winning educator and international speaker with a master’s in education; a singer/songwriter; creator of the Overall Buddies early childhood learning website and author of the children’s book “I’m a Pig.” Contact her at (402) 235-4292; lahrends@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> How to Make Healthy Eating Cheaper

    With the sharply rising costs of groceries, it may seem as though eating healthier is more expensive than ever. But, as health coach, fitness, and weight-loss expert Stavros Mastrogiannis will tell you, that isn’t so. As counterintuitive as it may sound, he’ll explain that eating for good health can be cheaper than just grabbing anything. In fact, he’ll explain how his clients manage to slash nearly $60 off their weekly food bills, all while eating better. He’ll also talk about why so many of us eat for entertainment and not because we are hungry and that the extra money we can save by healthy eating can be used to spend on more appropriate entertainment needs. Also, be sure to ask what he learned when he recreated Morgan Spurlock’s experiment about eating McDonald’s food (burgers, fries and Cokes) that became the basis of the 2004 movie “Super Size Me.” In 2011, Stavros did the same thing but unlike Spurlock, Stavros’ blood work was just as good as it had been before he spent two months working and exclusively eating at McDonald’s. Stavros is the creator of The Stavros Method: Practical Wellness through 5 Ancient Habits. Contact him at (203) 733-0109; stavros@liveyourwaythin.com

  • 6/9/2022 RTIR Newsletter: American Gun Culture, Cheating Spouses, Summer Lakes

    01. How the World Views America’s Gun Culture
    02. The Key to Slowing COVID Variants: Curing Long-Term Infections
    03. Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?
    04. What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?
    05. The Most Fascinating Lakes In the World (and Your Backyard)
    06. Interview a Former Pioneering Black Diplomat
    07. Planning a Summer Cruise? Hear from This Travel Expert
    08. Should Student Loan Forgiveness Happen?
    09. 5 Tips to Tame Rising Road Rage
    10. Would You Forgive an Unfaithful Spouse?
    11. Eat These Foods for a Better Brain This Summer
    12. Why We Need More Women in STEM Fields
    13. Are You a Carrier of the ‘Trauma Virus?’
    14. This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s
    15. Rock Your Midlife: Advice from the Midlife Whisperer

    1.==> How the World Views America’s Gun Culture

    There are estimated to be over 400 million guns in the United States between police, the military, and American civilians. Over 393 million (over 98%) of those guns are in civilian hands, the equivalent of 120 firearms per 100 citizens. Invite former Pentagon advisor Dr. Harlan Ullman to discuss how the U.S. is fundamentally different from other nations when it comes to guns. Ask him whether recent mass shootings are affecting Americans’ view of guns and if substantial gun control measures will ever be passed in the U.S. Dr. Harlan Ullman has actively advised American Secretaries of State and Defense, NATO strategic commanders, and NATO secretaries-general as well as members of Congress and heads of some foreign governments in Europe and the Indo-Pacific regions. His new book is “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com

    2. ==> The Key to Slowing COVID Variants: Curing Long-Term Infections

    Scientists are raising a warning flag about long-term COVID infections and the emergence of new variants. In comparison with ordinary transmission chains, they say long-term infections may result in greater and more rapid viral evolution. Biologist John Dennehy, Ph.D., says, “In persistent infections, viruses continue to evolve over long periods of time without having to find a new susceptible host. Viruses within these hosts can continue to accumulate new mutations.” He adds, “If we need to prioritize limited resources to prevent another major COVID wave, finding and curing COVID infections of immunocompromised patients should be a priority.” Dr. John Dennehy is a professor of biology and deputy executive officer of the Biology Ph.D. Program at Queens College and The Graduate Center of CUNY. Contact him at john.dennehy@qc.cuny.edu; @DrJDennehy

    3. ==> Who Is Writing the Stories of the Pandemic?

    Though the 1918 flu killed between 50 million and 100 million people worldwide, it disappeared from our collective memory and the historical record. It eventually became what historian Alfred Crosby called “America’s Forgotten Pandemic.” Theater historian Debra Caplan calls Crosby’s 1989 book a cautionary tale of what happens when people decide to return to “normalcy” before a public health crisis is over and has issued a call to writers, artists, and the media. “We need collective storytelling about this cataclysmic event to process what happened and figure out where to go next.” She adds, “We need to publicly grieve the one million Americans we lost and make plans to try to prevent any more casualties. We need to tell the stories of Long Haulers and survivors.” Debra Caplan is an associate professor of theater at Baruch College, CUNY. Contact her at debra.caplan36@login.cuny.edu, @debra_caplan

    4. ==> What Happened to the Kids Separated at the Mex Border?

    The world looked on in horror when families emigrating to the U.S. from Mexico were separated at the border in 2017 and 2018. “This was because of the U.S. government’s ineptitude, losing contact with thousands of families and its faltering efforts at reunification for these families,” says Richard Villasana, founder of the nonprofit Forever Homes for Foster Kids. But thanks in part to his valiant efforts, 2,000 of those 5,000 kids have been reunited with their families. Richard is the author of the upcoming book “Do No Harm.” He is a former university professor who is a leading international authority on immigration and foster families. He has been featured on CNN International, ABC and many more. Contact him at (619) 648-4729; rvillasana@rtirguests.com

    5. ==> The Most Fascinating Lakes In the World (and Your Backyard)

    Many people have fond summer memories of spending time by the lake, but for John Richard Saylor, lakes are more than vacation destinations. Invite him to discuss some of the most fascinating lakes in the world — and your neighborhood. “Lakes possess phenomena that are always fascinating, sometimes unique, and, in some cases, even dangerous. Even the small duck pond down the street from your house has a story to tell.” Ask him about the lakes in your area and hear about Antarctica’s Lake Vostok, whose water hasn’t been exposed to the atmosphere in perhaps a million years, Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest lake in the world formed from a rift in the earth’s crust in Siberia, and the so-called Killer Lake, Lake Nyos, which exploded in 1986 and caused hundreds of deaths. A professor of mechanical engineering at Clemson University, John Richard Saylor, Ph.D., is the author of “Lakes: Their Birth, Life and Death.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com

    6. ==> Interview a Former Pioneering Black 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

    7. ==> Planning a Summer Cruise? Hear from This Travel Expert

    If you’re planning a summer cruise, you’ll be sure to enjoy smooth sailing with little-known insider tips from travel expert Cindy Bertram.
    “I recently went on a cruise, and the process has become much more efficient due to COVID protocols,” she says. “And there are new apps that you can download for everything from making advance dining reservations to ensuring hassle-free disembarking.” Cindy can also share why it’s crucial to obtain travel insurance, the special features of various cruise ship lines and more. She 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 Cindy at (219) 775-6488; cbertram@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Should Student Loan Forgiveness Happen?

    There’s been a lot of talk about whether to forgive the massive amount of student debt American college students are carrying. Recently, President Biden announced that his administration would forgive $5.8 billion in loans from former Corinthian College students. Is this just the start of such forgiveness and if so, is this even a good thing? According to former college professor Glen Dunzweiler, students should not waste their time thinking about loan forgiveness. “It’s a waste of energy,” he says, “because there is no incentive for anyone to forgive your debt. Instead, the discussion can provide an opportunity to figure out the leverage that individual students do have.” Glen is the author of two books including “A Degree in Homelessness? Entrepreneurial Skills For Students.” He is an independent filmmaker and the host of the YouTube series Difficult Questions with Glen Dunzweiler. His documentary, “yHomeless,” can be seen on Amazon Prime. Contact Glen Dunzweiler at (702) 703-2219; GDunzweiler@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> 5 Tips to Tame Rising Road Rage

    Gas prices aren’t the only thing ticking motorists off these days as more drivers take advantage of nice weather and the opportunity to take long-delayed roads trips. Road rage incidents increased during the pandemic and Houston recently had three separate road rage shootings. Author and happiness expert Trish Ahjel Roberts can offer motorists five tips for taming their tempers behind the wheel. She’ll explain how to gear up your imagination to build empathy, recognize your success as a driver, notice your breath, safely acknowledge your anger and entertain yourself while behind the wheel. The author of “12 Steps to Mind-Blowing Happiness” recently appeared on CBS46 in Atlanta to discuss road rage. Contact Trish Ahjel Roberts at (917) 887-3689; hello@trishahjelroberts.com

    10. ==> Would You Forgive an Unfaithful Spouse?

    Infidelity is the leading cause of divorce. But author Valentina Tjan claims it doesn’t have to be the end of a marriage. “If your spouse does not possess the deal-breaker traits such as addiction to sex, drugs, alcohol or assault, and they are prepared to immediately stop the affair, then you should stay as the devil you know is better than the one you don’t know,” she says. “Do not leave any stones unturned before you abandon your spouse just because you caught them with their hand in the cookie jar.” She is the author of “The Best is Yet to Come: Real Life Journey to Riches to Inspire You to Wisdom and Wealth,” and has first-hand experience with marital infidelity. Contact Valentina at (647) 493-1694; vphoey@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Eat These Foods for a Better Brain This Summer

    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 their caregivers, and David is a board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine and geriatrics. 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 or Melissa via office phone at (813) 922-2876 or email david@powerof5life.com or melissa@powerof5life.com

    12. ==> Why We Need More Women in STEM Fields

    Women have excelled in the STEM fields for so long but their accomplishments have often gone unrecognized. In recent years, more and more women, particularly women of color, have finally started to receive the attention they deserve, such as the women featured in the book and movie “Hidden Figures” and Dr. Gladys West, who led to the development of the model for the GPS device. “The more women that enter the field and find success, the more role models we’ll have to inspire other young ladies to pursue these fields that require so many talented candidates,” says Chris A. Goldberg Ed.D. He is an award-winning educator and speaker on the subject, and the author of the upcoming book “Aliyah and the STEMsational Problem-Solvers: What’s Cooking?” Contact Chris at (973) 576-5841; cgoldberg@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Are You a Carrier of the ‘Trauma Virus?’

    Trauma is embedded in institutions and passed down from generation to generation. Scholar and author Dr. Sousan Abadian says that anyone can be a carrier of the “trauma virus.” She says, “We see trauma footprints today in the rise of extremists and many of us are unaware of the ways we are carrying the trauma virus that can create fertile ground for radicalization to occur.” She’ll explain how we may be affected by trauma, because forms of stress have come to feel ordinary. She is the author of the forthcoming book “Free Me to Love.” She has a Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard University. Contact Sousan at (617) 860-2785; sabadian@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> This Guest Landed Her Dream Job in Her 60s

    Most people over 60 who wish to continue working fear age discrimination and a workforce that seems to favor younger employees. But Judy Balloff claims that’s nonsense. “I started a new career at age 64 in a job I had never done before, and I have made over half a million dollars at an age when many take social security,” she says. “Treat looking for a job like a job. Be open-minded about doing something with your skills that never occurred to you before.” Judy can share these and other tips for landing your dream job in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. She is a financial advisor and author of “365 Days of Abundance.” Contact her at (571) 568-8491; jballoff@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> Rock Your Midlife: Advice from the Midlife Whisperer

    Over 2 million women in the U.S. enter menopause each year and Dr. Ellen Albertson says it’s time they let go of their old beliefs and make room for what could be the most magnificent phase of life. Scientists used to think that the brain did not change once we reached adulthood. We now know that the brain experiences neuroplasticity, which means our brain grows, changes and develops throughout our lifetime. Dr. Ellen will share the seven steps to thrive and discuss ways to outsmart and change your brain, whether you’re dealing with weight gain, sedentary living, depression, isolation, or midlife burnout. Ellen Albertson Ph.D., is a psychologist, registered dietitian, board-certified health and wellness coach, mindful self-compassion teacher, and the author of “Rock Your Midlife: 7 Steps to Transform Yourself and Make Your Next Chapter Your Best Chapter.” She has appeared on CBS and NBC News, The Food Network, and “EXTRA” and been quoted in “Psychology Today,” “Forbes,” and “Eating Well.” Contact her at (802) 497-7222; ellen@drellenalbertson.com

  • 6/7/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Jan 6th Hearings, Bad Grad Advice, Healthy Eating

    01. Why the Fed’s Inflation Fix is Wrong
    02. Insurrection Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations
    03. Pulitzer Prize Winner on U.S.-Cuban History
    04. It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story
    05. The Worst Graduation Advice: Love What You Do
    06. Father’s Day Is No Picnic for Estranged Dads
    07. Fake News, Donald Trump and the Media
    08. Hunted By the KGB, He Lives to Tell the Story: Russia, Ukraine and the KGB Banker
    09. Why a Circus without Elephants Makes Sense
    10. The Future of Affirmative Action
    11. Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?
    12. Why Healthy Eating Is Cheaper
    13. Is It too Late to Fix Our Broken Medical Model?
    14. How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs
    15. What’s Your Sunglasses IQ?

    1.==> Why the Fed’s Inflation Fix is Wrong

    With the U.S. facing its highest inflation in decades, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says his agency’s goal is “to get wages down and then get inflation down.” The labor market has indeed been tight, with wages rising at the highest pace in years, especially at the lower end of the wage distribution. But is this the major driving force of rising inflation? “As most Americans know from their own experience, wages are running well behind inflation and have been for many months,” says economist Pia Malaney. “What is skyrocketing is corporate profits. As numerous studies indicate, economic concentration in the U.S. has increased oligopoly power in several industries, allowing corporations to raise prices and profits. The latest flap about baby food is a perfect example. The industry is highly concentrated.” Malaney is a senior economist at the Institute for New Economic Thinking. Contact her at pmalaney@ineteconomics.org; @piamalaney

    2. ==> Insurrection Hearings: The History of Congressional Investigations

    This week, public hearings by the House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection will attempt to answer the question of whether former President Donald Trump and his political allies broke the law in seeking to overturn the 2020 election results. Jennifer Selin says the hearings are a part of a long history of congressional investigation. She says the first congressional inquiry was held in the House in 1792 and the Senate conducted its first official investigation in 1818 with several noteworthy investigations since then from the Teapot Dome scandal to Watergate. “While the upcoming hearings of the House Jan. 6 investigative committee will be dealing with unprecedented events in American history, the very investigation of these events has strong precedent. Congress has long exercised its power to investigate some of the greatest problems facing the nation. In that way, the upcoming hearings fit squarely into the mainstream of American government oversight.” Jennifer Selin is co-director of the Washington office for the Carl Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy at Wayne State University. Contact her at (614) 266-1860; jennifer.selin@wayne.edu

    3. ==> Pulitzer Prize Winner on U.S.-Cuban History

    Challenge your listeners’ long-held assumptions about Cuba when you invite Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Ada Ferrer, Ph.D., to share the story of the island nation that became an obsession for many U.S. presidents and policymakers. Learn how Columbus “discovered” Cuba and how he and his men wiped out most of the Indigenous population and established a slave-based economy of sugar, tobacco, and rum that would decimate the island for centuries. Ferrer can discuss the decades of attempted revolts and revolutions and how the U.S. helped Cuba expel the Spanish, although she considers it a myth that the Americans won the island its independence from Spain. Ask her about the island’s relationship with the United States, the rise of Fidel Castro, and what she sees for the nation’s future. Ferrer, one of the world’s leading Cuban historians, has taught at New York University since 1995. Her latest book is “Cuba: An American History.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or johanna@jrbcomm.com

    4.==> It’s Wedding Season: 5 Tips for a Lifelong Love Story

    It is the peak time of year for couples to exhaust themselves, and often their bank accounts, by investing in the “perfect” wedding day. But Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., says couples rarely invest the same level of time or resources to growing the marriage after they tie the knot. The psychologist and author of “Growing Married: Creating Stories for a Lifetime of Love,” says, “Unfortunately couples spend lots to marry, plan lots to retire and check out during the long in-between.” Skerrett pulls together cutting-edge thinking and research to offer practical strategies for newlyweds to have enduring marriages. She’ll share five pieces of advice to help couples flourish in every stage of their lives. Karen Skerrett, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and registered nurse. She is the co-author of “Positive Couple Therapy,” co-editor of “Couple Resilience,” and author of “Tell Me Again How I Know You?” Contact her at (630) 292-4108 (cell); (708) 579-5911 (office); karen.skerrett@gmail.com

    5. ==> The Worst Graduation Advice: Love What You Do

    In the past month, millions of college students have been donning caps and gowns and been told to “find what you love and love what you do.” Carolyn Chen says that was fresh advice 20 years ago, but not appropriate for today’s workers. The author of “Work Pray Code: When Work Becomes Religion in Silicon Valley” says, “Today, professionals’ problems come not from failing to love work, but from loving work too much.” She adds, “Here’s what they don’t tell you in those graduation speeches: Your love and energy are limited, so you have to carefully choose your objects of devotion. American work culture wants you to ask whether you are doing what you love at work. But the real question to ask yourself is this: What do you love?” Carolyn Chen is an associate professor of ethnic studies at the University of California, Berkeley and a co-director of the Berkeley Center for the Study of Religion. Contact her at chen@berkeley.edu

    6. ==> Father’s Day Is No Picnic for Estranged Dads

    Father’s Day is a time when we consider the value fathers play in their children’s lives. But the holiday can also be a time of considerable pain for fathers suffering from parental alienation, a family dynamic in which a child has aligned with one parent and rejected the other for no legitimate reason. Currently, about 22 million parents in the U.S., both male and female, have been alienated from their children. Lynn Steinberg, Ph.D., can explain how this happens and why part of the U.S. Violence Against Women’s Act is likely to make the situation worse. The author of “You’re Not Crazy: Overcoming Parent/Child Alienation” will reveal the signs of parental alienation, effective intervention treatments for parents and children, and what’s wrong with Kayden’s Law and why it should be opposed. Lynn Steinberg is on the board of directors of The Parental Alienation Legislative Fund, whose mission is to pass legislation that would mandate training and reporting of parental alienation as child abuse. Contact Chloe Busch at (323) 449-2203; lynnsteinbergphd@gmail.com

    7. ==> Fake News, Donald Trump and the Media

    There’s no denying that Donald Trump changed the landscape of American politics and journalism. Some say he exposed a lack of ethics and objectivity in the media while others say he used the media to spread misinformation and lies. What is it about DJT that makes it impossible to look away? Are the media at fault? Did they create the monster they hate? Invite Dutch American journalist and media trainer Hans Izaak Kriek to share his independent, non-political observations. The author of “Trump’s Daily Domination of the News Media” can discuss how journalism changed with the Trump presidency and whether he or the media themselves are responsible for the moniker “fake news.” Ask him: Are Americans getting honest news from mainstream media? Are media owners pushing their own political agendas? What is so different about Trump’s relationship with the media? How can the public recognize fake news and framing? Do others besides politicians use fake news, and why? Hans Izaak Kriek is the publisher and editor-in-chief of Krieksmediaworld.com. He worked as an international political journalist for AVRO/TROS, the two largest Dutch National broadcasters. As a media trainer, he has coached and advised thousands of politicians and executives. Contact Hans Izaak Kriek at (561) 861-2974; jkriek@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> Hunted By the KGB, He Lives to Tell the Story: Russia, Ukraine and the KGB Banker

    Imagine what life would be like if the KGB was after you, threatening your life? And if you had no idea you were even taking them on at first? John Christmas does not have to imagine … he lived it. While heading up an international banking group, Christmas tried to expose fraud he uncovered without realizing that the bank in question was a KGB front. Fired for being a whistle-blower, he was threatened and terrorized and finally fled the country. Christmas is co-author of the geopolitical thriller “KGB Banker,” which was inspired by his story and takes place on the Russia/Ukraine border. Ask him: Why is your experience particularly relevant given today’s political environment? What happened to the players you exposed? Are you still in danger? Contact John Christmas at (514) 700-9015; jchristmas@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Why a Circus without Elephants Makes Sense

    After shutting down in 2017, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is planning its return next year, but with an elephant-sized caveat: The so-called “Greatest Show on Earth,” long celebrated for its animal performers, will now be sans any four-legged creatures. Animal/environmental advocate Georja Umano says that’s good news, particularly for pachyderms. “In the last century, elephant populations have plummeted by 90% due to trophy hunting, poaching, logging, zoos and circus captures,” she says. “There are alternate ways to enjoy elephants without stripping them of their natural habitats.” Georja spent two years living and working in Kenya and can share why it’s important to preserve elephants’ natural habitats, as well as how these lovable creatures positively impact global ecosystems. She is the author of “Terriers in the Jungle.” Contact her at (213) 568-1764; gumano@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> The Future of Affirmative Action

    Affirmative action came out of the civil rights movement as a means to address inequalities experienced by minorities. It became law through an executive order made by John F. Kennedy in 1961. With two upcoming cases challenging it before the Supreme Court, now is a good time to discuss affirmative action’s past and future with author Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans (pronounced Kray-gull-mans). Among the topics she can discuss are: Is affirmative action reverse discrimination? How effective has it been? Was it always controversial? Does it benefit everyone or just a few? Judith Mudd-Krijgelmans, a Fulbright Scholar, was one of the first Black women in the Foreign Service. A child of educators, she grew up in public housing in the Jim Crow South where Blacks were told they lived in a separate, but equal society. She is the author of “Flowers for Brother Mudd: One Woman’s Path from Jim Crow to Career Diplomat.” Contact Judith at (571) 568-8667; jmuddkrijgelmans@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Entrepreneurs, Can You Hear Your Inner Voice?

    Fatima Bustos-Choy believes we all have an inner voice that guides us to our true north, but that many entrepreneurs can’t hear the voice. She says, “Believing that answers come from the outside, we’ve learned to not trust ourselves and our answers from within. The inner voice has become fainter and fainter, almost negligible. We have become deaf to our own inner voice.” To research her new book, “More Than Money: Five Paths to Abundance and Success for Inner-Centered Entrepreneurs,” Bustos-Choy interviewed 30 entrepreneurs to understand their minds and hearts, their joys and sorrows, wins and losses, and whether an inner voice spoke to them. She’ll share what she discovered, including the five ways the inner voice comes through. Fatima Bustos-Choy, Ph.D., is president of R&F Holistic Services and Gaia Flow Consulting. She has more than 30 years of frontline and senior leadership positions in the financial services, aerospace and nonprofit industries. Contact her at (818) 209-3775; fbustoschoy@gmail.com

    12. ==> Why Healthy Eating Is Cheaper

    With the sharply rising costs of groceries, it may seem as though eating healthier is more expensive than ever. But, as health coach, fitness, and weight-loss expert Stavros Mastrogiannis will tell you, that isn’t so. As counterintuitive as it may sound, he’ll explain that eating for good health can be cheaper than just grabbing anything. In fact, he’ll explain how his clients manage to slash nearly $60 off their weekly food bills, all while eating better. He’ll also talk about why so many of us eat for entertainment and not because we are hungry and that the extra money we can save by healthy eating can be used to spend on more appropriate entertainment needs. Also, be sure to ask what he learned when he recreated Morgan Spurlock’s experiment about eating McDonald’s food (burgers, fries and Cokes) that became the basis of the 2004 movie “Super Size Me.” In 2011, Stavros did the same thing but unlike Spurlock, Stavros’ blood work was just as good as it had been before he spent two months working and exclusively eating at McDonald’s. Stavros is the creator of The Stavros Method: Practical Wellness through 5 Ancient Habits. Contact him at (203) 733-0109; stavros@liveyourwaythin.com

    13. ==> Is It too Late to Fix Our Broken Medical Model?

    How flawed is the traditional medical model in the U.S.? Can we depend on it to keep us well or is that wishful thinking? Dr. Annalee Kitay minces no words: “If you are smart, you’ll stop relying on a system that is failing everyone. Instead, you’ll learn how to tap into your body’s amazing healing properties through noninvasive modalities.” Dr. Kitay can tell your audience how to do just that. Ask her: Did medicine fail us doing the pandemic? What can people do to protect themselves against communicable and other illnesses? Dr. Kitay has been in private practice for 30 years and trained in alternative protocols that aid the body in its natural recovery. She is one of the top practitioners of Neural Organization Technique and teaches the hands-on protocol to other doctors. She is a frequent guest on talk shows. Contact Annalee Kitay at (561) 462-4733; akitay@rtirguests.com

    14. ==> How Parents Drive Kids to Cults, Drugs, and Gangs

    No parent consciously decides to raise children who will get involved in gangs, cults, or drug use. Yet the families of children who take these paths share common traits that can be identified and, more importantly, used to prevent kids from sustaining injury, a criminal record and more. Interview Pat Tamakloe, Ph.D., author of the upcoming book “Finding Your O: Four Stages to Self-Discovery from Adolescence to Adulthood” to find out more. Pat Tamakloe was born in New York City, raised in West Africa, Southern Africa, and England and became independent of his parents at age 20. An expert on the existing gaps between adolescence and adulthood, he spent 23 years in military service rising from enlisted to a commissioned officer in the U.S. before switching to his passion, helping young adults reach their potential. Ask him: What are the indicators that a child will become involved in drugs, cults, or gangs? What are the four O’s in your book title? What are some of the mental health challenges some adolescents have that prevent them from finding productive occupations? Contact Dr. Pat Tamakloe at (757) 210-7903; ptamakloe@rtirguests.com

    15. ==> What’s Your Sunglasses IQ?

    Do you know how to pick a pair of sunglasses that will protect your eyes and not just look good? Do you know when to wear them and why? Many people have no clue about just how important protecting their eyes from the sun’s UV rays is, missing out on a simple way to help ensure that they keep their vision for life. But as vision educator Linda Odubayo Thompson will tell you, “the eyes are porous and the optic nerve is a direct extension to the brain. So, it stands to reason that eye protection should be added to the virus protection mix, especially for children,” she says. “Add to that protection against cataracts while looking totally cool, and you have a potent reason not to leave the house without them.” Linda knows not to take her vision for granted; she has suffered from glaucoma for more than 30 years. Ask her why aren’t sunglasses just for summer? Why do you need them on cloudy days? Should you also wear a hat? What does she have in common with Bono? Contact Linda Odubayo Thompson at (914) 944-1474; lthompson@rtirguests.com

  • 6/1/2022 RTIR Newsletter: Country Music Star, Wine Destinations, Wiener Season

    01. A Disarming History of the Second Amendment
    02. Why is Glenn Greenwald Defending Tucker Carlson?
    03. Winners and Losers in Johnny Depp/Amber Heard Trial
    04. Country Music Star on Fame, Fortune and Missed Opportunities
    05. Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip
    06. Wieners, Franks and More: Interview Hot Dog’s Top Dog
    07. The Power of the Purse: How to Use Your Wallet for Good
    08. What the Far-Right Has in Common with the Far-Left (and Where Both Go Wrong)
    09. Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?
    10. Secrets of the World’s Most Celebrated Brands
    11. Doctor Reveals Why Babies Should Decide When to Be Born
    12. How to Boost Your Summer Immun-a-Tea
    13. Paint Diva Shares Home Makeover Tips
    14. Advice for Dealing with Sensitive People
    15. How This Retired Hospice Nurse Knows There is an Afterlife

    1.==> A Disarming History of the Second Amendment

    Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz says the U.S. is unique in the industrialized world for the number of guns legally in civilian hands. “Although only a third of the population owns even one firearm, the average gun owner owns nine firearms.” She also says, contrary to popular belief, the NRA is not just a lobby. “It is a mass organization with chapters in every state that are autonomous and have the power to negate election candidates who support gun control. Junior ROTC exists in nearly all middle and high schools, and the NRA furnishes free targets, firearms, and training.” The author of “Loaded: A Disarming History of the Second Amendment” notes that the shooter who killed 17 high school students in Parkland, Florida, in 2018 had been an avid member of the JROTC chapter in the school and was wearing his JROTC shirt when he carried out the shooting. Dunbar-Ortiz wrote “Inside the Minds of American Mass Shooters” for the British Guardian and “Settler Colonialism and the Second Amendment” for “Monthly Review.” Contact her at rdunbaro@pacbell.net; @rdunbaro

    2. ==> Why is Glenn Greenwald Defending Tucker Carlson?

    Journalist Eoin Higgins says, “There’s no plausible way to dispute that Fox News host Tucker Carlson is spreading racist conspiracy theories, but Glenn Greenwald has been trying anyway.” Greenwald, a former “Salon” columnist and Pulitzer-winning reporter for “The Guardian,” claims his presence on Carlson’s show might shift some Fox viewers from rabid right-wing ideologues to something approaching social libertarianism. But Higgins says the appearances support Carlson’s worldview. “Greenwald doesn’t challenge Carlson, seldom if ever criticizes the right and generally stays in his lane — legitimizing the Fox News narrative.” He adds, “While Greenwald formerly defended Carlson while distancing himself from the more extreme interpretations of the Fox host’s views, today he is increasingly deploying his Twitter platform in service of spreading the white nationalist message. These vehement defenses of the most influential media purveyor of the racist ‘replacement’ theory are destructive efforts to launder hate by a once-admirable journalist.” Higgins is a journalist who wrote the new piece “Why Is Glenn Greenwald Defending Tucker Carlson and the “Great Replacement?” for “Salon.” Contact him at eoinhiggins@gmail.com; @EoinHiggins

    3. ==> Winners and Losers in Johnny Depp/Amber Heard Trial

    As the jury deliberates the multimillion-dollar defamation case involving Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, David Glass, a certified family law specialist and former clinical psychologist, can discuss this troubling and very public trial. He’ll discuss the real winners and losers and why the public was so enthralled by the spectacle. “I think each of them, to an extent, came across as credible,” Glass says. “The end result is the description of an awful relationship with awful behavior on both sides, but which either could have left at any time –– and still they stayed. So, it is more like a sadomasochistic relationship, where each of the parties gets pleasure from either being controlling and abusive, or by being subjugated and abused.” Contact Cherie Kerr at (714) 550-9900; Cherie@KerrPR-ExecuProv.com or Shannon Dugger at (303) 619-3949; Shannon@KerrPR-ExecuProv.com

    4. ==> Country Music Star on Fame, Fortune and Missed Opportunities

    Johnny Rodriguez’s Latin-infused hits made him one of the most successful country artists of the ‘70s and ‘80s, with 15 consecutive Top Ten songs, including six number-one hits. His new memoir, “Desperado: A Piece of My Soul,” details his meteoric rise to fame and his plunge into personal despair, and getting back in the saddle, again. Invite him to share colorful stories about his career, starting with his arrival in Nashville with just $14 and a guitar that he carried in a plastic bag. You’ll also learn how fame came with its share of problems, including drug addiction, gambling, failed marriages, and sabotaged relationships. Johnny’s new Country/Mariachi CD “Building Bridges” includes songs written by actor and singer/songwriter Dennis Quaid and a duet with Grammy winner and friend, Tanya Tucker. Contact Pauline Vega at (661) 387-3174; pvega@rtirguests.com

    5. ==> Wine Destinations: Plan Your Next Trip

    Looking to take a summer trip that combines the pleasures of wine and travel? Helping audiences make the most of their wine adventures is expert guide Jim Laughren, CWE, with suggestions from how to enjoy local wineries to where in the world we can find the “wildest” wine vacations of all. Whether you’re looking for fabulous food, incredible scenery, or amazing hospitality, all to enjoy with some gorgeous wines, Jim can steer you in the right direction. Ask him: Why should people visit Mendoza, Argentina, the Republic of Georgia and the Napa Valley? Where can you not only tour 1,500 acres of grapes but also buy a piece of the vineyard AND return for the harvest to make your own wine? The author of two short eBooks, “The 15-Minute Guide to Red Wine” and “The 15-Minute Guide to White Wine,” Jim has appeared on radio and TV around the country and is also the award-winning author of “50 Ways to Love Wine More” and “A Beer Drinker’s Guide to Knowing and Enjoying Fine Wine.” Contact Jim Laughren at (954) 317-9623; JLaughren@rtirguests.com

    6. ==> Wieners, Franks and More: Interview Hot Dog’s Top Dog

    Hot dogs are part of American culture, summer celebrations, travel and grilling traditions. Invite National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) Hot Dog Top Dog Eric Mittenthal to discuss everything and anything about hot dogs including the biggest myths, fascinating trivia, and more. Hear the history of hot dogs and sausages, how they’re made and even a guide to hot dog etiquette. Eric Mittenthal is president of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. Contact him at (202) 587-4238; (404) 808-8396 (cell) or emittenthal@meatinstitute.org

    7. ==> The Power of the Purse: How to Use Your Wallet for Good

    You’ve heard of dark money, PAC money, and corporate money and their undue influence on elections and public policy. Ordinary people don’t have that kind of influence … or do they? Certified Financial Planner Lorri Craig says they could. “When we think of each dollar we spend as a vote for the environment, fair treatment of workers, ethics, and integrity, or oversight of their supply chains — we are positively altering an egregiously imbalanced economic and political power system,” she says. “We can make choices that boost ourselves, our communities, and our planet.” Lorri has simple advice on how to implement this strategy. She has a master’s degree in finance and is a subject matter expert for the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. She offers an Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) investment platform on her website for socially conscious investors who want to make a positive impact. Ask her what are some examples of voting with your discretionary dollars? How can ordinary people have an outsized influence on the world? Contact Lorri at (484) 453-1742; LCraig@rtirguests.com

    8. ==> What the Far-Right Has in Common with the Far-Left (and Where Both Go Wrong)

    Both sides of the political divide have their grievances. The right contends they’ve been victimized by big government, oppressive regulations, liberal elites, socialists, illegal immigrants, etc. The left’s grievance list includes racism, sexism, homophobia, fascism, authoritarianism, capitalism, and more. What they have in common, says Sparrow Hart, is that each side claims someone else is to blame and needs to make restitution to them. Sparrow says the country’s healing requires paying attention, not to past grievances, but to the journey ahead. With over 30 years experience leading workshops on shamanism and the heroic journey, he knows the importance of hope, gratitude, and love in bringing the best parts of ourselves to our collective hero’s journey. “Traditionally, a ‘heroic journey’ calls people to find their best selves by leaving familiar territory behind and stepping outside their comfort zones … including the familiar comfort zone made up of people who agree with you, know they’re right, and feel morally superior to their adversaries.” Sparrow’s varied career also includes being a vision quest guide, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Stanford, a brief stint working in a slaughterhouse, and adventures in the Amazon jungle. He is the author of several books including “Letters to the River: A Guide to a Dream Worth Living. Contact Sparrow Hart at (801) 516-0740; SHart@rtirguests.com

    9. ==> Whatever Happened to ‘the Public Good’?

    Today’s highly polarized society makes it hard for people from opposing sides to agree on anything, let alone work together, even if the goal is for the common good. It’s possible, though not easy, as Bee Bloeser personally witnessed in the middle of the Cold War when despite their vast differences, leaders across the globe joined forces to rid the world of smallpox. Bee and her family became involved in the global campaign when the CDC dispatched her husband to West Africa in 1969. Invite her to share what it was like to be an American woman in Africa at that time and the unexpected challenges she and her family faced, including brushes with a brutal dictator’s regime and living in an isolated region suffering a humanitarian crisis the rest of the world knew nothing about. An award-winning author and engaging public speaker, Bee Bloeser has been featured on NPR’s “Journeys of Discovery” and NPR KCBX Radio’s show, “Issues and Ideas.” Her book is, “Vaccines and Bayonets: Fighting Smallpox in Africa amid Tribalism, Terror and the Cold War.” Contact her at (520) 214-5971; bbloeser@rtirguests.com

    10. ==> Secrets of the World’s Most Celebrated Brands

    Would your listeners like to know how celebrities create world-class brands so they can do it too? Raj Girn, an internationally celebrated brand authority and the creator of “The 6-Step Guide That Celebrities Use to Guarantee World-Class Brand Presence,” is prepared to offer the same fantastic tips to your audience that she has passed on to executives at L’Oréal Paris, Estée Lauder, Johnnie Walker, Cîroc, Sheraton and Fairmont Hotels and people like Priyanka Chopra, Hannah Simone, Robin Sharma and Freida Pinto. Ask her: What are the four biggest myths that prevent brands from taking off? What are the six steps to creating a world-class brand that anyone can dial in, no matter what their size or budget? A media celebrity in Canada who has been featured in “The Wall Street Journal” and “Globe and Mail,” and on FOX and CBS, Raj is a regular contributor to Entrepreneuer.com, ThriveGlobal.com and Medium.com and an internationally best-selling author whose blog attracts 500,000 unique monthly visitors. She also publishes a weekly newsletter with over 100,000 subscribers and has a combined social media network of over 1 million. She runs The Open Chest Confidence Academy. Contact Raj Girn at (647) 490-3158; Rgirn@rtirguests.com

    11. ==> Doctor Reveals Why Babies Should Decide When to Be Born

    Due dates. Planned C-sections. Induced labor. Medicine to prevent premature birth. Nowadays it seems babies are scheduled to arrive, and not always for a medical reason. Sometimes births are timed for the convenience of the mother and her doctor (think holiday babies, health insurance stay limits, and tax credits). But OB/GYN specialist Alan Lindemann, M.D., says the vast number of births should happen when the baby is ready, for the safety of mother and child. Ask Dr. Lindemann: Are there too many C-sections? Why? How are mothers and babies safer when nature takes its course? What are the only acceptable reasons to hurry or delay a birth? How has birthing changed? Expect an informative discussion with this expert who has delivered more than 6,000 babies and treated countless women. He is the author of “Modern Medicine: What You’re Dying to Know.” Contact Alan Lindemann, M.D., at (828) 818-8242; ALindemann@rtirguests.com

    12. ==> How to Boost Your Summer Immun-a-Tea

    Are you looking for ways to boost your immunity, stay healthy and ward off disease this summer? Invite Tilak Silva to share new ways we can be wiser in what we eat and drink. He’ll discuss the best natural ways to create strength, energy, healthier skin and ultimately longer life. You’ll learn about unexpected health foods and how to take advantage of their benefits, as well as which commonly imbibed beverages can decrease your immunity. Tilak Silva is an expert in nutrition and health research and the inventor of CilanTea, based on a 3,000-year-old recipe from Sri Lanka. Contact Tilak Silva at (310) 421-4680, tsilva@rtirguests.com

    13. ==> Paint Diva Shares Home Makeover Tips

    Whether you want to freshen up your decor or you’re planning to put your house up for sale, Cindy Gelormini has great ideas on how to update your interiors. Affectionately known as The Paint Diva, Cindy takes the stress out of choosing paint colors and helps clients find their style and create spaces that reflect their personality and serve their specific needs. Cindy will share how to up your WFH game by painting an accent wall in your home office, inexpensive ways to give your kitchen a DIY paint update, and quick and easy projects to create instant curb appeal! Cindy Gelormini has over 30 years of experience in the interior design and real estate fields as a color consultant, interior design consultant, mural artist, stager and realtor and has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows. She’s the author of “The Paint Diva Method.” Contact her at (908) 665-9149; (908) 451-2767 or ThePaintDivaNJ@gmail.com

    14. ==> Advice for Dealing with Sensitive People

    Is there someone in your life that cries at the drop of a hat? Is overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Are you tired of not knowing what to do for them? Alicia McBride, author of two books on empaths — people who pick up the energy and feelings of others — says such people are often poorly understood by themselves and others. Alicia can answer such questions as what are the hallmarks of empaths? What are the gifts empaths bring that make people flock to them? What steps can empaths take that can protect them from harboring other people’s negative energies? Alicia McBride is a leading voice for empaths. She is the internationally best-selling author of “I Feel Too Much: A How-to Guide for the Beginner Empath” and “The Empath Effect”. An empath and healer, she holds a B.A. in psychology and is a Reiki master and a certified yoga instructor. Contact her at (484) 369-1464; healinglightempath@gmail.com

    15. ==> How This Retired Hospice Nurse Knows There is an Afterlife

    As someone who has been with many patients as they faced the end of their lives, retired hospice nurse Jean Keegan Daly knows that some people wonder, worry, or feel afraid about an afterlife. The incidents she has witnessed coupled with her own profound near-death experience have led her to conclude that there truly is life after death, angels are real, and departed loved ones are still paying attention to our lives. Invite Jean on your program to hear some of her amazing stories including the one about 9-year-old Diane who, after her death, appeared to and spoke to Jean. Ask Jean: What lessons did her first hospice patient teach her? What encounters did she have with angels? Why does she believe that all of us have a soul and a purpose for what we are supposed to do in this life? Jean has written her memoir, “Reflections of a Seasoned Soul,” which reveals her journey to understanding life here and beyond. She has appeared on local television and taught at community colleges, organizations, and hospitals. Contact Jean Keegan Daly at (609) 912-3778; Jkeegandaly@rtirguests.com