Weekly Ezine Archives -

2/10/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Bad Bunny Wins the Super Bowl, Dating After 50 and the First African American Rockette

01. The Real Super Bowl Winner Is Bad Bunny
02. Trump’s Racist Meme Isn’t an Outlier, Expert Says — It’s a Political Tool
03. The United States’ 250th Birthday: A History Test for the Nation
04. Love After 50: Bigger Frogs, Brighter Red Flags
05. Interview the First African American Rockette
06. Forget Role Models: Leadership Lessons from Rebels, Pirates, and Outlaws
07. Political Insider Reveals: Why Would Anyone Run for Office?
08. Are You Addicted to Caffeine—and Don’t Even Know It?
09. Joint Pain Isn’t ‘Just Menopause’: It’s Inflammation, Hormones, and How You Move
10. 5 Things You Never Knew About the Women’s Movement
11. The Mental Health Cost of Building a Business from Scratch
12. How to Talk Across Differences Without Burning Out or Blowing Up
13. The Dark Side of Positive Thinking No One Talks About
14. ‘Out of the Chair’ Thinking to Help Kids Focus and Learn
15. Breaking the Cycle: When You Don’t Want to Be Your Mom

1. ==> The Real Super Bowl Winner Is Bad Bunny

The Seattle Seahawks may have won the Super Bowl, but it was the man at the center of the halftime show who was the real star of the game. Performing a mix of his greatest hits, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny took on the task of reminding viewers that Puerto Rican culture is American culture – and that he has completely earned his spot in the zeitgeist. Music journalist Leila Cobo says, “Bad Bunny is the Super Bowl’s unofficial MVP because he shapes the culture that surrounds the game—fashion, music, social media, and the energy of the broadcast itself.” In the United States, 1 in 5 people are Hispanic or Latino, according to census data. Leila Cobo can discuss the rise of Latin music, both in the U.S. and the world, and Bad Bunny’s career. Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities in Latin music and the Latin music industry, Leila Cobo is a novelist, speaker, journalist, TV host and Billboard’s chief content officer for Latin/Español, overseeing the brand’s coverage of Latin music in all its platforms, as well as all its Spanish-language content. Contact her at contactleilacobo@gmail.com

2. ==> Trump’s Racist Meme Isn’t an Outlier, Expert Says — It’s a Political Tool

President Trump has refused to apologize after posting a racist meme of former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle on social media — a video clip showing the Obamas' faces on apes. The post was eventually deleted, but civil rights historian Dr. Peniel Joseph says the damage is already done. “Depicting Black Americans as apes is one of the oldest and most violent racist tropes in U.S. history. When a president amplifies that imagery, it’s not just offensive — it’s dangerous. It signals permission for dehumanization.” Peniel, the founding director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy can explain the history of the racist trope, as well as Trump’s personal history of making racist remarks toward Black people and other people of color. He’ll also discuss how political leaders use race to mobilize supporters and what he thinks about Trump insisting he’s “the least racist president.” Joseph Peniel is a frequent media commentator on issues of race, democracy and civil rights. He is a professor at the University of Texas, Austin and the author of several books including “The Sword and the Shield: The Revolutionary Lives of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.” Contact him at (512) 471-4263; peniel.joseph@austin.utexas.edu

3. == > The United States’ 250th Birthday: A History Test for the Nation

Throughout 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. But what about America’s history will be showcased and what will be left out? Professional historians have expressed deep concern that the Trump administration is trying to impose a nationalist narrative that erases difficult issues, conflicts, and failures from the national conversation. Julian Zelizer says it’s not the first time a historic birthday celebration has generated controversy. “Fifty years ago, Americans debated the bicentennial, and the way history would be presented was widely seen as a test of what the country had learned from the political struggles of the 1960s.” Zelizer can discuss what happened back in the 1970s and what’s at stake now. “The choices made by state and local officials, museum curators, scholars, teachers, and those charged with preserving national spaces in response to political pressure will be critical. The 250th will serve as a test of how much freedom Americans retain to study and debate their own history—the good, the bad, and everything in between—and whether we are entering an era in which the heavy hand of government dictates how the past is understood.” Julian Zelizer is a columnist at “Foreign Policy” and a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. He is the author of The Long View, a newsletter putting the news in perspective. Contact him at (609) 258-8846; jzelizer@princeton.edu or Bernadette Yeager at byeager@princeton.edu

4. ==> Love After 50: Bigger Frogs, Brighter Red Flags

Millions of Americans over 50-years-old are reentering the dating world and discovering it’s more complicated than ever. Dating coach Dr. Victoria Vaughn says many overlook critical warning signs from charming manipulators to financial risk and emotional dependency. A great guest for a Valentine’s Day segment, she’ll reveal the most common red flags mature singles miss, why loneliness can cloud judgment, and how men, women, and same-sex couples can date confidently without settling. Her insights help listeners avoid costly emotional mistakes while staying open to real connection later in life. Blending humor with hard-earned wisdom, her stories offer a practical “buyer beware” guide to modern love after 50. Dr. Victoria Vaughn is the author of “Oh the Frogs I Kissed Before I Finally Found My Prince” and speaks on love, loss, and reinvention in later life. Contact Dr. Victoria Vaughn at (512) 580-8531; vvaughn@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Interview the First African American Rockette

The Rockettes recently celebrated 100 years of precision, athleticism and sisterhood. The all-female dance group from Missouri became an iconic part of American culture soon after they arrived at Radio City Music Hall in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until 1988—more than 50 years later—that an African American dancer was hired, breaking the troupe’s longstanding policy. Meet Jennifer Jones, the woman who made history performing at the Super Bowl XX11 halftime show as a Rockette. Since then, Jones has become an award-winning performer celebrated for her pioneering achievements and unwavering advocacy for equal rights in the arts. Her groundbreaking journey has captivated audiences for decades and she remains a symbol of resilience and determination. She is the author of the children’s book "On The Line: My Story of Becoming the First African American Rockette,” and her memoir, "Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience" and is featured in a tribute to black artists, singers, actors and writers this month at the Hollywood Museum entitled “This Joint is Jumping.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

6. ==> Forget Role Models: Leadership Lessons from Rebels, Pirates, and Outlaws

What if the most powerful leadership lessons didn’t come from heroes—but from history’s most notorious figures? Author and leadership coach Steve Williams reveals 20 bold, practical lessons drawn from rebels, outlaws, pirates, and power players you won’t find in a typical business book. From Attila the Hun to Al Capone, he strips away myth to uncover the strategies that made these figures astonishingly effective leaders. Williams is the author of six books including “Notorious: Leadership Lessons from History’s Most Notorious Leaders,” and a certified leadership coach and QMS expert. Ask him: What are some examples of how these notorious people made great leaders? What are the comparisons between these and effective leaders of today? Contact Steve Williams at (920) 280-1068; swilliams@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Political Insider Reveals: Why Would Anyone Run for Office?

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

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

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

9. ==> Joint Pain Isn’t ‘Just Menopause’: It’s Inflammation, Hormones, and How You Move

Many women are told joint pain is simply part of getting older, especially during perimenopause and menopause. But according to Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MSN, that explanation often misses what’s really happening inside the body. Invite Roberts to explain how declining estrogen reduces the body’s natural anti-inflammatory protection, making joints more sensitive to stress, movement patterns, and even food sensitivities. Over time, poor biomechanics and compensation after old injuries can quietly worsen inflammation, even without visible damage. “Pain isn’t just about wear and tear,” says Roberts. “It’s about how hormones, inflammation, and movement interact.” With more than 30 years of experience working with everyday women and professional athletes, Roberts helps patients address pain without surgery, injections, or long-term medication by restoring balance and mobility. Ask her: Why is joint pain so common during menopause? How do different hormones influence inflammation and pain? Why do women need to change the way they move during perimenopause and menopause? Contact Stacey Roberts (414) 522-6153; sroberts@rtirguests.com

10. ==> 5 Things You Never Knew About the Women’s Movement

Did you know that in the 1950s and 60s, women couldn’t buy property, get a credit card or passport in their names or open a bank savings or checking account without a male co-signer? That it was mandatory for stewardesses to wear girdles and submit to “flick checks” to ensure they did? Just in time for Women’s History Month in March, award-winning author Elaine Rock will share little-known facts about the Women’s Movement and the forgotten civil rights trailblazer, Barbara “Dusty” Roads, an American Airlines stewardess and flight attendant, union organizer and lobbyist to Congress. Elaine says she was the hidden figure who really ignited the Women’s Movement— before it had a name. Among her many achievements, Dusty played a pivotal role in fighting and overturning the airlines’ ban on marriage and the industry-wide practice that fired stewardesses once they reached the age of 32. Rock met and interviewed Dusty numerous times and even appeared with her in the PBS documentary Fly With Me. Elaine Rock is a women’s rights advocate, a former history teacher and the author of “Dusty Roads.” Contact her at (707) 293-0000; ElaineRockAuthor@gmail.com

11. ==> The Mental Health Cost of Building a Business from Scratch

Nearly half of all entrepreneurs report chronic stress or burnout, but Darius Ross says the real danger isn’t the workload. It’s the unresolved trauma many carry into the grind. He says when you build a business from nothing, the survival mindset that once kept you alive can quietly start working against you as success grows. In this timely conversation, Ross explores how urban trauma, financial insecurity, and constant pressure quietly shape decision-making, relationships, and leadership. A former homeless teen turned entrepreneur and community leader, he explains why success can actually amplify anxiety, and why mindset, not hustle, determines who breaks through and who breaks down. The author of “Mastering the TPS Blueprint” offers street-tested insights on managing fear, stress, and self-sabotage while building something meaningful, especially for entrepreneurs who never had a safety net. Ask him: Can trauma make you successful and still destroy you later? Why do some entrepreneurs feel less safe as they earn more? Contact Darius Ross at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

12. ==> How to Talk Across Differences Without Burning Out or Blowing Up

Americans are talking more than ever, yet we are understanding each other less. Differences in politics, faith, and values are making even simple conversations feel risky. National Muslim leader and peacebuilding expert Daisy Khan explains that many well-meaning attempts to bridge differences actually make conflict worse. She’ll explain why facts alone rarely change minds, how silence and cancel culture fuel division, and how simple language shifts can de-escalate conflict in real time. Drawing on her work training schools, workplaces, and communities, Khan will reveal practical tools for confronting bias without escalating conflict and share insights from her book “30 Rights of Muslim Women,” which challenges common assumptions about faith, identity, and equality. Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

13. ==> The Dark Side of Positive Thinking No One Talks About

Positive thinking is often sold as the cure for everything: pain, loss, confusion, or even a world that feels like it’s falling apart. But what happens when optimism stops working? Author Lydia Samaniego offers a counterintuitive perspective rooted in lived experience, rather than theory. She argues that forced positivity and manifestation culture can actually disconnect people from truth, responsibility, and the guidance of their own hearts. Lydia will explore why the deepest betrayal isn’t a broken relationship, but the realization that our trusted systems, from society to culture and even religion, can’t actually tell us who we are or how to live. She’ll share why real change doesn’t come from thinking harder or “staying positive,” but from noticing the conflict between the mind and the heart, catching inherited beliefs that no longer serve us, and choosing an inside-out path forward. Her story resonates with anyone questioning what to trust when old answers fall apart. Contact Lydia Samaniego at (530) 443-5826: samaniego@rtirguests.com

14. ==> ‘Out of the Chair’ Thinking to Help Kids Focus and Learn

Think kids need to sit still to concentrate? Research says the opposite, and so does math educator Suzy Koontz. With screen time up and attention spans down, Suzy offers a powerful, practical solution: movement-based learning. Suzy is the creator of Math & Movement, a program used in schools nationwide to boost focus, memory, and academic performance through full-body learning. In her segment, she’ll explain how jumping, hopping, and dancing can help kids grasp math and reading faster—no tech required. She’ll also share simple, at-home activities parents can use to help restless kids refocus after school. Suzy has reached over 1 million students and authored 20+ books packed with easy, energizing takeaways your audience can use right away. Contact Suzy Koontz at (607) 366-9588; skoontz@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Breaking the Cycle: When You Don’t Want to Be Your Mom

Many women fear repeating the emotional patterns they grew up with, but few know how to break them. When her own mother ran away with her boyfriend at age 13, Sabrina Ciceri learned early how deeply a parent’s choices can shape a child’s identity, relationships, and future. In her book “If It’s Not One Thing, It’s a Mother,” she shares how she stopped inherited dysfunction, rewrote her family story, and built a healthy life as a mother of six and grandmother of five. In an interview, Sabrina will explore why we unconsciously mirror our parents, how to interrupt toxic cycles, and why healing doesn’t always require confrontation or forgiveness. Her perspective blends family psychology, faith, and real-life experience in ways audiences rarely hear. Ask her: Why do we often become the very parent we promised never to be? Can you heal from a toxic parent without cutting them out of your life? Contact Sabrina Ciceri at (352) 308 1596; sciceri@rtirguests.com

2/5/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Consumer Confidence Plummets, Stop Telling Women to Smile, and Signs Your Partner is a Narcissist

01. Consumer Confidence is Now Below Pandemic Levels
02. The AI Bubble Is Getting Closer to Popping
03. Trump Slams Reporter for Not Smiling Enough
04. Study Finds Dads Matter More Than We Thought
05. Sneaky Signs Your Partner Is a Narcissist
06. How to Stay Indispensable in an Unstable Job Market
07. Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs — But No One Teaches
08. How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Sons
09. Reduce Test Anxiety by Changing How Kids Think
10. Former Nurse and Stand-Up Comic Gets Serious About Healthcare's Darkest Secret
11. Healing Doesn’t Always Follow a Straight Line
12. The 3 Habits That Build Trust and Cut Division in Your Life
13. How to Reclaim Attention in a World Built to Distract
14. 3 Million Mom-Owned Businesses Fuel the U.S. Economy
15. Spiritual Teachers Get Physical: The Body as Your Gateway to Higher Consciousness

1. ==> Consumer Confidence is Now Below Pandemic Levels

U.S. consumer confidence slumped to the lowest level since 2014 in January, sinking below pandemic-era lows as Americans are concerned about the labor market. "Confidence collapsed in January, as consumer concerns about both the present situation and expectations for the future deepened," says Dana M. Peterson, chief economist of The Conference Board. "All five components of the Index deteriorated, driving the overall Index to its lowest level since May 2014 (82.2) – surpassing its COVID-19 pandemic depths." The Conference Board's present situation index, which measures consumers' views of current business and labor market conditions, fell 9.9 points and the expectations index – which is based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions – declined by 9.5 points to 65.1, which is well below the threshold of 80 that usually signals a recession is ahead. Confidence among all generations and across all political affiliations trended downward in the month, with the sharpest decline among Independents. The Conference Board is a member-driven non-profit think-tank that publishes the Consumer Confidence Index each month. Contact Joseph DiBlasi at (781) 308-7935; jdiblasi@tcb.org

2. ==> The AI Bubble Is Getting Closer to Popping

AI is driving the S&P 500 index and the broader US economy forward. But the line between hype and reality has blurred and according to Shannon O’Neil, what may burst the AI bubble are not the flagged worries over circular financing, growing debt or Chinese competition. Instead, she says the unanticipated drag of tariffs and fall in the number of migrants in the US may be what brings AI back down to earth. “AI’s success or failure will depend on whether it can start to show the worth of massive investments. But even if it succeeds in transforming the way industry after industry works, cost and time will determine who gains, and when. And today, the Trump administration’s tariffs and immigration policies are a big part of what’s holding back US models and companies.” Shannon O’Neil is a leading authority on global trade, supply chains, Mexico, and Latin America and senior vice president of studies and Maurice R. Greenberg chair at the Council on Foreign Relations. Contact her at (212) 434-9632; soneil@cfr.org

3. ==> Trump Slams Reporter for Not Smiling Enough

President Trump slammed CNN political reporter Kaitlyn Collins after she asked about the Epstein files, ignoring the question and telling her “You are the worst reporter. I never see you smile.” Dr. Jennifer Mercieca says, “Comments policing a woman journalist’s facial expression aren’t incidental—they’re a rhetorical move to reassert dominance in an interaction where the press is supposed to hold power.” The exchange isn’t the first time Trump lashed out at Collins and other reporters. In December, he called her nasty and stupid in a social media post after she asked about the cost of White House ballroom renovations. Merceica says Trump’s comments on women’s demeanor fit into broader patterns of control and diminishment. Dr. Jennifer Mercieca is an historian of American political rhetoric. She is Professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University. She is the author of several books including “Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump.” Contact her at mercieca@tamu.edu

4. ==> Study Finds Dads Matter More Than We Thought

For much of the 20th century and beyond, social scientists attributed a range of chronic mental health problems to dysfunction between infants and their mothers, but a team of researchers from Penn State University has found that the early parenting behavior of fathers may have a greater impact on children’s health. For their study, scientists observed three-way interactions between 10-month-old infants, their fathers and their mothers, and then checked in on the families when the children were 2 and 7. They found that fathers who were less attentive to their 10-month-olds were likely to have trouble co-parenting and at age 7, the children of those fathers were more likely to have markers of poor heart or metabolic health, such as inflammation and high blood sugar. Mothers’ behavior did not have the same effect. “This does not mean that only the dads matter, not the moms,” says Hannah M.C. Schreier, an associate professor of biobehavioral health at Penn State and an author of the paper. Instead, Dr. Schreier says, it suggests that positive engagement by fathers during infancy and toddlerhood improves the health of the whole family. The study was published in the journal Health Psychology. Contact Hannah Schreier at (814) 863-5767; hannah.schreier@psu.edu

5. ==> Sneaky Signs Your Partner Is a Narcissist

While anyone can spot the loud, attention-seeking narcissist, it's the charming "nice guy" covert narcissists who cause the most damage—and Dr. Valerie Sussman should know. After 20 years trapped in a narcissistic marriage, this retired pediatrician traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush and became a certified Narcissistic Abuse Specialist dedicated to helping others recognize these wolves in sheep's clothing. Sussman will reveal the "6 E's" that show your partner is a narcissist and explain why victims stay "hooked on hopium"—the dangerous hope that keeps them trapped. Drawing from her book “Love, Lies, and Narcissists in Disguise: The A-Z Guide for Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse,” she'll share how to spot the charm-to-harm cycle before it's too late. Listeners will learn the red flags they're missing, why asking "Am I the narcissist?" means you're not, and how creativity can heal emotional wounds. Ask her: What's the difference between overt and covert narcissists—and why are covert ones more dangerous? You call it "hopium"—why is hope so toxic in these relationships? What are the "6 E's" and how do they reveal a narcissist? Contact Valerie Sussman at (805) 407-5635; Vsussman@rtirguests.com

6. ==> How to Stay Indispensable in an Unstable Job Market

With mass layoffs back in the headlines and economic anxiety rising, employees at every level are asking the same question: How do I make sure I’m not next? Business transformation expert Shawn Fry says the key isn’t working harder, it’s thinking differently. After leading organizational change in 60+ companies across 17 countries, Fry noticed a surprising pattern: the people who kept their jobs during uncertainty weren’t the loudest or the busiest. They were the most focused, adaptive, and connected. Shawn will share why traditional goal-setting doesn’t work in today’s market and the counterintuitive steps employees can take to become indispensable, even when their company feels shaky. Ask him: Is visibility more important than performance in times of layoffs? What’s one daily habit that protects your job better than your resume? Contact Shawn Fry at (330) 422-4090; sfry@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs — But No One Teaches

Great leaders aren’t just decisive—they’re deliberate. “In high-stakes rooms where every word carries weight, success depends on skills rarely taught in business school: listening with precision, speaking with intention, and navigating conflict without escalating it,” says author and former diplomat Dianne Olvera. Drawing from real-world diplomacy and leadership experience, her approach reveals how to manage tough conversations, defuse tension, and influence outcomes without overpowering the room. It’s about knowing when to speak, when to pause, and how to choose language that builds trust instead of resistance. Dianne is a board-certified educational therapist and the author of “The Power of Connection: Understanding Individual Differences to Uplift and Empower.” She’s also a former diplomat and spy. Contact Dianne Olvera at (805) 779-3558; dolvera@rtirguests.com

8. ==> How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Sons

In a world where boys are often taught to suppress their feelings, parenting expert and author C. Lynn Williams is changing the conversation. She offers practical, compassionate guidance for raising sons who are emotionally aware, resilient, and confident. “We need to focus on challenging outdated myths about masculinity and replace fear-based parenting with connection, communication, and trust,” she says. “When boys are given permission to feel, communicate, and be understood, they grow into healthier men and create stronger families and communities.” C. Lynn is the author of five parenting books including “Trying to Stay Sane While Raising Your Teen.” She’s an educator, speaker, and family dynamics strategist. Ask her: What challenges do boys face in modern society? How can parents raise sons who are strong without being aggressive? Contact C. Lynn Williams at (224) 357-6315; Cwilliams@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Reduce Test Anxiety by Changing How Kids Think

Most parents try to reduce test anxiety by pushing kids to study harder. Sharon Emily says that approach often backfires. When children feel pressured to perform, their brains shift into fear mode, which actually makes learning harder. A former counselor, Franklin Covey-trained facilitator, and educator, Sharon helps families understand how thoughts quietly shape behavior, confidence, and results. She teaches why creativity, repetition, and imagination can be more effective than checklists, rewards, or threats. Her book “Mirror of Myself” grew out of a simple insight: when kids learn to focus on possibility instead of fear, their choices change naturally. Sharon explains why positive thinking is not about ignoring reality, why mistakes can build confidence faster than success, and how the same mindset tools work across parenting, school, and life. Her approach gives families practical ways to calm anxiety and improve performance during high-stakes testing seasons. Contact Sharon Emily at (480) 470-3893 or semily@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Former Nurse and Stand-Up Comic Gets Serious About Healthcare's Darkest Secret

Kathy Allan spent 20 years as a hospital nurse before witnessing something that changed everything: cleaning staff in scrubs discharging new mothers, while administrators threatened her for asking questions. She realized healthcare had become addicted to profits over patients. Her shocking revelation: nurses are 18% more likely to commit suicide than the general population. This Board Certified Holistic Nurse and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner channeled her trauma expertise and comedy background into Gutsy Nurses—a program teaching nurses how to survive a broken system. Inspired by recovery principles, she developed the 12 Steps of Healing Care to beat the industry's profit addiction. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; Kallan@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Healing Doesn’t Always Follow a Straight Line

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

12. ==> The 3 Habits That Build Trust and Cut Division in Your Life

Tired of the conflict in your office, community, or even your own family? Dr. Dionne Poulton says building unity isn’t about avoiding tough topics. It’s about mastering three powerful habits: Decency, Excellence, and Integrity. She’ll reframe what it means to lead, communicate, and connect across differences without ever saying “DEI.” Her message? You don’t need a title to be a leader. You just need a standard. From how we treat others to how we hold ourselves accountable, Dr. Dionne shows how small shifts in behavior can transform relationships, rebuild trust, and prevent conflict before it starts. According to a recent study, 76% of people say they avoid hard conversations at work and home often out of fear, frustration, or not knowing what to say. Dr. Dionne’s framework helps audiences replace avoidance with practical strategies that foster trust and real connection. Ask her: What’s one habit that can instantly defuse rising tension? Can integrity really be taught, or is it innate? Dionne Poulton, Ph.D., is the author of “Excellence Without Exclusion.” Contact her at (404) 383-8924; dpoulton@rtirguests.com

13. ==> How to Reclaim Attention in a World Built to Distract

We live in a world designed to hijack our attention. The average adult now spends over seven hours a day on screens, yet many feel more scattered, reactive, and stuck than ever. Author and senior UCLA mindfulness educator Mitra Manesh says this isn’t just a focus issue; it’s an attention crisis quietly eroding our freedom to choose. On your show, Mitra will reveal why even intelligent, successful people often live in “survival mode,” how constant stimulation weakens our decision-making, and why reclaiming attention is the first and most important step toward true freedom. Drawing from her inspirational fiction, “The Attentionist: New Choices for a New World”—a parable in the spirit of “The Alchemist”—she offers a transformative blend of storytelling and insight, packed with techniques and practices for improving attention as a transformative force in all aspects of life. Mitra Manesh This is a timely invitation to shift from reaction to creation, and a powerful case for why reclaiming attention may be the most radical act of personal power in our time. Contact Mitra Manesh at (310) 807-3031; mmanesh@rtirguests.com

14. == > 3 Million Mom-Owned Businesses Fuel the U.S. Economy

Last year, mom-owned businesses generated more than $1.8 trillion in revenue, but this powerhouse movement didn’t start with TikTok side hustles. It began a century ago, in kitchens, basements, and living rooms, led by women with big ideas and little recognition. Roy Martin, Nashville Women’s Entrepreneur Coach and founder of the WFH Empowerment Academy, is spotlighting these early pioneers and empowering post-COVID mompreneurs to follow in their footsteps. His upcoming book, “But She Can’t Vote,” draws a direct line from women like Jean Nidetch (Weight Watchers) and Tupperware trailblazer Brownie Wise to today’s online work-from-home moms. Roy encourages motivated mompreneurs to claim their 20th century history while building a New Age WFH empowerment movement. Ask him: What can today’s moms learn from the original work-from-home pioneers? How can women start a purpose-driven home business in 2026? Contact Roy Martin at (629) 265 0570; rmartin@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Spiritual Teachers Get Physical: The Body as Your Gateway to Higher Consciousness

Doreen Mary Bray, who has worked between worlds for over 40 years as a naturopath and mystical guide, carries a radical message: your body isn't a vehicle you're trapped in—it's what your soul longed for and chose. She teaches that souls wait lifetimes for the privilege of embodiment, selecting parents, place, and form to walk on beaches, feel touch, and experience love. In interviews, Bray will reveal how souls choose incarnation and what that means for how we live. She'll explain why anxiety and depression may be your soul's language trying to break through and why learning to honor the body as sacred—not fix or transcend it—is the awakening our time demands. Listeners will discover practices for hearing their soul's voice and understanding embodiment as the miracle it truly is. Doreen Mary Bray is the author of “The Angel and the Avatar.” Contact Doreen Bray at (438) 802-0280; Dbray@rtirguests.com

2/3/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Inside ICE Detention Centers, Nicole Simpson’s Ex Speaks Out and Meet A ‘Hire-a-Daughter’

01. Inside the Immigration Detention System Trump is Building
02. Economist David Woo: Gold, Fed, Geopolitics, Wall Street Impacts
03. The Making of A Navy SEAL
04. Black History Month: A Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?
05. Nicole Simpson's Ex Boyfriend: “It Could Have Been Me”
06. This "Hire-a-Daughter" Saves Families from Elder Care Nightmares
07. In a Season of Political Chaos, This Activist is Planting Hope
08. 70% of Professionals Feel Like Frauds—We're Ignoring a Leadership Crisis
09. Gain Clarity and Direction: Interview This Certified Metaphysician
10. Don’t Raise Your Child for a World That No Longer Exists
11. Stuck in a Funk? Mini Mindset Shifts Lead to Fewer Days That Suck
12. Drawing Badly Could Be the Secret to Business Breakthroughs
13. Why Emotional Baggage Doesn’t Start in This Lifetime
14. "You Can't Teach What You Haven't Done" - He's Done It All
15. The Hidden Letter That Can Unite Jews, Christians, and Muslims

1. ==> Inside the Immigration Detention System Trump is Building

A new report by the American Immigration Council shows that the Trump administration is locking up hundreds of thousands of people— most with no criminal record—into a harsh immigration detention system that makes it near impossible to fight their cases or secure release. The report reveals how historic funding increases and aggressive enforcement tactics have pushed immigration detention to the highest level in U.S. history. “This has absolutely nothing to do with law and order. Under mass deportation, we’re seeing the construction of a mass immigration detention system on a scale the United States has never seen, in which people with no criminal record are routinely locked up with no clear path to release,” says Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council. “Over the next three years, billions of more dollars will be poured into a detention system that is on track to rival the entire federal criminal prison system.” According to the report, there is a dramatic shift in who is being arrested, with 41 percent of new detainees having no criminal record. And with more than 60-thousand people being held, conditions are worsening and some are being housed in hastily constructed outdoor tent encampments. With Congress authorizing $45 billion dollars in new detention funding, the report warns that the system could more than triple in size over the next four years. The American Immigration Council is a nonprofit organization and advocacy group. For more information on the report “Immigration Detention Expansion in Trump’s Second Term” and interviews contact press@immcouncil.org

2. ==> Economist David Woo: Gold, Fed, Geopolitics, Wall Street Impacts

David Woo is a veteran global macro strategist known for his out-of-consensus calls and ability to connect markets, geopolitics, and policy in plain language. As markets move through February and March, he argues that gold’s explosive rally is not a speculative sideshow but a signal that the global financial system is undergoing a structural shift that other markets have yet to price in. He’ll explain why rallies of this magnitude have historically coincided with major breaks in the global order and assess whether upcoming inflation and growth data validate gold’s message or expose complacency elsewhere. He’ll also explain why Fed leadership matters less than markets think and how structural forces, fiscal deficits, geopolitics, and capital flows now dominate bond pricing, meaning the upcoming Fed leadership change may matter less than incoming data on growth, inflation, and financing conditions. David Woo analyzes global markets for professional investors around the world through his independent platform David Woo Unbound. In addition to his market commentary, Woo is also the co-author of the new novel, “Merry-Go-Round Broke Down,” which explores globalization and its consequences through interconnected lives across China, the U.S., Europe, and beyond. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell)

3. ==> The Making of A Navy SEAL

Jack Ratliff served aboard destroyers and with Underwater Demolition Team 11, the elite unit that laid the foundation for today’s Navy SEALs. Invite him to share a rare, insider account of how SEAL-level discipline, resilience, and judgment are forged long before combat through training, failure, fear, and responsibility. He’ll outline the relentless physical and psychological training that prepares young men to operate under fear, exhaustion, cold, uncertainty, and risk long before they ever face real-world missions. Hear the realities of cold-water conditioning, exhaustion, risk tolerance, and decision-making under pressure—revealing how elite training strips away ego and forces individuals to confront who they are when comfort, certainty, and safety disappear. Jack Ratliff’s new memoir is “Riding the White Bull: The Making of a Navy SEAL.” Contact Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5138

4. ==> Black History Month: A Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?

Lauraine White warns America’s reckoning with slavery can’t wait another generation. Just last month, President Trump’s Justice Department abruptly removed a display on the history of slavery at the site of the former President’s House on Independence Mall in Philadelphia. White says Trump is trying to rewrite history and the time for denial is over. With both enslaved and Confederate blood in her family line, White argues that real healing requires more than apologies. Her Freedom Wealth Fund lays out measurable steps that include erasing student-loan debt for descendants of slaves, free education, and rewriting U.S. history curricula to tell the full truth about the transatlantic slave trade. White insists this isn’t about relitigating the past—it’s a practical blueprint for a just future. With nearly 60% of Americans saying slavery still affects Black people’s position in society today (Pew Research), her plan will spark headlines, debate and the uncomfortable, but necessary, conversation America keeps postponing. Sample questions: Can a Confederate descendant credibly lead the call for reparations, or is that exactly why she should? Is student-debt forgiveness for descendants a fair, targeted form of reparations that taxpayers can accept? Contact lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred) or (770) 525-8743

5. ==> Nicole Simpson's Ex Boyfriend: “It Could Have Been Me”

In June 1994, Nicole Simpson, ex-wife of NFL legend OJ Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, became the victims of one of the most infamous crimes of the second half of the 20th century and she became a rallying cry for police to change the way they dealt with reports of domestic violence. Now, more than 30-years later, Simpson’s ex-boyfriend, Keith Zlomsowitch, is speaking out about their relationship and how OJ stalked and threatened him while they were dating. Invite the author of “Stalked: It Could Have Been Me” to explain why he is speaking out now, what he can finally share, and what he remembers about Nicole and the ‘Trial of the Century.’ Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com

6. ==> This "Hire-a-Daughter" Saves Families from Elder Care Nightmares

Most adult children wait until it's too late—when Mom falls in the bathroom or Dad has a heart attack—to learn what they should've asked, who to call, or where to turn. Debbie C. Miller has spent 30 years as a professional "hire-a-daughter," helping hundreds of families navigate the overwhelming process of caring for aging loved ones. Her book, “Doing the Right Thing,” provides the insider knowledge families desperately need but don't know exists. Miller has seen it all: the millionaire miser dead in his driveway for months, properties requiring HazMat suits, extreme hoarding cases, and grief-stricken families being ripped off by unscrupulous estate sale companies. She knows the 40+ questions to ask assisted living facilities, the myths about aging-in-place that endanger seniors, and how to help families make impossible decisions before it's too late. Family therapists and aging life care managers use her systematic approach nationwide. Contact her at (703) 844-4074; dmiller@rtirguests.com

7. ==> In a Season of Political Chaos, This Activist is Planting Hope

While headlines scream division and despair, Sam Daley-Harris is quietly leading a revolution in how ordinary citizens engage with democracy. The activist and author of “Reclaiming Our Democracy,” Daley-Harris teaches "transformational advocacy"—where working to change an issue transforms you in the process. His approach has helped people move from political paralysis to powerful action. Invite Daley-Harris on your show to hear stories of everyday citizens discovering their political power. He'll explain how feeling overwhelmed isn't weakness—it's the starting point for meaningful change. From his own journey as a musician-turned-activist to guiding others through civic engagement some call "sacred and profound," Daley-Harris offers practical tools for anyone ready to move from anxiety to agency. Ask him: What is transformational advocacy and how does it differ from traditional activism? How did you go from performing music to teaching people to reclaim their democracy? Contact Sam Daley-Harris at (202) 804-2504; Sdaley@rtirguests.com

8. ==> 70% of Professionals Feel Like Frauds—We're Ignoring a Leadership Crisis

Imagine sitting at dinner beside a Fortune 500 CEO—and being consumed by the fear that you don't belong there. That was Mike Sealy's reality during Hewlett-Packard's accelerated leadership program, and it sparked a decades-long mission to understand imposter syndrome. Now the author of “Mindset Unlocked” reveals how this silent epidemic costs organizations untold innovation and burnout. Invite Sealy on your show to discuss how imposter syndrome quietly sabotages talented professionals, keeping brilliant ideas unspoken and promotions out of reach. He’ll share his multi-industry leadership journey—where he deliberately took roles in new industries to stay on steep learning curves—and offers practical tools from his 10-step framework for developing a growth mindset. Contact Mike Sealy at (484) 477-4220; msealy@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Gain Clarity and Direction: Interview This Certified Metaphysician

Is your audience facing tough decisions, feeling stuck, or searching for a breakthrough? Dr. Dan Bartlett’s Magical Intuitive Readings help people gain the insight and clarity they need to move forward with confidence. A certified metaphysician and expert in Tarot and numerology, Dr. Dan has helped thousands transform confusion into clarity by offering practical guidance they can use immediately. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Dan combines intuition and compassion to help people overcome life’s curveballs, whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. Interview him to give your audience a new way to access answers, tap into inner wisdom, and start living with purpose and peace. Contact Dan Bartlett at (480) 841-0984 or dbartlett@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Don’t Raise Your Child for a World That No Longer Exists

While parents tell kids to "study hard and get a good job," AI is already doing those jobs—faster and cheaper. Award-winning author George Lee has a wake-up call: we're using 1980s parenting in an AI-driven world.
Drawing from "SMART Parenting 5.0," Lee explains why college degrees aren't golden tickets and authoritarian parenting fails in the AI era. His unique perspective—traditional Chinese education meets Western innovation—reveals what schools won't teach. Listeners will discover which essential skills schools ignore and how to build them at home. Ask him: You say we're overeducating their minds and underpreparing their spirit. What does that look like? Your teenager makes more on TikTok than you made last month. How do parents stay relevant? You argue too much love can hurt. How can love without challenge weaken a child? Contact George Lee at (604) 330-8697; glee@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Stuck in a Funk? Mini Mindset Shifts Lead to Fewer Days That Suck

Most people assume feeling stuck means something is wrong with their life. Deborah Mallow reminds us that sometimes nothing is wrong, except the voice in our head that refuses to stop narrating everything like a dramatic movie trailer. Surveys support this: nearly 60% of adults say they feel emotionally burned out, even when nothing “major” is wrong. That’s proof that mindset, not circumstance, often drives our mood. Deborah explains why advice like “just think positive” often backfires and how tiny mental shifts can change the trajectory of an entire day. She’ll share surprising tools that help quiet your inner critic, break out of emotional autopilot, and find momentum without forcing motivation. Ask her: Can focusing less on goals and more on what truly matters actually make you happier? Why do so many people feel behind even when so much in their lives is actually working? Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Drawing Badly Could Be the Secret to Business Breakthroughs

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

13. ==> Why Emotional Baggage Doesn’t Start in This Lifetime

Why do some people carry deep anxiety, relationship struggles, or fears they can’t explain despite years of self-work? According to Alla Kaluzhny, these emotional patterns may not begin in this lifetime at all. Alla is a licensed marriage and family therapist, spiritual psychologist, and clairvoyant who helps people uncover unresolved experiences that could stem from the soul’s past. Drawing from vivid memories of her own past lives and the award-winning stories in her books “Turning the Pages” and “Turning New Pages,” Alla offers insight into how inherited spiritual clutter can quietly shape our lives. Whether people believe in reincarnation or not, Alla’s intuitive approach invites deep self-reflection, healing, and possibility. Contact Alla Kaluzhny at (213) 459-3509; akaluzhny@rtirguests.com

14. ==> "You Can't Teach What You Haven't Done" - He's Done It All

At 87, David Selley has lived in three countries, built three careers, and stayed married for 65 years—and he's completed a Guinness Record as the oldest author to publish the most books in one year. Now his message about entrepreneurship is turning heads. In "PAPA3$ The Entrepreneur," Selley reveals why modern education creates worker bees instead of entrepreneurs. The statistics are shocking: 87% of college graduates never use their degrees, 56% experience job turnover, and creativity gets systematically crushed. He'll share why real-world experience trumps classroom theory, how he's helping 700 million entrepreneurs worldwide, and what his 65-year marriage taught him about building anything that lasts. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; dselley@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Hidden Letter That Can Unite Jews, Christians, and Muslims

What if the answer to centuries of religious division and warfare was hiding in plain sight—in a short letter at the back of the New Testament? Scientist, John Hageman, spent over 30 years analyzing scriptures with scientific rigor. He believes what he found could change everything: all three faiths share one scripture that can unite us all. Drawing from his soon to be published book, "Uniting Humanity Through Our Scriptures’ Hidden Secrets - Putting Our Religious Differences on Trial," Hageman will reveal how the epistle of James contains core truths all three religions can agree upon. He’ll also show why false prophets’ words were allowed in our scriptures; they are a test from our Lord, like the liars Job faced. Listeners will discover why scriptural errors don't disprove God's perfection—they prove we're being tested to defeat our common enemy. Contact John Hageman (210) 806-7961; jhageman@rtirguests.com

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

1/29/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Leadership in Times of Turmoil, the Protein Myth Keeping You Sick and Meet the Dear Abby for Dogs

01. New Cyber Strategy Seriously Misunderstands China’s Threat
02. ‘Board of Peace’ Resolution Outlines U.S.-Led Plan to Rule Gaza
03. Scholars Warn: Government Social Media Posts Echo Extremist Rhetoric
04. Steady Leaders Are Needed in Times of National Turmoil
05. This Global Investor Spent His Childhood Helping Heroin Addicts
06. Why Evangelicals Are Losing Credibility with the Next Generation
07. Could Latest Amazon Layoffs Be Your Career Wake-Up Call?
08. Hidden Red Flags You're Dating a Narcissist
09. The Protein Myth That Keeps Americans Sick
10. Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes
11. Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead
12. Why Are Strokes in Young Adults Rising?
13. Meet The Dear Abby for Dogs
14. You Don’t Need a New You — The Real You Is Enough
15. Help Kids Find Freedom in a Screen-Filled World

1. ==> New Cyber Strategy Seriously Misunderstands China’s Threat

Cybersecurity expert Matthew Ferren says the Trump Administration’s offense-first cyber strategy is a dangerous miscalculation that is doomed to fail because it doesn’t address the significant deterioration of cyber defenses in the U.S. “Doubling down on offense while neglecting defense will leave the United States more vulnerable, not less,” he says. His solution? “Chinese cyber campaigns will continue regardless of U.S. offensive operations. The goal must be to prevent them from causing systemic harm. The United States’ endemic cyber vulnerabilities represent a market failure that government action is required to fix. The Trump administration is unlikely to pursue new cybersecurity regulations, but they remain the right answer. Minimum requirements for critical infrastructure, harmonized across sectors, would benefit everyone.” Matthew Ferren is an international affairs fellow in national security, sponsored by Janine and J. Tomilson Hill, at the Council on Foreign Relations. An expert in cybersecurity, military operations, and emerging technologies, he has served at the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of the Treasury, and the White House. Contact him at (202) 509-8412; MFerren@cfr.org

2. ==> ‘Board of Peace’ Resolution Outlines U.S.-Led Plan to Rule Gaza

According to Jonathan Whittall, the executive director of the Keys Initiative, a draft of the first of Donald Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ resolutions details the structure of a U.S.-backed governing authority that would assume full legislative, executive, and judicial control over Gaza, including ’emergency powers.’ “The draft resolution formalizes a hierarchical structure for the Board of Peace, with Trump as the chairperson and an executive board that has the power to ‘enact new law or modify or repeal prior’ civil and criminal laws in Gaza. Whittall says, “The board, which critics say is an attempt to circumvent any meaningful U.N. oversight or even to position itself as a privatized alternative to the world body, envisions operating in an environment where it answers exclusively to Trump.” Whittall notes that no Palestinians were included though Trump did give a spot to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who remains under war crimes indictment and is subject to an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court. Jonathan Whittall is formerly a senior official with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Palestine and with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières. Contact him at whittall@keysinitiative.com, @_jwhittall

3. ==> Scholars Warn: Government Social Media Posts Echo Extremist Rhetoric

In the past month, government agencies have made dozens of social media posts that include iconography associated with far-right extremist groups. To some, the posts look patriotic. To others, they just look odd. For example: A New Year’s Eve post from the White House on X featured a photo of Trump alongside the word “remigration,” a decades-old European concept centered on expelling nonwhites and immigrants and a recent Labor Department video featured a caption resembling a Nazi slogan. Those who study the online right said one or two posts might be coincidental. But when added together, it’s much harder to dismiss. They appear to be an appeal to “a very specific segment” of Americans, young men who live online and are disaffected by what they see as unwanted changes in American life, says Pete Simi, a Chapman University sociologist who has studied extremist groups for more than 25 years. He says recent posts from the administration with content that can be read as extremist have “gone from episodic to more consistent, and it’s gone from more gray area to more clear cut.” Simi says the posts, even as clear as they are to people versed in extremist rhetoric, offer some cover for the administration to say they are patriotic. “And so even in a pretty overt kind of post, there is an effort to create plausible deniability, and that is a very common strategy in the kind of creation of propaganda on the far right,” he says. Government officials have dismissed any connections between government posts and extremism. Contact Pete Simi at (714) 744-7611; simi@chapman.edu

4. ==> Steady Leaders Are Needed in Times of National Turmoil

Employers are encountering a tired and distrustful workforce after the shocking fatal shootings in Minneapolis during ICE enforcement operations. “These shootings have inflamed political tensions nationally, and the strong feelings evoked from them are not isolated to workers in Minneapolis or Portland, Los Angeles or Chicago,” says workplace expert John Challenger. He can offer tips to human resources and leadership teams about how to address the issue in the workplace. “In moments like this, people aren’t necessarily looking for answers. They’re looking for steadiness,” he says, adding that political discussions should be kept to a minimum. “Political dialogue can help build connection and morale at work, but it can just as easily erode it. With tensions as high as they are, leaders should keep the temperature even. Workers risk credibility and upward momentum if their views do not align with their bosses. Meanwhile, bosses risk trust and productivity if theirs differ from their teams.” Challenger also warned that moments like this can increase the potential for conflict between workers and says everyone should remember that “regardless of anyone’s political views, people are being exposed to disturbing and violent images and stories. That can weigh heavily on everyone.” John Challenger is CEO of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a global outplacement and executive coaching firm. Contact Coleen Madden Blumenfeld at (312) 422-5074; (314) 807-1568 (cell) or colleenmadden@challengergray.com

5. ==> This Global Investor Spent His Childhood Helping Heroin Addicts

Long before Jonathan Tepper became the CIO of Prevatt Capital, he was a seven-year-old child walking the heroin-ravaged streets of Madrid. Instead of schoolyards and playdates, his days were shaped by the work his missionary parents asked of him and his three brothers: find addicts, bring them home, and care for them. That childhood, immersed in Europe’s devastating heroin and AIDS epidemics of the 1980s and 1990s, is the foundation of his new book “Shooting Up: A Memoir of Love, Loss and Addiction.” Tepper shares what it was like inside the radical rehabilitation community his parents built from scratch, how the addicts became his childhood companions, and how the family grappled with the loss of his younger brother in a car accident at the age of nine. The story shows how years spent observing human fragility, resilience, and moral tradeoffs shaped the judgment, discipline, and clarity Tepper would later bring to finance. Jonathan Tepper is the chief investment officer at Prevatt Capital and the author of numerous financial books including his latest, “The Myth of Capitalism.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

6. ==> Why Evangelicals Are Losing Credibility with the Next Generation

From Gen Z’s exodus from church pews to viral TikToks calling out hypocrisy, one thing is clear: younger Americans are increasingly skeptical of evangelical Christianity. Former preacher Rick Patterson believes it’s not a loss of faith. It’s a loss of trust. Rick says that many churches have aligned themselves with power and culture wars instead of compassion and character. As a former ardent atheist who now holds master's and doctoral degrees in Christian MInistry, Rick has a rare insider-outsider perspective on how the pursuit of being “great again” has distorted the message of Jesus as well as why the next generation isn’t buying it. Rick blends theology, psychology, and real-world stories to help audiences understand why this credibility gap exists and what must change to close it. Ask him: What do younger generations find most hypocritical about today’s evangelical church? Can politics and faith ever mix without compromising the core of either? Rick’s thought-provoking new book is “The Matthew Challenge.” Contact him at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Could Latest Amazon Layoffs Be Your Career Wake-Up Call?

Just this week Amazon announced another round of corporate lay-offs. This one, slicing 16-thousand jobs. And that’s just the most recent layoff news. Right now it seems harder than ever to get a job and easier than ever to be replaced by AI. Greg Mohr has helped over 250 people escape corporate instability by placing them into 500+ franchise locations—and he says recent mass layoffs are forcing workers to ask the right question: "Why am I building someone else's wealth?" As the only franchise consultant with a Wall Street Journal bestselling book about franchising (Real Freedom), Mohr reveals why waiting for the next layoff is the riskiest career strategy of all. He'll explain how franchise ownership provides what corporate jobs can't—true control and wealth-building. He'll share his process for finding the right franchise fit, debunk the myth that everyone should franchise (some shouldn't) and reveal why former executives often struggle with franchise ownership. Greg will offer listeners a free PDF copy of his book. Contact Greg Mohr at (361) 204-5470; gmohr@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Hidden Red Flags You're Dating a Narcissist

9. ==> The Protein Myth That Keeps Americans Sick

A heart attack at age 70 forced Dorothy Greet to rethink everything she believed about nutrition—especially protein. After she and her 80-year-old husband ditched all animal products, their results were dramatic: normalized blood pressure and cholesterol, effortless weight loss, and energy levels they hadn't felt in decades. Now at 85, Greet is credentialed in plant-based nutrition from Cornell and ready to debunk the protein myth keeping millions sick. In interviews, Greet will reveal how Americans have been misled about protein requirements and why plant foods provide all the protein needed for optimal health. Drawing from her book “Go Veg with Class,” she'll share how two lifelong carnivores reversed heart disease through dietary change alone—and why it's never too late. Listeners will learn simple swaps to "ditch dairy" and "remove meat" while discovering how this shift could eliminate up to 80% of chronic diseases. Ask her: Where do you actually get your protein on a plant-based diet? You reversed heart disease at 70—what happened to your health markers? Why don't doctors tell patients about the power of dietary change? Contact Dorothy Greet at (302) 314-6010; dgreet@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes

Cancer has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in many developed countries and the US and is the leading cause of healthcare expenditure worldwide. That’s the bad news. The good news is that half of all cancer deaths could be preventable through lifestyle changes and social reforms. Dr. Adam Barsouk will discuss cancer’s true origins and make the case for why cancer prevention must become a central priority in public and personal health. He’ll explore a wide range of overlooked and misunderstood risk factors, as well as how inequities in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention disproportionately impact underserved populations. You’ll learn what’s behind the young adult cancer epidemic, how Medicaid cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill will increase cancer risk and how microplastics, and water and air pollution, cause cancer. Dr. Barsouk can also discuss the link between obesity and cancer, and the role GLP-1s (like Ozempic) may play in cancer prevention, and how smoking, diet, and alcohol remain the most common and well-known causes of cancer, but others—including an invisible gas found in most of our basements—may be to blame. Adam Barsouk, MD, is a resident-physician at the University of Pennsylvania. His articles about science, medicine, and policy have been featured in “Forbes” “Newsweek,” Fox News, and Business Insider. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

11. ==> Good News: Your Best Years Are Probably Still Ahead

Contrary to what most of us believe, our younger years are not the best years of our lives. Laura Carstensen, a professor of psychology and founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity says our best years come much later in life. Carstensen’s research consistently suggests that starting in our mid-20s we begin experiencing fewer negative emotions and our emotional balance improves as we age. So, should we look forward to old age? “In many ways, it’s the best time of life,” says Carstensen. “People have a better emotional experience. They’re more satisfied with their relationships and more at peace with themselves, and as we get older, we stop caring so much about these trivial matters that can drive us crazy at earlier stages of life.” She explains that older people aren’t happier, but they experience less anger and sadness, and fear and anxiety. She’ll explain how these changes happen and exactly when they peak, as well as other interesting takeaways from her years of studying aging and longevity. Contact Joleen Castro at (650) 725-0347; jpcastro@stanford.edu

12. ==> Why Are Strokes in Young Adults Rising?

Stroke is no longer a disease of old age. New CDC data show stroke prevalence among U.S. adults aged 18–44 has jumped nearly 15 percent in the past decade, with many younger patients overlooking early warning signs. Vascular neurologist Dr. Jeremy Liff says subtle symptoms like brief vision changes, unexplained dizziness, or tingling that disappears can signal a “mini-stroke” — a transient ischemic attack (TIA) that standard exams often miss. As more young adults face rising cardiovascular and stress-related risks, Dr. Liff is urging people not to dismiss fleeting neurological episodes that could be their body’s early alarm. Jeremy Lif, MD, is a board-certified neurologist specializing in stroke, brain aneurysms, and venous outflow conditions. Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103

13. ==> Meet the Dear Abby for Dogs

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

14. ==> You Don’t Need a New You — The Real You Is Enough

Millions of Americans vow to chase a new and better version of themselves, yet research shows perfectionism and self-criticism are rising, fueling burnout and anxiety instead of change. Leadership coach and TEDx speaker Barbara Stone says the problem isn’t motivation, it’s identity. After 25 years hiding her alopecia under a wig and her voice behind corporate success, Barbara took off the wig on stage and discovered a surprising truth: real growth begins when we stop trying to fix ourselves. In this segment, she shares what shedding perfection taught her about self-worth, authenticity, and why flaws, not upgrades, are often the key to confidence. Whether your audience is hiding a condition, insecurity, or impossible expectations, Barbara offers practical ways they can stop performing and start living more honestly. Ask her: Can trying to “improve yourself” actually make you less confident? What did losing your hair teach you that success never did? Contact Barbara Stone at (315) 840-2845; bstone@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Help Kids Find Freedom in a Screen-Filled World

Jonathan Haidt’s blockbuster book “The Anxious Generation” sparked a global conversation about the effects of smartphones and social media on young people’s development, inspiring millions of parents, teachers, and leaders to take action. Now, Haidt and Catherine Price — author of the bestselling “How to Break Up with Your Phone” — have teamed up to empower young people to stand up for themselves by choosing a life not dominated by screens. Their new book, “The Amazing Generation,” is aimed at 9-12 year-olds — whether or not they already have smartphones or social media — and features surprising facts, a graphic novel, interactive challenges, and secrets tech leaders don’t want kids to know. It also includes real-life stories from young adults who regret getting smartphones too early and want to help the next generation make different choices. The authors can discuss why they believe smartphones should be banned for kids under 16, how parents can help their kids disconnect and why they say doing so is critical. Request interviews with Jonathan Haidt and/or Catherine Price through the media request form at www.anxiousgeneration.com/contact

1/27/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Super Bowl Ads, Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ and City Dwellers’ Unique Stress

01. Legal Issues Grow After Latest ICE Shooting
02. Anger Toward Police is Nothing New
03. What is Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’?
04. Get Set for This Year’s Super Bowl Ads!
05. The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend
06. Today’s Diversity Debate is Actually 200 Years Old
07. Why Millions of Urban Dwellers Are Living in PTSD-Like States
08. The Lifestyle Choices Quietly Undermining Fertility
09. Could Hormones Be Behind Your Chronic Pain?
10. The Mindset Makeover You Need to Break Out of a Health Rut
11. United States Postal Service - Behind the Scenes
12. Humor Is the Only Topic That's Never Untimely
13. This Catholic Priest Helps ‘Stuck’ Souls Cross Over
14. "My Grandfather Was a Russian Spy"
15. Meet the 90-Year-Old With a Ten-Year Plan

1. ==> Legal Issues Grow After Latest ICE Shooting

Criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota is intensifying after the death of two U.S. citizens in three weeks. More than 3,000 ICE agents have been deployed to the state with some arguing that it has crossed the line into an unconstitutional and illegal occupation. Invite Bryna Godar with the State Democracy Research Initiative to discuss the legal issues involved and whether Minnesota can prosecute the ICE agents responsible for the shootings, and whether President Trump could pardon them. Bryna Godar frequently appears in the media to discuss and explain legal issues in the news. She is a staff attorney with the State Democracy Research Initiative. Her research focuses on state institutions, state constitutional law and election law. Contact Bryna Godar at (608) 262-4645; bryna.godar@wisc.edu

2. ==> Anger Toward Police is Nothing New

Crime and violence prevention specialist Stephanie Mann says anger toward the police has been a long-standing issue. “When people feel the police are overstepping boundaries, their anger increases, leading to protests and sometimes violence.” Mann says we can rebuild trust and community peace, but it requires citizens working together. “In neighborhoods with high crime rates where residents are angry and hostile toward police, responsible community leaders should consider forming a citizens’ Crime Prevention Committee to evaluate crime and recruit and train “Neighborhood Safety Experts” to bring neighbors together.” Invite her to discuss the Safe Kids Now movement, the benefits of collaboration between neighbors and police, and share success stories of communities that have become involved. Stephanie Mann is the executive director of the Safe Kids Now National Network and author of 5 books. She helped launch the National Neighborhood Watch Program in the 1970s. Contact her at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

3. ==> What is Trump’s Board of Peace?

President Donald Trump inaugurated his “Board of Peace” last week to lead efforts at maintaining a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas, insisting that “everyone wants to be a part” of the body he said could eventually rival the United Nations — despite many U.S. allies opting not to participate. Middle East expert Asaf Romirowsky can explain what the “Board of Peace” is and what it is expected to accomplish. Asaf Romirowsky PhD is the executive director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME). Trained as a Middle East historian he holds a PhD in Middle East and Mediterranean Studies from King’s College London, UK and has published widely on various aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict and American foreign policy in the Middle East, as well as on Israeli and Zionist history. Romirowsky is co-author of “October 7:The Wars Over Words and Deeds.” Contact Mark Goldman at (516) 639-0988 (call/text); markgoldman73@gmail.com

4. ==> Get Set for This Year’s Super Bowl Ads!

As brands prepare to spend a record-setting $8 million for 30 seconds on advertising's biggest stage, Charles Taylor, professor of marketing at the Villanova School of Business, is available to discuss the defining trends shaping Super Bowl advertising in 2026, including the long-anticipated arrival of AI-assisted creative, a return to patriotic storytelling tied to America's 250th anniversary, and why consistency may matter more than celebrity this year. Taylor will explain what separates ads that entertain from those that deliver long-term brand value. He’s available to book before, during, and after the game to analyze ads in real time and assess brand impact. Charles R. Taylor, PhD, is a nationally recognized expert on advertising and marketing with deep expertise in Super Bowl advertising. He is editor of the “International Journal of Advertising,” past president of the American Academy of Advertising, and has consulted for brands including General Motors and Clear Channel Communications. He is the author of “Winning the Advertising Game: Lessons from the Super Bowl Ad Champions.” Contact Colleen Frerichs at cfrerichs@teamavoq.com

5. ==> The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend

You may think of Artificial Intelligence in terms of jobs, but what about the implications it has on our relationships? 2023 Google Trends indicated a 2,400 percent increase in searches for “AI girlfriends” and millions of people are currently in what they consider to be serious relationships with AI. What benefits do AI companions present to humans that a traditional human partner might not—and what dilemmas might this technology present? These are questions that Victoria Hetherington asks and answers in her book, “The Friend Machine: On the Trail of AI Companionship.” Hetherington will delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI companionship, asking what it means to be alone, and to be in love, in a world where artificial intelligence is increasingly present and can share the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds who have sought and found companionship in AI. Victoria Hetherington is an author, screenwriter, instructor, and communications specialist who has written for Yahoo! Finance and Hazlitt and served as a frequent panelist at universities and conferences. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

6. ==> Today’s Diversity Debate is Actually 200 Years Old

Many people assume the debate surrounding diversity emerged in the late 20th century but legal historian David B. Oppenheimer traces the long and largely forgotten history behind the concept and follows the evolution of the “diversity principle” from early 19th-century Prussia to today’s legal and cultural debates. He’ll show how the value of diversity quietly shaped modern universities, free speech doctrine, and democratic institutions over the past two centuries. Oppenheimer will also share moments of resistance and reversal, showing how the same idea has been embraced, narrowed, contested, and rejected at different historical junctures, often by unlikely coalitions. David Oppenheimer is a Berkeley law professor and the author of “The Diversity Principle: The Story of a Transformative Idea.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

7. ==> Why Millions of Urban Dwellers Are Living in PTSD-Like States

PTSD isn’t just for war veterans anymore. Author Darius Ross reveals that nearly one-third of urban residents now show signs of trauma from chronic chaos, violence, and generational hardship. In his book “Success DNA,” Ross argues that urban PTSD is often harder to treat than combat trauma, and yet it remains invisible. Once homeless himself, Ross rebuilt his life as an entrepreneur and community leader. On air, he shares hard truths about why toxic environments feel “safe” to many, and how people can finally break free. He’ll tackle tough topics like why urban trauma is rising so fast and how people can break free of destructive environments. Darius Ross is a former homeless teen – turned – entrepreneur, investor, and community leader who now mentors others on resilience and success. Contact Darius at (347) 801-7956; dross@rtirguests.com

8. ==> The Lifestyle Choices Quietly Undermining Fertility

Fertility challenges are rising, and Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says lifestyle factors are often overlooked. She explains how nutrition, stress, toxins, and daily habits affect reproductive health long before conception. Her insights help audiences understand fertility as a whole-body issue, not just a medical one. Dr. Marina is a fertility and women’s health expert focused on optimizing reproductive outcomes through lifestyle and preventative care. Contact her at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Could Hormones Be Behind Your Chronic Pain?

Millions of women live with daily pain, from back aches and migraines to joint stiffness, and most instinctively reach for an anti-inflammatory. But what if the real culprit isn’t your joints, it’s your hormones? Stacey Roberts, RN, PT, MBA, has spent more than three decades helping people move beyond chronic pain, from everyday women to elite athletes, across Australia and the United States. “Hormonal fluctuations can lead to inflammation, joint pain, and muscle pain,” she says. “There’s a ‘Goldilocks’ moment when hormones are just right, not too high, not too low, giving your body its natural anti-inflammatory boost. But as women enter perimenopause and menopause, we lose that natural protection.” With training as a nurse, physical therapist and MBA, she bridges medicine movement and empowerment. Contact her at (414) 310-7845; sroberts@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Mindset Makeover You Need to Break Out of a Health Rut

When health goals stall, mindset is often the barrier. Mike Sealy shows how self-doubt, fear, and limiting beliefs quietly sabotage progress, even when people “know what to do.” He offers practical mental tools to rebuild confidence, consistency, and motivation so change feels achievable again. His approach resonates with listeners stuck in cycles of starting and stopping. Mike is a mindset coach and author specializing in helping people break through mental blocks that limit personal and health transformation. Contact him at msealy@rtirguests.com

11. ==> United States Postal Service - Behind the Scenes

After fifteen years, countless accusations, and five terminations, B.J. Sherman was officially (and finally) let go from the United States Postal Service. A career filled with discrimination, mismanagement, and lack of care prompted Sherman to share his experiences with the world. What is going on behind the scenes of the postal service? How can one of the nation’s most used resources be so poorly managed? Does Sherman have hope that the issues he’s experience will be resolved for younger generations? Invite him for an interview to discuss the details. He can be reached at (502) 649-6011; sharonlhuddleston@gmail.com

12. ==> Humor Is the Only Topic That's Never Untimely

Bill Williams has been sending daily humor emails for three decades. What started in the 1990s as a way to get his sales staff to read emails has grown into a beloved ritual for hundreds of subscribers globally—and he's never made a dime doing it. Drawing from "20 Years of Internet Humor ... and Other Interesting Things," Williams will explain why humor works in any news cycle, for any audience. Listeners will discover how he turned a workplace tool into a lifelong practice of spreading joy, and why his college friend John Denver influenced his view on taking creative risks. Ask him: You've done this for 30 years without making money—what keeps you going? You say humor is never untimely. What makes it work when other topics go stale? How did your friendship with John Denver shape your approach to life? Contact Bill Williams at (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com

13. ==> This Catholic Priest Helps ‘Stuck’ Souls Cross Over

For more than 25 years, Dominican priest Father Nathan Castle, O.P., has helped over 500 people who died suddenly—through accidents, suicides, and other traumas—adjust to life after death. These souls come to him in dreams, seeking healing for what he calls Interrupted Death Experiences™. Invite Father Nathan to share real-life stories that gently dispel common misconceptions about stuck souls and offer comfort to those grieving a loss. He’ll reveal how these extraordinary encounters became his spiritual calling—and how they’ve brought healing and transformation on both sides of the veil. Along the way, he’ll offer practical insights and spiritual tools to help the living find peace and move forward. Whether your audience is grieving, curious, or seeking peace, Father Nathan offers a deeply compassionate perspective on life after life. He is the author of the “Afterlife, Interrupted” series, a three-book collection and the host of The Joyful Friar podcast. Contact Father Nathan at (480) 680-9985; ncastle@rtirguests.com

14. ==> "My Grandfather Was a Russian Spy"

Have an interest in stories of real-life spies? Tatiana Ovanessoff wrote an entire book based on the true events of her grandfather and uncle who were involved in Russian espionage. What was the cover story given to explain her grandfather’s death? How did Tatiana discover the actual truth about her family’s secrets? And why did she decide to bring those secrets to light in her novel, “The Spy’s Apprentice”? Invite her to discuss these questions and more! Tatiana can be reached at (760) 695-8896; tatianaovanessoff@gmail.com

15. ==> Meet the 90-Year-Old With a Ten-Year Plan

At 90, Jim Flaherty is ramping up, not winding down. This former ‘Mad Men’ ad exec turns 90 this year with a mission: reach 7.5 million depressed seniors living alone in America. His secret? A mindset that refuses to accept aging as decline. Drawing from "Loving Longevity: Make Your Next Years Your Best Years," Flaherty shares lessons from launching a country inn at 45 with zero experience, moving his kids to Buenos Aires, and caregiving his partner through dementia. Listeners will learn how to embrace aging with purpose and creativity. Ask him: You once said, "I'm 89 going on 49"—what does that mindset look like daily? What made you "crap-shoot" with your life by starting a business you knew nothing about? What did caregiving through dementia teach you that your previous 85 years didn't? Contact James B. Flaherty (914) 326-2697; jflaherty@rtirguests.com

1/22/2026 RTIR Newsletter: ICE Anger, the Spiritual Power of Money and a Great White Shark Returns

01. It’s Time for a New US Grand Strategy
02. Let’s Get Real About ICE, Police, and Anger!
03. The Quiet Spiritual Power of Everyday Money Decisions
04. Timely Pet Topics: Emotional Support Animals, Vaccines and More
05. Is He Looking for Love? Great White Shark Returns to Florida
06. How to Protect Your Mental Health Amid Bad News
07. Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts
08. Medicare Mistakes That Quietly Undermine Your Health After 65
09. Quitting Caffeine Is the Health Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed
10. The Most Important Skill to Teach Kids: Resilience
11. Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body
12. Can Psychedelic Therapy Heal Trauma When Nothing Else Has?
13. The Emotional Root of Chronic Stress No One Talks About
14. Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain
15. The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice

1. ==> It’s Time for a New US Grand Strategy

The United States faces the most dangerous international circumstances since the end of World War II, and perhaps in its history. CFR Senior Fellow Robert D. Blackwill says that’s why we urgently need an effective U.S. grand strategy to deal with the threats. Blackwell can discuss the history of US grand strategies and five grand strategy schools from primacy to international liberalism and Trumpism. And the best way forward? Blackwell proposes an alternative American grand strategy: resolute global leadership. He’ll explain what exactly that is and why, even if the current president or the current Republican Party refuses to embrace it, there’s still reason for hope. “The fact remains that there is no irreparable break in the post–World War II order. Most of Trump’s dangerous initiatives can, with concerted effort, be reversed. A visionary next president, wedded to constitutional constraints at home and drawing on the enormous inherent power of the United States and its alliances abroad, can, through prudent choices and skillful implementation, restore the United States’ preeminent role in shaping a favorable world order, while promoting and defending vital U.S. national interests.” Robert D. Blackwill is the Henry A. Kissinger senior fellow for U.S. foreign policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, a senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, and a distinguished visiting fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Under President George W. Bush, he was deputy national security advisor for strategic planning, presidential envoy to Iraq, and U.S. ambassador to India from 2001 to 2003. Contact Turner Ruggi at truggi@cfr.org

2. ==> Let’s Get Real About ICE, Police, and Anger!

The shooting of a woman in Minneapolis, who was fleeing after an ICE agent told her to exit her vehicle, has sparked outrage from activists and citizens and anti-ICE protests are taking place in several cities. Crime and violence prevention specialist Stephanie Mann says anger toward the police has been a long-standing issue. “When people feel the police are overstepping boundaries, their anger increases, leading to protests and sometimes violence.” Mann says we can rebuild trust and community peace, but it requires citizens working together. “In neighborhoods with high crime rates where residents are angry and hostile toward police, responsible community leaders should consider forming a citizens’ Crime Prevention Committee to evaluate crime and recruit and train “Neighborhood Safety Experts” to bring neighbors together.” Invite her to discuss the Safe Kids Now movement, the benefits of collaboration between neighbors and police, and share success stories of communities that have become involved. Stephanie Mann is the executive director of the Safe Kids Now National Network and author of 5 books. She helped launch the National Neighborhood Watch Program in the 1970s. Contact her at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com

3. ==> The Quiet Spiritual Power of Everyday Money Decisions

Why do so many of us have so many problems revolving around money? What if the problem isn’t money itself, but what we believe about it? John Coleman is co-CEO of Sovereign's Capital and a co-founder of the Faith Driven Investor movement. Coleman challenges Christians to rethink money not as a moral neutral or a necessary evil, but as a spiritual tool that quietly forms our loves, habits and priorities. As John puts it, “Money is meant to serve us, not rule us.” He believes when placed in its proper role, it can become one of God’s most powerful instruments for good. With a deep expertise in global finance and a theologically grounded view of stewardship, he speaks fluently to those who feel tension between faithfulness and ambition, generosity and security, calling and career. His message isn’t about budgeting or beating the market. It’s about earning with purpose, consuming wisely, giving generously, investing for impact, and even rethinking retirement as freedom for ongoing vocation rather than withdrawal from it. John Coleman’s new book is “Good Money: Six Steps to Building a Financial Life with Purpose.” Contact Marianna Gibson at marianna@jonesliterary.com

4. ==> Timely Pet Topics: Emotional Support Animals, Vaccines and More

What’s the healthiest diet to feed your pet? Is a raw diet necessary? And is it even healthy? Is there really a rise in fraudulent emotional support animals? The discourse surrounding the do’s and don’ts of caring for your furry friends can be nearly impossible to sift through alone, but integrative veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne has heard it all! With more than 20 years of running her own pet clinic, Dr. Carol is available to clear the air, debunk the myths, and educate pet owners with the facts they need to sift through the noise and make the right choices to properly care for their fur babies. Ask her: Should some breeding be restricted because of health issues? What about declawing cats? Is it cosmetic or inhumane? Do pets need vaccinations? And if so, which ones and are there side-effects? Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM, is a practicing integrative veterinarian and a nationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of functional medicine. She is the founder and director of the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center and Pet Clinic and an Emmy-nominated television journalist. She is also a regular contributor to several TV shows and networks including “Fox & Friends,” “Today,” Discovery’s Animal Planet, and “Good Day LA.” Contact Mackenzie August at (661) 255-8283; mackenzie@steveallenmedia.com

5. ==> Is He Looking for Love? Great White Shark Returns to Florida

The Atlantic’s largest recorded male great white shark is back! “Contender” was tagged last year in Florida and researchers have been following his travels up and down the Eastern Seaboard ever since. After traveling as far north as the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the 14-foot, 1,700-pound shark has resurfaced in warmer coastal waters and experts think it may be because he’s looking for love. Chris Fischer, founder of OCEARCH, a U.S.-based marine research group that monitors shark movements globally, says researchers hope to gain new insight into the largely unknown reproductive habits of great white sharks. "Of the few clues we have, it seems like we need to be paying attention to the late winter and early spring area," Fischer told news agency SWNS. Contender has made one of the longest recorded migrations by a great white in the Atlantic. The shark has been recorded off the coasts of New Jersey and Canada, as well as near Jacksonville. He was spotted this summer near Nantucket, Massachusetts and then near Cape Hatteras, off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Contact Chris Fischer at chris@ocearch.org or chris@fischerproductions.com

6. ==> How to Protect Your Mental Health Amid Bad News

If reading the headlines makes you want to sigh loudly, hide your phone, or mutter “I can’t do this today,” you’re not alone. Happiness and mindset expert Deborah Mallow explains why nonstop negative news quietly drains energy, clouds decision-making, and leaves people feeling edgy or discouraged without realizing what’s happening. She shares simple, realistic ways to stay informed without letting the news hijack your mood, including quick techniques to interrupt stress spirals and reset perspective in minutes. Deborah’s upbeat, relatable approach reassures audiences that they don’t need to unplug completely to feel better, they just need smarter boundaries and a few mental tools that actually work. Deborah is the author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck” and a nationally recognized expert on mindset, resilience, and emotional well-being. Contact her at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts

Studies show that up to 85% of workplace conflict stems from communication breakdowns, but most people don’t address issues until it’s too late. Samuel Bentil, a global dispute avoidance expert and the author of “Avoid Construction Disputes,” will teach listeners how to spot and stop conflict before it starts. With workplace tension, team burnout and leadership turnover on the rise, his message is right on time. Samuel’s proven strategies focus on emotional intelligence, trust-building and collaboration, the skills that turn daily friction into productivity. And these same tools don’t just work on the job. They improve communication and reduce tension at home and in the community too. Contact Samuel at (778) 656-0067; sbentil@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Medicare Mistakes That Quietly Undermine Your Health After 65

Many seniors delay care or experience unnecessary stress because their Medicare is set up incorrectly. Toni King explains how common enrollment mistakes can limit access to doctors, prescriptions, and treatments, which directly affect health outcomes. She helps audiences understand Medicare as a health decision, not just paperwork. Toni King is a nationally recognized Medicare expert, columnist, and author of “The Medicare Survival Guide.” She has helped over 25,000 Americans navigate Medicare successfully. Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736; tking@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Quitting Caffeine Is the Health Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed

Coffee is celebrated as harmless, even healthy, but Norbert Heuser says caffeine may be one of the most overlooked addictions affecting sleep, anxiety, and long-term health. He shares what happened when he intentionally became addicted to coffee to study its effects firsthand, and what withdrawal revealed about energy, mood, and mental clarity. Heuser explains why caffeine dependence is rarely questioned, how it interacts with sugar addiction, and what people experience when they finally quit. His insights challenge deeply ingrained habits and spark powerful listener reactions. Norbert is a health and life coach, inventor, and author of “Every Coffee Drinker Is a Drug Addict,” with over 45 years of experience studying addiction and human health patterns. Contact him at (727) 261-2313; nheuser@rtirguests.com

10. ==> The Most Important Skill to Teach Kids: Resilience

Today’s students are under more pressure than ever—from academics to social media to the expectation to “do it all.” Jack Gindi, founder of the I Believe in Me program, says the answer isn’t perfection—it’s resilience. He shares practical, real-world tools for helping kids bounce back from failure, manage big emotions, and believe in themselves no matter what’s won the test or scoreboard. Drawing on his own difficult childhood and decades of experience as a father, grandfather, and mentor, Jack will show parents how to replace constant correction with confidence-building habits. It’s a high-energy, relatable segment packed with easy takeaways listeners can start using tonight. Jack Gindi is the founder of the I Believe in Me program, dedicated to helping young people develop resilience and self-worth through emotional skill-building. Contact him at (719) 751-8807; jgindi@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Blocked Chakras, Blocked Health: How Energy Balance Affects Your Body

When symptoms don’t respond to traditional approaches, Marilyn Mercado looks at energy. She explains how emotional stress and unresolved experiences can disrupt the body’s energy centers, often showing up as pain, fatigue, or recurring illness. Mercado helps audiences understand how chakra balance supports physical and emotional health and how simple awareness practices can restore flow. Her perspective offers an intriguing complement to conventional wellness conversations. Marilyn is an energy practitioner and holistic wellness expert specializing in chakra balance and mind-body healing. Contact her at (805) 332-4863; mmercado@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Can Psychedelic Therapy Heal Trauma When Nothing Else Has?

For people who feel stuck after years of traditional therapy, Anjalia McGoldrick explores why psychedelic-assisted healing is gaining attention. She discusses its potential benefits, risks, and limitations—grounded in both clinical understanding and personal experience. Her balanced perspective helps audiences navigate a complex, emerging topic responsibly. She is a licensed psychotherapist and author who integrates trauma-informed therapy with spiritual and emotional healing practices. Contact her at (540) 616-3200; amcgoldrick@rtirguests.com

13. ==> The Emotional Root of Chronic Stress No One Talks About

Many people eat well, exercise, and still feel depleted. Doreen Mary Bray believes the missing piece is emotional awareness. She explains how unprocessed emotions quietly drive chronic stress, fatigue, and burnout as well as why ignoring the inner world undermines physical health. Bray offers accessible ways to recognize emotional overload, reconnect with intuition, and restore balance without piling on to your to-do list. Her approach resonates with audiences overwhelmed by constant pressure and seeking a gentler path to wellness. Doreen is an intuitive guide and author whose work focuses on emotional healing, self-connection, and reducing stress through inner awareness. Contact Doreen Mary Bray at (438) 802-0280; dbray@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Laugh More, Hurt Less: Revolutionary Advice for Chronic Pain

We’ve all heard the adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” Long-time chronic pain survivor Vita Oyler is living proof of that. When she was a young, highly athletic woman, she accidentally stepped on a rock, after which she developed reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), a severe malfunction of the nervous and immune systems. This led to decades of excruciating pain and, ultimately, the amputation of her foot and part of her leg. But she has managed to survive, and thrive, via incorporating humor into her healing journey. “Laughter releases the body’s natural painkillers known as endorphins,” she says. “Researchers have found that humor can increase tolerance to pain.” Vita is a rehabilitation counselor and doctoral candidate at San Diego State University. She is the author of “Got Pain? Now What?” Contact Vita Oyler at (209) 255-2962; Voyler@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Science of Happiness: What This Doc Learned from 40 Years in Practice

You might think that worry, self-doubt, and complicated emotions are just a fact of life—the unavoidable side effects of growing up and achieving adulthood. But Ron Schneebaum, M.D. knows that not only is this NOT the case, we each have the ability to reconnect with our innate capacity for love, joy, and living a more meaningful life. “Reconnecting with our capacity for love starts with appreciating that love lives within,” Schneebaum says. “It’s part of our human birthright. We know this by exploring compassion, for compassion is love put into action.” The author of “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life,” Schneebaum draws on his decades of experience as an educator and primary care physician to prescribe common sense, practical techniques to help us break free from limiting beliefs and emotions. Contact him at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com

1/20/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Europe’s Biggest New Threat, News Fatigue and Your Brain, and Why You Should Care About Healing Prisoners

01. Europe Faces the Unthinkable
02. The Department of Justice is Broken
03. Visa Restrictions: What They Mean for U.S. Travel and Business
04. Why the FCC Should Be Disbanded
05. Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes
06. How Global Uncertainty Is Driving Economic Anxiety
07. What ‘News Fatigue’ Does to Your Brain
08. We’re in A Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care
09. Why Are We at War With Diversity?
10. This One Habit Could Help You Keep Your Resolution
11. The 4 ‘W’s to Wellness - A Guide to a Healthier You
12. Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones
13. A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress
14. One in Four Children Experience Parental Estrangement
15. Healing Inside Prisons Matters to Every Family Outside

1. ==> Europe Faces the Unthinkable

Liana Fix says Europeans have only now realized how serious President Trump is about acquiring Greenland by any means necessary. “For Europe’s relationship with the United States, there is now an era before the publication of the U.S. National Security Strategy (NSS) and one after that. Prior to its release, Europeans thought they could still work with Trump constructively and that the administration considered Europe a partner, not a potential adversary. After the release of the NSS and the Trump administration’s twenty-eight-point Ukraine peace plan—and now these threats to seize territory from Denmark—Europeans have lost all illusions about the transatlantic relationship and are just trying to prevent the very worst.” The senior fellow for Europe at the Council on Foreign Relations says annexing Greenland would prove existential for the NATO alliance and that Europe should take a lesson from this and all prior disputes. “Trump should be taken seriously, and they must plan for what was once considered unimaginable,” she warns. Liana Fix is a historian and political scientist with expertise in German and European foreign and security policy. Contact her at (202) 509-8484; lfix@cfr.org

2. ==> The Department of Justice is Broken

Six federal prosecutors resigned after the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division decided not to investigate the ICE shooting in Minneapolis and now the DOJ faces significant controversy and protests after pushing federal prosecutors to instead investigate the widow of Renee Macklin Good rather than the immigration agent who killed her. Georgetown Law professor Mary McCord can explain the pressure campaign and the subsequent resignation of the prosecutors and the growing turmoil within the DOJ. Mary McCord is executive director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP) and a visiting professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center. She has extensive media experience and appears on CNN, MSNBC, NPR, PBS and other outlets. Contact her at (202) 661-6607; mbm7@georgetown.edu or Allahjah Smith at as5573@georgetown.edu

3. ==> Visa Restrictions: What They Mean for U.S. Travel and Business

New visa restrictions affecting dozens of countries are raising questions about travel, tourism, workforce shortages, and global commerce. Economist Rodger Friedman can explain what these changes really mean, not just for international travelers, but for U.S. businesses, universities, and the broader economy. He’ll discuss how visa policy impacts labor markets, supply chains, foreign investment, and America’s competitive position on the world stage. Friedman offers clear, nonpartisan insight into the economic ripple effects most headlines miss, making this a timely, informative segment for news and business programming. Rodger Friedman is an economist and financial strategist specializing in global markets, trade policy, and economic risk analysis. Contact him at (301) 327-2255; rfriedman@rtirguests.com

4. ==> Why the FCC Should Be Disbanded

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) "has outlived the economic and technological conditions that justified its creation." That's the view of American Enterprise Institute nonresident senior fellow Mark Jamison. In a "working paper," Jamison explains how the commission is presently in a "mission vacuum," and should disappear. In justifying his argument, Jamison argues, “As its original mission has faded, the FCC has become increasingly politicized, aligning with shifting partisan agendas rather than exercising independent expertise.” Dr. Mark Jamison is the director and Gerald Gunter professor of the Public Utility Research Center (PURC), and director of the Digital Markets Initiative (DMI) at the University of Florida. He is also a research associate with the UF Center for Public Policy Research and a non-resident senior fellow with the American Enterprise Institute. Contact him at (352) 294-0466; mark.jamison@warrington.ufl.edu

5. ==> Half of All Cancer is Preventable: Doc Reveals Real Causes

6. ==> How Global Uncertainty Is Driving Economic Anxiety

Inflation headlines, global conflict, shifting alliances, and nonstop market volatility are leaving Americans uneasy about their financial future. Economist Mitch Francis explains why today’s uncertainty feels different and why economic anxiety is becoming a defining stressor of 2026. He’ll discuss how fear-driven headlines influence spending, investing, and decision-making, often in ways that quietly undermine long-term stability. Francis also breaks down what actually matters amid the noise, helping listeners separate signal from panic and regain a sense of control. He’s a smart, grounded voice to help audiences process economic fear without political spin. Mitch Francis is an economist and systems strategist who studies how global forces, policy decisions, and human behavior shape financial outcomes. Contact him at (424) 380-4561; mfrancis@rtiguests.com

7. ==> What ‘News Fatigue’ Does to Your Brain

War coverage, geopolitical threats, and constant crisis alerts are taking a psychological toll on all of us, and often without us realizing it. Psychologist Dr. Stephen Sideroff explains how repeated exposure to conflict news activates the brain’s stress response, disrupts sleep, increases anxiety, and accelerates emotional burnout. He’ll help your audience understand why their nervous system treats nonstop headlines as personal danger and share practical ways to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. Stephen Sideroff is a UCLA psychologist and author specializing in stress, resilience, and the biological impact of chronic anxiety. He can translate neuroscience into everyday language while offering calm, credible coping tools. Contact Stephen at (213) 660-4659; ssideroff@rtirguests.com

8. ==> We’re in A Fertility Crisis. Why Everyone Should Care

Countries all over the world are seeing birth and fertility rates fall. Both China and the US just recorded their lowest birth rates ever, with China’s rate plunging to 1.2 children and America’s birth rate dropping to 1.6. The news isn’t just about shrinking families, lower birth rates significantly alter global economics, supply chains, geopolitics, and a whole lot more. Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says, “Declining birth rates will reshape everything—from who cares for the elderly to who fuels the workforce,” the OB/GYN warns. Dr. Marina, a fertility expert, can discuss what’s behind the falling rates and also explain why we’re seeing fewer boys born today. Dr. Marina’s book, “Optimize Your Fertility Naturally,” offers a lifestyle-based approach to fertility and menstrual health—but she also sounds the alarm on the broader costs of reproductive neglect. She’ll bust myths and share what needs to change—at home and in policy. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Why Are We at War With Diversity?

DEI fatigue is real. But Dionne Poulton says the problem isn’t the goal—it’s the delivery. “We all have biases,” she says. “It’s how we deal with them that shapes culture.” A PhD-trained educator and former national athlete, Dionne is the author of “DEI 2.0: Decency, Excellence, Integrity.” She offers a bold but unifying message: when done right, bias education can actually heal divisions. She’ll also share where DEI goes wrong, how to talk about inclusion without inflaming tensions, and why humility—not outrage—is the secret to change. Her CHECK method helps executives, educators and everyday citizens rethink bias without shame or shutdown. Contact Dionne Poulton at dpoulton@rtirguests.com or (404) 383-8924

10. ==> This One Habit Could Help You Keep Your Resolution

Most resolutions fail because people chase quick hits of pleasure instead of long-term payoff. Dr. Emilio Justo calls delayed gratification the “superpower” that makes every other goal possible. He’ll show your audience how one simple habit—pausing before they react—transforms health, money, relationships, and career. He can break down the science behind impulse control, why it predicts success better than IQ, and easy “micro-pauses” listeners can start using today. Fleeing Castro’s Cuba as a child, he became a physician at 23, a clinic founder at 27, and now a bestselling author and global TEDx speaker on delayed gratification and resilience. Contact Dr. Emilio Justo at (480) 992-6803; Ejusto@rtirguests.com

11. ==> The 4 ‘W’s to Wellness - A Guide to a Healthier You

Looking to start the new year with a healthier lifestyle? Author and YMCA associate health and wellness director Jim Carpentier can help you achieve your health and fitness goals! Following his 4 ‘W’s to Wellness, detailed in his book of the same title, is a refreshingly simple - and natural - path to a healthier and happier you. Invite Carpentier to your show to find out what the 4 ‘W’s are, how they’re scientifically proven to work, and how easily accessible they are to everyone who wants to optimize their mental and physical health. Contact Jim Carpentier at jcarpentier@msn.com or (973) 252-0194

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

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

13. ==> A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress

Across the country, teachers and parents are noticing that kids are more anxious than ever. Mindset coach and mother of four Sharon Emily believes the antidote is not pressure or perfectionism, but mindset. A former counselor and Franklin Covey-trained facilitator, she teaches families practical ways to replace fear with focus. Her new children’s song turned book, “Mirror of Myself,” gives parents an easy way to start those conversations at home. Sharon helps audiences understand how thoughts shape confidence, motivation, and resilience in both children and adults. Whether your listeners are concerned about school stress, social media, or the constant rush of modern life, she offers tools that spark calm, gratitude, and hope while still acknowledging real challenges. Sharon has practiced what she preaches, raising a son who became a millionaire before 30 and a thriving daughter living with autism. Contact her at (480) 470-3893; scarstens@rtirguests.com

14. ==> One in Four Children Experience Parental Estrangement

Family events, milestones and birthdays can all be painful for children and adults who have experienced parental estrangement. Avonley Lightstone, who survived a house fire at age three and endured abuse and rejection after losing her mother, shares how mindset, affirmations, and emotional release can transform trauma into strength. She offers guidance on coping with family estrangement and finding hope even in deeply painful circumstances. Lightstone is an author, speaker, and trauma-healing advocate. Her memoir chronicles surviving unimaginable loss and turning scars into symbols of resilience. She inspires others to take small steps toward healing, showing that progress is possible even when recovery is not a straight line. Contact Avonley Lightstone at (801) 980-0447; alightstone@rtirguests.com

15. ==> Healing Inside Prisons Matters to Every Family Outside

Almost two million people are incarcerated in the U.S., the highest rate in the world. Though the country has less than 5% of the global population, it holds roughly 20% of the world’s prisoners, and about half of all Americans have a close family member who has spent time behind bars. Dr. Kim Nugent says every person needs meaning and purpose and for many behind bars, that purpose can feel lost, leading to despair and hopeles¬sness that leads to violence and rule violation. She’ll explain her mentorship model that makes prisons safer for staff and inmates and strengthens families on the outside and share how investing in people behind bars doesn’t just change life inside. It helps those who return home stay home. Contact Kim Nugent at (832) 236-6546; Knugent@rtirguests.com

1/15/2026 RTIR Newsletter: ICE in Your Neighborhood, the Right Response to Iran and How Eyeglasses Changed Everything

01. Will US Regret an Iran Intervention?
02. How Iran’s Neighbors See Its Turmoil
03. What to Do if ICE Invades Your Neighborhood
04. Why “Nothing Is Wrong”—and Yet We Feel Off
05. The Four Eyed Revolution: How Glasses Changed Everything
06. Is Your Resolve Failing? Master This Overlooked Habit
07. Telling Women to ‘Lean In’ Failed. What Really Works
08. Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts
09. Psychiatrist Reveals the Mental Toll of Living in America Today
10. Will Mamdani Challenge Islamophobia or Intensify It?
11. How the Wrong Yoga Practice Can Actually Hurt You
12. Celebrate the Women Who Made Work-From-Home Mainstream
13. What to Say When a Friend’s Pet Dies
14. Think You’re Too Old for Big Goals? This Inspiring 87-Year-Old Aims for a World Record!
15. The Daily Email That Made the World Laugh for 30 Years

1. ==> Will US Regret an Iran Intervention?

Donald Trump is threatening "very strong action" against Iran if its government proceeds with the execution of anti-government protesters saying that such actions "will not work out good" for the regime. Reports of deaths in Iran have been estimated at more than two thousand, but historian David Gibbs says a lot is still unknown about the situation on the ground. He says, “We should not forget that previous U.S. interventions have also been justified by reports of mass atrocities, which later proved greatly exaggerated or fabricated altogether. In 1999, U.S. intervention in Kosovo was based on reports that Serbian authorities had killed 100,000 Kosovars, but when the war was over, this figure was revealed to be a gross overstatement. In 2011, the U.S. and NATO allies overthrew the government of Muammar Gaddafi in Libya, based on claims that Gaddafi was about to perpetrate a genocide against his opponents. When the war was ended, however, a UK parliamentary investigation found there was no basis for the claims of impending genocide.” David Gibbs is professor of history at the University of Arizona and the author of three books, including “First Do No Harm: Humanitarian Intervention and the Destruction of Yugoslavia” and “Revolt of the Rich: How the Politics of the 1970s Widened America’s Class Divide.” Contact him at dgibbs@arizona.edu

2. ==> How Iran’s Neighbors See Its Turmoil

Mid-East expert Elliott Abrams says for neighbor states, Iran’s turmoil presents both risk and opportunity. “Israelis see the possible collapse of the Islamic Republic with hope—but also tempered expectations. Repeated outbursts of protest have proved that the Iranian people loathe the regime and its policies, and Israelis hope that, if it falls, the now forty-six-year confrontation between Israel and Iran will end. They recall the days under the Shah when relations were close and cooperative, so the emergence of his son, Reza Pahlavi, as a significant figure is another cause for optimism.” Elliott Abrams is a senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. He served as deputy assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor in the administration of President George W. Bush, where he supervised U.S. policy in the Middle East for the White House, and as Special Representative for Iran and Venezuela in the administration of Donald Trump. Contact the Communications Team at CFR at (212) 434-9888; communications@cfr.org

3. ==> What to Do if ICE Invades Your Neighborhood

Federal agents have been storming the streets of American communities leaving citizens both angry and afraid. Nithya Nathan-Pineau, a policy attorney and strategist at the Immigrant Legal Resource Center says immigration officers have been involved in more and more violent incidents in recent months making it harder than ever to offer simple, definitive advice to people about assessing risk in interactions with federal agents. If you find yourself witnessing an immigration enforcement action, she says there are some things to keep in mind if you want to stick around or simply can’t leave. “The goal is to be an observer and to document what is happening,” she says. “The goal is not to go and try to intervene in the law enforcement action.” And if you are recording an incident, she says, “We always advise people that if the law enforcement officer that you are filming tells you to step back, you should step back and you should say it out loud—‘I’m stepping back, I’m stepping back.’ That way you’re recording that you’re complying with their order.” The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) is a national organization providing legal trainings, educational materials, and policy advocacy in immigration law. Contact Nithya Nathan-Pineau at nnnathan-pineau@ilrc.org

4. ==> Why “Nothing Is Wrong”—and Yet We Feel Off

Why do so many of us move through life with a low hum of dissatisfaction — even when nothing is “wrong”? And more importantly: What is actually happening beneath the surface of the self? For more than twenty years, University of Chicago professor J. Eric Oliver has taught a legendary course - The Intelligible Self - that students routinely describe as life-changing. His new book, “How to Know Your Self: The Art of Science of Discovering Who You Really Are” aims to be the best of that classroom experience: understanding who we really are. Oliver draws on insights from neuroscience, psychology, physics, and ancient philosophy to explore the mystery of the self. He reveals a transformative new understanding of what it means to be a person—what it means to have and be a “self”—and shows how that insight can fundamentally reshape the way we live this one life we’re given. Eric Oliver is professor of political science at the University of Chicago and host of the Knowing podcast. He is the author of five previous books on subjects ranging from the politics of obesity to magical thinking in American life. Contact Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5138

5. ==> The Four Eyed Revolution: How Glasses Changed Everything

Eyeglasses have become so commonplace we hardly think about them—unless, of course, we can’t find them. They’re just there. But what do you know about one of humanity’s greatest inventions? Who invented eyeglasses? Oxford scholar Roger Bacon pioneered the science of using lenses to see and then spent years in a miserable medieval cell for advocating that he could “fix” God’s creations by improving our eyesight, but many countries and cities have laid claim to the invention. David Dunaway, author of “A Four-Eyed World: How Glasses Changed the Way We See” can discuss everything from the history of deficient eyesight and how glasses are made, to the stigma surrounding them and the future of augmented and virtual reality glasses as he illustrates how glasses have shaped, and continue to shape, who we are. Dunaway is a professor of English at the University of New Mexico and the author and editor of 10 books of history and biography. He hosted a show on Albuquerque NPR affiliate KUNM for twenty years and has appeared on PBS, CNBC, and CSPAN’s Book TV. Contact Lissa Warren at (617) 233-2853; LissaWarrenPR@gmail.com

6. ==> Is Your Resolve Failing? Master This Overlooked Habit

It’s the middle of January and for many, sticking to their New Year’s resolutions is getting harder and harder. Invite Dr. Emilio Justo to explain how most resolutions fail because people chase quick hits of pleasure instead of long-term payoff. He calls delayed gratification the “superpower” that makes every other goal possible. Dr. Justo will show your audience how one simple habit—pausing before they react—transforms health, money, relationships, and career. He can break down the science behind impulse control, why it predicts success better than IQ, and easy “micro-pauses” listeners can start using today. Fleeing Castro’s Cuba as a child, he became a physician at 23, a clinic founder at 27, and now a bestselling author and global TEDx speaker on delayed gratification and resilience. Contact Dr. Emilio Justo at (480) 992-6803; Ejusto@rtirguests.com

7. ==> Telling Women to ‘Lean In’ Failed. What Really Works

For decades, women were told to lean in, speak up, and push harder. Yet women in tech, finance, and other demanding fields are burning out and leaving leadership roles at record rates, with 43% of women leaders reporting burnout, compared to 31% of men. Master life coach and former banking executive Amanda Christian says the problem isn’t ambition. It’s the “translation tax” women pay in male-dominated workplaces when they’re constantly adjusting how they speak, lead, and make decisions in order to be taken seriously. Her book “The Skeptical Executive” outlines a research-backed alternative leadership approach that integrates mind, body, heart, and soul so high-achieving women can lead without burning out. Book her for a segment that shows why “lean in” backfired and what women and companies can do right now to stop losing their best female leaders. Contact Amanda Christian at (704) 610-1637; achristian@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Work Arguments: How to Stop Conflict Before It Starts

9. ==> Psychiatrist Reveals the Mental Toll of Living in America Today

America used to be the land of freedom and opportunity. But according to Dr. Shila Patel, the current chaotic political and social climate has changed that for the worse and it’s taking a toll on Americans’ mental health. “The statistics are staggering, and getting worse,” she says. “According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults and one in six children have mental health issues such as depression, anger, frustration, and feeling hopeless and helpless.” Shila is a retired psychiatrist who spent her 25-year career helping people to navigate daily stress and find positive paths to happiness. She is the author of “US Unhinged Book 1,” “US Unhinged Book 2” and “US Fractured.” Contact Dr. Shila Patel at (229) 586-6190; spatel@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Will Mamdani Challenge Islamophobia or Intensify It?

For the first time in history, New York City has a Muslim mayor. At the same time, anti-Muslim hate crimes have jumped 178% nationwide. Is this a turning point that will challenge bias, or a flashpoint that could inflame it? National Muslim leader, author, and peacebuilding expert Daisy Khan helps audiences make sense of this moment. She explains what Mamdani’s win really signals about American voters, why religious bias is spiking, and how backlash against Muslim leaders forms. She also shares practical steps communities, schools, hospitals, and workplaces can take right now to stop microaggressions, lower tensions, and rebuild trust across faith lines. This is a grounded, solutions-focused conversation that connects a headline story to everyday life. Contact Daisy Khan at (917) 905-7829; dkhan@rtirguests.com

11. ==> How the Wrong Yoga Practice Can Actually Hurt You

Some people think of yoga as simply stretching. Others see it as a stress reliever. But Joann Lutz says that’s just the tip of the iceberg of what yoga has to offer. Invite this trauma therapist and yoga expert to reveal the deeper healing secrets of yoga. No matter what your body type or health challenges, Joann says there's a good chance that doing the right yoga practices will help you live a better life. Unfortunately, people often choose the wrong practice for them. Joann will describe which yoga practices are the best ones for each person and reveal why some popular yoga styles can actually make symptoms worse. She says it’s key to find the type of yoga that allows you to experience safety and peace in this crazy world. Joann will explain how this is the foundation of healing, a message more urgent than ever as anxiety and depression rates soar nationwide. Joann Lutz has been blending yoga, somatic psychotherapy and neuroscience for more than 20 years. Her new book is “Trauma Healing in the Yoga Zone.” Contact her at jlutz@rtirguests.com; (413) 340-5056

12. ==> Celebrate the Women Who Made Work-From-Home Mainstream

Long before Zoom meetings and side hustles, women were quietly building businesses from their kitchens, living rooms and basements, perfecting the work-from-home model long before it had a name. Motivational speaker and WIP Empowerment founder Roy Martin shines a light on these overlooked pioneers and connects their legacy to today’s thriving mompreneur movement. Roy will reveal why the term “Work From Home” is more than a post-pandemic trend, it’s a 120-year evolution led by women. He’ll share surprising historical examples (including how a divorced secretary helped Tupperware make its mark), explore the economic and cultural forces driving moms to entrepreneurship and explain how his WIP Empowerment initiative is helping modern women build passive income and flexible business success from home. Contact Roy Martin at (629) 265-0570; rmartin@rtirguests.com

13. ==> What to Say When a Friend’s Pet Dies

Losing a beloved pet can be heart-wrenching. Jean Alfieri, author, speaker, and pet loss grief coach, understands. Her rescue dog, Silly Sally, taught her how to grieve, remember, and celebrate the special bond we share with our pets. Having adopted older shelter dogs for decades, Alfieri had experi¬enced pet loss before. But when Sally passed, she returned to creative outlets to process her grief. Along the way, she was reminded of others facing similar loss: single friends whose only family was a pet, parents helping a child grieve their first dog, and seniors or veterans who’d lost a comfort or therapy animal. To support grieving pet owners, Alfieri developed 21 ways to weather the loss of a pet, a practical, heartfelt toolbox of ideas to help others navigate the pain of loss while honoring their pet’s memory. Her goal? To bring comfort and lightness by reminding us that love never ends, it simply changes form. Contact Jean Alfieri at (480) 725-7921: jalfieri@rtirguests.com

14. ==> Think You’re Too Old for Big Goals? This Inspiring 87-Year-Old Aims for a World Record!

Meet the octogenarian putting us all to shame. David Selley is rewriting the rules of aging — and the publishing world. With four books already out and ten more planned this year, Selley is on a mission to become the oldest person to publish the most books in a single year, and he’s not stopping there. Backed by a 65-year marriage, three citizenships, and decades of entrepreneurial wisdom, this globe-trotting powerhouse is also launching a global initiative to empower over 700 million aspiring entrepreneurs— proof positive that ambition doesn’t retire. Contact David Selley at (808) 229-3985; dselley@rtirguests.com

15. ==> The Daily Email That Made the World Laugh for 30 Years

Before TikTok, before memes, before “going viral,” there was W.G. “Bill” Williams—a FEMA spokesman-turned-humorist whose daily “Thought for the Day” emails made people around the world laugh for decades. What began as a creative way to get his sales team to read their messages grew into one of the internet’s longest-running humor traditions, inspiring a loyal following from Ohio to Australia. Now author of “20 Years of Internet Humor … and Other Interesting Things,” Williams shares his favorite stories, laugh-out-loud moments, and reflections on the healing power of humor in a serious world. Ask him: How did a daily office email become a worldwide humor phenomenon? Why does laughter matter now more than ever? Contact W.G. “Bill” Williams at (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com

1/13/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Legality of ICE Shooting, Annexing Greenland and the Benefits of an AI Girlfriend

01. Law Professor on Minnesota ICE Shooting
02. Annexing Greenland Would Be a Strategic Catastrophe
03. How MLK Jr’s Principles of Nonviolence Can Transform Your Personal Life
04. American Health Care - Who Gets Paid and Why It Matters
05. The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend
06. Inside Today’s High-Profile Court Cases: Is Justice for Sale?
07. The 4 ‘W’s to Wellness - A Guide to a Healthier You
08. ‘The Pitt’ is Back: The Hospital Trauma is Raw and Real
09. How to Find Your ‘Goldilocks’ Hormone Level (and Why You Should Try)
10. 2026 Medicare Changes Seniors Need to Know
11. Why Old School Parenting Fails in a High Tech World
12. Is There a Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?
13. America is Having a Soul Crisis
14. The Dog Who Learned to Dial 911 - And the Trainer Helping Families Fix ‘Unfixable’ Pets
15. From Birthdays to Business Names: Surprising Ways Numbers Shape Success and Well Being

1. ==> Law Professor on Minnesota ICE Shooting

University of Minnesota law professor Emmanuel Mauleón says that based on what has been reported and videos of the shooting, there was “more than enough evidence to support prosecution and to allow a jury to evaluate criminal liability” in the case. He says, “The governing question is whether the use of deadly force was objectively reasonable in light of the facts confronting the officer at the moment force was used, including whether there was probable cause to believe the person posed an immediate threat of serious physical harm. That is to say, the law asks whether a reasonable officer had a concrete, immediate reason to use deadly force, not whether the officer later claims fear.” He says the case raises serious questions about federal accountability and state authority. Emmanuel Mauleón is a law professor specializing in criminal law and state power. He previously served as a Liberty and National Security Fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice, where his work centered on addressing White Nationalist domestic terrorism, hate crime policy, and national security surveillance. Contact him at (612) 624-8763; maule003@umn.edu

2. ==> Annexing Greenland Would Be a Strategic Catastrophe

With U.S. President Donald Trump’s operations in Venezuela appearing, at least in the administration’s eyes, to be a success, the White House appears eager to build upon its foreign-policy momentum and is looking toward other countries including Greenland. But Casey Michel of the Human Rights Foundation says any attempt by the United States to claim the island would quickly spiral out of control. “There’s good reason to think it would be the greatest foreign-policy blunder since at least the Vietnam War,” he says. Besides encouraging China and Russia to continue their expansionism he says, “There’s something else that would follow America’s devouring of Greenland, which lies at the intersection of foreign and domestic policy. Trump’s seizure of Greenland would be a monumental crime of colonialism—a moral stain, from which it would take at least a generation to recover.” Casey Michel is head of the Human Rights Foundation's Combating Kleptocracy Program and author of “American Kleptocracy: How the U.S. Created the World’s Greatest Money Laundering Scheme in History.” Contact him at casey@hrf.org

3. ==> How MLK Jr’s Principles of Nonviolence Can Transform Your Personal Life

This Monday, January 19th, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day and more than just a day off from work or school. Invite retired American diplomat and self-described peacebuilder Danielle Reiff on your show to explain how King’s commitment to universal love and nonviolent non-cooperation can apply to family as much as political opponents – or even to oneself. When faced with conflict within her family, Reiff incorporated King’s principles of nonviolence into her own personal life, and says the results were transformative. Reiff has spent her life in the service of peace, having supported democratic transitions and peace processes around the world as a diplomat for twenty years. Now she runs Peacebuilders, an initiative to promote nonviolence and unity in diversity in the U.S. during a critical time. Invite her on your program to help your audience learn about the value and power of nonviolence in our own lives and communities. As King’s inspiration Mahatma Gandhi said, “We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies of the world would also change.” Contact Danielle at (202) 499-7256; dreiff@rtirguests.com

4. ==> American Health Care - Who Gets Paid and Why It Matters

Over decades working inside hospitals, academic medicine, and health-care organizations, Dr. Robin Blackstone has watched a growing disconnect emerge between what medicine says it values (including prevention, judgment, continuity) and what the system actually rewards. In her new book, “American Health: Who Gets Paid,” she shows how payment - not policy, technology, or professionalism - quietly governs American health care and she argues that the U.S. health system is not broken so much as mispriced. The book is part of Blackstone’s larger project involving healthcare and AI. She argues that AI does not eliminate the need for clinicians; it exposes the need to finally pay for the work only humans can do well: early judgment, trust-building, and accountability over time. Robin Blackstone, MD, is a physician and health-systems writer based in New York. Trained and practiced as a surgeon, she has held senior leadership roles in academic medicine and global health organizations and is the founder of Blackstone Health. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

5. ==> The Benefits of an AI Girlfriend

6. ==> Inside Today’s High-Profile Court Cases: Is Justice for Sale?

Whether your listeners are trying to follow high-profile criminal trials or understand the role of politics within the courts, it can be hard to make sense of how our legal system really works. James Porfido has decades of experience on both sides of the bench as a former prosecutor and a defense attorney. He says justice may be blind, but it’s certainly not cheap and will reveal how money plays an outsized role in who wins in court, and who loses everything. He’ll expose how wealth tips the scales: from bail to legal strategy to sentencing. His book, “Unequal Justice,” dives deep into the systemic gaps that disadvantage the poor and protect the powerful. With high-profile trials in the news and court cases continually making headlines, this is the perfect time to explore whether the justice system is truly fair—or just for sale. Contact James Porfido at (973) 620-2157; jporfido@rtirguests.com

7. ==> The 4 ‘W’s to Wellness - A Guide to a Healthier You

8. ==> ‘The Pitt’ is Back: The Hospital Trauma is Raw and Real

America’s healthcare system is in crisis—but what’s often ignored is the trauma beneath the surface. This is the perfect segment as season 2 of the much lauded hospital drama ‘The Pitt’ hits screens. Kathy Allan, a board-certified holistic nurse with over two decades of experience in trauma recovery, says many nurses today are emotionally broken, betrayed by the very system they once trusted. Patients, too, are suffering from care that feels cold, rushed, and disconnected. In interviews, Allan reveals how this hidden trauma plays out, much like in the TV show, “The Pitt.” Drawing on her “12 Steps of Healing Care” and years as a healing touch instructor and somatic experiencing practitioner, Allan offers a spiritual and body-centered roadmap for transforming pain into purpose. Her stories and insights will resonate with nurses, healthcare workers, and anyone who’s ever felt harmed by the system that was supposed to help them. Contact Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; kallan@rtirguests.com

9. ==> How to Find Your ‘Goldilocks’ Hormone Level (and Why You Should Try)

10. ==> 2026 Medicare Changes Seniors Need to Know

Major health care changes have taken effect for about 69 million older Americans and Medicare expert Toni King is here to helps listeners understand how these updates will affect their coverage and annual out-of-pocket costs in the coming year. She’ll also explain how Medicare directly negotiated lower prices for 10 high-cost drugs, transforming Part D and contributing to rising premiums for many enrollees. The author of “Medicare Survival Guide Advanced Edition,” Toni delivers clear, practical advice that helps families protect both their coverage and their wallets. She can also speak about the rise in Medicare scams targeting seniors na¬tionwide. Contact Toni King at (281) 677-3736; tking@rtirguests.com

11. ==> Why Old School Parenting Fails in a High Tech World

George Lee, lawyer and award-winning author of “SMART Parenting 5.0,” is helping parents prepare their children for a future defined by AI, automation, and constant change. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and technology research, Lee distills decades of teaching into 10 practical “future-readiness” keys that schools often overlook—like creativity, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and financial literacy. With experience spanning Eastern and Western education systems, he helps families nurture adaptable, confident, and compassionate kids ready to thrive in the modern world. Lee will reveal how to replace outdated parenting myths with science-based strategies for the digital age— because the best way to prepare children for the future is to raise them to think for themselves. Ask him: What are the most important skills kids will need to succeed in the AI era? Why do traditional parenting and education models no longer work? Contact George Lee at (604) 330-8697; glee@rtirguests.com

12. ==> Is There a Way to Repair Slavery’s Lasting Wounds?

Lauraine White warns America’s reckoning with slavery can’t wait another generation. As President Trump’s non-inclusive politics fuel new battles over DEI, history standards and voting rights, she says the time for denial is over. With both enslaved and Confederate blood in her family line, White argues that real healing requires more than apologies. Her Freedom Wealth Fund lays out measurable steps that include erasing student-loan debt for descendants of slaves, free education, and rewriting U.S. history curricula to tell the full truth about the transatlantic slave trade. White insists this isn’t about relitigating the past—it’s a practical blueprint for a just future. With nearly 60% of Americans saying slavery still affects Black people’s position in society today (Pew Research), her plan will spark headlines, debate and the uncomfortable, but necessary, conversation America keeps postponing. Sample questions: Can a Confederate descendant credibly lead the call for reparations, or is that exactly why she should? Is student-debt forgiveness for descendants a fair, targeted form of reparations that taxpayers can accept? Contact lwhite@rtirguests.com (email preferred) or (770) 525-8743

13. ==> America is Having a Soul Crisis

Across every generation, stress, anxiety, and burnout are on the rise. But according to author and spiritual teacher Doreen Mary Bray, what we’re really facing isn’t just a mental health crisis, it’s a soul crisis. In her new book “The Angel and The Avatar,” Doreen reveals how losing connection with our inner selves has left millions feeling unfulfilled, anxious, and exhausted. A naturopath, shaman, and teacher for more than 40 years, she offers a fresh, practical perspective on how to restore balance through simple daily practices that realign mind, body, and soul. A compassionate and insightful guest, Doreen helps audiences understand the hidden causes of modern stress and how to turn sensitivity, overthinking, and self-doubt into tools for healing and personal growth. Ask her: What do you mean by a “soul crisis,” and how is it different from burnout? What’s one thing our listeners can do today to feel calmer and more centered? Contact Doreen Mary Bray at (438) 802-0280; dbray@rtirguests.com

14. ==> The Dog Who Learned to Dial 911 - And the Trainer Helping Families Fix ‘Unfixable’ Pets

Whether your pup’s a chewer, a jumper, or just plain bad, author and dog trainer Kathleen Troy can share how to transform even the most unruly Rovers into well-behaved bowwows. Known as the Dear Abby of the canine world, Katheleen shares her doggone delightful tales of Dylan, a pooch she rescued from South Korea that was wildly destructive. With love and patience, not only did Kathleen bring Dylan’s behavior under control, she taught him sign language, how to count to 10, and dial 911! “There are no bad dogs, just bad owners,” she says. Kathleen is the author of the "Dylan’s Dog Squad" series, as well as a book about dog training. Contact Kathleen Troy at (714) 975-9807; ktroy@rtirguests.com

15. ==> From Birthdays to Business Names: Surprising Ways Numbers Shape Success and Well Being

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

1/8/2026 RTIR Newsletter: White House Website Rewrites History, Fat and the New Food Pyramid and How to Age Better Over 50

01. Don't Let Trump Rewrite History - Jan. 6 Was A Day of Hate
02. What International Law Says About Trump’s Venezuelan Attack
03. Did RFK JR Turn the Food Pyramid On It’s Head?
04. One Simple Resolution: Fewer Days That Suck
05. Over 50? How to Age Better in 2026
06. Channel Your Political Anger into Real Change
07. The Pursuit of “Great Again” Is Changing Faith in America
08. Can Christians Be Democrats? This Pastor Says 'No'
09. Shop Your Closet, Save Money and Look Amazing
10. Will Franchise Owners Survive the New Economy?
11. High Rent, High Anxiety: Coping with America’s Affordability Crisis
12. A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress
13. How to Heal America’s Soul Crisis
14. This Pastor Died—Twice—And Came Back With a Message
15. From Mormonism to Addiction and Self-Discovery: This Author Shares Her Wild Road to Redemption

1. ==> Don't Let Trump Rewrite History - Jan. 6 Was A Day of Hate

The White House added a new webpage to its account on January 6th, the 5th anniversary of the Capitol Attacks. The new website claims Democrats ‘staged the real insurrection,’ and blames the Capitol Police for the violent pro-Trump mob riot that day. It also claims that Donald Trump “corrected a historic wrong” in pardoning those charged with crimes related to the storming of the building. Journalist Eric Lichtblau says, “In Trump’s revisionist view of what happened that day ‒ which he began seeding on Twitter before the Capitol was even cleared of rioters ‒ the mob was made up of ‘great patriots’ who were protesting the theft of an election that he falsely claimed was stolen from him. They were ‘innocent’ victims, he said, ‘hostages’ who were wrongly imprisoned. It was all part of an elaborate effort to rewrite history that continues today with him back in the White House, using the levers of government to advance the myth.” Lichtblau says it’s a watershed for the many White supremacists and far-right extremist groups. “With Trump as their icon, they have gained an influence they never had in years in isolation on the political fringes,” he says. Eric Lichtblau, a journalist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, is the author of “American Reich: A Murder in Orange County, Neo-Nazis, and a New Age of Hate.” Contact him at (202) 468-9254; eric@ericlichtblau.com

2. ==> What International Law Says About Trump’s Venezuelan Attack

According to international law expert Marjorie Cohn, Donald Trump’s massive military attack on Venezuela that led to the capture of the country’s president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, was illegal in many ways, and breaks the mandates of the United Nations Charter. “The only two exceptions to that prohibition are when a country acts in self-defense after an armed attack or when the UN Security Council approves the use of force. The attack on Venezuela and the kidnapping of Maduro and Flores did not constitute self-defense nor did the Security Council authorize it.” She can discuss Trump’s claims to Venezuela’s oil and his proclamation that he will now “run” the country. Marjorie Cohn is professor emerita at Thomas Jefferson School of Law and dean of the People’s Academy of International Law. She recently wrote the piece “Trump Will Try to Defend Aggression Toward Venezuela. It’s Still Illegal.” Contact her at marjorielegal@gmail.com, @mcohn.bsky.social

3. ==> Did RFK JR Turn the Food Pyramid On It’s Head?

The Trump administration is urging Americans to embrace full-fat dairy products, cook with beef tallow and eat more protein in a new set of directives shaped by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Make America Healthy Again campaign. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans mesh MAHA-influenced changes with longer-standing advice for people to cut sugar consumption while eating more whole grains and colorful vegetables and avoiding “highly processed” foods. Registered dietician Yasi Ansari can speak to the science, the public confusion, and the practical implications of the new guidelines. A former national media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Yasi Ansari serves as a senior dietitian at UCLA Health, where she advises patients on evidence based nutrition, metabolic health, and performance fueling. Contact her at info@yasiansari.com or UCLA Health media relations at (310) 267‑7022; media@mednet.ucla.edu

4. ==> One Simple Resolution: Fewer Days That Suck

New Year, new mindset—without the toxic positivity. Happiness and positive energy expert Deborah Mallow shows audiences how to upgrade their days with tiny, realistic shifts instead of overwhelming life overhauls. She can share why we get stuck in “sucky day spirals,” one 60-second reset anyone can do on-air, and how humor changes the brain’s stress response. Her “Daily Decisions™” framework gives listeners a simple way to choose better thoughts, habits, and reactions, even when life is messy. Deborah Mallow is the award-winning author of 6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck, creator of The Daily Decisions™, and a lively guest on morning shows like Good Day New York, Good Day DC, and other lifestyle shows. Contact Deborah Mallow at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com

5. ==> Over 50? How to Age Better in 2026

While most New Year’s content focuses on gym memberships and diet trends, Dwayne Clark argues that for people 50+, the real “new you” starts with three things: how you wake up, how you care for yourself, and how prepared you are for a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Clark, the CEO and founder of Aegis Living, built one of the nation’s most respected senior housing and wellness companies by rethinking how environment, technology, and daily habits can extend healthy living. He’s also the co-author of “The Miracle Morning After 50,” a science- and data-backed roadmap for adding more joy, vitality, and purpose to the “second half” of life. He’ll discuss why a simple, structured morning routine can improve mood, cognition, and energy more than another short-lived resolution—and how to start if you’ve never been a “morning person.” Hear how to beat the “empty time” trap of midlife and retirement and how to use AI as a New Year health ally. Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137; (703) 400-1099 (cell); johanna@jrbcomm.com or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705

Looking for more guests who offer ways to make this your fittest, healthiest year yet? Stay tuned for our RTIR Special Health Reset issue on Friday, January 16th featuring experts who challenge conventional wisdom on caffeine, pain, stress, mindset, fertility, aging, and more.

6. ==> Channel Your Political Anger into Real Change

“Agonizing, protesting, or tuning out” aren’t our only options in today’s heated political climate, says activist and author Sam Daley-Harris. In his book “Reclaiming Our Democracy,” Daley-Harris reveals a proven alternative: transformational advocacy, where you don’t just change an issue, you’re changed in the process. He shares stories of ordinary citizens who turned “climate trauma” into hope, and political helplessness into purpose. Feeling fed up isn’t a flaw. It’s fuel. Daley-Harris shows your audience how to harness it into impact. Book him today to inspire your audience and dive into the tough question like “Why is outrage not enough?” and “How can ordinary people actually change politics?” Sam Daley-Harris is the founder of RESULTS, a citizens’ lobby that has empowered grassroots advocates to influence U.S. policy for more than 40 years. Contact Sam at (202) 804-2504; sdaley@rtirguests.com

7. ==> The Pursuit of “Great Again” Is Changing Faith in America

What does it really mean to be “great again”? And why is that phrase influencing everything from our politics to our pews? Rick Patterson, author of “The Matthew Challenge,” says the obsession with “greatness” has become a moral blind spot in American life. In his new book, the former evangelical preacher and adoptive father of four Black children, explores how this mindset has crept into churches, shaping alliances and behaviors that contradict the very faith they claim to uphold. With master’s and doctoral degrees in ministry and decades of experience in evangelical circles, Rick brings a powerful insider perspective to today’s spiritual and cultural divide. He makes the psychology behind it all practical and accessible, helping audiences understand how the need to feel “great” often strips us of the humility and compassion that make us human. Contact Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com

8. ==> Can Christians Be Democrats? This Pastor Says 'No'

As a Black pastor of 18 years and a former lifelong Democrat, Frank Tull brings a unique voice to the intersection of faith and politics. Inspired by personal loss—a 25-year friendship broken due to his support of President Donald Trump—Frank now firmly believes that the Republican Party is far more aligned with Christian principles than the Democratic Party. "With powerful scripture-based reasoning, I address the role of faith in today’s volatile political climate, and why I believe that Christianity and the Democratic Party are mutually exclusive," he says. He is the author of "8 Biblical Reasons to Vote Republican." Contact Pastor Frank Tull at (469) 609-1385; ftull@rtirguests.com

9. ==> Shop Your Closet, Save Money and Look Amazing

Everyone wants to look good, but being stylish can be expensive! Fashion expert Gayla Bentley shows your audience how to avoid unnecessary spending by “shopping your own closet” before hitting the stores. She explains how to uncover forgotten pieces, build fresh outfits from existing staples, and use simple tailoring or accessories to elevate looks without buying anything new. Bentley also reveals the emotional traps that push people toward impulse fashion purchases — and how a strategic closet edit can restore confidence while protecting your budget. Gayla Bentley is a renowned style strategist and advocate for smart, sustainable wardrobe planning. Contact her at (936) 261-7713; gbentley@rtirguests.com

10. ==> Will Franchise Owners Survive the New Economy?

Greg Mohr predicts franchise owners will not only survive the current economic wave, they’ll thrive in the new economy! Invite him on your show and hear how franchising has become a reliable pathway to financial independence during uncertain markets. He’ll reveal how proven systems reduce startup risk while delivering scalable income opportunities for everyday investors. Mohr’s strategic guidance will prepare those considering business ownership as they transition into the new year. Greg Mohr is a franchising consultant and author specializing in business ownership strategy, investment planning, and income growth models. Contact him at gmohr@rtirguests.com or (361) 204-5470

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

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

12. ==> A Mindset Makeover for Families Facing Modern Stress

13. ==> How to Heal America’s Soul Crisis

14. ==> This Pastor Died—Twice—And Came Back With a Message

When Pastor Nancy Frecka slipped into death—twice—she never imagined what awaited her. Floating above her lifeless body, she watched nurses scramble, unable to find a pulse. Then came the divine encounter with Jesus Himself. Pages of her past flipped like a book until stopping at the moment that shaped her soul, a childhood tragedy involving her brother, a shotgun, and a haunted house. But death wasn’t the end. It was the beginning of a mission. Nancy returned from the other side with a powerful message. “The message of forgiveness is key to having a life full of peace, love and joy,” she says. Nancy is a speaker, pastor, and the author of "God Says, "You Can Trust Me:” Supernatural Encounters with God." Contact Nancy Frecka at (330) 422-6955; nfrecka@rtirguests.com

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

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