01. The $38 Billion Plan to Turn Warehouses Into ICE Detention Centers
02. Constitution and Civil Rights Expert David Oppenheimer
03. Common Sweetener Linked to Cardiovascular Risks
04. The Wreck of the Mentor: A Forgotten Shipwreck Story
05. Craig Castaldo: The Real Radioman
06. Visa Restrictions: What They Mean for U.S. Travel and Business
07. How to Stay Indispensable in an Unstable Job Market
08. Diplomatic Skills Every Leader Needs — But No One Teaches
09. Former Nurse and Stand-Up Comic Gets Serious About Healthcare's Darkest Secret
10. Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones
11. How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Sons
12. Reduce Test Anxiety by Changing How Kids Think
13. How to Rewrite Your Story
14. Healing Doesn’t Always Follow a Straight Line
15. Spiritual Teachers Get Physical: The Body as Your Gateway to Higher Consciousness
1. ==> The $38 Billion Plan to Turn Warehouses Into ICE Detention Centers
The Trump administration has been quietly buying up warehouses around the country to convert into ICE detention centers with newly released documents revealing details of the plan to boost detention capacity to 92,600 beds—along with its $38.3 billion dollar price tag. Heidi Altman, vice president of policy at the National Immigration Law Center says warehouse conversions allow rapid expansion with minimal public scrutiny and local communities often don’t know the facilities are coming. She can explain what warehouse based detention actually looks like — and why the administration is investing billions in it. Altman has expertise on detention conditions, federal spending, and ICE operations and can speak to the human rights implications of warehouse based detention. Contact Emily Morris at (213) 457-7458; media@nilc.org
2. ==> Constitution and Civil Rights Expert David Oppenheimer
David Oppenheimer is a nationally recognized expert in constitutional law and civil rights at UC Berkeley School of Law. Invite him on your show to talk about the latest issues facing Americans. Ask him: In the current moment, what constitutional tensions feel the most urgent to you? What constitutional principles do you think are most misunderstood in today’s political climate? What are the legal guardrails that prevent a president from overstepping — and how effective are they right now? Where do you see the biggest civil rights vulnerabilities right now? What civil rights issues are flying under the radar that deserve more public attention? David Oppenheimer teaches courses in constitutional law, civil procedure, evidence, and comparative equality law, and has lectured internationally on anti-discrimination and equality law. His latest book is “The Diversity Principle: The Story of a Transformative Idea.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell)
3. ==> Common Sweetener Linked to Cardiovascular Risks
A University of Colorado study suggests erythritol, a common sugar substitute found in many sugar-free and keto products, may damage blood-brain barrier cells, disrupt blood vessel function, and interfere with the body’s ability to break down clots changes linked to higher stroke and heart attack risk. While approved as safe and useful for reducing sugar intake, growing research raises concerns about potential long-term cardiovascular effects. Dr. Jeremy M. Liff, a board-certified neurologist specializing in stroke and brain aneurysms is available for interview. Ask him: Based on what we know so far, how concerned should people be about erythritol affecting the blood-brain barrier and potentially increasing stroke risk? The study suggests erythritol may interfere with blood vessel function and clot breakdown. How significant is that from a neurological standpoint? For patients trying to reduce sugar for weight or diabetes control, how should they think about the trade-off between sugar and sugar substitutes like erythritol? Contact Ryan McCormick at (516) 901-1103; ryan@goldmanmccormick.com
4. ==> The Wreck of the Mentor: A Forgotten Shipwreck Story
Invite bestselling maritime historian Eric Jay Dolin to share one of the most gripping and least known shipwreck stories of the nineteenth century. Dolin’s latest book is a true story of death, despair, survival, and cultural collision in the Age of Sail. “The Wreck of the Mentor” is a true 19th-century shipwreck story that didn’t end when the ship sank. On a storm-lashed night in May 1832, the American whaleship Mentor struck a reef near the Palau Islands, splintering its crew and setting off a chain of events that would unfold over years and across multiple Pacific islands. But far more than a shipwreck tale. It is a sweeping narrative of cross-cultural encounter, moral ambiguity, and the long aftershocks of first contact reverberations that ultimately reached back to the United States through diplomatic crises, violence, and debates over justice and responsibility. Eric Jay Dolin is the author of seventeen acclaimed books on nautical and maritime history. Contact Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705 or Reigan Wright at (703) 646-5138
5. ==> Craig Castaldo: The Real Radioman
Craig Castaldo, better known as Radioman, is the subject of a new unscripted YouTube series that offers an unfiltered look at one of New York City’s most recognizable and beloved film personalities. “Craig Castaldo: The Real Radioman” chronicles the extraordinary life of Radioman — a man who went from years of vagrancy, alcoholism, and mental illness to becoming an unlikely fixture of the entertainment industry, with more than 300 cameos in major motion pictures and friendships that span Hollywood’s biggest names. Known for his signature boombox worn proudly around his neck, Radioman has become a symbol of perseverance, authenticity, and old-school movie magic. Available now for interviews, Craig Castaldo is opening up about his journey — from surviving the streets of New York to finding purpose, community, and recognition through film. Contact Sean@TheBrand.Partners
6. ==> 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
7. ==> 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
8. ==> 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
9. ==> 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 background as a stand-up comic 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
10. ==> Biggest Mistakes When Caring for Aging Loved Ones
Is your audience overwhelmed by the complexities of elder care? Debbie C. Miller has the answers—and the empathy. With over 30 years of experience working with senior care issues, Miller delivers practical, compassionate advice that empowers caregivers to make confident, informed decisions. She’ll discuss: The biggest mistakes families make when trying to care for aging loved ones, the most pervasive myths about elder care—and how they derail good intentions and how to plan ahead without panic, guilt or guesswork. You’ll also learn why “aging in place” is a deeply personal choice that requires smart strategy. Whether your audience is navigating a sudden crisis or planning for long-term care, Debbie offers a step-by-step approach that’s clear, actionable, and emotionally grounded. Her insights resonate with adult children, caregivers, and professionals alike. A Certified Senior Advisor® and Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist®, Miller is the author of “Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips, & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones,” a trusted guide for families facing the emotional and logistical maze of senior care. Contact Debbie Miller at (703) 844-4074; dmiller@rtirguests.com
11. ==> 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
12. ==> 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
13. ==> How to Rewrite Your Story
Most people want the world to believe they’re strong—that they can push through, hold it together, and smile, completely unfazed by the weight they carry. But the truth is far more human. Many are terrified, overwhelmed, and quietly collapsing on the inside. For most of her adult life, author Kat Perkins lived this way too. She would always say, “It’s all good.” But after losing her mother at nine, surviving foster care, and later facing breast cancer, things were anything but “all good.” One day, a friend told her, “You need to stop saying it’s all good. It’s not. And it’s okay to feel what you feel.” That moment something cracked open. Kat learned what no one teaches us: you cannot rewrite the meaning of your pain until you understand it—not avoid it, outrun it, or dress it up in strength. You have to face it. Drawing from her memoir, “Girls with Pearls Have Power,” Kat now teaches women how to turn setbacks into turning points, reclaim authorship of their stories, and rise with clarity and courage rather than fear or pretending. Contact Kat Perkins at (404) 800-3916; kperkins@rtirguests.com
14. ==> 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
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
2/12/2026 RTIR Newsletter: Measles at ICE Center, the Protein Myth Making You Sick and Valentine’s Day Love Potions
01. January Jobs Report: Is the Economy Stabilizing?
02. ICE Detention Centers Endanger Public Health
03. Longtime LA Broadcast Journalist, Hal Eisner
04. Aphrodisiac, Anyone? Love Potions for the Modern Romantic
05. How Couples Can Stay Sexy While Trying for a Baby
06. How to Have a Valentine’s Day That Doesn’t Suck
07. 6 Signs You’re Dating a Narcissist
08. The Invisible ‘Leadership Tax’ Women Pay at Work
09. The Woman Behind ‘Neighborhood Watch’ is Taking on Gangs
10. The Risks of Being a Whistleblower: Speaking Up Is Dangerous
11. Why Evangelicals Are Losing Credibility with the Next Generation
12. The Protein Myth That Keeps Americans Sick
13. Tired of Conflict? 3 Habits to Build Trust and Cut Division
14. Meet the 90-Year-Old With a Ten-Year Plan
15. Meet the Dear Abby for Dogs
1. ==> January Jobs Report: Is the Economy Stabilizing?
According to the January Jobs Report, the US added 130,000 jobs in January, beating expectations and giving hope that the economy may be stabilizing. The next indicator will be Friday’s Consumer Price Index. These two reports together will shape expectations for when the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates. As markets digest a potential shift in Federal Reserve leadership, diverging AI economics, and a dense February macro calendar, David Busch sees this as a pivotal moment for markets. Invite the chief investment officer at Trajan Wealth to discuss last week’s dramatic rebound—when the Dow crossed 50,000 for the first time, and the S&P 500 recovered roughly $1 trillion in market value—and how investors are shifting away from momentum and back toward fundamentals. David’s headline: This is a selective, fundamentals-driven market. Quality and discipline matter more than momentum. He says, “This is not a time for aggressive moves. The market is processing major shifts in AI investment, Fed leadership transition, and economic data quality. Stay diversified, focus on quality companies with strong fundamentals, and be prepared for continued volatility as this week's critical data arrives.” Contact Johanna Ramos-Boyer at (703) 646-5137 (office); (703) 400-1099 (cell) or Erin Bolden at (703) 980-2705
2. ==> ICE Detention Centers Endanger Public Health
Measles cases are on the rise across the country due to declining vaccination rates and now two people detained at an immigration detention center in Dilley, Texas have active infections. Epidemiologist Elizabeth Jacobs says, “This has the potential to be very serious. Those cases could explode soon.” She says ICE’s healthcare services recently changed its stated policy of providing healthcare, to “assessing alien’s fitness for travel,” and that ICE stopped paying contractors that provide medical treatment for detainees in October 2025. Jacobs adds, “This is U.S.-borne illness. Bad actors are going to focus on the idea that migrants are spreading disease. The media needs to be really alert to that narrative. Americans spread it; these migrants got measles in the U.S. This is a homegrown problem, and it’s not their fault.” Elizabeth Jacobs is professor emerita of epidemiology at the University of Arizona and a founding member of Defend Public Health. Contact her at 1elizabethtjacobs1@gmail.com
3. ==> Longtime LA Broadcast Journalist, Hal Eisner
Hal Eisner was a fixture covering Los Angeles’ news for more than 43-years, first in radio and then on TV. Along the way, he covered many of the most consequential stories of the past four decades including the trials of O.J. Simpson and Michael Jackson, as well as fires, earthquakes, and school shootings. He also interviewed hundreds of celebrities both in their homes and on red carpets. But Hal's journey was not without its trials. In 2021, while covering a story in Hollywood, he was severely injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver. Invite him to share how the incident changed him and give listeners an insider's view of the broadcast industry, revealing the intricacies of news reporting and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. Eisner’s new book is “An Accidental Career: My 58-Year Adventure as a Broadcast News Reporter.” Contact Harlan Boll at harlan@bhbpr.com
4. ==> Aphrodisiac, Anyone? Love Potions for the Modern Romantic
Can you find love in a bottle? Well, not quite, but aphrodisiacs have been used for thousands of years to increase libido and attraction. Do these legendary foods, spices and potions really work? And how? Many years ago, Lillian Zeltser accidentally stumbled on an old love potion recipe, which sparked her interest in aphrodisiacs and natural stimulants. Together with her husband, a medical doctor, she researched, experimented with, and hunted for them around the world for over 30 years. In the process, Lillian personally experienced hundreds of effective legendary aphrodisiacs. She’ll explain the link between food, love and sexuality, how aphrodisiacs can help you feel more attractive and increase mental clarity and focus, and ways to incorporate them into your daily life. She’ll also share all-natural recipes and tips to maintain and enjoy your sexual energy. Lillian Zeltser is the founder of Aphrodope and the author of “Aphrodisiac Adventures.” Contact her at lvez@bigpond.com or +61 419335631
5. ==> How Couples Can Stay Sexy While Trying for a Baby
For many couples, the journey to pregnancy quietly transforms intimacy into pressure, which often drains romance from the relationship. OB/GYN Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri says this “scheduled sex” mindset can actually work against conception. She explains how stress hormones disrupt fertility, why emotional disconnect can affect both partners, and the surprising ways pressure can reduce the chances of pregnancy. Drawing on more than 30 years in women’s health, Dr. Straszak-Suri offers practical, science-based strategies to help couples restore intimacy, lower stress, and support reproductive health without turning their relationship into a fertility project. A relatable and timely Valentine’s conversation for couples navigating infertility, feeling discouraged, or trying to reconnect while pursuing parenthood. Contact Dr. Marina Straszak-Suri at (613) 800-9412; msuri@rtirguests.com
6. ==> How to Have a Valentine’s Day That Doesn’t Suck
Not everyone looks forward to Valentine’s Day. For many, it brings pressure, awkward expectations, lonely moments, or memories they’d rather skip. Happiness and positive energy expert Deborah Mallow says you don’t have to love Valentine’s Day to enjoy this Saturday. In this uplifting, relatable segment, she’ll share how small mindset shifts can take the emotional weight off February 14th and replace it with something lighter, kinder, and far more real. Deborah will reveal why Valentine’s Day often magnifies self-criticism, how to stop judging your life by one calendar date, and how simple reframes can turn disappointment into self-respect and even a little joy. With warmth, humor, and practical tools, she’ll help audiences release pressure, treat themselves with compassion, and create fewer days that suck on Valentine’s Day and beyond. Deborah Mallow is the author of “6 Steps to Fewer Days That Suck.” She helps people build emotional resilience, self-compassion, and everyday happiness. Contact her at (516) 613-5359; dmallow@rtirguests.com
7. ==> 6 Signs You’re Dating 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
8. ==> The Invisible ‘Leadership Tax’ Women Pay at Work
For years, women were told to lean in, speak up, and push harder. Yet senior women in finance, technology, and other high-pressure fields are leaving leadership at record rates—not because they lack ambition, but because of a hidden cost few organizations recognize. Former banking executive Amanda Christian calls it the translation tax: the constant, invisible labor women perform to adjust how they speak, decide, and lead in male-dominated systems. Over time, that tax drains clarity, energy, and confidence long before performance ever declines. Christian reframes the leadership crisis leaders keep misdiagnosing and offers a research-backed alternative that helps high-achieving women lead with authority and without burning out. Ask her: Why did “lean in” backfire? What must organizations change to retain top talent? A former banking executive, Amanda Christian is a master life coach and the author of “The Skeptical Executive.” Contact her at (704) 610-1637; achristian@rtirguests.co
9. ==> The Woman Behind ‘Neighborhood Watch’ is Taking on Gangs
Stephanie Mann was abandoned in Mexico City at age 15 and survived through community connection—now this crime prevention consultant with 40 years of experience knows exactly why gangs flourish. The answer: social isolation and fear, and the result costs taxpayers $100 billion annually. Mann will reveal why traditional policing fails and how her low-cost Neighborhood Safety Expert program succeeds. She'll explain how trained community members who look like and speak the language of residents build trust where police cannot, why drug dealers often control neighborhoods through gifts and favors, and how connected neighbors eliminate the isolation that drives kids to gangs. Stephanie Mann coauthored the book “Alternative to Fear: Guidelines for Safer Neighborhoods,” which helped establish the national Neighborhood Watch program in the 1960s. She went on to write numerous crime prevention books and founded the National Safe Kids Now Network. Contact her at (925) 438-0716; smann@rtirguests.com
10. ==> The Risks of Being a Whistleblower: Speaking Up Is Dangerous
Karen Horwitz, an award-winning public school teacher and whistleblower, describes what happens when educators raise concerns inside their school districts. “Schools are often described as the foundation of democracy,” Horwitz says. “What I witnessed was how quickly that foundation cracks when people are afraid to speak.” Horwitz says the pattern she documented was consistent: teachers raised concerns internally, and instead of problems being addressed, they quietly lost their careers. After speaking publicly, she co-founded an organization to prevent teacher abuse and began hearing similar accounts from more than 2,000 educators who reported retaliation. She’ll explain how silence is enforced through fear, power imbalances, and institutional self-protection. Horwitz is the author of “A Graver Danger,” which draws directly from teacher whistleblowers to examine systemic failures. Contact Karen Horwitz at (312) 498-9074; khorwitz@rtirguests.com
11. ==> 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
12. ==> 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
13. ==> Tired of Conflict? 3 Habits to Build Trust and Cut Division
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. 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 listeners replace avoidance with practical strategies that foster trust and real connection. Poulton is the author of “Excellence Without Exclusion.” Contact her at (404) 383-8924; dpoulton@rtirguests.com
14. ==> 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 is on 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
15. ==> 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
Why Humor Is the Only Topic That’s Never Untimely – From a Guy Who’s Been Proving It for 30 Years
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 explains 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
• 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 (419) 534-0399; wgwilliams@rtirguests.com
How Adults Can Overcome Their Poor Math Skills and Succeed in the Modern Workforce
Craig Hane spent decades teaching math, and he’s identified why capable adults remain stuck in lower-paying jobs: childhood math trauma. Thousands of high-tech positions go unfilled while qualified candidates avoid applying because job descriptions mention quantitative skills.
In “How & Why Public School Math is Destroying the USA,” Hane explains how adults can break free from math anxiety using his SPIKE methodology. He’ll reveal which math skills actually matter for career advancement and how his six-tier online program helps adults master practical concepts in weeks. Listeners will learn they’re not “bad at math”—they were just taught wrong.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
• You say most adults who think they’re bad at math were actually failed by their teachers—how?
• What’s this SPIKE methodology that eliminates math anxiety, and how quickly do adults see results?
• Which math skills translate to higher-paying jobs, and which ones can people safely ignore?
CONTACT: Craig Hane at (812) 408-8047; chane@rtirguests.com
In a Season of Political Chaos, This Activist is Focused on 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS: 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
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.
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. Her shocking revelation: nurses are 18% more likely to commit suicide than the general population.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
• You say healthcare is addicted to profits—what does that look like from inside a hospital?
• How does your stand-up comedy background help you discuss such dark topics?
• What are these 12 Steps of Healing Care, and how do they protect nurses?
CONTACT: Kathy Allan at (619) 932-5206; Kallan@rtirguests.com
Why This Entrepreneur Says “You Can’t Teach What You Haven’t Done” – And 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 already completed a Guinness Record as the oldest author to publish the most books in one year. 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
• You say 87% of college graduates never use their degrees—what’s really happening with our education system?
• What does your 65-year marriage have to do with entrepreneurial success?
• At 87, you’ve just completed a Guinness Record—what’s next?
CONTACT: David Selley at (808) 229-3985; dselley@rtirguests.com
Why Drawing Badly is Actually 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
- 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
Why You Don’t Need a New You in 2026 — The Real You Is Enough
Every January, millions chase a “new you”, 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS: 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
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.
In his thought-provoking new book The Matthew Challenge, 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.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS:
- What do younger generations find most hypocritical about today’s evangelical church?
- Can politics and faith ever mix without compromising the core of either?
CONTACT: Rick Patterson at (517) 300-2706; rpatterson@rtirguests.com
