This Week in America is about issues that matter to you. This Week in America is informative, educational and entertaining. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton.
What if the strategies that made companies successful in the past are exactly what prevent them from succeeding in the future?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, business strategist and author Ralph Welborn discusses TOPPLE: The End of the Firm-Based Strategy and the Rise of New Models for Explosive Growth, co-authored with Sajan Pillai.Traditional business strategy has long focused on what happens within the boundaries of an individual company. But today's most disruptive and successful organizations increasingly create value through networks, ecosystems, partnerships, and new business models that reach far beyond the traditional firm.Ralph explains why established companies can struggle to recognize disruptive change, how business ecosystems are reshaping competition, and why leaders need to rethink where value is created and how their organizations participate in rapidly changing markets.The conversation explores the forces behind industry disruption, the importance of identifying new sources of value, and how organizations can position themselves to take advantage of opportunities that conventional strategic thinking may overlook.TOPPLE challenges executives, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to reconsider some of their most fundamental assumptions about competition, innovation, and growth—and provides a framework for understanding how tomorrow's most successful businesses may be built.This Week in America with Ric Bratton brings listeners compelling conversations with authors, thought leaders, business experts, innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose ideas and stories educate, inspire, and inform.For listeners interested in business strategy, disruptive innovation, digital transformation, business ecosystems, entrepreneurship, leadership, competitive strategy, organizational change, and new models for growth, this conversation with Ralph Welborn offers a thought-provoking look at how businesses can compete in an increasingly interconnected world.KEYWORDSRalph Welborn, TOPPLE, Sajan Pillai, Topple book, business strategy, disruptive innovation, business disruption, business ecosystems, digital transformation, explosive growth, innovation strategy, corporate strategy, competitive strategy, entrepreneurship, business leadership, organizational change, business transformation, growth strategy, new business models, ecosystem strategy, future of business, business innovation, leadership, strategy podcast, business podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA, podcast interview
What if the strategies that made companies successful in the past are exactly what prevent them from succeeding in the future?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, business strategist and author Ralph Welborn discusses TOPPLE: The End of the Firm-Based Strategy and the Rise of New Models for Explosive Growth, co-authored with Sajan Pillai.Traditional business strategy has long focused on what happens within the boundaries of an individual company. But today's most disruptive and successful organizations increasingly create value through networks, ecosystems, partnerships, and new business models that reach far beyond the traditional firm.Ralph explains why established companies can struggle to recognize disruptive change, how business ecosystems are reshaping competition, and why leaders need to rethink where value is created and how their organizations participate in rapidly changing markets.The conversation explores the forces behind industry disruption, the importance of identifying new sources of value, and how organizations can position themselves to take advantage of opportunities that conventional strategic thinking may overlook.TOPPLE challenges executives, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to reconsider some of their most fundamental assumptions about competition, innovation, and growth—and provides a framework for understanding how tomorrow's most successful businesses may be built.This Week in America with Ric Bratton brings listeners compelling conversations with authors, thought leaders, business experts, innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose ideas and stories educate, inspire, and inform.For listeners interested in business strategy, disruptive innovation, digital transformation, business ecosystems, entrepreneurship, leadership, competitive strategy, organizational change, and new models for growth, this conversation with Ralph Welborn offers a thought-provoking look at how businesses can compete in an increasingly interconnected world.KEYWORDSRalph Welborn, TOPPLE, Sajan Pillai, Topple book, business strategy, disruptive innovation, business disruption, business ecosystems, digital transformation, explosive growth, innovation strategy, corporate strategy, competitive strategy, entrepreneurship, business leadership, organizational change, business transformation, growth strategy, new business models, ecosystem strategy, future of business, business innovation, leadership, strategy podcast, business podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA, podcast interview
What happens when your life changes overnight with a diagnosis that seems impossible to overcome?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Janet McDowell shares the remarkable true story behind her memoir, Chasing a Light in the Darkness: A Story of Resilience in the Face of Unrelenting Medical Challenges.Shortly after her 61st birthday, Janet was diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia. What followed was a years-long battle that included two near-death experiences, a stem cell transplant, serious rejection complications, and countless setbacks. Yet through every obstacle, Janet refused to surrender hope. BookBabyIn this deeply personal conversation, Janet discusses receiving a life-changing leukemia diagnosis, enduring life-threatening medical complications, the emotional challenge of asking for help, the vital role her sister Susan played as caregiver, finding hope during overwhelming uncertainty, and the lessons she learned about resilience, courage, gratitude, and perseverance.Whether you've faced illness yourself, cared for a loved one, or simply need encouragement during difficult times, Janet's story is a powerful reminder that hope can shine even in life's darkest moments.This Week in America with Ric Bratton brings listeners compelling conversations with authors, thought leaders, medical experts, business innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose stories educate, inspire, and entertain.If you're searching for inspiration through cancer recovery, leukemia survivor stories, medical memoirs, stem cell transplant experiences, caregiver support, resilience, hope, and overcoming life's greatest challenges, don't miss this moving conversation with Janet McDowell.KeywordsJanet McDowell, Chasing a Light in the Darkness, leukemia survivor, lymphocytic leukemia, cancer survivor, cancer recovery, stem cell transplant, graft versus host disease, medical memoir, inspirational memoir, resilience, hope, perseverance, caregiver support, family caregiving, overcoming adversity, chronic illness, healing journey, cancer treatment, patient story, health podcast, inspirational author, memoir interview, medical challenges, surviving cancer, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, podcast interview, overcoming illness, hope after cancer
What happens when your life changes overnight with a diagnosis that seems impossible to overcome?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Janet McDowell shares the remarkable true story behind her memoir, Chasing a Light in the Darkness: A Story of Resilience in the Face of Unrelenting Medical Challenges.Shortly after her 61st birthday, Janet was diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia. What followed was a years-long battle that included two near-death experiences, a stem cell transplant, serious rejection complications, and countless setbacks. Yet through every obstacle, Janet refused to surrender hope. BookBabyIn this deeply personal conversation, Janet discusses receiving a life-changing leukemia diagnosis, enduring life-threatening medical complications, the emotional challenge of asking for help, the vital role her sister Susan played as caregiver, finding hope during overwhelming uncertainty, and the lessons she learned about resilience, courage, gratitude, and perseverance.Whether you've faced illness yourself, cared for a loved one, or simply need encouragement during difficult times, Janet's story is a powerful reminder that hope can shine even in life's darkest moments.This Week in America with Ric Bratton brings listeners compelling conversations with authors, thought leaders, medical experts, business innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose stories educate, inspire, and entertain.If you're searching for inspiration through cancer recovery, leukemia survivor stories, medical memoirs, stem cell transplant experiences, caregiver support, resilience, hope, and overcoming life's greatest challenges, don't miss this moving conversation with Janet McDowell.KeywordsJanet McDowell, Chasing a Light in the Darkness, leukemia survivor, lymphocytic leukemia, cancer survivor, cancer recovery, stem cell transplant, graft versus host disease, medical memoir, inspirational memoir, resilience, hope, perseverance, caregiver support, family caregiving, overcoming adversity, chronic illness, healing journey, cancer treatment, patient story, health podcast, inspirational author, memoir interview, medical challenges, surviving cancer, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, podcast interview, overcoming illness, hope after cancer
Affluence : Success. Wealth. Opportunity. We chase them. Define them. Measure our lives against them. But what if affluence means something more? When Janeshia receives a mysterious invitation to the prestigious Secret Knock, she steps into what she believes is a professional milestone. Instead, she embarks on a life-changing journey that challenges everything she thought she knew about success.Blending inspiration, personal growth, and timeless wisdom, Affluence reminds us that real prosperity isn't measured by what we possess—it's measured by the life we intentionally create. The Inheritance is a sweeping multigeneration story that follows the remarkable journey of Jacob Steele, a young man shattered by war, tested by loss, and ultimately transformed by faith, love, and purpose. Jacob teeters on the brink of despair, haunted by survivor's guilt, addiction and the ghosts of his past. Through faith, love and purpose, Jacob rises from the ashes of his suffering and unlocks a vision that will change the world-an invention that alters the course of global health and access forever. Best-Selling Author, Award-Winning Speaker, Life-Purpose CatalystPaul knows what it feels like to be without direction. Through years of trials, faith, and perseverance, he uncovered a calling far greater than conventional success: guiding others into a life of purpose. That experience is the foundation of everything he does today.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features compelling conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is heard on radio stations across the country and distributed through major podcast and digital platforms.Listen as Paul Peters shares the message behind The Inheritance and Affluence and explores finding your calling, overcoming adversity, living intentionally, and creating a legacy that can continue long after you're gone.AMAZONhttps://paulpeters.online/abouthttps://booksidepress.com/#TheInheritance #PaulPeters #FindingPurposeYouTube TagsPaul Peters, The Inheritance, The Inheritance Paul Peters, finding your purpose, life purpose, living with purpose, finding meaning in life, overcoming adversity, leaving a legacy, personal growth, inspirational books, motivational books, faith and purpose, faith and resilience, overcoming hardship, life lessons, personal transformation, building an extraordinary life, inspirational author, This Week in America, Ric BrattonKeywords: Paul Peters, The Inheritance, Building an Extraordinary Life, life purpose, finding your purpose, overcoming adversity, leaving a legacy, faith, perseverance, personal growth, inspirational books, motivational books, living with purpose, finding meaning, transformation, philanthropy, family legacy, This Week in America, Ric Bratton
Author and Vietnam veteran Gerald “Jerry” Snodgrass joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his new novel, The Cabin at Silver Ridge: Introducing Huckleberry the Friendly Moose.High in the Colorado mountains, Jack and Marlene Whitaker have created a life at Silver Ridge filled with family, friendship, memories, laughter, heartbreak—and one very unusual companion.Meet Huckleberry, a gentle, friendly and occasionally mischievous moose who becomes an unforgettable part of their world.Jerry Snodgrass talks about creating this warm and humorous family story, why the quiet moments in life often become the ones we treasure most, and how his love of family, mystery, adventure and storytelling inspired his latest book.A Vietnam veteran with decades of military and federal service, Snodgrass has turned a lifetime of experiences and travels into a prolific writing career. The Cabin at Silver Ridge takes his storytelling in a lighter direction, combining family, humor, the beauty of Colorado and one very memorable moose.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features compelling conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is heard on radio stations across the country and distributed through major podcast and digital platforms.Discover a story about home, family, second chances, companionship and those seemingly small moments that ultimately become some of life's biggest memories.AMAZONhttps://outskirtspress.com/Huckleberry#JerrySnodgrass #TheCabinAtSilverRidge #HuckleberryTheMooseYouTube TagsJerry Snodgrass, Gerald Snodgrass, The Cabin at Silver Ridge, Huckleberry the Friendly Moose, Huckleberry the Moose, family fiction, humorous novels, Colorado fiction, Colorado mountains, animal stories, family stories, inspirational fiction, clean fiction, books for grandparents, books about family, moose story, wilderness fiction, Vietnam veteran author, new books 2026, Outskirts Press, This Week in America, Ric BrattonKeywords: Jerry Snodgrass, Gerald Snodgrass, The Cabin at Silver Ridge, Huckleberry the Friendly Moose, family fiction, humorous fiction, Colorado fiction, animal stories, family relationships, second chances, family humor, clean fiction, inspirational fiction, Vietnam veteran author, Outskirts Press, This Week in America, Ric Bratton
A Life of Impact: The Remarkable Legacy of Transplant Pioneer Samuel L. Kountz, MDDr. Samuel L. Kountz rose from rural Arkansas in the segregated South to become an internationally recognized surgeon whose pioneering work helped transform kidney transplantation and save countless lives.On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, David S. Kountz, MD, MBA, MACP, discusses his book A Life of Impact: A Biography of Samuel L. Kountz, MD and the extraordinary story of his father—a physician, researcher, mentor, and medical innovator whose contributions to kidney transplantation deserve a prominent place in medical history.David shares how Samuel Kountz overcame poverty, racial discrimination, and institutional barriers to pursue medicine and ultimately make important contributions to organ preservation, immunosuppression, and kidney transplantation. The conversation also explores the people who helped him along the way, his commitment to expanding access to medical care, and the personal qualities that allowed him to persevere.But A Life of Impact is more than medical history. It is a son's effort to preserve his father's story and ensure that future generations understand both what Samuel Kountz accomplished and the resilience, faith, family, mentorship, and sense of purpose behind those accomplishments.It is a powerful conversation about medicine, history, breaking barriers, and the lasting difference one person can make.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed on radio and across leading podcast and digital platforms, bringing listeners informative and engaging conversations on books, health, history, personal development, business, and the issues shaping our lives.Discover the remarkable life and medical legacy of pioneering transplant surgeon Samuel L. Kountz in this conversation with his son and biographer, Dr. David S. Kountz, on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.AMAZONhttps://davidkountzmd.comhttps://www.kingpagespress.com#SamuelKountz #MedicalHistory #OrganTransplantationYOUTUBE TAGSSamuel L. Kountz, David S. Kountz, A Life of Impact, Samuel Kountz biography, kidney transplantation, transplant surgery, organ transplantation, medical history, Black medical pioneers, African American physicians, pioneering surgeons, kidney transplant history, medical innovation, healthcare history, organ preservation, immunosuppression, Black history, resilience, medical education, This Week in America, Ric BrattonKeywords: David S. Kountz, Samuel L. Kountz, A Life of Impact, kidney transplantation, transplant surgery, organ transplantation, medical history, Black medical pioneers, African American physicians, medical innovation, organ preservation, immunosuppression, healthcare equity, resilience, medical education
Why do good people sometimes become bad managers—and what can organizations do about it?Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, author of Good People, Bad Managers: How Work Culture Corrupts Good Intentions, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to challenge some long-held assumptions about management and the workplace.Culbert argues that many workplace problems aren't caused by inherently bad people, but by management systems and corporate cultures that encourage the wrong behaviors. Employees and managers can become trapped in environments where protecting themselves, pleasing the boss and following dysfunctional practices take priority over producing the best results.In his conversation with Ric, Culbert explores how organizations can create healthier and more productive relationships between managers and employees. He discusses accountability, communication, trust and why managers need to understand what employees require to perform at their best.Samuel A. Culbert is Professor Emeritus of Management and Organizations at UCLA's Anderson School of Management and a noted author and workplace management expert. His books include Good People, Bad Managers, Get Rid of the Performance Review!, Beyond Bullsht: Straight-Talk at Work* and Don't Kill the Bosses!ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICAThis Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores books, business, health and wellness, personal development, family, lifestyle and more.This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more.KEYWORDSSam Culbert, Samuel Culbert, Good People Bad Managers, bad managers, management, leadership, workplace culture, workplace communication, employee engagement, corporate culture, management mistakes, better managers, business leadership, UCLA Anderson, workplace relationships, leadership podcast, management podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interviewListen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, about Good People, Bad Managers and discover how workplace culture can undermine good intentions—and what managers and employees can do to build more productive working relationships.
Why do good people sometimes become bad managers—and what can organizations do about it?Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, author of Good People, Bad Managers: How Work Culture Corrupts Good Intentions, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to challenge some long-held assumptions about management and the workplace.Culbert argues that many workplace problems aren't caused by inherently bad people, but by management systems and corporate cultures that encourage the wrong behaviors. Employees and managers can become trapped in environments where protecting themselves, pleasing the boss and following dysfunctional practices take priority over producing the best results.In his conversation with Ric, Culbert explores how organizations can create healthier and more productive relationships between managers and employees. He discusses accountability, communication, trust and why managers need to understand what employees require to perform at their best.Samuel A. Culbert is Professor Emeritus of Management and Organizations at UCLA's Anderson School of Management and a noted author and workplace management expert. His books include Good People, Bad Managers, Get Rid of the Performance Review!, Beyond Bullsht: Straight-Talk at Work* and Don't Kill the Bosses!ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICAThis Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores books, business, health and wellness, personal development, family, lifestyle and more.This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more.KEYWORDSSam Culbert, Samuel Culbert, Good People Bad Managers, bad managers, management, leadership, workplace culture, workplace communication, employee engagement, corporate culture, management mistakes, better managers, business leadership, UCLA Anderson, workplace relationships, leadership podcast, management podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interviewListen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, about Good People, Bad Managers and discover how workplace culture can undermine good intentions—and what managers and employees can do to build more productive working relationships.
What does it really mean to age gracefully? According to longtime This Week in America guest Susan Smith Jones, PhD, it isn't about turning back the clock. It's about moving forward with energy, enthusiasm, gratitude, purpose and joy.Susan returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton for an uplifting conversation about aging gracefully and creating a vibrant, joyful and purpose-filled life at any age.Drawing on decades of experience in holistic health and wellness, Susan shares practical strategies for nurturing body, mind and spirit as we grow older. Her approach emphasizes six important areas: sleep, prayer, nutrition, exercise, nature and enthusiasm.Susan also discusses the importance of gratitude, kindness, curiosity, humor and having something meaningful to look forward to. Aging well isn't simply about appearance. It's about continuing to learn, grow, contribute and appreciate the everyday moments that make life meaningful.Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a holistic health and lifestyle educator, motivational speaker and author who taught health and fitness at UCLA for 30 years. Her many books focus on healthy living, positive aging, wellness and creating a more balanced life.ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICAThis Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores health and wellness, personal development, books, business, family, lifestyle and more.This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more.KEYWORDSSusan Smith Jones, Susan Smith Jones PhD, aging gracefully, healthy aging, positive aging, aging well, active aging, longevity, wellness, vibrant health, gratitude, purpose, healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep, nature, holistic health, positive attitude, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, wellness podcast, healthy aging podcastListen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones, PhD, for practical ideas on aging gracefully, maintaining vibrant health, cultivating gratitude and purpose, and finding more joy at every stage of life.
What does it really mean to age gracefully? According to longtime This Week in America guest Susan Smith Jones, PhD, it isn't about turning back the clock. It's about moving forward with energy, enthusiasm, gratitude, purpose and joy.Susan returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton for an uplifting conversation about aging gracefully and creating a vibrant, joyful and purpose-filled life at any age.Drawing on decades of experience in holistic health and wellness, Susan shares practical strategies for nurturing body, mind and spirit as we grow older. Her approach emphasizes six important areas: sleep, prayer, nutrition, exercise, nature and enthusiasm.Susan also discusses the importance of gratitude, kindness, curiosity, humor and having something meaningful to look forward to. Aging well isn't simply about appearance. It's about continuing to learn, grow, contribute and appreciate the everyday moments that make life meaningful.Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a holistic health and lifestyle educator, motivational speaker and author who taught health and fitness at UCLA for 30 years. Her many books focus on healthy living, positive aging, wellness and creating a more balanced life.ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICAThis Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores health and wellness, personal development, books, business, family, lifestyle and more.This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more.KEYWORDSSusan Smith Jones, Susan Smith Jones PhD, aging gracefully, healthy aging, positive aging, aging well, active aging, longevity, wellness, vibrant health, gratitude, purpose, healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep, nature, holistic health, positive attitude, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, wellness podcast, healthy aging podcastListen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones, PhD, for practical ideas on aging gracefully, maintaining vibrant health, cultivating gratitude and purpose, and finding more joy at every stage of life.
What really happens when casual gambling becomes an addiction—and how much of the casino experience is designed to keep you playing?Author Matt Shea joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his book The Casino Down the Street, based on Shea's three-year study of casinos and his own personal experience with gambling addiction.After ignoring his father's warnings and beginning to gamble himself, Shea says he eventually found himself caught in addiction. His experience—and what he describes as spiritual intervention that helped him break free—inspired him to investigate how casinos operate and why gambling can become so difficult to walk away from.Matt and Ric discuss the different types of gamblers, warning signs of addiction, the psychology behind casinos, the risks associated with online gambling, and why older adults can be particularly vulnerable. Shea also shares what he learned from his own journey and why he hopes the book can help people recognize a problem before gambling costs them far more than money.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media.Matt Shea, author of The Casino Down the Street, coming up on This Week in America.www.mattsheabooks.nethttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1638681406?ref_=ast_author_ofdp#GamblingAddiction #MattShea #ThisWeekInAmericaYOUTUBE TAGSMatt Shea, The Casino Down the Street, gambling addiction, casino addiction, problem gambling, gambling recovery, dangers of gambling, casino psychology, online gambling addiction, signs of gambling addiction, gambling help, casinos, compulsive gambling, senior gambling, gambling awareness, addiction recovery, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIAKeywords: Matt Shea, The Casino Down the Street, gambling addiction, problem gambling, casino addiction, gambling recovery, dangers of casinos, online gambling, online gambling addiction, casino psychology, compulsive gambling, signs of gambling addiction, senior citizens and gambling, addiction recovery, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
What is life really like behind the badge?Author and former law enforcement officer Andrew Kincaid joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his book My Life as a Reserve Deputy: If the Badge Could Talk, a firsthand account drawn from 21 years of service with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.Kincaid dreamed of working in law enforcement from an early age and went on to experience a remarkable range of assignments—from patrol and off-road enforcement to commuter-train patrol and work as a rangemaster in the weapons training unit.Along the way came unpredictable calls, dangerous situations, humorous moments, tragedy, friendships and unforgettable experiences—including rescue efforts during a major California wildfire.Andrew shares some of those stories with Ric and discusses what they taught him about law enforcement, public service and the men and women who choose to protect their communities.If you've ever wondered what happens beyond the uniform and the patrol car, this conversation offers a firsthand look from someone who spent more than two decades living it.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media.Listen to This Week in America for insightful interviews with authors and experts covering books, health, wellness, personal development, current issues, business, lifestyle and the stories shaping our lives.Andrew Kincaid, author of My Life as a Reserve Deputy, coming up on This Week in America.AMAZONttps://www.kingpagespress.com#LawEnforcement #AndrewKincaid #ThisWeekInAmericaYOUTUBE TAGSAndrew Kincaid, My Life as a Reserve Deputy, If the Badge Could Talk, law enforcement, police memoir, reserve deputy, reserve deputy sheriff, San Diego County Sheriff, police stories, law enforcement stories, behind the badge, police officer experiences, first responder stories, public safety, California law enforcement, police career, law enforcement career, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIAKeywords: Andrew Kincaid, My Life as a Reserve Deputy, If the Badge Could Talk, law enforcement memoir, reserve deputy, reserve sheriff deputy, police stories, San Diego County Sheriff, California law enforcement, police career, behind the badge, first responders, public safety, law enforcement experiences, police officer memoir, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
What if the darkest chapters of your life could become the path to your greatest purpose?Author Patricia Shannon joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her deeply personal book, Redeemed from the Darkness: How God Turned My Pain into Purpose.Through her own experiences with pain, uncertainty, faith, prayer, and healing, Patricia shares how the difficult seasons of her life ultimately brought her closer to God. What began as personal journaling became a testimony about learning to trust God's timing and discovering purpose even during life's darkest moments.Patricia believes that the wilderness seasons of our lives are not necessarily punishment, but preparation. They can test our faith, shape our identity, strengthen our trust, and prepare us for what comes next.In this conversation, Patricia discusses how writing helped her confront pain she had carried since childhood, the role prayer plays in her daily life, learning to trust God when answers don't come immediately, and why she believes our darkest chapter doesn't have to be the end of our story.A teacher for more than two decades, Patricia has devoted much of her life to working with children with special needs. Now she hopes sharing her own journey will encourage others experiencing loss, loneliness, fear, uncertainty, or their own season of darkness.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and newsmakers from around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, wellness, personal development, business, family, lifestyle, and the issues that matter to you.This Week in America is distributed on more than 100 radio stations and across major podcast and digital platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Deezer, Audacy, Podomatic, YouTube and more.Discover Redeemed from the Darkness: How God Turned My Pain into Purpose by Patricia Shannon and a powerful personal testimony about Christian faith, prayer, healing, hope, trusting God's timing, overcoming difficult seasons, and finding purpose through pain.AMAZONhttps://www.kingpagespress.com/#ChristianBooks #Faith #PatriciaShannonYouTube Tags:Patricia Shannon, Redeemed from the Darkness, How God Turned My Pain into Purpose, Christian books, Christian author, faith books, books about faith, Christian testimony, trusting God, finding purpose, pain into purpose, faith through difficult times, prayer, power of prayer, Christian inspiration, spiritual growth, finding hope, God's timing, trusting God's plan, overcoming darkness, Christian encouragement, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in AmericaPodomatic Keywords:Patricia Shannon, Redeemed from the Darkness, How God Turned My Pain into Purpose, Christian books, Christian author, Christian testimony, faith, prayer, trusting God, God's timing, finding purpose, pain into purpose, spiritual growth, Christian inspiration, Christian encouragement, finding hope, healing through faith, overcoming difficult times, wilderness season, God's plan, inspirational books, faith journey, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
What happens when the one person you're told never to trust may be the person who deserves your trust the most?Author William H. Hammes joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his novel Forced to Trust: Someone You Shouldn't Trust at All, a suspenseful legal drama about trust, prejudice, family and the search for truth.Julie is a new lawyer fleeing an abusive husband with her five-year-old daughter, Zebra, when her car breaks down on a dark, deserted road. There she encounters Benny—the last person any mother would seemingly want around her young daughter.But things aren't always what they appear to be.After talking with Benny—and seeing her daughter's surprising ability to judge his character—Julie begins examining the court records behind his conviction. What she discovers are troubling contradictions and a community where deeply rooted bias makes finding the truth increasingly difficult.Soon Julie is investigating Benny's past, trusting him with the person most precious to her, and ultimately defending him in an uphill courtroom battle where the final revelation could change everything.Hammes describes the story as having a Perry Mason-esque feel, with multiple themes building toward their own dramatic revelations.Ric also talks with William about his unusual road to becoming a novelist—from working on extraordinary architectural projects in California to receiving encouragement to write from Murphy Brown creator Diane English.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media.Listen to This Week in America for insightful interviews with authors and experts covering books, health, wellness, personal development, current issues, business, lifestyle and the stories shaping our lives.William H. Hammes and Forced to Trust, coming up on This Week in America.AMAZONhttps://www.whhammes.com/https://inkstartmedia.com/YOUTUBE TAGSWilliam H Hammes, William Hammes, Forced to Trust, Someone You Shouldn't Trust at All, legal thriller, courtroom drama, mystery novel, suspense novel, Perry Mason, courtroom mystery, legal fiction, trust and betrayal, wrongful conviction, prejudice, family drama, mystery books, suspense books, thriller author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIAKeywords: William H. Hammes, William Hammes, Forced to Trust, Someone You Shouldn't Trust at All, legal thriller, courtroom drama, courtroom mystery, mystery novel, suspense fiction, Perry Mason style mystery, wrongful conviction, trust, prejudice, justice, family drama, legal fiction, mystery author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
The Healing Power of Hobbies: Why Joyful Pastimes Are Essential Medicine for Body, Mind & Spirit with Susan Smith Jones, PhDIf you have ever felt too busy, too tired, or too responsible to make time for something you love, today's program may completely change the way you think about leisure. Our guest is Susan Smith Jones, PhD—one of the nation's leading holistic health and lifestyle experts. For three decades, Susan taught healthy living at UCLA and has inspired people worldwide through her books, speaking, media appearances, and wellness programs.Today, Susan will reveal why hobbies are not frivolous extras, but powerful allies for the body, mind, emotions, relationships, and spirit. We will explore how creative pursuits can ease stress, how active hobbies make movement enjoyable, how shared interests build friendship, and why it is never too late to begin something new. Her message is practical, hopeful, and wonderfully freeing: your hobby may look like play, but it may be doing serious healing work. Susan, welcome back to the program!About Our GuestFor a woman blessed with three of America's most ordinary names, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, has led an extraordinarily inspiring life. A renowned holistic health expert, motivational speaker, author, and lifestyle educator, Susan spent 30 years teaching students, staff, and faculty at UCLA how to live healthier, happier, and more balanced lives. Long before wellness became a global movement, she was helping people discover the life-changing power of healthy eating, positive thinking, stress reduction, spiritual connection, and joyful living.Known for her warmth, wisdom, and uplifting spirit, Susan has appeared on radio and television programs around the world and is the author of numerous books on health, longevity, personal growth, and inspiration. Her latest books include A HUG IN A MUG, UPLIFTED, and her Gold-Medal Award-Winning inspirational novelette, JOY & THE BUTTERFLY—a heartwarming story for readers of all ages. Susan's mission is to help people create lives filled with vibrant health, inner peace, faith, purpose, and joy.https://susansmithjones.comX at SusanSmithJoneshttps://www.instagram.com/susansmithjonesphdhttp://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/ssj149.mp3
What if becoming truly well-nourished meant feeding more than just your body?Andrea Lieberstein, MPH, RDN, author of Well Nourished: Mindful Practices to Heal Your Relationship with Food, Feed Your Whole Self, and End Overeating, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to explore a more mindful and compassionate approach to food, eating, and overall well-being.Andrea is a registered dietitian nutritionist, mindfulness teacher, and internationally recognized mindful-eating expert. In Well Nourished, she looks beyond traditional dieting and explores the many ways we seek nourishment—not only through food, but through relationships, movement, meaning, creativity, self-care, and connection.During the conversation, Andrea discusses how mindfulness can help us recognize the difference between physical hunger and the other needs we may try to satisfy with food. She shares practical strategies designed to help break patterns of emotional and mindless eating, reduce food-related stress, and create a healthier relationship with eating.Rather than focusing on restrictive diets or quick fixes, Well Nourished encourages readers to pay attention to what their bodies and lives genuinely need. Andrea explains how greater awareness and self-compassion can help people make more conscious choices and develop habits that support lasting well-being.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program reaches audiences through podcast, digital, social media, and radio platforms, bringing listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, wellness, business, personal development, and the issues that matter.Listen as Andrea Lieberstein shares insights from Well Nourished and explains how mindful eating, self-awareness, and whole-person nourishment can help us change our relationship with food—and perhaps change the way we care for ourselves.Keywords: Andrea Lieberstein, Well Nourished, mindful eating, emotional eating, overeating, relationship with food, mindfulness, intuitive eating, healthy eating, nutrition, registered dietitian, RDN, mindful eating practices, food cravings, emotional hunger, self-care, wellness, healthy lifestyle, mind body health, stress eating, eating habits, nutrition advice, mindfulness practices, whole person wellness, health and wellness podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIASEO Closing: Discover Andrea Lieberstein's mindful approach to ending overeating, improving your relationship with food, and nourishing your whole self in this conversation with Ric Bratton on This Week in America.
What if becoming truly well-nourished meant feeding more than just your body?Andrea Lieberstein, MPH, RDN, author of Well Nourished: Mindful Practices to Heal Your Relationship with Food, Feed Your Whole Self, and End Overeating, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to explore a more mindful and compassionate approach to food, eating, and overall well-being.Andrea is a registered dietitian nutritionist, mindfulness teacher, and internationally recognized mindful-eating expert. In Well Nourished, she looks beyond traditional dieting and explores the many ways we seek nourishment—not only through food, but through relationships, movement, meaning, creativity, self-care, and connection.During the conversation, Andrea discusses how mindfulness can help us recognize the difference between physical hunger and the other needs we may try to satisfy with food. She shares practical strategies designed to help break patterns of emotional and mindless eating, reduce food-related stress, and create a healthier relationship with eating.Rather than focusing on restrictive diets or quick fixes, Well Nourished encourages readers to pay attention to what their bodies and lives genuinely need. Andrea explains how greater awareness and self-compassion can help people make more conscious choices and develop habits that support lasting well-being.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program reaches audiences through podcast, digital, social media, and radio platforms, bringing listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, wellness, business, personal development, and the issues that matter.Listen as Andrea Lieberstein shares insights from Well Nourished and explains how mindful eating, self-awareness, and whole-person nourishment can help us change our relationship with food—and perhaps change the way we care for ourselves.Keywords: Andrea Lieberstein, Well Nourished, mindful eating, emotional eating, overeating, relationship with food, mindfulness, intuitive eating, healthy eating, nutrition, registered dietitian, RDN, mindful eating practices, food cravings, emotional hunger, self-care, wellness, healthy lifestyle, mind body health, stress eating, eating habits, nutrition advice, mindfulness practices, whole person wellness, health and wellness podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIASEO Closing: Discover Andrea Lieberstein's mindful approach to ending overeating, improving your relationship with food, and nourishing your whole self in this conversation with Ric Bratton on This Week in America.
Why does every workplace seem to have office gossip, difficult coworkers, endless meetings, and enough drama to fill a reality TV show?Award-winning author and screenwriter Julianna Newland joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her entertaining and insightful book, All Up In Your Bizness: Managing Your Business Crap: And There's More Business Crap.Drawing from more than 30 years of experience in business, government, nonprofit organizations and corporate America, Julianna takes a humorous but practical look at the situations almost everyone encounters during their working life. Her book tackles everything from interviews and office politics to performance reviews, promotions, workplace relationships and working from home. In this episode, you'll discover: How to navigate office politics without losing your sanity Ways to deal with difficult coworkers and workplace personalities Why humor can be an effective tool for handling workplace stress Lessons Julianna learned during more than three decades in the professional world Practical ideas for improving communication, relationships and career success Whether you're entering the workforce, climbing the corporate ladder, managing a team or simply trying to survive your next staff meeting, this conversation offers practical advice, real-world experience and plenty of laughs.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed through radio, podcast and digital platforms, bringing listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, business, personal development, current issues and more.Listen as Julianna Newland shares the wit, wisdom and workplace lessons behind All Up In Your Bizness and explains how a little humor — along with some practical common sense — can make navigating the modern workplace a whole lot easier.KEYWORDSJulianna Newland, All Up In Your Bizness, Managing Your Business Crap, workplace humor, office politics, workplace drama, career success, workplace communication, business management, leadership, career development, professional growth, difficult coworkers, workplace relationships, conflict resolution, performance reviews, promotions, corporate culture, employee engagement, teamwork, business advice, career advice, workplace success, women in business, nonprofit leadership, government leadership, corporate America, workplace stress, author interview, business podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA
Why does every workplace seem to have office gossip, difficult coworkers, endless meetings, and enough drama to fill a reality TV show?Award-winning author and screenwriter Julianna Newland joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her entertaining and insightful book, All Up In Your Bizness: Managing Your Business Crap: And There's More Business Crap.Drawing from more than 30 years of experience in business, government, nonprofit organizations and corporate America, Julianna takes a humorous but practical look at the situations almost everyone encounters during their working life. Her book tackles everything from interviews and office politics to performance reviews, promotions, workplace relationships and working from home. In this episode, you'll discover: How to navigate office politics without losing your sanity Ways to deal with difficult coworkers and workplace personalities Why humor can be an effective tool for handling workplace stress Lessons Julianna learned during more than three decades in the professional world Practical ideas for improving communication, relationships and career success Whether you're entering the workforce, climbing the corporate ladder, managing a team or simply trying to survive your next staff meeting, this conversation offers practical advice, real-world experience and plenty of laughs.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed through radio, podcast and digital platforms, bringing listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, business, personal development, current issues and more.Listen as Julianna Newland shares the wit, wisdom and workplace lessons behind All Up In Your Bizness and explains how a little humor — along with some practical common sense — can make navigating the modern workplace a whole lot easier.KEYWORDSJulianna Newland, All Up In Your Bizness, Managing Your Business Crap, workplace humor, office politics, workplace drama, career success, workplace communication, business management, leadership, career development, professional growth, difficult coworkers, workplace relationships, conflict resolution, performance reviews, promotions, corporate culture, employee engagement, teamwork, business advice, career advice, workplace success, women in business, nonprofit leadership, government leadership, corporate America, workplace stress, author interview, business podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA
What if the thing that makes you different is actually the thing that makes you special?Author, educator, musician, and storyteller Danna Southwell joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her heartwarming children's book, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken: Learning to Shine in Your Own Special Way (Second Edition).Bertha is the smallest and most ordinary-looking of four little chicks. While her siblings seem to have obvious talents, Bertha struggles to discover what makes her special. Teased and left out by the other chickens, she holds onto her kindness, curiosity, and determination.Then, when danger arrives at the chicken coop, the very thing that once made Bertha different becomes the gift that can save everyone.Danna discusses the important lessons behind Bertha's story, including building children's confidence and self-esteem, dealing with teasing and exclusion, celebrating individuality, choosing kindness, finding courage, and recognizing that our differences can sometimes become our greatest strengths.A lifelong educator and mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Danna Southwell draws upon decades of working with children and her own family's love of storytelling to create stories filled with warmth, humor, and meaningful lessons.Discover why every child deserves to know: You don't have to be like everyone else to be special.#ChildrensBooks #SelfEsteem #DannaSouthwelhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HGXZQSRM?lv=shuf&channelId=510&plpRedirect=mhFallbackhttps://authordannasouthwell.com/https://inkspiremediahouse.com/This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and newsmakers from around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, wellness, personal development, business, family, lifestyle, and the issues that matter to you.This Week in America is distributed on more than 100 radio stations and across major podcast and digital platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Deezer, Audacy, Podomatic, YouTube and more.Discover Bertha the Ordinary Chicken by Danna Southwell and an uplifting children's story about kindness, self-esteem, courage, belonging, individuality, and discovering your own special way to shine.YouTube Tags:Danna Southwell, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken book, children's books, children's author, books for kids, kids books about confidence, self esteem for children, children's books about bullying, books about kindness, books about being different, children's books about inclusion, books about courage, social emotional learning, SEL books for kids, confidence for kids, accepting differences, children's book interview, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in AmericaPodomatic Keywords:Danna Southwell, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken, children's books, children's author, books for kids, children's books about confidence, self-esteem for children, books about kindness, children's books about bullying, books about being different, inclusion for children, courage for kids, social emotional learning, SEL books, accepting differences, children's literature, parenting books, classroom books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
Can you spot the clues, identify the suspect and solve the murder before the final reveal?Award-winning mystery and thriller author Laura Burke joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her Jolene Mystery Series, a collection of suspenseful cold-case investigations filled with murder, hidden motives, unexpected clues and twists designed to keep readers guessing.Burke brings a unique perspective to crime fiction. After working as a nurse for 20 years, she became a private investigator, working closely with police officers and detectives on closed-case files. Her lifelong fascination with mysteries and unanswered cases eventually became inspiration for her fiction.The Jolene Mystery Series follows determined investigator Jolene through cold cases and crimes that refuse to stay buried. From The Model Murders and The Toy Store Murders to Murder in Camouflage, Surgical Murders, Red Flag Murders and Timeless Innocence, the series challenges readers to examine the evidence, question the suspects and try to uncover the truth before Jolene does.Burke has published 22 novels over the past 12 years, building a body of work that includes the Jolene Mystery Series, the Detective Roy Masson Series and other murder mysteries and thrillers.In this conversation, Laura discusses her fascination with cold cases, how her experience as a private investigator influences her fiction, creating believable mysteries, planting clues without giving away the solution and why readers remain fascinated by cases that have gone unsolved for years.Think you're a good detective?See if you can solve Laura Burke's mysteries before the final pages reveal the truth.Watch the conversation with Laura Burke on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, business, personal development, current issues and much more.Discover the Jolene Mystery Series by Laura Burke and go inside the mind of an author and former private investigator who turns cold cases, clues and unanswered questions into murder mysteries designed to keep readers guessing until the final pages.https://authorlauraburke.comhttps://inkspiremediahouse.com/#LauraBurke #MysteryBooks #ColdCasesKeywords: Laura Burke, Laura B Burke, Jolene Mystery Series, Jolene Johnson, The Model Murders, The Toy Store Murders, Murder in Camouflage, Murder of Innocence, Surgical Murders, Red Flag Murders, Timeless Innocence, cold cases, cold case mysteries, cold case fiction, murder mysteries, murder mystery books, mystery novels, mystery books, crime fiction, crime novels, detective fiction, private investigator, private investigator author, female detective, female sleuth, suspense novels, thriller author, mystery author, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA
What if you discovered that something happening 600 years in the past was about to erase you from existence?Award-winning author Gabriel F.W. Koch joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his science fiction time-travel novel, Steel Blood.Dr. James Cancilleri is the founder of time travel science. But when he discovers that his ancestors are dying before they can marry and continue his bloodline, he faces an extraordinary dilemma. If he does nothing, Cancilleri could disappear from history—along with his life's work and the thousands of lives his discoveries have saved.His only option? Travel six centuries into the past and try to change history.Steel Blood combines futuristic science fiction with medieval adventure, exploring the fascinating paradoxes of time travel along with questions of family, identity, destiny, sacrifice and the consequences of changing the past.Koch also discusses the inspiration behind the novel, creating believable worlds in two dramatically different time periods, and how his background as an award-winning writer and photographer influences his storytelling.Gabriel F.W. Koch is the recipient of numerous writing honors, including the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future Award, and Steel Blood earned Gold/1st Place for Science Fiction at the 2025 CIPA EVVY Awards.Could you risk changing history if your own existence depended on it?Watch the conversation with Gabriel F.W. Koch on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative and entertaining conversations covering books, health, business, personal development, current issues and much more.Discover Steel Blood by Gabriel F.W. Koch and hear the story behind an award-winning time-travel novel where changing the past may be the only way to save the future.https://gabrielfwkochbooks.com/https://www.amazon.com/Steel-Blood-Gabriel-F-Koch/dp/B0HDB22QLT/ref=monarch_sidesheet_titlehttps://inkspiremediahouse.com/#SteelBlood #TimeTravel #ScienceFictionYoutube Tags: Gabriel F.W. Koch, Gabriel Koch, Steel Blood, Steel Blood book, Steel Blood Gabriel Koch, time travel novel, time travel books, science fiction books, science fiction author, sci fi books, historical science fiction, medieval fiction, time travel paradox, time travel fiction, award winning science fiction, CIPA EVVY Awards, Writers of the Future, book interview, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIAPodomatic Keywords: Gabriel F.W. Koch, Gabriel Koch, Steel Blood, Steel Blood book, Steel Blood novel, time travel, time travel fiction, time travel novel, science fiction, science fiction books, sci-fi author, historical science fiction, medieval fiction, medieval adventure, time travel paradox, award-winning author, CIPA EVVY Awards, Writers of the Future, book interview, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA
Why do some teams innovate, collaborate, and thrive while others struggle in silence?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Ric talks with leadership expert, organizational consultant, and author Timothy R. Clark about The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety and why psychological safety is essential to creating high-performing teams and innovative organizations.Psychological safety creates an environment where people feel able to speak up, ask questions, contribute ideas, make mistakes, and challenge the status quo without fear of punishment or humiliation. Timothy's framework identifies four progressive stages: Inclusion Safety, Learner Safety, Contributor Safety, and Challenger Safety.During the conversation, Timothy explains how fear can quietly undermine workplace performance and how leaders can replace it with trust, accountability, collaboration, and a culture where employees feel empowered to contribute. He also discusses why psychological safety doesn't mean lowering standards—instead, it can help organizations create an environment where both candor and high performance can flourish.Whether you're a CEO, manager, entrepreneur, team leader, HR professional, or employee, this conversation offers practical insights into creating stronger workplace cultures, improving communication, encouraging innovation, and unlocking the potential of every member of a team.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features engaging conversations with authors, experts, innovators, business leaders, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative, entertaining, and thought-provoking interviews covering books, business, health, personal development, history, entertainment, and the issues that matter.Discover how Timothy R. Clark's four stages of psychological safety can help leaders build trust, encourage innovation, improve employee engagement, and create stronger, higher-performing teams.KEYWORDS Timothy R. Clark, Timothy Clark, The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety, psychological safety, high-performing teams, leadership, workplace culture, organizational culture, team performance, employee engagement, inclusion safety, learner safety, contributor safety, challenger safety, innovation, workplace trust, leadership development, team building, employee communication, organizational leadership, business leadership, management, company culture, collaboration, accountability, inclusive leadership, workplace innovation, employee retention, leadership podcast, business podcast, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
Why do some teams innovate, collaborate, and thrive while others struggle in silence?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Ric talks with leadership expert, organizational consultant, and author Timothy R. Clark about The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety and why psychological safety is essential to creating high-performing teams and innovative organizations.Psychological safety creates an environment where people feel able to speak up, ask questions, contribute ideas, make mistakes, and challenge the status quo without fear of punishment or humiliation. Timothy's framework identifies four progressive stages: Inclusion Safety, Learner Safety, Contributor Safety, and Challenger Safety.During the conversation, Timothy explains how fear can quietly undermine workplace performance and how leaders can replace it with trust, accountability, collaboration, and a culture where employees feel empowered to contribute. He also discusses why psychological safety doesn't mean lowering standards—instead, it can help organizations create an environment where both candor and high performance can flourish.Whether you're a CEO, manager, entrepreneur, team leader, HR professional, or employee, this conversation offers practical insights into creating stronger workplace cultures, improving communication, encouraging innovation, and unlocking the potential of every member of a team.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features engaging conversations with authors, experts, innovators, business leaders, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative, entertaining, and thought-provoking interviews covering books, business, health, personal development, history, entertainment, and the issues that matter.Discover how Timothy R. Clark's four stages of psychological safety can help leaders build trust, encourage innovation, improve employee engagement, and create stronger, higher-performing teams.KEYWORDS Timothy R. Clark, Timothy Clark, The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety, psychological safety, high-performing teams, leadership, workplace culture, organizational culture, team performance, employee engagement, inclusion safety, learner safety, contributor safety, challenger safety, innovation, workplace trust, leadership development, team building, employee communication, organizational leadership, business leadership, management, company culture, collaboration, accountability, inclusive leadership, workplace innovation, employee retention, leadership podcast, business podcast, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
What begins as a medical research assignment quickly turns into a murder investigation.On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Susann Camus discusses her gripping novel, Bless Your Heart: A Jeannie Johal Thriller, a fast-paced mystery filled with pharmaceutical intrigue, Southern charm, and unexpected twists.Healthcare researcher Jeannie Johal arrives in Greenville, North Carolina, to investigate suspicious activity surrounding a promising new drug study. Before she can even begin, her new boss is murdered. Suddenly, Jeannie finds herself navigating a maze of hidden motives, dangerous secrets, poisonous plants, and a community where everyone seems to know more than they're willing to admit. Drawing on her own background in healthcare and her experience as a Master Gardener, Susann Camus brings authenticity to the story. Her experiences in Greenville and with the Pitt County Arboretum also helped shape the novel's setting. With compelling characters, realistic medical details, and suspense that keeps readers guessing, Bless Your Heart combines elements of the medical thriller, murder mystery, and Southern suspense novel while introducing readers to a smart and determined female protagonist.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features engaging conversations with authors, experts, innovators, business leaders, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative, entertaining, and thought-provoking interviews covering books, business, health, personal development, history, entertainment, and the issues that matter.Whether you're a fan of medical thrillers, crime fiction, murder mysteries, suspense novels, strong female protagonists, pharmaceutical conspiracies, or Southern mysteries, Ric Bratton's conversation with Susann Camus offers an inside look at the inspiration behind Bless Your Heart and the creative process of building an unforgettable thriller.KEYWORDSSusann Camus, Bless Your Heart, Jeannie Johal, Jeannie Johal Thriller, medical thriller, murder mystery, crime fiction, suspense thriller, pharmaceutical conspiracy, healthcare thriller, mystery novel, Southern mystery, Greenville North Carolina, Pitt County Arboretum, master gardener, women sleuths, strong female characters, healthcare research, public health, poisonous plants, suspense novels, page turner, mystery podcast, author interview, thriller books, crime novels, book podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, medical suspense, investigative thriller
What begins as a medical research assignment quickly turns into a murder investigation.On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Susann Camus discusses her gripping novel, Bless Your Heart: A Jeannie Johal Thriller, a fast-paced mystery filled with pharmaceutical intrigue, Southern charm, and unexpected twists.Healthcare researcher Jeannie Johal arrives in Greenville, North Carolina, to investigate suspicious activity surrounding a promising new drug study. Before she can even begin, her new boss is murdered. Suddenly, Jeannie finds herself navigating a maze of hidden motives, dangerous secrets, poisonous plants, and a community where everyone seems to know more than they're willing to admit. Drawing on her own background in healthcare and her experience as a Master Gardener, Susann Camus brings authenticity to the story. Her experiences in Greenville and with the Pitt County Arboretum also helped shape the novel's setting. With compelling characters, realistic medical details, and suspense that keeps readers guessing, Bless Your Heart combines elements of the medical thriller, murder mystery, and Southern suspense novel while introducing readers to a smart and determined female protagonist.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features engaging conversations with authors, experts, innovators, business leaders, and thought leaders from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative, entertaining, and thought-provoking interviews covering books, business, health, personal development, history, entertainment, and the issues that matter.Whether you're a fan of medical thrillers, crime fiction, murder mysteries, suspense novels, strong female protagonists, pharmaceutical conspiracies, or Southern mysteries, Ric Bratton's conversation with Susann Camus offers an inside look at the inspiration behind Bless Your Heart and the creative process of building an unforgettable thriller.KEYWORDSSusann Camus, Bless Your Heart, Jeannie Johal, Jeannie Johal Thriller, medical thriller, murder mystery, crime fiction, suspense thriller, pharmaceutical conspiracy, healthcare thriller, mystery novel, Southern mystery, Greenville North Carolina, Pitt County Arboretum, master gardener, women sleuths, strong female characters, healthcare research, public health, poisonous plants, suspense novels, page turner, mystery podcast, author interview, thriller books, crime novels, book podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, medical suspense, investigative thriller
Is work-life balance really possible—or have we been chasing the wrong goal all along?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes executive coach, author, speaker and podcaster Denise R. Green, author of Work-Life Brilliance: Tools to Break Stress and Create the Life and Health You Crave.Instead of constantly struggling to perfectly “balance” work and life, Denise offers practical strategies designed to help people reduce overwhelm, lower stress and experience greater fulfillment in their careers, relationships, health and home life. Her approach focuses on changing the thoughts, habits and behaviors that can leave even highly successful people feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck. In Work-Life Brilliance, Denise explores how to reduce stress for the long term, shift negative thinking, create lasting habits, say no without unnecessary guilt, improve sleep and develop relationships that help us become our best selves. Denise brings extensive real-world experience to the conversation. Before founding Brilliance Inc., she spent more than 15 years in senior positions with companies including Oracle and Charles Schwab. As a transformational executive coach, she has worked with corporate leaders and organizations across multiple industries, helping people become more effective while creating greater confidence, fulfillment and peace in their lives. Her mission also grew out of a deeply personal experience. Following a serious car accident, Denise suffered a broken back and other significant injuries. Overcoming that experience helped inspire her work assisting others in moving beyond obstacles and creating meaningful change in their own lives. If you're feeling overworked, stressed, burned out or simply wondering whether there's a better way to succeed without sacrificing the rest of your life, Denise R. Green offers a different way of thinking about work-life balance—and how to replace it with work-life brilliance.About This Week in America: This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and fascinating people from across the country and around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, personal development, current issues, inspiration, and the stories shaping our lives. This Week in America is heard on radio stations across the United States and available on leading podcast platforms worldwide.Discover Denise R. Green and Work-Life Brilliance in this This Week in America interview about work-life balance, stress management, burnout, productivity, healthy habits, personal fulfillment and creating a life you truly enjoy.Podomatic KeywordsDenise R Green, Denise Green, Work-Life Brilliance, Work Life Brilliance, work life balance, work-life balance, stress management, reduce stress, burnout, overcoming burnout, work stress, workplace stress, executive coaching, executive coach, productivity, personal development, self improvement, healthy habits, work life integration, career success, leadership, overwhelmed at work, saying no without guilt, personal fulfillment, life balance, create a life you love, Brilliance Inc, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA, author interview, book interview
Is work-life balance really possible—or have we been chasing the wrong goal all along?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes executive coach, author, speaker and podcaster Denise R. Green, author of Work-Life Brilliance: Tools to Break Stress and Create the Life and Health You Crave.Instead of constantly struggling to perfectly “balance” work and life, Denise offers practical strategies designed to help people reduce overwhelm, lower stress and experience greater fulfillment in their careers, relationships, health and home life. Her approach focuses on changing the thoughts, habits and behaviors that can leave even highly successful people feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck. In Work-Life Brilliance, Denise explores how to reduce stress for the long term, shift negative thinking, create lasting habits, say no without unnecessary guilt, improve sleep and develop relationships that help us become our best selves. Denise brings extensive real-world experience to the conversation. Before founding Brilliance Inc., she spent more than 15 years in senior positions with companies including Oracle and Charles Schwab. As a transformational executive coach, she has worked with corporate leaders and organizations across multiple industries, helping people become more effective while creating greater confidence, fulfillment and peace in their lives. Her mission also grew out of a deeply personal experience. Following a serious car accident, Denise suffered a broken back and other significant injuries. Overcoming that experience helped inspire her work assisting others in moving beyond obstacles and creating meaningful change in their own lives. If you're feeling overworked, stressed, burned out or simply wondering whether there's a better way to succeed without sacrificing the rest of your life, Denise R. Green offers a different way of thinking about work-life balance—and how to replace it with work-life brilliance.About This Week in America: This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and fascinating people from across the country and around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, personal development, current issues, inspiration, and the stories shaping our lives. This Week in America is heard on radio stations across the United States and available on leading podcast platforms worldwide.Discover Denise R. Green and Work-Life Brilliance in this This Week in America interview about work-life balance, stress management, burnout, productivity, healthy habits, personal fulfillment and creating a life you truly enjoy.Podomatic KeywordsDenise R Green, Denise Green, Work-Life Brilliance, Work Life Brilliance, work life balance, work-life balance, stress management, reduce stress, burnout, overcoming burnout, work stress, workplace stress, executive coaching, executive coach, productivity, personal development, self improvement, healthy habits, work life integration, career success, leadership, overwhelmed at work, saying no without guilt, personal fulfillment, life balance, create a life you love, Brilliance Inc, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, TWIA, author interview, book interview
A.C. Adams joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Chasing Shadows, a spiritual and romantic journey exploring the search for true love, the importance of faith, and what it means to find a God-honoring soulmate.Drawing from personal experiences and deeply held beliefs, Adams examines the difference between genuine love and lust while challenging readers to consider how faith in Jesus Christ can influence relationships and some of life's most important decisions. Chasing Shadows explores the emotional and spiritual consequences of casual relationships while offering a different vision—one centered on commitment, core values, personal growth, and lasting love.During the conversation, A.C. Adams discusses the experiences that inspired the book, accepting the changes that inevitably come throughout life, and the lessons learned through his own journey. Adams also shares how his Mississippi roots, small-town values, National Guard service, and Christian faith have influenced his writing and outlook on life.One reader told Adams, “After reading your book, I saw my own life play out before my eyes.” It's a reflection of the personal connection Adams hopes readers will find within the story.A.C. Adams is also the author of works including The Footprints of an American Soldier, the Clay series, As the Journey Begins, and Looking Forward as the Journey Continues.About This Week in America: This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and fascinating people from across the country and around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, personal development, current issues, inspiration, and the stories shaping our lives. This Week in America is heard on radio stations across the United States and available on leading podcast platforms worldwide.Discover A.C. Adams and Chasing Shadows in this This Week in America interview exploring faith, Christian relationships, true love, soulmates, personal growth, and the search for a meaningful, lasting connection.Podomatic KeywordsA.C. Adams, AC Adams, Chasing Shadows, Chasing Shadows book, A.C. Adams author, Christian books, Christian fiction, Christian romance, faith and relationships, Christian relationships, true love, finding a soulmate, God honoring relationships, God honoring soulmate, love versus lust, faith in Jesus Christ, spiritual growth, personal growth, Christian faith, relationship advice, inspirational books, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interview, book interview, TWIA
A.C. Adams joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Chasing Shadows, a spiritual and romantic journey exploring the search for true love, the importance of faith, and what it means to find a God-honoring soulmate.Drawing from personal experiences and deeply held beliefs, Adams examines the difference between genuine love and lust while challenging readers to consider how faith in Jesus Christ can influence relationships and some of life's most important decisions. Chasing Shadows explores the emotional and spiritual consequences of casual relationships while offering a different vision—one centered on commitment, core values, personal growth, and lasting love.During the conversation, A.C. Adams discusses the experiences that inspired the book, accepting the changes that inevitably come throughout life, and the lessons learned through his own journey. Adams also shares how his Mississippi roots, small-town values, National Guard service, and Christian faith have influenced his writing and outlook on life.One reader told Adams, “After reading your book, I saw my own life play out before my eyes.” It's a reflection of the personal connection Adams hopes readers will find within the story.A.C. Adams is also the author of works including The Footprints of an American Soldier, the Clay series, As the Journey Begins, and Looking Forward as the Journey Continues.About This Week in America: This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and fascinating people from across the country and around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, personal development, current issues, inspiration, and the stories shaping our lives. This Week in America is heard on radio stations across the United States and available on leading podcast platforms worldwide.Discover A.C. Adams and Chasing Shadows in this This Week in America interview exploring faith, Christian relationships, true love, soulmates, personal growth, and the search for a meaningful, lasting connection.Podomatic KeywordsA.C. Adams, AC Adams, Chasing Shadows, Chasing Shadows book, A.C. Adams author, Christian books, Christian fiction, Christian romance, faith and relationships, Christian relationships, true love, finding a soulmate, God honoring relationships, God honoring soulmate, love versus lust, faith in Jesus Christ, spiritual growth, personal growth, Christian faith, relationship advice, inspirational books, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interview, book interview, TWIA
Is the papal chair truly occupied — or could it have been vacant for decades?It's a question that challenges some of the most fundamental assumptions about the modern Catholic Church.Our guest is author and theologian Griff Ruby, whose two-volume Sede Vacante! series takes an extensive look at Catholic doctrine, Church authority, Vatican II and the controversial theological position known as sedevacantism.Ruby examines sixteen areas of Catholic doctrine and asks whether what has happened within the Church since Vatican II can be reconciled with its traditional teachings.Raised without a religious upbringing, Ruby's own search for answers eventually led him to Christianity, Catholicism and ultimately Traditional Catholicism.So what does he believe happened to the Catholic Church? What role did Vatican II play? And what does Sede Vacante — literally, “vacant chair” — mean for Catholics today?We'll ask Griff Ruby. He joins us on This Week in America.This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and newsmakers from across the country and around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program brings listeners informative and thought-provoking interviews covering books, health, history, current issues, personal development and more.Listen to This Week in America and discover compelling authors, fascinating books and conversations that inform, inspire and make you think.In this conversation, Ric and Griff explore challenging questions surrounding Vatican II, Lumen Gentium, papal succession, Catholic doctrine, Traditional Catholicism and the identity and authority of the modern Catholic Church.Whether listeners agree with Ruby's conclusions or reject them, Sede Vacante! raises fundamental questions about faith, tradition, authority and what it means for the Catholic Church to remain the same Church throughout history.https://mrubipetrus.comYoutube tags (inserted in the tag field) Griff Ruby, Sede Vacante, Sede Vacante Griff Ruby, sedevacantism, sedevacantist, Catholic Church, Vatican II, Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium, Traditional Catholicism, Catholic theology, Catholic doctrine, Catholic ecclesiology, papal succession, papacy, Pope Francis, Catholic tradition, Catholic faith, Catholic history, modern Catholic Church, traditional Catholics, religious books, Christian theology, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interviewKeywords: Griff Ruby, Sede Vacante, Sede Vacante Griff Ruby, sedevacantism, sedevacantist, Catholic Church, Vatican II, Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium, Traditional Catholicism, traditional Catholics, Catholic theology, Catholic doctrine, Catholic ecclesiology, papal succession, papacy, Catholic tradition, Catholic faith, Catholic history, Church authority, modern Catholic Church, religious books, Christian theology, Christianity, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America
What does it mean to truly answer a calling—even when doing so could cost you everything?Authors Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor join Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Called…a True Story, an inspiring saga of faith, courage, sacrifice, adventure, and the extraordinary power of a life devoted to serving others.Set against the turbulent backdrop of World War II, Nazi uprisings, political unrest in Argentina and Paraguay, and the devastating impact of untreated leprosy, Called tells the remarkable true story of physician Dr. John Schmidt and nurse Clara Schmidt.John and Clara commit themselves to fighting poverty, disease, stigma, and social injustice in Paraguay. Their mission takes them into communities desperately in need of medical care and puts them in conflict with powerful forces determined to stop them.Their unconventional and groundbreaking medical practices are rejected by members of the medical establishment. Governments threaten them with imprisonment. Neighboring villagers threaten their lives. Yet John and Clara continue their mission, driven by faith, compassion, and a determination to bring dignity and hope to people society had forgotten.Spanning six decades, Called combines history, romance, medicine, faith, danger, and adventure while exploring the very human cost of choosing service over personal comfort and safety.Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor talk with Ric about bringing this remarkable true story to life, the real people who inspired the book, John and Clara's battle against the stigma surrounding leprosy, and the lessons their lives offer us today about courage, mercy, perseverance, and answering our own calling.At the heart of their extraordinary journey is Dr. John's favorite scripture: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”Some people have a story. John and Clara Schmidt had a mission.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across the country and around the world.For listeners interested in inspiring true stories, historical fiction based on real events, medical pioneers, Christian faith, humanitarian service, Paraguay, leprosy, social justice, courage, romance, and stories of people who dedicate their lives to helping others, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor about Called…a True Story.Keywords: Marlena Fiol, Ed O'Connor, Called a True Story, Called book, Dr. John Schmidt, Clara Schmidt, Paraguay, Paraguay history, medical pioneers, leprosy, leprosy treatment, Mennonite nurse, physician, World War II, Argentina, inspirational true story, historical fiction, historical novel, faith, Christian faith, humanitarian service, medical mission, social justice, courage, perseverance, inspirational books, true story books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast
What does it mean to truly answer a calling—even when doing so could cost you everything?Authors Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor join Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Called…a True Story, an inspiring saga of faith, courage, sacrifice, adventure, and the extraordinary power of a life devoted to serving others.Set against the turbulent backdrop of World War II, Nazi uprisings, political unrest in Argentina and Paraguay, and the devastating impact of untreated leprosy, Called tells the remarkable true story of physician Dr. John Schmidt and nurse Clara Schmidt.John and Clara commit themselves to fighting poverty, disease, stigma, and social injustice in Paraguay. Their mission takes them into communities desperately in need of medical care and puts them in conflict with powerful forces determined to stop them.Their unconventional and groundbreaking medical practices are rejected by members of the medical establishment. Governments threaten them with imprisonment. Neighboring villagers threaten their lives. Yet John and Clara continue their mission, driven by faith, compassion, and a determination to bring dignity and hope to people society had forgotten.Spanning six decades, Called combines history, romance, medicine, faith, danger, and adventure while exploring the very human cost of choosing service over personal comfort and safety.Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor talk with Ric about bringing this remarkable true story to life, the real people who inspired the book, John and Clara's battle against the stigma surrounding leprosy, and the lessons their lives offer us today about courage, mercy, perseverance, and answering our own calling.At the heart of their extraordinary journey is Dr. John's favorite scripture: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”Some people have a story. John and Clara Schmidt had a mission.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across the country and around the world.For listeners interested in inspiring true stories, historical fiction based on real events, medical pioneers, Christian faith, humanitarian service, Paraguay, leprosy, social justice, courage, romance, and stories of people who dedicate their lives to helping others, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Marlena Fiol and Ed O'Connor about Called…a True Story.Keywords: Marlena Fiol, Ed O'Connor, Called a True Story, Called book, Dr. John Schmidt, Clara Schmidt, Paraguay, Paraguay history, medical pioneers, leprosy, leprosy treatment, Mennonite nurse, physician, World War II, Argentina, inspirational true story, historical fiction, historical novel, faith, Christian faith, humanitarian service, medical mission, social justice, courage, perseverance, inspirational books, true story books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast
What if the truth you were searching for made you question everything you thought you knew?Author Carol Snow joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her gripping psychological thriller, The Girl on the Beach.Sonia and Graham Starr appear to have everything—wealth, success, a beautiful beach house, and their beloved four-year-old daughter, Roxie. But their seemingly perfect life is shattered when Roxie disappears into the Pacific Ocean.Months later, Roxie's former nanny, Colleen, returns to the Starrs' beach house carrying guilt, confusion, and unanswered questions. Then she sees something impossible: a child on the beach who looks remarkably like Roxie.Colleen never believed the little girl, who was afraid of the surf, would have entered the ocean on her own. Determined to discover what really happened, she begins searching for answers—only to find herself questioning what she sees, what she remembers, and whom she can trust.Carol Snow talks with Ric about creating a psychological thriller built around memory, perception, family secrets, guilt, trust, and deception, as well as the challenge of delivering twists without giving readers the answers too soon. The Girl on the Beach ultimately poses a haunting question: Who can we trust when we can't even trust ourselves?This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across the country and around the world.If you enjoy psychological thrillers, missing-person mysteries, domestic suspense, unreliable narrators, family secrets, and novels packed with unexpected twists, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Carol Snow about The Girl on the Beach.Keywords: Carol Snow, The Girl on the Beach, Carol Snow author, psychological thriller, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery books, missing child mystery, domestic thriller, domestic suspense, family secrets, unreliable narrator, suspense novels, beach read thriller, mystery thriller, crime fiction, Crooked Lane Books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast
What if the truth you were searching for made you question everything you thought you knew?Author Carol Snow joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her gripping psychological thriller, The Girl on the Beach.Sonia and Graham Starr appear to have everything—wealth, success, a beautiful beach house, and their beloved four-year-old daughter, Roxie. But their seemingly perfect life is shattered when Roxie disappears into the Pacific Ocean.Months later, Roxie's former nanny, Colleen, returns to the Starrs' beach house carrying guilt, confusion, and unanswered questions. Then she sees something impossible: a child on the beach who looks remarkably like Roxie.Colleen never believed the little girl, who was afraid of the surf, would have entered the ocean on her own. Determined to discover what really happened, she begins searching for answers—only to find herself questioning what she sees, what she remembers, and whom she can trust.Carol Snow talks with Ric about creating a psychological thriller built around memory, perception, family secrets, guilt, trust, and deception, as well as the challenge of delivering twists without giving readers the answers too soon. The Girl on the Beach ultimately poses a haunting question: Who can we trust when we can't even trust ourselves?This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from across the country and around the world.If you enjoy psychological thrillers, missing-person mysteries, domestic suspense, unreliable narrators, family secrets, and novels packed with unexpected twists, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Carol Snow about The Girl on the Beach.Keywords: Carol Snow, The Girl on the Beach, Carol Snow author, psychological thriller, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery books, missing child mystery, domestic thriller, domestic suspense, family secrets, unreliable narrator, suspense novels, beach read thriller, mystery thriller, crime fiction, Crooked Lane Books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast
Global Warming Solutions: Dr. David Comings on 4 Ways to Fight Climate ChangeWhat if reaching net zero isn't enough to stop global warming?On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, physician-scientist and geneticist Dr. David E. Comings discusses his book, The Science of Global Warming: And Four Ways to Fix It, an accessible, extensively researched look at the science behind climate change—and the solutions that could make a difference.Dr. Comings argues that reducing future carbon emissions is essential, but that the enormous amount of CO₂ already in the atmosphere means we must also explore ways to actively remove carbon and address other forces contributing to global warming.Featuring more than 100 full-color illustrations and hundreds of scientific references, the book examines rising atmospheric CO₂, climate feedback loops, ocean acidification, and the potential consequences for future generations.More importantly, Dr. Comings focuses on solutions. He explores four approaches to combating global warming, including increasing the Earth's albedo, addressing ocean acidification, enhanced rock weathering, and permanently storing carbon in basalt formations. He also explains how individuals, governments, corporations, philanthropists, and even fossil fuel companies could become part of the solution.Dr. David E. Comings is a physician, neuroscientist, behavioral and molecular geneticist who served as Director of the Department of Medical Genetics at City of Hope National Medical Center for 37 years. He has authored nearly 500 peer-reviewed scientific articles and five books and is a former editor of the American Journal of Human Genetics and former president of the American Society of Human Genetics.Can science give us realistic ways to reverse some of the damage already done?This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners conversations with authors, experts, thought leaders, and innovators.For listeners searching for information about global warming, climate change, carbon dioxide removal, climate science, net zero, carbon capture, ocean acidification, enhanced rock weathering, and practical climate solutions, this conversation with Dr. David E. Comings explores both the scientific evidence and four potential ways to confront one of the most significant environmental challenges facing future generations.www.amazon.comhttps://www.thecomingsfoundation.orghttps://www.ecpublishingllc.comKeywords: David E. Comings, David Comings, The Science of Global Warming, global warming, climate change, climate science, climate solutions, carbon dioxide, CO2 removal, carbon removal, carbon capture, net zero, enhanced rock weathering, ocean acidification, basalt carbon storage, fossil fuels, greenhouse gases, environmental science, climate policy, climate action, This Week in America, Ric Bratton
If you've ever wondered how to stay vibrant, joyful, and full of purpose as the years go by, today's program is for you. Our guest is Susan Smith Jones, PhD—one of the nation's leading holistic health and lifestyle experts. For three decades, Susan taught healthy living at UCLA and has inspired millions worldwide through her books, speaking engagements, media appearances, and wellness programs.Her latest books include A HUG IN A MUG, UPLIFTED, and her newest Gold-Medal Award-Winning inspirational novelette, JOY & THE BUTTERFLY—a heartwarming story touching readers of all ages, reminding us that it's never too late to discover joy, courage & transformation.Today, Susan will share simple yet powerful ways to harness the healing power of humor to feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Stay tuned as we explore the fascinating science behind laughter—and discover why a good sense of humor may be one of the healthiest tools we have! Susan's wisdom is practical, uplifting, and refreshingly hopeful. So, grab a cup of tea, a pen and paper, and get ready to be inspired. Susan, welcome to the program!https://susansmithjones.comX at SusanSmithJoneshttps://www.instagram.com/susansmithjonesphdhttp://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/ssj148.mp3
Michael Hingson was on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower on September 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. Blind from birth, Michael couldn't see the destruction unfolding around him—but at his feet was Roselle, his trusted guide dog.Michael Hingson joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his #1 New York Times bestselling book, THUNDER DOG: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero.As chaos engulfed the World Trade Center, Michael and Roselle began the long journey down 78 floors and toward safety. While terrified people, falling debris and uncertainty surrounded them, Roselle remained calm. Michael trusted her, Roselle trusted Michael, and together they demonstrated an extraordinary partnership in one of the darkest moments in American history.But Thunder Dog is more than a 9/11 survival story. Michael shares powerful lessons about trust, teamwork, faith, overcoming fear and refusing to allow blindness—or any perceived limitation—to determine what a person can accomplish.Ric and Michael discuss what happened inside the North Tower that morning, the remarkable bond between Michael and Roselle, how they relied on each other to survive, and how Michael's experiences have shaped his message in the years since September 11.The conversation also explores grief, loss and healing, the assumptions people make about blindness and disability, and why telling our stories can help create understanding and meaningful change.Praised by legendary broadcaster Larry King for celebrating "the power of the human and animal bond," Thunder Dog is an unforgettable story of courage, partnership and the extraordinary trust between a man and his guide dog.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners informative and inspiring conversations with authors, experts and thought leaders.For listeners interested in September 11 history, 9/11 survivor stories, guide dogs, blindness and disability awareness, faith, resilience, courage, overcoming adversity and the human-animal bond, don't miss Ric Bratton's compelling conversation with Thunder Dog author Michael Hingson.Keywords: Michael Hingson, Michael Hingson interview, Thunder Dog, Thunder Dog book, Thunder Dog Michael Hingson, Roselle guide dog, Michael Hingson Roselle, 9/11 survivor, September 11 survivor, World Trade Center survivor, World Trade Center North Tower, September 11 2001, 9/11 stories, Ground Zero, guide dog, guide dogs, service animals, blindness, blind author, disability awareness, human animal bond, faith and trust, courage, resilience, overcoming adversity, survival story, inspirational story, New York Times bestseller, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, inspirational podcast
Michael Hingson was on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower on September 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. Blind from birth, Michael couldn't see the destruction unfolding around him—but at his feet was Roselle, his trusted guide dog.Michael Hingson joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his #1 New York Times bestselling book, THUNDER DOG: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero.As chaos engulfed the World Trade Center, Michael and Roselle began the long journey down 78 floors and toward safety. While terrified people, falling debris and uncertainty surrounded them, Roselle remained calm. Michael trusted her, Roselle trusted Michael, and together they demonstrated an extraordinary partnership in one of the darkest moments in American history.But Thunder Dog is more than a 9/11 survival story. Michael shares powerful lessons about trust, teamwork, faith, overcoming fear and refusing to allow blindness—or any perceived limitation—to determine what a person can accomplish.Ric and Michael discuss what happened inside the North Tower that morning, the remarkable bond between Michael and Roselle, how they relied on each other to survive, and how Michael's experiences have shaped his message in the years since September 11.The conversation also explores grief, loss and healing, the assumptions people make about blindness and disability, and why telling our stories can help create understanding and meaningful change.Praised by legendary broadcaster Larry King for celebrating "the power of the human and animal bond," Thunder Dog is an unforgettable story of courage, partnership and the extraordinary trust between a man and his guide dog.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners informative and inspiring conversations with authors, experts and thought leaders.For listeners interested in September 11 history, 9/11 survivor stories, guide dogs, blindness and disability awareness, faith, resilience, courage, overcoming adversity and the human-animal bond, don't miss Ric Bratton's compelling conversation with Thunder Dog author Michael Hingson.Keywords: Michael Hingson, Michael Hingson interview, Thunder Dog, Thunder Dog book, Thunder Dog Michael Hingson, Roselle guide dog, Michael Hingson Roselle, 9/11 survivor, September 11 survivor, World Trade Center survivor, World Trade Center North Tower, September 11 2001, 9/11 stories, Ground Zero, guide dog, guide dogs, service animals, blindness, blind author, disability awareness, human animal bond, faith and trust, courage, resilience, overcoming adversity, survival story, inspirational story, New York Times bestseller, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, inspirational podcast
Susan Smith Jones, PhD, returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton to share practical, natural ways to nourish your body, increase vitality and make healthy living part of your everyday life.In her new 2026 edition of A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Fruits, Veggies, Juices, Teas, Soups, Spices & Healthy Living Extras, Susan draws on decades of experience and research to show how simple choices involving wholesome foods, beverages and healthy habits can make a meaningful difference in how you look and feel.Susan explores the benefits of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, herbal teas and culinary spices including turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, basil, oregano and cayenne. She also shares favorite recipes and easy ideas for making healthy foods more appealing and enjoyable.But A Hug in a Mug is about more than what's inside your cup. Susan uses the "mug" as a metaphor for the body itself—a remarkable vessel that deserves to be cared for every day. Good nutrition is only part of that care. Exercise, restorative sleep, time in nature, stress management, positive relationships, gratitude and faith all contribute to physical, mental and spiritual well-being.In this uplifting conversation, Ric and Susan discuss how small, realistic lifestyle choices can help you take better care of yourself without making healthy living complicated or overwhelming.Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a longtime healthy-living expert, author and educator who spent 30 years teaching at UCLA. She has written extensively about nutrition, fitness, natural remedies, wellness and creating a positive, balanced lifestyle.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners informative and inspiring conversations with authors, experts and thought leaders.If you're interested in healthy eating, natural wellness, herbal teas, juicing, nutritious recipes, healthy aging, weight management and simple ways to increase your energy and vitality, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones about A HUG IN A MUG.Keywords: Susan Smith Jones, A Hug in a Mug, Susan Smith Jones interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, healthy living, holistic health, natural wellness, nutrition, healthy eating, fruits and vegetables, herbal tea, herbal teas, juicing, fresh juice, healthy recipes, culinary spices, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, superfoods, natural remedies, weight management, healthy weight loss, healthy aging, youthful vitality, self care, wellness tips, stress management, healthy lifestyle, nutrition podcast, health podcast, author interview
Susan Smith Jones, PhD, returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton to share practical, natural ways to nourish your body, increase vitality and make healthy living part of your everyday life.In her new 2026 edition of A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Fruits, Veggies, Juices, Teas, Soups, Spices & Healthy Living Extras, Susan draws on decades of experience and research to show how simple choices involving wholesome foods, beverages and healthy habits can make a meaningful difference in how you look and feel.Susan explores the benefits of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, herbal teas and culinary spices including turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, basil, oregano and cayenne. She also shares favorite recipes and easy ideas for making healthy foods more appealing and enjoyable.But A Hug in a Mug is about more than what's inside your cup. Susan uses the "mug" as a metaphor for the body itself—a remarkable vessel that deserves to be cared for every day. Good nutrition is only part of that care. Exercise, restorative sleep, time in nature, stress management, positive relationships, gratitude and faith all contribute to physical, mental and spiritual well-being.In this uplifting conversation, Ric and Susan discuss how small, realistic lifestyle choices can help you take better care of yourself without making healthy living complicated or overwhelming.Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a longtime healthy-living expert, author and educator who spent 30 years teaching at UCLA. She has written extensively about nutrition, fitness, natural remedies, wellness and creating a positive, balanced lifestyle.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners informative and inspiring conversations with authors, experts and thought leaders.If you're interested in healthy eating, natural wellness, herbal teas, juicing, nutritious recipes, healthy aging, weight management and simple ways to increase your energy and vitality, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones about A HUG IN A MUG.Keywords: Susan Smith Jones, A Hug in a Mug, Susan Smith Jones interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, healthy living, holistic health, natural wellness, nutrition, healthy eating, fruits and vegetables, herbal tea, herbal teas, juicing, fresh juice, healthy recipes, culinary spices, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, superfoods, natural remedies, weight management, healthy weight loss, healthy aging, youthful vitality, self care, wellness tips, stress management, healthy lifestyle, nutrition podcast, health podcast, author interview
Finding True Love, Faith & Purpose | Author George C. Mills Author and military veteran George C. Mills joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America for a conversation about faith, love, life lessons, military service, and the experiences that inspired his growing collection of books.Raised in the small community of Mulberry, Mississippi, George learned early the importance of faith in God, family, and hard work. After high school, he joined his hometown National Guard and ultimately spent his military career working as a surface mechanic. Years later, after a divorce and while searching for a new direction in life, George returned to something he had enjoyed since childhood—writing.His books explore deeply personal subjects ranging from the search for true love and the role of faith in relationships to moral choices, personal growth, resilience, and military service. His works include As The Journey Begins, Looking Forward As The Journey Continues, The Footprints of an American Soldier, and stories in the Clay series.In this interview, George discusses how his Mississippi upbringing shaped his worldview, how his Christian faith influences his writing, what his experiences in the military taught him, and why he believes true love involves something much deeper than physical attraction. He also shares what he hopes readers—especially younger readers—can learn about accepting change, making choices, and moving forward through life's inevitable twists and turns.In this conversation: How faith and small-town values shaped George C. Mills His journey from military service to becoming an author Finding true love through faith and shared values The difference between love and lust Lessons from The Footprints of an American Soldier How life's struggles influence his characters Writing about morality without losing the human story What George hopes younger readers take from his books What's next for George C. Mills This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring compelling conversations with authors, experts, and fascinating guests sharing stories, ideas, and insights that inform, inspire, and entertain.For listeners interested in Christian authors, faith-based books, military stories, true love, Christian relationships, personal growth, resilience, veterans, inspirational books, and finding purpose through faith, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with author and veteran George C. Mills.KeywordsGeorge C. Mills, George Mills author, author George C. Mills, Christian author, Christian books, faith-based books, faith and love, true love, finding true love, Christian relationships, love and faith, love versus lust, military veteran, National Guard veteran, military books, military stories, American soldier, The Footprints of an American Soldier, As The Journey Begins, Looking Forward As The Journey Continues, Clay's Endless Dream, Clay's Battle Between True Love and Lust, inspirational author, inspirational books, personal growth, resilience, life lessons, finding purpose, Mississippi author, veteran author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, podcast interview
What separated Steve Jobs from every other entrepreneur—and can those same habits help you succeed?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Dr. Robert Toguchi, author of The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, for a fascinating conversation about the mindset, daily habits, and leadership principles that helped Steve Jobs become one of the most influential innovators in modern history.Rather than simply retelling the story of Apple's legendary co-founder, Dr. Toguchi explores the practical habits that fueled Jobs' extraordinary success. He explains how Jobs intentionally developed routines and behaviors that aligned with his core values, strengthened his decision-making, and supported his long-term vision of transforming the technology industry.The discussion also compares Jobs' winning habits with those of other world-renowned entrepreneurs including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, and Larry Ellison. Listeners will discover how these successful leaders approached innovation, leadership, discipline, creativity, and personal growth—and how those principles can be applied in business and everyday life.Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, manager, student, or simply someone looking to improve your productivity and leadership skills, this interview provides practical insights into developing habits that lead to lasting success.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.If you're interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, business strategy, personal development, and the success habits of some of the world's greatest business leaders, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. Robert Toguchi. The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs offers practical lessons that can help anyone build stronger habits, think more creatively, lead with purpose, and achieve long-term personal and professional success.KeywordsDr. Robert Toguchi, The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, Steve Jobs, Apple, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, leadership, innovation, business leadership, personal development, success habits, executive leadership, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison, productivity, business strategy, startup success, leadership book, technology entrepreneur, business podcast, entrepreneurship podcast, leadership podcast, innovation podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, career success, leadership development, business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, success principles, Apple co-founder
What separated Steve Jobs from every other entrepreneur—and can those same habits help you succeed?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Dr. Robert Toguchi, author of The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, for a fascinating conversation about the mindset, daily habits, and leadership principles that helped Steve Jobs become one of the most influential innovators in modern history.Rather than simply retelling the story of Apple's legendary co-founder, Dr. Toguchi explores the practical habits that fueled Jobs' extraordinary success. He explains how Jobs intentionally developed routines and behaviors that aligned with his core values, strengthened his decision-making, and supported his long-term vision of transforming the technology industry.The discussion also compares Jobs' winning habits with those of other world-renowned entrepreneurs including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, and Larry Ellison. Listeners will discover how these successful leaders approached innovation, leadership, discipline, creativity, and personal growth—and how those principles can be applied in business and everyday life.Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, manager, student, or simply someone looking to improve your productivity and leadership skills, this interview provides practical insights into developing habits that lead to lasting success.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.If you're interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, business strategy, personal development, and the success habits of some of the world's greatest business leaders, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. Robert Toguchi. The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs offers practical lessons that can help anyone build stronger habits, think more creatively, lead with purpose, and achieve long-term personal and professional success.KeywordsDr. Robert Toguchi, The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, Steve Jobs, Apple, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, leadership, innovation, business leadership, personal development, success habits, executive leadership, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison, productivity, business strategy, startup success, leadership book, technology entrepreneur, business podcast, entrepreneurship podcast, leadership podcast, innovation podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, career success, leadership development, business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, success principles, Apple co-founder
Getting promoted into management is exciting—but what happens when no one teaches you how to lead?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Noel Massie, former Vice President of Operations for UPS and author of Congrats! You've Been Promoted! Noel shares practical leadership strategies developed over a remarkable six-decade career, helping new managers confidently transition from individual contributor to respected leader.In this insightful conversation, Noel explains why technical ability alone doesn't create successful managers. He discusses the importance of building trust, delivering meaningful feedback, understanding the needs of your team, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Drawing from decades of real-world leadership experience, he introduces proven frameworks like the B.E.S.T. Principle for productive employee conversations and the 4x5 Method for evaluating challenges from multiple perspectives.Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role, managing a growing team, or looking to sharpen your management skills, Noel offers practical advice that can immediately improve communication, decision-making, and workplace performance.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.If you're looking for practical leadership advice, management training, career development strategies, and proven techniques for becoming a more effective leader, don't miss this engaging conversation with Noel Massie. Congrats! You've Been Promoted! offers timeless leadership lessons that help new and experienced managers build stronger teams, earn trust, communicate effectively, and achieve long-term success.KeywordsNoel Massie, Congrats You've Been Promoted, leadership, leadership development, management, new manager, first-time manager, business leadership, employee engagement, team building, leadership skills, career advancement, workplace communication, executive leadership, servant leadership, management training, coaching employees, professional development, leadership book, UPS executive, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, business podcast, management podcast, leadership podcast, business success, workplace culture, employee feedback, career growth, organizational leadership, motivating employees, business interviews, leadership strategies, podcast interview
Getting promoted into management is exciting—but what happens when no one teaches you how to lead?On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Noel Massie, former Vice President of Operations for UPS and author of Congrats! You've Been Promoted! Noel shares practical leadership strategies developed over a remarkable six-decade career, helping new managers confidently transition from individual contributor to respected leader.In this insightful conversation, Noel explains why technical ability alone doesn't create successful managers. He discusses the importance of building trust, delivering meaningful feedback, understanding the needs of your team, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Drawing from decades of real-world leadership experience, he introduces proven frameworks like the B.E.S.T. Principle for productive employee conversations and the 4x5 Method for evaluating challenges from multiple perspectives.Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role, managing a growing team, or looking to sharpen your management skills, Noel offers practical advice that can immediately improve communication, decision-making, and workplace performance.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.If you're looking for practical leadership advice, management training, career development strategies, and proven techniques for becoming a more effective leader, don't miss this engaging conversation with Noel Massie. Congrats! You've Been Promoted! offers timeless leadership lessons that help new and experienced managers build stronger teams, earn trust, communicate effectively, and achieve long-term success.KeywordsNoel Massie, Congrats You've Been Promoted, leadership, leadership development, management, new manager, first-time manager, business leadership, employee engagement, team building, leadership skills, career advancement, workplace communication, executive leadership, servant leadership, management training, coaching employees, professional development, leadership book, UPS executive, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, business podcast, management podcast, leadership podcast, business success, workplace culture, employee feedback, career growth, organizational leadership, motivating employees, business interviews, leadership strategies, podcast interview
What happens when your life changes overnight with a diagnosis that seems impossible to overcome?On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Janet McDowell shares the remarkable true story behind her memoir, Chasing a Light in the Darkness: A Story of Resilience in the Face of Unrelenting Medical Challenges.Shortly after her 61st birthday, Janet was diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia—a disease often treatable in children but far more difficult for older adults. What followed was a years-long battle that included two near-death experiences, a stem cell transplant, serious rejection complications, and countless setbacks.Yet through every obstacle, Janet refused to surrender hope.In this deeply personal conversation, Janet discusses: Receiving a life-changing leukemia diagnosis Enduring life-threatening medical complications The emotional challenges of asking for help The vital role her sister Susan played as caregiver Finding hope during overwhelming uncertainty Lessons about resilience, courage, gratitude, and perseverance Whether you've faced illness yourself, cared for a loved one, or simply need encouragement during difficult times, Janet's story is a powerful reminder that hope can shine even in life's darkest moments.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Each week, Ric brings listeners compelling conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, medical experts, business innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose stories educate, inspire, and entertain.If you're searching for inspiration through cancer recovery, leukemia survivor stories, medical memoirs, stem cell transplant experiences, caregiver support, resilience, hope, and overcoming life's greatest challenges, don't miss this moving conversation with Janet McDowell.https://www.jlmcdowell.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Light-Darkness-resilience-unrelenting/dp/B0GFCX6X3Vhttps://mainspringbooks.comKeywordsJanet McDowell, Chasing a Light in the Darkness, leukemia survivor, lymphocytic leukemia, cancer survivor, cancer recovery, stem cell transplant, graft versus host disease, medical memoir, inspirational memoir, resilience, hope, perseverance, caregiver support, family caregiving, overcoming adversity, chronic illness, healing journey, cancer treatment, patient story, health podcast, inspirational author, memoir interview, medical challenges, surviving cancer, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, podcast interview, overcoming illness, hope after cancer
How do we move forward after profound loss? And what if the greatest healing begins by listening to the wisdom already within us?Author Ellen Fitzke joins Ric Bratton to discuss her deeply personal and inspiring book, Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss. Through heartfelt stories and thoughtful reflections, Ellen invites readers on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening.Together, they explore questions many people ask during life's most difficult moments: Are we ever truly alone? Does the soul live on? Can unconditional love exist beyond loss? Ellen shares how embracing life's challenges, releasing guilt, and learning to trust the soul's journey can lead to greater peace, purpose, and a renewed appreciation for the present moment.This conversation offers comfort and encouragement for anyone navigating grief, searching for spiritual meaning, or seeking hope after experiencing loss. Ellen's message reminds us that every experience—even our most difficult ones—can become an opportunity for growth, healing, and deeper understanding.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.If you're interested in grief recovery, life after loss, spirituality, soul growth, healing, unconditional love, mindfulness, and finding hope through life's greatest challenges, you won't want to miss this thoughtful conversation with Ellen Fitzke, author of Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss.Keywords: Ellen Fitzke, Conversations with My Soul, grief recovery, healing after loss, life after loss, spirituality, soul journey, soul growth, unconditional love, life after death, coping with grief, emotional healing, mindfulness, self-discovery, finding hope, spiritual awakening, personal growth, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, spiritual podcast, grief support, healing journey
How do we move forward after profound loss? And what if the greatest healing begins by listening to the wisdom already within us?Author Ellen Fitzke joins Ric Bratton to discuss her deeply personal and inspiring book, Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss. Through heartfelt stories and thoughtful reflections, Ellen invites readers on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening.Together, they explore questions many people ask during life's most difficult moments: Are we ever truly alone? Does the soul live on? Can unconditional love exist beyond loss? Ellen shares how embracing life's challenges, releasing guilt, and learning to trust the soul's journey can lead to greater peace, purpose, and a renewed appreciation for the present moment.This conversation offers comfort and encouragement for anyone navigating grief, searching for spiritual meaning, or seeking hope after experiencing loss. Ellen's message reminds us that every experience—even our most difficult ones—can become an opportunity for growth, healing, and deeper understanding.This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.If you're interested in grief recovery, life after loss, spirituality, soul growth, healing, unconditional love, mindfulness, and finding hope through life's greatest challenges, you won't want to miss this thoughtful conversation with Ellen Fitzke, author of Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss.Keywords: Ellen Fitzke, Conversations with My Soul, grief recovery, healing after loss, life after loss, spirituality, soul journey, soul growth, unconditional love, life after death, coping with grief, emotional healing, mindfulness, self-discovery, finding hope, spiritual awakening, personal growth, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, spiritual podcast, grief support, healing journey
What if the challenges standing in your way could become the very tools that help you transform your life?Paul Boerger joins Ric Bratton to discuss his book, The Alchemist's Way, and the leadership principles that can help people turn adversity into opportunity, uncertainty into purpose, and personal struggles into meaningful growth.Drawing from nearly 40 years of experience as a technology executive, leadership mentor, and author, Paul shares six foundational principles for lasting success: Goal Setting, Belief, Character, Vitality, Consistency, and Servant Leadership. He explains how these principles can help individuals strengthen their confidence, build resilience, lead with integrity, and remain focused on what truly matters.The conversation explores the importance of believing in yourself, developing strong personal character, maintaining the energy needed to pursue your goals, and serving others through authentic leadership. Whether you are leading a company, a team, a family, or simply trying to create positive change in your own life, Paul offers practical guidance for moving forward with clarity and purpose.Paul Boerger is an author, technology executive, and leadership mentor with nearly four decades of leadership experience. Through The Alchemist's Way, he encourages readers to recognize their potential, embrace transformation, and turn life's obstacles into opportunities for growth.Keywords: Paul Boerger, The Alchemist's Way, leadership development, personal transformation, servant leadership, goal setting, resilience, finding purpose, belief and confidence, character development, leadership principles, overcoming challenges, personal growth, executive leadership, business leadership, consistency, motivation, success mindset, life purpose, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interview, inspirational podcast, leadership podcast This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.Discover how goal setting, belief, resilience, character, consistency, personal transformation, and servant leadership can help you create a more purposeful life. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Paul Boerger, author of The Alchemist's Way.
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