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.
THE DIVIDED CHRIST by Lenvel E. HaleIn your hands lie the answers to the most perplexing questions of modern Christianity. We have all experienced frustration and confusion while trying to understand the teachings of the church. From the true purpose of Jesus Christ's arrival nearly 2,000 years ago to the divergent teachings of Sabbath keepers and Sunday keepers, the divisions between the many Christian denominations can be baffling.Hale's thoughtful analysis, The Divided Christ, serves as the bridge that spans the abyss between those divisions to more effectively serve the word of Christ. Motivated by the desire to unify the disparate teachings of the various churches, Hale seeks to recall the original meaning of the scriptures and reveal the truth within them.Reading like a personal journal, The Divided Christ follows the spiritual development of the author as he explores various Christian denominations from the inside and shares his knowledge with you. His conversational tone and presentation of biblical facts, however, enable each reader to draw his or her own conclusions based on the evidence presented.In its efforts to transcend the teachings of people to attain the true meaning of Christ's words, The Divided Christ may serve as an inspiration to begin one's own journey of discovery and as a reference to be used throughout one's life.Lenvel E. Hale is an Arkansas native whose lifelong pursuit of biblical truth inspired his debut book, The Divided Christ. Driven by a desire to reconcile the divisions among Christian denominations, Hale combines his personal experiences with a deep avocational interest in early church manuscripts and anthropological data.An active community leader, Hale sponsors the Faithful Youth Challengers, leads adult Bible studies, and edits a monthly scriptural publication. He is also a member of the NRA and the American Family Association.Hale works as a maintenance supervisor for Whirlpool Corporation and lives in Fort Smith, 1 Arkansas, with his wife, Dolores, with whom he shares four children. He is currently finalizing a collection of poetry.https://www.amazon.com/Divided-Christ-Lenvel-Hale/dp/080593765X#detailBullets_feature_divhttps://www.primixpublishing.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/61826lhah.mp3
The 'Willie' stories were written for my grandchildren, but they were also enjoyed by the students I worked with, so I decided to share the stories with all children. Willie and Bo were pets owned by Margaret, and for the most part the "Willie" stories depict their true behavior.Welcome! I'm a children's book author who has spent a lifetime surrounded by kids, adventure, and learning. My journey began in New Mexico, where I originally set out to become a nurse. I loved helping people—but before long, I realized my true calling was working with children.To stay close to my own kids, I opened an in-home daycare. Over time, my work grew into supporting developmentally disabled children—first through specialized programs and later in schools. Each role strengthened my commitment to helping children grow, learn, and thrive.Alongside that work, I served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT. The training was intense and the calls were demanding, but the experience shaped me with resilience and compassion. Even after our volunteer fire department closed, neighbors still reach out in emergencies—skills I'm grateful to have, even if I'm no longer officially an EMT.These days, I homeschool four of my seven grandchildren in a schoolhouse I built on my property. Our classroom is lively, curious, and often filled with extra energy when friends and cousins join us during breaks. I encourage the kids to explore music, sports, and new experiences—from violin and saxophone lessons to Taekwondo—because confidence grows when children discover what they love.Adventure is a big part of our lives, too. Together, we've gone hot air ballooning, ziplining, skydiving, and even white-water rafting through the Grand Canyon. Moments like these remind me that learning doesn't just happen at a desk—it happens everywhere, especially when it's joyful and shared.My books are inspired by the children I've known and the adventures we've lived. I hope they spark imagination, courage, and curiosity in every young reader.https://www.amazon.com/Willie-Bo-Party-Margaret-Cardenas/dp/1968069429/ref=monarch_sidesheet_titlehttps://olympusstoryhouse.com/https://margaretcardenas.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/61826mcosh.mp3
Why are athletes like Tom Brady, Serena Williams, LeBron James, and Carli Lloyd continuing to perform at elite levels long after previous generations would have retired?In this fascinating episode of This Week in America, author and journalist Jeff Bercovici explores the cutting-edge science, technology, training methods, and mindset strategies that are redefining what it means to reach—and maintain—peak performance. Drawing from extensive time spent with professional and Olympic athletes, coaches, physicians, and innovators, Bercovici reveals how advances in nutrition, recovery, injury prevention, brain science, and sports medicine are helping athletes extend their careers and perform at extraordinary levels.From cryotherapy and high-intensity interval training to the latest anti-aging technologies, discover what really works, what doesn't, and how everyday people can apply these lessons to improve their own health, fitness, and longevity. Whether you're a sports fan, fitness enthusiast, or simply interested in aging well, this conversation offers valuable insights into maximizing your potential at any age.
Why are athletes like Tom Brady, Serena Williams, LeBron James, and Carli Lloyd continuing to perform at elite levels long after previous generations would have retired?In this fascinating episode of This Week in America, author and journalist Jeff Bercovici explores the cutting-edge science, technology, training methods, and mindset strategies that are redefining what it means to reach—and maintain—peak performance. Drawing from extensive time spent with professional and Olympic athletes, coaches, physicians, and innovators, Bercovici reveals how advances in nutrition, recovery, injury prevention, brain science, and sports medicine are helping athletes extend their careers and perform at extraordinary levels.From cryotherapy and high-intensity interval training to the latest anti-aging technologies, discover what really works, what doesn't, and how everyday people can apply these lessons to improve their own health, fitness, and longevity. Whether you're a sports fan, fitness enthusiast, or simply interested in aging well, this conversation offers valuable insights into maximizing your potential at any age.
Entertainment is no longer something you simply watch—it's something you experience.In this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton sits down with futurist and author Michael Mascioni to explore the explosive growth of immersive entertainment and how it's transforming the way we interact with the world around us. Drawing from his book Expanding the Immersive Landscape in Leisure Facilities, Mascioni reveals how technologies like virtual reality (VR), mixed reality, AI, and projection mapping are reshaping everything from theme parks and museums to cruise ships and entertainment districts. From immersive art installations and escape rooms to interactive theater and next-generation attractions, the boundaries between physical and digital experiences are rapidly disappearing. This conversation dives into the rise of social, interactive entertainment—and why audiences are craving deeper, more engaging experiences than ever before.You'll discover: How VR, AR, and AI are redefining entertainment The rise of immersive attractions like Meow Wolf and AREA15 Why passive entertainment is giving way to interactive experiences The future of leisure, storytelling, and shared social experiences If you're curious about where entertainment is headed next—or how technology is shaping the future of fun—this episode offers a fascinating look at what's coming.
Entertainment is no longer something you simply watch—it's something you experience.In this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton sits down with futurist and author Michael Mascioni to explore the explosive growth of immersive entertainment and how it's transforming the way we interact with the world around us. Drawing from his book Expanding the Immersive Landscape in Leisure Facilities, Mascioni reveals how technologies like virtual reality (VR), mixed reality, AI, and projection mapping are reshaping everything from theme parks and museums to cruise ships and entertainment districts. From immersive art installations and escape rooms to interactive theater and next-generation attractions, the boundaries between physical and digital experiences are rapidly disappearing. This conversation dives into the rise of social, interactive entertainment—and why audiences are craving deeper, more engaging experiences than ever before.You'll discover: How VR, AR, and AI are redefining entertainment The rise of immersive attractions like Meow Wolf and AREA15 Why passive entertainment is giving way to interactive experiences The future of leisure, storytelling, and shared social experiences If you're curious about where entertainment is headed next—or how technology is shaping the future of fun—this episode offers a fascinating look at what's coming.
The Miraculous Human Body: How to Nurture & Protect Your Greatest GiftWorking W.O.N.D.E.R.S. on Your Wellness in 7 Simple Steps with Susan Smith Jones, PhDSusan is using an acronym for W.O.N.D.E.R.S. to discuss the 7 pillars for healing, creating vibrant health and living a more positive, balanced lifestyle at any age.Leading holistic health and lifestyle educator and author, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, will talk to us today about some of her surefire tips to heal the body and create vibrant health at any age. For over 40 years, Susan has been teaching people worldwide about healthy living for overall well-being and longevity. As our guest will tell us today, it encompasses various aspects such as diet, exercise, mental health, and lifestyle choices that collectively contribute to a better quality of life. And as she details in A HUG IN A MUG, the body, mind and spirit are interconnected and whole-body healing and vitality start with respecting the body as a true WONDER of nature. In this book, she writes: “Wellness starts with simple habits. Consistency keeps them working for you.” Today Susan will cover her 7 pillars of vibrant health at any age. Get out your pen and paper because you'll want to take notes. Welcome Susan!ABOUT SUSAN For a woman with three of America's most ordinary names, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, has certainly made extraordinary contributions in the fields of holistic health, anti-aging & longevity, optimum nutrition and balanced living. For starters, she taught students, staff and faculty at UCLA how to be healthy and fit for 30 years! Susan travels internationally as a frequent media talk show guest; she is also the author of many books, including her latest 4 books… 1) A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Superfoods & Healthy Living Extras, 2) UPLIFTED: 12 Minutes to More Joy, Faith, Kindness, Peace & Vitality and her two award-winning children's books 3) JOY & THE BUTTERFLY and 4) VEGETABLE SOUP/THE FRUIT BOWL (a 2-in-1 nutrition book for ages 2 - 10). Refer to her website for more info about Susan, her books and her empowering work.SusanSmithJones.com
Turtletoes: Following the Steps of An Angel by Michael Steven PurlesLife seems to always provide the experiences and people we each need for our development and maturity, even happiness. Turtletoes is about one of those people, a daughter born with birth defects, whose influence helped raise the author, her father, to become a better man than he could have on his own.The book is about Tracy Purles, who was born with congenital heart disease and intellectual disability. Tracy endured being different. Physical, and mental challenges became a life-light for her family and friends. Her faith in God, determination to "be like everyone else," resilience, and enjoyment of life's little pleasures blessed the lives of her family and many others throughout her 20 years of life.This is not a book about tragedy, but about the value and beauty of life, no matter at what level it must be lived. It is a story about how one little girl meets the challenge of staying alive with such faith, hope, and grace that her influence invites Heaven's blessings for all. Her father writes that her passing from this life and going "Home" was one of the most spiritual experiences of his life. If you want an uplifting, "real world" experience that will touch your soul and invite you to thank God for your own life, read Turtletoes, Following the Steps of An Angel.Michael Steven Purles is an author, who has served as a business skills trainer and author, as well as a business manager throughout much of his adult life. His writing opportunities have followed two parallel but different pathways, one for business and the other for personal life experiences. You will recognize in his writing a specific focus on finding strength for and helping to lift burdens that are a part of each person's life. A special focus is on our personal relationship with Jesus Christ and becoming one of His true disciples.Michael and Jerry (his wife of 50+ years) have four children. Tracy, the oldest was born with congenital heart disease and lived to be 20. They have three sons, the second of which (according to birth order) also had congenital heart disease, but was able to be rescued by medical science. His wife suffered a stroke three years ago and he graduated from being a husband only to a husband and caregiver.You will find Michael's life experience filled with the joy of life and in relationships that go beyond mortality in his written works. You are invited to explore them.AMAZONhttps://michaelpurles.com/https://foxpressmedia.comhttp://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/61126mspfp.mp3
IMMORTALITY: WHAT IT WAS ALL FOR by Randy Lee Higgins PH.D.Would you like to live forever? What a silly question. And yet it is the fear of death that drives most people not only to despair, but to do all the crazy things that people are famous for. Remove the fear of death, and you would have something akin to PEACE. JOY. LOVE. Even, perhaps, BLISS.When you reach the state of IMMORTALITY: YOU HAVE BECOME YOU. You have found yourself. And in doing so, you have found the ONE you were always looking for, and you will never be lonely or feel unloved, another day in your life.It all comes together. BUT WHAT HAS COME TOGETHER IS: LIFE AND DEATH. Life and death are now: THE SAME. The same PHENOMENON. The same EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCE. The same SENSATIONS. The same: SOURCE OF PLEASURE AND WONDER AND WISDOM.Randy was born in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. He graduated summa cum laude from Virginia Tech, earned a master's in family therapy, and completed his doctorate at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology in California. His education also came from life's challenges. He has a unique ability to find miracles in everything, even in tragedy. Now, back in his childhood home, he looks forward to growing old - or perhaps not.https://www.amazon.com/Immortality-What-Randy-Lee-Higgins/dp/B0G6G94D4Mhttps://www.randyleehigginsphd.com/https://www.readersmagnet.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/61126rlhrm.mp3
What happens when the business playbook that built great companies suddenly stops working?In this fascinating conversation, bestselling author and business strategist Ralph Welborn discusses the ideas behind Topple: The End of the Firm-Based Strategy and the Rise of New Models for Explosive Growth. Welborn explains why many organizations struggle to adapt in today's rapidly changing economy and how emerging business models are reshaping entire industries. Drawing on decades of experience advising leading technology companies, he reveals what separates market leaders from those destined to be disrupted.Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, business owner, or simply interested in the future of innovation, this episode offers valuable insights into growth, competition, leadership, and the strategies needed to thrive in an era of constant change.
What happens when the business playbook that built great companies suddenly stops working?In this fascinating conversation, bestselling author and business strategist Ralph Welborn discusses the ideas behind Topple: The End of the Firm-Based Strategy and the Rise of New Models for Explosive Growth. Welborn explains why many organizations struggle to adapt in today's rapidly changing economy and how emerging business models are reshaping entire industries. Drawing on decades of experience advising leading technology companies, he reveals what separates market leaders from those destined to be disrupted.Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, business owner, or simply interested in the future of innovation, this episode offers valuable insights into growth, competition, leadership, and the strategies needed to thrive in an era of constant change.
What does it really take to become a high performer?In this episode of This Week in America, host Ric Bratton sits down with Dr. R. K. Maddox, author of Masterclass: How to Become a High Performer, to explore the mindset and principles that separate those who succeed from those who stay stuck.Dr. Maddox believes high performance isn't reserved for a select few—it's something anyone can achieve by changing how they think, act, and build momentum in their life.In this powerful conversation, you'll discover: Why mindset is the starting point for high performance How to build momentum that drives long-term success The role of discipline in achieving your goals How your beliefs about money and relationships impact your growth Practical strategies to move from stagnation to progress If you're ready to unlock your potential and take your life to the next level, this episode will challenge, motivate, and inspire you to take action.
What does it really take to become a high performer?In this episode of This Week in America, host Ric Bratton sits down with Dr. R. K. Maddox, author of Masterclass: How to Become a High Performer, to explore the mindset and principles that separate those who succeed from those who stay stuck.Dr. Maddox believes high performance isn't reserved for a select few—it's something anyone can achieve by changing how they think, act, and build momentum in their life.In this powerful conversation, you'll discover: Why mindset is the starting point for high performance How to build momentum that drives long-term success The role of discipline in achieving your goals How your beliefs about money and relationships impact your growth Practical strategies to move from stagnation to progress If you're ready to unlock your potential and take your life to the next level, this episode will challenge, motivate, and inspire you to take action.
THE LAST TRIAL by Scott TurowTwo formidable men collide in this "first-class legal thriller" from New York Times bestselling author Scott Turow: a "brilliant courtroom chess match" about a celebrated criminal defense lawyer and the prosecution of his lifelong friend -- a doctor accused of murder (David Baldacci).At eighty-five years old, Alejandro "Sandy" Stern, a brilliant defense lawyer with his health failing but spirit intact, is on the brink of retirement. But when his old friend Dr. Kiril Pafko, a former Nobel Prize winner in Medicine, is faced with charges of insider trading, fraud, and murder, his entire life's work is put in jeopardy, and Stern decides to take on one last trial.In a case that will be the defining coda to both men's accomplished lives, Stern probes beneath the surface of his friend's dazzling veneer as a distinguished cancer researcher. As the trial progresses, he will question everything he thought he knew about his friend. Despite Pafko's many failings, is he innocent of the terrible charges laid against him? How far will Stern go to save his friend, and -- no matter the trial's outcome -- will he ever know the truth?Stern's duty to defend his client and his belief in the power of the judicial system both face a final, terrible test in the courtroom, where the evidence and reality are sometimes worlds apart.Full of the deep insights into the spaces where the fragility of human nature and the justice system collide, Scott Turow's The Last Trial is a masterful legal thriller that unfolds in page-turning suspense -- and questions how we measure a life.Scott Turow is the author of many bestselling works of fiction, including Testimony, Identical, Innocent, Presumed Innocent, and The Burden of Proof, and two nonfiction books, including One L, about his experience as a law student. His books have been translated into more than forty languages, sold more than thirty million copies worldwide, and have been adapted into movies and television projects. He has frequently contributed essays and op-ed pieces to publications such as the New York Times, Washington Post, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, and The Atlantic.www.ScottTurow.comhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1538748134?tag=hacboogrosit-20http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/sturow.mp3
Magic: The Life of Earvin “Magic” Johnson by Roland LazenbyThe definitive biography of the basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, from the highly respected, career sportswriter and author of Michael Jordan: The Life.Magic Johnson is one of the most beloved, and at times controversial, athletes in history. His iconic smile lifted the dowdy sport of American professional basketball from a second-tier sport with low ratings into the global spotlight―a transformation driven by Magic's ability to eviscerate opponents with a playing style that featured his grand sense of fun. He was a master entertainer who directed the Los Angeles “Showtime” Lakers to the heights of both glory and epic excess, all of it driven by his mind-blowing no-look passes and personal charm.Then, in 1991, at the height of his charismatic power, Johnson shocked the world with a startling cautionary tale about sexually transmitted disease that pushed public awareness of the HIV/AIDS crisis. Then out came his confession of unprotected sex with hundreds of women each year, followed by his retirement, an attempted return, and a proper farewell on the iconic 1992 Olympic Dream Team.Longtime biographer Roland Lazenby spent years tracking the unlikely ascension of Johnson―an immensely popular public figure who was instantly scandalized but who then turned to his legendary will to rise again as a successful entrepreneur with another level of hard-won success. In Lazenby's portrayal, Johnson's tale becomes bigger than that of one man. It is a generational saga spanning parts of three centuries that reveals a great deal, not just about his unique basketball journey but about America itself.Through hundreds of interviews with Johnson's coaches, representatives past and present, teammates, opponents, friends, and loved ones, as well as key conversations with Johnson himself over the years, Lazenby has produced the first truly definitive study, both dark and light, of Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jr.―the revolutionary player, the icon, the man.https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Life-Earvin-Johnson/dp/1250248035http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/rlmagic2023.mp3
The House of Wolves: Murder Runs in the Family by James Patterson and Mike LupicaJames Patterson and Mike Lupica are the thriller dream team! Jenny Wolf's murdered father leaves her in charge of a billion-dollar empire—and a family more ruthless than Succession's Roys and Yellowstone's Duttons. The Wolfs, the most powerful family in California, have a new head–thirty-six-year-old former high school teacher Jenny Wolf. That means Jenny now runs the prestigious San Francisco Tribune.She also controls the legendary pro football team, the Wolves.And she has a murdered father to avenge—if she can survive the killers all around her.An unforgettable family drama by two writers at the top of their craft.James Patterson is the world's bestselling author. The creator of Alex Cross, he has produced more enduring fictional heroes than any other novelist alive. He lives in Florida with his family. Mike Lupica is a veteran sports columnist—spending most of his career with the New York Daily News—who is now a member of the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame. For three decades, he was a panelist on ESPN's The Sports Reporters. As a novelist, he has written seventeen New York Times bestsellers, the most recent of which was The Horsewoman, his first collaboration with James Patterson.https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316404292?tag=hacboogrosit-20https://www.jamespatterson.com/titles/james-patterson/the-house-of-wolves/9780316404297/http://www.mikelupicabooks.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/11123wolves.mp3
The Alchemist's Way by Paul BoergerLeadership doesn't begin with authority—it begins with transformation.Leadership, especially in its raw and unpolished form, can feel like standing in the eye of a storm. Tight deadlines, competing priorities, self-doubt, and complex human dynamics often leave even capable leaders feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their next move.Veteran technology leader Paul Boerger presents a practical, experience-driven framework for turning chaos into clarity, pressure into purpose, and adversity into growth. Drawing from ancient alchemical principles and decades of real-world leadership experience, this book offers a clear path for personal transformation and effective leadership at every stage.You'll discover six core tenets that help you set compelling goals, build belief, develop strong character, create sustainable habits, lead with vitality, and serve others with intention. Along the way, Boerger blends personal stories, actionable insights, and mindset shifts that move leadership from theory into daily practice.This book is not about quick fixes or surface-level motivation. It is about leading yourself first—developing resilience, confidence, and purpose—so you can lead others with clarity and heart.If you are ready to transform challenges into opportunity and step into purposeful, grounded leadership, The Alchemist's Way will guide your journey.Paul Boerger, is a leadership author, technology executive, and lifelong student of personal transformation. With more than three decades of experience leading teams through innovation, disruption, and high-pressure environments, Paul brings a grounded, real-world perspective to leadership and personal growth.As a senior leader in the technology sector, Paul has spent his career navigating complex challenges—tight deadlines, evolving markets, and the human dynamics that define successful organizations. These experiences shaped his belief that effective leadership begins from within. Skills, strategies, and systems matter, but mindset, character, and purpose ultimately determine impact.In The Alchemist's Way, Paul blends ancient alchemical principles with modern leadership practices to offer a practical framework for transformation. His work focuses on helping individuals build resilience, develop confidence, clarify goals, and lead with integrity—especially during times of uncertainty and change. Rather than quick fixes or surface-level motivation, Paul emphasizes sustainable habits, belief-driven action, and service-oriented leadership.Paul writes for professionals, leaders, and seekers who want to grow personally while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His approach resonates with readers looking to align inner development with outward results—at work, at home, and in their communities.When he is not writing or leading teams, Paul enjoys mentoring emerging leaders and exploring the timeless principles that turn challenge into opportunity and purpose into action.AMAZONhttps://thealchemistswaybook.com/https://paul-boerger.com/https://foxpressmedia.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/6426fpr.mp3
The Ultimate Quest by Dr. Antonio Mataban is an epic historical fiction that spans five generations, beginning at the tail end of the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. Dr. Mataban's narrative sweeps through time, immersing readers in the lives of characters whose personal journeys intertwine with the shifting tides of history, offering a rich tapestry of culture, struggle, and triumph.Set against the backdrop of a nation in transition, the novel masterfully captures the intricacies of Filipino identity, societal change, and the impact of historical events. From the waning days of Spanish rule to the complex, post-colonial era, Dr. Mataban deftly explores the personal and political conflicts that shaped the Philippines' evolution. His portrayal of the era is vivid, grounding the characters' experiences in real historical events, yet the author also crafts a compelling fictional narrative that keeps readers invested in the human side of history.The book's structure, spanning five generations, provides a panoramic view of the impact of time on individuals and families. Each character is deeply developed, their lives shaped not only by their personal desires but also by the political and social forces at play. This generational scope allows Dr. Mataban to explore the long-term effects of colonialism, revolution, and independence, showing how history is passed down through families and how the scars of the past continue to influence the future.One of the standout aspects of The Ultimate Quest is Dr. Mataban's ability to blend historical facts with compelling storytelling. The attention to historical detail is impressive, and the author's research shines through, adding depth to the plot without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary exposition. The book doesn't just recount events; it brings them to life, placing readers right in the middle of the action, whether it's a struggle for independence or a personal confrontation with the legacy of colonialism.While the historical context is rich and vital, the real strength of The Ultimate Quest lies in its characters. The author's skillful development of multi-generational storylines offers a nuanced understanding of how deeply the past shapes the future. Dr. Antonio AB Mataban, was Philippine born and had witnessed the events of World War II as he grew up in the farming area. After graduating from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, he briefly practiced in the Island before migrating to the United States for further training in Urology. He soon practiced his art in Long Island, New York and after four years joined the Air Force from which he retired after 21 years, a colonel, as Urologist and Flight Surgeon. He further served our veterans for another 14 years before retiring with his family in California with his wife, Lourdes-Patria, of 63 years. Their three boys were all veterans and have independent professional responsibilities. One grand child is a pianist and is serving as a Musical Director in the suburbs of Long Island New York.AMAZONhttps://inkstartmedia.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/51426abmis.mp3
Howie, The Unusual Bear by Laure StackHowie wasn't your average bear. He looked different, acted differently, and did things unlike any other bear. Longing for companionship, Howie sets out on a journey to find a friend who will accept him for the unique bear he truly is. Will he succeed?An Amazon bestseller.With over 20 years as an educator, Laure Stack has spent her career supporting children through their struggles and dreams. Her deep understanding of young minds leads to her heartwarming stories.Through Once Upon a Boy, Howie the Unusual Bear and more future books, Laure hopes to inspire children to dream big and never let doubt keep them from reaching their full potential.Laure is recipient of the prestigious Evergreen Award for Best New Children's Book Author in California 2026https://www.amazon.com/Howie-Unusual-Bear-Laure-Stack/dp/B0GRMN4C8V/ref=monarch_sidesheet_titlehttps://authorlaurestack.com/https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/twia/root/52126lsec2.mp3
The Girl on the Beach by Carol Snow“In a world of privilege and pretense, a young girl vanishes. Carol Snow's propulsive and gripping The Girl On The Beach reels you in with a darkly charged love triangle and rich, compelling characters—none of them innocent. Just when you think you understand what happened, a shocking twist upends everything.” —Mary Dixie Carter, author of Marguerite by the Lake and The PhotographerA missing child. A shattered family. And a truth that refuses to stay buried.Acclaimed novelist Carol Snow returns with The Girl on the Beach (Crooked Lane Books; June 23, 2026), a gripping psychological thriller set against the deceptively idyllic coastline of Santa Barbara's “American Riviera.”When four-year-old Roxie Starr disappears into the Pacific Ocean on a perfect summer day, the tragedy destroys her glamorous, high-profile family and leaves their young nanny, Colleen, haunted by guilt. Months later, Colleen returns to the beach house and sees something impossible: a child who looks exactly like Roxie.What follows is a chilling unraveling of memory, grief, and truth as Colleen questions everything she thought she knew about that day and the family she once trusted.With a dual timeline that moves between a sunlit summer and a shadowed aftermath, The Girl on the Beach explores: ● The unreliability of memory ● The psychology of guilt and trauma ● The secrets hidden beneath wealth and privilege Perfect for fans of psychological suspense, the novel builds to a jaw-dropping twist.Carol Snow is an American author of ten novels, most recently THE GIRL ON THE BEACH, a psychological thriller slated for June 2026 publication. Called “an author to watch” by Booklist, recognition for Snow's previous titles includes: Target Bookmarked Breakout Selection, Amazon Editors' Pick: Best Books of the Month, and Readers' Crown Award Finalist.Foreign rights to Snow's books have been sold to publishers in Germany, Norway, Poland, Indonesia, and Hungary. A former contributor to Salon's “Mother's Who Think” column, her writing has also appeared in The Los Angeles Review of Books and Park City Magazine.Carol Snow holds a BA in psychology from Brown University and an MA in teaching English from Boston College. A native of New Jersey, she has lived all over the US, as well as in Strasbourg, France, and London, England. Married with two adult children, she now splits her time between Cape Cod and Southern California.To learn more about Carol Snow and her books, please visit www.carolsnow.com.https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Beach-Thriller-Carol-Snow/dp/B0FSC6XDBNhttps://www.carolsnow.com/https://www.instagram.com/carol_snowhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/270463.Carol_Snow
The Ultimate Quest by Dr. Antonio Mataban is an epic historical fiction that spans five generations, beginning at the tail end of the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. Dr. Mataban's narrative sweeps through time, immersing readers in the lives of characters whose personal journeys intertwine with the shifting tides of history, offering a rich tapestry of culture, struggle, and triumph.Set against the backdrop of a nation in transition, the novel masterfully captures the intricacies of Filipino identity, societal change, and the impact of historical events. From the waning days of Spanish rule to the complex, post-colonial era, Dr. Mataban deftly explores the personal and political conflicts that shaped the Philippines' evolution. His portrayal of the era is vivid, grounding the characters' experiences in real historical events, yet the author also crafts a compelling fictional narrative that keeps readers invested in the human side of history.The book's structure, spanning five generations, provides a panoramic view of the impact of time on individuals and families. Each character is deeply developed, their lives shaped not only by their personal desires but also by the political and social forces at play. This generational scope allows Dr. Mataban to explore the long-term effects of colonialism, revolution, and independence, showing how history is passed down through families and how the scars of the past continue to influence the future.One of the standout aspects of The Ultimate Quest is Dr. Mataban's ability to blend historical facts with compelling storytelling. The attention to historical detail is impressive, and the author's research shines through, adding depth to the plot without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary exposition. The book doesn't just recount events; it brings them to life, placing readers right in the middle of the action, whether it's a struggle for independence or a personal confrontation with the legacy of colonialism.While the historical context is rich and vital, the real strength of The Ultimate Quest lies in its characters. The author's skillful development of multi-generational storylines offers a nuanced understanding of how deeply the past shapes the future. Each generation faces its own unique challenges, but the echoes of the past resonate, highlighting the enduring pursuit of identity, justice, and belonging.Dr. Antonio AB Mataban, was Philippine born and had witnessed the events of World War II as he grew up in the farming area. After graduating from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, he briefly practiced in the Island before migrating to the United States for further training in Urology. He soon practiced his art in Long Island, New York and after four years joined the Air Force from which he retired after 21 years, a colonel, as Urologist and Flight Surgeon. He further served our veterans for another 14 years before retiring with his family in California with his wife, Lourdes-Patria, of 63 years. Their three boys were all veterans and have independent professional responsibilities. One grand child is a pianist and is serving as a Musical Director in the suburbs of Long Island New York.AMAZONhttps://inkstartmedia.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/51426abmis.mp3
Lower Blood Pressure Naturally: 10 SuperFoods That Work with Susan Smith Jones, PhDHigh blood pressure is a 'silent killer,' but do you need to rely on drugs to lower your blood pressure? Our guest today, holistic health and lifestyle expert, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, will talk about 10 superfoods, validated by clinical trials, that can naturally lower your blood pressure. Among other foods, you will learn how flaxseeds, beets, and more, all covered in detail in her book A HUG IN A MUG, have additive mechanisms to produce double-digit drops, with flax seeds actually rivaling prescription medication. I'll be taking notes on our discussion today since most people I know are dealing with blood pressure issues. Welcome Susan!For a woman with three of America's most ordinary names, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, has certainly made extraordinary contributions in the fields of holistic health, anti-aging & longevity, optimum nutrition and balanced living. For starters, she taught students, staff and faculty at UCLA how to be healthy and fit for 30 years! Susan travels internationally as a frequent media talk show guest; she is also the author of many health books, including 1) A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Superfoods & Healthy Living Extras and 2) UPLIFTED: 12 Minutes to More Joy, Faith, Kindness, Peace & Vitality Refer to her website for more info about Susan, her books and her empowering work.SusanSmithJones.com
Time for Trump's Patriotic Reparations by Thomas RedickReparations time has come for American Blacks and Donald Trump is the key to making it happen. He can declare federal supremacy while dismissing the white supremacy charges he and other Republicans have faced. Polls show over 90 percent of Blacks and a majority of White folks will be okay with reparations by 2040.This book deals with the biggest challenge, the issue of reparations for slavery. This is too costly (seventeen trillion?), too unlawful (slavery was legal at the time, and Blacks owned slaves too), and fails to account for the credit of nearly seven hundred thousand men who died in the Civil War that ended slavery in the US. It is best left for later, if ever. The Civil War cost America trillions, making it a wash with slavery wages.America's been delaying payment of reparations since the end of the Civil War, when President Johnson took away the forty acres and a mule that General Sherman gave freed slaves. So Blacks were left with nothing during Reconstruction when the dark cloud or murder of crows called Jim Crow settled on the land in 1876. Reparations pioneer Callie House endured harassment and imprisonment in the early 1900s but got a movement underway that sought payment from rebel cotton, even if she was only offered an old folk's home.Federal reparations law would preempt the state attempts at reparations, forcing them to pay into the federal foundation that the law would create. California's report of over five hundred pages stops considering reparations after 1910, which is perplexing. They probably felt it was too much to cover Jim Crow and lynching since they included slavery illegally in the analysis. Donald Trump can reward families who suffered lynching, including Hispanics and Asians who were lynched.Churches, universities, and foundations are starting to fund reparations. These initiatives would be untouched by federal preemption. Precedents exist, including Ronald Reagan's payments to Japanese internees. Nazi nastiness toward Jews has everything to do with the US treatment of Blacks, and they paid for their killing of six million Jews, gypsies, gays, and others. The Germans paid Jews in 1952 and continue paying them into 2025.https://www.amazon.com/Trumps-Patriotic-Reparations-Thomas-Redick/dp/B0FY4HQ8FW/ref=monarch_sidesheet_titlehttps://www.ecpublishingllc.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/5726trec.mp3
Gone Surfing!: Ice Queen's Cave by Donna VossWhile the world and sites to see seem vast and endless, there is connection and community smaller than we think. A series of short stories and poems, Donna Voss demonstrates connections on a global front: world-class pilots and children of a farm, a surfer traveling the globe, the united experiences of veterans returning home from war. About the Author:Donna Voss lives in Southern California. As a volunteer at her public grade school, she began the Garden Club when her daughter started kindergarten in 1997. Since then, many parents and teachers have contributed their energy toward building a "Farm to Table" public school program, which teaches kids how to grow, make, reuse, repurpose, recycle food, expanding the program throughout the district. When Donna's daughter became the Garden Club teacher, she developed an educational curriculum and got a grant for the first farmhouse. Now offsite tours at the school district farm are provided to all the K-6 graders who enjoy field trips of the ever-expanding farm site. By teaching the next generation how to grow sustainable food, they are also learning how to build a healthy community and develop good relationships, by promoting inclusivity and teaching the importance of considering another person's perspective. Also, by learning how to listen with empathy and the simple act that being kind really does matter and, in some cases, can make all the difference.https://www.amazon.com/Gone-Surfing-Ice-Queens-Cave/dp/B0FQBMSW14https://mainspringbooks.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/5726dvmsb.mp3
100 Life-Challenging Devotionals: Emphasizes Evangelism and Christian Growth by Pat MannThese devotionals are intended to evangelize, educate, and inspire individuals to greater Christian growth. Some of them are used as tools in leading others to come to faith in God through Jesus Christ. They do not follow any theme throughout, so they are in no particular order. Users should choose one they deem appropriate for the occasion for which it will be presented. Use the titles as a guide to choose just the right one. These devotionals are used by some groups as a prelude to a Bible study class or as an opening, preceding a committee or board meeting, either for a religious group or a civil gathering. They are useful in nursing homes, pastors or auxiliary planning meetings, youth events, and campfire events. Some of the devotionals are appropriate to use for a short children's sermon. Travel groups enjoy a brief morning devotional before the day's activities begin, either in motel lobbies or on a travel bus. They also make great gifts for any occasion, such as graduations, birthdays, bridal showers, Christmas, Mother's Day/Father's Day, Pastor Recognition Sunday, or just a gift that says, "Thank you for all you do." Think about adding this book as kind of a "stocking stuffer" add-on with another gift appropriate for the occasion. Some individuals enjoy using the devotionals in this book for their own personal "closet time with the Lord." "These are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name" (John 20:31 KJV).Pat Mann has taught Bible lessons in many different settings, beginning at a very young age. Such settings include local church Bible classes, Vacation Bible School, Christian camps for youth and children, home Bible study groups, a thirty-five year weekly Bible lesson presented at the local county jail which continues to this day, and weekly Bible classes at two local nursing homes. She has served as education director at a local church, being in charge of the education program for all ages at that church. She has occasionally filled the pulpit in churches whose pastors are away, or for churches who currently have no pastor. She has always found it easier to write her own Bible lessons and devotionals rather than using pre-printed materials. She has served Woman's Missionary Union, leading in missions education for youth at her local church, as well as serving as area director and a consultant on state and national levels of Women's Missionary Union. She was commissioned by WMU to write a missions day camp unit used nationally, and om another occasion assisted in planning a year's curriculum, also for WMU. She served as chaplain of a local nursing home for ten years, and continues to volunteer leading chapel services twice a week.AMAZONhttps://patmannbooks.com/https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/
A Killing in the Keys by Sue AndrewsAfter moving to Key West in semi-retirement, Wade Nevlin, the protagonist from Jacksonville Judas, finds a new love interest. This new, mysterious woman, finds a dead body shortly after hers and Wade's chance meeting. Because she knew the man, Wade is not sure of her involvement. He must unravel the truth while protecting the ones he loves.Author Bio: Sue first started writing at age 62 after 40 years in public-school education. She has been a member of the CA Inland Empire Writers Club (IECWC) for the past sixteen years and received the Jack London Award for service in 2021. For the last five years she has also been a member of the Diamond Valley Writers Guild and last year chosen to be in their animal Anthology collection entitled, Menagerie, also on Amazon.Besides often writing in the monthly IECWC online magazines entitled Fresh Ink, (mostly memoirs) she has also written two other books. To Live and Love Again and Jacksonville Judas.AMAZONhttps://sueandrewsbooks.comhttps://www.kingpagespress.comhttp://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/43026kpp2.mp3
The Leaf That Went On An Unexpected Road Trip by Laure StackA leaf explores the challenges of embracing new things and overcoming fears as he navigates different circumstances that are beyond his control. Join the leaf's heartwarming adventure from Hollywood and Joshua tree to the beach.With over 20 years as an educator, Laure Stack has spent her career supporting children through their struggles and dreams. Her deep understanding of young minds leads to her heartwarming stories.Through Once Upon a Boy, Howie the Unusual Bear and more future books, Laure hopes to inspire children to dream big and never let doubt keep them from reaching their full potential.https://www.amazon.com/Leaf-That-Went-Unexpected-Road/dp/B0GS1QKCSV/ref=monarch_sidesheet_titlehttps://authorlaurestack.comhttps://www.ecpublishingllc.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/43026lsec.mp3
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