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Six fascinating guests, extraordinary adventures, scientific mysteries, inspiring stories, and a little holiday magic! Ric Bratton previews another exciting lineup on This Week Ahead. JON WALLER – FINISH THE RACE Author and endurance athlete Jon Waller discusses Finish the Race, a novel combining corporate intrigue, friendship, and perseverance. Having completed eleven Ironman-distance races, Waller knows the importance of determination and never giving up. RONALD EPNER – MY LIFE'S DREAM TOOK ME TO SEA What happens when a successful orthopedic surgeon leaves his career at age 50 to sail around the world? Dr. Ronald Epner shares his remarkable adventure, including surviving a heart attack hundreds of miles from shore. It's a powerful story about courage, survival, and following your dreams. DAVID LABAY – THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING Physicist, poet, musician, and author David Labay explores the mysteries of our universe in The Theory of Everything, Volumes One and Two. Discover his perspectives on physics, scientific discovery, and the connections between science and creativity. JOHN ZACHARY – THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE STORY OF JESUS Can science and faith support one another? John Zachary discusses The Science Behind the Story of Jesus, exploring astronomy, mathematics, biblical history, and his interpretations of scientific evidence related to religious events. DENNIS E. HIGGINS – RENEGADE OF LIGHT A corrupt police detective discovers extraordinary abilities and an unexpected destiny in Dennis E. Higgins's supernatural science-fiction thriller, Renegade of Light. It's a fascinating story of redemption, hidden dimensions, and the struggle between good and evil. SUZANNE W. GUINN – CHRISTMAS POEMS Celebrate the holiday season with Suzanne W. Guinn, whose collection Christmas Poems includes writings dating back to 1966. Her heartwarming poetry captures the joy of Christmas, faith, family traditions, and treasured memories spanning nearly 60 years. ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. DISCOVER WHAT'S COMING NEXT! From inspirational adventures and scientific discoveries to faith, supernatural mysteries, and Christmas poetry, this edition of This Week Ahead has something for everyone. Join Ric Bratton for a preview of upcoming author interviews, fascinating books, and unforgettable stories on This Week in America! PODOMATIC KEYWORDS This Week Ahead, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, Jon Waller, Ronald Epner, David Labay, John Zachary, Dennis E Higgins, Suzanne W Guinn, Finish the Race, My Life's Dream Took Me to Sea, Theory of Everything, Science Behind the Story of Jesus, Renegade of Light, Christmas Poems, author interviews, book podcast, inspiration, science and faith, supernatural thriller, holiday poetry

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 to help people reduce stress, overcome burnout, and experience greater fulfillment in their careers, relationships, health, and personal lives. 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 healthy habits, say no without guilt, improve sleep, and develop stronger relationships. 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 that left her with a broken back and other significant injuries, Denise found new purpose in helping others overcome obstacles and create meaningful change. Whether you're an overwhelmed professional, business leader, entrepreneur, parent, or simply someone searching for a healthier and happier life, Denise offers a refreshing perspective on why traditional work-life balance may not be the answer. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover Denise R. Green and Work-Life Brilliance in this inspiring conversation about work-life balance, stress management, burnout prevention, personal development, productivity, healthy habits, executive coaching, and creating a life you truly love. Listen now as Ric Bratton explores how to replace constant stress with greater purpose, confidence, and fulfillment. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Denise R Green, Denise Green, Work-Life Brilliance, work life balance, work-life balance, stress management, reduce stress, burnout, overcoming burnout, 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 to help people reduce stress, overcome burnout, and experience greater fulfillment in their careers, relationships, health, and personal lives. 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 healthy habits, say no without guilt, improve sleep, and develop stronger relationships. 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 that left her with a broken back and other significant injuries, Denise found new purpose in helping others overcome obstacles and create meaningful change. Whether you're an overwhelmed professional, business leader, entrepreneur, parent, or simply someone searching for a healthier and happier life, Denise offers a refreshing perspective on why traditional work-life balance may not be the answer. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover Denise R. Green and Work-Life Brilliance in this inspiring conversation about work-life balance, stress management, burnout prevention, personal development, productivity, healthy habits, executive coaching, and creating a life you truly love. Listen now as Ric Bratton explores how to replace constant stress with greater purpose, confidence, and fulfillment. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Denise R Green, Denise Green, Work-Life Brilliance, work life balance, work-life balance, stress management, reduce stress, burnout, overcoming burnout, 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

Can you solve a murder before the detective does? Award-winning mystery and thriller author Laura Burke challenges readers to follow the clues, question every suspect, and uncover the killer before the final page. Laura Burke joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her suspense-filled Jolene Mystery Series, a collection of murder mysteries built around cold cases, hidden secrets, unexpected twists, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Burke brings an extraordinary background to her fiction. After spending 20 years as a nurse, she became a private investigator, working closely with police officers and detectives on closed-case files. Her lifelong fascination with unsolved mysteries began when she was just eight years old. That real-world experience helped inspire the Jolene Mystery Series, featuring a determined female investigator who refuses to let forgotten crimes remain unsolved. From Model Murder and The Toy Store Murders to Murder in Camouflage, Murder of Innocence, Surgical Murders, and other installments, Burke creates gripping stories filled with suspicious characters, surprising revelations, and clues that challenge readers to become detectives themselves. With 22 novels published over 12 years, Burke has developed an extensive collection of crime fiction, including the Jolene Mystery Series, the Detective Roy Masson Series, and standalone murder mysteries. During this fascinating conversation, Laura shares how her investigative experience influences her writing, what makes cold cases so compelling, how she develops believable characters, and the secrets behind creating mysteries that keep readers guessing until the very end. If you love murder mysteries, detective fiction, psychological suspense, or the challenge of solving a cold case, this is an interview you won't want to miss. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover the thrilling world of Laura Burke's Jolene Mystery Series and explore cold-case investigations, murder mysteries, crime fiction, private detectives, suspense novels, and the art of mystery writing. Listen now as Ric Bratton takes you inside the mind of an author who knows how to keep readers guessing. Author website: https://authorlauraburke.com PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Laura Burke, Laura B Burke, Jolene Mystery Series, Jolene Johnson, Model Murder, The Toy Store Murders, Murder in Camouflage, Murder of Innocence, Surgical Murders, cold cases, murder mysteries, mystery novels, crime fiction, detective fiction, private investigator, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery author, female detective, unsolved mysteries, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

Can you solve a murder before the detective does? Award-winning mystery and thriller author Laura Burke challenges readers to follow the clues, question every suspect, and uncover the killer before the final page. Laura Burke joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her suspense-filled Jolene Mystery Series, a collection of murder mysteries built around cold cases, hidden secrets, unexpected twists, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Burke brings an extraordinary background to her fiction. After spending 20 years as a nurse, she became a private investigator, working closely with police officers and detectives on closed-case files. Her lifelong fascination with unsolved mysteries began when she was just eight years old. That real-world experience helped inspire the Jolene Mystery Series, featuring a determined female investigator who refuses to let forgotten crimes remain unsolved. From Model Murder and The Toy Store Murders to Murder in Camouflage, Murder of Innocence, Surgical Murders, and other installments, Burke creates gripping stories filled with suspicious characters, surprising revelations, and clues that challenge readers to become detectives themselves. With 22 novels published over 12 years, Burke has developed an extensive collection of crime fiction, including the Jolene Mystery Series, the Detective Roy Masson Series, and standalone murder mysteries. During this fascinating conversation, Laura shares how her investigative experience influences her writing, what makes cold cases so compelling, how she develops believable characters, and the secrets behind creating mysteries that keep readers guessing until the very end. If you love murder mysteries, detective fiction, psychological suspense, or the challenge of solving a cold case, this is an interview you won't want to miss. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover the thrilling world of Laura Burke's Jolene Mystery Series and explore cold-case investigations, murder mysteries, crime fiction, private detectives, suspense novels, and the art of mystery writing. Listen now as Ric Bratton takes you inside the mind of an author who knows how to keep readers guessing. Author website: https://authorlauraburke.com PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Laura Burke, Laura B Burke, Jolene Mystery Series, Jolene Johnson, Model Murder, The Toy Store Murders, Murder in Camouflage, Murder of Innocence, Surgical Murders, cold cases, murder mysteries, mystery novels, crime fiction, detective fiction, private investigator, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery author, female detective, unsolved mysteries, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

What happens when the technology we depend on suddenly stops working? And could artificial intelligence make that nightmare more realistic than ever? Returning guest John Mariotti joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss the third edition of his gripping techno-thriller, The Chinese Conspiracy, and why he believes its warnings about cyberattacks, technological dependence, and global security are more relevant today. Originally conceived in 2000 and updated over the years, The Chinese Conspiracy follows Jim Martini, who returns to his West Virginia hometown to investigate the sudden collapse of a major employer. What begins as a personal investigation quickly becomes an international thriller involving hackers, malicious software, intelligence agencies, and a plot to cripple America's computer and communications systems. Now, John has revisited the story again, adding an editor's epilogue exploring artificial intelligence and the potential consequences of increasingly powerful technology. Is The Chinese Conspiracy simply an entertaining thriller, or a fictional warning about the technological challenges ahead? A longtime business executive, author, consultant, and speaker, John previously served as President of Huffy Bicycles and Group President at Rubbermaid. His extensive business and technology experience informs his writing about leadership, innovation, and global challenges. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Listen now as returning guest John Mariotti discusses The Chinese Conspiracy, artificial intelligence, AI risks, cybersecurity, cyberwarfare, digital infrastructure, and the technological challenges facing America. Discover why this updated techno-thriller raises timely questions about our connected world. #JohnMariotti #ArtificialIntelligence #ThisWeekInAmerica YOUTUBE TAGS John Mariotti, The Chinese Conspiracy, The Chinese Conspiracy third edition, John Mariotti interview, artificial intelligence, AI cybersecurity, AI threats, cyberwarfare, cyber attacks, cybersecurity, technology dependence, ransomware, computer hacking, AI risks, AI future, techno thriller, cyber thriller, technology and national security, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interview, AI epilogue, cyber terrorism PODOMATIC KEYWORDS John Mariotti, The Chinese Conspiracy, third edition, artificial intelligence, AI cybersecurity, cyberwarfare, cyberattacks, AI risks, ransomware, hacking, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity threats, technological dependence, techno thriller, international thriller, AI future, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interviews

What if refusing to forgive someone is actually hurting you more than the person who hurt you? Can holding onto anger, resentment, and betrayal keep us trapped in the past? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author and retired Army veteran Maurice L. Brown joins us to discuss his powerful book, I'm Dying to Forgive You, an inspiring exploration of forgiveness, emotional healing, spiritual freedom, and the hidden consequences of holding onto pain. Drawing on biblical teachings, personal experiences, and stories of transformation, Brown examines how unresolved hurt can create emotional strongholds that influence our thoughts, relationships, and everyday lives. In this thought-provoking conversation, discover: Why refusing to forgive can hurt us more than the person who caused the pain. How past betrayals and emotional wounds continue to affect our lives. Why certain memories, songs, or experiences can unexpectedly trigger old feelings. The difference between forgiving someone and excusing their behavior. How faith and self-awareness can help us overcome resentment. Why forgiveness is essential to finding lasting peace and personal freedom. A 27-year Army veteran with a degree in business administration, Brown has traveled extensively around the world, experiencing different cultures and developing a deep appreciation for human connection, unity, and personal growth. His message is simple but powerful: Forgiveness doesn't mean the pain never happened. It means refusing to allow that pain to control your future. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide.  Subscribe for compelling conversations with authors, experts, and inspiring voices from around the world. Join Ric Bratton and Maurice L. Brown for an inspiring discussion about overcoming emotional obstacles, releasing resentment, and discovering the freedom that comes through forgiveness. #PowerOfForgiveness #EmotionalHealing #ThisWeekInAmerica YOUTUBE TAGS Maurice L Brown, Maurice Brown author, I'm Dying to Forgive You, power of forgiveness, how to forgive, letting go of resentment, emotional healing, finding inner peace, overcoming betrayal, Christian forgiveness, biblical forgiveness, spiritual healing, forgiveness and faith, emotional triggers, overcoming anger, personal growth, self improvement, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, Christian Faith Publishing, inspirational authors, forgiveness interview PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Maurice L Brown, Maurice Brown, I'm Dying to Forgive You, forgiveness, power of forgiveness, emotional healing, overcoming resentment, letting go of anger, finding inner peace, Christian faith, biblical forgiveness, spiritual freedom, personal growth, emotional triggers, healing from betrayal, overcoming past hurts, Christian authors, motivational books, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, Christian Faith Publishing

What happens when the people who save lives are silently struggling to save their own? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, former firefighter and paramedic James Meuer shares his deeply personal journey through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as told in his powerful memoir, Damaged: A First Responder's Experiences Handling Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. After years of responding to traumatic emergencies, James found himself haunted by disturbing memories, relentless nightmares, sleepless nights, and an overwhelming sense of hypervigilance. Even ordinary sounds could trigger powerful reactions. Behind the uniform and the image of a hero was a man fighting an invisible battle. James discusses the emotional toll of emergency service, the often-unspoken mental health struggles of firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders, and how PTSD affected his career, relationships, and everyday life. Through faith, resilience, and a determination to help others, James has turned his experiences into a message of hope and understanding. James Meuer served as a firefighter and paramedic in California and Texas and also worked as a paramedic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. His experiences inspired him to write Damaged and speak openly about the emotional realities of emergency service. In this conversation, discover why PTSD among first responders deserves greater attention, why asking for help is a sign of strength, and how compassion can make a difference. Learn more about James Meuer's book, Damaged, available on Amazon and through major booksellers. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide.  Subscribe for compelling conversations with authors, experts, and inspiring voices from around the world. Listen now as Ric Bratton and James Meuer explore first responder PTSD, firefighter and paramedic mental health, trauma, resilience, faith, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder. Discover a compelling true story about the human cost of emergency service and the hope that comes from understanding and supporting those who serve. #FirstResponderPTSD #JamesMeuer #ThisWeekInAmerica 3. YOUTUBE TAGS James Meuer, Damaged book, James Meuer interview, first responder PTSD, firefighter PTSD, paramedic PTSD, post traumatic stress disorder, PTSD awareness, first responder mental health, emergency responder trauma, trauma recovery, PTSD memoir, firefighter mental health, paramedic mental health, first responder stories, PTSD and faith, mental health awareness, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interview, first responder support PODOMATIC KEYWORDS James Meuer, Damaged, first responder PTSD, firefighter PTSD, paramedic mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder, first responder trauma, PTSD awareness, emergency services, trauma recovery, first responder memoir, mental health stigma, firefighter mental health, resilience, faith and healing, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interviews, first responder support

Why do we question God when life becomes difficult? How can faith help us overcome doubt, suffering, and the challenges that threaten our spiritual foundation? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Chaplain Evangelist Dr. Carolyn Skinner, Ph.D., joins us to discuss her inspiring book, Why Not?, a powerful exploration of faith, spiritual warfare, and finding God's presence during life's most difficult moments. An ordained minister, licensed chaplain, educator, and experienced spiritual leader, Dr. Skinner shares insights from her years of ministry and personal journey with God. Her book challenges readers to confront the difficult questions that arise when faith is tested and to recognize how doubt can become an obstacle to spiritual growth. In this enlightening conversation, discover: Why the question "Why not?" can challenge our faith. How spiritual warfare can influence our everyday struggles. Why believers sometimes question God's plan during difficult times. How to recognize and overcome spiritual doubt. The importance of remaining faithful when life seems unfair. How biblical wisdom can provide strength, direction, and reassurance. Dr. Skinner reminds us that even during our darkest trials, faith can offer hope, courage, and the confidence to move forward. Join Ric Bratton for an inspiring discussion about overcoming adversity, understanding spiritual challenges, and strengthening your relationship with God. Book: Why Not? by Chaplain Evangelist Dr. Carolyn Skinner, Ph.D. Learn more: https://www.newmansprings.com/release/?book=why-not This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Subscribe to This Week in America for more fascinating conversations with authors, experts, and inspiring voices from around the world. Whether you're experiencing a personal struggle, searching for spiritual direction, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Christian faith, this conversation offers encouragement, perspective, and hope. #WhyNotBook #ChristianFaith #ThisWeekInAmerica YOUTUBE TAGS Dr Carolyn Skinner, Carolyn Skinner Why Not, Why Not book, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, Christian faith, spiritual warfare, overcoming doubt, faith during hard times, Christian inspiration, biblical wisdom, God's plan, Christian authors, spiritual growth, faith and adversity, overcoming life's challenges, Christian motivation, finding hope, religious books, Christian interviews, Newman Springs Publishing, inspirational books PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Carolyn Skinner, Dr Carolyn Skinner, Why Not, Why Not book, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, Christian faith, spiritual warfare, overcoming doubt, God's plan, biblical wisdom, Christian inspiration, faith and adversity, Christian authors, spiritual growth, religious books, finding hope, overcoming challenges, Christian podcast, faith interviews, Newman Springs Publishing

Four fascinating guests. Four powerful conversations. One exciting week ahead on This Week in America with Ric Bratton! On this edition of This Week Ahead, Ric previews upcoming interviews exploring the emotional challenges faced by first responders, international intrigue, the power of faith, and the life-changing possibilities of forgiveness. JAMES MEUER – DAMAGED: A FIRST RESPONDER'S EXPERIENCES HANDLING POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER What happens when the people who dedicate their lives to helping others need help themselves? James Meuer shares his personal experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder and the emotional toll of working as a first responder. His story offers an important perspective on trauma, mental health, resilience, and recovery. JOHN MARIOTTI – THE CHINESE CONSPIRACY, THIRD EDITION Author and business expert John Mariotti returns to This Week in America with his gripping international thriller, The Chinese Conspiracy. Blending suspense, geopolitical tensions, and global intrigue, Mariotti explores a world where powerful interests, hidden agendas, and international relationships create dangerous possibilities. CHAPLAIN EVANGELIST DR. CAROLYN SKINNER, PH.D. – WHY NOT? What happens when we challenge our doubts and open ourselves to greater possibilities? Dr. Carolyn Skinner joins Ric to discuss Why Not?, sharing an uplifting perspective on faith, purpose, personal growth, and overcoming the obstacles that keep us from moving forward. MAURICE L. BROWN – I'M DYING TO FORGIVE YOU Can holding on to resentment hurt us more than the person who caused the pain? Maurice L. Brown explores the difficult but transformative journey toward forgiveness. His book challenges readers to reconsider the emotional cost of refusing to forgive and discover the freedom that can come from letting go. From emotional healing and personal transformation to international suspense and spiritual inspiration, this week's guests bring compelling stories and meaningful conversations you won't want to miss. Join Ric Bratton for this special preview of what's coming up on This Week in America! This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover inspiring author interviews, compelling books, expert insights, first responder mental health discussions, international thriller fiction, faith-based inspiration, and powerful stories of forgiveness. Listen to This Week Ahead, then catch the complete interviews with Ric Bratton on This Week in America. PODOMATIC KEYWORDSThis Week Ahead, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, James Meuer, Damaged, first responder PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder, mental health, John Mariotti, The Chinese Conspiracy, international thriller, geopolitical suspense, Carolyn Skinner, Why Not, faith, spiritual growth, Maurice L Brown, I'm Dying to Forgive You, forgiveness, emotional healing, author interviews, book podcast, inspirational interviews

What if the key to reducing stress has been inside your own mind all along? On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, psychiatrist R. Duncan Wallace, M.D., discusses The Great Little Book of Stress Release, a practical guide based on more than five decades of experience helping people better understand the psychological forces that shape their daily lives. Drawing on 54 years as a physician specializing in the human psyche, Dr. Wallace explains how many of the beliefs, habits, and emotional patterns that influence our stress operate below the level of conscious awareness. By recognizing these hidden psychological truths, we can begin making wiser choices, reduce unnecessary stress, and improve our emotional well-being. The conversation explores practical ways to better understand yourself, respond more effectively to life's challenges, and develop a healthier, more balanced perspective. Dr. Wallace also shares insights from his broader work on psychological truths and how greater awareness can lead to personal growth and a more thoughtful society. In this episode you'll discover: Why so much of our stress comes from unconscious thought patterns The psychological truths that influence everyday emotions and behavior Practical strategies for reducing stress and anxiety How greater self-awareness can improve decision-making Why understanding your mind can lead to lasting personal growth ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. SEO CLOSING If you're interested in stress management, psychology, emotional wellness, personal development, or practical strategies for living a calmer and more fulfilling life, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. R. Duncan Wallace. Discover how understanding the hidden psychological truths behind stress can help you create healthier habits, make better decisions, and improve your overall well-being. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS R. Duncan Wallace, Duncan Wallace, Dr. R. Duncan Wallace, The Great Little Book of Stress Release, stress relief, stress management, reduce stress, anxiety relief, emotional wellness, mental wellness, psychology, psychological truths, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, personal growth, mindfulness, healthy mindset, mental health, coping with stress, resilience, emotional health, self-improvement, wellness podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio interview, personal development

From the "This Week in America Best Of Files"Best selling author Roland Lazenby discusses his book "Michael Jordan: The Life".For all his fame and glory on the court, MJ also has a dark side—that of a ruthless competitor and lover of high stakes. There hasn’t been a biography about Michael Jordan that fully encompassed the dual nature of his character and drew such a complete portrait of the superstar until now. MICHAEL JORDAN: The Life by Roland Lazenby (Little, Brown and Company; May 6, 2014) reveals the fullest, most compelling story of the man who is Michael Jordan.Basketball journalist Roland Lazenby has spent almost thirty years covering MJ’s time in college and the NBA. His intimate access to Jordan’s coaches, friends, teammates, and family members provided him a truly well-rounded perspective of the man, the myth, and the legend. He witnessed Jordan’s growth from a skinny rookie to the instantly recognizable global ambassador for basketball he is today, and in MICHAEL JORDAN: The Life he pulls back the curtain on many lesser-known aspects of Jordan’s life.Roland also is author of "The Life of Kobe Bryant" and "The Life of Earvin "Magic" Johnson".

What if the key to reducing stress has been inside your own mind all along? On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, psychiatrist R. Duncan Wallace, M.D., discusses The Great Little Book of Stress Release, a practical guide based on more than five decades of experience helping people better understand the psychological forces that shape their daily lives. Drawing on 54 years as a physician specializing in the human psyche, Dr. Wallace explains how many of the beliefs, habits, and emotional patterns that influence our stress operate below the level of conscious awareness. By recognizing these hidden psychological truths, we can begin making wiser choices, reduce unnecessary stress, and improve our emotional well-being. The conversation explores practical ways to better understand yourself, respond more effectively to life's challenges, and develop a healthier, more balanced perspective. Dr. Wallace also shares insights from his broader work on psychological truths and how greater awareness can lead to personal growth and a more thoughtful society. In this episode you'll discover: Why so much of our stress comes from unconscious thought patterns The psychological truths that influence everyday emotions and behavior Practical strategies for reducing stress and anxiety How greater self-awareness can improve decision-making Why understanding your mind can lead to lasting personal growth ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. If you're interested in stress management, psychology, emotional wellness, personal development, or practical strategies for living a calmer and more fulfilling life, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. R. Duncan Wallace. Discover how understanding the hidden psychological truths behind stress can help you create healthier habits, make better decisions, and improve your overall well-being. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS R. Duncan Wallace, Duncan Wallace, Dr. R. Duncan Wallace, The Great Little Book of Stress Release, stress relief, stress management, reduce stress, anxiety relief, emotional wellness, mental wellness, psychology, psychological truths, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, personal growth, mindfulness, healthy mindset, mental health, coping with stress, resilience, emotional health, self-improvement, wellness podcast, author interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio interview, personal development

What does it mean to be different, and how can children learn to embrace the qualities that make them special? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, children's author Danna Southwell joins us to discuss Bertha the Ordinary Chicken (Second Edition), a heartwarming story about individuality, self-confidence, kindness, and finding the courage to be yourself. Through Bertha's journey, young readers discover that being ordinary doesn't mean being unimportant. Everyone has unique gifts, and sometimes the greatest strength comes from simply accepting who we are. Danna shares the inspiration behind her book and explores important lessons for children, parents, and educators, including building self-esteem, celebrating differences, overcoming bullying, developing resilience, and treating others with compassion. Bertha the Ordinary Chicken offers meaningful opportunities for families and classrooms to discuss inclusion, friendship, courage, and the importance of believing in yourself. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or simply someone who enjoys uplifting children's literature, this conversation offers a reminder that everyone deserves to feel valued and accepted. About This Week in America This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover the inspiring message behind Danna Southwell's Bertha the Ordinary Chicken and learn how children's books can encourage confidence, kindness, emotional growth, and acceptance. Listen now to this engaging author interview with Ric Bratton. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Danna Southwell, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken Second Edition, children's books, children's author, books for kids, confidence, self-esteem, kindness, bullying, being different, inclusion, courage, social emotional learning, SEL, accepting differences, children's literature, parenting books, classroom books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

What does it mean to be different, and how can children learn to embrace the qualities that make them special? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, children's author Danna Southwell joins us to discuss Bertha the Ordinary Chicken (Second Edition), a heartwarming story about individuality, self-confidence, kindness, and finding the courage to be yourself. Through Bertha's journey, young readers discover that being ordinary doesn't mean being unimportant. Everyone has unique gifts, and sometimes the greatest strength comes from simply accepting who we are. Danna shares the inspiration behind her book and explores important lessons for children, parents, and educators, including building self-esteem, celebrating differences, overcoming bullying, developing resilience, and treating others with compassion. Bertha the Ordinary Chicken offers meaningful opportunities for families and classrooms to discuss inclusion, friendship, courage, and the importance of believing in yourself. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or simply someone who enjoys uplifting children's literature, this conversation offers a reminder that everyone deserves to feel valued and accepted. About This Week in America This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Discover the inspiring message behind Danna Southwell's Bertha the Ordinary Chicken and learn how children's books can encourage confidence, kindness, emotional growth, and acceptance. Listen now to this engaging author interview with Ric Bratton. PODOMATIC KEYWORDS Danna Southwell, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken, Bertha the Ordinary Chicken Second Edition, children's books, children's author, books for kids, confidence, self-esteem, kindness, bullying, being different, inclusion, courage, social emotional learning, SEL, accepting differences, children's literature, parenting books, classroom books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America