This Week in America with Ric Bratton

Can one ordinary man make an extraordinary difference?

Author Matt Shea joins This Week in America with Ric Bratton to discuss The Spiritual Sharpshooter, a moving novel about faith, compassion, justice, and the quiet courage of ordinary people.

At the center of the story is Abner Willis Fowler—a retired veteran, devoted volunteer, and deeply faithful man who spends his days helping seniors, caring for forgotten animals, and comforting the lonely. Hidden beneath his gentle nature is an expert marksman whose carefully measured actions protect the vulnerable while delivering justice with mercy instead of revenge.

Matt shares the inspiration behind his writing, including the influence of Andy Griffith, the values instilled by his family, and his passion for telling stories about overlooked people whose strength of character ultimately changes lives. His books celebrate small-town America, kindness, forgiveness, and the belief that everyone has value.

In this interview you'll discover:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners engaging conversations with bestselling authors, experts, and thought leaders covering books, health, business, history, personal development, and the issues that matter most.

If you're searching for inspiring Christian fiction, faith-based novels, stories about justice, redemption, forgiveness, small-town America, family values, and everyday heroes, don't miss this insightful conversation with Matt Shea about The Spiritual Sharpshooter and the enduring power of compassion, courage, and hope.

https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Sharpshooter-Matt-Shea/dp/B0GRCVGB7W

https://www.mattsheabooks.net/

Podcast Keywords

Matt Shea, The Spiritual Sharpshooter, Christian fiction, inspirational fiction, faith, faith in action, justice, forgiveness, redemption, everyday heroes, small town America, family values, compassion, courage, hope, inspirational books, spiritual books, Christian author, uplifting novels, senior citizens, community, Andy Griffith inspiration, wholesome fiction, book interview, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, religious fiction, moral courage, character driven fiction, kindness, volunteerism, overcoming adversity, book podcast, new books, inspirational storytelling

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, and nonprofit leadership, Julianna shares humorous yet practical advice for navigating office politics, workplace relationships, performance reviews, promotions, leadership challenges, and career success. Through relatable stories and sharp observations, she offers strategies for handling the everyday "bizness" that comes with modern work life.Whether you're entering the workforce, climbing the corporate ladder, managing a team, or simply trying to survive your next staff meeting, this conversation is packed with practical advice, real-world experience, and plenty of laughs.In this episode, you'll discover:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's premier syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring engaging conversations with bestselling authors, business leaders, health experts, financial professionals, historians, entertainers, and innovators. Each episode delivers practical advice, inspiring stories, expert insights, and thought-provoking discussions designed to inform, inspire, and entertain listeners around the world. Discover new episodes every week covering business, personal development, health, wellness, technology, history, education, and the issues that matter most.

From surviving office politics and handling workplace drama to building stronger professional relationships and advancing your career, Julianna Newland shares practical insights every employee, manager, and business leader can use. It's an engaging conversation that proves work doesn't have to be all business—even when you're dealing with everyone else's "bizness."

Keywords: office politics, workplace drama, career success, workplace communication, business management, leadership, management, career development, professional growth, difficult coworkers, workplace relationships, conflict resolution, performance reviews, promotions, corporate culture, employee engagement, teamwork, workplace humor, business advice, career advice, productivity, organizational leadership, women in business, nonprofit leadership, government leadership, screenwriter, author interview, Julianna Newland, All Up In Your Bizness, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, business podcast, workplace success

AMAZON

https://www.juliannanewland.com/

https://www.auctoremhouse.com/

http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/6426fpr.mp3

What does Libertarianism stand for, and why does retired Judge James P. Gray believe its principles offer practical solutions to many of America's biggest challenges?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Ric welcomes retired California Superior Court Judge James P. Gray, author of All Rise!: The Libertarian Way with Judge Jim Gray.

Judge Gray shares the remarkable journey that took him from serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica and a Navy JAG attorney to becoming a federal prosecutor and serving 25 years on the Orange County Superior Court. Along the way, he helped pioneer innovative programs including Drug Court and Peer Court while earning recognition as one of California's most respected jurists.

Drawing from decades of experience in the courtroom and public service, Judge Gray discusses the ideas explored in All Rise!, including liberty, individual responsibility, criminal justice reform, healthcare, education, immigration, economic policy, religion, war, and the role of government in everyday life. He also reflects on his transition from the Republican Party to the Libertarian Party and explains why he believes greater personal freedom and responsibility are essential to America's future.

Whether you're interested in constitutional principles, the justice system, American politics, public policy, or the life of an accomplished judge, this conversation provides thoughtful insight into one of today's most enduring discussions about freedom and government.

In this episode you'll discover:

About This Week in America

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's premier syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring conversations with bestselling authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, each episode delivers engaging interviews covering history, health, business, technology, politics, personal growth, current events, and the stories shaping our world.

Whether you're interested in constitutional history, individual liberty, criminal justice, public policy, or the life and career of an accomplished American judge, Judge James P. Gray offers a thoughtful perspective on these important topics. Don't miss this engaging conversation on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.

Podcast Keywords

Judge Jim Gray, James P. Gray, All Rise The Libertarian Way, Libertarian Party, libertarianism, liberty, individual freedom, personal responsibility, constitutional government, Constitution, American politics, public policy, criminal justice reform, Drug Court, Peer Court, war on drugs, justice system, federal prosecutor, trial court judge, Peace Corps, Costa Rica, Vietnam veteran, legal reform, government, political philosophy, author interview, book interview, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, podcast, syndicated radio, current affairs, American history, civil liberties, public service

Can one innovative technology help reduce harmful emissions and provide practical solutions in the fight against climate change?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Ric welcomes Don Owens, engineer, inventor, patent attorney, and author of Burn Fuel Better: From Helpless to Hopeful in the Race Against Climate Change.

Owens has spent decades working at the intersection of engineering, technology, and innovation. A graduate of General Motors Institute (now Kettering University) and Georgetown University Law Center, he has served as an engineer, patent attorney, entrepreneur, and technology developer, earning 19 patents while creating hydrogen-related engine technologies designed to improve fuel combustion and reduce harmful emissions.

In this engaging conversation, Owens explains why he believes black carbon deserves greater attention in discussions about climate change and environmental health. He shares the story of an accidental discovery that led to the development of his LeefH2 technology, discusses how hydrogen-assisted combustion may improve engine efficiency, and explains why he believes practical solutions that can be implemented today are essential in addressing environmental challenges.

Rather than focusing solely on long-term goals, Burn Fuel Better encourages listeners to consider actionable technologies that could help reduce emissions from existing fuel-powered engines while promoting cleaner air and greater energy efficiency.

In this episode you'll discover:

About This Week in America

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's premier syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring conversations with bestselling authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, each episode delivers engaging interviews covering business, science, technology, health, history, current events, personal development, and the stories shaping our future.

Whether you're interested in climate innovation, hydrogen technology, emissions reduction, environmental science, engineering breakthroughs, or practical ideas for creating a cleaner future, Don Owens offers an optimistic and thought-provoking perspective. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.

Podcast Keywords

Don Owens, Burn Fuel Better, climate change, black carbon, hydrogen technology, hydrogen fuel, clean energy, cleaner combustion, fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, air pollution, particulate matter, environmental innovation, climate solutions, sustainable technology, green technology, clean transportation, engineering innovation, inventor, patents, LeefH2, renewable energy, environmental science, carbon emissions, diesel engines, engine technology, clean air, energy innovation, engineering, environmental health, technology podcast, author interview, climate book, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio, podcast interview

How do you overcome war, trauma, loss, and life's greatest disappointments without losing hope?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, Ric welcomes Christopher Beatton, author of Adversity, Adventure and Achievement: The Life and Times of Christopher Beatton.

Christopher's extraordinary autobiography spans continents and decades, taking readers from his childhood in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) during a time of civil conflict to military service, spiritual searching, entrepreneurship, immigration to the United Kingdom, and ultimately a life transformed by faith.

With honesty and remarkable insight, Christopher shares how adversity became the catalyst for personal growth rather than defeat. His journey includes surviving the emotional toll of war, spending nearly two decades in the Unification Church, building and rebuilding businesses through success and failure, enduring profound personal loss, and discovering a renewed relationship with Jesus Christ that became the foundation for a new chapter in his life.

Throughout the conversation, Christopher reflects on resilience, emotional healing, purpose, and the lessons learned from a lifetime of extraordinary experiences. His story is both deeply personal and universally inspiring, offering hope to anyone facing life's unexpected challenges.

In this episode you'll discover:

About This Week in America

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's premier syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring conversations with bestselling authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the world. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, each episode delivers engaging interviews covering history, faith, health, business, personal development, current events, and the stories that inspire and inform.

Whether you're interested in overcoming adversity, inspiring true stories, faith, emotional resilience, entrepreneurship, personal growth, or modern history, Christopher Beatton's remarkable journey demonstrates how life's greatest trials can become the foundation for hope, wisdom, and lasting purpose. Don't miss this unforgettable conversation on This Week in America with Ric Bratton.

Podcast Keywords

Christopher Beatton, Adversity Adventure and Achievement, autobiography, memoir, Zimbabwe, Rhodesia, Southern Rhodesia, Rhodesian Bush War, civil war, resilience, overcoming adversity, faith, Christian faith, redemption, personal transformation, emotional healing, grief, loss, entrepreneurship, business success, business failure, Unification Church, Moonies, spiritual journey, inspiration, perseverance, hope, personal growth, life lessons, author interview, memoir podcast, Christian author, motivational stories, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio, podcast interview

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:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring engaging conversations with today's leading authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, the program delivers insightful interviews covering health, business, history, education, personal growth, current events, entertainment, and inspiring life stories. New episodes are available every week.

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.

Podcast 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 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:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring engaging conversations with today's leading authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, the program delivers insightful interviews covering health, business, history, education, personal growth, current events, entertainment, and inspiring life stories. New episodes are available every week.

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.

Podcast 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 really take to become a champion?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Beth Watter shares the inspiring story behind The Making of Champions, a heartfelt book that celebrates courage, perseverance, friendship, and the power of believing in yourself.

Inspired by her son Nik's journey with cerebral palsy, Beth reminds us that true champions aren't measured by trophies or victories—they're defined by resilience, compassion, determination, and the willingness to overcome life's greatest challenges.

Whether you're a parent, educator, coach, or simply looking for an uplifting story, this conversation offers hope and encouragement for anyone facing obstacles.

In this episode you'll discover:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring engaging conversations with today's leading authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, the program delivers insightful interviews covering health, business, history, education, personal growth, current events, entertainment, and inspiring life stories. New episodes are available every week.

If you're looking for inspiration, stories about overcoming adversity, or practical encouragement for families, educators, and young readers, don't miss this conversation with Beth Watter about The Making of Champions. Discover how courage, inclusion, resilience, and believing in others can help anyone become a true champion.

Podcast Keywords

Beth Watter, The Making of Champions, cerebral palsy, disability awareness, inclusive children's books, children's author, inspirational books, resilience, perseverance, courage, overcoming adversity, parenting, Special Olympics, inclusion, friendship, family inspiration, motivational stories, children's literature, inspirational podcast, youth sports, champions, disability advocacy, self-confidence, believing in yourself, personal growth, education, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio interview, author interview

What does it really take to become a champion?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Beth Watter shares the inspiring story behind The Making of Champions, a heartfelt book that celebrates courage, perseverance, friendship, and the power of believing in yourself.

Inspired by her son Nik's journey with cerebral palsy, Beth reminds us that true champions aren't measured by trophies or victories—they're defined by resilience, compassion, determination, and the willingness to overcome life's greatest challenges.

Whether you're a parent, educator, coach, or simply looking for an uplifting story, this conversation offers hope and encouragement for anyone facing obstacles.

In this episode you'll discover:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, featuring engaging conversations with today's leading authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders. Heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, the program delivers insightful interviews covering health, business, history, education, personal growth, current events, entertainment, and inspiring life stories. New episodes are available every week.

If you're looking for inspiration, stories about overcoming adversity, or practical encouragement for families, educators, and young readers, don't miss this conversation with Beth Watter about The Making of Champions. Discover how courage, inclusion, resilience, and believing in others can help anyone become a true champion.

Podcast Keywords

Beth Watter, The Making of Champions, cerebral palsy, disability awareness, inclusive children's books, children's author, inspirational books, resilience, perseverance, courage, overcoming adversity, parenting, Special Olympics, inclusion, friendship, family inspiration, motivational stories, children's literature, inspirational podcast, youth sports, champions, disability advocacy, self-confidence, believing in yourself, personal growth, education, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio interview, author interview

Great leaders don't just grow successful organizations—they grow successful people.

In this insightful episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Jeff McManus, nationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author of Growing Weeders into Leaders: Leadership Lessons from the Ground Level. Drawing on decades of experience building one of the nation's most admired university landscape teams, Jeff shares practical leadership principles that transform everyday employees into confident, motivated, and engaged leaders.

Using memorable stories from the world of horticulture and grounds management, Jeff explains how cultivating people requires many of the same qualities needed to grow healthy plants: patience, intentionality, consistency, encouragement, and a commitment to long-term development. Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, coaching volunteers, or raising a family, these timeless leadership lessons offer practical strategies for creating a culture where people can thrive.

During the conversation, Jeff discusses servant leadership, employee engagement, organizational culture, coaching, accountability, trust, and why investing in people always produces the greatest return. Listeners will discover simple yet powerful techniques for inspiring others, building stronger teams, and creating workplaces where individuals feel valued, empowered, and motivated to succeed.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring engaging conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, innovators, health experts, business leaders, and inspiring personalities. Each episode delivers practical advice, compelling stories, and meaningful discussions that inform, educate, and entertain listeners around the globe.

Whether you're a business owner, executive, manager, entrepreneur, educator, nonprofit leader, or simply someone who wants to become a better leader, this inspiring conversation with Jeff McManus offers valuable insights into leadership development, team building, workplace culture, and helping people reach their full potential. Don't miss this engaging episode of This Week in America.

Keywords:  Jeff McManus, Growing Weeders into Leaders, leadership, leadership development, servant leadership, business leadership, management, team building, employee engagement, organizational culture, workplace culture, coaching employees, motivation, leadership skills, personal growth, business success, professional development, workforce development, leadership podcast, business podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton