This Week in America with Ric Bratton

What do flashes of light, floating spots, blurry vision, double vision, or sudden eye pain really mean? Should you ignore them—or could they be warning signs of a serious eye condition?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes renowned ophthalmologist Dr. John C. Barber, author of Hey, Doc! What's Wrong with My Eye?, an easy-to-understand guide that helps readers recognize common eye symptoms, understand what causes them, and know when to seek medical attention.

Drawing on more than four decades of experience in patient care, teaching, and medical education, Dr. Barber explains complex eye diseases in clear, everyday language. From cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment to childhood eye disorders and the effects of diabetes, thyroid disease, and other systemic illnesses on vision, this practical resource gives listeners valuable knowledge to better understand and protect their eyesight. Filled with real patient stories and practical advice, this conversation is both educational and reassuring for anyone concerned about their vision.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Each episode features engaging conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, health experts, business innovators, and inspiring individuals who share practical advice, powerful stories, and ideas that inform, educate, and inspire listeners.

If you're looking for trusted information on eye health, vision care, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal disease, diabetes and eye disease, or simply want to better understand the warning signs your eyes may be sending you, this episode is packed with practical, expert advice you can use. Don't miss this informative conversation with Dr. John C. Barber on This Week in America.

Keywords.  Eye health, eye care, vision health, eye symptoms, blurry vision, blurred vision, floaters, eye floaters, flashes of light, double vision, eye pain, vision problems, eyesight, eye disease, eye doctor, ophthalmologist, ophthalmology, healthy eyes, vision loss, cataracts, cataract surgery, glaucoma, glaucoma symptoms, macular degeneration, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, retina health, diabetic eye disease, diabetes and vision, diabetic retinopathy, thyroid eye disease, childhood eye diseases, children's vision, crossed eyes, strabismus, eye surgery, laser eye surgery, retinal surgery, eye examination, eye exam, eye health education, medical education, patient education, preventive eye care, protecting your eyesight, eye wellness, vision care, senior eye health, aging and vision, eye disease prevention, Dr. John C. Barber, Hey Doc What's Wrong with My Eye, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, health podcast, medical podcast, wellness podcast, healthcare interview, author interview  

What do flashes of light, floating spots, blurry vision, double vision, or sudden eye pain really mean? Should you ignore them—or could they be warning signs of a serious eye condition?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes renowned ophthalmologist Dr. John C. Barber, author of Hey, Doc! What's Wrong with My Eye?, an easy-to-understand guide that helps readers recognize common eye symptoms, understand what causes them, and know when to seek medical attention.

Drawing on more than four decades of experience in patient care, teaching, and medical education, Dr. Barber explains complex eye diseases in clear, everyday language. From cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment to childhood eye disorders and the effects of diabetes, thyroid disease, and other systemic illnesses on vision, this practical resource gives listeners valuable knowledge to better understand and protect their eyesight. Filled with real patient stories and practical advice, this conversation is both educational and reassuring for anyone concerned about their vision.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Each episode features engaging conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, health experts, business innovators, and inspiring individuals who share practical advice, powerful stories, and ideas that inform, educate, and inspire listeners.

If you're looking for trusted information on eye health, vision care, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal disease, diabetes and eye disease, or simply want to better understand the warning signs your eyes may be sending you, this episode is packed with practical, expert advice you can use. Don't miss this informative conversation with Dr. John C. Barber on This Week in America.

Keywords.  Eye health, eye care, vision health, eye symptoms, blurry vision, blurred vision, floaters, eye floaters, flashes of light, double vision, eye pain, vision problems, eyesight, eye disease, eye doctor, ophthalmologist, ophthalmology, healthy eyes, vision loss, cataracts, cataract surgery, glaucoma, glaucoma symptoms, macular degeneration, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, retina health, diabetic eye disease, diabetes and vision, diabetic retinopathy, thyroid eye disease, childhood eye diseases, children's vision, crossed eyes, strabismus, eye surgery, laser eye surgery, retinal surgery, eye examination, eye exam, eye health education, medical education, patient education, preventive eye care, protecting your eyesight, eye wellness, vision care, senior eye health, aging and vision, eye disease prevention, Dr. John C. Barber, Hey Doc What's Wrong with My Eye, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, health podcast, medical podcast, wellness podcast, healthcare interview, author interview  

SECRETS & LIES by ROBERT R. SYTNICK

Secrets & Lies -- A heart throbbing story of romance, lies, and espionage. A boyish crush on a married woman eventually turns into a passionate affair. Their secrets and lies control their future, as they are forced to walk in the shadows as a trail of blood and broken hearts are left in their wake. Time eventually reignites their love one last time, but destiny intervenes.

About Robert R. Sytnick

 Robert resides across our northern border, in Canada. Near the small city of Dauphin, in the province of Manitoba. Robert remains active in the agriculture sector, growing wheat, canola and soybeans. This active lifestyle keeps him busy, but thrives in the getaways to the lake where he enjoys being at his campsite, fishing. He says, one cannot beat the taste of fresh pickerel fried on the open fire. 

  Motorcycles have always been a part of Robert's life and maintains his collection of old Honda's from the 60's and 70's. He buys old Honda motorcycles, restoring them to their original glory. 

   Like every Canadian he enjoys traveling, especially in the winter months, escaping the frigid temperatures of Canada to inviting sands and warm sunlight. 

   In 2019 Robert wrote his first novel, Sara Rose, followed by  Night Whispers, Redemption,  The Unforgiven, Secrets & Lies....It was the mystique of Arizona that captured his thoughts and the novels Redemption and Secrets & Lies evolved from.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRVQH6TV?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/62526rrs.mp3    

Other Books by Robert R. Sytnick

SARA ROSE

NIGHT WHISPERS

REDEMPTION

THE UNFORGIVEN

RHYMING STORIES

https://www.amazon.ca/Books-Robert-Sytnick/s?rh=n%3A916520%2Cp_27%3ARobert%2BSytnick

THE DIVIDED CHRIST by Lenvel  E. Hale

In 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_div

https://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_title

https://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:

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:

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 Gift

Working W.O.N.D.E.R.S. on Your Wellness in 7 Simple Steps with Susan Smith Jones, PhD

Susan 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 

𝕏 @ Susan Smith Jones

https://www.instagram.com/susansmithjonesphd

http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/ssj146.mp3