Susan Smith Jones, PhD, returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton to share practical, natural ways to nourish your body, increase vitality and make healthy living part of your everyday life.

In her new 2026 edition of A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Fruits, Veggies, Juices, Teas, Soups, Spices & Healthy Living Extras, Susan draws on decades of experience and research to show how simple choices involving wholesome foods, beverages and healthy habits can make a meaningful difference in how you look and feel.

Susan explores the benefits of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, herbal teas and culinary spices including turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, basil, oregano and cayenne. She also shares favorite recipes and easy ideas for making healthy foods more appealing and enjoyable.

But A Hug in a Mug is about more than what's inside your cup. Susan uses the "mug" as a metaphor for the body itself—a remarkable vessel that deserves to be cared for every day. Good nutrition is only part of that care. Exercise, restorative sleep, time in nature, stress management, positive relationships, gratitude and faith all contribute to physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

In this uplifting conversation, Ric and Susan discuss how small, realistic lifestyle choices can help you take better care of yourself without making healthy living complicated or overwhelming.

Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a longtime healthy-living expert, author and educator who spent 30 years teaching at UCLA. She has written extensively about nutrition, fitness, natural remedies, wellness and creating a positive, balanced lifestyle.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners informative and inspiring conversations with authors, experts and thought leaders.

If you're interested in healthy eating, natural wellness, herbal teas, juicing, nutritious recipes, healthy aging, weight management and simple ways to increase your energy and vitality, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones about A HUG IN A MUG.

Keywords:  Susan Smith Jones, A Hug in a Mug, Susan Smith Jones interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, healthy living, holistic health, natural wellness, nutrition, healthy eating, fruits and vegetables, herbal tea, herbal teas, juicing, fresh juice, healthy recipes, culinary spices, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, superfoods, natural remedies, weight management, healthy weight loss, healthy aging, youthful vitality, self care, wellness tips, stress management, healthy lifestyle, nutrition podcast, health podcast, author interview 

Finding True Love, Faith & Purpose | Author George C. Mills

 Author and military veteran George C. Mills joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America for a conversation about faith, love, life lessons, military service, and the experiences that inspired his growing collection of books.

Raised in the small community of Mulberry, Mississippi, George learned early the importance of faith in God, family, and hard work. After high school, he joined his hometown National Guard and ultimately spent his military career working as a surface mechanic. Years later, after a divorce and while searching for a new direction in life, George returned to something he had enjoyed since childhood—writing.

His books explore deeply personal subjects ranging from the search for true love and the role of faith in relationships to moral choices, personal growth, resilience, and military service. His works include As The Journey Begins, Looking Forward As The Journey Continues, The Footprints of an American Soldier, and stories in the Clay series.

In this interview, George discusses how his Mississippi upbringing shaped his worldview, how his Christian faith influences his writing, what his experiences in the military taught him, and why he believes true love involves something much deeper than physical attraction. He also shares what he hopes readers—especially younger readers—can learn about accepting change, making choices, and moving forward through life's inevitable twists and turns.

In this conversation:

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring compelling conversations with authors, experts, and fascinating guests sharing stories, ideas, and insights that inform, inspire, and entertain.

For listeners interested in Christian authors, faith-based books, military stories, true love, Christian relationships, personal growth, resilience, veterans, inspirational books, and finding purpose through faith, don't miss Ric Bratton's conversation with author and veteran George C. Mills.

Keywords

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What separated Steve Jobs from every other entrepreneur—and can those same habits help you succeed?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Dr. Robert Toguchi, author of The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, for a fascinating conversation about the mindset, daily habits, and leadership principles that helped Steve Jobs become one of the most influential innovators in modern history.

Rather than simply retelling the story of Apple's legendary co-founder, Dr. Toguchi explores the practical habits that fueled Jobs' extraordinary success. He explains how Jobs intentionally developed routines and behaviors that aligned with his core values, strengthened his decision-making, and supported his long-term vision of transforming the technology industry.

The discussion also compares Jobs' winning habits with those of other world-renowned entrepreneurs including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, and Larry Ellison. Listeners will discover how these successful leaders approached innovation, leadership, discipline, creativity, and personal growth—and how those principles can be applied in business and everyday life.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, manager, student, or simply someone looking to improve your productivity and leadership skills, this interview provides practical insights into developing habits that lead to lasting success.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, business strategy, personal development, and the success habits of some of the world's greatest business leaders, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. Robert Toguchi. The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs offers practical lessons that can help anyone build stronger habits, think more creatively, lead with purpose, and achieve long-term personal and professional success.

Dr. Robert Toguchi, The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, Steve Jobs, Apple, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, leadership, innovation, business leadership, personal development, success habits, executive leadership, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison, productivity, business strategy, startup success, leadership book, technology entrepreneur, business podcast, entrepreneurship podcast, leadership podcast, innovation podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, career success, leadership development, business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, success principles, Apple co-founder

What separated Steve Jobs from every other entrepreneur—and can those same habits help you succeed?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Dr. Robert Toguchi, author of The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, for a fascinating conversation about the mindset, daily habits, and leadership principles that helped Steve Jobs become one of the most influential innovators in modern history.

Rather than simply retelling the story of Apple's legendary co-founder, Dr. Toguchi explores the practical habits that fueled Jobs' extraordinary success. He explains how Jobs intentionally developed routines and behaviors that aligned with his core values, strengthened his decision-making, and supported his long-term vision of transforming the technology industry.

The discussion also compares Jobs' winning habits with those of other world-renowned entrepreneurs including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, and Larry Ellison. Listeners will discover how these successful leaders approached innovation, leadership, discipline, creativity, and personal growth—and how those principles can be applied in business and everyday life.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, manager, student, or simply someone looking to improve your productivity and leadership skills, this interview provides practical insights into developing habits that lead to lasting success.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, business strategy, personal development, and the success habits of some of the world's greatest business leaders, don't miss this insightful conversation with Dr. Robert Toguchi. The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs offers practical lessons that can help anyone build stronger habits, think more creatively, lead with purpose, and achieve long-term personal and professional success.

Dr. Robert Toguchi, The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs, Steve Jobs, Apple, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, leadership, innovation, business leadership, personal development, success habits, executive leadership, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Ellison, productivity, business strategy, startup success, leadership book, technology entrepreneur, business podcast, entrepreneurship podcast, leadership podcast, innovation podcast, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, career success, leadership development, business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, success principles, Apple co-founder

Getting promoted into management is exciting—but what happens when no one teaches you how to lead?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Noel Massie, former Vice President of Operations for UPS and author of Congrats! You’ve Been Promoted! Noel shares practical leadership strategies developed over a remarkable six-decade career, helping new managers confidently transition from individual contributor to respected leader.

In this insightful conversation, Noel explains why technical ability alone doesn't create successful managers. He discusses the importance of building trust, delivering meaningful feedback, understanding the needs of your team, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Drawing from decades of real-world leadership experience, he introduces proven frameworks like the B.E.S.T. Principle for productive employee conversations and the 4x5 Method for evaluating challenges from multiple perspectives.

Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role, managing a growing team, or looking to sharpen your management skills, Noel offers practical advice that can immediately improve communication, decision-making, and workplace performance.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.

If you're looking for practical leadership advice, management training, career development strategies, and proven techniques for becoming a more effective leader, don't miss this engaging conversation with Noel Massie. Congrats! You've Been Promoted! offers timeless leadership lessons that help new and experienced managers build stronger teams, earn trust, communicate effectively, and achieve long-term success.

Noel Massie, Congrats You've Been Promoted, leadership, leadership development, management, new manager, first-time manager, business leadership, employee engagement, team building, leadership skills, career advancement, workplace communication, executive leadership, servant leadership, management training, coaching employees, professional development, leadership book, UPS executive, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, business podcast, management podcast, leadership podcast, business success, workplace culture, employee feedback, career growth, organizational leadership, motivating employees, business interviews, leadership strategies, podcast interview

Getting promoted into management is exciting—but what happens when no one teaches you how to lead?

On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Noel Massie, former Vice President of Operations for UPS and author of Congrats! You’ve Been Promoted! Noel shares practical leadership strategies developed over a remarkable six-decade career, helping new managers confidently transition from individual contributor to respected leader.

In this insightful conversation, Noel explains why technical ability alone doesn't create successful managers. He discusses the importance of building trust, delivering meaningful feedback, understanding the needs of your team, and creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated. Drawing from decades of real-world leadership experience, he introduces proven frameworks like the B.E.S.T. Principle for productive employee conversations and the 4x5 Method for evaluating challenges from multiple perspectives.

Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role, managing a growing team, or looking to sharpen your management skills, Noel offers practical advice that can immediately improve communication, decision-making, and workplace performance.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and thought leaders covering business, health, personal development, technology, current events, and the issues that matter most to listeners everywhere.

If you're looking for practical leadership advice, management training, career development strategies, and proven techniques for becoming a more effective leader, don't miss this engaging conversation with Noel Massie. Congrats! You've Been Promoted! offers timeless leadership lessons that help new and experienced managers build stronger teams, earn trust, communicate effectively, and achieve long-term success.

Noel Massie, Congrats You've Been Promoted, leadership, leadership development, management, new manager, first-time manager, business leadership, employee engagement, team building, leadership skills, career advancement, workplace communication, executive leadership, servant leadership, management training, coaching employees, professional development, leadership book, UPS executive, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, business podcast, management podcast, leadership podcast, business success, workplace culture, employee feedback, career growth, organizational leadership, motivating employees, business interviews, leadership strategies, podcast interview

What happens when your life changes overnight with a diagnosis that seems impossible to overcome?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Janet McDowell shares the remarkable true story behind her memoir, Chasing a Light in the Darkness: A Story of Resilience in the Face of Unrelenting Medical Challenges.

Shortly after her 61st birthday, Janet was diagnosed with lymphocytic leukemia—a disease often treatable in children but far more difficult for older adults. What followed was a years-long battle that included two near-death experiences, a stem cell transplant, serious rejection complications, and countless setbacks.

Yet through every obstacle, Janet refused to surrender hope.

In this deeply personal conversation, Janet discusses:

Whether you've faced illness yourself, cared for a loved one, or simply need encouragement during difficult times, Janet's story is a powerful reminder that hope can shine even in life's darkest moments.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected syndicated radio shows and podcasts, heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. Each week, Ric brings listeners compelling conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, medical experts, business innovators, and extraordinary individuals whose stories educate, inspire, and entertain.

If you're searching for inspiration through cancer recovery, leukemia survivor stories, medical memoirs, stem cell transplant experiences, caregiver support, resilience, hope, and overcoming life's greatest challenges, don't miss this moving conversation with Janet McDowell.

https://www.jlmcdowell.com

https://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Light-Darkness-resilience-unrelenting/dp/B0GFCX6X3V

https://mainspringbooks.com

Keywords

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How do we move forward after profound loss? And what if the greatest healing begins by listening to the wisdom already within us?

Author Ellen Fitzke joins Ric Bratton to discuss her deeply personal and inspiring book, Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss. Through heartfelt stories and thoughtful reflections, Ellen invites readers on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening.

Together, they explore questions many people ask during life's most difficult moments: Are we ever truly alone? Does the soul live on? Can unconditional love exist beyond loss? Ellen shares how embracing life's challenges, releasing guilt, and learning to trust the soul's journey can lead to greater peace, purpose, and a renewed appreciation for the present moment.

This conversation offers comfort and encouragement for anyone navigating grief, searching for spiritual meaning, or seeking hope after experiencing loss. Ellen's message reminds us that every experience—even our most difficult ones—can become an opportunity for growth, healing, and deeper understanding.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.

If you're interested in grief recovery, life after loss, spirituality, soul growth, healing, unconditional love, mindfulness, and finding hope through life's greatest challenges, you won't want to miss this thoughtful conversation with Ellen Fitzke, author of Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss.

Keywords:  Ellen Fitzke, Conversations with My Soul, grief recovery, healing after loss, life after loss, spirituality, soul journey, soul growth, unconditional love, life after death, coping with grief, emotional healing, mindfulness, self-discovery, finding hope, spiritual awakening, personal growth, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, spiritual podcast, grief support, healing journey 

How do we move forward after profound loss? And what if the greatest healing begins by listening to the wisdom already within us?

Author Ellen Fitzke joins Ric Bratton to discuss her deeply personal and inspiring book, Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss. Through heartfelt stories and thoughtful reflections, Ellen invites readers on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening.

Together, they explore questions many people ask during life's most difficult moments: Are we ever truly alone? Does the soul live on? Can unconditional love exist beyond loss? Ellen shares how embracing life's challenges, releasing guilt, and learning to trust the soul's journey can lead to greater peace, purpose, and a renewed appreciation for the present moment.

This conversation offers comfort and encouragement for anyone navigating grief, searching for spiritual meaning, or seeking hope after experiencing loss. Ellen's message reminds us that every experience—even our most difficult ones—can become an opportunity for growth, healing, and deeper understanding.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.

If you're interested in grief recovery, life after loss, spirituality, soul growth, healing, unconditional love, mindfulness, and finding hope through life's greatest challenges, you won't want to miss this thoughtful conversation with Ellen Fitzke, author of Conversations with My Soul: Stories and Reflections on Life, Death, and Love After Loss.

Keywords:  Ellen Fitzke, Conversations with My Soul, grief recovery, healing after loss, life after loss, spirituality, soul journey, soul growth, unconditional love, life after death, coping with grief, emotional healing, mindfulness, self-discovery, finding hope, spiritual awakening, personal growth, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, spiritual podcast, grief support, healing journey 

What if the challenges standing in your way could become the very tools that help you transform your life?

Paul Boerger joins Ric Bratton to discuss his book, The Alchemist’s Way, and the leadership principles that can help people turn adversity into opportunity, uncertainty into purpose, and personal struggles into meaningful growth.

Drawing from nearly 40 years of experience as a technology executive, leadership mentor, and author, Paul shares six foundational principles for lasting success: Goal Setting, Belief, Character, Vitality, Consistency, and Servant Leadership. He explains how these principles can help individuals strengthen their confidence, build resilience, lead with integrity, and remain focused on what truly matters.

The conversation explores the importance of believing in yourself, developing strong personal character, maintaining the energy needed to pursue your goals, and serving others through authentic leadership. Whether you are leading a company, a team, a family, or simply trying to create positive change in your own life, Paul offers practical guidance for moving forward with clarity and purpose.

Paul Boerger is an author, technology executive, and leadership mentor with nearly four decades of leadership experience. Through The Alchemist’s Way, he encourages readers to recognize their potential, embrace transformation, and turn life’s obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Keywords:  Paul Boerger, The Alchemist’s Way, leadership development, personal transformation, servant leadership, goal setting, resilience, finding purpose, belief and confidence, character development, leadership principles, overcoming challenges, personal growth, executive leadership, business leadership, consistency, motivation, success mindset, life purpose, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, author interview, inspirational podcast, leadership podcast 

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide. With more than 20,000 interviews throughout his broadcasting career, Ric Bratton brings listeners meaningful conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and inspirational guests.

Discover how goal setting, belief, resilience, character, consistency, personal transformation, and servant leadership can help you create a more purposeful life. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Paul Boerger, author of The Alchemist’s Way.