Can poetry and music help us see life's challenges in a new light?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author, poet, and songwriter Carolyn Luger Vermes discusses her inspiring collection, Poetry in Motion: Expanded Edition. Blending original poems, song lyrics, and thoughtful reflections, Carolyn explores the emotions, challenges, humor, and hope that connect us all.

The book is organized into six sections that touch on many of life's everyday experiences, offering compassionate insights and uplifting perspectives. Carolyn believes that poetry and music are inseparable forms of expression, each capable of encouraging, healing, and inspiring readers and listeners alike.

During this engaging conversation, Carolyn shares how her lifelong love of music and writing shaped her creative journey, why optimism is a recurring theme throughout her work, and how even life's endings often become the beginning of something new. She also discusses her original songs, including UPLIFT, and explains how words and music together can bring comfort, encouragement, and renewed purpose.

Whether you're a longtime poetry lover, a songwriter, an aspiring writer, or someone looking for inspiration during challenging times, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into creativity, resilience, forgiveness, hope, and the beauty found in everyday life.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, entertainers, health experts, business leaders, and innovators who share stories, insights, and ideas that educate, inspire, and entertain listeners around the globe.

If you're searching for uplifting poetry, inspirational books, meaningful conversations, or encouragement through music and creative expression, this episode with Carolyn Luger Vermes delivers timeless wisdom and heartfelt inspiration. Don't miss this memorable conversation.

Keywords.  Carolyn Luger Vermes, Poetry in Motion, inspirational poetry, poetry collection, uplifting poetry, poems, song lyrics, songwriting, inspirational books, personal growth, hope, forgiveness, resilience, encouragement, motivation, creativity, poetry podcast, poetry interview, author interview, books about hope, inspirational author, positive thinking, life reflections, music and poetry, This Week in America, Ric Bratton 

What happens when love defies the oldest traditions in the universe?

On this episode of This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author Johnny Littlejohn Jr. discusses his imaginative fantasy novella, The Legendary Tauran'creima: Forbidden Escapades. Set in a universe inhabited by celestial beings, the story follows Museala and Serenity, whose forbidden romance challenges ancient beliefs and explores the power of love, passion, and personal freedom.

Johnny shares the inspiration behind creating the world of Tauran'creima, the influence of anime, fantasy literature, and video games on his writing, and why he believes authors should embrace originality instead of following conventional storytelling. The conversation also explores creativity, perseverance, world-building, and the importance of remaining true to your artistic vision.

If you enjoy fantasy fiction, science fiction, anime-inspired storytelling, and interviews with independent authors, you'll enjoy this fascinating conversation.

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, featuring conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, entertainers, health experts, business leaders, and innovators who share stories, insights, and ideas that educate, inspire, and entertain listeners around the world.

Whether you're a longtime fantasy reader, an aspiring writer, or simply enjoy imaginative storytelling, this episode explores the creative process behind building original worlds, unforgettable characters, and stories that challenge tradition while celebrating individuality. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Johnny Littlejohn Jr.

Keywords.  Johnny Littlejohn Jr., The Legendary Taurancreima, Forbidden Escapades, fantasy books, fantasy author, science fiction, sci-fi fantasy, high fantasy, fantasy romance, forbidden love, world building, anime inspiration, anime fantasy, creative writing, independent author, indie books, speculative fiction, fantasy interview, author interview, book podcast, Museala, Serenity, celestial beings, magical universe, storytelling, imagination, This Week in America, Ric Bratton 

Have Christians misunderstood some of the Bible's most commonly accepted teachings for centuries?
 On this episode of This Week in America, Ric Bratton welcomes Gary Randall Wallace, author of To Hell with the Devil: It's Time to Blow the Lid off Lucifer's Coffin, for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges traditional interpretations of Scripture.

Drawing on more than forty years of Bible study, theological training, and ministry experience, Wallace presents his biblical perspective on Lucifer, Satan, false doctrines, and the importance of examining Scripture for yourself. His book encourages believers to revisit familiar passages, ask difficult questions, and seek a deeper understanding of God's Word.

Whether you agree with his conclusions or simply enjoy conversations that explore faith, theology, and biblical interpretation, this interview offers an engaging look at one author's passionate search for truth.

 In this interview:
• The biblical case behind Wallace's interpretation of Lucifer and Satan
• Why he believes certain church doctrines deserve closer examination
• The importance of studying Scripture personally
• Faith, theology, and preparing for the future
• His decades-long journey in Christian ministry and biblical research

If you enjoy interviews about Christianity, biblical studies, faith, theology, Christian books, Bible prophecy, and spiritual growth, be sure to subscribe for more conversations with today's leading authors and experts.

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.

Author Gary Randall Wallace believes many long-held church doctrines deserve a fresh look through the lens of the Bible itself. In To Hell with the Devil: It's Time to Blow the Lid off Lucifer's Coffin, he presents a thought-provoking perspective on Lucifer, Satan, biblical interpretation, and why he believes Christians should examine Scripture more closely than tradition.

www.amazon.com

https://www.luciferexposed.com

https://primetechvirtual.com

 
Keywords: Gary Randall Wallace, To Hell with the Devil, Lucifer, Satan, Bible study, biblical interpretation, Christian theology, Christianity, Scripture, faith, Christian faith, Christian living, biblical truth, Bible prophecy, theology, spiritual growth, ministry, church history, religious doctrine, Christian author, author interview, Bible discussion, Jesus Christ, faith podcast, Christian podcast, religion, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, syndicated radio, podcast interview, Christian books, biblical teaching

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 and author Denise R. Green, whose book Work Life Brilliance offers a refreshing and practical approach to reducing stress, creating healthier habits, and finding greater fulfillment in every area of life.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, constantly busy, or frustrated by trying to "do it all," Denise shares why traditional ideas about work-life balance often leave people feeling exhausted. Instead, she offers simple, science-based strategies to help you reduce stress, build lasting habits, improve sleep, strengthen relationships, and create a more positive mindset. You'll also discover how to say "no" with confidence instead of guilt, overcome negative thinking, and develop routines that lead to lasting personal and professional success.

Whether you're a busy professional, manager, entrepreneur, parent, or anyone searching for greater purpose and less overwhelm, Work Life Brilliance provides practical tools to help you thrive instead of simply survive.

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 practical advice on work-life balance, stress management, productivity, habit change, executive coaching, personal growth, leadership, positive mindset, workplace wellness, mental well-being, better sleep, healthier relationships, or creating a more fulfilling life, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with Denise R. Green. Discover how small changes can lead to lasting transformation—and why true brilliance begins by rethinking the way you live and work.

Keywords.  work life balance, work life brilliance, Denise R. Green, executive coach, career success, workplace wellness, stress management, burnout prevention, burnout recovery, productivity, personal development, personal growth, professional development, leadership, executive leadership, leadership development, emotional intelligence, mindset, positive mindset, habit change, healthy habits, behavior change, time management, work stress, workplace stress, work life integration, employee wellness, corporate wellness, resilience, resilience at work, overcoming overwhelm, work overload, self improvement, self care, mental wellness, mental health at work, healthy lifestyle, better sleep, sleep improvement, goal setting, motivation, success habits, peak performance, workplace culture, communication skills, saying no without guilt, boundaries, work relationships, life fulfillment, career coaching, life coaching, employee engagement, business success, entrepreneur, professionals, women in leadership, thriving at work, wellness podcast, business podcast, self help, personal transformation, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author 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 and author Denise R. Green, whose book Work Life Brilliance offers a refreshing and practical approach to reducing stress, creating healthier habits, and finding greater fulfillment in every area of life.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, constantly busy, or frustrated by trying to "do it all," Denise shares why traditional ideas about work-life balance often leave people feeling exhausted. Instead, she offers simple, science-based strategies to help you reduce stress, build lasting habits, improve sleep, strengthen relationships, and create a more positive mindset. You'll also discover how to say "no" with confidence instead of guilt, overcome negative thinking, and develop routines that lead to lasting personal and professional success.

Whether you're a busy professional, manager, entrepreneur, parent, or anyone searching for greater purpose and less overwhelm, Work Life Brilliance provides practical tools to help you thrive instead of simply survive.

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 practical advice on work-life balance, stress management, productivity, habit change, executive coaching, personal growth, leadership, positive mindset, workplace wellness, mental well-being, better sleep, healthier relationships, or creating a more fulfilling life, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with Denise R. Green. Discover how small changes can lead to lasting transformation—and why true brilliance begins by rethinking the way you live and work.

Keywords.  work life balance, work life brilliance, Denise R. Green, executive coach, career success, workplace wellness, stress management, burnout prevention, burnout recovery, productivity, personal development, personal growth, professional development, leadership, executive leadership, leadership development, emotional intelligence, mindset, positive mindset, habit change, healthy habits, behavior change, time management, work stress, workplace stress, work life integration, employee wellness, corporate wellness, resilience, resilience at work, overcoming overwhelm, work overload, self improvement, self care, mental wellness, mental health at work, healthy lifestyle, better sleep, sleep improvement, goal setting, motivation, success habits, peak performance, workplace culture, communication skills, saying no without guilt, boundaries, work relationships, life fulfillment, career coaching, life coaching, employee engagement, business success, entrepreneur, professionals, women in leadership, thriving at work, wellness podcast, business podcast, self help, personal transformation, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, 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  

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