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It's being sold at gas stations, smoke shops and online, often marketed as a natural way to boost energy, relieve pain or relax. But a substance called kratom is sending people to emergency rooms with overdoses and even causing deaths. Dr. Peter Papadakos, professor of anesthesiology and critical care at the University of Rochester Medical Center, explained what it is and the dangers. AND, imagine losing your eyesight and suddenly struggling with things you've done your entire life, like reading your mail, cooking dinner, or getting around on your own. For 100 years, an organization called VISIONS has been helping people overcome those challenges. I spoke with VISIONS CEO Molly Eagan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At a time when Americans can seem divided over just about everything, Faith & Blue Weekend tries to bring communities and law enforcement together to get to know and listen to one another. The Reverend Markel Hutchins, is the driving force and creator of Faith & Blue weekend. AND, every once in a while – maybe once or twice a generation, an athlete comes along who doesn’t just dominate their sport — they change it. Robin Lundberg takes a look at one of those athletes in his new book: CAITLIN CLARK: From the Logo” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teachers have always spent some of their own money on their classrooms, but today some are buying everything from pencils and books to snacks for their students. DonorsChoose is there to help close that gap. I spoke with the group’s CEO, Alix Guerrier. And, we’ve been calling children’s mental health a national emergency for nearly five years now but for far too many families, finding help can still mean long waits, fighting with insurance, or ending up in an emergency room with nowhere else to go. I discussed the problems with Heidi Baskfield, Vice President at the Children's Hospital Association. ChildrensHospitals.Org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades we've talked about women trying to break through the glass ceiling. But are they being held back by a bigger problem? A decade ago Kathryn Jacob and Sue Unerman wrote a book titled: The Glass Wall, about all those pesky rules and expectations that can separate men and women long before they get to that corner office. They both joined me and told me what has changed in those 10-years. AND, becoming an American can take years — and even after someone earns a green card, that final step toward citizenship can still feel intimidating. Now Welcome.US is trying to make that last mile a little less lonely, matching aspiring citizens with everyday Americans who can help them prepare. I discussed it all with Nazanin Ash, CEO of Welcome.US. And Andy Sullivan Executive Director of No One Left Behind. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than 2-decades, Wounded Warrior Project has helped veterans deal with the wounds of war — and increasingly, the toughest wounds are the ones we can't see. I discussed it with Walt Piatt, Chief Executive Officer of Wounded Warrior Project AND, we all have bad days and stressful weeks — but how do you know when those feelings have crossed the line into something that may require help? Dr. Christine Crawford is a psychiatrist and the new Chief Medical Officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty-five years after the attacks of September 11, 2001, an entire generation of Americans has grown up knowing 9/11 as history rather than personal memory. One effort to make sure the day continues to have meaning is 9/11 Day. I discussed it with Jay Winuk, co-founder of 9/11 Day. AND, from rats in subway tunnels to raccoons raiding garbage cans - our cities are becoming some of the world's newest ecosystems. In his fascinating new book, Our Wild Familiars, award-winning writer and epidemiologist Dr. Dan Werb explores how wildlife isn't just surviving alongside us, it's evolving because of us. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Identity theft used to mean somebody got your credit-card number or Social Security number. Today, criminals can get into your phone, take over your accounts and even use AI to sound—or look—like someone you trust. I discussed how we could protect ourselves with Eva Velasquez – CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center. AND, Artificial Intelligence is already in our classrooms whether schools and teachers are ready for it or not. I spoke with Joy Okoro, Chief Impact & Operating Officer at Teach For America about best practices for students, teachers and parents. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve been told to fear carbs, avoid fat, ditch gluten, stop eating after 7 and occasionally “detox” our bodies — but how much of that is actually backed by science? Mayo Clinic dietitian Tara Schmidt joined me for a fun chat the facts and myths about nutrition. AND, this summer marks two of the most significant moments in Anne Frank's story. Dr. Chevy Humphrey, President and CEO, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, told me about their newest exhibit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, doctors have warned that antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest public health threats of our time. Now, as home medical kits containing prescription antibiotics become more widely marketed, Dr. Peter Papadakos , Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care at the University of Rochester, is concerned about their dangers to an unknowing public. AND, August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month, and while SMA was once considered one of the most devastating genetic diseases affecting children, the last decade has brought remarkable breakthroughs. Jamie Gibson, Chief Development Officer at CureSMA.Org discussed it with me. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For thousands of veterans in our country, the toughest battle doesn't end when they leave the military — it continues as they transition back into civilian life and the workplace. I discussed the issues affecting Veterans in the workplace, with Shannon Walker, CEO of Northwest Battle Buddies AND there are few things better on a hot summer day than an ice-cold beer. And it just so happens that August is International Beer Month. Dr. Malcolm Purinton, Beer and World History scholar at Northeastern University, told me about the history of Brewskis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting men. The good news is that screening, diagnosis, and treatment have all advanced significantly in recent years. Gina Carithers, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation told me where we’re still failing. AND, already this year, 12 children in the United States have died after being left in or becoming trapped inside hot cars. Laura Dunn, Senior Safety Specialist with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, explained how it happens and how we can prevent a tragedy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July is Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month, shining a light on a group of rare cancers that many Americans have never even heard of, despite thousands of people being diagnosed every year. I spoke with Raymond Rodriguez-Torres, Chairman of the Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation AND, as we approach the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, we're reminded that for many people, the health effects of that day are still unfolding. Dr. Leigh Wilson, Medical Director, NYC Health + Hospitals WTC Health Program Clinical Center of Excellence explained why and told me about where they could get help. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is arguably one of the most misunderstood things in our country. Food labels and what they do and DON’T mean. I got some clarity from Dr. Bryan Quoc Le a food scientist, food industry consultant, and author of the book 150 Food Science Questions Answered. AND, distracted driving continues to take thousands of lives every year in our country, but one program is working to change that by letting young people deliver the message to their own generation. Julia Garner, founder of Project Yellow Light, told me about the effort. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we celebrate our 250th anniversary, it's a great time to revisit some of the stories we all think we know. Historian Kenneth C. Davis - author of the Don’t Know Much Series of Books – joined me to separate myth from history. AND the Smithsonian is treating our 250th like it like more than a birthday party. Monique Chism, the Smithsonian’s Under Secretary for Education, explained the ‘Our Shared Future: 250’ program. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 40-million people worldwide are living with AIDS….more than a million contracted the disease last year alone….and well over half a million died even though tens of millions were treated for the illness. I discussed the fight and how much further we have to go, with Anne Aslett global Chief Executive Officer of the Elton John AIDS Foundation AND, as we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 250th Anniversary I looked at the best-known group that supports our military, the USO - United Service Organizations - with Kimberly DeVries, a 24-year Army veteran who now helps lead USO operations across Central and South Florida. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the U.S., someone dies from heart disease every 33 seconds. Men face a higher risk, yet many are reluctant to see a doctor for regular screenings. I spoke with Dr. Jane Wilcox, associate chief of cardiology at Northwestern Medicine, about why Father’s Day is the perfect time to encourage dad to take care of his heart health. AND, raising a kid in this day and age is arguably more difficult than it has ever been. Whether it is screen time or social media, to on-line bullying and AI porn leading to unhealthy sleep and body-image issues, to depression......or even suicide. I discussed it all with Dr. Tiffany Munzer, the lead author on our digital ecosystem policy for the American Academy of Pediatrics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month, and the numbers continue to raise concern. Firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States, while millions more young people are exposed to gun violence each year. David Hayes Cox, a certified firearms instructor, has written a new book which aims to combat the issue. It is titled: This Is a Gun AND, firefighters, police officers and EMS crews depend on their hearing every day, but the constant exposure to sirens, radios, alarms and emergency equipment can take a real toll over time. Dr. Ryan Potter, Vice President of Audiology at HearingLife joined me to discuss that and the overall issue of hearing loss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The World Cup is like the Olympics, Super Bowl and March Madness all rolled into one — a global event that stops entire countries in their tracks. It gets under way this week and millions of Americans who may not normally watch soccer are suddenly getting curious about what makes the sport so beloved around the world. I discussed it with Nick Greene - who explores the world-wide fascination with this sport in his new book How to Watch Soccer Like a Genius. When school lets out for the summer, many thousands of kids across our country lose access to something families may rely on every day: school breakfasts and lunches. Food security. Rachel Sabella, with No Kid Hunry.ORG, explained how widespread the issue is and what we can do about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak with lots of groups that do a LOT of good to help people in need, but I’m not sure any of them are quite like World Central Kitchen. They’ve only been around for about 16-years, but the impact they’ve made in that time has been immeasurable. I found out more about their mission with Juan Camilo, Response Director with World Central Kitchen AND, severe bleeding from trauma is a leading cause of preventable death for people of all ages. Experts estimate that thousands of lives could be saved every year with faster access to trauma care. Dr. Carlos Palacio of the American College of Surgeons told me about the Stop the Bleed program See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Memorial Day is one of the most recognized holidays in our country, but many people don’t really understand the history behind it or even what the day is truly meant to honor. I discussed true meaning and history of the holiday with historian Ken Davis….Author of the ”Don’t Know Much” series of books. His website is DontKnowMuch.Com AND, as we kick off summer, if you’ve got a dog or a cat, you know—they’re family. But if your pet had an emergency, would you know how to respond? Clara Correa-Geraci, a Red Cross volunteer, had some advice which could help save your best friend’s life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For a lot of Americans – young and not-so-young, personal financial basics like budgeting, credit, saving—is Greek to them. I discussed their importance and how learning about those things is making a comeback, when I spoke with Steve Bumbaugh from the Council for Economic Education. AND, Stroke and brain aneurysms can happen fast, and for many families, they come completely out of nowhere. My colleague here at iHeartRadio Miami Jada Williams is using her story to help others recognize the warning signs before it’s too late. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is arguably the first big decision a young adult makes in their life. Where they'll go to college.....or whether to go at all. You might be dealing with it right now……And, that process can be overwhelmingly stressful for both the child AND the parent. I discussed it with Beth Heller Gelles, author of: Crazy for College AND, did you know that Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer? This year, nearly a quarter of a million Americans will be diagnosed with Melanoma….thousands will die from it. Dr. Marc Hurlbert from the Melanoma Research Alliance, helps us better understand the disease. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American’s understanding and acceptance of the idea of being on the Autism Spectrum has changed dramatically over the last decade or two. The Autism Society of America has been at the center of that push for change……I discussed those changes with Joseph Joyce, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America AND April was Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and for millions of people, this isn’t just a headline—it’s daily life. John Lehr/President & CEO, Parkinson’s Foundation and Robert Baittie, a person living with Parkinson’s Disease, joined me to talk about why it is such complex disease we still don’t fully understand it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April has been World Wish Month, a time when Make-A-Wish Foundation shines a spotlight on the life-changing impact their wishes have for children facing critical illnesses. Manny Munoz discussed the impact with Dr. James Fahner, pediatric cancer specialist, and Founding Chairperson for Make-A-Wish America’s National Medical Advisory Council. AND, Earth Day may be behind us, but the bigger question is what happens after the headlines and the coverage fades. Sara Espinoza, President and CEO of the National Environmental Education Foundation, joins Manny to expound on that. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Early detection is the key to surviving everything from Cancer to Heart Disease, yet a disturbing number of us fail to do the simple things, like routine screenings. I discussed that with Jody Hoyos, CEO, Prevent Cancer Foundation AND fishing might be one of the oldest things known to mankind, but it still hooks us in a very modern way. I found out what it is about fishing that hooks us, with Mark Kurlansky author of TO CATCH A FISH: Essays on the Joy, Frustration, Curiosity, and Allure of Fishing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April is Autism Awareness; some call it Autism Acceptance Month. But today we’re discussing a different kind of story about Autism. It’s a story, about being on the spectrum, but also about family love, resilience, perseverance and how to handle bullying - while not allowing society to define you who are. I discussed with Leland Vittert…..a journalist……host of On Balance on NewsNation and co-author of: Born Lucky: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colorectal cancer is the fastest-growing cancer in younger Americans and has officially become the leading cause of cancer deaths for men under 50, and second for women under 50. Dr. James McCormick, a respected surgeon and Professor of Surgery, Drexel University College of Medicine, Chairperson, Colon/Rectal Cancer Program to me why. AND, when most of us think about our military it instills a sense of pride in our country. And the epitome of that vision is often a Navy Seal. Commander Jack Ratliff, has written a memoir about how the experience changed his life. It is titled Riding the White Bull: The Making of a Navy SEAL. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Black History Month draws to a close, we take a closer look at an organization that’s quietly shaped generations of opportunity. Dr. Walter Kimbrough, Executive Vice President at UNCF joined me to talk about the legacy and future of the United Negro College Fund. AND would you know what to do if you or someone you were with was poisoned? It happens to someone every few seconds in our country. I discussed the dangers with Dr. Krys Johnson, Epidemiologist for America's Poison Centers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For some reason, when we think of heart disease in our country, we think it only affects men. But, the number of women diagnosed with heart disease every year is significant. Celina Gorre CEO of WomenHeart and I discussed the disconnect. AND, you’d think a hospital is one of the safest places you could go in our society, but that hasn’t always been the case. But, not for the reasons you’d think. Dr Chris DeRienzo, Chief Physician Executive and Senior Vice President at the American Hospital Association told me about the strides they’ve made in improving outcomes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Manny Munoz discusses the history behind Black History Month this year because, if the math is right, this marks the 50th anniversary of our country officially recognizing February as Black History Month. Manny Munoz spoke with the Rev. Dr. Terrlyn Curry Avery, author of Dismantling Racism: Healing Separation From the Inside Out, about its history and continued significance. AND, eating disorders affect millions of Americans, yet they are still widely misunderstood and often go undetected until serious harm is done. Registered dietitian Lee Cotton spoke with Manny Munoz about that issue and about February being National Eating Disorders Awareness Month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunday evening well over 100-million Americans will be tuning in to watch the Super Bowl, but many wont be watching for the game or even the halftime show, they’ll be watching for the ads. Dave Shoffner of SpotBowl.Com AND, as we celebrate Black History Month, I thought it interesting to share an often overlooked chapter in American History an alliance between Native Americans and formerly Enslaved Black Families. Recounted in The book: The Free and the Dead – the untold story of the Black Seminole Chief, the Indigenous Rebel and America’s Forgotten War, by Jamie Holmes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IHeartRadio has been conducting a Thank a Teacher Campaign. That campaign has been powered by DonorsChoose. Manny Munoz got an update on the campaign from Alix Guerrier, the CEO of DonorsChoose. AND, more than 40 million Americans lost tens of billions of dollars last year alone to fraud, scams, and identity theft. Jonathan Walton is a victim-turned scam artist vigilante. He detailed his experience and how we can avoid becoming victims in his book titled Anatomy of a Con Artist: The 14 Red Flags to Spot Scammers, Grifters, and Thieves. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January of 1986 was the first official federal observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Manny Munoz discussed why we celebrate it and the day’s significance with historian Kenneth C. Davis, author of the “Don’t Know Much” series of books. His most recent is titled The World in Books: 52 Works of Great Short Nonfiction. And January is National Blood Donor Month. While the title might be self-explanatory, the impact is much more than just a name. Rodney Wilson, national spokesperson for the Red Cross, told Manny Munoz how. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re living in a day and age where tens of millions of American families are working harder than ever, with less to show for it. Dr. Willie Jolley a Hall of Fame speaker and best-selling author spoke with Manny Munoz about his new book, Rich Is Good, Wealthy Is Better. And have you noticed that some of these modern, futuristic cars have the worst headlights? They can be and often are blinding to oncoming drivers. Manny Munoz discussed the issue with Dr. Peter Papadakos, Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care at the University of Rochester. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millions of Americans will either become new pet owners or receive a pet as a holiday gift. But too many go into pet ownership without a real understanding of the joys and responsibilities that come with it. Dr. Michael Bailey, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association, discussed the issue with Manny Munoz. And this time of year, many of us are in the holiday spirit attending parties, gatherings, and celebrations. For others, though, it isn’t a very joyous time of year. Tens of millions of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Dr. Matthew Rudorfer, Chief of the Psychopharmacology Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health, gave Manny Munoz some clarity on the issue. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the time of year when many of us start thinking about a better version of ourselves making New Year’s resolutions, often focused on self-improvement. Invariably, most of those vows don’t stick. Manny Munoz spoke with Stephanie Stolzenbach, Senior Director of Individual and Family Therapy at Charlie Health, for advice on how to approach the idea more realistically. And music is something so many of us turn to manage stress, shift our mood, and more. Why does it help, and what makes music connect with us so deeply? Manny Munoz got answers from Dr. Robert Zatorre, a cognitive neuroscientist at McGill University and author of From Perception to Pleasure: The Neuroscience of Music and Why We Love It. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week—December 17th—marks the anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ first flight, 121 years ago. Manny discussed how they pulled it off and just how far aviation has come with Nick Engler—an author, pilot, flight historian, and director of the Wright Brothers Aeroplane Company. AND, one of the things that can help anyone turn their life around is gaining a better understanding of how to manage money. Manny learned about a group helping Americans do just that from Kevin Boucher, Director of HOPE Global Forums for Operation HOPE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s hard to believe, but three or four generations have passed since World War II. This weekend marks the 84th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941. Manny had the chance to speak with David Kilton, who leads Interpretation, Education, and Visitor Services at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. AND, there’s another conversation happening in homes across the country: should parents let their kids play certain sports, given growing concerns about brain injuries? Manny explored this issue with Bruce Parkman, author of Youth Contact Sports and Broken Brains: Understanding the Hidden Risks of Mental Illness from Early Exposure to Concussive Trauma. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s one of the stark realities of the world we live in today… 1 in 4 Americans serve as caregivers, with millions providing care for loved ones with disabilities or complex medical conditions. Manny Munoz discussed it with Megan O’Reilly, Vice President of Government Affairs for Health and Family at AARP. AND, nearly 40 million Americans have diabetes, and about half will develop diabetic retinopathy the leading cause of irreversible blindness in working-age adults. Manny got insight on the illness from Dr. Geoffrey Emmerson, President of the American Society of Retina Specialists. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new school year means more than just back-to-school shopping it’s also Campus Safety Awareness Month. Manny talks with Laura Egan, Interim Associate Executive Director at the Clery Center, about what students and families need to know. Plus, with...

It’s been 24 years since the 9/11 terror attacks. The unity that once brought us together has faded, but each year we honor the anniversary through the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance. Manny speaks with Jay Winuk, Co-founder & Executive Vice...

This episode explores the history and meaning behind Labor Day with historian Kenneth C. Davis, author of the “Don’t Know Much” series. Plus, we recognize National Suicide Prevention Month with Bob Gebbia, CEO of the American Foundation for Suicide...

On this episode, IHeartRadio’s Thank a Teacher Campaign powered by DonorsChoose takes center stage. Manny Munoz sat down with Alix Guerrier, CEO of DonorsChoose, to dive into the impact this partnership is having on classrooms across the country....

If football is America’s pastime, golf has become part of our DNA and August is National Golf Month. Manny Munoz sits down with Mike Trostel, Director of the World Golf Hall of Fame, to talk about the sport’s rich history and its lasting place in our...

Nothing hits the spot on a sweltering summer day quite like an ice-cold beer — and August just happens to be International Beer Month. Manny Munoz sits down with Dr. Malcolm Purinton of Northeastern University, who teaches the History of Beer,...

Nothing hits the spot on a sweltering summer day quite like an ice-cold beer — and August just happens to be International Beer Month. Manny Munoz sits down with Dr. Malcolm Purinton of Northeastern University, who teaches the History of Beer,...

📱 Parenting in the Age of Social Media One of the top concerns for parents today is managing kids' screen time and navigating the risks of social media. Manny talks with Dr. Kara Alaimo, associate professor of communication at Fairleigh Dickinson...

Manny Munoz dives into two important topics you’ve probably heard about—but may not fully understand. First, food recalls. We see headlines about salmonella, E. coli, or other hard-to-pronounce contaminants all the time. But what do these recalls...

Manny Munoz covers topics that matter to your safety, health, and well-being. Did you know over 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the U.S. last year? Manny speaks with Triple A’s Mark Jenkins about how these thefts happen, how to protect yourself, and...

GLP-1s — they’ve been called the biggest breakthrough since Viagra, but their cultural impact may be even greater. What exactly are they, and how did they become such a game-changer in the world of health and wellness? Manny Munoz sits down with Dave...