
This Week in America with Ric Bratton
Politics
This Week in America is about issues that matter to you. This Week in America is informative, educational and entertaining. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton.
Location:
United States
Description:
This Week in America is about issues that matter to you. This Week in America is informative, educational and entertaining. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton.
Twitter:
@twiaradio
Language:
English
Website:
http://www.thisweekinamerica.us/
Episodes
Episode 3678: 100 Devotionals That Can Change Your Life
4/30/2026
100 Life-Challenging Devotionals: Emphasizes Evangelism and Christian Growth by Pat Mann
These devotionals are intended to evangelize, educate, and inspire individuals to greater Christian growth. Some of them are used as tools in leading others to come to faith in God through Jesus Christ. They do not follow any theme throughout, so they are in no particular order. Users should choose one they deem appropriate for the occasion for which it will be presented. Use the titles as a guide to choose just the right one. These devotionals are used by some groups as a prelude to a Bible study class or as an opening, preceding a committee or board meeting, either for a religious group or a civil gathering. They are useful in nursing homes, pastors or auxiliary planning meetings, youth events, and campfire events. Some of the devotionals are appropriate to use for a short children's sermon. Travel groups enjoy a brief morning devotional before the day's activities begin, either in motel lobbies or on a travel bus. They also make great gifts for any occasion, such as graduations, birthdays, bridal showers, Christmas, Mother's Day/Father's Day, Pastor Recognition Sunday, or just a gift that says, "Thank you for all you do." Think about adding this book as kind of a "stocking stuffer" add-on with another gift appropriate for the occasion. Some individuals enjoy using the devotionals in this book for their own personal "closet time with the Lord." "These are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name" (John 20:31 KJV).
Pat Mann has taught Bible lessons in many different settings, beginning at a very young age. Such settings include local church Bible classes, Vacation Bible School, Christian camps for youth and children, home Bible study groups, a thirty-five year weekly Bible lesson presented at the local county jail which continues to this day, and weekly Bible classes at two local nursing homes. She has served as education director at a local church, being in charge of the education program for all ages at that church. She has occasionally filled the pulpit in churches whose pastors are away, or for churches who currently have no pastor. She has always found it easier to write her own Bible lessons and devotionals rather than using pre-printed materials. She has served Woman’s Missionary Union, leading in missions education for youth at her local church, as well as serving as area director and a consultant on state and national levels of Women’s Missionary Union. She was commissioned by WMU to write a missions day camp unit used nationally, and om another occasion assisted in planning a year’s curriculum, also for WMU. She served as chaplain of a local nursing home for ten years, and continues to volunteer leading chapel services twice a week.
AMAZON
https://patmannbooks.com/
https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/
Duration:00:22:20
Episode 3677: Murder, Mystery & Romance in Key West
4/30/2026
A Killing in the Keys by Sue Andrews
After moving to Key West in semi-retirement, Wade Nevlin, the protagonist from Jacksonville Judas, finds a new love interest. This new, mysterious woman, finds a dead body shortly after hers and Wade’s chance meeting. Because she knew the man, Wade is not sure of her involvement. He must unravel the truth while protecting the ones he loves.
Author Bio: Sue first started writing at age 62 after 40 years in public-school education. She has been a member of the CA Inland Empire Writers Club (IECWC) for the past sixteen years and received the Jack London Award for service in 2021. For the last five years she has also been a member of the Diamond Valley Writers Guild and last year chosen to be in their animal Anthology collection entitled, Menagerie, also on Amazon.
Besides often writing in the monthly IECWC online magazines entitled Fresh Ink, (mostly memoirs) she has also written two other books. To Live and Love Again and Jacksonville Judas.
AMAZON
https://sueandrewsbooks.com
https://www.kingpagespress.com
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/43026kpp2.mp3
Duration:00:31:09
Episode 3676: A Leaf's Unexpected Adventure That Teaches Kids Courage
4/30/2026
The Leaf That Went On An Unexpected Road Trip by Laure Stack
A leaf explores the challenges of embracing new things and overcoming fears as he navigates different circumstances that are beyond his control. Join the leaf's heartwarming adventure from Hollywood and Joshua tree to the beach.
With over 20 years as an educator, Laure Stack has spent her career supporting children through their struggles and dreams. Her deep understanding of young minds leads to her heartwarming stories.
Through Once Upon a Boy, Howie the Unusual Bear and more future books, Laure hopes to inspire children to dream big and never let doubt keep them from reaching their full potential.
https://www.amazon.com/Leaf-That-Went-Unexpected-Road/dp/B0GS1QKCSV/ref=monarch_sidesheet_title
https://authorlaurestack.com
https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/43026lsec.mp3
Duration:00:27:43
Episode 3675: Are You Really Saved? A Powerful Look at Faith & Salvation
4/30/2026
Becoming the Moral Equal of God by Tim Effinger
Biblical illiteracy abounds. Many, maybe most, churchgoers are not saved at all. Most children growing up in Christian homes will reject Christianity before they are twenty-two years old. Many Christians cannot give an accurate definition of such words as salvation, repentance, or gospel. If you don't know what salvation is, how can you know if you are saved or not? Salvation is, by far, the most important topic to understand because if you are wrong about salvation, then you will spend eternity in hell. This book is written to bring much accurate detail to the subject of salvation, but in a way that any ordinary person can understand. You will learn what biblical repentance is. You will learn what salvation is and how you can gain salvation from Jesus Christ. You will learn what "believing in Jesus" means. This book will lead the unsaved to salvation in Jesus, and the saved will become better witnesses.
AMAZON
https://www.kingpagespress.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/43026kpp1.mp3
Duration:00:26:29
Episode 3674: Turn the Dial on Life: From Laughter to Loss in "Channels of Delight" by Daniel L. French
4/30/2026
Imagine the concept of tuning a radio to different stations. As the reader flips through the dial (turns the page), one frequency is a light whimsical poem, and the turning of the nob brings a sad and thought-provoking analogy of growing old, and next, the warm special-enjoyment of holding someone's hand. The reader will enjoy turning the dial and observing the life of two doves, and later, observing two ducks. (Yep, you're "gonna hafta" buy the book to read these fine works of literature.) As you read; enjoy "turning a knob" and finding something heartwarming, or tear jerking, or humorous or enlightening, or brilliant (well maybe not too bright) observations of life. I Promise, you will look forward to "changing the frequency", as you adjust the dial in "Channels of Delight".
Daniel French was born in Bluefield, West Virginia, and spent much of his youth in the Appalachian Mountains. After high school, he joined the Air Force and served as an Air Traffic Controller in Vietnam. Following his military service and time with the Federal Aviation Administration, he earned three college degrees and later taught Speech at Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington.
AMAZON
https://daniellfrenchbook.com
https://studioofbooks.org
Duration:00:24:33
Episode 3673: 2026-19seg3 Weekend of 5-2
4/24/2026
2026-19seg3 Weekend of 5-2
Duration:00:08:10
Episode 3672: 2026-19seg2 Weekend of 5-2
4/24/2026
2026-19seg2 Weekend of 5-2
Duration:00:16:20
Episode 3671: 2026-19seg1 Weekend of 5-2
4/24/2026
2026-19seg1 Weekend of 5-2
Duration:00:29:29
Episode 3670: 2026-19 Weekend of 5-2
4/24/2026
2026-19 Weekend of 5-2
Duration:00:29:29
Episode 3669: IS AMERICA LOSING ITS WAY? A FATHER-SON WAKE-UP CALL
4/23/2026
Dad, What Happened to your America? by Christian Terry Doyle
A son learning from his father's perspective on America through the lenses of events; past, present, and future.
Proud American, Utah Author. Wife, Angelina, 4 children: Desiree, Mckenzie, Jesse, and Bryan. Seven Grandchildren; Mya, Makena, Korbyn, Kamryn, Jude, Oliver, and Scarlet. Attended High School at Lehi High School, College at Utah Valley University. Currently working in the medical field, for the past 4 decades have worked as a Radiologic Technologist, Interventional Radiology Technologist, Cardiac Cath Lab Technologist, CT Scan Technologist, and MRI Technologist. Member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
AMAZON
https://christianterrydoyle.com
https://gothambooksinc.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42326gb1.mp3
Duration:00:22:21
Episode 3668: TEACH POWERFUL BIBLE LESSONS WITH ZERO PREP! P.J. MANN'S GAME-CHANGING GUIDE
4/23/2026
TEACH POWERFUL BIBLE LESSONS WITH ZERO PREP! P.J. MANN'S GAME-CHANGING GUIDE
Teacher Friendly Bible Lessons on Short Notice by P J Mann
This book contains fifty-two Bible lessons suitable for students from grade 6 to adult and is useful in several different settings: a year's supply of Bible study lessons in any classroom setting. The book includes lessons for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
These lessons are useful when a substitute teacher is needed on short notice. The substitute teacher may select a topic and teach an effective lesson with little or no preparation time.
Use as curriculum for an in-home Bible study group, for youth gatherings, for nursing home studies (either group or one-on-one), for jails or prisons, for special events (for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas holidays). Or perhaps an individual, at-home, personal Bible study, or any other group gathered to study the Bible.
These Bible lessons are intended to be easy to use for anyone who can read English. Teach a lesson with little or no preparation time. Those who are inexperienced in teaching Bible lessons will find these lessons easy to use.
Each lesson includes the following:
An index and description of each lesson is located at the front of this book.
Pat Mann has taught Bible lessons in many different settings, beginning at a very young age. Such settings include local church Bible classes, Vacation Bible School, Christian camps for youth and children, home Bible study groups, a thirty-five year weekly Bible lesson presented at the local county jail which continues to this day, and weekly Bible classes at two local nursing homes. She has served as education director at a local church, being in charge of the education program for all ages at that church. She has occasionally filled the pulpit in churches whose pastors are away, or for churches who currently have no pastor. She has always found it easier to write her own Bible lessons and devotionals rather than using pre-printed materials. She has served Woman’s Missionary Union, leading in missions education for youth at her local church, as well as serving as area director and a consultant on state and national levels of Women’s Missionary Union. She was commissioned by WMU to write a missions day camp unit used nationally, and om another occasion assisted in planning a year’s curriculum, also for WMU. She served as chaplain of a local nursing home for ten years, and continues to volunteer leading chapel services twice a week.
https://www.amazon.com/Teacher-Friendly-Bible-Lessons-Notice/dp/1644161575
https://patmannbooks.com/
https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42326pm1ec.mp3
Tea
Duration:00:21:44
Episode 3667: WHY MOST DRIVERS ARE DANGEROUS (AND DON'T EVEN KNOW IT)
4/23/2026
How's My Driving?: Why Every Other Driver Doesn't Seem to Have A Clue by Steve Dziadik
Dziadik presents an impassioned argument for defensive driving (awareness versus distraction) each and every time the reader gets behind the wheel of any motor vehicle.
Openly discussing incidents in his life and of his family in which automobile accidents left family members and strangers alike severely injured, Dziadik’s stated hope is that readers might be spared a possible future wreck. Deftly combining such personal experiences with well-researched and brilliantly rendered specific data points which have proven to lessen incidents of roadway accidents, the author has crafted a master plan with a proactive approach. Ten benchmark items, which he terms “Steve’s Theorems,” are presented and explored in depth.
“Remember, you get no do-overs when driving!” repeats Dziadik throughout, placing a fine point on his detailed arguments. One drives to get from point A to point B safely and intact, in a manner affecting no other drivers (or pedestrians, cyclists) with whom one shares the road, he explains. One does not drive for the sake of cell phone conversations, nor to do one’s makeup, last-minute shaving routine, or to dine while using the steering wheel as a makeshift table. The author pinpoints the primary culprit in nearly all accidents (including so-called “near misses”) as a distraction of one form or another. “The driver is intentionally or subconsciously allowing his or her attention to be diverted away from where it should be,” he writes. As such, mindful driving is front and center throughout.
Dziadik has done a rather remarkable job in combining his vast personal experiences behind the wheel (the good, the bad, and the medically injurious). He has used his decades-long observational study of others on the road—and even appropriately placed bits of humor—to create an informed, well-crafted plea to all who share the road to do so safely and appropriately.
Author Bio:
Steve Dziadik has been driving automobiles since a very young age. His early driving life was dotted with two life threatening accidents that he and his family were fortunate enough to survive. After retiring from the Commercial Nuclear Electrical Generation Industry, he spent several years involved with the sale of property and casualty insurance. His life experiences and unique perspective on driving safety have created a combination in him that makes what he says both instructional and interesting. He has recently authored a new book entitled “How’s My Driving? Why Every Other Driver Doesn’t Seem to Have a Clue!” His major goal in this book is to assist his readers in understanding that safe driving truly is no accident! Steve has provided free seminars to many local high schools over the last several years with well more than 10,000 students that have attended.
https://www.amazon.com/Hows-My-Driving-Driver-Doesnt/dp/196249795X
https://stevedziadik.com
https://www.auctoremhouse.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42326sdah.mp3
Duration:00:32:29
Episode 3666: FLASHES, FLOATERS, BLURRY VISION - WHAT YOUR EYES ARE TRYING TO TELL YOU
4/23/2026
Hey, Doc! What’s Wrong with My Eye?: A General Guide to Eye Symptoms by John C Barber, MD, FAAO
This book is a primer on eye disease. It is written for the nonphysician but would benefit physicians and paramedical personnel who are not eye physicians. Dr. Barber explains the common signs and symptoms of eye diseases and explains the usual treatments for these diseases, including glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and strabismus. It contains chapters about the ways diabetes, thyroid disease, AIDS, and other systemic diseases affect the eye. Several chapters explain the surgery for correction of cataracts, retinal detachment, crooked eyes, and glaucoma. There is a section on eye diseases of childhood. This book is recommended for employees in ophthalmic offices to better understand patient problems and the doctor's treatments.
Dr Barber has had a career in medical education serving as Chairman of Ophthalmology at The University of Texas in Galveston and St. Francis Medical Center in Pittsburgh. He trained at Washington University in St. Louis, Medical College of Virginia and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (Harvard)..He prides himself in being able to explain complicated diseases ant treatments in common understandable language for the average person.
AMAZON
http://johncbarber.com/
https://leavittpeakpress.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42326lpp.mp3
Duration:00:28:55
Episode 3665: CAN A TINY FLY TEACH KIDS ABOUT FAITH?
4/23/2026
That the Lord May Whistle: The Story of Chito the Gossiping Fly by Twylla De Coste
Chito is a bored, restless young fly who desires adventure! He especially doesn’t like how his daily home school and weekly Bible routine interrupts his freedom. Excited about his first adventure, he strays far from home, unaware of the surprise that awaits him.
“Little fly? There are a lot of hungry frogs, toads, and salamanders in those marshy fields.”
“My mother probably didn’t mean this field,” Chito fibbed to the large horsefly.
Framed in Bible verse, That the Lord May Whistle describes the importance of Shabbat/Sabbath, or the day of rest in the Lord. This unique explanation of the power of respect ultimately offers a resolution that is both entertaining and educating for children ages four to eight.
Twylla De Coste is a self-taught fiction writer led by God’s influence in her life. Her personal perspective about children and the many places she has lived is reflected in her stories. She is a former flight attendant, model, designer, and host for a pilot program in public broadcast television for latchkey children titled Community Focus with Twylla.
Twylla has worked in Christian children’s ministry in Asia and the United States since the age of eleven. She has also volunteered as a mentor for afterschool homework programs and helped develop at-risk preteen and teen curriculums. She is retired from a Fortune 500 company and lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.
https://www.amazon.com/That-Lord-May-Whistle-Gossiping/dp/1614487316/ref=monarch_sidesheet_title
https://twylladecosteauthor.com/
https://www.ecpublishingllc.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/42326tdcec.mp3
Duration:00:26:27
Episode 3664: AI ISN'T THE REAL DANGER...LANGUAGE IS? A MIND-BLOWING NEW PERSPECTIVE
4/16/2026
How The Rational Mind Repressed The Emotional Mind Into Submission Once We Got The Spoken Word by Chet Shupe
For most of human history, emotional intelligence guided our relationships, our communities, and our sense of belonging. But with the rise of language and rational systems, that ancient wisdom was quietly overshadowed. In this searching and deeply human book, Chet Shupe explores how the rational mind came to dominate the emotional mind — and how that shift shaped the world we now inhabit.
Blending evolutionary insight with cultural and spiritual reflection, Shupe reveals how civilization’s structures, though well‑intentioned, have left us disconnected from ourselves and one another. Rather than offering prescriptions, he opens a space for genuine reflection, suggesting that healing begins with rediscovering the emotional wisdom that once guided us — and trusting the human spirit to know what life requires.
Chet Shupe is an engineer, systems thinker, and philosopher whose work explores the hidden architecture of the human mind and the emotional foundations of meaning. With a background in control‑systems engineering, Shupe brings a unique perspective to questions of consciousness, belonging, and the evolution of human behavior. His technical training allows him to see the human species as a dynamic system — one that once operated in harmony with emotional intelligence, but became destabilized when language awakened the rational mind.
After decades of observing the quiet suffering that permeates modern life, Shupe began investigating why so many people feel disconnected from themselves and from one another. His inquiry led him to a profound conclusion: that emotional intelligence, not rational thought, was humanity’s original guidance system — and that its suppression lies at the heart of our spiritual disorientation.
Shupe writes with clarity, compassion, and philosophical depth, inviting readers to reconsider long‑held assumptions about civilization, morality, and progress. His work speaks to those who sense that something essential has been lost in the modern world and who are searching for a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.
AMAZON
https://www.spiritualfreedompress.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/2526kc1.mp3
Duration:00:25:23
Episode 3663: The Secrets Casinos DON'T Tell You About Craps (From a Real Dealer)
4/16/2026
The Secrets Casinos DON'T Tell You About Craps (From a Real Dealer)
Craps: All Secrets Revealed by Joubert W. Olson
Now you have the opportunity to learn this exciting game from an experienced games dealer.
Knowledge of a craps game can make the difference between winning and losing. Whether you’re a beginner player or an advanced one, knowledge of this game will help you win more bets on the better bets.
Craps: All Secrets Revealed shows you how to make bets, and where to put bets on the craps table. You will know rules about bets and etiquette that only experienced craps dealers would know. Learn the rules of the:
“Buy the 4…” and “Buy the 10…”
“Two-way yo…” “Down on my 8.” “All-day hard 6 and 8… and give me the two-six on the turn.”
Did you understand that?
Well, don’t feel like the lone ranger because there are a lot of people who don’t understand the above. After reading this manual, you will know.
You have the opportunity to master this exciting game. Know at a glance per the detailed graphics which bets are yours or anyone elses for that matter. This manual is for the beginner or the advanced player. There is a very informative question and answer section, with over 100 Q & A’s — ranging from the basics to the advanced. All terms are listed and carefully defined in the glossary.
“Everything you’ve always wanted to know about craps is in this book. The more you learn about this exciting game, the more fun you will have — it’s that easy.”
-Steve Urch — Pit Floorsupervisor
Harrah’s Bellingham, WA
Craps: All Secrets Revealed is by far the best book that I have ever read on the game of craps. It is possible that this book is the best ever written about the game of craps. This book should be used as a craps manual for training new craps dealers.
-Robert J. Anthony — 15 yr. Craps dealer
Harrah’s Tahoe
“This is the most comprehensive manual on how to play craps that we’ve ever seen. A terrific guide for anyone who loves this exciting, fast action game!”
-Lou Phillips — President C.O.O.
Harrah’s Northern Nevada at time of endorsment
https://bookstore.dorrancepublishing.com/products/craps-all-secrets-revealed
https://www.kingpagespress.com/
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/41626kpp2.mp3
Duration:00:33:18
Episode 3662: FROM AVERAGE TO ELITE: THE MINDSET SHIFT THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
4/16/2026
FROM AVERAGE TO ELITE: THE MINDSET SHIFT THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
Masterclass: How to Become a High Performer by Dr. R. K. Maddox
In this dynamic book, Dr. R. K. Maddox will teach Powerful Principles on how to become a High Performer. A lack of knowledge keeps people from achieving the very best in lie. This book will change your attitude about money, marriage, and momentum, and move you from Blessing to Blessing.
Bishop, Dr. R. K. Maddox pursued his education at NC Agricultural and Technical State University, the United States Navy and Christian Leadership University where he holds several certifications and degrees including a Doctor of Theology from Christian Leadership University located in Buffalo, New York.
AMAZON
https://www.kingpagespress.com
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/41626rkm.mp3
Duration:00:29:06
Episode 3661: DRY SKIN BRUSHING: A Simple Way to Detoxify, Rejuvenate & Renew Your Body with Susan Smith Jones, Ph
4/15/2026
When it comes to self-care and natural beauty routines, dry brushing has emerged as a standout practice. It’s simple, inexpensive and boasts a wide range of benefits that go beyond just exfoliating your skin. From boosting circulation to promoting lymphatic drainage to supporting a detox program, dry brushing has captured the attention of wellness enthusiasts, dermatologists and holistic practitioners alike. But what exactly is dry brushing, and is it really worth the hype? Today our guest, Susan Smith Jones, PhD, holistic health and lifestyle expert, will walk you through everything you need to know about dry brushing — from how it works and its potential benefits to step-by-step instructions and tips for making it a safe and effective part of your routine.
For over 40 years, Susan has been teaching people worldwide about the importance of year-round detoxification to keep the body healed, healthy, youthful and energetic and why dry skin brushing should be a part of most people’s healthy living practices.
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, detoxification and rejuvenation, 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 radio and TV talk show guest and motivational speaker; she’s also the author of many books, including her 2-book companion set of A HUG IN A MUG: Revitalize with Superfoods & Healthy Living Extras and UPLIFTED: 12 Minutes to More Joy, Faith, Kindness, Peace & Vitality. Refer to her website to find out how to get personally autographed copies of her books and more about Susan and her healthy, empowering, motivating and uplifted lifestyle.
SusanSmithJones.com
𝕏 @ Susan Smith Jones
https://www.instagram.com/susansmithjonesphd
http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/ssj144.mp3
Duration:00:47:11
Episode 3660: 2026-18seg3 Weekend of 4-25
4/13/2026
2026-18seg3 Weekend of 4-25
Duration:00:06:45
Episode 3659: 2026-18seg2 Weekend of 4-25
4/13/2026
2026-18seg2 Weekend of 4-25
Duration:00:17:45
