This Week in America with Ric Bratton

Ric Bratton
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This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected interview programs, featuring engaging conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, business experts, health professionals, entertainers, and innovators from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, each episode delivers practical advice, inspiring stories, expert insights, and thought-provoking discussions on topics that matter most—including health, wellness, personal development, parenting, finance, business, history, technology, current events, and culture. With more than 20,000 interviews conducted over a distinguished broadcasting career spanning six decades, Ric has earned a reputation for asking meaningful questions that uncover the stories, strategies, and life lessons behind every guest's success. His interview style has led legendary journalist Peter Jennings to describe him as "an author's best friend." Whether you're looking for inspiration, expert guidance, or simply a fascinating conversation, This Week in America brings you trusted voices, fresh perspectives, and compelling stories every week. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe and discover why listeners across America turn to This Week in America for conversations that inform, inspire, and entertain.

  1. 10h ago

    THUNDER DOG: 9/11 Survivor Michael Hingson on Roselle, Trust, Faith & Courage Weekend of 8-22-26 seg 3

    Michael Hingson was on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower on September 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. Blind from birth, Michael couldn't see the destruction unfolding around him—but at his feet was Roselle, his trusted guide dog. Michael Hingson joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his #1 New York Times bestselling book, THUNDER DOG: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero. As chaos engulfed the World Trade Center, Michael and Roselle began the long journey down 78 floors and toward safety. While terrified people, falling debris and uncertainty surrounded them, Roselle remained calm. Michael trusted her, Roselle trusted Michael, and together they demonstrated an extraordinary partnership in one of the darkest moments in American history. But Thunder Dog is more than a 9/11 survival story. Michael shares powerful lessons about trust, teamwork, faith, overcoming fear and refusing to allow blindness—or any perceived limitation—to determine what a person can accomplish. Ric and Michael discuss what happened inside the North Tower that morning, the remarkable bond between Michael and Roselle, how they relied on each other to survive, and how Michael's experiences have shaped his message in the years since September 11. The conversation also explores grief, loss and healing, the assumptions people make about blindness and disability, and why telling our stories can help create understanding and meaningful change. Praised by legendary broadcaster Larry King for celebrating "the power of the human and animal bond," Thunder Dog is an unforgettable story of courage, partnership and the extraordinary trust between a man and his guide dog. 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. For listeners interested in September 11 history, 9/11 survivor stories, guide dogs, blindness and disability awareness, faith, resilience, courage, overcoming adversity and the human-animal bond, don't miss Ric Bratton's compelling conversation with Thunder Dog author Michael Hingson.Keywords:  Michael Hingson, Michael Hingson interview, Thunder Dog, Thunder Dog book, Thunder Dog Michael Hingson, Roselle guide dog, Michael Hingson Roselle, 9/11 survivor, September 11 survivor, World Trade Center survivor, World Trade Center North Tower, September 11 2001, 9/11 stories, Ground Zero, guide dog, guide dogs, service animals, blindness, blind author, disability awareness, human animal bond, faith and trust, courage, resilience, overcoming adversity, survival story, inspirational story, New York Times bestseller, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, inspirational podcast

  2. 10h ago

    THUNDER DOG: 9/11 Survivor Michael Hingson on Roselle, Trust, Faith & Courage Weekend of 8-22-26 seg 2

    Michael Hingson was on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower on September 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. Blind from birth, Michael couldn't see the destruction unfolding around him—but at his feet was Roselle, his trusted guide dog. Michael Hingson joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his #1 New York Times bestselling book, THUNDER DOG: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero. As chaos engulfed the World Trade Center, Michael and Roselle began the long journey down 78 floors and toward safety. While terrified people, falling debris and uncertainty surrounded them, Roselle remained calm. Michael trusted her, Roselle trusted Michael, and together they demonstrated an extraordinary partnership in one of the darkest moments in American history. But Thunder Dog is more than a 9/11 survival story. Michael shares powerful lessons about trust, teamwork, faith, overcoming fear and refusing to allow blindness—or any perceived limitation—to determine what a person can accomplish. Ric and Michael discuss what happened inside the North Tower that morning, the remarkable bond between Michael and Roselle, how they relied on each other to survive, and how Michael's experiences have shaped his message in the years since September 11. The conversation also explores grief, loss and healing, the assumptions people make about blindness and disability, and why telling our stories can help create understanding and meaningful change. Praised by legendary broadcaster Larry King for celebrating "the power of the human and animal bond," Thunder Dog is an unforgettable story of courage, partnership and the extraordinary trust between a man and his guide dog. 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. For listeners interested in September 11 history, 9/11 survivor stories, guide dogs, blindness and disability awareness, faith, resilience, courage, overcoming adversity and the human-animal bond, don't miss Ric Bratton's compelling conversation with Thunder Dog author Michael Hingson.Keywords:  Michael Hingson, Michael Hingson interview, Thunder Dog, Thunder Dog book, Thunder Dog Michael Hingson, Roselle guide dog, Michael Hingson Roselle, 9/11 survivor, September 11 survivor, World Trade Center survivor, World Trade Center North Tower, September 11 2001, 9/11 stories, Ground Zero, guide dog, guide dogs, service animals, blindness, blind author, disability awareness, human animal bond, faith and trust, courage, resilience, overcoming adversity, survival story, inspirational story, New York Times bestseller, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, inspirational podcast

  3. 10h ago

    A HUG IN A MUG: Simple Ways to Eat Better, Feel Better & Live Healthier with Susan Smith Jones, PhD Weekend of 8-22-26 seg 1

    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

  4. 10h ago

    A HUG IN A MUG: Simple Ways to Eat Better, Feel Better & Live Healthier with Susan Smith Jones, PhD Weekend of 8-22-26

    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

  5. 2d ago

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

    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: How faith and small-town values shaped George C. Mills His journey from military service to becoming an author Finding true love through faith and shared values The difference between love and lust Lessons from The Footprints of an American Soldier How life's struggles influence his characters Writing about morality without losing the human story What George hopes younger readers take from his books What's next for George C. Mills 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 George C. Mills, George Mills author, author George C. Mills, Christian author, Christian books, faith-based books, faith and love, true love, finding true love, Christian relationships, love and faith, love versus lust, military veteran, National Guard veteran, military books, military stories, American soldier, The Footprints of an American Soldier, As The Journey Begins, Looking Forward As The Journey Continues, Clay's Endless Dream, Clay's Battle Between True Love and Lust, inspirational author, inspirational books, personal growth, resilience, life lessons, finding purpose, Mississippi author, veteran author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, This Week in America with Ric Bratton, author interview, podcast interview

  6. Aug 7

    The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs – Dr. Robert Toguchi on Leadership, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Success Weekend of 8-15 seg 3

    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. KeywordsDr. 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

  7. Aug 7

    The Winning Habits of Steve Jobs – Dr. Robert Toguchi on Leadership, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Success Weekend of 8-15 seg 2

    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. KeywordsDr. 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

  8. Aug 7

    Congrats! You’ve Been Promoted! – Noel Massie Shares the Leadership Skills Every New Manager Needs Weekend of 8-15 seg 1

    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. KeywordsNoel 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

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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

This Week in America with Ric Bratton is one of America's longest-running and most respected interview programs, featuring engaging conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, business experts, health professionals, entertainers, and innovators from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, each episode delivers practical advice, inspiring stories, expert insights, and thought-provoking discussions on topics that matter most—including health, wellness, personal development, parenting, finance, business, history, technology, current events, and culture. With more than 20,000 interviews conducted over a distinguished broadcasting career spanning six decades, Ric has earned a reputation for asking meaningful questions that uncover the stories, strategies, and life lessons behind every guest's success. His interview style has led legendary journalist Peter Jennings to describe him as "an author's best friend." Whether you're looking for inspiration, expert guidance, or simply a fascinating conversation, This Week in America brings you trusted voices, fresh perspectives, and compelling stories every week. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe and discover why listeners across America turn to This Week in America for conversations that inform, inspire, and entertain.

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