This Week in America with Ric Bratton

Ric Bratton
  • 4.7 (7)
  • Arts
  • Updated Daily

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. 14h ago

    Good People, Bad Managers: Sam Culbert on Fixing Management at Work Weekend of 9-26 seg 3

    Why do good people sometimes become bad managers—and what can organizations do about it? Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, author of Good People, Bad Managers: How Work Culture Corrupts Good Intentions, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to challenge some long-held assumptions about management and the workplace. Culbert argues that many workplace problems aren't caused by inherently bad people, but by management systems and corporate cultures that encourage the wrong behaviors. Employees and managers can become trapped in environments where protecting themselves, pleasing the boss and following dysfunctional practices take priority over producing the best results. In his conversation with Ric, Culbert explores how organizations can create healthier and more productive relationships between managers and employees. He discusses accountability, communication, trust and why managers need to understand what employees require to perform at their best. Samuel A. Culbert is Professor Emeritus of Management and Organizations at UCLA's Anderson School of Management and a noted author and workplace management expert. His books include Good People, Bad Managers, Get Rid of the Performance Review!, Beyond Bullsht: Straight-Talk at Work* and Don't Kill the Bosses! ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores books, business, health and wellness, personal development, family, lifestyle and more. This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more. KEYWORDS Sam Culbert, Samuel Culbert, Good People Bad Managers, bad managers, management, leadership, workplace culture, workplace communication, employee engagement, corporate culture, management mistakes, better managers, business leadership, UCLA Anderson, workplace relationships, leadership podcast, management podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interview Listen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, about Good People, Bad Managers and discover how workplace culture can undermine good intentions—and what managers and employees can do to build more productive working relationships.

  2. 14h ago

    Good People, Bad Managers: Sam Culbert on Fixing Management at Work Weekend of 9-26 seg 2

    Why do good people sometimes become bad managers—and what can organizations do about it? Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, author of Good People, Bad Managers: How Work Culture Corrupts Good Intentions, joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to challenge some long-held assumptions about management and the workplace. Culbert argues that many workplace problems aren't caused by inherently bad people, but by management systems and corporate cultures that encourage the wrong behaviors. Employees and managers can become trapped in environments where protecting themselves, pleasing the boss and following dysfunctional practices take priority over producing the best results. In his conversation with Ric, Culbert explores how organizations can create healthier and more productive relationships between managers and employees. He discusses accountability, communication, trust and why managers need to understand what employees require to perform at their best. Samuel A. Culbert is Professor Emeritus of Management and Organizations at UCLA's Anderson School of Management and a noted author and workplace management expert. His books include Good People, Bad Managers, Get Rid of the Performance Review!, Beyond Bullsht: Straight-Talk at Work* and Don't Kill the Bosses! ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores books, business, health and wellness, personal development, family, lifestyle and more. This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more. KEYWORDS Sam Culbert, Samuel Culbert, Good People Bad Managers, bad managers, management, leadership, workplace culture, workplace communication, employee engagement, corporate culture, management mistakes, better managers, business leadership, UCLA Anderson, workplace relationships, leadership podcast, management podcast, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, author interview Listen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Samuel A. Culbert, PhD, about Good People, Bad Managers and discover how workplace culture can undermine good intentions—and what managers and employees can do to build more productive working relationships.

  3. 1d ago

    Aging Gracefully: Susan Smith Jones, PhD on Joy, Vitality & Purpose Weekend of 9-26 seg 1

    What does it really mean to age gracefully? According to longtime This Week in America guest Susan Smith Jones, PhD, it isn't about turning back the clock. It's about moving forward with energy, enthusiasm, gratitude, purpose and joy. Susan returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton for an uplifting conversation about aging gracefully and creating a vibrant, joyful and purpose-filled life at any age. Drawing on decades of experience in holistic health and wellness, Susan shares practical strategies for nurturing body, mind and spirit as we grow older. Her approach emphasizes six important areas: sleep, prayer, nutrition, exercise, nature and enthusiasm. Susan also discusses the importance of gratitude, kindness, curiosity, humor and having something meaningful to look forward to. Aging well isn't simply about appearance. It's about continuing to learn, grow, contribute and appreciate the everyday moments that make life meaningful. Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a holistic health and lifestyle educator, motivational speaker and author who taught health and fitness at UCLA for 30 years. Her many books focus on healthy living, positive aging, wellness and creating a more balanced life. ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores health and wellness, personal development, books, business, family, lifestyle and more. This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more. KEYWORDS Susan Smith Jones, Susan Smith Jones PhD, aging gracefully, healthy aging, positive aging, aging well, active aging, longevity, wellness, vibrant health, gratitude, purpose, healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep, nature, holistic health, positive attitude, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, wellness podcast, healthy aging podcast Listen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones, PhD, for practical ideas on aging gracefully, maintaining vibrant health, cultivating gratitude and purpose, and finding more joy at every stage of life.

  4. 1d ago

    Aging Gracefully: Susan Smith Jones, PhD on Joy, Vitality & Purpose Weekend of 9-26

    What does it really mean to age gracefully? According to longtime This Week in America guest Susan Smith Jones, PhD, it isn't about turning back the clock. It's about moving forward with energy, enthusiasm, gratitude, purpose and joy. Susan returns to This Week in America with Ric Bratton for an uplifting conversation about aging gracefully and creating a vibrant, joyful and purpose-filled life at any age. Drawing on decades of experience in holistic health and wellness, Susan shares practical strategies for nurturing body, mind and spirit as we grow older. Her approach emphasizes six important areas: sleep, prayer, nutrition, exercise, nature and enthusiasm. Susan also discusses the importance of gratitude, kindness, curiosity, humor and having something meaningful to look forward to. Aging well isn't simply about appearance. It's about continuing to learn, grow, contribute and appreciate the everyday moments that make life meaningful. Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is a holistic health and lifestyle educator, motivational speaker and author who taught health and fitness at UCLA for 30 years. Her many books focus on healthy living, positive aging, wellness and creating a more balanced life. ABOUT THIS WEEK IN AMERICA This Week in America with Ric Bratton features conversations with authors, experts and fascinating people from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program explores health and wellness, personal development, books, business, family, lifestyle and more. This Week in America is available on leading podcast and digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, TuneIn, Podomatic and many more. KEYWORDS Susan Smith Jones, Susan Smith Jones PhD, aging gracefully, healthy aging, positive aging, aging well, active aging, longevity, wellness, vibrant health, gratitude, purpose, healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep, nature, holistic health, positive attitude, This Week in America, Ric Bratton, wellness podcast, healthy aging podcast Listen to Ric Bratton's conversation with Susan Smith Jones, PhD, for practical ideas on aging gracefully, maintaining vibrant health, cultivating gratitude and purpose, and finding more joy at every stage of life.

  5. 2d ago

    Matt Shea Exposes the Hidden Dangers of Casinos & Gambling Addiction

    What really happens when casual gambling becomes an addiction—and how much of the casino experience is designed to keep you playing? Author Matt Shea joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his book The Casino Down the Street, based on Shea’s three-year study of casinos and his own personal experience with gambling addiction. After ignoring his father’s warnings and beginning to gamble himself, Shea says he eventually found himself caught in addiction. His experience—and what he describes as spiritual intervention that helped him break free—inspired him to investigate how casinos operate and why gambling can become so difficult to walk away from. Matt and Ric discuss the different types of gamblers, warning signs of addiction, the psychology behind casinos, the risks associated with online gambling, and why older adults can be particularly vulnerable. Shea also shares what he learned from his own journey and why he hopes the book can help people recognize a problem before gambling costs them far more than money. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media. Matt Shea, author of The Casino Down the Street, coming up on This Week in America. www.mattsheabooks.net https://www.amazon.com/dp/1638681406?ref_=ast_author_ofdp #GamblingAddiction #MattShea #ThisWeekInAmerica YOUTUBE TAGS Matt Shea, The Casino Down the Street, gambling addiction, casino addiction, problem gambling, gambling recovery, dangers of gambling, casino psychology, online gambling addiction, signs of gambling addiction, gambling help, casinos, compulsive gambling, senior gambling, gambling awareness, addiction recovery, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA Keywords: Matt Shea, The Casino Down the Street, gambling addiction, problem gambling, casino addiction, gambling recovery, dangers of casinos, online gambling, online gambling addiction, casino psychology, compulsive gambling, signs of gambling addiction, senior citizens and gambling, addiction recovery, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

  6. 2d ago

    21 Years Behind the Badge: Andrew Kincaid’s Real-Life Law Enforcement Stories

    What is life really like behind the badge? Author and former law enforcement officer Andrew Kincaid joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his book My Life as a Reserve Deputy: If the Badge Could Talk, a firsthand account drawn from 21 years of service with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Kincaid dreamed of working in law enforcement from an early age and went on to experience a remarkable range of assignments—from patrol and off-road enforcement to commuter-train patrol and work as a rangemaster in the weapons training unit. Along the way came unpredictable calls, dangerous situations, humorous moments, tragedy, friendships and unforgettable experiences—including rescue efforts during a major California wildfire. Andrew shares some of those stories with Ric and discusses what they taught him about law enforcement, public service and the men and women who choose to protect their communities. If you’ve ever wondered what happens beyond the uniform and the patrol car, this conversation offers a firsthand look from someone who spent more than two decades living it. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media. Listen to This Week in America for insightful interviews with authors and experts covering books, health, wellness, personal development, current issues, business, lifestyle and the stories shaping our lives. Andrew Kincaid, author of My Life as a Reserve Deputy, coming up on This Week in America. AMAZON ttps://www.kingpagespress.com #LawEnforcement #AndrewKincaid #ThisWeekInAmerica YOUTUBE TAGS Andrew Kincaid, My Life as a Reserve Deputy, If the Badge Could Talk, law enforcement, police memoir, reserve deputy, reserve deputy sheriff, San Diego County Sheriff, police stories, law enforcement stories, behind the badge, police officer experiences, first responder stories, public safety, California law enforcement, police career, law enforcement career, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA Keywords: Andrew Kincaid, My Life as a Reserve Deputy, If the Badge Could Talk, law enforcement memoir, reserve deputy, reserve sheriff deputy, police stories, San Diego County Sheriff, California law enforcement, police career, behind the badge, first responders, public safety, law enforcement experiences, police officer memoir, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

  7. 2d ago

    Redeemed from the Darkness: How God Turned Pain Into Purpose | Patricia Shannon

    What if the darkest chapters of your life could become the path to your greatest purpose? Author Patricia Shannon joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her deeply personal book, Redeemed from the Darkness: How God Turned My Pain into Purpose. Through her own experiences with pain, uncertainty, faith, prayer, and healing, Patricia shares how the difficult seasons of her life ultimately brought her closer to God. What began as personal journaling became a testimony about learning to trust God's timing and discovering purpose even during life's darkest moments. Patricia believes that the wilderness seasons of our lives are not necessarily punishment, but preparation. They can test our faith, shape our identity, strengthen our trust, and prepare us for what comes next. In this conversation, Patricia discusses how writing helped her confront pain she had carried since childhood, the role prayer plays in her daily life, learning to trust God when answers don't come immediately, and why she believes our darkest chapter doesn't have to be the end of our story. A teacher for more than two decades, Patricia has devoted much of her life to working with children with special needs. Now she hopes sharing her own journey will encourage others experiencing loss, loneliness, fear, uncertainty, or their own season of darkness. This Week in America with Ric Bratton features fascinating conversations with authors, experts, innovators, and newsmakers from around the world. With more than 20,000 interviews during his broadcasting career, Ric brings decades of experience to conversations covering books, health, wellness, personal development, business, family, lifestyle, and the issues that matter to you. This Week in America is distributed on more than 100 radio stations and across major podcast and digital platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Deezer, Audacy, Podomatic, YouTube and more. Discover Redeemed from the Darkness: How God Turned My Pain into Purpose by Patricia Shannon and a powerful personal testimony about Christian faith, prayer, healing, hope, trusting God's timing, overcoming difficult seasons, and finding purpose through pain. AMAZON https://www.kingpagespress.com/ #ChristianBooks #Faith #PatriciaShannon YouTube Tags:Patricia Shannon, Redeemed from the Darkness, How God Turned My Pain into Purpose, Christian books, Christian author, faith books, books about faith, Christian testimony, trusting God, finding purpose, pain into purpose, faith through difficult times, prayer, power of prayer, Christian inspiration, spiritual growth, finding hope, God's timing, trusting God's plan, overcoming darkness, Christian encouragement, inspirational books, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America Podomatic Keywords:Patricia Shannon, Redeemed from the Darkness, How God Turned My Pain into Purpose, Christian books, Christian author, Christian testimony, faith, prayer, trusting God, God's timing, finding purpose, pain into purpose, spiritual growth, Christian inspiration, Christian encouragement, finding hope, healing through faith, overcoming difficult times, wilderness season, God's plan, inspirational books, faith journey, author interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

  8. 2d ago

    Forced to Trust: William H. Hammes on a Mystery Where Nothing Is What It Seems

    What happens when the one person you’re told never to trust may be the person who deserves your trust the most? Author William H. Hammes joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss his novel Forced to Trust: Someone You Shouldn’t Trust at All, a suspenseful legal drama about trust, prejudice, family and the search for truth. Julie is a new lawyer fleeing an abusive husband with her five-year-old daughter, Zebra, when her car breaks down on a dark, deserted road. There she encounters Benny—the last person any mother would seemingly want around her young daughter. But things aren’t always what they appear to be. After talking with Benny—and seeing her daughter’s surprising ability to judge his character—Julie begins examining the court records behind his conviction. What she discovers are troubling contradictions and a community where deeply rooted bias makes finding the truth increasingly difficult. Soon Julie is investigating Benny’s past, trusting him with the person most precious to her, and ultimately defending him in an uphill courtroom battle where the final revelation could change everything. Hammes describes the story as having a Perry Mason-esque feel, with multiple themes building toward their own dramatic revelations. Ric also talks with William about his unusual road to becoming a novelist—from working on extraordinary architectural projects in California to receiving encouragement to write from Murphy Brown creator Diane English. This Week in America with Ric Bratton is a nationally syndicated radio show and podcast featuring conversations with authors, experts, innovators and newsmakers from around the world. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Ric Bratton, the program is distributed across more than 100 radio stations and 28 podcast platforms, with additional exposure through YouTube and social media. Listen to This Week in America for insightful interviews with authors and experts covering books, health, wellness, personal development, current issues, business, lifestyle and the stories shaping our lives. William H. Hammes and Forced to Trust, coming up on This Week in America. AMAZON https://www.whhammes.com/ https://inkstartmedia.com/ YOUTUBE TAGS William H Hammes, William Hammes, Forced to Trust, Someone You Shouldn't Trust at All, legal thriller, courtroom drama, mystery novel, suspense novel, Perry Mason, courtroom mystery, legal fiction, trust and betrayal, wrongful conviction, prejudice, family drama, mystery books, suspense books, thriller author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA Keywords: William H. Hammes, William Hammes, Forced to Trust, Someone You Shouldn’t Trust at All, legal thriller, courtroom drama, courtroom mystery, mystery novel, suspense fiction, Perry Mason style mystery, wrongful conviction, trust, prejudice, justice, family drama, legal fiction, mystery author, Ric Bratton, This Week in America

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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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