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. 2d ago

    Marlena Fiol & Ed O’Connor – Called: An Extraordinary True Story of Faith, Courage & Service Weekend of 8-29 seg 3

    What does it mean to truly answer a calling—even when doing so could cost you everything? Authors Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor join Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Called…a True Story, an inspiring saga of faith, courage, sacrifice, adventure, and the extraordinary power of a life devoted to serving others. Set against the turbulent backdrop of World War II, Nazi uprisings, political unrest in Argentina and Paraguay, and the devastating impact of untreated leprosy, Called tells the remarkable true story of physician Dr. John Schmidt and nurse Clara Schmidt. John and Clara commit themselves to fighting poverty, disease, stigma, and social injustice in Paraguay. Their mission takes them into communities desperately in need of medical care and puts them in conflict with powerful forces determined to stop them. Their unconventional and groundbreaking medical practices are rejected by members of the medical establishment. Governments threaten them with imprisonment. Neighboring villagers threaten their lives. Yet John and Clara continue their mission, driven by faith, compassion, and a determination to bring dignity and hope to people society had forgotten. Spanning six decades, Called combines history, romance, medicine, faith, danger, and adventure while exploring the very human cost of choosing service over personal comfort and safety. Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor talk with Ric about bringing this remarkable true story to life, the real people who inspired the book, John and Clara’s battle against the stigma surrounding leprosy, and the lessons their lives offer us today about courage, mercy, perseverance, and answering our own calling. At the heart of their extraordinary journey is Dr. John’s favorite scripture: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” Some people have a story. John and Clara Schmidt had a mission. 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 from across the country and around the world. For listeners interested in inspiring true stories, historical fiction based on real events, medical pioneers, Christian faith, humanitarian service, Paraguay, leprosy, social justice, courage, romance, and stories of people who dedicate their lives to helping others, don’t miss Ric Bratton’s conversation with Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor about Called…a True Story. Keywords: Marlena Fiol, Ed O’Connor, Called a True Story, Called book, Dr. John Schmidt, Clara Schmidt, Paraguay, Paraguay history, medical pioneers, leprosy, leprosy treatment, Mennonite nurse, physician, World War II, Argentina, inspirational true story, historical fiction, historical novel, faith, Christian faith, humanitarian service, medical mission, social justice, courage, perseverance, inspirational books, true story books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast

  2. 2d ago

    Marlena Fiol & Ed O’Connor – Called: An Extraordinary True Story of Faith, Courage & Service Weekend of 8-29 seg 2

    What does it mean to truly answer a calling—even when doing so could cost you everything? Authors Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor join Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss Called…a True Story, an inspiring saga of faith, courage, sacrifice, adventure, and the extraordinary power of a life devoted to serving others. Set against the turbulent backdrop of World War II, Nazi uprisings, political unrest in Argentina and Paraguay, and the devastating impact of untreated leprosy, Called tells the remarkable true story of physician Dr. John Schmidt and nurse Clara Schmidt. John and Clara commit themselves to fighting poverty, disease, stigma, and social injustice in Paraguay. Their mission takes them into communities desperately in need of medical care and puts them in conflict with powerful forces determined to stop them. Their unconventional and groundbreaking medical practices are rejected by members of the medical establishment. Governments threaten them with imprisonment. Neighboring villagers threaten their lives. Yet John and Clara continue their mission, driven by faith, compassion, and a determination to bring dignity and hope to people society had forgotten. Spanning six decades, Called combines history, romance, medicine, faith, danger, and adventure while exploring the very human cost of choosing service over personal comfort and safety. Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor talk with Ric about bringing this remarkable true story to life, the real people who inspired the book, John and Clara’s battle against the stigma surrounding leprosy, and the lessons their lives offer us today about courage, mercy, perseverance, and answering our own calling. At the heart of their extraordinary journey is Dr. John’s favorite scripture: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” Some people have a story. John and Clara Schmidt had a mission. 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 from across the country and around the world. For listeners interested in inspiring true stories, historical fiction based on real events, medical pioneers, Christian faith, humanitarian service, Paraguay, leprosy, social justice, courage, romance, and stories of people who dedicate their lives to helping others, don’t miss Ric Bratton’s conversation with Marlena Fiol and Ed O’Connor about Called…a True Story. Keywords: Marlena Fiol, Ed O’Connor, Called a True Story, Called book, Dr. John Schmidt, Clara Schmidt, Paraguay, Paraguay history, medical pioneers, leprosy, leprosy treatment, Mennonite nurse, physician, World War II, Argentina, inspirational true story, historical fiction, historical novel, faith, Christian faith, humanitarian service, medical mission, social justice, courage, perseverance, inspirational books, true story books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast

  3. 2d ago

    Carol Snow – The Girl on the Beach: A Twisty Psychological Thriller About Secrets, Suspicion & a Missing Child Weekend of 8-29 seg 1

    What if the truth you were searching for made you question everything you thought you knew? Author Carol Snow joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her gripping psychological thriller, The Girl on the Beach. Sonia and Graham Starr appear to have everything—wealth, success, a beautiful beach house, and their beloved four-year-old daughter, Roxie. But their seemingly perfect life is shattered when Roxie disappears into the Pacific Ocean. Months later, Roxie’s former nanny, Colleen, returns to the Starrs’ beach house carrying guilt, confusion, and unanswered questions. Then she sees something impossible: a child on the beach who looks remarkably like Roxie. Colleen never believed the little girl, who was afraid of the surf, would have entered the ocean on her own. Determined to discover what really happened, she begins searching for answers—only to find herself questioning what she sees, what she remembers, and whom she can trust. Carol Snow talks with Ric about creating a psychological thriller built around memory, perception, family secrets, guilt, trust, and deception, as well as the challenge of delivering twists without giving readers the answers too soon. The Girl on the Beach ultimately poses a haunting question: Who can we trust when we can’t even trust ourselves? 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 from across the country and around the world. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, missing-person mysteries, domestic suspense, unreliable narrators, family secrets, and novels packed with unexpected twists, don’t miss Ric Bratton’s conversation with Carol Snow about The Girl on the Beach. Keywords: Carol Snow, The Girl on the Beach, Carol Snow author, psychological thriller, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery books, missing child mystery, domestic thriller, domestic suspense, family secrets, unreliable narrator, suspense novels, beach read thriller, mystery thriller, crime fiction, Crooked Lane Books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast

  4. 2d ago

    Carol Snow – The Girl on the Beach: A Twisty Psychological Thriller About Secrets, Suspicion & a Missing Child Weekend of 8-29

    What if the truth you were searching for made you question everything you thought you knew? Author Carol Snow joins Ric Bratton on This Week in America to discuss her gripping psychological thriller, The Girl on the Beach. Sonia and Graham Starr appear to have everything—wealth, success, a beautiful beach house, and their beloved four-year-old daughter, Roxie. But their seemingly perfect life is shattered when Roxie disappears into the Pacific Ocean. Months later, Roxie’s former nanny, Colleen, returns to the Starrs’ beach house carrying guilt, confusion, and unanswered questions. Then she sees something impossible: a child on the beach who looks remarkably like Roxie. Colleen never believed the little girl, who was afraid of the surf, would have entered the ocean on her own. Determined to discover what really happened, she begins searching for answers—only to find herself questioning what she sees, what she remembers, and whom she can trust. Carol Snow talks with Ric about creating a psychological thriller built around memory, perception, family secrets, guilt, trust, and deception, as well as the challenge of delivering twists without giving readers the answers too soon. The Girl on the Beach ultimately poses a haunting question: Who can we trust when we can’t even trust ourselves? 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 from across the country and around the world. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, missing-person mysteries, domestic suspense, unreliable narrators, family secrets, and novels packed with unexpected twists, don’t miss Ric Bratton’s conversation with Carol Snow about The Girl on the Beach. Keywords: Carol Snow, The Girl on the Beach, Carol Snow author, psychological thriller, psychological suspense, thriller books, mystery books, missing child mystery, domestic thriller, domestic suspense, family secrets, unreliable narrator, suspense novels, beach read thriller, mystery thriller, crime fiction, Crooked Lane Books, author interview, book interview, Ric Bratton, This Week in America, TWIA podcast

  5. 5d ago

    Global Warming Solutions: Dr. David Comings on 4 Ways to Fight Climate Change

    Global Warming Solutions: Dr. David Comings on 4 Ways to Fight Climate Change What if reaching net zero isn't enough to stop global warming? On This Week in America with Ric Bratton, physician-scientist and geneticist Dr. David E. Comings discusses his book, The Science of Global Warming: And Four Ways to Fix It, an accessible, extensively researched look at the science behind climate change—and the solutions that could make a difference. Dr. Comings argues that reducing future carbon emissions is essential, but that the enormous amount of CO₂ already in the atmosphere means we must also explore ways to actively remove carbon and address other forces contributing to global warming. Featuring more than 100 full-color illustrations and hundreds of scientific references, the book examines rising atmospheric CO₂, climate feedback loops, ocean acidification, and the potential consequences for future generations. More importantly, Dr. Comings focuses on solutions. He explores four approaches to combating global warming, including increasing the Earth's albedo, addressing ocean acidification, enhanced rock weathering, and permanently storing carbon in basalt formations. He also explains how individuals, governments, corporations, philanthropists, and even fossil fuel companies could become part of the solution. Dr. David E. Comings is a physician, neuroscientist, behavioral and molecular geneticist who served as Director of the Department of Medical Genetics at City of Hope National Medical Center for 37 years. He has authored nearly 500 peer-reviewed scientific articles and five books and is a former editor of the American Journal of Human Genetics and former president of the American Society of Human Genetics. Can science give us realistic ways to reverse some of the damage already done? This Week in America with Ric Bratton is heard on more than 100 radio stations and podcast platforms worldwide, bringing listeners conversations with authors, experts, thought leaders, and innovators. For listeners searching for information about global warming, climate change, carbon dioxide removal, climate science, net zero, carbon capture, ocean acidification, enhanced rock weathering, and practical climate solutions, this conversation with Dr. David E. Comings explores both the scientific evidence and four potential ways to confront one of the most significant environmental challenges facing future generations. www.amazon.com https://www.thecomingsfoundation.org https://www.ecpublishingllc.com Keywords: David E. Comings, David Comings, The Science of Global Warming, global warming, climate change, climate science, climate solutions, carbon dioxide, CO2 removal, carbon removal, carbon capture, net zero, enhanced rock weathering, ocean acidification, basalt carbon storage, fossil fuels, greenhouse gases, environmental science, climate policy, climate action, This Week in America, Ric Bratton

  6. 6d ago

    The Healing Power of Humor Finding Joy & Wellness through Laughter & Smiles with Susan Smith Jones, PhD

    If you've ever wondered how to stay vibrant, joyful, and full of purpose as the years go by, today's program is for you. Our guest is Susan Smith Jones, PhD—one of the nation's leading holistic health and lifestyle experts. For three decades, Susan taught healthy living at UCLA and has inspired millions worldwide through her books, speaking engagements, media appearances, and wellness programs. Her latest books include A HUG IN A MUG, UPLIFTED, and her newest Gold-Medal Award-Winning inspirational novelette, JOY & THE BUTTERFLY—a heartwarming story touching readers of all ages, reminding us that it's never too late to discover joy, courage & transformation. Today, Susan will share simple yet powerful ways to harness the healing power of humor to feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Stay tuned as we explore the fascinating science behind laughter—and discover why a good sense of humor may be one of the healthiest tools we have! Susan's wisdom is practical, uplifting, and refreshingly hopeful. So, grab a cup of tea, a pen and paper, and get ready to be inspired. Susan, welcome to the program! https://susansmithjones.com X at SusanSmithJoneshttps://www.instagram.com/susansmithjonesphd http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/ssj148.mp3

  7. Aug 15

    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

  8. Aug 15

    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

See All (2K)

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.

Information

You Might Also Like