Rich discusses the implications of grade inflation and deflation, its impact on students’ future earnings, and the evolving standards in higher education. He shares personal experiences and insights on how grading practices influence motivation and college admissions. Plus, an interesting Quote of the Day from William Shakespeare.
The Power of Gratitude in 10 Seconds on Tola Talks – Ep #266
Gratitude isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a life-changing practice. It’s the energy that fuels our happiness and resilience. When we take just 10 seconds a day to appreciate those who’ve helped us, we can shift our entire mindset.
On today’s Tola Talks, Rich shares insights on gratitude, societal changes over 50 years, and personal growth tips, blending personal stories with research to inspire daily positivity and reflection. Plus, fun facts and birthday shout-outs to Eric Clapton, Tracy Chapman, Warren Beaty and Celine Dion.
Space, IVF, and the Pursuit of Excellence on Tola Talks – Ep #263
Rich shares insights on quality living, space exploration, IVF breakthroughs, and movie reviews, emphasizing discipline, excellence, and meaningful connections. Most importantly is what the legendary football coach, Vince Lombardi, said about excellence: “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.”
Watch now and discover: → The record-breaking rise in IVF births and its implications. → Why is the US spending $20 billion to build a base on the Moon? → Recent advancements in space exploration and lunar bases. → The importance of quality over quantity in life → Play Ball! Major League Baseball starts today with “robot umps” contesting balls & strikes.
All Lives Matter and Let’s Stop the Killing on Tola Talks – Ep #256
Rich discusses the landmark decision that recognized the First Amendment rights of an elementary school student in California…it’s time we teach our kids that ANY life matters. Rich also gives a shout-out to best selling author, Laurie Fabiano, as he discusses his discrimination experiences as a Sicilian American growing up in the 60’s and 70’s. Rich also gives excellent advice to President Trump on what should come next in the Middle East. And for all you math lovers, it’s National Pi Day – that infinite math number that dates back to Ancient Civilization.
Watch now and discover: → Teaching kids about race doesn’t need to be divisive → The significant victory in the fight for equality in education → Rich shares his discrimination experiences growing up as a Sicilian American → General Douglas MacArthur, reminds us that resilience and kindness can overcome adversity → Why we celebrate National Pi Day today, first dating back to 1988 in San Francisco
Inspiration from the Olympics: Celebrating Triumphs on Tola Talks – Ep #241
In this engaging conversation, Rich Tola reflects on recent achievements in sports, particularly the Olympics, and shares inspiring stories of survival from real-life castaways. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, personal growth, and the power of human spirit in overcoming challenges. Rich encourages listeners to connect with others and offers practical takeaways for navigating tough times.
Watch now and discover: → Never say never, but if you do, do it from a deserted island. → Solitude and retirement from the world is not such an insufferable state. → Don’t give up no matter what it is you’re going through. → Make a difference and really ask how somebody’s doing. → Have yourselves a kick ass day.
Year of the Fire Horse and Civic Engagement on Tola Talks – Ep #240
In this episode, Rich Tola celebrates the 50th episode of his live streaming show, discusses the significance of the Lunar New Year, and highlights a civic engagement opportunity for high schoolers. He also reviews the movie ‘Wuthering Heights’, sharing his thoughts on its themes and performances. Rich emphasizes personal growth, community connection, and the importance of historical awareness throughout the conversation.
Watch now and discover: → The year of the fire horse symbolizes energy and ambition. → Civic engagement is vital to the survival of the Republic. → Knowledge will forever govern ignorance. → Personal growth and community connection are essential. → Wuthering Heights is intense and tragic, but beautifully acted.
What is Christmas? on Tola Talks – Ep #219
In today’s Tola Talks, Rich Tola engages listeners with a discussion about the significance of Christmas, reflecting on personal memories and traditions while also addressing the importance of accountability in education. He shares insights on the history of Christmas celebrations, the evolution of traditions, and the impact of family on holiday experiences.
Watch now and discover: → Rich emphasizes the importance of accountability in schools (flashback to Ep #218) → The history of Christmas has evolved over centuries, while 88% of Americas celebrate it today. → Personal memories shape our understanding of Christmas. → Traditions vary greatly across cultures during Christmas. → The significance of family during the holiday season is paramount, while the spirit of Christmas can be revived and perpetuated through storytelling.
Merry Christmas everyone…have a safe a wonderful holiday! Peace – R
Breaking Free from Bad Habits on Tola Talks – Ep #212
On today’s Tola Talks, Rich discusses the concept of bad habits and the 10 best ways to quit them. Rich also compares the concept of bad habits to the works of pioneering economists, Adam Smith and Milton Friedman, and compares them to bad habits in two distinct ways: 1) individuals are driven by self-interest and thus, self-enjoyment, and 2) there’s no such thing as a free lunch.
Rich also emphasizes the importance of desire, self-discipline, perseverance, fortitude and belief in oneself, as the foundation for quitting bad habits. He explores their psychological impact and offers practical strategies for quitting them, including the significance of support systems, positive thinking, and self-correction in the journey towards embracing healthier, good habits, over bad ones.
Watch now and discover: → Bad habits can be changed with desire and discipline, while understanding their nature is crucial. → It’s important to embrace the struggle of change. → Support from friends and family is essential in overcoming bad habits, as is positive thinking. → Recognizing the euphoria from bad habits helps in understanding them. → Self-correction is key to maintaining good habits while overcoming bad habits.
Autism & Jenny McCarthy, Body Shaming & Ariana Grande, Sobriety & Rich Tola on Tola Talks – Ep #211
On today’s Tola Talks, Rich discusses various topics including: 1) the overwhelming nature of Cyber Monday shopping, 2) the achievements of women’s volleyball teams including his favorites, Nebraska and Purdue, and 3) the importance of autism advocacy as spearheaded by figurehead and Hollywood royalty, Jenny McCarthy.
The conversation also touches on body positivity with a special shout-out to Ariana Grande with her loving reminder to all, plus Rich’s personal journey to sobriety for the past 18 years. The show also discusses the evolving landscape of office work, listing the Top 10 Cities for Remove Work in America, and concludes with a recap of key points and encouragement for listeners to pursue personal change in their life.
Watch now and discover: → Jenny McCarthy’s advocacy for autism awareness is commendable. → Ariana Grande’s loving reminder about Body Shaming in the media – a significant issue. → Personal journeys, like Rich Tola’s 18 year sobriety, can inspire others. → These Top 10 American cities with good quality of life are ideal for remote workers. → It’s essential to focus on personal health and well-being.
Be Grateful & Enjoy the Ride, Top Thanksgiving Movies on Tola Talks – Ep #210
On today’s Tola Talks, Rich reflects on the challenges of experiencing Thanksgiving without his parents, emphasizing the importance of gratitude even in difficult times. He shares personal struggles with physical health and resilience, encouraging listeners to find strength in their own challenges.
On the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday, Rich details the 10 most streamed movies over the past three years. He also gives a positive and poignant film review of the most streamed movie starring Steve Martin and the late John Candy, the amazingly funny and heartfelt dramatic comedy, ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’. To finish off this 20th live-streamed episode of Tola Talks, Rich talks about the journey in life being more important – and fulfilling – than the end result, as well as lists the Top Five things he’s grateful for today.
Watch now and discover: → To 10 Most Streamed Thanksgiving Movies over the past 3 years. → Film review of the #1 streamed movie, Planes, Trains and Automobiles. → Famous quotes from Carl Friedrich Gauss and the legendary actor, Frank Langella. → What are you grateful for? → What is Rich Tola grateful for?
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