This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes back our special guest, Darren Haruo Rae, the brilliant director and creative force behind the short film “Nisei,” which won the grand jury prize for ‘Best Dramatic Short Film’ at the Cinequest International Film Festival, making it an Academy Award-qualified film. Darren shares the behind-the-scenes journey of how the film was created despite having a limited budget and producing on their own.

This episode is not just about the professional wisdom of creating a magnificent film but highlights personal connection as it is based on Darren’s family history, specifically his grandfather’s experience and the Japanese-American community during World War II. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Darren shares exciting news about "Nisei" winning the grand jury prize for best dramatic short at the Cinequest International Film Festival in San Jose. This win has made the "Nisei" Academy Award qualified and a chance to get nominated.
• Darren shares about the process of becoming Academy Award-nominated, including academy voting members' involvement and 'For Your Consideration' events planned in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
• Insight into how Darren found out about winning: a mix of confusion, excitement, and disbelief while watching an Instagram livestream from home.
• Discover Darren’s connection to "Nisei" as it tells a story close to Darren’s family history—his grandfather’s experience fighting for the US in WWII while his family was in internment camps.
• Hear serendipitous aspects of filmmaking emerge through stories like finding a period-correct bus just after restoration or connecting with costume designers who had authentic resources linked to their heritage.

This episode is sponsored by:
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)
Dignity Memorial (Mention Gary & receive a Thank You Gift)
GymGuyz (#1 In-Home Personal Training)

Bio:
Darren Haruo Rae is a Japanese-American producer/director based in Los Angeles who co-founded the boutique production company Roann Films. He has directed high-profile commercials and branded content for clients such as Western Digital, Airbnb, and Cisco. Rae's directorial debut, Park Arcadia, garnered Best Screenplay at the 2014 International Film Festival Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles. His latest film, Nisei, inspired by his Japanese-American grandfather's WWII experiences in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, earned Best Drama and Audience Choice at the 2023 Poppy Jasper Film Festival and continues its festival circuit, screening at Indy Shorts by Heartland Film, LA Shorts International Film Festival, HollyShorts Film Festival, and Cinequest Film Festival.

Currently, Rae is the series producer for the MasterClass G.O.A.T. Original Series and is producing the feature film Surrender, starring Andrea Bang. Surrender was selected as one of Film Independent's Fast Track fellowship program's top 10 narrative fiction features and is slated for

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas sits down with Gary Schneeberger, president of Roar PR. As a seasoned writer and former journalist who crossed over to the public relations realm, Gary brings his unique perspective on the evolution of media alongside his expertise in one of cinema’s most iconic franchises: James Bond.

So if you're a die-hard 007 fan, be sure to listen because this episode is packed with engaging tales, nostalgia, thoughtful analysis, and passion for all things Bond. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Introduction to Gary Schneeberger and his career transition from newspapers to public relations.
• Insights about the shift in media consumption over time and the decline in print journalism contrast with online growth.
• Listen to personal anecdotes about moving from California back to Wisconsin after decades away.
• In-depth analysis of why James Bond is a universally appealing character and a cultural phenomenon.
• Delve into each actor’s portrayal of James Bond and how they brought something different to the role from Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig.
• Hear trivia and insights about Barbara Carrera's award nomination and Frank Sinatra’s role as the first John McClane in an alternate universe.
• Speculation on James Bond’s future casting, celebration of six decades of the franchise's legacy, and continual captivation of audiences worldwide.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Sterling Oak Cabinetry
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Gary Schneeberger’s three decades in journalism and public relations fuel his passion for, and success in, strategic marketing and communications. As founder and president of ROAR, Schneeberger draws on his executive and executional experience in entertainment, ministry, and media to help individuals and organizations engage audiences with the boldness and creative clarity that ensures they are heard. He has captured his insights and experience on the wise practice of public relations in Bite the Dog: Build a PR Strategy to Make News That Matters, available at most online booksellers.

Schneeberger also spent more than 15 years as an award-winning reporter and editor for daily newspapers across the country, including the Los Angeles Times. He and his wife, Kelly, live in Camp Lake, Wis., with her two children, Alyssa and Hunter.

Website: https://weroar.la/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyschneeberger/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garyschneeberger/
X: https://twitter.com/gschneeberger

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we’re about to take you on an exhilarating ride into the world of digital dentistry innovation that could change smiles across the globe. Our special guest is Amir Monsouri, the genius mind behind SprintRay. As founder and CEO, he shares how his company is revolutionizing dental care through cutting-edge 3D printing technology. 

Join us as we explore not only this promising dental innovation but also an extraordinary conversation packed with personal anecdotes and professional wisdom! Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• A deep dive into SprintRay and the company’s role in digitizing dentistry.
• Discover how what seemed like science fiction two decades ago has become today’s reality.
• Listen in to personal past dental experiences compared to the rapid advancements that now allow same-day procedures.
• Hear the importance of going digital, emphasizing why patients should seek out digitally equipped dentists for better preventative care and bio-copies of their teeth.
• Discover the transformative impact on individuals who can once again enjoy eating thanks to modern prosthetics offering up to 85% bite power restoration.
• Learn about Amir’s inspiring story of entrepreneurship and his accidental entry into dentistry through product development.
• Explore why companies obsessed with product innovation are leading today's market, including those like Tesla, Apple, Google, and OpenAI.
• Highlighting how portable 3D printing allows high-quality dental services even in remote locations globally—bridging care gaps between affluent neighborhoods and less accessible areas.

Learn more about SprintRay and get a FREE 3D-printed sample today!
Website: https://bit.ly/GSTSprintRay
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SprintRay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sprintray/

Bio:
Amir Mansouri, PhD, is the CEO and Co-founder of SprintRay. Before founding SprintRay, Amir received both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in the field of additive manufacturing. A unique blend of scientific and entrepreneurial, he pursued a technology commercialization program at USC Marshall School of Business, which led to the co-founding of SprintRay in 2014. Under his direction, SprintRay has grown from a proof-of-concept business plan to a multi-national dental equipment company. Today, Amir is uniquely suited to his responsibility for planning and strategizing SprintRay’s product and commercial development growth.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amir-mansouri-91604661/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Amir_Mansouri

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes back Keifer Thompson from country music duo Thompson Square. Join us for another candid yet thought-provoking conversation as they dive into an array of topics, from tackling parenthood to dissecting political landscapes. Keifer doesn't shy away from sharing his conservative perspective. They talk about societal issues too. Racism and division are hot topics as he advocates for teaching love over hate to kids.

Don’t miss this rollercoaster ride through politics, society, parenting, comedy, and of course, country music! Tune in now! 

In this Episode:

• Keifer shares personal experiences dealing with his son's dental issues, shedding light on the complexities of skepticism towards these industries.
• Hear Keifer and Gary talk about how media bias shapes public perception with its misinformation and concerns over agenda-driven narratives.
• Explore opinions and insights about political landscapes, current events, and societal issues.
• Hear insights addressing racism, its evolution over generations, and the importance of instilling values of equality in children, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue and action.
• Discover Keifer’s approach to songwriting and comedic performance.
•  Hear Keifer and Gary share their personal losses/emotions publicly and how vulnerability contributes to connection with others.

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)

Bio:
Keifer Thompson is one half of the award-winning country music duo Thompson Square, renowned for their soulful harmonies and heartfelt songwriting. Born on January 24, 1973, in Miami, Oklahoma, Keifer discovered his passion for music at an early age. He honed his skills as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of musical influences. In 1996, Keifer met his future wife and musical partner, Shawna, at a singing competition in Nashville, Tennessee. Their instant connection led to the formation of Thompson Square, and together they embarked on a remarkable journey in the country music scene.

Thompson Square's self-titled debut album, released in 2011, catapulted them to stardom with hit singles like "Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not," which topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Keifer's emotive vocals and Shawna's dynamic harmonies resonated with audiences, earning them widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including Vocal Duo of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Country Music Association Awards.

Throughout their career, Keifer has showcased his exceptional songwriting talent, penning heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. With a string of chart-topping hits and a reputation for electrifying live performances, Thompson Square continues to captivate audiences around the world, cementing Keifer's status as one of country music's most beloved artists.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keifercomedy/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, join us as we delve into the tumultuous year of 1968, a pivotal moment in American and global history, with our special guest, an esteemed historian and professor, Dr. Luke A. Nichter. He is a New York Times bestselling author or editor of eight books, including, most recently, “The Year That Broke Politics: Collusion and Chaos in the Presidential Election of 1968,” which was chosen as the Best Book of 2023 by the Wall Street Journal. As an expert on presidential history, Dr Luke brings a wealth of knowledge about the seismic shifts that occurred during this era. He also mentioned that there is talk about using AI for transcribing historical recordings which could revolutionize our understanding of past presidencies by providing deeper insights than ever before possible.

This is such an enlightening episode filled with insights into one of America's most dynamic years while emphasizing the importance of preserving our country's rich history for future generations. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Hear about the revolutionary nature of 1968, both domestically and internationally.
• Discover how media coverage brought the Vietnam War and political unrest into living rooms across America.
• Comparisons between past conflicts like Vietnam and more recent ones such as Iraq.
• Explore Lyndon B. Johnson's complex legacy as president during these transformative times.
• Hear insightful conversations about whether John F. Kennedy would have escalated or withdrawn from Vietnam had he not been assassinated. 
• Discover why the treatment of vice presidents has been scrutinized throughout history.
• Listen to Dr. Luke as he shares personal stories and anecdotes while teaching history to college students.
• Discover the role technology could play in transcribing historical presidential tapes for greater public access.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Dr. Luke A. Nichter is a Professor of History and James H. Cavanaugh Endowed Chair in Presidential Studies at Chapman University. His area of specialty is the Cold War, the modern presidency, and U.S. political and diplomatic history, with a focus on the "long 1960s" from John F. Kennedy through Watergate. He has been a Visiting Fellow at the Norwegian Nobel Institute, an Andrew W. Mellon Fellow at the Massachusetts Historical Society, a Visiting Scholar at the University of Michigan's Eisenberg Institute for Historical Studies, a Senior Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Oxford's Rothermere American Institute, and a Hansard Research Scholar at the London School of Economics.

He is a New York Times bestselling author and editor of eight books, including, most recently, The Year That Broke Politics: Collusion and Chaos in the Presidential Election of 1968 (Yale University Press). It is the first rigorously researched historical account of the most controversial election in modern U.S. history to have cooperation from all four major sides – Lyndon Johnson, Hubert Humphrey, Ri

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes our special guest, Johnny Sirpilla, an entrepreneur, founder and chief encourager of Encourage LLC, and the best-selling author of Life Is Hard but I’ll Be OK. Johnny opens up about how he inherited not only a successful RV business from his father but also an ethos of hard work and integrity. He discusses how these values have shaped him into who he is today—driven, and perfectionistic, yet always striving to honor his family name. We also delve into the respective childhoods and parental expectations, highlighting both differences in upbringing and common threads such as love, support, and setting standards. This episode is filled with insights on personal growth and dedication towards family values. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Gary and Johnny share amusing anecdotes about their distinctive hairstyles during their younger years. 
• Discover Johnny’s impressively long bio and wealth of experiences.
• Discussions on full-blooded Italian traits lead to light-hearted banter about food preferences between Italy vs America.
• Insights into how family expectations shaped and influenced Johnny's decision to continue his father's legacy while creating new avenues within the RV industry.
• Hear about reflections on parental expectations, love, and support while also setting standards around honor, integrity, and a hard work ethic without spoiling children materially.
• As a board member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Johnny shares his passion for football and his favorite player.

This episode is sponsored by:
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)
Dignity Memorial

Bio:
John A. Sirpilla is a 1988 graduate of Miami University with a degree in Accounting and a special interest in Psychology and Finance, a 2000 graduate of the University of Phoenix with a master’s degree in Organizational Management, and holds a certification in Executive Presence and Influence: Persuasive Leadership Development from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.

In 1992, Johnny became President of Sirpilla R.V. Center, Inc.. Within a few years, he was recognized out of more than 3,000 dealers as the National RV Dealer of the Year for best overall run dealership in the country. In 2003, Johnny was one of the initial acquisitions by Camping World and sold his family business to become part of the executive team to attempt the first RV dealership roll up plan in the industry’s history.

Johnny served as President of Camping World, a 140-store nationwide retail chain serving the RV industry and was promoted in 2012 to Chief Business Development Officer for the parent company, Camping World and Good Sam with annual sales of nearly $4 billion. Johnny retired from Camping World in 2017 after a successful IPO.

His company, Encourage LLC, has various holdings in industries including leadership development, population health management, employee benefits, medical device innovation, e-commerce roll up, executive leadership and consulting, fashio

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas had a thought-provoking conversation with Chloe Duckworth, the Co-founder and CEO of Valence Vibrations, an AI startup delivering emotional classifications in real-time conversation, aiming to augment emotional perception across different neurotypes, languages, communication styles, and cultures. They delve into how her company is revolutionizing the way we perceive and interact with emotions in digital spaces, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Join us for fascinating insights that spark ideas about where humanity and technology converge. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Learn how Chloe’s startup aims to make virtual environments more accessible by helping users better understand social cues via haptic feedback.
• Hear about the creation of an Apple Watch app designed for autistic, ADHD, and neurodivergent individuals to assist in reading room vibes through vibrations.
• Discover how emotion AI can minimize misunderstandings caused by cultural differences or atypical neurological wiring.
• Discussion about the impact of COVID-19 on digital communication and the need for tools that bridge emotional perception gaps in virtual environments.
• Find out about new tools that could transform our approach to video conferencing by adding layers of emotional context. 
• Discussion around ethical considerations when implementing emotion detection technologies in sensitive areas like courtrooms.
• Hear personal stories about self-discovery and improved communication skills as a result of engaging deeply with emotional data analytics.
• Get excited about the potential future developments where emotional AI could serve as an 'emotional subtitle' for internet communications globally - fostering greater empathy online.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Sterling Oak Cabinetry
(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

Bio:
Chloe Duckworth is the co-founder and CEO of Valence Vibrations, an AI startup delivering emotional classifications in real-time conversation, aiming to augment emotional perception across different neurotypes, languages, communication styles, and cultures. Chloe is personally motivated by democratizing access to wellness in every facet of being well. In the wake of the pandemic, she co-founded Hope Hearted, a Bay Area-based nonprofit that has provided PPE to thousands of unhoused and low-income people.

Chloe has worked as a Program Manager and an Advanced Special Projects Team Intern at BrainMind and was involved in managing programs and special projects related to neuroscience. Additionally, Chloe has served as a Research Assistant at the University of Southern California, where they contributed to the development of a model of neuronal circuits and created a graphical flatmap heat map tool for visualizing brain data. Chloe has also completed a Cognitive Neuroscience Internship at Stanford University School of Medicine and worked as a Research Assistant at Stanford. Chloe Duckworth has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computational Neuroscience from the Unive

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we sit down with the hilariously insightful and widely known recovery comedian, Mark Lundholm. Known for his unique blend of humor and mental health advocacy, Mark shares insights from his life's journey—from dysfunctional beginnings to becoming one of just three people in the country who do what he does (and arguably doing it best). With anecdotes that range from humorous to profound, he reflects on personal growth through experiences and his unique perspective on life. Now, he’s sharing the tools he uses to captivate, entertain, and educate audiences around the world.

Whether you're looking for laughs or life lessons—or ideally both—this episode promises plenty of each, courtesy of one of the most distinctive voices in stand-up today. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Discover shared interests between Gary and Mark bond over their mutual love for cigars and a specific shop they unknowingly frequented together.
•  Learn about Mark's unique niche that combines humor with mental health advocacy. As one of only a few in his field, he shares insights on using comedy as a platform to educate and enlighten.
• Reflect on how age brings experience over energy, particularly in comedy. With years spent touring different countries and all 50 states multiple times, hear about what longevity has taught him.
• Explore Mark’s language fluency across audiences: From inmates to politicians, Mark prides himself on speaking 'all languages' due to performing for diverse groups.
• Dive into personal stories from Mark and Gary that reveal their youthful misadventures and learning curves.
• Discover how growing up in Oakland during turbulent times shaped much of his perspective on making mistakes—and learning from them collectively rather than individually.
• Stories about playing golf—including an enlightening moment with an older golfer—Mark draws parallels between sportsmanship, business ethics, integrity, and personal improvement.

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off service!)

Bio:
Mark Lundholm is a comedian, author, mentor, sponsor, father, and ex-husband. He has been performing stand-up comedy focused on the challenges, struggles, and experiences of those struggling with addiction for more than 30 years.

Soon after attaining sobriety, Mark began professionally entertaining others with his irreverent and spot-on humor about life, relationships, perceptions, and challenges as someone who grew up in a dysfunctional, traumatic home environment. Before long, his popular comedy performances created national and international demand, and Mark continued to grow his audience. As of 2019, Mark has performed in all 50 states and 10 foreign countries and has presented his stand-up comedy for Presidents and other heads of state, world-renowned musicians, and Fortune 500 companies, from audiences of less than a dozen to more than 20,000 people.

In addition to his work in stand-up comedy, Mark has written and performed his own one-man show off-Broadway, achieving critical ac

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation with Sean A Mirski, a lawyer, historian, U.S. foreign policy scholar, and author of the monumental book “We May Dominate the World: Ambition, Anxiety, and the Rise of the American Colossus." Sean shares how he spent eight years crafting his book while juggling a demanding law career. His book unpacks nearly 100 years of complex policy across the entire Western Hemisphere with gripping storytelling as we deeply dive into the pivotal moments that shaped our nation's destiny.

So if you're up for a historical exploration filled with drama, strategy, and lessons for our times, tune in now and be ready to geek out!

In this Episode:

• Explore how Sean’s time at the University of Chicago shaped him and touch upon his role as a visiting scholar.
• Sean shares insights into his writing process and rigorous research involving primary sources, from dusty archives to Library of Congress documents.
• The discussion delves deep into understanding history through human stories rather than dry facts.
• Sean reflects on the importance of presenting balanced perspectives that respect historical complexities instead of one-sided narratives.
• Sean emphasizes meticulous documentation and how easy it is to distort history without proper context or verification.
• Impactful historical events involve political figures like President Abraham Lincoln, General Ulysses S. Grant, Secretary William H. Seward, President Theodore Roosevelt, Republican politician James G. Blaine, Major General Smedley Butler, and President James Monroe.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Sean A. Mirski is a lawyer, historian, and U.S. foreign policy scholar who has worked on national security issues across multiple U.S. presidential administrations. A term member of the Council on Foreign Relations, he currently practices national security, foreign relations, and appellate law at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, and is also a Visiting Scholar at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He previously served in the U.S. Department of Defense under both Republican and Democratic administrations as Special Counsel to the General Counsel, where he earned the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. He has written extensively on American history, international relations, law, and politics, including as author of We May Dominate the World: Ambition, Anxiety, and the Rise of the American Colossus (PublicAffairs 2023), and as editor of the book Crux of Asia: China, India, and the Emerging Global Order (CEIP 2013). Earlier in his career, he clerked for Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr. on the U.S. Supreme Court and then-Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and served as a fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Named one of Forbes magazine’s “30 Under 30,” he graduated magna cum laude from Harvard Law School and holds a master’s degree in inte

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of the CEO and founder of PayCertify, Chase Harmer, from his early days in payment processing to his latest venture, Wishes. As a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator in fintech, Chase shares insights on embracing failure, the power of persistence, and his vision for transforming charitable giving.

This episode provides an enlightening perspective on taking risks, overcoming adversity, and leveraging one's experiences toward making the world a better place through technological advancements within philanthropy. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Listen in to Chase’s background story from growing up in the Los Gatos area, hustling from a young age, and starting business ventures at 19 years old.
• Discover how he started in credit card sales during its nascent stage in 1998, then quickly moved on to start his own business after learning about profit margins.
• Hear his lessons learned through failures, including an initial failed partnership due to a lack of experience and understanding of marketing needs.
• Be inspired by how he turned an initial investment into a $40 million/year business before moving into building technology for merchant services without a prior tech background.
• Discussion on how success has changed him personally: facing challenges that almost led him to lose everything but choosing redemption over despair.
• Chase shares wisdom on valuing human capability beyond monetary wealth—what you can do without money often defines your true worth.
• Discover how Wishes was born out of Chase’s desire for meaningful impact rather than personal wealth accumulation. 
• Explore the topics and his insights on his blog about astrophysics.

This episode is sponsored by:
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

Bio:
As the Chief Executive Officer, Chase Harmer is the visionary for PayCertify, a worldwide payments company that works with businesses in the e-commerce, healthcare, and travel verticals, processing billions of dollars in transactions annually. Having started in banking at the age of 19, Chase has built portfolios processing billions globally and created several patents through his two decades of experience.

Chase has spent 26+ years as a payments entrepreneur and was one of the pioneers of virtual credit card technology. After building several companies and creating 7 patents since 2013, Chase leverages his past successes to give back to the community and help other entrepreneurs build businesses as a Lecturer and Mentor at the Founders Institute.

Website: https://chaseharmer.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-harmer-657a5b5/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wishesinc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chaseharmerrr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaseharmerrr/
X:

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we sit down with the lead vocals, lead guitar, and fiddle of the renowned '90s country band, Ricochet. Tall, good-looking, and incredibly talented Heath Wright shares his epic journey from delivering donuts to insurance agencies with our very own host, Gary Scott Thomas, to becoming a cattle rancher in Oklahoma. He reminisces about the bizarre things bands did back in their early days and gives us an inside look into life on a ranch, new music releases, and his reflections on being part of a band. Join us in this amazing episode filled with laughter and more! Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• The early days: Reminiscing about when Ricochet delivered donuts to an insurance agency.
• A day in the life of a rancher: Heath candidly shares his current routine tending to sick animals on his cattle ranch, highlighting how far removed it is from the typical musician’s lifestyle.
• Nostalgia hits hard: They reflect on '90s country music trends and discuss why some bands endure while others fade away.
• The evolution of performance: Heath talks about singing their hit song “Daddy’s Money” 30 years later.
• Behind-the-scenes look at recording: Insights into re-recording classic hits for today’s audience using modern technology are shared, preserving originality while enhancing sound quality.
• Album release excitement: Ricochet's new album featuring both rerecorded classics and fresh tracks that blend past glory with present vibrancy.
• Thought-provoking discussions reveal what goes into maintaining longevity in music, including making tough business decisions similar to those made by other successful groups like Sawyer Brown and KISS.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Sterling Oak Cabinetry
(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

Bio:
Heath Wright is the lead vocals, lead guitar, and fiddle of the country music band Ricochet. He is a proud native of Vian, Oklahoma, and has always stayed true to his roots, even during his 15-year stint in Nashville, TN. Heath's journey began on the Rockin' W Ranch, where he serenaded a captive audience of Hereford cows and honed his musical talents. Despite early shyness, Heath's passion for music blossomed, leading him to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Business Management at Northeastern State University before delving into a unique Country Music degree program at South Plains College. Upon graduation, Heath embarked on the most significant journey of his life – the move to Nashville. There, he co-founded Ricochet, a band that skyrocketed to success with chart-topping hits and prestigious awards, including the New Vocal Group of the Year from the Academy of Country Music and several other CMA and ACM nominations. Top 10 hits (and even a multi-week #1) on the Billboard charts were no stranger to Heath and his band, Ricochet. During their highest point, Heath and Ricochet made numerous television appearances on Country Music Awards shows (as performers, presenters, and nominees), the Grand Ole Opry, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. In 2011

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our special guest is the renowned Kathy Reichs, a forensic anthropologist turned bestselling author of Temperance Brennan novels. With a career that's as remarkable as her literary acclaim creations, Kathy shares insights from her life journey. She went from being a curious child fascinated by science to becoming one of only 100 forensic anthropologists ever certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology.

Whether handling crime scenes or weaving humor into dark narratives, Kathy offers listeners an intimate portrait of a life rich with stories. So, stay tuned for a captivating conversation that traverses death investigations, literature's imaginative realms, and everything that ties them together through the eyes of a master storyteller.

In this Episode:

• The early signs of drive and curiosity in young Kathy.
• The rigorous path to becoming a board-certified forensic anthropologist.
• Transitioning from academic writing to crafting thrilling novels based on real-life experiences.
• Insights into Temperance Brennan’s character evolution—from books to the hit TV show "Bones."
• Behind-the-scenes look at scriptwriting for "Bones" and how it differs from novel writing.
• The importance of setting in storytelling and why Kathy never writes about places she hasn't visited.
• How personal preferences sometimes make their way into characters' quirks.
• Hear about Kathy's latest novel, “The Bone Hacker."
• Kathy also touches upon family influences, with two out of three children following in her footsteps in writing.

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)
Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)

Bio:
Kathy Reichs’s first novel Déjà Dead catapulted her to fame when it became a New York Times bestseller and won the 1997 Ellis Award for Best First Novel. Her other Temperance Brennan books include Death du Jour, Deadly Decisions, Fatal Voyage, Grave Secrets, Bare Bones, Monday Mourning, Cross Bones, Break No Bones, Bones to Ashes, Devil Bones, 206 Bones, Spider Bones, Flash and Bones, Bones Are Forever, Bones of the Lost, Bones Never Lie, Speaking in Bones and the Temperance Brennan short story collection, The Bone Collection. In addition, Kathy co-authored the Virals young adult series with her son, Brendan Reichs. The best-selling titles are Virals, Seizure, Code, Exposure, Terminal, and the novella collection Trace Evidence. The series follows the adventures of Temperance Brennan’s great-niece, Tory Brennan.  Dr. Reichs’ latest novel, Two Nights, was released July 11 and features Sunday Night, a tough-talking, scarred heroine.  Dr. Reichs was also a producer of the hit Fox TV series, Bones, which is based on her work and her novels.

Dr. Reichs is one of only 100 forensic anthropologists ever certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology.  Dr. Reichs is a native of Chicago, where she received her Ph.D. at Northwestern. She now divides

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, join us for a riveting episode as our host, Gary Scott Thomas, sits down with none other than the master of thrills and chills, Jonathan Maberry! They dive deep into his fascinating life and work as a prolific author whose career spans across novels, short stories, comic books, the big screen, and more. Jonathan's life reads like one of his novels—from martial arts expert to bestselling author. Our host couldn't get enough of his Joe Ledger series and Pine Deep trilogy. And neither will you once you dive into those heart-pounding action scenes!

So tune in to this incredible episode and discover the passion and stories behind your favorite Maberry books! Also, brace yourself for spoilers!

In this Episode:

•  A Life Full of Stories: Jonathan shares his wildly varied bio, proving that his life is just as captivating as the worlds he creates.
•  The Joe Ledger Series: Get ready to dive into the mind of a master storyteller as Jonathan discusses the completion of the 13th book and his preparations for the 14th. 
• Crafting Fight Scenes: Find out how Jonathan's martial arts expertise translates into gripping combat sequences that are packed with physiological and psychological layers. It's like watching a high-octane fight scene on the page!
• Character Depth and Evolution: Hear Jonathan's insights on the development of his book protagonists and how they evolve throughout his captivating stories. 
• Hollywood Adaptations and Casting Challenges: Get the inside scoop on past discussions about adapting the Joe Ledger series into TV shows or movies. And let's not forget the all-important casting choices. 
• The Future of Joe Ledger: Join in on the excitement as they talk about possible future adaptations and Jonathan's appearances in other book series. The possibilities are endless!
• Narrative Technique Discussion: Discover how Jonathan's ideas are born from current events or scientific advancements, weaving impactful storylines that center around character experiences. It's like a masterclass in storytelling!
• The Story of Our Fathers: Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as Jonathan shares stories from his upbringing. A glimpse into his past that adds an extra layer of depth to his work.
• Comic Books Morality: Explore the intricate world of comic books, including the beloved Marvel and DC comics, as Jonathan delves into the moral complexities they tackle. 

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Jonathan Maberry is a New York Times best-seller, five-time Bram Stoker Award-winner, anthology editor, comic book writer, executive producer, magazine feature writer, playwright, and writing teacher/lecturer. He is the editor of Weird Tales Magazine and president of the International Association of Media Tie-in Writers. He is the recipient of the Inkpot Award, three Scribe Awards, and was named one of Today’s Top Ten Horror Writers. His books have been sold to more than thirty countries. He writes in several genres including thrille

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a fun and candid conversation with the country music singer, guitarist, and songwriter, Matt Stell. Join us as Matt shares stories from his roots in Center Ridge, Arkansas, to the bustling streets of New York City. Matt isn't just carrying his guitar on tours; he brings along memories, aspirations, and heartfelt stories that resonate across every destination he has been to! We are sure that this podcast episode has something delightful for everyone. Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Discover how people from small towns like Center Ridge "round up" when explaining where they're from.
• Get a taste of city life through Matt's eyes and why he appreciates visiting places like New York but prefers living elsewhere.
• Learn about being a "professional traveler" as part of a singer's job and why sometimes life gets in the way of exploring new cities.
• Gain insight into his record label experience with Sony in Manhattan and how his authentic style resonates beyond traditional boundaries.
• Pizza talk! Find out if New York really does have better pizza and what constitutes an acceptable topping according to Matt.
• Explore destinations still on Matt's bucket list.
• Understand the allure behind festival shows both as an artist performing for large crowds and as a fan enjoying other musicians' sets.
• Delve into who inspired him growing up (hint: '90s alternative bands) and who he'd love to collaborate with today.
• Peek into the creative process behind hits like “Prayed For You” starting with just one line that sparks an entire song narrative. 

This episode is sponsored by:
Beck's Shoes
(Use code "GST" on their website and enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on your favorite shoes!)

Winchester Western Wear
(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

Bio:
Matt Stell is an American country music singer, guitarist, and songwriter. Matt began releasing music in the early 2010s after teaching himself guitar while in college. He had a breakthrough with the streaming hit "Prayed for You" in 2018, which topped the Country Airplay charts in 2019, a position matched by "Everywhere But On" that year. After a couple of quiet years, Stell delivered the One of Us EP in February 2023.

Talking about the beginning of his career as a singer, he was the lead singer of the band “The Crashers” in the late 2000s and early 2010s. This personality released three albums independently while being involved with the said band. Those albums were The Sound & the Story, Vestibule Blues, and A River Through It. Followed it with the single "Country Love Song" in 2015. In the meantime, he opened shows for headliners including Luke Bryan and Eric Church. An offer from Wide Open Music in Nashville, Tennessee, led to the release of the single "Prayed for You" and the EP Everywhere But On in 2019. "Prayed for You" went viral, amassing over ten million streams across platforms before the end of the year. The single's success translated to the charts: it topped Billboard's Country Airplay chart, as did "Everywhere But On." A

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a wonderful time sitting down with the legendary television play-by-play broadcaster of the San Jose Sharks NBC Sports California National Hockey League, Randy Hahn. They dive into a reflective conversation about their long-standing careers in broadcasting. With over three decades behind the mic for the San Jose Sharks, Randy shares his journey from radio beginnings to becoming an iconic voice in sports.

So, join us as we skate through memory lane with one of hockey's most enduring voices!
Tune in now to this episode filled with fun and nostalgia!

In this Episode:

• Randy spills the beans on how his broadcasting career started in 1991 and never in his wildest dreams did he imagine staying put for over 30 years. Talk about passion and dedication! 
• Discover the challenges and unexpected twists of longevity in the industry from two veterans who have seen it all. These guys know the ins and outs, and they're ready to dish out all the behind-the-scenes stories. 
• Ever wondered why certain game moments stick out to fans? Randy shares his thoughts and reveals why those interactions during live broadcasts hold a special place in the hearts of broadcasters like himself.
• Uncover the importance of connecting with fans, and creating unforgettable experiences during games and events that resonate beyond the final buzzer. Get ready to feel that sense of community and camaraderie we all love about sports. 
• Randy opens up about making tough career moves, handling rejections early on, and eventually finding stability in a turbulent industry. His journey is one of resilience that aspiring broadcasters can learn from. 
• Find out what ignited the passion in these seasoned pros for the world of broadcasting, from the magic of AM radio to influential figures like Johnny Carson's producer, Fred de Cordova. Inspiration awaits! 
• Learn how growing up Canadian shaped Randy's path toward becoming a hockey broadcaster. Discover the unique influences that made him the voice we all know and love today. 
• And of course, you won't want to miss the valuable advice these experienced voices share on building authenticity and self-confidence, essential traits for success in the media industry.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
Randy Hahn is a Canadian-American play-by-play commentator for the San Jose Sharks on NBC Sports California and has held that position for over 30 seasons. He has over 40 years of broadcast experience, mostly in hockey. Celebrating a milestone, he called his 2,000th Sharks game on December 13, 2022, during the matchup against the Arizona Coyotes in San Jose.

Teaming up with analyst and former partner Drew Remenda, Hahn secured five Northern California Emmy Awards in the "On Camera Sports" category, with victories in 1999, 2002, 2005, and 2008. Beyond hockey, Hahn served as a play-by-play announcer in Konami's NHL Blades of Steel '99 and 2K Sports' NHL 2K9, NHL 2K10, and NHL 2K11. Hahn and Rick Davis provided comm

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas shared another captivating conversation with the legendary ‘hype guy' and on-court host of the Golden State Warriors, Franco Finn. He shares his passion for basketball and takes us back to the unforgettable year of 2015, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of a dynasty. Plus, get ready to uncover surprising truths behind the spotlight of some celebrities through intimate experiences shared by Franco.

So tune in now for all these fascinating stories where entertainment meets athleticism!

In this Episode:

• Golden State Warriors 2015 Championship Legacy Rekindled
• NBA Star Power Dynamics, Drafting, and Team Development highlighting Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Kevin Durant, and more.
• Discover the Coolest Things Backstage
• Behind The Scenes with Celebrities like NSYNC, Justin Timberlake, Raven Symone, Shia LeBeouf, Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Garth Brooks, and Taylor Swift.
• Industry Evolution Reflection and Creating Value in Radio Production
• The Story of Our First Radio Commercials

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)
Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter
(Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter service!)

Bio:
Franco Finn is a first-generation San Francisco native. Growing up,  Franco graduated with a B.A. in Communications at Santa Clara University, studying television, and film production.  Currently, Franco manages the Community Relations and Engagement efforts for the state of California at Alaska Airlines, while also serving as their company media spokesperson, host, and travel influencer.  When Franco is not working his business and corporate jobs, people may also recognize him and his voice over the last 20 years as the in-arena MC/Host and TV Personality for the NBA World Champion Golden State Warriors. Now in his 20th season, many fans of the beloved sports franchise, fittingly know him as the “Hypeman" at the new Chase Center in San Francisco, where he energizes and entertains the often sold-out crowd of 18,000+ fans every night. Franco is also the first and only Filipino/Asian American “Hypeman” in the NBA.  Franco Finn is also a well-known professional auctioneer, nicknamed the “Hypeman Auctioneer,” where he shares his voice and influence at many charity benefits, galas, celebrity events, and all types of fundraiser events all around the San Francisco Bay Area, the country and beyond. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franco.finn/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francofinn/
X: https://twitter.com/francofinn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francofinn/

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Let’s make some noise!

This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas shared an engaging conversation with Franco Finn, known as "the hype man” for his energetic presence and booming voice that fans heard inside Chase Center and the Oakland Arena before that, during Golden State Warriors home games for two decades. We delve into his fascinating world, where he opens up about his unexpected start in entertainment, his passion for radio and basketball, and how he became a renowned auctioneer. Plus, listen in for exciting NBA insider stories that could only be told by Franco, one of Dub Nation’s most beloved figures and a true maverick in sports entertainment!

So, stay tuned for this epic ride full of passion, laughter, and heartfelt stories! Let's go Warriors!

In this Episode:

• Unexpected Beginnings: Discover how Franco stumbled into radio after majoring in TV production at Santa Clara University and initially aspiring to work behind the scenes.
• Rise to Radio Disney Fame: Learn about Franco's first gig at Radio Disney San Francisco during the boy band explosion era and how he worked his way up from promotions to becoming "Freestyle Franco," captivating audiences with live remotes.
• Warriors' Hype Master: Hear about the pivotal moment when performing as an emcee at a Hilary Duff concert led to him being discovered by Golden State Warriors executives who were seeking a dynamic host for their games.
• Auctioneering Adventures: Gain insights into how Franco combined his on-mic energy with auction skills after attending auction school, leading him to become successful in charity auctions.
• Disney Discipline: Understand how working under strict brand standards set by Disney helped shape Finn’s professionalism and adaptability across various entertainment segments.
• Championing Underdogs: Relive the early days when hyping up crowds was challenging due to less successful seasons but prepared him for energizing fans through every high-stakes situation.
• NBA Recognition and All-Star Hosting: Reflect on Franco’s recognition within NBA circles which culminated in hosting duties during all-star weekends—a testament to his industry-wide impact as an entertainer.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Franco Finn is a first-generation San Francisco native. Growing up,  Franco graduated with a B.A. in Communications at Santa Clara University, studying television, and film production.  Currently, Franco manages the Community Relations and Engagement efforts for the state of California at Alaska Airlines, while also serving as their company media spokesperson, host, and travel influencer.  When Franco is not working his business & corporate jobs, people may also recognize him and his voice over the last 20 years as the in-arena MC/Host and TV Personality for the NBA World Champion Golden State Warriors. Now in his 20th season, many fans of the beloved sports franchise, fittingly know him as the “Hypeman" at the new Chase Center in San Francisco, where he energizes and entertains the o

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a mind-bending conversation with Dan Levitt, the author of What’s Gotten Into You: The Story of Your Body’s Atoms, from the Big Bang Through Last Night’s Dinner. From contemplating his daughter's vegetarian diet to delving deep into the history of scientific discovery, Dan took us on a ride from the Big Bang to modern biology. He also shares something enthralling about Robert Oppenheimer, Georges Lemaître, Fred Hoyle, Martin Kamen, Sam Ruben, Einstein, and all things geeky.  So, join us to hear more discussions about extensive research filled with fascinating stories that may blow your mind!

In this Episode:

• How questioning Dan’s daughter's vegetarian diet led to an intriguing path of scientific discovery.
• The eye-opening revelation that every particle in our bodies originated from the Big Bang.
• Hear stories and tales about science history, controversies, DNA discovery, tragedies, triumphs, and many more!
• Discussion about the human complexity, mitochondria story, and challenges faced by scientific pioneers.
• Reflections on life’s wonders and geological disagreements regarding evolution due to limited evidence but constant reinterpretation lead us closer to truth over time.

This episode is sponsored by:
Beck's Shoes (Use code "GST" to enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on your favorite shoes!)
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

Bio:
Dan Levitt is the author of What’s Gotten Into You: The Story of Your Body’s Atoms, from the Big Bang Through Last Night’s Dinner. The book brings together a lifetime of discovery and research that led to a sweet spot where history meets science. He fondly recalls a chemistry kit his parents gave him when he was seven; he had a great time recording his results in a small notebook. He still misses those musty cards that he used to browse as he researched assignments as a student in Philadelphia’s public schools. In high school, his favorite class was ­chemistry, and that’s what he thought he would study, but then he found cognitive psychology at Swarthmore College.

In the Peace Corps in Kenya, Dan taught high school physics, biology, and world history in a remote village. Living close to Mount Kilimanjaro, walking by anthills as tall as people, and seeing snakes, hippos, and other wildlife, gave him an intense curiosity about the natural world. He returned to Philadelphia to take a job developing exhibits and videos at the Franklin Institute Science Museum. That led to an interest in documentary filmmaking. After getting an MFA, Dan moved to Boston and started his career writing, producing, and directing documentaries for Discovery, Science, National Geographic, History, HHMI (Howard Hughes Medical Institute), and others. His productions include films on dinosaurs; how Galileo, Newton, Einstein, and Hawking made their greatest discoveries; the archeology of Custer’s Last Stand; and scientists’ efforts to uncover the cause of Malaysia’s Nipah virus. His work has received numerous awards including two Cine-Golden Eagles, Emmy award nominations, and the cov

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had the opportunity to have a fascinating conversation with one of the most innovative guitarists of our time, Al Pitrelli of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Join us as he shares his personal and professional experiences in the music industry from playing rock with Alice Cooper to making history with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. We also delve into the heartwarming anecdotes about Paul O'Neill and how seemingly insignificant life events led Al right into Paul’s path, leading them together toward creating magic.

This is not just any other podcast episode; it’s an emotional exploration of artistry, resilience, and legacy! So don't miss out on this captivating narrative where every note tells a tale!

In this Episode:

• A look back at Al's unexpected path in music that started with Alice Cooper and eventually led him to Paul O'Neill, creator of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
• Discover how working alongside Alice Cooper shaped Al’s understanding of theatrical presentation in rock 'n' roll.
• Sharing a heartwarming encounter years later with Paul O'Neill.
• Navigating the loss of Paul O’Neill and keeping his art form alive.
• Diving deep into music, inspiration, and influences.
• Discover how Al celebrates Christmas in different cities.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Al Pitrelli is one of the most innovative guitarists of our time and has been an active and vital part of TSO since its inception. Currently, he is the lead guitarist and musical director of TSO West and the co-musical director for studio recordings. Long before he entered the TSO realm, Al set the stage for his work in the band thanks to an impressive musical pedigree. After leaving Berklee School of Music in Boston in the early 80s, Al's versatility led to recording and touring work with musicians and groups such as Alice Cooper (where he served as the band’s musical director), Asia, Megadeth, and numerous others.

In the mid-’90s, he joined the progressive rock group Savatage where he began working with producer Paul O'Neill. Paul’s vision of creating a new type of band that would do anything to allow their music to have the maximum impact on the listener led to the eventual formation of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Al's edgy guitar playing and vast musical lexicon merge perfectly with TSO's passion and intensity.

“I really didn't want to do anything else, no side projects,” declares Al. “I could care less, and he kept me working literally around the clock, like 10 or 11 months a year. It was Paul's world. And it is. I'm just happy to be part of it. I loved working for the man. I love working for his family. I loved to help him bring some of his ideas to life. I loved him guiding me, I loved throwing ideas at him. It was just the greatest quarter century in my life, musically.”

Al is very aware of the musical legacy he is upholding in TSO and how Paul wanted the music to live on.

“For those of us doing it

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had an exciting episode featuring Shawn Inmon, the renowned talented full-time author behind the captivating book series “The Middle Falls Time Travel.” This incredible conversation is filled with intriguing insights on work ethics as they dive into a shared history in radio and the exciting world of storytelling. But the most interesting part? Their in-depth discussion about Shawn’s books and a sneak peek into his unique writing process.

Join us to hear more of his brilliant stories, and be ready to immerse yourself in the world of Shawn Inmon’s books!

In this Episode:

• Shawn’s Career History
• Las Vegas Trip Down Memory Lane
• Insight into Shawn’s Creative Process
• Diving into Shawn’s captivating Book Series
• Reminiscing Early Days on the Radio
• The Story of How I Got Fired

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter
(Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter service!)

Bio:
Shawn Inmon is a small-town kid who dreamed of being a writer. Today, he is now a full-time author who lives in Tumwater, Washington, USA. He worked several dozen jobs - retail, real estate, traveling with the Unlimited Hydroplanes, crabbing in Alaska, morning disc jockey and station manager, and many others he can't remember to list. These jobs gave him a wonderful base to write what he knows because he knows a little about a lot. He achieved his dream of becoming a full-time writer in 2016 and has never looked back. One reviewer called him "The King of Redemption stories." Shawn says he doesn't feel like a king of anything, but he does love a good tale of second chances.

He is the author of the ever-growing The Middle Falls Time Travel series, 18 books and counting, and The Alex Hawk Time Travel Adventure series. He is also the author of Feels Like the First Time, a bestselling memoir of growing up in a small town in the seventies, falling in love, and messing everything up. He lives with his high school sweetheart - now wife -Dawn, two happy-go-lucky Chocolate Labs, and a slightly schizo cat named Georgie. 

Website: https://www.shawn-inmon.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShawnInmonWriter/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawninmon/

X: https://twitter.com/ShawnInmon

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The Boys and Girls Clubs play a vital role in shaping the lives of children and youth by providing support and opportunities for them.

Join us for the Joy Drive supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley!

Gift JOY this season!
December 7, 2023
4 - 6 p.m.

Three locations:
Levin Club
4955 Edenview Dr.
San Jose, CA 95111

Alviso Club
5040 N. First St.
San Jose, CA 95002

Morgan Hill Club
17666 Crest Ave
Morgan Hill, CA 95037

In this episode, we hear inspiring stories of the enormous impacts made by the Boys and Girls Clubs. You'll hear from Adam Hernandez, Isaac Romero, Helen Sustarich, and Franco Finn.

The Boys and Girls Clubs offer our youth so much:

Safe Haven: Under the guidance of caring adults, these clubs offer a safe and supportive environment where kids can learn, play, and grow, serving as a sanctuary away from potential risks or negative influences in their neighborhoods.

Educational Support: Boys and Girls Clubs offer educational programs that supplement what kids learn in school. They provide homework help, tutoring, and diverse learning experiences contribute to academic success.

Mentorship: Through positive role models and mentors, these clubs foster personal development, self-esteem, and confidence. Mentors provide guidance and inspire children to reach their full potential.

Health and Wellness: They promote healthy lifestyles through fitness activities, nutrition education, and access to sports programs. These clubs instill the importance of physical and mental well-being.

Community Engagement: Boys and Girls Clubs offer opportunities for volunteerism, community service, and leadership development. They teach the value of giving back and actively creating positive change.

Opportunity Equalizer: These clubs can act as an equalizer, offering opportunities and resources that may not be easily accessible to all children. Irrespective of their background or economic status, kids have access to resources that help bridge gaps and level the playing field.

Life Skills Development: Children are taught crucial life skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making, to prepare them for success in their future endeavors.

Boys and Girls Clubs are critical in shaping well-rounded, resilient individuals with the tools and support to navigate life's challenges and pursue their dreams.

Visit their site to see how else you can spread joy this season:
https://bit.ly/BGCSiliconValley

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation featuring the incredibly talented stand-up comedian, Greg Warren. Get ready as we take you on a rollercoaster ride through Greg's comedic journey, from his daring leap into full-time funny to honing his craft on stage. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind his gut-busting jokes, share heartwarming tales of mentorship, and explore the vibrant landscape of stand-up comedy. 

In this Episode:

• Family and Humor: Learn about how Greg's family reacts to being part of his comedic material.
• Stand-Up Process: Discover Greg's process for creating new content from journaling exercises to listening back on performances.
• Comedy Influences: Hear about influential comedians in Greg’s career like Eddie Murphy and Bob Newhart.
• Wrestling Background: Find out how wrestling shaped Greg’s work ethic and performance style.
• Acting vs. Stand-Up: Understand why Greg chose stand-up over pursuing acting or sitcom roles despite opportunities.
• Audience Interaction: Get an inside look at how audience engagement plays a role in shaping a live comedy set.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
Greg Warren recently released his special The Salesman, co-produced by Nate Bargatze and 800 Pound Gorilla Media. The project tells the story of his post-college phase when he had a stint selling Jif and Pringles for Procter & Gamble which eventually led to his decision to become a full-time comedian. According to The New York Times, Greg “...has done for peanut butter what Jerry Seinfeld did for Pop-Tarts and Jim Gaffigan did for Hot Pockets.” An honest mix of self-deprecation, frustration, and an arsenal of lifelike characters highlight Greg’s colorful perspective. He can be seen in his Amazon Prime Special, “Where The Field Corn Grows”, Fish Sandwich on Dry Bar Comedy, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Late Late Show, and Comedy Central Presents. Greg attracts a diverse audience spectrum, having performed as a finalist on BET’s Coming to the Stage and on Country Music Television. He is a favorite on the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Radio Show, which led to touring theaters nationwide with The Bob & Tom All Stars Comedy Tour. Greg’s comedy has been a daily staple on Sirius/XM’s Laugh USA and Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup channels for a decade. You can hear him guesting on podcasts like Nateland, Never Not Funny, Bertcast, Dumb People Town, The Adam Carolla Show, and many more. He's performed as a New Face of Comedy at JFL, on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, and on NBC’s Last Comic Standing.

Website: https://www.gregwarrencomedy.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gregwarrencomedy

Instagram:

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a roller coaster of emotion engaging in a conversation filled with nostalgic moments and hidden gems from the past. Our guest is Jeff Dwoskin, an award-winning comedian who is known for Laughs, Detroit International Comedy Festival, and Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show. Listen in to hear more incredible stories throughout his career, providing unique insights into his journey. Persistence, passion, and identity were key themes they explored in this conversation, truly inspiring for anyone pursuing their dreams! Remember, each ‘no’ today could potentially turn into a ‘yes’ tomorrow! 

Join us as we continue exploring engaging conversations with individuals who've left an indelible mark on popular culture over decades!

In this Episode:

• The Birth of Classic Conversation: Discover how the podcast evolved from a concept about social media named 'Viral Intentions' to its current form, focusing on pop culture nostalgia.
• Guests Galore: Learn about the variety of personalities that have graced his show.
• Interviewing Process and Preparation: Gain insights into how potential guests are approached and what goes into preparing for each interview.
• Memorable Moments and Surprises: Hear fascinating anecdotes involving unexpected phone calls leading to impromptu interviews with comedian Robert Klein and Bernie Kopell, among others.
• Special Highlight – Al Jean Interview: Don't miss out on hearing about one of our most interesting guests, Al Jean- executive director/showrunner for The Simpsons!
• Insightful Conversations: Tune in as we discuss intriguing topics stumbled upon during interviews.
• Persistence Pays Off: Understand why persistence is key when reaching out for interviews despite initial rejections or ignored requests.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter
(Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter service!)

Bio:
Jeff Dwoskin is a tech entrepreneur, podcaster, and award-winning comedian. Born in the suburbs of Detroit, he grew up in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Jeff is known for Laughs (2014), and Detroit International Comedy Festival (2010), He was the prestigious winner of the Dick Purtan Comedy Showcase and has appeared in numerous festivals.  As the host of Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show (2020), he fuses his passions for comedy, trending topics, pop culture, and all things social media into an ear-pleasing show with amazing guests from the worlds of comedy, acting, and social media.

He started his journey in the tech industry back in 1997, Jeff founded his own website development company, which quickly became one of the pioneering forces in the country. Amidst his tech endeavors, his comedic talents blossomed, beckoning him to the stage as a professional stand-up comedian. Additionally, Jeff is renowned for his significant contributions to social media. He founded Hashtag Roundup, a platform that facilitates over 8000 top 10 USA trends on Twitter, showcasing his k

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had the pleasure of sitting down with a talented country music artist with four No. 1 hits under his belt, none other than Michael Ray. Join us as he shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of country music's top artists. This unique conversation explores not just the glitz and glamour but also reveals what happens behind the scenes in creating his unforgettable music. He also highlights his new album, the art of staying true to your style, and the grind behind success in music.

Listen to this episode filled with laughter and nostalgia as we dive deep into the world of country music!

In this Episode:

• New Music Ventures: Learn about his exciting collaboration with producer Michael Knott as they take a fresh approach to crafting new music.
• Musical Influences: Discover how traditional country musicians like top and modern-day singers have shaped his musical tastes.
• The Journey to Artistic Identity: Hear about the challenges artists face in finding their true identity amidst industry trends and public opinions.
• Country Music and Personal Experiences
• Best Voices in Country Music History: Naming some of the best voices in country music history based not on popularity but pure vocal talent.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Winchester Western Wear (Tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

About Michael:
Michael Ray is an American country music singer known for his soulful voice, engaging stage presence, and chart-topping hits. Born in Eustis, Florida, he developed a passion for music at a young age and began performing in local venues as a teenager. Ray's career took off after he won the reality TV singing competition "The Next: Fame Is at Your Doorstep" in 2012. This victory helped him secure a recording contract, and he released his self-titled debut album in 2015, featuring hit singles like "Kiss You in the Morning" and "Think a Little Less." His music draws from traditional country roots while incorporating a modern edge, making him a favorite among both country purists and contemporary country music fans. Ray's energetic and heartfelt performances have endeared him to a wide audience, and he has continued to release successful albums, including "Amos" (2018) and "Higher Education" (2021). Throughout his career, Michael Ray has earned critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, cementing his status as a prominent figure in the country music industry. He remains an artist to watch for future chart-topping hits and captivating live performances, solidifying his place in the world of American country music.

Website: https://www.michaelraymusic.com/spiritsanddemons

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelraymusic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MusicMichaelRay

X: https://twitter.com/Michaelraymusic

TikTok:

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a wonderful conversation with an award-winning investigative journalist and a best-selling novelist, Stephanie Clifford. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of her latest novel, “The Farewell Tour,” inspired by the American West. It is a story about Lilian Waters, a strong-willed woman navigating her way through 1920s Washington State and stepping into the music industry in the '50s. Listen in to hear more of Stephanie's journey about how writing this novel has been a labor of love filled with challenges and discoveries along the way.

In this Episode:

• Consider keeping your initial ideas for a project private to allow creativity to flow without outside interference.
• Research the historical context of your story's setting and time, as this can provide unique plot points and deepen the storyline.
• Draw inspiration from unexpected sources, such as obituaries or historical documents.
• Accurately portray significant figures in your work to respect their influence and impact on history.
• Reflect on how societal norms have changed, particularly regarding gender roles within specific industries like music.
• Incorporate personal growth and development into character arcs, showing that they learn valuable lessons throughout their journey.
• Persist with developing skills even when faced with setbacks or discouragement due to societal expectations.
• Recognize the emotional intensity that can be conveyed through voice.
• Be open to changes in industry standards over time.
• Respect fans' support because it’s essential for success; never insult them under any circumstance
• Remain true to yourself despite what industry pressures might push you towards; authenticity is key to maintaining integrity both professionally and personally.

This episode is sponsored by:
Beck's Shoes (Use code "GST" to enjoy an exclusive 10% off on your favorite shoes!)
A Flood of Love

About Stephanie:
Stephanie Clifford is an award-winning investigative journalist and a bestselling novelist. As a New York Times reporter for almost a decade, she covered law and business. She now writes long-form investigations about criminal justice and business for the Times, The New Yorker, The Economist, The Atlantic, Wired, Elle, Marie Claire, Bloomberg Businessweek, and other publications. Her accolades include the Loeb Award in investigative reporting; the Deborah Howell Award for Writing Excellence from the News Leaders Association; the Society of American Business Editors and Writers in explanatory reporting; the Deadline Club Award in Magazine Profiles; and others. Her magazine articles are frequently adapted for film, TV, and streaming, including for Netflix, Lifetime, and other media companies. “Everybody Rise”, her first book, was a New York Times bestseller and New York Times Book Review editors’ choice. She grew up in Seattle and lives in Brooklyn with her family.

In March 2023, Stephanie Clifford released her latest novel, "The Farewell Tour," published by Harper. Thi

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation with our guest, Darren Haruo Rae, a Japanese-American producer and director based in Los Angeles. Darren shares his journey from being a movie enthusiast to becoming an accomplished filmmaker.

Darren's love for film was sparked by his father's passion for movies and his extensive laserdisc collection. Tune into this insightful episode where they also talked about assessing one’s own work, learning by doing, understanding commercial filming vs. authentic performances, and much more!

Filmmaking isn't just about what you see on screen; it's also about those behind-the-scenes heroes who make magic happen every day.

In this Episode:

• The Genesis of a Filmmaker
• The Academic Pursuit 
• A Nostalgic Affair with Physicality
• Influences Inspirations 
• Behind-the-Scenes Intricacies
• Self-assessment and Growth 
• The Art Of Compromise In Filmmaking    
• Directorial Philosophy  
• Casting Decisions And Actor Inputs   
• Persistence, Patience, and Timing 
• Physical Fitness In Cinema
• Representation And Diversity  
• Respect For Personal Stories   
• The Importance Of Storytelling   
• Historical Events As Source Material  
• Remembering History Through Film
• Cultural Expectations And Screenwriting  
• Superhero Movies And Corporate Control 
• Balancing Commercial Work With Personal Projects 
• Dream Collaborations 

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

About Darren:
Darren Haruo Rae is a Japanese-American producer/director based in Los Angeles who co-founded the boutique production company Roann Films. He has directed high-profile commercials and branded content for clients such as Western Digital, Airbnb, and Cisco. Rae's directorial debut, Park Arcadia, garnered Best Screenplay at the 2014 International Film Festival Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles. His latest film, Nisei, inspired by his Japanese-American grandfather's WWII experiences in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, earned Best Drama and Audience Choice at the 2023 Poppy Jasper Film Festival and continues its festival circuit, screening at Indy Shorts by Heartland Film, LA Shorts International Film Festival, HollyShorts Film Festival, and Cinequest Film Festival. 

Currently, Rae is the series producer for the MasterClass G.O.A.T. Original Series and is producing the feature film Surrender, starring Andrea Bang. Surrender was selected as one of Film Independent's Fast Track fellowship program's top 10 narrative fiction features and is slated for production in 2023.

Website: https://www.dhrae.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrenhrae/

Nisei Film Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niseithefilm/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoannFilms/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas wrapped up a truly inspiring episode. Our special guest, the talented musician and owner of The Grindstone Cowboy, Craig Campbell, shared his journey from being a gigging piano player to owning his own stage. He touched on the highs and lows of his career but emphasized that he feels most at home when performing live.

As an artist who believes in staying true to one's style despite industry trends, this musician is proof that tenacity pays off! Join us so you can hear more of Craig’s story, filled with passion, determination, and an unwavering love for music.

In this Episode:

• Discover the Grindstone Cowboy coffee shop.
• Learn about Glenn Campbell's influence on his career after an enlightening visit to his museum in Nashville.
• Hear about the transformative power of Clint Black’s Killing Time and Tracy Lawrence's Sticks and Stones cassettes in his life.
• Get insights into the backstage life at Opry performances and his fascination with artists' stories.
• Understand why introducing himself as a piano player rather than a singer made it easier for him to get gigs in Nashville.
• Discuss the challenges faced during extreme weather conditions while performing live shows.
• Converse about learning instruments without formal training.
• Explore what fear means when chasing dreams on stage.
• Discuss the songwriting process and fan reactions.
•  Frustrations within the music industry.
• Learn why some songs wait 20 years before getting recorded due to their enduring impact despite a lack of initial support.
• Family Man, a personal favorite written during Mindy’s pregnancy, perfectly represents who he is as an artist.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Use code "Gary20" to save 20% on your order!)
Dignity Memorial

About Craig:
Craig Campbell is an American country music singer, songwriter, and pianist born in Lyons, Georgia. He played piano at his mother's Baptist church from the age of 10 until he was 18. He first heard the sounds of gospel music before listening to Travis Tritt, who was one of the reasons why he immediately fell in love with country music. When he was 15, he formed a band called Out of the Blue and began playing the bar circuit, learning how to put together a performance and capture an audience. 

Craig moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2002 in hopes of pursuing his musical career. He took on several musician jobs and began writing his songs and demos. Fellow Georgian Luke Bryan suggested Campbell try his hand at writing his own songs, and in time he mastered the craft, honing his original material at gigs. He met another singer, Mindy Ellis, fell in love, and the pair married; he also began playing piano in her band, which in turn led to a touring stint with Tracy Byrd. Keith Stegall caught one of Campbell's performances at The Stage in 2008, and the young singer was soon signed to Bigger Picture. Starting in 2010, “Family Man” and “Outta My Head” both cracked the Top 15 on Billboard

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had an amazing and fun-filled chat with our special guest, the esteemed veterinarian, Dr. Dave Reed from Reed Animal Hospital, in the Bay Area. With years of experience under his belt and countless pet lives saved, his passion for his profession and dedication to animal welfare are truly inspiring. His journey started on a farm in the Midwest, where he grew up around animals, leading him initially to aspire to be a mixed animal practitioner.

Tune into this engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes, professional expertise, humor, and heartfelt advice on caring for our furry friends!

In this Episode:

• Being a Vet: Understand the commitment involved in becoming a vet - 8 years of education, including specialization
• Career Highlights: Hear about Dr. Dave's memorable encounter with famous veterinarian James Herriot and how he decided against large animal practice.
• Fear Free Veterinary Medicine: Learn about 'fear-free veterinary medicine' that focuses on creating relaxed environments for pets and their owners.
• Dealing with Pets: Discover how to anticipate dog behavior to avoid bites and understand why cats can be more unpredictable than dogs.
• Pet Health Indicators: Find out when pet lethargy should cause concern and other signs of ill health in pets.
• Communication is Key: Learn how effective communication can address the many concerns of first-time pet owners.
• Changes Over Time: Reflect on the significant advancements in veterinary medicine over the past decades due to increased care levels for pets seen as family members rather than outdoor creatures.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Winchester Western Wear (Tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

About Dr. Dave:
Dr. David Reed of Reed Animal Hospital grew up on a farm in Illinois and has loved animals since his childhood. An alumnus of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, he soon moved to the Bay Area, where he has made the exceptional veterinary care of cats and dogs his professional passion for more than three decades. He enjoys working with the community through low-cost vaccination clinics, speaking at local schools, and working with the Santa Clara County Sheriff K9 Unit. He considers working with the amazing police dogs some of his most rewarding work. Recently, “Dr. Dave” was voted one of the Bay Area’s Best Veterinarians, along with Dr. Dave’s Doggie Daycare as one of the Best Doggie Daycares, in Bay Woof Magazine’s Beast of the Bay Awards. Dr. Reed is highly respected and beloved by his furry patients and their families.

Website: https://www.reedanimalhospital.com/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation with Hollywood’s comedy sensation, Fortune Feimster. For over two decades, Fortune has been crafting an innovative, inclusive, and unparalleled career. Whether she's on stage, in the radio studio, or on screen, her contagious and joyous comedy continues to touch lives and bring people together every day. Fortune shared her career journey, starting from humble beginnings in a small town to achieving success in Hollywood through sheer determination, hard work, humor, and a dash of luck. Her continued humility despite her growth is truly inspiring!

Join us in this exciting episode and hear more of Fortune’s story about her comedic techniques and future aspirations. With opportunities rolling in as quickly as punchlines, it's evident that this determined and unflinching comedian is just beginning her remarkable journey. Indeed, Fortune Feimster is making waves everywhere.

Be sure to check her tour schedule to see if she's performing in a city near you and experience her extraordinary talent in person!

In this Episode:

• Fotune’s Humble Beginnings
• Career Progression
• Upcoming Events
• Netflix Special Projects
• Acting Techniques
• Future Goals
• The Power of Podcasting

This episode is sponsored by:
Beck's Shoes (Use my promo code "GST" on their website and enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on your favorite shoes!)
A Flood of Love

About Fortune:
Fortune Feimster, a stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for her affable and charismatic presence, wields her unique brand of confessional comedy to unite people from all walks of life. You can catch Fortune across various media platforms, whether through radio broadcasts, appearances on both the big and small screens or during her nationwide stand-up comedy tours. Her first one-hour special, Sweet & Salty, is currently available for streaming on Netflix and earned a well-deserved nomination for Best Comedy Special at the Critics' Choice Awards. Prior to this, Netflix showcased her talents in a half-hour special as part of The Standups in 2018, which garnered enthusiastic reviews. Fortune has graced late-night television with memorable sets on Conan and Late Night with Seth Meyers. She also boasts another acclaimed half-hour special on Comedy Central. Starting her career in Los Angeles as a member of the esteemed Groundlings Sunday Company, Fortune first gained national recognition as a writer and panelist on E's popular show Chelsea Lately. This was followed by series regular roles on Hulu's The Mindy Project and NBC's Champions. Her versatile talent has led to numerous guest appearances and recurring roles on a variety of TV shows, including Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Dear White People, Drunk History, Claws, 2 Broke Girls, Workaholics, Glee, Idiotsitter, Tales of the City, The L Word: Generation Q, Life in Pieces, and @Midnight.

Website: https://www.fortunefeimster.com/

Facebook: htt

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, join us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into the world of chronic pain with our guest, Dr. Afton Hassett, an experienced pain psychologist and the author of “Chronic Pain Reset”.  She offers informative content about how stress and mental health are intertwined with physical discomfort and delves into various aspects of chronic pain—its effects, causes, and potential treatments. 

Listen in and discover valuable insights about how your emotions can affect your perception of discomfort, and learn practical strategies for dealing with persistent affliction. And together, let’s unlock the power of positivity in healing!

In this Episode:

• The Intersection of Mental and Physical Health 
• Resilience in Managing Chronic Pain
• The Power of Social Interaction
• Customizing Treatment Plans
• The Neuroscience Behind Pain 
• The Invisible Nature Of Pain 
• The Role Of Physical Activity And Sleep In Managing Chronic Pain 
• Negative Impact Of Modern Devices On Sleep Quality  
• Understanding Chronic Pain
• The Biopsychosocial Aspects of Pain
• Rewiring the Brain 
• The Limitations Of Pharmaceuticals 
• The Power Of Holistic Methods  
• Pain Relief Through Enjoyable Activities 

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

About Afton:
Dr. Afton Hassett is a licensed clinical psychologist and an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Michigan. She received her BFA from Colorado State University and her doctorate from Alliant International University in San Diego, CA. As a principal investigator at the Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center, she conducts interdisciplinary research related to exploring the role of cognitive, affective, and behavioral factors in chronic pain populations. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and is a leader in the field of resilience and pain research. Her work has focused on exploring positive emotions and affective balance in people with pain; health-related quality of life in adult and pediatric rheumatology patients; and novel interventions to promote resilience and self-management for individuals with chronic pain. She is committed to education for individuals at many levels including patients, undergraduate and graduate students, medical residents, post-docs, physicians, and other healthcare providers. Dr. Hassett is the Director of Clinical Pain Research at the Back & Pain Center and the Past President of the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals – a division of the American College of Rheumatology. Current funding sources include National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the University of Michigan. With over $14M of research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Afton’s mission is to bring evidence-based strategies fr

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes Sam Liccardo, the 64th mayor of San Jose, for an insightful discussion on technology's impact on legacy and memory. Join us on a fascinating journey as we explore his lineage and the intriguing blend of Sicilian, Irish, and Mexican roots that converge in his family tree. During this engaging episode, Sam Liccardo delves into the unique leadership challenges he encountered, particularly those faced by mayors of big cities. A role often regarded as one of the most demanding. Yet amidst these difficulties lie opportunities for growth and resilience.

Tune in to this conversation filled with captivating stories about our past while providing thought-provoking insights about our present and future! 

In this Episode:

• Unity and Division: A Historical Perspective
• Technology's Role in Remembering Personalities 
• Candid Conversations with Leaders
• Ancestry Documentation and its Significance
• Debunking 'The Good Old Days' Concept 
• Future Technology and Social Implications
• The Power of Mementos 
• Transition from Physical Spaces to Virtual Studios  
• Story Topping: A Conversation Killer
• Politics, Human Interaction, and Quick Connections
• Door-to-Door Politics: A Deep Insight into Community Concerns 
• The Rise of AI and Trust Issues
• Resilience: A Recurring Theme 
• Ego and Hubris: Obstacles to Scientific Discourse
• Housing Crisis: Need for Innovation 
• Balancing Ideological Differences: Finding Middle Ground
• Pandemic Response: Challenges and Triumphs
• High Construction Cost: Need for Innovative Models
• Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap
• Leadership Effectiveness in High-Pressure Situations 
• Name-dropping and Celebrity Encounters
• Future Political Aspirations: A Return to Public Service
• Free Speech and Diverse Viewpoints 

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba
Dignity Memorial

About Sam:
Sam Liccardo became the 64th mayor and one of the youngest individuals to serve in San José, California’s highest elected office. A member of the Democratic Party, Sam was elected mayor in November 2014. He was re-elected in 2018 with 75.8% of the vote. After graduating from Bellarmine College Preparatory in San José, Sam attended Georgetown University, where he rowed crew as captain of the heavyweight squad. He graduated magna cum laude in 1991 and enrolled at Harvard Law School and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. After graduating with honors with a law degree and a master’s degree in public policy, Sam returned to the Bay Area in 1996. Sam’s writing has appeared in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and other publications.

Under his leadership, San Jose thrived with his efforts by growing the economy equitably, supporting struggling neighbors and broadening inclusion, investing in youth, beautifying San Jose and advancing smart environmental policies, improving public safety, building a 21st-century transportation network, and embracing innovation in the government. Sam and

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our guest George Maxe shares his 30-year career path filled with unexpected twists and turns that led him to his current role as the president and CEO of The First Tee of Silicon Valley, where he's been making a significant impact for the past 15 years.

Listen in to hear more about George’s inspiring journey. He recalls memorable moments playing golf and how golf transcends being just a sport into a powerful tool for character development and social inclusivity. He also emphasizes making golf accessible to children from all backgrounds and creating balanced environments where they can learn from each other’s experiences.

In this Episode:

• The Unexpected Journey
• A Swing to Remember
• From Berkeley to San Jose 
• Numbers Game 
• Golf: A Social Catalyst 
• Making Golf Accessible 
• Balancing Act
• The Power Within   
• Unforgettable Encounters  
• Women and Golf
• The Art of Mentorship
• Volunteering
• Building Rapport Through Humor 
• Golf Course Conversations 

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling
Dignity Memorial

About George:

George Maxe is a dedicated and visionary leader who has made a significant impact on youth development through his role as President and Chief Executive Officer of The First Tee of Silicon Valley. His journey with the organization began in 2008, when he assumed the position of Executive Director at The First Tee of San Jose. Over the years, his leadership and unwavering commitment have transformed the organization, leaving an indelible mark on the community, which revolves around nurturing young talent and enabling them to reach their fullest potential, allowing him to leverage his education, experience, expertise, and background to make a positive impact on young lives. Under his guidance, The First Tee of San Jose experienced remarkable growth and expansion. By early 2012, he had successfully extended the program's reach to include not only San Jose but also Gilroy and East Palo Alto, effectively renaming it The First Tee of Silicon Valley. This strategic move broadened the organization's service area, ensuring more young people had access to its valuable programs. He aims to serve 10,000 youth by 2020 and elevate that number to 18,000 by 2025.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmaxe/

Website: https://firstteesiliconvalley.org/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we're again shining a spotlight on a remarkable figure in the music industry, the exceptionally talented songwriter Barry Dean. Listen in to hear more of his incredible story as he shares his reflections on his past experiences and the power of collaboration and friendship in his musical journey. Barry believes success isn't merely about individual achievement but rather collective growth, camaraderie, innovation, and resilience against the odds.

In this Episode:

• The Grammy Experience
• Celebrating Talents
• Unveiling Personalities
• Admiration for Stalwarts
• Natural Talent Vs Effort
• Networking and interaction at Awards Shows
• Beyond Music: Industry Engagement  
• Nostalgic Musical Discussions  
• Business Side Of Music  
• Reinterpretations in Music
• The Nashville Scene
• Radio Influence
• Appreciating Professionals

About Barry:

Barry Dean is a highly accomplished songwriter in both country and pop music genres based in Nashville, Tennessee. Barry's remarkable talents have earned him a Grammy nomination in the category of Best Country Song for his work on Tim McGraw's "Diamond Rings and Old Barstools”. Barry remains filled with awe every time he hears one of his songs playing on the radio. When you consider his journey, it's astonishing to think that he once thought he might end up working a 9-to-5 job in Kansas. His portfolio boasts an impressive array of chart-topping hits, including two No. 1 singles for Little Big Town ("Pontoon" and "Day Drinkin'"), "Think a Little Less," which dominated the charts for Michael Ray, "Heartache Medication," the most recent #1 hit for Jon Pardi, Ingrid Michaelson's Top 40 sensation "Girls Chase Boys," and an ever-expanding list of country and pop hits. These accomplishments underscore that Barry Dean is undeniably living out his true calling.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebarrydean

Website: https://www.creativenationmusic.com/

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This week, I had an insightful discussion with Michael McLeavy, a renowned singer from Glasgow, Scotland, who shared his musical odyssey, from forming his own rock band to touring extensively. In the journey of life, it's often our passions that guide us towards a fulfilling career path, and his story is one of determination and seizing opportunities, a testament to how impactful inspirations like Elvis Presley can shape our style and vision. 

Tune in to hear more about how Michael and his ventures brought him into contact with notable personalities within the entertainment industry, further expanding his network. 

A key takeaway? Be open to new experiences, as they may lead you down unexpected paths filled with potential growth opportunities. 

In this Episode: 

• The Birth of a Star
• Rocking the World
• Lights, Camera, Action!
• A Beautiful Bond: A Relationship with Sharon Tate
• Meeting an Icon: An Encounter With Elvis Presley
• Island Life and Hustle: Work Experience In Hawaii
• Wisdom Gained Along The Way: Life Lessons

About Michael:
Michael McLeavy was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and his journey in the world of music began with the renowned Rock N Roll band "The Fireflies." He Came to the United States to further his career and to meet Elvis Presley in person. His fortune smiled upon him as had the incredible opportunity to spend the day with him on the set of one of his movies “Spinout” and backstage at the International (Hilton) in Las Vegas. Notably, Michael had the privilege of performing the American, Canadian, and British National Anthems at the Highland Games in Dana Point California August 24th and 25th 2013. Also, he had the distinct honor of delivering both the American and British National Anthems at the British American Business Council Orange County on December 2nd, 2016. Michael has lived in Dana Point with his wife Linda since 1989.

He is an Entertainer and just released his latest CD "Try A Little Kindness" recorded in Nashville, Tennessee.

You can find him here:

https://www.facebook.com/michael.mcleavy/

Listen to his music on Spotify here:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/22Pvk4TXENi60w1RoN3gtv

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This week, our guest is a seasoned entrepreneur with an intriguing journey spanning across various industries—the man behind the laugh, Scott Edwards. We talked about how he started his journey at the age of 17 with a small construction company. And, later transitioned to entertainment as a DJ and opened the 12th full-time comedy club in America by age 24. Listen as we dive into the art form of stand-up comedy, which reveals fascinating insights about creativity, determination, and adaptability. From honing material to understanding audience responses, these aspects are not just crucial in comedy but translate well into many professional scenarios. His story serves as a reminder that resilience in the face of ups and downs is integral to entrepreneurial success.

Tune in to hear more of his story about how success doesn't require wealth but hard work, focus, and passion for excellent customer service.

In this Episode: 

• The Journey Begins
• Embracing Entrepreneurship
• Riding the Waves of Business
• Customer Service – The Key to Success
• Starting Small, Dreaming Big
• From Alabama to California
• Recognizing Progress Over Prejudices
• Comedy Club Chronicles  
• Lessons from Laughter

About Scott:

Scott Edwards has established more than a dozen companies during his remarkable career journey. His ventures have spanned diverse industries, ranging from a humble construction company to ownership of unique establishments like a Submarine & Beach Shack, and even a foray into the world of Disco production. With an enduring passion for comedy, Scott channeled his enthusiasm into producing a wide array of entertainment, including Live Comedy Shows, TV Series, and Concerts. It wasn't long before he ventured into the realm of comedy club ownership, ultimately founding his inaugural club, Laughs Unlimited. Through unwavering dedication and ingenuity, he successfully transformed Laughs Unlimited into a thriving chain of comedy clubs that stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial acumen.

Scott's extensive career has afforded him the privilege of collaborating with some of the most iconic figures in the comedy world, including luminaries such as Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Saget, and Dana Carvey. His wealth of experience and industry connections continue to shape his enduring legacy in the realm of entertainment.

You can find him here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sactotalent/

Scott’s Website:

https://scottscomedystuff.com/

Scott’s Podcast:

https://standupcomedyyourhostandmc.com/podcast-show-player

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This week, Gary chatted with the legendary Olympic beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh Jennings. We dive deep into her journey of rehabilitation post-injury, exploring themes like expectation management, maintaining an active lifestyle for personal well-being, and setting examples for children. Listen as she shares valuable insights on handling adversity in high-stakes situations, teamwork dynamics, and overcoming fear - all while juggling career aspirations and family responsibilities. Tune in to hear more about how she continues to inspire others through her story of resilience!

In this episode:

• Reading Bible verses and using the Bible Recap app
• Teenagers' desire to spend more time with their parents
• Importance of staying active and vibrant as one ages
• Pouring into and creating a legacy for one's family
• Taking time for oneself in a relationship and focusing on personal growth
• Overcoming fear and maintaining a positive focus
• The bronze medal game and the challenges faced
• The power of love and support from trusted individuals
• The importance of self-awareness and managing one's energy
• The role of fear in clouding judgment and perception

About Kerri:
Kerri Lee Walsh Jennings is an American professional beach volleyball player, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, and a one-time Olympic bronze medalist. She is the beach volleyball leader in career victories as of 2016, having won 135 international and domestic tournaments.

https://kerriwalshjennings.com

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Are you ready for an open and honest conversation about relationships, communication, and the importance of taking initiative? Laura Corn, Sex Coach to the Stars, joins Gary to discuss how to spice up your sex life, navigate challenges, and have those difficult conversations with your partner. With plenty of humor and relatable anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their relationship and find happiness. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us for this candid and entertaining discussion.

This episode is sponsored by:

Winchester Western Wear is offering 20% off for the GST community! Be sure to tell them Gary sent you

In this episode:

• Sometimes it's hard for people to adjust, but being willing to listen and make changes can lead to amazing transformations.
• People often prioritize being right over being happy. But once you let go of the need to be right and focus on truly listening to each other, it opens up a whole new level of understanding and connection. 
• Having difficult conversations is necessary for growth. It's not always easy, but being honest and open about your needs and desires can lead to positive changes in your relationships. 
• The reality of relationships is often more subdued than what we see portrayed. Life gets in the way, and it's important to acknowledge that. It's okay if things aren't picture-perfect all the time. 
• Learning and growth are ongoing processes. 
• Taking initiative can make a big difference in relationships. It's not just about making dinner or planning dates but also about actively seeking ways to support and connect with your partner. 
• Overcoming past traumas and finding the courage to embrace love and intimacy is a journey.

Bio:

LAURA CORN IS THE AUTHOR OF NINE BEST-SELLING TITLES WITH OVER FOUR MILLION BOOKS AND PRODUCTS SOLD.

Her fans include Britney Spears, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Heather Locklear who raved about her on Late Night with David Letterman. The girls from The View have given her books as gifts to their celebrity guests!

She has spent more than twenty-five years researching the sexual practices and desires of American women and men. She brings to couples everywhere her inventive and arousing strategies for intimacy and hot sex.

Her unique approach to writing about sex has made Laura Corn a self-publishing phenomenon. After her award-winning book, 101 Nights of Great Sex topped the New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon.com bestseller lists all at once, it went on to be the number-one-selling sex book in America for over two years.

Why are so many people drawn to Laura Corn’s books? Her tone is warm, curious, and enthusiastic. Like her readers, she understands the challenge that comes with keeping sex lively.

Laura’s books are for couples to do, not read. Her followers are drawn to the unique Secret Sealed Envelopes for each person to rip out and put into action – an approach that promises fantasy, play, and adventure. It will be a night to remember. Or a day. Or a whole weekend!

When Laura is not writing her books or researching them in her “test bedroom,” she is publicizing her books and other pro

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In this engaging episode, host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes the legendary comedian Killer Beaz. They discuss their shared experiences growing up in the South and the challenges they faced in pursuing their dreams. The conversation takes a spiritual turn as they delve into their rediscovery of faith and the importance of changing one's mindset. Killer Beaz shares a powerful story of how he and his wife reached out to a couple in need and how their act of kindness had a profound impact on both the couple and those who witnessed it. They emphasize the importance of leading with faith and generosity, and how it can bring happiness and blessings to others. Overall, this episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about faith, kindness, and the power of laughter.

Here are three key takeaways from this episode:

1️⃣ Change Your Mindset, Change Your Life: One of the biggest revelations discussed in this episode is the ability to change our mindset. Our thoughts have the power to shape our reality, and by consciously choosing to think positively and let go of negative thoughts, we can transform our lives. As one of our guests shared, "Change your freaking mind. Change that mindset. It's painless and it works." 

2️⃣ You Have the Power to Stop Negative Thoughts: We all experience dark thoughts from time to time, but the key is to recognize that we have the power to stop them in their tracks. By acknowledging our ability to choose happiness and not worry, we can shift our focus towards a more positive outlook. As our guest emphasized, "When you have those dark thoughts, you have the power to stop them in their tracks and go not today, not today." 

3️⃣ Let Go of Limiting Beliefs: Our mindset can sometimes be like a lid on a jar, holding us back from realizing our full potential. We often limit ourselves with beliefs that are not true or no longer serve us. As one of our guests shared, "You've got to get rid of that mindset because all things are possible for us." By letting go of these limiting beliefs, we open ourselves up to endless possibilities and true freedom.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Use "Gary20" to get 20% off your order.

About Killer Beaz:
Comedian Killer Beaz is currently filming his fifth season as a cast member of the Discovery Channel’s hit series, “Moonshiners”, and returning to his standup comedy tour. He is returning to his tour of his DVD and Download Video, "There's That!", and is looking forward to his tour of clean comedy, “Killer Beaz PRESENTS” featuring the standup of Beaz and outstanding comics handpicked from all over the country

With many thousands of radio, television, and stage appearances, Beaz has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. He is an award-winning artist, and has been signed with both Sony and Warner Brothers Records, and received reviews such as:  

"Beaz is 'Killer!’" - Rolling Stone Magazine

“Killer Beaz lives up to his name, “Killing” his audience, night after night, show after show!”  
- Entertainment Today/Las Vegas, NV

“Killer Beaz has a universal appeal that makes him a crowd favorite!” – SHOWTIME/Reno, NV

“Gut-busting takes on life! No matter if you live in L.A., New York City or the Deep South, you can re

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In this episode, my guest is comedian and actor Paul Reiser. We discuss his upcoming shows at Cobb's Comedy Club, his tour called the "Big Font Comedy Tour," and how he's glad to be doing stand-up again. We also talked about Paul's various roles in TV and books, including his recent appearance on Stranger Things as Dr. Sam Owens.

In this episode:

• Stand-up comedy and live performances
• The journey of becoming a comedian
• Finding your comedic voice
• Making your spouse laugh
• Opening for Buddy Rich

As a seasoned actor, writer, producer, and stand-up comedian, Paul Reiser continues to add to his list of accomplishments. In addition to co-creating and starring in the critically-acclaimed NBC series Mad About You (1992), which garnered him Emmy, Golden Globe, American Comedy Award, and Screen Actors Guild nominations for Best Actor in a Comedy Series, his successes also include his book, "Couplehood," which sold over two million copies and reached the number one spot on "The New York Times" best-seller list, and "Babyhood," his follow-up book, which features his trademark humorous take on the adventures of being a first-time father, which also made "The New York Times" best-seller list. He also wrote a follow-up bestseller, Familyhood.

Born and raised in New York City, Reiser was drawn to Greenwich Village clubs, which featured, among others, George Carlin, Robert Klein, and David Steinberg. He subsequently attended college at the State University of New York at Binghamton, where he majored in music (piano and composition) and participated in drama classes. During his university years, he was active in student theater productions at the Hinman Little Theater, an on-campus community theater organization located in Hinman College, his dorm community. Reiser later began performing as a comedian at the Improv and Comic Strip during university summer breaks.

Remembered for notable performances in films such as Diner (1982), Aliens (1986), Beverly Hills Cop (1984) and Beverly Hills Cop II (1987), The Marrying Man (1991), Bye Bye Love (1995) and One Night at McCool's (2001). More recently, he starred in two original movies for Showtime - Strange Relations (2001) opposite Julie Walters, Chazz Palminteri's Women vs. Men (2002), opposite Joe Mantegna and Christine Lahti. His first original screenplay also became his next film, The Thing About My Folks (2005), also starring Peter Falk, Olympia Dukakis, and Elizabeth Perkins.

Reiser's development company, "Nuance Productions," has produced several projects for NBC television, including, My 11:30 (2004), starring Jeff Goldblum and Donna Murphy - which Reiser co-wrote with Steven Sater. Also in the works - for the Showtime cable network - is a mock documentary

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Texas Country Artist William Beckmann is this week's guest. If you're not familiar with his music, you're about to be. It's not going to be too long before he's well-known all over the country. He and I dive into the evolution of Texas Country Music and how different artists have shaped the genre over the years. We talk about the unique appeal of Texas Country Music, and highlight the abundance of talented songwriters and the diverse fanbase that spans the vast geography of the state. 

In this episode:

• Songwriting advice and challenges
• Writing a hundred songs
• Storytelling in songwriting
• Longing for childhood dreams
• Learning Spanish and Performing
• Coping with life on the road
• Playing a concert in Mexico

About William:
Hailing from the small border town of Del Rio, TX, William Beckmann was raised on classic country as well as the mariachi and Norteño sounds of northern Mexico. He delivers a fresh blend of vintage country, Americana and Latin music with a timeless baritone and an old soul maturity that belies his youth. His new album Faded Memories released in 2022, featuring the slow-burn single “Bourbon Whiskey” as well as a mesmerizing cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m On Fire” and the haunting “In The Dark.” The album has garnered praise from critics including American Songwriter, Billboard, CMT and more, and his current track “Damn This Heart Of Mine” is Beckmann’s fourth consecutive single to hit the Top 20 at Texas Regional Radio Chart. Beckmann has amassed an incredible fanbase, independently garnering more 670,000 followers on TikTok and over 2 million streams of Faded Memories. He has spent the last year touring with artists including Parker McCollum, Koe Wetzel, Randy Rogers Band and Wade Bowen and sold out three shows at legendary Gruene Hall in New Braunfels, TX in 2022.

https://williambeckmann.com

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On this week's inspiring episode our guest, Neal Goldstein, discusses overcoming adversity and finding strength in the most challenging situations. Neal opens up about his childhood, marked by his father's emotional and verbal abuse, and his early responsibilities as the primary caregiver for his mother diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Listen in as he reflects on how these experiences have shaped him, not just as an individual, but also as a parent striving to create the family he never had.

In This Episode:

• From Dysfunction to Success
• Finding Your Tribe and Embrace Present
• Assigning Motives and Finding Wisdom
• Appreciating Ordinary Moments and Family Bonds
• Discovering Authentic Advocacy Through Life's Journeys
• Truth and Success

About Neal:
At sixteen, Neal Goldstein dropped out of high school. It was the last in a long line of defeats for an underprivileged boy, self-raised in a tumultuous home with an abusive father and a mother who was significantly disabled with Multiple Sclerosis. Neal did the only thing he could think to do: quit dreaming of a future, get a job, and look after his mom as well as he could. Once Neal could find the genuine relationships he was searching for, he allowed himself to take the courageous steps of getting his high school equivalency diploma and continued his successful journey. In the book, he shares his moving stories and asks the reader, through the lessons he learned, to look at their own lives through his action steps at the end of each chapter. Now, Neal Goldstein is a partner at the law firm of Goldstein and Bashner and lives with his wife, Gina, on Long Island. He loves to travel and spend time with his family.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Neal-Goldstein/author/B0BGMPBK7H

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In the midst of the gators and the quiet simplicity, Hunter Phelps discovered his refuge in the unspoken language of music. But as his talent took him from the small town of Niceville to the grand stages alongside country music stars, he faced challenges he never anticipated. The unexpected twist in his journey taught him invaluable lessons about the power of perseverance and the true essence of songwriting. Join us as we delve into Hunter's story, unraveling the triumphs and tribulations of live performances and the art of creating music. Brace yourself, for the unexpected twist that lies just beyond the horizon, waiting to be unveiled.

In this episode:

• The unique experiences and life lessons only a small town upbringing can offer
• How your childhood hometown has evolved and developed over time
• The sense of freedom and deep bonds forged in a small-town setting
• Tackling live performance and songwriting challenges
• The joys and trials that come with the transformative journey of parenthood
• Candid shared experiences that paint a vivid picture of growing up in small towns
• The nuances of urban development through the lens of our childhood hometowns’ transformation
• The remarkable freedom we often overlook that underpins the small-town life
• The heady world of live performances and enrich your songwriting process with our practical experiences
• The heartwarming yet challenging journey of parenting, filled with many priceless moments
• Meaningful experiences that resonate with a small-town upbringing
• How your childhood hometown has transformed over the years, capturing the spirit of change and growth.
• The undercurrent of unity and liberation that is integral to living in a small town
• Enthralling accounts of dealing with the challenges that come with live shows and song composition
• The fulfilling and stirring journey of parenthood with its myriad joys and challenges

About Hunter:
Hunter Phelps was born and raised in Niceville, Florida, where he was introduced to songwriting at a young age by his father, who owned a small recording studio. When he wasn’t out hunting or fishing the bayous and bays of the Florida panhandle, he spent his days teaching himself to play the guitar and working at a local marina.

After high school, Hunter attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he began writing songs. He joined a band, started playing tailgate parties and bars around town, and quickly developed a loyal following.

Early in his career, he shared the stage with major label acts like Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Gary Allen, Keith Anderson and Michael Ray. Hunter moved to Nashville in 2012, before ever having visited the town and without really knowing how to break in to Music City’s circles. Armed with his guitar, he honed his craft in the honky-tonks of Lower Broadway and sharpened his songwriting skills in the writers’ rooms of Music Row.

In 2014, shortly after his self-released debut EP came out, Hunter signed a joint publishing deal with Warner/Chappell Music and hit songwriter Ashley Gorley’s Tape Room Music, where his recent cuts include Florida Georgia Line’s “Wish You Were On It,” recorded for their upcoming album, Dig Your Roots.

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Imagine leaving everything behind and taking a chance on a new adventure with no guarantees. That's exactly what Tom Blake did when he packed his bags and headed to California with just an MBA and a desire for something new. Little did he know, a phone call from a friend would change his life forever. Without any experience, Tom took on the challenge of managing the first Victoria Station restaurant, leading him down a path of unexpected twists and turns, unforgettable experiences, and cherished friendships. 

Introducing Tom Blake, the daring adventurer who left his comfortable career in the airline industry for the unpredictable world of running restaurants. Through calculated risks and clever marketing strategies, he was instrumental in building the ever-popular Victoria Station brand. Along the way, Tom's tenacity and charm won him friendships and anecdotes from celebrities like Johnny Cash to John Denver. His exciting life of seemingly impossible encounters and achievements is a testament to the power of pursuing what ignites your passion.

In this episode:

• Embracing the new dating possibilities for seniors over 50 and the keys to making meaningful connections
• His journey through the impactful life, career, and legacy of the one and only Johnny Cash
• The rich history of the beloved Victoria Station restaurant and its lasting impression on diners
• Expert marketing tips to skyrocket your restaurant chain's success and expand its loyal customer base
• The significance of socializing for seniors and its role in enhancing their quality of life

About Tom:
Tom Blake is one of the most knowledgeable people in America on the topic of finding love after 50. Since July 4, 1994, when his first Finding Love After 50 newspaper column was published, he has written more than 3,800 columns and newsletters. Mature singles in their 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and even 90s are Tom’s audience.

For 16 years, Tom was a columnist for The Orange County Register in Southern California. In 2011, Tom began writing his On Life and Love After 50 column for Picket Fence Media, an Orange County, California, syndicate. His articles appear bi-weekly in the Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, and The Capistrano Dispatch (San Juan Capistrano) newspapers.

In February 2016, Tom’s “On Life and Love after 50” article was added to a syndicate of six (Chester, York, Dauphin, Lebanon, Cumberland, Lancaster) newspapers in Pennsylvania called “50 plus Life (www.50plusLifePA.com). His articles run bi-monthly in those publications.

He is the author of four printed books and several Ebooks. See his bookstore on this website. Tom was interviewed by Jack Ford and Matt Lauer on NBC's Today Show as an expert on finding love after 50. He has written on every romance-after-50 topic imaginable, always with new information and a fresh perspective from the man’s point of view. To see Tom’s Today Show videos, click here.

Tom’s first book is titled, “Middle Aged and Dating Again.” His friend, country music singing legend Johnny Cash, endorsed the book by stating: “In the 20 years I have known Tom Blake, he has become an authority on dating and rela

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Kristen King's story is one of overcoming perfectionism and anxiety, but what you may not expect is the unexpected twist that led her on this journey. Faced with the sudden death of her younger brother, Kristen found herself spiraling into self-destructive behavior. It was during this dark period that she realized the importance of confronting her issues head-on. Through perseverance and self-reflection, Kristen managed to find balance in her life and overcome her perfectionist tendencies. But the journey wasn't easy, and she had to confront her dual nature of being both an overachiever and a fun-loving individual. How did Kristen manage to find that balance? Listen to this week's episode of Here's What We Know to find out.

In this episode:

• The link between personal growth and flourishing relationships with others
• The challenges of perfectionism and anxiety
• The importance of establishing open communication and boundaries in your relationships
• The influence of mental well-being on personal growth and experiences
• The value of prioritizing self-care and finding balance in life

About Kristen:
Kristen King, MBA, MPS, is a sweary life and business coach for womxn and femme folx who want to give fewer fucks. Her clients are sick and tired of having to be so freaking perfect all the time, and Kristen helps them reclaim their fucks so they can use them for the shit they actually care about — instead of spending all their time trying to be “good girls” and living up to other people’s expectations. She's on a mission to help 10,000 womxn fall in love with themselves and their lives in the next 5 years.

In addition to being a coach, Kristen is also a mental health and wellness facilitator who loves helping people find compassion and connection with themselves as they learn to hold space for their own emotions. Her specialties are perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, overwhelm, and burning down the motherfucking patriarchy one reclaimed fuck at a time.

She's mom to 11-year-old twins (plus two cats and two dogs), wife to a hilarious husband who brings her coffee in bed every morning because he thinks she walks on water, and an absolute karaoke QUEEN. Kristen is originally a Jersey girl and now makes her home in Leadville, CO, America's highest city.

You can find Kristen at:
https://kristenking.com

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The journey of Russell Dickerson is one that's full of unexpected twists and turns. From facing challenges in the industry to learning the intricacies of songwriting, Russell's determination and passion have helped him overcome every hurdle. But just when he thought he had it all figured out, an unexpected twist came his way, forcing him to rethink his approach. What was this twist? How did he navigate it? Join us as we dive deeper into Russell's life and uncover the secrets to his success.

This episode is sponsored by:

Winchester Western Wear is offering 20% off for the GST community! Be sure to tell them Gary sent you.

The journey of Russell Dickerson is one that's full of unexpected twists and turns. From facing challenges in the industry to learning the intricacies of songwriting, Russell's determination and passion have helped him overcome every hurdle. But just when he thought he had it all figured out, an unexpected twist came his way, forcing him to rethink his approach. What was this twist? How did he navigate it? Join us as we dive deeper into Russell's life and uncover the secrets to his success.

In this episode you'll be able to:

• Unravel the complex world of composing music and the many hurdles encountered by artists.
• Comprehend the necessity of forming alliances and upholding one's creative principles in cooperative endeavors.
• Decrypt the challenging journey of establishing a bond with the audience via art.
• Recognize the importance of audience engagement in the overall reception and appreciation of a song.
• Delve into the captivating story of Dickerson's musical evolution and the enchanting role of instruments in live concerts.

About Russell:
A Tennessee native from a musical family, there’s no question that Russell Dickerson has made a name for himself in recent years. After graduating from college, Dickerson felt called to take his music on the road, cutting his teeth while playing shows across the US, frequently for small audiences and an even smaller paycheck. That same drive has made Dickerson the first artist to release four consecutive career-starting singles that reached No. One on the Billboard Country Airplay chart since Luke Combs. He also joins Combs as the second solo artist and fourth act overall to have four or more singles reach No. One on the Country Airplay chart since its inception decades ago. Those back-to-back chart-topping singles include “Yours” (3X Platinum), “Blue Tacoma” (2X Platinum), “Every Little Thing” (Platinum), “Love You Like I Used To” (Platinum), and most recently, Dickerson’s current single “She Likes It” ft. Jake Scott has already been certified Gold with 170 million streams to date. This Fall, he will embark on a sold-out tour in the UK and headline a tour throughout the US starting in November. 

https://www.russelldickerson.com

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Growing up in a segregated Alabama, Ralph Stokes never imagined he would play for the University of Alabama. But when his all-black high school closed down, he found himself in a predominantly white school, facing challenges of integration. Through perseverance, teamwork, and respect, Ralph became a trailblazing athlete, carving out a path for future generations. This episode explores the lessons learned from Ralph's journey and how his experiences prepared him for life beyond football. Join us as we delve into the unexpected twists and turns of Ralph's story and discover how he transformed adversity into opportunity.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover valuable lessons from a pioneering football player's journey
• Understand the crucial role of respect in fostering successful team dynamics
• Learn how to rise above discrimination and setbacks through respectful dialogue
• Uncover how to apply football-derived strategies to excel in business and entrepreneurship
• Gain insight into effective goal setting and teamwork inspired by collegiate athletics

This episode is sponsored by:
Dignity Memorial
Reed Animal Hospital

About Ralph Stokes:
Ralph Stokes is a former University of Alabama running back who made history as part of the first black recruiting class. His incredible personal journey serves as a testament to the power of determination, integrity, and the unwavering drive to succeed against all odds. From his early days playing football at Booker T. Washington High School in Montgomery, Alabama, to joining the historically white Robert E. Lee High School, Ralph's story showcases the lessons learned on and off the field that continue to inspire countless others. As a respected executive in the golf industry, Ralph demonstrates that with resilience and dedication, anything is possible.

Check out Ralph Stokes' book One of the First and consider sharing it with others.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-stokes-01b73526/
https://www.amazon.com/One-First-Overcoming-Challenges-Integration-ebook/dp/B098LP8QJY

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In this episode of Here's What We Know, negotiation strategist Jotham Stein shares valuable insights on how preparation and empathy can lead to improved negotiation outcomes for CEOs and high-level executives in Silicon Valley. But what happens when negotiations take an unexpected turn? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover valuable negotiation techniques applicable in Silicon Valley and beyond.
• Learn essential strategies for safeguarding your interests as a startup founder.
• Uncover the diverse motivations of investors and founders in the fast-paced world of tech startups.
• Dive into negotiation approaches unique to the competitive sports industry.
• Grasp the significance of both preparation and empathy in successful negotiations.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Centers
Habana Cuba

Key Moments:

00:00:48 - The Name "Jotham"

00:04:08 - Jotham's Career

00:06:03 - Running for Office

00:09:23 - Silicon Valley

00:14:03 - Themes in Negotiation

00:17:18 - Steve Jobs as an Example

00:19:07 - Negotiating for Oneself

00:24:13 - Maximizing Personal Return

00:25:46 - Nervousness vs. Fea

00:27:38 - Negotiating Executive Contracts

00:29:13 - Protection for Football Coaches

00:34:16 - The Importance of Protecting Yourself

00:35:52 - Determining Your Value

00:39:48 - Navigating the Job Market

00:40:39 - Venture Capitalist Loyalty

00:42:00 - The Powerless Story

00:44:11 - Willful Ignorance

00:47:29 - Metaphorical Babies

00:50:08 - Football Fodder

00:53:32 - College Football and Player Transfers

00:54:10 - Ivy League Football

00:55:04 - Alabama Football and Racism

01:00:11 - Negotiating with Clients

01:03:56 - Vacation Negotiations

Introducing Jotham Stein, an accomplished attorney specializing in representing entrepreneurs and top executives in the high-paced world of Silicon Valley. Living and working in the area for more than 25 years, he has had the privilege to witness the growth and impact of numerous startups and innovative businesses. Jotham has a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise within high-stakes negotiations, which has led him to focus on the crucial elements of proper preparation and genuine empathy. As an expert negotiator, Jotham is very much in tune with the needs of CEOs and high-level executives seeking to elevate their negotiation strategies.

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Former child actor turned Grammy-winning producer Dennis Scott, recounts his journey from auditioning for commercials with dyed black hair to producing hit albums for Sesame Street and learning to let the musicians do their thing.

With a start on Broadway at just seven years old, Dennis quickly learned what it takes to make it in the business. After his time as a child actor, he joined the New Christie Minstrels, a popular folk group, and began writing songs. Dennis eventually became a powerhouse producer and songwriter in the music industry, working with some of the biggest names out there. With his vast experience and knowledge, Dennis is sure to offer invaluable advice for aspiring musicians.

This episode is sponsored by: Beck's Shoes

In this episode:

• The Impact of Mr. Rogers
• The Role of a Producer
• Staying Grounded in the Midst of Fame
• Humble Beginnings 

Bio:

Two-time Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer/writer DENNIS SCOTT has left no corner of the children's music industry unexplored.

His songs have been performed by such diverse artists as Faith Hill, Ray Charles, Sugarland, Alison Krauss, The Muppets, Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, Trisha Yearwood, Elmo, Charlie Daniels Band, Shari Lewis, Crystal Gayle, Roberta Flack, Ricky Skaggs, and many others.

Dennis is also the recipient of two Emmys, a Parent's Choice Award, and a Telly. You can hear his work on television, radio, audiobooks, home videos, and stage productions such as "Clifford the Big Red Dog," "Sesame Street Live," and "The Magic School Bus."

Dennis began his entertainment career at the age of 7 as an actor on Broadway. As an adult, he toured with the New Christy Minstrels (playing upright bass and singing). His novelty tune "Captain Kirk's Disco Trek" led to his first serious foray into children's music and a Grammy for "Sesame Country." He has had nonstop assignments since then.

Dennis has served a music director for several children's TV shows, including the PBS series "Noddy" and, most recently, "BJ's Teddy Bear Club" which airs on TBN and just earned him his second Emmy award. His album, "Songs From the Neighborhood - the Music of Mister Rogers" won last year's Grammy award as Best Musical Recording for Children.

Recently Dennis fulfilled his own childhood dream by spearheading a Beatles tribute band called The WannaBeatles. The band has grown in popularity and was even nominated for a Grammy in the spoken word category for an audiobook collection of interviews with Beatles fans called, "Fab Fan Memories - The Beatles Bond."

When your childhood heroes are people like Danny Kaye, Jack Benny and Jerry Lewis, you can't help but have a silly side to you. Creating and producing music, particularly children's music, allows me to be as silly and creative as I want to be. And playing in a Beatles band makes me feel like a rock star. "Now that's my kind of job description!"

https://dennisscott.net/

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If you're feeling trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and frustration, pouring your heart into your creative passions but never quite achieving the mental wellness you crave, then you are not alone! This week's guest is comedy Sandy Stec. A funny girl... who happens to be on the radio. She's a comedian and morning iHeartRadio personality for KOST 103.5 in Los Angeles. 

For over 20 years, Sandy has been sharing her humor and heartfelt stories on the air, and she's now ready to delve into the topic of mental wellness, self-love, and self-care. Having experienced her own struggles with loneliness and depression, Sandy is a relatable and compassionate voice in the conversation about mental health. With her engaging personality and genuine desire to help others, Sandy is the perfect guest to explore the importance of taking care of ourselves mentally and emotionally as we wrap up Mental Health Awareness month.

In this episode:

• Tackling and overcoming common difficulties encountered in the radio field without losing your genuine originality
• Grasping the significance of self-appreciation, personal health, and mental well-being for continued success
• Recognizing and becoming aware of distinct cultural disparities in language, food, and prejudicial attitudes
• Chasing your inventive dreams, remaining focused and committed to accomplishing your objectives
• Forming meaningful connections, attaining essential guidance, and benefiting from the wisdom of trusted mentors

This episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial

About Sandy:
Chances are, you've heard her voice. 

​Sandy Stec is an iHeartRadio personality for KOST 103.5 in Los Angeles; on-air Monday-Friday, 3pm-7pm. Prior to moving to Los Angeles, she was 1/2 of "Marcus and Sandy"- a top-rated morning show on Star 101.3 in San Francisco for 10 years. 

Aside from her 20+ years radio experience, she's also fantastic event/on-camera host and stand-up comedian! She's worked with Benefit Cosmetics, HP, Cisco, Norwegian Cruise lines, etc; and opened for Chelsea Handler, Kevin Hart, Arsenio Hall, Richard Lewis and many, many more. 

When she's not on--air or on-stage, Sandy is probably hiking, watching Bravo or TLC, or hoping to hit a progressive jackpot on a slot machine! 

https://www.sandystec.com

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Decoding our children's mental health can feel overwhelming? Have you been told to just snap them out of it or stop coddling them? It's time to break free from ineffective advice and gain the tools you need to truly understand childhood depression. Join us for this episode where you'll uncover the subtle signs of depression, learn how parenting styles impact emotional well-being, and discover practical solutions for making mental health care accessible for all. Our children don't have to suffer in silence. It's time to take action and equip ourselves with the knowledge to make a difference.

Meet this week's guest Dr. Yuriy Dobry, a dedicated child adolescent adult psychiatrist, who has made it his mission to support families dealing with mental health challenges. With a board certification under his belt, he specializes in treatment-resistant depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, and other mood disorders. Growing up with a father who was a psychiatrist, Yuriy was inspired to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in people's lives. His approachable demeanor and expertise in childhood depression make him an invaluable ally for parents searching for answers.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Decode the nuances separating everyday mood changes and deeper feelings of depression in young individuals.
• Comprehend how distinct parenting styles play a significant role in shaping a child's mental health.
• Acquire the art of providing uplifting and valuable critique to your child.
• Embrace the necessity of making mental health care readily available for all members of society.
• Understand the contributions of psychiatrists and embark on a results-oriented treatment process.

Dr. Yuriy Dobry's story:

Dr. Yuriy Dobry found himself intrigued by psychiatry from an early age, as his father was a psychiatrist who shared with him fascinating insights about the field. Yuriy's curiosity and passion stemmed from a genuine desire to understand the complexities of the human mind, especially when it came to the differences between depression and normal mood changes in children. He knew that understanding these differences could greatly impact the lives of not only the children but also their families.

This episode is sponsored by:
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you and get a discount!)

You can reach Dr. Dobry at https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuriy-dobry-md.

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If you're feeling frustrated and unfulfilled because you've been tirelessly pursuing your dreams with purpose, but nothing seems to be working out and you're constantly facing setbacks and roadblocks, then you are not alone!

This week's guest is Gold Medalist Jason Richardson. After a catastrophic injury, he defied the odds and returned to his passion of racing. But what led him to become a psychologist and expert in sports performance? Join us as Jason shares his journey of soul searching, overcoming obstacles, and discovering the keys to success. But just when it seems like he's found the answer, a shocking twist leaves him facing a difficult choice. Don't miss this gripping story of resilience and determination.

In this episode:

• Tackling hurdles head-on and paving a path toward true accomplishment
• Igniting your inner fire and taking calculated leaps toward your dreams
• Fostering an optimistic lifestyle and implementing restorative wellness strategies
• Examining your core beliefs and determining your authentic ambitions
• Embracing minimalist techniques to reach your objectives and prevent standing still

Meet Jason Richardson, a gold medalist in BMX racing at the Pan Am Games, who has transformed his life after a life-changing injury. With an MBA under his belt and a thriving career in sports psychology, Jason is passionate about helping others find their true desires and cultivate personal growth. As an author of "More, Better, Happier," he shares his insights on overcoming challenges and embracing life's opportunities. As a guest on the Gary Scott Thomas Show, Jason's energy and enthusiasm is infectious, making him a friend you'd want to have by your side in your journey of self-discovery.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out Dr. Jason Richardson's book, It's All BS! We're All Wrong, And You're All Right! for tips on improving mental health.
• Consider seeking out a sports psychologist, like Dr. Richardson, for help with improving performance and mental health.
• Practice avoiding the four things that rob you of energy: comparing, complaining, complicating, and worrying.
• Focus on feeling your emotions and finding ways to be productive and helpful to yourself and others.
• Seek help for clinical issues from professionals in the field.

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Nugent Family Counseling

Contact Dr. Jason Richardson:

https://www.drjasonrichardson.com

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On this episode of Here's What We Know, we're continuing with our Mental Health Awareness series. I'm joined by Dr. Geoff Nugent of Nugent Family Counseling Center. We discuss how therapists provide tools to help individuals heal. Additionally, the importance of instilling strong values within a family is emphasized. The podcast delves into the challenges and freedoms of being a teenager, and the importance of parents setting boundaries for their children's safety. Money and happiness are also explored, with the idea that volunteering can bring joy and balance. The podcast wraps up with a discussion on the value of education and how parents can guide their children into independence while still being parents first and foremost.

This episode is sponsored by Habana Cuba.
(Use this code to save on Oxtail!)

Also in this episode:

• The value of therapy
• Being present and validating someone's feelings
• Life is full of beauty, but sometimes we need help to remove obstacles
• Learning the value of the dollar at a young age
• How strong family values instilled a strong work ethic and helped with achieving higher education
• Parents should teach children what values look like instead of just giving money
• Adolescent struggles with mental health due to COVID
• Setting boundaries with children
• Finding joy and happiness
• Controlling what can be controlled and focusing on the positive can influence others in a positive way
• Parenthood and expectations

About Nugent Family Therapy:
Nugent Family Counseling Center was founded in 2015 by Geoff Nugent, Ph.D., LMFT, LPCC, BCPC, CSPC, who had been in Private practice since 2009. The practice currently serves clients at three office locations in San Jose, Santa Clara, California, and Reno, Nevada.

The team at Nugent Family Counseling Center supports a diverse community of children, adolescents, adults, and families who are affected by conditions such as addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and grief. They strive to provide clients with the tools needed to understand and acknowledge the effects that their emotions and behaviors have on themselves and their personal relationships.

Counseling sessions focus on reminding families what they love about each other and utilize a combination of individual, family, and couples therapies. The innovative therapy approaches offered include dialectical behavioral therapy, psychological testing, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, marriage counseling, and anger management.

They are also proud to offer neurofeedback treatments that are used as positive reinforcements for the brain and to teach the brain to change itself. These include positive effects on behaviors, attention, mood, and cognition.

Nugent Family Counseling Center understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling. The team aims to get to know all clients on a personal level and work together to create informed care plans. They also recognize that clients evolve throughout the counseling process and ensure that sessions and techniques are consistently modified accordingly.

To receive further information about the counseling services offer

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This powerful episode from Charles Kelley with Lady A kicks off our Mental Health series for May, Mental Health Awareness Month. Many months into his sobriety, he has an open and honest message he's sharing about what life is like without alcohol. 

In This Episode:

• The realization that his drinking was out of control
• Slipping after the first time he tried to curb his alcohol consumption
• Tapping into an honest side of himself
• Fears that come along when you stop drinking
• What he’s discovered since he’s gone dry
• Discovering WHY he would drink
• Why Tim McGraw goes for a 5-mile run before a show
• Finding a stronger faith
• Seeing God in everyday moments
• How they’ll be connecting with the audience this tour
• Mickelson vs Woods

This episode sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling

Charles Burgess Kelley (born September 11, 1981) is an American singer, songwriter, lead singer, and founding member of the country music trio Lady A, which was formed in 2006 and signed to Capitol Nashville.[1]

Guest's Contact Info:

https://www.instagram.com/charleskelley

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Sam LaCrosse, author of “Value Economics," joins this episode to discuss his worldview and how our values inform our behavior.

In this episode:

• Boxing and Not Getting Punched
• Giving Kids Mythological Names
• Sam's Dating Troubles
• The Positive Side of Adversity
• The Dangers of Porn
• Paying You Dues 
• His Publishing Journey
• Putting One's Value in One's Job
• The Impact of Past Experiences on Present Behavior

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (check out their Oxtail special)

About Sam:
According to Sam, Sam LaCrosse is a nobody. He hasn’t done anything amazing. He is not extraordinary or impressive. He doesn’t even have a Wikipedia entry. He’s just an ordinary guy from Cleveland, Ohio, who now lives an ordinary life in Austin, Texas. But if you want to check him out, he’s the author of “Value Economics: The Study of Identity, writes blogs on dontreadthisblog.com, and hosts Don’t Listen to This Podcast. Sam is the CEO and founder of Don’t Do This, LLC, a company that makes no money. He is also a board member of Thrive Living Corporation and an ambassador for RallyCap Sports.

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This week's guest is Conner Smith, a Country Music prodigy. At just 22 years old, he's experienced things people who have been chasing their dreams in Nashville for decades haven't been able to experience. He talked about buying a ticket to every one of Thomas Rhett's headlining concerts, and about how he doesn't have to do that -- because he's performing at them!

He also has a song called "I Hate Alabama." You're going to want to hear the story behind that one.

Also in this episode:

• Living out childhood dreams
• Telling stories through song
• What he has in common with Michael Jackson
• Meeting your heroes
• Being a new artist on the radio
• College Football
• “Take it slow” song with Ryan Hurd
• The example of older stars
• The impact of social media

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Clinic

About Conner:
Just 22 years old and already a seasoned veteran of Nashville’s elite songwriting community, Conner Smith has become one of Country’s most hotly-anticipated new artists – an uncommon talent mixing prime-of-life passion with old-soul perspective. After penning his first song at 6 and scoring a publishing deal at 16, the Country prodigy wrote five of the six songs on his Zach Crowell-produced 2022 debut collection DIDN’T GO TOO FAR (The Valory Music Co.). The charismatic effort laid an artistic foundation that earned Smith 2022 Artist to Watch status from Spotify, Amazon Music, and Opry NextStage, while also making him the only Country artist on Pandora’s Ten List 2022 and securing 2023 recognition from MusicRow Next Big Thing, CMT Listen Up, and more. Often hiding deep-thinking themes in plain sight, Smith scored his first Top 40 hit with the young-at-heart “Learn From It” and followed up with love-savoring “Take It Slow,” which quickly racked up nearly 100 million global streams to date. Tracks like “I Hate Alabama,” “Orange and White,” and “Summer On Your Lips” are my unexpected insight from vivid everyday stories. As Smith grows up in full view of his fans – both on the page and the stage – CMT calls him “an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.” That momentum will keep building in 2023. Smith follows a year of touring alongside Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, and Ryan Hurd with upcoming select dates opening for Chase Rice and promises a new batch of “next level” music, further mixing in-the-moment energy with timeless meaning. Smith is currently on the road for his first-ever headline IF I WENT TO COLLEGE TOUR with special guests Mackenzie Carpenter and Jonathan Hutcherson, presented by the Monster Energy Outbreak tour, and joins Luke Bryan’s COUNTRY ON TOUR this summer.

https://www.connersmithmusic.com/

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From heartbreaking defeat in Tokyo to family, the joy of winning, and the dream of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Kerri Walsh Jennings is sharing the journey that she is on as a parent and pro athlete in this week's episode of Here's What We Know.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba

In This Episode:

• Pursuing the Olympics - Paris 2024
• Sacrificing family time vs. empowered choices
• Faith, family, and sports.
• Setting the example for the next generation of athletes
• Choosing a partner for Paris 2024

About Kerri:

Kerri Lee Walsh Jennings is an American professional beach volleyball player, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, and a one-time Olympic bronze medalist. She is the beach volleyball leader in career victories as of 2016 having won 135 international and domestic tournaments.

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In this week's episode of Here's What We Know, Mark "Kid" Corona joined me to talk about how his career in radio was affected by the shift from music being the star of radio. And what unique career path he's on now. 

Also in this episode:

• Why Kid sees a decline of passion among radio listeners
• How streaming affected his career choice
• Value of podcasts for personalized content creation
• The creation of Jack Trivia, the world’s first TV-gameshow-style trivia show for bars and restaurants
• Learning to let others have their moment
• Admiration for Rick Dees’ radio talent and success
• What meeting Mark Wahlberg was like
• Negative experience trying to approach Ben Affleck

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital

About Kid:
Breaking into the commercial radio business at just 15 years old, Corona made his first international cameo on the top-charting hit “AZ Side” by Nasty Boy Klick, which would be his first and last appearance as something other than an absolute goofball of a person. It would all go downhill from there.

In 2008, long before the birth of TikTok challenges, and perhaps even their creators, Corona made national news for an on-air April Fool’s joke called “Tattoo Your Toddler.”

From hosting mornings on Los Angeles radio to a Saturday night music video and entertainment television show, the many talents (and characters) of Kid Corona show just how versatile he is.

And if you aren’t convinced just yet, Google the “Republic of Slowjamastan,” and it won’t take long to find Corona in the mix as the country’s Chief Border Patrol Agent, donning a beret and aviators while wielding a flamethrower as he protects the borders of the world’s newest nation – whose biggest threat is invaders wearing Crocs. True story!

But if you’re hoping to increase your odds of meeting Corona these days – in person or virtually – you’ll want to play along with America’s most exciting trivia game, Jack Trivia! Compete at your local restaurant or watering hole or online –  either way, you’re sure to have a blast. Play solo or with friends as a contestant on this new and addictingly fun take on classic bar trivia. 

www.markcorona.com

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You've probably seen him on TV or heard his voice. He's an actor, voice-over artist, model and so much more. We talked about his career change from being a teacher to acting. We talked about what it was like to go on a date with cameras following him and even the doctor's office!

Some of the places you might recognize him from:
⚡️ Chicago PD
⚡️ Chicago Med
⚡️ neXt
⚡️ American Greed
⚡️ House Detective

Feature Films:
⚡️ “Christmas is Canceled” with Dermot Mulroney
⚡️ “Reveler” Shudder TV
⚡️ “Being Ian” Thomas Pace Productions
⚡️ ”Silent as a Grave” BP Productions 

Also in this episode:

• Taking an Uber to the hospital when he was having a heart attack
• Dating in your 70s
• Modeling

This episode is sponsored by Habana Cuba. Get 15% off when you use the code "Gary" online or tell it to your server in person.

About Buzz:
Currently in Los Angeles, represented for TV/Film by Carole Dibo Talent Management, Taylor Talent Services for Commercial, Host… Represented in Chicago by Gray Talent Group (TV/Film)10 Management Agency and Looks Pro Models Chicago, IL, The Block Agency, Nashville, Moore Creative, Minneapolis, Betty’s Talent, Miami ….I am currently a working actor, model, voice-over artist, live event host. Moving to Chicago 6 years ago, my recent Chicago live theatre credits include; Citizen / Townsperson, AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE at The Goodman Theatre, Doc Gibb OUR TOWN, Jamie I SAW MY NEIGHBOR ON THE TRAIN AND DIDN'T EVEN SMILE, and Swifty Lazar / Mike Wallace FROST/NIXON at The Redtwist Theatre. Alice Cooper in WAYNES WORLD and the Narrator in OFFICE SPACE at The Uptown Underground Theatre. TV credits include NEXT, Fox TV, Guest Star, Chicago PD, Guest Star, several national/local commercials, and infomercials, and was the Host of HGTV'S HOUSE DETECTIVE for five seasons (65 episodes). Multiple Short and Feature Films, including the most recent low-budget SAG Film, BEING IAN, Supporting Actor, and upcoming Supporting Role in SILENT AS THE GRAVE.

A Minneapolis, MN native and a graduate of The University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND ( BFA Degree/ Acting / Communication).

https://buzzleer.com/

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Sometimes a chat with a friend is the order of the day. In this episode, Gary is joined by his friend Raffaella Braun with Triple Tigers Records to discuss current trends in the music industry and how these trends impact artists.

In this episode:

• Social Media vs. Ratings 
• The Competitive Nature of the Music Industry
• How the Music Industry Had Changed 
• Commentary on Various Artists and What They Add to Country Music 
• Maintaining A Connection with the Audience When Life Happens 

About Raffaella:
Raffaella Braun has built a multi-faceted career with a wide range of experience in the music business. She started with Premiere Radio Networks and Westwood One in 2002 (through 2009), handling live radio remote logistics around such major music events as the ACM Awards, CMA Awards, CMA Music Festival, and Grammy Awards, among others. Always possessing a passion for music and live concerts, she moved on to Creative Artists Agency in 2003 and became an Agent in 2008, negotiating concert deals and contracts, seeking out new talent, and executing promotions for a roster of 60+ Country and Classic Rock artists. She collaborated on projects with the CAA Sports division and LA clients like Pete Wentz.  In 2011, she moved to the Radio Promotion realm and began an eight-year run with Warner Music Nashville as Manager of West Coast Radio and Streaming, winning the Regional of the Year Award in its 2nd year of existence.  She returned to Nashville in 2019 to Triple Tigers Records as their first-ever National Director of Promotion.  There, she has assisted in guiding their artists to an additional 5 #1 singles, a Top 10 record, and breaking Billboard records for consecutive #1s (Scotty McCreery) and weeks in the Top 10 (Russell Dickerson). Braun won Country Aircheck’s National Director of the Year Award (Crystal Microphone) in Feb 2022, the same year Triple Tigers won its 2nd award for Gold Label of the Year. 

A 2002 graduate of Vanderbilt U., Braun is a member of both the Academy of Country Music (serving on the Special Events Committee from 2010-2014) and the Country Music Association, as well as an alum of SOLID. She served on the CRS Agenda Committee in 2016-2017 and again in 2017-2018 for the 50th year of CRS. A finalist for the 2008 Nashville Emerging Leader Awards, she went on to create Music Row Madness, an industry bowling event to raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle TN, which is now hosted by SOLID and grew last year to $50,000. Since 2017, she has helped Musicians on Call expand their volunteer mission at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and now as a Nashville guide and she sits on the Boards of the TN Innocence Project and The Collective Nashville (Gerald Allen Scholarship Fund).

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As we say goodbye to Mike McGlinchey as he leaves the 49ers and joins the Denver Broncos, I'm so thankful he joined me for an episode.

In this episode:

• How long it takes to heal from a season of football
• What hurts the most after a season
• Why some football players can’t be in the media anymore
• The evolution of Offensive
• At what age he knew he was a little different
• The point when your dream stops
• What his motivation is at this point in his career (hint, it’s not the money)
• What message he’s hoping he sends his younger brother
• What he thinks Tom Brady’s motivation is
• Patrick Mahomes

This episode is sponsored by Habana Cuba.

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This episode makes Gary’s soul sing. Walker made Gary reassess what he knows about life. They dove into some REAL topics. This might be a short episode, but it’s PACKED!

In this episode:

• The amazing thing Walker did for Gary
• Having a stillborn child
• Experiencing the highest of highs on Earth and the lowest
• What he and his wife are surprised the fight about now
• What really matters in life
• Running away from and to God
• Having the freedom of not having to understand why good things and bad things happen to us
• Assumptions we make
• How Walker values humanity more now
• Getting over yourself
• The importance of stopping and serving others
• Choosing the best outcome vs fearing the worst
• Being a  humble parent
• What Gary’s mom told him when he was 10 that has stuck with him

This episode is sponsored by Habana Cuba.
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About Walker:
It took Walker Hayes over a decade to break into the mainstream country, but when he finally landed a Top Ten hit in 2017 with "You Broke Up with Me," it hit with the force of an explosion and proved an appropriate song title since its parent album was called boom. The 2017 album came six years after his full-length debut, Reason to Rhyme, announcing a promising talent in a bro-country vein, but boom. was fresh and fused modern R&B, contemporary country, hip-hop, and rock, announcing a distinctive talent. Hayes consolidated this breakthrough with the clever "Fancy Like," which reached number one on Billboard's Country charts in 2021, a hit that was the cornerstone of his third record, Country Stuff the Album.

Hayes is a native of Mobile, Alabama. Born on December 27, 1979, he grew up in Mobile, dividing his time between music and sports as a child and teenager. He wound up earning a music degree from Alabama's Birmingham-Southern College, then attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He and his wife moved to Nashville in 2005 with dreams of him becoming a professional musician. He signed a song publishing deal, and then, on the strength of a demo he recorded for Keith Urban, Hayes inked a deal with Mercury before quickly moving to Capitol Records. He released his debut single, "Pants," in 2010, which wound up reaching 60 on the Hot Country Songs chart. The full-length Reason to Rhyme followed in 2011, but it didn't chart. Over the next few years, Hayes worked as a songwriter, landing placements with Colt Ford and Rodney Atkins in 2014. Capitol dropped him, so he worked at Costco and continued to write, releasing the sing

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The man with four names, Adam Wakefield, talks about country music, cancel culture, and why he chose a career in music. 

In this episode:

• What is Country Music?
• Cancel Culture
• Social Media’s Impact on Young People and Music
• Letting Artists be Human
• The Role of a Songwriter

This episode sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Adam:
Think “New Hampshire” and let the images flow. Cozy inns. Fireplaces. Vivid colors of fall. Crisp, clean air. Deep blue lakes. Searingly honest songs, laced now and then by irony or heartache or weighted by weary wisdom. Vocals that jolt these lyrics to life with a unique immediacy and intensity…

Wait a minute. You won’t find that last part in any travel brochure. But on his upcoming debut album for Average Joes, Gods and Ghosts, Adam Wakefield proves it’s not where you come from that counts. It’s where you’re going and how you get there — which, in his case, is on the wings of undeniable talent.

What makes Wakefield different? First, it’s his varied roots: Memphis soul, rock ’n’ roll, New Orleans funk, even jazz and classical, pre-bro country — pretty much all music that speaks from the heart. In terms of genre, he follows no rules, though one resolution does govern what Wakefield wants to achieve: If it doesn’t have a conscience, if it’s afraid of risk or candor, then he’s not interested.

All of his experiences — on the road, in the studio, in writing rooms and on national TV — play into Wakefield’s artistry. “I’m not saying I’ve had a hard life,” he says. “But when I write songs about somebody dying or trying to get sober, these are experiences I’ve had. The more you wear your heart on your sleeve as a writer, the better the tunes seem to turn out. That’s what John Prine, Jamey Johnson and people in that vein do. That’s where I want to go with what I do.”

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As a self-described musical theater nerd to a now award-winning country music artist, Meghan Patrick joins Gary to discuss her journey both as an artist and an individual. Patrick shares how different genres, and life experiences have influenced her path, and a desire always to make time for the important things. 

In this episode:

• How Meghan got her start
• The dynamics of being in a band 
• Being authentic in the music industry
• Finding balance as a boss 
• Facing the economic realities of pursuing a career in music

This episode is sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Meghan:
Gifted, award-winning, chart-topping… cool. There are plenty of apt adjectives that apply to Meghan Patrick. But perhaps the most meaningful descriptor for the acclaimed country singer/songwriter is authentic.

Patrick is a musician who always tells it like it is in a voice as gorgeously persuasive as they come.  So, when she describes her electrifying third full-length studio album, Heart on My Glass, as “the most ‘me’ record I’ve ever made,” it’s a profound statement given the sincerity that has come before.

It’s also a handy metaphor for summing up the new album’s many sonic textures and flavors, some familiar to long-time listeners and others new— blues and gospel, anyone? — but all yanked straight from Patrick’s rich reservoir of influences.

Funny what a pandemic year spent hunkering down in a town like Nashville will do for your music.

“This is a special record for me for a lot of reasons,” Patrick confirms. “I had so much more time over the past year to focus on writing and really being able to dig into what my sound and message should be. This feels like the most all-encompassing representation of me as a writer, an artist, and a human. All the pieces fell into place.”

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From driving headliners around to being successful in his own right, comedian and "America's Favorite Husband" Steve Treviño joins Gary to discuss his journey. While his financial status has changed, Steve shares how working-class values and feedback from his wife have kept him grounded over the years. 

In This Episode:

• The Two Kinds of Comedians 
• Depression Among Comedians 
• Steve’s Blue Collar Approach to Stand-Up
• The Importance of Knowing Your Brand and Worth in the Entertainment Industry. 
• Steve Shares Why He Values His Wife’s Perspective 

This episode sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Steve:
Comedian Steve Treviño is “America’s Favorite Husband.” He can “speak wife fluently,” he never calls “the guys” for help on a home project, and he knows better than to “make his own decisions” since decision-making is a privilege reserved solely for his wife, Renae.

His relatable approach affirms his status as one of the country’s fastest-rising comics, viewed over 223 million times, selling out shows coast-to-coast, amassing over 2 million total social media followers, and headlining specials for Amazon, NETFLIX, Showtime, and more. 

He started cutting his teeth in Dallas, Texas, working as a door guy at the Improv and earning himself a spot to open the iconic 2001 Three Amigos Comedy Tour. He quickly earned his stripes and an audience on the comedy club circuit, and he began headlining on his own by the age of 25. He delivered side-splitting performances on The Late Late Show and Comics Unleashed and produced and wrote for international GRAMMY® Award-winning superstar Pitbull’s La Esquina. 

His first Showtime special, Grandpa Joe’s Son, staked out a spot in the Nielsen Top 20. He funded, produced, and shot his 2014 runaway NETFLIX hit Relatable. To promote the special, he uploaded a clip titled “When Your Wife Comes Home From Shopping.” It exploded, generating 56 million views on Facebook alone and paving the way for heavily shared clips such as “When You Ask Your Wife If She Wants McDonald’s” (21 million views) and “When Going to Vegas With Your Wife Goes Wrong” (4 million views). Co-produced by Nacelle, the follow-up special, Steve Trevino ’Til Death, arrived in 2018. Steve maintained his momentum by broadening his social media presence through fans redoing bits of his comedy specials and posting them to TikTok. In less than two years, that grassroots effort helped him build a worldwide fanbase on the platform from the ground up, amassing 4.8 million likes and over 50 million views on the platform while also changing up his entire social media game. 

In 2020, he and his wife, Renae, unveiled a joint weekly podcast entitled “Steve Treviño and Captain Evil,” which has generated over 1.5 million views/streams and is now in Season 3. He also filmed his fourth self-produced comedy special, My Life in Quarantine, which was picked up by Amazon Prime. The once-in-a-lifetime pandemic special was shot in front of a masked, socially distant crowd focused on the ups and downs of getting through quarantine.

He regularly raises money for Helicopters for Heroes, an organization benefiting veterans, for whom he helped raise over $1.5 million in the past two years.

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The psychic lawyer returns! In this episode, Mark Anthony, author of The Afterlife Frequency joins Gary to discuss hauntings, the soul, and his encounters with icons who have passed on to the other side. 

In This Episode:

• Mark's admiration of Nicola Tesla 
• Mark’s latest book, The Afterlife Frequency
• The 3 schools of thought around hauntings. 
• Mark’s near death experience. 
• Mark explains how the story of Jonah and the whale in the Bible may have been about a near death experience.  
• Does time exist?

This episode is sponsored by: Habana Cuba

Guest Bio 

Mark Anthony, JD, Psychic Explorer (aka The Psychic Lawyer®  Psychic Attorney and Psychic Adventurer), is a world-renowned fourth-generation science-based evidential psychic medium who communicates with spirits. He is the author of the groundbreaking and critically acclaimed spiritual bestsellers The Afterlife Frequency, Evidence of Eternity, and Never Letting Go.

Mark’s credentials and experience are unparalleled in the paranormal world. He is an Oxford-educated trial attorney licensed to practice in Florida, Washington D.C., and before the United States Supreme Court. In England, he studied Mediumship at the prestigious Arthur Findlay College for the Advancement of Psychic Science.

Dr. Gary Schwartz, Professor of Psychology, Medicine, Neurology, Psychiatry, and Surgery at the University of Arizona and Director of the Laboratory for Advances in Consciousness and Health, is one of the foremost experts on the Survival of Consciousness and After Death Communication in the world. Dr. Schwartz studies psychic mediums and has ranked Mark as one of the top mediums in the United States. 

Mark is a recurring guest on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX Television, Gaia TV, and on major talk radio shows such as Coast to Coast AM, Darkness Radio, and Sirius XM as a psychic medium, paranormal and after-death communication expert, and legal analyst in high profile cases.

Mark was featured on the covers of OMTimes Magazine, and Best Holistic Life Magazine-which was the top-selling and most popular edition of Best Holistic Life to date.

He has also been featured in The Hollywood Times, The Huffington Post, The New York Post, Publisher’s Weekly, Writer’s Digest, Soeleish Magazines, Authority Magazine, Entrepreneurs Magazine, Conscious Community Magazine, Elephant Journal, LifeStyle Magazine, New Spirit Journal, Horizon’s Magazine, The Inquisitr, Staten Island Today, Sedona Red Rock News, Elite Man Magazine, Natural Awakenings, Verde Independent, Infinity Magazine (Canada), Spirituality Today (UK), Soul & Spirit (UK) and Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America.

A charismatic, intelligent, and humorous accomplished public speaker, Mark headlines at conventions, expos, and spiritual organizations such as the Edgar Cayce A.R.E., IANDS (International Association for Near-Death Studies), Afterlife Research Education Institute (AREI), The Theosophical Society, Spiritual Awakenings International, Helping Parents Heal, Sedona Spirit

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Tiera Kennedy tells us about her beginnings. The beginning of her career, life, and relationship with her husband. She tells us the story of writing 2 of her best songs and how she made connections early on in her country music journey. Most importantly, we hear about how love and support got her where she is and keeps her going daily.

In this episode:

• How she found her producer
• The Writing of Alabama Nights
• About Tiera, her parents, and living in Alabama
• Discussing stage presence
• The humble beginnings of Tiera’s music career
• Why Tiera chose country music (or rather, how it chose her)
• The great artists who influenced her music
• Meeting Scott Borschetta
• Tiera’s husband and creative director and how they started

Rising artist Tiera Kennedy is emerging as one of the most exciting voices in the format – injecting Country music with a breath of vitality. The flagship artist on Nicolle Galyon’s groundbreaking Songs & Daughters Publishing finds herself as a voice for young women everywhere. Lighting a fire last year with her independently released self-titled EP, Nashville Scene cited the Alabama native as “the total package” and “a writer who has learned how to write for their own voice at a young age,” while American Songwriter concurs, hailing her as “one of Nashville’s most promising young singer/songwriters” and TEEN VOGUE raved about her “pure, catchy upbeat country story-telling.” Giving fans a taste of where her music was headed with an initial demo of “Found It In You” – inspired by her relationship with her husband and creative director Kamren Kennedy – Tiera Kennedy and her co-writer/producer Cameron Bedell had Dann Huff join them for the final take of the song, available now. With the initial 16 million+ on-demand streams laying the foundation for “Found It In You,” the updated take on this beautiful love story is set to deliver an even bigger connection on Country radio. For the latest information and more, visit TieraMusic.com and follow along on Instagram.

https://solo.to/tiera

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This week's guest is the music superstar Elle King! She has a new album coming out called Come Get Your Wife.  While it's a shorter conversation, it's packed with several topics I know her fans are going to love hearing, such as how the name of the album even came about and how much her tongue gets her in trouble.

In this episode:

• Her new album, Come Get Your Wife
• The attitude in the album
• Being yourself
• Working with Charlie Worsham
• Ironically incredible things that came from her concussion
• What made her forget to play some of her songs
• Slowing down and taking care of herself
• Touring with Chris Stapleton

Her site: https://www.elleking.com

About Elle: (From Wikipedia)
Tanner Elle Schneider (born July 3, 1989), known professionally as Elle King, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician. Her musical style is influenced by country, rock and blues.[1]

In 2012, King released her debut EP, The Elle King EP, on RCA; one track from that EP, "Playing for Keeps", is the theme song for VH1's Mob Wives Chicago series.[2]

She released her debut album, Love Stuff, in 2015. It produced the US top ten single "Ex's & Oh's", which earned her two Grammy Award nominations. King has also toured with acts such as Of Monsters and Men, Train, James Bay, The Chicks, Heart, Joan Jett, Michael Kiwanuka, and Miranda Lambert. She is the daughter of actor and comedian Rob Schneider and former model London King. King uses her mother's surname to distinguish her career and identity from her father's. "People know who my dad is," she told ABC News, "but I think that my voice and my music speaks for itself: that I am my own person."[3]

King is a four-time Grammy Award nominee, two each in the rock and country categories, and received honors from t

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Matthew has traveled the world in pursuit of universal truths that all religions seem to point toward. Hypnotherapy, when performed in safe environments with medical supervision, can guide humans to a sense of peace that Matthew strives daily to share with the world. In this episode, you can take comfort in the years of research he is willing to offer free to anyone who takes the challenge to look deeper inside themselves and simply sit.

In this episode:
🎙Matthew’s Spiritual Awakening: His Doorway to Hypnotherapy
🎙Guiding Ourselves Out of Fear and Back to Love
🎙Samyak Darshan: The Soul’s First Glimpse of Itself
🎙Meditation: The Universal Truth of Just Sitting
🎙Living in India: A Spiritual Center of Humanity
🎙Medical Miracles and the Importance of Willingness
🎙Matthew’s Spiritual Mission

This episode is sponsored by: Habana Cuba

Matthew J. Brownstein’s journey into spirituality, health, and healing began in 1992 with a profound spiritual awakening that made him seek the truths of all the world’s great wisdom traditions.  This sudden shift into a spiritual view of life led Matthew to change his major in college to Philosophy. Yet, in time it became clear to him that Philosophy was too intellectual and did not offer the direct experiences that he sought for.  Changing his major to Religion, Matthew soon discovered Mysticism and the more esoteric branches, which led to his increased spiritual experiences.  Not knowing what to do with this knowledge, he went to his first Acupuncture College to learn more about how energy blockages keep us from health, wholeness, and spiritual realization.

Matthew also studied Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Southwest College of Acupuncture, yet soon found Hypnotherapy and NLP and became fascinated with the mind’s ability to heal the body, clear emotional blocks, and restore one to their true self as Spirit.  This led to a journey into Hypnotherapy which became a huge foundation of Matthew’s Life’s Work.  Matthew’s primary inspiration and mentor for Hypnotherapy has been the late great Mr. Gil Boyne.

Matthew has in-depth training in Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Massage, Nutrition, Shiatsu, Reiki Levels I & II, Herbology, Homeopathy, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, NLP, Yoga, Tai Chi, Chi Kung, Tai Chi Chih, Meditation, Past-Life Regression, Life-Between-Life Regression, Analytical Hypnotherapy, Hypnoanalysis, Gestalt, Ho’oponopono, and Radical Forgiveness.

Matthew is a monk at heart.  He has lived for over five years in spiritual settings, such as The Temple of the Universe with Michael “Mickey” A. Singer, Zen Mountain Monastery with John Daido Loori, and Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health.  Matthew has studied and practiced Yoga, specifically Ashtanga and Kripalu.  He has practiced Tai Chi and Chi Kung through the teachings of Cheng Man Ching with the Yang Style Short Form.  Today, however, Matthew’s primary form of meditation is The Anahat Meditation System and A Course in Miracles.

Matthew opened his first Hypnotherapy practice in West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, in 1997 and has since logged over 25,000 hours in the classroom and private practice.  He opened the Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy in 2007, with the help of Mr. Gil Boyn

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With a thriving career, an ever-increasing fan base, and a life full of hardships and faith, Kelly Lang invites listeners into her world to look into the growth of a successful career. The strength she provides for herself and those in the communities she influences daily goes beyond the surface level and delves into mindsets of gratitude, kindness, and embracing the diversity of the human experience.

In this Episode:

• Meeting One's Heroes
• The Legacy of Loretta Lynn and Other Icons
• From Death Sentence to Life Sentence: Kelly’s Breast Cancer Journey
• Developing an Attitude of Gratitude
• TG Shephard: Singer, Songwriter, and Husband
• What’s Kelly Working On Right Now?

This episode sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Kelly:
Singer, songwriter, and producer Kelly Lang has had a stellar career in the music industry with cuts by artists such as Ricky Skaggs, Lorrie Morgan, The Oak Ridge Boys, Crystal Gayle, George Jones, B.J. Thomas, Jimmy Fortune, T.G. Sheppard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Lee, just to name a few.

She has recorded duets with iconic artists Dame Olivia Newton-John, Paul Shaffer, and Lee Greenwood. As an artist, Lang has released several albums, including 11:11, Shades of K, Throwback, Obsession, and Iconic Duets with her husband, TG Sheppard. In the spring of 2020, Lang re-released her classic children’s album Lullaby Country, which was initially sold at Cracker Barrel.

As part of a regional campaign, her voice and writing skills can be heard on television throughout Tennessee and the surrounding areas as the official song for Ascension St. Thomas Hospital’s commercial titled "I'm Not Going Anywhere."

In 2020 Kelly released a collection of classic songs called Old Soul. The album was so well received that a second volume, Old Soul II, is scheduled for release in late 2022.

• Recipient of The Icon Award from The Southern Women in Film and Television
• Author of the book I'm Not Going Anywhere
• Three-time Star Search winner
• Multiple appearances on the world-famous Grand Ole Opry
• Shared the stage with Loretta Lynn, Sir Barry Gibb, George Strait, Lorrie Morgan, TG Sheppard, Ronnie Milsap, Mickey Gilley, Brenda Lee, George Jones, and Ricky Skaggs, and many more
• Songs “I’m Not Going Anywhere” and “How Does It Feel” featured in the movie The Deal with Burt Reynolds
• Member of The Oklahoma Hall of Fame, The North American Country Music Hall of Fame, and soon to be a member of The Rockabilly Hall of Fame
• Performed “Islands In The Stream” with Sir Barry Gibb for Kenny Rogers’ induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame
• An accomplished artist with oil paintings in the homes of Oprah Winfrey, Sir Barry Gibb, Dame Olivia Newton-John, Larry the Cable Guy, and Justin Timberlake’s parents
• Creator of the hilarious comedic character XOXO who performed on the national television show Huckabee
• Former national spokesperson for Cindy Crawford’s skincare line Meaningful Beauty

https://www.kellylang.net

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Barry Dean discusses the hard things about country music. He talks about great artists who have slipped through the cracks and his opinion on how we treat “Kings and Queens”  in the country music industry. He gives a glimpse into meeting singers and artists as a songwriter and shares a bit about Eddie Arnold, Garth Brooks, Roger Miller, and other huge names in country music.

In this episode:

• A bit of Midwestern Geography
• Betty’s Fireworks best bang in town
• Meeting Roger Miller
• How comparison can be toxic
• The hardest thing about country music
• Going on air with Charlie Pride
• Breakfast with Eddie Arnold
• You don’t have to sing to sing
• The making of 1994
• Garth Brooks 

About Barry:
Barry Dean takes nothing for granted. Even after earning a GRAMMY nomination for Tim McGraw's "Diamond Rings and Old Barstools" and topping the charts with four No. 1 singles, he remains awestruck each time he hears a song he wrote on the radio. Dean still can’t help but think of how he seemed destined to work a 9-to-5 in Kansas––a fate that now seems preposterous, given his track record: two No. 1 singles for Little Big Town, "Pontoon" and "Day Drinkin’;" "Think a Little Less," which topped the charts for Michael Ray; "Heartache Medication" which most recently hit #1 for Jon Pardi; Ingrid Michaelson's Top 40 smash "Girls Chase Boys;" and an ever-growing list of country and pop successes prove Dean is doing exactly what he was made to do.

https://www.creativenationmusic.com/barry-dean

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Josh Bains joined me this week, and his journey is fascinating!!

Ghostwriting is its own form of literary mastery. In his efforts to expand on the profession, Josh Bains invites listeners to consider the stories in their lives. Through vulnerability and open-mindedness, Josh elaborates on his various adventures and those of others that ultimately led to priceless lessons, life-changing morals, and new growth paths.

In this episode:

• Bagpipes and a bicycle: A journey to Scotland
• Searching for roots in Auschwitz
• Hong Kong & the surprise synagogue
• India, Thailand, Israel, and California: a search for living Jews
• Finding an international family in the Jewish Community
• Christian and Jewish Spirituality
• Josh Bain’s path into ghostwriting
• Finding the Elixir in a story (River Town by Peter Hessler)
• Using literary concepts to delve into impactful writing

About Josh:
Josh Bains is a New York Times Bestselling Ghostwriter, Author Coach, and World Traveler. A SoCal native, after receiving his journalism degree from the University of Hong Kong, Josh began exploring his Jewish roots--eventually spending three years in Israel, where he reported on the Middle East conflict, as he learned in a traditional yeshiva for Jewish learning in the Old City of Jerusalem. Today, Josh helps people tell their stories and speaks about self-development.

https://joshbains.com/

This episode is sponsored by Habana Cuba.

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Country artist Tyler Rich has such an incredible connection with his fans, and you'll see why in this episode. Enjoy moments of laughter and meaning as Tyler expands on the work it took to become a world-famous songwriter and country artist.

Also in this episode:

• Pumpkin Pie, Salmon, and Quail Eggs; a critique
• Radio tour and the challenging yet rewarding experience it is
• What’s more intimidating? 15, 50, or 500-person audiences?
• Tyler’s various childhood introductions to live music
• The many influences that shape Tyler’s music
• From the Casino Circuit to Nashville, Tennessee
• A dream, a business card, and a lie
• 6 Hour French lesson produced a Top 10 Billboard Hit

About Tyler:
Northern California-raised, Nashville-rooted Tyler Rich found his love of music gathered around a Christmas tree alongside family singing holiday classics and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Fast forward to graduating college with a degree in Economics, Tyler moved to LA to pursue a different game of numbers–music–exploring various genres with songwriting and bands before taking the leap as a solo artist. Since, he has been named a 2018 CMT Listen Up artist, 2019 Pandora Artist and Rolling Stone touted him as “the newest member of country music’s radio-minded incoming class, with a homecoming king’s swagger and a valedictorian’s songwriting smarts. ”Amassing over 394.4M+ total global streams with his debut album TWO THOUSAND MILES (The Valory Music Co.), featuring GOLD-certified “The Difference,” plus subsequent releases “Better Than You’re Used To” and The Cadillac Three’s Jaren Johnston-produced “A Little Bit of You.” With “Thinkin’ We’re In Love,” an English and French duet with one of Canada’s most successful bilingual singer-songwriters, Marie-Mai, Tyler has announced a headline tour of the same name. Tickets are on sale now for his headline THINKIN’ WE’RE IN LOVE TOUR. His music embodies the feelings all people have in common –the need for acceptance, devotion and a place to call their own–and that empathetic spirit extends to animals too. With Rich Rescues, Tyler visits local shelters while out on the road to raise awareness for pet adoption.

https://www.tylerrich.com

Episode sponsored by: Habana Cuba

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It’s always a pleasure to sit across from a friend and chat about your favorite music, let alone a Grammy Award-winning songwriter. Walk down memory lane with Brett James as he shares stories from his past and brings appreciation to the icons of the music industry who have paved the way for future singers and songwriters.

In this episode:

• Thoughts on the CMA’s
• Med School drop-out twice!
• The difficulties of writing a hit song
• The benefits and challenges of co-writing
• Co-writing with Don Schlitz & other favorite artists
• The impact of Garth Brooks on the country music industry
• Which artists belong on the “Mount Rushmore” of the music industry?

This episode is sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Brett:
For over a decade, Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer Brett James has been one of the most prolific and versatile songwriters in Nashville, having had more than three hundred of his songs recorded by major label recording artists. James has become a fixture on the Billboard Country chart with thirteen #1 songs and scores of top 20 singles to his credit.

In 2009, Brett achieved the Music Row “Triple Play,” an award for three #1 songs in a single chart year, not once, but twice! These six #1‘s; ‘It’s America,’ by Rodney Atkins, ‘Out Last Night,’ by Kenny Chesney, ‘Cowboy Cassanova,’ by Carrie Underwood, ‘Summer Nights,’ by Rascal Flatts, ‘The Truth’ by Jason Aldean, and ‘The Man I Want To Be’ Chris Young earned James ASCAP Songwriter of the Year for the second time in October 2010.

A native of Oklahoma City, Brett attended Baylor University, where he completed two years of medical school before moving to Nashville to pursue his dream of becoming a country star. In 1995, Brett James was signed to the Arista subsidiary Career Records and subsequently released his self-titled debut album. Career Records was later dissolved in consolidation, and with it, James’s recording artist aspirations. Brett persevered as a writer at Patrick Joseph Publishing which fostered the relationships that destined him for success.

In the year 2000, James received his first major album cut with the song ‘Love Is A Sweet Thing,’ recorded by Faith Hill, followed by a top 20 single ‘You Won’t Be Lonely Now,’ with Billy Ray Cyrus. It wasn’t long before Brett reached the benchmark that all songwriters and artists alike strive for, the coveted #1 song. In April of 2001, then-break-out artist Jessica Andrews landed James his first #1 with the song ‘Who I Am.’ He returned to the top of the chart in 2002, this time with country superstar Martina McBride and the song ‘Blessed.’

As his chart success continued, Brett appeared on Billboard Magazine’s top-ten country songwriters list for five consecutive years, the only writer to do so, and in 2006 reached yet another musical milestone winning ASCAP Songwriter of the Year. In 2007, Brett received the music industry’s highest honor winning the Grammy Award for Best Country Song ‘Jesus Take The Wheel,’ recorded by Carrie Underwood.

The list of artists that have recorded songs penned by Brett James resembles a who’s who in the country music list but also straddles genre lines into American and world pop music. Some notable pop artis

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In this vulnerable and enlightening conversation, Whitney Miller reveals that she’s just as scared as the rest of us - but she doesn’t let that stop her. From being crowned Miss United States to a Country Music career and becoming an MMA fighter, Whitney Miller shares her secrets on never letting fear get in the way of your dreams.

In this episode:

• From evening gloves to boxing gloves - next steps after passing on the crown
• Whitney Miller’s biggest fear
• The surprising way Whitney started singing (that’s different from most artists!)
• What is a walking coach?
• A behind-the-scenes look at Whitney Miller’s singer/songwriter career
• Turning emotions into art
• Miss United State’s best advice on how to face your fears

This episode sponsored by: Habana Cuba

About Whitney:
Former professional athlete, Miss United States 2012, kickboxing commentator, and podcaster Whitney is a Texas-born country rock pop singer-songwriter living in Nashville, TN. Whitney’s roots and deep love to write and perform original country music dates back to being a little girl in South Texas, growing up listening to acts like Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Bonnie Rhiatt, and Johnny Cash from her parents' record collection. Today, her sound is influenced by those early days and early Miranda Lambert and Gretchen Wilson. 

Whitney strongly encourages self-empowerment and a fearless take on life. Hearing no is only an opportunity to find a yes. Her overall mission in life is to inspire others to live life out loud! Before her move into her passion for creating music, Whitney specialized in unique relationship and life design. She knows how freeing it is to live life on your own terms, with less fear, and she directly supported hundreds of people, from professional and Olympic athletes and CEOs to stay-at-home parents, as they step into their truth and unleash the life they truly desire.   

She joined forces with some of the leading scientists and researchers in the field and co-hosted an extremely popular podcast that debuted at #50 on the overall iTunes charts and now has over 1.5 million downloads. 

In true "go for it" Whitney fashion, she has decided to take her biggest leap of faith yet and left her home state of Texas for Nashville, Tennessee, to chase her lifelong dream as a singer-songwriter. Her vast life experience and comfort in the spotlight allow her to not only create feeling through her lyrics and voice but also to inspire her audience. Whitney is currently finishing her debut album, recorded at Orb Recording studios with an all-star cast of guest musicians to be released in 2022. Expect a fun, country rock album filled with vulnerable, real-life stories and lots of attitude!

https://www.whitneymillermusic.com/

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Sports, sports, sports! Fans of the Golden States Warriors will definitely recognize his voice, but did you know he's also done broadcasting for water polo at the Olympics, boxing and more? Listen to this episode to get an inside look at the fascinating world of sports broadcasting.

In this episode:

• How competitive it is to be a sports broadcaster
• Alabama football
• Stephen Curry
• Notre Dame
• His thoughts on Brian Kelly leaving to go to LSU
• Shifting from accounting to sports
• What makes hockey players different
• The really competitive thing Michael Jordan did
• Calling water polo in the Olympics
• Something he hasn’t had the opportunity to call but would love to
• Concussions in the NFL and what could change

Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/RM5a82Jb4BM

About American sports commentator Bob Fitzgerald:
One of the most recognizable sports personalities in the Bay Area, Bob Fitzgerald has served as television play-by-play announcer for the Warriors on NBC Sports Bay Area since 1997. He called his first Warrior game on radio, Feb 18, 1993, as the backup radio play-by-play broadcaster and host of the Warriors Roundtable television programs. Since his arrival, the Warriors broadcast team has received 16 nominations and won three Emmy Awards for “Best Live Sports Broadcast,” most recently for NBC Sports Bay Area’s broadcast of the Warriors vs. Kings game during the 2014-15 season that featured Klay Thompson’s NBA-record 37 points in a single quarter. Fitzgerald has received six Emmy nominations for “Best On-Camera” and was awarded the Emmy for “Best On-Camera, Play-by-Play Sports” for Northern California in 2007 and 2014.

On a national basis, Fitzgerald currently calls NFL and college football games for Sports USA Radio and the San Francisco 49ers preseason broadcasts. He has 25 years of experience broadcasting the Olympic games for NBC Sports, and has called the 2021 Tokyo Olympics (Men’s and Women’s Basketball). Additional credits include NBC’s 2012 London Summer Olympics (Men’s and Women’s Basketball), 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics (Men’s and Women’s Water Polo), 2004 Athens Summer Olympics (Men’s and Women’s Basketball), and the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics (Men’s and Women’s Swimming). Fitzgerald was also chosen to call the NBA Playoffs in 2020 for TNT at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Fitzgerald has also handled network television NFL broadcasts for NBC and the NBA G League Finals series for Versus in 2010.

In 2019, Fitzgerald finished a 28-year run at KNBR radio in San Francisco, hosting the popular Fitz and Brooks show for 15 years. Fitzgerald was the television and radio voice for the San Jose SaberCats of the Arena Football League for twenty years and spent six years as the play-by-play voice for ESPN’s NBA Basketball video game series. He also wrote a column for the Oakland Tribune and ANG Newspapers for seven years.

A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Fitzgerald also received his master’s degree in sports management from the Ohio State University. While at Notre Dame, he worked as a play-by-play broadcaster for Fighting Irish football and ba

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To say Nicolle is a hit songwriter might be an understatement. She has written songs for Lady A, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Florida Georgia Line, and many others. Galyon has written nine No. 1 hits including "Automatic," Miranda Lambert's chart-topping lead single from her critically-acclaimed album Platinum, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 200 chart and featured five songs by Galyon.

In this episode:

• Starting off as a pianist
• Giving herself permission to make a record despite not wanting to be a performer
• Having three #1 songs in a year
• Looking for the next “one”
• Where “Disneyworld” came from
• Having a very humble beginning
• Why she tells her kids “no”
• How moving out of Nashville was the catalyst for First Born
• Making songs NOT meant for radio
• How not winning class President in high school was a gift
• Being back in her hometown
• How not knowing her biological father shaped some of her music

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In this intense yet uplifting conversation, David Taylor-Klaus is open and honest with Gary about his suicide attempt and what he does now to keep himself on track. This episode will make you think while also lifting you up.
Also in this episode:

• Internal self-awareness
• External self-awareness
• Being a thought leader
• Ticking people off
• Whether or not it’s ok for your family to judge you
• Attempting suicide
• The impact Hurricane Katrina had on him
• The problem with the term “Work/Life Balance”
• Why you can’t separate work and life
• Being in relationship with what you’re doing

About David
David’s personal and professional worlds clearly reflect a journey in pursuit of excellence, always with a great deal of humor and heart. He is known for his sharp intellect and incisive ability to see and say what others do not. He balances fierce candor with genuine compassion … aka “an iron fist in a velvet glove.”

Whether working with individuals, teams, or speaking to large groups, David believes that a powerful leader exists in each of us, his goal is to empower others to unearth and unleash their own leadership mastery. From personal experience, he drives home the importance for all professionals to take an active, intentional, and dynamic role in their private and professional lives.

The mission of DTK Coaching is to reintroduce successful business people to their families and the world outside the office.

Through an informed, well-applied process and an inspired approach, David’s clients overcome the overwhelming aspects of succeeding in business and being a part of a family. DTK Coaching helps them create the kind of Life-Work Balance they only dared to imagine was possible, while also achieving dramatic shifts in their performance.

David’s insight and wisdom are built on his three decades as a successful serial entrepreneur.

Prior to establishing DTK Coaching, he was CEO of Digital Positions (DP), an internet strategy and web development firm he co-founded in 1995 and sold in 2009. As a strategist, he worked with C-level executives, senior management teams and boards of directors to broaden their perspective and see how interactive initiatives support corporate visions and values for positive growth.

It was during this time, however, that David realized that his success came from being reactive rather than proactive, and that he wasn’t participating consciously as a husband, father, business partner, or entrepreneur.  As he headed toward rock-bottom, David had a significant wake-up call that ultimately resulted in DTK Coaching. 

(It’s a great story… read how really bad it got)

Recent empty-nesters (a status modified due to the pandemic), David and his wife, Elaine, live in the heart of Atlanta with their dogs. A gold-medal rower in the 2004 Georgia State Games, an avid cyclist, and an enthusiastic wine-collector (and drinker), David also enjoys kick-boxing, really great jokes, laughing with others … and at himself.

https://dtkcoaching.com

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In this brutally honest conversation, Lynn Abaté-Johnson gets candid about her journey as a caregiver and talks about how she was able to finally care for herself the way she cared for her mom in her final years. We also talked about her recently released book Out of Love where she chronicles her journey and provides resources and systems for caregivers.

In this Episode:

• Being a caregiver while juggling her career
• Keeping it a secret
• Turning her mom’s cancer diagnosis into a “business”
• Why she put the book on pause
• Removing the hustle mindset
• Being a caregiver while juggling being a wife
• Changing to a healthier lifestyle
• When her mom realized she wasn’t going to beat cancer
• Feeding stress with food
• Incremental changes
• How to squeeze gifts out of hard situations
• How the book morphed into being about her

About Lynn:
After being a primary caregiver for her mother for over six years, author Lynn Abate-Johnson understands the typhoon of emotions and responsibilities that come with caring for a loved one. However, she discovered how to blossom through (and after) caregiving rather than let it drown her. 

By using her natural organizational skills and her solid work ethic, she developed systems and processes to help navigate the difficult journey of caregiving, which allowed her to go from “What am I going to do without my mom?” to “I know I can thrive after she’s gone–just as she would want.”

Like most caregivers, Lynn juggled caregiving duties with a full-time career. In her daily life, she’s a business consultant and global community builder. 

She’s been building businesses from the ground up from a young age, with her first business being a network of family roller skating rinks in the Detroit, Michigan metro area. She is currently growing the global community as “the voice” of the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI), one of the world’s most respected leadership development and professional coach training organizations.

As part of her devotion to developing global communities that make a difference by connecting human beings, she speaks with cohorts of caregivers to help them discover they’re not alone, everything’s going to be ok, and there are tools they can use to ease the burdens they might feel as caregivers. Her book Out of Love: A Daughter’s Journey With Her Mom To The End provides care for caregivers by giving them the emotional and practical support they need.

About the Book:
Lynn’s words offer a uniquely personal glimpse into her journey as a daughter of a strong mother, along with her own transformation in the aftermath of being a caregiver.

Lynn’s approach removes the stigma of grief, Her expressive and often vulnerable ways of sharing help to normalize what many families may take for granted or miss in their often overwhelming and new experience as caregivers. There will be discomfort, shame, guilt, and layers of conditioning to discover in this book, with the goal of bringing light to the dark and peace to the soul.

These words are also interactive, meaning you will find practical, logistical tools and resources on the accompanying website: LynnAbateJohnsonBook.com.

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Country artist Ashley Cooke is quickly becoming a favorite and is on her way to becoming a household name. She's already gotten to collaborate with Jimmie Allen and tour with Cole Swindell! In this episode, we talk about her journey to being a Country star and what her audience means to her, and so much more. You're going to appreciate and enjoy how open and authentic she is.
Also in this episode:

• Getting to work with Jimmie Allen
• Why poetry speaks to her
• What could possibly cause Taylor Swift to return to Country Music
• What makes a song Country
• Why she had to move around so much
• Why Florida is home
• Why she went to school for Marketing & Communications rather than something in music
• Being the first non-music major to win the Belmont Showcase
• Going on tour with Cole Swindell
• Her songwriting process
• Her future as an actress
• Is she or isn’t she dating the guy from Back in the Saddle
• Dating in 2022
• Connecting with her audience

About Ashley:
Raised between the coasts of California and Florida, Ashley Cooke is an up-and-coming country artist who brings authentic and honest storytelling to her music. The singer/songwriter developed her love of country music as Rascal Flatts, Jason Aldean, and Florida Georgia Line quickly became the soundtrack of high school. Cooke followed her passion for music to Belmont University, where she won the Country Showcase, placing her in an elite class of winners that includes Brad Paisley, Chris Young, Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line, and more. 

In Aug. 2021, Cooke released her debut project, Already Drank That Beer, featuring 8 tracks written by Cooke alongside many of Nashville’s hottest songwriters. Produced by award-winner Jimmy Robbins, the debut project garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, People, Taste of Country, Sounds Like Nashville, Country Now, and more. In April, Cooke enlisted Country megastar Brett Young to feature on standout track “Never Til Now,” which Billboard tapped as a “superb vocal blend,” proving her “bright future ahead within the country music genre” (CMT). Resonating with fans far and wide, the romantic love song prompted Cooke to make her national television debut on ABC’s “The Bachelorette.”

Last year, Cooke hit the road on tour with fellow rising acts BRELAND and Spencer Crandall and spent the first half of 2022 touring alongside Cole Swindell, Brett Young, and Jordan Davis. Cooke will continue to appear at some of the summer’s hottest fairs, and festivals as she gears up to release more new music via Big Loud Records / Back Blocks Music before heading out on Swindell’s Back Down To The Bar Tour in fall 2022.

http://ashleycooke.com

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Chrissy Bernal is quite a character who has led a life full of surprises and things you just can't make up. We talked about light-hearted stuff like sleep eating (yes, eating in her sleep), and talked about heavier topics such as regaining her confidence after escaping domestic violence. Did you know her daughters are Guinness Book record holders?  I'm telling you; her story is a movie in the making.

Also in this episode:

• Why she carried meatloaf in her purse
• Competing in physique competitions
• Gary’s son being born dead
• What Chrissy has in common with Kurt Warner
• Primordial Dwarfism
• Throwing up the first time she saw her daughter
• Dandy-Walker
• The shocking thing her special needs daughter did at camp
• The surprising thing that prepared her for having a child with Primordial Dwarfism
• Survivor’s guilt
• What made Sierra so independent
• Having a woman threaten to call CPS
• Sleep eating
• The time her husband said she was going to kill him
• How her daughters' global fame shaped her career
• Domestic abuse
• What it’s like having kids who don’t want to take normal paths

About Chrissy Bernal
After accidentally ending up in the global spotlight for her unique identical twins, author Chrissy Bernal was forced to create & grow a brand on the fly. She knew she needed to harness the power of the publicity they were getting. Fast forward 15 years, and now by combining her formal education with the real-world knowledge gained from her family’s growth toward global brand awareness, she has a deep understanding of how to help brands clearly communicate their stories, increase their influence & reduce the chaos experienced in the journey of being known.

While she works with men and women, she’s particularly passionate about working with women because statistics show that female entrepreneurs make half of what their male counterparts make. 

She knows from her own experience that particular events in her life caused her to lose sight of her worth, and she has heard the same thing from other women.

She has had so many wonderful coaches and mentors over the years; she wishes she would have found them earlier in her career. It would have saved her a lot of headaches and lost income. 

She remembers always feeling jumbled and constantly operating from a desperation mindset. Now that she’s clear about who she is, what she’s passionate about, and what difference she wants to make, she feels so much more focused.

And she wants to help other women feel the same way.

She believes women should embrace their worth and confidently pursue the success they desire, so she guides them through proven frameworks for Branding, Marketing and Communication and uses strategic PR to help them increase their audience and improve their influence with intention and less stress.

www.ChrissyBernal.com

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One day he was waiting tables, the next day, he was on his way to aid in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Colton R. Smith joined Gary Scott Thomas for a fascinating conversation where he shared his experience including, the time when he came upon a car that had been riddled with bullets by the Russians even though it had been full of children.

Also in this episode:

• Why he decided to go to Ukraine even though he was “just an average person”
• What kinds of people can make a difference in the world
• War tourists
• The full human experience
• The profound darkness he saw while in Ukraine
• His thoughts on Russia’s preparedness to go to war
• How amazing the people of Ukraine are
• Why they had to relocate their headquarters
• Working to help Ukrainian history not be lost
• Optimizing humanitarian operations

About Colton:
Colton R. Smith is a 25-year-old Californian humanitarian worker who recently returned from serving the humanitarian mission in Poland and Ukraine, where he daily faced the overwhelming crisis created by the Russian Federation’s brutal ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Smith is a graduated UC Santa Cruz European history major who quit his job and dropped everything to travel to Eastern Europe to do everything he could to help in this humanitarian crisis. In eastern Poland near the Ukrainian border, Smith joined a humanitarian aid organization called Help Ukraine Center, where he worked for two months helping to send thousands of tons of humanitarian aid into the war-torn country next door. At Help Ukraine Center, he met numerous incredible people that strengthened both his faith in humanity and his resolve to dedicate himself fully to this crisis. He was then recruited by another organization, called Teleport, specializing in humanitarian optimization to help solve the inevitable problems that organizations face when responding to wartime crises. In July 2022, Teleport Organisation sent Colton into Ukraine as part of a delegation of Teleport representatives to meet in Kyiv with members of the Ukrainian government and a number of heroic Ukrainian humanitarian organizations, to lay the groundwork for Teleport’s new missions inside Ukraine itself. Under the near-daily blare of air raid sirens, Colton and his team forged new bonds in the Ukrainian capital, with massive potential to make a substantial impact in this intense humanitarian crisis. Now, Colton has returned stateside to fundraise for Teleport, which faces a severe shortage of funding. Without the donation support of concerned members of the public, Teleport will be unable to fulfill its role and carry out its various humanitarian missions in Ukraine. Colton and his incredible team hope that through spreading awareness of the realities on the ground and fundraising, Teleport can continue to work every day to provide the critical support that Ukrainian civilians need to successfully ride out the hell of Putin’s onslaught against them.

Visit Teleport’s website below to learn more about their humanitarian work and make a vital direct contribution to enable that work’s continuation:
www.teleport-organisation.com

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Country artist Kylie Morgan is simply a delight. She was kind enough to share about her personal life, her career, and what's next.

In this episode:

• What inspired her style of music
• Why she was bullied
• Writing with Walker
• Her pride and joy
• Getting to work with her dream team
• Why she was scared of marriage
• Her view on marriage
• How quickly she moved in with her fiancé
• Keeping up with two musical careers

About Kylie:
Exuberant and ethereal, Kylie Morgan is turning heads with her new EP P.S., out everywhere now. Pairing articulate, coming-of-age revelations with fun up-tempo anthems, P.S. features seven tracks each co-written by Kylie, including her debut single to country radio, “If He Wanted To He Would.” P.S. is the anticipated follow-up to her breakout EP, Love, Kylie – a bold introduction that scored the Oklahoma native a place as one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, VEVO’s 2021 DSCVR Artists to Watch, and to CMA’s coveted KixStart program. Already surpassing 100 MILLION global streams, Kylie has been praised for her “powerful voice” (CMT) with “infectious arrangements, irresistibly clever lyrics and a vibrant, empowering energy” (American Songwriter). On the road this summer, she recently wrapped the GOOD TIME TOUR with Niko Moon after previously opening for artists including Dan + Shay, Little Big Town, Maren Morris, Kip Moore, Jason Derulo, Gavin DeGraw, Brett Eldredge and Billy Currington. For more information visit kyliemorgan.com, and keep up with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and

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Gary had the distinct honor of having William Lee Golden of the Oak Ridge Boys join him for an open conversation, and William was very frank.

In this episode:

• What he did during the pandemic
• Who taught him to play the guitar
• Why he had to leave the Oakridge Boys
• His book Behind the Beard
• Growing up on a cotton and peanut farm
• Why they didn’t sing any new songs during the pandemic
• What he thinks about his kids being in the music industry
• Which song gives him chills
• Taking a stand and being who you are
• The insane number of sit-ups he still does at 83

About William Lee Golden:
He is one of the most recognized personalities in Country and Gospel music, having garnered the highest accolades as a member of the legendary group The Oak Ridge Boys. Now, the renowned “Mountain Man” is climbing to new heights in the world of fine art.

Doo-wop, Pop, Country

For the first time in a long time, William Lee Golden has a spring in his step. Coming out of a tumultuous period in his life, the iconic baritone vocalist has found the love of his life in his new bride, Simone. He’s also comfortable with his place in the world as part of the Oak Ridge Boys, who are celebrating their 42nd Anniversary together in 2015, while Golden’s celebrating his 50th anniversary since joining the iconic group.

A farmer’s son, Golden spent the early years of his life in rural south Alabama surrounded by music. As he grew up, he started singing at the age of seven and began performing regularly on his grandfather’s weekly radio show along with his sister, Lanette. It was there that his love of harmony came alive, and by his teenage years, Golden grew to appreciate the Country, Gospel, Doo-Wop, and Pop quartets, and sure enough, it wasn’t long before he was joining up with The Oak Ridge Boys.

Nobody back home in Brewton, Alabama, could’ve imagined back then all that Golden would accomplish with The Oak Ridge Boys since joining the band in 1965. While on a break from the quarter, Golden released several solo recordings to considerable success.

But for as much success he has had as a recording artist, Golden’s no one-dimensional act. He’s found considerable success with his paintings, and he’s finding even more success with a new visual medium, photography, where he often focuses on landscape portraits and scenes. Many of his favorite shots can be found on Golden’s official Facebook page.

Family has long held a special meaning to Golden. In addition to his newly found love with his wife, Simone, Golden has four sons in Rusty, Chris, Craig, and Solomon. Golden also has six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Along with his marriage to Simone, he also welcomes his step-daughter Megan, her husband Newton, along with the addition of another grandchild to the fold.

Lifetime Achievements

With over forty million records sold, The Oaks have had more than a dozen Number One singles and over thirty Top Ten hits. Their numerous Gold and Platinum recordings include “Thank God For Kids,” “Ozark Mountain Jubilee,” and the crowd favorite “Elvira.” The Oaks have received five Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, four Country Music Awards (CMA), four Academy of Country Music Awa

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Have you ever wondered if we're alone in the universe? Are people really able to talk to our loved ones who have passed? This episode is simply fascinating! Psychic Lawyer Mark Anthony joined Gary Scott Thomas for this week's episode, and Mark gave us great insight into what it's like to be a medium. There are several very unexpected moments in this conversation!

In this episode:

• His first time in the Andes and the strange thing the locals gave him
• Retro rockets 
• Meeting Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
• MLK Jr.’s impact on Star Trek
• Quantum Mechanics 
• What led him to spontaneously quit practicing law
• How spirits can “predict” the future
• The different brain wave frequencies
• His books

About Mark:
Mark Anthony, JD, Psychic Explorer (aka The Psychic Lawyer®  Psychic Attorney and Psychic Adventurer), is a world-renowned fourth-generation science-based evidential psychic medium who communicates with spirits. He is the author of the groundbreaking and critically acclaimed spiritual bestsellers The Afterlife Frequency, Evidence of Eternity,and Never Letting Go.

Mark’s credentials and experience are unparalleled in the paranormal world. He is an Oxford-educated trial attorney licensed to practice in Florida, Washington D.C., and before the United States Supreme Court. In England, he studied Mediumship at the prestigious Arthur Findlay College for the Advancement of Psychic Science.

Dr. Gary Schwartz, Professor of Psychology, Medicine, Neurology, Psychiatry, and Surgery at the University of Arizona and Director of the Laboratory for Advances in Consciousness and Health, is one of the foremost experts on the Survival of Consciousness and After Death Communication in the world. Dr. Schwartz studies psychic mediums and has ranked Mark as one of the top mediums in the United States. 

Mark is a recurring guest on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX Television, Gaia TV, and on major talk radio shows such as Coast to Coast AM, Darkness Radio, and Sirius XM as a psychic medium, paranormal and after-death communication expert, and legal analyst in high profile cases.

Mark was featured on the covers of OMTimes Magazine, and Best Holistic Life Magazine-which was the top-selling and most popular edition of Best Holistic Life to date.

He has also been featured in The Hollywood Times, The Huffington Post, The New York Post, Publisher’s Weekly, Writer’s Digest, Soeleish Magazines, Authority Magazine, Entrepreneurs Magazine, Conscious Community Magazine, Elephant Journal, LifeStyle Magazine, New Spirit Journal, Horizon’s Magazine, The Inquisitr, Staten Island Today, Sedona Red Rock News, Elite Man Magazine, Natural Awakenings, Verde Independent, Infinity Magazine (Canada), Spirituality Today (UK), Soul & Spirit (UK) and Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America.

A charismatic, intelligent, and humorous accomplished public speaker, Mark headlines at conventions, expos, and spiritual organizations such as the Edgar Cayce A.R.E., IANDS (International Association for Near-Death Studies), Afterlife Research Education In

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In this week's episode, Country Music artist Hailey Whitters (one of Gary's favorites) joined Gary Scott Thomas and shared stories about songwriting sessions, Nashville, and more. You'll be amazed at the courageous thing she did when she first arrived in Nashville! If you like getting to know more about the artists you love, give this episode a listen.

In this episode:

• Her first impressions of Nashville
• Who gave her her first big break
• Writing with Lori McKenna
• Which song of hers is her favorite
• Being the oldest of 6 children
• The catalyst for being able to write happy songs
• How she felt about growing up in a small town
• What people said about her being from Iowa

This Iowa-born, Nashville-based rising Country star scored her breakthrough moment in 2020 with the release of her self-funded debut album THE DREAM, which was praised as "the year’s deepest country album" (The Washington Post) and went on to appear on more than 15 year-end best of lists including #1 on both Stereogum’s "10 Best Country Albums of 2020" and Garden & Gun’s "Best Southern Albums of 2020" list. The subsequent deluxe album LIVING THE DREAM found Whitters’ self-fulfilling THE DREAM’s prophecy and enlisting her friends and collaborators Brent Cobb, Jordan Davis, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Little Big Town, and Trisha Yearwood to appear on five new songs, leading NPR’s Fresh Air to call her “one of the most interesting voices in country music.” In 2021 alone, Whitters toured with Luke Combs and Midland, was named the inaugural Opry NextStage Artist of the year, scored her first CMT Music Award nomination for “Breakthrough Video of the Year” (“Fillin’ My Cup” feat. Little Big Town) and received her first GRAMMY nomination for Song of the Year for “A Beautiful Noise,” which was written by Ruby Amanfu, Brandi Carlile, Brandy Clark, Alicia Keys, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Linda Perry and Hailey Whitters, and performed by Alicia Keys and Brandi Carlile. On March 18, 2022, Whitters released her third studio album RAISED via Pigasus / Songs & Daughters / Big Loud, followed by her debut headline Heartland Tour and performances at Tortuga Music Festival and Stagecoach Festival. Now boasting over 100 million streams across her catalog, Whitters hit the road all summer with Jon Pardi and Lainey Wilson on his Ain’t Always The Cowboy Tour.

https://haileywhitters.com

📸: Harper Smith

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This energizing conversation between a baby boomer and a Gen Zer who is being unapologetically himself is going to make you think, and you'll be excited about exploring all the things that will be bouncing in your head after this conversation.

In this episode:

• Making a book with the word “economics” in it interesting
• What "Value Economics" actually means
• The issue of identity
• Why it’s insulting to think America is so bad right now
• The death of the spirit
• The fallout from being laid off as an air traffic controller in 1981 and how his family held it together
• Defining our values
• The importance of examining the difficult things
• What shaped him
• DC Comics
• Why he moved to Austin, TX from Ohio
• Why he’s not on Twitter
• Why he dedicated his book to those who tell the truth
• Why he’s having a hard time dating
• How values should supersede politics

About Sam:

According to Sam, Sam LaCrosse is a nobody. He hasn't done anything amazing. He is not extraordinary or impressive. He doesn’t even have a Wikipedia entry. He’s just an ordinary guy from Cleveland, Ohio, who now lives an ordinary life in Austin, Texas. But if you want to check him out, he's the author of "Value Economics: The Study of Identity, writes blogs on dontreadthisblog.com, and hosts Don't Listen to This Podcast. Sam is the CEO and founder of Don’t Do This, LLC, a company that makes no money. He is also a board member of Thrive Living Corporation and an ambassador for RallyCap Sports.

www.dontreadthisblog.com

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You definitely know this guest's songs. He's written songs such as "You're Gonna Miss This" for Trace Adkins, "I Just Wanna Be Mad" by Terri Clark & "Ain't My Fault" by Brother's Osborne. The list of artists he's written for is miles long. In this episode, he joined Gary to share stories about some of his songs, his 30+-year-long marriage, how songwriter's actually get paid, and much more! 

In this episode:

• How he got a picture with Aaron Rogers
• How he met his wife
• His thoughts on cliches
• How his wife contributes to his music
• His thoughts on marrying someone in the music industry
• How he’s ruined music for his family
• What his 5-year-old daughter did when Brad Paisley came to their door
• What his daughter said to TJ Osborne
• Behind the song “It Aint My Fault”
• How songwriters get paid
• His favorite Thomas Rhett song
• Possible inspiration for "I Just Wanna Be Mad"
• His answer when Gary asked him, “What songs make you cry?”
• This history of how songwriters began to get paid
• The time a Congressman said to him, “Why would anyone want to do that?”
• How you can help songwriters
• What he thinks about Chris Stapleton

**This was recorded prior to the new agreement reached in late August '22.

About Lee Thomas Miller:
Hometown: Nicholasville, Kentucky
Bachelor degree in Music Theory/Composition (Eastern Kentucky University 1990)
 
FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE NASHVILLE SONGWRITER'S ASSOCIATION (NSAI)

 3 Time Grammy Award Nominee:
 2003 Grammy nomination :  “The Impossible” (Joe Nichols) Country Song of the Year:
2009 Double Grammy nomination :
“You’re Gonna Miss This”(Trace Adkins)-  Country Song of the Year
“In Color” (Jamey Johnson)- Country Song of the Year

Music Row Magazine: Breakthrough Songwriter of the year 2003
Awarded one of NSAI’s  ‘Ten Songs I Wish I Had Written’ 2003: “The Impossible”
Awarded one of NSAI’s  ‘Ten Songs I Wish I Had Written’ 2008: “You’re Gonna Miss This”
Song of the Year at the 2008 NSAI awards for “You’re Gonna Miss This”
Nominated for Song of the Year at 2008 CMA awards for “You’re Gonna Miss This”
2009 Double ACM Nominee: “You’re Gonna Miss This” and “In Color” for Song of the Year
Won Song of the Year at the 2009 ACM awards for “In Color”
Won Music Row Magazine’s 2009 Song of the Year  for  “In Color”
Awarded one of NSAI’s  ‘Ten Songs I Wish I Had Written’ 2009: “In Color”
Won Song of the Year at the 2009 CMA awards for "In Color"
Awarded BMI's inaugural "Champion's Award" 2015
Nominated for Song of the Year at the 2018 ACM awards for "Whiskey and You"
                               
http://www.leethomasmiller.com

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You know his music, you just might not know you know his music. If you love Lainey Wilson's "Things a Man Oughta Know," you'll love this episode. Jason wrote that song and many other hits. He joined Gary in this week's episode to share stories behind his songs, stories from when he was growing up, and much more.

In this episode:

• "Things a Man Oughta Know"
• The song idea that came up during the interview
• His new song Mary Wanna
• Pushing through fear
• Jobs he had on the way up
• Sleeping in his car
• What songs with minor chords do
• Why he never looks at the charts
• The best kind of sad song

About Jason:
Born in Nashville and raised in South Mississippi, Jason Nix grew up on a blend of his musical father’s Bluegrass and his mother’s love of Motown while introducing his own passion for Classic Rock into the mix. It’s no surprise then that his return to Music City just after high school led to the creation of a sound all his own, driven by his strengths as both a guitar player and a lyricist. 17 years later, having established himself as an award-winning, in-demand songwriter and earning cuts from artists ranging from Keb’ Mo’ to Lainey Wilson (including the recent ACM Song of the Year “Things A Man Oughta Know”), Nix now presents himself as a must-hear artist with brand-new release “Mary Wanna.” Written by Nix together with Driver Williams as the first in a series of concept songs coming soon, the song introduces the free-spirited character of Mary while also introducing Nix himself. 

“I had ‘Mary Wanna’ written down as a title for a long time before I pitched it in a write, because I wanted to save it to write with Driver Williams,” notes Nix. “From the word ‘go,’ or in this case, ‘Mary,’ I never wanted the song to be about marijuana. I remember how fast the song fell out, and as I started working on the demo, I didn't want to stop. We wound up using most of the parts I recorded in that 12x12 guest bedroom on the actual record.”

“‘Mary Wanna’ is the song that got my wheels turning again on releasing music as a solo artist. I love the way it makes me feel,” he adds. “I’ve always wanted to a concept album and ‘Mary Wanna’ paints a very clear picture of what Mary’s role will be in this story. She’s a rebel who feels trapped by her parents’ idea of who she should be; she feels smothered by her community’s expectations of how a young woman should act. She is desperately looking for the freedom to find out who she is, even if it means breaking some hearts along the way. This song is the cornerstone for a project I didn’t realize I was starting at the time and was born from a personal experience that I never intended to write about. Mary gave me the opportunity to write about the things I’ve been holding onto for years.”

https://www.jasonnixmusic.com

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Calling all Star Trek fans! Chester L. Richards, the co-writer of "The Tholian Web" episode of Star Trek, joins in the conversation, and it's fascinating!! Some of his stories are almost unbelievable like the story about almost being killed by the great potato, the Colorado River, a crocodile, a crazed gunman...

In this episode:

• What it was like when a rocket engine blew up
• Working with the royalty of the industry
• Meeting astronauts
• Making something that’s actually space-qualified
• What hooked him on science
• His UFO encounter
• SR71 planes
• UFOs or swarms of insects?
• How he came up with the Tholian Web
• What he thinks of William Shatner
• What he thinks about the newer Star Trek
• The closest to death he’s come
• How his wife’s eulogy affected him
• Losing his wife

About Chester:
Prior to retirement, Chester L. Richards was an Engineering Fellow at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems Division. At Raytheon he was Chief Architect for Advanced Concepts and Architectures. Before joining Raytheon Mr. Richards had an engineering consulting business. His diverse technology career spans half a century.
 
At the beginning of his professional life as a scientist, Mr. Richards invented and patented the first successful automatic focus sensor using real-time image analysis. It was used in aerial reconnaissance cameras.
 
Subsequently, while at the Ford Aerospace Corporation, Mr. Richards was Chief Engineer for Strategic Systems. At Ford he developed the flight instrumentation for the AGNT space flight and re-entry experiment. Mr. Richards invented and patented the Holographic Optical Element which is widely used in large aperture adaptive optics telescopes. Mr. Richards also invented, and successfully field tested, sub-resolution tracking techniques which improved tracking accuracy by two orders of magnitude.

During part of his career Chester L. Richards served as a System Engineering Technical Assistant (SETA) consultant to the U.S. Government. In this role Mr. Richards developed the modern Space Based Laser architecture for the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization. He was a member of SDIO’s Mission Analysis Working Group and its Innovative Science and Technology group. As SETA he helped define the functional architecture of Schriever Space Force Base and wrote the Statement of Work establishing the requirements for the base.
 
For the Air Force, Chester L. Richards created the definitive high fidelity sensor model for the DSP satellite series. In addition, he developed high precision target tracking techniques for the Hover Test Facility at Edwards Air Force Base.
 
At Raytheon one of his most important discoveries was the complete quantitative theory of bistatic radar, which previously had been only partially understood. This led to multiple fielded applications.
 
The technical interests of Mr. Richards include system architecture, space systems, physical optics, high energy lasers, image processing, radar, ergonomics, and jet and rocket propulsion.
 
Other activities include: Co-author of “The Tholian Web” script for the third season of the original Star Trek series. 
 
Chester L. Richards has a Bachelor’

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Get ready, science lovers! (and even non-science lovers) This episode is about to blow your mind. Dr. Thomas Sheahen joined Gary to talk about the relativity of time, how science always points to God, and much more!

Also in this episode:

• Consciousness, the higher functions of mankind
• Our view of time vs God’s view of time
• The comprehension of total time
• False gods
• How religion and science can both be right
• The possible existence of UFOs & aliens
• How the moon affects us
• There’s a great intelligence behind “coincidences”
• Constraints humans impose upon God
• Possible realities of different versions of Hell
• Quantum Mechanics

You can get Dr. Sheahen's book here:
https://www.amazon.com/Everywhen-Symmetry-Dr-Thomas-Sheahen/dp/195671510X

Dr. Thomas P. Sheahen is vice president of the Science and Environment Policy Project (SEPP), Director of the Institute for Theological Encounter with Science and Technology (ITEST), and president/CEO of Western Technology, Inc., an independent consulting firm specializing in energy technology issues with business implications,

From 2005 – 2009, Dr. Sheahen served as a Senior Analyst in the Systems Integration Office of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. From 1993 - 2002  he was a senior scientist in the Energy Systems Group for Science Applications International Corporation, where he led a team of evaluators in selecting renewable energy projects for support by NREL. He previously held positions with Argonne National Laboratory, Energy Research Advisory Board to the Department of Energy, SRI International (Stanford Research Institute), Congressional Office of Technology Assessment, National Bureau of Standards, and Bell Telephone Laboratories.

Dr. Sheahen is the author of Introduction to High-Temperature Superconductivity  (Plenum Press: 1994). His research papers have appeared in many peer-reviewed scientific journals, including Physical Review, Applied Optics, Journal of  Technology Transfer, Reviews of Modern Physics, Energy the International Journal, Strategic Planning, and Energy Management, and The Science Teacher.

Dr. Sheahen has co-authored numerous reports on topics including rocket re-entry instrumentation (Bell Labs), industrial instrumentation and analysis of measurement economics (Industrial Nucleonics), research program plans (National Bureau of Standards), industrial energy conservation (Office of Technology Assessment), national energy policy planning (DOE), and renewable energy technology (SAIC).

Dr. Sheahen holds B.S. and Ph.D. degrees in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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Julie’s back! In this episode, Gary and Julie introduce you to some new artists you'll love and talk about what's changing for women in Country Music.

Also in this episode:
🎙Why Julie gets mad when she deep dives on music
🎙What Julie is excited about for women in Country Music
🎙What made Shania Twain such a big star
🎙Chris Stapleton’s anger at the industry
🎙The Chris Stapleton interview I had to throw out
🎙Why they love Hailey Whitters
🎙Lainey Wilson's style
🎙William Beckmann
🎙Hunter Girl Music
🎙Bailey Zimmerman
🎙Walker Hayes
🎙Drake Milligan
🎙Colter Wall
🎙Morgan Wade
🎙How Covid helped the music industry
🎙The last Country artist to be able to make all their money off record sales

www.GaryScottThomas.com

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If you love P!NK's song "Love Me Anyway," featuring Chris Stapleton, you're going to find this episode very entertaining. Multiple award-winning music producer Sal Oliveri joined Gary Scott Thomas for an episode where Sal takes us behind the scenes and shows us how hit songs are brought to life. He also talks about being the son of an immigrant who is living out his dreams, including working with Billy Joel. 

Also in this episode:

• How a band he wasn’t a fan of won him over
• How extending grace can produce something amazing
• Letting kids find their own way
• Starting in music at age 4
• The fantasy Sal’s living and Gary wishes he could
• How music is a different language
• What a producer actually does
• Taking a demo and making it fit the artist
• Building a studio
• Working with Billy Joel
• Advice he gives to younger artists
• A big skill artists must have
• Picking the right song
• Women in Country music
• How he blended Chris Stapleton & P!NK
• Working with Haley & Michaels
• How different the world of music is once you’re actually in it

 About Sal:

This Nashville based Producer/Writer has played a pivotal role in the careers of artists and songwriters for over a decade. Often behind the scenes, Sal is providing the sound, inspiration and development needed to launch artists’ careers into the forefront of the music industry.

Raised in the shadows of Manhattan, Sal Oliveri developed a diverse musical background. His grandmother, an opera singer, and father, a golden-voiced “crooner”, set the bar high for Sal when it came to execution and musical taste. By age 4, Sal was riveted to pop radio and his upright piano. Before long, Sal was performing as musical director and keyboardist at Harlem’s famous “Cotton Club” and hitting the NJ/NY studio scene. Soon after, Sal relocated to Nashville where his musical efforts quickly earned him a #1 single he co-wrote and a Grammy Nomination for Best Rock Album.

Sal is known for his attention to detail and instinctive gift for bringing out the essence of the Artist and making it extraordinary.

CREDITS

Pop/Rock/Urban: P!NK, Jack Antonoff (FUN, Bleachers), Dan Wilson (Semisonic, Adele), Stan Lynch (of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), Billy Joel, Emily West (America’s Got Talent 2014 #2 finalist), Brooke White (American Idol), David Cook (American Idol), Daniel Powter, John Paul White (of The Civil Wars) Dia Frampton (The Voice), Lucie Silvas, B.Reith, Room for Two, Jaren Johnston of “Cadillac Black”, Andy Davis, Kevin Griffin (of Better Than Ezra) David Hodges (Evanessence)

Country/Americana: Parmalee, Carrie Underwood, Charles Kelly (Lady Antebellum), Kenny Chesney, Brett Eldredge, Sheryl Crow, The Band Perry, John Paul White (The Civil Wars), Garth Brooks,  Lee Brice, Kip Moore, Keith Urban, Randy Houser, High Valley, Leigh Nash, Haley & Michaels, Ricky Skaggs, Faith Hill, Jo Dee Messina, Lee Ann Womack, David Nail, Lori McKenna

Awards/Recognitions:

Multiple Billboard & iTunes #1’s in Pop, Country, Soundtrack, CCM/Gospel

#1 Country Video on CMT w/ Haley & Michael’s “Me Too”

Grammy Nomination for Best Pop/Rock Album

https://saloliveri.com

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If you loved Top Gun, you're going to love this episode! F-14 Fighter Pilot Francesco “Paco” Chierici joins Gary Scott Thomas to get our adrenaline going by taking us through the excitement of a "dog fight." Oh, and did we mention he's an author, trainer, and video game script writer? He's lived quite a life so far!

In this episode:

• How he got the name Paco
• Being the FNG 
• What G-force feels like
• Dog fights*
• How to prevent the air from getting the air sucked out of his lungs
• If there’s a fear 
• The violence in the cockpit
• The artistry involved in an aerial dog fight
• How many people it takes to carry out the mission
• The real legacy of the first female fighter pilot in the U.S. military to die in a crash
• How he navigated the geopolitical aspects of the book
• His thoughts on drones’ effects on pilots
• One of the coolest moments he experienced
• Being a fighter pilot trainer
• Writing a script for a video game
• His book Lions of the Sky

About Paco:
During his active duty career in the U.S. Navy, Francesco “Paco” Chierici flew A-6E Intruders and F-14A Tomcats, deployed to conflict zones from Somalia to Iraq and was stationed aboard carriers including the USS Ranger, Nimitz and Kitty Hawk. Throughout his military career, Paco accumulated 3,000 tactical hours, 400 carrier landings, a Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, and three Strike/Flight Air Medals. Unable to give up dogfighting, he flew the F-5 Tiger II for a further ten years as a Bandit.

https://www.lionsofthesky.com

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Stephen Joseph is an attorney turned children's book writer. In this episode, he talks with Gary about his interesting take on crankiness, craziness, and more.

In This Episode:

• The unusual thing he did after getting diagnosed with COVID
• Growing up in the Bronx
• Being a “reformed fat person”
• Losing 85 pounds quickly
• How he stopped being a “garbage can”
• The word he prefers over “habit”
• The unique way he writes his stories
• Running a marathon for his ex-wife
• His mother, a Holocaust survivor
• His spin on The Wizard of Oz
• Pulling yourself out of crankiness
• Giving people permission to be crazy

Steven Joseph is an excellent attorney and a remarkable writer. He’s gone from writing comprehensive legal briefs to penning award-winning non-fiction for children and adults.

Being a son of a Holocaust Survivor, Steven recognizes and celebrates his Jewish heritage. Most of his writing is based on the concept of survival, which was ubiquitous in the household he grew up in, and acknowledgment which he learned through his zen practice. As a crankiness expert, Steven can help you manage your emotions, embrace your crankiness, and improve communication with friends and family.

Steven is the author of the Mom’s Choice Award-winning The Last Surviving Dinosaur: The TyrantoCrankaTsuris and The Crankatsuris Method: A Grownup Guide to Effective Crankiness.

You can learn more about Stephen on his site: www.stevenjosephauthor.com

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If you love Lady A, you're going to love this episode. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from Lady A's very own Charles Kelley. This episode is so unscripted and authentic; you'll even hear a cameo from someone else in his family.

In this episode: