Here's What We Know

This week on Here's What We Know, join us for an unforgettable conversation with John Ford Coley, one-half of the legendary duo England Dan & John Ford Coley. From chart-topping hits to behind-the-scenes moments, John shares personal stories, musical insights, and nostalgic reflections on an era that shaped generations. Hit play now and take a trip down memory lane with one of music’s great talents!In This Episode:Relive the moments that shaped a generation—timeless hits that became more than just songs, but the soundtrack of our lives.What really happens when legends cross paths? Hear untold stories of encounters with Led Zeppelin, Three Dog Night, and the unexpected friendships that defined an era.Some voices just belong together. Dive into the rare chemistry between John Ford Coley & Dan Seals—a sound so seamless, it felt like family.From classical roots to rock, jazz, and beyond—discover the eclectic influences that shaped their signature sound over the decades.The music industry is ever-changing, but some things never do. Laugh along with wild TV depictions, behind-the-scenes antics, and why live music matters more than ever.Hear John's heartfelt reflections on his relationship with Dan Seals, Todd Rundgren's influence, and thoughts on music's ephemeral nature versus its lasting legacy.This episode is sponsored by:Bison Junk Removal (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Bring your dream cabinet to life!) Bio:John Ford Coley is a Grammy-nominated singer, guitarist, classically trained pianist, actor, and author, best known as half of the legendary duo England Dan & John Ford Coley. With unforgettable hits like “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight”, “Love Is the Answer”, and “Nights Are Forever Without You”, his music has become a beloved soundtrack for generations.Born in Dallas, Texas, John’s musical journey began with church hymns, classical piano, and early rock influences. From his early days in Southwest F.O.B., sharing stages with Led Zeppelin, to topping charts with England Dan, his career has spanned decades of unforgettable performances and collaborations with icons like Three Dog Night, Lou Gramm, and Christopher Cross.Now based in Nashville, John continues to captivate audiences worldwide, keeping the spirit of yacht rock alive with his signature sound and storytelling. Whether performing at intimate gatherings or major venues, his music remains timeless, proving that great songs never fade.Website: https://johnfordcoley.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnfordcoleyofficial/Connect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, Michael Hobby, the lead vocalist of A Thousand Horses, joins us to share his journey of music, family, and adventure. Michael opens up about those little moments that make life so memorable. It's a heartfelt conversation you don't want to miss! Listen now!In This Episode:Fatherhood at Its Best: Bug hunts, endless "why" questions, and watching his daughter grow—Michael opens up about the joys and challenges of being a dad.Hits & Harmony: The stories behind hits like Smoke and what it’s like raising a family while rocking the stage.Behind the Scenes at the Grand Ole Opry: Michael shares the unforgettable moment his daughter met Kelsea Ballerini—a backstage memory that’s pure magic.Cucumber Confessions: Love them or loathe them? Michael reveals the foods that spark his culinary frustrations—and a few laughs along the way!Adventures Ahead: From a summer trip to Spain to teasing the possibility of running with the bulls in Pamplona, Michael’s travel plans are as bold as his music.This episode is sponsored by:Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)Bison Junk Removal  (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!) Bio:Michael Hobby is a talented country music artist and the dynamic lead vocalist of the band A Thousand Horses. Known for their unique blend of southern rock and country, the band gained national acclaim with their 2015 smash hit, "Smoke." A South Carolina native, Michael moved to Nashville in 2005, chasing his passion for music. His journey led to the formation of A Thousand Horses, solidifying his place in the country music scene. A career highlight includes performing at Fenway Park in 2016. When he’s not performing, Michael enjoys life with his wife, podcast host Caro Hobby, and their daughter, Sunny, sharing their love for family and music.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelhobby/A Thousand Horses:https://www.athousandhorses.com/https://www.instagram.com/athousandhorses/https://www.youtube.com/@AThousandHorsesConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, catch an unexpected and riveting conversation with Eric Jay Dolan, bestselling author, about his incredible new book “Left for Dead.” Join us as we explore the thrilling story of Charles Barnard, a sealing captain marooned in the Falkland Islands during the War of 1812. Eric breaks down how he stumbled upon this almost forgotten piece of history and details Barnard's survival against unthinkable odds. Alongside personal anecdotes and rich historical context, we journey through the fascinating and tumultuous experiences that make this tale deserving of a movie adaptation. If you're a history buff or love incredible survival stories, this episode is a must-listen!In This Episode:Eric Jay Dolin’s journey to discovering this forgotten piece of history.Charles Barnard’s heroic leadership and survival strategies.The sealing industry’s role in early America and its historical context.The tragic wreck of the Isabella.Why this book hasn’t hit the big screen (yet) and why it absolutely should.This episode is sponsored by: Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!) Dignity Memorial Bio:Eric Jay Dolin’s lifelong fascination with the ocean and the natural world began on the shores of New York and Connecticut, where he spent his childhood exploring tidepools and collecting seashells along the Atlantic coast. Though he initially aspired to become a marine biologist, Eric’s journey led him to environmental policy, where his passion for storytelling and advocacy flourished.With degrees from Brown University, Yale, and a Ph.D. in environmental policy and planning from MIT, Eric has held a range of impactful roles, including working for the National Marine Fisheries Service, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and as a curatorial assistant in Harvard’s Mollusk Department.Today, Eric is best known as an acclaimed author and storyteller, weaving captivating narratives about the intersection of history, nature, and humanity. Through his books and articles, he shares the stories that inspire him, inviting readers to explore the wonders and complexities of the natural world.Website: https://www.ericjaydolin.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericjayd/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ericjaydolinConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This episode of Here's What We Know is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to miss. Our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes back return guest Craig Allen Cooper for an inspiring conversation that spans life's joys, struggles, and unexpected surprises! Tune in now, and let this episode remind you of the beauty in life’s twists and turns, the power of faith, perseverance, and community. In This Episode:Craig Cooper’s son’s incredible journey to NYU’s Clive Davis InstituteA raw and honest discussion about navigating a faith crisisThe inspiring story behind Walker Hayes’ song “Craig”Insights into the art of preachingLife lessons and reflections on God’s mysterious planAn unforgettable mission trip to Rwanda with Hope InternationalThis episode is sponsored by:Bison Junk Removal (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!) Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Bring your dream cabinet to life!) Bio:Craig Allen Cooper is a USA Today bestselling author and keynote speaker. He co-wrote the book "Glad You're Here" with Grammy-nominated country singer and songwriter Walker Hayes. "Glad You're Here" instantly became a Publisher's Weekly, ECPA, and USA Today national bestseller and has been featured on The Today Show, People Magazine, The 700 Club, Jesus Calling, and Family Life Radio, as well as various other news sources, radio and television programs, and podcasts, including That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs and Dream Big with Bob Goff.Craig served as one of the founding pastors of Redeeming Grace Church in Franklin, Tennessee, and is the founder of Glad You’re Here Ministries. He is the subject of the song "Craig" by Walker Hayes, and he resides in the greater Nashville area with his lovely wife, Laura, and their four kids.Website: https://www.craigallencooper.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigallencooper/Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/craigallencooper/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigallencooper/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@craigallencooperConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, our host Gary sits down with the one and only Tim Rickard, the brilliant mind behind the comic strip "Brewster RockIt: Space Guy!" Tim’s humor, storytelling, and passion for cartooning have made his work a staple in newspapers and online. From drawing on restaurant windows as a kid to crafting one of Gary’s daily must-reads, Tim’s journey is as entertaining as his comics. If you’re a fan of comics and storytelling, or just need a lighthearted listen, this episode is for you!In This Episode:How Tim's early love for drawing and comics like Peanuts and Calvin & Hobbes shaped his pathThe creative challenges and rewards of working on tight deadlinesThe evolution of fan-favorite characters like Brewster and PamHow sci-fi icons sneak their way into Tim’s work (yes, we’re talking Captain Kirk and Darth Vader vibes).Why flashbacks are one of his secret storytelling weapons.This episode is sponsored by:Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)Bio:Tim Rickard is an award-winning cartoonist, illustrator, and graphic artist for the News and Record in Greensboro, N.C. He is a member of Mensa, which means his remarkably large brain houses all sorts of inane science-fiction facts. He lives in Greensboro, N.C.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-rickard-3a59619/Read Brewster Rockit: Space Guy! on GoComics or at AmazonConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

New year! New episode!This week on Here's What We Know, welcome 2025 with an entertaining chat featuring country music star and diehard sports fan Tyler Rich! Dive into Tyler's love for the San Francisco Giants and 49ers and his excitement about performing at the Giants' first doubleheader event in 26 years. Tune in now and join the conversation about music, sports, and what makes ballpark culture so unforgettable! In This Episode:Fan First, Performer Second: Tyler shares what it means to be chosen for such a historic event and his lifelong love for the Giants.Doubleheader Buzz: Discover how the pitch clock has changed the pace of baseball games, making them even better for fans.Ballpark Nostalgia: Red ropes licorice, garlic fries, and why snacks make or break the ballpark experience.Sports Heartbreak & Hope: Tyler’s highs and lows as a 49ers fan, plus his outlook for the seasons ahead.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:Northern California-raised, Nashville-rooted Tyler Rich 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, Tyler has amassed nearly half a billion global streams to date and notched three No. 1 hits on SiriusXM’s The Highway 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,” “A Little Bit of You” and “Trucks Don’t Lie.” In 2022, Tyler joined forces with one of Canada’s most successful bilingual singer-songwriters, Marie-Mai for a duet on “Thinkin’ We’re In Love,” which serviced as the name of his headline tour. With his newly released I KNOW YOU DO EP, Tyler gives fans the best of both worlds fusing the spirit of youth with an easy-going buzz. Produced by The Cadillac Three’s Jaren Johnston, the three-track collection puts the many layers of the heartfelt singer/songwriter on full display. Tyler’s 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.Website: https://www.tylerrich.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tylerrich/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TylerRichMusicYouTube: @tylerrrichmusicTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tylerrichmusicConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, join us for an unforgettable conversation with country singer-songwriter, philanthropist, advocate, and all-around amazing human, Jay Allen. Known for his emotional storytelling, trademark humor, electric performances, and tireless work to make a difference, Jay opens up about his life, career, and the causes closest to his heart. Listen now!In This Episode:Jay dives into his fitness routine and how staying active helps him maintain mental clarity. Get a behind-the-scenes look at Jay’s preparation for the last ACM Awards, where he rocked a timeless all-black wedding tux.Jay opens up about how he and his wife overcame the curveball of Hurricane Ian disrupting their wedding plans. Thanks to the generosity of friends, they turned a challenge into a beautiful celebration of love.Prepare to be moved as Jay shares his mission to fight Alzheimer’s. With over $120 million raised for research, collaborations with artists like Walker Hayes, and impactful charity concerts, Jay’s philanthropy shines a light on how music and storytelling can make a difference.Jay reflects on an emotional visit to The White House during a film screening, sharing how vulnerability and empathy fuel his powerful storytelling through music.Jay talks about his music, “Better Now,” dedicated to those facing anxiety and depression; this song is a reminder that healing is possible.This episode is sponsored by:Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!) A Flood of Love Bio:Known for his philanthropic work spurred on by his mother’s passing from Alzheimer’s in 2019, Jay has gone on to raise over $160 million to help fight the disease.He’s been featured on NBC’s The Voice, ABC World News, PeopleTV, Pickler & Ben, and in People & Forbes Magazine, among many other media outlets. He was selected as The Highway Find on Sirius XM with his song “Sounds Good To Me”, won the 2022 Country Now Awards as Favorite Competition Contestant, and was recognized as one of Music Mayhem Magazine’s 2023 Artists to Watch.Celebrated for his philanthropic work in 2023, Allen was presented The Caregiver Award by The National Alzheimer’s Association, was personally invited to The White House by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, made history by performing the first-ever concert in the U.S. Capitol Building, and successfully concluded his first international tour in the United Kingdom, leading to airplay on BBC.Jay signed a record deal with ONErpm in 2023 and continues to tour with his band “The Stallions” in effort to help those suffering with dementia and their caregivers. His new 10-song album “Des Moines” is available now.Website: https://www.jayallenofficial.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayallenmusicTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayallenmusicConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, get ready for a fiery and thought-provoking episode as we sit down with Jewish historian and author Michael S. Gutter to dive into his powerful book, Never Again Still Means Never Again. Tackling racism, anti-Semitism, and the societal complacency that allows hate to persist, Mike brings his bold, unapologetic voice to the conversation, delivering a message filled with passion, insight, and hope for a brighter future.In This Episode:Antisemitism in Modern Society: How it manifests today and why we need to address it head-on.Lessons from History: What Hitler’s rise to power teaches us about the dangers of ignorance and indifference.Debunking Nazi Myths: Revealing hidden truths and dispelling misconceptions about Nazi Germany.The Evolution of Political Dialogue: How shifting political landscapes affect Jewish representation and broader societal dynamics.Righteous Anger & Humor: How to balance passion and levity when addressing difficult topics.Dismantling Hate: Why ignorance persists despite access to information—and how we can effectively counter it.Jewish Diplomacy & Rising Anti-Semitism: Are traditional strategies enough to combat today’s challenges?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:Michael S. Gutter is a Jewish historian and antisemitism expert committed to dismantling hate groups and promoting justice through truth and education. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he grew up in a loving family with four sisters and found his community welcoming and respectful.Mike’s life has been marked by diverse ventures—from co-founding one of the largest recycling companies in the U.S. to acquiring a craft soda line. His passion for writing is fueled by his love of nonfiction and a drive to confront antisemitism, inspired by both personal experiences and his struggles with OCD.Now based in Houston, Texas, Mike continues to write and engage in creative pursuits, including a Broadway musical, a screenplay, and a sitcom. His upcoming book will explore the past, present, and future of American Jewry, aiming to inspire action and understanding.Through meticulous research and heartfelt insight, Mike remains dedicated to addressing critical issues like racism and homophobia, hoping to empower readers to join him in spreading awareness and advocating for change.Website: https://neveragainmeans.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/p/Mike-Gutter-100006726197993/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/neveragainmeans/Connect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, join us for an insightful conversation with Raymond Watt, a remarkable leader balancing multiple roles as Chairman at Rimar.ai, Co-founder and CEO of Omnislash Inc., and Chairman Emeritus of YPO. Discover Raymond Watt’s incredible journey from his roots in South Africa to leading global businesses in the heart of Silicon Valley. His story is one of gratitude, strong family values, and an unwavering passion for helping others thrive.In This Episode:Follow Raymond’s transformative journey and the powerful lessons he picked up along the way.Discover how his unique upbringing shaped his leadership style and parenting philosophies.Go behind the scenes of YPO’s mission to build better leaders and create lasting impact in businesses, families, and communities.Raymond shares practical tips for raising kids grounded in integrity and empathy—no matter how much success surrounds them.Learn why exposing kids to diverse cultures is one of the greatest gifts you can give.Raymond’s unexpected journey into the entertainment world as a member of the Television Academy will leave you inspired and curious!This episode is sponsored by:Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)Dignity MemorialBio:Raymond Watt is the Chairman of Rimar.ai, a big data analytics company that develops quantitative models for its own hedge funds and managed accounts, and Co-founder and CEO of Omnislash, Inc., a data-aggregation platform transforming the esports and gaming space, and is the Chairman Emeritus of YPO. Raymond received his B.Sc. in Computer Science from NorthWest University and an MBA in Information Technology from Bond University in Australia.Website: https://www.ypo.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymondwatt/Connect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

This week on Here's What We Know, we dive into an eye-opening conversation with author, award-winning coach and health advocate for wellness Benjamin L. Smith as we explore his transformative book, Why Are You Sick? How to Reclaim Your Health with the Ultimate Health Model. Benjamin takes us on his journey—from a childhood fascination with science, inspired by his dermatologist father, to becoming a successful entrepreneur and eventually a passionate advocate for holistic health.Tune in now to discover the powerful insights and actionable steps Benjamin shares to help you reclaim your health and transform your well-being!In This Episode:Benjamin’s Inspiring Journey: Discover how a devastating personal loss and a relentless curiosity about the human body propelled him to uncover a groundbreaking approach to health and healing.The Hidden Power of Structured Water: Could water hold the key to unlocking optimal health? Explore its fascinating role in biology and its revolutionary potential for transforming agriculture and beyond.The Web of Wellness: Uncover the surprising connections between your daily habits, hydration, and even the health of the soil—proving that everything truly is intertwined.Transformative Health Hacks: Learn simple yet powerful changes in your diet, hydration, and lifestyle that can help you regain control of your health.This episode is sponsored by:Bison Junk Removal  (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)Sterling Oak Cabinetry  (Bring your dream cabinet to life!)Bio:Benjamin Smith is an Award-Winning Health Coach & Advocate for Wellness. His journey to becoming an award-winning health coach is rooted in a lifelong curiosity about the human body and a passion for uncovering the “why” behind health and disease. Inspired early on by his dermatologist father, Benjamin’s philosophical questions about life and science laid the foundation for a lifelong interest in wellness.By 2019, Benjamin felt a calling to share his knowledge and help others. He earned his certification through the Primal Health Coach Institute, aligning his values with a holistic approach to wellness. Teaching and lecturing soon became his passion, leading him to author a groundbreaking book that encapsulates a decade of research, hundreds of articles, and insights from experts.Through his work, Benjamin strives to empower others with hope and practical tools to prevent and combat chronic disease. His mission is simple yet profound: if his model can save even one person, he considers his work a success.Website: https://ultimatehealthmodel.com/about-benjamin-smith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultimatehealthmodel/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ultimatehealthmodel01Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UltimateHealthModelConnect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!