Here's What We Know

Gary Scott Thomas
  • 4.9 (36)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Authentic Conversations. Intriguing Guests. Time Well Spent. Gary Scott Thomas’ “Here’s What We Know” podcast will entertain you, enlighten you, and even possibly inspire you! Listen each week as Gary Scott Thomas engages guests in unscripted conversations where he’ll be just as surprised as you will be with how the talk turns out. So, join him each week and be privy to the captivating conversations that are sure to ensue. Conversations include interviews with Country Music artists, professionals, professional athletes, authors and more.

  1. What Happens When We Die? Mike Oppenheim on Loss, Hope, Faith, and Coffin Talk

    1d ago

    What Happens When We Die? Mike Oppenheim on Loss, Hope, Faith, and Coffin Talk

    Send us Fan Mail Most people expect a conversation about death to feel heavy. This one feels surprisingly hopeful. This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with Mike Oppenheim, host of the podcast Coffin Talk, for a conversation about fatherhood, grief, faith, forgiveness, and the question every person eventually asks: What happens when we die? Mike shares the heartbreaking story of losing his son, how he found healing without living in anger, and why spending years with hospice patients changed everything he believed about what matters most. Whether you share these beliefs or not, you'll find something meaningful in this episode. In This Episode: Growing up in Berkeley and the culture that shaped Mike's early yearsHow a spur-of-the-moment college application sent him to the University of PittsburghThe custody battle and international parental child abduction that took his son to ThailandWorking through the U.S. State Department and the reality of cross-border custody casesVolunteering at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix and choosing the dementia wardWhy hospice families struggle more than the patients themselvesThe origin story of the Coffin Talk podcastAmerica's discomfort with aging and mortality compared to other culturesFaith, fear, and why anger never solves anythingBlended family life, his current wife, and his two young daughtersThe moment his daughter finally got to talk to her brother  This episode is sponsored by: Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)  License #: 679261   Bison Junk Removal  Bio: Mike Oppenheim is an author, speaker, and the creator of the Coffin Talk podcast, where he asks guests one timeless question: What do you think happens when you die? After experiencing profound personal loss, Mike found purpose in hospice volunteering and helping others have honest conversations about life, death, grief, and hope. Through his writing and podcast, he encourages people to live with greater compassion, curiosity, and appreciation for the time we have. Substack: https://mikeyopp.substack.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeyopp38/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mikeyopp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-oppenheim-8a5562186/ Tags: what happens when we die, grief, loss, healing, parental alienation, international child abduction, fatherhood, hospice, end of life, faith, purpose, podcast interview, Coffin Talk Podcast, personal growth, storytelling, meaningful conversations, forgiveness, hope, mortality Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    49 min
  2. July 4th: The Real Story Behind the Declaration of Independence with Robert G. Parkinson

    5d ago

    July 4th: The Real Story Behind the Declaration of Independence with Robert G. Parkinson

    Send us Fan Mail What really happened in the months leading up to the Declaration of Independence? Most of us learned the broad strokes of the American Revolution in school. Professor Robert G. Parkinson believes the real story is far more interesting and far more human. In this special episode of Here's What We Know, we sit down with the Binghamton University historian and author to explore the uncertainty, political disagreements, personal conflicts, and difficult decisions that shaped America's founding. We’ll discuss why independence was never guaranteed, why many colonists remained loyal to Britain, what really happened during the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, and how George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and King George III become far more fascinating once you see them as people instead of monuments. The conversation also explores what we can learn from the nation's earliest struggles, why democracy has always been difficult, and why history still matters 250 years later. In This Episode Why independence was never a sure thingThe surprising divisions among the coloniesWhat Thomas Jefferson was doing while writing the DeclarationWhy George Washington walked away from powerThe role newspapers played in shaping public opinionWhat America might look like if Britain had wonThe lessons the Revolutionary generation still offers today This special episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial  Sterling Oak Cabinetry Reed Animal Hospital   Bison Junk Removal Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter License #: 679261 Bio: Robert G. Parkinson is a professor of history at Binghamton University and an award-winning historian specializing in the American Revolution and the nation's founding. He is the author of three acclaimed books, The Common Cause, Thirteen Clocks, and Heart of American Darkness. His research explores the people, politics, and pivotal moments that shaped early America, helping bring the nation's history to life for modern audiences. Tags:  American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, Founding Fathers, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Revolutionary War, American history podcast, Fourth of July history, U.S. history, democracy, Constitution, colonial America, King George III, history interview, July 4th, Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    1h 3m
  3. Why Do Great Creators Never Stop Creating? | Deadair Dennis Maler

    Jul 1

    Why Do Great Creators Never Stop Creating? | Deadair Dennis Maler

    Send us Fan Mail What keeps someone creating after the industry changes, the paycheck shrinks, and the path gets harder? This week on Here's What We Know, we welcome comedian, producer, and podcaster Deadair Dennis Maler for an honest conversation about radio, stand-up comedy, podcasting, and the lifelong search for your own voice. Dennis shares how growing up in punk rock shaped his do-it-yourself mindset, why radio first captured his imagination, and what eventually pushed him toward stand-up comedy and podcasting. We’ll talk about creativity, authenticity, representation, and how staying true to yourself might be the only business model that works anymore. If you've ever wondered whether you're on the right path or you've questioned whether it's worth continuing to create, this conversation will remind you why the work still matters. In This Episode How Dennis went from punk rock DIY culture to radio to stand-up to podcastingThe story of radio consultants who made everyone talk the same way for 10 seconds at a timeThe one thing that separates successful creators from those who burn outHow Dennis's tour guide job in Boston became his favorite platformThe reality of building a creative careerThe real numbers: why most podcasts die, and how to build one that doesn'tWhat it actually takes to grind out content every single day This episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!) Bio: Deadair Dennis Maler is a comedian, actor, writer, & podcaster who has been heard on radio stations throughout the country including SiriusXM, DC101, The Party Playhouse with Jackson Blue, and more. He has been featured on comedy festivals throughout the country, is the Comedy Editor for DigBoston, and hosts the Big Comedy Network podcast So, What Do You Really Do? and the YouTube show Word of the Day with Comedians. Deadair Dennis is funny, loud, abrasively social, and allergy-free since 1981. Website: https://deadairdennis.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadairdennis/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deadairdennismaler/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deadairdennis Tags: comedy, podcast, radio broadcasting, podcasting, stand up comedy, creative career, finding your voice, storytelling, entertainment industry, radio personality, podcast interview, creativity, comedians, independent, creators, creative journey, DIY creativity, producer, Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    1h 2m
  4. PGA Tour Veteran Jay Delsing on Golf, Grit, Pressure, and Why You Should Aim for the Top

    Jun 24

    PGA Tour Veteran Jay Delsing on Golf, Grit, Pressure, and Why You Should Aim for the Top

    Send us Fan Mail What can golf teach you about life? This week on Here's What We Know, former PGA Tour professional Jay Delsing joins us to share lessons from 25 years competing at the highest level of golf. From stories about Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus to conversations about failure, resilience, mental toughness, and what separates elite athletes from everyone else. We also discuss why parents should encourage their kids to dream bigger than they think is possible. This conversation explores what it takes to perform under pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and keep moving forward when things don't go your way. Whether you're a golfer, an athlete, a parent, or someone working toward a goal, this episode offers practical lessons about perseverance, competition, and living with purpose. In This Episode: Why talent alone doesn't cut it at the highest levels of competitionHow to handle pressure without losing your mind (or your game)What his UCLA golf team taught him about grit and heartThat mansion story: how a stranger picked him up at LAX and changed everythingWhy he wouldn't change a thing about his career, even with all the lossesWhat parents get wrong when they push their kids toward elite sportsHis four daughters, volleyball, and recognizing gifts you can't measurePlaying golf with Sean Connery, Tiger Woods comparisons, and Jack Nicklaus's brainWhy your kids need to fail, get uncomfortable, and learn they can survive disappointmentThe difference between being competitive and being a jerk about itHis book, his stories, and the relationship that shaped everything  This episode is sponsored by:  Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)  License #: 679261  Bison Junk Removal (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)  Bio: Jay Delsing is a former PGA Tour professional, broadcaster, author, and host of the nationally syndicated Golf with Jay Delsing radio show and podcast. After more than 25 years competing at the highest levels of golf, Jay now shares stories and lessons from a lifetime in the game, offering insights on competition, perseverance, and what it takes to thrive under pressure. His journey has taken him from UCLA to the PGA Tour and into conversations with some of the biggest names in sports. Website: https://jaydelsinggolf.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaydelsinggolf/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-delsing-83142914/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@golfwithjaydelsing4826 Tags: Jay Delsing, Jay Delsing podcast, PGA Tour, Professional golf, Golf podcast, Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Golf stories, Sports podcast, Golf lessons, Failure and success,  Parenting athletes, , Sports and life lessons, performance under pressure Gary Scott Thomas, sports psychology, grit, talent, Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    1h 7m
  5. How Michael Peterson Overcame Trauma, Loss, and Career Setbacks with the Habit of Hope

    Jun 17

    How Michael Peterson Overcame Trauma, Loss, and Career Setbacks with the Habit of Hope

    Send us Fan Mail What keeps a person moving forward after loss, trauma, disappointment, and heartbreak? This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with country music artist Michael Peterson, known for hits like Drink, Swear, Steal and Lie, From Here to Eternity, and When the Bartender Cries. Michael shares the story behind the music, how he survived a childhood marked by abuse, loss, and learning challenges. He almost gave up on music twice, and then one phone call came right when he needed it most. We also talk about what Michael calls "The Habit of Hope," a simple but powerful practice that helped him keep going when life gave him every reason to quit. Michael went on to become a platinum artist in country music, a published author of eight books, and someone who's performed for deployed service members across three continents. But his real story starts much earlier, and it's about learning to see 50 feet ahead when you can't see 50 miles. If you've ever questioned whether your hard work is worth it, this episode is for you. In This Episode: Overcoming childhood trauma and finding meaningWhy "overnight success" took 25 yearsThe habit of hope and how to redirect your thoughtsWhat happens when you almost give up right before your breakthroughWhy learning disabilities don't define youHow to keep making art when nobody's watchingThe power of second seasons in life and careerWhy you might have already done your best work and don't know it yet This episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Sterling Oak Cabinetry Bio: Michael Peterson is a country music artist, singer-songwriter, author, and speaker. He's had multiple hit records, including "Drink, Swear, Steal and Lie," "From Here to Eternity," and "When the Bartender Cries." He's written or co-authored eight books and has performed over 300 shows for deployed service members. His new albums, "Down on the Farm" and "We Are Veterans," are being released commercially for the first time through Star Vista Records. Website: https://www.michaelpetersonmusic.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelpetersonmusic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.peterson.106 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc30Jzs0yP_UbAFa3prIJxw Tags:  Michael Peterson, The Habit of Hope, Overcoming Trauma, Resilience, Personal Growth, Country Music, Faith, Perseverance, Mental Health, Motivation, Life Lessons, Singer Songwriter, Nashville, Inspiration, Hope, Drink Swear Steal and Lie Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    34 min
  6. Why Musicians Never Truly Clock Out | Robert Emery

    Jun 10

    Why Musicians Never Truly Clock Out | Robert Emery

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when the thing you love most becomes the thing you can never completely walk away from? This week on Here's What We Know, conductor and pianist Robert Emery returns for a conversation about creativity, music, and the curious ways our minds work. From practice rooms to Abbey Road Studios, Robert shares what life is really like for a professional musician, why creative people often struggle to switch off, and what he's learned from spending a lifetime immersed in music. Gary and Robert also trade stories about family, parenting, travel, questionable hotel experiences, and the challenges that come with building a career around passion. They explore the lives of Mozart, Franz Liszt, and Berlioz, uncovering the very human struggles, quirks, and triumphs behind some of history's most celebrated composers. Robert also shares the story behind Orchestral Meditations, his latest project featuring meditation music recorded at Abbey Road Studios with a full symphony orchestra and choir. In This Episode: • Why musicians never really leave work behind • The truth about practicing and mastering a craft • What Mozart and Michael Jackson may have had in common • How creativity affects everyday life • Stories from Abbey Road Studios • The fascinating history of Franz Liszt and musical celebrity • Why travel helps reset the mind   This episode is sponsored by:  Reed Animal Hospital  Bio: Robert Emery is a conductor, pianist, and serial entrepreneur. He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in London's Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, Robert has seen them all. Besides music, he is the Founder & Director of The Arts Group, one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the UK. Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label, and production company. Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs. E), a toddler (Master T), a baby (Master A), and 4 cats. Website: https://robertemery.com/ Orchestral Meditation: http://orchestralmeditation.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/robertemeryofficial/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertemeryofficial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertemeryofficial/ Tags: Robert Emery, Creativity, Classical Music, Professional Musician, Music Career, Mozart, Franz Liszt, Music History, Conducting, Pianist, Abbey Road Studios, Orchestral Meditations, Creative Process, Creative Life, Music Industry, Composers, Arts & Culture, Creativity and Purpose, Work-Life Balance, Performing Arts, Creative Careers, Music Education,  Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    1 hr
  7. Why Do We Care So Much About Live Events? | Michael Dodsworth

    Jun 3

    Why Do We Care So Much About Live Events? | Michael Dodsworth

    Send us Fan Mail Why are people willing to spend thousands of dollars on concert tickets? Why do fans sit in online queues for hours, refreshing browsers and hoping they get lucky? And why do live experiences still matter so much when we can almost stream everything? This week on Here’s What We Know, Michael Dodsworth, CEO and founder of Fanfare, joins us for a conversation that starts with ticketing and eventually reveals something much deeper about human nature. We talk about Taylor Swift, Formula 1, English soccer fandom, sneaker culture, bad actors, live events, and the psychology behind why people care so deeply about the things they love. We explore scarcity, obsession, loyalty, competition, and the strange human need to be part of something shared. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite rabbit-hole conversations we’ve had in a while. In This Episode: Why concert ticketing feels so brokenThe psychology behind scarcity and demandHow Taylor Swift changed the live event businessWhy Formula 1 has exploded in popularityThe difference between loyal fans and casual audiencesWhat sports fandom looks like in England vs. AmericaHow “bad actors” manipulate systemsWhy sneaker culture feels like a secret clubThe hidden emotional power of shared experiences This episode is sponsored by:  Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)  License #: 679261   Bison Junk Removal Bio: Michael Dodsworth is the founder and CEO of Fanfare, a platform that turns product launches, events, and brand collaborations into seamless, memorable experiences—helping brands build lasting customer loyalty and capture actionable insights from every interaction. With a background in infrastructure and high-demand digital systems, Michael combines deep technical expertise with a passion for culture, community, and brand storytelling. His work focuses on helping brands create meaningful customer moments that build loyalty and lasting connections. Website: https://fanfare.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dodsworth/ Tags: Michael Dodsworth, live events, concert tickets, Taylor Swift tickets, Formula 1 fandom, sports psychology, customer experience, ticketing industry, event management, fandom culture, sneaker culture, English soccer fans, Gary Scott Thomas, Here’s What We Know podcast, scarcity psychology, live entertainment, Formula One, Taylor Swift concert Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    1h 4m
  8. What Golf Teaches You About Life | Joseph Bronson

    May 27

    What Golf Teaches You About Life | Joseph Bronson

    Send us Fan Mail Some people play golf for fun. Joseph Bronson turned it into something deeper. This week on Here’s What We Know, we sit down with the award-winning author, longtime business executive, world traveler, and passionate golfer for a conversation that starts with golf… but doesn’t stay there for long. Joseph has played 93 of the world’s most iconic golf courses, teed it up with legends like Arnold Palmer, and spent decades chasing mastery in a game that never fully lets you catch it. And maybe that’s the point. We talk about competition, discipline, aging, perspective, and why the mental side of golf has so much to teach us about life itself. There’s a moment in this conversation where we land on something that felt bigger than golf: Most people aren’t thinking about your mistakes nearly as much as you think they are. Honestly, that might be one of the healthiest things any of us could remember. In This Episode: What it’s like playing Augusta, Pebble Beach, and St. AndrewsWhy golf is almost entirely a mental gameThe difference between elite athletes and everyone elseWhat Arnold Palmer was really like off the courseWhy Joseph walked away from golf for a seasonHow First Tee of Silicon Valley helps shape young people through golfThe surprising connection between golf and personal growth  This episode is sponsored by:  Dignity Memorial  Sterling Oak Cabinetry  (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)  Bio: Joseph “Joe” Bronson is a longtime business executive, world traveler, and passionate golfer whose career has taken him across the globe and onto some of the most prestigious golf courses in the world. A member of renowned clubs including Monterey Peninsula Country Club, CordeValle, and Boulder Ridge Golf Club, Joe has played 93 of America’s Top 100 golf courses, along with legendary courses throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Joe is also the award-winning author of Pardon Me, Golf Chronicles, and Through the Green, three books inspired by the stories, traditions, humor, and human moments that make golf more than just a game. His writing blends personal experience, thoughtful observation, and a deep appreciation for the culture and character of golf. Website: https://www.josephbronson.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-bronson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjosephbronson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebronsongroup/ Tags: golf, golf podcast, Joseph Bronson, golf mindset, mental game, life lessons, personal growth, Arnold Palmer, Pebble Beach, Augusta National, St. Andrews, golf psychology, discipline, resilience, competition, sports and life, First Tee Silicon Valley, sports culture, leadership, perseverance, curiosity, mindset, golf stories, athlete mentality, overcoming failure,  Connect with Gary: Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

    44 min
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4.9
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

Authentic Conversations. Intriguing Guests. Time Well Spent. Gary Scott Thomas’ “Here’s What We Know” podcast will entertain you, enlighten you, and even possibly inspire you! Listen each week as Gary Scott Thomas engages guests in unscripted conversations where he’ll be just as surprised as you will be with how the talk turns out. So, join him each week and be privy to the captivating conversations that are sure to ensue. Conversations include interviews with Country Music artists, professionals, professional athletes, authors and more.

Information

  • Creator
    Gary Scott Thomas
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Here's What We Know
  • Show Website
    Here's What We Know

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