In this captivating episode, Adam Richman joins Neil Haley to talk about his journey into the History Channel's hit series The Food That Built America and how it evolved into a multi-show partnership. From deep dives into culinary entrepreneurship to iconic brand battles, Richman shares behind-the-scenes insights, jaw-dropping facts, and his own passion for culinary history and branding.

With season six now airing, Adam teases new episodes featuring coffee empires, chocolate titans, and spirited liquor legends. He also opens up about the importance of storytelling, being authentic on camera, and what he’s learned from the food entrepreneurs who changed American culture forever.

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Adam Richman – host of The Food That Built America and his expanding role with History Channel

• [00:00:45] How Adam landed the gig with The Food That Built America as a contributor in Season 1

• [00:01:15] His passion for culinary anthropology and how it aligned with the show

• [00:01:30] The importance of authentic storytelling and genuine enthusiasm on screen

• [00:02:00] Fascinating early-season moments – like the power dynamic between the Kellogg brothers

• [00:03:00] Bringing humanity to icons like Milton Hershey, H.J. Heinz, Mrs. Fields, and the inventors behind Oreo, Tollhouse Cookies, and more

• [00:04:00] Sneak peek of Season 6:

  • Jim Folger and the rise of coffee in America

  • The origins of Maxwell House

  • The story behind Keurig and Joe DiMaggio’s role in marketing

  • Candy giants: Russell Stover, Mounds, Almond Joy

  • Upcoming stories on Anheuser-Busch, Jack Daniels, PF Chang’s, Top Ramen, and more

• [00:05:30] Adam’s personal takeaway from the entrepreneurs he profiles: betting on themselves, enduring failure, and pushing past doubt

• [00:06:00] His perspective as a brand himself and how the show inspires him

• [00:06:30] Final question (from Greg Hanna): The most important thing Adam has learned in life

  “Be kind, mean what you say, and say what you mean.”

• [00:07:00] Closing: Neil shares his appreciation and encourages everyone to binge The Food That Built Americavia the History Channel app

📺 The Food That Built America
🗓 Sundays on History Channel
📱 Available on the History Channel app (stream full seasons)

“Everyone has a dream. What made these people get this dream to become iconic… like yourself?” – Neil Haley

• The rivalry that created America’s favorite breakfast cereals

• The real people behind household names like Oreo, Hershey, and Heinz

• Why Adam Richman is not just a TV host—but a passionate storyteller and brand builder

🏆 Key Topics Covered:🔗 Where to Watch:💬 Quote of the Episode:🔥 Don’t Miss:

In this powerful and insightful episode, former NHL General Manager Neil Smith joins hosts Neil Haley and Greg Hanna to share unforgettable moments from his storied career. From drafting and signing future legends like Adam Graves, to leading the New York Rangers to a Stanley Cup after a 54-year drought, Smith recounts what it was like to build a championship team in the heart of the world's most pressure-packed sports market.

Smith discusses the pressures of being a GM in New York, working with iconic players like Mark Messier, and managing the personalities and expectations of team owners. He also opens up about his leadership style, favorite rivalries, life lessons, and how he’s continuing to stay close to the game through his podcast, NHL Wraparound.

This episode is filled with behind-the-scenes stories, life wisdom, and moments that shaped NHL history.

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Neil Smith and his hockey legacy

• [00:01:00] Memories of the Penguins-Rangers rivalry in the early '90s

• [00:01:45] The Adam Graves signing and long-time relationship with the player and his family

• [00:02:45] How Smith and Craig Patrick earned reputations as legendary NHL GMs

• [00:03:30] The importance of bringing a Cup to New York and how it elevated his status

• [00:04:00] Dream hockey line from past and present, including Mario Lemieux, Wayne Gretzky, Bobby Orr, and more

• [00:05:00] The pressure and chaos of managing a team in New York City as a Canadian

• [00:07:00] Starting out with the Islanders for $10,000/year and a dream of the "Emerald City"

• [00:08:00] Leadership lessons, ambition, and tackling impossible challenges

• [00:09:00] What Smith misses and doesn’t miss about being a GM – especially dealing with some owners

• [00:10:00] Mentoring younger staff and helping people grow in their personal lives

• [00:11:00] How young NHL players are today—and how 9/11 is a distant memory for many of them

• [00:13:00] Favorite rivalry: Rangers vs. Kings during Wayne Gretzky’s LA years

• [00:14:00] Why the Rangers have the most fans in the NHL, everywhere

• [00:15:30] What makes Madison Square Garden “The Mecca” of sports venues

• [00:17:30] Hilarious team prank in a Pittsburgh hotel—Vaseline, water buckets, and SpectroVision

• [00:21:00] Mentoring wisdom: Stay in the moment and live fully today

• [00:23:00] Thoughts on aging, legacy, and finding joy in the now

• [00:23:30] Neil Smith’s podcast: NHL Wraparound – format, focus, and goals

🎧 NHL Wraparound Podcast
Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon, YouTube, and all major platforms
📺 YouTube: NHL Wraparound
🎙️ Follow for 4 weekly episodes including “Short Shifts” and a New York-centric edition

“Don’t waste the moment thinking about what you already did or what you’re going to do. Be here now.” – Neil Smith

• Insider stories from the Rangers’ championship run

• The reality of managing egos—from players to ownership

• A GM’s perspective on legacy, impact, and mentorship

🏒 Key Topics Covered:🔗 Connect with Neil Smith:💬 Quote of the Episode:⭐️ Don’t Miss:

The Neil Haley Show x Love Is Podcast (Simulcast Special)

• Neil Haley

• Kim Sorrelle, Host of The Love Is Podcast

Gloria Gaynor – Grammy Award-winning legend, best known for “I Will Survive,” now a gospel artist, inspirational speaker, and author.

In this powerful episode, The Neil Haley Show and Love Is Podcast come together to welcome musical icon Gloria Gaynor. Known for her timeless anthem “I Will Survive”, Gloria shares her intimate journey of resilience, deep faith, and personal transformation. She opens up about falling from the heights of fame, financial struggles, finding joy through Jesus, and how her Grammy-winning gospel album Testimony came to life despite industry resistance.

• How Gloria’s faith in God helped her survive financial, emotional, and career struggles

• The behind-the-scenes battle to create and release her gospel album Testimony

• Why I Will Survive became more than a song — it became her life’s anthem

• Gloria’s creative songwriting process — including songs divinely given in moments of prayer

• Her thoughts on fame, longevity, and using your gifts to serve others

• What fans might be most surprised to learn in her upcoming documentary

• The joy she radiates — and how you can find that joy too

“There was a year I was virtually penniless… but it was the best year of my life because I had such a strong connection with the Lord.”
— Gloria Gaynor

“I don’t know You like You know me… but I know You. You’ve given me such mercy, grace, and peace.”
— Gloria Gaynor (on her divinely inspired song lyrics)

“If I can take the difficult times of my life and use them to empower others, then I got one over on the devil.”
— Gloria Gaynor

“People have been worrying since the dawn of time. It hasn’t helped yet.”
— Gloria Gaynor

🎬 Gloria Gaynor Documentary
Releasing in 2024 — stay tuned for details on the story behind the music, the faith, and the woman who’s inspired generations with one unforgettable message: You will survive too.

🕊️ Testimony (Available now on all music platforms)
🏆 Grammy Award-winning gospel album — heartfelt, healing, and Holy Spirit-filled.

• 🌍 GloriaGaynor.com

• 📱 Instagram, Facebook, Twitter: @GloriaGaynor

• 🎶 Stream her music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube & more

🎤 Hosts:🌟 Guest:💡 Episode Summary:🕊️ What You'll Hear:🎶 Key Quotes:🎥 Coming Soon:🎵 Must-Listen Album:🌐 Connect with Gloria Gaynor:

Nick Pope – Former UK Ministry of Defence UFO Investigator, UFO Expert, Co-Host of Ancient Aliens, Moderator of Ancient Aliens Live

In this fascinating episode, Nick Pope—one of the world’s most well-known UFO investigators—joins Neil Haley to talk about his journey from the UK Ministry of Defence to becoming a leading voice on the History Channel's Ancient Aliens. Nick shares behind-the-scenes insight into his investigations, how he got involved with the show, and what fans can expect from Ancient Aliens Live, a touring stage show across the U.S.

• Nick’s background working for the UK Ministry of Defence investigating UFOs

• The shift from official government work to media appearances and UFO conferences

• How he became a regular contributor and co-host on Ancient Aliens

• His thoughts on the show’s massive popularity and global cult following

• The real-life phenomena behind UFO sightings and what the public should know

• What to expect from the Ancient Aliens Live experience—including locations, dates, and who’s on stage

• His interaction with fans—from diehards to skeptics

"There are structured craft in our skies doing speeds and maneuvers that defy conventional physics... and I couldn’t walk away from that."
— Nick Pope

"People say, ‘Hey, you're that guy!’ and yeah… I guess I’m that guy now."
— Nick Pope on his UFO investigator brand

Nick Pope is moderating the 2025 Spring Tour of Ancient Aliens Live, visiting 21 cities across the United States.

🗓️ Notable Stop:
📍 Munhall, Pennsylvania – May 18, 2025
📌 Carnegie Homestead Music Hall

🔗 Full Tour Info:
AncientAliensLiveTour.com

• Ancient Aliens on The History Channel

• Featured expert on multiple UFO documentaries, podcasts, and news broadcasts

• Website: NickPope.net

• Twitter/X: @nickpopemod

• Instagram: @nickpopemod

Subscribe to The Neil Haley Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major platforms.

📣 Don’t forget to rate, review, and share if you enjoyed this episode!

🌌 Episode Overview:🚀 Topics Covered:🛸 Key Quotes:🎟️ Ancient Aliens Live Tour Info:📺 Watch Nick on:🔗 Follow Nick Pope:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

Jesse L. Martin – Acclaimed Actor, Star of NBC’s The Irrational, formerly Detective Ed Green on Law & Order

Neil Haley sits down with renowned actor Jesse L. Martin to discuss his latest role in NBC’s The Irrational. Known for his iconic portrayal of Detective Ed Green on Law & Order, Jesse now dives into the complex world of behavioral science as Professor Alec Mercer. The two explore the shift from traditional detective work to understanding irrational human behavior — and how Jesse’s diverse career has prepared him for the role.

• Jesse’s transition from playing a by-the-book detective to a behavioral science expert

• Why Alec Mercer is one of Jesse’s favorite characters to date

• How The Irrational brings real-life experiments and psychological principles to the screen

• Jesse’s passion for teaching, learning, and scientific storytelling

• Why the show is more than a procedural — it's a masterclass in human behavior

• How you can binge The Irrational right now on Peacock

“Alec Mercer is so irrational in his approach to being rational — and that’s the beauty of it.”
— Jesse L. Martin

“It’s like having a university at your fingertips. You’re learning science while being entertained.”
— Jesse L. Martin

“If I wasn’t an actor, I think I would’ve loved to be a teacher or professor.”
— Jesse L. Martin

• Airs Mondays at 10 PM ET on NBC

• Stream anytime on Peacock

Catch The Neil Haley Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, iHeartRadio, and all major platforms.

👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to leave a review and share it with a friend who loves smart TV and meaningful interviews!

🔍 Episode Overview:🧠 What You'll Discover:🧬 Key Quotes:📺 Watch The Irrational:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

Neil Haley – The Neil Haley Show
Greg Hanna – Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto

Clare Carey – Actress (Coach, Jericho, NCIS, Point Pleasant, Home Alone 4), Writer, Director, and Storyteller

In this dynamic interview, actress Clare Carey joins Neil and Greg to reflect on her breakout role as Kelly Fox on the beloved sitcom Coach, her transition into dramatic roles, and her current work as a writer and content creator. From working alongside Craig T. Nelson to starring in cult-favorite series Jericho, Clare shares behind-the-scenes stories, hard-earned wisdom, and her passion for storytelling that inspires and educates.

• 🎭 What it was like working on Coach for seven seasons and how it shaped her career

• 😂 How a hilarious, candid audition moment landed her the role of Kelly

• 🤯 Her favorite roles post-Coach, including Jericho, Point Pleasant, NCIS, and Home Alone 4

• 🎤 Her take on Craig T. Nelson’s acting brilliance and why Coach still resonates with fans today

• 🎞️ The fan-led movement that brought Jericho back from cancellation—via 21,000 pounds of peanuts

• ✍️ How she’s now focusing on screenwriting with three new projects in development (including a political drama and horror-comedy)

• 🤝 Clare’s thoughts on working collaboratively, learning perseverance, and being open to both acting and directing roles

“Don’t give up. Perseverance is what makes the difference... It's not talent, not looks, not intelligence — it’s the ability to keep showing up.”
— Clare Carey

• Kelly Fox in Coach (1989–1997)

• Mary Bailey in Jericho

• Guest star appearances on NCIS, House M.D., Grey’s Anatomy, Chuck, Weeds, Walker, Texas Ranger, and more

• Home Alone 4 as Kate McCallister

• Doc West (Italian-American Western starring Terence Hill & Paul Sorvino)

“It’s a privilege to vote — don’t sit out, participate. Be an active American.”

• 📘 Facebook (personal updates, engagement)

• 🌐 IMDb: Clare Carey’s Full Filmography

• 🔍 Wikipedia: Clare Carey Bio

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.

🎙️ Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show to support amazing stories like Clare’s!

👩‍💼 Guest:🎬 Episode Summary:📺 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:💡 Key Quote:🎥 Highlight Roles Mentioned:🗳️ Clare’s Final Message:🔗 Where to Follow Clare Carey:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

The Neil Haley Show x Love Is Podcast (Simulcast Special)

• Neil Haley

• Kim Sorrelle, Host of The Love Is Podcast

Ellen Travolta – Beloved actress, known for Happy Days, Charles in Charge, and now appearing in Season 2 of Going Home on Great American Pure Flix.

In this heartfelt and beautifully reflective episode, Hollywood legend Ellen Travolta joins Neil Haley and Kim Sorrelle to discuss her role in Season 2 of Going Home, a moving series that explores life, love, and the dignity of death through the lens of hospice care. Ellen shares her personal experiences with loss, her passion for theater, and why this project is one of the most meaningful in her career.

From the lighter moments of laughter to the profound reflections on grief and faith, this conversation reminds us all to live fully, love deeply, and embrace the now.

• Ellen’s personal connection to Going Home and what drew her to the role

• Why we avoid conversations around death—and why we shouldn’t

• The importance of humor, even in our final moments

• How faith plays a role in peace and letting go

• Her real-life experience caring for her father and the moment he passed

• The legacy of love through family and theater in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

• What young people can learn from aging and mortality

• Reflections on Betty White, purpose, and living in the present

Streaming now on Great American Pure Flix, Going Home tells stories of patients at the end of their lives, exploring closure, forgiveness, hope—and even humor—through compassionate hospice care. Ellen stars in a powerful episode as a grandmother making peace with passing by ensuring her grandson is not alone.

“Even in death, there is humor. There’s lightness. And there is always love.”
— Ellen Travolta

“We’re afraid to talk about death, but when we do, we realize there’s peace in it.”
— Ellen Travolta

“She was more worried about leaving her grandson alone than about herself. That’s love.”
— Ellen Travolta on her Going Home character

“Don’t live in the past. You can’t change it. And who knows what’s coming tomorrow? Enjoy today.”
— Ellen Travolta

Ellen is an accomplished actress, director, and producer known for iconic roles in Happy Days, Charles in Charge, and Joanie Loves Chachi. She is also the sister of actor John Travolta and an active force in community theater in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. At 84, her energy, wisdom, and joy remain magnetic as ever.

Now streaming exclusively on Great American Pure Flix
🎬 Don’t miss Ellen’s emotional and heartwarming performance.

Ellen is not on social media, but fans can find her performances in Going Home, in Hallmark films, and in seasonal productions at the Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre.

If this episode inspired you, share it, subscribe, and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review. Every download helps us keep sharing stories that matter.

Hosted by Kim Sorrelle, the Love Is Podcast explores real-life stories of love in all its forms—from grief to joy, from heartbreak to healing. [Available on all podcast platforms.]

🎤 Hosts:🌟 Guest:💡 Episode Summary:💬 Topics Covered:🎥 About Going Home Season 2:✨ Key Quotes:🌟 About Ellen Travolta:📺 Watch Going Home Season 2:🌐 Connect with Ellen Travolta:🙌 Support the Show:🔔 Subscribe to the Love Is Podcast:

🧑‍💼 Guest:

George Tillman Jr. – Acclaimed Film Director, Producer, and Storyteller (Soul Food, Men of Honor, The Hate U Give, Big George Foreman)

Neil Haley – The Neil Haley Show
Kim Sorrelle – Author of Love Is

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, award-winning director George Tillman Jr. joins Neil Haley and Kim Sorrelle to talk about his newest project, Big George Foreman – the epic biopic of legendary boxer, preacher, and grill icon George Foreman.

George shares behind-the-scenes stories from the film, how faith and transformation play a central role in Foreman’s life, and what it was like portraying one of boxing’s most compelling figures on the big screen. A conversation about storytelling, belief, and the power of second chances you don’t want to miss.

• 📽️ Why George Foreman’s life story is more than boxing — it’s about redemption and purpose

• 🔥 How Tillman captured Foreman's transformation from "angry fighter" to joyful minister and entrepreneur

• 💡 The biggest lesson George Foreman wanted viewers to learn from his life

• 💪 How the film balances action-packed fights with deep emotional and spiritual themes

• 🎟️ Why Big George Foreman is a must-see for families and anyone needing inspiration

Kim asks George Tillman Jr. what love means to him.

“Love is continuing to open yourself up to other people’s flaws, successes, happiness, and sadness… It's forgiveness and making the best out of each day.” — George Tillman Jr.

Big George Foreman
📅 In Theaters: April 28
🎟️ PG-13 | Family-Friendly | Based on a True Story
From world champion boxer to preacher and comeback king, this powerful biopic follows George Foreman’s incredible journey of resilience, redemption, and reinvention.

Follow George Tillman Jr.’s work via IMDb or find his latest projects on social media and in theaters.

Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major platforms.
👍 Don’t forget to rate & review – it helps us share more powerful conversations like this one.

🎤 Hosts:🎬 Episode Summary:🥊 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:❤️ Special Feature – Love Is Question:🎥 About the Film:📲 Connect with the Guest:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

Neil Haley – The Neil Haley Show

Hillbilly Jim – WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2018, Legendary WWF Superstar, Host of SiriusXM’s Hillbilly Jim’s Moonshine Matinee

WWE Hall of Famer Hillbilly Jim joins Neil Haley for a real, raw, and nostalgic conversation about the golden era of professional wrestling. From his discovery by the WWF to his take on today’s wrestling style, Hillbilly Jim shares insights only a veteran of the ring can provide. This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans, aspiring wrestlers, and anyone who loves behind-the-scenes stories of how legends were made.

• How Hillbilly Jim was discovered by WWF and became a fan favorite overnight

• The importance of gimmicks over grappling in getting over with fans

• Why character and crowd connection matter more than ring work

• His legendary match at WrestleMania III and stepping into Madison Square Garden

• A fiery take on today’s wrestling style and why the 80s era will never be replicated

• Reflections on working with legends like Andre the Giant, Macho Man, Hulk Hogan, and more

• His current work on SiriusXM with Hillbilly Jim’s Moonshine Matinee

“You don’t love nothing if it don’t love you back. If the fans don’t accept you, you’re not over. Period.”
— Hillbilly Jim

“The old days were about connection. Everyone was a character. You didn’t have to do 20 bumps to be memorable.”
— Hillbilly Jim

“I’m not going into the Hall of Fame — we’re ALL going in. My fans, my family, my friends. This one’s for them.”
— Hillbilly Jim

• Website: HillbillyJim.com

• Radio Show: Hillbilly Jim’s Moonshine Matinee on SiriusXM Outlaw Country

• WWE Hall of Fame Inductee – Class of 2018

Stream The Neil Haley Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major platforms.

👉 Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode if you’re a fan of classic pro wrestling!

🤼‍♂️ Guest:🔥 Episode Overview:🧢 What You’ll Hear:🏆 Key Quotes:📻 Where to Find Hillbilly Jim:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

Maiya May – Investigative Journalist & Host of Weathered: Inside the LA Firestorm on PBS

Neil Haley, The Neil Haley Show

In this eye-opening episode, Neil Haley speaks with Maiya May, the host of PBS’s latest investigative special "Weathered: Inside the LA Firestorm." Maya breaks down the complex realities behind the devastating LA fires and offers crucial insight into how these tragedies can actually be prevented.

From the limitations of firefighting resources to the surprising truth about urban fire risks, Maya shares what most media outlets miss — and how homeowners, city planners, and communities can take action now to reduce fire damage and save lives.

• 🚫 Why more water and fire trucks wouldn’t have stopped the LA fires

• 🏡 3 essential steps for home hardening that could save your home

• 🧯 Why "Zone Zero" is the most important (and most overlooked) part of fire prevention

• 🏗️ How rethinking building locations and materials could help prevent future firestorms

• 📡 Why education — not panic — is the key to protecting communities

• 📺 What to expect in the PBS special and how it differs from mainstream news reports

"Weathered: Inside the LA Firestorm"
📅 Premieres March 19th at 10:00 PM | 9:00 PM Central
🌐 Stream at: PBS.org
📺 Check your local PBS listings for air times on the West Coast

“These types of urban fires don’t have to happen. If we harden our homes and build smarter, we give firefighters the time they need to stop disasters before they destroy communities.”

Catch this episode and more on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.
➡️ Don’t forget to rate & review to support independent journalism and public media!

🌐 www.neilhaley.com
📸 Instagram | 📘 Facebook | 🐦 X/Twitter | 🎥 YouTube

🎤 Host:🔎 Episode Summary:🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode:📺 Watch the PBS Special:💬 Notable Quote from Maya May:🎧 Listen & Subscribe:💬 Connect with The Neil Haley Show: