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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/jayallenmusic
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayallenmusic

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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/

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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 Memorial

Bio:
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/

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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/@ultimatehealthmodel01
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UltimateHealthModel

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This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with the multi-talented Jeremy Piven—known for his Emmy and Golden Globe-winning role as Ari Gold in Entourage and his captivating performance in Mr. Selfridge. Jeremy takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable pivot from Hollywood actor to full-time stand-up comedian, performing 200+ shows a year.

In This Episode:

• Discover how growing up in an acting family shaped Jeremy Piven's journey and ignited his passion for the craft at just 8 years old.
• Learn about the exhilarating highs and unique challenges of stand-up comedy, as Jeremy shares how he connects with audiences in over 200 live shows a year.
• Explore the behind-the-scenes story of his upcoming film The Performance, a project 14 years in the making.
• Uncover how Jeremy transforms pressure into a powerful source of energy and motivation in both his acting and comedy careers.
• Discover the social relevance of Jeremy’s roles and why he believes storytelling has the power to spark meaningful change.

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:
Jeremy Piven is a celebrated actor, comedian, and podcast host, best known for his 2x Golden Globe and 3x Emmy Award-winning portrayal of the iconic Ari Gold in HBO’s Entourage. He also earned acclaim for his starring role in Mr. Selfridge, the British/PBS drama about the visionary founder of Selfridge's department store.

Piven’s diverse filmography includes memorable roles in Black Hawk Down, Old School, Smokin’ Aces, Serendipity, and Runaway Jury. Recently, he portrayed Joel Lapchick in Sweetwater, the inspiring story of breaking the NBA color barrier, and is set to star in The Performance, an Arthur Miller adaptation generating Oscar buzz ahead of its December 2024 release.

Beyond acting, Piven has explored new creative avenues with his podcast How U Livin’ J Piven, featuring in-depth conversations with stars like Jamie Foxx, Tiffany Haddish, and Mark Cuban. Additionally, he has successfully transitioned to stand-up comedy, touring nationally and internationally, showcasing his sharp wit and comedic talent.

Website:https://jeremy-piven.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremypiven/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeremypivenpage
Twitter: https://x.com/jeremypiven
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremypiven1

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This week on Here's What We Know, explore the mysteries of the unknown with the incredible Cristina Gomez, UFO and Paranormal Researcher, Podcaster, Journalist, Content Creator with a BA in Communication, and Founder of Strange Paradigm. Cristina shares her fascinating journey from growing up as the “odd kid” and how a kind librarian fueled her passion for the unexplained. She brings her expert knowledge and boundless curiosity to this out-of-this-world discussion, leaving us to wonder: What’s really out there?

In This Episode:

• Learn about the shift from UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects) to UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena).
• Cristina sheds light on the complexities of interstellar travel and what advanced civilizations might know that we don’t.
• Discover mind-bending concepts like quantum mechanics, exotic matter, and wormholes, which could redefine our understanding of the universe.
• Explore how government-released footage and changing media coverage have transformed public views on UFOs and the unexplained.
• Peek into Cristina’s rigorous process for investigating UFOs and paranormal phenomena.
• Understand the dynamics of government secrecy and how it impacts what we know—or don’t know—about potential extraterrestrial life.
• Consider the balance between curiosity and national security when discussing potential alien encounters.
• Investigate recurring UFO sightings at nuclear sites worldwide and what this could mean for humanity.
• Analyze the possible motivations behind extraterrestrial interest in Earth’s most powerful technologies.
• Reflect on the rarity of intelligent life and what makes Earth’s ecosystems so unique.
• Theorize why alien civilizations might be observing us—or even intervening.
• Discuss how science fiction inspires ideas about alien life forms and the possibilities of their physiology.

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


Bio:
Cristina Gomez is a UFO and Paranormal Researcher, Podcaster, Journalist, and Content Creator with a BA in Communication. She brings a young and fresh perspective to the UFO and Paranormal research fields. She is a proud ‘Gen Z’ Latina, being of Venezuelan heritage. She has produced and presented over 700 shows for her YouTube channel and podcast platform.

Website: https://strangeparadigms.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CristinaGomezOfficial
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CristinaG
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strangeparadigms/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialcristinagomez

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This week on Here's What We Know, we’re thrilled to have Jason Cole with us, author of Shut Up, Your Kid is Not That Great. Jason’s book digs into the realities of parenting young athletes and managing those sometimes sky-high expectations. As a sports writer and a dad, Jason brings unique insights and anecdotes on raising kids to follow their dreams—without all the unnecessary pressure.

In This Episode:

• Jason shares stories about the unique challenges and pressures faced by children of famous athletes.
• Discover the importance of supporting kids’ dreams quietly, letting them shine without feeling the weight of the world’s expectations.
• Explore what it’s like for children of sports legends who may not reach the same level of success as their parents—and why that’s perfectly okay.
  • Hear examples like Jack Nicklaus' sons, who carved their own paths instead of following directly in their dad’s footsteps.
  • Listen to the story of John Elway’s father, who encouraged his son to choose between football and baseball with no pressure—just options and unwavering support.
• Get a look behind the scenes at the sacrifices and pressures pro athletes endure, reminding us that every level of success brings its own unique struggles, where preparation matters as much as talent.
• Uncover the value of allowing kids to choose their own paths, guiding them gently along the way, and cheering them on—wherever their journeys may lead.

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


Bio:
Jason Cole has covered or written about pro football since 1992 and has been a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame since 2013. He has worked for publications such as Bleacher Report, Yahoo! Sports, The Miami Herald, and the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. Cole has authored Elway: a Relentless Life and co-authored six books, including Giant with Plaxico Burress, Heart for the Game with Simon Keith, and Ocho Cinco with Chad Johnson. Prior to covering the NFL, Cole covered the NBA, Major League Baseball, and high school sports in the San Francisco Bay Area. Cole teaches sports writing at the University of Florida and is the father of two Eagle Scouts. He is a graduate of Stanford University, which he attended at the same time as Elway.

X: https://x.com/jasoncole62
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-cole-1330266/

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This week on the Here's What We Know, buckle up for a conversation filled with laughter, quirky stories, and a surprising amount of heart! We’re thrilled to welcome T.J. Miller—a comedian, actor, and voice you’ll recognize from Deadpool, Silicon Valley, and How to Train Your Dragon. T.J. is here to share his refreshingly down-to-earth approach to comedy, life, and everything in between.

In This Episode:

• Learn why his website is humorously named tjmillerdoesnothaveawebsite.com, a playful nod to the early 2000s domain craze.
• Discover the quirky backstory of T.J.’s cowboy baseball hat, inspired by a friend’s bold character transformation that brings plenty of laughs.
• Get to know his unique perspective on performing in tech-heavy places like San Jose, where he shares how the Bay Area audience has shifted post-pandemic but still appreciates his signature comedy.
• Uncover T.J.’s approach to comedy, centered around not taking himself too seriously. His live shows are a celebration of authenticity, inviting the audience to laugh with him and at themselves.
• Learn about his personal life, including meeting his wife in college theater and the steadfast support they’ve shared through life’s many twists and turns.
• Discover the charm behind his gruff, recognizable voice that’s landed him memorable roles—and why he thinks audiences are drawn to those “rough around the edges” characters.
• Get to know his love for improv, making each live performance an unforgettable, interactive experience that keeps comedy fresh and engaging.

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

Bio:

T.J. Miller is an American actor, comedian, screenwriter, and producer known for his unique style of humor and versatility across television, film, and stand-up comedy. With memorable roles in hit films like Deadpool and Cloverfield, and as the voice of characters like Tuffnut in the How to Train Your Dragon series, T.J. brings his quirky, energetic presence to every project. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Erlich Bachman on HBO's Silicon Valley, where his eccentric, over-the-top performance made him a fan favorite. A staple in the comedy world, T.J. continues to tour and bring his boundary-pushing humor to audiences worldwide.

Website: https://tjmillerdoesnothaveawebsite.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teenagemillionaire/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nottjmiller/
Youtube: @tjmiller
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nottjmiller
X: https://x.com/nottjmiller

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Are you feeling the weight of political tensions? You're not alone! 

This week on Here's What We Know, we're joined by Elliot Sands, Executive Director of Live Faith First and host of the Live Faith First podcast. We unravel the emotional divide that's gripping America during election seasons and explore how it impacts personal relationships—even within families.

In This Episode:

• Navigating the Election Cycle
• Understanding Political Polarization
• The Impact of Loneliness on Politics
• Questioning Our Political Affiliations
• The Importance of Love, Respect, and Kindness
• Finding Common Ground in Divisive Times
• The Power of Positive Thinking
• Emotional Health During Elections
• The Importance of Gratitude, Resilience, and Perspective
• Navigating Contentious Issues
• Conversations Beyond Winning and Losing
• Faith and Trust in Leadership
• The Future of Political Discourse

This episode is sponsored by:
Bison Junk (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
Elliot Sands is a dynamic leader with diverse experiences across multiple sectors. He is the Executive Director at Live Faith First, where he takes on the challenge of addressing division in society head-on, refusing to choose the easy path. As COO of The SHP Foundation, Elliot supports churches and homeless initiatives, meeting incredible people along the way. He was also a co-founder of CirrusMD, one of the fastest-growing telehealth companies in the nation, connecting thousands of patients to live physicians within 60 seconds—no bots, no AI, just real doctors.

With roles ranging from Executive Pastor to School Principal, Elliot’s leadership has touched lives in profound ways. His career began in sales and customer service, with early lessons learned during his time as a Sales Rep at FCPA and as a Customer Service Rep at PG&E. Elliot’s education includes a Masters in Divinity from Western Seminary, where he grew immensely, and an MBA from San Jose State University, where he formed lifelong friendships.

Website: https://www.elliotsands.me/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliotsands/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliot.sands/
X: https://x.com/eshrap
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livefaithfirst/

Live Faith First: https://www.livefaithfirst.org/
Love Respect Kindness: https://mustdobetter.org/

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This week on Here's What We Know, join us for an inspiring conversation with former Minor League baseball player John Sealy Livermore Gavin. Our host shares his admiration for John’s remarkable journey, recently featured in The Athletic, and dives deeper into his experiences—from childhood baseball dreams to life transitions and lasting relationships. Tune in for an uplifting episode full of laughter, reflection, and a reminder of the connections that bring us together!

In This Episode:

• John’s Journey: From growing up in San Jose and attending Saint Francis High School to becoming a standout athlete at Cal State Fullerton, where he helped lead the team to the College World Series in 2015 and 2017, John shares how his passion for baseball shaped his life.
• Radio Memories: Reminisce about the good old days of radio contests on 95.3 KRTY and the sense of community they created, leaving lasting memories.
• Concert Fun: Get ready to laugh at some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from concerts at Shoreline Amphitheatre.
• Height Perks & Challenges: Enjoy a light-hearted discussion about the joys and quirks of being tall, as John shares funny moments alongside his towering friends.
• Life Lessons from Baseball: John reflects on the friendships and life lessons baseball has brought him, showing how the sport helped shape his character both on and off the field.
• Career Challenges: Get insights into John’s post-baseball career challenges, navigating economic shifts while staying true to himself and his values.
• Life Shifts: Learn how meeting his future wife shifted John’s priorities from chasing dreams on the field to building a meaningful life and family off the field.
• Marriage & Companionship: A heartfelt conversation on the beauty of marriage and insights on how companionship enriches life, helping us live longer and healthier.

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

Bio:
John Sealy Livermore Gavin is an ex-Minor League baseball player known for his drive to exceed expectations both on and off the field. He majored in Communications with an emphasis on Public Relations at Cal State Fullerton, where he helped his team reach the College World Series in 2015 and 2017. John’s unique blend of emotional empathy and competitiveness makes him a standout candidate for companies seeking to expand and connect with diverse audiences. Passionate about building relationships and uncovering what makes people unique, John is dedicated to creating meaningful connections and driving success.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnslgavin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnslgavin/
X: https://x.com/johnslgavin

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