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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

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Let’s make some noise!

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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

Connect with Gary:

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• Advertise on the Podcast

Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

He considers himself lucky that his career combines science, history, and writing, all of which he loves. He lives in Cambridge with his other loves: his wife, two kids, and their dog, Maxwell Smart.

Website: https://danlevitt.com/

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

“For those of us doing it now,” declares Al, “I'm going to make sure to the best of my ability that continues to a younger generation of people who are getting involved. It's like any other art form or anything else that you want replicated for decades and centuries – we're going to do our best. I owe everything to O'Neill and the O’Neill family.”

Website: https://www.trans-siberian.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alpitrelli/

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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

X: https://twitter.com/ShawnInmon

Connect with Gary:

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

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

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

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

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

Morgan Hill Club
17666 Crest Ave
Morgan Hill, CA 95037

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

The Boys and Girls Clubs offer our youth so much:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregWarren

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gregwarren158

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

He started his journey in the tech industry back in 1997, Jeff founded his own website development company, which quickly became one of the pioneering forces in the country. Amidst his tech endeavors, his comedic talents blossomed, beckoning him to the stage as a professional stand-up comedian. Additionally, Jeff is renowned for his significant contributions to social media. He founded Hashtag Roundup, a platform that facilitates over 8000 top 10 USA trends on Twitter, showcasing his knack for understanding and engaging online audiences. Recognizing the power of platforms like Instagram, Jeff established Stampede Social, aimed at assisting creators in driving traffic to their content through innovative means beyond traditional links in bios.

Website: https://jeffisfunny.com/

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffdwoskin/

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!

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

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

X: https://twitter.com/Michaelraymusic

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelrayofficial

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSbgR_d3CJkhvulX2kgt_YQ

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ghiFYcwn2Vzl6K50U0UPz

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

In this Episode:

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

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

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

In March 2023, Stephanie Clifford released her latest novel, "The Farewell Tour," published by Harper. This novel has received critical acclaim, with the New York Times calling it "Breathtaking" and describing it as a "shimmering paean to the deeply flawed American West."

Website: http://www.stephanieclifford.net/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-clifford-846b2933/

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Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!