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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation with our guest, Darren Haruo Rae, a Japanese-American producer and director based in Los Angeles. Darren shares his journey from being a movie enthusiast to becoming an accomplished filmmaker.

Darren's love for film was sparked by his father's passion for movies and his extensive laserdisc collection. Tune into this insightful episode where they also talked about assessing one’s own work, learning by doing, understanding commercial filming vs. authentic performances, and much more!

Filmmaking isn't just about what you see on screen; it's also about those behind-the-scenes heroes who make magic happen every day.

In this Episode:

• The Genesis of a Filmmaker
• The Academic Pursuit 
• A Nostalgic Affair with Physicality
• Influences Inspirations 
• Behind-the-Scenes Intricacies
• Self-assessment and Growth 
• The Art Of Compromise In Filmmaking    
• Directorial Philosophy  
• Casting Decisions And Actor Inputs   
• Persistence, Patience, and Timing 
• Physical Fitness In Cinema
• Representation And Diversity  
• Respect For Personal Stories   
• The Importance Of Storytelling   
• Historical Events As Source Material  
• Remembering History Through Film
• Cultural Expectations And Screenwriting  
• Superhero Movies And Corporate Control 
• Balancing Commercial Work With Personal Projects 
• Dream Collaborations 

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

About Darren:
Darren Haruo Rae is a Japanese-American producer/director based in Los Angeles who co-founded the boutique production company Roann Films. He has directed high-profile commercials and branded content for clients such as Western Digital, Airbnb, and Cisco. Rae's directorial debut, Park Arcadia, garnered Best Screenplay at the 2014 International Film Festival Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles. His latest film, Nisei, inspired by his Japanese-American grandfather's WWII experiences in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, earned Best Drama and Audience Choice at the 2023 Poppy Jasper Film Festival and continues its festival circuit, screening at Indy Shorts by Heartland Film, LA Shorts International Film Festival, HollyShorts Film Festival, and Cinequest Film Festival. 

Currently, Rae is the series producer for the MasterClass G.O.A.T. Original Series and is producing the feature film Surrender, starring Andrea Bang. Surrender was selected as one of Film Independent's Fast Track fellowship program's top 10 narrative fiction features and is slated for production in 2023.

Website: https://www.dhrae.com/

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

Nisei Film Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niseithefilm/

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

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas wrapped up a truly inspiring episode. Our special guest, the talented musician and owner of The Grindstone Cowboy, Craig Campbell, shared his journey from being a gigging piano player to owning his own stage. He touched on the highs and lows of his career but emphasized that he feels most at home when performing live.

As an artist who believes in staying true to one's style despite industry trends, this musician is proof that tenacity pays off! Join us so you can hear more of Craig’s story, filled with passion, determination, and an unwavering love for music.

In this Episode:

• Discover the Grindstone Cowboy coffee shop.
• Learn about Glenn Campbell's influence on his career after an enlightening visit to his museum in Nashville.
• Hear about the transformative power of Clint Black’s Killing Time and Tracy Lawrence's Sticks and Stones cassettes in his life.
• Get insights into the backstage life at Opry performances and his fascination with artists' stories.
• Understand why introducing himself as a piano player rather than a singer made it easier for him to get gigs in Nashville.
• Discuss the challenges faced during extreme weather conditions while performing live shows.
• Converse about learning instruments without formal training.
• Explore what fear means when chasing dreams on stage.
• Discuss the songwriting process and fan reactions.
•  Frustrations within the music industry.
• Learn why some songs wait 20 years before getting recorded due to their enduring impact despite a lack of initial support.
• Family Man, a personal favorite written during Mindy’s pregnancy, perfectly represents who he is as an artist.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Use code "Gary20" to save 20% on your order!)
Dignity Memorial

About Craig:
Craig Campbell is an American country music singer, songwriter, and pianist born in Lyons, Georgia. He played piano at his mother's Baptist church from the age of 10 until he was 18. He first heard the sounds of gospel music before listening to Travis Tritt, who was one of the reasons why he immediately fell in love with country music. When he was 15, he formed a band called Out of the Blue and began playing the bar circuit, learning how to put together a performance and capture an audience. 

Craig moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2002 in hopes of pursuing his musical career. He took on several musician jobs and began writing his songs and demos. Fellow Georgian Luke Bryan suggested Campbell try his hand at writing his own songs, and in time he mastered the craft, honing his original material at gigs. He met another singer, Mindy Ellis, fell in love, and the pair married; he also began playing piano in her band, which in turn led to a touring stint with Tracy Byrd. Keith Stegall caught one of Campbell's performances at The Stage in 2008, and the young singer was soon signed to Bigger Picture. Starting in 2010, “Family Man” and “Outta My Head” both cracked the Top 15 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, while others like the hook-in-cheek “Fish” snagged more than 10 million on-demand streams. “Keep Them Kisses Comin’” became a bona fide Top 10 hit, while “Outskirts of Heaven” showed an artist sensitive enough to share his soul and courageous enough to stand on conviction. The uplifting critical smash has been praised by Rolling Stone, Taste of Country, and more as a spiritual high-water mark. 

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

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas had an amazing and fun-filled chat with our special guest, the esteemed veterinarian, Dr. Dave Reed from Reed Animal Hospital, in the Bay Area. With years of experience under his belt and countless pet lives saved, his passion for his profession and dedication to animal welfare are truly inspiring. His journey started on a farm in the Midwest, where he grew up around animals, leading him initially to aspire to be a mixed animal practitioner.

Tune into this engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes, professional expertise, humor, and heartfelt advice on caring for our furry friends!

In this Episode:

• Being a Vet: Understand the commitment involved in becoming a vet - 8 years of education, including specialization
• Career Highlights: Hear about Dr. Dave's memorable encounter with famous veterinarian James Herriot and how he decided against large animal practice.
• Fear Free Veterinary Medicine: Learn about 'fear-free veterinary medicine' that focuses on creating relaxed environments for pets and their owners.
• Dealing with Pets: Discover how to anticipate dog behavior to avoid bites and understand why cats can be more unpredictable than dogs.
• Pet Health Indicators: Find out when pet lethargy should cause concern and other signs of ill health in pets.
• Communication is Key: Learn how effective communication can address the many concerns of first-time pet owners.
• Changes Over Time: Reflect on the significant advancements in veterinary medicine over the past decades due to increased care levels for pets seen as family members rather than outdoor creatures.

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

About Dr. Dave:
Dr. David Reed of Reed Animal Hospital grew up on a farm in Illinois and has loved animals since his childhood. An alumnus of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, he soon moved to the Bay Area, where he has made the exceptional veterinary care of cats and dogs his professional passion for more than three decades. He enjoys working with the community through low-cost vaccination clinics, speaking at local schools, and working with the Santa Clara County Sheriff K9 Unit. He considers working with the amazing police dogs some of his most rewarding work. Recently, “Dr. Dave” was voted one of the Bay Area’s Best Veterinarians, along with Dr. Dave’s Doggie Daycare as one of the Best Doggie Daycares, in Bay Woof Magazine’s Beast of the Bay Awards. Dr. Reed is highly respected and beloved by his furry patients and their families.

Website: https://www.reedanimalhospital.com/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas had a fascinating conversation with Hollywood’s comedy sensation, Fortune Feimster. For over two decades, Fortune has been crafting an innovative, inclusive, and unparalleled career. Whether she's on stage, in the radio studio, or on screen, her contagious and joyous comedy continues to touch lives and bring people together every day. Fortune shared her career journey, starting from humble beginnings in a small town to achieving success in Hollywood through sheer determination, hard work, humor, and a dash of luck. Her continued humility despite her growth is truly inspiring!

Join us in this exciting episode and hear more of Fortune’s story about her comedic techniques and future aspirations. With opportunities rolling in as quickly as punchlines, it's evident that this determined and unflinching comedian is just beginning her remarkable journey. Indeed, Fortune Feimster is making waves everywhere.

Be sure to check her tour schedule to see if she's performing in a city near you and experience her extraordinary talent in person!

In this Episode:

• Fotune’s Humble Beginnings
• Career Progression
• Upcoming Events
• Netflix Special Projects
• Acting Techniques
• Future Goals
• The Power of Podcasting

This episode is sponsored by:
Beck's Shoes (Use my promo code "GST" on their website and enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on your favorite shoes!)
A Flood of Love

About Fortune:
Fortune Feimster, a stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for her affable and charismatic presence, wields her unique brand of confessional comedy to unite people from all walks of life. You can catch Fortune across various media platforms, whether through radio broadcasts, appearances on both the big and small screens or during her nationwide stand-up comedy tours. Her first one-hour special, Sweet & Salty, is currently available for streaming on Netflix and earned a well-deserved nomination for Best Comedy Special at the Critics' Choice Awards. Prior to this, Netflix showcased her talents in a half-hour special as part of The Standups in 2018, which garnered enthusiastic reviews. Fortune has graced late-night television with memorable sets on Conan and Late Night with Seth Meyers. She also boasts another acclaimed half-hour special on Comedy Central. Starting her career in Los Angeles as a member of the esteemed Groundlings Sunday Company, Fortune first gained national recognition as a writer and panelist on E's popular show Chelsea Lately. This was followed by series regular roles on Hulu's The Mindy Project and NBC's Champions. Her versatile talent has led to numerous guest appearances and recurring roles on a variety of TV shows, including Ru Paul’s Drag Race, Dear White People, Drunk History, Claws, 2 Broke Girls, Workaholics, Glee, Idiotsitter, Tales of the City, The L Word: Generation Q, Life in Pieces, and @Midnight.

Website: https://www.fortunefeimster.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fortunefeimster/

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/funnyfortune

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

Merch Website: https://fortunefeimster.merchmadeeasy.com/

Connect with Gary:

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, join us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into the world of chronic pain with our guest, Dr. Afton Hassett, an experienced pain psychologist and the author of “Chronic Pain Reset”.  She offers informative content about how stress and mental health are intertwined with physical discomfort and delves into various aspects of chronic pain—its effects, causes, and potential treatments. 

Listen in and discover valuable insights about how your emotions can affect your perception of discomfort, and learn practical strategies for dealing with persistent affliction. And together, let’s unlock the power of positivity in healing!

In this Episode:

• The Intersection of Mental and Physical Health 
• Resilience in Managing Chronic Pain
• The Power of Social Interaction
• Customizing Treatment Plans
• The Neuroscience Behind Pain 
• The Invisible Nature Of Pain 
• The Role Of Physical Activity And Sleep In Managing Chronic Pain 
• Negative Impact Of Modern Devices On Sleep Quality  
• Understanding Chronic Pain
• The Biopsychosocial Aspects of Pain
• Rewiring the Brain 
• The Limitations Of Pharmaceuticals 
• The Power Of Holistic Methods  
• Pain Relief Through Enjoyable Activities 

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

About Afton:
Dr. Afton Hassett is a licensed clinical psychologist and an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Michigan. She received her BFA from Colorado State University and her doctorate from Alliant International University in San Diego, CA. As a principal investigator at the Chronic Pain & Fatigue Research Center, she conducts interdisciplinary research related to exploring the role of cognitive, affective, and behavioral factors in chronic pain populations. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and is a leader in the field of resilience and pain research. Her work has focused on exploring positive emotions and affective balance in people with pain; health-related quality of life in adult and pediatric rheumatology patients; and novel interventions to promote resilience and self-management for individuals with chronic pain. She is committed to education for individuals at many levels including patients, undergraduate and graduate students, medical residents, post-docs, physicians, and other healthcare providers. Dr. Hassett is the Director of Clinical Pain Research at the Back & Pain Center and the Past President of the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals – a division of the American College of Rheumatology. Current funding sources include National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the University of Michigan. With over $14M of research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Afton’s mission is to bring evidence-based strategies from research and academic settings to the people themselves. Her life’s work is dedicated to helping people with chronic pain live lives with less pain, greater happiness, and renewed purpose in life.

Website: https://aftonhassett.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afton-hassett-1982b323

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes Sam Liccardo, the 64th mayor of San Jose, for an insightful discussion on technology's impact on legacy and memory. Join us on a fascinating journey as we explore his lineage and the intriguing blend of Sicilian, Irish, and Mexican roots that converge in his family tree. During this engaging episode, Sam Liccardo delves into the unique leadership challenges he encountered, particularly those faced by mayors of big cities. A role often regarded as one of the most demanding. Yet amidst these difficulties lie opportunities for growth and resilience.

Tune in to this conversation filled with captivating stories about our past while providing thought-provoking insights about our present and future! 

In this Episode:

• Unity and Division: A Historical Perspective
• Technology's Role in Remembering Personalities 
• Candid Conversations with Leaders
• Ancestry Documentation and its Significance
• Debunking 'The Good Old Days' Concept 
• Future Technology and Social Implications
• The Power of Mementos 
• Transition from Physical Spaces to Virtual Studios  
• Story Topping: A Conversation Killer
• Politics, Human Interaction, and Quick Connections
• Door-to-Door Politics: A Deep Insight into Community Concerns 
• The Rise of AI and Trust Issues
• Resilience: A Recurring Theme 
• Ego and Hubris: Obstacles to Scientific Discourse
• Housing Crisis: Need for Innovation 
• Balancing Ideological Differences: Finding Middle Ground
• Pandemic Response: Challenges and Triumphs
• High Construction Cost: Need for Innovative Models
• Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap
• Leadership Effectiveness in High-Pressure Situations 
• Name-dropping and Celebrity Encounters
• Future Political Aspirations: A Return to Public Service
• Free Speech and Diverse Viewpoints 

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba
Dignity Memorial

About Sam:
Sam Liccardo became the 64th mayor and one of the youngest individuals to serve in San José, California’s highest elected office. A member of the Democratic Party, Sam was elected mayor in November 2014. He was re-elected in 2018 with 75.8% of the vote. After graduating from Bellarmine College Preparatory in San José, Sam attended Georgetown University, where he rowed crew as captain of the heavyweight squad. He graduated magna cum laude in 1991 and enrolled at Harvard Law School and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. After graduating with honors with a law degree and a master’s degree in public policy, Sam returned to the Bay Area in 1996. Sam’s writing has appeared in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and other publications.

Under his leadership, San Jose thrived with his efforts by growing the economy equitably, supporting struggling neighbors and broadening inclusion, investing in youth, beautifying San Jose and advancing smart environmental policies, improving public safety, building a 21st-century transportation network, and embracing innovation in the government. Sam and his wife, Jessica Garcia-Kohl, live near downtown San Jose.

Website: https://www.samliccardo.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamLiccardo1/

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

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/sliccardo/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-liccardo-a9a1759/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our guest George Maxe shares his 30-year career path filled with unexpected twists and turns that led him to his current role as the president and CEO of The First Tee of Silicon Valley, where he's been making a significant impact for the past 15 years.

Listen in to hear more about George’s inspiring journey. He recalls memorable moments playing golf and how golf transcends being just a sport into a powerful tool for character development and social inclusivity. He also emphasizes making golf accessible to children from all backgrounds and creating balanced environments where they can learn from each other’s experiences.

In this Episode:

• The Unexpected Journey
• A Swing to Remember
• From Berkeley to San Jose 
• Numbers Game 
• Golf: A Social Catalyst 
• Making Golf Accessible 
• Balancing Act
• The Power Within   
• Unforgettable Encounters  
• Women and Golf
• The Art of Mentorship
• Volunteering
• Building Rapport Through Humor 
• Golf Course Conversations 

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling
Dignity Memorial

About George:

George Maxe is a dedicated and visionary leader who has made a significant impact on youth development through his role as President and Chief Executive Officer of The First Tee of Silicon Valley. His journey with the organization began in 2008, when he assumed the position of Executive Director at The First Tee of San Jose. Over the years, his leadership and unwavering commitment have transformed the organization, leaving an indelible mark on the community, which revolves around nurturing young talent and enabling them to reach their fullest potential, allowing him to leverage his education, experience, expertise, and background to make a positive impact on young lives. Under his guidance, The First Tee of San Jose experienced remarkable growth and expansion. By early 2012, he had successfully extended the program's reach to include not only San Jose but also Gilroy and East Palo Alto, effectively renaming it The First Tee of Silicon Valley. This strategic move broadened the organization's service area, ensuring more young people had access to its valuable programs. He aims to serve 10,000 youth by 2020 and elevate that number to 18,000 by 2025.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmaxe/

Website: https://firstteesiliconvalley.org/

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, we're again shining a spotlight on a remarkable figure in the music industry, the exceptionally talented songwriter Barry Dean. Listen in to hear more of his incredible story as he shares his reflections on his past experiences and the power of collaboration and friendship in his musical journey. Barry believes success isn't merely about individual achievement but rather collective growth, camaraderie, innovation, and resilience against the odds.

In this Episode:

• The Grammy Experience
• Celebrating Talents
• Unveiling Personalities
• Admiration for Stalwarts
• Natural Talent Vs Effort
• Networking and interaction at Awards Shows
• Beyond Music: Industry Engagement  
• Nostalgic Musical Discussions  
• Business Side Of Music  
• Reinterpretations in Music
• The Nashville Scene
• Radio Influence
• Appreciating Professionals

About Barry:

Barry Dean is a highly accomplished songwriter in both country and pop music genres based in Nashville, Tennessee. Barry's remarkable talents have earned him a Grammy nomination in the category of Best Country Song for his work on Tim McGraw's "Diamond Rings and Old Barstools”. Barry remains filled with awe every time he hears one of his songs playing on the radio. When you consider his journey, it's astonishing to think that he once thought he might end up working a 9-to-5 job in Kansas. His portfolio boasts an impressive array of chart-topping hits, including two No. 1 singles for Little Big Town ("Pontoon" and "Day Drinkin'"), "Think a Little Less," which dominated the charts for Michael Ray, "Heartache Medication," the most recent #1 hit for Jon Pardi, Ingrid Michaelson's Top 40 sensation "Girls Chase Boys," and an ever-expanding list of country and pop hits. These accomplishments underscore that Barry Dean is undeniably living out his true calling.

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

Website: https://www.creativenationmusic.com/

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This week, I had an insightful discussion with Michael McLeavy, a renowned singer from Glasgow, Scotland, who shared his musical odyssey, from forming his own rock band to touring extensively. In the journey of life, it's often our passions that guide us towards a fulfilling career path, and his story is one of determination and seizing opportunities, a testament to how impactful inspirations like Elvis Presley can shape our style and vision. 

Tune in to hear more about how Michael and his ventures brought him into contact with notable personalities within the entertainment industry, further expanding his network. 

A key takeaway? Be open to new experiences, as they may lead you down unexpected paths filled with potential growth opportunities. 

In this Episode: 

• The Birth of a Star
• Rocking the World
• Lights, Camera, Action!
• A Beautiful Bond: A Relationship with Sharon Tate
• Meeting an Icon: An Encounter With Elvis Presley
• Island Life and Hustle: Work Experience In Hawaii
• Wisdom Gained Along The Way: Life Lessons

About Michael:
Michael McLeavy was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and his journey in the world of music began with the renowned Rock N Roll band "The Fireflies." He Came to the United States to further his career and to meet Elvis Presley in person. His fortune smiled upon him as had the incredible opportunity to spend the day with him on the set of one of his movies “Spinout” and backstage at the International (Hilton) in Las Vegas. Notably, Michael had the privilege of performing the American, Canadian, and British National Anthems at the Highland Games in Dana Point California August 24th and 25th 2013. Also, he had the distinct honor of delivering both the American and British National Anthems at the British American Business Council Orange County on December 2nd, 2016. Michael has lived in Dana Point with his wife Linda since 1989.

He is an Entertainer and just released his latest CD "Try A Little Kindness" recorded in Nashville, Tennessee.

You can find him here:

https://www.facebook.com/michael.mcleavy/

Listen to his music on Spotify here:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/22Pvk4TXENi60w1RoN3gtv

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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, our guest is a seasoned entrepreneur with an intriguing journey spanning across various industries—the man behind the laugh, Scott Edwards. We talked about how he started his journey at the age of 17 with a small construction company. And, later transitioned to entertainment as a DJ and opened the 12th full-time comedy club in America by age 24. Listen as we dive into the art form of stand-up comedy, which reveals fascinating insights about creativity, determination, and adaptability. From honing material to understanding audience responses, these aspects are not just crucial in comedy but translate well into many professional scenarios. His story serves as a reminder that resilience in the face of ups and downs is integral to entrepreneurial success.

Tune in to hear more of his story about how success doesn't require wealth but hard work, focus, and passion for excellent customer service.

In this Episode: 

• The Journey Begins
• Embracing Entrepreneurship
• Riding the Waves of Business
• Customer Service – The Key to Success
• Starting Small, Dreaming Big
• From Alabama to California
• Recognizing Progress Over Prejudices
• Comedy Club Chronicles  
• Lessons from Laughter

About Scott:

Scott Edwards has established more than a dozen companies during his remarkable career journey. His ventures have spanned diverse industries, ranging from a humble construction company to ownership of unique establishments like a Submarine & Beach Shack, and even a foray into the world of Disco production. With an enduring passion for comedy, Scott channeled his enthusiasm into producing a wide array of entertainment, including Live Comedy Shows, TV Series, and Concerts. It wasn't long before he ventured into the realm of comedy club ownership, ultimately founding his inaugural club, Laughs Unlimited. Through unwavering dedication and ingenuity, he successfully transformed Laughs Unlimited into a thriving chain of comedy clubs that stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial acumen.

Scott's extensive career has afforded him the privilege of collaborating with some of the most iconic figures in the comedy world, including luminaries such as Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Saget, and Dana Carvey. His wealth of experience and industry connections continue to shape his enduring legacy in the realm of entertainment.

You can find him here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sactotalent/

Scott’s Website:

https://scottscomedystuff.com/

Scott’s Podcast:

https://standupcomedyyourhostandmc.com/podcast-show-player

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