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This week on Here’s What We Know, Gary Scott Thomas sits down with nine-time Olympic medalist and world record holder Ryan Murphy for a heartfelt conversation about Olympic glory, family stories, and a brand-new chapter called fatherhood.

Ryan shares his journey from a determined seven-year-old with big dreams to becoming a five-time gold medalist. He opens up about the joy of raising his daughter Eevi, the perspective fatherhood has given him, and why he’s passionate about water safety for kids. Plus, he reveals the mindset that continues to fuel his drive toward the 2028 Olympics.

In This Episode:

• Adjusting to life with baby Eevi and the joy of parenthood while keeping love and balance alive
• How becoming a parent reshapes the way Ryan sees family history
• Childhood in Illinois and Florida, college years at Cal Berkeley, and proposing to Bridget in San Francisco
• Why Ryan gravitated toward swimming and the thrill of individual competition
• Learning resilience and motivation through tough defeats
• Calories, genetics, and the daily grind behind an Olympian’s body
• Rivalries that turn into lifelong respect and the true meaning of leading Team USA as captain
• The physical challenges of swimming, from burning quads to pressure on the back
• Why Ryan believes Katie Ledecky is the greatest swimmer of all time
• His mission to teach kids water safety through early swim lessons
• His Olympic dreams for LA 2028, his interest in media, and his vision for expanding swim schools

This episode is sponsored by:

Bison Junk Removal (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)

Bio:

Ryan Murphy is one of the world's premier backstroke swimmers, a world record holder, and a multiple Olympic gold medalist. Known for his exceptional underwater skills and consistent performances, Murphy has established himself as a dominant force in backstroke events on both the national and international stages. His technical proficiency and competitive drive have made him a cornerstone of the U.S. national swimming team. Off the lanes, Ryan is also a devoted husband and new father, committed to combining his passion for sport with a mission to promote water safety, swim education, and a legacy of family values.

Website: http://www.ryanmurphy.com/

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

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

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Hey country fans! 

This week on Here’s What We Know, we’re shaking things up with a brand-new monthly series: Once Around the Country, your all-access roundup for what’s hot in country music.

To kick things off, Gary dives into the 59th CMA Awards with insider stories, bold opinions, and a passion for the genre that only a radio veteran can bring.

It’s country music talk with heart, humor, and honesty; don’t miss it!

In This Episode:

• The biggest CMA categories, plus the snubs and surprises everyone’s talking about
• Why Jelly Roll and Eric Church’s absence matters
• Rising stars you should have on your radar, like Shaboozey and Stephen Wilson Jr.
• The hard truth about songwriting in the streaming era
• Why award shows might need a total reboot to win back fans

This episode is sponsored by:

Bison Junk Removal (Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)

Connect with Gary:

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This week on Here’s What We Know, join us for a fascinating episode with astrophysicist Dr. Jeff Zweerink from Reasons to Believe for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about science, faith, and the joy of curiosity.

We’ll explore cosmic mysteries, personal stories, and the deep questions that connect physics, philosophy, and spirituality. Dr. Zweerink’s perspective is both deeply knowledgeable and refreshingly humble, reminding us that the more we learn, the more wonder there is to discover. Listen now!

In This Episode:

• Why science and faith aren’t enemies and how they work in harmony
• The role of curiosity in uncovering both cosmic and spiritual truths
• How advances in technology make complex ideas accessible
• Big-picture topics like the multiverse, quantum weirdness, and the origins of the universe
• Reflections on humility, lifelong learning, and the layers of meaning in both scripture and science

This episode is sponsored by:

Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Bring your dream cabinet to life!) 

 Dignity Memorial 

Bio:

Jeff Zweerink is an astrophysicist and senior research scholar at Reasons to Believe, where he bridges his lifelong passions for science and Christian faith. Inspired early on by Hugh Ross’s vision of integrating scientific discovery with theology, Jeff has dedicated his career to showing how the two complement rather than conflict. Through his research and teaching, he helps Christians see science as a powerful way to declare God’s glory, while also engaging scientists with the rational foundation of faith.

Website: https://reasons.org/

X: https://x.com/rtb_jzweerink

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RTB_official

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-zweerink-a194626b/

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This week on Here’s What We Know, join us for a fascinating conversation with Scott Howell, owner of Red Dot Fitness and creator of the Iron Sights Podcast. We’ll explore fitness, longevity, motivation, and the truth behind training in both gyms and law enforcement.

From practical advice on staying healthy for the long haul to candid conversations about social media myths and the realities faced by those who serve in uniform, this is an episode full of real-world wisdom. Listen now!

In This Episode:

• Why your “why” is the key to long-term health and fitness
• How fitness is personal—not a one-size-fits-all formula
• The truth about resistance training and muscle growth myths
• How to stay flexible and compassionate with yourself through setbacks
• Why diet fads and shortcuts rarely work in the long run
• Scott’s story of creating Red Dot Fitness and launching Iron Sights
• Rare insights from first responders and military veterans through his After Dark conversations

This episode is sponsored by:

 Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) 

License #: 679261 

Bio:

Scott Howell is a lifelong coach and human performance expert who launched the Iron Sights Podcast from the heart of Red Dot Fitness. Originally created to provide straightforward health and training insights for clients, Scott’s vision expanded when he recognized a critical disconnect between the fitness industry and the tactical community, despite shared physical challenges. What emerged was After Dark, a breakout segment featuring candid conversations with first responders, veterans, and everyday guardians about mindset, mission, and mastery. Today, Iron Sights reaches thousands of loyal listeners across the U.S., sparking real talk in gyms, agencies, and homes—and opening doors to speaking engagements, training partnerships, and a thriving community dedicated to strength, preparedness, and resilience.

Website

https://ironsightspodcast.com/

https://reddotfitness.net/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ironsightspodcast

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This week on Here’s What We Know, Gary Scott Thomas sits down with Robert Emery,  world-renowned conductor, pianist, and Founder of The Arts Group, one of the UK’s most dynamic entertainment companies. From childhood prodigy to international maestro, Robert brings a refreshing, fun, and deeply human perspective on classical music, creativity, and the colorful personalities behind history’s greatest composers.

In This Episode:

• Why classical music was once the “pop music” of its time
• Surprising connections between country, rock, and opera
• Robert’s bold journey from a 7-year-old pianist to global conductor and entrepreneur
• What conductors really do and the leadership lessons they offer
• Wild, unforgettable stories about legends like Liszt and Mozart
• How classical themes show up everywhere, from film scores to cartoons
• Robert’s drive to keep innovating through conducting, musicals, and TED’s List for online music education

This episode is sponsored by:

 Reed Animal Hospital (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!) 

Bio:

Robert Emery is a conductor, pianist, and serial entrepreneur. He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in London's Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, Robert has seen them all. Besides music, he is the Founder & Director of The Arts Group, one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the UK. Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label, and production company. Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs. E), a toddler (Master T), a baby (Master A), and 4 cats.

Website: https://robertemery.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/robertemeryofficial

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

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

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This week on Here’s What We Know, host Gary sits down with one of Nashville’s brightest songwriters, Trannie Anderson. From fishing trips with her dad to co-writing award-winning songs like “Heart Like a Truck,” Trannie opens up about the journey, the struggles, and the joy of making music that truly matters.

In This Episode:

• Hear about family quirky food traditions
• How growing up in Texas church culture shaped her interest in music
• Honest reflections on women in country music 
• The magic of collaboration and why great songs often start solo
• The personal struggles that fuel authentic writing and connect deeply with audiences
• Surprising fun facts about her name, her golfing background, and full-circle career moments

This episode is sponsored by:

 Reed Animal Hospital (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!) 

Bio:

Trannie Anderson is a songwriter from Waco, Texas, who honed her craft as an active member of NSAI before signing a co-publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing in 2018. Since then, her songs have been recorded by artists including Lainey Wilson, Dan + Shay, Cole Swindell, Gabby Barrett, Nate Smith, Meghan Trainor, Pentatonix, Reba McEntire, and many more.

She co-wrote Lainey Wilson’s #1 award-winning single “Heart Like A Truck,” named NSAI’s Song of the Year in 2023, as well as Wilson’s single “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” which is currently climbing the country radio charts. Beyond the stage, Trannie’s songs have been featured in campaigns and placements with brands and platforms such as T-Mobile, Dodge Ram, Wrangler, Tractor Supply, Marshall’s, The CW, and Netflix.

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

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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 Here’s What We Know, we welcome entrepreneur and podcasting veteran Andrew Allemann for an honest and insightful conversation about the realities of preparing for college today. From the sticker shock of tuition and the myths surrounding student debt to the hidden gems beyond the Ivy League and the life lessons that matter more than test scores, Gary and Andrew delve into the rabbit hole of thriving beyond high school. Andrew also shares his journey as a multi-time entrepreneur, from building PodcastGuests.com to launching CollegeIQ, a platform designed to help families make smarter, more confident college decisions.

In This Episode:

• Why starting college prep early gives students an edge
• How financial aid, merit scholarships, and state funding shape the true cost of higher education
• The balance between passion and practicality when choosing a major
• Why learning “how to learn” may be the most valuable college lesson of all
• Alternatives to a four-year degree and redefining success on your own terms

This episode is sponsored by:

 Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!) 

License #: 679261 

Bio:

Andrew Allemann is a technology media entrepreneur and publisher with a passion for building niche platforms that connect people with the information they need most. Inspired by his experience as a parent supporting his child through the college application process, he created CollegeIQ, a platform designed to make it easier for students to discover schools that are the right fit for them. Andrew is also the founder and publisher of Domain Name Wire, the leading news source covering the domain name industry, and previously built and sold PodcastGuests.com, a service that helped more than 50,000 users get booked on podcasts. His expertise in online media has earned him recognition in outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and NPR.

At the heart of his work is a drive to simplify complex industries and empower people with better tools and insights.

Websites:

https://collegeiq.com/

https://domainnamewire.com/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DomainNameWire

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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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By popular demand, UFO researcher and Strange Paradigms host Christina Gomez returns to Here’s What We Know. Known for her creative reels and comedic alter egos, Christina has a knack for making the mysterious both accessible and unforgettable.

From the grind of researching cases while juggling three jobs to unpacking the fine line between skepticism and open-mindedness, this conversation dives deep. We explore Project Blue Book and its modern counterpart AARO, NASA’s lukewarm approach to UAPs, and why Bigelow Aerospace’s ties to Skinwalker Ranch still raise eyebrows.

We’re talking global sightings over nuclear sites, mysterious “drones” that defy easy explanation, and the tug-of-war between debunkers and truth seekers. Buckle up,  the search for answers just got a whole lot more interesting.

In This Episode:

• Why “UFO” became “UAP” and how that shapes the conversation
• Congressional hearings, NASA briefings, and the private sector’s role in secrecy
• Historical sightings that predate modern technology
• The fine line between skepticism and open-minded inquiry
• Skinwalker Ranch phenomena and high strangeness connections

This episode is sponsored by:

 Sterling Oak Cabinetry (Bring your dream cabinet to life!) 

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.

In 2021 the show, ‘Shifting the Paradigm’ became a regular weekly feature on KUNX Radio. Cristina interviews researchers, witnesses, and enthusiasts of the UFO and Paranormal topics. Notable guests have joined Cristina on her show, such as Harvard Professor Avi Loeb, Former DoD Director of the Government UFO program AATIP – Luis Elizondo, and the owner of Skinwalker Ranch Brandon Fugal, among many others.

Cristina presents several other weekly shows, including ‘Mysteries with a History’, co-hosted by veteran radio host Jimmy Church of Fade to Black Radio. Each week they examine a different theme related to unusual mysteries that have a distinct history. And each Friday, Cristina presents ‘Strangest News of the Week’, which focuses on covering recent news items related to the strange, mysterious, and paranormal.

Cristina Gomez has appeared on many talk shows and podcasts, such as Attwood Unleashed with Shaun Attwood, Need to Know with Ross Coulthart & Bryce Zabel, the Paranormal Podcast with Jim Harold, The Martin Willis Show, The Micah Hanks Program, and Fade To Black Radio with Jimmy Church, among many others.

Website: https://strangeparadigms.com/

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What does it really take to raise strong, grounded kids in a world full of noise and pressure? 

This week on Here's What We Know, join us for a much-needed conversation with Richard R. Ramos, founder of Parents on a Mission, mentor to at-risk youth, and champion of family reconciliation. We explore what it means to lead with love, humility, and emotional maturity as a parent.

Richard shares practical tools for breaking generational cycles, rebuilding trust, and guiding your children with confidence. If you're a parent, educator, or someone who works with families, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped.

In This Episode:

• Why healing your own past is the key to becoming a stronger parent
• How to earn your child’s loyalty in a world full of distractions
• The quiet power of humility and modeling accountability
• What “preparation for separation” really means and why it matters
• Simple ways to build a lasting family legacy, starting today

This episode is sponsored by:

Dignity Memorial

Bio:

Richard is an author, speaker, and parent coach with over thirty years of experience in leadership development, family dynamics, and community building. He has made a significant national and international impact through his work with high-risk youth, parents, and families, creating safe, supportive environments for personal growth and community transformation. Richard has trained over 2,000 parent mentors through his innovative leadership curriculum and has authored several books, including Parents on a Mission and From the Margins to the Mainstream—Preparing Latino Youth for Leadership in the Twenty-First Century.

As a recognized expert in preventing community violence and fostering positive family environments, Richard brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight to his work. His passion for helping families navigate the challenges of stepparenting and build meaningful connections within their homes has reached communities across the globe. Through his coaching, training, and writing, Richard empowers individuals to lead with confidence and create lasting change in both their families and communities. His mission is clear: to help families not just survive but thrive in a world that demands resilience and connection.

Website: https://www.richardrramos.com/

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

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This week on Here's What We Know, join us for a captivating conversation with author Beth Castrodale to explore the creative life. Beth shares how her roots in journalism shaped her storytelling style, why ghost stories have always fascinated her, and what it really takes to finish a book.

Listen in as we go down the rabbit hole from haunted houses, World War I soldier journals, and audiobooks to cemetery lore and the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to beloved characters. Tune in now; you’re gonna love it!

In This Episode:

• The Path to Writing
• The Relationship Between Reading and Writing
• Running, Audiobooks, and Podcasts: Creative Consumption
• Beth Castrodale’s Books and the Audiobook Experience
• Crafting Character Voices: Writing and Narrating Multiple Points of View
• The Writing Process: Plotting, Pantsing, and Outlining
• Finding Endings and Letting Go
• Receiving Critique and the Role of Ego
• The Solitary Nature of Novel Writing
• Literary Influences and Early Reading Memories
• The Allure of Standalone Novels and Avoiding Sequels
• Research in Writing: Bringing Authenticity to Fiction
• Ghost Stories, the Paranormal, and the Challenge of Creepy
• The Process of Writing "The Inhabitants"
• The Winchester Mystery House
• Publicity, Promotion, and the Writer’s Life

This episode is sponsored by:

Dignity Memorial

Bio:

Beth Castrodale worked as a newspaper reporter until her love of books led her to the publishing field. She was a senior editor at Bedford/St. Martin’s and is the founding editor of the book-review website Small Press Picks. Her most recent novel, The Inhabitants, won the Horror categories of the Independent Publisher Book Awards, the National Indie Excellence Awards, and the Best Book Awards. It was a finalist in the Horror category of the Next Generation Indie Book Awards.

An excerpt from her second novel, In This Ground, was a shortlist finalist for a William Faulkner – William Wisdom Creative Writing Award. Her début novel, Marion Hatley, was a finalist for a Nilsen Prize for a First Novel from Southeast Missouri State University Press. Castrodale also received an artist grant from the Mass Cultural Council. Her stories and essays have appeared in multiple publications, including CrimeReads, Ars Medica, The Writing Disorder, and Writing and Wellness.

If you sign up for Beth’s monthly email newsletter, you’ll get a free copy of her novel Gold River.

Website: https://www.bethcastrodale.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-castrodale-a667b81/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beth.castrodale

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