It's been our most requested episode. You want the tea? Get ready, because it's hot.

Actress Melissa Ordway aka Abby Newman - (The Young and the Restless) gets real about life on set, her Hollywood journey, and juggling motherhood with a career in the spotlight. Funny, candid, and inspiring—this is Melissa like you’ve never heard her before. She talks about getting the gut punch that was losing her contract with Y&R and how the pivot has been the biggest blessing.

In this episode, we sit down with Grammy Award-winning country music powerhouse Gretchen Wilson—the original Redneck Woman herself. From honky-tonks to headlines, Gretchen takes us behind the music, sharing the raw truth about her rise to fame, the challenges of the spotlight, and how staying true to herself changed everything.

We talk about her no-apologies attitude, what country music means to her today, and the stories behind the songs that made her a legend. Plus, she dishes on what she’s up to now—and let’s just say, Gretchen’s still got a lot to say (and sing).

Whether you’ve belted her hits in your car or just love a story of grit and authenticity, this is one you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with actor, writer, and advocate Johnathon Schaech, whose career has spanned decades in Hollywood—from breakout roles in cult classics like That Thing You Do! to powerful performances on screen and off. Johnathon opens up about his journey in the entertainment industry, the highs and lows of fame, and the personal battles that shaped him into the man he is today.

We talk about resilience, reinvention, and what it really means to use your voice for purpose. From starring alongside legends to speaking out for survivors, Johnathon shares the real story behind the spotlight—and why his most important role might be the one he's playing now: father, fighter, and fearless truth-teller.

Don’t miss this raw, real, and inspiring conversation.

In this episode, we’re joined by nutritionist, author, and wellness expert Cara Clark—founder of Cara Clark Nutrition. Cara shares her refreshingly realistic approach to food, health, and balance, including how she’s helped thousands of clients (including celebrities and athletes) ditch diet culture and embrace nourishment over restriction. We talk about her personal journey, the power of nutrition to transform lives, and her favorite tips for staying sane in a world full of food noise. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by wellness trends or just want to feel better in your body, this episode is for you.

In this powerful and surprisingly funny episode, Nikki and Neil sit down with Jordan Thomas — world-class golfer, double amputee, and founder of the Jordan Thomas Foundation. From losing his legs at age 16 to chasing birdies and breaking barriers, Jordan opens up about resilience, purpose, and the ridiculous things people say when they see his prosthetics. It’s part inspiration, part laughter, and 100% unforgettable.

In this episode, we sit down with rising country music artist Sarah Douga, whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics are as authentic as her Southern roots. From writing songs on the back porch to sharing stages with country legends, Sarah opens up about her journey from Louisiana to Nashville, what inspires her music, and how she stays grounded in a fast-paced industry. We talk songwriting, storytelling, and why country music still needs a little grit. Plus, she treats us to a live acoustic performance you won't want to miss.

Description:
In this episode of Not the News with Nikki & Neil, we're joined by rising country music stars Tigirlily Gold—the powerhouse sister duo shaking up Nashville with their fierce vocals, bold lyrics, and unstoppable energy. We dive into their journey from small-town North Dakota to the country charts, what it’s like working with your sibling, and the stories behind their most viral songs. Plus, how they're handling fame, fashion, and TikTok stardom—all while keeping it real. If you love behind-the-scenes music industry insight with a dose of humor and heart, this one’s for you!

🎙️ Topics include:

• How Tigirlily Gold got their start in country music

• Life as sisters, songwriters, and performers

• Touring, viral moments & staying grounded in the spotlight

• What’s next for the duo

Tigirlily Gold interview, country music duo, rising country stars, Nashville artists, female country singers, podcast with Tigirlily Gold, music industry podcast, country music podcast, sisters in music, TikTok country artists

Erin Oprea - trainer, entrepreneur, health & fitness guru - talks about her time in the Marine Corps, her home life, her love of animals - especially donkeys, and some *controversial* takes in the fitness world. We talk all things peptides, nicotine patches and other less-known health practices.

We are honored to have Gary Sinise join the podcast to share some incredible stories. He talks about the loss of his son, Mac, and how Gary is sharing Mac's gifts and continuing his legacy. He talks about his foundation, the Gary Sinise Foundation, and how leading a life of service has become his mission.