In this engaging episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomes award-winning filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, and actor Michael Tove to discuss his acclaimed short film Yard Sale-ing, his fascinating journey into the film industry, and the lessons he has learned from decades of pursuing his passion for storytelling. Michael shares how a lifelong love of stories evolved into a successful filmmaking career that has now earned international recognition through one of the most decorated short films on the festival circuit today. Michael begins by reflecting on his roots in North Carolina and how his fascination with storytelling started at an early age. Long before filmmaking entered the picture, he was captivated by short stories and narrative twists, drawing inspiration from legendary storytellers such as O. Henry, Rod Serling, and the classic Alfred Hitchcock anthology series. What fascinated him most were stories that led audiences down one path before surprising them with an unexpected ending. Those influences would eventually become central to his own creative style and are clearly reflected in his filmmaking approach today. His entry into the film industry happened in an unexpected way. While searching for opportunities to learn about filmmaking, Michael answered a casting call for the original film adaptation of The Handmaid’s Tale. What began as a simple background acting opportunity turned into a transformative experience. Standing on a professional film set for the first time exposed him to the collaborative nature of filmmaking and ignited a passion that would shape the next several decades of his life. He quickly realized that creating films involved far more than acting and became determined to learn every aspect of the craft. Over the years, Michael immersed himself in screenwriting education. He spent more than fifteen years studying the art and business of screenwriting through workshops, mentorships, coaching programs, master classes, and professional training. He learned from some of the industry's most respected instructors and writers, constantly refining his storytelling abilities. During this period, he also developed relationships with industry veterans, including former Universal Pictures President Tom Mount and veteran director Tom Logan. These connections provided invaluable guidance and helped shape Michael’s understanding of professional filmmaking. The conversation then shifts to Yard Sale-ing, the award-winning short film that has brought Michael widespread recognition. The project originated from an idea he first conceived more than three decades ago. Like many of his favorite stories, the concept began with a simple “what if” question. Over the years, the idea evolved while maintaining its original core premise. Eventually, after extensive script development and collaboration with director Tom Logan, the project moved into production and became the short film audiences are now discovering around the world. Without revealing spoilers, Michael explains that Yard Sale-ing centers on Jim and Sally Marsh, a married couple whose personalities could not be more different. Sally is optimistic, enthusiastic, and convinced that hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered at local yard sales. Jim, on the other hand, is practical, skeptical, and would rather be almost anywhere else. Their conflicting perspectives create the foundation for a story that combines humor, character-driven conflict, and the type of unexpected twists Michael has loved since childhood. As Sally embarks on a quest to uncover hidden treasure, the couple finds themselves pulled into a situation that develops in ways neither of them anticipated. One of the most fascinating parts of the discussion focuses on the film’s casting. Michael praises director Tom Logan for assembling an exceptional cast and creating the chemistry necessary to bring the story to life. The film features acclaimed actors Eric Roberts and Eliza Roberts, whose performances added significant depth and credibility to the production. Michael recalls how impressed he was by their willingness to participate and collaborate on the project. He particularly highlights Eliza Roberts’ creative contributions, noting that some of the film’s most memorable moments emerged from spontaneous choices that enhanced the script and elevated the final product. The lead roles are portrayed by Georgia Van Cuylenburg and Liam Bradford, whose on-screen chemistry became one of the film’s greatest strengths. Michael discusses how successful filmmaking often depends on more than simply casting talented actors. True magic occurs when performers naturally complement one another, creating authentic relationships that audiences can connect with emotionally. Watching those relationships develop during filming became one of the most rewarding experiences of the entire production process. As the conversation continues, Michael reflects on the realities of filmmaking and the various roles involved in bringing a project to completion. Having worked as an actor, writer, and producer, he explains that every aspect of filmmaking presents unique challenges. Producing, however, may be the most demanding because it often involves securing financing and coordinating countless moving parts. Despite those challenges, he emphasizes that filmmaking is ultimately a collaborative art form where success depends on talented professionals working together toward a common goal. Respecting each team member’s expertise and allowing them to do their jobs is essential to creating great work. The results speak for themselves. Yard Sale-ing has become a remarkable success on the international film festival circuit, earning hundreds of awards and recognition from festivals around the world. Michael shares his amazement at the film’s reception and admits that even now, seeing his name attached to such a successful project sometimes feels surreal. Yet the accolades validate years of dedication, learning, persistence, and creative risk-taking. Looking ahead, Michael reveals that he has multiple projects currently in development, including additional short films, an animated project, and a feature film that is actively seeking financing. Rather than slowing down after achieving success with Yard Sale-ing, he is embracing new creative opportunities and continuing to expand his filmmaking portfolio. The interview concludes with a powerful lesson that Michael has learned throughout his life and career. He believes that life is filled with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, but most people miss them because they fail to recognize them when they appear. Success requires paying attention, taking action, working relentlessly, and refusing to give up when obstacles arise. While the journey is often far more difficult than expected, the rewards that come from pursuing a dream make the effort worthwhile. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that persistence, preparation, and passion can transform a simple idea into something extraordinary. For more information about Michael Tove, Emerald Oak Productions, and to watch Yard Sale-ing, visit his official website.#MichaelTove #YardSaleing #NeilHaleyShow #CelebrityInterviewsLiveFromTheGrotto #IndependentFilm #Filmmaking #Screenwriting #FilmFestival #EricRoberts #ElizaRoberts #Storytelling #AwardWinningFilm #Producer #Director #Actor #EmeraldOakProductions #ShortFilm #FilmIndustry #CreativeSuccess #GrowthLabsPodcast

In this entertaining episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley sits down with musician, actor, writer, and filmmaker Hobart to discuss his upcoming comedy feature film I Am Ryan. The conversation explores Hobart’s fascinating journey through the entertainment industry, from performing in bands and touring internationally to acting in national commercials and eventually creating his own feature film inspired by years of being compared to Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds.Growing up in central Illinois surrounded by farmland and small-town life, Hobart always dreamed of building a career in music. In 2012, he made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles and pursue those ambitions full-time. Like many artists who relocate to Hollywood, he quickly discovered that success often requires adaptability, persistence, and a willingness to explore opportunities beyond the original plan.While music remained his primary focus, Hobart soon found himself auditioning for commercials during downtime between musical projects. What started as an experiment quickly became a successful second career. Over the years, he landed campaigns with major brands including Walmart, Microsoft, ZipRecruiter, and numerous others. These experiences helped him become comfortable in front of the camera while providing valuable insight into the entertainment industry.Throughout the interview, Hobart reflects on his extensive music career. He shares stories about performing on the iconic Vans Warped Tour, touring across the United States and internationally, and playing more than a thousand live performances throughout his career. His music has also been featured in major media projects including Deadpool: The Video Game, Rock Band, MTV productions, ESPN broadcasts, and additional television and gaming properties. These accomplishments established Hobart as a versatile creative talent long before he stepped into filmmaking.The centerpiece of the discussion is Hobart’s new comedy feature, I Am Ryan. The film is inspired by a unique reality that Hobart has experienced for years: people constantly telling him that he looks like Ryan Reynolds. Friends, strangers, casting directors, and entertainment professionals have repeatedly pointed out the resemblance. Instead of ignoring the comparisons, Hobart decided to turn them into a comedic concept.The story follows Brian Reynolds, an ordinary man who happens to look remarkably similar to Ryan Reynolds. After being discovered by a questionable manager looking to capitalize on the resemblance, Brian suddenly finds himself navigating bizarre situations, questionable promotional appearances, and opportunities that blur the line between reality and mistaken identity. The result is a comedy that combines satire, celebrity culture, and absurd humor while exploring the unexpected consequences of looking like one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.Hobart explains that the original idea for I Am Ryan first came to him in 2017. Although he loved the concept immediately, bringing it to life required years of planning, development, networking, and persistence. Eventually, he connected with producer Carl Jackson, who immediately recognized the potential of the project. Together they assembled the team necessary to move the film into production, ultimately filming the movie in 2025.Neil and Hobart spend considerable time discussing the realities of independent filmmaking. Unlike major studio productions with massive budgets and resources, independent films require creators to wear multiple hats. Hobart not only stars in the film but also wrote, produced, and helped oversee many aspects of the project. He shares how challenging—but rewarding—it was to transform a simple idea into a completed feature film.The conversation also highlights the importance of modern marketing in entertainment. Hobart reveals that he has been running a humorous social media campaign aimed directly at Ryan Reynolds himself. Through funny videos, creative posts, and playful tagging, Hobart hopes to eventually get the attention of the actor who unknowingly inspired the film. The campaign has become an entertaining extension of the movie's overall concept and has helped generate excitement among potential audiences.Music remains an important component of the project as well. Drawing from his extensive musical background, Hobart composed and developed portions of the film’s soundtrack. He explains that creating music for the film presented a different set of challenges than acting because every scene required a specific emotional tone. The soundtrack ultimately became another creative outlet that allowed him to bring his artistic vision fully to life.Throughout the interview, Hobart emphasizes the importance of remaining open to opportunities. His career path demonstrates how one opportunity can lead to another. What started as a dream of becoming a musician eventually expanded into acting, commercial work, screenwriting, producing, and filmmaking. Rather than limiting himself to a single identity, he embraced each opportunity as it appeared.One of the most valuable lessons Hobart shares is the importance of time. While discussing balancing creative projects, family responsibilities, and business opportunities, he explains that time is ultimately the most valuable resource anyone has. Learning how to manage it effectively has become one of the keys to his success.As the conversation concludes, Neil and Hobart reflect on how rewarding it is to see a long-term creative vision finally become reality. After years of development, I Am Ryan is poised to introduce audiences to a hilarious story born from a real-life coincidence. For Hobart, the film represents far more than a comedy—it represents years of persistence, creativity, and believing in an unconventional idea.Fans of independent film, comedy, music, and creative entrepreneurship will find inspiration in Hobart’s journey. His story serves as a reminder that success often comes from embracing what makes you unique and finding creative ways to turn it into an opportunity.For updates on I Am Ryan, upcoming appearances, and future projects, follow Hobart on social media and stay tuned for the film's release.#IAmRyan #Hobart #RyanReynolds #NeilHaleyShow #CelebrityInterviewsLiveFromTheGrotto #IndependentFilm #ComedyMovie #Actor #Musician #Filmmaker #Screenwriter #Producer #Hollywood #MovieRelease #Entertainment #FilmIndustry #CreativeEntrepreneur #ComedyFilm #MovieFans #IndieFilm

In this heartwarming episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomed entrepreneur, animal advocate, and television personality Ron King, better known today as “The Donkey King.” What began as a conversation about a unique television series quickly became an inspiring story about reinvention, purpose, compassion, and discovering what truly brings joy in life. Ron King’s life today looks nothing like the life he once lived. Before becoming one of the nation’s most recognized donkey rescuers, Ron was a highly successful publishing executive who served as the publisher of InStyle magazine. His career placed him at the center of the fashion industry, attending exclusive events, sitting front row at major fashion shows, and working alongside some of the biggest names in media and entertainment. It was a world of glamour, luxury, and prestige that many people dream about. Yet despite his professional accomplishments, life would eventually lead him in an entirely unexpected direction. As Ron explained during the interview, everything changed during a difficult period in his life. After leaving Time Inc., he expected his experience and accomplishments would naturally open doors to another executive position. Instead, he discovered firsthand the challenges that many professionals face later in their careers. At fifty years old, he found that opportunities were no longer appearing as easily as they once had. Combined with the uncertainty and isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ron found himself struggling emotionally and searching for a new sense of purpose. That purpose arrived in the most unlikely way possible—a TikTok video.While scrolling online, Ron stumbled across a video showing donkeys being sold through livestock auctions and ultimately sent to slaughter. The discovery shocked him. He had never considered the plight of donkeys before and began researching the issue. What he learned changed his life forever. Rather than simply feeling sympathy, he decided to take action. Despite having absolutely no background in animal rescue, farming, veterinary care, or donkey ownership, he committed himself to creating a sanctuary dedicated to saving these animals. Looking back, Ron laughs at the fact that he launched a rescue operation before he had ever even met a donkey. After creating a business plan, securing funding, and establishing the foundation for the organization, he suddenly realized he should probably spend some time around the animals he intended to save. His first three rescued donkeys—Goose, Pickles, and Shadow—arrived in December 2020. Those three animals remain part of the sanctuary today and helped ignite a passion that continues to drive Ron’s mission. What followed was one of the most dramatic personal transformations imaginable.Over the past five years, Ron has rescued approximately 450 donkeys, creating a thriving nonprofit organization known as Oscar’s Place. What began as a personal mission evolved into a nationally recognized sanctuary dedicated to providing care, rehabilitation, and adoption opportunities for donkeys rescued from neglect, abandonment, and slaughter pipelines. Today, the sanctuary is home to approximately 220 donkeys spread across two separate properties, each receiving individualized care and attention. The success of Oscar’s Place eventually attracted media attention. A feature segment on CBS introduced Ron’s story to a wider audience and generated an astonishing response. During the brief television appearance, the sanctuary received approximately $200,000 in donations. The experience opened Ron’s eyes to the power of storytelling and television as tools for raising awareness and support for animal rescue efforts. That exposure planted the seed for what would eventually become The Donkey King television series.However, creating the show proved far more challenging than expected. Ron explained that many television networks wanted a traditional reality show built around conflict, drama, arguments, and sensationalism. Producers frequently suggested emphasizing controversy and confrontation, elements that dominate much of modern reality television. Ron refused. His goal was never to create conflict for entertainment. Instead, he wanted to share joy, compassion, hope, and the remarkable stories of the animals he was saving. Eventually, he found the right partners and launched The Donkey King, a series airing on ABC stations nationwide. The program focuses on the individual stories of rescued donkeys, the volunteers and caregivers who support them, and the emotional journeys that unfold throughout the rescue process. Rather than relying on manufactured drama, the show highlights genuine moments of compassion, healing, and transformation. Viewers are introduced to donkeys that survived incredible hardships and witness firsthand how love and care can completely change an animal’s life. The emotional impact of the series has been significant. While many viewers find themselves shedding tears during episodes, Ron emphasizes that those tears often come from feelings of hope rather than sadness. The stories remind audiences that even in difficult circumstances, positive outcomes are possible when people choose compassion and action. During the interview, Ron also discussed what makes donkeys so unique. Many people assume donkeys are similar to horses, but Ron explained that they possess entirely different personalities. In fact, he believes donkeys have more in common with dogs than horses. They are highly social, affectionate, curious, intelligent, and emotionally connected to the people who care for them. Unlike horses, which can often be skittish or reactive, donkeys tend to be thoughtful and deliberate. They form deep bonds with humans and thrive on interaction and companionship. The sanctuary also operates a carefully managed adoption program. While Ron admits that every adoption is emotionally difficult because he becomes attached to the animals, he recognizes that finding loving forever homes is part of the mission. Potential adopters must meet strict requirements, including adequate acreage, proper facilities, and a commitment to lifelong care. Since donkeys can live forty years or longer, adoption requires a significant long-term commitment. Perhaps the most profound moment of the conversation came when Neil asked his signature question: What is the most important thing life has taught you?Ron’s answer reflected the wisdom gained through his dramatic career and life transformation. He explained that he eventually learned there is a critical difference between things people enjoy and things that bring genuine joy. For years, he filled his life with accomplishments, experiences, and luxuries that he enjoyed, yet he often felt disconnected and unfulfilled. It wasn’t until he discovered a mission rooted in service and compassion that he experienced true joy. Through rescuing donkeys and helping animals in need, he found a sense of purpose far deeper than anything he had experienced in his previous career. Today, Ron King’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to reinvent yourself, pursue a meaningful purpose, and make a difference in the lives of others. What started as a chance encounter with a TikTok video evolved into a rescue movement, a successful nonprofit organization, and a television series that continues inspiring audiences across the country. Most importantly, it has created a second chapter filled with compassion, fulfillment, and genuine joy—for both Ron and the hundreds of donkeys whose lives have been forever changed because of his commitment.

In this special simulcast episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomed acclaimed actor, choreographer, director, and Broadway veteran Christopher Windom for an in-depth conversation about his extraordinary career in theater, dance, film, and education. From performing on Broadway to choreographing major productions and feature films, Windom shared the journey that transformed a young boy with endless energy into one of the most respected creative professionals in the performing arts industry today. Christopher explained that his artistic journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, where his parents encouraged him to channel his energy into productive activities. Dance ultimately became the outlet that captured his imagination and provided him with focus, discipline, and purpose. At a time when male dancers often faced stereotypes and criticism, Windom pushed through the challenges because he recognized the value that dance brought to his life. Beyond movement itself, dance taught him responsibility, confidence, and perseverance while providing a sense of belonging that would remain with him throughout his career. After years of training and studying musical theater in college, Windom made the leap to New York City. Like many aspiring performers, he arrived with dreams of making it on Broadway. Unlike many, however, success came surprisingly quickly. Within weeks of arriving in New York, auditions began turning into callbacks and callbacks became professional opportunities. Windom credits much of that success to maintaining structure and discipline in his life. Rather than waiting for opportunities to appear, he created his own daily curriculum of dance classes, acting lessons, and voice training, ensuring he was always prepared when opportunities arrived. One of his earliest major professional accomplishments came with the national tour of Damn Yankees. The experience held special significance because he had seen the production as a student and boldly declared that he would someday perform in it. That dream became reality when he earned a place in the touring company. The opportunity validated years of hard work and reinforced the importance of persistence, preparation, and believing in one's goals even before they seem achievable. Windom's Broadway career continued to grow through productions such as Fosse, where he worked alongside legendary theater figures including Ann Reinking, Chita Rivera, Gwen Verdon, and Bebe Neuwirth. Sharing the stage and rehearsal room with such iconic performers provided invaluable mentorship and insight. The experience taught him not only about performance excellence but also about professionalism, storytelling, and the collaborative nature of theater. Working with artists of that caliber helped shape his understanding of what it means to create meaningful work that resonates with audiences. As his career evolved, Windom found himself increasingly drawn toward choreography. While many performers focus exclusively on their own role, he discovered a passion for shaping entire productions through movement and storytelling. Rather than viewing choreography as a position of authority, he viewed it as a responsibility to support other artists and help tell a larger story. His ability to communicate, collaborate, and inspire performers naturally led him into leadership roles within productions. Over time, choreography became as important to his identity as performing itself. That transition eventually opened doors beyond the stage. Windom had the opportunity to contribute choreography to the MGM feature film Respect, the acclaimed biographical drama chronicling the life and career of Aretha Franklin. Working in film presented an entirely different creative environment compared to live theater. Unlike stage productions that exist only in the moment, film preserves artistic work permanently. Windom described the experience as both exciting and rewarding, appreciating the opportunity to contribute to a project that will continue reaching audiences for generations. The conversation then shifted to one of his latest projects: choreographing The Wizard of Oz for the Tony Award-winning Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis. Collaborating with director Rick Dildine, Windom helped create a fresh interpretation of the beloved classic. Rather than simply recreating the iconic film, the production embraces new visual and storytelling approaches while preserving the timeless themes that audiences love. Decisions involving costumes, movement, character presentation, and staging were all made through a collaborative creative process designed to make the production feel both familiar and excitingly new. One aspect of the production that Windom particularly enjoys is working with a cast that combines young performers with experienced professionals. He emphasized the importance of mentorship in theater, noting that young performers often learn as much from observing experienced artists as they do from formal instruction. Throughout rehearsals, he was consistently impressed by the students' dedication, focus, and ability to absorb new material quickly. Their enthusiasm reminded him of his own early experiences and reinforced the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of artists. The discussion also explored the evolution of dance and performance in the digital age. Windom acknowledged that platforms like YouTube and social media have dramatically increased access to dance education and exposure. Young performers today can study choreography and performances from around the world instantly. However, he also noted that the ease of access can sometimes create misconceptions about the amount of training and discipline required to achieve professional success. While technology offers incredible opportunities, true mastery still requires dedication, consistency, and a commitment to continual growth. Perhaps the most powerful moment of the interview came when Neil asked Christopher what the most important lesson of his life has been. His answer was simple but profound: the power of presence. Throughout his career, he often found himself focused on future opportunities, future goals, and future successes. Over time, he realized that genuine fulfillment comes from being fully engaged in the present moment. Whether working with performers, creating choreography, or simply sharing a conversation, presence allows for deeper connection, creativity, and understanding. It is a lesson that continues to guide both his professional work and personal life. Christopher Windom's journey from a young dancer in Missouri to Broadway performer, acclaimed choreographer, film collaborator, and mentor serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and lifelong learning. Through every stage of his career, he has remained committed to artistic excellence while helping others discover and develop their own creative gifts. As he continues shaping productions, mentoring performers, and exploring new creative opportunities, his impact on the performing arts world continues to grow.

In this powerful episode of Million Dollar Minutes and The Neil Haley Show, hosts Neil Haley and Ryan August welcomed former BYU Hall of Fame linebacker, exercise physiologist, and brain health researcher Dr. Larry Carr for an eye-opening discussion about football, brain injuries, CTE, mental health, and revolutionary research that may change the future of neurological recovery.Dr. Carr's journey began on the football field. Starting at just 10 years old, he played football throughout his childhood, high school, college, and eventually professionally in Canada. While many athletes relied on physical gifts, Dr. Carr credits much of his success to preparation and intelligence. As he explained during the interview, he spent countless hours studying film and learning opponents' tendencies because he knew he couldn't rely solely on athletic ability.Despite his success, years of repetitive head impacts would eventually take a toll.As he entered his 50s and approached age 60, Dr. Carr began noticing significant cognitive and emotional changes. He described a gradual decline that affected nearly every aspect of his life. Depression, anxiety, memory issues, emotional instability, and cognitive struggles became increasingly difficult to manage. At the time, public awareness surrounding CTE and football-related brain injuries was still limited compared to today.Seeking answers, he visited neurologists who ultimately informed him that he showed signs of significant brain damage related to years of football participation. The diagnosis was devastating.Dr. Carr explained that this period represented one of the darkest chapters of his life. His relationships suffered, his marriage was strained, and he struggled to understand why he was changing so dramatically. Determined to find answers, he began researching brain injuries extensively and eventually connected with renowned CTE researcher Dr. Ann McKee in Boston.When Dr. Carr met with Dr. McKee, he hoped she might have a solution. Instead, she delivered difficult news. At the time, there were no proven treatments for CTE. Medications could potentially manage symptoms, but no therapies existed that could address the underlying neurological damage.However, Dr. McKee pointed him toward a research study being conducted through the Department of Veterans Affairs involving photobiomodulation therapy, a form of light therapy being used to help veterans suffering from brain injuries.That recommendation changed everything.Dr. Carr became the first former football player enrolled in the study. Researchers evaluated him through multiple treatment phases, including sessions using specialized light therapy devices designed to stimulate brain function and neurological repair.The results were remarkable.According to Dr. Carr, improvements appeared in nearly every category researchers measured. Depression decreased. Anxiety improved. PTSD symptoms lessened. Cognitive performance improved. Emotional stability returned. Most importantly, he regained quality of life and began feeling like himself again.He credits the treatment with saving both his marriage and his future.Inspired by these outcomes, Dr. Carr dedicated himself to studying how this technology could help others. His research eventually expanded into athletics, where he began examining the effects of repetitive head impacts on football players.One of the most important points discussed during the interview was Dr. Carr's belief that concussions alone are not the primary issue.Instead, he explained that repetitive acceleration and deceleration forces may be equally damaging. Every tackle, collision, or sudden stop causes the brain to move inside the skull. Even without a diagnosed concussion, these repetitive forces may create inflammation and neurological stress over time.To investigate further, Dr. Carr helped conduct research involving BYU football players.The findings were striking.Researchers examined players who used photobiomodulation technology and compared them to players who did not. Brain imaging revealed significant differences between the two groups. Players using the technology demonstrated healthier brain scans, reduced inflammation, and improved neurological markers by season's end. In some cases, their brains appeared healthier after the season than before it began.Meanwhile, players who did not use the technology showed increased inflammation and signs of neurological stress.The implications extend far beyond football.Dr. Carr emphasized that similar risks may affect soccer players, military veterans, firefighters, race car drivers, rodeo competitors, wrestlers, and others exposed to repetitive head movement and impact. Many people may be experiencing neurological symptoms without realizing their struggles are connected to accumulated brain trauma.The conversation also explored potential applications for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other neurological conditions.Dr. Carr noted that billions of dollars continue to be spent researching treatments for Alzheimer's and cognitive decline. While traditional pharmaceutical approaches have faced challenges, photobiomodulation may offer a completely different path forward by supporting the brain's natural healing processes.Looking ahead, his team hopes to expand studies involving retired NFL players, military veterans, and young athletes. He is particularly interested in researching adolescent mental health, believing that early intervention may help address rising rates of depression, anxiety, and emotional struggles among young people.Throughout the interview, Dr. Carr repeatedly emphasized that the goal is not simply diagnosing neurological problems but finding solutions. While awareness of CTE has grown dramatically over the past decade, many athletes and families still feel powerless when confronted with these challenges.His research offers hope that effective interventions may exist.For Dr. Larry Carr, the mission has become deeply personal. What began as a search to save himself has evolved into a commitment to helping countless others protect and restore their brain health.His story serves as both a warning about the long-term consequences of repetitive brain trauma and an inspiring example of how research, perseverance, and innovation can create new possibilities for recovery and healing.

In this fascinating episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, host Neil Haley and co-host Greg Hanna sat down with author and former covert operative Robert “Tosh” Plumlee to discuss his book Deep Cover: Shallow Graves and the extraordinary experiences that shaped his life. The conversation explored intelligence operations, Cold War history, psychological warfare, government secrecy, and Plumlee’s perspective on some of the most controversial events in modern American history.Plumlee began by sharing how his journey started at an incredibly young age. After running away from home and joining the Texas National Guard as a teenager, he learned military skills that eventually led him into special operations and intelligence-related work. He explained how he became involved with aviation training and later flew missions connected to Cuba during the late 1950s. According to Plumlee, these operations involved transporting weapons and supplies during the Cuban Revolution, placing him in situations where different geopolitical interests often collided.Throughout the discussion, Plumlee emphasized that many covert operations are far more complex than the public realizes. He described an environment where intelligence agencies, military interests, political agendas, and international conflicts frequently overlapped. He argued that history often reveals layers of activity that remain hidden for years or even decades.One of the most intriguing portions of the interview focused on psychological warfare programs and intelligence training during the Cold War era. Plumlee described specialized training exercises designed to explore human behavior, influence, perception, and persuasion. He recounted experiences involving what participants believed were demonstrations of mental influence and psychological conditioning. These exercises, he explained, were part of larger efforts to understand how communication, propaganda, and psychological operations could affect human decision-making.The conversation then shifted to the role of media and communication in modern society. Plumlee discussed the importance intelligence organizations historically placed on controlling information and communication channels during times of conflict. He argued that whoever controls information often has significant influence over public perception and behavior. According to Plumlee, psychological warfare remains relevant today, although the methods have evolved alongside technology and digital media.Greg Hanna asked Plumlee why he ultimately decided to share his story publicly after decades of silence. Plumlee responded that transparency can be a powerful form of protection. He compared hidden truths to wounds that only heal when exposed to sunlight. Over the years, he testified before government investigations and committees, believing that some aspects of history deserved public examination rather than remaining permanently hidden.The discussion also touched on historical controversies, including allegations surrounding intelligence operations, political influence, organized crime connections, and government secrecy. Plumlee expressed concerns about classified records that remain unavailable to the public and questioned why certain historical documents continue to be withheld many years after the events occurred.As the conversation continued, Plumlee reflected on broader societal issues. He spoke about the consequences of political division, hostile rhetoric, and the impact of fear-based messaging. In his view, societies that constantly promote anger and hostility risk creating environments where violence and extremism can flourish. He warned that the words leaders use can have lasting effects on individuals and communities.When asked if he feared retaliation for speaking openly about controversial subjects, Plumlee responded that he believed openness offered greater protection than silence. He suggested that sharing information publicly makes it more difficult for uncomfortable truths to disappear entirely.Near the end of the interview, Greg Hanna asked Plumlee what the most important lesson of his life had been. Reflecting on nearly nine decades of experiences, Plumlee admitted that he sometimes wished he had stepped away from certain worlds earlier. He spoke nostalgically about an America he remembered from his youth—one where patriotism, community values, and respect for national symbols were deeply ingrained in everyday life.At 88 years old, Plumlee offered a perspective shaped by decades of service, observation, and personal involvement in some of the most unusual corners of American history. Whether listeners agree with all of his conclusions or not, his stories provide a unique firsthand look into a world few people ever experience.Deep Cover: Shallow Graves, co-written with author Ralph Pezzullo, explores many of the subjects discussed during the interview. The book invites readers to examine history, question assumptions, and draw their own conclusions about the hidden forces that may have shaped significant events.This compelling conversation offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from a man whose life intersected with intelligence operations, covert missions, and historical controversies spanning multiple decades.

Neil and co-host Greg Hanna opened the Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto simulcast with Micky Dolenz of The Monkees and his daughter Amy Dolenz, talking about their new children's book Lalu Toot Toot, the second installment of Micky's Anthromythology series (following 2006's Gakky Two Feet). Micky, a lifelong science and anthropology geek inspired by the Lucy skeleton, coined the term "anthromythology" to fictionalize seminal moments in human history. Lalu Toot Toot tells the story of the first musical instrument, a Neanderthal-era bone flute, with a little boy who mimics his bird friend Fleet. Amy, who studied children's picture books and illustration at Emily Carr after years of acting, brought the story to life with watercolor illustrations as a school project that grew into a real book. She also recalled her father's Harold and Agatha stories he made up on the fly during her summer visits to England. Micky marked 60 years this week since the original Monkees TV pilot. They're aiming to do school readings next year. Visit MickyDolenz.com.Greg then joined Neil for the previously-aired Flight to London conversation with Jimmy McGorman (Goo Goo Dolls) and Robb Vallier, the veteran writer-producers (Dave Stewart, Weezer, Sabrina Carpenter) stepping out as their own act after years writing for others. They built their debut album Instructions for Losing Control on rigid creative guardrails inspired by Tears for Fears, Peter Gabriel, and Scritti Politti, calling the sound "newstalgia." The album dropped November 21 with a release party November 22 in Westlake Village; first single "No One's Forgiven" is out now at FlightToLondonMusic.com.Neil then welcomed Chad Priest, Vice President of Humanitarian Services at the American Red Cross, to mark Giving Tuesday and the holiday season. Chad shared that the Red Cross distributed roughly $124 million in financial assistance to families in 2025, with nearly 90 percent of its workforce made up of volunteers. Home fires are by far the most common disaster (one every eight minutes nationally, with a 20 percent spike during the holidays), responded to in red vests by neighbors offering hugs, blankets, financial help, food, and clothing. Chad also reminded listeners the Red Cross connects military families overseas and supplies life-saving blood transfusions. Donate or schedule blood at RedCross.org, and consider gifts in someone's honor or memory.Neil then welcomed actress and mom Tori Spelling and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Adam Friedman to discuss eczema awareness through the Free To Be Me campaign with Arcutis. Tori shared how her own eczema emerged in adulthood during the stress of her first divorce, forcing production shutdowns and wardrobe changes, and how her 17-year-old daughter Stella has lived with eczema since childhood (often bullied at school over visible patches). After years of failed over-the-counter products, oatmeal baths, and concerns over steroid creams, their dermatologist recommended Zoryve (roflumilast 0.15% cream), a steroid-free, once-daily, non-greasy treatment that worked for both. Dr. Friedman explained eczema is a clinical diagnosis (no blood test or biopsy), often runs alongside asthma and seasonal allergies, and stressed steroid phobia is a real treatment barrier. Side effects of Zoryve can include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and application-site pain. Tori is also hosting her podcast Miss Spelling and 9021-OMG with Jennie Garth. Visit Zoryve.com.Neil closed with the Ultimate Men's Movement simulcast featuring Dr. Jack Rocco, marking Men's Health Awareness Month. Dr. Jack addressed the cultural problem of men neglecting their own health (often more attentive to their lawnmower than their body), the way men drop out of the gym in their 20s and 30s as families and careers take over, and why a strong preventive approach with men's healthcare beats the runaway cost of treating disease later. Visit TheUltimateMensClinic.com.

Neil opened the Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto simulcast with Rhonda Shear of USA Up All Night fame, who shared the full-circle story of her 23-year-old Rhonda Shear Intimates business (still on HSN with the iconic Ahh Bra at 35 million units sold) and the reboot of Up All Night with Kings of Horror on YouTube (1.5 million subscribers). After being approached at FrankenCon in Knoxville, Rhonda and her husband converted their second St. Petersburg warehouse into a full media studio and partnered with European film distributor Blue Sky in Prague to produce the new show, going to regular every-other-week production in January. She's bringing in regulars like John Brennan and Yuki of Joe Bob Briggs' The Last Drive-In, planning a January wrestling-themed show (Hollywood from GLOW and Nick Nemeth are in the mix), and reaching out to celebrities for cameos. Catch the Thanksgiving special November 22 at KingsOfHorror.com and visit RhondaShearUpAllNight.com.Neil and co-host Greg Hanna then welcomed Cedella Marley, Bob Marley's daughter and executive producer of Bob Marley Hope Road, the first-of-its-kind immersive entertainment experience at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Cedella described how the production weaves live performance, multi-sensory environments, and remixed Marley tracks (over 1,000 five-star reviews and counting) to bring her father's message of One Love, peace, hope, and revolution to audiences of all ages. The show features Bob's grandchildren Shasa Payne (Steve's daughter) and Zuri (Ziggy's daughter) as DJs after a real audition process. Closing on a note of hope amid disasters in Jamaica, the Philippines, and Haiti, she sang One Love with Greg. Visit HopeRoad.com.Neil then welcomed toy industry expert Elizabeth Werner for a sneak peek at this year's hottest holiday picks, warning that limited inventory means parents should shop early and comparison-shop. Her highlighted toys included the Bitzee Hamster Ball (digital pet for ages 5+), the Toniebox 2 screen-free audio player at $139.99 (over eight million original units sold, now with Tonie Play games and a sunrise alarm for ages 1-9), the Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Mix and Learn DJ Table for ages 6-36 months, and the Mi Robotic Pet Coding Chameleon (a Toy of the Year finalist that teaches kids to code screen-free). Visit WernerInfo.com.Neil then welcomed bestselling author and finance expert Nicole Lapin and PayPal's Michelle Gill to talk holiday cash-flow strategy. With cash flow as the number one holiday-budgeting stressor, they walked through PayPal's Buy Now Pay Later, which offers no interest or fees on Pay in 4 purchases from $30 to $1,500, transparent set repayment schedules, 90 percent approval rates, and (for a limited time through December 8) 20 percent cashback. Visit PayPal.com/BuyNowPayLater.Chef David Rose of Omaha Steaks then joined Neil to share Thanksgiving prep tips: thaw the turkey three to four days ahead, make desserts like cheesecake and bread pudding in advance, plan a timed oven schedule, and let Omaha Steaks fill the menu with pre-baked apple tartlets, garlic mashed potatoes, au gratin potatoes, green beans, and USDA Certified Tender filet mignon. David is hosting 70 Jamaicans potluck-style in Georgia this year. Visit OmahaSteaks.com and ChefDavidRose.com.Neil closed with the Triple G Podcast simulcast featuring Greg Sharp, with updates across Greg's three ventures. Radiate TV is now bringing podcasts onto its streaming platform with day-one monetization, marketing dollars driving organic discovery, and new ad-fill partnerships to maximize creator payouts. The World Series of Arm Wrestling just wrapped its best finals yet in San Diego with Harley-Davidson and Sheraton, with Rockwell Watches returning and prize money jumping toward the $80,000-$85,000 mark for season five (finals November 7, 2026). Ready Set Go Distribution has new investment partners funding independent filmmakers and expanded conversations with Disney, ESPN, Hulu, and FX. Follow @GreggXFS on Instagram.

The Neil Haley Show Featuring Jimmy Button, Eddie Jackson, JoAnne S. Bass, Jennifer Eskew, Dr. Taz, and Ed Lyon



Neil opened with former Supercross star Jimmy Button to discuss Pay Dirt: The Story of Supercross, the new documentary out on VOD. Jimmy traced his path from riding dirt bikes at age 2 and racing at 5 (his dad owned a motorcycle dealership) to the top of the AMA Supercross series, before a catastrophic 2000 San Diego practice crash broke his neck and left him a quadriplegic. After a miraculous recovery, he co-founded the Road 2 Recovery Foundation to support riders facing similar injuries with therapies, home remodels, and rehabilitation help. He explained how Supercross fills NFL stadiums coast-to-coast for 17 sold-out rounds a year. Visit Road2Recovery.com.Neil then welcomed NFL alum turned Food Network star Eddie Jackson, who teamed up with Bota Box this football season to elevate the tailgate beyond burgers and beer with three wine-paired wing recipes: oven-roasted herb wings tossed in white wine sauce paired with Bota Box Pinot Grigio, fried harissa-garlic wings paired with Sauvignon Blanc, and tandoori-grilled wings with garam masala paired with the Bota Box Revolution red blend. Eddie shared how he transitioned from football to catering, food trucks, the Rose Hill Beer Garden in Houston, and winning Food Network Star nine years ago. Visit BotaBox.com/football.Neil then welcomed retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, the 19th CMSAF and first woman to serve as senior enlisted leader of a U.S. military service, for Military Family Month. Chief Bass identified the key strengths veterans bring to the workforce (strong work ethic, adaptability, problem-solving, resilience) and emphasized that with over 200,000 service members transitioning every year, communities and companies need a whole-of-society approach. Now an advisor to PMI US, she pointed listeners to a new white paper at USPMI.com outlining how organizations can connect veterans to opportunities and care. Neil shared his board role with VetSOS and the importance of a strong transition story.Neil and co-host Sherrie Price Clark of Storehouse Media then welcomed retired ATF special agent Jennifer Eskew, who returned to discuss the 24th anniversary of 9/11 and her upcoming memoir Becoming Fire (foreword by Lieutenant Joe Kenda). Jennifer honored eight ATF colleagues lost to 9/11-related illness: Billy Sheldon, Cesar Santana, Chris Behan, Rick Price, Jerome Gant, Greg Baker, Larry Sanders, and most recently Frank Malter. She shared how 63 ATF agents arrived at the Pentagon hours after the attack, and remembered Peggy Hurt, a Kenbridge, Virginia neighbor who died in the Pentagon two weeks into her Army accounting job. Jennifer spearheaded a memorial in Kenbridge dedicated to victims of terrorism, war, and violence. Visit StorehouseMediaGroup.com.Neil then welcomed Dr. Taz (Tasneem Bhatia, MD), board-certified physician and host of the Hol+ Podcast, for a conversation on gut health as "ground zero" for whole-body wellness. Dr. Taz walked through the spectrum from poor nutrient absorption to mild inflammation (rashes, joint pain, allergies) to autoimmune disease and hormone disruption when gut health goes unchecked. She emphasized leafy greens, fermented foods, 40 grams of fiber a day, and hydration, plus high-quality supplementation, recommending Metagenics' two-in-one UltraFlora Probiotic Plus Multivitamin. Visit Metagenics.com.Neil closed with The Lyon Share Podcast simulcast featuring tax strategist Ed Lyon, broadcasting from his Certified Tax and Business Advisor class at Turfway Park in Northern Kentucky. Ed brought three students into the conversation: retired Army Colonel Ken Ring, a CPA new to tax planning; Earl Hardy, an eight-year financial services professional; and Paul Chen, an enrolled agent and real estate tax strategist. They discussed how this advanced strategy menu goes far beyond what most CPAs and attorneys know, and the importance of identifying clients whose tax pain outweighs their resistance to change.

Neil opened with New Zealand actor Te Kohe Tuhaka, who stars opposite Jason Momoa in Apple TV+'s epic series Chief of War as Namake, the middle brother to Momoa's Ka'iana (and Momoa's actual ancestor in the story). Te Kohe shared how he started acting in high school in New Zealand 22 years ago at the urging of an iconic Kiwi actress, traced New Zealand's thriving production industry (Minecraft, Avatar, and Chief of War partly shot there), and described the unforgettable moment standing back-to-back with Momoa on a lava field before an action sequence Momoa himself directed. He praised Apple TV+'s commitment to scale and production quality (citing See as another example) and called the show a chance for Hawaiians to see their pre-unification history under King Kamehameha on a global platform. Chief of War is streaming on Apple TV+; follow Te Kohe at @TKTuhaka on Instagram.The Talk Nutrition simulcast with co-host Kelly Springer then welcomed communications strategist, keynote speaker, and bestselling author Eliza VanCort, founder of the Actor's Workshop of Ithaca and a Cook House Fellow at Cornell University. Eliza shared her circuitous journey from a tough childhood (where she conflated invisibility with safety) through law school, acting school, and a traumatic brain injury after being hit by a texting driver while on her bike, which forced her to rebuild her communication "brick by brick." She walked through Meisner-technique-based insights on physical communication (the power of not moving your head, getting quiet to lift an idea, observing the minutiae of human behavior) and connected nutrition, posture, and stamina to confident communication, mirroring Kelly's behavior-change approach to reversing type 2 diabetes and other conditions. Her book A Woman's Guide to Claiming Space covers everything from imposter syndrome to anti-mentors to boundary-setting, and her produced film Stationed at Home (set in Binghamton, New York) just landed distribution per Variety and is available for preorder on Apple. Visit ElizaVanCort.com and KellysChoice.org.Neil then welcomed Dr. Jack Rocco of the Ultimate Men's Movement for a deep dive into non-pharmacologic and regenerative treatments for erectile dysfunction. Dr. Jack walked through platelet-rich plasma (PRP), explaining how spinning down a patient's own blood concentrates the platelets and healing factors that drive collagen formation and tissue revitalization. He covered PRP applications including knee arthritis (which he uses on himself after three prior knee procedures), Dr. Charles Runels' Vampire Facial popularized by Kim Kardashian, the P-Shot for erectile function injected into the corpus cavernosum, and the O-Shot for female arousal, lubrication, and stress urinary incontinence by adding collagen support around the urethra. He then introduced the PiezoWave shock wave device used for calcific tendonitis (plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow) and to break up calcific plaque in penile arteries, typically delivered as a 12-treatment program three times a week for four weeks. His closing philosophy: health span over lifespan, and "if you're healthy and horny, you're healthy." Visit TheUltimateMensClinic.com.Neil closed with the No Sleeve Nation Podcast simulcast featuring host Jason Seal, working through the apparel design vote for the brand's first men's shirt drop. The frontrunners are a Stranger Things-themed sleeveless, a black-and-gold Pittsburgh design, a skull design, and a steel-themed mill design, with the possibility of an NSN 316 nod to Stone Cold nostalgia. Women's tank designs (cropped, racerback, tie styles) drop next week, with kids' shirts following. A vote will go to the fans, then pre-orders launch.