This episode was supposed to be about education.
It turned into a long, winding, honest conversation about growing up Southern, malls as social centers, life without air conditioning, aging bodies, faith, comedy, celebrities, grief, golf, gyms, and the strange moments that make you wonder if the universe is paying attention.
This week on Here’s What We Know, we sit down with Bryan Thomas Wetzel, author, gym owner, former TV host, lifelong entrepreneur, and a guy who somehow shares about 90 percent of my life experiences, just arranged in a slightly different order.
No debates, no shouting. Just stories, curiosity, laughter, and the kind of conversation you don’t want to rush. Pull up a chair. This one wanders in the best way. Tune in now!
This episode is sponsored by:
In This Episode:
- Small towns, big heat, and why Chick-fil-A used to only exist in malls
- Playing golf with men in their 90s who can still stripe it
- What happens when celebrities disappoint you (and when they don’t)
- Why radio people are wired differently
- Aging, fitness, and the moment your goals shift from “looking good” to “staying alive”
- Faith, doubt, near-death stories, and moments that don’t fit neat explanations
- Why kindness from strangers sometimes arrives at exactly the right time
Quotations:
“Celebrities have the ability to make someone’s day or their week just by saying nice to meet you. You don’t have to do anything more than that.” ~ Bryan Wetzel
“Generally speaking, a lot of people have trouble talking when they think people are judging them.” ~ Bryan Wetzel
Bio:
Bryan Wetzel is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and media professional with more than 30 years of experience launching and leading companies across education, fitness, hospitality, and media. He has founded multiple successful businesses, two of which were acquired by larger enterprises.
He is the author of The Real Problems Destroying Education (2024), inspired by his work with school administrators and district leaders while leading Skubes, an education startup recognized by Dig South as a top education company prior to its acquisition in 2017. His most recent book, A Path to Faith Through Science and Common Sense (2025), explores belief, reason, and lived experience.
Brian currently owns and operates The Local Gym in Georgia and Texas and previously founded Cedarcrest Grill, which was sold in 2022. Earlier in his career, he built and ran a production company for over two decades, working in television, film, and live events, including projects tied to the 1996 Olympic Games. His work has earned 16 national and international awards.
He now writes on Substack and continues exploring entrepreneurship, faith, health, and creativity through writing and conversation.
Guest Contact Info:
Website: https://www.bryanthomaswetzel.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/onefourtwo/
Substack: https://bryanwetzel.substack.com/