author

Jan 15

Craig Allen Cooper

By Chrissy Bernal Author, Community, Faith, Podcast No Comments

This episode of Here’s What We Know is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to miss. Our host Gary Scott Thomas welcomes back return guest Craig Allen Cooper for an inspiring conversation that spans life’s joys, struggles, and unexpected surprises! Tune in now, and let this episode remind you of the beauty in life’s twists and turns, the power of faith, perseverance, and community.

Yep, he’s that guy Walker Hayes wrote about. You can listen to our first conversation with Craig here: https://garyscottthomas.com/craig-allen-cooper/

This episode is sponsored by:

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In this Episode:

Craig Cooper’s son’s incredible journey to NYU’s Clive Davis Institute
A raw and honest discussion about navigating a faith crisis
The inspiring story behind Walker Hayes’ song “Craig”
Insights into the art of preaching
Life lessons and reflections on God’s mysterious plan
An unforgettable mission trip to Rwanda with Hope International

Quotations:

“Scriptures are just filled with so much wisdom. That’s why I make it practice to try to just continually read through the scriptures. And because I need it, it’s like daily bread man; man doesn’t live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” ~ Craig Allen Cooper

“Walker shares his story, shares his testimony before he sings the song, Craig, in every concert. And I mean, he’s done that. It’s packed stadium like the Houston rodeo had 70,000 people and they packed that out and he’s sharing with all these people about Jesus through the story of our friendship.” ~ Craig Allen Cooper

“It’s not an easy thing to do it, but I believe in the power of preaching. I really do believe, I believe God speaks through what he’s spoken. I believe there’s a lot of grace that’s given in that moment and a lot of pasturing takes place through the pulpit.” ~ Craig Allen Cooper

“It’s a privilege for us to have the word of God and then to be able to read it in the morning and meditate on it throughout the day and listen to it preached.” ~ Craig Allen Cooper

Bio:

Craig Allen Cooper is a USA Today bestselling author and keynote speaker. He co-wrote the book “Glad You’re Here” with Grammy-nominated country singer and songwriter Walker Hayes. “Glad You’re Here” instantly became a Publisher’s Weekly, ECPA, and USA Today national bestseller and has been featured on The Today Show, People Magazine, The 700 Club, Jesus Calling, and Family Life Radio, as well as various other news sources, radio and television programs, and podcasts, including That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs and Dream Big with Bob Goff.

Craig served as one of the founding pastors of Redeeming Grace Church in Franklin, Tennessee, and is the founder of Glad You’re Here Ministries. He is the subject of the song “Craig” by Walker Hayes, and he resides in the greater Nashville area with his lovely wife, Laura, and their four kids.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://www.craigallencooper.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigallencooper/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/craigallencooper/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigallencooper/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@craigallencooper

Dec 18

Love15

Michael S. Gutter

By Chrissy Bernal Author, Community, Podcast No Comments

This week on Here’s What We Know, get ready for a fiery and thought-provoking episode as we sit down with Jewish historian and author Michael S. Gutter to dive into his powerful book, Never Again Still Means Never Again. Tackling racism, anti-Semitism, and the societal complacency that allows hate to persist, Mike brings his bold, unapologetic voice to the conversation, delivering a message filled with passion, insight, and hope for a brighter future.

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

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

In this Episode:

Antisemitism in Modern Society: How it manifests today and why we need to address it head-on.
Lessons from History: What Hitler’s rise to power teaches us about the dangers of ignorance and indifference.
Debunking Nazi Myths: Revealing hidden truths and dispelling misconceptions about Nazi Germany.
The Evolution of Political Dialogue: How shifting political landscapes affect Jewish representation and broader societal dynamics.
Righteous Anger & Humor: How to balance passion and levity when addressing difficult topics.
Dismantling Hate: Why ignorance persists despite access to information—and how we can effectively counter it.
Jewish Diplomacy & Rising Anti-Semitism: Are traditional strategies enough to combat today’s challenges?

Quotations:

“The media portrayed it one way. And I think that’s one of the things about the election, whether you like it or not.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

“If somebody wants my opinion, I’ll give it to them. If they feel there’s something incorrect in my opinion, I’m gonna look up your research.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

“Democrats have been so dumb and they’ve been so elitist that they forgot who runs the country; it’s always the middle class, it runs this country, and if you could somehow attach to them and they believe in you.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

“To kill somebody, you know, it probably isn’t easy, but you do it if you’re protecting somebody.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

“One of the worst ways you could possibly die is starvation. Like from the time you stop eating your last bite of whatever until death.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

“I’ve always said to people when they vote for president because, you know, everybody, when these presidents are in debates, they’re asked 100 questions and they have 100 answers. Okay. They’re not right on our 100, not even close.” ~ Michael S. Gutter

Bio:

Michael S. Gutter is a Jewish historian and antisemitism expert committed to dismantling hate groups and promoting justice through truth and education. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he grew up in a loving family with four sisters and found his community welcoming and respectful.

Mike’s life has been marked by diverse ventures—from co-founding one of the largest recycling companies in the U.S. to acquiring a craft soda line. His passion for writing is fueled by his love of non-fiction and a drive to confront antisemitism, inspired by both personal experiences and his struggles with OCD.

Now based in Houston, Texas, Mike continues to write and engage in creative pursuits, including a Broadway musical, a screenplay, and a sitcom. His upcoming book will explore the past, present, and future of American Jewry, aiming to inspire action and understanding.

Through meticulous research and heartfelt insight, Mike remains dedicated to addressing critical issues like racism and homophobia, hoping to empower readers to join him in spreading awareness and advocating for change.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://neveragainmeans.com/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/p/Mike-Gutter-100006726197993/

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

Nov 13

Love14

Jason Cole

By Chrissy Bernal Podcast, Professional Athlete, Sports No Comments

This week on Here’s What We Know, we’re thrilled to have Jason Cole with us, author of Shut Up, Your Kid is Not That Great. Jason’s book digs into the realities of parenting young athletes and managing those sometimes sky-high expectations. As a sports writer and a dad, Jason brings unique insights and anecdotes on raising kids to follow their dreams—without all the unnecessary pressure.

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

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

In this Episode:

Jason shares stories about the unique challenges and pressures faced by children of famous athletes.
Discover the importance of supporting kids’ dreams quietly, letting them shine without feeling the weight of the world’s expectations.
Explore what it’s like for children of sports legends who may not reach the same level of success as their parents—and why that’s perfectly okay.
- Hear examples like Jack Nicklaus’ sons, who carved their own paths instead of following directly in their dad’s footsteps.
- Listen to the story of John Elway’s father, who encouraged his son to choose between football and baseball with no pressure—just options and unwavering support.
Get a look behind the scenes at the sacrifices and pressures pro athletes endure, reminding us that every level of success brings its own unique struggles, where preparation matters as much as talent.
Uncover the value of allowing kids to choose their own paths, guiding them gently along the way, and cheering them on—wherever their journeys may lead.

Quotations:

“Most of the time, your kid is not going to be as good as you if you’re a star.” ~ Jason Cole

“You may inspire your kid to be better or in a lot of cases, they just may want to do their own thing. Like, you just never know what it’s going to be.” ~ Jason Cole

“There’s helping your kids chase a dream and then there is putting it out there in the world that they’re gonna get there and putting undue pressure on them to get that dream and to achieve that, which is unhealthy because again, you put a spotlight on them and you put pressure on them and you’re deciding their future for them. And that’s the worst case.” ~ Jason Cole

“You got to be incredibly talented, incredibly passionate to make it work. And so that’s why I say to parents, find what your kid is truly passionate about and drive them in that direction to find out what they’re passionate about.” ~ Jason Cole

“Who did you do any service for by saying your kid was gonna be this great? Are you doing that for your kid or are you doing that for you?” ~ Jason Cole

“It’s going to be about the passion, not about the dollars. The dollars only take you so far. You have to want to do what you’re doing.” ~ Jason Cole

“It’s a gladiator sport and frankly, there are some humans out there who need to play gladiator sports so they don’t become gladiators away from a field.” ~ Jason Cole

“Make kids enjoy what they’re doing. Please don’t make it about what you want to enjoy. Don’t take, don’t live their lives. Don’t live vicariously through your kids. Let them go live it.” ~ Jason Cole

“If you’re a parent, sometimes let your kids sit in a little bit of misery. That’s okay. That will determine sometimes whether they want to keep doing it or not, you know, and talk them through it.” ~ Jason Cole

Bio:

Jason Cole has covered or written about pro football since 1992. He is one of 49 selectors for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and has served as a selector since 2013. Cole has worked for publications such as Bleacher Report, Yahoo! Sports, The Miami Herald and The Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. He started his career with the Peninsula Times-Tribune in Palo Alto.

Cole has authored or co-authored eight books, including the biography of Hall of Famer John Elway (Elway: A Relentless Life), Shut Up, Your Kid is Not That Great, including a foreword by Tom Brady Sr., Giant with Plaxico Burress, Heart for the Game with Simon Keith, and Ocho Cinco with Chad Johnson. Before covering the NFL, Cole covered the NBA, Major League Baseball and high school sports in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Cole’s five-year investigation of Reggie Bush and the University of Southern California resulted in Bush becoming the only player ever to relinquish his Heisman Trophy and USC losing its 2004 national championship. Cole is a graduate of Stanford University, served as an adjunct professor in the Journalism Department at the University of Florida for 11 years, and is the father of two Eagle Scouts.

Guest Contact Info:

X: https://x.com/jasoncole62

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-cole-1330266/

Oct 09

Love15

Karen Howard

By Chrissy Bernal Author, Personal Growth, Podcast, Politics No Comments

This week on Here’s What We Know, our guest is Karen Howard, the brilliant author behind the book, Upset is Optional and Executive Director of the Organic and Natural Health Association. Listen in as she shares her wisdom on personal growth, professional journeys, and societal reflections.

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)

In this Episode:

Meet Karen Howard as a powerhouse in natural health advocacy and an insightful author aiming to help us control our reactions to life’s challenges.
Discover the essence of Upset is Optional, focusing on maintaining control over one’s reactions.
Explore parenting insights deeply tied to overcoming adversity.
Hear how 9/11 significantly pivoted Karen’s career trajectory.
Learn life lessons & parenting tips for teaching children to follow their passions rather than societal expectations.
Dive into Karen’s extensive involvement in government policy-making.
Understand how political engagement has evolved with an emphasis on voting knowledgeably about candidates and issues.
Learn the value of open-mindedness in decision-making processes & educate oneself to actively participate in democratic processes and remain open to evolving perspectives.

Quotations:

“When things happen to you, you learn from them and then you have a choice. You can either carry it with you as pain your entire life. And I was not the love child, I was the accident child. You make that story up or you can flip it around and you can create a totally different story. And it’s really all within your power.” ~ Karen Howard

“I succeed when I love my work and when I know that I’m serving seven generations.” ~ Karen Howard

“do what you love. We say that, and I don’t know if we really mean it or if we’re helping them understand what that means. Because I could love to eat ice cream all day long and that really wouldn’t serve any purpose.” ~ Karen Howard

“I think teaching our kids to be brave and understand themselves, they don’t always have to jump. They’ve got good advisors, their parents are there to help, is something we need to be more mindful of instead of go get your degree, get your graduate degree, then you’re gonna make a six-figure income, you’re gonna buy the house. Those expectations can cause a lot of stuff.” ~ Karen Howard

“Expectations are really the original form of all suffering.” ~ Karen Howard

“Being able to figure out how to be your best self and what might be holding you back, you know, in terms of all the things that we get upset about now. Are they really worth the effort?” ~ Karen Howard

“I think that politics has always been, it’s a sport, know, and I think people forget that. The difference I think now is that the stakes are so incredibly high and people are so connected that they, for probably more than any other time in our history, feel like they have a vested interest in it. So that’s the good side, you know, that people are getting upset and actually awake instead of not voting.” ~ Karen Howard

“Don’t vote just because of TikTok.” ~ Karen Howard

“People need to be more judicious in what they read and what they learn and in their effort to be participants.” ~ Karen Howard

“Being an observer and being able to pick and choose where you want to insert ‘X word’ is wise and sometimes it’s just better not to say anything.” ~ Karen Howard

“ It’s real that these people lived, breathed and what happened to them is part of our DNA. And I love that. I love that story. And that I have the ability to leave a legacy not in what is in my will, but through my work, through my kids, and through their kids, that to me is meaningful and that’s reason to be on the planet and even to continue to vote.” ~ Karen Howard

Bio:

Originally from Springfield, MO, Karen spent the last 40 living years in Washington,DC working as Congressional Committee staff, lobbying for health care issues, and working for a variety of professional and trade associations. She have experienced a monumental shift in her outlook since the fateful events of 9/11 in 2001. This cataclysmic event left an indelible mark on her sensibilities, prompting her to seek a more purposeful existence. Thus commenced her extraordinary journey towards healing and self-discovery.

For a decade, Karen collaborated closely with naturopathic physicians, leading the way as their Executive Director. She ventured to Ecuador, immersing herself in the wisdom of native healers.

It was during that time that she was introduced to Bob Duggan, the visionary behind Tai Sophia acupuncture school. Pursuing a master’s degree under his tutelage, Karen learned to cultivate a state of well-being through mindful language and actions.

Karen invites you to explore Bob’s final body of work—an enlightening collection of ten practices that have empowered her to navigate life’s tumultuous waters with grace and bid farewell to unnecessary suffering. The stories she shares are intended to guide you in honing your ability to listen to your body, adjust your response to external influences, and experience your power to shift how you respond to what we commonly refer to as stress. Karen’s sincerest wish is that you derive immense benefit from Bob’s teachings and tap into the profound wisdom residing within your own body. Remember, upset truly is optional.