
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
