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.
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.
This week on the Here’s What We Know Podcast, join us in this heartfelt and candid episode where we welcome back the multi-talented country artist and family man, Walker Hayes. Dive into an intimate conversation about life, parenting, and the journey through success and failure.
For anyone looking for inspiration and a refreshing perspective on what really counts in life, this episode has profound wisdom that will surely resonate with everyone! Tune in now!
How Walker balances making music, preparing for tours, and being an active father.
His approach to parenting that focuses on creating moments rather than material success.
The impact of losing his father in 2021 and how it has shaped his views on appreciating the small things in life.
The importance of teaching kids resilience through efforts like trick shots illustrates that success often comes after many attempts.
Why he believes the journey is more important than reaching a destination or achieving traditional markers of success.
An honest discussion about discipline, setting examples as parents, and having tough but necessary conversations with children for their long-term benefit.
A touching moment where Walker shares a personal story about encouraging his daughter to take action towards her dreams.
Insights into how families can improve by learning out loud from each other’s mistakes openly at home.
Quotations:
“I’m not the smartest guy in the world and I try to look at the lens through a kind of backward, view of like, you know, life’s pretty short.” ~ Walker Hayes
“One thing I want to do is set up my kids for success. And I don’t mean that as like to make money or to, to make dreams, you know, I just, I think if you have kind of a level of contentment and confidence as you walk through life and you are able to focus on moments and not the past or the future, it’s a very, it’s an asset, to society.” ~ Walker Hayes
“My point is I feel like just seconds on the clock with my kids might be one of the best things I can give them.” ~ Walker Hayes
“If you have kind of a level of contentment and confidence as you walk through life and you are able to focus on moments and not the past or the future, it’s an asset to society. It makes people around you. It makes their shoulders relax and go, Oh yeah, we’re just kind of in this life together.” ~ Walker Hayes
“So if you see me and you’re like, Oh, that dude’s a really great family guy. Trust me. It’s a daily battle. It’s a daily journey, it’s a daily reminder, like, Hey man, I want to, I need to help with these kids.” ~ Walker Hayes
“My music journey is funny. It’s like a 20-year trick shot.” ~ Walker Hayes
“When you’re doing those things in life, what it boils down to the most precious thing about it is who you’re doing it with.” ~ Walker Hayes
“Adults are no different than kids.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I don’t want to ever tell my kids what to do. I just want them to know It’s up to them, man.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I hate when I start to feel like I sound like a teacher, but I guess I’m old enough to start sounding like a teacher.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I think we’re a better family when we are humble enough to learn out loud.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I really feel like a family is like a tiny little city that God gives us.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I don’t got it all figured out. I’m actually figuring it out as I go a little bit, you know, and, But I’m trying, like, anybody got some advice? You know, anybody got some help? And I think that’s just kind of a thing that community needs, starting in the home.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I thought by the time I was 35 I’d be a freaking genius. Like I would have it, I’d have it down, but all I do is figure out, there’s more that I’m not really understanding.” ~ Walker Hayes
“Things you will not regret are a positive attitude and a hundred percent effort. And really, that’s all you can control.” ~ Walker Hayes
“Every single life that you pass, whatever eight point something billion people every day. They have someone they lost, they have a heart that’s broken, they have scars like you wouldn’t believe, they have a future like you wouldn’t believe, and then some of them are going to be gone by next Wednesday, you know, it’s just insane to think how fast, how forgotten we will be, no matter how large your life is, you know, here on Earth. It is just a stop along the way of eternity. And I feel like the more we can grasp that, the more God can allow us to see the brevity of life.” ~ Walker Hayes
“When I pick up a guitar, it’s an escape, and it’s good because it feeds the kids and it takes care of the family, but it also, steals me away from things that are more important.” ~ Walker Hayes
“I love words, man I love lyrics, and I always have since I wrote my first song as a kid.” ~ Walker Hayes
“And so songwriting, it basically is just a beautiful file cabinet that I organize each day. And the songs for me are like, they’re what I wanted to say. They’re the feeling I want to hand people on a plate.” ~ Walker Hayes
Bio:
Walker Hayes is a popular American country music artist known for his unique blend of modern sounds and heartfelt storytelling. His hit song “Pants” propelled him to fame and showcased his infectious energy and memorable melodies. With his sincere lyrics and distinct vocal style in the country music industry, Hayes has become a rising star and has also been acknowledged and nominated for significant honors. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Hayes has had a profound social impact through his charitable work. He established the “Be A Craig Fund” in memory of Craig, a kind man who supported Hayes during a trying time in his life. The goal of the fund is to assist people and families in need, highlighting Hayes’ dedication to giving back to his community. His 2017 hit, “You Broke Up with Me,” which had tremendous popularity and chart success. Hayes reaped the benefits of his newfound notoriety by putting out hit singles like “90’s Country” and “Don’t Let Her.” He went viral again after his TikTok video dancing with his daughter to his song “Fancy Like” received millions of views.
Walker is well known for his musical prowess and poignant narrative, but he also has a full personal life that has influenced his artistic development. He is a loving father who finds motivation in his relationships and life experiences. He got married to his high school love, Laney Beville. The couple started dating when they first met while they were teenagers. Hayes’ personal and professional lives have been solidly supported by their enduring love and partnership. Together, they have six children, demonstrating their dedication to raising a strong family and providing a supportive atmosphere. He never ceases to motivate people with his openness, genuineness, and the devotion he shows to both his family and his profession.
