This week on Here's What We Know, we dive into a fascinating conversation with country music singer James Dupré. From YouTube covers to his passion for meteorology, join us as we explore the unexpected journey of a small-town Louisiana boy turned internet sensation who recently made headlines with his involvement in Randy Travis’ AI song “Where That Came From.”

In This Episode:

• Discover how James played a pivotal role in bringing the voice of stroke-stricken country legend Randy Travis back through an innovative AI project.
• Learn about James’ early embrace of YouTube as a platform to share his music, starting way back in 2007 before it became mainstream for artists.
• Uncover the musical influences that shaped James' sound from childhood.
• A Meteorologist at Heart: Despite his musical success, we delve into James’ original dream job – becoming a meteorologist and his ongoing fascination with hurricanes.
• Get an intimate look at growing up in Bayou Chicot, Louisiana - from tight-knit communities to unique Cajun cuisines like boudin and etouffée.
• Appreciate how James adapts his vocals across different genres, showcasing versatility akin to elite athletes adjusting their game.

This episode is sponsored by:
GymGuyz (#1 In-Home Personal Training)
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
James Dupré was born and raised in Bayou Chicot, LA. He was named one of Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Country Artists You Need to Know”, and has spent a lot of time sharing his smooth baritone voice with his fans across social media platforms and at venues and festivals across the United States, Canada, and Europe. The one-time aspiring meteorologist turned paramedic became a YouTube sensation in 2007, leading to an invitation to perform on Ellen. Shortly after, he released his debut album “It’s All Happening” in 2010, which charted on Billboard. After signing a record deal with Warner Music Nashville in 2011, Dupré began performing and touring full-time. In 2015, Dupré appeared on NBC’s The Voice (Season 9) with a four-chair turn, landing him a spot on Adam Levine’s team. Following his departure from The Voice, James released his sophomore album “Stoned to Death”, with two singles charting on the Billboard Indicator chart: “Hurt Good” and “Stoned to Death”. The father of five made his acting debut in the film “The Price”, playing the son of a country singer portrayed by Randy Travis. In 2019, James was handpicked by Randy and Mary Travis as vocalists for “The Music of Randy Travis” tour (now known as the “More Life” tour). Along with Randy’s original band, James performs all of Randy’s biggest hits. James released his third studio album, “Home and Away”, in 2020 with three singles: “Home and Away”, “Another Love Song”, and “Painfully Pretty.” In September 2023, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut in Nashville.

Website: https://www.jamesdupre.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdupre/
YouTube: @jamesdupremusic

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This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with the brilliant author Steve Hines to discuss his book "Salt, Light, & Kids," and the challenges of parenting in today’s culture. In this book, Steve shares how to raise children to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world our culture desperately needs. Steve offers timeless wisdom for parenting in today's tech-savvy world and shares insights from his journey, from growing up in Alabama to becoming a lacrosse coach for young boys and now embracing the role of a grandfather, or "Bam,” as his grandchildren affectionately call him. Tune in now!

In This Episode:

• Discover the importance of biblically based parenting.
• Gary and Steve’s perspective on Nick Saban's retirement as head football coach at the University of Alabama and its impact on college sports.
• Steve shares what led him to write “Salt, Light, & Kids,” an experience he attributes to divine inspiration.
• Explore the heartwarming and sometimes challenging dynamics of mentoring and coaching young people.
• Hear Steve’s insights on navigating the trials of digital influences and cultural challenges.
• The importance of how you accept and respond when it comes to losing.
• Steve’s take on being a grandparent: loving anything that someone you love so much loves.

This episode is sponsored by:
Dermawav
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you to save up 20%!)
Dignity Memorial

Bio:
Steve Hines, author of "Salt, Light, & Kids," lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his high school sweetheart, Leigh Ann, to whom he has been married for 35 years. Together, they have dedicated decades to mentoring younger parents through parenting study groups and one-on-one relationships. As the father of two adult children and the grandfather of three adorable kids, Steve’s passion for supporting families continues to grow amidst the challenges of today's culture. A former C.P.A. and life-long entrepreneur, Steve is also a junior high and high school lacrosse coach and an ardent musician.

Website: https://www.saltlightandkids.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehines2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltlightandkids
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saltlightandkids
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltlightandkids/
Salt, Light, & Kids: Amazon Link

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This week on Here's What We Know, we're joined by the global entertainer, Charles Esten. Chip, best known for his role as Deacon Claybourne in the hit TV series "Nashville," delves into his musical journey with the release of his debut album, "Love Ain't Pretty."

Tune in to hear heartfelt insights into his creative process and overcoming hardships through gratitude and music. He also reveals what he believes is waiting for us, "Somewhere in the Sunshine."

In This Episode:

• Chip reveals the collaborative effort behind 'Love Ain't Pretty' with award-winning songwriters.
• Hear the Impact of the TV show ‘Nashville’ on his life and how they warmly welcomed him as Deacon Claybourne.
• Chip talks about his journey back to music after initially pursuing acting and how gratitude plays a central role in his life and happiness.
• Chip highlights the power of gratitude and the beauty of life and the afterlife.
• He discusses dealing with personal heartbreaks including his daughter's battle with leukemia at age two-and-a-half, now fully recovered.
• He shares his experience performing at the Grand Ole Opry, performing Improv, game show-winning experiences, and acting on Star Trek.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Use code 'Gary20' so you can save up to 20% off your orders!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Charles "Chip" Esten is an American actor, singer, and songwriter. Best known for his roles as Deacon Claybourne on CMT's Nashville and as Ward Cameron on Netflix's Outer Banks. He’s made nearly 170 appearances at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry and performed multiple headline tours in the US, Germany, Amsterdam, and the UK. Surpassing 21 million streams for his music to date, Esten is a 2018 Guinness World Records title holder for the “Most consecutive weeks to release an original digital single by a music act” after delivering 54 original songs once a week for 54 straight weeks. In addition, Esten serves as the National Honorary Spokesperson for the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Light The Night Walk and is a board member and volunteer for Musicians On Call.

Website: https://www.charlesesten.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesesten/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialcharlesesten
Get Chip's New Album: ‘Love Ain’t Pretty'

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This week on Here's What We Know, we dive into the fascinating world of professional soccer, featuring our guest, JT Marcinkowski. From his childhood in Alamo, California, to defending the net for San Jose Earthquakes, JT shares his inspiring journey and gives us an insider look at what it takes to be an amazing goalkeeper.

In this Episode:

• Learn about how goalkeepers are no longer just shot-stoppers but integral playmakers on their teams.
• Understand why positioning is as critical as reflexes when it comes to making those game-saving blocks.
• JT shares insights on how other sports influenced his goalkeeping skills, particularly baseball and basketball.
• Listen as JT discusses the challenges and stereotypes associated with height in goalkeeping and how he overcomes them.
• JT candidly addresses the mental challenges faced by goalkeepers—the pressure of being the last line of defense—and how he works continuously with sports psychologists to maintain focus during games.
• An in-depth discussion on how changes in soccer rules have affected gameplay strategy over time, particularly for goalkeepers, who now participate actively in building up plays rather than just waiting to react defensively.

This episode is sponsored by:
San Jose Earthquakes (Use code "Gary" to get a Family Firework Four Pack for only $25. Click this link and hit "Unlock" to reveal this amazing offer! )
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you so you can save 20%!)
Dignity Memorial

Bio:
James Thomas "JT" Marcinkowski is a professional soccer player who plays as a goalkeeper for Major League Soccer club San Jose Earthquakes. JT played for the Georgetown Hoyas for three seasons, from 2015 to 2017, where he achieved a 0.84 goals against average (GAA) over 56 appearances.

In his final season at Georgetown, he captained the team to a 2017 Big East Conference Men's Soccer Tournament championship win, his second with the team. He also played two games for the USL PDL side, the Burlingame Dragons. Marcinkowski signed a Homegrown Player contract with the MLS side San Jose Earthquakes on December 6, 2017, after spending four years prior to his college career with the team's academy. He was San Jose's third-ever homegrown signing to the first team, after Tommy Thompson and Nick Lima. Marcinkowski was then temporarily loaned to San Jose's USL affiliate, Reno 1868 FC, and played his first game for the team in Reno's 3-4 loss to Swope Park Rangers on March 17, 2018. Marcinkowski has played for the United States men's national team at multiple levels, earning 24 caps between the U14 and U18 levels. In 2017, he played for the U20 squad, at the 2017 CONCACAF U-20 Championship and the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

JT was named to the final 20-player United States under-23 roster for the 2020 CONCACAF Men's Olympic Qualifying Championship in March 2021.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtmarcinkowski/
X: https://x.com/jt_marcinkowski

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This week on Here's What We Know, our host Gary Scott Thomas had a candid conversation about the fascinating world of soccer and being a man of faith, featuring our guest, Shea Salinas, known for his remarkable tenure as the winger of the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer (MLS). Join us as we explore Shea’s journey into soccer and personal growth through family life. Tune in now!

In This Episode:

• Discover Shea’s remarkable story of how he got into soccer.
• Shea shares the sacrifice made by his parents to support his dream.
• Hear about the evolution of soccer's popularity across small towns in America and insights into something he aims to address through coaching education and retention strategies for soccer.
• Hear about family dynamics and how Shea balances his children's screen time with creative outdoor play for development.
• Listen to Shea’s first professional game experience, where he played against iconic figures like David Beckham.
• Be inspired by how faith changes Shea’s life to be peaceful and stable and how he acts as a role model to his teammates.

This episode is sponsored by:
San Jose Earthquakes (Use code "Gary" to get a Family Firework Four Pack for only $25. Click this link and hit "Unlock" to reveal this amazing offer! )
Habana Cuba (Use code 'Gary20' so you can save up to 20% off your orders!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Shea Salinas is a distinguished professional soccer player known for his remarkable tenure with the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer (MLS). Shea has built a reputation as a versatile and dedicated midfielder/winger. He began his professional career in 2008 when he was selected 15th overall by the San Jose Earthquakes in the MLS SuperDraft.

Throughout his career, Shea became a fan favorite for his relentless work ethic, speed, and ability to deliver precise crosses. He played a crucial role in the Earthquakes' successes, including their memorable Supporters' Shield victory in 2012. Known for his leadership both on and off the field, Shea has been an integral part of the Earthquakes' squad for over a decade, making over 300 appearances for the club.

In addition to his club career, Shea is recognized for his community involvement and dedication to charitable causes, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork. His contributions to the game and his community have left an indelible mark, making him one of the most respected players in the league.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheasalinas/
X: https://twitter.com/salinassj11

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This week on Here's What We Know, our host Gary Scott Thomas invites dating coach Amber De Vos, The Seduxe, to discuss the intricacies of communication between men and women.

Amber, an anthropologist turned celebrity photographer and dating coach shares her insights, actionable tips, and secrets on how to improve self-confidence, overcome loneliness, and navigate the world of modern dating without being creepy.

In this Episode

• Amber's Journey: From celebrity photographer to dating coach, helping people love themselves first.
• The Art of Conversation: Teaching men how to approach women without coming off as creepy.
• Dating Challenges: Overcoming self-doubt, inexperience, and loneliness.
• Personal Transformation: Amber's move from Lake Tahoe to New York City and her growth in high society.
• Impactful Coaching: Long-term benefits of fostering self-love and improving interpersonal skills.
• Celebrity Insights: Lessons from the world of fame on attraction and personal magnetism.

This episode is sponsored by:
Bison Junk Removal
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
Amber De Vos is a passionate dating and relationship coach dedicated to transforming the lives of singles and couples. Through practical strategies and empowering advice, she helps singles find love, couples reignite their spark, and the broken-hearted heal.

With 12 years as a top NYC celebrity photographer, a BA in Anthropology, and over 11 years in personal development, Amber offers effective tools for improving dating and communication skills. Her in-person guidance and training videos help clients overcome mental blocks and find lasting love.

Living as a single woman in NYC for over 15 years, Amber has experienced the full spectrum of dating, giving her unique insights into courtship. She enjoys helping men understand women's desires.

Known for her passion and empathetic listening, Amber creates fun, intentional coaching experiences. She believes in the power of love and is committed to making the dating journey meaningful and rewarding for everyone.

Website: http://www.theseduxe.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_seduxe/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weardevos/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberdevos
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/amberdevos/

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This week on Here's What We Know Podcast, our guest is Mina Starsiak Hawk, the HGTV star best known for her hit show "Good Bones" and podcast host of "Mina AF." Join us as Mina shares her life behind reality TV fame, sharing insights from her journey as a woman in construction, a public figure, and a family-oriented person.

Tune in now to catch all these revelations and more from one woman who truly knows how to build something great!

In This Episode:

• Mina’s transition from TV to podcasting and why she values candid monologues offering a raw and unfiltered look at her life behind the scenes.
• Discover how Mina maintains her authenticity while respecting boundaries in navigating her privacy vs. public life.
• Real Talk on Renovation and Reality TV, from mommy makeovers to marriage challenges and sobriety.
• Insights on how to navigate negative comments online, particularly among women criticizing each other rather than offering support.
• Mina’s plans as "Good Bones" wraps up its final season. Hear what’s next for this dynamic personality who isn’t afraid of getting her hands dirty (or tackling new adventures).
• Behind-the-scenes stories about filming "Good Bones," including adjusting to constant camera presence and candid moments that never made it on air.
• Learn Mina's perspective as a construction leader facing industry challenges head-on as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated field.

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)
Mike Counsil Plumbing and Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)
GymGuyz (#1 In-Home Personal Training)

Bio:
Mina Starsiak Hawk is an American reality television show star and host. She is dedicated to the art and the business of saving old homes — and to an overarching mission of revitalizing entire city neighborhoods, one house at a time. She got a degree in Business and Sociology from Indiana University. After graduating, Hawk worked as a waitress before buying her first house and conducting repairs. That’s when she found her true calling.

She renovated houses and started a company called Two Chicks and a Hammer with her mother. In 2016, she appeared on the H.G.T.V. reality television series Good Bones. She was the show’s host and has appeared in over 101 episodes and eight seasons from 2016 to 2023. She appeared in four episodes of Building Brady between 2018 and 2019 and has featured in countless other shows like Rachael Ray in 2017, Brother vs. Brother (2017 to 2018), A Very Brady Renovation (2019), Rock the Block (2019), and Martha Knows Best (2020), e.t.c. In 2020, Hawk and her mother opened a storefront for their business, Two Chicks District Co., selling home decor and furniture. In 2021, she appeared on Battle on the Beach as a judge for six episodes.

In 2013, she met Steve Hawk, and they dated for two years before getting married in 2016. They have two kids together.

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

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This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, our host Gary Scott Thomas dives into the art of home design with our special guest, Zandra Zuraw, the podcast host and founder of Slow Style Home (formerly the Style Matters podcast by Little Yellow Couch). She is an interior design coach for everyday homeowners. Zandra shares her philosophy on why design matters and how it intertwines with personal happiness and mental well-being. She emphasizes that it’s not about filling rooms overnight; it’s about crafting spaces that tell your story over time.

So if you've ever felt like your home is just a house filled with 'stuff' rather than a reflection of you, then this episode is for you! Tune in now!

In this Episode:

• Find out how Zandra transitioned from being self-taught to becoming an expert in helping others find their unique style.
• Discover how to create a home that reflects your unique personality and the importance and impact of home design on our daily lives.
• Learn how to approach decorating room by room and gain insights about the common mistakes people make in interior design, such as buying everything for a room all at once.
• Understand the importance of layering your home with pieces that tell your story over time.
• Gain insight into how COVID has influenced our relationship with our homes and the rise of disposable decor trends.
• Learn that design is not just about aesthetics; it's deeply connected to how we feel and live within our spaces.
• Discover Zandra’s coaching process, which involves abstract thinking while connecting emotions to come up with concrete design decisions.
• Personal anecdotes from Zandra and Gary about their families, home design, and more.

This episode is sponsored by:
Nugent Family Counseling Center
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
Zandra Zuraw is the podcast host and founder of Slow Style Home (formerly the Style Matters podcast by Little Yellow Couch), she is an Interior Design Coach for everyday homeowners. With 30+ years of experience teaching herself how to create beautiful, meaningful homes, she has developed her own step-by-step Slow Style approach to teaching others how to do the same. Along with the podcast, Zandra has also created a monthly membership called “The Slow Style Society”, she teaches an online course called “Master The Mix,” and hosts in-person signature style retreats.

Little Yellow Couch has been featured on many media outlets, including iTunes, Dominio, Better Homes & Gardens, USA Today, and Podcast Magazine. Zandra has also been a speaker at several creative business conferences in the US and Canada.

Website: https://www.slowstylehome.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slowstylehome/
YouTube: @slowstylehome
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandra-zuraw-83323b174/

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