This week on Here's What We Know, our guest is Grace Hawthorne, a multifaceted entrepreneur, innovator, educator, and author of the book “Make Possibilities Happen: How to Transform Ideas into Reality.” As the CEO/Founder of Paper Punk and an Adjunct Professor at Stanford University's renowned Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (aka the d.school), Grace shares her journey through entrepreneurship, education, and scientific research on creativity.

In This Episode:

• The Importance of Practicality and Wisdom
• The Value of Experience and Appreciating Different Perspectives
• The Importance of Putting in the Work
• The Duchamp Exercise and Thinking Outside the Box
• The See, Start, Do, and Finish Process
• The Unlimited Capacity for Creativity
• The Role of Vision in the Creative Process
• The Journey of Paper Punk
• The Importance of Adaptability and Flexibility
• The Value of Learning from Others
• The Creativity Study and the Role of Curiosity
• The Power of Wisdom and Experience
• The Significance of Information, Knowledge, and Wisdom
• The Value of Listening and Understanding
• Appreciating Parent as a Parent
• Parenting Challenges
• The Pride of Parenting and the Joy of Grandparenting

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Grace Hawthorne is an entrepreneur, artist, author, and educator. She is the founder and CEO of Paper Punk, an award-winning origami and LEGO mashup, and d.school professor, where she teaches courses on creativity and failure and capacity building, covered by Scientific American and Wired magazine. Previously, she cofounded ReadyMade and co-authored the critically acclaimed book by the same name. Her artwork has been exhibited in several national museums including the Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum Triennial. The Hasso Plattner Institute of Design, known as the d.school, was founded at Stanford University in 2005. Each year, nearly a thousand students from all disciplines attend classes, workshops, and programs to learn how the thinking behind design can enrich their own work and unlock their creative potential.

Paper Punk Website: https://paperpunk.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracehawthorne
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_graciemade/

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This week on Here's What We Know, we are joined by the extraordinary Jeff Bloomfield, CEO of Brain Trust, host of the Driving Change podcast, author, keynote speaker, neuroscientist, cancer survivor, and Papaw’s grandson. Jeff discusses his inspiring backstory, from a 100-acre farm to becoming an expert in communication through neuroscience.

Be sure not to miss out on this heartfelt yet insightful episode filled with stories about overcoming adversity through resilience, faith, and wisdom passed down through generations!

In this Episode:

• Upbringing and Influence of Grandfather
• Becoming a Communicator and Neuroscientist
• The Power of Effective Communication
• Jeff’s Experience as a Cancer Survivor
• Faith and Science
• The Impact of Gratitude on Communication & Health
• Expressing Gratitude in Business and Personal Life
• The Power of Positive Energy
• Jeff’s Musical Background & Passions
• The Effect of Music on the Brain
• The Emotional Impacts of Song
• The Craft of Songwriting
• The Journey to Success
• The Purpose-Driven Mindset of the Next Generation
• Balancing Purpose & Practicality

This episode is sponsored by:
Sterling Oak Cabinetry
Dignity Memorial

Bio:
Jeff Bloomfield is a former sales & marketing executive, entrepreneur, author, farm boy, and cancer survivor. From his humble beginnings on a midwest farm in central Ohio, Jeff has taken the life lessons from his storytelling “Papaw” (Grandfather) combined with his corporate career in Biotech and Neuroscience to create programs that allow you to discover how you’re truly wired for greatness and how to communicate in an authentic way to drive positive change in the world around you. After being the first person in his blue-collar family to graduate college straight out of high school, Jeff spent his corporate career in Biotech where he led several product launches for genetic cancer therapies. One of those therapies was for brain cancer. It was here that he discovered the power of neuroscience and the fact that outside of academia, most of corporate America didn’t really understand how the brain actually worked, otherwise, we wouldn’t communicate with customers and employees the way it was currently being done.

From there Jeff set out with a new mission, to teach others what he has learned about the biology, psychology, and physiology of the brain, and how to apply those learnings in a simple and understandable way to be more impactful communicators.

Website: https://jeffbloomfield.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbloomfieldbraintrust/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realjeffbloomfield/
X: https://x.com/jeff_bloomfield
Podcast: https://drivingchangepodcast.com/

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This week on Here's What We Know, join us as we sit down once again with the multi-talented pianist, composer, and author Barron Ryan. From discussing his early beginnings on the piano to exploring the intricacies of practice and performance, let’s discover insights into what makes music such a powerful form of expression. He also reveals the inspiring yet tragic story of his book, “Honey, If It Wasn’t For You.”

In This Episode:

• Discover how Barron's musical journey began at age 4 under his father's tutelage.
• Learn about Barron’s approach to practicing, including tackling new pieces and managing extensive rehearsal hours.
• Hear about the challenges that come with being a professional musician, including dealing with injuries like tenosynovitis.
• Delve into technical aspects of playing piano - from separating hands during practice to maintaining stamina during long sessions without injury.
• Uncover why musicians perform and how they connect with their audience through beauty and love expressed in art.
• Gain insight into how he articulates his purpose as an artist – "to discover and present the beauty I'm uniquely positioned for."
• Discover the beautiful story behind his book “Honey, If It Wasn’t For You.”

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Dermawav

Bio:
Barron Ryan, the son of two musicians, grew up surrounded by diverse musical influences, from Mozart to Motown. Starting piano at age four under his father's guidance, he excelled in music throughout his education. Though he faced setbacks, including rejection from prestigious music conservatories, a chance win in a piano competition reignited his passion.

Barron has since developed a unique style that blends jazz, classical, and popular music, resulting in albums like Classical with Attitude and The Masters’ Apprentice. In 2019, he composed original works like the “Magic City” Sonata, adding funk, pop, and country flavors to classical music.

In 2021, he was commissioned to compose a piece commemorating the Tulsa Massacre, earning recognition from Smithsonian Magazine as one of Ten Innovators to Watch. Now a published author and composer, Barron continues to push musical boundaries, ensuring that in all his work, Classic Meets Cool.

Website: https://www.barronryan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barronryanmusic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barroncp/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BarronRyan
X: https://x.com/barroncp
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@barroncp

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This week on Here's What We Know, join us for a fascinating conversation with John Zaller, Executive Director of the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. As a leading curator and distributor of renowned immersive exhibitions, John brings over 25 years of expertise in production, visual art, and set design to the table. Listen in as we dive deep into Vincent Van Gogh’s life and artistry, discussing his revolutionary impact on painting, his personal struggles, and his enduring legacy. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights into how Van Gogh’s work continues to captivate and influence the art world today.

In This Episode:

• John shares insights from his career in immersive experiences and exhibitions.
• Discover John’s creative processes, and inspirations behind writing and designing immersive experiences.
• Insightful commentary on cultural Americanization affecting name pronunciation (Van Gog vs. Van Go). – Explanation about Dutch pronunciation: [van Khokh].
• Delve into Van Gogh’s mental health challenges and how they influenced his work
• Find out alternative theories about Van Gogh’s death and pivotal moments in his later years.
• Discussion on how Vincent Van Gogh revolutionized classical painting norms with his use of thick brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and depictions of everyday subjects.
• A touching look at the relationship between Theo Van Gogh and Vincent—how family support often plays a critical part in nurturing creativity against odds.

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

Bio:
John Zaller is the executive producer of Exhibition Hub, a curator and distributor of world-renowned immersive exhibitions. He has honed his unique skills of production, visual art, and set design for more than 25 years while working in the museum, entertainment, retail, and attractions/theme parks industries through his own immersive design firm, KRE8 360, that specializes in creating story-driven, traveling immersion experiences. He has contributed to creating and overseeing multiple immersive experiential environments including Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition; Jurassic World: The Exhibition; Bodies the Exhibition; Star Trek: The Exhibition; and the Themed Entertainment Association’s Thea award-winning experience at the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station. Most recently, Zaller has been credited for his contributions and skillful expertise on Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, which was named the 2021 best immersive experience by USA Today and among the 12 best immersive experiences in the world by CNN. He has been working with Exhibition Hub for more than a decade and is responsible for the implementation of all Exhibition Hub properties in the United States.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwzaller/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhibitionhub_eh/
Van Gogh Immersive Experience Website: https://vangoghexpo.com/

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This week on Here's What We Know, our host Gary Scott Thomas sits down with the author of “Impression of Near-Death Experiences,” Robert ‘Bob’ Christophor Coppes. His book gives an impression of what Near-Death Experiences are like by giving hundreds of quotes from more than 100 experiences from all over the world. They explore Bob’s unexpected journey from a finance background to becoming an NDE researcher and discuss compelling stories that challenge our understanding of life and consciousness. You don’t want to miss this thought-provoking conversation. Tune in now!

In This Episode:

• Bob's Background: Despite having a career in finance and working at the Central Bank of the Netherlands, he developed a keen interest in spirituality and NDEs.
• Bob shares insights about life reviews during such experiences, where individuals relive moments from their lives from multiple perspectives, including those they interacted with.
• Hear our host Gary as he shares a story about his mother's NDE during a lightning storm, where she had an out-of-body experience and was given a choice to return or not.
• Discover cases where people have observed details during their NDEs that were later confirmed to be accurate despite not being conscious or able to see at the time.
• Discusses how many who have had NDEs report experiencing unconditional love—a concept difficult for some to grasp—and explains there is no external judgment; rather, individuals feel empathy towards others affected by their actions.
• Explores how life reviews allow individuals to understand the ripple effect of their actions on others' feelings—emphasizing missed opportunities for kindness as profound learning moments without any external judgment attached.

This episode is sponsored by:
Winchester Western Wear
Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter
Bison Junk

Bio:
Robert ‘Bob’ Christophor Coppes, based in The Netherlands, is a scientist, author, and NDE Researcher. He is a Board Member of IANDS (That's the International Association of Near Death Studies), and has given keynote talks, and compiled hundreds of quotes from Near Death Experiencers.

With a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Groningen, Bob held roles at the Dutch Central Bank as a banking supervisor, risk manager, and insurance supervisor. Now retired, he supports children with their schoolwork and works with refugees.

Bob's fascination with near-death experiences (NDEs) led to "The Essence of Religions" and "Messages from The Light." His latest book 'Impressions of Near-Death Experiences' includes many of these quotes along with recurring themes of the Near Death Experience.

Website: https://www.bobcoppes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robert.c.coppes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobcoppes
X: https://x.com/bob_coppes

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This week on Here's What We Know, join us for a heartfelt conversation with country music icon Lacy J. Dalton. She's the legendary voice behind hits like "Crazy Blue Eyes," “16th Avenue,” and “Black Coffee.” We'll explore what drives Lacy beyond her fame, delving into her desire for a real connection through music. She reflects on themes of authenticity, legacy, and personal growth, sharing intimate details about her enduring musical journey since 1976.

In This Episode:

• Lacy's Start: A look back at how Lacy began her career in 1976.
• Unique Sound: Recognition of how distinct "Black Coffee" was upon release.
• Songwriting Partnerships: Her work with Even Stevens and Hillary Kanter who also wrote hits for Eddie Rabbitt and Kenny Rogers.
• Industry Struggles: Discussing obstacles such as being considered too old in the industry and battles to promote her music despite setbacks from label changes.
• The success of Black Coffee: Despite initial resistance, it became an international dance hit outselling major artists like Michael Bolton at launch.
• Musical Influences & Mentors: Remembering interactions with legends like Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and George Jones.
• Musical Authenticity: The importance of bringing genuine emotion to performances without over-singing or losing connection with listeners.

This episode is sponsored by:
Bison Junk Removal (Effortless solution for your junk removal needs!)

Bio:
Lacy J. Dalton is a renowned American country singer and songwriter. Known as "Country's Bonnie Raitt," her soulful, gritty voice has captivated audiences for decades. She gained fame in 1979 with her hit "Crazy Blue Eyes" and won the ACM’s Top New Female Vocalist award.

Lacy's career highlights include touring with legends like Hank Williams Jr. and Willie Nelson, receiving Grammy nominations, and collaborating with Willie Nelson on his platinum album Half Nelson. She transitioned to the Americana genre, founding her label, Song Dog Records, and releasing several albums. Beyond music, Lacy co-founded the Let 'em Run Foundation, dedicated to rescuing wild horses, and taught songwriting to inmates through the William James Arts in Corrections program. She's also an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Reno, contributing to their fundraising efforts with her music.

Website: https://www.lacyjdalton.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lacyjdalton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lacyjdalton/
X: https://twitter.com/LacyJDalton
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lacyjdalton
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LacyJDaltonOfficial

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This week on Here's What We Know, be ready to take notes on some serious travel tips and hacks from our guest, Chris Klesh. He is a travel expert and coach who shares his wisdom on living a rich lifestyle without being rich through savvy travel deals. With a background in marketing at AT&T and a passion for travel post-retirement, Coach Chris has traveled the world multiple times while learning every insider secret of the industry. Be sure to tune in for more insightful tips for your next getaway!

In This Episode:

• Discover how Coach Chris flipped retirement by turning the world into his playground.
• Learn why planning for your getaway is the key to saving a huge amount of money!
• Learn why travel should be non-negotiable for your mental health (and soul).
• Uncover secrets to slashing major expenses like airfare and accommodations.
• Get insider tips on timeshares and vacation clubs—are they worth it?
• Find out how renting cars away from airports can save you heaps!

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Mike Counsil Plumbing & Rooter (Use code “Gary” to get $89 off any service!)

Bio:
Chris Klesh is a dynamic and engaging speaker who entertains, educates, motivates, and stimulates audiences with his winning strategies for a lifetime of affordable leisure travel. With a passion for travel and a deep knowledge of vacation ownership systems, Coach Chris is the go-to expert for the best travel deals and maximum customer benefit. As a retired corporate executive, Coach Chris understands the importance of quality, service, and amenities in vacation resorts. He has personally experienced the most desirable vacation destinations and resorts with national renown. Drawing from his own experiences, Coach Chris knows how to make your travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

Driven by the question "How can I spend more affordable time in the places I love?", Coach Chris immerses himself in the world of travel, devouring every piece of information available and seeking advice from travel experts. What started as a hobby quickly became a consuming passion. Coach Chris dedicates himself to understanding the needs and desires of fellow travelers, engaging with consumers, and learning their preferences. So, join Coach Chris on a journey of affordable leisure travel and unlock a lifetime of unforgettable experiences.

Website: https://coachchrisspeaks.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachchrisklesh/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherklesh/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachChrisSpeaks

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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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