In this powerful episode of The Neil Haley Show, sponsored by Sergeant Moving & Storage, Neil welcomes Michael Gier, an award-winning director, producer, and actor known for his inspiring documentaries that champion veterans and first responders.
Michael shares his incredible journey from performing in Broadway musicals across the country to becoming one of Hollywood’s most passionate voices for PTSD awareness. He reveals how his hit documentaries Wounded Heroes and Healing the Heroes of 9/11 are transforming the way veterans and first responders heal through alternative PTSD treatments — including the groundbreaking Trauma Resiliency Protocol (TRP).
Listeners will also hear behind-the-scenes stories from Gier’s acting days on hit soap operas like General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, his viral role in Fatboy Slim’s “Praise You” video, and his upcoming film The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11, narrated by Gary Sinise and featuring powerful interviews with national leaders.
🎥 Michael Gier: michaelgier.com
🎞️ Wounded Heroes Documentary: woundedheroesmovie.com
💙 Healing the Hero.org: healingthehero.org
🐕 DDS for Vets: ddsforvets.org
🇺🇸 9/11 Film Project: the911film.com
🚚 Sponsored by Sergeant Moving & Storage: sergeantmovingandstorage.com
Transitioning from Broadway musicals to film production
Lessons learned from acting, dancing, and directing
Behind the scenes of Fatboy Slim’s legendary “Praise You” video
The making of Wounded Heroes and the mission to end veteran suicide
How TRP and DDS for Vets are changing PTSD treatment
Healing the Heroes of 9/11 and the stories of five first responders
Upcoming 2026 release The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11 narrated by Gary Sinise
Catch more inspiring conversations on The Neil Haley Show, syndicated worldwide across 150+ stations and reaching over 5 million weekly listeners.
Follow Neil Haley on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and X (Twitter).
🔗 Featured Links🔥 Key Talking Points📢 Follow & Subscribe
“Behind the Scenes: How Animals Suffer in Entertainment & What PETA Is Doing About It — with Lisa Lange”
In this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil speaks with Lisa Lange, Senior Vice President of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), about the hidden realities of animals used in film, television, and viral content—and what needs to change.
We love watching animals in movies, TV shows, and even short social clips—but few people stop to think about what life is like for those animals off-screen. From abusive training practices to unsafe housing and exploitation for a few seconds of film, Lisa sheds light on the suffering audiences never see.
What We Discuss:
Why even beloved cats, dogs, and horses face abusive training, poor housing, or starvation practices to “perform on cue”
The growing trend of filmmakers using their own pets (like Robert De Niro and Bridget Everett did) instead of rented animals
How CGI technology is replacing live animals—case in point, James Gunn’s Superman dog character modeled after his real dog but completely CGI
PETA’s advocacy work with showrunners, costumers, and production designers to prevent cruelty on set and behind the scenes
Why even seemingly “funny” moments (like monkeys smoking on camera or TikTok stunts with exotic animals) are actually rooted in cruelty and exploitation
Simple ways creators can get views, laughs, and likes without harming animals
Key Takeaway:
Animals are not actors, props, or clickbait. With today’s technology, talent, and creativity, there’s no excuse for animal exploitation in entertainment.
Visit: peta.org
Follow PETA on Instagram and Facebook for updates, campaigns, and ways to take action.
📄 Episode Notes🔗 Learn More
In this inspiring episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil sits down with Jim DiBattista, the winner of The Biggest Loser on USA Network. Jim opens up about his journey from nearly 400 pounds and battling high blood pressure and sleep apnea to completely transforming his life and winning the competition.
He also shares how COVID-19 reshaped fitness forever, why online communities and home workouts are here to stay, and how he continues to inspire others to start their own transformations.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
The Rock Bottom Moment:
When his wife half-jokingly texted him the application link for The Biggest Loser, Jim filled it out—and an hour later, a casting producer called.
Biggest Loser Fan to Champion:
Jim grew up watching the original show with his wife. Though he wasn’t a “superfan,” he loved the educational aspect and the opportunity to reboot people’s lives.
His Game Plan:
As a football coach, Jim broke down his process into small, actionable plays. The key word? Surrender. He let go of old habits, listened to the trainers, and rebuilt himself for long-term success.
The New Show Format:
Contestants spent more time at home during the competition, learning how to integrate healthy habits with family and friends earlier. Jim believes this format is the most powerful version of The Biggest Loser yet.
Training in the Age of COVID-19:
With gyms closed, Jim pivoted to CrossFit classes on Zoom and outdoor runs. He predicts the fitness industry will permanently shift toward home and online training—creating more opportunities for people who’ve always been intimidated by gyms.
Advice for Others:
Surround yourself with like-minded people who support, not sabotage, your goals. Online communities and apps (like trainer Erica Lugo’s) can make home workouts just as tough—and more accessible—than ever.
📱 Follow Jim on Instagram: @coachjim52 (named for the Eagles’ 52nd Super Bowl win).
🏋️♂️ Tune in to The Biggest Loser on USA Network to see transformations that inspire far beyond the scale.
Key Takeaways:
Transformation begins when you surrender old habits and commit to small, consistent actions.
COVID-19 accelerated the shift to home and online fitness communities, which may be the future of health.
Sharing your story online inspires others—and keeps you accountable.
In this special episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil welcomes back one of America’s most recognized health and fitness icons — Bob Harper, longtime trainer and now host of NBC’s The Biggest Loser.
Bob opens up about his evolution from fiery trainer to empathetic host, the new temptations theme of the show, and what it takes for contestants—and all of us—to stay the course toward lasting health.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
From Trainer to Host:
NBC approached Bob about taking on the hosting role after 16 seasons as a trainer. He shares how stepping into a new skillset challenged him to grow while still bringing his trademark passion to the show.
Temptations Season:
This season, contestants face real-life temptations—food, money, luxury, time restraints—and learn to overcome them. Bob says the most powerful part is the group therapy-style sessions where contestants dig into the stories that brought them there.
What Drives Success:
Bob emphasizes surrounding yourself with like-minded supporters, not saboteurs. Success comes from making the right choices daily, even when temptations loom.
Behind the Scenes:
He admits it’s tough not to jump in during workouts—his “control issues” as a trainer still flare up! But he finds moments to shine in Last Chance Challenges, keeping him connected to his training roots.
On New Trainer Jen Widerstrom:
Bob praises her competitive, driven CrossFit background and what she brings to the team.
Where to Find Bob Today:
He’s active on Instagram, sharing his daily meals, workouts, and fitness inspiration with fans who want to know exactly how he lives what he teaches.
📺 The Biggest Loser airs Tuesdays, 9 PM ET on NBC.
📱 Follow Bob on Instagram: @bobharper
Key Takeaways:
Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone—Bob traded scripts and marks for dumbbells this season.
Overcoming temptations isn’t about willpower alone—it’s about understanding your story and building the right support system.
Transformation is powerful to witness, but even more powerful to live.
In this special simulcast of The Neil Haley Show and The Dr. Christopher Hall Show, Neil and Nobel Prize–nominated ER physician Dr. Christopher Hall welcome fitness icon and bestselling author Jillian Michaels to unpack her mission-driven media shift and the urgent health topics she’s tackling head-on.
What we cover:
From Audio to Video—Why Now:
Jillian’s award-winning podcast “Keeping It Real” has moved to free video on YouTube, produced under Bill Maher’s shingle to enable fearless, nuanced discussions without cancellation risk. Expect MDs, PhDs, investigative journalists, and thought leaders—no topic off-limits.
The Big Questions Jillian’s Asking:
Testosterone collapse in young men: Why does a 30-year-old today have levels comparable to a 60-year-old decades ago? (Deep dive with Dr. Peter Attia—TRT pros/cons, who should/shouldn’t, fertility cautions, and non-TRT solutions.)
Early-onset cancer: What’s behind the 79% rise in diagnoses among ages 18–49?
Kids’ vaccine schedule: How did we go from ~12 shots then to 70+ now—and what should parents ask?
Big Food & Big Pharma playbook: Former lobbyist Kelly Means reveals how addiction and policy intertwine.
Root-Cause Medicine (Not Just Band-Aids):
Jillian’s lens: upstream solutions instead of symptom suppression. Expect practical guidance you can actually use.
Her Personal “Why”:
From an overweight kid to martial arts empowerment…PCOS and pigmentation issues…to “Master Your Metabolism” with endocrinologist Dr. Christine Darwish, and a pregnancy-to-postpartum guide co-authored with five physicians—Jillian’s work is born from lived experience + expert collaboration.
Dr. Hall’s Take:
Many “we’ve always done it this way” attitudes in medicine block progress. Transparent, evidence-informed dialogue—of the type Jillian is elevating—helps patients ask better questions and make better decisions.
Watch new episodes (free):
📺 YouTube — Jillian Michaels (new episodes drop Mondays)
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@JillianMichaels
Key Takeaways:
Ask root-cause questions before you accept a quick fix.
Be skeptical—but curious—about environmental exposures, lifestyle, and policy influences on health.
When it comes to controversial topics, information + autonomy beats fear and silence.
Guest: Jillian Michaels — Fitness expert, bestselling author, host of Keeping It Real (now video).
Co-Host: Dr. Christopher Hall — ER physician, Nobel Prize–nominated, author.
On this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil sits down with filmmaker and transformational leader Doug Vermeeren to dive deep into his new film, How Thoughts Become Things—a powerful continuation of the conversation that started with The Secret.
Doug reveals how our thoughts shape reality, why clarity is the foundation of success, and how we can harness the law of attraction in practical, actionable ways.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Beyond The Secret
Why The Secret was just the beginning—and how Doug’s film goes further to explain the how behind manifesting.
The Influence of Input
How TV, music, websites, and the people we spend time with literally program our thoughts and create our reality.
The Power of Becoming
Why achieving any dream requires becoming the kind of person who can hold it—and how to shift into that version of yourself.
Clarity + Focus
Why defining your goals with precision is essential—and why saying “no” is often more important than saying “yes.”
Surround Yourself with Success
How the five people closest to you can either expand or collapse your potential.
Comfort Zones vs. Brilliance Zones
Why Doug believes success isn’t about “getting out of your comfort zone”—it’s about doubling down on your strengths and delegating the rest.
AI & Imagination
Why even in an AI-powered world, your dreams and visions are irreplaceable—and AI becomes your brush to paint them into reality.
Key Quote from Doug:
👉 “If you want to expand what you have, you must expand who you are.”
Watch the Film:
🎬 How Thoughts Become Things is now streaming on Apple TV and major streaming platforms.
👉 Just search: How Thoughts Become Things
In this special crossover of The Neil Haley Show and the GildaGram Podcast, Dr. Gilda Carle and Neil Haley welcome former Bachelorette star, Trading Secrets host, and financial expert Jason Tartick to unpack the complicated intersection of love and money.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why Talking About Money Feels Taboo
Jason explains why we were never taught how to talk about finances in school, why it creates stress in relationships, and why financial secrecy is a leading cause of divorce.
Generational Shifts in Dating & Money
Citing a new Chime survey, Jason reveals how Gen Z and Millennials are changing the rules by openly discussing income, while Boomers remain more hesitant.
How to Break the Ice on Date One
Practical, playful questions you can ask—like what someone would do with $1 million in 24 hours—that reveal values, spending patterns, and priorities without judgment.
Red Flags and Green Flags
Why 33% of singles say overspending is a turnoff, 26% say stinginess is an “ick,” and how Gen Z is rejecting perfectionism in favor of open conversations.
The Reality of Financial Infidelity
Jason shares data showing 43% of married or cohabiting couples admit to financial cheating—and how transparency is the antidote.
Partnership with Chime
Jason discusses his collaboration with Chime, America’s most loved banking app, and how they’re helping couples and singles alike build financial transparency and confidence.
Learn More:
👉 Survey results and more at Chime.com
👉 Jason’s work at JasonTartick.com
In this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil welcomes actor, singer, and dancer Kat Cunning to talk about their lead role in the new sci-fi drama Star People.
Key Highlights:
Discovering the Role of Claire
Kat shares how the script first came across their desk, why the character of Claire stood out, and what drew them to a female lead driven by curiosity and obsession rather than romance.
Do You Believe in UFOs?
Kat opens up about their own perspective on extraterrestrial life and why they “don’t not believe in UFOs.”
The Journey of Claire
Claire is a singularly focused photographer obsessed with proving a childhood UFO sighting. Kat dives into her character’s ambition, strained family ties, and how her relationship with her brother becomes the true heart of the story.
Love, Partnerships, and Differences
Kat discusses the dynamics between Claire and her boyfriend Justin, showing how differing motives and selfish pursuits can still lead to unexpected growth.
Lessons from Filming
From preparing to embody epilepsy authentically, to trusting Adam Finberg’s direction, Kat reveals what they learned about collaboration, vulnerability, and letting go of control as an actor.
Why Indie Films Matter
Kat reflects on the passion of indie filmmaking, the trust instilled by first-time director Adam Finberg, and why projects like Star People are a reminder of why actors follow their craft for love, not money.
Release Information:
Theatrical screenings in select cities starting July 25
Nationwide Video on Demand (VOD) release: August 12
👉 Learn more and follow updates at Star People Film.
In this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil welcomes filmmaker Adam Finberg to discuss his debut feature film, Star People.
Highlights of the Conversation:
The Journey Back to Filmmaking:Adam shares his path from graduating the American Film Institute to working in television editing, and how he never let go of his dream to create narrative features.
Why UFOs?:Adam explores why the fascination with UFOs has endured since Roswell and how the unknown continues to capture our imagination in pop culture.
The Premise of Star People:A photographer obsessed with a childhood UFO experience must confront a deadly heat wave, her troubled brother, and a migraine crisis—forcing her to rediscover what truly matters.
Themes of Trauma & Growth:The film examines how siblings process shared childhood trauma differently—one through obsession, the other through substance abuse—and how reconnection can bring healing.
On Change & Growth:Adam reflects on why change is hard, why growth often requires suffering, and how his own journey of making Star People mirrors the perseverance needed in life.
Release Details:
Theatrical premiere: July 25th in New York & Phoenix.
Los Angeles screening: August 8th.
Available nationwide on VOD August 12th.
Where to Learn More:Visit Star People Film (redirects to the Facebook page) for updates, screenings, and more.
On this captivating episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil welcomes producer Adam Bonnett and director Alberto Belli to discuss their exciting new film celebrating the 25th anniversary of the iconic children's series, Dora the Explorer.
Highlights of the Episode:
Celebrating Dora's Legacy:
Adam Bonnett reflects on Dora's incredible global impact over 25 years, recalling his early days at Nickelodeon and his firsthand experience with Dora's creator, Chris Gifford.
Behind the Scenes of Dora’s New Adventure:
Adam shares how the writer JT Billings brought a fresh, innovative adventure idea to Nickelodeon, inspiring them to delve into Dora's origins in a whole new way.
Alberto Belli discusses his excitement upon receiving the script, describing the film as a heartfelt and humorous journey filled with action, adventure, and meaningful lessons.
Bridging Generations:
The film uniquely offers an origin story for beloved characters like Dora, Boots, and the iconic map and backpack, aiming to engage both lifelong fans and new audiences.
Alberto highlights the joy and nostalgia of bringing iconic elements of the original series into this updated narrative for a new generation.
Educational & Cultural Impact:
Adam emphasizes Dora’s core trait—curiosity—highlighting how the film encourages learning, exploration, and global awareness.
Alberto shares fascinating insights into the Inca culture and traditions represented authentically in the movie, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration.
Full-Circle Moment:
Adam reveals how meaningful it is for him personally that this special project is premiering on Nickelodeon, marking a fulfilling return to his roots.
Tune In:
Don't miss the premiere of this special Dora film on Nickelodeon and Paramount Plus, Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025. Whether you're a longtime Dora fan or introducing a new generation, prepare for an educational, entertaining, and heartwarming adventure!
Ask ChatGPT
Inside Dexter's Return: David Magidoff Talks Dexter Resurrection and Creative Adventures
In this engaging episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil welcomes talented actor David Magidoff, known for his role as Teddy Reed on the hit series Dexter: New Blood and its highly anticipated follow-up, Dexter Resurrection.
Key Highlights:
David's Dexter Journey:
David shares his experience playing the quirky and lovable police officer Teddy Reed, reprising his role in Dexter Resurrection.
Reveals his initial thoughts about joining the iconic series and how he approached his character without prior knowledge of the show's original seasons.
Behind the Scenes:
Insights into working with Michael C. Hall, who David describes as genuinely kind and talented.
Discusses the evolution of his character Teddy Reed and the excitement of returning for another thrilling season.
David’s Creative Ventures:
David highlights his unique live show, "Making Love with David Magidoff," where he interviews celebrities about their personal love stories and then transforms those stories into entertaining musical performances.
Past guests include prominent actors and entertainers such as Tony Hale, Bobby Moynihan, and Jason Alexander.
Career Highlights & Stories:
Reflections on his roles in acclaimed shows such as The Morning Show, Veronica Mars, NCIS, NCIS: LA, and The Cleaning Lady.
Shares memorable anecdotes from working alongside stars like Paul Rudd, Patrick Fabian, and Cassidy Freeman.
Looking Ahead:
Teases upcoming film projects and shares the excitement of staying active and continuously evolving as a working actor in Hollywood.
Tune in to Dexter Resurrection premiering July 11, 2025, and check out David’s innovative live event, "Making Love with David Magidoff," scheduled for August 15th in Los Angeles.
Follow David Magidoff:
Instagram: @DavidMagidoff
Show: MakingLoveShow.com
Join Neil and David for this captivating conversation filled with insights, humor, and exclusive glimpses into the world of Dexter and beyond!
In this captivating episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil is joined by an impressive panel from the independent thriller "The Omro Heist." Guests include filmmaker and actor Simon Phillips, director Jamie Bailey, producer and actor Ken Bressers, and acclaimed actor Anthony Crivello.
Key Takeaways:
Inspiration from Location:
Producer Ken Bressers explains how purchasing an authentic bank in Omro, Wisconsin, sparked the idea for "The Omro Heist."
The vintage bank, complete with original vaults, inspired the unique bank heist concept.
Creative Collaboration:
Director Jamie Bailey and writer Simon Phillips discuss their innovative approach—crafting scripts around distinctive locations to create engaging narratives.
Actor Anthony Crivello highlights how community involvement and support in Omro greatly enhanced the film’s authenticity and production quality.
Improving Through Audience Feedback:
The filmmakers emphasize the importance of audience test screenings, which allowed critical feedback to significantly enhance the final edit of the movie.
Insights into Independent Filmmaking:
Discussion on the current opportunities and challenges for independent filmmakers, emphasizing the value of original stories and leveraging new technology.
Tips shared on strategically approaching filmmaking, managing resources efficiently, and building a diverse portfolio of work.
Industry Trends:
Exploration of how audiences’ preferences for series and streaming content influence independent film projects.
Recognition of the increasing popularity and impact of faith-based films, demonstrating a growing market for inspirational content.
Release Information:
"The Omro Heist" premieres on July 29, 2025, available for streaming on Amazon Prime.
Join Neil and the team behind "The Omro Heist" for valuable insights, practical filmmaking tips, and a closer look at the future of independent cinema.
In this exciting episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil sits down with acclaimed actor David Clennon to discuss his latest gripping film, "The Sound". Clennon shares his unique insights into a thriller that merges the intense world of rock climbing with heart-pounding horror, promising a cinematic experience unlike any other.
Key Highlights:
🏔️ The Thrill of Climbing:
David discusses his fascination with rock climbing, sparked by the acclaimed National Geographic documentary Free Solo. He admits that despite his interest, climbing is far outside his comfort zone—but the adrenaline and danger make for incredible storytelling.
🎬 The Intriguing Premise of "The Sound":
David shares the film's chilling premise—a group of expert climbers ascend a mysterious mountain that has been off-limits for decades after a tragic past climbing expedition ended fatally. Now, the current climbers face an unknown and terrifying threat, pushing them to their physical and psychological limits.
👥 David's Character, Kurt:
David Clennon plays Kurt, the enigmatic figure responsible for recruiting the climbing team. As the story unfolds, audiences are left questioning his motives and the unusual composition of the team he has assembled, adding layers of suspense and mystery.
🐻 Real-Life Horror Experiences:
Neil shares a real-life moment of terror when a bear climbed onto his deck during a mountain getaway—drawing a startling parallel to the unexpected, terrifying threats featured in the film.
🎞️ Learning & Thrilling Audiences:
David emphasizes director Brendan Devane’s skillful balance of realism and terror, offering viewers an authentic glimpse into the world of rock climbing alongside the suspense of an unknown horror.
Experience "The Sound" in theaters now—a perfect blend of high-stakes adventure and spine-chilling terror.
Don’t miss this conversation that dives deep into fear, adrenaline, and cinematic thrills!
Ask ChatGPT
On this episode of The Neil Haley Show, director Brendan Devane shares the thrilling inspiration behind his unique horror film, "The Sound." Combining authentic rock climbing with chilling suspense, Brendan takes audiences to new heights—and fears.
⛰️ Inspiration from Reality:
Brendan reveals how watching the documentary Free Solo sparked the idea for a horror thriller set in the rock-climbing world. The natural tension and danger of climbing become the perfect backdrop for suspenseful storytelling.
🎥 About "The Sound":
A team of elite climbers attempts to ascend a mountain closed off for 63 years due to a mysterious tragedy. As they climb, an unseen entity begins tormenting them, blurring the line between reality and supernatural terror. Brendan describes it as a blend of Free Solo and John Carpenter’s The Thing, minus the gore.
🧗 Authenticity in Climbing:
Devane emphasizes how important it was to accurately depict rock climbing, capturing genuine climbing techniques and the unique jargon climbers use. The movie aims to impress both climbing enthusiasts and horror fans alike.
🌌 Filming Challenges:
He explains the complex filming process—creating realistic climbing scenes using professional climbers on actual mountains, while actors performed safely in studios, blending authenticity with cinematic practicality.
🌍 Global Appeal & Niches:
Brendan shares his surprise at the global interest, noting strong international sales. He discusses tapping into the climbing community’s passion, along with mainstream horror audiences.
🎟️ Where to Watch:
Catch the thrilling heights of "The Sound" available in theaters and on all major digital platforms starting June 27th.
Tune in to this episode of The Neil Haley Show to get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes "The Sound" an unforgettable journey into suspense!
🎬 Episode Highlights:
In this thrilling episode of The Neil Haley Show, actress Rachel Finninger shares her incredible experience starring in the gripping new horror-thriller film, "The Sound." Combining her passion for climbing and acting, Rachel offers a behind-the-scenes look at this nail-biting cinematic adventure.
🧗 From Passion to Performance:
Rachel discusses how her background growing up climbing outdoor rock faces with her family, including her stepfather (a FEMA rescue climber), made this role feel uniquely personal and exciting.
🎞️ About "The Sound":
Six elite climbers are granted exclusive permission to ascend a legendary rock face that has claimed the lives of every climber attempting it over the past 60 years. Rachel portrays Kristen, a determined and passionate climber, caught in an adrenaline-filled nightmare.
🏔️ Intensity & Authenticity:
Rachel shares the intense physical and mental preparation needed for filming, including working closely with professional climbers to ensure authenticity and safety, capturing realistic climbing scenarios and nerve-wracking suspense.
😱 Horror at High Altitude:
She explains how adding a layer of psychological horror to the inherent danger of climbing creates a uniquely terrifying experience for audiences—guaranteed to leave viewers gripping their seats.
🤝 Trust & Teamwork:
Rachel emphasizes how climbing, much like acting, is deeply rooted in trust and teamwork. She reveals the importance of having complete confidence in her climbing partners, paralleling the deep trust required among the cast and crew.
🍿 Who Will Love This Film:
Rachel encourages both horror enthusiasts and climbing aficionados alike to experience the movie, noting that even those typically hesitant about horror films will find the suspense and story uniquely captivating.
📅 Where to Watch:
"The Sound" premieres in theaters nationwide on June 27th.
Don't miss this pulse-pounding episode of The Neil Haley Show with Rachel Finninger—your exclusive insight into the thrilling world of "The Sound."
Join Neil Haley on this exhilarating episode as he talks with actor and climbing enthusiast Marc Hills, who shares his excitement about starring in the gripping new thriller-horror film, "The Sound." Marc gives listeners a captivating behind-the-scenes look at blending his passion for climbing with his acting career.
🧗 A Dream Role Come True:
Marc describes the surreal feeling of finally seeing the film's release after two years of anticipation and how rare it is for an actor to merge their passion with their professional craft.
🎞️ Inside "The Sound":
The movie revolves around an internationally renowned group of climbers, including Marc's character Sean, invited to ascend an elusive rock face previously off-limits due to mysterious and ominous reasons guarded by an indigenous tribe.
🏔️ Mark’s Personal Connection:
Marc shares his deep love for climbing, having explored famous climbing destinations in California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kentucky, and even Fontainebleau in France.
😱 Blending Horror with Adventure:
Marc dives into the unique thrill of combining intense, realistic climbing action with psychological horror, ensuring the audience experiences edge-of-their-seat suspense throughout.
💪 The Athleticism of Climbing:
Marc explains the accessibility of climbing for beginners, emphasizing that while starting doesn't require exceptional athleticism, higher-level climbing demands extreme strength, endurance, and finger strength.
📅 Available Now:
"The Sound" is out in theaters now, offering both climbing enthusiasts and horror fans a uniquely heart-pounding cinematic experience.
Don’t miss this captivating conversation on The Neil Haley Show, providing an exciting look into "The Sound" and actor Mark Hills’ adventurous journey both on-screen and on the climbing wall.
🎬 Episode Highlights:🌟 Connect with Marc Hills:
Pete Hegseth (Fox & Friends Co-host and Author):
Pete discusses his book, American Crusade: Our Fight to Stay Free, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming American values against cultural and educational influences pushing leftist ideologies. He passionately addresses the state of education and the erosion of freedoms during COVID-19 lockdowns, urging Americans to embrace patriotism and individual liberty.
Neil Haley welcomes Hall of Fame basketball legend Alonzo Mourning and LaVarne Addison Burton, CEO of the American Kidney Fund (AKF), to discuss APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD). Alonzo shares his personal experience with kidney disease, emphasizing the importance of early detection, proactive healthcare, genetic testing, and open communication with doctors—especially for people of color, who are at a higher risk for AMKD.
1. Understanding AMKD:
APOL1-mediated kidney disease is caused by specific genetic mutations in the APOL1 gene.
Higher risk among individuals with African, Afro-Caribbean, Latino/Latina, and Black American heritage.
2. Alonzo Mourning's Personal Story:
Diagnosed following abnormal blood tests and fatigue during the 2000 Olympics.
Initial symptoms included swelling in legs and fatigue.
Eventually diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a form of AMKD.
Received a kidney transplant in 2003, returned to professional basketball, and won an NBA championship in 2006.
3. Importance of Early Detection:
Recognizing and not ignoring symptoms can prevent or delay kidney failure.
Encourages listeners to be proactive and visit doctors regularly.
4. Genetic Testing and Medical Care:
Genetic testing is crucial to identifying AMKD.
Encourages seeking multiple medical opinions for accurate diagnosis and effective care.
5. Addressing Medical Mistrust:
Alonzo highlights the historical mistrust of healthcare in communities of color.
Emphasizes importance of overcoming this mistrust to ensure proper care.
6. Awareness Initiatives:
Second annual AMKD Awareness Day observed on April 29th.
AKF providing comprehensive resources and education via their website.
“Health is wealth. If you don't have your health, you don't have anything.” – Alonzo Mourning
“Early detection can significantly improve outcomes and slow disease progression.” – LaVarne Addison Burton
American Kidney Fund Website: kidneyfund.org/amkd
Empower Forward Website: empowerforwardtogether.com
Alonzo Mourning: Hall of Fame Basketball Player, Spokesperson for Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
LaVarne Addison Burton: President and CEO, American Kidney Fund.
Key Discussion Points:Memorable Quotes:Resources and Information:Connect with Alonzo Mourning and AKF:
Neil Haley and co-host Greg Hanna interview renowned filmmaker and philanthropist Peter Samuelson. Peter shares insightful stories from his iconic films like Revenge of the Nerds and The Return of the Pink Panther, offers valuable life lessons about taking risks and pursuing happiness, and discusses his new book, Finding Happy. He emphasizes the importance of philanthropy, mentorship, and how helping others is key to personal fulfillment and happiness.
1. Peter Samuelson's Film Career:
Revenge of the Nerds:
Became the 22nd highest-ranking comedy film of its time.
Return of the Pink Panther:
Shared humorous anecdotes about working with actor Peter Sellers.
2. Leadership and Lessons from General Schwarzkopf:
Shared a memorable lesson on leadership from General Norman Schwarzkopf: generals remove their specialty pins to symbolize their role as a generalist leading an army.
3. Bold Moves and Risk-Taking:
Shared his courageous story about pitching Steven Spielberg and co-founding the Starlight Foundation, resulting in Spielberg donating $2.5 million.
4. New Book: Finding Happy (Released June 10th)
Written for young adults (Gen Z and Millennials).
Offers practical life hacks using Peter’s personal experiences.
Covers topics such as risk-taking, overcoming challenges, and self-discovery.
Emphasizes that helping others leads to personal fulfillment.
5. Philanthropy and Nonprofits:
Founded seven nonprofits, including the Starlight Foundation, First Star, and EDAR (Everyone Deserves A Roof).
Advocates for hands-on charity work and giving back as a core part of personal happiness.
On Leadership:
“Generals remove their specialty pins because their specialty becomes being a generalist and leading others effectively.”
On Risk-Taking:
“If you sit in the darkness doing nothing, you'll become nothing. You have to experiment.”
On Happiness:
“To really find happiness, you must help other people.”
Peter Samuelson's Book: Finding Happy (Available June 10th from Simon & Schuster)
First Star Foundation: firststar.org
Starlight Children's Foundation: Co-founded with Steven Spielberg
Website: Check out Peter’s work and his latest book through major bookstores and online platforms (Simon & Schuster).
Key Discussion Points:Memorable Quotes:Resources and Information:Connect with Peter Samuelson:
Neil Haley sits down with former Pittsburgh Pirates manager and MLB veteran Clint Hurdle, who shares his powerful insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and his journey from a successful baseball career to co-authoring a book, "Hurdles". Clint talks candidly about his time with the Pirates, the importance of humility, handling unexpected life changes, and how he uses his experiences to inspire others both in and outside baseball.
1. Reviving the Pittsburgh Pirates:
Clint reflects on how he and his team revitalized the Pirates, ending decades-long losing streaks.
Emphasizes the collective effort and building a team culture focused on winning and resilience.
2. Baseball Career Highlights:
Shares fond memories playing with the Kansas City Royals, alongside legends like George Brett.
Discusses his journey from playing professionally to coaching and managing in MLB.
3. Importance of Humility in Leadership:
Believes strongly in humility as a cornerstone of leadership.
His most important life lesson: “There are two kinds of people—those who are humble, and those about to be.”
4. Transition into Writing:
Explains initial reluctance to write a book, but later sees the value in sharing leadership and life lessons through stories.
Book: Hurdles – Co-authored, based on his philosophy, life lessons, and baseball journey.
5. Current Role and Future Plans:
Recently returned as hitting coach for the Colorado Rockies.
Active as a corporate motivational speaker, sharing lessons learned in sports applied to leadership and teamwork in business.
On humility:
“There are two kinds of people in the world—those that are humble and those that are about to be.”
On leadership:
“A leader shows up, even when things get tough.”
On unexpected life changes:
“When people you love ask for help, you go help them.”
Book: Hurdles – Available on Amazon.com
Speaking and Appearances: Clint actively engages in corporate speaking events, drawing on his extensive experience in MLB leadership.
Key Discussion Points:Memorable Quotes:Connect with Clint Hurdle:
