Is there any secret way to get the transmission shift knob off?  i tried unscrewing it and it didnt budge.  is it glued or just screwed on there tight?

screwed on, regular threads (meaning turn counter clock-wise to take it off).
I was replacing my trans shift knob so I used a set of vice grips (with a strip of rubber underneath) to hold the stick and a set of adjustable pliers on the knob. This method will mess up the plastic knob so I wouldn't go this route unless you are replacing it.
I had thought about using one of the adjustable rubber strap wrenches (made for oil filters) but I was putting on a new one so it didn't matter how I got it removed or what condition the knob was in afterwards.

The knob is glued and screwed on there.  Some come off really hard.

It amazes me how easy Vice Grips make a tough job!!  Tahnks guys, had it reinstalled in ~20 min

And it didnt chew up the knob much at all

Too late now that you're done, but I always use strap wrenches to take em off. Lots of torque, no mars.