Conversations with Rich Bennett

Rich Bennett
  • 4.6 (71)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

Join Rich Bennett and his dynamic cohosts as they engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds—authors, entrepreneurs, activists, and everyday heroes—uncovering their unique stories and insights. Each episode offers a deep dive into personal journeys, community initiatives, and transformative experiences, providing listeners with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in to discover stories that uplift, inform, and connect us all. Subscribe now to be part of these compelling conversations. Interested in being a guest on Conversations with Rich Bennett? Reach out to Rich Bennett through PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/richbennett.

  1. Michael Reed on Loss, Love, and Living Again

    13h ago

    Michael Reed on Loss, Love, and Living Again

    What happens after grief? Not when the tears stop, because they never fully do, but when healing begins. In this powerful return appearance on Conversations with Rich Bennett, award-winning author Michael Reed shares the next chapter of his journey following the unimaginable loss of his wife, daughters, dogs, and home. Since his last visit, Michael has earned certification as a grief coach, continued his behavioral health education, completed EMDR therapy, and published two new books designed to help both adults and children navigate loss. Michael opens up about the difference between grieving and healing, the signs he receives from his daughters, and the moment he realized it was okay to start living again. About Michael Reed:  Michael Reed is an award-winning author, grief advocate, speaker, and certified grief coach. He is the author of The Million Stages of Grief, The Million Stages of Healing, and The Owl and the Ladybug. Key Takeaways:  Why grief is not limited to five stages  The critical difference between grieving and healing  How EMDR therapy helped Michael process trauma  Why children need a different approach to grief support  The powerful truth behind the phrase "You Are Enough" Resources:  themillionstages.com If this episode touched your heart, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need hope today. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    51 min
  2. John Kippen on Turning Scars Into Strength

    2d ago

    John Kippen on Turning Scars Into Strength

    What if the thing you've spent years trying to hide is actually your greatest strength? In this unforgettable episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich and Wendy sit down with magician, author, speaker, and resilience coach John Kippen. After a brain tumor surgery left one side of his face completely paralyzed, John spent more than a decade avoiding mirrors, cameras, and much of the outside world. But through magic, storytelling, and a commitment to helping others, he transformed his greatest challenge into his life's purpose. John shares remarkable stories about performing for Alex Trebek, working alongside Jamie Lee Curtis on his documentary, meeting Siegfried & Roy, and the lessons he's learned about resilience, self-acceptance, and human connection. You'll learn: • How John overcame years of isolation and self-doubt • Why being different is your superpower • The powerful mindset behind his "I'm Possible" coaching method • How small acts of kindness can save lives • Why it's never too late to start living your own dream Resources Mentioned: • JohnKippen.com • Playing the Hand You Were Dealt • John's Ultimate Illusion documentary If this episode inspires you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a reminder that their challenges do not define them. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ Freedom Federal Credit UnionHELPING YOU REACH YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMSDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    1h 32m
  3. How Alexis Watson Helps Parents Find Genuine Hope

    5d ago

    How Alexis Watson Helps Parents Find Genuine Hope

    Parents and caregivers are facing more challenges than ever, from bullying and mental health struggles to IEPs, addiction concerns, and not knowing where to turn. In this episode, Rich Bennett and co-host Wendy Beck sit down with Alexis Watson, Behavioral Health Specialist for Harford County with The Parents’ Place of Maryland, to talk about how families can find real support. Alexis shares how The Parents’ Place helps parents, grandparents, caregivers, and families across Maryland navigate special education, behavioral health, school challenges, risky behaviors, problem gambling, substance use concerns, and more. She also explains the importance of Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law and why families should never feel ashamed to ask for help. Takeaways from this episode:  How The Parents’ Place of Maryland supports families statewide  What parents should know about IEPs, 504 plans, and school conflicts  Why bullying and social media are creating new challenges for kids  How caregivers can access free resources and support  Why asking for help can be the strongest step a family takes Resources mentioned: ppmd.org, 410-768-9100, 988 Crisis Lifeline, Harford’s Heart Magazine, and Freedom Federal Credit Union. Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who may need support. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ Harford's Heart MagazineKEEP IT LOCAL WITH HARFORD’S HEART maryland’s lifestyle magazine for harford county!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    54 min
  4. How Laura Van Wormer Remarkably Found Her Voice Again

    Jun 10

    How Laura Van Wormer Remarkably Found Her Voice Again

    What happens when life takes away the voice you built your career on, and then gives you a completely new way to use it? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich talks with bestselling author Laura Van Wormer, who published 14 novels with major publishers before a devastating head-on collision with a drunk driver changed everything. After years of struggling with traumatic brain injury and the loss of her writing ability, Laura found her way back to storytelling through podcasting. Laura is the creator of The Class of ’74, a serialized audio drama set in the early 1970s that blends nostalgia, history, humor, and healing. In this episode:  Laura shares how the crash changed her life and creativity  Why podcasting became part of her recovery  How The Class of ’74 reconnects people with their own memories  The role of history, high school, and community in storytelling  What Betty White taught Laura about gratitude and grief Links mentioned:  Classof74podcast.com LauraVanWormer.net VictoryTeamSells.com Subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation at Conversations with Rich Bennett. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ The Victory TeamLOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A HOME Go with the Agent that was voted Harford’s Best & won the Harford CouDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    1h 15m
  5. Teresa Blaes Shares a Story of Survival and Faith

    Jun 8

    Teresa Blaes Shares a Story of Survival and Faith

    What if the most painful chapter of your life became the very thing that helped someone else keep going? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Teresa Blaes, entrepreneur, podcaster, author, certified Kingdom Life Coach, and founder of Kadosh Media. Teresa shares her remarkable journey through childhood trauma, family tragedy, blindness, loss, addiction, healing, and ultimately finding purpose through faith. Her upcoming autobiography, Protected: A Story of Survival, Faith, and Redemption, tells a story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, proving that even the darkest experiences can become a source of hope for others. In this episode, you'll learn: • How Teresa survived unimaginable childhood trauma  • What happened when she lost both her mother and her eyesight in the same week  • Why she walked away from God for five years and what brought her back  • The healing power of sharing your story  • How podcasting, writing, and music became part of her mission Resources Mentioned:  ProtectedBook.com  KadoshMedia.com  TeresaBlaes.com  Unresolved.Life  BlaesandGottsch.com If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement today. Visit HarfordCountyLiving.com and ConversationsWithRichBennett.com for more inspiring conversations. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    1h 4m
  6. Lee Ann Walling on Strong Faith, Friendship and Healing

    Jun 5

    Lee Ann Walling on Strong Faith, Friendship and Healing

    What if your greatest chapter begins after your life falls apart? In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author Lee Ann Walling shares the story behind her debut novel, The Salt and Light Express, a moving journey through grief, faith, friendship, healing, and second chances. After reinventing herself multiple times throughout her career, Lee Ann returned to school in her late 60s, earned her MFA, and published her first novel at age 69. During this conversation, Lee Ann discusses the emotional inspiration behind the book, the challenges of independent publishing, the importance of authentic storytelling, and why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream. You'll discover: • The real-life inspiration behind The Salt and Light Express • How grief and loss shaped the story • Lessons learned from earning an MFA later in life • The truth about independent publishing • Why podcasts have become one of the best marketing tools for authors Whether you're a reader, writer, creative entrepreneur, or someone facing a major life transition, Lee Ann's story will leave you inspired to take your own next right step. Learn more about Lee Ann Walling at LeeAnnWalling.com. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Reviews help us continue bringing you meaningful conversations with incredible guests. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    1h 5m
  7. Linda Aluoch on Hope, Healing, and Human Trafficking

    Jun 3

    Linda Aluoch on Hope, Healing, and Human Trafficking

    What if the pain you've experienced in life became the very thing that helped save others? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich and co-host Robyn Burke sit down with Linda Aluoch, founder of HopeWorks Global, to discuss her extraordinary journey from growing up in poverty in Kenya to becoming a leading advocate against human trafficking. Linda shares deeply personal stories about family loss, addiction, resilience, faith, and the heartbreaking discovery that her late sister was likely a victim of human trafficking. That realization became the catalyst for a mission that now helps vulnerable individuals both in Kenya and the United States. In this episode, you'll learn: • How poverty and vulnerability create pathways for human trafficking  • Why trafficking is much more than what most people imagine  • The hidden dangers of labor trafficking and organ trafficking  • How education and awareness can prevent exploitation  • The inspiring work HopeWorks Global is doing to empower families and communities Resources & Links: Hope Works Global  https://hopeworksglobal.org Sponsor:  Daniel McGhee & The Victory Team  https://victoryteamsells.com If this episode inspires you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this important conversation. Together, awareness can save lives. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ The Victory TeamLOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A HOME Go with the Agent that was voted Harford’s Best & won the Harford CouDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    1h 18m
  8. Sam Polakoff on Chasing a Dream After 40 Years

    Jun 1

    Sam Polakoff on Chasing a Dream After 40 Years

    What happens when a dream refuses to let go? In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with award-winning author Sam Polakoff, a retired business executive who spent decades building a successful company while quietly holding onto a lifelong dream of becoming a novelist. That dream eventually became reality. Sam shares the fascinating story behind his first novel, Hiatus, inspired by recurring dreams about his grandfather, and discusses how curiosity led him to write Shaman, a thought-provoking thriller exploring reincarnation, Akashic Records, and spiritual healing. The conversation also dives deep into his acclaimed historical fiction series, The Diary of Essie Lassiter, set during the American Revolution. In this episode, you'll learn: • How Sam pursued a dream after nearly 40 years  • The challenges and rewards of self-publishing  • Why research is critical when writing historical fiction  • How business principles can help authors succeed  • The importance of staying curious and embracing lifelong learning Learn more about Sam and his books:  sampolakoff.com If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow readers, writers, and dreamers. Send us Fan Mail Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland! https://bookfairatbelair.org/ WHFC 91.1 FMIt's all about community. WHFC 91.1 FM, Harford Community College Radio, is the college radio staDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts  Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media: Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | Facebook Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills: Hosted on Buzzsprout SquadCast Subscribe by Email

    50 min
See All (851)

4.6
out of 5
71 Ratings

About

Join Rich Bennett and his dynamic cohosts as they engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds—authors, entrepreneurs, activists, and everyday heroes—uncovering their unique stories and insights. Each episode offers a deep dive into personal journeys, community initiatives, and transformative experiences, providing listeners with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in to discover stories that uplift, inform, and connect us all. Subscribe now to be part of these compelling conversations. Interested in being a guest on Conversations with Rich Bennett? Reach out to Rich Bennett through PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/richbennett.

Information

  • Creator
    Rich Bennett
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    851
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Conversations with Rich Bennett
  • Show Website
    Conversations with Rich Bennett

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