Authors Episodes

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich speaks with Pat Wetzel, author of "Bump in the Road: 15 Stories of Courage, Hope and Resilience" and podcaster. Pat shares her journey from battling cancer to becoming an adventurer and writer. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the transformative power of meditation, and spiritual growth through adversity. Pat also recounts her soaring experiences and how they have influenced her life and perspective. Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, a reliable HVAC service provider in Maryland. Home - Bump In The Road Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is proudly sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, a veteran-owned and operated HVAC business serving Harford, Baltimore, and Cecil Counties in Maryland. Eco-Cool HVAC is committed to providing exceptional heating, cooling, and refrigeration services with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction. Whether you need same-day service or a free system repla…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich is joined by Kim Korte, a sensory perception and emotion management strategist. Kim discusses her unique approach to emotional awareness through the analogy of cooking and dining, inspired by her book "Yucky, Yummy, Savory, Sweet: Understanding the Flavors of Emotions." She shares insights on how our sensory systems influence our emotional experiences and provides practical steps for better emotional management. This engaging conversation explores how understanding and managing emotions can lead to personal growth and healing. Sponsored by Serenity Salt Spa, offering holistic wellness services in Forest Hill, Maryland. Kim Korte | Emotion management Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is brought to you by Serenity Salt Spa, your destination for holistic wellness in Forest Hill, Maryland. Serenity Salt Spa offers a variety of drug-free, alternative wellness services including Himalayan…

In this episode of “Conversations with Rich Bennett,” Rich interviews Ray Hartjen, an author and musician battling multiple myeloma. Ray shares how his diagnosis transformed his outlook on life, emphasizing his motto, "If not now, when?" He discusses the therapeutic role of music in his journey and his passion for raising awareness and funds for cancer research. Ray's inspiring story highlights the importance of cherishing every moment and supporting those in need. This episode is sponsored by American Auto Repair & Performance, known for their reliable and skilled automotive services. Ray Hartjen, writer, musician, and cancer patient advocate Sponsor Message: This episode of “Conversations with Rich Bennett” is proudly sponsored by American Auto Repair & Performance. Located in Joppa, Maryland, American Auto Repair & Performance has been delivering top-notch automotive services for over 30 years. From standard maintenance and engine repairs to heating and AC services, their …

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich sits down with Dan Diedriech, a former podcaster who has transitioned into a children's author with his book "Katy the Caterfly." Dan shares the heartfelt inspiration behind his book, discussing themes of personal growth and environmental conservation. He emphasizes the importance of monarch butterflies and the critical role of milkweed in their survival. Dan also reveals future plans for his book series, including interactive elements and potential adaptations. This episode is sponsored by Four Seasons Landscape and Construction Services, experts in sustainable landscaping solutions. Dan Creative Studios Katy The Caterfly Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is brought to you by Four Seasons Landscape and Construction Services. With over 40 years of experience, Four Seasons specializes in all aspects of lawn and landscape maintenance, from design and installation to property maintenance …

Ever wondered how a genetic bone disorder could fuel an extraordinary creative career? Meet Katherine Klimitas, our inspiring guest from New Orleans. Battling osteogenesis imperfecta, Katherine doesn't just live with her condition—she thrives through it. Tune in to hear how she lays down to paint, work, and eat, all while building her successful brand, KAK Art and Designs. Her fascinating journey from watercolor artist to graphic designer, and now an author, underscores the importance of representation for those with visible challenges. Join us as Katherine shares the practical side of her creative career, revealing the steady demand for graphic design services like logo creation and social media management, even landing gigs with iconic bands like Styx. Her foray into public speaking amplifies the necessity of showcasing diverse ways to contribute to society. Hear firsthand how she transitioned her art into a thriving business during the COVID-19 pandemic and the evolution of her …

In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, sponsored by Maryland Pickers, Rich welcomes back author Teri M. Brown. Teri discusses her latest book, "Daughters of Green Mountain Gap," set in the 1890s Appalachian Mountains. She delves into the intriguing world of granny women—mountain healers using roots, herbs, and mountain magic—and the generational clash between traditional and modern medicine. Teri also shares her journey of research, writing challenges, and the importance of marketing for authors, offering listeners a captivating glimpse into her unique storytelling process. Teri M Brown, Author Sponsor Message: This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is sponsored by Maryland Pickers. Since 2012, Maryland Pickers has been your go-to for professional junk removal and hauling services in Harford and Baltimore Counties. Whether you need residential or commercial junk removal, heavy lifting, or a dumpster rental, Maryland Pickers offers friendly, affordable, a…

In this lively and enlightening episode, host Rich Bennett sits down with Dr. Emily Greene, a multi-talented healer and author. From the unexpected origins of their friendship to the transformative power of castor oil and ginger juice, this conversation is filled with humor and insights. Dr. Greene shares her holistic approaches, including unique uses for everyday items and the surprising benefits of structured water. Tune in to discover how small changes can lead to significant health improvements and enjoy the playful banter that makes this episode a delight. Ordinary Guru Creative Movement Studio @ Lunar Bay (theordinaryguru.com) Sponsor Message: This episode is brought to you by WHFC 91.1 FM, the voice of Harford Community College. Tune in to WHFC for a diverse range of music, news, and community programming that enriches and entertains. Discover local talent, stay informed with up-to-date news, and enjoy specialty shows that cater to all musical tastes. Support your community …

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich sits down with Dr. David Chotka to discuss his powerful experiences in Ukraine. Dr. Chotka shares his journey of spreading faith in a country rebuilding from decades of persecution. From the challenges faced by Ukrainian Christians under communist rule to the miraculous stories of hope and prayer, Dr. Chotka's insights provide a profound look into the resilience of the human spirit. Sponsored by Harford County Living, join us for an inspiring conversation about faith, freedom, and the transformative power of prayer. Sponsor Message: Harford County Living is your go-to source for all things Harford County, Maryland. Whether you're looking for the latest community news, events, or local business spotlights, Harford County Living has you covered. Their mission is to highlight the vibrant, thriving community of Harford County and support local businesses and organizations. Visit HarfordCountyLiving.com to stay connected…

In this episode, Rich Bennett talks with Chuck Chapman, a life and relationships coach, psychotherapist, and author. Chuck shares his inspiring life story marked by overcoming addiction, divorce, bankruptcy, and cancer. He delves into his journey from being a graphic artist to a psychotherapist, the impact of his daughter's special needs, and his work in helping men recover from the "Nice Guy Syndrome." Chuck emphasizes the importance of integrity and core values in achieving a fulfilling life and discusses his book "Finding Your Way Without Losing Yourself." Tune in to learn about Chuck’s transformation and his insights on courage, grace, tenacity, temperance, and forgiveness. Chuck Chapman - Personal Advisory Coaching for Men

Join host Rich Bennett in an enlightening conversation with Lolita Guarin as she shares her inspiring journey from aspiring for the American dream to confronting the harsh realities of burnout. Lolita, an adult child of an alcoholic, dives deep into her personal experiences, revealing how childhood trauma influenced her career and led her to become a stress management coach. Discover effective strategies for managing stress, learn about her transformative book, "Stress Management for Adult Children of Alcoholics," and gain insights into achieving a balanced life despite challenging circumstances. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand and overcome the complexities of stress. Be Amazing You - Stress Management

Join host Rich Bennett in an enthralling conversation with JoAnn Fawcett, an author and speaker whose life story is a blend of extraordinary experiences and personal resilience. In this episode, JoAnn shares her journey from enduring toxic marriages to embarking on a spiritual quest that led her from the Mormon Church to the mystical realms of UFOs, elementals, and magic. Discover the fascinating tales of her paranormal encounters, the spiritual teachings from her alien guides, and the profound connections she has made with the unseen world. JoAnn’s story is one of transformation, hope, and empowerment, providing insights and encouragement for anyone facing their own life battles. Tune in for an episode filled with incredible anecdotes, spiritual wisdom, and the reminder that change is possible at any stage in life. HOME - Jo Ann Fawcett

Join Rich Bennett in this hilarious and insightful episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" as he chats with Steven Joseph, a masterful attorney, seasoned negotiator, and award-winning author known for his unique perspective on life's crankiness. Steven shares how he transformed his crankiness into a superpower, drawing from his experiences as the son of a Holocaust survivor, a marathon runner, and an attorney. Through humor and candid anecdotes, Steven discusses his journey, the importance of embracing crankiness, and how cooking and humor play vital roles in building stronger personal and professional relationships. Don't miss this engaging conversation that turns everyday annoyances into sources of strength and wisdom. Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is brought to you by Your Pet AuPair. Your Pet AuPair provides professional and loving pet care services in Bel Air, Maryland, and surrounding areas. From dog walking and new puppy care to c…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich sits down with Samantha and Erin, the talented writing duo behind E.S. Rosalynn. They share their journey from childhood friends to co-authors, reminiscing about the days of dial-up internet and AOL. Samantha and Erin discuss their creative process, the inspiration behind their "Mixtape" book series, and the challenges of collaborating from different states. Listen in as they explore the healing power of music, the importance of creative partnership, and the joy of bringing their stories to life. For more information, visit esrosalynnwrites.com. This episode is sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, your trusted partner for eco-friendly heating and cooling solutions. Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is brought to you by Eco-Cool HVAC. Eco-Cool HVAC is a veteran-owned and operated business providing top-notch heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and commercial refrigeration services in Harford, Bal…

In this episode, Rich Bennett dives deep into the world of sleep with Dr. Bijoy John, a board-certified sleep specialist and founder of Sleep Fix Academy. Dr. John shares his expertise on overcoming sleep challenges without medication, offering practical advice and innovative strategies to enhance sleep quality and overall health. They discuss the science behind sleep, common sleep disorders like sleep apnea, and the profound impact of good sleep on mental and physical well-being. Dr. John also introduces his acronym "SLEEP NOW" as a comprehensive guide to better sleep. Whether you struggle with insomnia or just want to improve your nightly rest, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips to help you achieve better sleep. Tune in and discover how to unlock the full potential of your nights for a healthier, more energized life. Sponsor Message: This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Maryland Pickers, your go-to solution for professional junk removal and hauling …

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich welcomes the incredibly talented Shannon Lawrence, an author renowned for her captivating horror and fantasy stories. Shannon shares her journey, discussing her extensive body of work, including over 50 anthologies, four solo horror collections, and her latest urban fantasy novel, "Myth Stalker: Wendigo Nights." They delve into the real-life inspirations behind her tales, her role in addiction recovery, and the personal challenges she faced, including her father's battle with ALS. Shannon also offers insights into balancing creativity with business acumen and the therapeutic power of writing. This episode is sponsored by "Your Pet AuPair." Tune in to discover the fascinating blend of real-life experiences and fantastical elements in Shannon Lawrence's storytelling. Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is brought to you by Your Pet AuPair. Your Pet AuPair offers top-notch pet care services…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," we explore the transformative power of meditation with Ann Swanson, a bestselling author and expert in yoga and meditation. Ann shares her personal journey of overcoming chronic pain and anxiety through meditation, highlighting how these practices can rebuild brain tissue and alleviate pain. We discuss various meditation techniques, their benefits for conditions like ADHD and fibromyalgia, and how meditation can integrate into our busy lives. Ann also touches on her global travels to learn different meditation practices and offers practical advice for skeptics. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that can help you find inner peace and resilience in the modern world. Meditation for the Real World by Ann Swanson — Ann Swanson Wellness Ann Swanson Wellness Sponsored by Serenity Salt Spa This episode is brought to you by Serenity Salt Spa, your haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Discover the healing benefits of salt thera…

In this compelling episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich sits down with Rick Czaplewski, author of the powerful memoir "Better Dirty Than Done." Rick shares his incredible journey of resilience, from being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in college to overcoming the disease twice. He details the challenges he faced, the emotional and physical toll of treatment, and his unyielding determination to live life to the fullest. Rick's story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for recovery and success, inspiring listeners to find strength in their own struggles. RICK CZAPLEWSKI Sponsored by: Harford County Health Department – promoting health and wellness in our community. Tune in to hear Rick's remarkable path to recovery and his message of hope and perseverance. Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is sponsored by the Harford County Health Department. Did you know that regular cancer screenings can save lives? Harford County Hea…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group, Rich sits down with Michele DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design. Michele shares her extensive knowledge from over 50 years in the publishing industry, offering invaluable insights for both aspiring and established authors. They discuss the evolution of self-publishing, the critical importance of professional editing and design, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Michele emphasizes the need for authors to treat publishing as a business, ensuring their books are of the highest quality to succeed in a competitive market. Tune in to learn how to transform your book dreams into reality with expert advice from Michele DeFilippo. Here are links for you to bookmark, save, follow, memorize, write down, and share with others: Traditional Publisher Quality for Indie Authors - 1106Design Sponsor Message: This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is proudly sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Gr…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich and co-host Wendy Beck sit down with playwright and director Christle Henzel to discuss her impactful plays, "Addicted" and "Addicted: Alex's Story." Christle shares her personal journey, inspired by the loss of her brother to addiction, and her mission to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding addiction. The conversation delves into the powerful and interactive elements of her plays, the emotional impact on audiences, and the importance of open dialogue about addiction. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction, this episode highlights Christle's dedication to prevention and education through the transformative power of theater.

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," host Rich Bennett engages in a deep and insightful discussion with Lisa Sugarman, a Boston-based author, columnist, and mental health advocate. Lisa shares her compelling journey from parenting author to a devoted mental health advocate, driven by her personal experiences with suicide loss, including a transformative revelation about her father's death. The conversation explores the stigma surrounding mental illness, the impact of language on societal perceptions of suicide, and the challenges of discussing these topics on social media platforms. Lisa also highlights her involvement with The Trevor Project as a crisis counselor, emphasizing the significance of the 988 crisis support line. Rich and Lisa discuss the power of storytelling in mental health advocacy, Lisa’s written works that address both parenting and mental health challenges, and her forthcoming projects aimed at providing resources and support for those affected by m…

In this enlightening episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by the Harford County Health Department, Rich Bennett engages with Julie Ryan, a psychic, medium, and medical intuitive renowned for her unique abilities. Julie shares her journey from being an inventor and entrepreneur to embracing her psychic capabilities. She discusses her process of medical intuition, her experiences with communicating with spirits, and her ability to facilitate energetic healings. Julie also delves into her educational initiatives, teaching others to harness their psychic abilities over a weekend course. Throughout the conversation, she offers insights into the profound transitions of life and death, backed by personal anecdotes and a deep understanding of the spiritual realm. This episode not only demystifies the work of a psychic but also explores the impact of such abilities on personal and professional life.

In this compelling episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Window Depot of Baltimore, host Rich Bennett sits down with Ashley Riehl to discuss her harrowing yet inspiring journey through preeclampsia during her pregnancy. Ashley shares the intense challenges she faced when diagnosed with this serious condition, which threatened both her life and that of her unborn child. From the initial signs and hospital experiences to the eventual birth of her son at just 30 weeks, Ashley’s story is one of fear, courage, and resilience. She delves into the emotional and physical struggles during her time in NICU, her recovery, and how she channeled her experiences into creative energy to write a children’s book titled "The Tiniest Superhero." This episode not only highlights the perils of preeclampsia but also celebrates the strength of a mother’s love and the power of support in overcoming life’s most daunting obstacles.

In this profoundly moving episode, host Rich Bennett sits down with Ryan Gray, whose life story transcends the harsh realities of addiction and mental health struggles. Ryan shares his journey from the depths of substance abuse to becoming a beacon of hope as a peer support specialist and author. Dive into a raw and honest discussion about the challenges of recovery, the stigmas of mental illness, and the power of resilience. Ryan’s narrative is not just his own but a reflection of countless silent battles fought every day. Join us as we explore how he turned his darkest days into a source of light for others, detailed in his gripping book, "Twilight in York: Volume One."

In this episode sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, Rich engages in a deep and inspiring conversation with Morgan McCarver, a talented ceramic artist and author of "God the Artist." Morgan shares her journey of overcoming scoliosis and how it profoundly influenced her passion for pottery and sewing. She discusses the therapeutic aspects of her art, her academic pursuits in ceramics, and her unexpected shifts in career path due to COVID-19. The episode highlights Morgan's integration of her faith with her art, illustrating how personal challenges and spiritual beliefs have shaped her creative expression. Rich and Morgan also explore the practical aspects of her craft, including ensuring product safety and the importance of creative expression in personal growth and faith. Throughout the conversation, Morgan emphasizes the significance of recognizing and nurturing one’s inherent creativity, a theme central to her book and her teachings.