Health Episodes

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, "Beyond the Battlefield: The Long-Term Effects of Camp Lejeune's Toxic Water", Rich sits down with Jane Babcock, a seasoned veterans benefits educator, to delve into the ongoing repercussions of the Camp Lejeune water contamination crisis. Jane provides an in-depth look at the toxic substances that infiltrated the water supply at the military base, affecting thousands of veterans and their families. Listeners will gain insight into the various health issues linked to the contamination, the importance of filing claims, and the vital role of Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) in navigating the VA benefits system. Jane also highlights the significance of statistical data in advocating for broader recognition of service-related health issues and shares practical advice for veterans seeking support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by the Camp Lejeune water crisis or interested in veterans' health and rights. Join us as we uncover the long-term effec…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," Rich sits down with Kristin Kirkwood, the executive director of Harford Land Trust. Kristin shares the inspiring story of how the Trust was founded in 1991 by a group of passionate citizens dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Harford County. She delves into the Trust's grassroots beginnings, its significant achievements in land conservation, and the innovative ways they raise funds to protect vital landscapes. Kristin also highlights the crucial role of community involvement and the importance of educating the public about the value of land preservation. Tune in to learn how Harford Land Trust is making a lasting impact on our environment and future.

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, Rich hosts a compelling roundtable discussion featuring members of Big Infinite, representatives from the Ed Lalley Foundation, Derek Pentz, Emily Adoplh, and Wendy Beck. The conversation centers on their new wellness program and the intersection of music with mental health advocacy. Guests include Jordan Lally, DJ Fritzges and Andre Toney of Big Infinite, who discuss the inspiration behind their new song "Lighthouse in My Head," which reflects personal battles with depression and the metaphorical 'lighthouse' that guides one's inner journey. The episode delves into the broader impact of their music, how it ties into mental health, and their efforts to destigmatize mental health issues through their outreach programs in schools and workplaces. The discussion also explores the Ed Lalley Foundation's initiatives, such as workplace wellness programs and mental health first aid, emphasiz…

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 enlightening episode of “Conversations with Rich Bennett,” we are joined by Diana Fannon, an ardent advocate for children with disabilities and a passionate voice for inclusive education. Diana shares her personal journey with epilepsy, which began in her teenage years and profoundly shaped her path forward. With over two decades of experience in the education sector, Diana discusses her transition from a general education teacher to a director of special education, emphasizing the transformative power of advocacy and parent empowerment. Throughout our conversation, Diana illuminates the challenges and triumphs of navigating special education, offering valuable insights into creating a more inclusive educational system. This episode is not only a testament to Diana’s resilience but also a source of inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of children with disabilities. Sponsored by Serenity Salt Spa, this episode is a must-listen for educators, pare…

In this enlightening episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, host Rich Bennett engages with three remarkable individuals in the field of prosthetic technology. Tom Zdon shares his empowering story of adopting an advanced prosthetic arm after a life-altering accident, highlighting the enhanced functionality provided by COAPT's control systems that interpret neural signals. Jonas Seeberg, owner of Real Life Prosthetics, discusses the customization and personalization of prosthetics that cater to individual needs, enhancing users' quality of life. Michelle Gent-Jamin, from Align Rehabilitation, adds depth to the conversation by explaining the rehabilitation process and the critical role of tailored therapy in integrating prosthetics into daily life. This episode sheds light on the technological advancements, personal triumphs, and collaborative efforts shaping the future of prosthetic technology.

In this captivating episode sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, host Rich Bennett delves into the fascinating world of Chesapeake Bay oysters with a distinguished panel of experts: Matthew Scales, seafood marketing director at the Maryland Department of Agriculture; Don Webster, a regional specialist with the University of Maryland Extension; and Nick Schauman, a passionate oyster farmer and restaurateur. The discussion opens with a brief nod to Rich's recent culinary adventures before quickly shifting focus to the main attraction: the vital role of oysters in the Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem and their resurgence as a culinary delicacy. Matthew Scales introduces the concept of "merroir," explaining how the unique flavors of oysters are influenced by their environment. Don Webster provides a historical perspective on oyster cultivation and the challenges overcome to revive the industry, including disease resistance and modern aquaculture techniques. Nick Schauman shares his perso…

In this heartwarming episode titled "Darlene Greene's Inspiring Journey with Phototherapy," Rich Bennett, along with co-host Alicia Hamilton, delve into the poignant and uplifting story of Darlene Greene, a dedicated caregiver turned advocate for groundbreaking health solutions. At 58, Darlene faced the daunting challenge of caring for her husband, diagnosed with early Alzheimer's. The journey led her to discover phototherapy patches, a novel and non-invasive technology that remarkably improved both her health and her husband's condition. Darlene shares her transformative experience with these patches, explaining their mechanism based on stem cell activation and the profound impact they've had on her husband's dementia symptoms. From a state of near-constant sleep and disengagement, he awakened to a life of energy, interaction, and renewed personality, showcasing the patches' potential to significantly alter the course of degenerative diseases. The conversation extends beyond person…

In this episode "Women's Journey Through Misdiagnosis to Empowerment," sponsored by the Chesapeake Podcast Network, we dive deep into the heartrending yet ultimately inspiring stories of women navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. Host Rich Bennett, along with co-host Kayla Deickman and guest Natalie Corcoran, explore the challenging realities women face when seeking diagnoses for chronic health conditions. Through their personal narratives, we uncover the frustration of being dismissed by medical professionals, the pain of dealing with undiagnosed conditions, and the added layer of grief and loss that complicates their healthcare journeys. Natalie shares her poignant experience of losing her daughter to leukemia, a tragedy that brings to light the profound impact of grief on one's health and interactions with healthcare providers. The conversation also highlights Kayla's struggle with being misdiagnosed and her eventual diagnosis of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachyca…

In this episode "Harford County's Call to Action: Beating Colorectal Cancer with Early Detection", sponsored by the Harford County Health Department, Rich Bennett delves into a critical conversation with Megan Casem and Karrie Schnaufer. They emphasize the lifesaving importance of early screening for colorectal cancer, targeting community awareness and education. The episode underscores risk factors, the significance of early detection, and the available resources within Harford County to combat this prevalent disease, aiming to empower listeners with knowledge and encourage proactive health measures.

In this episode, Rich Bennett and cohost Joe Ayler, host a touching conversation with George Wooden and Bobby Anderson, sharing Bobby’s story of resilience and community support in the face of Potocki-Lupski Syndrome. Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group, this episode highlights the challenges and triumphs of the Andersons, emphasizing the power of hope and collective effort in overcoming adversity.

In this episode "Healing and Hope: Dr. Cristina Castagnini's Journey Through Eating Disorder Recovery," sponsored by Harford County Health Department, Rich Bennett interviews Dr. Cristina Castagnini, a psychologist specializing in eating disorders. Dr. Castagnini shares her personal battle with an eating disorder, providing insights into its complex nature, beyond mere food or weight issues. They discuss the role of control, emotional struggles, misconceptions, and the impact of social media on body image. The conversation emphasizes holistic treatment approaches and the importance of understanding and support for those affected by eating disorders.

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by "Eco-Cool HVAC," Wendy S. Meadows shares her transformative journey from a burned-out family law attorney and new mother to discovering a balanced, joyful life. She delves into key concepts from her book, "sparkle & GRIT: Live a Technicolor Life By Finally Finding Balance, Escaping Monotony, and Beating Burnout," emphasizing the importance of embracing imbalance, creating fulfilling routines, and staying true to oneself. Her inspiring story and practical advice aim to guide listeners, especially working mothers, toward a more vibrant and satisfying life.

In this special episode "Elijah's Culinary Journey: From Kitchen Play to MasterChef Junior" of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," hosted by Julia Chang and her son Christopher, young chef Elijah shares his early culinary experiences and his journey to "MasterChef Junior Home for the Holidays." Sponsored by Harford County Health Department, the episode delves into Elijah's passion for cooking, fostered from a young age, his favorite dishes, and his aspirations of blending his love for cooking with aviation. The interview also explores his experiences on the TV show and interactions with renowned chefs, underscoring his culinary dreams and future ambitions.

In the episode "Eating Squirrel with Ian Cadwalader and His Beagle," sponsored by "Your Pet AuPair" and cohosted with Kate Craig, Ian Cadwalader shares his experiences and insights into squirrel hunting. He discusses the role of his beagle, Boregaard, in hunting, and delves into various aspects of cooking and consuming squirrel meat. The conversation also touches on Ian's military background and how it influenced his hunting practices. The episode provides a unique perspective on this unconventional sport and culinary experience, blending personal anecdotes with practical hunting and cooking advice.

In this episode titled "Chesapeake Bay Blue Catfish, Eat Them Up," sponsored by "Eternal Pawprints," Rich Bennett leads a detailed discussion with Joe Love and Matthew Scales about the invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay. Introduced in the 1970s for trophy fishing, these fish have since proliferated, posing a threat to the local ecosystem by preying on native species like blue crabs and perch. The episode delves into their characteristics, habitat, and the challenges they pose. It also explores management strategies, primarily focusing on promoting the blue catfish as a culinary choice to control their population. The conversation touches on their availability in markets, various cooking methods, and health considerations due to potential contaminants. The episode aims to raise awareness about the environmental impact of blue catfish and encourages listeners to help mitigate this by incorporating the fish into their diets.

In this "Conversations with Rich Bennett" podcast episode titled "Embracing Emotional Healing: Ann Hince's Story of Resilience," sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, Ann Hince shares her compelling journey of overcoming a challenging childhood and PTSD through self-healing and emotional resilience. Raised by alcoholic parents, Ann's early life was marked by trauma and struggle, but she discovered a path to healing through Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) or tapping. This method, involving tapping on certain body parts while addressing emotions and memories, helped her manage stress and release emotional baggage. Ann's transformative experience also includes physical changes like realigning her eye sockets and growing taller at 56, achieved through her unique approach to mental focus and body awareness. Her story delves into the discovery of her biological family after being adopted and how these personal experiences shaped her healing philosophy. Ann emphasizes the significa…

In the "Innovative Healing: Exploring Dr. Cindy Howard's Wellness Philosophy" episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," listeners are introduced to Dr. Cindy M. Howard, a chiropractic internist and nutritionist with a dynamic background that spans from professional dancing to powerlifting. Dr. Howard shares her holistic approach to wellness, which she practices at her clinic, Innovative Health and Wellness Center, located in Orland Park, Illinois. Throughout the episode, Dr. Howard discusses her personal and professional journey, including her battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma, which inspired her to author the book "Positively Altered." The book captures her philosophy of choosing one's perspective and response to life's challenges, emphasizing the power of positivity and humor in the healing process. Dr. Howard also delves into the importance of building a supportive team, embracing adversity, and finding joy in difficult circumstances. She highlights the significance of laughter …

In this "Conversations with Rich Bennett" episode featuring Roman Fischer, listeners are treated to an in-depth discussion about the multifaceted nature of fitness. Roman Fischer, a transformative figure in health and wellness, shares his holistic approach to fitness, which transcends traditional physical exercise by integrating mental and emotional well-being. Throughout the episode, Roman emphasizes the critical role of mindset in achieving fitness goals, the importance of overcoming setbacks, and the power of believing in one's capabilities. He recounts personal anecdotes that highlight the impact of life events on mental health and how they can serve as catalysts for growth and resilience. Rich Bennett and Roman engage in a candid conversation about Roman's journey from a focus on modeling and acting to becoming a dedicated fitness coach. Roman outlines his future aspirations, including helping thousands transform their lives, opening a chain of gyms, and venturing in…

In a compelling episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," co-hosted by Ronya Nassar, guest Lindsay Goff delves deep into her personal and professional experiences with stroke awareness. Lindsay's dedication to the cause was deeply personal, stemming from the traumatic experience of her stepdad's severe stroke. Transitioning from her initial career aspirations, Lindsay's firsthand experiences as an ER nurse equipped her with insights into the immediate interventions crucial for stroke patients. The conversation underscores that strokes aren't exclusive to the elderly; they can affect individuals across age groups. Lindsay, Rich, and Ronya explore the advancements in stroke diagnosis and treatments since the 1950s, emphasizing the significance of recognizing risk factors and the pivotal role of community education. Lindsay's mission is clear: to shift perceptions, enlighten the masses, and ultimately, save lives through informed action.

Shari Bailey is not only a seasoned professional in Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance with over 23 years of experience but also a devoted mother and advocate for children with special needs. With certifications in Six Sigma, PMP, and Quality Auditing, Shari has made significant contributions to the Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotechnology, and Software industries. Beyond her corporate achievements, she is the founder of Laila’s Gift, a nonprofit inspired by her daughter Laila, born with Jacobsen Syndrome. Shari’s advocacy work through Laila’s Gift reflects her commitment to supporting and celebrating children with special needs and their families, promoting inclusion and diversity in the community. Lana, Shari’s daughter, is a creative spirit who discovered the joy of storytelling and doodling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lana not only found a way to entertain herself but also connected with her twin sister, Laila, through her creations. This creative connection l…

In this episode, we discuss the poignant topic of childhood cancer. Joined by co-host Sherri Cook Woosley and her daughter Evelyn Woosley, a childhood leukemia survivor, we explore resilience and hope. Evelyn isn't just a survivor; she's a passionate artist who uses crocheting as a therapeutic outlet. Dive into this touching narrative of struggle, triumph, and the healing power of art. Here are links for you to bookmark, save, follow, memorize, write down, and to share with others: Crafty Croc...

Sarah Binette is a leading expert in corporate fitness and wellness, boasting over two decades of experience helping high-powered business owners and executives transform their health and productivity. Utilizing her vast experience in the fitness industry and pre-med clinical knowledge, Sarah designs unique, tailor-made fitness programs that have helped some of the world's top business leaders achieve their fitness goals. Her client list includes notable figures such as Miss America 2010, a USAF...