Mental Health Episodes

Licensed mental health counselor and certified digital addiction specialist Mary Catherine Liscinski joins Rich to unpack how excessive screen time rewires our brains, fuels anxiety and depression, and strains families—and what we can do to reverse it. She breaks down the neuroscience (limbic system vs. prefrontal cortex), the dopamine loop in gaming and social media, and a practical path back to focus, sleep, and strong relationships. A must-listen for parents, professionals, and anyone feeling foggy, fried, or pulled into the scroll. Sponsored by Living Well Healthcare

Speech‑language pathologist James Burden, founder of Stuttering Blueprint, shares a compassionate, research‑backed path to speaking with confidence—whether or not fluency is the outcome. He explains why techniques like the Camperdown Method must be paired with Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and “melting the iceberg” of fear and stigma. If you’ve ever felt your voice held back, this conversation reframes stuttering and shows practical ways to reclaim presence, purpose, and power. Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group

Since this episode was recorded, it is with great sadness that I found out that Dan Steffensen passed away on July 26, 2025. Obituary information for Dan SteffensenAward-winning author and professor A.J. Otjen joins Rich to unpack “Burned Over,” the true story of Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen, who survived a 60-foot wall of fire and an agonizing road to recovery. They explore Red Lodge’s “summer of hell,” the honor guard, the nurses and burn survivors who rallied behind Dan, and the hard-won lessons about asking for help, resilience, and community. It’s a raw, human look at survival—and why first responders deserve our deepest respect.

ENT surgeon Dr. Brett Cordes shares his extraordinary arc from surviving Non‑Hodgkin lymphoma at 19 to building a thriving surgical career—then spiraling into a hidden opioid addiction that cost him everything. He opens up about rehab during COVID, the true causes of physician burnout, and how he rebuilt his life as “The Burnout Doc,” a coach helping doctors find fulfillment without losing their identity. A powerful listen on turning pain into purpose and asking for help before it’s too late. Sponsored by Harford County Health Department

In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, angel medium and intuitive healer Laurie Parente shares her transformative journey of rediscovering her spiritual gifts in her 40s. Laurie reveals how she overcame chronic illness, connected deeply with the angelic realm, and began guiding others toward self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. This conversation offers inspiring stories, practical techniques for connecting with your angels, and a reminder that it’s never too late to align with your true purpose. Sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union

Marine Corps combat veteran and former police officer Joe Smarro shares his powerful journey from the battlefield to the forefront of mental health advocacy. Known for his role in the Emmy Award–winning documentary Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops, Joe opens up about childhood trauma, military service, and the personal struggles that fueled his mission to change how public safety handles mental health crises. This conversation offers hard-earned lessons on leadership, compassion, and creating lasting change in communities nationwide. Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC

Dr. Albert Bramante joins Conversations with Rich Bennett to discuss how the mental “scripts” we live by can sabotage our growth, even when we appear successful. A former talent agent turned psychology professor and mindset coach, Dr. Bramante shares his personal journey of battling imposter syndrome, procrastination, and perfectionism—and how he finally took action to write his book Rise Above the Script. This episode is a powerful listen for anyone ready to stop performing and start living authentically.

Sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit UnionIn this heartfelt and transformative episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Dr. Mark Hicks—counselor, minister, and author—shares the five essential components of love from his new book Learning Love. He unpacks how love is more than a feeling—it’s a skill we must learn and practice. Whether you’re healing from heartbreak, navigating family dysfunction, or simply seeking deeper connections, Dr. Hicks offers practical tools and emotional insights ...

Sponsored by Harford County Chamber of Commerce What happens when your world collapses and you're left with nothing but a bottle of whiskey and broken dreams? For Ben Albert, it became the turning point. In this energizing and heartfelt episode, Ben shares how he rose from being furloughed during the pandemic to creating Real Business Connections, launching a marketing agency, and building a thriving mastermind community. This is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, podcasters, and anyone s...

Sponsored by Four Seasons Landscape & Construction Services In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Tigrilla Gardenia shares her extraordinary journey from Microsoft engineer to Cirque du Soleil performer to spiritual eco-community leader. Now a nature-inspired life coach and plant intelligence advocate, she opens up about how plants helped her reconnect with her true purpose. You’ll learn how music, plant communication, and reconnecting with nature can unlock healing, clarity, and emotional well-being.

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC In this inspiring episode, Esther Avant—coach, speaker, entrepreneur, and host of the To Your Health podcast—joins Rich to discuss how small, sustainable changes can lead to big transformations. From her early passion for fitness to becoming a military spouse and successful coach, Esther shares insights into how to navigate health, career, and parenthood without burnout. She also opens up about writing her award-winning book To Your Health, the myths around dieting, and the importance of mindset, planning, and support in sustainable wellness.

In this thought-provoking solo episode, Rich Bennett dives deep into the destructive power of rumors—how they spread, why they take hold, and the devastation they cause to individuals, businesses, and entire communities. Through real-world examples and a heartfelt call to integrity, Rich explores how misinformation erodes trust, ignites panic, and undermines mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world.

Sponsored by Harford County Living Rich sits down with Karen Pizza for a candid and often humorous conversation about what it means to be an empath. They explore how empaths absorb others' emotions, how this gift can lead to anxiety or trauma, and the ways Karen helps people clear their energy and protect themselves. With personal stories and a practical empath quiz, this episode sheds light on a topic many may recognize in themselves without knowing why. If you’ve ever felt “too sensitive” or drained by others, this conversation is a must-listen. Karen’s insights on blocking negative energy, healing trauma, and understanding empathic abilities offer real tools for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s emotional load.

Sponsored by Real Life Prosthetics Jessie Torres shares her extraordinary story of surviving sexual abuse, the tragic murders of both her brothers, and an abusive marriage. Through fierce grace, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of healing, Jessie turned her pain into a powerful mission to help others transform their lives. This heartfelt conversation dives deep into how facing our darkest moments can unlock our greatest potential.

Sponsored by Harford County LivingWhen Tanya Gioia’s husband got sober five days before Christmas, she thought the hardest part was over—but the real journey had just begun. In this heartfelt conversation, Tanya shares how she navigated life as a wife, mom, and coach while rebuilding trust, setting boundaries, and finding strength through faith. This powerful episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction, codependency, or seeking hope in life’s toughest moments.

Sponsored by Your Pet AuPair When life crumbled around her—art career, finances, marriage—Stephanie Jackson hit rock bottom. Instead of giving up, she rebuilt her life and launched Practical Sanctuary, pioneering Sensory Interior Design, a unique blend of neuroscience, psychology, and art to create spaces that support focus, healing, and better relationships. In this inspiring episode, Stephanie shares how she turned personal adversity into a mission-driven business, empowering highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to thrive.

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Gavin Masumiya shares his emotional journey from a shy, self-conscious child to a confident speaker, coach, and musical artist. Through freestyle rap, public speaking, and deeply personal songwriting—especially after the loss of his mother—Gavin discovered the healing power of voice and vulnerability. Listeners will be inspired by his resilience, creativity, and unique approach to coaching others into authentic expression.

Sponsored by Living Well Healthcare In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Rich Bennett reunites with Bethany Pace, Hillary Livingston, and introduces Morgan and Matt to discuss the explosive growth of Sincerely, Divorced, a powerful support community for people navigating divorce. They share personal stories of heartbreak, healing, co-parenting, and community building—with plenty of laughs and lessons along the way. Listeners will walk away feeling seen, supported, and inspired by this deeply authentic conversation on love, loss, friendship, and the freedom that comes with reclaiming your life.

Sponsored by Chesapeake Podcast Network In this candid and insightful episode, Rich Bennett chats with Seth Goldstein, a former journalist turned digital marketing expert and podcast coach. Seth shares how his career in journalism led to burnout and PTSD, and how he rebuilt himself through web design, podcasting, and now coaching others. Listeners will gain valuable insights into what it takes to start a podcast, how to be a great guest, and the evolving digital marketing landscape. This episode is both inspiring and packed with practical advice for creatives and entrepreneurs alike.

Sponsored by CleverCat Marketing In this eye-opening episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Meridee Hlokoff shares her powerful story of starting smoking at age 11, battling addiction for years, and finally quitting through a unique method: Cold Laser Therapy. But her journey didn’t end there. Now a coach and founder of LaserQuit, she’s helping others overcome addiction by addressing the trauma and emotional pain that fuels it. This episode goes far beyond nicotine, touching on alcohol, food, drama addiction, and the life-changing power of emotional healing.

Sponsored by Harford County LivingAfter being fired from her federal government job, Megan Ewing didn’t crumble; she transformed. In this powerful episode, Megan shares her deeply personal journey of rebuilding her life and redefining success. From overcoming imposter syndrome to launching two books and a growing movement that empowers youth with vision boards, Megan shows how resilience and self-belief can create a ripple effect that changes lives.This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with self-worth, thinking of starting a business, or needing inspiration to reclaim their narrative.

Sponsored by Maryland PickersRick Cheatham’s story is one of incredible resilience, raw honesty, and deep transformation. A former firefighter and current marriage coach, Rick opens up about his battles with addiction, his near divorce, the murder of his son, and a devastating injury that left him temporarily paralyzed. Through it all, he found healing in forgiveness, faith, and purpose, and now helps other men do the same. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating trauma, broken relationships, or spiritual healing.

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVACIn this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich talks with performance coach and strategist Michael Ostrolenk. From learning meditation and biofeedback at age nine to training with Navy SEALs and launching Team Fudoshin, Michael shares how his unique path of self-mastery has helped elite performers and everyday individuals transform their lives. This powerful conversation dives into resilience, emotional regulation, peak performance, and living with purpose, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking personal growth.

Sponsored by Window Depot of BaltimoreIn this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett , Rich and co-host Tammie Wingrove sit down with country music industry veteran Lee Adams to discuss her debut novel, Love on Tour . Lee shares her journey from a Willie Nelson-obsessed teen to a high-ranking record executive who’s helped over 50 songs top the charts. They explore the behind-the-scenes realities of the music business, how her life inspired the novel, and the emotional power of female friendships, personal growth, and resilience. Whether you're a book lover, country music fan, or dream chaser, this heartfelt episode delivers insight, laughs, and inspiration.