Mental Health Episodes

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 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 episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Rage Against Addiction, Rich and co-host Wendy Beck engage in a profound discussion with Manny Nsien, CEO of Ripple Ranch Recovery. Manny shares his journey from aspiring doctor to pioneering leader in addiction recovery, highlighting his transition from medical practice to healthcare administration. The episode delves into the evolution of addiction treatment, the unique challenges and advancements in the field, and Ripple Ranch's innovative approach to integrating mental health care with addiction services. Manny also discusses the importance of community-based recovery and the impact of his work on improving patient outcomes, emphasizing the "ripple effect" of healing and recovery within communities. This insightful conversation sheds light on the compassionate and structured methods that define modern recovery efforts, making a compelling case for a holistic approach to addiction treatment.

In this episode sponsored by Rage Against Addiction, Rich and his co-host Wendy Beck discuss the impactful work of the non-profit organization, Voices of Hope, with guests Aaron and Chris. They delve into the organization’s unique approach to addiction recovery through harm reduction methods. Aaron explains the integration of harm reduction with traditional recovery processes, emphasizing the importance of meeting people in active addiction where they are to facilitate change. Chris shares his personal connection to the cause, highlighting the real-world application and successes of the program, such as the syringe exchange and treatment navigation services. The episode explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding harm reduction and stresses the importance of community support and education in overcoming the stigma associated with addiction recovery.

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 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 engaging episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group, Rich sits down with Daryl Dittmer, an author celebrated for his transformative storytelling. Dittmer opens up about his debut book, "When I Stop Fighting: The Unexpected Joy of Getting my Head Out of My Ass," offering listeners a raw and honest glimpse into his journey of sobriety, personal growth, and self-discovery. From humble beginnings to the trials of addiction, Dittmer shares how he navigated his path to a sober life, highlighting the pivotal moments and lessons learned along the way. Rich and Dittmer discuss the importance of embracing life's challenges, the power of staying teachable, and the impact of mentorship on recovery. Through stories of perseverance, the episode delivers profound insights into overcoming personal battles and finding joy in the unexpected turns of life. Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group, this conversation is a testament to the strength of the…

In this profoundly insightful episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," we dive deep into the realm of emotional healing and empowerment with our distinguished guest, JJ Flizanes. An esteemed empowerment strategist and creator of the Empowering Minds Network, JJ shares her invaluable wisdom on transforming life's challenges into avenues of joy and fulfillment. Throughout our conversation, JJ elucidates her innovative approach to emotional wellness, which harmoniously integrates both the analytical and intuitive aspects of the brain. She introduces listeners to her unique methodologies, including the development of personalized roadmaps for emotional healing and the art of crafting a life led by empowered choices rather than circumstantial victimhood. JJ's journey, marked by two decades of pioneering work in empowerment strategies, unfolds as she discusses her groundbreaking program, "Rewiring Your Core Wound Patterns," and the transformative power of understanding and rewiring …

In this compelling episode sponsored by the Harford County Health Department, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Bruce Brackett. Bruce's journey is nothing short of inspirational, tracing his path from a challenging battle with addiction in New York City to becoming a celebrated author, artist, and social media personality with over 1.2 million followers. Bruce candidly shares his experiences with addiction, his transformative path to recovery, and how art played a pivotal role in his healing process. Throughout the episode, Bruce's story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of resilience and the positive impact of seeking help. Rich and Bruce also discuss the importance of community resources, like those provided by the Harford County Health Department, in supporting individuals through recovery. This episode not only highlights Bruce's personal triumph over adversity but also emphasizes the broader message of recovery, the significance of mental he…

In this impactful episode titled "Ashley Easter and the Courage 365 Revolution" on "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, listeners are taken on a profound journey through the inspiring work of Ashley Easter and her nonprofit, Courage 365. Ashley shares her personal story of overcoming a cult-like upbringing and how it propelled her to start Courage 365, an organization dedicated to empowering survivors of abuse through community support, education, and mental health resources. The conversation delves into the organization's evolution, its mission to offer a lifeline to those feeling isolated by their experiences, and the significant difference Courage 365 has made in the lives of many. Rich Bennett, alongside co-host Wendy Beck, explores the challenges and triumphs of Courage 365, the power of community healing, and the importance of having courage. This episode shines a light on the revolution Ashley Easter has sparked, encouraging listeners to support and pa…

In this powerful episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by "Daniel McGhee & The Victory Team," we delve deep into the life of Tate Barkley, a seasoned attorney, educator, and author with a compelling story of struggle, resilience, and triumph. Tate opens up about his journey through addiction, the profound impact of personal integrity, and the challenging path to self-acceptance in a conservative environment. From his formative years shaped by debate camps to his tumultuous relationship with alcohol and the transformative power of recovery, Tate shares how these experiences led to the writing of his introspective memoir, "Sunday Dinners, Moonshine, and Men." Listeners will be moved by Tate's candid discussion on the significance of mentorship, the pivotal moments that led him to seek help, and the role of forgiveness in his recovery. His reflections on personal identity, the complexities of father-son relationships, and finding love and stability offer invaluable ins…

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 poignant episode "From Shadows to Sunshine: Nicole Poulton's Guide to Recovery and Renewal," sponsored by Rage Against Addiction, Rich Bennett and co-host Wendy Beck delve into the harrowing yet ultimately triumphant story of Nicole Poulton. Nicole candidly shares her journey through a turbulent childhood marked by abuse and neglect, leading to a decade-long battle with addiction. Her narrative is a raw exploration of the depths of despair and the resilience required to climb out of it. Nicole recounts the pivotal moments of her life, from her early experiences of abuse to the life-threatening injury that inadvertently saved her from further abuse but plunged her into the world of addiction. Her story is not just one of survival but of transformation, as she navigates through the complexities of recovery, discovering her inner strength and purpose along the way. Rich and Wendy guide the conversation with empathy, drawing out the lessons Nicole has learned and the wisdom she …

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 of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by "Maryland Pickers," Rich engages with Alan Lazaros in a transformative discussion. Alan shares his journey from a life-altering accident to redefining success through fulfillment, rather than external achievements. He offers insights on developing habits for peak performance and balancing professional success with personal well-being. This episode enlightens listeners on pursuing a fulfilling life by investing in growth and embracing continuous learning, aiming to inspire actionable change in their personal and professional lives.

This episode titled "Navigating Friendships and Boundaries for a Healthier Tomorrow," sponsored by American Auto Repair, revolves around the challenges and complexities of managing personal relationships, particularly in the context of friendship. The conversation delves into the intricate process of losing friends, which can often be a painful yet inevitable part of personal growth and setting healthier boundaries. The discussion emphasizes the importance of these boundaries in maintaining one's mental and emotional well-being. Throughout the episode, the themes of personal development, self-care, and the journey towards a healthier life are explored in depth. It highlights the idea that while losing friends can be difficult, it sometimes is necessary for personal growth and healthier living. The episode underscores the value of honest communication and the strength found in supportive communities, especially when navigating the often arduous path to personal wellness. Sponsored by…

In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," titled "Beyond the Code: Constantin Morun on Integrating Technology and Spirituality," sponsored by Elite Power Washing, Rich Bennett delves into the fascinating world where technology meets spirituality with his guest, Constantin Morun. Morun, a holistic life empowerment mentor and coach, shares his transformative journey from growing up in Romania during the Communist era to becoming an advocate for integrating technology and spirituality in personal development. He discusses his career transition from the corporate world to coaching, highlighting the pivotal role of technology in enhancing self-discovery and personal growth. Morun's insights into artificial intelligence and its potential to positively impact humanity provide a unique perspective on modern challenges. Through his story, listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability, seek balance, and harness the power of positivity and gratitude in their daily lives. This epi…

In this inspiring episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," titled "Turning Scars into Strength with Kimberly Clark," sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC, Rich delves into the profound story of Kimberly Clark, a Navy veteran who transformed her life's greatest challenges into avenues of empowerment and healing. Kimberly explores her struggles with addiction, the harrowing experiences of childhood and military sexual trauma, and the journey towards recovery that led her to become an inspiration for others facing similar challenges. Kimberly's commitment to healing led her to discover the therapeutic benefits of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and the role of a peer support specialist, where she leverages her experiences to guide fellow veterans on their paths to recovery. Her work as an author and motivational speaker amplifies her message of resilience and the possibility of triumph over adversity. Throughout the episode, Kimberly shares insights into the importance of therapy, particularly EMDR…

In this episode titled "Who Is Bryan Wempen Beyond His Demons?" sponsored by "Daniel McGhee and The Victory Team," Rich Bennett engages in a profound conversation with Bryan Wempen. This episode delves into Bryan's personal and professional journey, exploring his struggles with addiction, his path to recovery, and his significant career shift into mental health. Bryan shares insights from his book, "Fuck My Demons: Redefining Normal," discussing the transformative power of facing and overcoming personal challenges. The episode is an inspiring tale of resilience, change, and the strength found in vulnerability and self-discovery.

In this episode sponsored by Rage Against Addiction, Christine Malek shares her inspiring journey of overcoming domestic violence and addiction. She emphasizes the power of self-empowerment and the importance of supporting others facing similar challenges. This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" highlights resilience, recovery, and the transformative impact of positive support networks in navigating life's toughest battles.

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 "Why You Need To Walk Through Fire with Dave Albin," sponsored by American Auto Repair, Dave Albin shares his transformative journey from addiction to becoming a prominent figure in Tony Robbins' fire walking events. He discusses the power of fire walking and its impact on diverse individuals, including celebrities and corporate teams. Dave emphasizes the importance of positivity and self-development, offering insights into personal growth and resilience. This episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett" is a deep dive into overcoming life's challenges and harnessing one's potential. Here are links for you to bookmark, save, follow, memorize, write down, and share with others: Firewalk Adventures - Team Building Experiences This episode is sponsored by American Auto Repair