Recovery Episodes
Discussions with individuals on the topic of alcohol and/or drug recovery.
April 1, 2024
Kerry Paradis on Battling Addiction for Family and Future
In this compelling episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by "Rage Against Addiction," Rich and Wendy Beck sit down with Kerry Paradis to explore her poignant and inspiring journey of recovery from alcoholism. Kerry shares her raw and honest story, starting with her early struggles, the impact of growing up with a bipolar and alcoholic mother, and the cascade of challenges that led her to confront her own addiction. She details the turning points in her life, including the heart-wrenching decision to seek help and the transformative experience of rehabilitation. Kerry's narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of support systems, and the possibility of redemption and change. Her journey also shines a light on the invaluable role of organizations like "Rage Against Addiction," which provides essential support and resources to individuals and families battling addiction. Listeners will hear Kerry discuss the crucial steps she took toward rec…
Guest: Kerry Paradis
March 29, 2024
Bruce Brackett's Remarkable Recovery and Rise to Fame
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…
Guest: Bruce W. Brackett
March 27, 2024
Ashley Easter and the Courage 365 Revolution
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…
Guest: Ashley Easter
March 22, 2024
Tate Barkley on Addiction, Recovery, and Embracing Identity
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…
Guest: Tate Barkley
March 11, 2024
From Shadows to Sunshine: Nicole Poulton's Guide to Recovery and Renewal
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 …
Guest: Nicole Poulton
Feb. 16, 2024
Turning Scars into Strength with Kimberly Clark
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…
Guest: Kimberly Clark
Feb. 7, 2024
Who Is Bryan Wempen Beyond His Demons?
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.
Guest: Bryan Wempen
Feb. 5, 2024
Christine Malek's Conquest Over Personal Demons
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.
Guest: Christine Malek
Jan. 26, 2024
Why You Need To Walk Through Fire with Dave Albin
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
Guest: Dave Albin
Jan. 24, 2024
Healing and Hope: Dr. Cristina Castagnini's Journey Through Eating Disorder Recovery
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.
Guest: Dr. Cristina Castagnini
Jan. 19, 2024
The Clubhouse by Ashley and The Roots Project's Approach to Addiction Recovery
This episode "The Clubhouse by Ashley and The Roots Project's Approach to Addiction Recovery," sponsored by "Rage Against Addiction," features a discussion with Marcus D. Webster II, Sydney Shupe, Joey Young, and Lydia Bongiorno. They share insights into their experiences with addiction recovery, emphasizing the importance of community support and peer involvement. The episode highlights the unique approaches of The Clubhouse and The Roots Project in aiding individuals and families affected by substance use, focusing on their impactful strategies and personal success stories in fostering resilience and recovery.
Jan. 10, 2024
Megan Connor on Human Trafficking and Healing
In this episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group, Megan Connor shares her harrowing yet inspiring story. She delves into the realities of human trafficking, drawing from her personal experiences as a child victim. Megan discusses her journey towards healing and how she overcame the trauma through resilience and therapy, particularly EMDR. The episode also highlights her efforts in raising awareness about trafficking and her motivations behind writing "I Walked Through Fire To Get Here," aiming to help others with similar experiences. Here are links for you to bookmark, save, follow, memorize, write down, and share with others: Third Verse – The first hand account of a trafficking survivor (third-verse.com) This episode is sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group
Guest: Megan Conner
Jan. 3, 2024
Healing Journeys with Audrey Hope
In this episode, "Healing Journeys with Audrey Hope," sponsored by "Rage Against Addiction," hosts Rich Bennett and Wendy Beck explore Audrey Hope's unique approach to spiritual therapy. Audrey, a Los Angeles-based spiritual therapist, discusses her methods in healing relationships, addiction, and soul issues. She emphasizes addressing root causes and the importance of self-healing. The conversation delves into the impact of energy, cutting energy cords, and understanding past lives and soul contracts. Audrey's blend of spirituality and practical advice offers transformative insights for personal growth and healing. Here are links for you to bookmark, save, follow, memorize, write down, and share with others: Soul Healer - Los Angeles Spiritual Therapist & Spiritual Healing | Audrey Hope This episode is sponsored by Rage Against Addiction
Guest: Audrey Hope
Dec. 8, 2023
Transforming Communities: The Nonprofit Experience Explored
In this episode titled "Transforming Communities: The Nonprofit Experience Explored," sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, guests Erica Waskey, Wendy Beck, Shari Bailey, and Greg Derwart share their experiences and challenges in the nonprofit sector. The discussion delves into how each guest's organization is making a significant impact in their communities, highlighting the importance of strategic planning, fundraising, and board management in driving positive change. The episode offers a compelling look into the personal motivations and operational insights that fuel the success of nonprofit organizations.
Nov. 29, 2023
From Rodeo to Recovery: Shane Jacob's Transformation
In this inspiring episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," we delve into the captivating story of Shane Jacob, tracing his journey from a high-adrenaline rodeo cowboy to a transformative figure in the world of horsemanship and personal development. Shane opens up about his former struggles with alcoholism, which spanned nearly two decades, and his profound journey towards sobriety since 2016. His candid reflections offer a raw and honest look at the challenges of addiction and the pivotal moments that led to his decision to change his life. Shane's narrative isn't just about overcoming addiction; it's a tale of reinvention and self-discovery. We explore how his passion for horses and his experiences in the equestrian industry, including founding the Vegas Valley Horse Auction and running Jacob Livestock, became instrumental in his recovery and personal growth. In 2021, Shane launched "The Horsemanship Journey," a platform that underscores the symbiotic relationship between per…
Guest: Shane Jacob
Nov. 27, 2023
From Boardroom to Family Room: Andy Goldstrom's Journey
In this episode "From Boardroom to Family Room: Andy Goldstrom's Journey," sponsored by Maryland Pro Wash, listeners will discover the transformative story of Andy Goldstrom. Once a driven entrepreneur in the high-stakes world of commercial real estate and a national recycling company, Andy's life took an unexpected turn when he confronted his daughter's mental health challenges. His personal odyssey through her struggles with depression and anxiety led him to a profound epiphany about the importance of focused and empathetic parenting. Andy shares his insights on the evolution of wilderness therapy, the impact of technology on family dynamics, and the delicate balance required in modern parenting. Now, as a certified parent coach, he provides actionable strategies for families to foster better communication and connection, drawing from his business acumen to apply a practical, results-oriented approach to the complexities of parenting in today's world. This episode is a must-listen f…
Guest: Andy Goldstrom
Nov. 17, 2023
The Sea of Self-Discovery: Paul Trammell's Voyage Beyond Addiction
In this episode titled "The Sea of Self-Discovery: Paul Trammell's Voyage Beyond Addiction" of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," sponsored by " American Auto Repair," the narrative centers around Paul Trammell's inspiring journey from battling addiction to embracing a life of adventure and creativity at sea. The episode begins with Paul sharing his struggles with alcohol and marijuana, delving into how these addictions impacted his life. He then recounts the pivotal moment that led him to sobriety, which subsequently opened the doors to new passions and opportunities. A significant part of the conversation focuses on Paul's newfound love for sailing. He describes how saving money, previously spent on substances, allowed him to take a sailing course. This experience was a turning point, leading to the purchase of his sailboat and the beginning of numerous sailing adventures. Paul vividly shares details of his remarkable journey from the west coast of Florida to Newfoundland, Canada…
Nov. 3, 2023
Empowering Recovery: Nevriye Yesil's Crusade Against Teen Addiction
In the "Empowering Recovery: Nevriye Yesil's Crusade Against Teen Addiction" episode of "Conversations with Rich Bennett," we delve into the passionate work of Nevriye Yesil, a forensic psychologist with a profound commitment to combating teen substance abuse. Nevriye shares her insights and experiences from her years of guiding incarcerated women and individuals struggling with addiction, emphasizing the power of education and early intervention. Throughout the episode, Nevriye discusses her approach to empowering mothers and teens, offering practical tools and strategies from her latest book, ‘Mom, Help Me! Roadmap to Guiding Your Teen Away from Substance Use & Addiction’. She stresses the importance of a proactive stance in prevention and the critical nature of timely intervention, which can be the difference between life and death. Nevriye's dedication to her cause is palpable as she talks about her workshops and courses that span the globe, addressing crucial life ski…
Guest: Nevriye Yesil
Oct. 13, 2023
Beyond the Battlefield: The Silent Wars Veterans Face at Home with Joe Malone
Emerging from a challenging youth marked by addiction, Joe Malone found purpose and direction when he joined the Marines in 2006. Over 13 years, he served in critical global theaters, collaborating with elite units like the CIA and British Commando Units. Recognized for his battlefield contributions, Joe transitioned to empowering communities post-military. As the CEO of Southern Cross, he's dedicated to equipping Americans with safety knowledge and fostering unity through cultural programs. Holding a myriad of credentials, including a Bachelors in Homeland Security, Joe now spreads his vital safety and unity message nationwide. Join us to explore his journey from personal struggles to serving the Marines and his commitment to a safer America.
Guest: Joe Malone
Sept. 4, 2023
Pioneering Paths to Recovery: A Conversation with Steve Feldman
With over 40 years in business and a specialization as an interventionist, Steve Feldman is a key figure in addiction and mental health interventions. Part of the esteemed Feinberg Consulting team, he champions personal growth, self-care, and recovery. Steve's philosophy emphasizes balance, self-care, and continuous personal development, rooted in an environment of compassion and commitment. A dedicated family man, Steve also prioritizes physical wellness through cardio and yoga. Join us as Stev...
Guest: Steve Feldman
Aug. 30, 2023
Family Recovery: Darryl Rodgers on the Role of Parents in Addiction Battles
Darryl Rodgers is a speaker, author, and family recovery coach from Cary, North Carolina, who specializes in substance use disorders. His personal connection to addiction began with his son Chase's battle with drugs, which ultimately led to Chase's tragic death. After a career in aviation and the Army National Guard, Darryl dedicated himself to learning about addiction, serving on the advisory board of NC Mothers Against Drunk Driving, writing a book about his son's life, and volunteering with s...
Guest: Darryl Rodgers
Aug. 4, 2023
Beyond Yourself: Realizing the Universal Impact of Your Personal Journey with Marsha Vanwynsberghe
In this episode, we meet Marsha Vanwynsberghe, a Storytelling Business Coach, Speaker, Multi-Published Author, and Podcaster with 25 years of experience as a Kinesiologist and Personal Trainer. Her life changed when substance abuse affected her two teenagers, leading her through a challenging journey filled with financial, business, and health obstacles. Turning her struggles into a mission, Marsha became an advocate for sharing vulnerable stories, and she has since become a bestselling author a...