Religion & Spirituality Episodes

Cassian Bellino spent years searching for a conversational resource that could explain Scripture with historical and theological context. When she could not find what she needed, she followed God’s calling and created Biblically Speaking, a podcast that has reached listeners around the world. Cassian joins Rich to discuss learning to hear God, finding respected biblical scholars, building a faith community, growing through uncertainty, and recognizing that meaningful work begins long before the numbers confirm its value.

What happens when a pastor trades the pulpit for a badge? Eric Robinson shares the incredible story of leaving ministry to become an FBI Special Agent, serving on SWAT, investigating everything from financial crimes to child exploitation, and discovering that compassion can be just as powerful as tactical training. This conversation explores faith, justice, purpose, resilience, and the emotional realities behind some of the FBI's toughest investigations. Eric's honesty, humor, and remarkable experiences make this an unforgettable episode.

Michael Reed returns to Conversations with Rich Bennett to share the next chapter of his extraordinary journey through grief, healing, and purpose. Since his last appearance, Michael has become a certified grief coach, continued his education in behavioral health, published two additional books, and reached a major milestone in his own healing process. In this deeply moving conversation, Michael discusses The Million Stages of Healing, his children's grief workbook The Owl and the Ladybug, and how he has learned to carry the love of his wife and daughters forward while helping others navigate loss. This episode is a powerful reminder that grief is not the end of the story and that healing is possible.

Teresa Blaes shares an extraordinary story of survival, loss, faith, and redemption. From childhood trauma and the tragic loss of family members to losing her eyesight and walking away from God for five years, Teresa opens up about the experiences that shaped her life. This powerful conversation explores healing, resilience, podcasting, music, faith, and why sharing your story can help both yourself and others. Listeners will leave inspired by Teresa's courage and reminded that even life's darkest chapters can lead to purpose.

Author and artist Lara Luna never planned on becoming the “angel number lady” in her Florida 55+ trailer park. After years of painting and working as a mobile home agent, she hit a breaking point and started asking bigger questions about why she was here and what she was meant to do. A trip into hidden caves in Lecanto, Florida, where she found 444 and 111 spray painted on the walls, sent her down a rabbit hole of synchronicities, angel numbers, and a full-on spiritual awakening. In this episode, Lara joins Rich to talk about her memoir Trailer Park Angel and the podcast of the same name, where trailer park drama, spiritual signs, and everyday humor collide. She shares how numbers like 444, 555, 666, and 11:11 helped her move out of a fear-based belief system, how her book helped a depressed neighbor feel less alone and protected, and why she believes we never really die. You will also hear hilarious stories about gnome-filled lawns, Captain Crunch the one-eyed alligator, and the “…

Energy healer and spiritual teacher Cheryl Stelte joins Rich to unpack why so many high-achieving women feel stuck even when life looks “successful” on the outside. From her Vancouver Island spiritual awakening to her Azarius Energy Healing method and “receive what’s offered” practice, Cheryl explains how early-rooted wounds, especially around the throat chakra, block fulfillment—and how to release them. You’ll hear practical tools, powerful stories, and a life-changing exercise to make better decisions now by asking what will matter on your deathbed.  Sponsored by Harford County Health Department

Life coach and 25-year real estate pro Michelle Taylor shares how she healed deep trauma and transformed it into a movement she calls Repurposed Rising—a global vision to help women do their inner work and lead with purpose. She breaks down coaching vs. therapy, daily rituals, meditation insights, and why forgiveness is her superpower. Co-host Wendy Beck jumps in with powerful reflections and resources you can use today. Sponsored by Harford County Living

Licensed professional counselor and Clear Fork Academy founder Austin Davis joins Rich to talk about rescuing teens from addiction and mental-health crises with clinically rigorous, Christ-centered residential care. He explains why 90-day programs, family-systems work, and even nightly dinners can change outcomes—and what warning signs parents miss most. They also discuss his book, My Kid, My Crisis, a plain-language guide for overwhelmed families.  Sponsored by Maryland Pickers

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

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 Union In 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 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 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 Living When 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 Maryland Pickers Rick 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 Daniel McGhee and The Victory Team In this transformative episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett , Sophia Torrini shares how she turned a life-threatening medical crisis into a journey of profound healing. After surviving a misdiagnosis and unnecessary surgery that left her near death, Sophia discovered Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and neuroscience-based healing. Her compelling story of resilience, scientific insight, and spiritual awakening will inspire anyone seeking hope and healing beyond conventional medicine.

Sponsored by Harford County Living In this powerful episode, Rich Bennett sits down with Katharine Giovanni, a three-time award-winning author, international speaker, and forgiveness coach. Katharine shares her journey of overcoming trauma, addiction, and loss, and reveals her unique seven-part forgiveness system that transforms lives. Listen in as she explains how forgiveness is a personal journey, why it’s essential for mental health, and how it can unlock your potential for healing and growth.

Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group In this heartfelt episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we meet Bob Wischer, a personal development coach and founder of Men Becoming Better Men. Bob opens up about life after divorce, the power of male community, and how he's helping men break free from isolation, reclaim confidence, and live with purpose. It’s real talk on mental health, masculinity, and what it takes to truly grow.

Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Join Rich Bennett and cohost Wendy Beck as they sit down with Ruby Comer and Laura Dahl to uncover the powerful story behind the Bethesda Transformation Center, a faith-based recovery home for women. From personal loss to divine purpose, they share how their mission is helping women reclaim their lives through grace, healing, and community. It’s a heartfelt conversation about transformation that you won’t want to miss.

Sponsored by Chesapeake Podcast Network In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author and wellness advocate Karen Dittman shares her inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and overcoming life’s toughest challenges. From navigating adoption, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and addiction to discovering the power of grace and wellness, Karen opens up about her struggles and triumphs while raising her children and grandchild. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on finding peace in chaos, trusting God through adversity, and embracing true healing—no matter what obstacles life throws your way.

Sponsored by Window Depot of Baltimore In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Jessica Morris shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming addiction, childhood trauma, and finding faith. She introduces the concept of personal eschatology—a transformative process of spiritual rebirth—and reveals how hitting rock bottom led her to profound healing. Whether you're seeking inspiration, struggling with faith, or looking for a story of true redemption, this episode is a must-listen.

Get ready for a festive deep dive into St. Patrick’s Day—its rich history, surprising myths, and how it became a global celebration! In this episode, Rich Bennett explores the truth behind St. Patrick’s legacy, the legend of the snakes, and why we really wear green. Plus, he shares personal family traditions, heartfelt memories, and the spirit of Irish heritage that makes this day so special. Whether you're Irish by blood or just for the day, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a fresh perspective on March 17th!

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich and co-host Wendy Beck sit down with Damian & Alicia Bloss to discuss addiction, guilt, and the road to recovery. Damian shares his deeply personal battle with alcoholism, the weight of his past trauma, and the life-changing moment that led him to sobriety, while Alicia offers insight into the challenges and strength it takes to support a loved one in recovery. Their inspiring story, along with their work in Breaking the Silence, is a must-listen for anyone seeking hope, healing, and a fresh start.