Episodes

Recovery is not just about quitting something. It is about rebuilding your life, understanding your habits, and finding the courage to face the reasons behind them. In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich and co-host Wendy Beck sit down with Derek Diem, who shares his honest journey through addiction recovery, gambling, food struggles, weight loss, heartbreak, and learning how to love himself again. Derek got clean on July 25, 2014, after beginning his recovery journey...

Rich sits down with Melora Fern to explore the fascinating, largely forgotten world of concert whistling and the Chautauqua movement of the 1920s. Inspired by her grandmother’s real-life story, Melora shares how she uncovered hidden history and turned it into a powerful novel about women finding their voice. This episode blends storytelling, history, and inspiration for anyone chasing creativity later in life.

Kyle Asperger shares how failure, entrepreneurship, and self-exploration shaped his unconventional approach to marketing and life. From running a marketing agency to reinventing himself as a coach, he breaks down why standing out matters more than ever in an AI-driven world. This episode is a raw, honest conversation about risk, identity, and building something that actually means something.

Rachel Waters shares the unimaginable story of being charged with murder after caring for her dying mother in hospice. What began as an act of love turned into a legal nightmare that nearly destroyed her life. Now, she’s fighting to protect caregivers nationwide through Marsha’s Law.

What if creativity could change someone’s entire future? In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Diane Strand, an award-winning entrepreneur and founder of JDS Creative Academy, to explore how the arts are opening doors for foster youth, at-risk teens, and neurodiverse adults. Diane shares her journey from working on major productions like General Hospital and Friends to building a mission-driven organization that blends creativity with career development. Thro...

Marriage is one of the biggest commitments you’ll ever make… but what does it really take to make it last? In this special solo episode, Rich Bennett shares heartfelt, real-life marriage advice inspired by his nephew’s wedding day and his own 29-year journey. This isn’t the typical fairytale talk. It’s honest, practical, and grounded in real experience. Rich opens up about the truth behind marriage, from the importance of communication and daily commitment to navigating tough seasons and growi...

Bourbon isn’t just a drink. It’s a story rooted in American history, innovation, and survival. In this solo episode, Rich Bennett takes you on a journey through the origins of bourbon, breaking down how it started with early settlers and evolved into one of the most iconic spirits in the world. Along the way, he clears up some of the biggest myths and misconceptions that people still believe today. Rich shares his personal connection to bourbon, explains what legally defines it, and reveals w...

Anthony Spark shares how true success goes far beyond money, diving into identity, fulfillment, and personal integrity. Drawing from 20 years of experience in business and coaching, he explains why having the right mindset, values, and balance in life matters more than financial wins. This episode is a powerful reminder that success without joy is a losing game.

Gino Barbaro shares his journey from running a restaurant to building a $450 million real estate portfolio, all while redefining what success truly means. This conversation goes beyond business, diving into family, faith, values, and the mindset needed to create lasting wealth and legacy. If you want success without sacrificing what matters most, this is one to hear.

Dyslexia doesn’t have to be a limitation. In this episode, Russell Van Brocklen shares how he went from a first-grade reading level to developing a breakthrough system that helps students jump multiple grade levels in months. This conversation will completely change how you think about learning, education, and human potential.

After being told he would need multiple joint replacements and live with chronic pain, Daniel Esposito refused to accept that fate. Through years of relentless research and experimentation, he transformed his health and became a national champion athlete. In this episode, he shares the mindset, science, and methods behind his remarkable recovery and mission to help others.

What if the thing you’ve been trying to hide is actually your greatest strength? In this powerful conversation, Willie Blake shares how he transformed his struggle with dyslexia into a competitive advantage. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt behind, broken, or unsure of their potential.

Graham Robinson shares his powerful journey of overcoming childhood trauma and the long-lasting impact it had on his life, relationships, and identity. Through personal experience and professional insight, he explains how unresolved pain can shape behavior and why healing is possible at any age. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to confront the past and take the first step toward emotional freedom.

At 69, Ande Lyons is proving that life doesn’t slow down with age, it opens up. In this conversation, she shares how breaking free from limiting beliefs about aging can unlock new purpose, opportunities, and fulfillment. If you’ve ever felt like time is running out, this episode will change your perspective.

Billy Fanshawe shares how a college idea turned into a patented vodka brand that’s shaking up a crowded industry. From navigating intense regulations to building a business from scratch, his journey is a masterclass in persistence and innovation. If you’re an entrepreneur or just curious about what makes a product stand out, this episode is worth your time.

Jim Ebert shares his journey from legendary music producer to founder of Cancer Can Rock, a nonprofit helping cancer patients record their final songs. As a 25-year brain cancer survivor, Jim brings a deeply personal perspective on life, music, and legacy. This episode is a powerful reminder of what truly matters and how music can preserve it forever.

This episode dives into the story behind Harford’s Heart Magazine and the people who keep it thriving. Sandy Kapinos and Debbie Umbarger share how the publication has stayed true to its mission of community, connection, and storytelling for over two decades. It’s a powerful reminder of why local voices and authentic stories still matter.

Tory Gates shares his journey from decades in radio broadcasting to becoming an award-winning author, revealing how storytelling connects both worlds. He dives into character creation, the emotional depth behind his books, and how real-life struggles shape powerful fiction. This episode is a must-listen for writers, creatives, and anyone who believes stories can truly change lives.

Why does music make you feel so powerful, even without words? In this episode, Dr. Kurt Ellenberger breaks down the fascinating connection between sound, math, and the human brain in a way that will completely change how you listen to music. If you’ve ever felt chills from a song, this conversation explains exactly why.

Amy Dickens shares her powerful journey from social anxiety, burnout, and fear into a life driven by joy, play, and purpose. Through van life, global travel, and bold personal growth, she discovered that joy isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you practice. This episode will inspire you to take small, courageous steps toward a more authentic and joyful life.

Photographer, writer, and podcast host James Walters joins Rich Bennett to discuss how creativity can become a powerful tool for resilience during life's most difficult transitions. After experiencing personal loss, identity shifts, and burnout, James rediscovered purpose through writing, journaling, and storytelling. This conversation explores how creativity helps us rebuild our lives, find meaning, and move forward when everything changes.

Dr. Rochelin Herold joins Rich Bennett to challenge the way we think about healthcare and personal responsibility. Drawing from nearly two decades as a chiropractor and public health advocate, he explains why many people are stuck managing symptoms instead of building true wellness. Through his book Dare 2 Live Well, Dr. Herold encourages listeners to take ownership of their health, build a healthcare dream team, and create generational habits that lead to longer, healthier lives.

Author John David joins Rich Bennett to discuss his debut mystery thriller The Bystander, a gripping story about a reporter whose camera captures an active shooter incident that launches his career and a dangerous mystery. Inspired by real events, John explains how media narratives, public perception, and unanswered questions shaped the story. This conversation dives into writing, storytelling, and the fascinating intersection between truth, headlines, and fiction.

Podcasting expert Arielle Nissenblatt joins Rich Bennett to discuss the evolving future of podcasting and why audio-only shows may be more powerful than ever. Arielle shares insights on podcast discovery, audience connection, and why strong storytelling and sound matter more than flashy video. If you are a podcaster or podcast listener wondering where the medium is heading, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and practical perspective.