Conversations with Rich Bennett

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 Guest Bio:  Mary Catherine Liscinski is a licensed mental health counselor (14+ years), certified to treat digital addiction, and a life coach working with parents and adults nationwide. She’s known for translating complex brain science into practical steps that help families set boundaries, rebuild attention, and heal from screen overuse; her upcoming book pairs the latest research with a blueprint for reversing digital damage. She’s appeared on platforms including The Dave Elswick Show. Main Topics: ·         What “digital addiction” means; emerging diagnoses for gaming/social media. ·         Symptoms across ages: withdrawal, meltdowns when asked to log off, sleep issues, motivation loss. ·         Dopamine dynamics of gaming/social platforms; “addictive by design.” ·         Brain science: limbic system vs. prefrontal cortex; delayed maturation to ~age 26. ·         Social media, anxiety/depression trends in youth; bullying and “keyboard warriors.” ·         Gaming + online strangers; “virtual sleepovers” and safety risks. ·         Practical reversal keys: nature, face-to-face time, sleep, movement, mindfulness/faith, community. ·         Work-life tactics: blue-light blockers, after-hours boundaries, app limits. ·         Physical fallout: tech-neck, carpal issues, metabolic risk, chronic stress/cortisol. ·         Parenting culture shift: delay social media, consider non-internet phones, lead by example.  Resources mentioned: ·         Mary’s Website: Send us a textDonate HereLiving Well HealthcareGet Your Lifestyle BackDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

Musician/author Brad Cox joins Rich and Dan Bennett for a fast, funny deep-dive into how songs change meaning over time—from CCR and Springsteen to Sex Pistols and System of a Down—plus why some “big name” guests don’t always drive podcast plays. They swap practical editing tips (Hindenburg, Descript, AI enhancers), talk Baltimore’s scene (Turnstile, Infinity Knives), and share how to keep a show fresh without losing your mind. If you love music, making, or meaning, this one’s packed. Sponsored by WHFC 91.1 FM Guests Bios:  ·         Brad Cox — Maryland musician and songwriter, author of the series Children of the Program and a collected-lyrics book discussed on the show. He hosts/produces a live-format music podcast and continues to write, record, and perform across multiple projects. ·         Dan Bennett — Music obsessive and cultural commentator (and Rich’s son) who highlights Baltimore artists and scenes, bringing sharp takes on punk, hardcore, and hip-hop throughout the episode. Main Topics: ·         How song meanings shift over time (CCR’s “Fortunate Son,” Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.,” Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen,” Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Seventeen”) ·         Music + politics: Tom Morello’s “all music is political,” industry vs. indie perspectives ·         Practical podcast production: Hindenburg, Descript, AI audio enhancers, Opus Clip, multi-track pitfalls and echo fixes ·         Live-format recording challenges (multi-guest showcases, editing load) ·         Baltimore music scene: Turnstile, Trapped Under Ice, Infinity Knives & Brian Ennals; DIY ethos and crowd energy ·         Why unknown guests can outperform celebrities in downloads; getting beyond the “press-tour script”  Resources mentioned: ·         Brad’s Website: https://skitzocalypso.wixsite.com/bradwilliamcox·         Episode Sponsor: Send us a textDonate HereWHFC 91.1 FMIt's all about community. WHFC 91.1 FM, Harford Community College Radio, is the college radio staDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

Rich sits down with Greg Derwart, Chris Coleman, and Robyn Burke to unpack what a true mastermind is—and what it isn’t. Using Napoleon Hill, Ben Franklin’s Junto, and real community examples, they show how purpose, harmony, and structure turn brainstorming into outcomes for businesses, nonprofits, and families. It’s a grounded conversation about building something that matters, online and off.Sponsored by Four Seasons Landscape & Construction Services  Guests Bios:  ·         Greg Derwart — Community banker and strategist who facilitates strategic planning and cross‑department workgroups at Harford Bank, with a focus on relationship‑driven, community impact.·         Chris Coleman — Longtime entrepreneur and owner in landscape/stormwater services. He emphasizes solving real problems, serving the community, and building a business around family values and integrity.·         Robyn Burke — Community‑minded voice, Girl Scout grandmother, and local advocate who brings a practical lens to collaboration, service projects, and everyday “mini‑masterminds.” Main Topics: ·         What a mastermind really is: “one goal,” shared purpose, subject‑matter expertise, and harmony.·         Napoleon Hill principles (Think and Grow Rich; The Law of Success) and the idea of “the third mind.”·         Ben Franklin’s Junto as an early civic mastermind for public good (libraries, city improvements).·         Networking vs. mastermind: apples vs. oranges—awareness and relationships vs. focused problem‑solving.·         Structure that works: small, cross‑functional groups, safe space, no hidden agendas, and clear outcomes.·         Nonprofits & grants: capacity gaps, sustainability, and the need for shared brains to solve funding hurdles.·         Social media & youth: tools vs. behavior, teaching digital resilience, and keeping perspective.·         Reviews & reputation: online pile‑ons, competitor reviews, and why character and service outlast nSend us a textDonate HereFour Seasons Landscape & Construction SeWhile we perform the traditional lawn and landscape bed services, our passion is providing drainage Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

Former IT consultant Ron Kinscherf shares how a backyard moment with his grandson sparked a rich universe of ant characters—and an 11‑book run in just four years. We dig into his newest book “Adorable,” the craft choices that keep parents engaged, and the quiet life lessons his stories deliver for kids and adults alike. Sponsored by Real Life Prosthetics Guest Bio:  Ron Kinscherf is a children’s author from Illinois and the creator of the Papa Tell Me a Book series, now 11 titles strong in four years. He collaborates closely with illustrator Holly and works with publisher Morgan James after originally self‑publishing his early books. Before writing, Ron worked in IT and sales; his grandkids (five and counting) fuel many of his story ideas. Main Topics: ·         The origin story: a grandson stomping anthills inspires book one, “The Baker’s Patio.” ·         From self‑publishing to Morgan James—and keeping IP and the original community art page. ·         Partnering with illustrator Holly (found via Upwork) and their storyboard process. ·         Visual style: grayscale with selective color (inspired by A‑ha’s “Take On Me”) and hidden “Easter eggs.” ·         Writing for kids and adults: clear, high‑contrast text and layered themes. ·         Sample lessons: resisting “yummies” (listen to elders; love your kids anyway) and “I’m With Me” (healthy independence). ·         Strong women: the queen inspired by Ron’s mother and a supportive community. ·         School visits and the “sponsor a book for a classroom” model.  Resources mentioned: ·         Ron’s Website: https://papatellmeabook.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: SincereSend us a textDonate HereReal Life ProstheticsCutting-Edge Solutions. Restoring Ability Since 2001.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

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 Guest Bio:  James Burden, M.S., CCC‑SLP, is a speech‑language pathologist and creator of the Stuttering Blueprint and the Unstoppable Voice process. Blending evidence‑based methods like the Camperdown Program with ACT, mindfulness, and embodiment work, he helps people who stutter build confidence, authenticity, and agency in high‑stakes speaking situations—from job interviews to wedding toasts. Main Topics: ·         Why “less stuttering ≠ better person”: separating fluency from self‑worth·         The Stuttering Iceberg: addressing thoughts, emotions, and stigma under the surface·         Camperdown Method basics: building control without “white‑knuckle fluency”·         Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT): relating differently to thoughts/feelings·         Mindfulness & embodiment: grounding practices that reduce fear and avoidance·         Reframing stuttering culturally (left‑handedness analogy)·         Gentle exposure goals: from everyday conversations to speeches and interviews·         Community & groups: support, misinformation, and consuming carefully·         Stuttering Angel Fund: micro‑grants for catalytic confidence moments·         Practical exercise: the “two hands” presence/permission visualization Resources mentioned: ·         James’ Website: https://www.stutteringblueprint.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Tar Heel Construction Send us a textDonate HereTar Heel Construction GroupHarford County Living Stamp of Approval for Roofing, Siding and Exterior Services Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

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.Guest Bio:  A.J. Otjen is a professor at Montana State University and an award-winning author. In addition to “Burned Over,” she has written research-driven children’s books centered on Crow history and artists (one recognized by the Library of Congress), and previously penned a Billings Gazette column on courage, ethics, and social issues. Her narrative work blends meticulous research with deeply human storytelling. Main Topics: ·         The day a 60-foot wall of fire overtook firefighter Dan Steffensen and the “walking wounded” reality of severe burns. ·         How A.J. met Dan through a student campaign for firefighter PPE and spent 2.5 years recording interviews to tell his story. ·         Red Lodge’s “summer of hell”: major wildfire, a missing climber, the loss of a local firefighter—and the town’s collective resolve. ·         The honor guard, EMTs, burn-unit nurses, and family who stood watch and fought for Dan’s life. ·         Burn recovery realities: grafts, coma, learning to walk and even swallow again; the emotional toll and therapy. ·         Lessons from burn-survivor peers; Dan’s shift from “I’m fine” to accepting help. ·         Dan’s 2023 comeback—passing the firefighter Pack Test and returning to the line—followed by a later small-cell lung cancer diagnosis. ·         Why A.J. wrote a human story (not just a “fire book”): love, community, and telling the truth, even when it’s hard. ·         A call to support local, mostly volunteer, fire departments with donations and needed items. Resources mentioned: ·         A.J’s Website: https://ajotjen.com/·         Supporter: Send us a textDonate HereSupport the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

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 Guest Bio:  Dr. Brett Cordes is an otolaryngologist (ENT) and cancer survivor who practiced nearly two decades in the Texas Medical Center. After recovering from an opioid addiction and returning to practice, he transitioned to coaching as “The Burnout Doc,” helping physicians overcome burnout, address unhealthy coping, and reclaim meaning in medicine. He is the co‑author of the memoir Cancer Is for Older People. Main Topics: ·         Surviving Non‑Hodgkin lymphoma at 19 and how patienthood inspired medicine·         Building an ENT surgical career and the unseen pressures of achievement·         The “random Friday” that triggered a hydrocodone addiction—and years of secrecy·         Being a high‑functioning physician while using, rationalization (“mental gymnastics”)·         Intervention, loss of job, medical board action, and rehab during COVID isolation·         Burnout in medicine: bureaucracy, insurance hurdles, and identity conflicts·         Early signs of burnout (boredom, irritability, work‑bound anxiety that follows you home)·         Boundaries, rest, and hobbies as prevention; why doctors avoid asking for help·         Coaching vs. therapy/licensure; why clinicians seek peer coaches·         Reclaiming purpose and serving physicians worldwide via Zoom Resources mentioned: ·         Dr. Brett’s Website: https://theburnoutdoc.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Send us a textDonate HereHarford County Health DepartmentTo protect, promote, and improve the health, safety, and environment of Harford County residents.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

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 Guest Bio:  Laurie Parente is an angel medium, intuitive guide, and energetic healer who helps clients worldwide connect with their inner wisdom, release limiting beliefs, and live in alignment. A classically trained pianist and former music producer, Laurie experienced a profound spiritual awakening in her 40s that led her to embrace her intuitive abilities. She blends energy healing, guided meditation, angelic messages, and light language to create a safe and transformative space for her clients. Main Topics: ·         Laurie’s early childhood connection with angels and spirits·         Shutting down spiritual gifts due to societal pressure·         Her health crisis and the dream that changed everything·         Understanding the difference between angels and spirits·         The role of energy in physical healing (including her recovery from arthritis)·         Quantum healing and light language·         Common struggles clients bring—grief, depression, anxiety·         Setting boundaries and “turning off” spiritual channels·         Misconceptions about mediumship·         Simple techniques to connect with loved ones and angels·         How connecting with spirit changes perspectives on life and death·         The importance of protecting your energy from worry and fear·         Feel-good client success stories Resources mentioned: ·         Laurie’s Website: https://www.laurieparente.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Send us a textDonate HereFreedom Federal Credit UnionHELPING YOU REACH YOUR FINANCIAL DREAMSDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

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 Guest Bio:  Joe Smarro is a Marine Corps combat veteran, former San Antonio Police Department officer, and nationally recognized mental health advocate. Featured in HBO’s Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops and a TEDx speaker, Joe co-founded SolutionPoint+ to train public safety agencies, schools, and organizations in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and wellness strategies. He is the author of Unarmed, a guide blending his life experiences with actionable communication and de-escalation skills, and is dedicated to reshaping the culture of policing through empathy and human connection. Main Topics: ·         Joe’s childhood trauma and its long-term impact·         Military service before and after 9/11·         Transition challenges from military to civilian life·         Policing realities vs. public perception·         Co-founding and serving in a police mental health unit·         The creation and mission of SolutionPoint+·         The making and impact of Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops·         Mental health, addiction, and personal recovery journey·         Leadership failures and their role in first responder suicides·         Key lessons from Joe’s book Unarmed·         Freedom, personal autonomy, and living intentionally Resources mentioned: ·         Joe’s Website: https://solutionpointplus.com/ & https://joesmarro.coSend us a textDonate HereEco-Cool HVACYOUR FRIEND IN THE SUMMERS & WINTERS! Heating & Air Conditioning Service and Repair, Furnace & BoilDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email

Award-winning family musician, children’s author, and Navy veteran Greg Lato joins Rich Bennett to share the story behind his heartfelt new album, Dandelion: Songs Inspired by Military Kids and Families. Blending his own military experience with personal stories from real military children, Greg crafts music that uplifts, comforts, and raises awareness about the resilience of these unsung heroes. This inspiring conversation dives into the making of the album, the powerful symbolism of the dandelion, and how music can bridge communities. Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC Guest Bio:  Greg Lato is an award-winning family musician, accomplished children’s author, and proud U.S. Navy veteran. His music has topped the iTunes Children’s Music charts, been featured on Apple Music playlists, and reached families nationwide. With a background in pop-rock and a passion for storytelling, Greg transitioned into children’s music after becoming a father. His latest project, Dandelion, honors the courage and adaptability of military children, drawing directly from their personal experiences. Greg is dedicated to using music as a tool for connection, comfort, and community building. Main Topics: ·         Greg’s musical roots in a jazz-influenced family·         Transition from pop-rock to children’s music after becoming a parent·         His decision to join the U.S. Navy and how it shaped his life·         The inspiration and mission behind Dandelion·         Symbolism of the dandelion as the official flower of the military child·         Collaborating with real military families and children·         Emotional stories that shaped specific songs·         The song “Home Is Not a Place” and its powerful message·         How music fosters camaraderie among military kids·         Touring plans, including performing at military bases·         The challenges of making a living in the streaming era·         Songwriting workshops with military children Resources mentioned: ·         Greg’s Website: Send us a textDonate HereEco-Cool HVACYOUR FRIEND IN THE SUMMERS & WINTERS! Heating & Air Conditioning Service and Repair, Furnace & BoilDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCast Subscribe by Email