Conversations with Rich Bennett

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: https://www.greglSend us a textEco-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

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. Guest Bio:  Dr. Albert Bramante is a psychology professor, certified hypnotist, and former talent agent who spent years helping actors and performers succeed while battling his own inner critic. Drawing from his academic research and lived experience, he authored Rise Above the Script, a book aimed at helping creatives and high achievers overcome imposter syndrome and self-sabotage. Dr. Bramante now focuses on mindset coaching, helping people rewrite the subconscious scripts that hold them back. Main Topics: ·         The concept of “mental scripts” and how they shape our lives·         Dr. Bramante’s transition from talent agent to author and professor·         Imposter syndrome: what it is and why even high achievers feel it·         Self-sabotage disguised as ambition or perfectionism·         The power of mastermind groups for accountability·         Tips for finally writing your book—or achieving any big goal·         Rewiring the mind through hypnosis and mindset work·         Why “someday” isn’t real—and how to take imperfect action now·         How your words, self-talk, and labels influence your success·         The spiritual side of self-growth and inner voice Resources mentioned: ·         Dr. Albert Bramante’s Website: https://albertbramante.com·         Episode Sponsor: Freedom Federal Credit Union·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography ·         Rise Above the Script by Dr. Albert Bramante·         Audio hypnosis collections on his site (leadershiSend us a textSupport 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

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 to help you build relationships that truly matter. Guest Bio:  Dr. Mark Hicks is a counselor, minister, speaker, and the author of Learning Love: Building a Life That Matters and Healthy Relationships That Last. With a background in ministry, therapy, and personal experience navigating both healthy and toxic relationships, Dr. Hicks is passionate about teaching love as a learnable skill. He hosts the Learning Love Podcast and recently launched the Learning Love Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting relational health through education and workshops. Main Topics: ·         Why love is not just a feeling but a learnable skill·         The 5 core components of love: Grief, Emotion, Practicality, Acceptance, and Passion·         How grief is essential to keeping our hearts open after pain·         The connection between emotional expression and healthy relationships·         Setting boundaries and knowing when to end toxic relationships·         Loving yourself as the foundation to loving others·         Rediscovering joy and fun in your relationships·         Breaking free from dysfunctional family patterns·         The stigma around therapy and why everyone needs help·         Loving God and understanding your divine value Resources mentioned: ·         Mark’s Website: https://markahicks.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Harford County Chamber of Commerce·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         SupportSend us a textFreedom 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

Sponsored by Harford County Chamber of Commerce What happens when your world collapses and you're left with nothing but a bottle of whiskey and broken dreams? For Ben Albert, it became the turning point. In this energizing and heartfelt episode, Ben shares how he rose from being furloughed during the pandemic to creating Real Business Connections, launching a marketing agency, and building a thriving mastermind community. This is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, podcasters, and anyone seeking growth through connection and authenticity. Guest Bio:  Ben Albert is the founder of Real Business Connections, a multi-format podcast and business development platform helping entrepreneurs grow through conversation and community. A former music promoter and marketing executive, Ben transformed his pandemic-era furlough into an opportunity, now running a successful marketing firm and hosting high-impact masterminds. He's also the creator of We All Grow Together, a collaborative business network. Ben is passionate about authentic storytelling, peer learning, and helping others amplify their voices. Main Topics: ·         Ben’s journey from furlough and depression to entrepreneurship and podcasting·         The evolution from Rochester Groove Cast to Real Business Connections·         The difference between local and global podcasting reach·         Tips for business owners considering podcast guesting or hosting·         How to turn guests into advocates, not just clients·         The power of using “nominations” vs. “referrals”·         Why consistency and quality matter in podcasting·         Gamifying communities with platforms like Skool·         How masterminds create business momentum·         Laughing through burnout and staying resilient in entrepreneurship Resources mentioned: ·         Ben’s Website: https://realbusinessconnections.com/ ·         Episode Sponsor: Harford County Chamber of CommerceSend us a textHarford County Chamber of CommerceAt the Harford County Chamber of Commerce, our business is your success. We are the premier businessDisclaimer: 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

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. Guest Bio:  Tigrilla Gardenia is a certified life coach, nature-inspired mentor, and passionate advocate for plant intelligence. Once an engineer at Microsoft and a touring performer with Cirque du Soleil, she now resides in Damanhur, one of the world's largest spiritual eco-communities. There, she helps multi-passionate and neurodivergent individuals find clarity and purpose by connecting with nature and plant consciousness. Tigrilla is the host of the Reconnect with Plant Wisdom podcast and founder of the Naturally Conscious Community. Main Topics: ·         Tigrilla's transition from tech and performance to spiritual ecology·         The meaning behind her name and her life in Damanhur·         How plants make music and the science behind it·         The mental health benefits of connecting with plants·         Understanding "plant blindness" and how to overcome it·         Why reconnecting with nature heals trauma and reduces burnout·         Coaching neurodivergent individuals using nature-based systems·         Her podcast Reconnect with Plant Wisdom and the community she’s built·         Hosting immersive retreats in Italy for deeper nature connection·         Biophilic design and the impact of environment on well-being·         The importance of listening to plants, not just talking to them Resources mentioned: ·         Tigrilla’s Website: https://tigrillagardenia.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Send us a textFour 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

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC In this inspiring episode, Esther Avant—coach, speaker, entrepreneur, and host of the To Your Health podcast—joins Rich to discuss how small, sustainable changes can lead to big transformations. From her early passion for fitness to becoming a military spouse and successful coach, Esther shares insights into how to navigate health, career, and parenthood without burnout. She also opens up about writing her award-winning book To Your Health, the myths around dieting, and the importance of mindset, planning, and support in sustainable wellness. Guest Bio:  Esther Avant is a health coach, nutritionist, personal trainer, speaker, and award-winning author of To Your Health. With nearly 20 years in the fitness and wellness industry, she specializes in helping busy professionals and parents simplify their approach to health and regain control of their bodies and minds. As a military spouse and mother, Esther understands the demands of balancing personal well-being with daily life and has built a thriving virtual coaching business and podcast dedicated to empowering others to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Main Topics: ·         Esther’s early dream of becoming a Zamboni driver·         Journey from exercise science to personal training·         Transition from in-person to virtual coaching·         Importance of behavioral change in wellness success·         Struggles with fad diets and sustainable weight loss·         Mental health challenges tied to dieting and self-worth·         Small-step habit building for lasting transformation·         Her award-winning book To Your Health·         Podcasting during the isolation of COVID·         The creation of Made by Me coaching with Maggie·         Lessons in entrepreneurship, balance, and confidence Resources mentioned: ·         Esther’s Website: https://estheravant.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Eco-Cool HVAC·         Supporter: Send us a textEco-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

In this thought-provoking solo episode, Rich Bennett dives deep into the destructive power of rumors—how they spread, why they take hold, and the devastation they cause to individuals, businesses, and entire communities. Through real-world examples and a heartfelt call to integrity, Rich explores how misinformation erodes trust, ignites panic, and undermines mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world. Guest Bio:  Rich Bennett is a Marine Corps veteran, podcast mentor, and the creator and host of Conversations with Rich Bennett, a top-ranked podcast featuring real, raw, and relevant stories. With nearly a decade behind the mic, Rich fosters meaningful discussions that uplift, educate, and connect communities. Main Topics: ·         Definition and nature of rumors·         The financial and reputational cost to businesses·         Mental health impacts of personal rumors·         Social isolation and emotional toll·         Community-wide consequences of misinformation·         Strategies to stop the spread of rumors·         Encouragement to verify, support, and speak the truth  Resources mentioned:·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography Send us a textSupport 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

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. Guest Bio:  Karen Pizza is a certified Crystal Reiki Master, intuitive counselor, and empath advocate. With over eight years of experience, Karen specializes in helping people—especially women and teens—identify empathic traits, heal from trauma, and reclaim personal power through energy work. She offers one-on-one sessions, group workshops, and holistic wellness programs designed to foster emotional and energetic resilience. Her compassionate approach blends Reiki, sound healing, and practical life strategies.Main Topics: ·         What is an empath and how to know if you are one·         How empaths absorb energy and emotions from others·         The difference between empathy and being an empath·         How trauma can be energetically stored in the body·         Working with therapists to complement traditional mental health care·         Karen’s methods for clearing auras and teaching energy blocking techniques·         The empath quiz and common signs of being an empath·         Dealing with energy vampires and narcissists·         The importance of nature, self-care, and personal boundaries·         Karen’s journey from painkiller addiction to holistic healing·         Karen’s plans for a holistic wellness center·         Sound healing, crystal Reiki, and long-distance energy work·         Karen’s monthly free full moon guided meditation sessions Resources mentioned: ·         Karen’s Website: https://crystalreikiwithkaren.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Harford County Living·         Supporter: Send us a textSupport 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

Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group In this engaging roundtable, Rich Bennett sits down with nonprofit consultant Katie Ramirez, alongside co-hosts Greg Derwart and Robyn Burke, for a candid discussion on the realities of nonprofit work. They dive into the importance of strong boards, smart fundraising strategies, and the evolving landscape of nonprofit leadership. Whether you're running a nonprofit, serving on a board, or just curious about community impact, this conversation offers practical insights you can use. Guest Bio:  Katie Ramirez is the founder of Level Up Your Mission, a consultancy dedicated to helping nonprofits strengthen their leadership, fundraising, and community impact. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, Katie is known for her hands-on approach and strategic insights. She’s a sought-after board consultant, speaker, and advocate for sustainable nonprofit growth in Harford County and beyond. Main Topics: ·         The evolution of nonprofit fundraising events and the need for creativity·         Why nonprofits need a diversified funding strategy beyond grants·         The importance of building strong, engaged, and diverse boards·         The role of community foundations in supporting emerging nonprofits·         Why nonprofit leaders must balance mission, business planning, and collaboration·         The impact of strategic board development and volunteer leadership·         Social media’s evolving role in nonprofit promotion and fundraising·         How personalized donor engagement leads to lasting support  Resources mentioned: ·         Level Up Your Missions’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565508418389·         Episode Sponsor: Tar Heel Construction Group·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Send us a textTar 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

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. Guest Bio:  Jessie Torres is a peak performance coach, life strategist, and the founder of Fierce Grace, a movement empowering individuals to transform pain into purpose. A survivor of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and profound personal loss, Jessie now helps clients worldwide break free from limiting beliefs and unresolved trauma. She is also a speaker, workshop leader, and advocate for veterans and first responders through her work with The Illuminating Collective. Main Topics: ·         Jessie’s survival story through abuse, family tragedy, and divorce·         The turning point that awakened her will to live·         Understanding trauma — diagnosed, unacknowledged, unresolved·         Her path from corporate accounting to transformational coaching·         The creation of her Fierce Grace 12-week program·         The power of plant medicine in healing trauma·         Working with veterans and first responders through The Illuminating Collective·         Forgiveness as a healing tool·         Her mastermind groups: Tender Warrior Chicas and Army of Angels·         Jessie’s personal spiritual journey and relationship with faith  Resources mentioned: ·         Jessie’s websites: https://unshakeablelife.com/life-coach& https://iamfiercegrace.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·   Send us a textReal 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