Conversations with Rich Bennett

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. Guest Bio:  Tanya Gioia is a Christian-focused addiction relationship coach dedicated to helping women support loved ones battling addiction. Drawing from her personal experience as a wife of a recovering addict and her own journey of healing from codependency, Tanya empowers women to rediscover their identity, set healthy boundaries, and build resilient families. She is also the host of the Faith Over Addiction podcast. Main Topics: ·         Tanya’s family story and her husband’s journey to sobriety·         Life on a Colorado farm with kids, animals, and addiction struggles·         The reality of codependency and how it affects relationships·         How faith, community, and positive self-talk played a role in healing·         The importance of boundaries and self-worth in recovery·         Helping children navigate family addiction dynamics·         The role of therapy, EMDR, and spiritual growth in personal healing·         Why women need to reclaim their identity and voice·         Tanya’s coaching programs, podcast, and future plans  Resources mentioned: ·         Tanya’s website: https://www.tanyagioia.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Harford County Living·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography ·         Faith Over Addiction Podcast – Hosted by Tanya Gioia·         Wounded by Shame, Healed by Grace – Book by John Van Vonderen·         Boundaries – Book by Dr. HenSend 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 Your Pet AuPair When life crumbled around her—art career, finances, marriage—Stephanie Jackson hit rock bottom. Instead of giving up, she rebuilt her life and launched Practical Sanctuary, pioneering Sensory Interior Design, a unique blend of neuroscience, psychology, and art to create spaces that support focus, healing, and better relationships. In this inspiring episode, Stephanie shares how she turned personal adversity into a mission-driven business, empowering highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to thrive. Guest Bio:  Stephanie Jackson is an artist, massage therapist, educator, and the founder of Practical Sanctuary. After a career in fine art left her disillusioned and financially struggling, she reinvented herself as a sensory interior designer, combining her creative talents with neuroscience and psychology. Stephanie now empowers sensitive and neurodivergent people by helping them create environments that enhance well-being, focus, and emotional regulation. She also teaches massage therapy and is an engaging speaker on neurodiversity and design. Main Topics: ·         The harsh realities of the art world and creative industries·         Stephanie's personal story of financial collapse and resilience·         The birth of Sensory Interior Design and how it differs from traditional design·         The impact of environment on highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals·         Collaborating with clients to empower them through space transformation·         How small design changes can profoundly affect mental health and productivity·         Stephanie’s transition into teaching and public speaking·         Her upcoming book on sensory design for sensitive people  Resources mentioned: ·         Stephanie’s website: https://practicalsanctuary.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Your Pet AuPair·         Supporter: Real LifSend us a textYour Pet AuPairDoing It for the Sits & Wiggles! At Your Pet AuPair our mission is to give your pets the same 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 powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Gavin Masumiya shares his emotional journey from a shy, self-conscious child to a confident speaker, coach, and musical artist. Through freestyle rap, public speaking, and deeply personal songwriting—especially after the loss of his mother—Gavin discovered the healing power of voice and vulnerability. Listeners will be inspired by his resilience, creativity, and unique approach to coaching others into authentic expression. Guest Bio:  Gavin Masumiya is a voice coach, speaker, and freestyle rapper who helps people unlock their authentic expression through the power of voice. A former behavioral therapist and English teacher in Japan, Gavin now works with clients around the world to overcome self-doubt and step into their truth. Following the passing of his mother, he transformed grief into artistic healing through songwriting, releasing tracks under his artist name, Masu. Gavin also facilitates coaching programs, mentors aspiring speakers, and contributes to purpose-driven organizations that align with his mission of emotional transformation. Main Topics: ·         Gavin’s journey from shy child to confident speaker and coach·         Discovering freestyle rap as a tool for healing and self-expression·         Using creativity and music to process grief and honor his mother·         Launching a music career under the name Masu·         Creating “legacy appointments” through recorded conversations·         Coaching professionals to unleash their authentic voice·         The impact of mastermind groups and the power of asking for help·         Future ambitions, including a TEDx Talk and potential book  Resources mentioned: ·         Michael’s website: https://www.gavinmasumiya.com/·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography·         Artist name on Spotify: Masu·         Toastmasters – where Gavin honed his public speaking skillsSend 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 American Auto Repair In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Michael V. Morgan shares how intentional networking transformed his career trajectory—from Penn State and a fraternity brotherhood to executive roles in top firms like JP Morgan, Chevron, and Amazon. He offers actionable strategies and inspiring stories from his book The Power of Networking, proving that real relationships—not just business cards—open doors to lasting success. Whether you're new to the workforce or looking to level up, this conversation is packed with career-changing advice. Guest Bio:  Michael V. Morgan is a corporate leader, author, and motivational speaker whose professional journey spans finance, tech, oil & gas, and cybersecurity. A graduate of Penn State and Carnegie Mellon, Michael authored The Power of Networking, a practical guide to building meaningful connections for career success. He's passionate about mentoring, speaks nationwide, and currently works in cybersecurity at Netskope. Main Topics: ·         How fraternity life introduced Michael to the power of networking·         Real examples of hidden job opportunities through connections·         The difference between building a network and just collecting contacts·         Tips for introverts and those unsure of their value in networking·         Building personal and professional networks in new cities·         The role of mentorship and how to find the right mentor·         Structuring a business book and the journey to publishing·         Work-life balance as an author, speaker, and cybersecurity pro Resources mentioned: ·         Michael’s website: https://michaelvmorgan.com ·         Episode Sponsor: American Auto Repair·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full CirSend us a textAmerican Auto Repair Sales & ServicesAmerican Auto Repair & Performance was founded on the basic idea that everyone deserves respect. It 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 Living Well Healthcare In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Rich Bennett reunites with Bethany Pace, Hillary Livingston, and introduces Morgan and Matt to discuss the explosive growth of Sincerely, Divorced, a powerful support community for people navigating divorce. They share personal stories of heartbreak, healing, co-parenting, and community building—with plenty of laughs and lessons along the way. Listeners will walk away feeling seen, supported, and inspired by this deeply authentic conversation on love, loss, friendship, and the freedom that comes with reclaiming your life. Guests:  Bethany Pace is a co-founder of Sincerely, Divorced, educator, and advocate for compassionate community through divorce recovery. She’s known for her leadership, authenticity, and vision for a more inclusive support network.Hillary Livingston is a co-founder of Sincerely, Divorced and a passionate voice for transformation through adversity. Her post-divorce glow-up and astrological insights add heart and humor to the group’s mission.Morgan is a data analyst, mom, and survivor of a controlling marriage. Her journey from isolation to empowerment has made her a beloved community member and spreadsheet queen of the group.Matt is a counselor, single dad, and two-time divorcé who brings vulnerability, humor, and insight into men’s experiences with divorce, fatherhood, and mental health. Main Topics: ·         How Sincerely, Divorced started and expanded rapidly·         Personal divorce journeys and challenges faced·         The importance of platonic love and community healing·         Co-parenting struggles and integrity through conflict·         Mental and physical health impacts of toxic marriages·         Dating after divorce and stories of resilience·         Community events, sound healing, and upcoming plans·         Creating a judgment-free, inclusive support network·         Vetting trusted resources vs. exploitative coaches·         Future goals including national chapters and a book  Resources mentioned: Send us a textLiving 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

In this special Independence Day episode, Rich Bennett explores the true meaning and powerful history behind July 4th. From the colonial struggle against British rule to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and its lasting legacy, Rich dives deep into the origins, traditions, and evolving relevance of America's birthday. It’s a heartfelt reminder to celebrate not just with fireworks, but with reflection and gratitude.Main Topics: The historical context of American colonial unrestKey events leading to the Declaration of IndependenceThe significance of July 2nd and July 4th, 1776Philosophical impact of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”Early and modern traditions of Independence DayReflection on freedom, sacrifice, and civic responsibilitySupporters: ·         Real Life Prosthetics·         Full Circle Boards·         Sincerely Sawyer PhotographySend 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 Chesapeake Podcast Network In this candid and insightful episode, Rich Bennett chats with Seth Goldstein, a former journalist turned digital marketing expert and podcast coach. Seth shares how his career in journalism led to burnout and PTSD, and how he rebuilt himself through web design, podcasting, and now coaching others. Listeners will gain valuable insights into what it takes to start a podcast, how to be a great guest, and the evolving digital marketing landscape. This episode is both inspiring and packed with practical advice for creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Guest: Seth Goldstein Seth Goldstein is a former journalist who transitioned into digital marketing and podcasting after experiencing career burnout. He is the founder of Goldstein Media, host of the Entrepreneur’s Enigma podcast, and creator of Podcast Mastery, where he coaches both aspiring podcasters and podcast guests. Seth has helped numerous entrepreneurs build their online presence, tell their stories, and connect with audiences through authentic, engaging content. Main Topics: ·         Seth’s journalism background and the toll it took on his mental health·         Transition from news reporting to digital marketing and podcasting·         How PTSD shaped Seth’s professional path and perspective·         The evolution of podcasting and its second renaissance·         Podcast coaching: launching, structuring, and sustaining a show·         Mistakes new podcasters make and how to avoid them·         Why business owners should appear on podcasts·         Podcast tech tips: equipment, etiquette, and editing dos and don’ts·         The value of authenticity and imperfection in podcast episodes·         Google, SEO, and why written content still matters in a digital age Resources mentioned: ·         Goldstein Media – https://goldsteinmedia.com·         Podcast Mastery – https://podcastmastery.coach·         Entrepreneur’s Enigma Podcast Send us a textChesapeake Podcast NetworkCPN (Chesapeake Podcast Network) is a collection of podcasts that are somehow tied to the ChesapeakeDisclaimer: 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 WHFC 91.1 FM In this vibrant, unfiltered conversation, Rich Bennett sits down with romance authors Cardyn Brooks, Kristie Wolf, and Samantha Heil to explore the booming world of romance literature—from spicy tropes and steamy storytelling to the indie book event scene that’s redefining how readers discover love stories. Whether you're a longtime romance fan or curious about the genre's explosive popularity, this episode offers insight, laughter, and maybe a little blushing. Guests:  ·         Cardyn Brooks is a book reviewer, erotica author, and outreach director for the Write Women Book Fest. Her work centers on emotionally intimate, sexually explicit fiction that reflects diverse, joyful Black love stories.·         Kristie Wolf is an indie romance author known for her steamy “Project Viper” military romance series and “Knife to the Heart” small-town series. She writes interconnected standalones with plenty of “chili peppers.”·         Samantha Heil is co-founder of the Book Fair at Bel Air and one half of the writing duo ES Rosalyn. She writes young adult and now adult romance rooted in nostalgic 2000s pop culture, while also advocating for literacy and book accessibility. Main Topics:·         The shift from Young Adult to Adult Romance and why it matters for indie authors·         The spicy “chili pepper” scale of romance books and how authors calibrate heat levels·         Understanding romance tropes like “enemies to lovers,” “grumpy sunshine,” and “secret baby”·         How TikTok and BookTok are transforming romance marketing and reader communities·         The explosion of dark romance and how readers are embracing bolder content·         The importance of trigger warnings in adult vs. teen books·         Self-publishing, inclusivity in romance, and writing joyful Black love stories·         The rise of book fairs like Write Women Book Fest and Book Fair at Bel Air·         Marketing challenges and wins for indie authors·         Special editions, character art, Send us a textWHFC 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

In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, marketing powerhouse Julie Matzen joins Rich and co-host Michelle Hayes to share how her innovative platform, Boarderline, is transforming the way small and mid-sized businesses access expert marketing advice. Julie explains how AI, strategic planning, and curated advisory boards are giving entrepreneurs affordable access to top-tier knowledge, without burning through budgets. A must-listen for anyone looking to launch or grow a business in today’s digital world. Guest: Julie Matzen Julie Matzen is a seasoned marketing expert with over 25 years of experience working with major brands like Sherwin-Williams, Oura, and Yale Smart Locks. She is the founder of Mayday Agency and co-founder of Boarderline, a groundbreaking advisory platform that connects startups and small business owners to elite industry experts. Julie’s mission is to make high-level guidance accessible to entrepreneurs at every stage of growth. Main Topics: ·         Julie’s path from PR to founding a full-service ad agency·         The birth and mission of Boarderline·         Common marketing mistakes small business owners make·         Why “everyone is not your customer”·         How to use AI effectively—and what to avoid·         Strategic planning and the importance of a business plan·         PR vs. paid media: what works and why·         How to build an advisory board on a budget·         The future of advertising and attribution in a post-cookie world·         Why personalization and strategy matter more than “cute content” Resources mentioned: ·         Mayday Agency (Julie’s marketing agency)·         Boarderline – Business advisory platform·         Sherwin Williams, Cricut, Oura Ring, Yale Smart Locks, Master Lock·         Brad DeLava – Media expert at Borderline·         Janet Notardonato – Market research expert at Borderline·         Authority Magazine (Medium.com feature)·         LegalZoom, USPTO.gov, SBA, Trulient, SoFi (business/legal tools discussed)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 CleverCat Marketing In this eye-opening episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Meridee Hlokoff shares her powerful story of starting smoking at age 11, battling addiction for years, and finally quitting through a unique method: Cold Laser Therapy. But her journey didn’t end there. Now a coach and founder of LaserQuit, she’s helping others overcome addiction by addressing the trauma and emotional pain that fuels it. This episode goes far beyond nicotine, touching on alcohol, food, drama addiction, and the life-changing power of emotional healing. Guest: Meridee Hlokoff Meridee Hlokoff is a recovery coach, energy healer, and founder of LaserQuit, a business that uses Cold Laser Therapy to help people overcome various addictions—from smoking to food, alcohol, and more. After a lifetime of addiction and trauma, including starting smoking at 11 and enduring multiple relapses, she found success with Cold Laser Therapy and turned it into a mission to help others. She’s now been sober for over a decade and operates multiple business locations, helping clients around the world reclaim their lives. Main Topics: ·         Meridee’s personal story of starting smoking at age 11·         The generational impact of addiction and cancer·         How Cold Laser Therapy works and why it’s effective·         Why most addiction is rooted in childhood trauma·         The overlooked dangers of alcohol and vaping·         How gut health impacts addiction and cravings·         Emotional suppression vs. sitting with feelings·         Shifting from negativity to daily positivity·         Meridee’s mission and business growth with LaserQuit·         Her future plans for speaking and expanding internationally Resources mentioned: ·         Website: https://laserquit.net and https://laserquittherapy.ca·         Social: @laserquit.therapy and @sobercoachmer·         The Secret (book/film)·         Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch AlbomSend us a textCleverCat MarketingDreams shouldn't cost a fortune, budget should never be a barrier! We focus on YOU & create killer cDisclaimer: 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