Conversations with Rich Bennett

Kayla shares a raw, resilient journey from childhood trauma and early addiction to a terrifying DUI wake-up call—and the decision to fight for her life and for her daughter. With support from Rage Against Addiction’s Sister’s House and Daughters’ House, she embraced meetings, structure, and service, eventually becoming a house manager and now helping other women enter recovery. This conversation shows how community, accountability, and motherhood can fuel lasting change. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Guest Bio:  Kayla W is a young mother in long-term recovery and a former resident—and later house manager—within Rage Against Addiction’s sober living program. After treatment, 90-in-90 meetings, and rebuilding custody and stability, she joined a local treatment center (Achieve) and now helps women access sober living and recovery supports. Main Topics: ·         Podathon for Recovery: 12 Days of Hope benefiting Rage Against Addiction·         Childhood loss, instability, and abuse—and how unresolved trauma fed addiction·         Early dependence, homelessness with an infant, and escalating alcohol use·         Moment of clarity, the first rehab stay, and misconceptions about “detox only”·         Relapse, DUI crash, and fearing her daughter was in the car·         Entering Sister’s House; routine, meetings, sponsorship, and structure·         Becoming senior resident and house manager; learning leadership with compassion·         Opening a women & children’s house and then working in treatment (Achieve)·         Co-parenting progress, rebuilding trust, and maintaining life balance in recovery  Resources mentioned: ·         Donate to Rage Against Addiction ·         Ashley (residential treatment) & Achieve (treatment center where Kayla works) ·         Vivitrol shot (mentioned during early treatment plan) ·         WIC (nutrition support), crisis hotline, AA/NA “90 meetings in 90 days” Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comRage Against AddictionRage Against Addiction is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting addicts and their familiDisclaimer: 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 Podathon for Recovery episode, co-hosted with Wendy Beck, Kayla G shares how an emotional plea—“try harder”—and a brutal bottom pushed her to choose recovery, detox at home during COVID, and rebuild her life through Narcotics Anonymous. Now five years clean, a mom and a certified peer recovery specialist, Kayla advocates for mothers in Baltimore City navigating CPS and the courts, bringing empathy, accountability, and hope to families in crisis. It’s a raw, honest look at what it really takes to get clean and stay clean. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Guest Bio:  Kayla G is a parent advocate with the Office of the Public Defender in Baltimore City and a certified peer recovery specialist. In recovery since 2020, she sponsors women in NA, supports mothers working toward reunification in CPS cases, and speaks candidly about addiction, domestic violence, accountability, and faith. She’s a devoted mom, engaged to be married, and passionate about turning pain into purpose. Main Topics: ·         Podathon for Recovery: 12 Days of Hope benefiting Rage Against Addiction·         The “try harder” moment: a friend’s grief-stricken plea that became Kayla’s mantra·         Early meetings, NA as a safe space, and choosing recovery daily·         Detoxing at home during COVID and why desperation mattered·         Leaving an abusive relationship; accountability for harming others·         Working a program: sponsor/sponsee relationships, home group, step work·         Parenting in recovery and rebuilding trust with family·         Advocacy: what parent advocates do in CPS cases; “Better Together” emphasis on mother-baby placement·         System realities: time, patience, setbacks, and discouragement in reunification·         Grief in the work: losing a client and not taking credit—or blame·         Hope and resilience: weekends in jail, long processes, and the life she has today  Resources mentioned: ·         Donate to Rage Against AddiSend us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comRage Against AddictionRage Against Addiction is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting addicts and their familiDisclaimer: 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 National Recovery Month special, co-host Wendy Beck and program director Rachel share how Rage Against Addiction (RAA) went from a mother’s mission to a three-home sober living program for women, emphasizing that “healing begins with safe housing.” They walk through RAA’s structure—from 30-day acclimation to workshops across the Eight Dimensions of Wellness—and the powerful alumni network that proves long-term recovery is possible. Listeners hear how monthly giving fuels essentials like drug testing, linens, and even emergency appliances—practical support that protects women’s dignity and safety. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Guest Bio:  Rachel is the Program Director at RAA. In recovery herself, Rachel helped open RAA’s first women’s sober living home in 2018 and now oversees three homes, day-to-day structure, resident mentorship, and the alumni network—creating safe, welcoming homes where women can rebuild. Main Topics: ·         Podathon for Recovery: 12 Days of Hope benefiting Rage Against Addiction·         Why Wendy founded Rage Against Addiction in 2014; growth to three women’s sober homes (Harford County, serving women from across the U.S.) ·         Program structure: 30-day “blackout” period focused on stabilization, healthcare, employment steps, and 12-step engagement (sponsor, home group, step work) ·         Workshops & wellness: yoga, meditation, sound bath, goat yoga, budgeting, resumes/interviews; rollout of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness track via a new grant ·         Alumni network: monthly shares, rides, volunteering; one standout success story from early resident to graduate, mother with custody restored, and RAA board member ·         The real costs of safe housing: drug tests, linens, utilities, repairs, snow removal, appliances—and why recurring gifts matter ·         Annual Memory Walk & Recovery Run; Fall Bingo; Pampered Chef (double donations in August); Christmas Kids initiative; corporate sponsorships needed ·         Past episodes with Rachel: 1.      Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comRage Against AddictionRage Against Addiction is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting addicts and their familiDisclaimer: 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 kickoff to the 12 Days of Hope Podathon, Rich Bennett sits down with Wendy Beck, founder and executive director of Rage Against Addiction. Wendy shares the deeply personal story behind starting the nonprofit and how it now operates three sober-living homes for women, providing safe housing, structure, and long-term recovery support. This episode highlights the real challenges, victories, and why community support is critical in breaking the cycle of addiction. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Guest Bio:  Wendy Beck is the founder and executive director of Rage Against Addiction, a nonprofit based in Maryland dedicated to supporting women in recovery. Born out of personal tragedy, Rage Against Addiction has grown to operate three sober-living homes serving 25 women, offering a structured program with peer support, wellness workshops, and long-term housing solutions. Wendy’s work continues to bring hope and healing to families and communities affected by addiction. Main Topics: ·         Podathon for Recovery: 12 Days of Hope benefiting Rage Against Addiction·         The personal story behind Rage Against Addiction. ·         From fundraising to running three women’s sober-living homes. ·         Structure of the program: intake, 30-day blackout, jobs, meetings, sponsors. ·         Why safe housing is the cornerstone of recovery. ·         New peer recovery specialist role and wellness workshops. ·         Community perceptions of recovery homes vs. reality. ·         The importance of recurring donations and monthly donor support.  Resources mentioned: ·         Donate to Rage Against Addiction ·         Eight Dimensions of Wellness workshops — resume writing, mental health, and more. ·         County grant — enabling a certified peer recovery specialist.·         Monthly Donor Program Appeal for Rage Against Addiction --- Wendy and Rich explain how recurring gifts help meet urgentSend us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comRage Against AddictionRage Against Addiction is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting addicts and their familiDisclaimer: 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

On Overdose Awareness Day, Rich Bennett and co-host Wendy Beck sit down with Mandolyne Eleazar for a courageous conversation about the life and loss of her 18-year-old son, Jovanni, to fentanyl toxicity. Mandolyne shares what helped, what didn’t, and why harm reduction, family therapy, and speaking our loved ones’ names matter. It’s a raw, hopeful listen for anyone navigating grief, stigma, or the realities of teen addiction. Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Guest Bio:  Mandolyne Eleazar is a mother, creative, and advocate for overdose awareness and harm reduction. After losing her son Jovanni in November 2024, she’s committed to honest, stigma-free conversations about addiction, mental health, Narcan access, and compassionate support for families. She continues Jovanni’s legacy by carefully releasing his recorded music so others feel less alone. Main Topics: ·         Podathon for Recovery: 12 Days of Hope benefiting Rage Against Addiction·         Jovanni’s story: early experimentation, grief triggers, and the pull of opioids·         Teen treatment barriers and breakthroughs (state programs vs. residential care)·         Family therapy: rebuilding trust and communication at home·         Stigma, complicated grief, and finding a supportive community·         Harm reduction: making Narcan training and carrying normal for teens·         Supporting siblings who grieve differently·         Preserving legacy through art: Jovanni’s sketches and music releases·         Understanding autopsy results and fentanyl lethality·         The power of remembrance: “say his name”—Jovanni Resources mentioned: ·         Donate to Rage Against Addiction ·         Narcan / naloxone training & access (carry it, teach it, normalize it)·         Newport Academy (CT teen residential treatment referenced)·         Artist pages for LOSTMULTO (Jovanni) and his EP “The Big Bang Theory” oSend us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comRage Against AddictionRage Against Addiction is a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting addicts and their familiDisclaimer: 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

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 texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comLiving 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 texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comWHFC 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 charaSend us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comFour 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: Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comReal 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: Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comTar 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