Conversations with Rich Bennett

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 texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comSupport 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 texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comHarford 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/·         Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comFreedom 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/ & Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comEco-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: ·         Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comEco-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 Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comSupport 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: Send us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comFreedom 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 SponsSend us a texthttps://harfordcountyhealth.comHarford 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: htSend 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

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