Conversations with Rich Bennett

Sponsored by Rage Against Addiction Join Rich Bennett and cohost Wendy Beck as they sit down with Ruby Comer and Laura Dahl to uncover the powerful story behind the Bethesda Transformation Center, a faith-based recovery home for women. From personal loss to divine purpose, they share how their mission is helping women reclaim their lives through grace, healing, and community. It’s a heartfelt conversation about transformation that you won’t want to miss. Guests: Laura Dahl & Ruby Comer Laura Dahl is the Executive Director of Bethesda Transformation Center, a faith-based recovery home dedicated to helping women heal from addiction and reclaim their lives. Drawing from her own 15-year recovery journey and professional background as a licensed counselor, Laura combines spiritual insight with lived experience to lead a powerful mission of hope and restoration. Ruby Comer is the co-founder of Bethesda Transformation Center and a passionate advocate for families affected by addiction. After losing her son Stephen, Ruby transformed her grief into purpose, helping build a healing space rooted in faith, community, and compassion.  Main Topics: ·         The founding story of Bethesda Transformation Center·         Faith-based recovery as an alternative to traditional treatment·         Laura Dahl’s personal journey through addiction and healing·         Ruby Comer’s mission to support families affected by addiction·         The role of community, donations, and volunteers in building the center·         Challenges and milestones in launching a nonprofit recovery home·         The spiritual philosophy behind calling participants “students,” not addicts·         Creating a nurturing space for women of all ages, including older women·         The importance of grief, healing, and purpose in recovery work·         Upcoming fundraisers and community involvement opportunities Resources mentioned: ·         Bethesda Transformation Center – Faith-based recovery home for womeSend us a textRage 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

Sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union In this heartfelt episode, Becky Galli and Polly Winde Surhoff reflect on 25 powerful years of impact through Pathfinders for Autism—a nonprofit born from personal journeys and fueled by community. They share the origins of their mission, the evolution of autism advocacy, and the inspiring milestones that have touched thousands of lives. Tune in for a moving conversation about acceptance, resilience, and the power of sharing what you’ve learned. Guests: Becky Galli & Polly Winde Surhoff Becky Galli is an author, columnist, and passionate autism advocate. Inspired by her daughter’s journey, she co-founded Pathfinders for Autism and continues to champion awareness and acceptance across communities. Polly Winde Surhoff is an internationally recognized swimmer and co-founder of Pathfinders for Autism. After navigating her son’s autism diagnosis, she dedicated her life to helping families find resources, hope, and support. Main Topics: ·         The founding story of Pathfinders for Autism and its 25-year journey·         Polly and Becky’s personal experiences as parents of children with autism·         The evolution from autism awareness to autism acceptance·         The importance of community events, training programs, and safety initiatives·         How Pathfinders supports families, first responders, and businesses·         The new Community Connector campaign expanding services across Maryland·         Fundraising, volunteer opportunities, and the impact of community support Resources mentioned:   Pathfinders for Autism – The nonprofit co-founded by Polly Surhoff and Becky GalliWebsite: https://www.pathfindersforautism.org25th Anniversary Campaign: https://pfa25.org  Freedom Federal Credit Union – Podcast sponsor and community supporterWebsite: https://www.freedomfcu.org  Becky Galli – Author, columSend 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 Tar Heel Construction GroupDrewbie Wilson joins Rich Bennett to share how he turned his life around—from tipping the scales at 315 pounds to becoming a 7-figure sales leader and entrepreneur. He breaks down the mindset, discipline, and daily habits that help him (and his clients) crush the day before it crushes them. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in sales or business looking to level up with no gimmicks, just grit.Guest: Drewbie WilsonDrewbie Wilson is a sales expert, entrepreneur, podcast host, and author known for his straight-talk approach and relentless drive. After losing over 100 pounds and transforming his life, Drewbie applied that same discipline to business—rising from tech support to the C-suite and now leading his own consulting brand, Call The Damn Leads. He’s passionate about helping others crush their goals, one honest conversation at a time.Main Topics: ·         Drewbie Wilson’s personal weight loss journey and lifestyle transformation·         The origin and meaning behind “Crush the Day Before It Crushes You”·         Building a sales career from the ground up, including early experiences·         Transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship·         Sales training, discipline, and the importance of follow-up systems·         Overcoming fear and rejection in sales calls·         The difference between B2B and B2C sales strategies·         How to properly ask for referrals and the value of relationships·         Structuring daily routines for personal and professional success·         Lessons in motivation, gratitude, and leading by exampleResources mentioned:Guest & HostDrewbie Wilson – Entrepreneur, sales expert, and authorRich Bennett – Host of Conversations with Rich BennettBusinesses & BrandsCall The Damn Leads – Drewbie Wilson’s consulting brand and websiteHarford County Living – Podcast presentation sponsorTar Heel Construction Group – Sponsor mentioned in the ad 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 Daniel McGhee and The Victory Team In this feel-good episode, Rich Bennett sits down with travel advisor and mom of three, Julie Shaffer, to talk all things family travel. From Disney magic to African safaris, Julie shares hilarious moments, expert tips, and her journey from physical therapist to vacation planner extraordinaire. Whether you’re planning a multigenerational cruise or wondering if toddlers and tropical getaways mix—this episode has answers (and laughs). Bonus: Find out why Iceland and the Galapagos should be on your radar! Guest: Julie Shaffer Julie Shaffer is a trusted travel advisor and founder of Magical Travel Mom, specializing in family vacations that are fun, stress-free, and unforgettable. A mom of three and former physical therapist, Julie turned her love of planning magical getaways into a thriving career. Whether it's Disney adventures, all-inclusive escapes, or once-in-a-lifetime safaris, she helps families make the most of their time together—without the overwhelm. Main Topics: ·         Julie Shaffer’s transition from physical therapy to full-time travel advising·         Tips for planning stress-free family vacations with young children·         Differences in travel planning before and after the pandemic·         The value of using a travel advisor and what they handle behind the scenes·         Popular and surprising family destinations, including African safaris and the Galapagos·         Travel budgeting strategies and how to maximize savings·         Insights on destination weddings and multigenerational trips·         Julie’s personal travel bucket list and dream destinations for her and her family·         How travel experiences benefit children’s development and family bonding·         Highlights from Julie’s podcast “All Things Travel” and her role as a co-host Resources mentioned:People & Podcasts:Julie Shaffer – Travel advisor, guesSend us a textThe Victory TeamLOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A HOME Go with the Agent that was voted Harford’s Best & won the Harford CouDisclaimer: 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 Step into history with author and retired firefighter Andrew Serra as he joins Rich Bennett to discuss Hell’s Hundred Acres, his gripping novel about the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire. From first responder insight to untold immigrant stories, Andrew brings the tragedy—and its legacy—to life. This powerful conversation reveals why the fire still matters today and how storytelling can spark change. Guest: Andrew Serra Andrew Serra is a retired New York City firefighter and acclaimed author known for his deeply researched historical novels. With firsthand experience in emergency response and a passion for storytelling, Andrew brings history to life through powerful narratives. His latest novel, Hell’s Hundred Acres, explores the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire and its lasting impact on labor laws and fire safety. Main Topics: ·         The historical significance of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire·         How the fire influenced labor laws and fire safety regulations in the U.S.·         Andrew Serra’s personal connection to the story as a retired NYC firefighter·         The process of writing Hell’s Hundred Acres as historical fiction·         Challenges of balancing factual accuracy with storytelling·         The human impact of the tragedy and the lives behind the statistics·         Corruption and political context of early 20th-century New York·         Andrew’s previous books and transition from firefighter to author·         The emotional toll and therapeutic power of writing about 9/11·         Preserving forgotten stories through historical fiction Resources mentioned: Books by Andrew Serra:Hell’s Hundred AcresThe Dead FlorentinesLa Petite ParisienneFinding John (Non-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

Sponsored by Richardson Farms From lacrosse fields to the shelves of Whole Foods, Gregory Vetter’s wild journey took a homemade salad dressing and turned it into a $300M clean food brand—only to lose it all. In this raw and revealing conversation, Greg opens up about bold risks, painful lessons, and what it really takes to build (and rebuild) a dream. If you’re chasing something big, this one’s a must-listen. Guest: Gregory Vetter Gregory Vetter is a pioneering entrepreneur and the co-founder of Tessemae’s, the first Whole30-approved bottled dressing brand that grew into a $300M clean food empire. A former professional lacrosse player turned food industry disruptor, Greg later launched the Fresh Food Company and Homegrown Brand Accelerator. He’s also the author of Undressed: The Unfiltered Story of My Failed American Dream and How It Led to Success, and a passionate speaker on leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven business. Main Topics: ·         How Gregory Vetter turned his mother’s salad dressing recipe into a national brand·         The founding and explosive growth of Tessemae’s in the clean food space·         Major setbacks, including investor struggles and the collapse of a $300M company·         The importance of authenticity, grit, and storytelling in entrepreneurship·         Lessons learned from failure and how they shaped Greg’s next ventures·         Launching Fresh Food Company and leading large-scale food manufacturing·         Writing Undressed and why Greg chose to share his raw, unfiltered journey·         The value of leadership retreats and integrating personal well-being into business success Resources mentioned: Companies & Brands·         Tessemae’s – Organic salad dressing and condiment brand·         Fresh Food Company – Salad supplier for Sam’s Club·         Homegrown Brand Accelerator – Greg’s venture supporting new food brands·         Sam’s Club – Retail partner for Fresh Food CoSend us a textRichardson FarmsLocally grown produce, flowers, fresh rotisserie chicken, specialty food items, and more!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 Chesapeake Podcast Network In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author and wellness advocate Karen Dittman shares her inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and overcoming life’s toughest challenges. From navigating adoption, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and addiction to discovering the power of grace and wellness, Karen opens up about her struggles and triumphs while raising her children and grandchild. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on finding peace in chaos, trusting God through adversity, and embracing true healing—no matter what obstacles life throws your way. Guest: Karen Dittman Karen Dittman is an author, speaker, and wellness advocate dedicated to helping others navigate life’s toughest challenges through faith, grace, and holistic wellness. With over 25 years of experience, she has faced and overcome the five big A’s—adoption, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and addiction—while raising her children and stepping into the role of parenting a grandchild. She co-authored Thriving in Grace: Unleashing Wellness from a Biblical Perspective with her husband, Michael, offering a roadmap to not just surviving but truly thriving. Passionate about mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, Karen empowers others to embrace transformation, find peace in chaos, and build a life of purpose. Main Topics: ·         Karen Dittman’s personal journey through faith, family struggles, and resilience ·         Overcoming the “five big A’s”: adoption, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and addiction ·         The power of grace and wellness in navigating life’s toughest challenges ·         Parenting a grandchild and balancing multiple roles as a mother and mentor ·         Finding peace in the midst of chaos through faith and spiritual wellness ·         The importance of community, connection, and support systems ·         How gratitude and mindset shifts can lead to transformation ·         The inspiration behind Karen’s boSend 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 Window Depot of Baltimore In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Jessica Morris shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming addiction, childhood trauma, and finding faith. She introduces the concept of personal eschatology—a transformative process of spiritual rebirth—and reveals how hitting rock bottom led her to profound healing. Whether you're seeking inspiration, struggling with faith, or looking for a story of true redemption, this episode is a must-listen.  Guest: Jessica Morris Jessica Morris is an author, speaker, and advocate for addiction recovery and spiritual transformation. She is the author of Higher Powered: One Woman’s Journey of Personal Eschatology, which explores her path from trauma and addiction to faith and healing. After growing up with an alcoholic, abusive father who was also a minister, Jessica turned away from organized religion and struggled with addiction. Through recovery, seminary studies, and deep self-reflection, she developed the concept of personal eschatology—the idea that true transformation happens when we let go of our old selves and embrace a personal relationship with Jesus. Now, she is on a mission to help others navigate their own journeys of healing and faith. Main Topics: ·         Jessica Morris’ Personal Journey – Overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and finding faith ·         Personal Eschatology – The idea that true transformation happens when we let go of our old selves and embrace a personal relationship with Jesus ·         The Role of Trauma in Addiction – How unresolved childhood experiences shaped Jessica’s struggles ·         The Power of Recovery – How support systems, counseling, and faith played a role in healing ·         Questioning Faith – How Jessica learSend us a textWindow Depot of Baltimore“Saving America’s Energy, One Home At A Time” Window Depot of Baltimore is the local family-owned lDisclaimer: 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

Get ready for a festive deep dive into St. Patrick’s Day—its rich history, surprising myths, and how it became a global celebration! In this episode, Rich Bennett explores the truth behind St. Patrick’s legacy, the legend of the snakes, and why we really wear green. Plus, he shares personal family traditions, heartfelt memories, and the spirit of Irish heritage that makes this day so special. Whether you're Irish by blood or just for the day, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a fresh perspective on March 17th!Main Topics: ·         The origins of St. Patrick’s Day and its historical significance ·         The true story of St. Patrick, including his British roots and journey to Ireland ·         Debunking myths, including the legend of St. Patrick banishing snakes ·         How St. Patrick’s Day evolved into a worldwide celebration ·         The role of Irish immigrants in shaping modern St. Patrick’s Day traditions ·         The meaning behind wearing green and other holiday customs ·         Rich Bennett’s personal family traditions and how they honor Irish heritage ·         How Maryland, especially Harford County, celebrates St. Patrick’s Day ·         The deeper themes of unity, resilience, and cultural pride behind the holiday ·         A call for listeners to share their own St. Patrick’s Day traditions and experiences Resources mentioned: People & Historical Figures MentionedSt. Patrick – The patron saint of IrelandRich Bennett’s family members – Mentioned in personal storiesBusinesses & LocationsLooney’s Pub – Mentioned as a local spot celebrating St. Patrick’s DaySean Bolan’s – Another Maryland business referenced for celebrationsThe Dugout – A local dive bar where Rich’s family gathers for St. Patrick’s DayHavre de Grace, Maryland – A key location where Rich and his family celebrateTraditions & Cultural ReferencesChicago River Dyeing – Turning the river green for St. Patrick’s DayNew York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade – One of the largest celebrationsCorned Beef and Cabbage – A traditional Irish-American dishSocial Media & Website MentionsConversations with Rich Bennett website – 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 Health Department In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, drug prevention expert Ray Lozano shares his deeply personal journey growing up in a family affected by addiction. From witnessing the devastating effects of drugs on his loved ones to dedicating his life to educating youth and parents, Ray delivers eye-opening insights on how to effectively talk to kids about substance abuse. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand addiction, prevention strategies, and the emotional impact of substance use on families. Guest: Ray Lozano Ray Lozano is a nationally recognized drug prevention expert, speaker, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Known for his engaging and humorous approach, Ray has delivered thousands of presentations across the U.S., helping students, parents, and educators understand the science of addiction and how to prevent substance abuse. As the founder of Prevention Plus, he specializes in breaking down complex drug and alcohol topics into relatable, impactful lessons that inspire change. Main Topics: ·         Ray Lozano’s personal experience growing up in a family affected by addiction ·         The emotional and psychological effects of substance abuse on families ·         How to talk to kids and teens about drugs, alcohol, and vaping ·         Understanding the brain’s reward system and why addiction is so powerful ·         The dangers of fentanyl, vaping, and emerging drug trends ·         How parents and educators can support youth in making better choices ·         The role of emotional vs. logical language in communicating with addicts ·         Ray’s work in schools and communities to prevent drug use among teens Resources mentioned: ·         Ray Lozano’s Website: RayLozano.com ·         Book: Addicted toSend us a textHarford 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