Conversations with Rich Bennett

Tony DeMaio on Saving Veterans One Connection at a Time

Tony DeMaio, founder of Helping Heroes USA, joins Rich Bennett for one of the most important conversations you will hear this year. Together, they dive into veteran suicide prevention, the warning signs too many people miss, and why connection and compassion save lives.Tony shares powerful real-world stories, explains how family and friends can become “Support Angels,” and introduces listeners to Coco Bear, the service dog whose instinct for comfort has touched countless veterans and seniors.This episode is not just for veterans. It is for anyone who wants to better understand mental health, recognize when someone is struggling, and learn how one act of care can truly save a life.Send us a textVote for us hereEco-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

Andrew Lewin on Why the Ocean Needs Better Storytelling

What if protecting the ocean did not have to come with fear, guilt, or doom and gloom?In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, marine biologist and podcast host Andrew Lewin shares how storytelling, curiosity, and human connection can inspire real action for ocean conservation. Andrew is the host of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast and founder of the Speak Up For Blue Podcast Network, with more than 1,800 episodes dedicated to making ocean science accessible and hopeful.Rich and Andrew dive into the realities of marine conservation, the myths surrounding sharks and orcas, the power of podcasting as a tool for change, and why connecting emotionally with nature matters more than facts alone. They also discuss advocacy, mental health in science, veteran focused conservation work, and how one voice truly can make a difference.This is a thoughtful, inspiring conversation for anyone who cares about the planet, meaningful storytelling, and using their voice to create positive change.Send us a textVote for us hereHarford 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

Troy Horne On Broadway, Fatherhood, And Starting Over Strong

What if midlife isn’t a decline, but your greatest opportunity yet?In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Broadway performer, bestselling author, and speaker Troy Horne to talk about reinvention, resilience, and redefining success after 40. From starring on Broadway in Rent to co-creating a number-one youth basketball podcast with his son, Troy shares how unexpected turns can become life-changing breakthroughs.They dive into fatherhood, mental toughness, creativity, and Troy’s newest book, Middle Management, which helps people rediscover clarity, purpose, and momentum in the second half of life. This is an honest, inspiring conversation for anyone feeling called to start again, try something new, or finally give themselves permission to go all-in.Send us a textVote for us herePaul Applegate – Edward JonesPaul offers No Cost No Obligation Retirement Check Ups and Consultations.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

The Songs That Changed Us: Rock, Metal, Punk, And Meaning

Music has a way of stopping time, unlocking memories, and reminding us who we were—and who we still are. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with friends for a powerful roundtable conversation about the songs and albums that shaped their lives.From classic rock and heavy metal to punk and emotional deep cuts, this episode dives into how music connects to family, grief, identity, and personal milestones. You’ll hear stories about first albums, misunderstood lyrics, unforgettable concerts, and the artists who left a permanent mark.If you’ve ever heard a song and felt instantly transported back to a moment in your life, this episode will resonate with you. Be sure to check the show notes for the Spotify playlist and add the song that means the most to you.Send us a textVote for us hereFreedom 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

Jackie Pelegrin on Designing Learning That Actually Sticks

What does it really take to design learning that works?In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich is joined by instructional designer, professor, and podcast host Jackie Pelegrin, who brings nearly two decades of experience in higher education and curriculum design.Jackie breaks down what instructional design actually is, why so many online courses fail to engage learners, and how education must be built with intention, empathy, and real-world outcomes in mind. The conversation also explores AI in education, adult learning challenges, podcasting as a teaching tool, and how Jackie turned one of her most popular podcast series into a book.Whether you’re an educator, trainer, podcaster, or lifelong learner, this episode delivers practical insights and behind-the-scenes wisdom on designing learning experiences that truly stick.Send us a textVote for us hereSupport 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