Conversations with Rich Bennett

Conversations with Rich Bennett

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Conversations with Rich Bennett episodes

  • Plant Music, Spiritual Growth & Clarity with Tigrilla Gardenia

    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: https://tigrillagardenia.com/

    ·         Episode Sponsor: Four Seasons Landscape & Construction Services

    ·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    ·    Naturally Conscious Community: https://naturallyconsciouscommunity.com

    ·         Reconnect with Plant Wisdom Podcast

    ·         Damanhur Eco-Spiritual Community (Italy): https://damanhur.org/

    ·         Fairphone: https://www.fairphone.com

    ·         SHIFT phone (Germany-based sustainable phone company)

    ·         Music of the Plants: https://www.musicoftheplants.com

    ·       

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    While we perform the traditional lawn and landscape bed services, our passion is providing drainage

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    1 hr 23 min
  • The Truth About Health, Habits & Self-Worth with Esther Avant

    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: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    ·    To Your Health (Book): https://amzn.to/3H5Rz4H

    ·    To Your Health (Podcast): Available on all podcast platforms

    ·    Made by Me Coaching: https://madebymecoaching.com/

    ·    Esther’s business partner Maggie

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    57 min
  • Rich Bennett on Rumors: The Hidden Threat to Communities

    In this thought-provoking solo episode, Rich Bennett dives deep into the destructive power of rumors—how they spread, why they take hold, and the devastation they cause to individuals, businesses, and entire communities. Through real-world examples and a heartfelt call to integrity, Rich explores how misinformation erodes trust, ignites panic, and undermines mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world.

     

    Guest Bio: 

     

    Rich Bennett is a Marine Corps veteran, podcast mentor, and the creator and host of Conversations with Rich Bennett, a top-ranked podcast featuring real, raw, and relevant stories. With nearly a decade behind the mic, Rich fosters meaningful discussions that uplift, educate, and connect communities.

     

    Main Topics:

     

    ·         Definition and nature of rumors

    ·         The financial and reputational cost to businesses

    ·         Mental health impacts of personal rumors

    ·         Social isolation and emotional toll

    ·         Community-wide consequences of misinformation

    ·         Strategies to stop the spread of rumors

    ·         Encouragement to verify, support, and speak the truth

     

     

    Resources mentioned:

    ·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    Send us Fan Mail

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    13 min
  • Understanding Empaths with Karen Pizza: Are You One Too?

    Sponsored by Harford County Living 

    Rich sits down with Karen Pizza for a candid and often humorous conversation about what it means to be an empath. They explore how empaths absorb others' emotions, how this gift can lead to anxiety or trauma, and the ways Karen helps people clear their energy and protect themselves. With personal stories and a practical empath quiz, this episode sheds light on a topic many may recognize in themselves without knowing why. 

    If you’ve ever felt “too sensitive” or drained by others, this conversation is a must-listen. Karen’s insights on blocking negative energy, healing trauma, and understanding empathic abilities offer real tools for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s emotional load.

     

    Guest Bio:  

    Karen Pizza is a certified Crystal Reiki Master, intuitive counselor, and empath advocate. With over eight years of experience, Karen specializes in helping people—especially women and teens—identify empathic traits, heal from trauma, and reclaim personal power through energy work. She offers one-on-one sessions, group workshops, and holistic wellness programs designed to foster emotional and energetic resilience. Her compassionate approach blends Reiki, sound healing, and practical life strategies.

    Main Topics: 

    ·         What is an empath and how to know if you are one

    ·         How empaths absorb energy and emotions from others

    ·         The difference between empathy and being an empath

    ·         How trauma can be energetically stored in the body

    ·         Working with therapists to complement traditional mental health care

    ·         Karen’s methods for clearing auras and teaching energy blocking techniques

    ·         The empath quiz and common signs of being an empath

    ·         Dealing with energy vampires and narcissists

    ·         The importance of nature, self-care, and personal boundaries

    ·         Karen’s journey from painkiller addiction to holistic healing

    ·         Karen’s plans for a holistic wellness center

    ·         Sound healing, crystal Reiki, and long-distance energy work

    ·         Karen’s monthly free full moon guided meditation sessions 

    Resources mentioned: 

    ·         Karen’s Website: https://crystalreikiwithkaren.com/

    ·         Episode Sponsor: Harford County Living

    ·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    ·         Facebook Page: Crystal Reiki with Karen

    ·         Instagram: Crystal Reiki with Karen

    ·         Insight Timer App (Meditation & Sound Healing)

    ·         Total Rescue (Animal rescue Karen supports)

    ·         Narcissist vs. Empath Dynamics (Di

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    1 hr 5 min
  • Fundraising Mistakes Nonprofits Keep Making (And How to Fix Them)

    Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group 

    In this engaging roundtable, Rich Bennett sits down with nonprofit consultant Katie Ramirez, alongside co-hosts Greg Derwart and Robyn Burke, for a candid discussion on the realities of nonprofit work. They dive into the importance of strong boards, smart fundraising strategies, and the evolving landscape of nonprofit leadership. Whether you're running a nonprofit, serving on a board, or just curious about community impact, this conversation offers practical insights you can use.

     

    Guest Bio:  

    Katie Ramirez is the founder of Level Up Your Mission, a consultancy dedicated to helping nonprofits strengthen their leadership, fundraising, and community impact. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, Katie is known for her hands-on approach and strategic insights. She’s a sought-after board consultant, speaker, and advocate for sustainable nonprofit growth in Harford County and beyond.

     

    Main Topics: 

    ·         The evolution of nonprofit fundraising events and the need for creativity

    ·         Why nonprofits need a diversified funding strategy beyond grants

    ·         The importance of building strong, engaged, and diverse boards

    ·         The role of community foundations in supporting emerging nonprofits

    ·         Why nonprofit leaders must balance mission, business planning, and collaboration

    ·         The impact of strategic board development and volunteer leadership

    ·         Social media’s evolving role in nonprofit promotion and fundraising

    ·         How personalized donor engagement leads to lasting support

     

     

    Resources mentioned: 

    ·         Level Up Your Missions’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565508418389

    ·         Episode Sponsor: Tar Heel Construction Group

    ·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    ·         Community Foundation of Harford County

    ·         Bailey’s Heart and Soul Foundation (Patricia Bullock)

    ·         CHEP (Charity Organization)

    ·         Rage Against Addiction

    ·         Pathfinders for Autism

    ·         Joe Ayler & Tar Heel Construction

    ·         Special Olympics

    ·         March of Dimes

    ·         Peabody Education Fund

    ·         The Red Barn Project (Colorado)

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    Harford County Living Stamp of Approval for Roofing, Siding and Exterior Services


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    1 hr 5 min
  • Surviving, Healing, and Rising Strong with Jessie Torres

    Sponsored by Real Life Prosthetics 

    Jessie Torres shares her extraordinary story of surviving sexual abuse, the tragic murders of both her brothers, and an abusive marriage. Through fierce grace, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of healing, Jessie turned her pain into a powerful mission to help others transform their lives. This heartfelt conversation dives deep into how facing our darkest moments can unlock our greatest potential.

     

    Guest Bio:  

    Jessie Torres is a peak performance coach, life strategist, and the founder of Fierce Grace, a movement empowering individuals to transform pain into purpose. A survivor of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and profound personal loss, Jessie now helps clients worldwide break free from limiting beliefs and unresolved trauma. She is also a speaker, workshop leader, and advocate for veterans and first responders through her work with The Illuminating Collective.

     

    Main Topics: 

    ·         Jessie’s survival story through abuse, family tragedy, and divorce

    ·         The turning point that awakened her will to live

    ·         Understanding trauma — diagnosed, unacknowledged, unresolved

    ·         Her path from corporate accounting to transformational coaching

    ·         The creation of her Fierce Grace 12-week program

    ·         The power of plant medicine in healing trauma

    ·         Working with veterans and first responders through The Illuminating Collective

    ·         Forgiveness as a healing tool

    ·         Her mastermind groups: Tender Warrior Chicas and Army of Angels

    ·         Jessie’s personal spiritual journey and relationship with faith

     

     

    Resources mentioned:

     

    ·         Jessie’s websites: https://unshakeablelife.com/life-coach& https://iamfiercegrace.com/

    ·         Episode Sponsor: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography 

    ·         Fierce Grace – Jessie’s coaching program and movement

    ·         The Illuminating Collective – Nonprofit working with veterans and first responders

    ·         Tony Robbins Coaching – Jessie’s former coaching role

    ·         Ayahuasca, MDMA, Psilocybin – Plant medicines discussed for trauma healing

    ·         Everyday Heroes Among Us – Nonprofit initiative Jessie supports

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    1 hr 5 min
  • Tanya Gioia on Love, Addiction, and Finding Freedom

    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. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

    ·         Let Them – Book by Mel Robbins

    ·         Betty Ford Children's Program – Resources for families impacted by addiction

    ·         Celebrate Recovery – Christ-centered recovery program

    ·         Beamer the Lightbulb Boy – Children's book on understanding emotions

    ·         Jesus, Sex, and the Conversation the Church Forgot – Book by Mo Isom

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    57 min
  • Reinventing Life And Space With Stephanie Jackson

    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 Life Prosthetics

    ·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography

    ·         The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron

    ·         The San Francisco Art Institute

    ·         Community College of Philadelphia (where Stephanie teaches)

    ·         Her upcoming book: The Eccentric Genius Habitat Intervention (Coming September 2025)

    ·         Neurodiversity and Innovation Conference in Baltimore (October 2025)

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    1 hr 21 min
  • Freestyle, Family, and Finding Freedom with Gavin Masumiya

    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 skills

    ·         UltraSpeaking – public speaking platform Gavin coaches with

    ·         Ray Lozano – mutual friend and fellow speaker on drug prevention

    ·         YNAB (You Need A Budget) – budget software used in mastermind

    ·         Siren / Keeley – client featured in a testimonial and opera performance

    ·         Podcast (archived): 9-5 with Gavin and Mike (on Spotify)

    ·         Joppatowne Lions Club – mentioned by Rich, community organization

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    1 hr 3 min
  • Michael Morgan On Networking That Actually Changes Lives

    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 Circle Boards

    ·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography

    ·         The Power of Networking by Michael V. Morgan

    ·         LinkedIn: Michael Morgan, PMP

    ·         Instagram: @michael.v.morgan

    ·         Companies Mentioned: JP Morgan, Chevron, Amazon, Walmart, Netskope

    ·         Educational Institutions: Penn State University, Carnegie Mellon University

    ·         Locations Mentioned: Austin, Houston, Seattle, Oakland, Brazil, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Dublin, Madrid, Seoul

    ·         Tool: Talkadot (for post-speech engagement)

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    1 hr 3 min

About Conversations with Rich Bennett

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Join Rich Bennett and his dynamic cohosts as they engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds—authors, entrepreneurs, activists, and everyday heroes—uncovering their unique stories and…