Conversations with Rich Bennett

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett (or is it Conversations with Wendy now?), we spotlight the unsung champions of Maryland Wellness. Rich and cohost Wendy Beck sit down with Leann, Ralph, and Ashia to explore how PRP services are transforming mental health care across Harford County. From home visits to building trust, these pros go beyond therapy to change lives—one relationship at a time.

Guests: Leann Roderick, Ralph Watkins & Asha

·         Leann Roderick – Community Relations Coordinator at Maryland Wellness and lifelong Harford County resident. Leann connects local communities with essential mental health services and is passionate about closing the gap between substance abuse support and mental health care.

·         Ralph Watkins – Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner with over 30 years in mental health. Ralph specializes in helping clients regain stability and independence through hands-on, behavior-focused recovery programs.

·         Ashia Herndon – PRP Counselor at Maryland Wellness. Asha is on the front lines, building trust and making real change through home visits and client-centered support, especially in underserved communities.

Main Topics:

·         Overview of Maryland Wellness and its statewide mental health services

·         The role and impact of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Programs (PRP)

·         Differences between therapy and PRP: feelings vs. behaviors

·         COVID-19’s long-term effects on mental health and service demand

·         Reducing stigma around mental health and increasing community awareness

·         The importance of in-home visits and real-world client engagement

·         Challenges in accessing mental health housing and support services

·         Collaboration with courts, therapists, and substance abuse programs

·         Eligibility requirements and diagnosis criteria for PRP

·         Personal stories and motivations from the Maryland Wellness team

Resources mentioned:

People

• Rich Bennett – Host
• Wendy Beck – Cohost
• Leann Roderick – Guest, Community Relations Coordinator
• Ralph Watkins – Guest, Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist
• Ashia Herndon – Guest, PRP Counselor

Organizations & Businesses:

• Maryland Wellness – Featured organization providing PRP and mental health services across Maryland
• Eco-Cool HVAC – Episode sponsor, offering heating and cooling services in Harford County

Programs & Services:

• Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) – Core service discussed throughout the episode
• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Briefly mentioned for comparison
• SNAP & TCA (Temporary Cash Assistance) – Referred to as “entitlements” supporting clients
• HUD Housing – Mentioned in context of long waitlists and housing barriers
• Drug Court / Circuit Court – Referenced as a source of mental health referrals

Websites:

• Eco-Cool HVAC – www.ecocoolhvac.com 
• Maryland Wellness -

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email

Sponsored by Harford County Living

Discover how AI expert Shahar Boyayan is helping businesses transform customer relationships through smart, hyper-personalized automation. From emotional consumer insights to real-world applications that save time and boost sales, this episode is packed with strategies you can start using today. Whether you’re curious or cautious about AI, Shahar’s insights will open your eyes to what’s coming next—and how to stay ahead.

Guest: Shahar Boyayan

Shahar Boyayan is a leading expert in consumer behavior and artificial intelligence, known for translating complex tech trends into actionable strategies for business growth. As the author of AI-Driven Consumer Trends and Business Applications, she empowers brands to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. With over 35 years of experience, Shahar helps companies become truly irresistible by understanding how AI is reshaping human behavior.

Main Topics:

·         Shahar Boyayan’s journey from Brazil to becoming an AI strategist in the U.S.

·         The rise of AI in consumer behavior and how it’s reshaping business strategies

·         The concept of hyper-personalization and emotional AI in marketing

·         How small businesses can implement AI affordably and effectively

·         The risks of AI-driven isolation and the importance of maintaining human connection

·         Real-world examples of businesses using AI to improve customer experiences

·         The future of work, automation, and how AI is shifting time and priorities

·         Shahar’s tips on staying relevant and embracing AI without losing authenticity

Resources mentioned:

People

• Rich Bennett – Host of Conversations with Rich Bennett
• Shahar Boyayan – Guest, AI strategist and consumer behavior expert

Businesses & Platforms

• Prop Talkie – Shahar’s AI solutions company for small businesses
• Netflix – Mentioned in reference to viewer attention spans
• Meta (Facebook & Instagram) – Cited in discussion on AI-generated “friends”
• Sephora – Referenced as using AI to analyze customer faces (SAP was likely intended)
• Claude – AI model preferred by Shahar for business-oriented tasks
• ChatGPT – Referenced for generating and managing tasks
• TikTok – Discussed in terms of multi-generational engagement

Reports & Books

• AI-Driven Consumer Trends and Business Applications – Report authored by Shahar Boyayan
• The Eight Laws of Areas of Stability – Framework from Shahar’s report
• Marketing for Ugly People – Book by Shahar Boyayan
• Books on social media marketing by Shahar (titles not specifically named)
• Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill – Referenced in conversation

Websites

• www.proptalkie.com – Shahar’s company website where reports and resources are available

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email

Sponsored by American Auto Repair

Thomas Brown joins Rich to share his deeply personal journey through grief after losing his brother to suicide, and how a 7,000-mile cross-country bike ride became a path to healing, purpose, and self-awareness. From toxic masculinity to the power of storytelling, Thomas reveals how art and introspection helped him reclaim his life. This powerful conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating loss, identity, or the search for meaning.

Guest: Thomas Brown

Thomas Brown is a mental health advocate, storyteller, and author of 2012: A Bicycle Odyssey. After losing his brother to suicide, he embarked on a transformative cross-country bike tour to raise awareness around mental health and the healing power of creativity. He’s also the creator of the podcasts Inner Monologue and Stages, where he explores grief, growth, and human resilience.

Main Topics:

·         Thomas Brown’s journey through grief after losing his brother to suicide

·         The 7,000-mile cross-country bike ride that sparked personal healing

·         The inspiration behind his book 2012: A Bicycle Odyssey

·         The importance of self-awareness in mental health and recovery

·         How toxic masculinity shaped his brother’s struggles

·         The role of storytelling, art, and creativity in healing

·         Building empathy, compassion, and emotional intelligence

·         The lack of meaningful initiation and life skills in modern education

·         Thomas’s views on leadership, community, and social awareness

·         His experience managing a diverse team with heart and humility

Resources mentioned:

·         Book: 2012: A Bicycle Odyssey by Thomas Brown

·         Podcast by Thomas Brown: Inner Monologue

·         Website: RisePhoenix.org – Thomas Brown’s official site

·         Joseph Campbell – Mythologist whose "Hero’s Journey" framework inspired the book

·         George Carlin, Robin Williams, Richard Pryor – Comedians referenced in the discussion

·         American Auto Repair – Sponsor of this episode

·         Goodreads – Mentioned for leaving book reviews

·         Zach – Thomas’s biking partner

·         Terry Brown – Mentioned for her tandem bike ride across the country

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email

This episode dives into the growing role of artificial intelligence in our daily lives and businesses—delivered entirely by AI itself. From productivity hacks to debunking fears, it’s a light, witty, and informative take on why embracing AI matters. Whether you're tech-savvy or just curious, it’s a must-listen for anyone navigating the digital age.

Guests: Artificial Intelligence

In this unique episode, the “guest” is none other than Artificial Intelligence itself—voicing the entire script, delivering insights, and even cracking jokes. Designed to mirror Rich’s tone with a witty twist, this AI co-host offers a firsthand demo of the very technology being discussed.

Main Topics:

·         What artificial intelligence (AI) is and how it works

·         Real-world examples of AI in business and everyday life

·         Common fears and misconceptions about AI

·         Practical ways to start using AI tools without technical expertise

·         The human side of AI: freeing up time for creativity and connection

·         A behind-the-scenes look at how the entire episode was created by AI

Resources mentioned:

·         Siri, Alexa, Google Maps, Netflix – Examples of AI-powered tools

·         ChatGPT – AI assistant used for content creation and brainstorming

·         Motion, Clockwise – AI-powered calendar and productivity tools

·         Canva, Adobe, TikTok – Platforms with AI features for content creation

·         Google, LinkedIn, YouTube – Sources for free online AI courses

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email

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 women (Website: bethesdatransformation.org)

·         Bethel Colony of Mercy – Recovery ministry in North Carolina that inspired Bethesda

·         Rich Bennett – Host of Conversations with Rich Bennett

·         Wendy Beck – Cohost and representative of Rage Against Addiction

·         Laura Dahl – Executive Director of Bethesda Transformation Center

·         Ruby Comer – Co-founder of Bethesda Transformation Center

·         Stephen – Ruby Comer’s son whose journey inspired the mission

·         Rage Against Addiction – Nonprofit supporting women in recovery (Website: rageagainstaddiction.org)

·         Darlington Fire Company – Venue for the fundraiser basket bingo

·         Jarrettsville Firehouse – Venue for an upcoming oyster event

·         Sight & Sound Theatres (Noah Production) – Destination for a future fundraiser bus trip

·         

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

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 Galli

• Website: https://www.pathfindersforautism.org
• 25th Anniversary Campaign: https://pfa25.org

  Freedom Federal Credit Union – Podcast sponsor and community supporter

• Website: https://www.freedomfcu.org

  Becky Galli – Author, columnist, and autism advocate

  Polly Winde Surhoff – Athlete, parent advocate, and nonprofit co-founder

  Mason and Madison – Children of Polly and Becky, whose autism diagnoses inspired Pathfinders

  Cal Ripken Jr. – Mentioned as a peer of Polly’s husband, B.J. Surhoff, during his baseball career

  Maryland Zoo in Baltimore – Host location for Pathfinders' 5K Run & Walk event

  Baltimore Aquarium and Science Center – Sites of Pathfinders' sensory-friendly family events

  Community Connector Campaign – Initiative to expand autism services statewide in Maryland

  Occupant with Autism Car Placards – Part of Pathfinders’ safety program for first responders

  Autism Acceptance Month – Observed in April

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email

Sponsored by Tar Heel Construction Group

Drewbie 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 Wilson

Drewbie 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 example

Resources mentioned:

Guest & Host

• Drewbie Wilson – Entrepreneur, sales expert, and author
• Rich Bennett – Host of Conversations with Rich Bennett

Businesses & Brands

• Call The Damn Leads – Drewbie Wilson’s consulting brand and website
• Harford County Living – Podcast presentation sponsor
• Tar Heel Construction Group – Sponsor mentioned in the ad break
• DDP Yoga – Workout program mentioned by Rich Bennett
• Jolt Cola – Classic energy drink mentioned

Books

• Diary of a Damn Closer – Book by Drewbie Wilson
• Call The Damn Leads – Book by Drewbie Wilson

Websites

• CallTheDamnLeads.com – Drewbie Wilson’s official site
• Amazon.com – For Drewbie’s book (alternative to direct order)
• TarHeelConstructionGroup.com – Episode Sponsor

Social Media & Content Platforms

• The Damn Leads Podcast – Drewbie’s current podcast
• Crushing the Day – Drewbie’s former daily podcast
• Facebook, LinkedIn – Mentioned in reference to outreach and messaging
• YouTube – Implied as a p

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

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, guest on this episode
• Rich Bennett – Host of Conversations with Rich Bennett
• Ryan – Julie’s co-host on the All Things Travel podcast

Websites & Social Media:

• Julie’s Website: magicaltravelmom.com
• Podcast Website: All Things Travel
• Instagram: @magicaltravelmom
• Facebook: Julie with Creating Magic Vacations
• Sponsor of this episode: Daniel McGhee and The Victory Team

Companies & Travel Brands:

• Creating Magic Vacations – Julie’s agency
• Disney World / Disneyland / Aulani Resort (Hawaii)
• Universal Studios
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
• Viking Cruise Line
• American Cruise Lines
• Beaches Resorts / Sandals Resorts
• Adventures by Disney

Destinations Mentioned:

• Walt Disney World, Florida
• Disneyland, California
• Aulani, Ha

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

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 Acres
• The Dead Florentines
• La Petite Parisienne
• Finding John (Non-fiction, 9/11 memoir)
• Zuccotti Park
• The Tenement (E-book short story series)

Historical Events & References:

• 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
• Tammany Hall politics
• The New Deal
• 9/11 terrorist attacks
• Occupy Wall Street Movement
• Letters from Iwo Jima (Film)
• Civil War letter collections

Organizations & Institutions:

• FDNY Ladder Company 20
• NYU (New York University)
• Cornell University Labor Studies
• New York City Fire Museum
• Freedom Federal Credit Union Studios
• Harford County Living

Websites:

• AndrewSerra.com
• EcoCoolHVAC.com – Episode Sponsor

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

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 Company

·         Whole Foods Market – First major retailer to carry Tessemae’s

·         Richardson Farms – Sponsor of this episode

Books

• Undressed: The Unfiltered Story of My Failed American Dream and How It Led to Success – by Gregory Vetter
• Think and Grow Rich – by Napoleon Hill
• The Alchemist – by Paulo Coelho

Websites & Links

• GregoryVetter.com – Greg’s official website for speaking engagements and resources
• RichardsonFarms.net – Sponsor of this episode

Send us Fan Mail

CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre

Support the show

Rate & 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 | Facebook
Twitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett
Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennett
TikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTok

Sponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:
Hosted on Buzzsprout
SquadCast

Subscribe by Email