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What if the key to a child's success in elementary school begins long before kindergarten? For children with neurodivergence, disabilities, or sensory sensitivities, early support can make the difference between feeling excluded and feeling understood. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich welcomes back Matt Baublitz, founder of Made4U Academy, an innovative educational initiative in Harford County, Maryland, focused on inclusive learning and kindergarten readiness. Drawing from his experiences as a father and children's program creator, Matt shares the challenges his family faced with traditional preschools and why he believes every child deserves individualized support. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why early childhood intervention and kindergarten preparation matter.How neurodivergent children can benefit from individualized learning and sensory-friendly environments.What parents should understand about IEPs, 504 plans, and educational accommodations.How Made4U Academy plans to combine small-group instruction, music, art, and therapeutic support.Why true inclusion means helping children feel they belong, not defining them by a diagnosis.Matt also discusses financial assistance, community scholarships, and his vision for expanding inclusive education throughout Harford County. Learn more about Made4U Academy: https://made4u.xyz/ Episode sponsor: Freedom Federal Credit Union https://www.freedomfcu.org/ If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Conversations with Rich Bennett, leave a review, and share this episode with a parent, teacher, or caregiver who could benefit. Join the conversation. Every child deserves to belong. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Freedom 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 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

Can a lie detector test really reveal the truth, restore broken trust, or help someone clear their name? Polygraph examinations are often associated with criminal investigations, but their applications extend far beyond what we see on television. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich welcomes David M. Goldberg, a Virginia-licensed, advanced board-certified polygraph examiner, retired law enforcement officer, and September 11 first responder with more than 25 years of experience. David shares the unforgettable story of his first polygraph examination, which involved a homicide investigation and a confession. He also explains why the examiner's experience, the interview process, and carefully constructed questions are essential parts of testing. In this conversation, you'll discover: How polygraph examinations work and why television often gets them wrong.How lie detector testing is used in criminal investigations, relationship disputes, and workplace matters.Why false accusations and broken trust can have lasting emotional consequences.How David approaches sensitive cases with compassion and without judgment.Why finding answers sometimes begins with simply being heard.The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder to appreciate the people in our lives while we still can. Learn more about David Goldberg: https://www.executiveprotectiongrp.com/ Episode Sponsor: Eco-Cool HVAC https://ecocoolhvac.com/ Polygraph testing has limitations and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or legal guidance. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Conversations with Rich Bennett, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who might find it meaningful. Join the conversation! Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Eco-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 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

What makes a concert stay with you long after the final song? Vocalist Chris Pinnella joins Rich Bennett to explore the stories, musical choices, and human connections behind a memorable live performance.  Known for his work with Trans-Siberian Orchestra and his Christmas by Candlelight concert productions, Chris traces his journey from playing the Artful Dodger in a school musical to earning his first paid singing opportunity at 16. He also shares memories of working alongside Julie Andrews, including lessons in interpreting lyrics and a Thanksgiving invitation he will never forget.  In this conversation, you’ll discover: How Trans-Siberian Orchestra helped Chris find the confidence to lead his own musical projects.Why his Christmas arrangements blend rock energy, jazz, and intimate orchestral moments.How the STAR Centre in Havre de Grace became a meaningful part of his performing life.Why familiar songs can connect grandparents, parents, and children in different ways.What audience singalongs reveal about the lasting value of live music. There is also a memorable parking lot mishap, a conversation about AI and creativity, and a random question that reveals Chris’s growing love of arranging music.  Explore Chris’s music and performances at ChrisPinnella.com.  Enjoyed the conversation? Follow Conversations with Rich Bennett, share this episode with a music lover, and leave a review. What concert has stayed with you? Join the conversation and let Rich know. 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

Why do painful relationship patterns keep repeating, even when we recognize them? Ben Oofana joins Rich Bennett to explore heartbreak, attachment wounds, and the difficult emotions that can follow a breakup, divorce, or being ghosted.  Ben is a meditation teacher, healing practitioner, and writer whose work draws on traditional Kiowa healing practices, Chinese internal martial arts, and decades of personal exploration. He shares how his own experiences of childhood abuse and unavailable partners led him to examine the patterns shaping his relationships.  In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we explore: How early emotional wounds can influence adult relationships.The difference Ben sees between distracting ourselves from pain and working through it.His approach to meditation, breathing, and emotional awareness.Why he emphasizes combining personal practices with outside support.The importance of boundaries and staying present during conflict.Ben also reflects on vision quests in Oklahoma’s Wichita Mountains, teaching meditation, and how his experiences in Sri Lanka shaped his understanding of suffering and connection. Explore Ben’s work:  Main Website https://benoofana.com/  Meditation & Training https://teachmetomeditate.com/  Heartache Hotline https://heartachehotline.com/  Breakup First Aid https://breakupfirstaid.com/  Heal My Heartache https://healmyheartache.com/  YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@benoofana  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/benoofana/  If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who may appreciate it, follow the podcast, and leave a review. Join the conversation by sharing your takeaway with Rich. Send us Fan Mail 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

Can people see the person behind your business? Julia Capallo joins Conversations with Rich Bennett to explore how authentic storytelling, thoughtful graphic design, and community connections help small businesses communicate who they are. Julia is the founder of A Marvelous Spark, a Bel Air, Maryland creative services business, and a local Macaroni KID publisher. After a decade teaching art, she took an unexpected path into entrepreneurship, combining her design background, writing skills, and love of education. In this candid conversation, Rich and Julia discuss: Why brand storytelling needs both clear messaging and purposeful visuals.How outdated websites can create obstacles for potential customers.Julia’s concerns about AI-generated graphics and preserving human creativity.Making room for meditation, family, and creative inspiration.Connecting Harford County families and businesses through local resources and events.Julia also shares how motherhood shaped her career decisions and why helping business owners learn can be just as valuable as doing the work for them. Explore Julia’s work: https://www.amarvelousspark.com/ Find local family activities: https://belairmd.macaronikid.com/ Recorded in the Freedom Federal Credit Union Studios. This episode also includes an invitation to explore sponsorship opportunities across Rich’s podcast and community platforms. Subscribe to Conversations with Rich Bennett, share this episode with a business owner, and leave a review. What part of your story would help people connect with your business? 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

What if the stories you are afraid to tell could help someone else feel less alone? Author Mia Godfrey shares how faith, generosity, and her sister’s love helped her face childhood trauma, addiction, and devastating loss. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Mia discusses Buried, Not Broken, her memoir about growing up in communist Romania, immigrating to the United States, and finding the courage to tell the truth about her past. At the heart of her story is Mona, the sister whose wisdom and encouragement continue to shape Mia’s life. You’ll hear: Why Mia almost removed the chapters about alcohol and pill addiction.How one orange became an unforgettable lesson in generosity.Why a childhood shoebox gift represented dignity, possibility, and hope.How journaling helped her begin the writing process after loss.What rebuilding belonging and living a meaningful life look like to her.There is laughter here, too, including a surprising hidden talent involving apples. Explore Mia’s books, coaching, speaking, and retreats at https://miagodfrey.com/. This episode is sponsored by the Harford County Health Department: https://harfordcountyhealth.com/. If this conversation speaks to you, share it with someone who could use encouragement. Follow Conversations with Rich Bennett, leave a review, and consider purchasing Buried, Not Broken and leaving an honest book review. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Harford 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 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

Are you holding yourself back without realizing it? A round of random questions with Mark Stern becomes an honest conversation about self-respect, life balance, and the possibilities we dismiss before we ever try. Mark, who leads Custom Box Agency and hosts Dash Talks Live, returns to Conversations with Rich Bennett for a different kind of interview. Instead of following one subject, Rich and Mark let unexpected questions guide them through personal growth, entrepreneurship, relationships, and a few entertaining what-ifs. Mark reflects on the wake-up call that led him to rethink his health and priorities. He also shares why respecting your own judgment matters when seeking advice and how leaving corporate life challenged his assumptions about what he could achieve. In this episode: Explore the connection between health, relationships, and professional fulfillment.Consider how self-respect influences business decisions.Recognize limits you may be placing on yourself.Hear why physical products can create meaningful customer experiences.Join the fun with questions about ocean creatures, hidden talents, and superpowers.Connect with Mark: Custom Box Agency Dash Talks Live This episode is sponsored by Bel Air Window & Door. How would you answer these questions? Leave a comment, share the episode, or reach out to Rich if you would like to join a future round of random questions. Follow Conversations with Rich Bennett and leave a review wherever you listen. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Window 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 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

What happens when a child’s quiet creativity gets the attention it deserves? Children’s author and illustrator Piper Thomas joins Rich Bennett to explore why reading a child’s story can help them feel heard, valued, and ready to keep creating. Picking up a conversation that began at the Book Fair at Bel Air, Piper shares the inspiration behind The Littlest Library and its hands-on activity that helps readers make their own tiny books. She also discusses Black Bug Soup: A Tale of a Frog With Allergies and What If a Book Were a Balloon. Along the way, Piper opens up about the challenges of self-publishing, marketing as an introvert, and finding the confidence to call herself an author. She explains how thoughtful feedback from her former teacher, author Susan Muaddi Darraj, helped her grow. In this episode, you’ll hear: How stories and activities can encourage children’s creative expression.Why honest feedback matters alongside encouragement.What book fairs teach independent authors about connection and marketing.How business knowledge supports a sustainable writing career.Where Piper hopes to take her creativity next, including voice acting and audiobooks.Explore Piper’s books and social channels: https://linktr.ee/Pipthomasbooks Find The Littlest Library at Odd Bird Bookshop: https://oddbirdbookshop.com/products/the-littlest-library This episode is sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union: https://www.freedomfcu.org/ Subscribe to Conversations with Rich Bennett, share this conversation with a parent or teacher, and leave a review wherever you listen. If you purchase one of Piper’s books, consider leaving an honest book review, too. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Freedom 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 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

What does it mean to carry a child’s memory forward while helping protect other families? Patrice Bullock shares how losing her 16-year-old son Bailey to sudden cardiac arrest led to a mission rooted in love, preparedness, and hope. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Patrice, a nurse practitioner, mental health nurse practitioner, author, and founder of Bailey’s Heart and Soul Foundation, remembers the young athlete behind that mission. She discusses CPR and AED training, free youth heart screenings, and the importance of preparing communities for cardiac emergencies. Patrice also opens up about leaving a well-paid healthcare leadership role, turning her private journal into 8 Min : 45 Seconds: A Child’s Heart: The Bailey Bullock Story, and finding moments of happiness while continuing to grieve. In this conversation: Hear Bailey’s story and the meaning behind the book’s title.Discover how the foundation supports cardiac emergency preparedness.Learn about its free youth heart screenings and AED sponsorships.Explore journaling, family grief, and finding meaningful work.Hear Patrice’s reminder that grief follows its own timeline.Learn about the foundation, training opportunities, and book resources: https://www.baileysheartandsoul.org/ This episode is sponsored by Harford’s Heart Magazine: https://harfordsheart.com/ If this conversation speaks to you, share it with someone who could use its message, follow the podcast, and leave a review. Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts with Rich. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Harford's Heart MagazineKEEP IT LOCAL WITH HARFORD’S HEART maryland’s lifestyle magazine for harford county!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.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

How do you find joy again when the life you knew changes forever? For Kym Coco, golf became a way to explore new possibilities after losing her husband, Stephen “Steve” Thompson. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author, performance coach, and yoga teacher Kym shares the story behind her ongoing 100-course golf adventure. Traveling in a Sprinter van, she discovered opportunities for connection, presence, and personal growth while learning to navigate grief on her own terms. Kym also discusses Miracle on the Mountainside, her book about Steve’s extraordinary life, and The Flexible Golfer, which brings yoga-based tools to the golf course. In this conversation, you’ll hear: Why returning to something you love can take time after loss.How golf offered Kym structure, play, and new friendships.What yoga and meditation meant during caregiving and grief.Why setbacks sometimes call for a different timeline.How community can remind us of our strengths when we forget them.You don’t have to be a golfer to connect with this honest conversation about love, resilience, and finding the courage to take your next step. Explore Kym’s books and free resources at https://swagtail.com/. Thank you to our sponsoring partner, Eco-Cool HVAC. Learn more at https://ecocoolhvac.com/ or call 443-324-9714. If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who could use encouragement, follow the podcast, and leave a review. Join the conversation at https://www.conversationswithrichbennett.com/. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Eco-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 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

What makes a podcast conversation memorable, and how do you know it truly mattered? Richard Wilmore joins Rich Bennett to explore podcast storytelling, guest preparation, and the connections that give creative work lasting purpose. Richard is a talk show host, podcast producer, and founder of Make Your Day Richer, where he helps people identify meaningful stories and connect with podcast opportunities. Inspired by The Rosie O’Donnell Show, he brings a passion for making guests feel comfortable, valued, and excited to share their work. In this candid conversation, Rich and Richard discuss: Choosing stories that give listeners a clear takeaway.Preparing for podcast interviews without oversharing.Recognizing success through connection and impact.Setting emotional boundaries when hearing vulnerable stories.Knowing when to edit an interview, leave it unpublished, or take a break.Richard also shares lessons from arts and health nonprofit work, explains his podcast guest booking process, and reflects on a good life built around peace, friendship, meaningful work, and laughter. Connect with Richard: https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/ Thank you to our episode sponsor, WHFC 91.1 FM, Harford Community College Radio: https://whfc911.org/ Enjoyed this conversation? Follow Conversations with Rich Bennett, leave a review, and share the episode with someone whose story deserves to be heard. Join the conversation by leaving a comment or reaching out to Rich directly. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre WHFC 91.1 FMIt's all about community. WHFC 91.1 FM, Harford Community College Radio, is the college radio staDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.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

What happens when a ministry takes its mission out of a building and brings hope directly to the community? For Michele Love and Steven Hofmeister, it means an RV filled with prayer, practical support, and opportunities to connect. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author and evangelist Michele Love and associate pastor Steven Hofmeister share the story behind Voice of Truth Center’s Hope on Wheels. Their mobile ministry brings Christian fellowship, food, toiletries, and prayer to people where they are. The conversation also gets personal as Rich shares why he considered stepping away from podcasting and how prayer helped renew his sense of purpose. Listen as they explore: Why they moved their ministry from a building to an RV.How prayer can include gratitude, conversation, and quiet listening.Why helping one person can make an entire outreach trip worthwhile.How cooperation between ministries can strengthen community service.Michele’s books, including Fence Rider and her upcoming youth devotional, Turn the Page.Learn more about the ministry at https://voiceoftruthusa.org/ and explore Hope on Wheels at https://hopeonwheels.votc.us/. This episode is sponsored by Bel Air Window & Door: https://www.belairwindowanddoor.com/. Recorded at the Freedom Federal Credit Union Studios. Subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation by sharing what gives you hope or helps you reconnect with your purpose. Visit https://www.conversationswithrichbennett.com/ for more episodes. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Window 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 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

What changes when you finally tell someone what you have been carrying? Emily Adolph shares how opening up to her family, especially her grandmother, helped her begin releasing years of shame and feel less alone. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Emily discusses her experience with suicidal thoughts, the courage it takes to speak honestly, and the importance of having someone willing to listen. A photographer, Reiki master, and creator of Infinite Heart Productions, Emily brings together The Soul Lift and Studio 7 Photography through her passion for creativity, personal connection, and community. You will hear about: Why shame can make sharing difficult, even with people who love youWhat her grandmother’s offer to simply sit and listen meant to herHow journaling, meditation, creativity, and music feature in her personal routineBringing photography and wellness experiences together under one brandCreating Harford County’s Healing Arts and Music Festival in support of the Maryland Center for the ArtsEmily also previews the October 2 and 3, 2026 festival at Friendship Park in Abingdon, Maryland, before sharing a surprising hidden talent. Explore the festival at https://healingartsandmusic.com/ and Emily’s work at https://www.infiniteheartproductions.com/. This episode is sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC: https://ecocoolhvac.com/. Subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts or contacting Rich through https://www.conversationswithrichbennett.com/. Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts. Wellness practices are discussed as personal experiences. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Eco-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 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

What happens when a love of books becomes a mission to help an entire community? Samantha Heil shares how Book Fair at Bel Air is creating opportunities for readers and authors to connect, belong, and grow. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, the career educator, literacy expert, and author explains how a conversation at Panera Bread inspired a literary event that welcomed more than 2,400 attendees in 2026. Now, she is building year-round programming that reaches beyond the fair. Samantha discusses affordable workshops, community-led book clubs, outreach to assisted living residents, and plans to help children who cannot easily access books. She also shares opportunities to support emerging authors and previews the 2027 Book Fair at Bel Air, including announced headliner Christina Lauren. You’ll hear: Why Samantha believes reading can strengthen empathy and connection.Her perspective on audiobooks and welcoming every kind of reader.How BFBA Makes, Reads, After Dark, and Cares expand the mission.Ways businesses can help authors participate through table sponsorships.Her long-term vision for a literacy center in Harford County, Maryland.Explore events, support opportunities, and updates at Book Fair at Bel Air. Thank you to our sponsoring partner, Freedom Federal Credit Union, for supporting this conversation. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a reader, educator, author, or community leader. Join the conversation at Conversations with Rich Bennett. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Freedom 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 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

What does it take to leave a career you love and build something new? For Tim Markland, moving from the classroom into real estate meant carrying his commitment to teaching, relationships and service into a different kind of work. Tim joins Rich Bennett to share how he and his father began The Markland Advantage, what they learned from their early house flips, and how the Bel Air real estate team grew to include Tim’s wife, Amy. They talk about the decisions buyers and sellers face in a changing Harford County market, why trust matters long after a transaction, and how Tim’s podcast, The TMA Connection, helps local people share their stories. In this conversation: Hear why leaving a 16½-year teaching career was such a difficult decision.Learn how Tim helps clients think through payments, inspections and expectations.Discover how relationships shape The Markland Advantage.Explore why sharing one story can lead to an unexpected connection.Reflect on Tim’s definition of true courage.Find Tim and search for homes at The Markland Advantage. If this conversation speaks to you, subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation by commenting or reaching out to Rich. Send us Fan Mail CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT - Star Centre Harford's Heart MagazineKEEP IT LOCAL WITH HARFORD’S HEART maryland’s lifestyle magazine for harford county!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.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