Conversations with Rich Bennett

Latest Episodes:

Sam Polakoff on Chasing a Dream After 40 Years Jun 01, 2026

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What happens when a dream refuses to let go?

In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with award-winning author Sam Polakoff, a retired business executive who spent decades building a successful company while quietly holding onto a lifelong dream of becoming a novelist.

That dream eventually became reality.

Sam shares the fascinating story behind his first novel, Hiatus, inspired by recurring dreams about his grandfather, and discusses how curiosity led him to write Shaman, a thought-provoking thriller exploring reincarnation, Akashic Records, and spiritual healing. The conversation also dives deep into his acclaimed historical fiction series, The Diary of Essie Lassiter, set during the American Revolution.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Sam pursued a dream after nearly 40 years
• The challenges and rewards of self-publishing
• Why research is critical when writing historical fiction
• How business principles can help authors succeed
• The importance of staying curious and embracing lifelong learning

Learn more about Sam and his books:

sampolakoff.com

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WHFC 91.1 FM
It's all about community. WHFC 91.1 FM, Harford Community College Radio, is the college radio sta
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America Explained | Why Americans Love Small Towns May 29, 2026

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What is it about small towns that Americans can’t stop romanticizing?

In this solo episode of the America Explained series, Rich Bennett dives into America’s deep emotional connection to small towns and why they continue to represent community, belonging, and authenticity in today’s fast-paced world.

From classic TV shows and Hallmark movies to Main Street diners, local festivals, and Friday night football games, Rich explores how small towns became woven into the American identity and why so many people still dream about escaping to them.

Whether you grew up in a small town, live in one now, or simply love visiting them, this episode will make you think differently about the role these communities play in shaping American culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why small towns symbolize connection and simplicity
How Hollywood shaped America’s small town nostalgia
The important role small towns played in building America
Why people crave authentic local experiences
The challenges and resilience of modern small towns

Mentioned in this episode:

Harford County Living
America Explained Series
The Andy Griffith Show
Gilmore Girls
Friday Night Lights

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves small town America as much as we do.

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Jessie Fahay on Theater That Actually Sparks Real Change May 27, 2026

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What if the most powerful part of a theater performance happens after the curtain closes?

In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Jessie Fahay, founder of Ripple Effect Artists, a nonprofit theater company using storytelling to spark conversations around social justice, mental health, racism, human trafficking, and other important issues facing society today.

Jessie shares how a simple idea evolved into a mission-driven organization that creates meaningful dialogue between audiences, advocacy groups, and communities. From producing theater in New York City to navigating the challenges of nonprofit funding and even surviving the COVID shutdowns, Jessie opens up about the passion, sacrifices, and purpose behind her work.

You’ll also hear:

How theater can inspire real social change
Why conversations matter more than debates
The realities of producing nonprofit theater
How mental health became a major focus after COVID
Why storytelling still has the power to unite people

Learn more about Ripple Effect Artists:
https://www.rippleeffectartists.com

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The Truth About Money and Retirement with Paul Applegate May 22, 2026

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What happens when a former police officer turns his life experience into a mission to help others build financial freedom and peace of mind?

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Paul Applegate, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, to talk about budgeting, retirement planning, investing, emergency funds, and the emotional side of money. Paul shares his deeply personal journey from law enforcement and PTSD to helping families, first responders, veterans, and business owners take control of their financial future.

This episode goes far beyond stocks and retirement accounts. It’s about creating options, reducing stress, and building a life where you’re no longer financially trapped.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why emergency funds are critical
The biggest financial mistakes people make
How compound interest really works
Why budgeting still matters
How to stay calm during market volatility

Connect with Paul Applegate:
Phone: 410-939-5270
Email: Paul.Applegate@EdwardJones.com

Special thanks to Freedom Federal Credit Union for sponsoring this episode.

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Paul Applegate
Paul offers No Cost No Obligation Retirement Check Ups and Consultations.
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K9 Tambo’s Fearless Fight for Life with Chris Bingham May 20, 2026

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What happens when a retired police K9 becomes a symbol of hope for thousands battling cancer, grief, and impossible odds?

In this emotional episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with law enforcement leader Chris Bingham to share the incredible story of his retired K9 partner, Tambo. What began as a difficult partnership turned into a life-changing bond built on trust, loyalty, resilience, and healing.

Chris opens up about losing former K9 partners, reconnecting with his father before his passing, becoming a father himself, and how Tambo’s cancer battle inspired people across the country. Together, they discuss the lifesaving work of Project K9 Hero and why retired police and military dogs deserve continued care after service.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Tambo went from unwanted K9 to national inspiration
The emotional reality of retired police dog healthcare
How Project K9 Hero saved Tambo’s life
Why hope matters during life’s hardest moments
The story behind Chris’ new children’s book, K9 Tambo

Learn more:

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Your Pet AuPair
At Sits & Wiggles, we don’t just care for pets. We care for your pet, exactly the way they like it.
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You Are Brave, Amy G: Jessica Hackmann’s Powerful New Book May 18, 2026

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What if the emotional meltdowns kids experience are not bad behavior, but their brains trying to protect them?

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich welcomes back school psychologist and author Jessica Hackmann to discuss her new children’s book, You Are Brave, Amy G. Through storytelling, neuroscience, and real-world experiences working with children, Jessica helps explain how kids process stress, anxiety, fear, and overwhelming emotions.

Jessica shares how the COVID era impacted childhood development, why emotional regulation matters more than ever, and how understanding the amygdala can help children feel less ashamed of their reactions and more empowered to manage them.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why children’s emotional meltdowns are often misunderstood
How the amygdala influences stress and anxiety
Why emotional regulation should be taught early
How parents and educators can support overwhelmed children
The inspiration behind You Are Brave, Amy G.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, counselor, or caregiver, this episode offers valuable insight into helping children understand their emotions in healthier ways.

Learn more about Jessica and her book:
Amy G Books

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who works with children.

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Book Fair at Bel Air
Celebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!
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Matthew Merryman on Health, Body and Growth May 15, 2026

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What does true wellness really look like?

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Marine veteran and wellness coach Matthew Merryman joins Rich for an honest and eye-opening conversation about mindset, healing, self-love, meditation, nutrition, and personal growth. What starts as a discussion about fitness quickly transforms into a deeper exploration of trauma, purpose, behavioral change, and learning how to truly live instead of simply survive.

Matthew shares how his experience in the Marine Corps shaped his mental discipline while also revealing the challenges many veterans face after service. From meditation and Stoicism to nutrition, sleep habits, and emotional healing, this episode delivers practical wisdom and thought-provoking insight for anyone seeking balance and growth in their life.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

Why wellness starts with understanding yourself
How mindset affects health and behavior
The connection between nutrition and mental clarity
Why meditation and slowing down matter
The importance of self-love and purpose

Guest: Matthew Merryman
Website: Unity Thru Wellness | Home

Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor:
Eco-Cool HVAC

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Eco-Cool HVAC
YOUR FRIEND IN THE SUMMERS & WINTERS! Heating & Air Conditioning Service and Repair, Furnace & Boil
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Nancy Shear’s Journey Into the Fascinating Orchestra World May 13, 2026

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What happens when a teenager becomes so obsessed with music that she sneaks into orchestra concerts just to experience it again?

In this unforgettable episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich talks with author, broadcaster, and music historian Nancy Shear about her remarkable memoir I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms. Nancy shares how a free ticket to the Philadelphia Orchestra changed the course of her life forever and led her into the inner world of legendary conductors, musicians, and orchestras.

From backstage adventures at the Academy of Music to working closely with the iconic Leopold Stokowski, Nancy opens up about the passion, beauty, pressure, and humanity behind classical music.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

How music became Nancy’s refuge and purpose
What really happens behind the scenes of a world-class orchestra
Why classical music still resonates emotionally today
How orchestras unite people from every background
Where beginners should start exploring classical music

Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or someone who’s never attended a symphony, this conversation will inspire you to slow down, listen deeply, and rediscover the emotional power of music.

Get Nancy’s book: I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves music, storytelling, or inspiring life journeys.

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How Lyubim Kogan Helps Veterans Reclaim Life May 11, 2026

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What happens when a former Olympian, 9/11 survivor, and financial expert walks away from success to help wounded veterans heal through flight?

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Lyubim Kogan, founder of Wings4Heroes, to discuss an extraordinary mission helping amputee and deaf veterans rediscover purpose, confidence, and hope through rehabilitation, adventure, and paragliding.

From surviving the collapse of the Soviet Union and competing in the Winter Olympics to experiencing 9/11 firsthand and rebuilding lives affected by war, Lyubim’s story is one of resilience, service, and humanity.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Wings4Heroes helps veterans recover emotionally and physically
Why community is critical for healing PTSD and trauma
The emotional realities amputee veterans face after war
How adaptive flight therapy changes lives
Why Lyubim believes purpose is the key to recovery

Links Mentioned:

If this episode inspires you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this conversation. Your support helps these stories reach more people.

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Nicole Wilson on the Evolution of Sits & Wiggles May 08, 2026

Show notes

What does it really take to run a successful pet care business while adapting to changing client needs, staffing challenges, and even snowstorms? In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Nicole Wilson returns to the show to share the story behind the rebranding of her business from Your Pet Au Pair to Sits & Wiggles Pet Care.

Nicole opens up about why she decided to step away from public dog sitting services, how dog walking became the company’s “bread and butter,” and why more millennials and Gen Z pet owners are choosing cats over dogs. She also shares some unforgettable stories about caring for alpacas, snakes, sugar gliders, and more.

In this episode, you’ll hear: