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:

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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

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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:

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Sponsored by Living Well Healthcare

In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Rich Bennett reunites with Bethany Pace, Hillary Livingston, and introduces Morgan and Matt to discuss the explosive growth of Sincerely, Divorced, a powerful support community for people navigating divorce. They share personal stories of heartbreak, healing, co-parenting, and community building—with plenty of laughs and lessons along the way.

Listeners will walk away feeling seen, supported, and inspired by this deeply authentic conversation on love, loss, friendship, and the freedom that comes with reclaiming your life.

Guests:

Bethany Pace is a co-founder of Sincerely, Divorced, educator, and advocate for compassionate community through divorce recovery. She’s known for her leadership, authenticity, and vision for a more inclusive support network.

Hillary Livingston is a co-founder of Sincerely, Divorced and a passionate voice for transformation through adversity. Her post-divorce glow-up and astrological insights add heart and humor to the group’s mission.

Morgan is a data analyst, mom, and survivor of a controlling marriage. Her journey from isolation to empowerment has made her a beloved community member and spreadsheet queen of the group.

Matt is a counselor, single dad, and two-time divorcé who brings vulnerability, humor, and insight into men’s experiences with divorce, fatherhood, and mental health.

Main Topics:

· How Sincerely, Divorced started and expanded rapidly

· Personal divorce journeys and challenges faced

· The importance of platonic love and community healing

· Co-parenting struggles and integrity through conflict

· Mental and physical health impacts of toxic marriages

· Dating after divorce and stories of resilience

· Community events, sound healing, and upcoming plans

·

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In this special Independence Day episode, Rich Bennett explores the true meaning and powerful history behind July 4th. From the colonial struggle against British rule to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and its lasting legacy, Rich dives deep into the origins, traditions, and evolving relevance of America's birthday. It’s a heartfelt reminder to celebrate not just with fireworks, but with reflection and gratitude.

Main Topics:

• The historical context of American colonial unrest
• Key events leading to the Declaration of Independence
• The significance of July 2nd and July 4th, 1776
• Philosophical impact of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”
• Early and modern traditions of Independence Day
• Reflection on freedom, sacrifice, and civic responsibility

Supporters:

· Real Life Prosthetics

· Full Circle Boards

· Sincerely Sawyer Photography

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Sponsored by Chesapeake Podcast Network

In this candid and insightful episode, Rich Bennett chats with Seth Goldstein, a former journalist turned digital marketing expert and podcast coach. Seth shares how his career in journalism led to burnout and PTSD, and how he rebuilt himself through web design, podcasting, and now coaching others. Listeners will gain valuable insights into what it takes to start a podcast, how to be a great guest, and the evolving digital marketing landscape. This episode is both inspiring and packed with practical advice for creatives and entrepreneurs alike.

Guest: Seth Goldstein

Seth Goldstein is a former journalist who transitioned into digital marketing and podcasting after experiencing career burnout. He is the founder of Goldstein Media, host of the Entrepreneur’s Enigma podcast, and creator of Podcast Mastery, where he coaches both aspiring podcasters and podcast guests. Seth has helped numerous entrepreneurs build their online presence, tell their stories, and connect with audiences through authentic, engaging content.

Main Topics:

· Seth’s journalism background and the toll it took on his mental health

· Transition from news reporting to digital marketing and podcasting

· How PTSD shaped Seth’s professional path and perspective

· The evolution of podcasting and its second renaissance

· Podcast coaching: launching, structuring, and sustaining a show

· Mistakes new podcasters make and how to avoid them

· Why business owners should appear on podcasts

· Podcast tech tips: equipment, etiquette, and editing dos and don’ts

· The value of authenticity and imperfection in podcast episodes

· Google, SEO, and why written content still matters in a digital age

Resources mentioned:

· Goldst

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Sponsored by WHFC 91.1 FM

In this vibrant, unfiltered conversation, Rich Bennett sits down with romance authors Cardyn Brooks, Kristie Wolf, and Samantha Heil to explore the booming world of romance literature—from spicy tropes and steamy storytelling to the indie book event scene that’s redefining how readers discover love stories. Whether you're a longtime romance fan or curious about the genre's explosive popularity, this episode offers insight, laughter, and maybe a little blushing.

Guests:

· Cardyn Brooks is a book reviewer, erotica author, and outreach director for the Write Women Book Fest. Her work centers on emotionally intimate, sexually explicit fiction that reflects diverse, joyful Black love stories.

· Kristie Wolf is an indie romance author known for her steamy “Project Viper” military romance series and “Knife to the Heart” small-town series. She writes interconnected standalones with plenty of “chili peppers.”

· Samantha Heil is co-founder of the Book Fair at Bel Air and one half of the writing duo ES Rosalyn. She writes young adult and now adult romance rooted in nostalgic 2000s pop culture, while also advocating for literacy and book accessibility.

Main Topics:

· The shift from Young Adult to Adult Romance and why it matters for indie authors

· The spicy “chili pepper” scale of romance books and how authors calibrate heat levels

· Understanding romance tropes like “enemies to lovers,” “grumpy sunshine,” and “secret baby”

· How TikTok and BookTok are transforming romance marketing and reader communities

· The explosion of dark romance and how readers are embracing bolder content

· The importance of trigger warnings in adult vs. teen books

· Self-publishing, inclusivity in r

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In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, marketing powerhouse Julie Matzen joins Rich and co-host Michelle Hayes to share how her innovative platform, Boarderline, is transforming the way small and mid-sized businesses access expert marketing advice. Julie explains how AI, strategic planning, and curated advisory boards are giving entrepreneurs affordable access to top-tier knowledge, without burning through budgets. A must-listen for anyone looking to launch or grow a business in today’s digital world.

Guest: Julie Matzen

Julie Matzen is a seasoned marketing expert with over 25 years of experience working with major brands like Sherwin-Williams, Oura, and Yale Smart Locks. She is the founder of Mayday Agency and co-founder of Boarderline, a groundbreaking advisory platform that connects startups and small business owners to elite industry experts. Julie’s mission is to make high-level guidance accessible to entrepreneurs at every stage of growth.

Main Topics:

· Julie’s path from PR to founding a full-service ad agency

· The birth and mission of Boarderline

· Common marketing mistakes small business owners make

· Why “everyone is not your customer”

· How to use AI effectively—and what to avoid

· Strategic planning and the importance of a business plan

· PR vs. paid media: what works and why

· How to build an advisory board on a budget

· The future of advertising and attribution in a post-cookie world

· Why personalization and strategy matter more than “cute content”

Resources mentioned:

· Mayday Agency (Julie’s marketing agency)

· Boarderline – Business advisory platform

· Sherwin Williams, Cricut, Oura Ring, Yale Smart Locks, Master Lock

· Brad DeLava – Media expert at Borderline

· Janet Notardonato – Market research expert at Borderline

· Authority Magazine (Medium.com feature)

· LegalZoom, USPTO.gov, SBA, Trulient, SoFi (business/legal tools discussed)

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