
Kenneth Kunken’s Story Proves You Can Overcome Anything
02/10/25 • 56 min
Sponsored by Harford County Health Department
In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we sit down with Kenneth Kunken, a man whose journey redefines resilience and determination. After a tragic football injury left him paralyzed in 1970, Ken refused to let his circumstances define him. He became the first quadriplegic to graduate from Cornell University, earned multiple Ivy League degrees, and went on to have an impressive 40-year career as an Assistant District Attorney.
Ken shares how he transitioned from an aspiring engineer to a motivational speaker, disability advocate, and father of triplets—all while overcoming the odds. His memoir, I Dream of Things That Never Were: The Ken Kunken Story, details his incredible journey of breaking barriers and proving that a positive mindset and a strong support system can change everything.
This episode is sponsored by the Harford County Health Department, promoting their free 12-month Diabetes Prevention Program, designed to help individuals manage weight, diet, stress, and physical activity. Learn more at HarfordCountyHealth.com/diabetes-prevention.
Sponsor Message:
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is proudly sponsored by the Harford County Health Department.
Did you know that 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. is pre-diabetic, and most don’t even know it? Taking charge of your health starts with awareness—and action.
The Harford County Health Department’s Diabet
Emily Adolph and Ona Crow are the co-creators of Nourish & Connect, an event designed to foster meaningful connections in a supportive and empowering environment. NOURISH & CONNECT – The Soul Lift
Harford County Health DepartmentTo protect, promote, and improve the health, safety, and environment of Harford County residents.
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Sponsored by Harford County Health Department
In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we sit down with Kenneth Kunken, a man whose journey redefines resilience and determination. After a tragic football injury left him paralyzed in 1970, Ken refused to let his circumstances define him. He became the first quadriplegic to graduate from Cornell University, earned multiple Ivy League degrees, and went on to have an impressive 40-year career as an Assistant District Attorney.
Ken shares how he transitioned from an aspiring engineer to a motivational speaker, disability advocate, and father of triplets—all while overcoming the odds. His memoir, I Dream of Things That Never Were: The Ken Kunken Story, details his incredible journey of breaking barriers and proving that a positive mindset and a strong support system can change everything.
This episode is sponsored by the Harford County Health Department, promoting their free 12-month Diabetes Prevention Program, designed to help individuals manage weight, diet, stress, and physical activity. Learn more at HarfordCountyHealth.com/diabetes-prevention.
Sponsor Message:
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is proudly sponsored by the Harford County Health Department.
Did you know that 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. is pre-diabetic, and most don’t even know it? Taking charge of your health starts with awareness—and action.
The Harford County Health Department’s Diabet
Emily Adolph and Ona Crow are the co-creators of Nourish & Connect, an event designed to foster meaningful connections in a supportive and empowering environment. NOURISH & CONNECT – The Soul Lift
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.
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:
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Previous Episode

Tammy Cox on Healing Childhood Trauma to Build Stronger Love
Sponsored by Serenity Salt Spa
In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, I sit down with Tammy Cox, a Transformational Coach who helps women heal unresolved childhood trauma to rebuild their relationships and rediscover their true selves. Tammy shares her personal journey, growing up in a deeply religious and restrictive environment, and how breaking free from past pain led her to embrace healing through spirituality, metaphysics, and science.
We dive into the impact of childhood trauma on relationships, why self-healing is essential for emotional intimacy, and how understanding the beliefs we form in our early years can unlock personal transformation. Tammy also reveals the unique approach she takes in her coaching, including inner child work and subconscious healing techniques, to help women break toxic relationship cycles and cultivate lasting love.
Whether you're navigating a relationship challenge, struggling with past wounds, or seeking a new path to self-discovery, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired.
Sponsor Shoutout: Serenity Salt Spa – your go-to place for ultimate relaxation and healing. Book your session today at SerenitySaltSpa.net or call 443-640-6020.
tammycox | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree
Sponsor Message:
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is brought to you by Serenity Salt Spa, the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Need a break from the stress of daily life? Step into Serenity Salt Spa and exper
Emily Adolph and Ona Crow are the co-creators of Nourish & Connect, an event designed to foster meaningful connections in a supportive and empowering environment. NOURISH & CONNECT – The Soul Lift
Serenity Salt SpaSerenity Salt Spa is the 1st Himalayan Salt Therapy & Wellness Spa to come to Harford County, Maryla
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Next Episode

Mallory Lewis on Shari Lewis’ Legacy & The Magic of Lamb Chop
Sponsored by CleverCat Marketing
In this heartwarming episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Mallory Lewis, daughter of the legendary Shari Lewis, joins us with the one and only Lamb Chop to share incredible stories, laughter, and nostalgia. Mallory dives into her mother’s remarkable career, the lasting impact of edu-tainment, and how she continues the legacy of Lamb Chop today.
We also discuss Mallory’s deep commitment to philanthropy, including her work with veterans, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and women’s rights. Plus, you’ll hear some never-before-told stories, an unforgettable Lamb Chop serenade, and a hilarious revelation about Lamb Chop’s military promotion!
Get ready for a fun, nostalgic ride filled with laughter, inspiration, and a few surprises!
Catch Mallory & Lamb Chop LIVE on February 23rd at Harford Community College!
This episode is sponsored by CleverCat Marketing – the team that puts YOU first! If you're looking for SEO, social media, or brand strategy, visit Clever-Cat.com to grow your business the right way.
https://mallorylewisandlambchop.com/
Sponsor Message:
This episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett is proudly sponsored by CleverCat Marketing, the marketing team that puts YOU first!
If you're tired of one-size-fits-all marketing strategies and want a team that truly understands your vision, CleverCat is the partner you need. From SEO and social media management to brand strategy and audience engagement, they customize solutions to fit your goals.
Unlike other agencies, CleverCat car
Emily Adolph and Ona Crow are the co-creators of Nourish & Connect, an event designed to foster meaningful connections in a supportive and empowering environment. NOURISH & CONNECT – The Soul Lift
CleverCat MarketingDreams shouldn't cost a fortune, budget should never be a barrier! We focus on YOU & create killer c
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Conversations with Rich Bennett - Kenneth Kunken’s Story Proves You Can Overcome Anything
Transcript
Rich & Wendy 0:00
Hey, everyone is Rich Bennett. Can you believe it? The show is turning ten this year. I am so grateful for each and every one of you who've tuned in, shared an episode, or even joined the conversation over the years. You're the reason that this podcast has grown into what it is today. Together, we shared laughs, tears and moments that truly matter. So I want to thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make the next ten years even better. Coming to you from the F
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