Dandelion: Greg Lato’s Tribute to Military Families

Award-winning family musician, children’s author, and Navy veteran Greg Lato joins Rich Bennett to share the story behind his heartfelt new album, Dandelion: Songs Inspired by Military Kids and Families. Blending his own military experience with personal stories from real military children, Greg crafts music that uplifts, comforts, and raises awareness about the resilience of these unsung heroes. This inspiring conversation dives into the making of the album, the powerful symbolism of the dandelion, and how music can bridge communities. Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC Guest Bio:  Greg Lato is an award-winning family musician, accomplished children’s author, and proud U.S. Navy veteran. His music has topped the iTunes Children’s Music charts, been featured on Apple Music playlists, and reached families nationwide. With a background in pop-rock and a passion for storytelling, Greg transitioned into children’s music after becoming a father. His latest project, Dandelion, honors the courage and adaptability of military children, drawing directly from their personal experiences. Greg is dedicated to using music as a tool for connection, comfort, and community building. Main Topics: ·         Greg’s musical roots in a jazz-influenced family·         Transition from pop-rock to children’s music after becoming a parent·         His decision to join the U.S. Navy and how it shaped his life·         The inspiration and mission behind Dandelion·         Symbolism of the dandelion as the official flower of the military child·         Collaborating with real military families and children·         Emotional stories that shaped specific songs·         The song “Home Is Not a Place” and its powerful message·         How music fosters camaraderie among military kids·         Touring plans, including performing at military bases·         The challenges of making a living in the streaming era·         Songwriting workshops with military children Resources mentioned: ·         Greg’s Website: https://www.greglatodandelion.com/·         Episode Sponsor: Eco-Cool HVAC·         Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics·         Supporter: Full Circle Boards·         Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography ·         Dandelion: Songs Inspired by Military Kids and Families (album)·         “Home Is Not a Place” (song & video)·         “Old School New School” (song & video)·         The Wiggles (children’s music group)·         U.S. Navy·         USO (United Service Organizations)·         April – Month of the Military Child·         Berkeley College of Music·         APG Federal Credit Union Arena·         Aberdeen Proving GSend us Fan MailCelebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!https://bookfairatbelair.org/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 showRate & 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 | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email