Ben Is Back (ft. AJ)

Season Two is officially here.On the first episode of Season 2 of It’s Ben A Week, Ben returns after a three-week break feeling recharged, reset, and fully ready to level things up. With a brand-new studio, upgraded set, new artwork, and a fresh intro, Ben reflects on the wild first year of podcasting and what’s next for the show.Ben opens the episode talking about:Taking a much-needed break and realizing how strange it felt not recordingWriting notes in his phone when things happened and not having the podcast outletThe brand-new studio, elevated vibe, and “sexier” Season 2 lookHitting the Top 10% of video podcasts on Spotify last seasonWhy Season 2 is about refinement, confidence, and clarityBen then recaps an unforgettable holiday season, including:Attending Kathy Hilton’s iconic Christmas party in Beverly HillsPaparazzi outside the house and champagne vending machinesParis Hilton DJing in her childhood homeWalking away with an unreasonable number of LabubusWhy it felt surreal for a Simple Life superfanAfter reflecting on the energy shift from the Year of the Snake into the Year of the Fire Horse, Ben invites listeners to lean into change, momentum, and going after what they want in 2026.Then, Ben is joined by his partner and frequent collaborator AJ Sarcione to officially kick off Season 2.Together, they dive into:A chaotic LA weekend that included charity galas and exclusive partiesTraveling over the holidays and unexpectedly getting COVIDCancelled New Year’s plans and being stuck at home by 10 p.m.Launching a brand-new segment: Breaking PointBen’s rant about guests bringing alcohol to parties — then taking it homeAI videos becoming indistinguishable from realityJeff the Possum’s viral rise to over 4.5 million viewsChristmas cards, QR codes, cat food inserts, and postal chaosMerch, shipping costs, and why “free shipping” is a psychological scamA photography client dispute that spiraled into online harassmentSetting boundaries in business and choosing clients intentionallyLetting go of chaos from 2025 and moving forward with clarityThe episode closes with a reflection on boundaries, control, growth, and protecting your energy — setting the tone for what Season 2 of It’s Ben A Week is all about.🎧 Subscribe to It’s Ben a Week New episodes every week filled with unfiltered stories, wild guests, and brutally honest laughs. Hosted by photographer and professional barrel racer Ben McDonnell.📍 Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon | Wherever you get your podcasts🔗 Connect with Ben: Instagram: @itsbenaweek TikTok: @itsbenaweek Website: itsbenaweek.com💬 Want to be on the show? Submit your story or pitch at itsbenaweek.com