Skip to content
Sign in
Artwork for It's Ben a Week
ComedyComedy InterviewsSociety & CultureExplicit

It's Ben a Week

Ben McDonnell

"It’s Ben a Week" is an unfiltered, bold, and hilariously unpredictable podcast where Texas grit meets Hollywood wit. Hosted by actor and barrel racer Ben McDonnell, it’s your weekly escape into outrageous stories, candid conversations, and unapologetic humor.

Play
Open in
  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 41 min
  • English

Episodes 22

NewestOldestLongest
All20Unplayed20In progress0Played0
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • S2 · E34
    Tuesday · 40 min

    It’s Ben a KAOTIC Summer

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is back from three weeks in Europe—and before he can talk about the incredible vacation, he has a few things to get off his chest about getting there and back. From overweight luggage and sweltering jet bridges to questionable international business-class service, missed connections, sprinting through the Philadelphia airport, getting separated from AJ, missing bags, and a compensation battle that came down to just four minutes, Ben has some thoughts for American Airlines. And yes, he fully acknowledges these are first-class problems. Ben also talks about the whirlwind following his Traitors: New Blood announcement, getting recognized in public for the first time, some interesting new auditions—and, most importantly, the return of the pumpkin cream cold brew. Then AJ joins Been There, Done That to recap their unforgettable three-week European adventure aboard their friends’ yacht, KAOS. From thunderstorms at the Acropolis and dancing in Mykonos to helicopter rides over Santorini, visiting the hotel from The White Lotus in Sicily, drinking entirely too much sake in Capri, partying beside an erupting volcano, and making their way through St. Tropez, they revisit some of the most unbelievable moments of the summer. And because coming home to the ranch can never be simple, Ben and AJ introduce the newest member of the family: Sally the duck—who promptly disappeared for three days before staging a miraculous return from underneath a hay pallet. Airline drama, yachts, volcanoes, sake, pumpkin cold foam and a missing duck. Somehow, it’s all Ben a week. In this episode: Life after the Traitors: New Blood cast announcement Ben’s first time being recognized in public for the show Ben’s grievances with international air travel The 19-hour journey home from Europe Getting separated from AJ after a missed connection Why four minutes became a $300 argument Ben’s thoughts on airline status and loyalty programs The proper way to order a pumpkin cream cold brew Three weeks aboard KAOS Zeus crashing their visit to the Acropolis Mykonos, Santorini and a helicopter adventure Visiting The White Lotus hotel in Sicily Ben accidentally taking 12 shots of sake in Capri Club KAOS and an erupting volcano St. Tropez, beach clubs and an unforgettable Euro summer Sally the duck’s three-day disappearance AJ’s upcoming National Anthem performance 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E33
    Tuesday · 33 min

    The Secret Has Finally Ben Revealed

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, the secret is FINALLY out: Ben is officially joining the cast of The Traitors: New Blood, premiering September 17th on NBC and streaming the next day on Peacock! After months of keeping one of the biggest secrets of his life, Ben can finally talk about traveling to Scotland, entering the castle, and becoming one of 22 contestants on the first U.S. civilian season of the hit competition series. As a longtime fan of The Traitors, Ben breaks down how the game works, explains Faithfuls, Traitors, murders, banishments and the infamous Round Table, and shares what it feels like to go from binge-watching the show at home to actually becoming part of it. Ben also reflects on the journey that brought him here. Just months before filming, he recorded an episode about rejection and wondering when his next “yes” would finally come. Now, after one of the most mentally, physically and emotionally challenging experiences of his life, Ben opens up about feeling like years of hard work may finally be leading to his moment. Then AJ joins Been There, Done That to reveal what it was like keeping Ben’s secret, convincing everyone he was away filming a Christmas movie, and holding down the ranch while Ben disappeared to Scotland. They also talk about discovering The Traitors together, why AJ thinks he’d make an incredible Traitor, and what they’re most excited—and nervous—to see when the finished episodes finally air. The game has already been played. The secrets have been kept. Now it’s finally time to watch it all unfold. In this episode: Ben officially announces The Traitors: New Blood How The Traitors actually works Going from superfan to contestant Filming in Scotland and experiencing the game firsthand Why Ben decided to say yes to reality television Looking back at rejection before getting one enormous “yes” Why this experience feels like a major turning point What Ben can—and definitely cannot—reveal before the premiere AJ’s elaborate Christmas-movie cover story Whether AJ would make a better Faithful or Traitor The nerves of waiting to see how everything was edited What listeners can expect from It’s Ben A Week throughout the season 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E33
    August 18 · 33 min

    The Secret Has Finally Ben Revealed

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, the secret is FINALLY out: Ben is officially joining the cast of The Traitors: New Blood, premiering September 17th on NBC and streaming the next day on Peacock! After months of keeping one of the biggest secrets of his life, Ben can finally talk about traveling to Scotland, entering the castle, and becoming one of 22 contestants on the first U.S. civilian season of the hit competition series. As a longtime fan of The Traitors, Ben breaks down how the game works, explains Faithfuls, Traitors, murders, banishments and the infamous Round Table, and shares what it feels like to go from binge-watching the show at home to actually becoming part of it. Ben also reflects on the journey that brought him here. Just months before filming, he recorded an episode about rejection and wondering when his next “yes” would finally come. Now, after one of the most mentally, physically and emotionally challenging experiences of his life, Ben opens up about feeling like years of hard work may finally be leading to his moment. Then AJ joins Been There, Done That to reveal what it was like keeping Ben’s secret, convincing everyone he was away filming a Christmas movie, and holding down the ranch while Ben disappeared to Scotland. They also talk about discovering The Traitors together, why AJ thinks he’d make an incredible Traitor, and what they’re most excited—and nervous—to see when the finished episodes finally air. The game has already been played. The secrets have been kept. Now it’s finally time to watch it all unfold. In this episode: Ben officially announces The Traitors: New Blood How The Traitors actually works Going from superfan to contestant Filming in Scotland and experiencing the game firsthand Why Ben decided to say yes to reality television Looking back at rejection before getting one enormous “yes” Why this experience feels like a major turning point What Ben can—and definitely cannot—reveal before the premiere AJ’s elaborate Christmas-movie cover story Whether AJ would make a better Faithful or Traitor The nerves of waiting to see how everything was edited What listeners can expect from It’s Ben A Week throughout the season 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E32
    August 11 · 44 min

    Nothing Has Ever Ben This Toxic (ft. Sydnee Carter)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined by fellow barrel racer and friend Sydnee Carter for an episode dedicated to exes, cheating, red flags, and one breakup story that quickly turns into something straight out of a true-crime documentary. Ben kicks things off by revisiting some of his worst relationships—from discovering a boyfriend cheating through messages on a forgotten laptop and confronting him outside a hotel room, to catching another boyfriend swiping on Tinder while they were sitting together in first class on the way to Mexico. Through it all, Ben reflects on the strange intuition that told him something was wrong before he ever had proof. Then Sydney shares a breakup story that takes the episode in an entirely different direction. After ending an on-again, off-again relationship, her ex’s behavior began escalating—from showing up unexpectedly and contacting friends and family to appearing at places she was dating someone new. Then Sydney’s neighbor spotted a man dressed entirely in black running across her property. Police searched Sydney’s home and discovered a hidden camera in her bedroom. Then Sydney found another. And another. What followed was a years-long ordeal involving police investigations, fingerprints, protective orders, another arrest, probation, allegations of similar behavior involving another woman, and ultimately a shocking prison sentence. Ben and Sydney unpack how relationships can change after a breakup, why people ignore obvious warning signs, the importance of trusting your intuition, and the unsettling reality that sometimes you don’t fully know how someone will react until a relationship ends. This episode starts with bad-boyfriend stories and somehow ends in a courtroom. Buckle up. In this episode: Ben’s history of being cheated on The gut feeling that told Ben something wasn’t right Confronting an ex outside a hotel after watching his messages in real time Catching a boyfriend using Tinder on the way to Mexico Sydney’s toxic on-again, off-again relationship When her ex’s behavior began escalating after their breakup Discovering three hidden cameras inside her home The police investigation and protective order that followed Why trusting your gut—and paying attention to red flags—matters 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E31
    August 4 · 48 min

    Ben Dropping the Beat (ft. Remington Runyan)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben sits down with 18-year-old DJ and producer Remington Runyan to talk about discovering a passion for music, performing at iconic venues, and chasing a dream that’s only just beginning. Ben first met Remington years ago through family friends, but after watching him unexpectedly take over the DJ booth at Nikki Beach in St. Barths, he knew there was something special happening. Remington shares how a DJ controller he barely touched for two years became the start of a new obsession after the California wildfires forced his family to evacuate. With the help of friends, countless hours of practice, and a growing love for house music, he quickly found himself playing parties, beach clubs, and even one of the most iconic venues in the Caribbean. The two also discuss: how DJs read a crowd why song selection is more important than people realize the truth about pre-recorded DJ sets producing original music Coachella dreams and what it feels like to perform for hundreds of people. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or simply curious about the world of electronic music, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a creative career from the ground up. Stay connected with Remington: 🌐 Website: www.remingtonrunyan.com 📸 Instagram: @remingtonrunyan 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E30
    July 28 · 40 min

    Ben Living Every Day (ft. Diane Love)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben sits down with his dear friend Diane Love for one of the most heartfelt conversations of the season. The two first met in Cabo San Lucas over poolside cocktails and an unforgettable Beyoncé dance party. But behind Diane’s infectious energy is a story of unimaginable loss, resilience, and choosing joy every single day. Diane shares the story of her son Wyatt, who was diagnosed as a child with the rare genetic disease Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). Doctors warned he might not live past the age of 10, but Wyatt defied expectations—traveling the world, competing in gymnastics, attending college, and embracing life with remarkable courage. Then, at just 22 years old, Wyatt’s life was tragically cut short in a Lyft accident after a newly approved driver became lost on the way home. Diane opens up about the heartbreaking night she lost her son, the years-long legal battle that followed, and why she now encourages every rideshare passenger to check their driver’s experience before getting into the car. Ben and Diane also discuss: trusting your intuition grieving differently finding humor after unimaginable loss faith and healing living fully despite uncertainty and why every day deserves to be celebrated. Despite experiencing profound heartbreak, Diane continues to inspire others through advocacy, fundraising for ALD research, and her commitment to choosing joy every day. This episode is emotional, inspiring, and a powerful reminder that life is fragile—and worth living to its fullest. For more information on ALD and to help check out www.cureald.org 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E29
    July 21 · 26 min

    Explosive Diarrhea Has Ben Going Around

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben tackles one of life’s greatest inconveniences: grocery shopping. What starts as frustration over a parasite outbreak linked to lettuce quickly turns into a full-blown breakdown of everything that’s wrong with the modern grocery store experience. From fluorescent lighting and mysteriously rearranged aisles to self-checkout machines that never work, wandering shopping carts, awkward parking lot conversations, and the ongoing debate over who actually returns their cart, Ben hilariously dissects every step of the weekly grocery run. Along the way, he shares his thoughts on: the lettuce parasite outbreak why grocery stores feel like casinos self-checkout becoming a part-time job shopping cart etiquette people who block entire aisles grocery store fashion choices and why running into acquaintances is somehow the worst part of the entire experience. If you’ve ever found yourself arguing with a self-checkout machine or silently judging someone who abandoned their shopping cart, this episode is for you. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E28
    July 14 · 58 min

    Ben Through Nine Lives (ft. Dr. Sally Everett)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined by one of his favorite people—and the veterinarian responsible for saving more of his animals than he can count—Dr. Sally Everett from the Granbury Animal Clinic. The two look back on the unbelievable story that started their friendship after Ben and AJ’s tiny barn cat, Chrissy, suffered a life-threatening medical emergency that left her intestines literally hanging out. Against all odds, Sally saved her life, and the rest is history. From there, the stories only get crazier. Ben and Sally revisit Phil the pig’s complicated surgery, custom diapers for a cat, late-night emergency vet visits, Christmas concerts, Mariah Carey, Pete’s Piano Bar, party buses, inside jokes, and the unforgettable nights that turned a veterinarian into one of their closest friends. Later, AJ joins the aftershow to share even more behind-the-scenes stories, including the clinic appreciation party that lasted until 2 a.m., Hendrix’s dental surgery, and why Sally has officially become part of the family. This episode is hilarious, heartfelt, and full of stories that prove life is always more entertaining when animals—and good friends—are involved. In this episode: How Sally saved Chrissy the barn cat’s life The emergency surgery that started a lifelong friendship Phil the pig’s surprisingly complicated surgery The custom diapers made for a tiny bobtail cat Emergency vet visits and life with dozens of animals Mariah Carey concerts and the quest for better seats Pete’s Piano Bar, bottle service, and unforgettable nights out Hendrix’s dental surgery and why dog teeth matter The funniest and strangest moments from life at a veterinary clinic 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E27
    July 7 · 40 min

    Red, White & Ben 🇺🇸

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben kicks off the episode by honoring a dear friend of the podcast, Heidi, whose courage, humor, and zest for life left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Ben reflects on her battle with cancer, the importance of living life fully, and why she’ll always be remembered. Then… the chaos begins. What was supposed to be a relaxing Fourth of July pool party quickly turned into one of the most expensive weekends Ben has ever had. Between a broken pool robot, a massive hornet nest, a snapped sprinkler line, an exploding air conditioner, a mysteriously green swimming pool, a draining koi pond, and a horse trailer that nearly caught fire, it truly became a weekend to remember. Along the way, Ben also shares his completely unfiltered opinions on: why Thanksgiving is overrated Black Friday shopping fireworks hot dogs owning a home and why he’d happily trade it all for condo living. Later, AJ joins the aftershow to recap the Fourth of July weekend, celebrate Heidi’s life, debate homeownership, and call Ben out for his online shopping habits. This episode is heartfelt, hilarious, chaotic, and proof that when it rains… it pours. In this episode: Remembering Heidi and the legacy she leaves behind Why Fourth of July isn’t Ben’s favorite holiday The truth about Black Friday shopping Why fireworks aren’t as exciting anymore A Fourth of July weekend filled with expensive home disasters The mystery of the green swimming pool Why homeownership sometimes feels like a full-time job AJ’s thoughts on ranch life, maintenance, and online shopping 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E26
    June 30 · 54 min

    Deja Ben (ft. Sherry Harris)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben welcomes back fan-favorite guest Sherry Harris for one of their most unpredictable conversations yet. What starts as a debate about Texas drivers quickly spirals into a hilarious and surprisingly deep discussion about déjà vu, wildlife, near-death experiences, fear of dying, AI, prison, Pride Month, and everything in between. Ben and Sherry swap stories about living in small-town Texas, dodging turkeys, porcupines, snakes, tarantulas, and other unexpected wildlife before diving into bigger questions about life, aging, time, and what might happen after we die. Later, AJ joins Ben for the aftershow to talk about his brand-new perm, spray tans before vacation, hair insecurities, why Sherry is one of their favorite guests, and the importance of self-confidence. The conversation wraps with a thoughtful discussion about Pride Month, identity, religion, and why acceptance matters. This episode is funny, philosophical, chaotic, and proof that the best conversations are often the ones with no agenda. In this episode: Why Texans still don’t know how to use a yield lane Growing pains as Granbury continues to grow Turkeys, porcupines, snakes, tarantulas, and Texas wildlife Déjà vu, dreams, and theories about the brain Near-death experiences and the fear of dying AI, deepfakes, and fears about the future AJ’s new perm and vacation prep Self-confidence, identity, and finding comfort in who you are A candid conversation about Pride Month and acceptance 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E25
    June 23 · 38 min

    Ben Microneedled & Over-Served (ft. Laura)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined by one of his closest friends, Laura, for a conversation that quickly goes off the rails — and that’s before the cocktails really kick in. After opening the episode with a rant about people who keep their phones on Do Not Disturb, and addressing a decades-old rumor from his Minnesota barrel racing days, Ben welcomes Laura back to the podcast for a hilarious, completely unfiltered catch-up. Together, Ben and Laura dive into: Why people having their phones on Do Not Disturb drives Ben absolutely insane A barrel racing rumor that somehow refuses to die Being a “gold star gay” and why strangers remain fascinated by Ben’s love life Ben’s latest skincare obsession: microneedling and salmon sperm treatments The beauty procedures people will try in the name of looking younger Friendship, aging, and the ridiculous things we convince ourselves to spend money on Family stories that somehow get more unbelievable every year Horse life, ranch life, and growing up in Minnesota Pop culture, random observations, and several conversations that should probably have stayed off-mic Why some friendships are built entirely on making each other laugh As always, the conversation bounces between heartfelt, ridiculous, and completely inappropriate with very little warning. Pour yourself a drink and join Ben and Laura for one of the most relaxed and funniest episodes of Season 2 so far. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E24
    June 16 · 38 min

    It’s Ben a Minute

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is finally back after more than a month away from the podcast—and a LOT has happened. After weeks of pre-recorded episodes, Ben returns to share what life has been like while working on exciting new projects, filming a movie in Palm Springs, and navigating opportunities he can’t quite talk about yet. While some details have to remain under wraps for now, Ben reflects on how quickly life can change when things don’t go according to plan. From losing out on a lead role to landing opportunities that ended up being an even better fit, Ben opens up about rejection, redirection, trusting the process, and why sometimes the things that don’t work out are exactly what lead you where you’re supposed to be. Later, AJ joins the podcast to discuss surviving a month alone on the ranch with 70+ animals, battling koi pond disasters, debating whether their miniature cow is overweight, and diving headfirst into the world of artificial intelligence. The two also discuss: filming a gay cowboy movie while playing the straight cowboy airport frustrations and airline baggage drama AI becoming AJ’s newest obsession Machine Gun Kelly and Demi Lovato concerts life on the ranch without Ben why everything happens for a reason and what might be next for both of them This episode is funny, reflective, hopeful, and a reminder that sometimes the biggest opportunities come after the biggest disappointments. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E23
    June 9 · 25 min

    We've Ben Out Loud & Laughing (ft. Bryan & Jon)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined once again by fan favorites Bryan and Jon from the Out Loud & Laughing podcast for another chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation. The trio dives into everything from growing up as theater kids and making homemade movies before TikTok existed, to navigating Hollywood as gay entertainers and learning how to turn creativity into a career. Ben opens up about moving to Los Angeles at 18, getting humbled by the entertainment industry, turning down advertising job offers to pursue acting, and why podcasting gave him a level of creative control he never found in traditional acting jobs. They also discuss: being gay in Hollywood auditioning for straight vs. gay roles building a successful podcast childhood obsession with The Sims and Rollercoaster Tycoon Disney adults bathhouses Dolly Parton anxiety Broadway crushes and why humor matters more than almost anything else The episode wraps with a chaotic round of “This or That,” featuring questions about boxers vs. briefs, pitching vs. catching, baths vs. showers, and whether Ben would rather be remembered for his humor or his heart. This episode is nostalgic, unfiltered, gay, hilarious, and a reminder that sometimes the best conversations happen when friends are just talking shit. In this episode: Growing up making homemade movies before social media Ben’s journey from Minnesota to Hollywood Turning down advertising jobs to become an actor The reality of being a working actor in Hollywood Podcasting vs. acting and creative control Being openly gay in entertainment The Sims, Rollercoaster Tycoon, and Disney adult culture Satan’s asshole weather in Texas and Florida A chaotic “This or That” game about sex, Broadway, and baths Follow Out Loud & Laughing: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outloudandlaughing/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/out-loud-laughing/id1791165133 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E22
    June 2 · 28 min

    Ben's Birthday Episode

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben celebrates his birthday, Pride Month, and something he’s never officially done before… coming out. In this deeply personal solo episode, Ben officially shares publicly that he’s gay and opens up about the journey it took to get there. From growing up in a small town, being bullied in high school, and struggling with self-acceptance, to finally learning how to fully love himself, this is one of the most vulnerable episodes yet. Ben talks about the importance of Pride Month, why LGBTQ+ visibility still matters, and the pressure so many people feel to hide who they are. He also opens up about family dynamics, internalized fear, dating closeted men, and the process of finally becoming comfortable enough to live authentically. The episode also features the return of AJ for a hilarious and heartfelt aftershow conversation about coming out stories, relationships, pool party chaos, Fireball disasters, and why gay people truly do throw the best parties. This episode is funny, emotional, chaotic, honest, and a reminder that everyone deserves to be loved exactly as they are. In this episode: Ben officially comes out publicly for the first time Why Pride Month still matters Growing up gay in a small town Bullying, self-acceptance, and learning to love himself Family struggles and fear around coming out The reality of dating closeted men AJ shares his own coming out story Wild birthday pool party stories and Fireball chaos Why everyone deserves to live authentically 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E21
    May 26 · 51 min

    Ben Leaving Everything Behind (ft. Ruby)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined by his longtime friend Ruby for a chaotic, emotional, and unexpectedly inspiring conversation about moving across the world, starting over, heartbreak, and learning to embrace discomfort. After spending the last two years living in London, Ruby is officially back in Texas — fresh off a breakup, a cross-country move, and a completely uncertain future. The two reflect on how much has changed since they first recorded a “practice episode” together years ago that never aired. Ben and Ruby dive into: moving to new cities without knowing anyone leaving behind horses, careers, relationships, and comfort zones the emotional reality of living abroad breakups that ultimately changed their lives for the better why travel changes your entire perspective on life and how sometimes the scariest decisions become the most rewarding ones They also spiral into hilarious conversations about: the new “rat virus” panic conspiracy theories pandemic flashbacks economy flight trauma Australians vs. Americans Facebook pub crawls in London pirate ship party boats in Turkey and why Texans treated COVID VERY differently than Los Angeles. The episode also explores the pressure people feel to stay in their hometowns, fear of failure, and why taking risks can completely reshape your life. This episode is funny, honest, emotional, chaotic, and a reminder that sometimes the best thing you can do is book the flight and figure the rest out later. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E20
    May 19 · 31 min

    The Most Personal Thing I’ve Ever Ben Part Of

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben does something completely different. For the first time ever, Ben is sharing the audio/video from "I", a documentary he created nearly 10 years ago while living in Los Angeles. The film premiered at the Twin Cities Film Festival with three sold out screenings and became one of the most meaningful projects he’s ever worked on. The documentary explores identity, trauma, addiction, grief, self-love, religion, sexuality, mental health, and survival through deeply personal interviews with people from all different walks of life. The unique concept behind the project? Throughout the interviews, viewers only see the subjects’ eyes — highlighting raw emotion, vulnerability, and humanity before finally revealing the full person behind each story. This emotional and powerful episode features stories about: addiction and recovery suicide and grief being transgender drag and identity losing children body image struggles family abandonment religion and faith surviving trauma self acceptance resilience and healing Ben also reflects on creating the documentary while living in LA, why the project mattered so much to him, and how revisiting it 10 years later still impacts him today. If you are listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube, you can now watch the full documentary thanks to new video podcast support. This episode is emotional, inspiring, heartbreaking, hopeful, and a reminder that every single person is carrying a story you may never fully see on the surface. In this episode: Ben shares his documentary I for the first time on the podcast The emotional concept behind filming only people’s eyes Stories of addiction, overdose, and recovery Conversations about being transgender and drag identity Losing children, suicide, grief, and resilience Body image struggles and self acceptance Why trauma can sometimes lead to purpose and healing The message that everyone deserves compassion and understanding This episode contains discussions of suicide, addiction, overdose, grief, mental health struggles, and trauma that may be difficult for some listeners. Please listen with care and prioritize your well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S. and Canada, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E19
    May 12 · 56 min

    She's Ben Kidnapped While Pregnant (ft. Jen Kirk)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben sits down with his friend Jen Kirk for an emotional and eye-opening Mother’s Day episode unlike any other. At just 16 years old, Jen became pregnant and made the heartbreaking decision to place her son up for adoption. But this isn’t just a story about adoption — it’s a story about survival, sacrifice, family, trauma, and what motherhood can really look like. Jen opens up about navigating an open adoption in the late 1980s, choosing her son’s adoptive parents herself, and the emotional reality of watching him grow up from a distance through letters and photographs. The conversation takes a shocking turn when Jen reveals that during her pregnancy, she was allegedly hidden away in a remote cabin after her stepmother attempted to take the baby for herself — leading to a terrifying situation involving private investigators, police, and a dramatic rescue coordinated by her mother. Ben and Jen also discuss: the emotional side of adoption that nobody talks about abortion, choice, and societal judgment reconnecting with her son 25 years later blended families and healing the lifelong emotional impact of adoption why there’s little support for birth mothers and how everything eventually came full circle Now, nearly 40 years later, Jen has a close relationship with her biological son, his children, and his adoptive family — proving that families can take many different forms. This episode is emotional, shocking, heartbreaking, healing, and a powerful reminder that motherhood is never one-size-fits-all. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E18
    May 5 · 49 min

    The Teacher Who Believed in Ben (ft. Brenda Ramin)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben sits down with someone who changed his life — his ninth grade science teacher, Brenda Ramin. From getting kicked out of Catholic school to convincing a teacher to secretly take him to California, this episode is full of wild stories, chaos, and the kind of support that can change everything. Ben and Brenda reflect on their 20+ year relationship, the infamous Hollywood trip that changed everything, and what it was like being “that kid” in high school who didn’t quite fit the mold. They dive into sneaking into gated communities, getting chickenpox during a headshot trip, pushing back on authority, and how one teacher saw something in Ben that others didn’t. This episode is hilarious, nostalgic, and a reminder that sometimes all it takes is one person believing in you to completely change your path. In this episode: Getting kicked out of Catholic school and transitioning to public school The teacher who actually understood Ben The secret California trip that could’ve gotten her fired Sneaking into a gated Malibu neighborhood to find The OC house Getting chickenpox in LA during headshot week High school rebellion, authority issues, and being “that kid” Doing the Single Ladies dance at prom Why one supportive teacher can change everything 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E17
    April 28 · 23 min

    Customer Service Has Ben a Nightmare

    Some weeks are great… and some weeks just push you to your breaking point. On this solo episode of It’s Ben A Week, Ben is back with a full-on rant — and honestly, it’s been building. Between chaotic customer service, confusing systems that make no sense, and interactions that leave you questioning humanity, this week had Ben asking: what is wrong with people? From a dentist appointment that somehow turned into a full-blown front desk disaster, to a restaurant experience that defies all logic, to the ongoing saga of Starbucks mobile orders that apparently no one understands — nothing is safe this week. Ben dives into: Showing up early to a 9 AM dentist appointment… that magically became 10 AM Why front desk customer service can make or break a business The chaos of waiting, being ignored, and being told you’re wrong (when you’re not) Whether dentists are doing way too many X-rays A restaurant experience that makes zero sense from start to finish Being rushed to order… and then completely ignored The logic behind ordering a tall drink (and not getting more liquid?) Why Starbucks mobile orders continue to be a universal struggle Internet trolls, random hate comments, and why people go out of their way to be negative Eating shit on a Segway and the aftermath no one talks about Getting ready to film a new movie and the chaos leading up to it This episode is chaotic, relatable, unfiltered, and exactly what you need if you’ve ever dealt with frustrating people and thought: there’s no way this is real. 🎧 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

    • Transcript
  • S2 · E16
    April 21 · 50 min

    The Fire Has Ben Building (ft. Eleven)

    This week on It’s Ben A Week, Ben is joined by returning guest Eleven for a conversation that blends astrology, manifestation, personal growth, and real-life chaos. From the “Year of the Fire Horse” energy to feeling like everything is almost about to take off, Ben and Eleven unpack what it means to be in a season of building, waiting, and trusting timing. They dive into the tension between staying grounded and craving freedom — from life on the ranch and daily responsibilities to the desire for spontaneity, travel, and expansion. The conversation expands into: • Astrology, Aries season, and collective energy shifts • Why so many people feel overwhelmed right now • Nervous system regulation and finding balance in chaos • Hot and cold therapy, dopamine, and discipline • What it really takes to hold success and “bigger capacity” • Manifestation, creativity, and stepping into your purpose • Dating culture, relationships, and intimacy in acting Eleven also leads a powerful moment of intention-setting and pulls a card for listeners — centered around destiny, creativity, and believing in your own path. Plus, Breaking Point returns with Ben’s rant about Starbucks mobile orders — because even in a spiritual awakening… some things still need to be said. If you’re feeling stuck, on the edge of something bigger, or trying to find clarity in a chaotic world, this episode will hit. Connect with Eleven: Instagram: @iamelevenxx Email for ceremonies: magic@iamelevenxx.com 🎧 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

    • Transcript
Showing 1–20 of 22 episodes