Gnaw On This...

In this episode of Gnaw on This, Ben and Syya explore the challenges of change, personal growth, and pursuing aspirations despite fear. They dive into how fear of failure, rejection, and the unknown can hold us back, and the power of recognizing opportunities to move forward. The conversation also tackles conflict, communication, and the internal barriers that often stand in the way of achieving dreams.Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own aspirations, confront what’s holding them back, and embrace change as a path to growth and new opportunities.Key Takeaways:People often have hidden aspirations waiting to be pursuedFear of failure and rejection is a common barrierConflict can be destructive but also a puzzle to solveAwareness of opportunities is essential for personal growthIdentifying what holds you back can spark breakthroughsChange requires courage and commitmentFear of missing out can motivate actionEmbracing change opens doors to new opportunitiesSelf-awareness is key to overcoming internal barriersWe are often our own biggest obstacles📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #fear #overcomingfearLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

In this episode of Gnaw on This, Ben and Syya break down the essentials of marketing to the right audience. Learn how to identify your ideal customers, leverage data to inform strategies, and adapt your messaging across platforms for maximum impact. They discuss common pitfalls businesses face when targeting the wrong demographic and highlight the power of creating genuine emotional connections with your audience.Key Takeaways:People constantly surprise us in amazing waysUnderstanding your audience is critical for effective marketing90% of the world may never buy from you, and that’s okayData analysis helps identify the right audienceTargeting the wrong demographic can derail campaignsMarketing strategies must adapt to different platformsEmotional connections drive engagementSolving customer problems is essential for successValue exchange must resonate with your audienceRecognizing biases leads to smarter marketing decisions📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #marketingLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

In this episode of Gnaw on This, Ben and Syya dive deep into the art of building tribes and communities that truly matter. Discover how to cultivate meaningful relationships in both your personal life and professional world by focusing on shared values, common goals, and the power of belonging.From navigating dynamic relationships to understanding the fluid nature of tribes, this conversation explores how to intentionally create communities that empower, inspire, and grow with you. Learn why diversity, intentionality, and shared purpose are essential for building a tribe that lasts—and how finding your people can also be a journey of personal growth.Key Takeaways:People are the heart of community buildingShared goals and values are the foundation of any tribeBelonging is a core human needTribes can be both empowering and challengingRelationships evolve; people may come and goBuilding a tribe requires effort and intentionalityCommon interests help form strong connectionsDiversity enriches engagement within tribesCore values create sustainable communitiesFinding your tribe is a path to personal growth📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #tribe #communityLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

"A mistake is a lesson learned. Some are more painful than others" - SyyaBen and Syya are back as they contemplate as they explore the experiences we've had that has shaped our careers and relationships. Do you have a regret you wish you could fix?📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #mistakesLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

"Are personality tests good, bad, or ugly?"Join Ben and Syya as they explore the role of personality tests in business and team dynamics. In this episode, they break down the benefits and limitations of personality assessments, highlighting how understanding personality types can improve communication, collaboration, and workplace relationships. Discover why self-awareness, adaptability, and thoughtful application of insights are essential for turning personality test results into actionable team growth.Key Takeaways:Personality tests can reveal surprising insights about team members.They are useful guides, not definitive labels.Understanding team dynamics enhances communication and collaboration.Self-awareness is essential before relying on personality tests.Teams benefit from diverse personalities, not uniformity.Facilitators can help turn insights into meaningful change.Awareness of personality types can strengthen workplace relationships and foster growth.📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #teamdynamics #personalitytestsLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

"What's urgent versus what's important?" - Ben BakerBen and Syya dive into the urgent topic of mental health in the workplace. They explore how employers can support their teams, why work-life balance is essential, and how setting boundaries protects productivity and well-being.The conversation unpacks the high cost of employee disengagement, the role of effective communication, and the smart use of technology to manage stress without creating more of it. Key Takeaways:✅ Employers play a critical role in workplace mental health✅ Disengagement costs companies productivity and culture✅ Work-life balance and boundaries fuel long-term success✅ Communication reduces stress across teams✅ Technology helps manage stress—when used wisely✅ Small acts can make a big impact on well-being📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #sales #projectsuccessLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

"Sometimes your clients don't know what they want." - Ben BakerHave you lost a deal or worked hard to save a deal because you didn't REALLY know what your client wanted?🤔 Ben and Syya ponder the ups and downs in delivering business objectives, but discovering that the original request may not be what the client actually wanted or needed.#GnawOnThis:✅ Are we rushing deals to get a PO?✅ How good are our listening skills?✅ What questions are your "go-to" to get to the root of problems?If you are encountering hidden "gotchas" in post sales deliverables. You many not have a handle on what your client really needs from you.📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!#communication #sales #projectsuccessLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com

"Nobody multitasks effectively." - Ben BakerAre you truly productive or just really good at looking busy? 🤔 Ben and Syya tackle the age old struggle of busyness vs. productivity. From the myth of multitasking to the magic of a well-crafted task list, they break down what it takes to stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward.#GnawOnThis:✅ Why multitasking kills productivity✅ How to spot “busy work” that gets you nowhere✅ The power of systems, processes, and priorities✅ Why your personal work style matters more than cookie-cutter hacksIf your "to do" list keeps growing but your results don’t, this conversation ponders on how you find clarity on what you need to finally take control of your schedule.📌 Tune in, laugh a little, and #GnawOnThis every week with us!Learn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#Productivity #TimeManagement #MultitaskingMyth

"This show is for you guys." - Ben BakerThree years, countless laughs, and plenty of bite-sized insights later, Ben and Syya are celebrating the journey of Gnaw On This Business Bytes! In this special episode, the duo reflects on how the podcast has evolved, why audience engagement is everything, and how listener feedback has shaped the show.Expect dynamic banter, surprising business truths, and a heartfelt dose of gratitude for the loyal community that’s been with them from the start. Takeaways you’ll gnaw on:* People will always surprise you in business and life.* Loyal listeners fuel the evolution of the show.* Audience feedback drives future conversations.* Lighthearted banter + real insights = lasting value.* Community and gratitude are at the heart of it all.👉 If you’ve been with us since day one (or just tuned in last week), this one’s for you.Learn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#BusinessBanter #BenAndSyya #Relationships

"The heart will eat strategy all day long." - Ben BakerBen and Syya dive into the timeless truth that culture often beats strategy. They explore how a thriving company culture fuels teamwork, strengthens communication, and creates alignment across departments. From the power of storytelling to the challenge of balancing different subcultures in larger organizations, this conversation uncovers why culture is the secret weapon behind lasting business success.✨ Key Takeaways:* Culture is the backbone of every organization* Strategy matters, but culture determines execution* Teamwork + communication = thriving culture* Storytelling strengthens identity and engagement* A unified culture aligns teams and boosts customer experiencesLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#TrustinBusiness #BenAndSyya #Relationships

"We need to act like human beings." - Ben BakerBen and Syya dive deep into the power of trust in relationships and business. From friendships to Fortune 500 companies, trust is the glue that holds it all together, yet it’s fragile and easily broken. #GnawonThis and explore how trust is built, why it matters, and what it really takes to win it back once it’s lost.Key Takeaways* Trust is earned slowly but lost quickly.* Open communication and accountability keep relationships strong.* Brands must be transparent during crises to rebuild loyalty.* Consumers want to feel valued, understood, and respected.* Trust can be regained with honesty, sincere apologies, and consistent actions.If you’re interested in personal growth, leadership, marketing, or brand building, join us!Learn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#TrustinBusiness #BenAndSyya #Relationships

"AI is an incredible tool." - Ben BakerIn this thought-provoking conversation, Ben and Syya dive into how AI is transforming business, creativity, and everyday life. They explore how AI can spark innovation, streamline processes, and enhance communication—while highlighting why human insight and emotional connection remain irreplaceable. From overcoming fears about AI to asking the right questions, this discussion offers practical ways to leverage AI elegantly and effectively.Let's break down what AI can and cannot do: 🔑 Key Takeaways:Humans make AI powerfulAsk better questionsOptimize, save timeKeep emotional connectionLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #BusinessGrowth #BenAndSyya

"It's about making the experience memorable." - Ben BakerIn this episode, Ben and Syya dive deep into why customer experience (CX) is one of the smartest investments a business can make. Too many companies treat CX as a cost, but the truth? It’s a profit center. 💰How can businesses can stand out in a crowded market by delivering unforgettable customer service, cultivating long-term relationships, and creating emotional connections that drive loyalty? 💡Let's break down what makes customers stay, rave, and refer. 🔑 Key Takeaways:Customer experience = profit center, not cost centerGreat service = brand loyalty & word-of-mouthPeople remember how your brand makes them feelHappy employees create loyal customersAI can enhance, not replace, human interactionLong-term relationships beat short-term transactionsWant to grow? Focus on how your brand is perceivedLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat it up with Syya and the team at BrilliantBeamMedia.com#CustomerExperience #CXStrategy #BusinessGrowth #BrandLoyalty #CustomerService #AIinBusiness #EmployeeEngagement #CustomerRetention #BenAndSyya

"If you don't live it, it will never be embraced." - Ben BakerBen and Syya spotlight the real magic behind unforgettable brands. It is not about gimmicks or buzzwords. It is about people, purpose, and creating experiences that stick. Drawing inspiration from Disney and other standout companies, they unpack how authenticity in mission, empowered employees, and small meaningful gestures can turn everyday interactions into lasting brand loyalty. If you are building a business that wants to matter, this conversation will show you how to lead with heart and stand out with purpose.Key Takeaways: ✔ People bring brands to life ✔ Authenticity builds trust and loyalty ✔ Great experiences create lasting impressions ✔ Every company has its own magic ✔ Empowered teams drive innovation and service ✔ Small actions can make a big differenceLearn more about Ben Baker: IamBenBaker.comChat with Syya and the team at Brilliant Beam Media

"We need to realize what's in it for us." - Ben BakerBen and Syya dig into what it really means to be influential in today’s workplace. They draw the line between popularity and purpose, breaking down how true influence is built through trust, storytelling, and problem-solving. From identifying the people who have shaped their own thinking to sharing how anyone at any stage of their career can lead with impact, this episode challenges the traditional definition of an influencer.Key Takeaways: ✔ Influence comes from respect, not reach ✔ Storytelling is a powerful leadership tool ✔ The 'why' behind influence reveals its value ✔ Anyone can become influential by solving problems ✔ Clear, simple communication builds credibility ✔ True influencers help others move forwardLearn more about Ben Baker at IamBenBaker.comChat with Syya and the Team at Brilliant Beam Media

"Execution is key." - Ben BakerBen and Syya explore how to turn everyday connections into lasting business champions. They discuss how trust, emotional connection, and strong communication lead to loyalty, and why recovery after mistakes is just as important as execution. This episode is a guide to building real relationships that grow your brand and boost long-term success.Takeaways: ✔ People are the X factor in business ✔ Trust and understanding build champions ✔ Mistakes can lead to deeper loyalty ✔ Communication and execution go hand in hand ✔ Relationships require consistent effortLearn more about Ben Baker: IamBenBaker.comChat with Syya and the team at Brilliant Beam Media

"Those are your champions." - Ben BakerBen and Syya are back to unpack how strong business relationships are built. They share how to turn clients and colleagues into loyal champions, why emotional connection creates long-term loyalty, and how recovery from mistakes builds trust. The conversation is packed with insight on how to create a sense of belonging, communicate with purpose, and execute with care.Key Takeaways: ✔ People drive business success ✔ Champions are created through trust and connection ✔ Loyalty grows when clients feel seen and heard ✔ Mistakes can lead to stronger relationships ✔ Communication and execution go hand in handLearn more about Ben Baker: IamBenBaker.comChat with Syya and the team at Brilliant Beam Media

"Let's just be good humans." - Ben Baker In this episode of Gnaw On This: Business Bytes, Ben and Syya dive into what really brings people together in work and in life. From celebrating Canada Day and the 4th of July to the role of music in uniting hearts, they share how national pride and shared experiences can bridge divides. This thoughtful conversation is a reminder that people are the true power behind progress, and being a good human is always good business.Takeaways: ✔ People are the X factor in work and life ✔ National pride can connect, not divide ✔ Music has the power to unite us ✔ Shared values create stronger communities ✔ Gratitude and kindness fuel better businessConnect with Ben BakerConnect with Syya and the team at Brilliant Beam Media

"I burned down the ship." - Ben BakerBen and Syya are getting personal! Is the entrepreneur's grass always greener? Not necessarily.It’s time to explore the power of transition in both business and life. Ben shares why he made the choice to leave entrepreneurship and return to corporate work, revealing what that shift taught him about purpose, customer experience, and the human side of leadership. They unpack how personal branding, problem-solving through people, and embracing change can drive both success and personal growth.Takeaways ✔ People are the X factor in every decision ✔ Transitions are universal and worth embracing ✔ Personal branding builds trust in any role ✔ Customer experience drives profitability ✔ Joy at work keeps you youngConnect with Ben BakerConnect with Syya and her team at Brilliant Beam Media#GnawOnThis and many other topics every week!

"Not everyone survives a merger." - Ben BakerWelcome to the #GnawOnThis business jungle, where change is the monkey on everyone’s back, but evolution is the name of the survival game. In this week’s BS-busting musings of Gnaw On This Business Bytes, Ben and Syya chew on what it really means to lead through change without losing your people, your purpose, or your sanity.Is your organization changing for the sake of optics, or actually evolving to meet the moment? Spoiler: most businesses confuse motion with progress.🧠 Sink your teeth into takeaways like: 🔥 The difference between "change fatigue" and real transformation 🕵️‍♀️ Why asking better questions beats making bigger announcements 🧊 How transparency and trust cool down the chaos of transitions 🚪 Not everyone makes it through a merger, and that’s part of the plan 💡 Empowerment isn't a buzzword, it's your secret weaponScaling, merging, pivoting, or just trying to keep up in a world that updates faster than your phone? This episode’s your roadmap for smart, sustainable change.This is your playbook for change with purpose, not panic.🎧 Hit play to gnaw on some bold truths, belly laughs, and brilliant takeaways you won’t hear in your average corporate change memo.#BusinessEvolution #ChangeLeadership #BenAndSyya #GnawOnThisPodcast #OrganizationalChange #BusinessTransformation #EmployeeEmpowerment #AskBetterQuestions #SmartChangeNotChaos