Meet Ben Gioia: The Coach Who Helps You Publish Your Passion

Culturally Sound

Overview

In this episode of Culturally Sound, host Chandler Cutler sits down with Ben Gioia, an expert in helping leaders and entrepreneurs turn their experiences into books that build influence and impact.

Ben shares how a bold promise to provide books at a Stanford University event led to a 6.5-week writing sprint—and unexpectedly landed him a consulting gig with a Fortune 100 company. He breaks down the book-writing process, why talking to your ideal clients before writing is crucial, and how AI can be a powerful tool but never a replacement for authentic storytelling.

Beyond writing, Ben reflects on the importance of saying yes to opportunities, overcoming fear, and embracing risk as a path to growth. If you’ve ever thought about writing a book but didn’t know where to start, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about storytelling, leadership, and business.

Guest Bio

Ben Gioia is a bestselling author, book coach, and founder of Influence With A Heart®. He helps business leaders and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into high-impact books—fast. With a background in writing, leadership development, and strategic storytelling, Ben has worked with top organizations, including a Fortune 100 company, to create content that resonates and drives real change.

His approach is designed to make book writing an accessible and powerful tool for business growth, leadership, and influence—without the overwhelm.

Episode Breakdown

Introduction and Background (00:01 - 03:16)

• Ben Gioia introduced as guest, an inspiration in bringing people's stories to written text
• Ben shares how he started writing his first book in 6.5 weeks for a Stanford University event
• Book writing led to a 10-month consulting gig with a Fortune 100 company

Book Writing Process and Challenges (03:16 - 10:54)

• Ben discusses helping people write high-quality books quickly
• Emphasis on talking to ideal clients before writing to focus the book
• Importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities and taking risks
• Discussion on the difference between pain and suffering in experiences

AI and Book Writing (10:54 - 21:42)

• AI seen as a tool, not a threat, in book writing process
• Caution against using AI as the starting point for writing a book
• Importance of maintaining humanity and authenticity in writing
• Discussion on the need for intentionality and thoughtfulness in using AI

Personal Growth and Experiences (21:42 - 33:34)

• Ben shares his morning routine: meditation, physical fitness, reading
• Discusses his move to Spain and future plans
• Importance of taking risks and saying 'yes' to opportunities
• Discussion on the impact of experiences on personal growth

Insights on Writing and Life (33:34 - 42:22)

• Ben's favorite quote: 'Some will, some won't, so what?'
• Importance of being present and engaged, especially with children
• Discussion on the ability to change opinions and learn from mistakes
• Encouragement to write books as transformational tools for leadership

Closing Thoughts and Encouragement (42:22 - 49:43)

• Ben's fear of negatively impacting children through careless actions
• Discussion on superhero portrayals and the importance of showing humanity
• Final encouragement for people to write their books and share their stories

Summary

This episode of Culturally Sound dives into the power of storytelling with Ben Gioia, a bestselling author and book coach who helps leaders and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into impactful books.

Ben shares how a last-minute promise to provide books at a Stanford University event turned into a career-defining moment, leading to a consulting role with a Fortune 100 company. He reveals his streamlined approach to book writing, emphasizing the importance of engaging with ideal clients before putting words on the page.

The conversation also explores AI’s role in writing, the mindset shifts needed to take risks, and why saying yes to opportunities can be life-changing. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to build credibility, a leader wanting to scale your influence, or someone with a story to tell, this episode is packed with practical advice on writing, leadership, and personal growth.

Relevant Links

🔗 Follow Ben Gioia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bengioia/

🌍 Learn more about Influence With A Heart®: https://www.influencewithaheart.com

📢 Listen to the Culturally Sound Podcast: https://corethos.com/culturally-sound/