Here we are about to start the reboot with a new name and everything. But why the name change Here we are about to start the reboot with a new name and everything. But why the name change from The Chris & Sandy Show to The Chris Benton Show?
First, I want to say the concept doesn’t change. I am still 100% focused on the entertainment industry, and my tagline remains Up Close & Personal. That tagline really defines who I am. When I talk, I want to dive deep. Some shows naturally go deeper than others, depending on the guest, and we always let the guest set the tone. Our goal is to get personal but also to create a space where they feel comfortable. This is not a “gotcha” show, and it never will be.
Now to address the elephant in the room – Sandy wanted to take a step back and play a smaller role in the show. She absolutely loves what we’ve built, but if I’m being honest, she’s never really been one to enjoy the spotlight. She’ll still be part of the show, just more in the beginning segments for a few minutes. This shift isn’t about stepping away, but about shifting gears to allow us both to operate in ways that align with our strengths and current season of life
Over time, she felt a little pressure to be on camera all the time since her name was part of the show title. That’s one of the reasons we decided on this new direction. With the name change, she can pop in and out as she feels led, without feeling like she’s obligated to be there for the entire show. This gives her the freedom to engage in a way that feels right for her.
I couldn’t have built this show to where it is today without Sandy’s unwavering support and presence. Her fingerprints are on every part of it, and I’m grateful for the countless hours she’s poured into making it a success.
It’s kind of like The Bobby Bones Show – even though it’s called that, there are multiple hosts who contribute. That’s the vibe I’m going for. Just because it’s The Chris Benton Show doesn’t mean Sandy isn’t part of it. She’ll be involved, just in a way that works better for her and our family.
Another factor is that Sandy is now homeschooling BOTH of our kids. With Katelynn reaching that age, her time has become more limited. Trying to balance the show with teaching and managing the household was stretching her too thin. We talked a lot about this, and we both agreed that her focusing on homeschooling takes priority right now.
I’ve also had this growing desire to get back to doing 5 shows a week at times, and Sandy really preferred to stick to 2. That created a bit of tension because she didn’t want to hold me back, but she also didn’t want to commit to something that didn’t align with her heart. After 600 shows, she still doesn’t love being on camera, and I have to respect that. We’re a team, and part of being a good husband is recognizing when to let your partner lean into their strengths.
Sandy will also play a vital role behind the scenes, helping manage and run the operations. This will allow things to run more smoothly and give me the capacity to focus on the interviewing and creative aspects. Her contributions may not always be visible, but they’re crucial to keeping everything moving forward.
Through this process, we’ve learned a few key lessons:
- Respecting Individual Callings – One of the biggest takeaways from this journey is learning to respect each other’s callings and passions. While I thrive on camera and love interviewing guests, Sandy’s heart is with our children and their education among other things. Embracing those differences has strengthened our relationship.
- Flexibility is Key – We’ve discovered that success doesn’t come from rigid plans but from being flexible and adapting as life evolves. By allowing Sandy to step back naturally, we’ve created space for new opportunities without sacrificing our partnership.
- Communication and Honesty – We’ve had a lot of honest conversations during this transition. Those talks, even when difficult, have brought us closer and reminded us that working through challenges together is what builds a solid foundation for both our family and business.
- Shared Vision, Different Roles – We’ve learned that having the same vision doesn’t mean we have to play the same role. Sandy’s behind-the-scenes work is just as valuable as my on-camera presence. Recognizing and appreciating those differences has made our team stronger.
- Trusting the Process – This journey has taught us to trust the process and each other. Sometimes stepping back in one area allows for growth in another. We’ve seen firsthand how trusting God’s timing and being open to change leads to greater alignment with our purpose.
So, moving forward, Sandy will likely join in for the first 5 minutes of most episodes, and on occasion, she might stay for the whole show. It will ebb and flow based on what feels right for her at the time. This new name allows her to contribute in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.
Honestly, this wasn’t easy for me. I love having Sandy by my side for the entire journey. There’s something special about doing this show together, and as I update the branding and remove her name from various places, it feels like a part of me is breaking. But I also know this shift is necessary. I’m committed to this show and believe it will lead us to new opportunities in the next few years. I’m not stopping – this is my passion, and I’m in my element when I’m interviewing guests.
For those who have loved seeing Sandy on the show, don’t worry – she’s still very much part of this journey. You’ll continue to see her pop in, and who knows, maybe we’ll even find new creative ways to bring her in more behind the scenes.
The years we’ve spent building this show together have been incredible. Even though things are shifting, we’re still partners in this. I’m grateful for Sandy’s support, and I know that by giving her space, we’re making room for the next chapter. As we transition into this new format, I’m excited not only for the growth of the show but also for how Sandy’s role at home will shape our family’s future. We see this as an expansion, not a reduction.
This rebrand represents a shift in how we grow together, both in our marriage and in our shared vision for the show. It’s less about moving apart and more about evolving in harmony.
One last thing, all the graphics should be changed over before our next show on Jan 16th.
Here’s to new beginnings and to everything that lies ahead in 2025!
Chris
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