Why Values Beat Size Every Time A Conversation with Cay Benitez
What if success wasn’t about growing bigger but growing better?
In this episode of Breaking The Mould, Marie Ampeloquio and Randy Lobiano sit down with Cay Benitez, founder of Team Benitez, a wedding photography and videography team rewriting what it means to lead with purpose. From cutting work hours to fostering genuine flexibility, Cay reveals how prioritizing people not profit built a stronger, more passionate team.
Discover how a small creative business became a “small giant” in its field by breaking old industry norms and creating a culture rooted in respect, growth, and heart.
Key Highlights:
The origin story of Team Benitez and its growth from a family-run setup to a full creative powerhouse
Why reducing work hours led to more productivity and better well-being
How Cay fosters a culture of ownership, flexibility, and mutual respect
Redefining success: focusing on depth of impact, not scale
The power of leading with integrity and transparency
How small businesses can model HR innovation and people-first leadership
Insights on managing freelancers while creating consistency and community
Why Filipino leaders are uniquely positioned to drive human-centered change
Radical Thoughts from the Episode:
Marie Ampeloquio (Host)
“Sometimes breaking the mould isn’t about reinventing everything, it's about remembering what matters most: people.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“You can’t build a great culture if you don’t trust your team.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“HR isn’t just for big companies. It’s for every leader who values growth and well-being.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“The future of work is shaped by those brave enough to rethink the rules.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“Purpose-driven leadership is what turns good teams into extraordinary ones.” - Marie Ampeloquio
Randy Lobiano (Co-host)
“You don’t have to wait for permission to do what’s right for your people.” - Randy Lobiano
“Cay shows us that innovation starts when you question ‘why not?’ instead of ‘why.’” - Randy Lobiano“The best leaders don’t just manage, they empower.” - Randy Lobiano
“It’s amazing how structure can still coexist with flexibility when you lead with trust.” - Randy Lobiano
“Sometimes the smallest shifts in mindset create the biggest transformations.” - Randy Lobiano
Cay Benitez (Guest)
“We decided early on that people will always come first, clients and team alike.” - Cay Benitez
“Cutting down work hours wasn’t about doing less, it was about doing better.” - Cay Benitez
“Culture isn’t built overnight. It’s built in every decision you make as a leader.” - Cay Benitez
“You don’t need to be big to make a difference, you just need to care deeply.” - Cay Benitez
“The best kind of growth is the one that feels human.” - Cay Benitez
