Going Solo: Tracee Ellis Ross on the future of unscripted storytelling
Since its debut, Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross has become Roku’s most-watched unscripted original (show?) ever—igniting global conversations about self-discovery, independence, and the freedom of traveling alone. At Fast Company's 11th annual Innovation Festival this past September, Tracee and Brian Tannenbaum, head of Roku Originals, took to the stage for a candid conversation about how the series redefines unscripted storytelling and authentically reaches a unique audience, as well as why this experience has forever changed Tracee's expectations of creative and business partnerships.
For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news
To listen to the latest episodes of Creative Control on Fast Company:https://www.fastcompany.com/podcasts/creative-control
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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CHASE FOR BUSINESS - The Small Business Surge: Why Entrepreneurial Growth Is Defying Economic Noise
Small business owners are staying optimistic — three-quarters expect revenue gains despite ongoing labor shortages, inflation pressures, and economic uncertainty. Their confidence, fueled by strong demand and increased clarity around tax policy, is driving investment and innovation heading into 2026.
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How Elvira Built a Brand to Die For
Cassandra Peterson, better known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, has spent nearly 25 years turning horror, humor, and high camp into an art form—and a solid business. In this bonus Halloween episode of Creative Control, Peterson opens up about her wild journey from Las Vegas showgirl to pop culture icon, discussing how to build a brand that lasts and her latest project that's been decades in the making: Elvira's Cookbook From Hell: Sexy, Spooky Soirées and Celebrations for Every Occasion.
For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news
To listen to the latest episodes of Creative Control on Fast Company:https://www.fastcompany.com/podcasts/creative-control
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From the Werkroom to the MCU: Shea Couleé on where drag is heading next
Shea Couleé has become an undeniable force in drag, rising from Chicago’s local scene to snatching crowns on RuPaul’s Drag Race to breaking new ground in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Shea has been an integral part of drag becoming mainstream—and she has a few ideas on where it should be headed next. In this episode, Shea charts her creative journey through drag, lessons she’s learned in building a brand, how her Black and queer identities have turbocharged her creativity, her iconic debut in the MCU starring in Ironheart, and why more risk-taking in drag is what’s needed now more than ever.
For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news
To listen to the latest episodes of Creative Control on Fast Company:https://www.fastcompany.com/podcasts/creative-control
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WNBA Star Jewell Loyd Is on the Road to a New Black Wall Street
Las Vegas Aces star Jewell Loyd has amassed a stack of staggering accolades: garnering two WNBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and six WNBA All-Star nods, not to mention being anointed as the "Gold Mamba” from the late great Kobe Bryant himself. But Loyd’s impact goes beyond the court.
In 2015, she and her brother launched Loyd & Co., a financial services firm they built to give underserved communities real access to capital, wealth-building tools, and long-term financial security. And in recent months, they've been ramping up their ambitions with several acquisitions that are expanding the firm's reach. In this episode, Loyd opens up about the inspiration behind her company, the impact they’re already making, and her audacious next step: creating what she calls a “bank with a soul.”
For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news
To listen to the latest episodes of Creative Control on Fast Company:https://www.fastcompany.com/podcasts/creative-control
The days of celebrities, athletes, and creators relying solely on their talent to build their brands is over. Today, it’s all about partnering with brands, investing in companies, or even launching a business of your own. Join host KC Ifeanyi each episode as he talks to one of the world’s most creative people about how their business endeavors intersect with, and grow, their creativity.