What does it really take to build a creative business when your identity is part of the story?

On this episode of Behind the Creative, Shahlayo Ranson, host of The Ultimate Blerd podcast, shares how his love and passion for anime, sci-fi, and content production turned into a business. We talk about tangibly building something from the ground up, finding the white space in a crowded market, and using your unique perspective as fuel rather than a limitation.

Shahlayo opens up about moments of being “the only one” in certain rooms, but more importantly, how he used that experience to stay authentic while creating a brand that resonates far beyond himself. If you’re ready to stop waiting for a seat at the table and start building your own, this conversation will give you both the inspiration and the strategy to make it happen.

This episode is brought to you by The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

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Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon/Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon

In this powerful episode of Behind the Creative, Dr. Kristelle dives deep into the real story behind the laughs as comedian FURG opens up about the unfiltered highs and lows of life on stage. From the heartbreak of divorce and the struggle of being broke to the thrill of big wins in comedy, this conversation reveals the resilience it takes to keep chasing the mic when life feels like a joke.

At the heart of his journey is the unwavering influence of family — the love, lessons, and grounding force that helped turn pain into purpose. This episode isn’t just about the grind of comedy, it’s about finding strength when everything seems to fall apart and learning to rise again, one punchline at a time.

Whether you’re a comedy fan, a creative navigating your own struggles, or someone who’s ever had to rebuild from the ground up, this episode will remind you why laughter is one of the most powerful tools for healing and hope.

Watch his pilots:

https://youtu.be/Pa8kobV6GOE

https://youtu.be/NWLZlCEpc8g

https://youtu.be/hkPt8_2Oi7w

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This podcast is brought to you by The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon / Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon

Is there really such a thing as the right energy for your art, and who gets to decide? In this episode of Behind the Creative, Dr. Kristelle (https://www.instagram.com/drkristelle/) sits down with actress, radio, and TV personality Myckell Harris (https://www.instagram.com/prettymycki/).

From her days in radio, to appearing in the critically acclaimed Beyond the Gates, rated100% Rotten Tomatoes, and working on projects at Tyler Perry Studios, with Kevin Hart, and Terrence Howard, Myckell knows the power of mastering energy to shape a career.

Together, they explore:

• How to channel the right energy when no one can see you (radio vs. acting).
• The stereotypes creatives face in the industry and how to own your identity.
• The challenges of balancing reality while stepping into character.
• What it means to show up as a strong, Black woman on TV.
• How creative brilliance evolves when moving from New York to Atlanta.
• Practical ways to protect your energy, build your brand, and stand out in auditions.

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or professional building your own stage, this conversation will inspire you to ask: Are you channeling the right energy for your brilliance?

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This podcast is brought to you by The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon/Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon