With over 88 million Americans tuning into podcasts in 2019 and small businesses being disproportionately affected by the pandemic, American Express has found a niche and a need.

Venturing into new media territory, American Express has launched its very own podcast with the New York Times best-selling author, journalist, producer, and former Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue, Elaine Welteroth. 

Featured in V127’s Thought Leaders Issue and as a voice of our generation, Elaine will host “Built to Last” conversations that will deep dive into the stories, history, and continued legacy of the Black-owned small businesses that have shaped American culture. Reaching broader audiences, the host echoed, “I am excited to partner with American Express to shine a light on Black entrepreneurs that are blazing new trails and finding innovative ways to thrive despite unprecedented challenges.”

Episode 1 with Pinky Cole —CEO & founder of the Atlanta restaurant Slutty Vegan— just premiered and viewers got a taste of the honest conversations that will be had throughout the series. This specific episode was a candid discussion of the unique challenges Pinky Cole has experienced as a Black culinary entrepreneur and finding the lessons in her setbacks.

Upcoming episodes will drop each week and feature Issa Rae and Hannah Diop of Sienna Naturals, Melissa Butler of The Lip Bar, Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa, Corianna and Brianna Dotson of Coco & Breezy, and Shannon Maldonado of Yowie. Tune in next week on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud, and Stitcher, and access the video podcast episodes on the American Express Youtube Channel.

Exploring what it means for a business to be “Built to Last,” showcasing creative illustrations, and including surprise guest narrators, start listening to Episode 1 below:

To read more from Elaine click here and pre-order the Thought Leaders Issue now.