Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist

Tracee Ellis Ross on Broadway Debut and Solo Traveling

Aug 16, 2026 · 1h 0m

Summary

Willie Geist sits down with Tracee Ellis Ross at the Sherry Netherland Hotel, where she spent her childhood, to discuss her recent Broadway debut in the solo play *Every Brilliant Thing*. Ross reflects on the transformative experience of performing alone, the success of her Emmy-nominated series *Solo Traveling*, and her role as CEO of her hair care brand, Pattern. She also shares insights on embracing solo experiences, the cultural impact of *Black-ish*, and the importance of self-discovery and kindness.

Topics discussed

Sponsors and podcast introduction Guest intro: Tracee Ellis Ross and her recent projects Childhood memories at the Sherry Netherland Hotel Performing 'Every Brilliant Thing' on Broadway Reflections on fear, vulnerability, and human kindness Mid-roll sponsor breaks Theater community support and Broadway experience Creating 'Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross' Revisiting boarding school and personal growth Founding Pattern Beauty and celebrating Black hair Sponsor breaks and transition Practical tips for solo travel and self-discovery The cultural impact of 'Girlfriends' and 'Black-ish' Future projects and embracing life at 53 Hotel tour and meeting longtime staff member George
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