The Indicator from Planet Money Why every A-lister also has a side hustle (Encore)
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Dec 24, 2025 
John Legend, the award-winning singer-songwriter and entrepreneur, shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, particularly with his skincare brand, Loved One. He delves into why numerous celebrities are diversifying their income by launching personal brands, highlighting the shift from sponsorships to ownership. John reminisces about the thrill of seeing his products in stores like CVS and discusses the challenges of maintaining reputation and scaling in retail. The conversation also touches on the financial motivations driving actors and musicians towards business ventures.
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From Signature Look To Eyewear Line
- Lisa Loeb resisted making eyewear at first but launched her collection in 2010 after the music industry changed.
- Her move shows celebrities turning signature looks into product lines they once feared would seem like a hobby.
Stars Lose Box-Office Leverage
- Movie stars no longer guarantee box-office draws the way they once did because franchises and IP now dominate.
- That shift reduces some actors' pay and pushes them to seek income outside traditional acting roles.
Influencer Culture Normalized Celebrity Brands
- Social media and influencer culture normalized personal brands and selling to fans.
- Normalization removed the stigma of celebrities entering direct-to-consumer businesses.