Stream It Your Way: The Power of Creator-Owned Platforms
- Jul 8
- 4 min read
By Vergi Rodriguez
In an industry where the industry "higher ups" often determine which stories get told and who gets to tell them, I’ve chosen a different path—one that puts the power back into the hands of creators like me. As a filmmaker, ex professional commercial dancer , and host of my latest podcast "Race of Your Own", I’m building my storytelling universe through platforms like YouTube and other digital hubs. This isn’t just a workaround; it’s a deliberate way to create space for voices and experiences that deserve more than a seat at the table—they deserve their own spotlight.
Rewriting the Rules on My Own Terms
My own creative journey started in the world of dance and music videos. I've had the privilege of dancing for icons like Missy Elliott, Britney Spears and Prince. Yet even while I worked behind the scenes of massive productions, I was painfully aware of the lack of representation—specifically for Afro Latino and other marginalized communities. I saw that if I was to bear witness to a shift in the narrative being presented by the media, I would need to be the one to initiate it.
That is what led me to establish Planet V Productions, LLC and embark on film-making, hosting, and narrative-storytelling as a full-fledged owner of my message. And instead of waiting for some other individual's approval, I went to those platforms where I could own the material, own the vision, and own my voice. I shot my first narrative short film called "Dreamer" that was accepted at over 80 film festivals world wide including Geena Davis' Bentonville Film Festival & won audience award at the Boston Latino Film Festival.
Race of Your Own: Speaking Truth, Building Community
One of the things I'm most proud of that I've developed so far is my YouTube and podcast series "Race of Your Own". It's more than a show—it's a genuine, safe space where I get to have real conversations about race, identity, culture, and creativity. Entrepreneurs, artists, thought leaders, and change-makers alike are my guests, and together we talk about what it takes to build success on your own terms and live unapologetically.
What's been stunning is how quickly the show has taken off. Within months, "Race of Your Own" has gained over 75,000 hours of watch time on YouTube. It also gives us as creators the freedom to expand and try new ventures. We have already expanded into a new segment called "Lavinia Int'l" which is a platform that empowers thought leaders, innovators, and advocates to unite and boldly champion the creation of a new, sustainable Earth. We speak to people from an international community and how they are finding resilience in their circle of influence in other countries. That kind of growth, with no network behind it to support it, proves that there are millions of viewers out there waiting to be engaged by honest, raw storytelling that challenges mainstream narratives and centers underrepresented communities.
Why I Chose Creator-Owned Platforms
YouTube gave me space to begin without compromise. There were no producers telling me what I must omit, no executives deciding what would "sell." I could be raw, new, and intentional. And because I control the content —from writing to editing to posting—I can build a brand that represents my values, not someone else's agenda.
But I'm not resting on YouTube. I've built out a complete digital ecosystem with Instagram and TikTok that allow me to intersect with people in the places that they're in. Each channel adds a layer to the dialogue and deepens the community of "Race of Your Own" and being the storyteller that I am living. It's all about community building, rather than audience-building.
Centering Purpose, Not Popularity
They always ask me how I've become so successful, so fast. And the answer is simple: "I lead with purpose". I don't chase trends to make myself "marketable." I show up in my full self and invite others to do the same. That authenticity resonates. It comes across very clearly that I walk in my truth. It's not an act. It's real.
Whether I'm deconstructing the Afro-Latina identity of today, highlighting grassroots game-changers, or deconstructing lessons from the entertainment world, all content that I create is built on truth and community. That's what makes credibility. That's what made people return for more. And that's what turns viewers into allies and co-creators.
Riding the Wave of the Creator Economy
What I'm doing is only a small part of something much bigger. The creator economy has turned the tables. We no longer have to ask permission to tell our stories. Platforms such as YouTube and Patreon are giving people the power to create, publish, and monetize on their own terms. And we're getting more diverse and more substantial content for it.
The prosperity of "Race of Your Own" is proof that there's space for all of us. For everyone that is hungry for content that meets where they are and where they stand. They're searching for connection, not curation. They're searching for depth, not sheen. And most importantly, they're searching for something real. Not so "polished" that it's obvious that there is a narrative and agenda tied to it. Consumers are tired of the fake. They want real and authentic. Consumers are even being more vocal about what authenticity looks and feels like. And they are showing it by what they buy, support or share with their community.
Looking Ahead
As "Race of Your Own" grows and Planet V Productions develops more original content, I'm excited to expand what's possible for independent creators. This is not just media, it's a movement. Telling stories that heal, ignite, and empower. And I'd like to do it all while staying true to who I am and why I started.
So yes, I’m bypassing traditional networks. But I’m not doing it alone. I’m doing it with the support of every person who tunes in, shares an episode, leaves a comment, or shows up in community. Together, we’re rewriting the rules—and streaming it our way.
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