Tennessee Edwards – Creative Leader, CEO, and Entrepreneur

Tennessee Edwards is the Chief Creative Officer and CEO of WerkShed—a company dedicated to growing bold businesses, producing purposeful content, building strategic marketing campaigns, and providing entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive.

With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, Tennessee began his journey as an intern at New Line Cinema (The Lord of the Rings), eventually producing and executive producing for major networks including FOX, HGTV, CBS, MTV, SPIKE, Netflix, and A&E. He has collaborated with top-tier production companies such as Fremantle (American Idol) and ITV (Hell’s Kitchen, Love Island), playing a pivotal role in launching iconic series like The Ultimate Fighter (Spike) and Tiny House Nation (A&E/Netflix).

As both executive producer and business development strategist, Tennessee has developed and sold original programming, pioneered branded content, and built ITV America's product placement division—integrating brands into shows like Counting Cars (History) and other major formats. He has managed intellectual property for powerhouse franchises like Hell’s Kitchen, overseeing licensing and gaming deals, while also consulting on and strategies for shows such as Bethenny & Fredrik, Food Porn, He Shed She Shed, Tiny House Hunting, and Renovation Wild.

In the branded content world, Tennessee has partnered with legacy brands including Home Depot, Subway, Zillow, GM, and Aetna—creating integrated media campaigns that deliver both storytelling and results.

Beyond Media: Building Businesses That Matter

In 2018, Tennessee made a decisive pivot—leaving traditional media to build his own ventures. He sought more creative control, values-based deal-making, and alignment with forward-thinking entrepreneurs.

His philosophy is simple:
"You get one life. Make decisions that push industries forward, trust your gut, help others grow, and never be a cog in the machine chasing paychecks."

Today, Tennessee advises and invests in product companies, restaurant concepts, tech startups, and legacy businesses—bringing his strategic acumen to help them scale with intention.

He only partners with businesses and people he believes in—those who are building for purpose, not just profit. His belief is that great companies, rooted in strong reputations, create meaningful opportunities and lasting success.

Global Vision. Local Grit.

Tennessee brings a global outlook to business, with active interests in:

• The space industry - Defense industry
• American entrepreneurs in mid-sized markets
• International expansion and export strategy
• Asian markets and niche product economies
• Disruptive, future-focused business models

His approach is holistic—360-degree business thinking. He challenges outdated frameworks, studies patterns across industries, and prefers looking ten years ahead rather than chasing trends from ten years ago.

He has built strong relationships in Korea, advising startups and collaborating with the Korean government’s trade agency. He is also a trusted advisor to AsianBoss.io, supporting international business strategy and cultural alignment.

A Renaissance Man in Business & Strategy

Tennessee is more than a producer. He’s:

• A founder and advisor in tech, media, M&A, products, companies and product branding
• Co-founder of Scout Comics, a leading independent comic publisher
• A strategist with experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), team building, and scaling businesses across sectors—having overseen over half a billion dollars in content and media

His superpowers:

• Uniting diverse teams around a shared mission
• Understanding how technology reshapes industries
• Designing future-forward strategy playbooks
• Unlocking access to decision-makers
• Crafting win-win partnerships across verticals

WerkShed and What’s Next

Today, Tennessee is focused on scaling WerkShed—a company built for the age of disruption. He’s making focused, strategic moves that position businesses for long-term growth and cultural relevance.

He was Chief Strategy Officer at Crocker Holdings, a Texas-based firm where he’s leading the launch of a new restaurant concept and advising multiple ventures in commercial landscaping, construction, and product development.

In parallel, he works with entrepreneurs and companies to sharpen their branding, storytelling, and market positioning—helping them break through the noise and connect with their audience in a more authentic way.

Mindset & Philosophy

“All my life, I’ve wanted to help others, be a Renaissance man, and be involved in many things.”
“If you’re not growing, challenging yourself, and having fun—why do it?”
“Work only with people who share your values. Never chase what can’t be caught.”

Tennessee believes opportunity is abundant—but success is reserved for those who are selective, strategic, and committed to doing meaningful work.