How does Inc. identify the companies, leaders, and ideas shaping the future of business?

In this NYSE Live interview, Mike Hofman, Editor-in-Chief of Inc., discusses the publication's annual Best in Business awards and highlights some of the entrepreneurs, brands, and innovations making an impact across industries.

Ashley Mastronardi spoke with Hofman about entrepreneurship, innovation, artificial intelligence, consumer brands, startup growth, leadership, and emerging business trends.

A major theme throughout the conversation is the purpose of Inc.'s annual Best in Business list. The awards recognize organizations and leaders demonstrating strong execution, innovation, growth, and impact across a range of business categories.

The interview also explores what distinguishes the selected companies. According to Hofman, the evaluation process considers financial performance, market leadership, innovation, social impact, brand strength, and operational execution.

Another key topic is entrepreneurship. Many honorees represent organizations that have identified emerging opportunities and successfully built products, brands, or services that resonate with customers.

The conversation further examines the growing influence of challenger brands across consumer markets. Smaller companies continue finding ways to compete with larger incumbents through focused branding, product innovation, and strong customer engagement.

A significant focus of the discussion is Jetty, a hydration beverage company founded by entrepreneurs Allison Ellsworth and Stephen Ellsworth, who previously built the popular beverage brand Poppi. Their latest venture has attracted attention through rapid retail expansion and consumer interest.

The interview also highlights Blueland, a consumer products company focused on reducing waste and minimizing the use of microplastic-containing household products. The company was recognized for both business performance and mission-driven innovation.

Another major theme is product design and technology innovation. Hofman discusses Notion, the productivity platform known for its loyal user base and ongoing efforts to integrate artificial intelligence while maintaining a strong user experience.

The discussion also explores how software companies are adapting to rapidly changing AI capabilities while balancing simplicity, functionality, and customer needs.

Additionally, Hofman discusses Reed Hastings, the co-founder of Netflix, and his latest entrepreneurial effort involving the redevelopment of Powder Mountain in Utah. The project combines recreation, community development, and cultural experiences in a unique business model.

The conversation further examines succession planning in the technology sector and highlights Hastings as an example of a founder who successfully transitioned leadership while pursuing new ventures.

Another key topic is artificial intelligence. AI-related companies continue attracting significant investment and attention as businesses search for ways to improve productivity, automation, and customer experiences.

The interview also highlights several emerging AI-focused platforms including note-taking, event management, productivity, and digital assistant technologies.

A significant focus is the intersection of technology and branding. While AI remains one of the most important innovation trends, strong consumer brands continue demonstrating the power of effective storytelling, customer engagement, and product differentiation.

The discussion further examines how innovation is occurring simultaneously across technology, consumer products, software, and direct-to-consumer businesses.

Looking ahead, Hofman expects continued growth in AI-powered products, software innovation, challenger consumer brands, and companies that successfully blend technology with exceptional customer experiences.

Throughout the discussion, Hofman shares insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, artificial intelligence, consumer brands, startup growth, product design, leadership, venture creation, business trends, and company building.

Disclaimer: Informational content only. NYSE does not endorse or recommend investments, companies, products, services, or strategies discussed.

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