Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Andy Michel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Andy, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally was rooted in my childhood. Creativity has always been an integral part of my life, shaped by the times I spent crafting with my family. Those moments gluing, painting, and creating taught me that art wasn’t just a hobby; it was a way to connect, express, and build something meaningful.
Growing up, I often felt like I didn’t fit the standard mold or meet others’ expectations. I was navigating my own path, and creativity became my safe haven a place where I could be myself without fear. When I came out as gay at 18, after years of hiding my true self, embracing my identity gave me the courage to fully lean into my passions.
I’ve always been drawn to Radio, Television, and Film, captivated by their ability to tell stories that resonate deeply. Photography became another way to channel my perspective, capturing fleeting moments and emotions through a lens. These interests, combined with my creative spirit, shaped my journey and made me realize that pursuing an artistic path wasn’t just something I wanted to do it was something I had to do to feel authentic and fulfilled.
That moment of clarity wasn’t one big epiphany but a culmination of experiences that pointed me toward where I belonged: in the creative world, embracing and sharing my perspective.
Andy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
About The Virgo Andy
Hi, I’m Andy Michel, the creative mind behind The Virgo Andy. I’m a San Antonio-based digital marketing strategist, content creator, and storyteller with a passion for connecting people through creativity and authenticity. Growing up, I was always drawn to artistic expression. From crafting with my family as a child to exploring photography, radio, television, and film, creativity has been a guiding force in my life.
I began this journey with a simple goal: to share stories, inspire others, and build a community rooted in authenticity. My creative works span digital marketing, social media strategy, and lifestyle content. Through my brand, I aim to highlight LGBTQ+ voices, celebrate individuality, and foster genuine connections.
What I Offer
My work focuses on helping businesses and brands develop engaging digital content and marketing strategies that truly resonate with their audience. I specialize in:
Social media content creation
Branding and creative storytelling
Lifestyle and product collaborations
For clients, I solve the challenge of standing out in a saturated market. I focus on aligning their message with creative, impactful strategies that speak to their audience in fresh, relatable ways.
What Sets Me Apart
What makes The Virgo Andy unique is my ability to blend authenticity with creativity. I approach every project with a deep understanding of my clients’ goals and a commitment to making their vision come to life. I believe in building relationships, not just brands, and I infuse each project with passion, empathy, and a touch of humor.
I’m proud to represent the LGBTQ+ community and amplify stories that deserve to be heard. Whether it’s collaborating with brands that share my values or creating relatable lifestyle content for my followers, my mission is to inspire and empower others to embrace their true selves.
What I’m Most Proud Of
One of my proudest accomplishments is my work as the Director of Digital Marketing and Social Media for Diablos Outsports Association, an 501(c)(3) Non-profit organization that fosters inclusivity in sports. It’s a role that reflects my belief in community, creativity, and making a positive impact.
What to Know About Me
As The Virgo Andy, I’m all about celebrating individuality and creativity. I’m here to bring fresh ideas to the table, help brands shine, and connect with people who value authenticity and passion. If you’re looking for someone who truly cares about their craft and your vision, you’ve found the right person.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
How I Built My Audience on Social Media
Building my audience on social media has been a journey of consistency, creativity, and authenticity. When I first started, I focused on sharing content that felt true to who I am—whether that was lifestyle tips, creative projects, or moments from my personal life. I made it a point to connect with others in a genuine way, engaging with their content and starting conversations.
One of the biggest turning points was embracing my identity as an LGBTQ+ creator and being open about my experiences. People resonate with authenticity, and I’ve found that when I share the real me—whether it’s challenges, wins, or just the things I love—it creates a stronger connection with my audience.
I’ve also leaned into trends and stayed adaptable. Social media is constantly evolving, and experimenting with new formats, such as reels, trending sounds, or collaborations, has helped me reach a broader audience. Partnering with brands that align with my values has been another way to connect with people who share similar interests.
Advice for Those Just Starting Out
Be Authentic: People connect with real stories. Don’t try to be someone else—share your unique perspective.
Engage Consistently: Building an audience isn’t just about posting; it’s about starting conversations, responding to comments, and genuinely supporting others.
Experiment and Learn: Social media is about trial and error. Experiment with different formats, styles, and topics to see what resonates with your audience.
Focus on Value: Think about what your audience can take away from your content. Whether it’s inspiration, tips, or entertainment, always aim to provide value.
Stay Patient and Persistent: Growth takes time. Stay consistent, and don’t get discouraged by slow progress. Celebrate small wins along the way.
Social media is a tool for connection, and at the heart of it all, it’s about building a community. If you stay true to your values and create with purpose, your audience will find you.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Insight into the Creative Journey
One thing non-creatives might struggle to understand about the journey as a content creator is just how much goes on behind the scenes. To many, it might look like fun videos, aesthetically pleasing photos, and quick posts but there’s a lot more involved. Being a content creator isn’t just a hobby; it’s running a business.
For one, pitching yourself to brands requires time, strategy, and confidence. It’s not just about sending a DM; it’s about crafting proposals, presenting your value, negotiating contracts, and ensuring you deliver content that aligns with both your vision and the brand’s goals. Then there’s the execution: brainstorming ideas, planning shoots, creating high-quality content, and editing all while managing deadlines and deliverables.
In today’s world, where anyone can pick up a phone and become a “creator,” standing out requires knowing your value and what your craft is truly worth. It’s not just about creating it’s about recognizing the time, skills, and effort you’ve invested and being confident in asking for fair compensation.
Another challenge is working with third-party platforms that connect creators with brands. While these can be great for opportunities, they often take a significant percentage of your earnings. For this reason, I’ve found that building direct relationships with brands is not only more rewarding financially but also leads to better collaborations that feel authentic and aligned.
To anyone considering this path or looking to understand it better, I’d say this: being a creator is about more than the final product. It’s about passion, dedication, and the ability to adapt in a constantly evolving industry. It’s fulfilling, but it takes grit, strategy, and a deep respect for your craft.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thevirgoandy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevirgoandy/
