We were lucky to catch up with Chris Pitsicalis recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

In order to be successful in a creative industry I feel like we need to see our creative pursuits through a business lense. When I was younger I wanted to be free and just create for a living but with no real focus or business etiquette behind it. With experience I’ve learned how important it is to “stand on business” especially in creative work. You might be wondering what this looks like- some examples could be negotiating contracts instead of accepting right away, actually reading through contracts, knowing your worth and what you bring to the table, the ability to say no, creating boundaries, leading by example, and being kind.

Chris, 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?

To be honest, this question is difficult for me to answer believe it or not! I have so many passions and I think of myself as someone who’s lived many lives within one lifetime (and I’m still so young)!

I’ve always been enamored by entertainment, pop culture, beauty and art. Therefore I consider myself a Creative Director. Content Creator, Influencer, Dancer, Choreographer, and Model. I grew up dancing and was a professional dancer for most of my adult life. Some of my favorite dance career moments include dancing on Ru Paul’s Drag Race. Paula Abdul and touring with Todrick Hall. I’ve also dabbled in acting staring in two national commercials for Pure for Men and Grindr.

When the 2020 pandemic occurred, I was craving a creative outlet. I began making Tik Tok videos for fun and randomly had multiple videos blow up. At first I was making a ton of videos about sex and relationships. My biggest video with 15 million views was a douching tutorial! I’m still recognized on the street from that one video! I eventually narrowed down my niche to lifestyle, fashion and comedy because I felt those three things were authentic to me and the brand I want to create for myself.

However, this was not an easy thing to observe. In fact it took years of trial and error to understand the most difficult client I’ve ever worked for, myself. And to be honest, I’m still learning and evolving! If you’re someone who dreams about becoming a Content Creator, my best advice is to practice talking to the camera until you feel comfortable enough. Then post, post, post and find what your audience responds to!

Since then I’ve worked with over 50 brands and celebrities such as YSL Beauty, Puma, Warner Music Group, hims, and most recently First Aid Beauty x Ulta.

I’m currently working in the Creative Services department for FashionNova, helping with their social strategy and content creation. I currently hold the all company record for the most viewed video ever with 161 million views.

Something that sets me apart from others is discipline. I used to live life without any structure and as a creative person, that is a recipe for disaster! Once I started implementing systems, routine, and treating myself with love and respect I noticed a complete shift.

My biggest goal in life is to inspire others through my journey.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Honestly, cold DM’s! If you want to work with a specific brand on socials, message them on Instagram, send an email to their customer service team and then follow up! Most brands love when you come to them as a genuine fan and user of the brand. The worst that can happen is they don’t answer. You have nothing to lose!

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

As a young creative person, I felt confused a lot, wondering why other people weren’t as passionate as me. I always felt different. I recently started reading “The Creative Act: a way of being” by Rick Rubin and I’ve never felt more understood in my life! I’m also obsessed with the teaching of Abraham Hicks. If you know, you know!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Chrispitsicalis
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-pitsicalis-6abb22293?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Other: Tik tok @Chrispitsicalis