We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mandy Joan a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Mandy, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?

As an artist and entertainer, I believe the nature of my work can sometimes be misunderstood or mischaracterized. There’s often a perception that pursuing a creative path is less stable or serious compared to more conventional career choices. This misconception can lead to judgments about the value of what I do or the effort it requires.

Choosing a creative career means stepping off the beaten path and embracing uncertainty, which can invite criticism or skepticism from those who may not fully understand the dedication, passion, and resilience it takes to succeed in this field. It’s not just about talent; it’s about consistent effort, adaptability, and a deep commitment to growth and self-expression.

Over time, I’ve learned to focus less on external opinions and more on my personal goals and the impact I want my art to have. For me, it’s about sharing my work authentically and connecting with people on an emotional level. Every project I undertake serves as a reminder that art has the power to inspire, heal, and bring people together, even if its value isn’t always immediately recognized by everyone.

The greatest insight I’ve gained from these experiences is the importance of staying true to my vision and trusting the process. Not everyone will understand the path I’ve chosen, but that’s okay. What matters most is that I’m creating work that feels meaningful and resonates with those who need it.

Ultimately, I’ve come to embrace the idea that being misunderstood isn’t necessarily negative—it’s part of being a trailblazer. If anything, it pushes me to refine my voice, stay authentic, and continue spreading my art in ways that uplift and inspire.

Mandy, 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?

For those who may not know me, my journey as an artist and entertainer began years ago when I first became immersed in my community’s vibrant creative scene. I started by attending and participating in art shows and exhibits, which sparked a deep appreciation for the power of creativity to connect and inspire. Over time, this passion naturally led me to explore opportunities in the entertainment industry, where I’ve been fortunate to be a part of some incredible projects involving film, television, and other forms of storytelling.

Through these experiences, I discovered not only my love for creating but also my ability to positively influence others. Photography and writing, in particular, have become key outlets for me, especially when it comes to advocating for mental health—a cause that I care about deeply. These disciplines allow me to express myself authentically while connecting with people on an emotional level. I’ve learned that I feel most comfortable and fulfilled when I’m using my art and voice to make a difference, no matter the medium.

As I continue to grow as an artist and entertainer, I’m excited to push the boundaries of my creativity and explore new opportunities. This year, I’m focusing on expanding my artistic range, experimenting with different forms of expression, and leaning more into music as a meaningful outlet. Music has always been a personal passion, and I’m eager to see how it can further enrich my connection with others.

What truly sets my work apart is the genuine connection I strive to create with my audience. The clients and fans I’ve met along the way have given me incredible feedback and support, reminding me of the profound impact art and kindness can have. One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey is meeting people who appreciate what I do and knowing that who I am as a person can bring happiness or create a memorable moment for someone. These interactions are as special and meaningful to me as the work itself.

Above all, I want people to know that my work is rooted in authenticity, passion, and a desire to inspire others. Whether it’s through a photograph, a piece of writing, a performance, or even a simple conversation, my goal is to create something that resonates, uplifts, and leaves a lasting impression. It’s an honor to share this journey with those who believe in what I do, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to keep growing and evolving in ways that connect us all.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the habit of internalizing negativity or giving too much weight to the opinions of those who aren’t supportive. As someone who thrives on connection and strives to bring positivity into my work, it was challenging to accept that not everyone will understand or appreciate my journey, and that’s okay.

Early on, I found myself overly focused on trying to appease or prove myself to people who were either dismissive or critical of my path. This mindset was exhausting and, in many ways, counterproductive. Over time, I realized that by prioritizing the negativity, I was inadvertently overlooking the people who were genuinely rooting for me—the ones who saw the value in what I do and supported me wholeheartedly.

The turning point came when I began to reframe my perspective and focus on cultivating gratitude for the encouragement and belief I receive from my community, clients, and supporters. I’ve learned that it’s far more meaningful to pour my energy into those who uplift me rather than attempting to win over those who may never see my vision.

This shift in mindset has been liberating, allowing me to create more authentically and with greater confidence. It’s also taught me the importance of self-validation and staying true to my purpose, even when faced with doubt or criticism. Ultimately, I’ve come to embrace the idea that the most impactful work often comes from a place of self-assurance and an unwavering commitment to your passion, regardless of external opinions.

For anyone navigating a similar struggle, my advice would be to focus on the people who inspire and champion you. Their energy is what fuels growth and keeps you grounded in your purpose.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Building my audience on social media has been an organic and rewarding journey rooted in authenticity, connection, and consistency. When I first began, my goal was simply to share my passions and creative work with others. Over time, I discovered that the true power of social media lies in its ability to foster genuine relationships with like-minded individuals.

One of the key elements to growing my presence was prioritizing meaningful engagement. I made it a point to connect with people who shared similar interests, values, or creative aspirations. Whether it was through participating in online communities, collaborating with other creatives, or simply engaging in thoughtful conversations, I found that building a community was about creating a space where others felt seen, heard, and inspired.

Another crucial aspect was taking the time to socialize, both online and offline. I would often attend events, meet new people, and exchange social handles as a way to stay in touch and build lasting connections. These interactions added a personal dimension to my online presence, making it feel more authentic and relatable.

For those starting out, my advice would be to focus on building relationships rather than simply chasing numbers. Be consistent in sharing your work and story, but also take the time to engage with your audience and support others in their journey. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there—whether it’s starting conversations, reaching out to others in your niche, or even collaborating on projects.

Most importantly, stay true to yourself. Your authenticity is your greatest asset, and people are naturally drawn to those who are genuine and passionate about what they do. Social media is a powerful tool when used intentionally, so let your content and interactions reflect your unique voice and values. Over time, your audience will grow not just in numbers, but in meaningful connections that support and uplift you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyyjoan/