Meet Michael McClain | Model, Fashion Influencer & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael McClain and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think that without Risk there is no reward. Only two months ago, I was a social media specialist for a global retailer, working hard to grow and scale their business for social media; all while ignoring my desires to do the same for my personal brand as a creator/entrepreneur. I was terminated from that position on December 2, 2021, and in that very moment, I knew it was time to be my own boss because I never want to be in a position to be fired again. I moved my content creation as a model, fashion influencer, and digital strategist from #2 priority to number 1 and I am already on pace to making more than I made at my old job. I’m also happy and excited every day to do what I do. Without taking that risk of not having guaranteed income and eyes on me as a creator I’d be at whatever job I found.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a model, fashion influencer & serial entrepreneur. I’m a jack of all trades so it’s hard for me to categorize myself in one box. But as of now, my main focus has been modeling and fashion content that illustrates my confidence behind the lens of a camera and my unique sense of style through high pace edited video content. What sets me apart from others is how I mix different styles of clothing to have my unique look and how I implement music video-style edits in my content. I got where I am professionally by staying consistent and working smarter not harder. Balancing full-time work and building on a craft that didn’t bring in any money yet was not easy. But to keep myself focused I thought about where I would be, not where I currently was at. The lesson I learned is the results of your work may not come when you want them to but they will come. I want the world to know that I don’t come from the wealthiest family or the nicest area. I’m from a place where what I do is considered corny until you make it and where making it out is not common for everyone. Crime and violence are the norm and support is not easy to come by. Despite all that, I believed in myself, began making a name for myself, and turned everyone who ever doubted me into a believer. It’s not easy but it’s possible.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d definitely take a friend to the Waterfront. We can see Philadelphia across the water, battleships, and there is beautiful scenery all around to just clear your mind. I’m not a restaurant guy yet but Chick-fil-A is definitely the spot to eat around me. Quality, fast reliable food, and good service. My city doesn’t have many spots that I visit but we neighbor Philadelphia and we’re only an hour from New York. That’s always my go-to for some excitement.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A big person who aided in my success is Brad Aronson. I am a student in his entrepreneurship class and though I’ve always had a natural talent and the ability to learn fast he taught me the importance of properly planning your goals. That has been the lesson that has been propelling me forward because I am now moving with intention instead of with the wind.

Instagram: Justm1ke

Other: Tiktok:Just.m1ke