Chris Michael
About Chris Michael
Chris Michael serves as the Head of Development and Content Strategy at Jellysmack, where he has worked since 2024. He previously held key positions at Hearst Studios West, Nerdist Industries, and Funny Or Die, contributing significantly to audience development and digital content strategies.
Work at Jellysmack
Chris Michael serves as the Head of Development and Content Strategy at Jellysmack, a position he has held since 2024. In this role, he focuses on developing innovative content strategies to enhance the company's digital presence. His expertise in audience engagement and content creation supports Jellysmack's mission to empower creators and optimize their content across various platforms.
Previous Experience at Hearst
Before joining Jellysmack, Chris Michael worked at Hearst as the General Manager of Hearst Studios West from 2019 to 2023. During his tenure in Santa Monica, California, he centralized video operations, which improved the efficiency and reach of Hearst's brand portfolio. His leadership contributed to the studio's success in producing engaging content for diverse audiences.
Background in Digital Media
Chris Michael has a diverse background in digital media, having held various roles in audience development and content strategy. He worked at Nerdist Industries as the Director of Audience Development and at Funny Or Die as the Vice President of Digital Programming. His experience includes transforming a YouTube channel from 30,000 to over 3 million subscribers, significantly enhancing its presence in the comedy genre.
Education and Expertise
Chris Michael studied Film and Video History at Grand Valley State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from 2002 to 2006. He also pursued studies in improvisation at iO Chicago and The Groundlings, which contributed to his storytelling and content creation skills. His educational background supports his expertise in developing engaging digital content.
Consulting and Content Development
Prior to his current role, Chris Michael worked as a Senior Consultant at Vodori and held various leadership positions in digital content development. He assisted over 500 independent YouTube creators, Hollywood studios, and digital brands in engaging and expanding their audiences. His experience includes launching subscription services and contributing to the growth and monetization of digital platforms.