Johnny Michael is a writer, director, and creative who makes things that make people feel something—usually laughter, sometimes the stuff that sticks with you, ideally both.
Currently based in Miami, I'm the founder of From The Fringe, a golf creative studio where I get to combine storytelling with the game I'm passionate about—shooting, directing, and flying drones to capture it all. I also creative direct, shoot, and voice Hi, a brand that spreads friendliness and reminds people we're all just a word and wave away from connection. I'm actively pursuing Creative Director roles and exploring opportunities in sports marketing. After 11+ years in advertising (Razorfish, Publicis agencies, and more), I've realized I'm most energized when I'm building, directing, and collaborating on work that's genuine and human.
I believe the best creative work comes from conversation, not portfolio dumps. So instead of plastering this site with every project I've ever touched, I'd rather talk to you about what you're working on, then share what's relevant.
The Story (So Far)
At 17, I realized writing could be powerful. At 23, I went to Chicago Portfolio School to become a copywriter. I walked around Chicago with red balloons, worked at Commonwealth//McCann on Chevrolet, wrote copy for a medical spa and learned about places on the female anatomy I didn't know existed, took improv classes, moved to Miami for Burger King, won a scholarship to The Second City, spent 7 years at Razorfish, and started From The Fringe.
Along the way I published a book called "A Funny Thing About Love" under the name Johann Rocket (because why not have a super-rad artist name?), worked with brands like Nike and Columbia Sportswear, built Hi, and learned that the best career moves come from following curiosity instead of safe paths.
The plan is to keep adding to this story. If you'd like to work together and be part of it, please do, say hi.
My resume is here.
P.S. — I'm a real human who loves meeting people and having real conversations. I'm also a Claude super-user who believes in using the best tools available—including AI to help write this. Keeping up with the times and keeping it human.