Michaela Crutcher: A Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Creativity

From Military Roots to Modeling Success, This Rising Star is Making Waves

Growing up in a military background, Michaela Crutcher always envisioned a life of purpose, travel, and giving back. This deep-seated desire led her to pursue a career in counseling psychology, achieving her master’s degree and career goals in case management and therapy services by her mid-20s. But Michaela’s story doesn’t stop there—it’s a tale of resilience, adaptability, and unexpected twists that have catapulted her into the spotlight.

Michaela’s fascination with modeling was sparked early on by her mother, who was a model herself. However, it wasn’t until years later, while living in Germany for 2.5 years, that Michaela stepped into the modeling world serendipitously. A chance opportunity to help a friend during a makeup competition revealed her love for creativity and self-expression.

The following year, she was selected to participate in Louisville’s inaugural RAW show as a hair model, an experience that ignited her passion for pursuing modeling gigs. But her career truly took off in 2019 when she joined the YouTube sensation Hook Line & Chill. Responding to a Craigslist ad while modeling in Nashville and Louisville, Michaela became a regular on the channel, which boasts nearly 300,000 subscribers. With her participation, Michaela accrued over 20 million views, won multiple awards like “Video of the Year” and “Biggest Fish,” and found herself thrust into a rapidly expanding spotlight.

From YouTube Fame to International Recognition

Michaela’s association with Hook Line & Chill transformed her career, but it was her determination, faith, and adaptability that truly set her apart. This year alone, she has been published in six magazines, modeling for major events such as Imaging USA and representing at the International Film Festival. Her remarkable ability to balance professional endeavors with volunteer work speaks to her character and commitment to her values.

An outspoken advocate for mental health and domestic violence/sexual assault (DV/SA) awareness, Michaela continues to use her platform to inspire others. Her military upbringing instilled in her a spirit of resilience and adaptability, qualities that have been instrumental in navigating the challenges of both her professional and personal life.

A Role Model in the Making

Michaela’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, creativity, and perseverance. From the counseling room to the catwalk, she has forged a path that blends professional success with a commitment to advocacy and giving back. Her story resonates not only as an inspiration for aspiring models but also as a beacon of hope for those striving to overcome adversity.

As Michaela continues to break barriers, her dedication to her craft and her advocacy work remain at the core of her journey. Follow her inspiring story and see her work on Instagram at @mick_eye_ee_luh.

Michaela Crutcher is more than a model—she’s a symbol of strength, creativity, and resilience in an ever-changing world. The Hollywood Magazine is proud to celebrate her extraordinary journey, highlighting a rising star who’s destined for greatness.

CREDITS:

HMUA, photographer and stylist: @kayte_mua

Outfit: @hardtimes.collective

Interview With Michaela Crutches

1. How did growing up in a military environment influence your journey in counseling psychology and modeling?

I can say that my parents were a huge influence with both trajectories. My mom modeled while raising my brother to have extra cash and has told me funny stories while shooting commercials and walking runways. Specifically, the maternal side of the family is affected by mental health, to where I was aware of conditions at a young age. One thing that I can say about her is that she always tried her best despite circumstances: I can’t help but admire my mom for this to this day. With my father and brother serving and being affected by deployments and other events, I wanted to be able to give back to the community I’m from due to being affected myself. I was always between becoming an attorney or psychologist; it took one class at Louisville to realize I couldn’t do games in a courtroom, so psychology it was!

2. What inspired you to transition from a career in mental health to exploring modeling?

At that time, I was preparing to be in my masters program while working in case management; I was also separating from my marriage. I needed a break and I had a lot of fun with my two events I participated in. A model friend of mine advised me to see what gigs were on Model Mayhem because I wanted extra money and found random shoots via ads. Honestly, I needed a boost in my confidence and self-esteem. This took me down to Nashville and the road I’m on now.

3. How did joining Hook Line & Chill on YouTube shape your career and open new opportunities?

Hook Line & Chill saved the woman I was at that time. In the middle of splitting up with my husband, I was relearning who I was and needed motivation. My primary reason to join was money driven at first; over the years, I began to truly enjoy going on trips and was excited to fish. I was a channel member during the second season, where it was still being built. By the end of that year, I amassed followers and requests. I was able to knock on doors previously inaccessible just because someone recognized me.

One of the most important lessons I learned was the ability to not take comments personally, especially on a platform. When you’re on the Internet, everyone has an opinion; however, so do you. I learned real quick that I was for some, not for all and that’s okay. That’s allowed me to realize I am my own representation and that I want to make sure it 100% showcases my identity.

4. What has been your most memorable achievement as both a model and mental health advocate?

As a model, I have been able to pivot my preferences to where they honor my faith this past year. Previously, I modeled in boudoir, bodyscapes and other risque genres because where I was in my life. I was trying to reclaim my sexuality and body post marriage. Mid 2024, I decided to align myself back to my religion after my best friend’s passing; shortly after, I landed my 6th magazine, fully clothed. I thought I was done in the modeling community because of my new boundaries and instead, it was celebrated. It’s quite beautiful.

As a mental health advocate, being able to be looked at as an expert opinion after enduring what I have has been my most rewarding experience. I survived the same traumas as my previous clients; I was told after leaving therapy that this helped them with treatment because I related. Working with my current job has been liberating because I am able to contribute to changing the culture while educating people on topics concerning domestic violence and sexual assault.

5. How do you balance your professional career with modeling and volunteer work?

Honestly, resting and giving myself grace! For a long time, I overworked myself on purpose to avoid feeling and not overcoming my own vices. After being in therapy, I realized that it was okay to have moments for myself and balance was key. I have intent when I select modeling gigs nowadays. Before, it was about how much revenue I could make. Nowadays, it is really about what is fulfilling. I am really ready to get back in the full swing of volunteering. A planner is this millennial’s best friend.

6. What role has resilience played in overcoming challenges throughout your journey?

If it wasn’t for my ability to bounce back, I wouldn’t be here. Point blank period. If I was still in the same position I was 5 years ago, I wouldn’t be alive. I come from a community where people pass away young. Two of my close friends have passed away in the last 3 years in horrible circumstances, including my best friend 3 days after my birthday this year. That drives me daily to be my best possible self. Sometimes, that is by simply showing up. Other times, it is maximizing my potential. I will say that resiliency helped me grow out of my original mindset and realize that I can determine my outcomes. It also allowed for me to really how much control I truly have, if I choose that choice. With that, I know that nothing can affect me without my consent. We keep pushing and going until we arrive.

7. What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry?

First, believe in you and know that you will do it. “Can,” isn’t a word in my vocabulary because it gives opportunity for not- you will if you want. Secondly, I highly recommend looking into groups in your local communities and see the accessibility. I have been able to find opportunities in FB model groups while also being forewarned about scams or people to not collaborate with. Finally, please always feel comfortable to note your dealbreakers or no-gos. Ask other models their experiences with a photographer. Look up reviews. Make sure that whatever you choose is your choice