Reel 360 News’ Reel Black List is more than just a month-long celebration—it’s a commitment to recognizing the impact of Black professionals in advertising, film, TV, music, radio, and media every single day of the year. In a time when DEI initiatives are being challenged and progress is at risk, it’s more important than ever to amplify the voices and contributions of Black creatives, leaders, and innovators who shape our industry. For the next 29 days, we’ll shine a spotlight on extraordinary individuals making an indelible mark with their talent, vision, and influence. But let’s be clear—Black excellence isn’t limited to February. It’s 365. Today, we feature Arnold’s Director of Social Impact, Michael Houston.
Michael is a versatile producer, sound engineer, artist, social impact leader, and advocate for inclusion. With over 18 years of experience in production and advertising, Michael’s expertise spans project management, studio operations, sound production, production integration, and beyond.
A true “jack of all trades,” Michael currently serves as the Director of Social Impact at Arnold Worldwide Boston, where they focus on driving meaningful change and fostering a more inclusive and equitable industry by building pathways and expanding access for creative talent in advertising, media, and production.
Additionally, Michael supports social impact efforts across Havas North America and as a network partner, helping to shape inclusive strategies and industry-wide change.
Committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, Michael has developed programming that highlights diverse communities, providing a platform for individuals to share their work, passions, and missions through Arnold’s network.
They also founded The Inclusion Council, a diverse collective dedicated to advancing equity in advertising by improving representation in creative work and guiding Arnold’s partners toward more authentic and inclusive marketing strategies. By fostering open conversations and ensuring a variety of perspectives are heard, the council strengthens the quality and impact of Arnold’s creative work.
Beyond Arnold, Michael is a longtime advocate and board member of BAGLY, Inc., a nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ youth across Greater Boston and Massachusetts.
Their dedication to community support and social justice extends beyond their professional work, as they actively engage in initiatives that empower and uplift those who have historically faced barriers in creative industries and beyond.
Let’s meet Michael!
What’s your Origin Story?
Where do I even begin? I was born and raised in Southern Maryland, spending much of my adolescence in a small town surrounded by tobacco farms, cattle, and crops. Growing up in a majority-white area, I struggled with my identity. There wasn’t much exposure to black culture or even queer culture, which was especially tough since I was a closeted youth at the time. I felt disconnected like I didn’t quite fit in anywhere. I wasn’t the small-town kid, and I longed for the opportunity to find my place in the world, beyond the confines of that environment.
Even as a kid, I was obsessed with the idea of living in a big city. I was a shy, introspective kid—awkward and timid about sharing my ideas or imagination with others. But I was lucky enough that my parents relied on television as my ‘babysitter,’ and through that small screen, I found my passion for media and the arts. MTV, especially during the 90s when it was still all about music videos, became my teacher in a way. The artists, the productions, the creativity—it was a world I wanted to be a part of. Music, in particular, has always been my true love, my heart and soul, my security blanket.
Throughout my time in school, I played instruments, learned piano, and became obsessed with sound production. A lot of that credit goes to my grandfather, a trained saxophonist, who took me to a few of his recording sessions when I was younger. I remember sitting there, watching the guy behind the mixing console, and thinking, “I want to do THAT. I don’t know how, but I’ll figure it out.”
After high school, I graduated with honors, ready to conquer the world, but I still had no idea how to break into the audio engineering field. I was afraid to take that risk because my dad had always told me those kinds of careers wouldn’t pay the bills. I didn’t care about money at the time but hearing that deflated me. So, I took a break and worked at a local Target, feeling stuck and lost.
My dream of leaving my small town and pursuing a creative career felt like it was slipping away. But my mom, as moms do, pushed me to take a chance. So, I did. I went to an art school in Boston, and that’s where my journey began—not just in my career, but in understanding who I was and where I fit into this world. Little did I know what was ahead.
What did you want to be as a kid?
Interestingly enough, I wanted to be a pop star. I watched a lot of MTV and imagined myself as the next Janet Jackson—yes, the closeted Black gay kid fantasizing about being a pop sensation. I’d hold a comb in one hand, use a shirt to cover my head and pretend it was “long, lavish hair,” and dream of the day I could make it.
My parents, like most parents but especially Black parents, wanted me to do something that broke the stereotype of young Black boys. They wanted me to prove that I could make it in a role that any white man could get. For a while, they thought I should be a lawyer because I loved to argue—even though I was terrible at pleading my case. Then, they suggested being a doctor because my handwriting was so illegible (not exactly the best reason to pursue that path), and even a teacher since I’d often pretend to teach my stuffed animals and cousins during playtime. Anything but the arts.
I even wanted to tap dance as a kid, but my father saw that as “weak” or “girly”—no Black child of his would be seen in that way. He wanted me to follow in his footsteps as a truck driver—or do something that represented traditional masculinity–using your muscles and bringing home the bacon, but not cooking it, if you know what I mean. I respected my dad’s hustle—being a Black man in America comes with its own unique struggles—but that path wasn’t for me, and I certainly was not traditional. Over time, my true dreams felt like shame, so I quietly kept them to myself. Looking back, though, I see that rediscovering those dreams as an adult has been a blessing. They’ve helped amplify my vision and shaped my work in ways I never expected.
How did you choose your career path?
My career path has taken unexpected turns, but I’m incredibly grateful for where I am today. I truly feel like my purpose is being fulfilled. I started as an assistant sound engineer, working tirelessly for years to get a foot in the door, a seat at the table—or in my case, a seat at the console—and the recognition I needed to be taken seriously. For a long time, I was ‘the only one’—the only black person, the only queer person—fighting to earn my stripes, pay my dues, and carve out a space for myself.
Working in a pristine sound studio in the heart of Boston, you’d think I’d feel like I made it—like all my hard work had paid off. But the reality wasn’t as glamorous. I quickly learned that the media, entertainment, and advertising industries weren’t exactly welcoming to people who didn’t fit the mold—the white, straight businessmen you see in shows like Mad Men. That was what I was up against. It felt like an uphill battle, and despite my hard work, doors didn’t always open for me as they did for others.
Eventually, I worked my way up to producer roles, managing projects for a post-production company with commercial advertising producers, and film and TV professionals as my clients. But I constantly found myself fighting against people who undermined my work ethic, intelligence, and creativity. After years of proving myself, I left that sound studio—my dream job for over a decade (or so I thought). I had been treated as ‘the only one,’ despite my hard-earned success. In the end, I learned how deeply the system can confine you—both professionally and personally—especially in media and entertainment.
When I left the studio, my clients became my biggest advocates, which led me to a role at one of the most respected advertising agencies in the industry. I essentially started over as a project manager, but over time, I was pulled back into the production world. It’s a field I’ve always loved and respected, and this agency embraced my talents fully.
From there, I took on the challenge of managing an in-house studio, putting it back on track. It was during this time that I found my passion for social justice work and joined my company’s ERGs—co-leading our LGBTQ+ ERG and serving as a member of our Black ERG. Through these experiences, I discovered my true calling: not just in my work, but in using my platform to support community and amplify those doing important work to make the world a better place.
In addition to my many roles, I added “social impact” to my belt, building initiatives that create equal opportunities and access for people like me—people who shouldn’t have to work harder to get what they deserve. The impact I had on my company and within my community was clear, and it became my full-time mission to continue pushing for change.
Starting with the desire to be a music producer and now finding myself as a director and leader for change in my industry, I never could have imagined this journey. But I’m incredibly proud of the struggles and experiences that led me here—positioned to fight for others facing the same challenges I did in their careers.
Describe your creative process.
I used to be embarrassed to admit that my creative process is far from neat and tidy. On a professional level, I pride myself on being organized, but when it comes to creating work that connects deeply with others—especially in the realms of inclusion and social impact—I’ve learned to embrace a little chaos. I like to think of it as ‘controlled chaos.’ While the outside world often sees creatives as these messy, unstructured beings—papers and ideas scattered all over, supplies strewn about—it’s all part of the process. Sometimes it feels like I’ve opened a Pandora’s box I’m not sure how to close. But that’s where the magic happens.
I’ve come to believe that vulnerability and authenticity are the most important ingredients when it comes to creativity. Allowing things to feel out of place, unfinished, and even messy is all part of the journey. Growing up, I loved building models and piecing together puzzles—it was always about the experience, the adventure, and the sense of discovery.
That same sense of wonder fuels my creative process today. Why limit myself to the traditional rules of structure when imagination knows no bounds? The truth is, there are no rules in creativity. What matters is the raw, unfiltered expression we create. In the end, we’re crafting something unique, imperfect, and often surprising—but above all, empowering and impactful in ways we might not even anticipate.
Who inspires you?
My community is everything to me—it’s my wellspring of inspiration. I draw endless energy from the diverse intersectionalities of the people around me. Each person brings something unique to the table, yet we are all connected through shared experiences of resilience, truth, and strength.
The queer and trans individuals in my life offer an unapologetic authenticity that continually fuels my creative spirit. Black culture, with its deep-rooted power and unwavering foundation, sparks the fire I need to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds. Neurodivergent voices—bold, unconventional, and ever-evolving—remind me that my ideas aren’t “weird” or “out there.” They’re elevated, imaginative, and exactly the kind of perspectives this world desperately needs right now.
It’s this rich blend of identities, experiences, and voices that shapes the critical lens through which I view my work, compelling me to create with purpose, passion, and authenticity.
Then there’s Spike Lee. He’s a true giant in my creative world—a man who doesn’t just make art but challenges the very fabric of culture itself through it. Spike Lee doesn’t test the waters—he dives in headfirst, unapologetically. His work is visceral, raw, and often gritty, but within that grittiness lies profound beauty.
He’s unafraid to confront hard truths, to get his hands dirty, and to lay bare the complex realities of the world. In doing so, he crafts a vulnerability and power that deeply resonates with me. His art pulses with the energy of the city—vibrant, chaotic, colorful, alive with sound, movement, and life itself. This electric atmosphere, this untamed spirit, is what inspires me.
Spike is loud, bold, and unapologetic, and I aspire to be just as loud—if not louder. His voice is one I look up to, and it constantly pushes me to lean into my own voice with courage and conviction. Maybe one day I’ll match his volume, but for now, I’ll follow his lead and keep raising my own. Oh, and his iconic hat game has undoubtedly influenced my own colorful sense of style. I appreciate you, King!
The most unconventional risk you’ve taken in your career.
The most unconventional risk I’ve ever taken in my career was stepping away from what I thought was my true career passion—production. I didn’t completely leave it behind, but I had to let go of the notion that it was my sole calling. In truth, there were higher callings I hadn’t yet discovered, and I didn’t realize it at the time.
When I walked away from my studio job, I felt like it was all over. I had trained for it, invested in an education that buried me in student debt, and I had done it all—the grunt work, the coffee runs, the late-night shifts where I was paid pennies for my time.
Honestly, I’d have made more money working at McDonald’s than I was earning in that position. But I thought it was my dream. I believed that if I paid my dues, it would eventually pay off. It didn’t, not in that space, because it wasn’t my true calling, and it wasn’t yet my time.
What I saw as a loss at the time, I now recognize as a crucial turning point in my career. It was in leaving behind that path that I discovered a much broader, limitless potential within myself. I took a huge step and went back to school to earn my MBA later in life—something that terrified me. As a person of color in these spaces, accomplishing that on my own, without the support that others may have, felt like a monumental victory. It’s something I hold dearly, a hard-earned gold that I will never take for granted.
I’ve realized that my creativity has no boundaries, and the skills I’ve gained over the years, in every facet of my career, have ultimately worked to my advantage. I became a “jack of all trades,” self-motivated and focused on the importance of social impact—how it can elevate individuals and business alike, especially in a tough industry like this one.
In this moment, I feel powerful. What I once thought was the end of my story has actually become just the beginning. That chapter of my life is just the opening act, maybe even chapter two. I don’t regret that risk—not at all. It was a gamble, but I valued my principles, my own growth, and my true self over the idea of simply “living a dream.” In the end, I discovered a dream far bigger than I could have ever imagined. And that dream is ever evolving!
Give us a story that’s true but sounds like a lie.
Back in my days as an assistant engineer, I had an encounter that I’ll never forget—though I didn’t exactly handle it with much grace at the time. It happened when Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King (yes, that Oprah and Gayle!) came into the studio for a recording session.
One of the perks of working in production at the time was that I got to assist with recording ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) and voiceover sessions for some pretty well-known clients. My job was to make sure those sessions went smoothly and without any issues for the main engineers.
On this particular day, I was running late. I biked everywhere around the city, so I was in full-on panic mode trying to get to the studio on time. I didn’t have my glasses on (and of course, my vision is terrible), so I was pretty much squinting at everything.
I was so stressed out about being late that I didn’t even take a second to pay attention to who was around me as I ran up the back stairs to the office. I passed a group of people who were super friendly and polite, greeting me with a “Hello, how are you?” But in my rush, I barely noticed them and just replied with a quick “Hi! Have a good one, bye!” before continuing on my way.
Turns out, I had just walked right past Oprah and Gayle. I rushed into the office, and the first thing I noticed was the wide-eyed stares from my colleagues. I was confused. “What’s everyone so excited about?” I asked. One of them shouted, “Did you see them!?!”
“Who?” I replied, genuinely not realizing what was going on.
“OPRAH AND GAYLE!” they said, practically in unison.
And that’s when my jaw hit the floor. I was mortified. The realization of what had just happened hit me like a ton of bricks. Here I was, thinking nothing special had happened, and I had just brushed past two huge names in the media world without even knowing it.
It wasn’t unusual to see celebrities in the studio, especially in production. After a while, you kind of become desensitized to star power. But this one stung. It’s one of those moments when you look back and think, “Wow, I really missed something important.” Fortunately, they came back for another session later on, and I was able to properly introduce myself and make up for my earlier, very awkward mistake.
So, Oprah and Gayle, if you’re reading this—I’m sorry. That was a huge misstep on my part, and I hope you can forgive the frazzled version of me from back then… if you even remember that moment at all.
When faced with setbacks, what keeps you going?
It might seem simple, but music is everything to me. On both a professional and personal level, it’s been a constant source of comfort and inspiration throughout my life. Even with my recent ADHD diagnosis, I’ve come to realize how much music influences my mood and motivation. I’ve been told that I literally hum when there’s silence around me—it’s like my body craves it. I always need some form of music in my environment, even if it means I’m the one creating it.
Beyond that, I’ve always had a deep love for crafting curated experiences, especially when it comes to music. Whether it’s creating a mixtape or a playlist, it’s about sharing an energy that feels thoughtful, giving, and full of love for the person receiving it. There’s something so special about being able to weave together sounds that capture an emotion or a moment for someone else. It’s a way of connecting that feels deeply personal.
A few years ago, I began DJ’ing, and it’s quickly become a passion that I’m working to turn into something more professional. There’s something incredibly powerful about curating a musical experience for an audience. Seeing people’s faces light up, feeling their joy, love, and energy sync with the beats—it’s an experience that brings me just as much happiness as it does them. It keeps me motivated to share the music that brings me so much life with others, creating a space where we can all vibe together.
At the end of the day, music isn’t just something I listen to; it’s something I live, something I give, and something I hope to continue sharing with the world in ways that inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
What’s on tap for 2025?
2025 has me feeling more fired up than ever. The energy I’m seeing in the world today only fuels my passion, pushing me to dive deeper into my creative endeavors and explore new opportunities. As someone whose creativity spans far beyond my day job, I have a few exciting projects I’m looking to nurture and develop in the years to come. This year feels like the beginning of something big.
I’m planting the seeds for my DJing journey, working hard to carve out my name in the scene, ground my personal brand, and hone in on my unique ‘sound.’ The thrill of connecting with new listeners and building a loyal fanbase is electrifying. But it’s not just about the music—it’s about community. I’ve discovered so much about the art of DJing over the last year, and the deeper I dive into it, the more in love I become with this craft. It feels like a personal renaissance—transforming from a shy, timid child into a confident creator ready to share my imagination and love for music with the world.
Beyond the decks, I’m also expanding my social impact work, connecting with new and rediscovered partners, and using my platform to amplify causes that are close to my heart. I’m collaborating with nonprofits and organizations that are doing critical work for our youth, for those whose voices need to be heard, and for local small businesses that are the backbone of our communities.
I want to use my creative skills, marketing knowledge, and content expertise to create visibility and support for these vital causes. This work is where my passion lies—connecting art, creativity, and impact to make a difference in the lives of others.
As an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I’m especially focused on supporting our queer and trans youth. My ongoing commitment to BAGLY, Inc.—the oldest adult-supported, youth-led LGBTQ+ organization in the country—is a cornerstone of my advocacy.
This community, which welcomed me when I was a curious, young adult, continues to inspire and fuel my drive to give back. Supporting organizations like BAGLY through creativity, storytelling, philanthropy, and raising awareness is no longer just a part of my life—it’s my mission.
I believe deeply that this is the work that will create meaningful change for future generations—giving them the access, opportunity, and support they need to thrive without struggle. This is the dream I’m working towards every day.
And there’s one last thing that’s keeping me excited for what’s ahead: revisiting my first love—sound production. I’m passionate about finding ways to create musical experiences that are not only enjoyable but also accessible for neurodivergent individuals. It’s about making sound and music feel meaningful and intentional, without overwhelming or overstimulating those who experience the world differently. I’m exploring the science of sound and how it can be integrated into the art of music, creating spaces where everyone can connect with the rhythm, the beats, and the joy of music in their own unique way.
Choose your character crush on Abbott Elementary.
I mean, I adore Janine, obviously. She’s the kind of teacher I always dreamed of having growing up—one who’s creative, passionate, and somehow manages to work magic with limited resources. It’s not just her resourcefulness, though; it’s the heart she pours into everything she does, always finding ways to inspire and uplift those around her. She’s that beacon of hope and joy that makes you feel like anything is possible, and honestly, it’s hard not to be moved by it. That show just tugs at my heartstrings every time, and I can’t help but cry—those moments of pure emotion are just so real and beautiful.
But when it comes to a crush, I have to say, Jacob totally steals my heart. He’s got this adorably quirky energy that’s so easy to fall for. His authenticity and earnestness just make him so endearing—it’s hard not to root for him. He’s like that lovable, awkward guy who somehow manages to be both adorable and hilarious at the same time.
Twilight Zone Moment – you have a chance to be magically transported into a Spike Lee Joint or a Jordan Peele film. Choose.
This was hard since I have an admiration for Spike Lee, but a Jordan Peele film would be my choice. I’m actually so glad this question came up because I could talk about him for hours. Us is hands down my favorite film of his so far.
I mean, the depth, the symbolism—it’s just a masterpiece. And let’s be real: Lupita Nyong’o was ROBBED at the Oscars. ROBBED, I tell you. Her performance was absolutely chilling and transformative. I still can’t get over it. That movie left such an impression on me that I’ve literally had nightmares after watching it.
I would wake up, my mind racing, imagining my tethered side acting out twisted, off-kilter versions of what I do in my everyday life. It’s simultaneously terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. The way he taps into our deepest fears and curiosities about identity and duality is just pure genius.
On top of that, I’ve always been a huge horror fan, so Peele’s approach to the genre is especially thrilling. His films aren’t just about jump scares; they make you think, question, and explore uncomfortable truths. That kind of storytelling is a gift, and honestly, anything Jordan Peele does—whether it’s in film, television, or whatever he touches—I’m 100% here for it. The guy’s a creative genius, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
Favorite movie from 2024
Wicked. Period. Let me tell you, my husband is a huge theatre and musical fan (and over the years, it’s definitely grown on me). But for me to sit in a movie theatre, completely overcome with emotion, sobbing uncontrollably over a musical—that’s unheard of. I’ve seen the Broadway show twice and thought it was amazing, don’t get me wrong.
But I didn’t expect to be on the floor, crying my eyes out. The Wicked film, however, is a whole different experience. Having a Black queer woman as the lead? That hit so much harder for me. It brought a whole new layer to the narrative, making the themes of the story even more poignant and real.
Watching this film release at a time when America is going through such challenging, emotional times only amplified that connection. There’s a weight to it—the courage, the struggle, and the hope in the face of adversity. It’s impossible not to be completely immersed in the world of Wicked. Every scene, every note, every moment feels so emotionally charged, especially with everything that’s going on right now in the world. It’s truly a masterpiece.
Since I first saw it, I’ve watched it four more times (yep, I’m obsessed). I even bought the film so I can keep it forever. Honestly, it’s a classic in my eyes, one that I’ll hold onto for the rest of my life. It’s a film that resonates with you on a deep, personal level, and I just know it will continue to have that emotional impact for years to come. I cannot wait for part 2 to be released!
Favorite album from 2024?
Cowboy Carter. And let me be clear, I’m not just saying that because I’m a dedicated Beyhive member—though I am unapologetically part of that fanbase—this album was my emotional anchor last year. It’s nothing short of a masterpiece. With every listen, there’s a new layer, a subtle nuance that I didn’t catch before. What truly strikes me is how Beyoncé has used this album to reclaim and redefine Black history.
Country music, a genre that was once deeply connected to the roots of Black culture, was co-opted and rebranded as a “white-only” space. But Beyoncé, with her unshakable conviction, has lifted that genre back up and made it her own. She’s elevated Black country artists who had long been overlooked, shining a light on talent that may have never reached the mainstream without her influence.
To see her win the Grammy for Best Country Album—after being told she “wasn’t country enough”—was nothing short of poetic justice. This album is not just musically transcendent; it’s a declaration of resilience, an anthem for overcoming obstacles and breaking barriers. It’s a love letter to the power of perseverance and vision, showing that when we remain focused on the prize, nothing is beyond reach.
Honestly, it’s so layered and impactful, this album could be the subject of a full-fledged college thesis on how Black artists continually challenge, reshape, and revolutionize genres. It’s an inspiring reminder that we can—and will—do anything we set our minds to, no matter the odds.
Let’s talk about Doechii?
Let’s talk about Doechii. She’s finally getting the recognition she so rightfully deserves! For far too long, people have slept on her brilliance, but now the world is starting to take notice. Her artistry is nothing short of extraordinary. In a time when the mainstream music industry is flooded with fast-produced, commercialized hip-hop, Doechii has brought back the true essence of the genre.
She’s not just rapping for the sake of rapping—she’s telling her story, speaking on issues that matter, and elevating the art of storytelling in a way that feels fresh and innovative. Her unique voice and style are a much-needed breath of fresh air in a space that often lacks authenticity. And let’s talk about her 2025 Grammy performance and acceptance speech—pure magic. It was nothing short of iconic, a moment that will go down in history as one of the most inspiring and empowering in recent memory.
Doechii makes me want to do cartwheels, and if you know what that means, then you understand the kind of joy and excitement she brings to the table. Her energy is infectious, and her artistry must continue to be recognized and celebrated. She’s a trailblazer, and watching her rise only reminds me that there’s always space for innovation, authenticity, and individuality in this industry.
To see the up-to-date Reel Black List, click here.
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RBL celebrates: Aaron Marshall, Copywriter
