Chanell Huecker shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Chanell, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Thank you so much for inviting me to share my story. I really appreciate the opportunity to reflect like this.
These past few months I’ve unintentionally stepped away from social media and, in that time, I found myself leaning into the smaller joys: unmeasured time spent with Brian and our family, pouring back into friendships, and noticing of how much lighter life feels when I slow down.
For me, this season has been about unlearning old habits and drawing boundaries that protect my heart and peace of mind. This version of me is healing, always in all ways. I’m creating out of curiosity again and reminding myself that creativity doesn’t need to perform to be valid.
I feel softer these days, but in a way that makes everything I touch feel more sacred and intentional. I only wish past versions of myself could see me now, because I’m finally showing up for her.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Of course! Hi, I’m Chanell! I am a comfort movie enthusiast and a one-woman creative show.
Whether you need a hearty laugh, an ugly-cry, or just want to feel at home again, you’re always welcome in my cozy corner on the internet! I recreate scenes from nostalgic movies and TV shows with a playful twist to celebrate cinematic moments that shaped us.
My brand, bychanell, is rooted from my own love of comfort movies into a shared safe space where joy and connection always have a seat. Over time, my platform has transformed into something bigger than me: it’s a colorful, vibrant community built on nostalgia and a shared universal “I grew up with this, too!” feeling.
At the heart of it all is my inner child. I create with a free spirit to connect with others because I believe in the magic of belonging and radiating joy because the world needs more of it.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My husband, Brian, has always seen my light and magic (long before I had the courage to recognize it myself).
In the moments when I doubt my worth, he shows up with a compassionate heart and the kind of encouragement that never wavers. He makes everything feel lighter and more meaningful.
Brian’s presence is truly a gift. I am indescribably thankful to call him my heart, my home, and my once-in-a-lifetime.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell her this: Don’t waste years dimming your light for everyone else. Protect it fiercely and let yourself shine because that light was and always will be yours.
For most of my life, I believed my worth was measured by how much and what I could be to others. It wasn’t until I turned 30 where I started feeling a deep sense of peace in saying “no” to demands and “yes” to what I needed the most.
This guiltless path is still new and unfamiliar to me, but it’s one I’m committed to because I’ve never felt more aligned with who I am than I do today.
This year has truly been a love letter to my inner child.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
This has always been an unspoken truth of mine: Happiness, joy, and gratitude are a choice. The moment you validate how you feel, and recognize that you have the power to choose how you show up and where you put your energy, you begin to reclaim your life.
And finally, my inner child is my compass. Honoring her voice and curiosity is how I move through the world now.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when with Brian and our pups. I know that sounds cliché, but the world truly feels softer in those moments. It’s my gentle reminder that peace isn’t found in big milestones, but in love, presence and belonging. No matter where we are, being with them feels like I’m home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bychanell.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/by.chanell
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/bychanell
- Other: TikTok: tiktok.com/@by.chanell
