We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Mickey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jordan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was all about freedom, creativity, and control. I’ve always been passionate about design, branding, and digital marketing, and I wanted to build something that fully reflected my skills and vision. I didn’t want to just work for a company—I wanted to create my own opportunities, work on projects that actually excite me, and help businesses build strong, strategic identities.

Another big part of it was positioning myself as more than just a designer. I wanted to offer real expertise, from branding to AI-driven solutions, and help businesses stay ahead in a space that’s constantly evolving. Plus, I wanted to set my own rates, choose my clients, and operate on my own terms instead of being boxed in by someone else’s vision.

At the end of the day, it was also about legacy. I don’t want to just work for others my whole life—I want to build something of my own, something that grows with me. Even if I take on other roles in the future, having my own business means I always have something solid to fall back on, a brand that represents me and my work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is all about storytelling through design—bringing visions to life, whether it’s a client’s brand or an idea I had that turns into reality. I don’t just make things look good; I make them work. What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with strategy, ensuring every design choice has purpose.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I’ve had to prove myself, push through doubt, and constantly evolve. But I’ve learned that betting on yourself, staying adaptable, and trusting your skills will take you far.

At the end of the day, Sol Studios is more than design—it’s about creating meaningful, impactful work and helping others do the same. Creativity and success can coexist, and you can build something great on your own terms.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visited Detroit for a week, we’d hit the best spots for food, culture, and fun. We’d start with brunch at IGGY’s and explore Campus Martius Park, then check out DIA and Charles H. Wright Museum. We’d shop at FENTY, relax at The Brakeman, and enjoy dinner at SavannahBlue or Seva. For fun, we’d catch a Pistons or Lions game, try Fowling Warehouse, and visit Spot Lite Detroit for music and art. Outdoor time would include the Belle Isle Conservatory and the Riverwalk, with must-try eats from Detroit House of Pancakes, Bucharest Grill, and Joe Muer Seafood. We’d wrap up the trip with a visit to my alma mater, College For Creative Studies—the perfect end to a Detroit experience!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my family and to minorities—especially those who are constantly doubted by others. My family has always been my foundation, encouraging me to push forward even when things felt uncertain. Their support has played a huge role in shaping who I am and what I’ve built.

I also want to recognize minorities, creatives, and entrepreneurs who have had to work twice as hard just to be taken seriously. I know what it’s like to be underestimated, to have to prove yourself in spaces that weren’t designed with you in mind. This is for the people who keep going despite the doubt, who create their own paths when doors don’t open for them. You deserve to be seen, valued, and heard.

Website: http://jojordan.design

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jojorddan

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jmickey1999

Other: http://solstudios.me

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.