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In the wake of the announcement of his cookbook, Andy is currently exploring what it takes to be an individual culinary writer and video maker, and--of course--cook, who's already established himself as an influencer in his industry. "My philosophy when it comes to creating media is that it needs to be based on stories, perspectives, and emotion, to ensure there's a purpose behind it."

The website is curated as an experience

Andy discovers the roots of his passion for food going back to his childhood. "My parents moved from Iran to California from Iran in the late '70s And with them they brought their food culture of their country," he says. "I believe that the food traditions and the flavor, methods and my extended family having me around are the things that sparked my first passion for cooking and food." He chose to go into food and cooking writing as a career because the love for food had "expanded to a deep always-growing curiosity in everything food related."

"This site is both for people who are familiar and who aren't familiar with my work," Andy says. "I will ensure users are aware of my experience, and also engage with current and future content that which the website will create." One of the new content Andy wants to create will be on the Things I Enjoy webpage. Here, he has an opportunity to highlight his top food and lifestyle brands, expanding upon the limits of his well-known name a bit. "While my cooking and writing are a major part of my career for some time now," Andy says, "I will be taking the opportunity to explore new possibilities that will be showcased on the site."

Lessons from the first year as an artist who is independent

This past year, while creating and releasing his debut book, Andy is also examining how to work independently. That includes the process of developing his personal brand, and developing supportive habits as a creator.

"I consider that the integrity of the way I prepare and publish about food have much stayed the same," Andy says, referring to his approach to his business now, as compared to the way he did things prior to his independence. "I believe my style--while it was something that was very obvious to me on the personal level -- is now visible and is a major aspect of what I do. It is easier to express myself in the present."

Andy's other advice for aspiring creators? The artist suggests being careful about which projects you want to pursue, wherever possible. "Take to projects and collaborate alongside people who will motivate you and that you can learn something from," Andy says. "But also know that not every project might satisfy this--which is okay! But the point is to keep moving forward."

Inspiring by Andy's story? Create your own personal brand with Andy .