Q.

Do you remember the moment you started addressing a public audience online?

The first time I was “recognized” in a public place was a real turning point. This person approached me and wanted a picture and to tell me why she followed me. I realized then that my followers weren’t just a number but were actual people who cared about what I had to say.

I don’t remember it entirely because I never aimed to have so many followers. The original intent was just to find a creative outlet and community online. I can’t remember the exact moment everything shifted.

Back when Instagram was just starting out, the algorithm favored small accounts. I remember posting an image that went viral, which attracted a whole new audience. At that point, I knew I had something.

At first, I wanted t...