Michelle Austin is a trailblazing transgender actress, producer, director, and video editor whose impact on the adult entertainment industry extends far beyond the screen. A fierce advocate for representation and visibility, she has played a pivotal role in breaking barriers for transgender individuals in media. Her exceptional talent and dedication earned her the prestigious 2013 Tranny Award for Voluptuous Model, a testament to her influence and presence in the industry.
More than just a performer, Michelle is a dynamic businesswoman who has carved out her own space as a producer and director, shaping narratives and redefining standards within her field. Her entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision have established her as a force to be reckoned with. Beyond entertainment, she leverages her platform to champion transgender rights, fostering empowerment and inclusion within the community. Bold, ambitious, and unapologetically herself, Michelle Austin continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry and beyond.
Monika: Hello Michelle!
Michelle: Hello Monika! Thank you for having me!
Monika: You have an impressive career spanning multiple roles in the industry. Could you share a little more about yourself and what drives your passion for this work?
Michelle: Well, as you all know already, I am Michelle Austin. I have been in the adult industry for four years now. I don’t just work in front of the camera, I work a lot behind the scenes as well. I take great pride in creating content that represents and empowers transgender performers. My goal is to continue breaking stereotypes and pushing for greater inclusivity in the industry.
Monika: What led you to enter the adult film industry, and how did your journey unfold?
Michelle: At 21, I was early into my transition when Shemale Yum approached me to do a set for them. At that time, I had been on the cover of Ladylike Magazine and really wasn’t ready to be in porn. I didn’t think I wanted to be seen as a sex object that early on in my transition. Fast forward to being 30, and I was asked again by Shemale Yum, and I was ready in my life, I had been full-time and comfortable in my own skin by then to do it! It turned out to be a pivotal moment in my career, opening doors to opportunities I never expected. Looking back, I see it as a decision that helped me grow both personally and professionally.
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| Lady in red. |
Monika: Many people assume that working in the adult film industry is financially rewarding. As a transgender adult actress, is it possible to make a stable living from this career alone?
Michelle: No! I suggest any girl wanting to get into this business, don’t do it for the money. I love what I do, but it helps push my other jobs. I work a lot at promoting my brand and doing tons of other things that help me live off of it. Success in this industry requires constant effort, creativity, and adaptability. Building multiple income streams is essential to maintaining financial stability.
Monika: In your experience, what kind of audience is typically drawn to transgender adult films? Have you noticed any changes in viewer demographics over the years?
Michelle: I would say they are a straight male, curious, or already there. Many are exploring their attraction to transgender women, while others are longtime fans of the genre.
Monika: Some transgender activists argue that transgender adult films contribute to negative stereotypes about the community. How do you respond to those concerns, and do you think adult films can have a positive impact on the way transgender people are perceived?
Michelle: I don’t think so! As for me, I work a lot with the queer porn world, and last year, their porn was used in colleges as an educational tool. I think that can be the same for trans porn as well. I also feel like I am a role model to many girls; I am showing them that you can be beautiful at any size, and love your body and who you are. We all look at porn! The key is representation, and when transgender performers are seen as empowered and respected, it helps challenge harmful stereotypes.
Monika: Have you ever participated in transgender beauty pageants, and if so, what was your experience? Do you see yourself returning to them in the future?
Michelle: I did years ago, and I loved it, but it’s a lot of money and time that I really don’t have right now in my life. I love being on stage and entertaining. As for pageants though, most look down upon girls who have done porn. So, the only way I would get back into it would be when I completely leave the industry. I’ve always been drawn to the glamour and the confidence that pageants bring, but my focus now is on my career and personal growth. If I ever return, it would be on my own terms and at a time that feels right for me.
Monika: Beauty is often associated with empowerment, but do you believe that true empowerment comes from something deeper? How do you tap into your own strength and confidence in your life and career?
Michelle: I don’t think beauty produces girl power, I believe strength does. I think you need strength and inner love to be empowered. And of course, to live the life I live and do the things I do, I have to be empowered. It's about owning who you are, no matter what others may think. For me, being empowered means staying true to myself and using my experiences to inspire others.
Monika: During your transition, did you have any transgender role models or mentors who helped guide you along the way? How did they influence you in your journey?
Michelle: Oh, my God, YES! That’s the beauty of the trans sisterhood that I cherish to this day. The minute I walked into this world and started to transition, I had so many beautiful women take me under their wings. One of the greatest trans women to influence me was Erica Andrews, the first trans woman I ever met. She showed me the importance of confidence, resilience, and kindness in navigating the world as a transgender woman. I am forever grateful for the guidance and love I received from those women who shaped me into who I am today.
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| Ready for a beach. |
Monika: Coming out is a unique experience for everyone. What were some of the challenges you faced during your coming out process, and how did you navigate them?
Michelle: I had two coming-outs, so my second one was a little easier on things. But it was still rough. When I decided to transition as a woman, I moved away from my family to do the change away from them. I didn’t want them to have to go through the experience with me. By the time I told them, I had already been living full-time for three years. So coming out to them was a little easier, but they knew I was openly gay, so being trans wasn’t that much more of a stretch to shock them. It was still a delicate conversation, though, and took time to adjust to. I think the hardest part was realizing how much it affected them, even though I had already made peace with my decision.
Monika: How would you describe the current state of transgender women’s rights and visibility in American society? What do you think needs to change for greater acceptance?
Michelle: I think it sucks being a second-class citizen in America. We are slowly being viewed in a positive light in some media, but still, most of the country has no clue what a transgendered person is. We have many more years before it becomes something of the norm. It’s frustrating because even with all the progress, there’s still so much ignorance and misunderstanding. I think more education and representation are key to bridging that gap and helping people see us for who we really are.
Monika: Do you believe transgender rights could become the next major focus in the human rights movement, or are there still significant barriers to overcome?
Michelle: Oh, it is getting there, but here in America, the human rights focus is on gay marriage. I don’t think we will see trans human rights for another decade or so, which is sad. It’s frustrating because trans people have been fighting for basic rights for so long, and yet we still face so much discrimination. The visibility and recognition of transgender issues need to continue growing, and only then can we start making real progress.
Monika: Do you believe transgender women have the potential to make a significant impact in politics, and do you personally engage in any advocacy or lobbying efforts?
Michelle: I think trans women can make great strides in politics, but when it comes to me and politics, I don’t agree. I think politics are what’s killing this country, and it's hard to change what is already done. As for me, I sit on the side and watch! While I support others who are pushing for change, I feel that the current political system is so broken that it’s hard to see real transformation. However, I do believe that the more trans voices we have in politics, the better the chance of creating meaningful change.
Monika: How important is love in your life, both in terms of romantic relationships and the support you receive from friends and family?
Michelle: I think you need love to be happy. I have so much love in my life, from the great friends I know to my amazing family and my husband of six years. I am a blessed person to be so loved and live the life I want. I know many trans people don’t have that opportunity. Love has been a foundation of strength for me, and I know it’s helped me navigate life’s challenges. I truly believe that when you are surrounded by love, it gives you the courage to be your true self.
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| At 6th Annual Tranny Awards gala. |
Monika: How would you describe your personal style? Do you have a favorite type of clothing or trends that you enjoy wearing, both for work and in your everyday life?
Michelle: I love fashion, but I live a very quiet life outside of porn, so when it comes to buying the hottest thing and showing it off, you really only see that on my site. As for trends, I try to stay in fashion. But for the most part, I am a very casual kind of girl. Summertime, it’s all dresses. I enjoy wearing pieces that make me feel confident, but comfort is key for me. I love a good dress or relaxed outfit for daily life, but I do enjoy dressing up for special occasions and shoots.
Monika: Have you ever considered writing a memoir or sharing your life story in another form, like a play or book?
Michelle: Well, I basically write a column about my life for Transformations Magazine called A Tgirl's Life. But one day, I plan to write a book, if not a book, a play. I was a theater major in college, so plays and musicals are my things. So to see a play about me would be pretty cool. Writing a memoir or a play feels like a natural extension of the stories I’ve shared with others, and I’m excited about the possibility of putting it all together one day. I think it would be a fun way to document my journey and inspire others.
Monika: What are your current goals for the future, and where do you see yourself in the next 5-7 years?
Michelle: Have my porn empire built! Most likely, I have announced I will be retiring from in front of the camera at the end of 2014, but I will be producing stuff and shooting a lot of trans men and women for my new site AlternaTRANS.com, which will be a hot spot for all trans porn needs. I see myself growing the business side of things, working behind the scenes, and expanding into other projects. It’s exciting to think about the next chapter and how I can continue to empower others while pursuing new creative ventures.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women who are considering a career in the entertainment industry, especially in adult entertainment?
Michelle: First off, know who you are. Find yourself, love yourself, and be comfortable in your own skin. This industry will eat you up and spit you out. Also, don’t do it for the money, but do it for the love. Then, from there, go for it! It's important to have a strong sense of self and not let the pressures of the industry define you. If you're passionate about what you do, it will make all the challenges worthwhile.
Monika: Michelle, thank you for the interview!
All the photos: courtesy of Michelle Austin.
© 2014 - Monika Kowalska
Some documentaries with Michelle Austin:
Trans: A Photo and Video Project
Director: Dave Naz Release Year: 2013 In 2013, photographer and filmmaker Dave Naz launched an evocative and powerful multimedia project titled Trans: A Photo and Video...
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