Chand Smith shares how he went from athlete to model, what keeps him grounded through bodybuilding, and why acting is his next big goal
From the frozen rinks of Sweden to the vibrant fashion hubs of Paris and Los Angeles, Chand Smith has built a career that fuses athletic discipline with editorial edge. First scouted on a Paris subway while playing ice hockey, Smith quickly transitioned from sports to modeling, landing high-profile campaigns and making a name for himself in both fashion and fitness. Today the former athlete isn’t just a model with an enviable physique—he’s also a competitive bodybuilder, a trainer and an aspiring actor with his sights set on Hollywood.
In this exclusive conversation with DA MAN, Chand talks about the mental side of wellness, the discipline behind his sculpted frame and why his next big challenge might be on the big screen.
DAMAN: Chand, let’s start from the very beginning. How did you get into modeling?
Chand Smith: Hi guys! First of all, thanks for having me. I was scouted in Paris back in 2012. I was living there at the time playing ice hockey full time, and I got approached by a scout on the subway—on my birthday, no less. Definitely a memory for life. That was the starting point.
DA: Do you remember your first shoot? What was going through your mind at the time?
CS: For sure. It was in Paris not long after I got scouted. I remember feeling very nervous. I had no idea what to expect.
DA: What would you say was your first big break?
CS: I landed a pretty major sports campaign that gave me a lot of recognition. I’d say that was the turning point.
DA: You’ve worked across different markets—from Stockholm to LA. How has that shaped you?
CS: I love traveling. That’s one of the best parts of the job. Every market is different and changes over time too. Personally, I think it’s hard to fit in everywhere, so it’s important to find “your” markets, if that makes sense. Experiencing so many different cultures has shaped me in the best way. Tons of life experience, and it’s made me stronger as a person. Good or bad, you always learn something.
Personally, I think it’s hard to fit in everywhere, so it’s important to find ‘your’ markets, if that makes sense
DA: You’ve done fashion, fitness and editorial shoots. Which one feels the most natural to you?
CS: If I had to pick one, it would be fitness. I come from an athletic background and that’s always been part of who I am. But since this has been my job for a while now, everything feels natural. Most importantly it’s all fun and exciting.
I come from an athletic background and that’s always been part of who I am. But since this has been my job for a while now, everything feels natural.”
DA: With your athletic build, how do you manage jobs that ask for different looks?
CS: It’s definitely a balancing act. At the end of the day, you simply can’t please everyone, and the ones who like you will book you. That’s something I’ve come to understand more over time and that mindset has helped me a lot mentally.
DA: Your physique is stage-ready. What drives that kind of discipline?
CS: I absolutely love it. I really missed the competitive part of my hockey career, so bodybuilding worked well alongside modeling and training. I’m the kind of person who goes all in. I can’t do anything halfway.
DA: People notice your body, but what part of your wellness routine is more mental rather than physical?
CS: The mental part is huge. My workouts are like therapy. That hour, however long it is, helps me block everything else out. As a trainer I know everyone needs that kind of reset. Modeling can be mentally tough too, especially with all the waiting for options. So my wellness routine is key to staying balanced.
DA: Are you someone who plans every detail of your day or do you leave room for flexibility?
CS: I’m pretty OCD and definitely schedule my days and hours [laughs]. That’s how I function, especially because life can be unpredictable. I might be flying somewhere the next day, so I like to control what I can. But recharging is super important to me and I’ve made that more of a priority. I do breathwork and meditation daily. As much as I love being busy, you can’t always stay in that go mode.
DA: Your hair has become part of your signature look. What’s your routine—and have you ever wanted to change it up?
CS: Salt spray or oil is my go-to. Super simple, really. And no, I haven’t been tempted to switch it up. At least not yet [laughs]! I think this one’s a keeper.
DA: Has working in fashion changed how you think about grooming?
CS: Absolutely. I had no routine when I was playing hockey. But now that I’m in the industry I’ve learned how important appearance is. Clear skin, good hair—you have to stay on top of the little details.
DA: What’s one grooming habit you never skip, no matter how busy you happen to be?
CS: Facial creams, for sure.
DA: How would you describe your off-duty style?
CS: I’m very chill. Usually I’ll just wear a basic T-shirt and jeans combo, or some nice gym wear I like. That’s more my personal vibe.
DA: Do you follow any style rules—or do you like to break them?
CS: Not really. I go with what feels right and what suits me. But I’m definitely interested in fashion and follow a lot of fashion-related content on social media.
DA: When you’re not working or training, what do you enjoy most?
CS: I’m such a homebody! I love just being at home and watching TV or listening to a good podcast while hiking in the outdoors.
DA: What role do music, art or film play in your life? Any standouts?
CS: Music has always been a big part of my life. I’m a rock guy at heart—thanks to my parents for that. I love going to concerts, and my Spotify definitely gets a workout. I also love watching films, both to relax and to get inspired. Acting is something I really want to dive deeper into.
DA: Would you say you’re more of a visual person or a physical one?
CS: Interesting question. I’d say they’re connected. I usually start with a vision and then it becomes something physical.
DA: What’s something people might not expect from you based on your social media appearances?
CS: I’m actually very down to earth. A lot of people assume I’m kind of a douchebag.
DA: How would you describe yourself today using three words?
CS: Happy, hungry, motivated.
DA: What’s next for you—more modeling, more competing or something new?
CS: Besides modeling and bodybuilding I see myself moving further into acting. I’ve already done commercials and one movie, and it feels like a natural next step, especially being in Los Angeles. I’ve been taking acting classes for some time now and I’m fully committed to chasing that dream.
Coming from Sweden, guys like Joel Kinnaman and Alexander Skarsgård are people I really look up to. I’m especially into thrillers and action films so that’s what I’d love to focus on. Even a TV show would be great. I’ve been up for a few recently but haven’t landed one yet. Still, I’m not giving up.
Photography Lensbymi
Styling Kimberly Yvette Goodnight
Model Chand Smith/Storm LA