Hi Joseph. Thank you for taking the time to catch up with us. You have a distinguished background as a U.S. Army officer and Bronze Star recipient. How did your military experiences shape your perspective as an actor and storyteller?
Serving in the military gave me a unique lens through which I view human behavior. Leading soldiers in high-pressure environments forces you to understand people quickly, deeply, and without judgment. That kind of experience stays with you. It taught me to listen, observe, and find the emotional core driving a situation, not just the external, all of which are essential for acting. The military exposed me to the deeply human moments of life, experiences I now draw from to bring depth and truth to my performances.
What first inspired you to transition from military service to a career in acting?
Acting was always something I felt drawn to, even while I was in uniform. During my free time, I would study films, write out scenes from my life, not just for fun but to understand what made a performance real and powerful. After transitioning out of the military, I realized I had stories I wanted to tell, just on a different stage. I didn’t realize it then, but writing and acting gave me a real way to process what I’d been through and share perspectives that are often unheard, especially from Native and Veteran communities.
You recently appeared opposite Emma Stone in the Showtime series The Curse. Can you share what it was like working on that project and collaborating with such a high-profile cast?
Working on The Curse was surreal in the best way. Emma Stone and Nathan Fielder were not only incredibly talented, but also down-to-earth and generous on set. I actually drove overnight from Louisiana to New Mexico for the shoot and got maybe 30 minutes of sleep before heading straight to set for early COVID testing, then had to be in Colorado the next day for another booking. I was so exhausted, I didn’t even have time to be starstruck, which I think helped calm my nerves. I was just focused on staying awake and doing the work. That experience reminded me that every role, big or small, contributes to the larger story.
In addition to The Curse, you’ve acted in feature films like The Keeper and Wardriver. How do you approach choosing roles, and what draws you to a particular character or story?
I’m drawn to stories that feel rooted in truth. Whether the story is grounded or genre-driven, I like to look for emotional honesty. I ask, “Does this character have something to say? Is there a deeper message that resonates beyond the surface?” I also pay attention to who’s telling the story, if the project includes diverse voices and treats the subject matter with respect, that’s a big draw for me.
As an actor of Nooksack tribal heritage, you’re a passionate advocate for Indigenous representation in film and television. How do you see your work contributing to greater visibility and understanding of Indigenous voices in the industry?
Representation isn’t just about presence; it’s about authenticity. I try to approach every role with an awareness of what I represent, especially in a space where Native voices have historically been sidelined or misrepresented. I want young Indigenous people to see someone who looks like them on screen and know their stories matter. I also aim to use my platform to advocate for more inclusive casting and storytelling, because Indigenous stories aren’t just niche tales, they’re universal stories.
Indigenous actors make up less than 0.25% of the film industry. What changes would you like to see to support more authentic Indigenous stories and talent on screen?
First, we need more Indigenous producers, writers, and directors in the room. When Native creatives lead the storytelling process, the authenticity follows. Studios also need to go beyond just checking boxes; they should invest in development programs, mentorships, and real pipelines for Native talent. Audiences can help by supporting Indigenous-led projects because economic demand drives opportunity.
How have your life experiences—both as a veteran and as a member of the Nooksack tribe—influenced the way you prepare for and embody your roles?
Both backgrounds have taught me to carry weight, the emotional, cultural, and spiritual weight that shapes a person’s worldview. When I prepare for a role, I think about that weight. What does this character carry? What’s unspoken in their silence? My lived experiences have deepened my empathy and sharpened my instincts for truth. I think that’s what helps me connect with characters across a wide range of genres.
Can you share a moment from your acting career when you felt your personal story helped inspire or connect with audiences in a meaningful way?
The moments on screen often feel monumental, but it’s the ones off screen that leave the deepest impact. I’ve had friends reach out to say they’re now studying for the LSAT because seeing me in law school made them believe they could do it too. Some of the combat veterans I served with have messaged me saying that watching me chase my dreams has inspired them to do the same, and that means everything to me. Those moments of connection, of helping others believe in their own path, that’s what truly matters most.
What has been the most challenging role you’ve taken on so far, and how did you prepare for it emotionally and physically?
My first lead role was in a short film called Bloodshed at Guardian Angel Orphanage. At the time, I was still a fairly new actor, traveling all over the country to build experience, and I was grateful it filmed right here in Colorado. I felt the weight of the role immediately, especially during the table read, because leading a project meant bringing real depth and backstory to the character. To prepare, I drew heavily from my own experiences: the pain, trauma, and challenges I faced both in the military and in life. Physically, I relied on the training and discipline I developed during my time in service to help embody the character’s presence and mindset. That role was a turning point for me, it taught me how personal this work can be.
Are there any upcoming projects or roles you’re particularly excited about and can share with our readers?
I’m excited to share that I have an upcoming leading role in a feature film titled The Purple Heart. It’s easily the most rewarding, and most challenging, project I’ve taken on so far. This role requires me to carry the full emotional arc of the character, which is a major step beyond the co-star, day player, or short film leads I’ve done before. I’ll be portraying a combat veteran, a role that hits close to home, and I begin full physical and character training this summer. I’ve already met with the lead actress I’ll be working alongside and started preparing with my acting coach. I know this will stretch me more than anything I’ve done yet.
For other veterans or individuals facing their own challenges, what advice would you offer about pursuing creative careers or overcoming obstacles?
Start where you are. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. What matters most is consistency, humility, and the willingness to fail forward. As a veteran, you already have grit, and that grit translates. You’ve overcome harder things than rejection. Your story matters. Don’t let fear stop you from sharing it.
Finally, what do you hope audiences take away from your performances, and what legacy do you hope to leave as both an actor and advocate?
I hope people walk away with a greater sense of empathy. If a performance can challenge someone’s assumptions or make them feel less alone, then I’ve done my job. As for legacy, I want to leave behind a body of work that opens doors, not just for me, but for those coming after me. I want to be part of the generation that helped change the narrative for Native and veteran storytellers in Hollywood.
Image credit : Courtesy Joseph Perez
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