Artists on the Rise: Joseph Grable

A Creative Journey: Exploring Acting, Directing, and Podcast Hosting with Joseph Grable

Meet Joseph, a young multi-talented creative making his mark in acting, film directing, and podcast hosting. With a passion for storytelling and a desire to share life lessons, Joseph opens up about his inspirations, challenges, and upcoming projects in OUR exclusive Q&A

IN: How did you initially become interested in acting, film directing, and podcast hosting? What inspired you to pursue these diverse creative paths? 

J: I became very interested in acting at a young age due to constantly watching movies. I was very limited as a child in the things I could do, like play sports, go swimming, go on hikes etc. I spent a lot of my life watching movies and that’s where my love for acting came from. After I turned 20 I moved out to Los Angeles to pursue acting & go to school. Within this time I fell in love with Filmmaking and I began to write more, work on sets doing crew positions, just trying out everything I could and I really enjoyed directing the most. I directed 4 short films while I was in school. We recently wrapped the 4th in November 2022. I got into podcasting because I love meeting & talking to people, I love learning about somebody and the things they’ve overcome. I’ve lost siblings, close friends, and so much family, and all I want to do is give back what I’ve learned about life by having those experiences. I began Podcasting over a year ago and it’s taught me so much, from doing all the editing, research, and hosting. I’m very grateful to be in the position I am in today

IN: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced while working on a recent project? 

J: I recently directed a short film called “Hold on Tight” and on the last day of shooting I ended up losing 1/3 of my crew due to a lack of communication, I had to turn all my night scenes into day scene, change a few scenes around and do a few rewrites. It was a difficult day but what makes it so memorable is how well the rest of my crew handled it, they allowed me time to make changes and still get everything done in time. They worked incredibly hard that day. I learned more about directing in that one day than I did in the previous 6 months before the shoot. Overall, it was a great experience, and I would do it again

IN: Who are some of your biggest influences or role models in the entertainment industry, and how have they impacted your work?

J: I’d say my biggest influences in this industry are Kevin Feige, James Wan, Kevin Hart, & Ava DuVernay. They’re all absolute powerhouses in this industry

IN: How do you balance your time and energy between acting, directing, and hosting your podcast? Are there any strategies or routines that help you stay focused and productive?

J: Anyone in the film business will tell you it’s a very rocky business, you have times of the year that are slow, and you must learn to manage your time well. Hosting my podcast takes up my time when I’m not pursuing acting or trying to get the next project off the ground. Having a private space to do your work is a great way to stay focused and productive, I have an area in my apartment where once I sit there, I don’t want to be bothered, and establishing time to work on stuff without interruptions is important

IN: Your podcast, Searching for Happiness Podcast has been gaining traction lately. Can you tell us more about the concept behind it and what you hope listeners take away from each episode?

J: I started my Podcast because there are millions of people out there who are currently suffering with depression, anxiety, feeling lost, and feeling alone. I wanted to create a platform to bring guests who are Veterans or have overcome a difficult past or people who want to spread awareness. In a world full of negativity, it’s important to make people aware that it’s okay to seek help. Each episode is so different, mental health is such a broad topic, we talk about things like PTSD, Parenthood, losing a loved one, taking uncomfortable risks, and much more! I try to keep as much of an open mind as I can. I just want people to feel less alone and know that there are so many others feeling the same way

IN: By featuring guests who have overcome adversity and are willing to share their experiences, you're creating a safe space for open conversation and connection, that's awesome! How has your background and personal experiences shaped your approach to storytelling and your creative vision? 

J: I was born with a heart condition called “Hypo-Plastic Left Heart Syndrome” and my entire life I’ve been going in and out of hospitals for heart surgeries. During these times of recovery is where I developed my love for movies. I believe I have important stories to tell about the life lessons I’ve learned & the things I’ve seen have helped my passion for storytelling evolve over the years

IN: Your resilience and determination to turn difficult circumstances into a creative outlet is commendable. In today's rapidly changing entertainment landscape, what do you think is the key to staying innovative and relevant as an artist? 

J: Thank you! Be open-minded. Don’t be afraid to try something new, you never know where it might lead you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the more questions you ask the further you’ll get to where you want to be, and most importantly, Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, if you are truly trying and show that you have passion for what you’re doing your mistakes won’t matter, There is no success without RISKS & FAILURES

IN: Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or exciting collaborations you have in the works? 

J: Of Course! I am currently in the middle of starting a Podcast Network company. I will be Producing & Show running 3 new Podcasts with all new Hosts & Guests! Over the last 3 years, I’ve met so many incredible people who I believe deserve a platform to voice their teachings and thoughts to the world. I’m incredibly excited. Outside of that I just recently started an Internship with Disney, making me one step closer to where I want to be!

From an early love for acting and film, to directing short films and hosting a podcast that creates a safe space for it's guests, Joseph's diverse creative pursuits have been shaped by his personal experiences and the influence of industry powerhouses. His commitment to helping others through the Searching for Happiness Podcast highlights his genuine desire to make a difference. With exciting projects on the horizon, including a Podcast Network company and an internship with Disney,  Joseph continues to explore new opportunities and bring his unique creative vision to life. Keep an eye on Joseph Grable as he continues to break barriers and inspire others through his work!

Instagram:  Thejosephgrable 

Searching for Happiness Podcast

B Y I N