Story & Lesson Highlights with Dr, Joseph Perez of Denver, CO

We recently had the chance to connect with Dr, Joseph Perez and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Joseph, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, what’s been bringing me a lot of joy is starting a new YouTube channel called JD Ready. It’s designed for first-generation law students, but really anyone who’s interested in law school can benefit. My goal is to help people understand not only how to get into law school, but also how to get through it. Law school is tough, no question, but I want to show that it’s possible—and that they’re not alone on the journey. Through the channel, I hope to be the resource I wish I had when I was starting out.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Joseph Perez. I’m a U.S. Army veteran, Bronze Star recipient, actor, and current law student with a passion for advocacy and storytelling. My journey blends two seemingly different worlds—law and entertainment—to challenge stereotypes and open doors for underrepresented voices. As one of the few Native American and Latino veterans pursuing both a legal and acting career, I’m working to amplify diverse narratives that heal, educate, and inspire.

Through my platforms, I’m building brands like JD Ready—a youtube channel helping first-generation students navigate law school. I’m also actively working in film and television, with recent credits including The Curse and The Keeper.

What makes my story unique is the mission behind it: using both law and performance to create impact. Whether it’s through legal advocacy or an on-screen role, I believe in the power of representation and the responsibility to serve with purpose.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The version of me that believed success required constant overdrive—multiple deployments, long days, seven-day workweeks, and nonstop grind. That part helped me survive and thrive in high-stress environments, proving that my body and mind can endure far more than I ever imagined. But now, I’m learning that I don’t have to suffer to succeed. Discipline and resilience remain part of who I am—but I’m releasing the need to overextend. I’m choosing balance, sustainability, and growth without burnout.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Every day of my first year in law school, I wanted to quit. I was overwhelmed—physically, mentally, emotionally. I was running on fumes, juggling case law and auditions, sacrificing sleep, and questioning if I was cut out for any of it. I’ve also had moments where I wanted to walk away from acting and just settle into a 9-to-5. But in those moments, I’d tell myself: Just one more day. One more page. One more take. One more step forward. Because I had to remember—this isn’t just about me. It’s about who I represent, the stories I want to tell, and the people I want to impact. That reminder is what kept me from giving up.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to proving that artists don’t have to live the “broke and struggling” lifestyle forever. I believe it’s possible to be creative, passionate—and still own a home, take vacations, and build financial stability in this industry. You can pursue your craft and build a life. Balancing both law and acting has shown me it’s possible—and I want to help make that the new norm for artists.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
That money and fame aren’t the answer—and they’re not worth chasing. Having all the money in the world wouldn’t make me truly happy, and no number of followers would bring real peace. That’s why I don’t chase those things. I focus on going where I’m called, showing up with purpose, and making a positive impact. That’s what lasts. That’s what matters.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realjosephperez/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-joseph-perez-dba-mba-520bb8173/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josephperez.actor/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JDReady