“Life goes on.”
It’s often said that ‘change is the only constant thing in our ever-evolving world.’ Life happens and life goes on. Always. However, one thing that is often overlooked or rarely talked about is the cost of change. Whether this change occurs internally or externally, things really do not remain the same.
Sometimes, we walk towards the change we desire. Other times, without prior notice, life happens, bringing along a major shift to the life we have always known. That’s the story of Austin Joseph, a young actor, filmmaker and writer, who woke up to a new reality after a major health diagnosis at the prime of his career.
While life’s challenges came without permission, Austin, like many others, had just two options: drown with the tides or take back his life bit by bit while staying afloat.
Join us on our Evergreen Conversation Series as Austin Joseph shares a part of his creative journey on Resilience and Rebuilding Afresh.
Beyond The Flowery Parts
Austin Joseph: Before my diagnosis, theatre was everything to me. It was where I felt confident, capable, and fully myself. I thrived in the structure of rehearsals, the collaboration with other actors, and the challenge of bringing characters to life. Acting wasn’t just a passion, it was how I connected with people and understood the world around me.
The Start of a New Reality
Austin Joseph: Then everything changed. During my diagnosis and treatment, I went through a period where I felt like I had lost access to the very things that once defined me. I struggled to remember, to focus, to do things that used to feel second nature. It wasn’t just acting, I felt like I had forgotten how to do everything. That loss was disorienting and frustrating, especially knowing who I had been before.
Picking The Pieces Together
Austin Joseph: But recovery wasn’t about going back, it was about moving forward. Afterward, I began rebuilding, piece by piece. Acting came back differently this time. I approached it with more patience, more honesty, and less pressure to be perfect. At the same time, I discovered filmmaking. Telling stories from behind the camera gave me a new way to express myself and stay connected to the craft I love.
Life Goes On, So Do I
Austin Joseph: Now, I continue to act while also working as a filmmaker, creating projects that reflect both my journey and the kind of stories I want to see in the world. There are still challenges, and some things take more effort than they used to, but I don’t see that as a limitation. If anything, it’s made me more intentional, more resilient, and more committed to what I do.
Here’s to your truth, Austin.
Here’s to your awe-inspiring creative journey
We’re rooting for you, phase after phase!
The ICONIC Team
