Daily Inspiration: Meet Joel M. Gonzales

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joel M. Gonzales. 

Hi Joel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey from Watts, in South Central Los Angeles, to becoming a respected advocate for Latino diversity in the entertainment industry has been one filled with challenges and determination. Originally, my aspirations to become an actor were put on hold after I became a father and got married shortly after completing high school. It wasn’t until much later, when I was finally able to focus on pursuing a career in Film, that I attended the Los Angeles City College Film Program while juggling two jobs to provide for my family. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for producing and knew that this was the path I wanted to take. 

Over the past 15 years, I have worked tirelessly as an independent producer under various production brands, including Think Dreamer Productions, Action Faith Media, ProducedByJMG, and now, Untold Content Group. Despite the challenges, my debut film, Followed Home, a horror film produced for just $2,000, remains available as a digital download, and I continue to collect residual checks every quarter for the film. 

In addition to producing, I am also a respected advocate for Latino diversity in the entertainment industry and have been privileged to serve as President of Nosotros, the oldest Latino Arts Advocacy non-profit founded by the iconic Ricardo Montalbán in 1970, for the past 13 years. My dedication to promoting diversity and authenticity in film, television, and podcast projects that reflect today’s global audience has earned me the reputation of being an industry leader who is committed to promoting meaningful change. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
On my journey to becoming a producer and advocate for Latino diversity in the entertainment industry, I faced several challenges. As a young father who got married early, I had to put my aspirations on hold. Later, while attending film school and juggling two jobs, I struggled to balance my responsibilities and pursue my dreams, a challenge that I still face today. But I believe that if one takes the time to define what’s truly important and why, those challenges are worth it.

In 2021, I faced a significant challenge, not physically or financially, but to my sense of self-worth. I made the mistake of allowing others to dictate my behavior in the creative industry, and I suffered from imposter syndrome, which convinced me that I needed to change who I was to fit in. However, I quickly realized that I was at fault in that situation, and that I could only succeed as an independent producer and advocate for Latino diversity in the entertainment industry by staying true to myself and my core values. 

I realized that those who were tearing me down were likely experiencing the same imposter syndrome, as I represented a reminder that they needed the traditional system to feel validated. I, on the other hand, did not. Although some respected my realization, others did not, and so I resigned. Nevertheless, I wouldn’t have it any other way because I am building, creating, and inspiring while they are simply clinging to a system, a job, a facade of what they think they need to be like in order to succeed in “Hollywood.”

I most importantly reminded myself that happiness is a choice, and it can be a constant result based on the actions we take in pursuing it. Rather than believing that great power comes with great responsibility, I flipped the script and made it so that “with great responsibility comes with great power”. By taking responsibility for who I was and where I was in life, whether good or bad, I then gained the power to continue on, change, and enhance my path as I saw fit based on my core-values. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a leader, a storyteller, and an advocate. I approach my career and life with the same mindset, viewing each new opportunity as a chance to explore and grow. My personal mission statement is to be a blessing and of service to everyone I encounter on my journey. 

I grew up in Watts, and over the years I have become an entrepreneur, the President of Nosotros, the oldest Latino Arts Advocacy non-profit founded by the iconic Ricardo Montalbán in 1970, and an award-winning producer with over 15+ years of experience. It wasn’t until later in my life, after years of working 9 to 5 jobs to support my family, that I was able to pursue my passion for developing, creating, and producing stories that empower, enrich, and entertain.

I am a proud member of the Producers Guild of America, and my career includes developing and managing high-profile film, television, and other digital media projects. 

My early films, such as “Followed Home” and “Exorcist: Prayers in the Dark”, were made on a shoestring budget, but they continue to be available on many digital platforms and box retailers today. As I continued to produce micro-budget films for-hire, my reputation grew as the go-to producer for these types of projects. In 2014, I formed Action Faith Media to develop and produce films that were closer to my heart. My first film, “Crave: The Fast Life”, won over 22 awards worldwide and is still trending as one of the top 20 faith/Latino films on Amazon Video. 

In 2022/2023, I developed and co-produced the 2023 SXSW Spotlight Audience Choice-winning film, “The Long Game,” starring Dennis Quad and Jay Hernandez. I also developed and produced the BET Original “The Life of Me,” starring Brian White and Danielle Nicolet. 

I previously served as the SVP, Head of Latinx Content for Confluential Films. During my time there, I produced the much-anticipated HBO documentary “Juice Wrld” and “Die Like A Man,” starring Cory Hardrict. Before leaving my position, I also led the development of “The Cola Wars,” the true story behind the Coke vs. Pepsi battle of the 1980s. 

In 2022, I proudly launched Untold Content Group, a full-service development and production company dedicated to bringing diverse, authentic, and culturally reflective character-driven film, television, and podcast projects to today’s global audience. We have secured a fantastic slate of high level intellectual property, including a few highly sought-after true stories! 

In a major step forward, I have signed with the A3 Artistry Agency for representation in podcast and unscripted content. I’m also thrilled to have signed a development deal with Sony Music for the docuseries “Los Regionales,” which explores the fascinating world of Regional Mexican Music. Additionally, we have three major scripted narrative features in development with top industry players APA, WME, and UTA. My team is deeply committed to elevating diverse voices and perspectives, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring these projects to life for audiences worldwide.

In the spirit of collaboration and networking, I am always happy to share my resources and knowledge. I am frequently asked to speak nationally, serve as a board member of the International Christian Film Festival in Orlando, mentor for the Los Angeles Film Connection program, and proudly serve on various steering committees for the Producers Guild of America. 

And on a personal note, I am a certified Pit-Master and make a mean brisket! You can find me at @10EastCraftBarbecue to see where I’ll pop up next. It’s a hobby I enjoy and do for fun. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned that every obstacle, setback, and achievement has contributed to my growth and brought me to where I am today. My unwavering faith in God has provided me with the strength and courage to pursue my dreams and become a source of positivity and inspiration for those around me. 

But my journey is far from complete, and the same goes for yours. Don’t be afraid of failure, criticism, or vulnerability. Embrace those moments as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Stay humble and always be willing to serve others. 

However, the most important thing you can do is listen to your true-self. Tune out the noise and opinions of others, and listen to your intuition and passions. Trust that you have the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.Untoldcontent.media
• Instagram: @producedbyjmg
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelmgonzales/
• Other: www.nosotrosorg.com
• Publicists: [email protected]

Image Credits
Photos By Danny Cano. Logo design by Enfuse Creative Design.