Katie J. Stone of Hollywood on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Katie J. Stone shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Katie, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve been learning to make custom perfume with Jennifer Hardaway are KleanSpa! I’ve been a supporter of hers since 2018, made 3 scents for myself and brought in all my favorite people for their birthdays and other special occasions. I’m so passionate about scent (and all things sensual! I live in my embodied femininity and love luxury experiences.) I finally wanted to learn the art and craft for myself. Working with fragrance is aromatherapy for the soul. It really lights me up!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“Katie J. Stone represents the “New Hollywood” polymath—equally at home in a writers’ room developing military thrillers, on an aircraft carrier researching stories, or on a stage performing avant-garde burlesque.” –I’m a TV writer, actress and producer working at the intersection of high-stakes action storytelling and bold, multi-disciplinary performance art. I’ve been a primary creative voice in adapting massive gaming and military franchises for television. I’m half of the duo behind Daitch & Stone Distillery, known for developing “red state shows with blue state values” which are action-packed hour long dramas that are simultaneously entertaining and thought-provoking. My work includes writing and producing for Netflix’s Splinter Cell: Deathwatch (recognized as a top-tier Tom Clancy adaptation, and nominee at The Game Awards 2025) and the USA Network series Shooter. My brand is built on a foundation of diverse, high-level performance that challenges traditional industry boundaries. From my Fine Art roots, where I began my career as a muse for legendary photographer David LaChapelle, to appearing in international campaigns and fine art film, and performing as my stage persona “Miss Katy Bunny” in the LA Burlesque scene. I still maintain a vibrant career in the performance arts as a professional dancer and burlesque soloist, emphasizing sex-positive feminism and creative risk-taking.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mom. She saw me as a multi talented “baby creative genius” who could had a curious disposition. The world has constantly been trying to put in me a box, “are you a writer, actor, dancer or model?”, “are your a feminine or a feminist?” , “are you a girly-girl or an action writer?” — and my answer to all of the above is, “Yes.” She gave me as much exposure as she could to everything I showed interest in and never gave the so called “contradictions” a second thought. It’s made me a richer artist and person overall.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
That people won’t like me if I advocate for myself too much. That’s why I’ve yet to create a starring project or platform for myself. I feel safer and more likable being “chosen”, doing something to uplift someone else, or being part of a team. I think a lot of people struggle with this, I know I’m not alone. I hope we’re all able to overcome this fear and champion ourselves the way we champion others. After all, if you don’t believe in yourself, why should anyone else?

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. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. I’m a big believer in authenticity and vulnerability. What you see is what you get. I believe that “what you are looking for is looking for you too” — so trust that process and put yourself out there.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I made them feel less alone. In my work as an artist across disciplines and in my personal relationships. The memories and highpoints I created, the thoughtful gifts I gave, my leadership style, the times I showed up, went the extra mile, listened and words of encouragement I gave in return. I want people to talk about how I made them feel seen, safe, inspired, encouraged and understood. I think that’s a great higher purpose artists can serve in life. I hope to live up to it.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katiejstone91