Story & Lesson Highlights with Isaac Priest of Los Angeles

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Isaac Priest. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Isaac, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Spending time with friends, going on walks, going for coffee and just being able to laugh.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Isaac Priest is a multifaceted First Nations creative whose work spans acting, producing, stunt performance, and high-fashion design. Known for blending cinematic storytelling with bold visual identity, Isaac is carving out a distinct place within the Australian film landscape. His credits include major productions such as Elvis, Nautilus, and Mortal Kombat 2, as well as a growing portfolio of independent films he has produced and acted in. Isaac is also the only openly gay Indigenous stunt performer in Australia, a milestone that drives his passion for visibility, empowerment, and reshaping the narrative of who gets to be seen on screen.

Isaac is the founder of VANTARC Studios, a next-generation production company committed to daring, auteur-led work that elevates untold stories and diverse perspectives. His background in design adds a unique layer to his creative process from costume construction to world-building giving his projects a strong sense of style, character, and emotional texture.

Today, Isaac is developing new film projects, preparing for upcoming acting roles, and expanding VANTARC into a cinematic and cultural hub for emerging voices. His journey reflects ambition, resilience, and a deep commitment to storytelling that feels authentic, transformative, and unapologetically original.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me I’m ready to release is the version that always prioritised other people’s stories over my own. For much of my career, I’ve been shaping, elevating, and protecting other creatives’ visions. That work will always be part of me, and I don’t plan to stop. Collaboration and amplifying others is in my DNA. But the belief that my own stories didn’t deserve the same attention… that’s what I’m letting go of. I’m stepping into a chapter where I balance both continuing to champion others while finally honouring and telling my own stories too.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Trust yourself. Your story, your culture, and your uniqueness will one day become the very things that guide you forward.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d like to think so. It’s hard to answer this question myself but I’d say the public version of me is true, but incomplete. I share the parts that feel grounded and authentic, but I’m still learning when to let people in deeper. Both sides are me just in different lights.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing? 
A curve ball of an answer is refereeing. I used to be a professional referee, and for a long time I thought I’d regret not returning. It shaped my discipline, my work ethic, and the way I navigate high-pressure environments. Instead of letting that become a lifelong ‘what if,’ I’ve decided to make a comeback in 2026 because I don’t want to look back and wonder what might have happened if I never stepped back onto the field.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Isaac.priest