We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shiah Luna a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Shiah , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
My journey as a creative professional has been deeply intertwined with service to others. I’ve built a sustainable career by combining my work as an actor, singer, and songwriter with music and creative expression therapy for people facing mental health adversities. What’s particularly meaningful is how these elements have synergized in recent years – the more I’ve focused on using my artistic passions to help others, the more opportunities have emerged.
While I’m working as a performer and creator, I’m also making a difference in people’s lives through therapy groups and creative mentorship. This dual focus has not only made my career financially sustainable but also incredibly fulfilling.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a multifaceted artist working across several creative domains. In film and television, I’ve had the privilege of portraying characters that connect with my Native Indigenous heritage in both contemporary and historical contexts, including roles in NBC’s ‘Found’ and ‘Into The Wild Frontier.’ These opportunities have allowed me to bring authentic representation to the screen.
A recent career highlight was performing the National Anthem for the Los Angeles Dodgers during their World Series-winning season – a moment that connected me to both Los Angeles history and America’s favorite pastime.
Beyond performing, I’m deeply committed to using my artistic abilities to support others through music therapy groups. This work allows me to combine my creative skills with meaningful service, helping individuals facing various challenges.
I’m currently developing new music and looking forward to returning to the studio for my next recording project!
Have you ever had to pivot?
My artistic journey taught me a valuable lesson about the power of strategic focus. I made the conscious decision to step back from music temporarily to build a solid foundation in acting. This wasn’t an easy choice – music had been such an integral part of my expression – but I recognized that to truly grow as a storyteller and understand the business of television and film, I needed to give it my full attention.
During this period of redirection, I immersed myself in different acting techniques and really studied the craft. While I felt the emotional pull of music, I had a clear vision of working in film and television that kept me focused. The pivot actually enriched both art forms. When I eventually returned to music, I brought with me a deeper understanding of storytelling and character development.
Now, doing both acting and music, I feel most authentic and fulfilled. This experience taught me that sometimes taking a step back from one passion can ultimately strengthen your entire artistic portfolio.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
When I discovered Bob Proctor’s teachings on mindset and personal development, it changed my life! During a challenging period both financially and mentally, his concept of the paradigm shift became instrumental in my transformation. The process of reprogramming my mindset wasn’t just about positive thinking – it was about fundamentally shifting how I viewed myself and my potential. I immersed myself in his videos, repeatedly absorbing the principles until they became part of my daily thought process.
When you make a clear decision and fully commit to it, as Proctor teaches, you create a foundation for real change. This mental reprogramming helped me navigate through financial challenges and I took on a more resilient approach to both life and career.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6856030/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiahluna/?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SHIAHLUNAOFFICIAL/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiah-luna-546077230/
- Twitter: https://x.com/shiahluna
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/shiahluna
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/shiahluna
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2KklHm18ANlo52RkVOWl5V
Image Credits
Justin Higuchi, Marisa Bertani, Brenda Cantu & Ashley Coleman