From the stage to the boardroom, Joel Silverstone’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Once an actor, he discovered that the same skills that bring characters to life can help leaders and professionals communicate with authenticity and impact. Today, with more than 25 years of experience, Joel empowers individuals and organizations to speak with confidence, build trust, and inspire action. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Joel’s story—one that reminds us that true influence comes not from pretending, but from being real.
Q: How did you first discover your interest in communication and soft skills training?
Joel: It was a gradual process. I started out as an actor, but like many actors, I couldn’t pay the rent. While teaching acting, I realized it wasn’t just aspiring actors in my classes—people from the business world wanted to be better communicators, to think quickly on their feet, and to be more present. I discovered that acting is not about pretending, but about being truthful in the moment. That insight led me into the corporate world, where people may look successful on the surface but are often second-guessing themselves. That’s where I found my calling.
Q: What challenges did you face while transitioning into the corporate world?
Joel: The biggest challenge was that I didn’t come from a corporate background. Many wondered, “What can an actor teach us?” The turning point was realizing that people connect when they learn something about themselves—not just about strategies or frameworks. If they can reflect on their behaviors, choices, and the impact they have on others, then they truly grow. That’s when I created my process, “MOVE”—because our goal isn’t to change people, it’s to move them.
Q: What lessons have you learned from failures or moments when things didn’t go as planned?
Joel: I’ve learned the importance of listening to the people in the room. Once, I followed the client’s instructions instead of listening to what the participants really needed. They felt disrespected, and the training fell flat. The lesson was clear: don’t just push your agenda—read the room and connect with people where they are.
Q: What daily habits help you stay resilient and inspired?
Joel: Exercise is a non-negotiable for me—it clears my head and sets the tone for the day. I also get up early to journal, read, or simply enjoy quiet time before the day begins. These routines keep me focused, energized, and ready to give my best.
Q: How do you balance staying true to your own voice while meeting others’ expectations?
Joel: It’s a lifelong lesson. I remind myself to trust my voice, even when it feels risky. I often tell myself: people aren’t thinking about you as much as you believe—they’re thinking about themselves. So take the risk, because the impact you can have on others is far greater than the fear of failure.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Joel: I’d tell myself to ask better questions. For example, when I was pursuing theater school, I didn’t stop to ask why. Deep down, I wanted to be in TV sitcoms, not Shakespearean plays. Asking the right questions earlier would have saved me years of going down the wrong path.
Q: What does success mean to you now?
Joel: Success is when people trust me enough to ask for my advice or thoughts, knowing I have their best interests at heart. When clients come back not because they have to, but because they value my perspective—that’s true success.
“Trust your own voice, take the risk, and remember—you’re not here to change people, you’re here to move them.” – Joel Silverstone
Connect with Joel Silverstone: joelsilverstone.com
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