Josue Marcus

As much as we may not like to admit it, luck plays a big part in our lives. One of the luckiest things that happened to me was being introduced to Josue Marcus. He and Devin Billingsley were the chapter leaders for the San Marino (now South Pasadena) Chapter of the National Stuttering Association. Being welcomed into that chapter opened so many doors for me and that happened, in large part, due to Josue’s humanistic and caring nature.

When I sat in on my first NSA meeting I was impressed with the level of openness that the members had. People talked candidly and unabashedly about their stuttering and how it impacted their lives- Josue set the stage for all of this by creating an environment of total acceptance and empathy.

Josue was clearly well respected and loved by the chapter members. By accepting me and believing in my film, I think Josue signaled to the other members of the group that it was ok to trust me. As I have stated many times before, there are 4 people from that chapter in WHEN I STUTTER and the film would not be nearly the same without them.

Not only has Josue’s impact on the film been immeasurable, but he has also had a big impact on my life personally. We are friends and always have a good time when we are lucky enough to get together. I had the honor of filming his wedding in 2015. He also invited me to co-lead the NSA South Pasadena chapter in 2017 and that was such a gift.

It’s hard to know what trajectory WHEN I STUTTER may have taken had I not met Josue, I just know that I’m lucky that I did.

“Don’t let your stutter be a tether that ties you to your fears and insecurities. Remember, you are not alone.”

What has been the response from others about you in the film?

Since the release of the film, I have had a few friends and family see it. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and my family and friends have known about my stutter, but have never openly discussed at any length. This film gave me an opportunity to have those conversations with my family and friends. They shared with me that it gave them a glimpse into my daily struggles.

What was your favorite or most memorable part of the process of making the film?

My favorite part was being able to just see the whole film come to life. Knowing that I was there from its inception to creation, through editing, and the making of the whole film was exciting. Being a part of the small “viewing parties” at John’s place was a lot of fun. Just seeing the possibility of what the film could be was exciting.

What has surprised you about the film since it was first presented?

My first impression was that the film was going to be a bunch of interviews and Q&A sessions with people who stutter. And nothing could have been further from the truth. I was amazed to see that the film included animation, re-enactments, as well as a stuttering education component that was so well portrayed, it was amazing. When I saw all that, that’s when I caught a sense of the potential of what this film could be and what it was destined to become.

What’s changed in your life since we saw you in the film?

I’m married now and have been for 5 years. I still hold a position with the City, but I have been promoted to a senior management position.

What’s your relationship with stuttering now?

I find it ironic that I, a person who stutters, is the Public Information Officer for a City department. I consider this an achievement along with many of my fellow film participants, who hold positions that require us to speak before an audience of some sort.

A common theme in this film is that those of us who stutter have not permitted stuttering to dominate our lives. We have learned to cope and thrive despite the challenge. The end of the film hits a hopeful note and I think in that way the film mimics my relationship with stuttering.

What’s some advice for people who are on their journey with stuttering?

My advice would be to seek out a support group. This is critical. It is cathartic to share one’s experiences with other people who have been there and know what you’re grappling with. Moreover, it builds confidence, breaks down the emotional and psychological scars, and helps develop friendships with those who know your pain. Stuttering can be a lonely place if you let it. Also, I would encourage someone to search for a local chapter of the National Stuttering Association and attend the meetings regularly. In my case there wasn’t one near me, so I decided to start my own chapter. Not only did being a facilitator help me in my profession, but the chapter was such a vital part in the making of this film. Don’t let your stutter be a tether that ties you to your fears and insecurities. Remember, you are not alone.