Purpose in Action: Dr. Deonte Moss Is Living the Story He Was Born to Tell

What inspired you to begin writing, and how has storytelling helped you process and share your personal journey?
What inspired me to begin writing was the realization that my story had power not just to heal me, but to help others. Storytelling became more than just expression, it became my purpose. It’s given me the opportunity to testify about where God has brought me from and where He’s placed me now. Through writing, I’ve found healing, clarity, and a deeper connection to those who may be walking a similar path.

Your book PUSHed is both powerful and deeply personal. What was the emotional process like when turning your life experiences into a written narrative?
The emotional process of writing PUSHed was intense and deeply spiritual. I was living my title—praying until something happened—every single day. Originally, I planned to name the book PUSH: Pray Until Something Happens, but after a series of life-changing events and God sharpening me, I received a deeper revelation. If I truly wanted the best out of life, I couldn’t just pray occasionally. I had to include God in my life every day and stay in constant communication with Him. Writing this book was my way of walking through that transformation and sharing it with others.

As someone who works across various creative mediums—writing, acting, television—how do these art forms feed and inform one another in your work?
Working across different creative mediums—whether it’s writing, acting, or television—gives me the space to fully express who I am. Each form allows a different part of my story and purpose to shine. More than anything, it’s a reflection of answered prayers. These are things I once asked God for, and now I’m watching them manifest right before my eyes. It’s a constant reminder that He’s faithful and that when you walk in your purpose, doors begin to open.

How has your background in theatre and performance shaped the way you engage with audiences, whether in print, on screen, or in person?
My background in theatre and performance has been incredibly healing. Coming from a childhood where I experienced abandonment, rejection, and life in multiple foster and group homes, I once felt invisible. But stepping onto stages, being appreciated, applauded, and even starring in films has filled parts of my heart that were once empty. Engaging with audiences—whether through print, on screen, or in person—has become a way to turn my pain into purpose. It’s not just performance, it’s freedom.

The arts have always played a vital role in cultural preservation and healing. How do you see your creative work contributing to that legacy?
I see my creative work as a bridge—especially for foster kids—between pain and healing. I often say I’m the dopest foster kid to ever live, but I don’t want to be the only one. My mission is to go back and reach those who are where I once was, to inspire and encourage them. The arts give me the platform to do that. I truly believe that while hurt people hurt people, healed people heal people—and I’m committed to being part of that healing.

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In what ways do you believe literature and the performing arts can be used as tools for social change, especially within underserved communities?
Literature and the performing arts are often the only way our stories get heard—especially in underserved communities. They give voice to the unheard and shine light on struggles that are often overlooked. Sharing our stories not only brings healing, but also opens the door to resources, opportunities, and connections that can truly change lives. These art forms don’t just entertain—they empower, educate, and inspire change.

How has your personal faith influenced your voice as an author and artist?
My faith has fueled and prepared me in every step of my journey as an author and artist. I truly believe in putting God first in everything I do so He can guide my path. I stay focused on His direction, avoiding the ‘side streets’ that can lead to distractions. I know that if I remain on His path, I won’t miss the blessings and divine assignments He has prepared for me. My voice, my creativity, and my purpose are all rooted in that belief.

Can you talk about a moment in your career when the arts gave you or someone else a breakthrough—emotionally, spiritually, or socially?
One of the most powerful moments early in my career was during my time performing in stage plays. I remember realizing that people were actually coming to see me on stage. That feeling humbled me deeply. Coming from a background of rejection and abandonment, it was overwhelming to witness how God flipped the script on my life. It confirmed that I was exactly where I needed to be—not just to perform, but to inspire, encourage, and motivate others through my story and my art. That moment was more than a performance—it was purpose in action.

What stories do you feel are still missing from mainstream culture, and how do you hope to fill that gap through your writing and performances?
One of the stories still missing from mainstream culture is the real, unfiltered journey of youth in the foster care system. Only about 30% of foster youth graduate high school and pursue higher education, and just 1% go on to earn a master’s or doctorate degree. I’m part of that 1%, and I carry that responsibility with purpose. Through my writing and performances, I share my story to let foster youth know they are not defined by their parents’ or guardians’ mistakes. They have the power to choose who they become. I want to fill that gap by being the voice I wish I had growing up.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers and artists—especially those who come from difficult or disadvantaged backgrounds—about the power of owning and sharing their stories?
My advice to aspiring writers and artists—especially those from difficult or disadvantaged backgrounds—is this: don’t be afraid to tell your story. Writing my book was one of the most healing things I’ve ever done. I put things on paper that I had never spoken out loud, and that became therapy for me. Over time, as I began to share those experiences at book signings and speaking engagements, I learned to own my truth and face it head on. That process not only helped me heal—it gave others permission to do the same. Your story has power, and when you share it, you create space for others to find their voice too.

Would you like to focus any of these more toward youth, faith, or specific cultural movements?
I believe that my faith in God will guide and take care of everything—whether it’s reaching youth, contributing to faith-based movements, or supporting specific cultural causes. If something is aligned with my purpose and God’s plan, I trust that He has the best plans for me. It’s through faith that everything falls into place, and I know that as long as I stay true to His path, He will lead me where I need to go.

Dr. Deonte Moss is a multifaceted creative force—an author, actor, speaker, and survivor whose life and work stand as a testament to resilience, purpose, and faith. From navigating the challenges of foster care to earning advanced degrees and impacting audiences across multiple platforms, Dr. Moss uses storytelling as a powerful tool for healing and transformation. His debut book, PUSHed, is more than a memoir—it’s a ministry. Through writing, performance, and spiritual conviction, he continues to reach back to uplift others, especially youth and individuals from underserved communities, with a message rooted in authenticity, healing, and hope.