Jana Schmieding

Jana Schmieding is a Mniconjou and Sicangu Lakota actor, writer, comedian, and podcaster recognized for her contributions to Indigenous representation in American entertainment. After completing college, Schmieding taught middle and high school while performing improv with Magnet Theater in New York City. She later moved to Los Angeles, transitioning from acting to writing, and hosted the podcast "Woman of Size," which explored experiences of discrimination related to body size. During this time, Schmieding developed pilots and writing samples focused on Native women's narratives, aiming to create space for Indigenous voices in the television industry.

Schmieding's career advanced when she became a staff writer and co-star on the Peacock comedy "Rutherford Falls," co-created by Ed Helms, Michael Schur, and Sierra Teller Ornelas. The series, recognized as the first Native sitcom, featured Schmieding as Reagan Wells, a member of the fictional Minishonka Nation. She continued as both writer and co-star when the series was renewed for a second season. Schmieding's performance in "Rutherford Falls" received critical attention, with reviewers highlighting her work alongside Helms. She was Emmy eligible for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role on the show. Schmieding also appears as Bev in the series "Reservation Dogs" and is known for her comedic roles on "The Great North" and "Spirit Rangers."

In addition to her on-screen work, Schmieding is active in expanding Indigenous representation behind the camera. She has co-created and co-written a television show with Sierra Teller Ornelas and is developing the film "Auntie Chuck," which she will write, produce, and direct. The project was supported by Sundance Native Labs, and Schmieding was selected as a Sundance Institute Native Lab Fellow. She also co-hosts the "Sage-Based Wisdom" podcast with comedian Brian Bahe. Across her roles as performer, writer, and producer, Schmieding is dedicated to advancing Native stories and characters in mainstream media, contributing to the ongoing evolution of Indigenous representation in film and television.