Biography

Janell Vela Smith has always called Austin, Texas home. Unlike other girls her age, as a child her father would take her to see boxing and wrestling matches which she found fascinating. A bright and energetic athlete throughout her life, Janell's academic years centered on her studies and a host of extra curricular activities. She enjoyed everything from baton twirling, cheerleading and even gymnastics. As a student she took a great interest in art and business as well as geography and world culture. As a result, Janell found herself captivated by the artistic flair and athletic discipline displayed in martial arts films such as Billy Jack and Enter The Dragon. After graduation, Janell studied at Austin Community College and later at St. Edward's University where she majored in business administration and management. In 1996, Janell began training in Taekwondo and eventually earned a 1st degree Black Belt. In 2004, she discovered Tukong Moosul, a form of martial arts developed by Grandmaster Wonik Yi. Fascinated by his expertise and his philosophy about the martial arts, Janell committed to train under him. Over the years, she developed a deep and profound respect for the art and rose within the ranks of students to become a certified World Tukong Federation 5th degree black belt. Overall, Janell has spent the last several years training in the martial arts. With countless awards and degrees of recognition, Janell began to serve as instructor at Grandmaster Yi's academy. In 2005, the academy was selected by directors Robert Rodriquez and Frank Miller as a training ground for their film Sin City. Janell was fascinated with the process of training with actors and was motivated to help establish the Action Film Institute and Fighting Stunts Association. Janell currently is CEO of Iron Dragon Productions and the streaming channel IronDragon TV and most recently runs the Tukong Austin school.
- IMDb mini biography by: Rene Hinojosa

Janell Smith is a multifaceted individual with a strong presence in the film and television industry, particularly known for her work as a producer and stunt coordinator, and her expertise in martial arts. Here's a summary of her work: CEO and Founder: Janell is the CEO and Founder of Iron Dragon TV and IDTVFlix, platforms focused on original content for television, film, and the web. Producer: She has produced and executive produced numerous projects across film and television, including "Just Passing Through", "Padre Pio", "Goomba's Pizzeria" and "Iron Dragon TV". Stunt Coordinator and Performer: Janell has worked as a stunt coordinator and performer on various projects, showcasing her skills in action and martial arts.

Director: She has also directed episodes of the TV series "Goomba's Pizzeria" and "Iron Dragon TV". Martial Arts Expert: Janell is a highly skilled martial artist, holding a 5th degree black belt in Tukong Moosul and has trained in other styles like Taekwondo.

Founder of Georgetown Film Society: She founded the Georgetown Film Society and is involved in organizations promoting women in film and combating child trafficking.

Her expertise lies primarily in the action and martial arts genre, where she has established a streaming service and film festival catering to this niche market.
- IMDb mini biography by: Janell Smith

Janell has studied dance, martial arts and choreography for over 17 years, some basics in acupuncture and acupressure, Wing chun, Akido, Kali, BaGuaZhang, Taekwondo, IpsunTaichi, TaichiChuan and much sparring. Competed for several years, almost making the US Olympic taekwondo team but missed by age cut-off. Went on to obtain several state, regional and National titles.