Until recently, Joule served a three-year term as mayor of the Northwest Arctic Borough, having been elected to that position in 2012.

[4] In his capacity as mayor, he was happy to welcome the first official and historic visit of the US President to the Alaskan Arctic to see firsthand the impacts of climate change on villages and advocate for local preparations and involvement.

He chose to step down after one term and was succeeded by Clement Richards Sr.[5][6] At present, Joule also serves on the Advisory Board of the UK-based 'Polar Regions' think-tank Polar Research and Policy Initiative.

[7] Joule has a wife, Linda, and five children: Lovisa, Reggie III, Angela, Dawn and Puyuk.

He is a former nalukataq (blanket toss) champion, and appeared on The Tonight Show to discuss the game.