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The Remarkable Return of the Audio Drama 29 Apr 2024 10:12 AM (11 months ago)

The Shadow debuted on July 31, 1930, as the mysterious narrator of the radio program Detective Story Hour

Audio Dramas have a rich history dating back to the Golden Age of Radio in the early 20th century. Radio dramas, also known as “old-time radio,” were immensely popular, captivating audiences with serialized stories, thrilling mysteries, and heartwarming dramas. Images still exist of families huddled around the radio, excited and impatient for their favorite audio drama to begin. These shows relied on voice actors, sound effects, and music to create vivid audio experiences that transported listeners to distant worlds and gripping adventures. People could take what they were hearing and use it as a paintbrush to the canvas of their imagination. No CGI available to do the trick!

As television gained prominence in the mid-20th century, radio dramas gradually faded from the mainstream. However, their flames didn’t putter out completely! They continued to influence subsequent generations of storytellers and paved the way for the modern audio drama renaissance.

The resurgence of audio dramas can be attributed to several factors. The rise of podcasting platforms in the early 2000s provided a new avenue for independent creators to produce and distribute audio content. It wasn’t only in the hands of bigwig studio executives anymore. This democratization of media allowed audio dramas to reach a global audience, sparking renewed interest in the medium. The difference, people huddling around their modern listening devices instead of that old-fashioned bronze radio, unless, of course, they have a Bluetooth speaker that was made to look like an old-timey radio…

Furthermore, streaming services and audio production companies have invested in original audio drama content, offering professionally produced shows across a wide range of genres. Not only that, as more time has passed…more genres were born! No longer just Sci-Fi, there is Sci-fi/Fantasy, etc. These platforms have curated collections and created opportunities for both established and emerging creators to showcase their talents too.

Of course, in our celebrity-soaked culture, renowned actors, musicians, and personalities have lent their voices to audio dramas, adding star power and attracting new listeners. From Oscar-winning actors narrating historical epics to beloved musicians composing original scores, celebrities have upped the ante and reach in audio dramas.

Above are some of Audible’s current top Audio Dramas

For example, award-winning actor Rami Malek lent his voice to “Blackout,” a gripping audio drama about a small town plunged into darkness. Similarly, actress and comedian Kristen Bell starred in “The Left Right Game,” a supernatural thriller that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

And sure, these celebrity collaborations not only showcase the talent and versatility of well-known figures and introduce audio dramas to wider audiences who may be drawn in by familiar voices and names, but there are still plenty left for us non-celebrity voice actors.

Some of the streaming platforms creating audio dramas include:

• Audible: Audible, an Amazon-owned platform, has a vast collection of original audio dramas across various genres. They work with both established and emerging creators to produce high-quality audio content.
• Spotify: Spotify has entered the audio drama space with original productions like “Sandra” and “The Horror of Dolores Roach.” They have also partnered with other production companies to offer a wide range of audio dramas on their platform.
• Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts features a diverse selection of audio dramas, including both indie productions and those from established studios. Their platform allows creators to reach a global audience of listeners.
• Stitcher: Stitcher is another platform known for its curated selection of podcasts, including audio dramas. They collaborate with creators to produce engaging and immersive storytelling experiences.
• Wondery: Wondery is an audio production company known for creating captivating podcasts and audio dramas. They have produced popular shows like “Dr. Death” and “Dirty John,” showcasing their expertise in narrative-driven content.

These are just a few examples, and the landscape of audio drama production continues to evolve with new platforms and companies entering the market. Pretty cool, right? This recent resurgence has revitalized this timeless medium, bringing this unique way of storytelling into the digital age and captivating audiences of all ages and creative preferences. Audio dramas continue to evolve, innovate, and inspire, promising a thrilling auditory journey for listeners around the world, as well as a creative outlet from a diverse range of content creators. And as a voice actor interested in doing character work and doing even more “acting” in “voice acting”, this is truly exciting terrain.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Tell Everyone You Know 15 Apr 2024 7:29 AM (11 months ago)

At Voice Coaches, we talk a lot about telling “everyone you know” about being a voice actor. There are a few typical responses we tend to get, like, “Well, I’m not a professional voice actor yet, so when I am, I will tell people.” Well, if no one knows you are one, you may never be one! Another thing we hear is, “Well, I will tell people if they have something to do with voice over.” This means someone who casts or owns a business, for example. But when we say everyone, we mean everyone. Your Aunt Lydia, who has been an accountant for 20 years at her company? You’re right; she has nothing to do with the world of voice-over, but she does work at a company that may need a voice over, and she may share office space and one too many coffee breaks with the person who hires voice-over. Sometimes, mired in the day-to-day, sourcing voice-over work in different ways, I forget this. This past week, however, I was reminded of the powerful effects of “telling everyone you know that you are a voice actor!”

This past week, a friend texted me, “Hey, my company needs a voice over. What’s your rate for a promo video? Can you send me your demo/website?” I thought, of course, I can! And so I did. And then… I did not hear back. The sound of silence was loud in my little home studio. Now, this could mean they just haven’t decided yet, or someone on the hiring voice-over side found someone else to voice it, and you may think I got dejected about it. And truthfully… I didn’t. I promise! Just knowing I am on his mind and now in their database for when they may have something for me feels great. Just to have forward motion feels GREAT. And sure enough, I got another text a couple of days later from another person I know that said, “Hey, my friend works at an advertising agency and needs some voice-over done. I referred you. Keep an eye out for his email.”

That afternoon, I received an email from her friend at the ad agency telling me about a voice-over job, and I offered to record a sample. “Oh no need! It’s fine to just pass along your website with a demo.” So… I did not. Instead, I said, “Sure thing. But I’d be happy to record a sample of the script for them, really.” You see, he thought it would be asking me for my time when I actually preferred them to hear my voice on their script over hearing my voice on other people’s scripts off my demo. After I recorded it and sent it off, it wasn’t even 20 minutes later that I got this reply, “The client loved it. It’s a go. We have more voice over work for you as well.”

Now, I have a home recording setup, so I can turn things around pretty fast as a full-service provider. When you tell people you do voiceovers, make sure you are prepared for the referrals or job opportunities when they come, whether that is having home recording capability or a local studio you like to work out of, in the event the voice hirer is comfortable with or expects a full-service provider, as opposed to sending you to a studio.

So there you have it. People I know who do not cast voice-overs sent me two voice-over opportunities. One didn’t happen, but the other one did, and it was from an ad agency with other voice-over work opportunities in the future to boot.

In the end, it’s about staying proactive and leveraging every connection to create opportunities in the dynamic world of voice acting. So, for goodness sake, at the next holiday gathering, tell Aunt Lydia about your voice over work!

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Voice Over in “How To” Videos 8 Apr 2024 7:33 AM (12 months ago)

“How-to” videos can become a crucial element in delivering informative content across various platforms. We’ve all been scrolling over various aforementioned platforms (much to our friends’ and spouses’ discontent as they grumble, “Dinner is getting cold.”) Throughout these extended scrolling sessions, we see videos “showing” us how to do something, use something, with a “voice-over” telling us how to do something or use something. We’ve all had to withstand a safety training video at a job, most likely, or taken a course and watched a video telling us “how to” use that course!

So, “How-to” videos are a common way to deliver instructional content aimed at teaching viewers specific tasks or skills. These videos cover a wide range of topics, from DIY projects and cooking techniques to software tutorials and corporate training materials. Let’s get into where we might find them in a more detailed way. What are the biggies? I think you’ve already guessed it and logged more hours on it than you’d like to admit—YouTube: A hub for “how-to” content, YouTube hosts channels dedicated to tutorials and guides, often accompanied by voice-over narration to explain steps and provide instructions. There are channels dedicated to teaching people how to string a guitar, make a cheesecake, navigate software, or make a coffee table out of corks (I’m guessing on that last one, but I really hope it exists.)

Next, you have educational websites: Many online learning platforms integrate “how-to” videos into their resources, covering academic subjects, professional skills, and practical knowledge. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy feature courses with instructional videos narrated by voice actors. Then you have corporate training: Companies utilize “how-to” videos for employee training, covering software usage, company policies, safety procedures, and more. Examples include training videos for software like Microsoft Office and safety protocols in industries like manufacturing. Sometimes they can be dry, but sometimes companies really utilize comedy to show their staff how to get the job done! I once narrated a “how-to” video for a company that incorporated pet ashes into keepsakes, like jewelry. That was pretty interesting.

E-learning courses are another breeding ground for this kind of voice-over work. Online courses frequently include “how-to” videos to supplement learning materials, offering visual and auditory guidance to learners. For instance, language learning apps like Duolingo incorporate pronunciation guides narrated by voice actors.

Okay, now for the one that can cause dinner disruptions: Social Media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook feature bite-sized “how-to” content, often enhanced with voice-over narration to explain processes or provide tips. Brands use voice-over narration in videos demonstrating makeup tutorials, fitness routines, and cooking hacks.

Your role as the voice actor is to guide viewers through step-by-step instructions, maintaining a clear, friendly tone while ensuring they can easily

 follow along. The listener needs time to get the information so rushing your read isn’t too helpful most of the time. There are different tones involved of course if wondering  “how to ‘how -to’.” Well, use those skills of being discerning and creative in a way that suits the client’s needs. In short, don’t give “making a cheesecake” how-to energy to a “use this machinery like this or you’ll be sorry” how-to video. You get the idea.

So, where do we find all of this fun work?! Platforms like YouTube, educational websites, and corporate training materials offer numerous opportunities for voice actors to showcase their talent. You want to find the people who cast for these channels, brands, companies, or creatives who cast voiceovers for them. Freelancing platforms like online casting sites often feature projects for “how-to” video narration as well. Meeting and getting to know content creators, production companies, and e-learning platforms can lead to ongoing collaborations.

So, as you can see, “how-to” videos offer a professional avenue for voice actors to share their voice and expertise across diverse topics, which keeps being a voice actor super interesting! Let your voice be the conduit for learning and creativity.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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How Avoiding a Scam turned into an Opportunity 1 Apr 2024 6:43 AM (last year)

An interesting thing happened to me the other day, well, two things actually. The first was “‘not so good’ interesting,” and the second was “‘pretty great’ interesting.” The first thing was being contacted by a voice-over hirer about a potential voice-over job. I know it sounds wonderful, but this email inquiry screamed “scam!” I am going to share that email here:

So, the biggest things that stood out to me were:

• For all of his enthusiasm at finding me, he didn’t use my name at all.
• There is no company name or website.

Despite this, to cover all my bases, as there are new voice hirers entering the field who have less experience communicating with voice actors, I simply responded, telling him that I am available and that he could give me some more details.

This time, when he responded, he included a website and company name but also a whole bunch of other filler information to try and seem official! He still is not using my name, however. The full email I received is below:

Okay! So, notice how he is not even asking me if I have home recording capability? He is still not using my name. He is asking me for personal information! And he most certainly can share the script with an NDA form attached. That is a “nondisclosure agreement”; a contract that comes with auditions when a script is confidential. When I turn in my audition, I also need to turn in that contract with my signature, agreeing that I will not show it to anyone. Also, the email goes on and on and on. Most inquiries for jobs are short and sweet. There may be a longer email explaining a project with an introduction but not like this…People who cast are busy, and it just doesn’t use the language or style of the voice-over world. 

Then, to keep things spicy, I clicked on the link to his company website at the bottom of his email, and lo and behold, it looked like a great production house!! I mean, wow! Lovely video examples and a pretty big-sized team. However, as I scrolled through the team members, I was not surprised at all that his name did not appear anywhere. That made me mad on behalf of this cool company. Someone is out there using their identity to scam voice actors! My frown deepened. So, I emailed the production team and let them know. I introduced myself and told them I think they are being used in a scam. I also apologized if it indeed was them reaching out…that would have been awkward, “No, it was us. And yes, we were interested in working with you…until this email. Buh bye.”

 Less than five minutes later, I got a response from the production house. They thanked me for reaching out and said they were aware of the identity theft and were dealing with it. I wrote back and said, “It was my pleasure! By the way, your company does lovely work! I’d be happy to be of use if you ever need voice-over services in the future.” Keep in mind, I meant this sincerely, as I was excited by their projects and want to collaborate with companies whose creative work I admire. And guess what, they wrote right back and informed me they had added me to their talent roster! It has not been my initial intention; what started as me being helpful for no other reason than being helpful (I would have let any company know if I knew they were being scammed, not just voice-over related) ended up building a relationship with an exciting client. What a bonus!

So, did I reply to the scam artist, you may be asking? Well, I replied that I was no longer interested, of course. I also could have ignored him completely.  Now, I could have also written back, “Hey, you are a scam! You didn’t use my name!” and told him the other ways I knew it was B.S. The truth is, I didn’t want to engage and tell him how he is doing his scam wrong, just so he can refine it and do it better next time!

So, what started as an attempted scam became a helpful act that led me to a new client with whom I am excited to potentially work. That’s interesting, the “pretty great” kind, right?

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Connecting: A Twofold Approach 19 Mar 2024 5:06 AM (last year)

A sample of an ad one might see posted online

In the nuanced realm of voice acting, the act of connecting means more than mere vocal execution—it is a twofold strategy. First, it’s important to connect with projects for which you are the right voice, and that speak to the right audience. Secondly, it’s about connecting to the script itself.

To start, let’s discuss connecting to the right project. In the world of online casting, it behooves you to be extra selective to ensure you are not wasting your precious time. If you know you don’t have a warm, smoky tone, why chase that sultry car commercial audition? Here’s an example: Imagine you possess a voice that’s slightly wry and sarcastic yet undeniably friendly—a cocktail of tones that could either serve as the perfect narration for an upscale brand or bring to life the sardonic sidekick in an animated feature. The key lies in the strategic selection of roles that not only play to your vocal strengths but also resonate with the target demographic. It’s akin to a sommelier pairing a vintage wine with a gourmet meal—the right combination enhances the overall experience. Champagne and tofu can both be delicious, but not always together!

Don’t forget you can Mark your script!

Often, casting professionals play the role of the discerning decision-maker, with a knack for pairing the voice that will not only echo but amplify the project’s essence to its audience. Again, in online casting, you may be doing some of the casting yourself, by deciding on whether or not to audition in the first place. Being selective in what project you want to connect to, and should connect to, can turn a matchmaking process into a successful project buoyed with authenticity.

The second fold involves delving into the script’s depths, where true connection begins. This isn’t merely about understanding the words on the page but about embodying them, lending them your creativity until they speak with your voice. It’s an intellectual (and emotional, not to mention fun) tango between actor and script, where each step uncovers layers of meaning, humor, and emotion. A clever quip or an elegantly delivered irony can transform a simple message into an engaging dialogue, inviting the audience to lean in and listen more closely.

Embracing this dual approach in voice acting—aligning one’s voice print with the audience’s palate and intimately connecting with the script’s soul (meat and potatoes, hidden nuts and bolts, etc.) elevates voice acting into a way to connect to the right projects and the right audience in a meaningful way.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The “2” in 2 takes in Voice Over 11 Mar 2024 7:00 AM (last year)

As a voice actor, you can run one take after the next! No need for a clapboard.

Let’s delve deeper into the concept of “take” within the realm of voice-over work, a term that echoes loudly within the walls of recording studios. Imagine yourself nestled in the comforting embrace of a soundproof booth, the script glowing like a beacon in the subdued ambiance. Then, through the headphones, comes the engineer’s crisp voice: “rolling on take 3.” This simple phrase marks your third attempt to infuse life into someone else’s words on the page, transforming them into your own.

I like to envision a take as an opportunity to seize, to venture into uncharted territory with a bold creative choice, or to explore a new direction that might just astonish the producer. Each take is a reinvention, a fresh perspective on the lines you’ve been given.

Even when the direction seems straightforward, such as “tease me on that line,” and you find yourself repeating it with a teasing lilt, each rendition carries its own unique essence. To illustrate this point, when directing a voice actor, I often use the example of picking up my coffee cup and saying, “Man, I love this coffee cup. Aren’t the bunny ears hilarious?” Upon repetition, subtle differences emerge—perhaps a laugh or a brief pause, each imbued with its own charm. The truth is, when we speak from a place of genuine understanding and intention, each repetition breathes new life into the same line, rendering it unique.

Notice the different timing and dynamic peaks between two unique takes.

During auditions, it’s common to be asked for 2 takes. If the directions—or “specs,” as they’re called—demand a “friendly, talking to your best friend” tone, I may differentiate the takes by infusing one with playfulness and the other with comfort, if it suits the script. The last thing I want is to sound identical in both takes. Clients seek authenticity, a human connection that goes beyond mechanical recitation, hoping to find in your voice a reflection of genuine human interactions.

To vary my takes, I often experiment with different intentions, envision different listeners, or even alter physical characteristics if voicing a character, like a cartoon bunny. For instance, in one take, I may adopt exaggerated teeth and a bold attitude, while in the other, my bunny speaks clearly, wears a bow tie, and savors a chai latte while reading the morning paper. This approach not only showcases versatility but also injects creativity and realism into the performance.

Bringing variety to your “2 takes” in an audition or sample read isn’t just enjoyable—it showcases your versatility, flexibility, and creativity. It demonstrates your commitment to the project, showing that you’re willing to explore multiple avenues to bring it to life. So, don’t hesitate to take fun risks with those “takes” while honoring the script and the client’s vision.

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The “Who” in “Who Are You Talking To?” 4 Mar 2024 8:05 AM (last year)

We often discuss the trend in today’s voice-over industry toward performances that are conversational, real, and relatable. Equally, we explore strategies for embodying these qualities when approaching voice-over scripts. A foundational strategy involves asking yourself some simple questions while examining a piece of copy. Consider the question, “Who am I talking to?” The common advice is, “Just be yourself!” For instance, voicing a car commercial doesn’t necessitate adopting the persona of a salesperson, fervently selling a Honda Civic to a customer named Jan on a sweltering July day in a crowded car lot somewhere. Instead, imagine you’re simply being yourself, sharing your enthusiasm about the new Honda Civic. But then arises the question: to whom? This “who” is what I’d like to delve into more deeply.

Let me share my approach as an example. When I review voice-over scripts, I generally envision myself speaking to someone from my personal life. The diverse individuals I know bring out various facets of my personality at different times. For example, I might giggle uncontrollably while planning a dinner with my friend Chelsea, yet adopt a more serious tone when having a difficult conversation with my mom (though, admittedly, we can share giggles like schoolgirls too at times).

The essence of asking, “Who are you talking to?” when analyzing a script is not meant to be a big ‘ole complicated question. It can simply refer to the people in your life whom you care about and who evoke genuine emotions and responses from you. It allows listeners to feel the care and nuanced complexity inherent in authentic and well-worn relationships. However, selection is key. If you’re currently annoyed with your younger sister, she might not be the ideal muse for an upbeat commercial about sugar-free granola.

Using my life and its many hilarious moments as fuel before I dive into a script can be super helpful too. If I need to smile and I’m not having a great day, I think about the last time my funniest friend said something..well…funny. It works like a charm. If I need to be serious and I’m in one of those weird moods where I laugh at the smallest thing, I remember something meaningful in my life that made me stop and be..well…serious. 

Essentially, in today’s need for authenticity in voice over, when we want to be believable, we can simply turn to things and people we believe in. When approaching copy, you don’t have to look too far to find the “Who” in “Who are you talking to?”

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The “Corporate” in Corporate Narration 26 Feb 2024 11:56 AM (last year)

 When I talk about different genres of voiceover work with beginners, sometimes, while uttering the word “corporate” as I discuss corporate narration, a look takes over their face that is similar to the way one looks when they taste or smell something slightly foul. “Corporate Narration,” they say, “Won’t that be dry and stuffy?” or “I don’t have that ‘CEO’ sound.”

Indeed, when it comes to corporate narration, the term itself often triggers a knee-jerk reaction that ranges from mild distaste to outright dread in the minds of many budding voiceover artists. But let me assure you, my fellow enthusiasts, that corporate narration is far from being confined to the realms of dry boardroom presentations or stuffy training videos. Some may even imagine they have to wear a suit and tie while they record, for authenticity’s sake. The thing is, corporate narration is a huge umbrella. Underneath it are lots of different kinds of voiceover work for lots of different kinds of corporations (companies).

A training video for a clown school employee could be considered corporate narration. What about an internal video thanking the employees of a company that saved the world by inventing a magical recycling time machine that year (bonuses all around!)? Some corporate narration can be quite dramatic and moving, like a video for a company’s website, educating the public about the deeply personal or heartfelt beliefs that put them in business in the first place, and that continue to steer their work ethic.

So, with that said, please allow me to get even more specific and shed some light on the diverse spectrum of corporate narration, where creativity and storytelling can blossom and explode beneath the veneer of stuffy business speak.

Firstly, let’s consider the realm of training and instructional videos. Yes, they may seem snooze-inducing at first glance, but think beyond the conventional office setting. Imagine voicing over a training module for a wilderness survival program, where your narration guides adventurers through the intricacies of building a shelter or starting a fire. Suddenly, the corporate world feels a bit more adventurous, doesn’t it?

Then there are company profiles and documentaries. Picture yourself narrating the story of a family-owned winery passed down through generations, each bottle encapsulating a legacy of passion and craftsmanship. Or perhaps you’re detailing the journey of a tech startup that revolutionized communication, tracing its humble beginnings in a garage to becoming a global phenomenon. These narratives are far from dry; they’re brimming with emotion and human connection.

Let’s not forget marketing and promotional materials. Here, your voice becomes the vehicle for conveying brand identity and values. Whether it’s a sleek product demo for the latest smartphone or an upbeat advertisement celebrating diversity and inclusivity, your narration lifts the company’s vision to new heights.

Moving on, internal communications offer another avenue for exploration. Picture yourself voicing a heartfelt message from the CEO expressing gratitude to employees for their dedication and hard work. Or perhaps you’re narrating an orientation video for new hires, welcoming them into the company culture with warmth and enthusiasm, and letting them know they’ve got vacation days and healthcare benefits (that is very enjoyable news to share!).

And then there are e-learning modules. From language courses to professional development seminars, your narration serves as the guiding voice empowering learners to acquire new skills and knowledge.

So, let go of any preconceived notions about corporate narration. Embrace the diversity and richness of storytelling opportunities that lie within this expansive realm and dance under its giant umbrella! Whether you’re narrating a whimsical journey through a fantasy world or shedding light on the innovative breakthroughs of a cutting-edge research institution, remember: the corporate world is anything but monotonous. And sure, there’s some dry and stuffy material too, but even then, it’s still fun because you’re still getting to do voiceover!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The History of Audiobooks 19 Feb 2024 6:42 AM (last year)

Recently, I found myself scrolling through heaps of titles on my beloved audible app, looking for my next listening experience. Would it be a murder mystery? Or how about a guilty pleasure beach read where the heroine loses love a million times before she finally finds it? Maybe a self-help book about setting boundaries with in-laws? So many choices! I suddenly thought to myself, “What was the first audiobook ever made?” I closed my audible app (after downloading a thriller) and opened, you guessed it, google.

So, it turns out the first “audiobooks” emerged not from a way to take in storytelling in the digital age, but from an innovative effort to bring literature to those who could not access it through reading it off the page. All the way back in 1932 the American Foundation for the Blind was determined to make books available for all to enjoy. 

In 1932, the AFB launched the “Talking Book Program” in partnership with the Library of Congress. The program aimed to provide accessible reading materials for blind and visually impaired individuals. The first audiobooks were recorded onto long-playing records, which were a new technology at the time.

So, learning this, of course my next burning question was…with the ability to record books, which were the first books to be chosen to record?! My fingers typed madly while I scanned the screen with bated breath. It turns out that the first selection to turn into audio waves included titles such as , ya know, that thing called the Bible, as well as Shakespearean plays, and popular novels of the time. “Makes sense”, I thought. Just like these days, the books that get turned into films are the ones with the most buzz and mass appeal, right?

After the technology was a go, the next logical step was to bring in professional actors and voice artists to bring these stories to life. You might think the dryer material took a back seat to the golden allure of being entertained but one of the most iconic early audiobooks was the recording of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. It was made in 1934, and marked an important milestone in making historical and legal texts accessible to visually impaired individuals.

Fast forward through time and audiobooks continued to evolve with advancements in technology, transitioning from vinyl records to cassette tapes (anyone remember pulling stuck tape out of a cassette player?) CDs, and eventually digital formats like Audible, my beloved app.

Today, audiobooks make storytelling not just accessible to everyone but also totally  immersive for everyone.  Not only that, they are a convenient way to learn something new on the dreaded commute, or keep one company on a 12 hour drive across states to visit a loved one or apply for a new job. Audiobooks have become traveling companions, our fellow road warriors. They harken us back to the days of being told stories around a campfire at camp or while being tucked into bed at night as children, “One more story Mom!” That’s what I yell at my audible account when a great audiobook ends, “Noooo, another story please!” 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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What is a Voice Over PSA? 12 Feb 2024 6:26 AM (last year)

First of all, let’s talk about what a PSA is. PSA stands for Public Service Announcement. Now, who exactly is qualified to make these, you may ask? The government? A not-for-profit organization? Well, really, anyone can. Typically though, Public Service Announcements are produced and broadcast with the intent to inform the public about issues of importance for the common good, ranging from health and safety to civic duties and environmental concerns.

FEMA’s “Integrated Public Alert & Warning System”

Some of the heavy hitters in PSA production are government agencies. They are sponsored by federal, state, or local government agencies aiming to inform the public about health warnings, emergency preparedness (“Tornado!”), voting information (“Vote for X, he handled the Tornado Crisis like a pro!”), and more.
Then you have non-profit organizations. Non-profits and charities often produce PSAs to raise awareness about their causes, such as disease prevention, environmental protection, social justice issues, and more. We’ve all seen an ASPCA ad with Sarah McLachlan crooning in the background while a basset hound jumps (in slow motion) into the loving arms of his adoptive parents, while we reach for the nearest box of tissues.

Some other folks creating PSAs are schools and universities to highlight educational programs, awareness campaigns, or community service initiatives. Next up in the PSA parade are governmental health organizations (like the CDC) and private health non-profits (like the American Heart Association) who use PSAs to spread awareness about health-related issues.

Then you have media outlets and corporations. While less common, some businesses engage in creating PSAs as part of their corporate social responsibility programs, focusing on issues that align with their values or industry.

PSAs have even reached Individuals and independent creators: With the rise of digital media platforms, individuals and small groups can also produce and distribute PSA content, although their reach might be more limited compared to organizations with more resources. The effectiveness of a PSA often depends on its ability to reach the intended audience, which is why partnerships with broadcasting networks, social media platforms, and other distribution channels are crucial.

You’ve probably heard this one before!

So, while almost anyone can create a PSA, the credibility and impact of the message can be significantly influenced by the authority and reputation of the organization or individuals behind it. Meaning, that if I made a PSA and put it on my Instagram about saving the bees, possibly no one will save the bees (at least not because of my suggestive PSA).

Now that we’ve talked about what a PSA is, let’s talk “layers.” Usually, because of what PSA commercials typically talk about, as a voice actor, I can expect some common tones and themes, such as empathy, compassion, and authority, especially when safety is a concern. I wouldn’t use my peppy “conversational millennial” read to talk about disease prevention the way I would about that awesome smell that Tide leaves in my bell bottoms.

There are some lead-in lines I tend to use when working on a PSA. So before I say the first line of the script, I might say, “I know it’s hard to hear…” or “Don’t worry, help is on the way” or “I get it.” These lead-in lines connect me to empathy and compassion, as well as the courage to tell a hard truth because a lot of PSAs are telling us hard truths about the reality of suffering or danger. But they are also often laced with so much hope, optimism, and support as well. There are layers in a PSA, just like in life. They don’t need to be complicated either. Keeping it simple and honest is a good approach for public service announcements; people will hear that and reach for some Kleenex (or lock themselves in a bunker) in no time.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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What is Audio Description? 5 Feb 2024 10:12 AM (last year)

When I first started out in voice over, I mostly did commercial voice overs, as well as promo work for television networks like MTV and HGTV, “Tune in next week and watch the Property Brothers work their magic by turning a homeowner’s dream into a renovated reality!” I always got excited knowing my mom would hear me on tv while she planned her next DIY project. I also wondered if she could hear the subliminal message I planted, “Please don’t get me socks for Christmas. Love you!”

As the years passed I discovered and developed skills in more voice-over genres, like corporate narration, e-learning, and audiobooks to name a few. I did it to expand my business, and to keep finding new things to keep me excited and growing in voice-over. One day, I was skimming a list of auditions on an online casting site and saw one for an audio description company, that wanted to add some voice actors to their list of go-to talent, otherwise known as their talent roster. I thought, “Hell yeah, I’d love to!” followed by, “What is it ?!” You see, I had no idea what the audio description even was. If you do, dear reader, I guess there is no reason to continue reading. If you don’t know, then allow me to introduce you to the wonderful world of audio description!

Audio description (AD) is a narration service that makes visual content accessible to people who are blind or have low vision. It provides a verbal description of visual elements during natural pauses in the audio or through a separate audio track. These descriptions include details about actions, expressions( “Jack frowns”), settings (“the wind is blowing wildly”), and on-screen text that might not be discernible through the dialogue or sound effects alone. Audio description allows individuals with visual impairments to engage with the content in a meaningful way.

Here’s another example; for an action sequence in a film you would hear a voice over saying, “Sam kicks the gun away from Joe. Joe dives after it, scraping his shoulder, picks up the gun, and points it at Sam. Sam grins devilishly and holds up the pin from a grenade.” Those are all important details in the scene that a blind person wouldn’t know were happening without that voice over! They would just hear an explosion.

It works like this: Audio descriptions are carefully scripted and narrated to fit within the existing audio space of the content without overwhelming or interrupting the original audio track. Voice actors performing the narration, deliver the descriptions in a clear, concise, and neutral tone to ensure they are informative without being distracting. Too much emotion in a line of audio description may take focus away from the heartfelt words of the actor in the film. A dramatic audio description performance of ,”The ocean waves swell in the distance” may take away some emotional impact of the hero’s “I love you, damn it!”

And check this out: Audio description is not limited to entertainment; it is also used in educational settings, museums, and live performances, making visual information accessible to a wider audience. Audio description has become a vital tool in promoting inclusivity and accessibility. Pretty cool, right? I did end up making it onto that talent roster, and diving into the world of audio description was not only fascinating and fun but also a revelation. Who knew my voice could help someone “see”, ensuring they get the full experience, plot twists and all? Mom, if you’re listening, I hope you’re proud -and fine, I could actually use some socks. But maybe throw in a scarf this season for variety’s sake!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Taking Care of Your Voice During the Winter Months 29 Jan 2024 8:23 AM (last year)

Taking care of your voice during the harsher winter months is essential to ensure your voice remains healthy and in top shape. Cold and dry winter air can have a negative impact on your vocal cords, leading to dryness, irritation, and can even cause vocal strain if not properly cared for. Here are some tips to help you protect your voice during the winter season. Year round warm-weather folks can still pick up a thing or two here…

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is always crucial for maintaining vocal health, but especially during the winter when the air tends to be drier. Hydrating your body will help keep your vocal cords moist and prevent them from becoming dry and irritated. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water every day (ladies, grab that extra roll of toilet paper at the market.)

2. Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home or recording space can significantly benefit your vocal cords. Consider using a humidifier to increase humidity levels, especially when the air is excessively dry. This will help prevent your vocal cords from drying out and becoming strained. It may also give a freezing Minnesotan the cozy delusion that they are a sun-soaked Californian luxuriating in its balmy temp.

3. Warm up your voice: Before singing or speaking extensively, always make sure to warm up your voice. This is particularly important during winter when your vocal cords may be more susceptible to strain. Engage in gentle vocal exercises to warm your voice and prepare it for optimal performance. Quietly say, and then slowly add more volume to,”Damn it’s cold out here!”

4. Avoid excessive throat clearing: While it may be tempting to clear your throat when you feel a tickle or irritation, it can damage your vocal cords. Try to resist the urge and instead opt for a sip of water to help soothe your throat. (Plus, water gives hydration, so you’re hitting multiple goals at once!)

5. Dress warmly: Dressing appropriately for the weather is essential for your overall well-being and vocal health. Protecting your neck and chest with scarves or turtlenecks can help keep your vocal area warm and minimize the risk of straining your voice. Luckily, turtle necks, unlike bell bottoms, are always in fashion. Thanks Steve Jobs.

6. Limit exposure to irritants: Winter is often associated with indoor heating systems, which can dry out the air and expose you to irritants. Avoid excessive exposure to smoke, dust, and other airborne pollutants, as they can irritate your vocal cords. If necessary, use air purifiers to improve air quality in your surroundings. If someone is smoking at your work x-mas party, thank them for blowing smoke out of the side of their mouth and not directly into your face. Happy Holidays!

7. Rest and take breaks: Resting your voice is crucial in maintaining vocal health. During the winter months, when your voice may be more vulnerable, make sure to allow for adequate rest and take breaks when needed. This will help prevent vocal fatigue and ensure your voice stays strong throughout the season. I know it can be hard to hold back vocally at times, especially with all the cheery hootin’ and hollerin’ of the holidays. It’s all about balance my friends.

By following these tips, you can protect your voice during the harsher winter months and maintain optimal vocal health. Remember, your voice is a precious instrument, so take the necessary steps to care for it and enjoy singing or speaking with confidence all year round.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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My First Home Studio 22 Jan 2024 6:27 AM (last year)



When I first started voice over I was living in New York City, the big ole’ apple. This was before the “remote age” in voice over (or at least how we experience it today) where I would go into a physical office and audition for a voice over job. I would get the appointment from my agent, and show up at a specific time having not seen the script ahead of time. I would always get there a little early to go over it and make some creative choices or work out words that didn’t flow easily.  

Now, this was back in 2010, and there were many voice actors, unbeknownst to me, operating from home studios across the country getting work through direct marketing, without an agent. There were also voice actors sending out demos to potential clients, going to events and shaking hands with potential clients in their local communities, and going into studios to record. Both ways of getting and completing work still exist today, but the use of home studios has grown immensely, especially due to that little worldwide eventish thing called you know what. 

What’s also changed is the idea that you have to have an agent to work as a voice actor. Sure, it may lead to jobs that are harder to get without an agent, and agents are still wonderful things to have, but they are not the whole enchilada. In fact, agents want to work with voice actors who are pro active in getting their own work. 

What does all this have to do with home studio? Well, in my limited agent/ New York City bubble, it wasn’t until later that I discovered voice actors from all over the country were securing their own work via online casting sites. My mind was blown. Where had I been: apparently sleeping under a commercial voice over rock, snoozing while my peers were voicing e-learning, IVR, medical, documentaries (the list goes on!) 

So, I joined the sites, and there was work! Lots of work.  Were there some fresh irritants wedged in my eye? Yep? Was it intimidating? Sure was. Was it exciting? Absotootly (new word, spread it around please.) Did I need to acquire a new skill set? Indeed. Enter the  “home studio.” To work on these sites, I needed to have high quality sound, but also experience using recording software and learning editing skills. Was it easy? Nope. Was it worth it? Absotootly. 

To be totally honest, when I first took on a home studio, I was….kinda angry. I had developed all these skills as a voice actor and now I needed to shift gears and do the job that a studio engineer had always done. I wasn’t happy about it.  Plus, what about all the expensive equipment?! Luckily, I discovered there is a wide range of affordable home studio gear and that I didn’t have to break the bank. And soon after I started booking jobs through online casting sites or other client communications and direct marketing, I started feeling pretty pumped. It opened up my world to what was possible in voice over work. My worried mind was eased by the vast universe of free home studio education and support online via sites like youtube. I also invested in a consultation with a home studio expert to start. Well worth it. 

Once I accepted having a home studio was like any other worthwhile undertaking, that I was capable of it as long as I was open, patient, and willing to learn step by step, having a home studio became just another part of my life. A good part, that increased my earning potential as a full-service provider and took me from nervous and angry to excited and empowered.

For more on home recording techniques, check out our eBook “Home Recording Primer” HERE

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New Year! What’s Next? 5 Jan 2024 5:20 AM (last year)

Every time the year comes to a close, a tiny seedling of a list begins to grow in my mind… that quickly becomes a wild plant that is taking over my kitchen, threatening to bust through windows in its reach for the sun. Can anyone relate? And there isn’t just one list right? There are a few that may pertain to different areas of my life. There is one with “skydiving” on it, that I quickly cross out before I’ve even finished writing it. There is the one with “more leafy green vegetables” on it, that I know will make my next trip to the supermarket less fun. Then of course there is the “VO to-do” list. This is not just new voice-over goals for the year, but also features the past years’ efforts with perhaps some modification. It can be overwhelming! But I try to think of any New Year goal list as something positive; a setting of intentions, that I approach with self-care, humor (because I know some will blossom while others shrivel), a strong sense of realistic hope, and a big ole’ splash of dreams.

The most important element, however, and the one most vulnerable to being skipped, is taking a moment to acknowledge and honor the past year’s efforts, whether that is taking on a new client or eating a crap ton of broccoli. When I feel gratitude for my efforts of the past year, I feel excited for the new year that is coming my way. I also remember that within the list of “to-do’s” are very many small steps that I can take one at a time and with patience. It doesn’t have to happen all at once. Things worthwhile very rarely do.

When I was first becoming a voice actor, my New Year’s list looked different than it does today. There was a lot of “learn, learn, learn” and “play, play, play.” Now my list has things like “focus more on direct marketing” or “branding” or “trends in vo to be aware of” “go to my chambers of commerce next meet up.” The thing is, it still has – after all these years later- “learn, learn, learn” and you guessed it, “play, play, play.” That hasn’t changed. So, with a New Year upon us, may we all continue to do those two very important things, no matter where we are in our voice-over journey.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Working with Copy as a Radio DJ 15 Dec 2023 10:23 AM (last year)

As a radio DJ, I often read pre-written scripts or advertisements on air. It’s essential to deliver these messages in a way that keeps my audience engaged and ensures the timing is perfect. So, how do you self-direct as a radio DJ and handle commercial copy like a pro?

Sometimes, I encounter scripts that could be more concise for the allocated time slot, meaning the ad agency or client might just be trying to fit in more words to say than is humanly possible while sounding, well, not insane. As a DJ, knowing how to edit the copy on the fly without losing its essence is essential in such situations. Now, with other voice work I would not be able to edit, so keep that difference in mind, lest you start saying, “Hey, I cut a few things” and then watch them cut you from the job.

For my purposes and permission, I try to focus on the main message that needs to be conveyed and eliminate any unnecessary fluff (also, this is between you and me; I would never tell a copywriter or client there is fluffy fluff coming out of their fancy fingertips.) For time sake however, I may have to rearrange sentences or rephrase paragraphs to fit within the allotted time. Clarity and brevity are essential when handling pieces with too many words.

As a radio DJ, as in some other voice-over work from home, you often have to self-direct, meaning you may not have a producer or director guiding you in real-time. This requires a heightened sense of awareness and attention to detail. I try to take the time to read and understand the copy thoroughly before going on air or recording the copy. I will make notes, highlight key sections, and visualize how I want to deliver each line. Being well-prepared and self-directed, I can deliver commercials confidently and professionally.

Remember, the primary goal of commercial copy is to engage and persuade your listeners. I want to connect emotionally with my audience by infusing my personality and style into the reads, not bore them to death or feel like, “Great, another person trying to sell me another thing I don’t need.” I find ways to make the content relatable and authentic, allowing my listeners to connect with me, and the message on a deeper level.

When I first started in radio, managing commercial copy was challenging, but I became more comfortable with self-direction with practice. I seek feedback from my peers or program directors to help refine my skills further. I embrace every opportunity to improve and develop my unique style. I remember that it’s not just about reading words; it’s about creating a memorable and impactful experience for my listeners.

The thing is, as a radio DJ, handling commercial copy is crucial to my job. My dedication to honing the skills of mastering timing, self-directing, and building an emotional connection has led to confidently delivering compelling commercials as a radio DJ and as a voice over professional in other genres of work. And this means keeping all of my clients, my listeners, and myself happy with my work. Lastly, these skills are not mine to own, they are available to you any time you choose.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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How Improv can Help You Play 17 Nov 2023 12:22 PM (last year)

When I first started learning about voice over, many…ahem..many moons ago, I had just finished studying theatre at a conservatory in New York City. I had a lot of acting tools, but little experience in acting — onstage or behind the mic.

 I loved comedy and would go see shows at Upright Citizen’s Brigade, a popular improv theatre started by Amy Poehler, amongst others. Totally enthralled, I watched as actors, totally unscripted,  improvised scenes on stage. I developed crushes on a couple of actors just because they made me laugh so hard I considered wearing diapers to their next show. And I enjoyed it so much I started taking classes there myself. 

It was nerve wracking at first. We would do improv exercises and say whatever came to mind, encouraged to take creative risks. Sometimes, I would make other students laugh, and many times, I would not. The joke that flew into my head and out of my mouth crashed and burned like an 80 year old drunk pigeon from the sky. I was a little embarrassed when it happened, but then gradually became less so. The fun of taking creative risks was worth the failed attempts. It freed me up and let me focus on the discovery part of acting and not trying to control the delivery. The freedom to fail has been one of the greatest gifts to me as a voice actor. 

Fast forward to today, and I use improv with my copy. Whether it is a commercial or an explainer video. I can take a look at it and improv around the copy, adding my own words or jokes. The more I do it, the more interesting or unexpected acting choices pop out of the cake for me, covered in icing and without shame. 

I don’t keep the improv in the final audition or job anyway, unless I know the casting director or client loves and wants a little improv. I just use it to connect to the copy and make the client’s message feel more like it’s my own. Like it’s coming from me and not a piece of paper. It’s another tool to keep it all fresh and interesting for me. 

So, if you’ve been mulling over that improv class at your local theatre…maybe give it a go. I’m pretty sure you will survive. You may even thrive! That last improvisation was brought to you by Chuck E. Cheese’s World Wide Day of Play.  That’s a thing right?

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Self-Care in a Busy World 10 Nov 2023 12:43 PM (last year)

Self-care is vital to maintaining overall well-being and leading a healthy, balanced lifestyle. With the constant demands of work, new or continuing voice over clients, relationships, and personal responsibilities, taking the time to prioritize self-care is more important than ever. This isn’t the first time we’ve addressed this and it won’t be the last, because dang it, it’s important.

But what exactly does self-care mean, and why is it so crucial? Let’s delve deeper into the importance of self-care and explore some practical ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.

Self-care can be defined as any deliberate action taken to improve or preserve one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. It involves making choices that nurture and support your well-being, allowing you to recharge and rejuvenate. While prioritizing yourself may seem indulgent or selfish, self-care is selfless. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to show up fully for others and fulfill your responsibilities. That’s the funny thing about self care. We run around like chickens with our heads cut off to get things done well, and then wonder why the hard as brick cookies broke a tooth because we nodded off from being too dang pooped to hear the timer go off.

One of the critical reasons why self-care is essential is that it helps reduce stress levels. In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become a common part of everyday life as we gallantly juggle voice over work, other careers, personal challenges, family life, and the gig economy. Stress can take a toll on our physical and mental health. Here’s the thing folks, it doesn’t have to win. Engaging in self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or time in nature can significantly reduce stress and promote well-being and send that stress monster to bed early like a well behaved 7 year old (those do exist right?)

Moreover, self-care enhances productivity and performance. When you prioritize your well-being, you can function at your best. Taking breaks, getting enough sleep, and nourishing your body with nutritious food can all contribute to increased focus, creativity, and overall effectiveness in personal and professional endeavors. By taking care of yourself, you’re investing in your own success.

Self-care also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy relationships. When you neglect your own needs, you may become resentful, burnt out, and less present for the people in your life. By practicing self-care, you not only fill your own cup but also have more to offer to those around you. It allows you to show up as the best version of yourself in your relationships, fostering deeper connections and more fulfilling interactions. When it comes to building long lasting work relationships in voice over, you will be better able to handle a more, let’s say..”not as fun” client, instead of email screaming “You said the recording was due Tuesday, not 5 minutes ago when my mother in law is staring daggers at me over Sunday brunch!!!”

Incorporating self-care into your daily routine doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes daily to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could include reading a book, taking a bath, practicing deep breathing exercises, or indulging in a hobby you love, or just stopping at the mirror on the way out of the bathroom and winking at yourself.

By making self-care a priority, you can reduce stress, enhance productivity, strengthen relationships, and ultimately lead a happier, more fulfilled life. So, take a moment today to reflect on your self-care practices and commit to prioritizing yourself. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The Great Headphone Showdown: A Voice-Over Artist’s Guide 8 Nov 2023 7:00 AM (last year)

If you’re a voice-over artist, you know that headphones are your trusty sidekicks in the world of vocal wizardry. They help you hear every nuance of your performance and ensure your voice comes across just as you intended. But with an overwhelming variety of headphones out there, how do you choose the perfect pair for your needs? Let’s break it down and explore the pros and cons of four popular headphone styles: on-ear headphones, over-ear headphones, earbuds, and in-ear headphones. Your voice deserves the best, after all!

On-Ear Headphones:

Pros:

Comfortable Workdays: On-ear headphones are a fantastic choice for long voice-over sessions. They sit comfortably on your ears without causing discomfort during extended use. 

Balanced Sound: You’ll enjoy a well-balanced sound profile with clear mids and highs, ensuring you hear your voice and the nuances in your recordings.

Portable Pals: On-ear headphones are compact and easy to carry, making them perfect for studio sessions on the go.

Cons:

Noise Intrusion: They might not provide the same level of noise isolation as over-ear headphones, which can be a drawback when you need complete silence.

Ear Fatigue: After marathon recording sessions, your ears might feel the pressure and need a break.

 Sound Leakage: Be mindful of your volume, as sound can escape and be picked up by sensitive microphones.

Over-Ear Headphones: 

Pros:

Audio Fidelity: Over-ear headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with deep bass and crystal-clear audio, perfect for capturing every vocal nuance.

Total Isolation: Their over-ear design provides top-notch noise isolation, ensuring your recordings are free from unwanted ambient noise.

Comfort The large, cushioned ear cups are your comfy companions during those marathon recording sessions.

Cons:

Studio-Only: These headphones can be a bit bulky, making them less practical for on-the-go artists or recording outside the studio.

Heat Wave: Extended use may lead to some heat and sweat buildup, which can become uncomfortable.

Pricey Picks: High-quality over-ear headphones often come with a hefty price tag.

Earbuds:

Pros:

Compact Convenience: Earbuds are super portable, making them an excellent choice for recording on location or while traveling.

Discreet Design: Their low-profile look is perfect for unobtrusive recording, and they won’t mess up your hair or interfere with headphones.

Stay Put: Many earbuds are designed to stay in place, so you can move around during recordings without fear of losing them.

Cons:

 Sound Sacrifice: While some earbuds offer decent sound quality, they might not match the audio performance of larger headphones.

Fit Frustration: Finding the perfect fit can be a challenge, and an ill-fitting earbud can lead to a lot of frustration.

Longevity: Earbuds may be more fragile due to their small components, so they require careful handling.

In-Ear Headphones:

Pros:

Microscopic Marvels: In-ear headphones are even more compact than earbuds, making them ideal for travel and location

 recording. 

Silence Sanctuary: They often provide effective noise isolation, keeping your recordings free from unwanted backgroundnoise.

Gym-Ready: If you’re recording on the move or in unconventional spaces, in-ear headphones are less likely to fall out during your takes.

Cons:

Sound Constraints: The small size may limit the audio quality compared to larger headphones, which is not ideal for meticulous voice-over work.

Fit Fumbling: Achieving a comfortable, secure fit can be a bit of a challenge, as it depends on your individual ear shape.

Delicate Darlings: Like their earbud counterpart, in-ear headphones may be more fragile due to their smaller components.

In the grand showdown of headphones for voice-over artists, there’s no one-size-fits-all winner. The best choice depends on your studio setup, recording environment, and personal preferences. So, whether you prefer the bass-thumping over-ear extravagance, the sleek and discreet earbud allure, or something in between, rest assured that your perfect pair of headphones is out there, waiting to amplify your vocal magic. Happy recording!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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New Client Jitters 3 Nov 2023 12:08 PM (last year)

In the world of voice-over, it’s actually a lot like any other business when it comes to having customers. The goal is to have a robust list of repeat clients, people who come back to you again and again because, dang it, you’re awesome. It’s about building long-term relationships. You communicate effectively. You get clear on their voice over needs and expectations, regarding everything from performance to how and when they want it delivered. You consistently underpromise and over-deliver on deadlines, so they end up with a wonderful vocal performance every time (even if you secretly weren’t feeling like it was your best that day. Tell your inner perfectionist to hush.)

Voice actors love their repeat clients because it’s harder and more time-consuming to constantly be chasing down new clients. Not that they aren’t great as well. After all, if you do a swell job, they can become a future repeat client. If they don’t, you have another paid gig under your belt.

The reality is, no matter how swell you are, sometimes voice over buyers like to try new hats (voice actors) on for size way more than others. Variety is the spice of life; that’s a legit saying out there in the universe, right? And in this day and age with more voice actor choices than ever before there is a lot to choose from. However, there are more products and services, thus clients than ever before, and a lot of them prefer to go to their tried and true.

Because I love repeat clients and hope every new client becomes one, whenever I have a new client the stakes feel kind of high. So, I sometimes (and by that I mean always, as in EVERY SINGLE TIME) get the “new client jitters.” I might even start spinning out before the first recording session, “Why oh why did I eat all that chili I made, the night before the chili contest at work yesterday, where I consumed 9 KINDS OF CHILI!?” The anxiety continues to bloom like a tulip in April, “What if I burp and fart at the same time and the microphone picks it up and they think they’ve hired a MONSTER?!” Then I pretend I’m the embodiment of the latest self help book off the best sellers list, “You are wonderful. I love you. It will be what it will be. OM.”

Then I calm down, focus, and just do what I’ve been trained to do, and learned to do over time and through experience. I warm up my body, my voice, and my articulators. I look at the script and identify any troublesome words or phrases I may trip over and repeat them to myself so the words flow effortlessly. I look up any pronunciations I may be unsure of. I look at any directions they’ve sent and make some creative choices myself that fit in with their vision. I think of any questions I may have that haven’t been addressed via email. I think about whether they are truly pertinent, or just me being all “I am so into this and curious and want you to know it, so I am going to waste your time with some pointless questions that I could have found answers to online myself.”

I’m a gal full of jokes, some solid ones, and some real doozies. A lot of clients like a splash of play and humor during a session and some don’t. Even for the ones that do, I have to watch myself. Too much is no good. The session is not about me, after all. It’s about them. And that is the takeaway here folks. When anxiety pops up over a new client and you feel like the new kid in the playground hoping to be accepted and liked, just remember, it’s ultimately not about you! It’s about them, so as long as we’ve done the work and stay the awesome professionals that we are, that’s all we can do as voice actors. The rest is up to fate. OM.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Ghosted 18 Oct 2023 7:22 AM (last year)

Well, well, well everyone. It’s that time of year again. The houses are decorated and everyone’s sweet tooths are in high gear without any guilt, “It’s Halloween!” I mumble with a mouth full of snickers, arms wrapped around a plastic pumpkin filled with treats, clinging to it for dear life. It’s a great time of year. In the world of voice over, things get spooky with Halloween ads and toys. I voiced a Halloween hologram party decoration some months ago. People display video on their walls using a projector, my voice in  three witches’ holograms cackling away. That’s been released finally. 

While at home in my studio, a shadow may pass, and because it’s Halloween, of course it must be a ghost! (It was my hair). A sound occurs in the kitchen, and of course, it’s a ghost! (It was a precarious cup in the dish rack falling.) The t.v. suddenly goes on, so of course, it must be a ghost! (I sat on the remote.) Lots of ghosts. 

The other day, I  was very excited to get a message from an audiobook casting director. I had auditioned for her audiobook project on an online casting site. The book was perfect for me. It was a comedy with some drama. It had a lot of fun characters and good dialogue. In her email, she said she was having a hard time extracting my audition from the online casting site, and could I send it to her personal email so she could give me more details about the project and send the audition to the audiobook publisher, the final decision maker. I was genuinely jazzed.

I emailed her with the audition and a note of enthusiasm for the book, as well as my gratitude for being in the running. I excitedly waited to hear her response. Nothing. The day passed. The following day, nothing. This is normal, people get busy, especially casting directors. The following week I decided to check in and mention that  if the book had already been cast, I appreciated being considered and would love to be considered for any future projects that may be a good fit for me. I didn’t want to annoy her, but I also wanted to strike while the iron was hot to possibly get on her roster of voice actors. No response. A week followed. Crickets.

Suddenly, I sat up like a rocket in my chair and thought, “I’VE BEEN GHOSTED!” And let me tell you, it is spooky, that goes without saying, but it is also pretty disheartening. I slumped in my chair. But I know casting directors, clients, audiobook publishers, everyone involved in hiring a voice over actor, get really busy. It’s not personal. And for all the ghosts, there are still living human beings responding to me in my voice over work. 

The most important thing is that I know I gave a good audition, and it was received well. That on its own gives me the confidence and motivation to say, “Okay, next!” And the truth is, I may hear from her in a couple months with a new project that is perfect for me. She may indeed shed her ghost skin and  return to the land of the living, where I will be there to take on her project with just as much excitement that I had for the first one.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Disconnect to Reconnect: How to Break Free from Phone Addiction 6 Oct 2023 11:34 AM (last year)

In today’s digital age, it’s become almost second nature for many of us to look at our phones constantly. From checking social media notifications (and scrolling endless videos of people playing with slime or pranking unsuspecting loved ones) to replying to work emails, our phones have become integral to our lives. We all have that friend who has suddenly looked out into space eerily wide-eyed and said, “Why do I feel so…so…naked? Oh, I left my phone in the car.” The thing is, this constant phone use has some negative consequences.

One of the most significant impacts of constantly looking at our phones is our mental health. Studies have shown that excessive phone use increases anxiety and depression. The constant bombardment of information and social media content can overwhelm and create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out). Instead of knocking out a great audition, we’ve got our hand in a huge bag of Cheetos, comparing our lives to some celebrity getting way too drunk on a yacht. Unfortunately, even if you don’t envy the celebrity’s behavior and future hangover, this can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, which are not great motivators to do great work. Moreover, the blue light emitted by phone screens can disrupt our sleep patterns and affect our overall well-being. And you know what, I like sleep, like, a lot. Sleep is the bff I never want to lose.

Another adverse effect of constantly being glued to our phones, like a freckled five year old who just discovered glue for the first time, is decreased productivity. Every time we stop what we’re doing to check our phones, we interrupt our focus and concentration. This constant switching between tasks hampers our ability to complete assignments efficiently and decreases productivity. Additionally, constantly checking our phones can lead to procrastination, as we get distracted by notifications and waste precious time. So, yeah, we might be missing out on valuable, enjoyable, and productive time becoming the strongest voice over professional we can be.

Constant phone usage also strains our relationships. When constantly engrossed in our screens, we become less present and attentive to those around us. We may miss out on meaningful conversations and experiences with loved ones, mentors and peers, leading to strained relationships or feelings of disconnect. Moreover, excessive phone use can give the impression that we prioritize our devices over spending quality time with the people who matter most to us, or people we want to be building long-lasting work relationships with.

To counter these adverse effects, find ways to reduce phone dependency and strike a healthier balance. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Set boundaries: Establish specific times of the day when you will be phone-free, such as during meals or before bedtime. Designate specific areas in your home as phone-free zones to encourage engagement with the present moment. Does it really need to lay under your pillow like a back molar waiting for the tooth fairy?

2. Turn off non-essential notifications: Limit the number of interruptions by only allowing notifications for essential apps like texts or phone calls. Turning off unnecessary notifications will help reduce the urge to check your phone constantly. Do you really need to know when Kohl’s has a sale on khaki pants?

3. Create phone-free activities: Engage in activities not involving phone use. This can be anything from reading a book, walking, or practicing a hobby. Finding alternative ways to occupy your time will help break the habit of constantly reaching for your phone. And it’s okay to not document every fun activity, “If a tree falls in the woods with no one around to capture it on their cell phone, did it even happen?” Yep!

4. Practice mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your phone usage by practicing mindfulness. Before picking up your phone, ask yourself if it is truly necessary or will contribute positively to your current situation. Taking a moment to pause and reflect can help you make deliberate choices about your phone usage, “CVS texted me, will the robot pharmacist really get their feelers hurt if I don’t respond?”

Only four things on that list. Totally doable! Even trying one can make a difference. Reducing phone dependency comes with numerous benefits. By disconnecting from our devices, we can enhance our mental well-being. We can experience less stress and anxiety and can engage in more meaningful conversations and connections. Additionally, reducing phone usage allows us to reclaim our time and focus, leading to increased productivity and greater fulfillment, as voice over professionals and in other roles we inhabit in our lives.

By implementing strategies such as setting boundaries, turning off non-essential notifications, engaging in phone-free activities, and practicing mindfulness, we can regain control over our phone use and experience a more balanced and present life.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Mastering the Art of Boundaries: Keys to Achieving Work/Life Harmony 29 Sep 2023 11:00 AM (last year)

Setting boundaries in personal and professional space is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and ensuring overall well-being, “You go ahead and eat dinner without me while I do this audition! The green beans smell great! Oregano?”

The thing is, in today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to blur the lines between personal and professional life, leading to stress, burnout, and a lack of fulfillment. However, by setting clear boundaries, you can create a harmonious balance that allows you to thrive in both areas, “Maybe I will answer that clients email after I secure a doctor’s appointment for that mysterious rash..” You get the point.

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize the importance of defining your personal space, especially as your own boss of your voice over business, “Listen work Sandra, volleyball Sandra really needs to make this game.” Yep, this means consciously setting aside dedicated time for yourself, your hobbies, and your relationships. Whether spending quality time with loved ones, engaging in self-care activities, or pursuing your passions, making time for personal fulfillment is crucial. By establishing boundaries around your personal time, you can protect it from being infringed upon by work-related demands.

On the other hand, setting boundaries in your professional space is equally vital. This involves establishing guidelines around your working hours, availability, and workload. For instance, getting a work email from a client at 10 at night while you’re deep into an episode of Suits? Answering it then may set a precedent you won’t be happy with in the short term or long. Communicate your availability to colleagues and clients, ensuring they understand when you are reachable and when you are not. It’s essential to resist the temptation to constantly be “on” and accessible, as this can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. You can maintain a healthier work-life balance by setting limits on your work hours and being assertive about your boundaries.

One effective way to set boundaries is by creating physical separations between personal and professional spaces. Designate a specific area in your home for work-related activities, and strive to keep this area separate from your relaxation and private rooms. This physical boundary can help create a psychological distinction between work and leisure, allowing you to switch off when your working hours are over. Eating a bowl of Cheerios in bed, in your most adorable pjs while answering an email sounds heavenly, I know, but the separation is important.

In addition to physical boundaries, setting clear expectations with others regarding your limits is crucial. Communicate your needs and limitations assertively and respectfully. For example, if you prefer not to take work-related calls after a specific time in the evening, make it known to clients. Setting these expectations upfront can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure your boundaries are respected.

Finally, it’s important to regularly evaluate and reassess your boundaries to ensure they are still serving your needs. As circumstances change, so too may your requirements for personal and professional boundaries. Be open to adjusting and refining your boundaries to maintain a healthy balance and adapt to new challenges; similar to staying open to a new direction in a voice over job!

In conclusion, setting boundaries in personal and professional space is essential for a fulfilling and well-balanced life, full of voice over success, friends, and leisurely dinners filled with green beans. By clearly defining personal and professional boundaries, creating physical separations, communicating expectations, and regularly evaluating your limitations, you can make a healthy work-life balance that promotes your overall well-being. Remember, setting boundaries is not selfish – it’s an act of self-care and self-preservation that ultimately benefits you and those around you.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Having More Than One Channel for Finding Work 22 Sep 2023 10:53 AM (last year)

Having more than one channel for sourcing voice over work is an important aspect of maintaining a thriving business. The truth is, there can be slow periods for companies and industries that you voice for. There can be changes on online casting sites (trends, algorithms) too, if you happen to use them. If you depend on one or two companies or one online casting site or agent to get you work, you may be limiting your opportunities. Let’s put in a more amusing analogy lest we get too serious here.

Think about owning a television, the big kind with amazing graphics or a little one in the kitchen that keeps you in a state of wonderment that it still works, keeping you company while you make your famous beef stroganoff. Here’s the thing, when it comes to your t.v., would you want just one channel? When a favorite show has a new plot line that isn’t quite working for you, “No! Why did the bachelor pick her?!”, we can turn to another channel for a program that excites us more, or at least doesn’t frustrate us. It’s the same with voice over work.

When one channel of work is slow, we can change channels. We can change back to the other channel later. They all still exist in our television set, a remote click away. It takes the pressure off of having only one way to source work, and stepping away from one channel can help us feel refreshed and inspired when we return to it because we’ve been active in another channel, “You know, I actually like her. I’m glad he picked her!”

So, how do all the channels not get crazy and cross streams like in Ghostbusters to where one person can’t hold it together alone? One at a time. Watch and commit to one channel (online casting auditioning) for an hour, and the next hour you switch to another channel (direct marketing.)

You may be thinking at this point, “Alright, enough already! What channels are you talking about?! I know I’m not getting voice over work from the star of The Bachelor! Well, let’s chat “channels,” shall we?

Here are some – but not limited to – “channels” to source voice over opportunites:

Direct Marketing: Researching companies that you’d like to work with and marketing directly to them via email or phone.

In Person: Meeting people in real life and talking about your voice over business, exchanging contact information and beginning to build a working relationship.

Online casting sites: Auditioning on online casting sites for jobs as well as having a place to share your demo for potential clients to hear and contact you.

Social Media Marketing: Creating content about your business or voice over work as well as connecting to potential client on social media.

Representation: Seeking out talent agencies, production houses, or ad agencies to get on their client rosters.

There are also those channels that help us be the best versions of ourselves before we reach out to potential clients. These are important too:

Branding: Spending time on your business branding, checking in with what works and what might not be working.

Practice, practice, practice: Yep, while we look for work we can also keep honing the very skills that can lead to more work!

Also, keep in mind, just like television you don’t have to love every show that’s on it! Meaning, you don’t have to work every channel! Some people focus more on two or three. For example, a particular voice actor may not want to do social media marketing at all and for the most part unsubscribe to that channel, preferring direct marketing efforts.

Just like the show The Bachelor (oops! I meant a television set) have more than one channel and change channels when you need to, knowing you can turn back to that program at a later time.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Boost Your Mood with Food! 15 Sep 2023 11:25 AM (last year)

Are you feeling down in the dumpy dumps lately? Or maybe just feeling a whole lotta “meh.” Balancing work, voice-over (full or part-time) and life, ain’t always easy my friend. We’ve heard that one of the keys to uplifting your mood could be right at your fingertips – or rather, on your plate ( a handmade bamboo bowl from Etsy or a plastic dish shaped like a turtle from childhood count too, FYI.)
In recent years, countless studies have shown a strong connection between food and emotional well-being. If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your mood, here are some delicious foods guaranteed to make you feel good.

1. Dark Chocolate

If you’re a chocolate lover, you’re in luck! Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids that can help lift your spirits by increasing serotonin levels in your brain. This natural mood booster tastes excellent and provides instant stress relief. Indulge in high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for maximum benefits. Just keep in mind there is caffeine if you’re sensitive to it. Also, just don’t let the thousands of brands of chocolate that exist these days confuse you back into a state of the “mehs.” It took me thirty minutes the other day to decide between “Dark Cocoa Nib with Indonesian Cinnamon and Japanese Miso” and “Appalachian Strawberries with Sicilian Pistachio with a Hint of Peruvian Spice.” I had to take a nap after.

Not to be confused with, Sal (man)

2. Salmon

Salmon and other fatty fish like mackerel, herring, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are believed to significantly boost mood by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy brain function. Incorporate fatty fish into your diet at least twice a week for improved mental health. And oh my, the color of salmon..so pretty am I right? I had a friend once get frustrated when gifted a pillow, “Don’t they know nothing in my apartment matches salmon!” I digress.

3. Spinach

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, K and fiber. One standout nutrient in these veggies is magnesium – this mineral is vital in mood regulation by helping maintain proper nerve function and reduce stress levels. Remember to add some leafy greens to your daily meals! Do leafy greens equal pleasant dreams? Maybe!!



4. Walnuts

These tasty nuts are known for their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help balance mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Additionally, walnuts contain tryptophan – an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin naturally. Snack on a handful of walnuts or sprinkle some over your salads or yogurt. Yum..just..yum.

We all know that food is a vital part of our daily lives. It provides us with energy, nutrients, and satisfaction. If you’re looking for ways to feel happier and healthier, adding these mood-boosting foods to your diet could be the key. All those happy nutrients will spill over into your work and life -in the booth and outside it!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Your Career 8 Sep 2023 10:33 AM (last year)

Imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon that affects many people, from accountants to voice actors, regardless of their industry, achievements, or success—sometimes characterized by self-doubt, insecurity, and the fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of competence and accomplishments. It’s heaps of fun!! Just Kidding. It’s hard. The thing to remember though, is that if you’ve experienced imposter syndrome, you are not alone.

One of the leading causes of imposter syndrome is perfectionism. People who strive for perfection may set unrealistic expectations for themselves and are highly critical of their performance. This constant self-criticism can lead to a perpetual cycle of self-doubt, a fear of failure, and taking creative risks. The chef getting glowing reviews from her new restaurant might be sweating in the kitchen crying over wilted rosemary, and telling herself that it’s all her fault that rosemary is green, and throwing out a fantastic new recipe and vowing to never cook again. The moment passes of course, but you get the point.

The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing and acknowledging your achievements. Take the time to reflect on your past successes and remind yourself of the skills and qualities that have brought you to where you are today. Remember that you are not an imposter but someone who has worked hard and deserves recognition. Hey, write yourself a nice letter if that helps!

Dear Me,

You did great today during that recording session. It’s no surprise business is really starting to take off.

Sincerely,
Me
P.S. I left some cake in the fridge for you.

It can also be helpful to talk to someone you trust about your feelings of self-doubt. Sharing your thoughts and fears with a supportive friend, family member, or mentor can give you a fresh perspective and reassurance that you are not alone in your experiences.

Another strategy for combating imposter syndrome is to reframe your thoughts and focus on the positive aspects of your accomplishments. Instead of dwelling on what you could have done better, acknowledge the effort you put into a project or task and the lessons you learned. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.

Additionally, developing a growth mindset can be beneficial in overcoming imposter syndrome. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than threats to your self-worth. View setbacks as stepping stones towards improvement and use them as motivation to keep moving forward. To take a creative leap and learn from it, even if it doesn’t land the way you had hoped for, can show you that it’s okay to take creative leaps in the first place. I was chatting with a voice actor who recently took a leap out of her comfort zone and auditioned for a comedic voice over role, when she is admittedly not funny..like, not at all. She went for it and gave it her all anyway! She did not get the part, but she did get a compliment and recognition for a great performance. She was too busy “doing” to let herself sit and stew in a stinky imposter syndrome.

Lastly, it is important to practice self-care and prioritize your well-being. Taking care of your mental and physical health can significantly impact your confidence and overall outlook on life. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation (see past blogs for some good old-fashioned inspiration), and surround yourself with positive influences and supportive individuals.

Remember, imposter syndrome is a common experience that many people face. You are not alone, and with the right mindset and support, you can overcome the feelings of self-doubt and embrace your true capabilities. You got this!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The Benefits of Journaling 1 Sep 2023 11:51 AM (last year)

There are many benefits to keeping a journal, both personally and professionally. Not only can it help improve your writing skills, which you use to communicate with clients, but it can also serve as a valuable tool for self-reflection and personal growth. When it comes to running your voice over business, it can help you keep track of failures as well as successes, “Note to self: Don’t drink five monster truck-sized sodas from a 7-ll the night before a session, thus making me a total burping machine” or “Marking up my script well really prepared me for a great session! Oh my, is that an email from that client requesting my services again already? Nice!”

First and foremost, journaling provides a safe space for self-expression. It allows you to freely share your thoughts, feelings, and ideas without fear of judgment in all areas of your life, including your career. By putting pen to paper, you can better understand your emotions and experiences, leading to increased self-awareness, which can help you run your life, and business, more honestly and effectively.

Additionally, journaling can aid in stress reduction. Writing can be therapeutic, releasing any pent-up emotions or frustrations. It can serve as a form of self-care, providing an outlet for processing difficult situations and finding solace in your own thoughts. Even when a session goes really, really well, it’s still easy to fall into “I could have said it that way…or that way…or that way. Why of course I’ll accept this Emmy award, but still..I could have said it that way.” Putting it all down on paper can get it out of your mind, so you can move on to a new day, and a new experience in your life or voice over business.

Also, keeping a journal can help improve your creativity. By regularly engaging in the practice of writing, you can unlock your imagination and explore new ideas. It can serve as a breeding ground for inspiration and innovation, allowing you to tap into your creative potential. And that creativity, well, it pours over into your voice over work. It shows up there too!

Furthermore, journaling can be a valuable tool for problem-solving. You can gain clarity and perspective as you write about your challenges and dilemmas. Seeing your thoughts on paper provides a fresh and objective viewpoint, allowing you to solve problems or make critical decisions in life and in your business.
By documenting your ideas, reflections, and experiences, you can create a valuable resource for future reference. Whether for brainstorming ideas, developing projects, or tracking progress, your journal can become a treasure trove of insights and knowledge.

Journaling is a powerful tool for personal growth, stress reduction, creativity, problem-solving, and professional development. So grab a notebook (the covers out there these days are mind boggling… 3D and all, so just shopping for a journal can be a real hoot) find a quiet space, and start writing!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Finding a Work-Life Balance 25 Aug 2023 10:27 AM (last year)

Finding the right balance between work and life can be challenging for many people, even if you love what you do for work (sometimes it’s hard to say goodnight to the world of voice-over!) The demands of career and personal life can often feel overwhelming, leaving little time for relaxation and self-care. However, achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for well-being, happiness, and a well-rounded lifestyle. Here are a few tips to help you find that balance.

Set clear boundaries:

One of the first steps to achieving work-life balance is setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. Focus entirely on work tasks and when you will prioritize personal time. Avoid bringing work-related stress or unsavory issues, like that annoying co-worker who picks their nose when they think no one is looking, or that voice over job you didn’t book into your time making fun, oddly shaped cookies with your loved ones, for example. Conversely, avoid obsessing over how you could have changed that cookie recipe while at work (expired walnuts….what was I thinking!?) Creating these boundaries will allow you to fully engage and be present in each aspect of your life.

Prioritize self-care:
Taking care of yourself is crucial when it comes to finding work-life balance. Make sure to prioritize self-care activities such as exercising, getting enough sleep, and practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Investing time and energy into your well-being won’t take away from but may actually give you the necessary resources to manage work and personal responsibilities. Yep, that 30-minute time out with some Parisian lavender bath salts, could help your workflow and patience level when your child draws on the carpet with your lipstick.

Learn to delegate:

It’s essential to recognize that you do not have to do everything yourself—delegate tasks and responsibilities at work and in your personal life when possible. By sharing the workload, you can free up time and energy for other aspects of your life that require attention. Team work makes the dream work!

Manage your time effectively:

We all know time can be a slippery sucker (wait.. where’d it go?) That’s why time management is vital to finding work-life balance. Prioritize your tasks and focus on the most important ones first. Use organizational tools such as calendars and to-do lists to help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Set realistic goals and deadlines, and remember to schedule breaks and leisure activities to recharge and relax.

Establish a support system:

A supportive network can make a significant difference in achieving a work-life balance. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh, or understand and support your goals and can provide guidance or help when needed. Lean on your loved ones and friends for support during challenging times, and consider joining groups or communities that align with your interests or hobbies.

Practice self-reflection:

Regularly reflect on your current work-life balance and make adjustments as needed. It’s a process, finding your own personal recipe for work-life balance., not a “one and done” kind of thing. Assess whether your priorities and actions align with your values and goals. Identify areas needing more attention or improvement and be open to making changes to achieve a better balance.

By implementing these strategies, you can find a healthier work-life balance that allows you to thrive in your professional and personal pursuits, and explore the vast and wonderful world of scented bath salts! Finding balance is ongoing, so be kind to yourself and adapt as needed.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Benefits of Music Therapy 18 Aug 2023 11:39 AM (last year)

Music therapy is a powerful and effective form of music that promotes healing and improves overall well-being. I mean, we all know what it’s like to be driving home from a bad day at work drowning in a frown and suddenly our favorite cheesy pop tune comes on the radio. Suddenly our inner 12-year-olds (braces and all) are singing joyously at the top of our lungs, not caring about the confused and slightly terrified looks coming from the car next to us at the stop light.

It spans generational divides too, giving numerous benefits for individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Whether you have a specific goal or simply want to enhance your mental and emotional health, music therapy can provide a unique and enjoyable way to achieve your objectives, voice over related and beyond.
One of the main benefits of music therapy is its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Listening to music has been proven to reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, leading to a sense of calm and tranquility, which can open up the creative flood gates; inspire us and prime us to approach our voice-over work with a sense of play and creativity. It can set a mood that suits a particular piece of copy we are working on. Who knew that a Taylor Swift song could get me so genuinely jazzed before voicing a commercial for bunion cream?!

It can especially benefit individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. By incorporating music into their daily routine, they can experience relief from their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Music therapy can also benefit individuals recovering from physical injuries or undergoing medical procedures. Research has shown that listening to music can help reduce pain, lower blood pressure, and even enhance the immune system. In addition, playing an instrument or singing can help improve motor skills and coordination, making it an excellent form of rehabilitation for individuals who have experienced a stroke or other neurological conditions.

Furthermore, music therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals with developmental disabilities or cognitive impairments. By engaging in musical activities, such as playing instruments or singing along to songs (especially by Taylor Swift…it’s been scientifically proven..somewhere at some point by someone), individuals can improve their communication skills, enhance their cognitive abilities, and develop a sense of self-expression. This can be particularly helpful for children with an autism spectrum disorder or individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

If you want to incorporate music therapy into your life, several options are available. You can work with a trained music therapist who will develop a personalized therapy plan based on your specific needs and goals. Alternatively, you can explore music therapy independently by listening to fun or calming music, playing an instrument, or participating in a music group or choir (they don’t have to be selling out Madison Square Garden either, in case you suddenly were about to quit your day job or got nervous.)
In conclusion, music therapy is powerful and effective and can benefit individuals of all ages. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve cognitive skills, enhance your overall well-being, or inspire and open yourself up creatively in your voice over work, music therapy can provide a unique and enjoyable way to achieve your goals. So why not try it and see the transformative power of music therapy?

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Take a Stand Against Sitting! 10 Aug 2023 10:39 AM (last year)



We sit a lot. We may sit all day at a full-time job while we are starting out in voice-over, or recording an audiobook. If we edit our voiceovers, we may be sitting for a while then too. We sit when we do our research for voice-over leads and marketing efforts. So, sitting at your desk all day may seem like the most productive way to get work done, especially when you have that handmade butt pillow from Japan infused with “alert aromatics” like citrus and pine, but it’s essential to move around and stand up now and then. Prolonged sitting can lead to various health issues, such as back pain, poor posture, and even decreased life expectancy. So if you find yourself sitting for long periods of time, it’s essential to incorporate some stretches and movements to keep your body healthy and strong. Here are a few suggestions to help you get moving:

1. Take breaks every 30 minutes. Set a timer on your phone, computer, or tomato-shaped kitchen timer to remind you to stand up and stretch at least once every 30 minutes. Then, walk around for a few minutes to get your blood flowing and loosen up your muscles.

2. Do some basic desk stretches. You don’t need a lot of space to stretch out your muscles. Instead, try some simple desk stretches like shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and wrist extensions to release tension and improve your range of motion.
3. Use a standing desk. Switch to a standing desk or a desk converter that allows you to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Standing burns more calories, promotes better posture, and reduces the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Have you ever heard the expression “2 birds, one stone?” A convertible desk may address a whole “flock” of issues!

4. Take a walk outside. Just walk outside for fresh air and sunshine if you have a few spare minutes. And if you’re in an urban area and it’s pouring rain, grab your umbrella and get a whiff of that “rain on asphalt” scent (hmmm, so nice…weird but nice.) Walking is an excellent low-impact exercise that helps improve circulation, boost energy levels, and reduce stress.

It’s so easy to sit at a desk and “power through” but these small daily movements and stretches can significantly improve your overall health and productivity. So please take a few minutes each hour to move your body; your body and mind will thank you for it!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Gadget Corner: Pro Tools Intro 9 Aug 2023 10:35 AM (last year)

Pro Tools has solidified its position as the industry standard Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for decades due to its unparalleled recording, editing, and mixing capabilities. The seamless integration of hardware and software, coupled with its extensive plugin (additional audio effects and add-ons) ecosystem, has ensured that Pro Tools remains the go-to choice for professionals in music, film, multimedia production, and of course voice over. The only problem? For years it was only available at a price point out of reach for many beginner and intermediate at home producers. However, that has all changed with the introduction of Pro Tools Intro. Now individuals can get access to an introductory version of the industry standard DAW, at no cost to them. This free introduction to Pro Tools comes with many powerful tools you can equip to your home recording belt, and we’ve taken the time to highlight some of those below!

• Affordable Voice Recording Solution: Pro Tools Intro offers an economical entry into professional-level voice recording and editing, ideal for voice actors on a budget.

• Up to 16 Audio Tracks: Record and layer multiple takes or variations of your voice performances with up to 16 audio tracks, ensuring you capture the perfect delivery.

• Precision Editing Tools: Utilize Pro Tools’ powerful editing capabilities to trim, cut, and arrange your voice recordings with precision, ensuring seamless and professional results.

• Integrated MIDI Editor: If required, Pro Tools Intro’s built-in MIDI editor allows for additional flexibility in adding musical elements to your projects.

• Session Templates for Voiceovers: Save time and streamline your workflow with pre-designed session templates tailored for voiceover work, enhancing efficiency.

• Audio Effects and Processing: Enhance your voice recordings with a range of audio effects and processing tools, ensuring your voiceovers stand out with clarity and character.

• Simple Interface for Beginners: Pro Tools Intro features an intuitive interface suitable for both beginners and experienced users, making it easy to learn and navigate.

• Compact Project File Format: Easily share your voiceover projects with clients or collaborators, facilitating smooth communication and remote collaboration.

• Timecode Ruler and Conductor Track: Maintain precise timing and synchronization for dubbing or syncing tasks, ensuring your voiceovers align seamlessly with visuals.

• Export Options for Delivery: Export your voiceovers in various formats, whether it’s for commercials, animations, or audiobooks, ensuring compatibility with different platforms.

• Welcome to the Industry: With Pro Tools Intro you’ll receive your first hands on experience working with the industry leading DAW, used in top of the line studios across the globe.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Workin’ It Out! 4 Aug 2023 9:26 AM (last year)

I was recently asked by a friend if I wanted to join her voice-over workout group. I immediately said yes, even though a small part of me, even after all these years of doing voice-over, felt a little shy at doing it in front of my peers. I’ve sat in on many webinars and taken group classes with well-known coaches in the voice-over industry in NYC and L.A. During them I have watched, amazed, while my peers kicked butt on commercial, animation, video game, elearning, and medical voice-over scripts. I’ve also watched beginners and pros alike struggle, stumble, and apologize for their performances. I have given myself mental high fives after giving a great read and cursed myself silently when I too struggled or stumbled (thinking yes, I will get that milkshake on the way home, damn it. Make it a double). Whether a copy read fell flat or triumphed, however, there are two things that stayed consistent: learning and growing in my craft, and doing it surrounded by support and encouragement from my peers. 

So, I joined my first “workout” group, a Zoom meeting between me and four other voice actors committed to keeping our skills sharp and challenging ourselves with new material. We started the hour by sharing any recent voice-over experiences, whether it was a job or an online casting site, or something we read about in the voice-over world. We laughed, and we shared frustrations, problems, and their more helpful counterparts, solutions. It was fun and provided a sense of community and togetherness in a very solo profession (talking to inanimate objects in the booth to stay sane is not out of the realm of possibility for a VO actor, “Why Mrs. Mop, have you done something different with your hair?”)

 Then, we worked on some commercial copy, one by one. Reading scripts in front of peers is different than doing it alone in a recording booth for an audition or on an already booked job, with clients who clearly like what you do by the fact that they’ve hired you. I was nervous (gulp..judged by my peers..), but at the same time not nervous (these are my friends..there’s no judgment here!), and in that strange state I rushed into the copy without thinking about any of the things I teach as a coach every day (like who was I talking to and what was I communicating, to start.)  I did not follow my own advice! Both of my peers listened to my read and kindly, but honestly said, “Hmm..I don’t believe you.” 

A small(ish) part of me was taken aback, thinking, “What do you mean?! I’ve been doing this forever! I can do this in my sleep!” even though I know that line of thinking is faulty because every script is a chance for me to connect to a listener, and that does not happen in my sleep! Every script deserves my thoughtfulness because someone else’s thoughtfulness wrote it. So, I took a moment and thought about the script and its message, and what it meant to me personally (not a long process. I mean it was a commercial, not a scene from Hamlet!) I took a breath and did it again, and it was much, much better. I felt more connected to what I was saying. Also, I survived peer feedback! I still have all my fingers and toes! I enjoyed saying it more, and not only did my peers think it was better, but I could trust them because they had shown that constructive criticism is safe and very helpful amongst friends and respectful peers who want each other to succeed. 

It also helps that I know it’s okay to make mistakes and not be perfect at voice-over. In fact, in the days of the “authentic” and “believable” read, perfectionism can get in the way of a good performance because human beings are not perfect. 

I’m really looking forward to the next voice-over zoom workout, or “zeeting” as we like to call it. I just hope the “zink” is still working. If not, I’ll definitely ask for them to send it again, because I’m excited to keep on growing as a voice actor and jazzed to do it alongside other like-minded VO folks. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Mental Health Matters: The Importance of Prioritizing Your Well-Being 28 Jul 2023 9:23 AM (last year)

Many doctors suggest maintaining good mental health is vital to living a happy, fulfilled life. It’s time for us all to start self-caring by making an effort to prioritize our well-being – no matter what stage of life we are at or how overwhelmed we feel. So many experts say showing yourself some TLC today could make an immense difference tomorrow!

The Benefits of Mental Health Care

Mental health care is beneficial for people from all walks of life; it is available to everyone, no matter the budget. Taking care of your mental health can have a positive ripple effect on many different aspects of your life such as:

• Improved relationships with family and friends:

You are far more likely to laugh at a friend’s joke (even if they butchered the punchline)  if you showed up in a good mood at the party. You may even be more likely to get invited to parties when the person doling out the invites knows you’re an easy laugh, “We should ask Jane to come, she laughs at everything, and it’s not fake. I mean, I question her sanity, but I sure do like her.”

• Increased productivity at work or school:

I don’t know about you, but I’ve always preferred scribbled bright red ink in an A+ over  a D-, and a promotion over a “Don’t bother returning and here’s a cardboard box to put your dead plant in.” Extreme examples, I know.

• Increased ability to manage stress more effectively

Stress can be cumulative too, like a domino effect some days, and making sure that the first domino to fall is a relatively peaceful one can really help the rest of those dominos give you a hive-five in gratitude.

• Improved sleep quality:

More energy (yes please!), and the less likely you are to rely on caffeine and its eventual energy crashes, grumpiness, or overstimulated ideas that seem crazy mere hours later, “I think maybe I should cancel that skydiving in subzero weather adventure trip I booked after my third latte.”

• Increased feelings of happiness and contentment:

“I’m so happy that the skydiving company gave me a full refund.”

Other pretty important benefits include but are not limited to: increased self-esteem and self-confidence, as well as reduced feelings of anxiety and depression.

The good news is that prioritizing your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated, time-consuming, or require you to walk around with holes in your pockets, leaving a trail of hard-earned cash behind you.  Experts suggest a few simple things that you can do each day to look after yourself mentally:

• Take 10 minutes each day for yourself – even if it’s just taking a few deep breaths or reading something uplifting. Even googling, “positive quotes- and not the cheesy ones” in between business meetings at work can help.
• Reach out for help when needed – talk therapy, holistic therapies, yoga classes, etc.
• Make time for activities that bring joy, like swimming, or skydiving.
• Get enough restorative sleep – experts suggest trying for 7–9 hours per night. Just think of all the wild dreams you’ll have to interpret with your friends, “There I was, a fairy with these crazy powers, and I made my house disappear! So, I guess that means…I should definitely move. Either that or I should finally pull the trigger on that loveseat at Macy’s. What do you guys think?”
• Eat healthy foods



With modern science, a lot of “ick” healthy foods have even become yummy too.

• Practice gratitude 

“I’m grateful that I’m grateful!” There, double whammy, one and done. In all seriousness though, once you get on the “I’m grateful for” list mode, there can be some wonderfully simple, everyday moments featured, “I’m grateful for the stranger who opened the door for me at the store when my arms were full.”

Some other ways include but are not limited to: daily exercise- try to aim for 30 minutes daily, speaking kindly to yourself, and connecting with others. -you may want to join a group with similar interests or schedule regular catch-ups with friends and loved ones.

These simple practices can make all the difference in how you feel each day mentally. Try starting small and building up your routine over time as needed. You deserve to look after yourself!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The Power of Voice by Denise Woods (Book Review) 21 Jul 2023 9:35 AM (last year)

I read a lot of material about voice-over. I read books, blogs, articles (I’d be scouring the supermarket, reading the backs of diapers if they had anything about VO on them), and any resource full of voice-over-related content. And sometimes, I start to burn out on it a little and wonder why. A lot of it is about the voice-over business or new trends in voice-over, and I forget that the most important (and the most joyful) thing about voice-over.. is doing it! It’s about my voice and using it, which is a lifelong process that I wholeheartedly embrace with gusto.

So, I picked a book all about the voice; one that focuses solely on finding one’s voice and using it effectively to communicate, no matter when or what I’m using it for, be it a commercial script or my everyday life. A voice-over friend had recommended it; “The Power of Voice” by Denise Woods, who is a celebrated vocal coach to the stars. “The ‘stars’?” I rolled my eyes. “I’m so over them…”, I thought, while googling “Behind the scenes of Ted Lasso” yet again.

“The Power of Voice” contains a lot of gems. Woods shares her experiences, ideas, thoughts, techniques and excellent vocal exercises throughout the book, while using personal, honest, and often intimate stories of working with her client’s vocal obstacles (be they mental, emotional, or physical) in order to find their true voice. Mahershala Ali says this of the book, “ You don’t need to be an actor to benefit from finding your unique ‘voice print’ as Denise calls it…There’s no more powerful way to unleash your true self onto the world and fully connect with others.” 

I found Woods’s way of teaching (honed as faculty at the esteemed Juilliard School in NYC) very supportive, inclusive, sincere, realistic, and inspirational no matter what walk of life you come from. Though she caters to celebrity clients, this book is for everyone. Her focus on finding your voice for the sake of connecting with others, building self-confidence, and expressing ideas clearly with your voice is at the root of building a career out of using it (for me at least) in a sustainable and meaningful way. Woods writes,“Vocal expression is where relaxation, breath, voice, speech, and emotion converge.” That sentence alone helped me see how all of these moving parts become one. 

Author Denise Woods

I’d like to share some of my favorite moments from the book, so let’s start with a nice dose of honesty. Woods writes, “You might be ever so relaxed, be breathing deeply, and have a well-produced voice with crisp articulation, but if you are not able to communicate an idea effectively, your efforts will fall flat.” In regards to knowing what you are communicating, “It’s a matter of figuring out your intention, mapping out your message, and understanding that communication is something that takes place between a speaker and a listener. At a granular level, it’s also understanding how words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs all work and flow together to tell a story.” I like these quotes a lot, because I like to think of a voice-over as a little story, and before I share it with my voice, it’s important to understand the author’s message with my head and heart.

When speaking on the importance of breath, she says, “The breath is essential on many levels. Powerful speakers know when to pause for breath, which creates that space for your audience to download and respond to your message.” I have stopped and thought, why am I rushing this copy? People need a chance to take what I’ve said in, after all. I don’t need to talk like a moving bullet through a video game! I gave another high-five to Woods in my head.  

There is a lot of wisdom and technique to learn in this book. It is available on Amazon and in bookstores (and probably somewhere else too, I can’t keep track of all the platforms these days.) Last but not least, this book is very celebratory. She celebrates the voice itself and anyone who takes the chance to learn how to use it. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Benefits Of A Good Night Of Sleep 14 Jul 2023 11:13 AM (last year)

Ever feel like you can’t function without that extra cup of coffee? Okay, let’s get real..that third cup of coffee that is the dregs at the bottom of the pot, lukewarm, but still full of caffeinated promise? I know I sometimes need it, or at least think I do enough to gulp it down. That need for the extra oomph from a cup of joe could mean it might be time to reevaluate how much sleep you’re getting. Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important for your overall health and well-being. From reducing stress, to maintaining…ahem… natural energy levels( I’m lookin’ at you Coca Co-bleep! No product placement allowed.), to helping with concentration, there are many benefits to ensuring you get your Zzzzs, so you don’t get the Ztztzs (that’s your teeth chattering from the over-caffeinated jitters.)

Getting restful sleep helps reduce stress levels, aids in concentration and memory retention, and can even help with weight management. After a long day, a night’s rest helps us recharge our bodies and mind, so we don’t depend on caffeine for artificial energy (AI meet AE, you’re both in the doghouse.)

Studies have shown that people who get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night are more productive throughout the day and better able to process information quickly than those who don’t get enough rest. Processing information quickly is helpful, especially when it’s in the form of “Oh that dinosaur is about to eat me, I should probably run.”

Let’s talk about sleep hygiene. Practicing good sleep hygiene means setting aside time for yourself each night before bed and creating an environment conducive to sleeping. This could include turning off electronics at least one hour before bedtime, keeping your bedroom cool, asking your roommate/spouse/teenager to not shout lines of dialogue at the top of his lungs when playing video games at 10 pm, using blackout curtains or eye masks if necessary, avoiding caffeine late in the day or drinking chamomile tea, and trying relaxation techniques such as stretching or guided meditation before bed.

The thing is, making sure you prioritize getting enough quality sleep should be on your list when taking care of yourself. If you struggle with getting enough shut-eye each night, you’re not alone and there are solutions! Try talking with your doctor or healthcare provider about ways you can take control of your sleeping habits. Doing it now will ensure that you are well-rested and ready to take on whatever life throws you; a great new job, a single overripe tomato, or a surprise visit from an aunt wearing enough bad perfume to fill a stadium! I mean, you’re well-rested after all (and still have some masks on hand.)

The truth is, sleep plays an essential role in our physical and mental well-being, and we often make excuses for not getting enough Zzzs or underestimate its importance in our lives. Making sure we get enough quality restful sleep is essential for living life to its fullest – so don’t forget – make those Zzzz’s a priority!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Don’t Wait! Hydrate! 7 Jul 2023 10:05 AM (last year)

Staying hydrated is one of the pillars essential for maintaining good health. Not only does proper hydration help regulate body temperature, but it also aids digestion, helps flush out toxins from the body, and increases overall energy levels. I mean sure, coffee is technically made with water, but it sure can cause a lot of crashing throughout the day, which is the opposite of energy preservation.

The Benefits of Staying Hydrated:

Water makes up 70% of an adult’s body weight and is crucial in regulating body temperature and keeping organs functioning properly. Yes, your organs are filled with gratitude, thanking you with every sip! On a vanity note, people spend thousands of dollars a year on expensive skin creams when their complexion could benefit just by drinking some low-cost H2O.

Science shows when you don’t get enough water, your cells can’t work correctly, and your body becomes dehydrated. This can lead to fatigue, nausea, headaches, constipation, and kidney stones. None of those things sounds very appealing am I right? In fact, doctors argue it’s crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day—especially if you live in a hot or dry climate or are physically active, and yes, let’s just say raising the remote to channel surf counts as being “physically active” if that gets you to crack open that bottle of Evian.

Tips for Staying Hydrated:

1. 1. Try drinking at least 2 liters (8 glasses) of water daily. This may seem like a lot at first, but you’ll soon find it easy to reach this amount when you start making it part of your daily routine. You can also keep track using a simple app or carrying around a reusable water bottle with markings showing how much fluid you should have drunk by specific points during the day.

1. 1. Consider eating foods high in water content. Eating fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, oranges, apples, melons, celery stalks, etc., can keep you feeling full and help hydrate your system naturally. Tragically, a cheeseburger and fries are high in the “yum” factor, but not in H20.
   2. Maybe try looking at your caffeine consumption. While we all look forward to that morning cup of comfort and energy, caffeine is a diuretic that causes dehydration, so take that into consideration if you’re looking to up your water game. And in this product rich world, there are some really tasty morning substitutes out there that give you that sense of ritual without the downsides of caffeine. So don’t fret, you can still sigh contentedly while looking out the window dreamily over a steaming cup:)
   3. Flavored waters can be a great alternative! If plain old H2O isn’t cutting it, try adding natural flavors such as lemon, lime slices, or fresh mint leaves into your drink for added flavor without added calories! Additionally, many flavored waters on the market contain electrolytes to help replenish lost minerals from sweating during exercise! A lot of those bottles look cool too. Keep one and stick a flower in it! Just a thought.

1. It’s a good idea to rehydrate after exercise. It is an essential part of many people’s routine to monitor how much fluid is being lost through sweat during physical activity and ensure that these losses are replaced so that dehydration does not occur! This could be done through sports drinks or simply increasing your intake of plain old H2O.
2. Another great idea is to drink before feeling thirsty. Thirst is not always an indicator of dehydration; sometimes, our bodies can become dehydrated before we even feel thirsty due to factors such as spending time in air-conditioned environments or downing those lychee martinis or coronas with lime, as these are known to cause dehydration faster than other activities!

Proper hydration is essential for good health—both physically and mentally. By considering these simple tips and slowly folding them into your everyday life, you can be well on your way toward optimum hydration and better overall well-being. And believe it or not, water can actually become more crave-able and start to taste even better the more you drink it.

Remember: It’s okay to start small—even adding half a liter extra per day can make a massive difference over time—Taking care of yourself with proper hydration habits today will ensure healthier days ahead tomorrow!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

Tina Mueller

Certified Health & Wellness Coach

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Sick And Tired Of Getting Sick? How To Boost Your Immunity Year Round! 30 Jun 2023 10:22 AM (last year)

We all want to stay healthy and avoid getting sick during flu season or throughout the year, don’t we? I don’t know a single person who fantasizes being surrounded by used tissues while watching the highlights of the reunion they’re missing play out on instagram, “What?! Jenny finally got bangs?!”

Well, one essential aspect of maintaining our health is by strengthening our immune systems. A robust immune system not only helps in warding off common illnesses but also contributes to overall well-being. Think of your immune system as your inner superhero, protecting you while looking great in a cape.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss a few practical tips on how to boost your immune system and avoid getting sick now and throughout the year.

Eat Right to Stay Healthy – Eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps keep your body strong and energized. I mean sure, a candy bar tastes great but so can an apple covered in caramel…minus the caramel;)

It’s also vital to ensure you’re drinking enough water – staying hydrated is essential to keeping your body functioning at its best. If you’re looking for an extra boost, you may want to add immune-boosting supplements like zinc or vitamin C, which can also help! Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement routine.

Get Enough Sleep – Lack of sleep can significantly impact our bodies’ ability to fight infections and illnesses. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night — anything less than that can weaken your immune system and leave you vulnerable to catching more colds. Experts suggest cutting screen time at night, including TV and social media scrolling. As comforting as the Gilmore girls or your favorite character’s chattering can be as you drift off to sleep, that blue light emitted from screens can interfere with our natural sleep cycle and make it harder for us to get the rest we need.

Exercise Regularly – Exercise does more than give us something fun to do — it helps keep our bodies strong and healthy by releasing endorphins which make us feel good physically and mentally. Try to find ways to get moving every day. It can be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood, stopping for the occasional gossip, or a more challenging hike in nature.There are a lot of ways to get moving, even right at home. There are a plethora of fun exercise programs for every type of person online these days. You could be learning how to salsa your way through cooking dinner in no time!



Keeping yourself healthy doesn’t have to be complicated, in fact, it can even be really fun and satisfying, mentally and physically. Doing these simple things can help strengthen your immune system so that your body will be ready when those pesky germs come calling.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Finding Your Motivation 23 Jun 2023 10:08 AM (last year)

I think it’s safe to say we all have days when we feel in need of either more motivation, inspiration, or a good dose of old-fashioned energy. The thing is, no matter how down we feel, it can be helpful to remember that motivation can be found in even the most mundane tasks. I know what you’re thinking, “Um, scrubbing the dried spaghetti sauce out of my kid’s new t-shirt ain’t gonna cut it..” but believe it or not, even that droll (and borderline gross) task can yield a kind of purpose and sense of satisfaction when completed. So, by learning to find our motivation, we can stay positive and motivated, no matter what life throws us.

How to Find Motivation:
Finding motivation may start with trying to set realistic goals. Bigger goals can be more approachable if you break them down into individual steps. Some people find if you celebrate each milestone, “Ha! Take that spaghetti os,” you can achieve them a bit easier. This might help keep you motivated and on track.

Next, get organized! You may want to create a plan of action for each goal and break that plan into manageable tasks. Then, you can focus on the bite-sized pieces one at a time, instead of trying to down the entire chocolate cake all at once, as tempting as that may be. That well-defined plan of action, broken down, makes it easier to focus on completing one task at a time without getting overwhelmed by larger projects. Also, you might consider prioritizing the tasks so that you focus on meeting the most important ones before moving on to ones that might be less pressing or necessary. Try going old school (I know, shocking) and write your plan of action out on a piece of paper. Then, you can simply check each task off as they are completed. Any time you get overwhelmed you can see the tasks that are marked off as done, which can actually keep you motivated to check off the rest.

Finally, create a support system for someone to turn to if you need help or advice during tough times. A supportive family member or friend can offer encouragement when you need it most and provide helpful tips if you ever feel stuck or overwhelmed by your project/goal (you know who they are.) It helps to know that someone else believes in your success and cares about your progress!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

Tina Mueller

Certified Health & Wellness Coach

The post Finding Your Motivation appeared first on Voice Over Training | Complete Training, Demo Development & Support.

Referring Someone Else for a VO Job You Want 16 Jun 2023 10:40 AM (last year)

   I can imagine, dear reader, how the title of this blog alone might make you think I’m nuts. We voice actors work hard to get the kind of jobs that inspire, excite, and pay us well. I’m sure you’re thinking, why on earth would I ever give away a job I want?! That’s insanity! Well, recently I did just that, and it felt…great. 

   Several months ago, a producer had recommended me for a live announcing job at a symposium. It was for a really cool start-up owned by really cool people and I would be announcing their really cool names as they came up to the stage to speak throughout the day. There would be drinks and snacks after while meeting interesting people doing amazing things. I was in, and I was pumped!

   The thing is, it was in L.A., and I live in New York. The client was under the impression, however, that I was in L.A. The truth is, because I believed in the company’s mission, I was willing to use the entire budget to fly myself out to L.A. and just break even. There were other factors too of course; I’d be able to do a kind of voice work I don’t normally do, network, see some friends I have out there, get a little sun during the winter, and maybe eat at my favorite kebab place in Silverlake too, a real win-win as they say. 

   Unfortunately, but understandably, the budget was modest for the start-up and it was on the lower end of a typical live announcing rate, and because the event was so soon, it would be a last-minute ticket, which verged on astronomically pricey. I considered losing money and going anyway, for the long game potential in meeting new clients and a little impromptu vacay.

   The client and I were texting on a Sunday, and I asked if I could get back to her first thing in the morning with a definitive answer. I wanted to sleep on it. She asked if she could call and chat about it then, as she wanted to get things nailed down ASAP, understandably. So, I took a deep breath called her, and said, “Hi. it’s so nice to meet you. I can’t take the job.” You see, at the final moment, my gut said, “don’t do it.” and so I listened. It was as simple as that. 

   The client sounded disappointed but before she could say anything else I added, “But I know the perfect person who can do it. In fact, I know four perfect people for you to choose from. We’ll get this figured out.” I then talked about four female voice-over actors I greatly admire and respect in the L.A. area. I emailed the client their websites and contact info. And wow, it felt so good to recommend those talented and hard-working voice actors for a really cool gig. 

   Did I have a moment where I regretted not saying yes? Did I worry I had given away future work? Of course, but it was short-lived and paled in comparison to what I felt helping a client and my fellow voice actors out for the sake of a great cause and a sense of community. Also, I consciously decided not to allow a scarcity mindset to take over. It’s something I remind myself often when that starts to creep in, because the truth is there are lots of clients and lots of jobs out there, and it’s okay to not get ‘em all. 

   Also, there are times when I want a job but the budget isn’t there, or the timing in my schedule isn’t there, or I’m really just not right for it. Maybe I have a cold and they need it ASAP. Instead of saying, “No,” I would rather say, “No, but I know someone who can.” I myself have been the recipient of a peer’s job when she was unable to take it. She was overscheduled and didn’t want to stretch herself thin and deliver something she wasn’t happy with. I believe, in the world of relationship building, that kind of honesty with oneself matters, and serves everyone best in the end, from both sides of the partnership.

   The event turned out to be a success, unsurprisingly, and the client was so grateful for my assistance. The voice actor she chose was grateful for the referral and got a lot out of the event on a personal level as well. 

   The client had said to me, “Oh you’re in New York? We’re in New York! We should stay in touch.” So you never know, the reason she might reach out again is because I’m someone who helped her when she needed it. If that happens, that would be lovely. If, not, that would be okay too. It was my pleasure. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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An Unexpected Job 9 Jun 2023 10:57 AM (last year)

I’ve been in voice-over now for quite some time. I trained and made my first demo in New York City back in 2002. Wow, time flies! I remember back then the main focus was commercials and animation. Those were the two slices of VO pie I wanted to dig into. They were also what most people in that world talked about. Fast forward to today, and the list of genres in VO that are talked about everyday has grown dramatically.

I know voice actors who specialize in e-learning and corporate narration, while others are kicking butt in the commercial realm. I know another voice actor who primarily works in audio description, which is where the voice actor speaks in between the on-screen actors’ dialogue, informing visually impaired viewers what is happening on the screen that they cannot see, “A tree comes crashing down after a lightening bolt strikes it, and Jack swerves the car just in time to miss it!” A lot of voice actors have diversified beyond their initial comfort zone/genre, enhancing their skills in other genres in order to grow their businesses.

As I grew beyond my commercial voice acting into other genres and technology progressed, I became accustomed to hearing about new ways and places in which voice-over is being used. There was one job recently, however, that I was truly surprised by. I was hired to be a “digital decoration.” Huh? Who the what now?! You see, the company that hired me makes digital decorations for parties. They create animated stories and visuals that can be projected onto a wall or window at a party or on a tv or monitor. Instead of decorating with boring balloons at a child’s birthday party, someone can have animated monkeys wearing birthday hats climbing on the walls to entertain their children’s little guests.

I was lucky enough to be cast as a very fun character for their Halloween project, that of a ghost bride. I voiced the script, in which she enumerated the many ways her numerous husbands all came to an early demise. Poor fellas.

Then my voice was synced with the animation of the ghost bride; with her willowy frame and pale skin. It was very spooky and very cool. I remember calling my mom and saying, “Mom, I finally made it! I’m a ‘digital decoration’!”

They hired me for another project in which I played three witches, each of them having dark plans for the viewer (the animated witches look directly at the viewer while addressing the viewer). I played with my vocal range and voiced one witch with my chest voice, nice and low. I imagined her having a hefty frame and speaking out of a full face with big cheeks. I bobbed a little when I laughed heartily from my belly into the microphone. The main witch, I used my head voice, cackling and speaking with a nasal quality and filled with bad intentions. For the third witch’s voice, the director wanted a snakelike raspy quality, which I employed with devilish glee. I also made sure to protect my voice, as these were vocally more challenging than say, a 30-second commercial.

It was so much fun, and so very unexpected. It also made me wonder what other kinds of projects are out there to voice that I haven’t heard of yet. It makes me think about what projects don’t exist yet in voice-over today, but might tomorrow. It also made me remember the early days when I thought commercials and animation were the only places I’d find work as a voice actor, and how happy I am that we’ve seen such a massive expansion in voice-over work. I can’t wait to see what comes next. I hope you are excited too.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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It’s All in the Label 2 Jun 2023 10:21 AM (last year)

   In the world of sending audio files, whether it is a finished voice-over job from your home studio to a client, an audition for an agent or online casting site, a sample read for an author’s audiobook, or telling a studio engineer what to put on the file name, we must be diligent about labeling our work, as in audio files, correctly. 

   To dramatize the point I’m trying to make here, I will make up a voice actor and attach them to an actual situation I saw played out on LinkedIn, a popular platform that voice actors and voice hirers use. Ready? Let’s go.  

   Cue the music: Calm, yet inspiring, classical music plays in the background. We see an aspiring and eager voice actor getting ready to record an audition in her home studio. It used to be a closet (it still is sometimes when the in-laws are in town.) Let’s call her Meg. No…June. I like June better.

   June is excited about this audition. It’s the first one she has received from a local production house, after meeting the owner at a party. The “specs,” meaning the specifics of what the client wants for this 30-second commercial, are “female in her 30s.” June smiles widely, “That’s me!” she thinks to herself. The specs also want someone “with good comedic timing.” She’s on the verge of getting cocky now because, if given the opportunity, she could make a dead man laugh. 

   There are also specific instructions on how to deliver the audition, which read as “Please give two takes. Please label your .mp3 with your first name, last name, location and astrological sign.” June stops for a moment and thinks, “My astrological sign? That’s weird.” She’s right. That never happens. Author’s embellishment. 

   June gets all set up in her booth, has made her creative choices, and records her audition. She’s jazzed and totally connected to the script; the words flow off her tongue as if she wrote them herself. She does about five “takes”, meaning she does the commercial five times, varying it up a little each time. After having a total blast, she picks the best two that sound a little different from each other, showing her versatility.   

   She listens back to her audition and tries not to think she’s the best thing since sliced bread, but the audition is so good, authentically her, and effortlessly funny, that it’s hard not to. She starts thinking ahead to booking the job and the recording session and getting paid, quickly labels her .mp3 audition with her name while still daydreaming happily, uploads it, and hits send! The rest of the day is a breeze and she sleeps like a baby. 
   The next day June rises with the sun and is whistling over coffee while checking her emails. A bluebird perches on her shoulder as she reads a post on LinkedIn by the owner of the production house she auditioned for yesterday. It reads, “Voice Actors! For the love of everything holy, read the labeling instructions for your auditions! I sent half the auditions straight to the trash yesterday, without listening, because they were not labeled correctly! Harumph!” 

   June freezes, gulps, and checks the name of the .mp3 audition she so exuberantly sent yesterday, which says only “June Swift.” She completely forgot to put her location and that she is a Scorpio (with a Sagittarius rising.) “Nooooo!!!” she cries out, spilling her coffee and seriously scaring the bluebird. 

   I’d like to say there was a happy ending for June, but there wasn’t. The audition she was so proud of, got dumped without ever being heard. Luckily, she learned a great lesson, which actually is a kind of happy ending of sorts. Let’s call it a good beginning of good work habits. 

   From the client’s perspective, if a voice actor doesn’t follow simple instructions for an audition or the naming of an audio file, they may doubt the voice actor’s ability to follow any instructions at all, or the ability to listen and take notes. I mean, if they can’t name an .mp3 what’s their invoice going to look like? It shows a lack of attention to detail, and excellent work is often in the details. 

   I’m sure I’ve fumbled a labeling or two in my time to my detriment. Maybe I was in a rush or daydreaming like June. Although June is not real, that LinkedIn post was, and I’ve been far more meticulous in labeling since seeing it. I work hard at my craft and would prefer it be heard than tossed in the digital trash. I’d prefer my work be received with a grateful sigh of contentment, instead of with annoyance at my lack of instruction taking. How about you?  

  To sum it up, do yourself a simple favor by double-checking the labeling instructions before you send any audio files. It will take far less of your precious time than regretting that you did it incorrectly will.:)

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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“Inner Critic” Versus “Supportive Witness” 26 May 2023 10:27 AM (last year)

I remember when I first started doing voice over work. Being new to it, I often wondered if I was doing it “right.” Sometimes that wondering would turn to worry and my “inner critic” would start monitoring the script line by line. To be honest,  that “hall monitor” could get pretty snarky, like a high school bully saying things like, “That stunk! You’re offending Doritos everywhere!!” Ouch. Not only that, negatively judging the way I was saying a line could negatively affect the next line as well, like a game of dominoes. 

During these times, I’d take note of my body and realize my shoulders were tense or my hand was in a loose fist seconds away from clenching tightly. Yes, my inner critic, that critical voice in my head, also had its own body language! 

What I learned through time, is that trying so damn hard to “get it right” would ensure that I would not, in fact, “get it right.”  By letting the inner critic run the show, it would run havoc in a performance by allowing it to intimidate or restrict any fun or intuitive play, thus creating a massive road block between myself and a good read. If I wanted a chance at having fun and connecting to my copy in a relaxed, authentic, and believable way, I would have to put a muzzle on that inner critic’s snout. I eventually did.   

The thing is, I still have off days, 20 years later, where I am perhaps extra critical of my performance. The difference is, I’ve replaced that mean, snotty teenager of an “inner critic” with a kinder, more mature “supportive witness.”  This voice is much nicer, gives me breathing room, and lets me take creative chances.

When I am in performance mode, my “supportive witness” might say, “Nice work, but slow it down a little,” or “try a new choice on this next line.” This voice either waits to speak up until I’m done recording, or works quietly alongside me as I do, offering helpful suggestions and guidance along the way without controlling the performance. 

Before you get worried, I am not making lunch dates or attempting to text birthday wishes to my “supportive witness.” This voice in my head is simply myself being supportive and offering constructive feedback of my voice over work. I am comfortable listening to it, and much prefer it to the mean girl “inner critic.” She can go suck on a rotten egg. So there. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Punctuation (and Marking Up Your Script!!!) 19 May 2023 10:03 AM (last year)

So, whenever we get a script as a voice actor, along with the text we see punctuation, right? It can be an exclamation mark or a question mark, an ellipsis or a semicolon, etc. Those punctuation marks affect the tone and choices we make with the script. An exclamation script can tell us, “This is exciting!” or, “I’m quite angry indeed!” depending on the context. Taking that as the sole guide, we then might make our way through each sentence in the script until the punctuation mark occurs, almost like a steady train making stops. The thing is, we don’t do that in real life. We also have our own interpretation of the script.

The trend in voice-over is being authentic and conversational, and in real-life everyday conversations, we pause throughout our sentences, not just in between them at punctuation marks. Connecting to the messages in your script can guide your performance better than adhering to some strict devotion to punctuation marks. Spontaneity in your performance won’t happen because you marked a pause into the copy.

Sometimes the punctuation mark doesn’t even match the message, the little trickster! For instance, let’s talk about the “rhetorical question.” The line, “What if we told you, we were changing history?” is not a question. This company is not asking; they are telling you, “We are changing history.” They know they’re cool. It is a statement and to go up in inflection would sound odd and uncertain.

Keep an eye out for rhetorical questions in your copy. Consider the choices you make. For example, if your intention was to tell a secret with this line, your inflection might go down as well, and that is where your interpretation and choices affect or ignore punctuation. So, again, if you see a question mark, and your kneejerk assumption to go up in inflection is controlling your read, you may be missing the real point, which is to connect to and express an idea.

That said, there is a time to “honor the comma.” Personally, I love commas. I might ignore one, but I rarely half acknowledge/race through them or take them for granted. I love how they give me a place to take a breath, and how they separate thoughts that I can fully express without racing on to the next thought. They can be a micro-resting place to shift gears and launch me into the next sentence fully grounded and committed. All of that can happen relatively quickly. Adding a comma is helpful if it is a super long run-on sentence. I just make sure I insert the comma in a place that makes sense, where it doesn’t cut a thought in half.

There are times however, clients want it read exactly like it’s written, and they’ll let you know they want those pauses only at the commas. They want you to exclaim!!! I mean, you really love that cat shampoo, so much that you use it yourself!!!

Also, consider genres that are not geared toward the “conversational” sound. Medical narration can be pretty dry and formal, so the punctuation is often mapped out in the way they want it to be read. It’s probably not a great idea to perform a complicated piece of medical copy as if you’re gossiping with a nosy neighbor, full of suspenseful pauses.

So, when it comes to conversational reading, punctuation is not written in stone..I mean on paper…..unless the client wants it.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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 VO: A Game of Trust 10 May 2023 10:40 AM (last year)

When we are learning how to be a voice-over actor, we often think about who we are talking to and what we want to be sharing with them. Sometimes, we slip into self-doubt that we are conveying a message effectively. That doubt can turn to “pushing”, almost like when we are packing the car for a road trip, and even though we know that lawnmower-sized suitcase won’t fit in that crevice, we double down, cramming it in until beads of sweat form on our determined brows, “Here we come Miami..ugh!” 

Two things could be happening here: we’ve stopped trusting ourselves, or we’ve stopped trusting the listener. 

Sometimes, when we don’t trust ourselves, we work really hard to convince ourselves, even if we clearly understand the copy’s message and have made good choices. Maybe we are feeling the breath of the competition on our necks and getting a little anxious, or our voice doesn’t feel at its strongest, despite that fifth cup of throat coat tea.  

It’s okay to acknowledge that you are a good interpreter and trust that will come through in the performance! Here’s a suggestion: release the tight grip on your read before it chokes the life out of it. Check in with your body language. Are you hunched over or leaning super forward? If so, try straightening your posture and relaxing your shoulders. Take a moment; take a breath.

The other thing is not trusting the listener, that they understand what we are layin’ down through our keen interpreting skills. This can cause the voice actor to start “pushing” or “indicating” by delivering the copy as if the listener has just told them they’ve turned off their hearing aid. 

We start to exaggerate our choices almost to the point of comedy. The line “Well, that was weird,” becomes a huge shoulder shrug, massive eye roll to the point of perhaps falling over, and with a cartoon-inspired sigh, “WELL, THAT WAS WIERD!!!” It sure was friend, it sure was. 

And sure, sometimes, we don’t trust a choice because we decide it was the wrong one after all. Even that is showing trust in our abilities and are self aware enough to know when we might need to shift direction.

Everyday is different, and “life stuff” can get into the booth with us. That’s normal. There is always a moment to stop, take a breath, and reconnect. If we’ve done the work, all we can do is let go and give it our best, while trusting the listener will understand, and enjoy, our reads.  

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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What to do When You’re Hired to Say Something You Don’t Like 28 Apr 2023 7:21 AM (last year)

What happens when we get a piece of copy that we can’t relate to, maybe it’s even something we can’t stand?

   For example, let’s say someone is deathly allergic to chocolate and they are given a script that waxes poetic about everything chocolate, “Oh the rich decadence of dark chocolate….” 

  Well, instead of breaking out in hives and making sure they have 911 on speed dial at the mere thought of reading it, they can say, “It’s just like when I’m eating short ribs, so savory and rich…. oh my, in my enthusiasm of eating this delicacy, is that gravy on my lapel?” You see, they’ve simply replaced one thing with another, resulting in a connected read that still supports the message. They identified the tone and intentions of the script and found something else that can fulfill those things without being literal.

Just be careful not to salivate!

  And this use of replacement or “It’s just like when…” can be used even if the topic of the script doesn’t make you panic like a deathly allergic reaction is on the horizon. It can be used to up the emotional stakes in your performance as well.

  My first experience using this method happened while studying musical theatre in NYC over twenty years ago back when I was five years old (okay, I wasn’t even close to five but my age is my business, ya know what I mean?) My professor used an Uta Hagen technique called “substitution.” She had us print out the lines, and write next to each one my “as if”, as in, “as if it was me.” It was a dramatic piece with one woman addressing her paramour. For me, it was “as if” I was addressing my ex-boyfriend, line by line. It was many pages and to this day, I sure am glad he didn’t see those script notes…gulp…

  But wow, how effective it has been for me when dealing with any kind of copy; a lighthearted commercial, or an audiobook character’s point of view. Finding how I can relate to it personally and find my “as if”, or my “It’s just like when… I eat a certain food or travel to a particular destination…”  can really help me connect to copy….not to mention work out some youthful relationship moments (gulp number two.) I’m joking here, but on a serious note, I do check in with myself, and if I don’t want to go that deep or personal, I don’t; no need for this simple tool to cause me emotional distress for goodness sake! I use it to discover joy, humor, and emotional depth in copy, not to save money by being my own therapist.

I get enough politics everywhere else these days!

  Lastly, there are some rare occasions when you get approached to say something you strongly, for whatever reasons, do not believe in or feelcomfortable saying (political for example.)  And here’s where you can just say “Thank you but no thank you, I’ll pass.” It is okay to not put your voice on something you strongly disagree with. There are plenty of jobs out there!

 So, have fun using the “Just like when..” or “As if” for things you may not like or relate to,  or to up the emotional stakes in your copy. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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Accountability Partnership 21 Apr 2023 6:55 AM (last year)

   In the past, I would often hear the term “accountability partner” on my voice-over community pages and talks with my VO peers. I had never had one though, and when I did set out to find one it went a little like this: We met up at a fun cafe and ordered fun coffee drinks and talked about fun things and then finally got to work on creating a game plan for direct marketing. We had our lists of production houses and agents we were going to research and reach out to. 

   We were excited and committed to our new vision….for about two weeks. Life got busy, and we stopped checking in on each other’s progress (we still met up at fun cafes and order fun coffee drinks and talked about fun things though.) 

I should call an Uber. I think I had too much “accountability.”

   Two years later, I was at an audiobook retreat in New England and befriended a wonderful fellow narrator. She was struggling with staying on top of her Tiktok social media content – her chosen platform for self-marketing – and asked me to be her “Social Media Accountability Partner.” I too was feeling like I needed to up my game in marketing via social media and shouted, “Yes, I’d love to!”

   One more narrator friend joined us, and we were a fearsome trio! We emailed once a week about our Tiktok achievements of the week prior, and goals for the upcoming week. My first week’s goals were, “I will post two TikTok videos this week, and research audiobook publishers.” My second week’s goals were, “I will practice my editing skills on TikTok because those two videos last week….. sucked.” It was a lot of “one step forward, two steps back.” 

   And that was okay because all three of us were challenging ourselves to learn an entirely new platform, empathizing with any particular struggles, and celebrating each other’s successes on it. For me, posting on TikTok videos felt extremely vulnerable, even as a trained performer. When I would get a good idea for a video that felt relevant to audiobooks, I would get excited. Sharing those varying emotions honestly, and in a supportive environment, was a certain kind of special.

*dramatic reenactment*

   Then, you guessed it, life got busy. I was working on an audiobook, along with my other various voice-over work, auditioning, teaching and producing. But my falling behind with my TikTok posts could not be entirely blamed on being busy. I realized…. I did not like posting on TikTok! Sure, I could learn to like it, or do it anyway for the sake of self-marketing, but I just really, really didn’t want to focus on TikTok. Maybe not forever, but right then, it wasn’t working for me. So, I did the unimaginable. When we all met up in person at APAC – the biggest audiobook conference of the year –  I said, “I need to break up with you! I’m so sorry!” They laughed at my theatrics but understood.

   When we returned from APAC however, I got an email from one of them, who said, “I’d love to keep our group going, Simone. I know you’re not into social media marketing right now, but we can open it up to any audiobook goals. What do you think?” And I said, “Yes, I’d love to!”

Together, nothing can stop us!

 So far, this has been good. We don’t email every week like we used to, but we do check in and set up a time to Zoom with each other. We chat about how we’re doing in our marketing efforts for audiobooks, whether it’s through email reach out (me) or TikTok (them.) We are still accountability partners, the structure just changed (and I am not opposed to changing back to once a week in the future when I am gung-ho about becoming a TikTok superstar.)   

In the end, accountability, in an honest way, mattered the most to me. The last thing I wanted to do was keep emailing them with promises or apologies, “I’m going to do it, I really am…next week! Sorry!” Not only that, I stopped and took a look at not just who I was accountable to, but I was making myself accountable for, and if it was something that felt like the right fit for me at the time. To sum it up, the accountability partnership between me and myself is the foundation from which all other successful partnerships spring.

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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It’s Okay to Ask Questions! 14 Apr 2023 6:25 AM (last year)

  When interacting with a client, whether they are an old, new, or potential client, it’s easy to get caught up in “anxious emailing,” as in: I don’t want to ask too many questions or they will find me bothersome or think I don’t know what I’m doing. 

Don’t frustrate! Communicate!

   First, this can result in not getting enough information from the client. Not having enough information can mean not being able to deliver a job effectively; thus keeping or adding that client to your repeat client database (whether that list is short, long, on an Excel spreadsheet, or a good old-fashioned notebook.) Second, not asking questions (because you think it makes you look like you don’t know what you’re doing) might actually make you look like you don’t know what you’re doing. Kind of funny how that works, right? 

   There are different questions to ask based on the interaction. Some clients tell you their needs if they want to direct you live, or have you self-direct, etc. They know their exact budget. Others might not know what they need. That’s where our questioning know-how can really come in handy. For example, if it is a newer buyer, unfamiliar with hiring voice actors – and there are plenty out there – they don’t know what they don’t know. We are the voice-over professionals, however. So, if they want you to record a 30-second local radio commercial for their small business, you can ask them, “Would you like to hop on a Zoom or phone call and chat about it? I can be live-directed, at a studio or my home studio. You can also email me some direction notes, and then I’ll record it on my own and deliver the file to you. Would you prefer raw audio or edited? .wav file or .mp3? Would you like me to send it via email or upload it to a delivery service, like Dropbox or WeTransfer?” All of these answers are covered throughout your curriculum at Voice Coaches! Keep in mind, each interaction is different, meaning, please don’t copy and paste the above to a client.

Too many questions can be… a bit much.

   All of these answers, by the way, will also help you know what to charge, as editing could be an extra charge if they want that done. Some voice actors charge a separate fee for being live-directed. Figuring out your rates means you won’t blindside the newer buyer with a fee you didn’t make clear at the get-go. Again, every job is different, and as you can see, knowing what to ask is important for you and the client.

   There are some questions that you shouldn’t ask however, and they are called “unnecessary questions,” like “What do you prefer, pizza or cake, sweet or savory?”, unless of course that has come up organically in your relationship building rapport. Also, when you are emailing, take a moment and really think about everything you want to say, so you are not sending tons of emails: P.S. Raw audio?  P.P.S. Live Direction?  P.P.P.S. Sorry for all the emails!

   So, remember, asking the right questions, and the right way, will not bother a client. More likely, they’ll think, “I’m so glad I hired a pro!”

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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How to Handle a Flub; We all do it! 7 Apr 2023 5:41 AM (last year)

  What is a “flub?” Well, it’s that moment when our mouths seem like stubborn children throwing a tantrum, refusing to cooperate with us when we try to say a word or phrase. It’s the feeling that we are fighting against our mouth, a battle between our brains reading the words on the page and our mouths, shaping them into sounds. When first starting out as a voice-over professional, and it happens in a session with a client, it can feel like it is a sign of our being “new” to the vo game or a clear indicator of our inexperience. Well, the truth is, whether you have been doing voice-over for 30 days or 30 years, you will flub a word from time to time. What makes us professional voice actors are not, in fact, whether we flub or not, it’s how we handle it when we do.

   Of course, the more you warm up your articulators before the session,  and know the copy well, or don’t but have practiced your cold reading skills, the less likely you will fumble. But, in the event it does happen, the newer voice actor’s impulse is to apologize. Don’t. You do not need to. You simply take a moment, take a breath, and start over from where you made the mistake; a fresh start, a clean slate. The engineer will know what happened and is fine with it, and the client knows what happened and is fine with it. We are humans, after all. We were hired for our humanity. 

Now, if you find yourself flubbing a lot, you may say, “I’m sorry, give me a moment, my mouth is not cooperating today.” (ha ha.. keep it light-hearted.) Then mouth the words to yourself quietly, over and over again until you get them under your command. Then say,” Alright, ready!” When you start apologizing and talking between takes, that is just more work for the editor and it interrupts the flow and focus of the recording session. And you might end it thinking, “Okay, I need to warm up more next time; lesson learned.”

   Now, if a flub keeps happening outside of a session- when you are simply recording an audition or a job- and a word or phrase keeps tripping you up, don’t just keep doing the ENTIRE piece over and over again hoping that one line will eventually land the way you want it to. That wastes time. Isolate the troublesome word or words and work them out like a kink in a muscle, or ironing a particularly loud wrinkle in a shirt. Then you can return to the piece as a whole. 

  So, remember, we all flub as voice actors, no matter how long we’ve been doing it. Like most professions, what can really go a long way, is not whether or not you make a mistake, but how well you prepare to limit the chances of it happening, and how graciously you correct it if it does. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

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The Juggler’s Life 30 Mar 2023 6:32 AM (2 years ago)

   Historically, the voice actor was responsible for one thing: being the voice. However, these days, in many cases, some voice actors are juggling lots of brightly lit balls — some of which are called “marketer”, and “researcher”, and for the home studio voice actor, throw in “audio engineer” and  “editor.” Wow, that’s a lot of balls to be juggling, so it can be helpful to focus on one ball at a time. When you do that, you can be more present, thorough, and ultimately, more effective. Once the individual balls are shined and spiffed up, then you can be the magician juggling them all in the air with a smile on your face. That magical moment is you delivering the job, hitting the “send” button. What a feeling! 

Juggling can be fun!

  So let’s think about each individual ball, or “role”, through the lens of an actor auditioning from their home studio. These roles are actor, researcher, director, audio engineer, and secretary. Seen all at once, it seems overwhelming. This is just an audition for goodness sake! Well, I see this as a huge “feather in my cap” opportunity, in fact, a “multiple feathers in my cap” opportunity. You are becoming a full-service provider with many skills.

   Think of it like building a beautiful machine. You have to craft each cog, link, or bolt on its own before all the parts come together to make a fully operational robot man/woman/dog. You don’t just say, “I want to build a fully operational robot man/woman/dog” and then poof, you have one right in front of you (sigh, I wish.) No, you have to focus on one piece at a time. So here is a little snapshot of that sequence.

The many hats you’ll be wearing!

1. Voice Actor: Getting the copy and looking at the directions. Otherwise known as “specs.”
2. Researcher: Research the company to get to know them a little bit. 
3. Director: Making some decisions on intentions, your own unique interpretation of the client’s script while honoring their directions. 
4. Audio engineer. Check your studio and make sure you are ready to record. 
5. Voice Actor: Let it fly! Don’t try to control or direct your reading while in performance mode. Play!
6. Director: Listen back to your audition. Be honest, is there anything you’d like to do differently? If so, make new choices (if not, skip to step 8.)
7. Voice Actor: Perform it again, letting go of the director ball! Play!
8. Audio Engineer: Edit your recording.
9. Secretary: Make sure it is labeled correctly and email it (to the appropriate party), or upload it ( if online casting site) with a personal greeting and thank you. 

  Congratulations! You have juggled effectively, and now you have a great audition; a mighty, fully operational machine (last analogy I promise) like a train that is chugging through the auditory pathways of casting directors and clients alike, “Choo choo!” Plus, notice that even though there are 9 steps, there are only 5 roles? You play a couple of them more than once throughout that process. The last step, and most important one, I saved for last: have fun with it! You get to feel it and clients get to hear it.

Has this ever happened to you?!

  Returning to the voice professional/juggler as a whole, remember, if your business grows to the point where you feel like you can’t or don’t want to keep all the balls in the air, you can get someone else to juggle for you. It’s called outsourcing. Take, for instance, audiobooks. Often, when I do an audiobook, I perform and edit it all myself, handing in a totally finished audiobook from title to end credits. But sometimes I will outsource my editing to a professional editor. Yes, it takes some money out of the budget for me, but I gain more time for other work or “quality of life” time. You may say, “I am going to hire an editor to edit my e-learning project, so I can go to Disneyworld with kids.”

   So anytime you envision the future as a panicked image of you doing everything, covered in spaghetti sauce as you cook dinner for the family while checking auditions on your phone, or setting your calendar with times to edit your last job, just remind yourself, “you can delegate when the time comes. You are not alone.”

Now go have fun juggling those balls!

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

The post The Juggler’s Life appeared first on Voice Over Training | Complete Training, Demo Development & Support.

Getting Creative in Your Thank You 20 Mar 2023 5:32 AM (2 years ago)

   As a voice-over professional, we are our own small business. While we may focus on prospective clients, we ultimately want the bulk of our customers to be the ones we are already serving. As a customer myself, I tend to return to businesses where I feel valued. It’s the little thank yous, whether it is a verbal thank you on my way out of a local shop, an email with some thoughtful graphics to please my eyes, or a coupon giving me a 10% off my next purchase. 

Photo by Bonne Nouvelle

To show gratitude to our clients for choosing us over so many other service providers in our field, we can say thank you in traditional ways like cards or emails, or more creative ways that make them feel seen and valued. Getting creative in the ways we say thanks might also increase the chances they remember us.   

   Get creative by paying attention to anything specific to your client, whether it is a hobby they have or a random passion or interest. Keep in mind, you don’t want to pry for this information; it should be readily available through their website or personal communication you may have had. You want to thank them after all, not creep them out!  

  I’d like to share an example of one of my recent interactions with a newer client. It speaks to the relationship based approach Voice Coaches espouses. This particular client is the owner/engineer of a studio that casts for voice-over work. I met him while playing a different role. Instead of being a voice actor, I was directing a voice actor on a narration reel. As the engineer in this situation, he listened to me direct and say some of the lines when demonstrating a particular direction I wanted the client to perform. He emailed me after the session and asked me if I was a voice actor. “Why yes I am!” I exclaimed from my keyboard happily. He wrote back and said he’d like to work together sometime and would stay in touch. The very next day, he reached out with a job! In the same email, he mentioned he saw on my website that I am also a singer-songwriter. He too turned out to be a musician and shared some links to his music, which I immediately listened to, and sufficiently impressed, said so. 

A truly rocking thank you!

  The job was easy. It was a couple of lines in a regional radio spot that took me 30 minutes to self-direct, record, and edit from my home studio. He had been professional, and offered a fair rate. I wanted to thank him with more than just an email or card. 

   Because we had talked about making music, I had a funny thought about sending him a guitar-shaped cookie cutter with a thank-you note. This led me down the “Amazon Rabbit Hole” where there were MANY musical instrument-shaped cookie cutters! I finally decided on one from Amazon, but before I hit the “buy” button I thought, “Hmm, I better check the reviews.” And I am glad I did because horror stories with pictures of cookie dough stuck in the cookie cutter abounded! So, I had another idea, “guitar ice cube trays!” And boy, if I didn’t find it; a set of drink stirrers that were guitar necks that you set in an ice cube tray, where the ice would form the rest of the guitar. I checked the reviews…glowing! I hit “buy” and that was a wrap.

   The best part of this all was that I didn’t do it just to “keep a client returning.” I did it because I was grateful for his professionalism and wanted to thank him for it. I was enjoying the building of a relationship. 

Sweet irony!

   Another example is from David Bourgeois, our very own president of Voice Coaches and studio owner. A client of his happened to be a dentist and sent him a box of chocolates… the last thing a dentist should be sending anyone..ahem. In this case, the dentist based his gift on something specific about him, but it made everyone laugh at the office, and a good sense of humor paired with a thank you, can be very memorable indeed. Keep in mind, Mr.Dentist knew David appreciates humor; not every client will have a giant funny bone.

   Be creative with WHO you say thank you to as well. Remember, don’t just thank the client, thank the secretary who made you a cup of tea while you waited for the microphone to be set up, the engineer who set up that microphone. How about the janitor who pauses his sweeping to say goodbye to you in the hallway? He makes the environment nice to work in after all It’s all connected. Plus, you never know where they’ll be in 5 years; they could be doing the casting! 

   Get creative in your thank yous. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, and a fun way to build relationships in your expanding voice-over business. 

We welcome you to join us for an introductory Voice Over class HERE

The post Getting Creative in Your Thank You appeared first on Voice Over Training | Complete Training, Demo Development & Support.