Be Better Than The Robots! With Mike Cooper - Season 4 Episode 2

In this exhilarating season finale of the #VOHourPodcast, we're joined by the remarkable Marta Svetek, a powerhouse in the world of voiceover with a unique journey that will inspire you to chart your own course in the industry.   Episode 11 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast - "Taking Charge And Creating Your Own Path" with Marta Svetek.   Marta shares her VO evolution, starting from her corporate day job in a tech startup to becoming a sought-after voice talent. Discover how lending her voice to an HSBC e-learning project became the catalyst for her VO adventure, driven by a passion for video games.   Learn the invaluable lessons Marta gleaned from her business school background and how it empowers her in the voiceover world. Gain insights into the business acumen she acquired, from contract negotiations to handling rejections gracefully.   Embrace Marta's philosophy of finding strength in your passions while maintaining a pragmatic approach. Hear her thoughts on the journey to full-time VO work and why there's no rush to leave other sources of income behind.   Dive into the world of networking as Marta emphasises the power of authentic connections. Discover the art of simply being human, building relationships without hidden agendas, and letting chemistry guide your interactions.   Marta's journey is a testament to the power of consistency and the importance of the bigger picture. Learn how forming habits and long-term thinking can shape your VO career. Marta's candid advice to her younger self will resonate deeply.   Reflect on her words about starting sooner, being kinder to yourself, and not allowing the judgments of others to cloud your path.   Don't miss this enlightening finale of Season 4! Join us for Marta Svetek's incredible story and take away invaluable insights to fuel your own VO journey.   Tune in for Episode 11 and unlock the doors to boundless opportunities in the thrilling realm of voice acting in video games!   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the dynamic world of voice acting in video games in Episode 10 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast - "Riding the Tides of Opportunity in the World of Voice Acting In Video Games with Doug Cockle"   In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with the talented Doug Cockle, renowned for his iconic role as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher series and a prolific voice actor with an illustrious career.   Doug shares his fascinating journey into the realm of voiceover, recounting how he serendipitously stumbled into the field after his training in theatre, TV, and film. From local gigs to landing his first major video game role, Doug's story is one of determination and evolution, learning the intricacies of audio and voice recording while on the job.   As the voice behind Geralt, one of gaming's most beloved characters, Doug discusses the joys and challenges of inhabiting such an iconic role. Dive into the magic of interacting with the game's IP, developers, and an ever-growing fanbase that has catapulted The Witcher series into a global phenomenon. Discover how Doug navigates the unique experience of fame that comes with voicing a beloved character.   What truly makes a great actor? Doug shares his wisdom, emphasising the importance of imagination and authentic expression while quelling the fear of judgement. For aspiring actors seeking their breakthrough, he delves into the significance of a strong social media presence, networking at industry events, and maintaining an authentic, human connection with developers and fellow artists.   In the face of setbacks and challenges, Doug's story inspires resilience. Learn how he nearly missed the opportunity to become Geralt of Rivia and the valuable lessons he gleaned from such moments. His advice to his younger self echoes the eternal quest for growth and humility, reminding us that there is always more to explore and learn.   Don't miss this captivating episode filled with insights from one of the gaming industry's most iconic voices. Tune in to discover the secrets of success in the world of video game voice acting and embark on a journey of inspiration with Doug Cockle.   Tune in for Episode 10 and unlock the doors to boundless opportunities in the thrilling realm of voice acting in video games!   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Get ready for a power-packed episode of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast! Episode 9 - "What An Agent Looks For!" We've compiled golden nuggets of advice from top industry agents, Natalie Edwards, Vince LeBica, Emily Dean, Phil Sutfin, Peter Morris, Andrea Beane, Tanya Buchanan, all from The VoiceOver Hour LIVE Webinar.   First up is Natalie Edwards from Excellent Talent, who shares valuable insights into what agents look for in new talent seeking representation. Joined by Rachael Naylor, together they discuss the intricacies of creating a standout voice demo/reel, emphasising the importance of a good ear, whether professionally or self-produced. Delve into the finer details like the order of voice clips and the dynamic range of energy in each performance.   Next, Vince Lebica from DPN Talent spills the beans on vital do's and don'ts when reaching out to agents. Learn the best practices for contacting your potential agent, keeping your outreach concise and confident. Discover the secrets of showcasing something different if you're seeking repeated opportunities, and hear from Rachael and Vince on what distinguishes the highest booking talent.   Joining the conversation, Emily Dean from Voicefox, Phil Sutfin from ACM, and Peter Morris from Peter Morris Casting share expert advice on nailing auditions. Uncover the keys to being flexible, adaptable, and directable, while keeping performances grounded and intriguing clients with unexpected brilliance. Gain valuable insights into understanding the brief and optimising your recording environment, even while on-the-go.   Finally, listen to the expert guidance of Andrea Beane from AB2 and Tanya Buchanan from Ta-Da Talent as they offer indispensable advice to new and emerging talent. Discover the significance of training and hard work, building strong relationships, and maintaining professional communication with your agents. Unearth clever ways to create a budget-friendly home studio setup, focusing investments on essential equipment and top-notch training. Treat your voiceover business like any other career path, ensuring a compelling resume and putting in the effort to find the auditions that align with your unique talents.   Don't miss this episode packed with priceless advice from industry experts. Tune in to gain an edge in the voiceover industry and elevate your career to new heights. Get ready to take notes and implement game-changing strategies for your voiceover journey!   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Get ready for an incredibly inspiring and heartfelt episode of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast! In Episode 8 - "You’re Allowed To Play!" - we dive into the captivating world of voiceover, clowning, and embracing your inner creative spirit with the remarkable Ali Cheff.   Introducing Ali, a true multi-talent - VO artist, actor, humanitarian clown, producer, writer, casting director, 2nd AD, and documentary filmmaker. With a diverse background spanning audiobooks, commercials, animations, and games, Ali's journey into the realm of voiceover is as fascinating as it is enlightening.   Unraveling her VO origin story, Ali's passion for acting ignited from an early age, often recording herself telling stories and singing on tape. She fondly recalls her beginnings voicing educational animations, a learning experience that was uniquely set on an active farm, inside a yurt - an unconventional yet enriching environment.   Discover why Ali is enamored by the world of voiceover. She shares how it grants her the power to unleash her imagination, creating intimate connections with her audience. VO, for Ali, is a realm of liberation and play, allowing her to explore her creative depths and embrace her authenticity.   Enter the extraordinary realm of humanitarian clowning, where Ali finds herself bringing joy to hospitals, orphanages, prisons, and challenged communities worldwide. She delves into the parallel universes of clowning and voiceover, unveiling how both realms require vulnerability, openness, and play. Through these endeavors, Ali discovers profound personal growth, allowing her to cast aside the fear of judgment and embrace her true self.   Uncover the secrets to running a successful VO business as Ali passionately discusses the significance of coaching, budgeting, and investing in proper training. She highlights the importance of networking and building relationships from a place of genuine connection, ultimately fueling the growth of your business.   As the episode culminates, Ali offers sage advice to her younger self and to anyone seeking to infuse their life with creativity and authenticity. Her words resonate deeply: "Be shameless with your love." This message stands as a testament to the transformative power of embracing vulnerability, compassion, and the pure joy of creation.   Tune in to Episode 8 as Ali Cheff takes you on an extraordinary journey, encouraging you to discover your true creative self, take risks, and find the profound joy of simply playing.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment in Episode 7 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast - "Dive into the Unknown: Embrace Your Strengths, Take Risks, and Follow Your Dreams!" 🎙️ Join us as we unravel the captivating narrative of Ben McAuley, a multi-award-winning voiceover artist whose illustrious 30-year career spans eLearning, corporate narration, commercials, games, and more.   In this episode, Rachael introduces Ben, who shares his remarkable trajectory from an early love for acting to becoming a seasoned voiceover talent. From Bristol to Cambridge, his journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Learn how he transitioned from a secure job at the BBC to full-time voiceover, driven by his passion and an encounter that changed his life at the VON Summer Party.   Ben candidly delves into the challenges of anxiety and imposter syndrome, shedding light on the power of self-care through yoga and meditation. Discover the profound wisdom in facing discomfort and the beauty of embracing your authentic self. Explore the art of eLearning and corporate narration as Ben reveals the importance of infusing character and personality into every performance, defying the notion that AI can replace the human touch.   Drawing from his wealth of experience, Ben imparts invaluable advice on effective business management, organisation, and nurturing client relationships. Confronting setbacks head-on, he shares insights on overcoming self-doubt and staying present in the moment, fostering a mindset of progress and growth.   As the conversation winds down, Ben reflects on his journey and offers a powerful message to his younger self and aspiring talents alike. Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and courage to embrace the unknown, take risks, and ardently chase your dreams.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. Special thanks to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The VoiceOver Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The VoiceOver Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and let us know your thoughts!

Listen for an exclusive glimpse into the captivating world of audiobook production in Episode 6 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast! Join Rachael Naylor as she sits down with AHAB producers Julie Wilson and Molly Lo Re for an engaging conversation that takes you behind the audiobook casting curtain.   Discover the inspiring journeys of Julie and Molly, as they share their entry into the audiobook industry. Julie's 16-year voyage began with an internship, leading to her role as a producer at AHAB, managing partnerships and producing an impressive 80-100 books per year. Meanwhile, Molly's love for dynamic and fast-paced workflows brought her to audiobook production after working in publishing for children's books with Penguin.   The trio explores unforgettable titles, including Seth Rogen's Yearbook, featuring a 130-member cast, recorded and produced during the pandemic lockdown. Delve into what they adore about audiobooks, from the inclusive community to the ever-evolving innovations in production. Uncover the changes in the industry, as they discuss the intersections of audiobooks, podcasts, and audio dramas, and the promising growth potential for non-fiction.   Want to know what makes a great narrator? Julie emphasises the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and a love for reading, while Molly highlights the importance of stamina, sight-reading, and continuous learning through coaching. Aspiring narrators will find valuable advice on building their craft, creating standout demos, and utilising AHAB's free breakdown masterclasses.   Explore AHAB, the global casting platform fostering a vibrant community for narrators, casting directors, and production houses. Discover their take on AI in audiobooks, and why nothing can replace the genuine connection between the narrator and the audience.   Unveil the secrets of a compelling audiobook demo, and learn how narrators can secure high-profile roles and agent representation through networking and authenticity. Julie's encouragement to embrace one's true self resonates deeply, while Molly reminds listeners to cherish the journey, find happiness, and remain present while striving for their dreams.   Don't miss this enriching episode as you embark on a riveting journey through the enchanting world of audiobook casting. Tune in to gain exclusive insights, and let Julie and Molly inspire you to shine in the ever-expanding landscape of audiobooks.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

In Episode 5 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast "Let’s Talk Castings!" Kim Hurdon takes us on a journey through her "superhero origin story". Starting as a receptionist at an audio house and eventually finding her passion in the world of voiceover casting. With a genuine love for working with talented actors and teams, Kim shares her day-to-day experiences as a voice and casting director, highlighting her company's unique casting process and the importance of giving every actor a fair chance, regardless of the project's size.   Discover what truly stands out for Kim in auditions as she seeks actors who unleash their imagination, take bold risks, and showcase authenticity. From bringing humour to animation roles to portraying truth in gaming roles, Kim values actors who bring a unique perspective to even the most concise character descriptions.   Kim emphasises the significance of studying the genre you aspire to work in and doing thorough preparation as an actor. Drawing upon the importance of childlike imagination and making choices instinctively, she acknowledges that not everyone had the same exposure in their childhood, making the study and preparation even more vital.   The conversation continues to delve into the demo reel industry, where Kim shares her experiences working with Ubisoft and discusses the preferences for both underproduced and produced demos. She stresses the need for actors to be adaptable and ready to change as projects evolve, particularly in high-profile projects where sight-reading and quick adjustments are essential.   Kim reflects on her biggest challenges, including the realisation that people may approach situations differently than her, leading to unique and interesting experiences while working with actors. She and Rachael also explore the gaming industry's growth and the positive changes in inclusivity and diversity in video game casting. Kim finds joy in discovering actors with diverse cultural backgrounds, further enhancing the richness of storytelling.   As the conversation concludes, Kim shares her wisdom with listeners, encouraging them to appreciate the good moments, embrace the present, and enjoy the view. Her insightful advice serves as a reminder to cherish every step of the journey.   Don't miss this enlightening episode as Kim Hurdon provides valuable insights into the world of castings and the ever-evolving voiceover industry. Tune in now and gain a fresh perspective on the art of casting and the transformative power of voice acting.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

In Episode 4 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast "Pushing Your Limits and Chasing Your Dreams," we delve into the inspiring stories of Terry Briscoe and host Rachael Naylor. Focusing on the themes of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), mental health, and finding inner strength. This episode sheds light on their personal journeys and the importance of raising awareness for life-changing diseases.   Terry Briscoe is an award-winning on-camera and voice actor based in the Washington DC area. With a diverse background in singing, rapping, and lending his voice to various projects, Terry has quickly made a name for himself in the voiceover industry. His credits include Paul Masson Brandy, DadBod of Destiny Podcasts, audiobooks, SpaceTV narration, video game character roles, corporate narration, and dubbing. Notably, Terry served as the voice of The National MS Society's Pathways to Cures Campaign.   Rachael and Terry courageously share their experiences of receiving traumatic MS diagnosis, discussing the physical and mental toll it has taken on their lives. They emphasise the significance of increasing awareness of MS within and beyond the voiceover industry.   The conversation takes an introspective turn as Rachael recounts her transformative experience on an energy retreat in Cape Verde. Discover how she discovered meditation, spiritual practices, and embraced veganism, leading to improved quality of life and enhanced mental well-being.   Terry's lifelong dream of pursuing voiceover is explored, starting from his childhood fascination with Transformers and his MS diagnosis forcing him to leave his job as a bus driver. Determined to overcome obstacles, Terry founded a transport business for non-emergency medical transport. However, the impact of the pandemic prompted him to reevaluate his path, ultimately reigniting his passion for voiceover. He shares his love for reading and describes the voiceover profession as a calming and therapeutic journey.   Together, Rachael and Terry explore the delicate balance between pushing limits, chasing dreams, and maintaining a mindful approach to their health while living with MS. They delve into the power of not allowing adversity to define them, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and mutual support within their networks.   Terry draws inspiration from industry titans like Rachael, finding solace and community in the voiceover and MS communities. His work with the MS Society culminated in him being awarded the 2022 Inspiration Award. He emphasises the significance of coaching and continuous learning to advance as a voiceover artist. The duo also discusses the importance of openly discussing and sharing their hardships as a means of escaping the darkness of depression.   Reflecting on his journey, Terry encourages listeners to chase their dreams without delay, believing in their ability to succeed if they act now. His words serve as a reminder to embrace the present and seize opportunities.   Join us for this uplifting and insightful episode as Rachael and Terry open up about their experiences, shed light on the challenges they have faced, and inspire us all to push our limits, chase our dreams, and find strength within ourselves.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Join us for an enlightening and insightful conversation in Episode 3 of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast, titled "Hitting The Bullseye With Your Demo." Our special guest, Alfonso Lugo, a Home Studio Specialist and accomplished Voice Over artist, shares his expertise and valuable insights on the art of creating impactful voiceover demos.   Alfonso takes us on a journey through his remarkable career, starting as a DJ and radio producer for ads and jingles. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most sought-after voices for commercials, recording an impressive 5-10 ads a day. At the age of 29, he even became the voice of the largest bank in Mexico. Seeking further growth, Alfonso sought coaching from industry expert Dave Walsh and made the move to Los Angeles, where he gained international representation by renowned agencies.   In this episode, Alfonso and host Rachael Naylor delve into the origins of Elements Demos, a project born out of the frequent inquiries Rachael received from voice actors seeking recommendations for exceptional demo production. They explore the importance of setting hyper-specific goals in your voiceover career and developing a strategic approach to accelerate your progress. Alfonso shares his insights on identifying the clients you want to work with and the agents you aspire to be represented by.   The conversation also delves into the essential elements of a standout demo. Alfonso emphasises the significance of showcasing your unique voice and abilities, highlighting what sets you apart and captivates listeners. They discuss the power of a demo that elicits that "Ooh" cool factor, leaving a lasting impression on casting directors and clients. Alfonso stresses the importance of choosing the right producer and sound engineer to craft a professional demo, rather than attempting the challenging task yourself.   Time management emerges as a crucial aspect of success in voiceover, as Alfonso shares his perspective on embracing where you are in your journey and maximising your potential. He likens equipment, training, and demo reels to his "soldiers," deploying them to fight battles and propel your career forward. Alfonso distinguishes between demo reels, which showcase past work and accomplishments, and demos that represent your desired voiceover path and aspirations.   The episode continues with a deep dive into the collaborative process of producing demos, particularly in the realm of video games and character performances. Alfonso emphasises the importance of openness and creativity in the recording booth, encouraging talent to push their boundaries and unleash their potential. He appreciates when voice actors possess a clear vision of their goals and actively contribute to the production process.   Don't miss this compelling episode as Alfonso Lugo shares his invaluable wisdom and experiences in the realm of voiceover demo production. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your voiceover journey, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration to help you hit the bullseye with your demo.   Tune in to The VoiceOver Hour Podcast and gain insights from industry experts to elevate your voiceover career.   You can find this episode and all previous episodes on all major podcast platforms. A big thank you to our Sponsors: Elements Demos, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Focusrite.   BUTTON - LISTEN NOW!   What to do next…   Make sure you: SUBSCRIBE to The Voiceover Hour PODCAST, so you never miss out!   SEARCH "The Voiceover Hour"   Wherever you get your podcasts.   Don’t forget to switch notifications on.   GIVE A REVIEW OR FEEDBACK!   Review the episode on social media using the hashtag #VOHourPodcast   Drop us an email and share your thoughts!

Join Rachael Naylor, CEO and Founder of The VoiceOver Network, and Mike Cooper, a highly experienced voiceover artist known for his work with the BBC, National Geographic, and beyond, as they delve into the dynamic world of voiceover work in this thought-provoking episode of The VoiceOver Hour Podcast.   In their conversation, Rachael and Mike emphasise the significance of engagement in voiceover performances. They explore the evolving landscape of the industry and the need for voice actors to adapt to changes, especially with the increasing utilisation of AI voices. While technology advances, Rachael and Mike stress the importance of harnessing natural instincts to connect and effectively communicate with audiences.   Discover the value of flexibility in voiceover work and how it allows artists to navigate through diverse projects and genres. Rachael and Mike highlight the power of bringing unique skills and experiences to voiceover performances, enabling artists to leave their distinctive mark on every project.   Tune in as they share their insights, anecdotes, and valuable advice for aspiring and seasoned voice actors alike. Whether you're curious about the future of voiceover in an AI-driven landscape or seeking inspiration to enhance your craft, this episode will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective.   Don't miss this captivating discussion on the importance of engagement, adaptation, and unleashing your natural instincts in the ever-evolving world of voiceover.   Are you ready to take your voiceover career to the next level? The Voiceover Network is an organisation for voiceover professionals providing voiceover training, webinars, The Buzz magazine, support, networking events and an amazing VO community. If you are thinking of getting into voiceover work or if you already work in this area and just want to know what’s going on in the industry – then this podcast is for you. Our host is Rachael Naylor, founder and CEO of The Voiceover Network as well as an experienced voiceover artist. Thanks to our Sponsors:  Hindenburg, Apogee, Source Elements and Focusrite.  Follow us on instagram.com/the_voiceover_network/ Follow us on facebook.com/TheVoiceOverNetworkOfficial