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How the Amtrak locomotives of the past and their horns made me fall in love with trains. The Doppler Effect from Wikipedia: The Doppler effect (or Doppler shift) is the change in frequency of a wave (or other periodic event) for an observer moving relative to its source. It is named after the Austrian physicist Christian Doppler, who proposed it in 1842 in Prague. K5LA Horn * K5LA horns, designed by Nathan Manufacturing, LLC,  were commonly used with Amtrak and various freight lines over the past several decades. If you grew up around trains in the 1990's,  then you've definitely heard this horn.  Again from Wikipedia: The K5LA five-chime assembly has five bells whose musical chord helps the horn to be heard and lessens complaints. The bells may be reversed[2] for trains that go backwards and help those working at the back of the train hear the horn on the front. The K5LA is the most popular horn in use today, with a B major 6th chord (D-sharp, F-sharp, G-sharp, B, D-sharp).[1] Though first used by Chessie System,[3] it was developed for Amtrak as a variation on the original K horn, and is the standard horn for Amtrak, CSX, Norfolk Southern,[4] and Illinois Central as well as commuter and passenger trains.[5] Just Another Train Nerd As many of you know, I am a train geek, nerd, junkie, or enthusiast, if you will.  I grew up around trains in the early 1990's and was spoiled by my parents every chance I got, to see as many trains as possible.  I also had the great fortune of being exposed to people, other train enthusiasts, who helped feed this fire throughout my life. The sound of a passing train whistle in the dead of night, otherwise known as The Doppler Effect, was a vital part of my childhood.  No matter how you look at it, trains, the sight and sound of them, the passion for them, even the smell of them, have always played an integral role throughout my life.  In particular, it was the now vintage locomotives Amtrak used for well over two decades, the EMD F40PH, that became the face of the American passenger rail system from 1978 to about 2001. Over two decades.   You could see these engines everywhere. They were magnificent, powerful, unapologetic, dirty and bad-ass, flying through the sprawling countrysides or vast urban landscapes of our country's most populated cities.  And they had a particular hum to them as well.  If you were lucky enough to be around an Amtrak F40 in the 90s and witness one of these beauties up close, you'd probably understand why I get so giddy and excited. Looking at the above photo is like experiencing that same feeling all over again. And it happens every time. Growing up, these engines had been the face of Amtrak for years and I truly miss them.  Amtrak will never be the same.   Sadly, in 2001 they were taken out of service and replaced with a sleeker, faster, more aerodynamic Genesis P42 which were a more fuel-efficient alternative in the long run.  These engines are incredible as well but nothing, in my opinion, comes close to the grandeur of an F40PH. Mdamttc199. "The BEST Old School Amtrak K5LAs" Video. YouTube 9 Aug 2015. 21 Nov 2015 #dopplereffect #audio #amtrak #trains #K5LA

The new Spike Lee film called "Da New Yawk Joint" (great title) is one I'm really looking forward to seeing. Who better than a director of Spike's stature and experience,  who is so clearly well-versed in all things NYC, to bring this project to life? If there's any filmmaker as passionate and knowledgeable about New York City,  it's Spike Lee.  I've loved his films since day one and feel that no one can capture the physical, emotional and psychological make-up of this great city better than this man.  With the city rapidly transforming before our eyes, gentrification pervading every avenue and street corner, I find it sometimes challenging to see the very character (what made this city so special) being almost completely driven out by the wealthy millennial market and Trump-like towers of mirrored emptiness.  Spike's movies put my anxieties to rest.  Mo Better Blues was the first film by Spike that I saw, due in no small part to the music of Terence Blanchard, who introduced me to a handful of other notable jazz musicians emerging at the same time: Branford Marsalis, Jeff Tain Watts, the late Kenny Kirkland and Donald Harrison, to name a few.  Terence has worked on most, if not all, Spike's films as well, and has collaborated with a group of other talented directors as well.  In this upcoming film I'm hoping (and am completely confident) that Spike will help people remember what continues to make this city so magical and the "greatest in the world." New York. My forever home. Watch with me? 40 acres and A Mule Filmworks. "Da New Yawk Joint" Online Video Clip. Vimeo. Vimeo 29 Oct 2015  9 Nov 2015 #spikelee #film #NewYork

Ear-Catching: New TV Spot for United Healthcare Creative humor is fantastic, and being on the same page is a wonderful feeling.  I've been fortunate enough to be on that same page with some incredible creative directors and producers for the past few months now. The folks at Leo Burnett Chicago are those very creative, fun people to work with. When you work with professionals who know exactly what they're doing AND what they want, it's just smooth sailing ahead and also much easier to follow in line with their particular vision.  And it's also a whole lot easier to do the job without getting distracted by over-direction during the voice over recording session. What I like about this spot in particular is how it tells a story by drawing you in from moment to moment and finally to the brand's message. But it does so in quite an off beat and humorous way- selective humor that you're not completely distracted by. And on the top of that, it's relatable and touching. Check it out above! And I'm sure you'll catch the whole United Healthcare thing on TV sometime soon (if in fact you still watch TV). Ciao! #advertising #commercial #voiceover #leoburnett #unitedhealthcare #TV

or what I've learned along the way so far... 1.)  Ask not what your producer can do for you, but what you can do for your producer.  JFK moment of voiceover truth. 2.) Today the landscape of our business trends toward quantity over quality.  Who is working the most.  Doing the most.  Being seen the most.  Instant fame versus years of hard work and talent backing up the ultimate testament of true worth.   How many gigs have you booked? How many followers do you have?  When it comes to voice over work, I can tell you for one that I have not hit the 1000 mark yet.  But who's counting?  Odd that the quality of select, professional projects seems to resonate less than the sheer volume of work one may have amassed in a short period of time.  In addition, the days of talent mentoring are also dwindling (if not simply over), especially when it comes to having an agent.  How much money can be made off of your services and what are YOU bringing to the table for US?  A bit one-sided no? Gear Obsession 3.) We throw up images and bragging sessions of our equipment like it's VO porn (no not that kind).  "Gear Porn" on social media becomes the equivalent to size comparisons of certain somethings. “Well, from my DAW I compressed my audio, sent it through a light noise gate, then processed it through Izotope but set the noise floor at -60DB so I could enhance the mid-range by diminishing the frequency of gain threshold and administering the low end.”  Talk of this nature goes on for hours, days, and sometimes months.  People who don’t care about this: Ad Agencies, Executive Producers, Agents/Managers, Voice Coaches. People who do care: Geeked-out voice talent snobs, Audio engineers, AES..etc. 4.) Market, Audition, Hustle, Let Go, Repeat. People You Can Hang Up On 5.) Don’t give a dime to the SEO sharks.  They’re so desperate for your money they’ll say anything.  No one understands the Google algorithm - not even Google.  The minute some stranger calls, usually from Utah or Arizona, and asks,  "Do you have a moment to talk about your website?" just hang up.  Generate your own content and be consistent.  It’s what I’m doing and having a lot of fun while learning a ton.  Don't believe me?  Pay up and have fun... 6.) What do they say “Poetry is the window to the soul"?  Yeah, that.  But start with Keats. Then skip about 100 years to Bukowski.  Surprise yourself with the power of words.  And silence. 7.) It’s immensely helpful to have a support system of friends and colleagues both in and out of the  business.  Surround yourself with people whom you can rely on for advice, both personal and professional.   A select few people who inspire you to do your best work in your career as well as your personal life.   Hopefully the feeling is mutual and someday you can take great pleasure in returning the favor. 8.) The take you hate is usually the take they love.  Gets me every time. Bad Movies Are Good Movies 9.) Watch a Steven Seagal flick from the 90's. Laugh at the weak plots, bad dialogue and the ass-kicking scenes. “Out for Justice" (pictured above) is one of his more violent films, but the script is so bad it’s good.  Point being?  Unwind. 10.) I’d hate (or rather, dislike heavily) to be starting my voiceover career today knowing what I know now.  I wouldn’t know where to begin and I’d probably quit after the first few months. Staying Inspired 11.) Wanna hear an amazing voice over?  Hint: Ray Donovan.  I’m blown away every single time and and it continues to inspire me in all my work.  This is subtlety.   Find yours.  Hit PLAY whenever you're feeling not so great. 12.) Do we really need yet ANOTHER voiceover conference?  What are they giving us?  Is it all about networking with each other, or are we learning, growing, developing our talent and businesses on a real level? And what is their overall effect on the industry as a whole?  Food for thought... 13.) We all make mistakes.  Forgetting to buy milk, flubbing a line, mispronouncing a name or running out of breath.  Someone who truly appreciates and admires your efforts will understand this.  You shouldn't have to apologize profusely for being human. #creativity #inspiration #marketing #voiceover #movies #life #motivation

Who Voice Talents are Really Marketing To Is there an audience dilemma in the voiceover marketing world? One of the things I learned in drama school and from seeing a great deal of theater when I was younger (because I’m ancient now), was that the audience and the actors on stage are one. There is an exchange of information via story-telling—a reciprocity, if you will. In that very moment, the actors are actively engaging with the audience & viewers. They may not acknowledge them directly, but their exchange of energy validates both and thus creates a new rapport during every performance. They need the audience. The audience needs them. And that relationship is developed over the course of the show’s run and possibly over time in the evolution of other productions. That very story-telling dynamic has existed for centuries in the same way, changing lives. The voice over blogging vortex operates in a similar fashion, although with some major differences. The audiences, for one, are entirely digital. Voice actors don’t go to a designated stage somewhere in a major metropolis or countryside to recite their posts in front of a public audience comprised of several different target markets, hoping that a select few will greet them for a post-performance meet-and-greet and hopefully hire them for a new commercial campaign based on their astute knowledge of how the business operates. In the digital world anyone can see/read your blog. The piece itself must have an audience in mind, but how and where it’s published will determine whether or not it’s reaching the right people and having the necessary effect. For potential clients (and some may be converted readers and vice versa), it can establish a layer of professional credibility. For other fellow voice actors, it can be inspirational and educational. The resources are ever-present. These days blogging seems to be ubiquitous throughout a variety of different types of industries, not just voice over. The Kool-Aid offered up by Google and the SEO vampires has us all delusional, collectively singing the same anthem, and now we’ve got the seemingly perpetual bug. “Must not stop blogging every week!” “No fine-tuning, just publish anything and everything.” “My aunt died this week and I want you all to know about it” “Oh, I can’t wait to share these photos of me and Simon, our new cat.” “It’s not voice over related but it’s some kind of content and will generate traffic right?!” The opportunities to blog are endless and, in voice over specifically, seem to exist mainly for the sole purpose of educating one’s colleagues, to share one’s success stories or knowledge of the business. There’s an obvious market for that and it certainly has its place. But with one exception: It feels as if the voice talent of today are scrambling, almost clueless when it comes to the realities behind blogging, at least as it appears from an audience’s perspective. On the contrary, there are many voice talents who are fluent in their target markets; who, in fact, understand their audiences so well they can commit to writing a post every week or, sometimes, every few days. They know who they’re writing for and why, and it serves them well. Many of these voice talents are active coaches with students, or business consultants and have branded themselves as such. A level of consistency is maintained throughout their content, and it is obvious they have studied and paid attention to their specific markets. However, I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve run across a random voice talent’s blog from any number of resources, whether it’s a Facebook support forum, LinkedIn Group, or just some random blogging community, and found the subject matter to be completely unoriginal and similar to the vast majority of other bloggers out there. We all want to be heard, no matter the cost, yet, at times, it’s difficult to distinguish any one blog, because we’re all talking about the same thing from our own point of view. And usually it takes place in the form of the following generic headlines: “Are you ready for a career in voice over?” “Do you have what it takes to maintain a steady income as a voice talent?" “5 tips to land an agent in today’s competitive voice over market” “25 ways to be productive while maximizing a healthy client roster” “How to exponentially increase clients via social media.” “Why your voiceover website blows” The list goes on. How often have we read these types of posts from almost any and every voice talent, and from many who haven’t been working very long? Sometimes from people who just jumped on the scene, even. Since when did we voice talents suddenly become life coaches? Most of the time it’s because someone told us to. The purpose here is not to shun the existing voice over blogging community or discourage any talent from writing what they feel to be resourceful material for someone else. Many of us wouldn't be where we are if it weren't for an extra nugget of wisdom from a major industry resource or blogger. The amount of free information is readily available at our finger tips and there's no arguing there. But you have to marvel at the idea of a voice talent so eager for website traffic that they’ll write just about anything to get at the top list of Google. Why be original when you can just post a high volume of unrelated clutter for weeks on end? You also have to wonder what happened after a voice talent took their very first class, completed their shiny new demo or finished a brand new website, and set out into the competitive frenzy. I’m sure they were lectured on the importance of having a demo in the first place, landing an agent, trying their hand at the casting sites, maintaining some kind of social media presence, if any. But chances are their voice over coach did NOT tell them about the importance of having a blog to stay relevant. And probably for good reason: The actual voice seekers, the people hiring us, don’t actually care about our blogs. They don’t have time to care. Sound harsh? Well, that’s just the reality of this business. New Era, Different Times We can all agree that the industry is obviously drastically different today than it was 10 years ago. Heck, even 4 years ago for that matter. And let’s face it, we don’t need to be in a major market to book work (although it definitely still helps with some of the bigger accounts). Gone are the days when you waited for the phone to ring, and all you had to do was drive or hop a ride on the subway to the studio for an audition or booking. That still happens for some folks, but with the majority of the business going digital and a more evolved online mind-set, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Without a doubt, we’ve found new ways to market ourselves outside of having an agent, being on a casting site, or getting referrals from fellow colleagues— whatever the method of acquiring and securing work may be. Many talents attend conferences unrelated to voice over and actually find clients and build those relationships (Oh yeah, it happens). Some people simply like being more creative, working harder at it and reaping the long-term rewards. We don’t like signing our souls over to one person to be our primary marketing method when they are simply one piece of the pie chart. On the other hand, some of us are perfectly happy with those long-time agents to procure the majority of our work, so we can focus on other things like that vacation in Cancun or enjoying champagne on the yacht along the Hudson, never ever having to send out a thank you post card, cold email or newsletter. Voice over seems to be the only industry I can think of where some of the competing parties (talents), market to their competition in order be visible to the people that are actually hiring them—at least in the online world. An older post I wrote in 2013 called The Voice Over Cult confirmed a similar frustration. Today, that same issue is still present and one over which I’m constantly scratching my head. Voice actors marketing to other voice actors for the sole purpose of website traffic, and better SEO? Are our choices this limited or are we not really broadening our minds? Are we running out of original ideas? For the voice over coach/consultant, this kind of blogging makes sense. But for us talents who aren’t taking the default path to coaching early on—is it absolutely necessary? Everyone is different and many factors can also influence our posting frequency or lack thereof. Being in NY, LA, CHI or perhaps Atlanta, can have its benefits. Granted, not everyone has this convenience and privilege. Some of us have to try a lot harder to be heard by more than just our demos. Again, we want to be heard outside of what we’re normally hired for and also want to show another side of our branding. Staying authentic while showing another layer of our professional personality can actually help us stand out more. Nevertheless, you will often find some of us marketing to either one of two audiences: The obvious audience - other voice talents, colleagues/friends in and out of the industry and family. Usually aspiring talents, newbies and/or veterans looking to empathize with, confirm or contradict a viewpoint. The desired audience – voice seekers whether they come in the form of producers, directors, casting directors, creative directors, associate producers, audio engineers, production coordinators, writers, copywriters, content directors, media planners, digital directors, etc. In short, people who are still the professional gatekeepers of a great deal of the work we’re seeking. And, of course, the creative and business liaisons brokering some of those deals: agents and managers. Regardless, in this new era, we have to constantly be excavating new methods and avenues of marketing ourselves to potential clients. Enter blogging and this newish predicament facing digitally-savvy working voice talent. The ability to blog and publish our information to a largely global audience has made us all a bit cock-sure in the belief that we’re so knowledgeable in our chosen field. That we know what we’re talking about and in-demand even if, perhaps, some of us haven’t been doing it for that long or booking any solid work. All of this has prompted me to look at things very realistically going forward even in my business and ask the following questions: Why do we voice talents actually blog in the first place? Who are we really trying to reach? Who is our audience? And more importantly, what insanely busy, micro-managed creative director or producer will care enough to put down their work load to read a 5-page column on how we got into VO in the first place? “Ok I just listened to your reel for over a minute! Now I have to read your blog?! Damn." The audience dilemma - something to think about. Thank you for reading. #marketing #voicetalent #voiceover #creative #producer #acting #branding

As many of you know, in addition to loving voiceover, I’m a serious train addict. Marrying the two loves can be a bit of a stretch, from a branding perspective, but I have no trouble devoting equal amounts of time to both. When voiceover and trains collide, I can be seen almost always on the side-lines at stations photographing train life along the Hudson River. Well, this time I put that addiction to test by taking a much anticipated train up to Buffalo NY for the first time. In addition to exploring the historical landmarks, a somewhat chaotic tour of Niagara Falls in the rain, some great bars/restaurants as well as Art Scene, I got the chance to hang out with my MVO brother, Peter K O'Connell, Buffalo’s one and only friendly, neighborhood voice talent. Peter and I talked for a while about the ever-changing voice over industry, low ball voice seekers, marketing tactics (of which he is a master), Buffalo (not the animal) History, Family, and in-between making jokes and doing impersonations of other voice over artist friends of ours.  Afterwards he gave me a brief tour of downtown Buffalo, which I explored over the next couple of days. Our careers can be so isolating at times that it's good to be reminded that "people" exist. #voiceover #marketing #networking #trains #travel

I used to think I didn’t need to learn anything. That because I was booking work, I didn’t need to develop existing relationships and start potential ones with others.  That I didn’t need to market myself as hard as others or create opportunities.  As far as I was concerned, if I rested on my laurels and let my agents do the work, as long as they got their 10%, that was the extent of our relationship.  Nothing else was required of me. While there is no requirement or recipe for success as a voice talent, that limiting philosophy couldn’t be any further from my current belief system.  Without a doubt, a lot has changed in our little niche VO community.  It’s not just an elite group of individuals any more. I mean, in some places it can be. But on the whole, that's even changing too.  It’s expanded almost to the point of over-saturation.  Competition is fiercer than ever before.  If you’re ahead of the curve and succeeding, great.  But that doesn’t mean you’re impervious to learning or growing.  In fact, getting to know other voice talent can do wonders for the creative and business hemispheres of your brain.  You can't help but run into people that might teach you something about yourself you didn't already know. Maybe an observation from someone else. Others will keep you open to change, make suggestions, and give you that much needed nudge or kick in the ass! These people can be wonderful friends.  Keep your enemies close but your friends closer. Almost about a month ago I attended an extraordinarily proactive and intoxicating weekend in San Antonio, TX at the voiceover conference, Faffcamp.    Having been to Faffcon 4 in Ventura CA back in 2012 I was familiar with the crowd, the theme and the vibe. With the same organizers as Faffcon, Faffcamp is a little different in terms of structure.  It’s open to voice over professionals of all levels- aspiring talents, beginners, working pros and veterans. And the types of workshops range from topic forums, lightening talks (the coolest thing ever), action planning and goals as well as other quite useful and fun activities.  Faffcon is more of an improvised conference- also an amazing experience and still geared more towards the working pro with a vetting process in place. To attend you must have a minimum of voiceover experience.  And as always, in true Faff Fashion, it’s cultish… in a good way, of course.   One thing is clear: not enough working professionals attend these conferences and more should. As was the case with Faffcon 4, I walked away having gleaned a boatload of invaluable insight and “nuggets” of wisdom from other like-minded professionals.  As you may know, the voice over community is filled with some of the most loving, generous, and supportive individuals I have ever met.  After the conference, I arrived home in NYC with a brand new blueprint, a clearer marketing plan, goals for the next several months and the rest of the year, as well as a brand new attitude. Needless to say I have my work cut out for me.  Faffcamp is a true one of a kind experience.  And it forces you to really come clean with yourself.  It challenges you.  It pushes you. You walk away inspired and more ambitious. Let’s just hope I can stay consistent, be a more active learner and not skip out on a marketing opportunity to go watch trains instead… Until next time, Christian #voiceover #marketing #networking #B2B #entrepreneur #faffcamp

After spending a much needed weekend away from the city with family, I had some time to reflect on many things both personal and professional in my life.   The creative juices have been flowing out of control and new doors are opening. Just a little inspiration for you today.  I'm sure it will be a reminder of all the good in your life and that there is plenty to be grateful for. A quote, a reminder to hopefully go a long way. "Never under estimate the power of the heart. When we are passionate about someone, or something, few obstacles can defeat us. Our hearts can inspire greatness, sweep aside adversity, break new ground, and draw others along with us." from: Now Is The Time: 170 Ways To Sieze The Moment By Patrick Lindsay At the end of the day it is important to reflect on how we got to where we are.  I look to my family, close friends and loved ones, and fellow voice talent who've had years more experience.  I look up to all you guys.  Keep setting examples and leading the way. Today is going to be awesome! #motivation #health #professional #inspiration #poetry

Reality Vs Voice Over Reality It’s getting to the point where the popular conversational style of voiceover that we all love and know so well, is being perceived as too “announcer-y.” Maybe it’s that the voice seekers in general are getting too comfortable with this style of delivery or are running out of ideas on how to give both creative and effective direction.  Perhaps us talents are just taking it for granted, thinking no effort is required because the direction is straight-forward enough, thus easily missing the connection and the important questions behind each script. I feared this for while but it was only a matter of time before it would catch on.  It's no one’s fault really. Call it boredom on the part of casting professionals and producers to really listen intently during auditions instead of rushing. Or blame it on industry trends. Bad copywriting.  Indecisive clients. Over-abundance of the same type of voice. It could be a number of things.  And at the end of the day, it’s part of the job. At the rare in-person audition recently there have been moments where it took me multiple takes to actually become more conversational.  Well, the conversational that they wanted. I'm not bad at taking direction and I certainly don’t have a problem with hearing someone else’s perspective, as it is one of my strengths as a voice talent.  Also I understand the tendency to go to that not so pretty announcer place as I have many times in the past.  But I’m pretty adept at understanding a client’s needs and vision. I watch Netflix, Hulu and YouTube aka TV.  I listen to the radio still.  I do my homework and pay attention to the market trends. I even enjoy hearing other talents on the radio.  It keeps me sharp. Anyways, this said audition was for a household cleaning product and the script called for a tone that was light, genuine and, yes, conversational. “Like you’re talking to a friend” which is the default direction if a voice talent actually asks “What do you mean by ‘conversational’?” While Mr. Stanislavsky or Mr. Strasberg probably wouldn’t approve of my somewhat sugar-coated way of preparing for the role of ‘Narrator’, I do it anyway. It doesn’t take long before I’m working from within, emptying my soul onto the page and using my own dark past to fuel the material. Actually it’s more like identifying the Who, What, When, Where and Why.  Not rocket science.  But also not something anyone can do. Let’s take this example. Christian: Take 1. (Talking to mom in the kitchen on a Summer day one afternoon. She’s being pretty vigorous with cleaning.  She complains that Seventh Generation brand is, while better for the environment, not pleasant smelling enough.  So I assure her using Brand B might be better. It might just save her sanity.) Casting Director: "Ok even more conversational" Christian: Take 2. (Again talking to my mom in the kitchen on a Summer day.  She prefers using Seventh Generation brand but I really want her to try this new kind of bathroom cleaner because it smells nicer and is still good for the environment.  She’s hard to please. I know this. Mom, kindly get with the program.) Casting Director: "Ok even more conversational than that. Just throw it away" Christian: Take 3 (Once again talking to my mom in the kitchen on a Summer day.  She prefers using Seventh Generation brand but I really want her to try this new kind of bathroom cleaner because it smells nicer. She’s hard to please. I know this.  So I try to be a little more emphatic with her. Hey, Mom, I’m being nice to you now.) Casting Director: "Good. Better. But really, like, no effort at all. It’s not that you’re sounding too forced it’s just that we want to make sure we’re covered in case they think so.” The late Mr. Fontaine would have replied, “I’ll decide that.” But I’m not the Don. Christian: Take 4 (Once again, the same internal thought process aka point of view from above.  This is actually how I talk to my mom when we’re having a conversation- hence the term) Casting Director: "Beautiful. That's where we'll start. Now one with a little more smile." You get my point. Who Talks This Way? For the record, I don’t talk to anyone, let alone my mom, with a bright smile on my face, teeth glaring like the Joker in Arkham Asylum.  And I’m assuming you don’t either, fellow talent or fellow human being, unless of course you have some serious personality disorder! Nor do I talk to most people the way some finished spots end up sounding. They’re not all like this but in present day, tangible real life situations, it would come off as extremely creepy. And Stepford Husband-like. Nevertheless I began to wonder. Is conversational being taken for granted? Is the sound losing its luster like its “announcer” predecessor was a few years back? Maybe it’s causing many to fall into a comfort zone or, it's that we know, as talent, this is just the set-up to them settling on the hard sell in the recording session. Ah, good old voice over deception!  We forget: everything is subjective. We know we can’t not have a conversation with someone without placing emphasis on certain words over others. In reality, let’s say at a bar or coffee shop, we’re emphasizing the correct words so the other person can actually hear us over the commotion.  That may not include such a strong projection of the product name in the way the client wants to hear it or wants their audience to perceive it. But in voiceover reality, the producer is hearing a sound in their mind.  At auditions and bookings, it can be challenging to start off genuine and approachable, but then add in the seemingly disingenuous “cheese factor” on a product name and the read goes belly-up. Just so viewership and consumer buying power can increase revenue?   What if we said the product name with less of a smile?  From a talent’s perspective, we can’t just “throw it away” and you still want the Joker or Stepford Wife somewhere in there.  Be clearer. Pick a direction. Or go with someone else. A Balancing Act For us talents, it is most certainly a balancing act.  Come off as friendly and approachable enough and still show the same unparalleled exuberance for a product. To further illustrate my point, here’s an example of one of several national radio spots I recently booked for GEICO.  The way I recorded it at the session was almost exactly the same as my audition read.  Which is not always the case.  Obviously I’m emphasizing the product name more, yet this was one of those fun reads where the product objectives are clear, the copywriting is solid, the directors/client knew what they wanted the whole time.  (Oh and, thank you, John Lano!) However, other times it’s not so clear.  And this can be an on-going frustration that many voice actors, myself included, presently feel when either hired or auditioning.  Indeed it’s worth improving on.  And it certainly helps that a director knows how to actually direct or, rather, adjust you.  It is also assumed that 9 times out of 10 we're going to fall into some announcer trap at some point or another.   And when they don’t direct us more than once- does that mean we don’t have enough range or versatility?  That they’re already not interested? That’s beyond our control and we have a job to do. We’re the ones doing the talking.  And we know who we’re talking to.  But then again, we're not doing the listening. When we audition now we take risks within the framework of what is being asked.  We don’t stray too far but far enough to show range and put us in a favorable light. We “go for it” instead of abiding by the now lengthier than normal specs which show indecision rather than certainty. Some of us avoid the specs altogether for this very reason.  “I’m not a mind reader” as a fellow voice talent once said to me. So whenever I see conversational I think “Conversational-ish” because we all know that the final recording, if booked, will be different. And the reality is in this business, no one knows what they really want. Thank you for reading!  Comments?  Questions? #auditioning #voiceover #marketing #freelancer #conversational #directing #copywriter

7am- Wake up 715am- Drink water with lemon to flush the toxins and lube the pipes 730am- Prepare script notes for session, check emails 8am- Source-Connect Session with new client in Germany 830am- Edit and FTP Session 845am- Coffee Break...FINALLY! 9am-11am Auditions, Marketing, Cold Calls, Blogging, Read the News etc 12pm-130pm- Travel to Manhattan to record National TV Campaign 2pm- Lunch 3pm- Auditions at Talent Agency 4pm- Gym 6pm- Home for Dinner, Auditions, Emails, Record Pick-Ups 8pm- Take a stroll around the neighborhood 930pm- Zone out to a movie or funny YouTube videos 11pm- Bed. #voiceoverartist #schedule #motivation #voiceacting #entrepreneur #dreamjob

As voiceover people, when we're constantly in the land of almost, almost booking a voiceover job, almost getting signed with a major agent or manager, almost getting on an internet radio service's roster, almost getting invited to a BBQ. It can seem like a real headache. Believe it or not, there's room for optimism in these moments. In voiceover, almost booking or getting short-listed is sometimes better than actually booking.  Why?  Because it can mean any number of things. They really loved us but are going in a different direction. They're almost positive they'll have work for us down the line as we're now their 'preferred voice'. They want a more 'Promotional' Voice... We handled direction well in the booth, loved our take on the material, but the client is being difficult.... Wait, but none of the above is good right?  How does that HELP us? The bad news is obvious...we didn't get it.  So once you get off the phone with your agent, casting director or the producer who asked you to audition, move on.....or do what you must to find some release, whether it's jam out on the guitar, cry, meditate, throw a chair (although I don't recommend it), write, or get some exercise. Although harder to put into perspective, the good news here is also obvious-- none of these factors are within our control.  Nine times out of ten, it's probably nothing we did. Know that we did the job and, well, it didn't work out this time but it WILL next time! (let's hope) Here's another analogy.  Remember that brutal term paper or test you studied so hard for in high school? If you we were perfectionist, over-achievers, receiving that dreaded B+ or A- was unbearable.   That slight imperfection causes us to doubt ourselves at first, but slowly things come into perspective and, in a moment of rare adolescent clarity, we think  'Hey, I'm still gonna make Dean's List and it could be worse.' However, if you've heard any of the above reasons at one point in your career, then consider yourself lucky.  As voice talents, we aren't often afforded the luxury of knowing that we almost booked it, of getting feedback from an agent, producer or casting director.  If so, what a privilege to use to our advantage! On 90% of the auditions I either go out on or submit from home, I treat them all the same.  I don't ever pester my agents or a producer with "Hey, have you considered my audition I sent in last week? Just following up to see if there was any movement"  (Unless I have reason to).  If we can't wrap your head around the discipline of 'letting go', then we're in the wrong business.  Rejection is the name of the game and it happens all the time. It's how we use that to our advantage. A while ago I had come very close to booking five different commercials all at once, three of which came in at First Refusals.  The other two campaigns had brought in interest from a few producers but fizzled out.    It was a very exciting time and I was extremely fortunate and, perhaps, lucky.  I treated each audition the same and walked away dusting off any shred of doubt, looking forward with an open mind.   When I got the unfortunate news, I was bummed to say the least, especially since I had put my schedule on hold for a few days.  But then two weeks later, I got a surprise call from my agent.  One of the clients re-considered my previous audition and booked me for the national!  Quite a surprise and proof that...we never know!  However, whenever we find ourselves in a position of almost getting that gig, it's not the end of the world.  It simply means we're making progress.  As far as I see it, for those of the commercials I didn't land, my material is on their shelves and they know I exist.  Perhaps they'll come back to me again.  Maybe they won't ever. When One Door Shuts, Another One Opens I am of the thinking that if a person comes close to landing a desirable voice over gig, there's another opportunity somewhere around the corner....and somewhere nearby.  Of course one doesn't know for certain and a substantial amount of indecisiveness on the client side must be factored in, but I've found the odds are usually in our favor.  Trust me, it's Cloud 9 material. We can all agree that rejection takes a certain amount of fortitude and bravery.  Over the years it's caused me grow an impenetrable wall around my mind that prevents any toxic thoughts or negative energy from entering.  Well, most of the time.   When a potentially bigger than normal job comes my way, I look at it as an opportunity.  I see it as a privilege to be considered and that even if I don't book or the client changes directions, it's an honor to even be on their radar.   I smile, I sit back and glance at what I've already accomplished in such a short period of time.   Ego? Certainly not! Hubris? Ok maybe a I little. Yet the VO life certainly isn't always as glamorous as most imagine it to be.   It can be.  But the majority of the time it is anything but glamorous.  There amazing days and then not so amazing ones.  As voice talents, we take the good with the bad.  WE are ultimately responsible for finding the work, creating and building the relationships necessary to procure those opportunities with the hope that one or more of them will materialize into actual jobs.  Unfortunately, our agent or manager isn't going to do ALL the work for us anymore-- those days are numbered--and any talent falsely indoctrinated in this belief of sitting on their butt, waiting for the phone to ring, is doing themselves a huge disservice. Think and be proactive. #auditioning #marketing #voiceover #motivation

It's better than you think Believe it or not, I’m an optimist. Almost booking a voiceover job or getting short-listed is sometimes better than booking because, for me,  it means there’s another opportunity around the corner.  Of course one doesn’t know for sure and there’s a good amount of indecisiveness on the client side, but I’ve found the odds are usually in my favor.  Trust me- it’s a good feeling. We can all agree that rejection takes a certain amount of fortitude and bravery.  So much so that it’s caused me grow an impenetrable wall around mind that prevents any toxic thoughts or negative energy from entering.  Well, lately that is. Not to brag but I’ve been doing pretty well.  Lots of auditions, scattered bookings here and there, and the benefit of repeat work from solid clients.  I can safely say that for the past two months I have been working every week.   When a potentially big job comes my way, I look at it as an opportunity.  I see it as a privilege to be considered and that if I don’t book or the client changes directions, it’s an honor to even be on their radar.   I smile, I sit back and glance at my body of work.  Hubris?  No way.  Ego? Certainly not! I lied, a little.  I’m really awash with confidence though it had taken me a while to get to this place of being satisfied regardless of the outcome. Back in February, I came very close to booking my first radio imaging gig with a major station.  After the audition, I treated it like anything else.  Put it behind yet staying positive.  If I didn’t hear back from anyone, I assume the obvious.   To my surprise, I made it to the finalist round of auditions.  We did a demo session (which, btw, was more like a traditional callback) and I sent it off to the client.  Never heard from them again.   While I was bummed initially, the defeated feeling quickly subsided and I felt relief.  The folks were somewhat unprofessional in the session and not very communicative about what they wanted.  If that was a snapshot of what our professional relationship was going to be down the line, I didn’t want any part of it.  It still felt good to be ‘known’ by a legit corporation.  As far as I see it, my material is on their shelves and they know I exist.  Perhaps they’ll come back to it.  Maybe they won’t. C'est la vie! Then about two weeks ago at a weekend seminar, I was approached by a top manager whose roster boasts some of the best talent in the business. We had a great conversation and set up a phone call for the week.  I slept on the offer for a few days but ultimately turned it down, as there was a caveat and one too many bells and whistles than I initially expected.   Still, I felt total joy and privilege that this person wanted to 'take me on.'    There’s that 'butterflies in your stomach feeling- a little uneasiness but quickly that feeling is replaced by some hidden joy. It’s like getting an A- on a term paper or better yet a B+……you’re very close to achieving a better grade.  And I keep getting closer and closer to my goal. #auditioning #marketing #voiceover #success #newyork #entrepreneur