Haunted Mansion TV spot is all things spooky For years, the Haunted Mansion ride at Disney World has been a favorite, sending shivers down the spines of kids and adults alike. But now, with the much-anticipated movie slated for release in July 2024, it’s time to get excited about all things eerie. To give you a taste of what’s in store, check out the trailer spot below. It’s a clever, spooky, and delightfully campy sneak peek that’s sure to stir up childhood memories of the iconic theme park ride. Get ready for a ghostly adventure that promises to be a thrilling journey through the haunted, and perhaps a bit humorous, world of the Haunted Mansion.

The eye and ear candy created by Stagwell and Artist Jon Batiste As a music lover always on the lookout for something fresh, I recently came across an exciting collaboration. Ad agencies Stagwell and Wolfgang joined forces with Grammy-winner Jon Batiste for his latest release. It’s a unique blend of creativity and music that’s worth checking out.

Embracing the Past and Present of Voice in Advertising At 42, I've come to realize my voice carries echoes of a bygone era, more reminiscent of the polished announcers of yesteryears than I care to admit. I've had great success as a casual, relatable, guy-next-door voice for sure, but there's a certain appeal to the golden age of advertising, when every commercial sounded smooth as butter. My fascination with this era might stem from its ability to emphasize vocal qualities that resonated deeply. In contrast, connecting with younger audiences poses a challenge. My social circle doesn't extend to those under 25, and I find myself out of sync with the Gen Z lingo. Transitioning to the present advertising landscape, it's evident that the conventional announcer-driven commercials of the past now seem outdated. Even those of three years ago. Their articulate and professional delivery, while impactful then, may appear distant and formal by today's standards. This style thrived in an era with limited networks and no digital platforms, fostering a simple transactional approach where brands offered solutions to consumer problems. Advertising today thrives on a more relatable and human interaction. The focus has shifted from authoritative monologues to genuine conversations that resonate on a personal level, which, don't get me wrong, I am here for in the long term. However, despite this evolution, I'm inexplicably drawn to the allure of classic performances, even if they feel somewhat grandiose or formal. For me, it's essential to acknowledge that evaluating a commercial from 1985 through the lens of contemporary norms isn't entirely fair. Times have changed, and so have the platforms and channels through which ads reach audiences. The era of the distinguished announcer proclaiming a product's virtues from on high has largely faded, except when used for comedic effect. As a voice actor, I'm at a crossroads. My path forward involves a balancing act: embracing the classics while adapting to the evolving conversational advertising landscape. It's like blending the best of both worlds, creating a sound that hits just right.

Philadelphia's 30th Street Station is a sight Subscribe for more trains & such >> Last year I visited Philadelphia for a mini vacation and was transported to another time when I arrived at 30th Street Station via Amtrak's Keystone Corridor. The station's resemblance to Grand Central Terminal in New York City was astonishing. The towering pillars that seem to touch the railroad heavens are a sight. Designed in the 1930s by Graham, Anderson, Probst, and White, this station is a true masterpiece. Today it serves as a busy hub for Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, Keystone, and Acela trains, as well as SEPTA lines and NJ Transit's Atlantic City Line, connecting travelers to destinations across the East Coast.Unlike Moynihan Train Hall in Penn Station, New York, 30th Street Station seamlessly blends history with modern functionality, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all travelers. Christian is a Voice Actor & Narrator who loves trains, travel, coffee, and all things audio. Follow along ❤️ on Instagram + YouTube

BGB Studios' The Acting Podcast is well worth a listen If you're an performing artist seeking solace from the demands of the entertainment world and finding the ongoing strike challenging, I recommend exploring The Acting Podcast presented by BGB Studio. Steve Braun and Risa Bramon-Garcia offer a wealth of valuable insights into navigating the intricate and ever-changing entertainment landscape amidst genuine difficulties. The podcast features interviews and content that are remarkably on-point, rejuvenating, and highly practical. One remarkable aspect of The Acting Podcast is its inclusivity and compassionate approach—Risa and Steve aren't attempting to push a one-size-fits-all success formula or impose their narratives. Both are contending with their own share of trials in an increasingly competitive industry, and their experiences shine through.

Subscribe for more trains & such >> Welcome aboard the CT Rail Hartford Line from New Haven State Street Station, located just a stone's throw away from Union Station, to its final destination in Springfield, MA. Historically, this route was exclusively frequented by Amtrak Shuttle, Vermonter, and Regional trains. However, with the introduction of CT Rail and an increased Amtrak Shuttle service, this route has transformed into quite a busy line. The Hartford Line offers passengers the advantages of both convenience and flexibility. Notably, Amtrak regional trains and shuttles gladly accept CT Rail tickets, enhancing the travel experience for commuters. It's important to note that, while convenient, CT Rail tickets are not valid on Vermonter trains. Back in 2019, you may remember I embarked on a memorable train ride, venturing from NY Penn Station to Hartford. During this journey, we explored both Amtrak and CT Rail options, which, at that time, had just celebrated their one-year anniversary of service. Christian is a Voice Actor & Narrator who loves trains, travel, coffee, and all things audio. Follow along ❤️ on Instagram + YouTube

Justina Machado shines in new Amazon series Exciting news for The Horror of Dolores Roach podcast fans: The beloved show is now on Amazon Prime...and it's so good! Justina Machado (Six Feet Under, Dancing with the Stars) shines as Dolores Roach, who, after a wrongful 16-year prison term, navigates life in a rapidly gentrifying Washington Heights. She starts a massage parlor in the basement of an old friend's empanada shop but it takes her down some, shall we say, unexpected paths to survive. The cast, including talents like Judy Reyes, Alejandro Hernandez, and Marc Maron, adds to her incredible performance. Binge this as soon as possible!

Francis Rosselli of Pepe's Pizza interviewed by Vito Iacopelli Meet my Dad, Francis Rosselli, a descendant of Pepe's Pizzeria founders. Yes, that Pepe's of New Haven, CT. Recently, he teamed up with the charismatic YouTuber Vito Iacopelli from Bari, Italy, who not only runs a successful pizzeria of his own but also shares incredible pizza trends and recipes on his popular channel. Watch as they bring the iconic A'Pizza (or AH BEETZ for us Connecticut folks) to life in this unexpected and delightful video!

Why Recording Voice Overs in Train Stations is a Terrible Idea Recording voice over at a train station might seem like a creative idea, but the reality is quite different. The amount of noise would make it nearly impossible to record clean audio. Even with a high-quality microphone and audio equipment, the background noise would likely drown out the speaker's voice. Recording on an actual train may not be much better, as the sound of the moving along the tracks could create unwanted rumbling and vibrations that could interfere with the audio quality. Additionally, there may be other passengers talking or making noise, further contributing to the audio challenges. To make this work, the best option might be to find a quiet location nearby, such as a park or a quiet side street. Alternatively, recording in a soundproof studio or using noise-cancelling technology could also help. This still presents other challenges as well and might not be ideal. Challenges of Being a Voice Actor who Likes Trains As someone who often records trains and does voice over, it can also be tricky to balance filming with other obligations. There are times when I receive audition requests with a very short turnaround that require me to act (and submit mp3s to my agents) quickly. The solution may seem simple: "Just bring your mobile rig with you." However, this is not always practical given the recording environment. The equipment used for capturing actual trains may not necessarily be the best fit for recording voiceovers. And while some microphones are more forgiving, such as the Sennheiser 416, bringing additional items on these trips may not be ideal. Additionally, setting up my equipment on an open platform can be challenging, especially when there is no shelter or canopy available. It might even seem suspicious to bystanders, and it would be uncomfortable to approach a stranger to request their car as my personal studio. In situations like these, time management is key. That's why I prefer to schedule filming early in the day, allowing me adequate time to return home and prepare for any incoming auditions later on. It saves me every time.

Riding NJ Transit from Secaucus to Rutherford Subscribe for more trains & such >> There’s a unique thrill that comes with commuting during rush hour. The hustle and bustle, the crowded platforms, and the anticipation of the long journey ahead all contribute to the experience. Recently, I had the opportunity to embark on an eventful train ride from Secaucus Junction (a favorite hot spot to railfan at) to Rutherford on the NJ Transit Bergen County Line. Little did I know that this particular ride would be filled with unexpected surprises, from a rare locomotive to the invigorating sounds and smells of a true NJ transit experience. A Rare Locomotive and the Majestic Horn: As I stepped onto the platform, I noticed something peculiar in the distance —the train approaching the station was led by a rare Metro North EMD GP40PH-2M locomotive #4906. Its distinct appearance stood out among the more common engines probably because it's the only one of its kind that Metro North uses. The GP40PH-2Ms and GP40-FH 2Ms are very similar yet have distinct differences. They're both an absolute thrill to watch in action. As the train departed, the powerful engine roared to life, echoing through the station and under every tunnel and bridge we crossed. I couldn’t help but be captivated by the symphony of mechanical sounds filling the air. But the highlight of this auditory experience was undoubtedly the majestic horn which sounded like a Nathan K5LA (the classic horn of Amtrak in the 1990s). Its resounding blast reverberated with authority, announcing its presence to anyone within earshot. Seated just behind the locomotive, I could hear it loud and clear, adding a touch of grandeur to the journey. The True NJ Transit Experience: One thing that distinguishes a NJ Transit ride is its authenticity—a combination of sights, sounds, and smells that immerse you fully into the commuter experience. Unfortunately, that includes the occasional diesel fumes. As the passenger car door stood open during the ride, the pungent odor of diesel managed to seep into the cabin. Good thing I was getting off at the first station. Although it may not be the most pleasant scent, it served as a reminder of the authenticity of this transit system, where every aspect of the journey is experienced. Loud Noise, Smells, and Crowded Rush Hour Bliss: It goes without saying that rush hour trains tend to be crowded, and this ride was no exception. People packed themselves into every available space, forming a mosaic of commuters seeking their destinations. The clamor of conversations, the rustle of newspapers, and the occasional phone ringtone blended into a symphony of urban sounds. It was both chaotic and strangely comforting, knowing that this shared experience connected us all as we embarked on our daily routines. The Rutherford Station Crossing: Finally, we arrived at Rutherford, our destination. But the excitement didn’t end there. The Rutherford train, like many stations along the Bergen Line, boasts a unique feature—a crossing right by the platform. As we disembarked from the train, we had the opportunity to walk over to the crossing gates and watch our train take off into the distance. Standing there, feeling the vibrations of the tracks under my feet, I marveled at the sheer power of the locomotive as it gradually disappeared from view. It was a sight that encapsulated the beauty and strength of these remarkable machines. I'm sure everyone else just wanted to get to their cars. Christian is a Voice Actor & Narrator who loves trains, travel, coffee, and all things audio. Follow along ❤️ on Instagram + YouTube

NHL TV Commercial Strikes Emotional Chords The NHL TV commercial "Look Up" for the Stanley Cup Playoffs is truly heartwarming. It taps into our emotions in a relatable and authentic way. When I first heard it, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This is the type of ad that inspires me to keep refining my craft as a voice actor. The speaker's relatability, cadence, and subtle nuances are perfectly executed. The voice is so seamlessly integrated into the story that it's almost forgotten. Even though I'm not a hockey fan, the message still resonated with me.

Scenic Train Excursion from Grand Central Terminal to Danbury Subscribe for more trains & such >> Embarking on a picturesque train journey is an excellent way to spend a Saturday, especially with beautiful weather. Metro North's New Haven Line offers an exceptional experience, starting from the iconic Grand Central Terminal in NYC and venturing along the stunning Connecticut coastline via electric rail. The adventure continues with a transfer at South Norwalk for a diesel train ride on the Danbury branch, which takes passengers on a captivating scenic route through the picturesque inland landscapes through Northwestern Connecticut. Coastal Splendor: Grand Central Terminal to South Norwalk The journey commences at the magnificent Grand Central Terminal, where anticipation and excitement usually fill the air. Boarding Metro North's New Haven Line M8 rail cars, the train travels up Park Ave through Harlem (birthplace of Harry Belafonte, Billie Holiday), Fordham in the Bronx through Mount Vernon (home of Pete Rock, Heavy D), New Rochelle (Joey Calderazzo) and the neighboring towns of Rye, Mamaroneck and Greenwich to name a few. As the train zooms through quaint coastal towns, passengers are treated to glimpses of picturesque harbors, charming real estate, and several encounters of passing trains in the opposite direction. It's a visual feast that I never get sick of. Transfer at South Norwalk: Gateway to Danbury Branch Upon reaching South Norwalk, passengers embark on a seamless transfer to the diesel train that awaits them on the opposite track - the Danbury branch. The train consists of four passenger cars operated by a Brookville BL20GH locomotive. This transition marks the beginning of a calmer, more enchanting leg of the journey, where coastal vistas become captivating inland landscapes. The change in scenery introduces a new dimension to the experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the tranquil charm of Connecticut's countryside and forget the bustle of the city. As the diesel train slowly departs from South Norwalk, it ventures into the heart of Connecticut, traversing picturesque towns and rolling hills. The Danbury branch showcases the region's natural splendor, with lush forests, meandering rivers, and idyllic rural scenes unfurling outside the train windows. It's easy to get lost in the surrounding hills and valleys of Bethel, Wilton and Cannondale. This line holds a captivating allure with its final destination, Danbury, which happens to be home to the renowned Danbury Railroad Museum, where legendary locomotives and passenger fleets from the past several decades find their place of honor. Ryan Christian is a Voice Actor & Narrator who loves trains, travel, coffee, and all things audio. Follow along ❤️ on Instagram + YouTube