It Comes Full Circle

I was conversing over e-mail with my dear friend Brian Haymond about a project I did recently and he said I should post the story on my blog. He thought it might help to inspire other voice actors, especially those new to the business that are just going out for their first jobs.

Several months ago, I was called in for a group voice over session at a local studio. There were 3 ladies (including me) and one man (the owner of the studio) that were doing a 'cheer' as though we were at a wedding reception. The client was on a phone patch in New York. We had to do this cheer many, many times as the client wasn't happy with what she was hearing. Finally, she asked, "Is it possible for the girl with the really high pitched voice to sit out?"

Of course, I knew she meant me as the other ladies had those beautiful chocolate voices everyone loves. So, I raised my hand, said 'that's me' and sat down. As everyone else looked at me with apologetic faces, I laughed it off saying, 'this voice has paid my bills for years- no harm done'. I didn't pout, I didn't get upset, I just laughed and saw the humor in it. (Of course, knowing I got paid either way didn't hurt!)

Afterwards, I mentioned the story to a few friends, got it off my chest, and forgot all about it.

Fast forward to last week when I was called into the same studio to do a voice over job. As it turns out, the same client from that session had written a radio commercial that was tailored to my voice! It was a character read, where I was the voice of a penny in a man's dream. She said she wrote the spot after hearing me in that session months ago!

In this business, we always hear how important it is to be kind to everyone you work with. You never know where your next job is coming from or who your next dear friend may be. We deal with a lot of rejection...that's why it is such a competitive industry. The more time you can spend laughing...even at yourself...the greater the 'vibes' will be that you send into the universe. At some point, it will come full circle.

Oh, for those interested...this is me as a penny :)

Get Ready to Pitch!

I received an e-mail from Stephanie at Voices.com telling me about a cool contest they are having...

"We're having a contest at Voices.com starting this Friday called "The 60 SecondPitch Contest" and thought you might be interested in sharing this informationwith your audience.

There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes worth over $4000.00 and this contest will prove to be one of the most exciting and educational events that the voice over industry has seen in quite some time.

Entrants can be from any niche of the audio field (voice actors, podcasters,voice over coaches, voice talent agents, etc.) and are invited to submit an MP360 second pitch about who they are, what they do and how their business can serve others."

Sounds like fun! To learn more...click here.

Just Checking In

I wish I had some incredible wisdom this week, or at least some great analogy regarding life and voice over. Unfortunately, right now I'm feeling a bit brain dead!

I don't have much time to write, as I'm due to call Nancy Wolfson in half an hour. This is my second session with Nancy (an amazing voice over coach!) and I'm looking forward to learning more. Hopefully my head can fit a few more tidbits in today.

Last week I was in Dallas, TX working on a great (top secret) project. I was able to visit with several fellow voice actors, some of which I hadn't seen in years! What a great time. I was also able to lend my voice to a few very minor characters in a couple of new anime being recorded right now. Outside of work, it was a chance to spend time with my family which is always a blessing.

Upon returning, I literally had to rush from the plane in order to make it to a recording session on time for a children's video. In 2 days, I did 3 different narrations as a teenager, a British nanny, and a thought bubble. Man, I love my job!!

Yesterday, I spent 4 1/2 hours in Florence, SC shooting an infomercial for Auddie Brown. They have a new format with the show and it took a while to figure out all the logistics. I'm still tired.

This morning, a much anticipated package arrived on my doorstep. My Lawson L47 FET!!! Woohoo! I tore into the package only to realize I have the wrong cable to hook it up. After my session with Nancy- I will be headed to Guitar Center to buy the right one.

Then...we're in business baby! Don't cha just love new stuff?

OK, time to go grab the phone!