The Voiceover Gurus Podcast

"Your uniqueness, everything about your quirks, that's a part of you. You are the package." - Vaughndio Forbes What happens when a kid from the Bahamas becomes fascinated with movie stunts, starts cold-emailing professionals for advice, and eventually builds a career that spans stunt work, acting, motion capture, creature performance, and voiceover? In this episode of the VoiceOver Gurus Podcast, Linda sits down with actor, stunt performer, voice actor, writer, director, and motion capture artist Vaughndio Forbes to discuss the winding path that led him from Florida to Los Angeles and into some of the entertainment industry's most unique performance opportunities. Vaughndio shares how a generous mentor helped shape his early career, the challenges of relocating to Los Angeles without a support system, and how persistence helped him gain traction in the stunt world despite setbacks, injuries, and uncertainty. The conversation explores the surprising overlap between stunt work, acting, creature performance, motion capture, and voice acting. Vaughndio explains how imagination, observation, and a willingness to take creative risks have become essential tools throughout his career. Listeners will also hear about his work performing Bahamian dialects for film projects, the importance of embracing what makes you unique, and why performers should never underestimate the value of their own background, culture, or life experiences. 🎙️ Vaughndio's journey from the Bahamas to Los Angeles How a childhood fascination with movie stunts led to a career in entertainment. 🤸 Breaking into the stunt industry The realities of starting from scratch, networking, building a reel, and learning from industry veterans. 💥 Learning through setbacks From losing an apartment after moving to LA to recovering from a serious training injury, Vaughndio shares the challenges that shaped his career. 👾 Creature suits, motion capture, and performance beyond the microphone What it takes to bring monsters, aliens, and digital characters to life. 🌎 Turning cultural identity into a career advantage How Vaughndio's Bahamian background helped him land unique opportunities and why performers should embrace what makes them different. 🎭 Imagination is a skill, not a gift Practical advice for actors and voice actors who struggle with creativity and character development. 🎯 The power of bold audition choices Why sometimes the thing that books the job is the thing that wasn't on the page.

In this episode…What happens when voiceover starts to feel routine? Linda sits down with voice actor and improv performer Elena Hollander to talk about losing—and reigniting—that creative spark. From the monotony of constant auditions to the mental toll of dry spells, they get real about what it takes to stay inspired in a career that often feels like shouting into the void. Elena shares how improv, play, and taking unexpected risks in the booth have helped her book some of her biggest work—and actually enjoy the process again. Plus, they dive into practical ways to break out of autopilot, reconnect with your creativity, and bring more authenticity into your reads. If you’ve been feeling stuck, bored, or just going through the motions… this episode will remind you why you started.

Have you ever wondered how to transition from a radio career into voiceover? Many professionals find themselves navigating that exact path, balancing their current job while pursuing a passion for voice acting. In this episode of the podcast, Kevin and I talk about our own journeys making that shift. We share real experiences, a few behind-the-scenes stories from the transition, and some lessons we learned along the way that might help guide you if you’re walking that same road. 🎙️

Most voice actors hit moments where a session goes sideways. Weird client notes, tech glitches, nerves, or just plain chaos. In this episode, Linda Bruno and Barb Lyon swap real stories from the VO trenches and talk about how they handled the mess, the pressure, and the unexpected lessons that came with it. From difficult clients to AI fears to sessions that absolutely did not go as planned, this is an honest look at what actually happens behind the mic. It’s funny, a little painful, and packed with reminders that even pros mess up, adapt, and come back stronger. If you’ve ever had a rough session or worried you weren’t cut out for this, this episode is for you.

After a little reset and some deep thought about where this show really belongs, the VoiceOver Gurus Podcast is back — and it’s getting more personal than ever. We’re celebrating 10 years and more than 160 episodes, but instead of going bigger, we’re going deeper. The new format is simple: short, focused 20-minute episodes that get right to the heart of real voiceover life. No glam. No mystique. No “industry ego.”Just honest conversations about what actually happens behind the mic — the wins, the weird gigs, the lessons learned the hard way, and the stuff nobody talks about but everybody experiences. You’ll hear stories from my own journey, insights from coaching, and practical takeaways you can actually use. Think coffee-chat vibes… with a little tough love when it’s needed. And because this show has always been about community, I want you in the driver’s seat with me. If there’s a topic you’ve been curious about, something you’re struggling with, or a conversation you wish more people were having in VO, send it my way. I’d love to build this next chapter together. New episodes are rolling out soon — and I’m really glad to be back in your ears again.-Linda

Join Linda Bruno on the latest Voiceover Gurus podcast as she sits down with the incomparable Everett Oliver — renowned voiceover coach, booth director, and all-around industry powerhouse. With decades of experience in the animation world, Everett brings a treasure trove of wisdom from his time working on beloved shows like The Simpsons, King of the Hill, and X-Men Evolution. In this lively, no-holds-barred conversation, Everett pulls back the curtain on his unique approach to coaching VO talent — from fine-tuning auditions so they truly pop to drawing on your own life experiences to bring authenticity to every read. You’ll hear how his high-energy, intuitive style has helped countless actors break through performance blocks, discover their signature sound, and navigate the ever-changing demands of the industry. Plus, Everett shares insider tips on adapting to different markets, honing your skills for animation, and carving out your own niche in this competitive field. Guests Bio: Everett Oliver is a 30-year veteran of both the animation world and voiceover industry. His personal journey has taken him from the Big Apple as a kid to Georgia where he graduated from Clark Atlanta University, and then to Los Angeles. He has been working in the Voiceover industry for nearly three decades as an International Voice Acting Director and has worked with talent in Africa. Australia, Canada, Europe and Japan. Everett has worked on hit animated shows including: The Simpsons, King of the Hill, Men in Black, Jackie Chan Adventures, Hellboy, and X-Men Evolution, (just to name a few), and has worked with animation industry titans, such as Disney, ColumbiaTri-Star, and Film Roman/Starz. One of the most valuable experiences that Everett brings to the table is his time as a Booth-Director for an LA based talent agency. His mission is helping voice actors nail standout auditions with bold choices and sharp direction. Website: https://www.voiceactingdirector.com/ We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home

Join us for part two of our insightful discussion with George Whittam and Rob Reider on the VoiceoverGurus podcast. This episode delves into the nitty-gritty of audiobook production, covering essential topics such as handling hot peaks, normalizing audio files, and leveraging iZotope tools for audio restoration. Learn how to achieve consistency in audio quality through mastering and embrace the art of batch processing for efficiency. Discover the significance of maintaining proper recording levels and the importance of choosing the right equipment and setup to enhance your voice talent performance. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned pro, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your recording sessions to meet audiobook industry standards. Guests Bios: About George: Since 2005 George Whittam has dedicated his life to serving the technical needs of voice actors and recording studio owners. In August 2017 George launched GeorgeTheTech.com to assist anyone who records voiceover with tech support, training, studio design, and audio processing templates. George is a 1997 graduate of Virginia Tech with a Bachelor's degree in Music and Audio Technology with a Minor in Communications. George went on to acquire considerable expertise in music recording by working with various musicians and artists in the Philadelphia area, and gained broadcast engineering experience working at 94 WYSP (now WIP) as the remote engineer for the NFL Eagles Radio Network. From a handful of satisfied clients, George has now built his reputation working solely with voice-over studios and clients. He is globally considered a top authority in voice-over recording technology, investing thousands of hours researching studio design, recording equipment, and creating training materials for voice actors. Among his many successful clients are the late Don LaFontaine, Bill Ratner, Melissa Disney, Randy Thomas, Joe Cipriano and Scott Rummell. George is co-host of the podcast The Pro Audio Suite. Find George at http://georgethe.tech About Rob: As a pilot and Hall of Fame air show announcer, Rob Reider has recently retired from that endeavor and now brings his skills to the world of audiobooks. His extensive knowledge of aviation and the military has attracted the attention of authors who need that experience to bring their works to life. Rob’s acting career began in high school, continued in musical theater roles at the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music and won him 5 Regional Emmys for on-air performance and musical compositions during a 13-year Midwest television career. He’s also an accomplished guitarist and lover of acoustic music. Rob has worked with several audiobook coaches, including Hillary Huber, P.J. Ochlan, and Jennifer Jill Araya to hone his craft and focus on thrillers, non-fiction, and faith-based titles. He recently was the “voice” of James Patterson in his book, “The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians: True Stories of the Magic of Reading." Visit his website: http://www.robreidervoice.com/ We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home

Podcast host Linda delves into the thriving Voiceover Gurus community, showcasing its supportive and enriching environment. Joining her are three of the community's most active members, Dave Johnston, Marco Rigazio, and Tony Jones, who share their personal experiences and the invaluable benefits of being part of this tight-knit network. Throughout the conversation, the guests reflect on their voiceover journeys, discussing the unique mentorship and support they've received. Whether it's the camaraderie, the energy, or the accountability, the Voiceover Gurus community serves as a nurturing home for voice actors at every level. The episode highlights the importance of authentic connections and personal growth, emphasizing that success in voiceover is a marathon, not a sprint. Tune in to explore how the Voiceover Gurus community inspires creativity, nurtures learning, and fosters genuine friendships, creating a welcoming space where voice actors can thrive together. Guests Bios: Voice Actor Tony Jones: Life long Hoosier, coffeeholic, and old man baseball player. Height: 5’9” Weight: Over Age: 53 Graduated from Vincennes University with a degree in Broadcasting in 1991. Had a cup of coffee in radio before switching careers in 1992. Have pretty much always regretted the career switch and years later in 2022, thought that voiceover could scratch that itch. It has…and then some! Visit: https://hometownvoiceover.com/ Voice Actor Marco Rigazio is a professional voice actor known for his deep, warm, and authoritative delivery. With over 30 years of experience as a teacher, personal trainer, and massage therapist before transitioning to voice acting, Marco brings a wealth of communication expertise to every project. His Master's in Exercise Science and background in acting have shaped his unique approach to performance. Marco's versatile voice has brought life to commercials, e-Learning, corporate narration, and automotive scripts. He is also the host of "The Cognitive Performer" podcast, where he explores the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and performance resilience. Visit: https://marcorigaziovo.com/ Voice Actor Dave Johnston: “I have been with the Voiceover Gurus for about 4 years now, as a voice actor, I thrive on the ability to bring characters to life through the power of my voice. Whether it’s narrating documentaries, audio tours, or delivering lines for commercials, I relish the challenge of diverse roles. My voice is not just a tool but a canvas where I paint stories, infusing each character with personality, leaving the listener coming back for seconds. Whether behind the microphone or in the kitchen, my goal is to connect with people and be an advocate in their endeavors, leaving them with a lasting impression and a good taste in their mouth.” Visit: https://www.davejvoices.com/ We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home

Ep 154 - A Journey with TV Narrator Brooks Moore In this insightful episode of the Voice Over Gurus podcast, host Linda Bruno welcomes TV personality and renowned narrator Brooks Moore. Together, they delve into Brooks' fascinating journey from his early beginnings announcing equestrian events to becoming the voice of the popular TV show "How It's Made." Brooks shares his passion for storytelling and the art of narration, offering a unique perspective on balancing diverse projects through his production company, Bonne Maison. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges and joys of the voiceover industry, as well as practical advice for aspiring voice talents. About Brooks Moore: Brooks Moore is the host of the long-running show How It's Made among many other TV shows and projects. In addition to his voice-over career, Brooks also runs a very successful production company in Baltimore, Bonnemaison. Bonnemaison has been the recipient of many Emmys, Tellys, film festival distinctions. Brooks directs and produces documentary films, commercials, and live events. Always on the forefront of technology, Brooks was one of the first to use drones for capturing footage and other cutting-edge technologies such as Virtual Control Rooms, and RED cameras which will capture as many images per second as possible - he is currently working with a team at Amazon on AI applications within the production industry. Brooks has spent years developing a proprietary method for improving your voice and using your voice as a tool for effective communication and he recently launched Unleash Your Voice. Unleash Your Voice is a course for actors, podcasters, hosts, and professionals who want to improve their vocal techniques and harness the power of their voice. All info is available at BrooksMoore.com We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home

In this episode of the Voiceover Gurus podcast, Linda welcomes Christy Harst, a seasoned voice talent passionate about sports promo. Christy shares her inspiring journey and sometimes struggle of breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of sports voiceover. Christy introduces us to her groundbreaking initiative, "Building Doors," a campaign she launched to create opportunities for women in male-centric voiceover genres. Discover how this movement is opening doors for female talents by advocating for equity and diversity in the industry, and learn about the success stories that have emerged from this empowering campaign. Join us as Christy delves into the significance of women supporting women, the impact of social media in advancing careers, and how her campaign is helping to reshape the voiceover landscape. About Christy Harst: My voice over journey started in college when I applied for a news internship at a local classical radio station. During the interview the station manager told me I had a good voice, escorted me to the studio, asked me to read the Star Spangled Banner into a microphone, and pressed record. After I was done he played it back and said, “You’d do well in voice overs.” I didn’t even know what a voice over was, let alone how to get into the business. At the end of the internship, he gave me my first voice over job – a tag line for a commercial. My parents drove an hour to get in range to hear it on their car radio. More than two decades later and one home studio, I have lent my voice to clients like Delta Faucets, Sherwin Williams, Bank of America, and PNC Bank. I truly enjoy what I do and it shows in my work. Television commercials are lots of fun, but so are medical training programs, on-hold messages about deicers, and narrating the proud history of a church. https://www.christyharst.com/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/

In this engaging episode, Linda Bruno sits down with Kim Wilson and Natasha Marchewka, the dynamic hosts of the "Speechless" podcast, to explore their journeys into the world of voiceover and podcasting. The trio delves into the origins of their podcast, sharing how the idea came to life through a shared passion for marketing and community building. Kim and Natasha recount their individual paths into voiceover, highlighting the unique challenges and successes they encountered along the way. From Kim’s artistic background to Natasha’s start in radio promotions, each story provides insights into the diverse routes one can take into the industry. The conversation also touches on the realities of sustaining a voiceover career, the importance of community, and the unexpected hurdles like anxiety and personal growth. Natasha shares her experiences with managing anxiety, offering tips and techniques that have helped her stay grounded. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the behind-the-scenes aspects of podcasting, including the decision-making process behind episode planning and the evolution of "Speechless" from a video webcast to a popular podcast. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring voiceover artists and podcast enthusiasts alike! Visit https://www.speechlessvo.com/ to hear their podcast. Visit our website, Voiceover.Guru, and join our vibrant community for weekly script reads and more! About Kim Wilson Kim Wilson has a lifelong love for the Arts. She enjoys entertaining others, and in 2011 her love for storytelling thrust her into voice over. Her voice is handpicked by major brands all over the globe. Kim studied in a conservatory-style acting school to complement her VO career. She’s starred in indie films including a top 10 in HBO’s Project Green-light and others that have travelled the world in festivals. She’s also appeared in an Emmy award-winning series, The Folklorist. Kim is passionate about helping other talent find success in the ever-changing voice-over industry. About Natasha Marchewka Natasha Marchewka has performance in her blood. Daughter of an Opera Singer, veteran jazz vocalist of the NYC “restaurant scene”, voice-over was a natural field to “fall into”. A B.A.A. in Radio and TV Arts helped support her VO career. Since 2006, Natasha has grown her business exponentially moving from Canada to California (with a four-year stint in the Cayman Islands). Co-Creator of V123Pros.com, Natasha strives to help talent with their at-home voice-over business understanding the pitfalls and successes one faces growing a freelance business to fruition. FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/

Ep 147 – The Global Market with Voice Talent Serge De Marre Welcome back to the Voice Over Gurus podcast! In this episode, host Linda Bruno sits down with Serge De Marre, a seasoned voice actor originally from Belgium, to discuss the highs and lows of the voiceover industry. Serge shares his journey from starting in local Belgian radio to becoming a national radio host, and eventually moving to the United States. He delves into the technical challenges and cultural differences he faced, and how he transitioned into full-time voiceover work, including his recent success with a U.S. commercial campaign for Tubi. Linda and Serge also explore the differences between European and American voiceover markets, the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, and the importance of building strong client relationships. They touch on the significance of having a professional website and the benefits of hiring a web designer. Tune in to hear Serge's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into navigating the voiceover world across different continents. About Serge: Modern. Global. Bilingual. Serge De Marre is a voice actor and voice-over artist who speaks both English and Flemish fluently, with over 20 years of experience. His contemporary, clear voice with international influences appeals to audiences from all over the world. Think fresh, smooth, cheerful, reliable, youthful. Serge is a well-known and award-nominated voice in Belgium and the Netherlands with both his English and Flemish work. With his unique international accent, he is also on the rise in the rest of the world. He has lived in Antwerp, Washington DC, Houston, Los Angeles, Dallas and Budapest. His extensive experience with different cultures and customs can be heard in his worldly voice. He has worked for big names such as Domino's Pizza, Axe, Google, Disney, Audi, Exxon Mobil, LG, Mentos, Pringles, Danone, Knex, Qatar Airways and Siemens. That is an impressive client list of international companies, but Serge also likes to work with smaller, local brands. For all projects, big or small, you can expect a fast response time and superior quality recordings. Visit Serges’ Website: https://www.sergedemarre.com/ FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/

On this episode of The Voiceover Gurus Podcast, student Simone Agee shares her background and life story before exploring the world of VO. Located in South Florida, Simones’ career history helps influence her performances behind the microphone. Hear her story! About Simone: I thrive in the Arts ! I paint landscapes, currently learning violin and acoustic guitar and will return to northern Shaolon kung fu just to name a few. After retiring massage therapy and funeral director/embalmer careers, voiceover acting has become a new passion. I'm grateful to find it at this stage of my life where I have the patience, tough skin, and maturity to handle it. I actually enjoy the process and constant growth. So far voiceover has not been boring. FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT: Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/ Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/