Episodes

  • In this episode of High Notes, we engage in a captivating conversation with Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight. Abi discusses her journey in the creative arts, from her theatrical family history to drama school and her extensive career in casting and talent management. We delve into the evolving landscape of talent and voiceover work, hear expert advice on navigating a creative career, and explore the significant roles Abi has held in various renowned organisations. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, professional guidance, and a closer look at the art and business of voice acting.

    00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

    00:52 Guest Introduction: Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight

    01:34 Abby's Early Life and Inspirations

    05:43 Acting Journey and Drama School Experience

    08:42 Transition to Professional Roles and Spotlight

    16:13 Spotlight's Evolution and Voiceover Support

    21:01 Importance of Industry Relationships

    23:13 Conclusion and Farewell


    Read the full transcript here...


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  • In this episode, we chat with Curtis James, an accomplished podcaster, producer, writer, and presenter. Curtis shares his inspiring journey from his early days experimenting with music to his experiences with grassroots podcasting, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the impact of social inequality on education and creativity.


    Curtis talks in depth about his podcast Class Divide, how it came to fruition, and its aim to close the educational attainment gap in Brighton. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working-class representation in creative fields, the profound influence of teachers, public speaking anxiety, and the nuances of voice and accent in public perception. It’s a really fascinating conversation.


    Links:


    Class Divide funding page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/class-divide?utm_term=kvdD4pqj9


    Class Divide Podcast Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dQGuWugM9x5HQzsh1pn8l?si=ggphFak-Qaaiqu4ZWym7eg&pi=dQKQscrtTZ2rH&nd=1&dlsi=1237a64362814c94

    00:00 Welcome to High Notes

    00:24 Introducing Curtis James

    02:12 Curtis's Early Influences

    05:25 First Record Deal Experience

    06:22 Working with Family

    07:19 Breaking into Radio

    10:52 Challenges and Barriers

    15:20 Creating Class Divide

    22:22 Reflecting on Podcast Success

    23:32 Impact of the Podcast on Local Policy

    25:14 The Power of Storytelling and Authenticity

    28:40 Accents and Public Speaking

    31:26 Embracing the Microphone

    38:52 Future Plans and Challenges

    43:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell


    Read the transcript here...


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  • High Notes: A Conversation with Sinead Garvan - From Radio to VO

    In this episode, we talk to Sinead Garvan, the voice behind some of the UK’s favourite radio shows and podcasts. We chat about Sinead's journey from her early days as a young narrator in school plays to her transition from radio to voiceover.

    Sinead shares her experience of working with celebrities like Chris Evans, Claudia Winkleman and Nick Grimshaw, takes us through some major challenges she's faced, and shares her views on the evolving media landscape.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:24 Meet Sinead Garvan

    01:09 Sinead's Early Years and Love for Narration

    04:31 First Job in Journalism

    08:17 Experiences in Radio

    13:44 Challenges in Journalism

    19:12 Transition to Voiceover Work

    33:22 Advice for Aspiring Voiceover Artists

    35:03 Future Plans and Conclusion


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • On this episode of HIGH NOTES, we talk to award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Marverine Cole. Over the last 21 years, Marverine has worked as a reporter, producer and news anchor for the majority of Britain's most watched and listened to broadcasters, including Sky News, 5 News, Talk TV, Classic FM, 5 Live and BBC Radio 4. Marverine is one of only 10 Black British women to have ever presented national and international news bulletins in the UK during the last 40 years. She is currently best known as a newsreader for ITV's Good Morning Britain.


    We also talk to Marverine about her experience training as a VO with BRAVA, politics and grassroots democracy, her advice to those breaking into the industry today and her new podcast, The Trouble with Politics, which was recently recommended by The Independent as one of the top 6 podcasts to listen to in 2024.


    Marverine Cole: https://marverinecole.co.uk/


    We are Black Journos: https://weareblackjournos.org/


    Luck Be a Lady Tonight: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01mqmyt


    Black Girls Don’t Cry: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0b9zfws


    Marverine Cole & David Harewood talk about Black British Mental Health: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/black-british-mental-health-matters-with-marverine/id1645113032?i=1000586923149


    Her Media Diary: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/her-media-diary/id1549480567


    The Trouble with Politics: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-trouble-with-politics/id1736397883


    00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

    00:51 Guest Introduction: Marverine Cole

    02:14 Marverine's Early Inspirations and First Steps in Radio

    08:57 Transition to Television

    15:07 Challenges and Achievements in Media

    21:43 Mental Health and Resilience in Journalism

    30:16 Exploring Voiceover Work

    34:10 Launching The Trouble with Politics Podcast

    39:59 Advice for Aspiring Media Professionals

    42:20 Conclusion and Farewell


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, we talk to Adele Cutting - a respected sound designer, audio and voice director and in the video game industry. Adele's extensive portfolio includes work on both blockbuster titles and indie games. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including Adele's journey into the gaming industry, the evolution of women's roles and casting processes for video games. Adele also shares insights on the importance of natural performances in gaming, the potential impact of AI and offers advice for voice actors looking to succeed in a competitive industry.


    00:00 Welcome to High Nets: The Voice Industry Unveiled

    00:52 Spotlight on Adele Cutting: A Trailblazer in Game Audio

    02:02 Adele's Journey: From Musical Theatre to Video Game Soundscapes

    06:32 Breaking Barriers: Women's Evolving Role in Gaming

    13:28 The Art of Sound Design and Voice Direction in Video Games

    19:39 Casting Voices: The Search for Authenticity and Talent

    24:43 The Casting Process and Budget Considerations

    25:18 The Long Game of Voice Acting

    26:35 The Reality of Social Media Influence in Casting

    28:21 Trends and Changes in the Gaming Industry

    30:55 The Impact of AI on Voice Acting

    34:13 Real-Life Directing Experiences and Challenges

    38:32 Training and Professionalism in Voice Acting

    46:15 Final Thoughts and Future-Proofing Advice


    Read the transcript here...


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, we talk to award-winning producer, photographer, screenwriter, game and audiobook director, Daniel Jewel.

    With extensive experience in leading AAA game projects and directing high-profile audiobooks, Daniel shares invaluable insights from his musical childhood through to his journey into film and then voice directing. He discusses the importance of failure, adapting to challenges, and the intricacies of working with voice actors across various platforms. This episode also explores Daniel's approach to casting and the significance of respecting NDAs, as well as practical advice for aspiring voice actors aiming to make their mark in the industry.


    More about Daniel https://www.danieljewelfilm.com/


    00:00 Welcome to High Notes: The Art and Business of Voice

    00:52 Spotlight on Daniel: A Voice Directing Virtuoso

    02:18 Daniel's Creative Journey: From Childhood to the Big Screen

    04:59 The Liberal Arts Advantage in Filmmaking

    07:06 First Steps and Lessons in Directing

    09:29 Navigating Creative Control and Editorial Influence

    13:49 Cultural Narratives and Middle Eastern Connections

    17:41 Transitioning to Game Directing: A New Arena

    19:32 Directing Voice Casts in Video Games: Insights and Experiences

    19:44 The Creative Process and Collaboration in Voice Acting

    21:52 Transitioning to Audiobook Directing: A New Chapter

    24:00 Skills and Attributes for Success in Voice Acting

    29:46 Navigating the Industry: Advice for Voice Actors

    32:00 Creating Your Own Path: Resilience and Adaptability

    39:08 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors


    Read the transcript here...


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In conversation with Talent Agent, Natalie Edwards.


    In this Women in Games special, we sit down with Natalie Edwards, Talent Agent and Head of Voiceover Division at Excellent Talent, based here in the UK.


    Natalie talks to us about her career and her extensive work with games in particular. We also discuss important issues, including representation and diversity in the industry, as well as what talent agents look for when signing new VO artists.


    https://excellenttalent.com/


    So settle in, and let's hit those high notes, with Natalie Edwards.


    00:00 Welcome to High Notes: The Art and Business of Voice

    00:52 Special Guest: Natalie Edwards on Voiceover in Gaming

    01:58 Natalie's Journey into Voiceover Agency

    04:07 What Makes a Great Voiceover Artist?

    05:53 The Importance of Training and Audition Tips

    08:35 Diving Deep into Voiceover Demos

    09:55 Casting Insights and the State of VO in Gaming

    11:41 Addressing Diversity in Voiceover Casting

    21:40 The Role of Agents and Navigating the Industry

    25:07 Embracing Technology and Future-Proofing Your VO Career

    28:18 Key Attributes for a Long-Term Career in VO

    30:49 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude


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  • Shakespeare's Women with Actor & Writer, Lorien Haynes

    On HIGH NOTES Episode 4, Melissa talks to writer, actor, and artist, Lorien Haynes. From a teenager seeking an escape from her shyness and early experiences of abuse to living and working in America, Lorien's career has involved voiceover work, drama, screenwriting, and drawing. Throughout her work, especially in her recent play ‘Shakespeare's Women', which premiered at The Globe, London earlier this year, she addresses important social issues like domestic abuse, immigration, and sexual assault.

    Lorien's work gives a voice to individuals who often remain unheard, representing experiences not as narratives of victimhood, but instead as nuanced portraits that include humour, love, and strength. The interview also discusses collaborative efforts in Shakespeare’s Women and its potential future development, and her incredibly important partnership with Refuge - a charity that provides support for survivors of abuse.


    About the 'Shakespeare's Women' play 


    Shakespeare’s Women Go Fund Me


    America.2 Podcast


    00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

    00:51 Interview with Lorian Haynes

    01:42 Lorian's Journey into Acting and Writing

    06:19 Lorian's Experience in America

    13:04 Lorian's Voice Acting Career

    18:21 Lorian's Work on Shakespeare's Women

    23:28 Shakespeare's Women in Modern Context

    24:01 The Inspiration Behind the Play

    25:14 Character Dynamics and Storylines

    27:37 The Importance of Humor in Serious Topics

    28:09 The Impact of the Play on the Audience

    28:51 Personal Experiences and the Influence on Writing

    31:20 The Struggle of Discussing Abuse

    35:08 The Collaboration with Jude Kelly

    37:24 Future Plans for the Play

    41:36 The Importance of Support from Organizations

    45:09 The Success of the Play and Fundraising for Refuge

    46:51 Closing Remarks


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of the High Notes podcast, BRAVA master characters coach, Elaine Clark, joins us all the way from San Francisco and talks about her extensive experience in the industry. From starting as a theatre major in college, she then got into advertising and copywriting before moving into Silicon Valley and delving into the corporate world. Her career took a significant turn with the emergence of the video game industry, where she took on various roles from casting and directing to producing and audio engineering. Elaine values her early involvement in the industry and finds satisfaction in identifying potential in her voice-acting students, helping to solve casting problems in the industry. Elaine also talks us through what to expect from the Characters Foundation 6 Week course here at BRAVA.


    A Women in Games Special.


    Subscribe to our newsletter


    Find out more about Women In Games


    Episode guide

    00:03 Introduction to the Podcast

    00:52 Special Guest: Elaine Clark - Master Characters Coach

    01:44 Elaine's Journey in the Voice Industry

    03:51 The Evolution of Voice Acting in Gaming

    05:31 The Business Side of Voice Acting

    10:26 Elaine's Experiences in Voice Acting for Games

    12:13 The Six Week Characters Foundation Course at BRAVA

    14:36 Final Thoughts and Goodbye


    Read the full transcript here...


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this fascinating talk, BRAVA Founder, Melissa Thom, welcomes special guest, Sebastien Croteau, an accomplished metal vocalist and extreme voicing expert.

    They discuss Croteau's extensive career - his unique skills as a Tibetan, Mongolian, and Inuit throat singer - and his contribution to a huge number of video games, including the recently acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3, Prince of Persia, Assassin's Creed, and more.

    Croteau explains how the fine control and understanding of the different parts of his vocal apparatus, developed through years of throat singing, have made him a sought-after voice actor for creating monster and creature sounds.

    He shares insights into the science of different voice techniques, along with demonstrations of extreme voices. Croteau also provides a glimpse into his Monster Factory, a talent agency specialising in extreme sounds. Sebastien offers valuable advice for aspiring voice actors interested in learning extreme voice techniques and highlights the importance of proper training and warm-ups.


    Find out more by subscribing to the BRAVA newsletter


    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:16 Guest's Background and Achievements

    01:59 Guest's Journey as a Metal Vocalist

    02:40 Transition to Creating Monster and Creature Voices

    05:08 Guest's Training and Experience in Throat Singing

    06:09 Guest's Entry into the Video Game Industry

    07:03 Challenges and Experiences in Voice Acting for Video Games

    08:50 Demonstration of Throat Singing Techniques

    18:24 Application of Throat Singing Techniques in Creature Voice Acting

    27:36 Guest's Experience and Advice on Voice Acting Training

    28:59 Debunking Vocal Distortion Myths

    30:27 Recommended Channels for Accurate Vocal Distortion

    31:04 The Science Behind Rough Vocal Effects

    31:37 The Lack of Research in Extreme Voices

    33:04 The Importance of Proper Warm-up and Training

    33:44 The Role of Science in Vocal Distortion

    37:11 The Importance of Vocal Assessment

    38:38 The Journey to Creating the Monster Factory

    38:38 The Inception of the Monster Factory

    41:42 The Future of Voice Acting in Gaming

    41:42 The Future of Monster and Creature Voices

    45:34 The Importance of Proper Warm-up for Extreme Voicing Performance

    45:34 The Importance of Vocal Warm-up

    52:16 The Challenges of Teaching Extreme Voices


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this podcast (taken from an online talk), voice acting expert, coach, and founder of BRAVA: Melissa Thom, provides an in-depth introduction to the art and business of Voiceover.

    She talks through the necessary skills, experience, and mindset required to take the first steps into the industry - including the importance of training, understanding budgets, marketing, and finding the right coach.

    She also explores different ways of securing work within the industry, such as agents, pay-to-play sites, cold calling, repeat clients, auditioning, and more.

    This session is aimed at those who are new to voiceover, or have a budding interest in voice acting.

    Find out more by subscribing to the BRAVA newsletter


    00:02 Introduction and Welcome

    00:44 Getting Started in the World of Voice-Over

    01:34 Who Can Be a Voice Actor?

    05:11 Understanding Voice Acting and Voice-Over

    07:45 Finding Voice Over Opportunities

    10:33 Planning Your Voice Acting Career

    21:59 Auditioning and Booking Work

    27:15 The Importance of Training and Coaching

    29:02 What Makes a Good Voice Actor?

    30:17 Conclusion and Next Steps


    Read the transcript here...


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Presented by voice actor and CEO of BRAVA (Bristol Academy of Voice Acting), Melissa Thom, High Notes is a podcast featuring conversations on the art and business of voice. From Mongolian throat singing to vocal health, accents, gaming, and more, HIGH NOTES uncovers the craft behind the business.


    Brought to you by https://www.brava.uk.com/ 



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.