Now that I was going to be a voice actor, the obvious next step was to find out how to be a great one and get work. There is the general misconception that it is super easy business to get into. Got a great voice, jobs will just roll in. I wish! If it was, everyone would do it. It can take years of training and you have to have the right equipment. It also helps if you have been an actor, which I have not been. But got to start somewhere, right? A local night school offered a one night intro session from Such a Voice. Since I didn’t have any other direction and any idea of how get started, I signed on with them. I know there are differing views on SAV, but overall, my experience was okay. I learned a lot. I think they have really upped the program since I went through. I have a couple of good friends that went through the training much later than I did and I am a bit jealous. They had more of a choice when picking out a coach. The learning opportunities, webinars, and personal connections with the staff were 100% improved over my experience. My biggest issue with them was that they made you feel like if you do the training, sign up on a pay to pay, and you are set and the money will roll in. Only if you are lucky. Would I do it again? Probably, as I had no experience in the field and you have to start somewhere. And it is a complete package with los of resources. Although if someone asked, I would recommend on of the other coaches I have worked with (see below). I always say it was worth it because through them I met my Accountability buddy! An accountability buddy is someone you check in with on a weekly basis and trade experiences, cheer on, and hold each other accountable to keep moving forward. We really bonded. I don’t know if I would still be chugging along at this, if I didn’t have her. Definitely get one. As I continued to audition and not get much work, I realized I still needed more coaching. Actually, I don’t think you are ever done coaching. As with any career. always something new to learn! After the virtual experience I thought maybe in person would be better. I found Brian, a local vo artist only 45 minutes from me. Making that drive after work was endless somedays. It involved a super busy highway at rush hour and I hate that kind of driving. I am a back roads kind of gal. But he was worth it. We really bonded and I grew. But, still not there yet. On to more online coaching. This time with Marc Cashman. And then Larry Hudson. Both great coaches with different approaches. So supportive and enthusiastic. I also joined a great group started by Larry Hudson, called WOW: Workout Wednesdays. It is also happens on Fridays and Saturdays. This is where VO actors get together and practice scrip reading. Fantastic way to practice, grow, and bond with other actors. And I am still doing more coaching. Studied with David Rosenthal from GVAA (Global Voice Actors Association). He helped me do a new commercial demo. Right now, it is e learning with Kim Handysides, Love her. She is great. Her coaching tips are a slightly different approach than what I have learned before and are making a huge difference in my reads! I am a professional!