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

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

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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

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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...

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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...

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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

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