Real HumanVO Atlanta 2025
I’m back from second VO Atlanta (I’ve gone 2 years in a row) and once again, I am impressed by just how much I gained in those 3 days.
So much as been written about whether or not voice over conferences are “worth it”. For me? The answer is ABSOLUTELY!
Look, conferences are what you make of them. So, if you’re going to stay locked up in your room and not engage, then you’re not going to get anything out of them.
But if you put yourself out there, attend the sessions that are available, and simply involve yourself in conversations, it’s almost impossible not to come home with massive gains.
My Gains
I could go on for hours, so I’m going to limit myself to 5 incredible gifts of VO Atlanta 2025.
- Insight: I’ve been a voice actor for over 20 years now, and I am still learning about the inner workings of the business. For example, this year I learned more about the different opportunities that are afforded a voice actor who is on an elite LA/NY VO roster. I learned important information about the prolific Commercial voicecasting agency (Voicecasters) casting process. This info will affect how I audition for their projects in the future. And the list goes on and on. Not to mention, that the business is constantly changing…so just when you might think you have a full grasp on how it works? It evolves once again.
- Connections: Once again I walked away from the conference with a multitude of new business connections. From the direct email address of the fabulous Denise Patierno (in charge of VO casting for CNN promo department) to being added to the direct roster of a prevalent Casting Director, to learning the name of a large Automotive advertising company, I have not doubt that the connections I made this year will continue to serve me throughout my career.
- Relationships: This business can be a lonely one. We are working all day, by ourselves, in padded rooms. The value of connecting with others who completely understand what my daily life is like cannot be understated. It feels amazing to know that I have a pretty sizable group of voice actors that I feel comfortable reaching out to should I have a question or simply need commiseration. Mental health affects productivity (among many other things) and having trusted friends in the same business is a huge boost to my mental health.
- Perspective: Meeting all of these colleagues and learning all of this information in a short amount of time immediately adjusts my perspective on my career as a whole. I found that it was a reality check that was both positive and negative. On the plus side, I left inspired and the experience reaffirmed my belief that no dream is too big and nothing is really off limits as long as I keep working towards it. On the other hand, I was reminded that achievements often take many, many years, a whole lot of frustration, and the feeling that you are scratching and clawing your way to your dreams. I was also reminded about the fact that there are SO many wonderful, talented voice actors out there who are competing for the same jobs. Again, this is good and bad. On one hand, it’s a whole lot of competition making each job statistically unlikely. On the other hand, it’s a good reminder not to take it personally when I don’t land a job.
- Belonging: Finally, I left with a deeper sense that I am in the right place. I reaffirmed that fact that I love this business with all of my heart and I deeply enjoy the other people who are part of the voice over industry. It is creative industry full of funny, open-minded, generous, and warm people. I am so lucky to be a part of it and it is true gift to feel like I belong there.
One thing I do wish I had done was take more pictures! But I will include one that was sent to me from Saturday night (after a great dinner with Harry Dunn, Andy Barnett, Imari Williams, and Libby Clearfield).
I have no doubt that this will not be my last VO Atlanta conference. Until then, I return to y booth with renewed inspiration and a fuller heart. ♥️
New and old friends!
