The Making Wavs VO Podcast

In this episode of The Making WAVs VO Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Chris Okawa for a relaxed and inspiring conversation about his journey in voice acting. From his early days training on stage with a lifelong love of musicals, to becoming a full-time voice actor, Chris shares how his path unfolded in ways he never expected. Now living his dream, his voice can be heard across video games, anime, film, cartoons, promos, and more. Chris also shares his creative process, including how he prepares for each voiceover project and what it takes to bring characters and stories to life. And get this, Chris is not just a voice actor... He’s also a producer, director, and coach, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of talent. This guy does it all, and does it well! Trust us, you don't want to miss this episode! If you want to explore more of Chris’s voiceover work or reach out for coaching, check out www.chrisokawa.com Tune in, enjoy the conversation, and get inspired, fellow voice actors! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

Welcome back to The Making WAVs VO Podcast, where we talk about the art, business, and real-life experiences behind the microphone. Speaking of business... Yes, it’s important to do your taxes, market yourself, and run your career like a professional voice actor. But what about when it comes to taking care of the most important tool you have… your voice? Today’s episode is a must-listen for voiceover artists, because we're exploring the importance of vocal care with someone who truly understands it. In fact, she dedicates her career to keeping voices healthy! Dr. Reena Gupta MD, is a laryngologist (voice doctor and surgeon) and founder of Center for Vocal Health. She completed her residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at NYU and then did an additional year-long fellowship in Laryngology/Care of the Professional Voice. Dr. Gupta opened Center for Vocal Health as the first Laryngologist-led private voice center in Southern California. Dr. Gupta is published in numerous journals and textbooks and presents on vocal health topics locally and internationally. In this conversation, Dr. Gupta shares her journey into laryngology, why she chose to specialize in caring for professional voices, and most importantly, why taking care of your instrument is essential. She also breaks down practical tips you can use to keep your vocal cords in great shape for the long haul. As voice actors, we are essentially professional athletes. Just like any athlete trains their body and protects it from injury, we need to understand how to protect our voice, and this episode will show us how to do that! So get out your notebooks, because today on The Making WAVs VO Podcast, we’re getting properly schooled on vocal health, and how to keep your voice performing at its best! Want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Reena Gupta? Learn more at: www.centerforvocalhealth.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

The Making Wavs VO Podcast welcomes special guest Kelly Moscinski, Owner and Head of Casting at The Voicecaster, the oldest voiceover casting house in the United States, established in 1975. With nearly 20 years in voiceover and even more experience in the entertainment industry, Kelly casts, directs, produces demos, and coaches talent at every level. Although Kelly’s path into casting wasn’t exactly traditional (you'll hear the story soon), she is right where she’s meant to be. In this episode, we are chatting all about voiceover trends, specs, and the balance between range and authenticity. Kelly also shares little golden nuggets on how to stand out in your audition, why the first few seconds of your audition matter the most, and what gets a talent placed into the coveted “yes” folder. Plus, Kelly will share a nightmare session that will make every voice actor's heart sink just thinking about it... If you’re working in VO or trying to get your foot in the door, this episode is packed with honest, practical insight straight from the casting table. Interested in training with Kelly and her team at The Voicecaster? Learn more at voicecaster.com. If you’d like to get in contact directly, you can reach the team at casting@voicecaster.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

On this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we're chatting about the nitty-gritty art of connection in voiceover. Voice actor Eric Sheffield joins us for a heart-to-heart about what it truly means to build community in VO, and it's so refreshing. Instead of just networking, Eric explains why creating authentic relationships without expectations can have a powerful impact on both your career and your creative life. We also explore some of the less obvious places voice actors and creatives can find work (the kind of opportunities many people don’t even realize exist.) From navigating the industry and finding your people, to understanding how heritage can influence casting, and so much more, this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and good-ole industry talk. Get ready to discover paths you may never have known existed in VO! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

In this upbeat episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we’re joined with our special guest Chloe Elmore to explore the world of audio dramas. This is a topic we haven’t yet explored, and one that might even open your eyes to a whole new world of Voiceover! From performance challenges to happy clients, we break down what makes audio drama work unique, along with a fun chat about accents, efforts, and the skills that Chloe is known for making her projects shine all around the world. Plus, Chloe shares one of her true “nightmare” sessions that unexpectedly turned into a powerful VO life lesson... The kind of story every voice actor can learn from AND hopefully avoid! If you’ve ever been curious about audio dramas, or maybe never even known they existed, then this episode is definitely for you! Tune in for stories, insights, and a reminder that some of the most stressful moments can become the biggest growth opportunities. And be sure to check out Chloe’s website to see what she’s up to: www.chloevoices.com Whether you’re a seasoned pro, an aspiring voice actor, or simply curious about life in the booth, this fun and upbeat episode delivers a mix of practical insight, relatable moments, and plenty of personality. This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

On this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we’re joined by special guest Steve Pogatch, Sr. Manager of Voiceover Operations for Studio Resonate at SiriusXM Media-SiriusXM/Pandora. Over his 12+ years with Pandora and SiriusXM, Steve has produced thousands of high-quality audio ads and has become the go-to expert for all things voiceover casting, direction, and quality. Steve has played a major role in recruiting, auditioning, and curating talent for the Studio Resonate VoiceOver roster, as well as helping manage and shape the voices heard across these major audio platforms, giving him a behind-the-scenes perspective you don't often get to hear. So get cozy and settle in, because this episode is full of real talk, casting insight, and voiceover industry wisdom you don't want to miss! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they have everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today.

Get ready to go behind the scenes with one of the most dynamic voices in the business! This week on The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we are sitting down with legendary talent Rick D. Wasserman, whose career spans over decades, genres, and audiences. Rick's journey in the entertainment industry is nothing short of iconic. From on-camera roles, including his memorable performance as The Zest Soap Man in the 90's, to becoming a powerhouse in the world of voiceover, Rick has truly built a lasting career in this industry. In this episode, Rick shares his story about how he broke into voiceover in the early days, how his career evolved over time, and the lessons he's learned along the way. But Rick isn't just a legend behind the mic, he's also a coach with heart. If you're serious about developing your talent and voiceover career, you'll love hearing how passionate he is about helping others succeed as working voice actors. If coaching interests you, find out more at: www.bookablevo.com Whether you are just starting your VO journey or you've been in the booth for years, this episode is packed with a great talk you won't want to miss! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

Longtime voice of NBC Sports and now an Emmy Award winner as the first female voice of the Olympics, Debi Mae West, joins us on The Making Wavs VO Podcast to talk about our favorite subject: voiceover! From voicing the Olympics and shaping the sound of sports to building a lasting voiceover career and relocating to Hawaii, Debi shares the mindset, decisions, and dedication that defined her journey as a voice actor. This episode is packed with insight on demos, dreams, career longevity, and so much more! Tune in for a relaxed, inspiring conversation full of honest insight from one of the industry’s most respected female voices, right here on The Making Wavs VO Podcast! Want to check out some of Debi's iconic work? Visit her website at: www.debimaewest.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

Kevin and Bobbi are back from the SOVAS Awards, and they have plenty of stories to share! In this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, they break down their full SOVAS experience, from being surrounded by incredible voice talent to experiencing a brand-new venue and soaking in the moments that made the night truly unforgettable. Tune in as they reflect on the awards ceremony, the conversations happening behind the scenes, and what it’s really like to be in a room filled with passionate VO professionals celebrating their craft. Whether you’ve attended SOVAS before or dream of going one day, this episode offers an inside look at the experience and the community that makes voiceover such a powerful industry! Grab your headphones and join your favorite hosts (award or not) Kevin and Bobbi, as they recap an unforgettable night at the SOVAS Awards, right here on The Making Wavs VO Podcast! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

In today’s episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we are sitting down with one of our favorite VO pals, Rob Reed, for an insightful and golden conversation about finding your own path as a voice actor, especially when it comes to marketing. Instead of leaning into generic, one-size-fits-all strategies, Rob helps us reframe marketing in a way that feels authentic rather than forced. We also chat about the power of solitude and intentional quiet time, and how being alone with your thoughts can actually strengthen your vision, creativity, and confidence. From simple vision exercises to realistic approaches to time management, this episode offers practical insights for voiceover artists who want to build careers that feel grounded and sustainable. Of course, be prepared for the conversation to take a few unexpected (and very Kevin-like) turns along the way… including a discussion about devil birds?! Because we’re always full of surprises, and sometimes the best insights come from unplanned moments and stories along the way! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

In this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we’re joined by the incredibly talented (and truly delightful) Cissy Jones for a fun and honest conversation about the realities of working in voiceover. Cissy shares how she got started in the industry, how she approaches auditions, and the lessons she’s learned through both the struggles and wins during her VO career. Get ready because this conversation takes a turn into the unpredictable side of voiceover, including unforgettable nightmare sessions and the wisdom that comes from surviving them... which naturally leads into why vocal health is always a top priority for Cissy (and why it should be for you too). She breaks down techniques like straw phonation and other strategies that help protect your voice and support long-term career longevity! So whether you’re just getting started or you are well into your career, this is an encouraging and insightful episode that's filled with real-world experience that's perfect for anyone serious about achieving a lasting voiceover career! Want to see Cissy's work or book her for your next project? You can do that by visiting her website: www.cissyjones.com or give her a follow on instagram: @cissyspeaks This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

As we wrap up the year, we’re closing things out with a relaxed and reflective conversation on The Making Wavs VO Podcast with your favorite hosts, Kevin Kilpatrick and Bobbi Maxwell. This final episode isn’t about hustle or pushing harder, it’s about slowing down, taking a breath, and reflecting on the year that was. Together, we look back on what went well, what surprised us, and what challenged us along the way. We also turn our attention toward 2026, sharing our goals and the quiet hopes we’re carrying with us into the new year. More than a recap of wins, this episode is an invitation for you to reflect on your own journey to acknowledge how far you’ve come, celebrate your growth, and begin imagining what you want to create, explore, and prioritize in 2026. So tune in, get cozy, and let this episode be a reminder that your progress matters, and there’s so much more ahead in the New Year! Happy Holidays and best wishes friend. We’ll catch ya in the 2026!!!! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

We’re thrilled to welcome Rudy Gaskins & Joan Baker, the cofounders of the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS), to this episode of Making Wavs VO Podcast! Known for creating the international Voice Arts Awards and the legendary That’s Voiceover! Career Expo and the international Voice Arts Awards, Rudy and Joan have spent decades elevating and inspiring the voice acting industry worldwide! In this fun and uplifting conversation, they share insights from their journey, the evolution of voice acting, and what goes into making the Voice Arts Awards a global celebration of talent and creativity. Plus, they give us a peek at exciting updates for SOVAS 2026, including the brand-new James Earl Jones Prize, a historic tribute to one of the most iconic voices of all time. Speaking of... There’s still time to submit your work and grab tickets for SOVAS 2026!!! 👉 https://sovas.org/ Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at how Rudy and Joan continue to shape the future of the voiceover profession! This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the importance of celebrating one another. ♥️ This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

On this episode of the Making Wavs VO Podcast, we take things to a whole new level with The Voice Doctor: Dr. Jerry Schultz - neuropsychologist turned voice actor! Have you ever felt like an imposter in the voiceover industry? Or wondered why staying motivated as a voice actor can feel so challenging? You're not alone! That's why in this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jerry Schultz to explore how to turn stress into fuel for success, celebrate the joy of small wins, the importance of trying new things - no matter the outcome, and so much more! Whether you’re a VO artist, performer, or just curious about how the brain drives creativity and persistence, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and plenty of laughs to help transform your stinkin’ thinkin’. Tune in and learn how to train your brain for success while having fun every step of the way! Want to check out more from The Voice Doctor? Check out his website at: jerryschultzvoiceactor.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

In this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, producer John McClain talks about what truly matters on the other side of the glass. He shares what he listens for in a talent’s very first take, the most common audio issues he runs into, and the top three things every VO artist should know about their sound. John also breaks down exactly what editing he prefers talent to do (or not do) before sending audio, and you’ll hear one of his classic nightmare sessions that proves mistakes can be some of the best teachers. Plus, Kevin brings back rare “Baby Kevin” audio from the early projects he and John worked on together, giving listeners a fun, nostalgic throwback that ties the past to today’s continued VO journey! It's a cool episode you won't want to miss. Tune in for practical insights, memorable stories, and real talk about what producers really want from voice talent! Want to reach out to John and his production team? Send an email at: zookeeper@dogandponystudios.net This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

Finding Rhythm in VO with Dave Elvin In this fun episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, voice actor and musician Dave Elvin shares more than just his voice. He talks about how rhythm can completely transform a performance, including voiceover! Whether he’s behind the drums or behind the mic, Dave knows exactly how to guide the listener with musicality, pacing, and presence. Dave also shares stories of both triumphs and nightmare sessions, including one unforgettable session that ended with an emergency visit for vocal care, highlighting just how essential technique, preparation, and self-care are in this business! This episode is packed with laughs, voice over insights, and a cold-read challenge that you won’t want to miss. Tune in to learn how rhythm can elevate your performance, and enjoy a friendly reminder to take care of your voice in this industry! If you want to get ahold of Dave, visit his website at: www.daveelvin.com Or email him at: dave.elvin@gmail.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

Kevin and Bobbi are back for another quick and casual episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast! However this time, they are chatting about what's new in their world! From dogs and coastal representation, to the upcoming holiday season and personal growth in their own voiceover careers.  Also, back by popular demand, they are reading Amazon reviews that will have you laughing all over again. Whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted VO chat or just a quick pick-me-up, this episode is sure to deliver all of that and more!   Tune in for laughs and a touch of VO magic to start your day right. Kevin and Bobbi’s easy going conversation reminds us that growth, humor, and connection are all part of the voiceover journey. And of course, thanks again for being part of this VO adventure with us! This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

On this episode of The Making WAVs VO Podcast, we sit down with Jonathon Grant, Senior Executive and Vice President turned voice actor, who knows what it takes to build a thriving career from the ground up. We discuss one of the toughest and most avoided parts of the voiceover business: marketing. But as Jonathon says, "If you don’t market yourself, your business will fail. Period." It’s a reality check every voice actor needs to hear, and Jonathon tells us it like it is. Because at the end of the day, you have to put yourself out there to get opportunities in this business. From building genuine relationships to sending the right kinds of emails, and even knowing what NOT to do when promoting yourself, Jonathon covers it all. He even shares a real example from his own email outreach, in order to show just how easy it can be to make authentic connections with confidence. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing, this episode is your golden reminder that it’s not about being pushy... It’s about being seen, being heard, and building a network that supports your growth as a voice actor. Tune in to learn how to market smarter, connect authentically, and keep your voice career moving forward, right here on The Making WAVs VO Podcast. Want to learn more about Jonathon Grant or his voiceover marketing services? We've got you covered: Jonathon's VO Website: www.jonathongrantvo.com VO Leads: www.voleads.com VO Inbox: www.voinbox.com This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems, your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers to studio gear and more, they’ve got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp. Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

On this episode of The Making Wavs VO Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Danielle Famble, a natural delight and highly sought-after voiceover talent for her natural reads and genuine personality. She opens up about her journey into the voiceover world, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and lessons she’s learned along the way, along with the slow progression the industry has made after The Black Lives Matter movement back in 2020. Beyond her impressive VO career, Danielle is a passionate mental health advocate. As someone who experiences anxiety herself, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing what's happening in your mind and body in the moment, and understanding emotional wellness as an entertainer. Danielle’s authenticity and insight make this conversation inspiring, relatable. No matter if you are just getting started in VO or a seasoned pro, this is a must-hear episode for every voice actor out there! Want to contribute to something bigger in your community? Connect with 100 Voices Who Care! Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/100voiceswhocare Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/100voiceswhocare Want to hire Danielle for an upcoming project or hear more of her work? Check out her website at: https://daniellefamble.com/ This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems! Your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers, to studio gear and more, they've got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp! Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!

Careful, because in this episode of The Making WAVs VO Podcast, we sit down with the multifaceted Michael Schwalbe - voice actor, casting director, and director. And if you’re not ready, you might just get blown away by his energy, creativity, and range! Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring monsters and creatures to life? Then this episode is for you! Michael is a master of vocal shifts and range, and yes, he can transform fast! You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly he moves from one voice to the next, all without any vocal strain. Michael takes us on a journey through his voice over career, sharing how his creativity, combined with smart sales and marketing strategies (when done right), has helped propel him forward. And trust us, that’s just the beginning of this conversation! Whether you’re fascinated by the art of creating voices for video games, a longtime fan of Michael’s work, or simply love exploring the creative process behind voice acting, this episode is packed with golden takeaways and plenty of laughs along the way. Plus, you’ll hear about two nightmare sessions and watch Michael tackle a cold-read challenge, all right here on The Making WAVs VO Podcast! Want to hire Michael or check out his incredible work? Visit https://michaelschwal.be/ This episode is brought to you by Full Compass Systems! Your trusted partner for all things audio. From microphones and mixers, to studio gear and more, they've got everything you need to keep your setup sounding sharp! Ready to take your studio to the next level? Visit www.fullcompass.com to upgrade your studio today!