Want to know my word of the day? Enthusiasm.

Remember when you were a kid and someone mentioned ice cream? Or a water park? Or camping in the back yard? It was the greatest thing ever.

Enthusiasm is a state of mind. Enthusiasm breeds energy. It inspires action and is the most contagious of all emotions. I think one of my secret super powers in life is bringing genuine enthusiasm to everything I do. When I get up in the morning, I’m excited about what the day holds. I genuinely look forward to experiencing my first sip of coffee, going on my morning walk, and then seeing what creative opportunities await in my inbox! What on earth will I be voicing today? I can’t wait to find out! [Read more…] about The Power of Enthusiasm

You want to audition a lot. But how long should it take you to complete and submit a single audition?

Well, if you’re brand-spanking new to the auditioning process, it ain’t gonna be quick! And that’s normal!

First, you’re reading and interpreting the script, then voicing it several times. Then come the questions: Is your mic on? Is it set at a proper level? Did you shut the AC off? Is there any other background noise that could ruin your recording? Dogs barking? Kids yelling? (Wait…did you shut the AC off?!) [Read more…] about How long should you spend on a voiceover audition?

Whoo hoo! You’ve booked your first live session with a client! Or maybe this ain’t your first rodeo and you’re no stranger to live sessions. Whatever the case, it’s important to keep a few things in mind—and in your booth—when you get on the line with your client. [Read more…] about Top 5 Tips for Acing Your Live Recording Sessions

Auditioning. The big, scary “A” word. Let’s dig a little deeper into that, shall we?

Over the years, I’ve heard a lot of newer voice actors say things like, “I was so perfect for that job. I’m definitely gonna book it. I think I’ll email the producer and see if he’s heard anything yet.” [Read more…] about Auditions: Submit and Forget

You know what’s really important to pay attention to as a voice actor?

Energy!

Okay, okay, it’s easier said than done. We only have so much energy in a day, ya know?

So, when do you feel your best? Morning? Maybe you’re a night owl. Or does mid-day feel great for you? I ask this because that’s the ideal time to be auditioning/voicing your booked projects! If you’re tired, groggy, or not warmed up properly, you won’t be able to give 110% to your performances. And I know you want to give your best. [Read more…] about How’s Your Energy?

I’ve got 4 words for you: Do. What. You. Love.

Are you having fun? That’s the most important part of this whole thing! If you’re doing what you love, you should be having fun! We have to remind ourselves as we build our skills and learn the VO biz that we started this journey because it spoke to our hearts. The creative kid inside of us was like, “Hey! I want to play! I wanna tell stories and bring kooky characters to life!” Heck yeah, baby! You were born to do this. [Read more…] about Are You Having Fun Yet?

Maybe you’ve been a part of V-amily for awhile (our voice over family, that is)! Or maybe you’re a new kid on the block. Either way, I’d like to remind you of what The Voice Actors Studio, or TVAS 2.0, is all about. [Read more…] about Melissa Moats – Mama VO!

A question I often get asked is: How long should it take me to complete and submit a single audition?

Well, first let me say… If you’re brand spanking new at the auditioning process – it isn’t gonna be quick! First you’re reading/interpreting the script, then voicing it several times. Is your mic on? Is it set at a proper level? Did you shut the AC off?! After recording you’re listening back, selecting your keepers, cleaning them up, and lastly submitting… Yeah. It’s easy to get caught up in overthinking the direction. It’s also easy to obsess and overanalyze your performance. And when no one is there to stop you – you may end up reading any given audition script dozens of times! [Read more…] about Auditioning Advice from Melissa Moats

On Saturday, I enjoyed leading an On-Going Workshop where we talked a lot about getting out of our own way, and how sometimes when we’re caught up in the daily grind of life it’s difficult to get into a creative, playful mindset… while standing alone in our padded closets! The struggle is real! When you have the energy of your coach or fellow Voicers with you, it seems so much easier to tap into a more spirited performance mindset!

Here are a few tips for shaking off a bad day or going from your corporate day job vibe into revving up your Voice Over Mojo! [Read more…] about Hey Voicer, Feeling creative? Inspired?

I hope you know I think of you often. As a mentor and friend to the VO industry, as I go through my day as a full-time voice actor, I often catch myself thinking… This would be a great thing to share with up-and-coming talent!And ‘marketing’ – aka self promotion – is on that list! [Read more…] about Marketing Moats-ivation!