Tales From the Booth Podcast: Recent Episodes
Voice Masters: The Art of Voice
What better way to learn the art of voice acting than a podcast from the "Voice Masters" experts? Join award-winning voice actors, producers, casting, and voice directors as your personal guides through the VO industry. Learn how to stay motivated, create awesome characters, and nailing that big audition, these Voice Masters share it all, along with their own tales from the booth!
In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Mimi Maynard sits down with acclaimed dubbing director, filmmaker, actor, and industry advocate Joe Fria for a candid conversation about performance, casting, and the art of bringing characters to life.
Drawing from his unique journey from stage actor to sought-after director, Joe shares how his experiences in front of the microphone have shaped the way he works behind it. From discovering his creative calling in directing to building a career rooted in storytelling, Joe offers an honest look at the lessons that have informed his approach to actors, auditions, and performance.
Together, Mimi and Joe explore what directors are truly listening for in an audition, why authenticity matters more than chasing the "perfect" read, and how actors can bring their own instincts and individuality into every role. They discuss the evolving world of dubbing, the importance of musicality and rhythm in performance, and the often-overlooked physicality of voice acting—where great performances come not just from the voice, but from fully embodying the character on screen.
Filled with practical insight, industry wisdom, and a deep appreciation for the actor's craft, this episode offers valuable guidance for performers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're working in dubbing, animation, games, or on-camera, Joe's perspective serves as a powerful reminder that the most memorable performances aren't about perfection—they're about truth, connection, and commitment to the story.
Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:
🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Gregg Berger: The Voice of Legends, Monsters, and Heroes
In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Paulette Lifton welcomes legendary voice actor Gregg Berger—a performer whose unmistakable voice has powered some of the most iconic characters in animation, video games, and television for over four decades.
Fans around the world know Gregg as the mighty Grimlock from Transformers, the lovable Odie from Garfield and Friends, and the fearless hero from The Tick. His voice has also appeared across countless beloved franchises including G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Batman: The Animated Series, and Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Gregg shares stories from inside the booth about bringing larger-than-life characters to life, sustaining a career across decades of changing technology, and finding truth and humor in even the most outrageous performances. From heroic warriors and gruff monsters to comedic sidekicks and unforgettable creatures, Gregg reveals how versatility, imagination, and pure love of the craft have shaped his extraordinary journey.
Paulette and Gregg also discuss the evolution of the voiceover industry, the magic of classic animation recording sessions, and what today's actors can learn from the golden era of ensemble voice acting.
This episode is a celebration of one of the most recognizable voices in animation history—and a must-listen for anyone who loves character acting, storytelling, and the timeless art of voice performance.
Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:
🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Michael Scott: Voices That Play, Fight, and Feel Real
In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Paulette Lifton welcomes Michael Scott—a powerhouse performer, director, and educator whose work spans film, television, animation, and the full spectrum of modern voiceover.
Known for his distinctive, award-winning voice, Michael has helped define characters and campaigns for some of the world's most iconic studios and brands—from Warner Bros., DreamWorks, HBO, Netflix, Disney, Nickelodeon, and Hulu to global names like Apple, LEGO, Nike, Pepsi, McDonald's, Toyota, Verizon, and the United States Army.
Michael dives into the craft behind standout roles such as Damon in the beloved cozy game Wylde Flowers, Tyreese in The Walking Dead, and Darryl Waterhouse in the Critics' Choice–nominated animated series Young Love. The conversation also explores his expansive work across major franchises and fan favorites including Boss Baby, Genshin Impact, League of Legends, Batman: Arkham Shadow, Marvel Rivals, Street Fighter 6, Resident Evil, and Tony Hawk Pro Skater.
Beyond the mic, Michael is a sought-after voice and performance-capture director, currently helming multiple high-profile, NDA-protected projects with top studios such as Nerdy Bear Studios, Formosa Interactive, NetEase Games, The Halp Network, and Insomniac Games. Together, Paulette and Michael unpack what it takes to build emotionally grounded performances—whether you're animating heroes, crafting game worlds, or guiding actors through complex storytelling.
This episode is a masterclass in versatility, intention, and creative leadership—perfect for actors, directors, and anyone who loves the artistry behind the booth.
Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations: 🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Gene Vassilaros: Casting Characters That Breathe, Break, and Belong
In this episode of Tales from the Booth, animation casting and voice director Gene Vassilaros joins host Paulette Lifton for a deep dive into the creative heartbeat of animation. From shaping iconic voices that define entire worlds to guiding performances that balance comedy, vulnerability, and truth — Gene's storytelling instincts and sharp ear for authenticity have made him one of the most trusted voices in the booth.
Together, Paulette and Gene unpack the delicate art of casting chemistry: finding that perfect spark between actor and character, and how direction can turn a great read into something unforgettable. Gene shares stories from the studio, lessons learned from years of collaboration with top talent, and insights on what truly makes a character live.
Whether you're an actor, creator, or simply love the magic behind animation, this episode reminds us that great voice direction is about more than performance — it's about connection, courage, and heart.
Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations: 🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Andy Roth: The Art of Voice Casting and the Humanity Behind Performance In this episode of Tales from the Booth, renowned casting director and voice coach Andy Roth joins host Mimi Maynard for an illuminating conversation about the human side of voice acting — where authenticity, empathy, and instinct meet craft and precision.
From his early work casting some of animation and gaming's most memorable voices to mentoring hundreds of actors around the world, Andy shares his philosophy on what truly makes a performance click. He and Paulette dive deep into what casting directors listen for, how to bring truth to every read, and why connection always outweighs perfection.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Jonathan Reiner: The Heart Behind the Hustle and Being a Talent Manager. In this episode of Tales from the Booth, Emmy-winning showrunner and talent manager Jonathan Reiner joins host Paulette Lifton for an intimate conversation about passion, perseverance, and the business of show. From his early days as an entertainment journalist to producing for major networks and founding The PaRé Way (launching October 2025), Jonathan shares the lessons learned from a career built on both creativity and compassion.
Hear how Paulette and Jonathan’s friendship began at the That’s Voiceover! conference — and how that chance meeting evolved into a partnership rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and building artists who lead with heart.
Whether you’re an actor, writer, or creator navigating Hollywood, this episode is a reminder that behind every great career is a human story worth telling.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
🎙️Tales from the Booth Podcast: Sebastian Zancanaro Localization Producer and Dubbing Casting Director
Sebastian’s impressive resume includes: 🎥 Director, Producer, Writer, Actor, and Casting Director 🎭 Specialist in Creative Dubbing & Localization 🏆 Society of Voice Arts & Sciences nominee for Casting in Motion Picture Animation 🏅 Winner of Outstanding Dubbing in an Animated Motion Picture for Deep Sea
With over 13,000 hours of dubbing across 85+ TV shows & films, and 3,258+ dubbed episodes aired globally, Sebastian is a powerhouse in the world of dubbing and voice-over. His passion? Creating seamless, AAA-quality content under tight deadlines. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, Sebastian’s leadership spans teams from 3 to 100+, excelling in everything from script adaptation to casting and post-production.
As the Founder & President of Officina Official Production and Pictures, his work is currently making waves on the global film festival circuit, with credits in Deep Sea, 1923, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Ice Age: The Adventures of Buck Wild, and more!
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Tales from the Booth Podcast: Jeff Howell Master Commercial VO & Dubbing Pro. With over 30 years in the voiceover industry, Jeff Howell has worn every hat—agent, casting director, producer, dubbing director, and coach—shaping some of the most recognizable voices in media. His credits span Emmy-winning animation, award-winning promos, major ad campaigns, and audiobook collaborations with icons like Leonard Nimoy.
From Magic: The Gathering to Netflix and HBO Max dubbing, Jeff brings a rare mix of creative vision and performance expertise. In this episode, he shares his journey, insider stories, and lessons from directing, casting, and coaching talent worldwide. Listen to his advice on dubbing, commercial voice over and more!
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Tales from the Booth Podcast - Rudy Gaskins & Joan of the SOVAS Awards and the Power Behind the Mic
In this special episode, we step into the legendary world of Rudy Gaskins and Joan Baker—Co-Founders of That's Voiceover!™ Career Expo and the prestigious SOVAS Voice Arts® Awards. From humble beginnings to global recognition, Rudy and Joan share their extraordinary journey building the premier platform that celebrates excellence in voice acting.
🎧 Learn the origin story behind SOVAS, how That's Voiceover! became a must-attend event for VO pros and hopefuls alike, and get exclusive insider tips on how to submit your work for Voice Arts® Award consideration.
Whether you're a working voice actor or dreaming of your big break, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical guidance from two of the industry's most influential voices.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
🎙️ Tales from the Booth Podcast: From Solid Snake to X-Men – The Incredible Story of David Hayter This episode explores the incredible journey of David Hayter—from voicing the iconic Solid Snake in the Metal Gear Solid franchise to writing blockbuster screenplays like X-Men and X2: X-Men United. We dive into his creative process, transitioning into screenwriting, and navigating career challenges. David's story is a testament to resilience, versatility, and the power of storytelling across mediums.
Highlights:
- Early career and landing Solid Snake
- Behind the scenes of Metal Gear Solid
- Transition into screenwriting (X-Men, X2, Watchmen)
- Balancing voice work, writing, and directing (Wolves)
- Reflections on being replaced in Metal Gear Solid V
- Lessons on resilience and creative reinvention
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
In this episode of TFTB (Talk From the Booth), we sit down with powerhouse voiceover agent Micaela Hicks—whose career has taken her from Osbrink to top-tier agencies like Solid Talent, Atlas Talent, and VOX. Hosted by Eric Talent, this candid conversation gets into the real deal of what agents are actually looking for in today’s voiceover market.
Michaela shares invaluable insights on:
- What makes a talent truly stand out from the crowd
- How agents assess submissions (and what gets them excited)
- Tips for finding and keeping strong representation
- Common mistakes to avoid when reaching out to agencies
Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up, this is your inside track to navigating the business from someone who’s helped shape it.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Podcast Doppelgänger Alert! 🎙️ What happens when two powerhouse podcast hosts, both up for the same award, finally meet face-to-face? You get a must-hear mashup!
After crossing paths at the 2024 SOVAS Awards, Paulette Lifton (Winner of Best Podcast Host) and Kathy Grable (Nominee in the same category) made a pact: win or lose, they’d interview each other. And now, they’re making good on that promise.
In this special crossover episode, Paulette and Kathy dive into what it really takes to host a standout podcast and stay relevant in the ever-evolving world of voiceover. It’s honest, inspiring, and packed with behind-the-scenes gems from two of the industry’s best.
Whether you're a seasoned VO pro or dreaming of launching your own podcast, you won’t want to miss this dynamic conversation.
Tune in and hear what happens when kindred spirits with mics collide! 🎧
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
From Laughter to Legacy: The Voice and Story of Simon Kennedy 🇦🇺🎤
In this powerful episode, Paulette Lifton of Voice Masters sits down with the incomparable Simon Kennedy—an award-winning Australian voice actor, comedian, writer, and presenter whose career spans more than 25 years.
Fresh off his wins at the 2024 Voice Arts Awards for Best Voice Actor – Outstanding Body of Work and Outstanding Promo – TV or Streaming, plus a PromaxANZ Gold Award for Best Voice Actor, Simon shares the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hilarity of a career that’s as versatile as it is inspiring.
But this conversation goes deeper than voice acting. Simon opens up about his deeply personal memoir, "9/11 and the Art of Happiness: An Australian Story," a moving account of loss, forgiveness, and the pursuit of resilience after tragedy struck his own family.
With wit, warmth, and wisdom, Simon Kennedy offers listeners a rare glimpse into the life behind the mic—and the courage it takes to use your voice, both professionally and personally.
Don’t miss this heartfelt and unforgettable conversation with one of Australia’s most celebrated voices.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Stéphane Cornicard is inteviewed by Paulette Lifton of Voice Masters about his journey as a voice actor at 14 years old, the 500+ video games he voiced, his accolades from Steven Spielberg, being the voice of Cartoon Network, and what it takes to have the "Outstanding Body of Work Award" from SOVAS!
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
George The Tech is inteviewed by Paulette Lifton of Voice Masters about his inside knowledge of working with voice actors in regard to what it takes to be a pro in this business.
F.M. De Marco tells his story about becoming an Executive Producer and writer on the hit series Where's Waldo, Dragons and working with Paulette Lifton, Casting director for Spy Kids: Mission Critical. He shares his personal insight on voice casting, voice recording, and fun times in the booth himself. His invaluable info is for actors who want to work in animation voice-over.
Richard Dorton aka Mocapman is a video game actor specializing in Motion Capture. He is also a producer, director, and instructor of mocap. Find out what you need as a voice actor to get into this amazing part of voice acting.
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Jesse Courti is an incredible actor, director, and singer best known for playing Courfeyrac in the original Broadway show Les Misérables and for voicing LeFou in Beauty and the Beast.
Jesse leads us on an inspiring journey through his experiences as an actor/singer on stage, on screen, and behind the mic! With great audition tips and feeling confident singing as a character, Jesse shares all the secrets!
Check out Jesse Corti on iMDB to see all his past and future projects!
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Danny Fehsenfeld is an actor, singer-songwriter, public speaker, and writer. He also teaches actors how to sing from a different perspective. If you have any fear of auditioning for Animated series or movies when they require singing, this episode will be an enormous help! Danny has starred in many animated features from content from all over the world. As a singer, Danny's voice can be heard behind Celine Dion, Brian McKnight, Natalie Cole, John Legend to name a few. Learn what it takes to sing for animation and change how you feel about singing!
Follow Danny on Instagram and Twitter, and check out voicemasters.com for Danny's next class availability!
Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Candi Milo is a voiceover legend known for her work as kid genius Dexter on DEXTER'S LABORATORY, basketball legend Granny from SPACE JAM (and LOONEY TUNES), Madame Foster from FOSTER’SHOME FOR IMAGINARY FRIENDS, and hundreds more. In this episode, Candi shares not only HER unexpected journey into the VO world, but loads of advice on what YOU can do as you begin and attempt to navigate your own. Follow Candi on Instagram and Twitter candimilo.com And the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Cindy Robinson shares her incredibly honest and insightful experiences as an actor, director, and writer working in the voice over industry. From animation and video games to ADR and looping, Cindy’s credits include Amy Rose in SONIC BOOM!, Astrid in SKYRIM, and the Official Voice for the iconic BETTY BOOP. Learn what it takes to break into the industry from the pro herself!
Make sure to follow Cindy on Twitter and Instagram!
www.redheadsaid.com
And the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
From Rocky and Bullwinkle to Bill and Ted to Jimmy Kimmel Live, master impressionist Piotr Michael shares his insights on impressions, starting a career in voice acting, and how you can find your unique characters!
Follow Piotr Michael on Twitter and Instagram!
Check out his website here.
And the Voice Masters team: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
"If you're still alive, you're still in the game." BTG continues his conversation that will inspire you to dare to create your own content and fully express yourself as an actor.
Follow BTG here!
And the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
The highest grossing and most prolific humor writer, adventurer, and creator of Adventure Beast on Netflix, Bradley Trevor Greive (BTG) shares his stories as a paratrooper, living life to the fullest, and the most important things you can do for yourself in Hollywood.
Follow BTG here!
And the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Terri Douglas, Pixar and Disney Walla Casting Director, shares her immeasurable wisdom on professionalism, performance, and how you can have the confidence that will get you discovered! Learn how you can get on her list! Follow Terri on her Instagram and
https://terridouglasadrvoicecasting.com And the Voice Masters team here: Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
Welcome to the Voice Masters: Tales from the Booth podcast! This week we talk to the voice of Bugs Bunny, Marvin the Martian, and so many more! Eric Bauza talks about discovering impressions, his love for cartoons, and how you yourself can become an iconic character. You can find Eric Bauza on Instagram and Twitter
And the Voice Masters team here:
Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters
Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com
Ashley Bornancin Instagram: @ashleybornancin
Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi
Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton
What better way to learn the art of voice acting than a podcast from the "Voice Masters" experts? Join award-winning voice actors, producers, casting, and voice directors as your personal guides through the VO industry. Learn how to stay motivated, create awesome characters, and nailing that big audition, these Voice Masters share it all, along with their own tales from the booth!