The Voiceover Social Podcast
The VO Social podcast has relaxed interviews, chats and discussions about all aspects of a voice actor's career. With guests from across the voiceover industry, we look at what it takes to make voice acting your career. Hosted by Rob Bee (VO producer, engineer & home studio guru) and Helen Bee (VO branding, websites & self-promotion) from B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard. New episodes every 1st Tuesday of the month. Info and events on our website TheVOSocial.com
92: The VO Social Podcast with Phil Rowe
What’s it like to be a multi-award winning voice actor? Fresh from winning 3 categories at the VOX Awards 2026, we chat to Phil Rowe about his voice acting career, entering and winning awards, and if they've helped win new clients. We chat about how he started out in voiceover, the things that made the biggest difference to his career how he markets his business, talking about how he’s used his native Welsh accent in marketing and how that has changed over the years, and how being based out of London impacts the jobs he gets.Phil Rowe is a multi-award-winning Welsh voice actor, writer and audio producer whose career has taken him from more than three decades as a professional singer to performing in commercials, video games and original audio drama.A three-time winner at the 2026 VOX Awards, including Best Male Voiceover Performance of the Year and the prestigious Judges' Choice Award, Phil also won a One Voice Award in 2024 and has received multiple nominations for his performance and production work.His voice credits range from international brands and television campaigns to character roles in games including Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus II, Graveyard Keeper 2 and Out of Sight, among others.Alongside his voice acting career, Phil has developed a passion for creating his own opportunities, writing, performing and producing original audio drama through projects including YstalyFEAR and the six-part gothic horror series The Ninth Bell. His work has earned him a place on the shortlist for New Producer at the 2026 Audio Production Awards.Based in South Wales, Phil continues to explore new creative territory, driven by a belief that some of the most rewarding opportunities are the ones you make for yourself. Visit Phil’s website: https://listen.philrowevoice.comTo hear Phil’s audio dramas: https://podfollow.com/the-spooker-presentsA Voice Like This poetry podcast: https://a-voice-like-this.captivate.fmContact Phil on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/phil-rowe-voice👋🏻 Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••📣 For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Be Seen, Be Heard – our new membership We've built a membership for working voice actors who want support on the business side of their career. Branding, websites, marketing, home studio, audio production – and the accountability to actually get it done.What's included:Weekly co-working callsMonthly coaching sessions with Rob and HelenAsk Us Anything sessions – at least six per year for membersFree access to all our webinars (usually £40 a ticket)Script read-throughs and direction with RobHome Studio Accreditation – brand new, never been done beforeDiscounted one-to-one sessionsMembers' forum and directoryStandard membership: £35/month. Find out everything at b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
91: Script Copywriting with Steve Dunbobbin
Want to know what makes a good script? How to keep a 30-second advert selling double-glazing interesting? If voice actors should suggest script amends, or keep quiet? Or how to spot when something has been written by AI? We've got you! With over 25 years' experience writing for voices in advertising, Steve is the copy font of knowledge we've all been looking for. https://stevedunbobbin.uk/👋🏻 Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••📣 For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Be Seen, Be Heard – our new membership We've built a membership for working voice actors who want support on the business side of their career. Branding, websites, marketing, home studio, audio production – and the accountability to actually get it done.What's included:Weekly co-working callsMonthly coaching sessions with Rob and HelenAsk Us Anything sessions – at least six per year for membersFree access to all our webinars (usually £40 a ticket)Script read-throughs and direction with RobHome Studio Accreditation – brand new, never been done beforeDiscounted one-to-one sessionsMembers' forum and directoryStandard membership: £35/month. Find out everything at b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
90: Voice Actor Demos
Demo Reels. The absolute essential item that every single voice actor will need. We thought it was about time we chatted about demos, inviting award-winning demo producer Rich O’Donoghue from ioaudio to the conversation.Rob and Rich geek out a little on the what, whys and how’s of demo production. We talk script writing, hiring a producer or DIYing them and we talk money - especially why demos in the USA often cost 3-times what they do in the UK.Demos are an essential non-negotiable part of being a voice actor, and this episode is here to help those with several demos and people planning their very first one.We also have a demo-themed Panic Room - taken from our FREE Ask Us Anything sessions.About Rich O’DonoghueRich is an award-winning audio producer with a background in commercial and demo production. After working in TV and radio for a number of years, he set up io Audio to cater for the voice over industry, whilst continuing to produce commercials and provide his own voice over services.The team at io Audio provide a complete voiceover demo production service, building every aspect of a demo reel to suit the artist's needs. They work personally with every voiceover artist from start to finish, because they believe it's the only way to produce a demo that can genuinely move a career forward.Whether it's a first demo or an upgrade on an old one, io Audio aims to make it an investment that pays off:Unique voiceover demo scripts, written by their pro script writing team.Tailored voiceover coaching to perfect delivery.Professional voiceover directors to guide performance.Award-winning audio producers to enrich the voice.Website: www.ioaudio.co?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Be Seen, Be Heard – our new membership We've built a membership for working voice actors who want support on the business side of their career. Branding, websites, marketing, home studio, audio production – and the accountability to actually get it done.What's included:Weekly co-working callsMonthly coaching sessions with Rob and HelenAsk Us Anything sessions – at least six per year for membersFree access to all our webinars (usually £40 a ticket)Script read-throughs and direction with RobHome Studio Accreditation – brand new, never been done beforeDiscounted one-to-one sessionsMembers' forum and directoryStandard membership: £35/month. Find out everything at b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
89: Trans Talent
Two trans voice actors, two very different journeys into the booth, and a masterclass in turning your voice into your biggest asset. Izzy and Zee join Rob and Helen Bee to talk about how transitioning reshaped their voices, why having more than one vocal range became a career-defining strength rather than a complication, and what "authentic casting" actually looks like in practice. They get candid about being cast because they're trans, being cast despite it, the online abuse that comes with visibility, and why the voiceover industry might just be one of the most welcoming corners of the business. A brilliant, honest listen for anyone curious about identity, casting and the voices behind your favourite games and animation.Plus - News from Equity: a tribute to Equity legend Sheila Mitchell, updates from ARC on AI protections, and the relaunch of the usefee.tv rate calculator.Izzy Valkyrie is a transfem actress known for her vocal range, which is described as chameleon-like. She played characters such as the Red and Blue Imaginary Friends in the popular Roblox game 'Pressure', several characters in SCP Fragmented Minds, and has featured as a voice actor in several official Genshin Impact Hoyofair animations. Outside of gaming, she provides work for indie animation projects as well as many audiobooks.Zee Andrews is a transgender voice actor who has worked on several projects, including Forgotlings, Watcher of Realms, New World, I Married a Monster on a Hill, My Pride. Upcoming projects include Rocketships & Rayguns, Skobeloff Forest and Dictator Peach!Website: https://www.zeeandrews.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeeandrewsva/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zeeandrewsvo.bsky.socialEquity links:Vocal Health guide - https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/sector-specific-advice/singers-hub/vocal-healthWorking with a voice agency - https://www.equity.org.uk/advice-and-support/sector-specific-advice/audio-info-hub/working-with-a-voice-agencyRates calculator - https://usefee.tv/?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Be Seen, Be Heard – our new membership We've built a membership for working voice actors who want support on the business side of their career. Branding, websites, marketing, home studio, audio production – and the accountability to actually get it done.What's included:Weekly co-working callsMonthly coaching sessions with Rob and HelenAsk Us Anything sessions – at least six per year for membersFree access to all our webinars (usually £40 a ticket)Script read-throughs and direction with RobHome Studio Accreditation – brand new, never been done beforeDiscounted one-to-one sessionsMembers' forum and directoryStandard membership: £35/month. Find out everything at b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
88: Be Seen, Be Heard: Our Exciting New Membership
This month it's just the two of us – no guest, no apologies. We've got something new to share and we wanted to tell you about it ourselves.Be Seen, Be Heard – our new membership We've built a membership for working voice actors who want support on the business side of their career. Branding, websites, marketing, home studio, audio production – and the accountability to actually get it done.What's included:Weekly co-working callsMonthly coaching sessions with Rob and HelenAsk Us Anything sessions – at least six per year for membersFree access to all our webinars (usually £40 a ticket)Script read-throughs and direction with RobHome Studio Accreditation – brand new, never been done beforeDiscounted one-to-one sessionsMembers' forum and directoryStandard membership: £35/month. Join before 30th June and lock in a permanent Pioneer discount of £5/month for life.Find out everything at b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardThursday 18th June 2026 – 5pm BST / 6pm CET / 12 noon EDT / 9am PDT90 minutes. Free. No obligation.Helen on business goal-setting and tracking – the stuff we all avoid, made manageableRob on commercial script read-throughs with live directionQ&A – come and grill usCan't make it live? The replay is available for 48 hours – and so is the special launch pricing.Register free here b-double-e.co.uk/be-seen-be-heardAlso mentionedFish Audio – a warning Voice actors' voices are being cloned and listed on Fish Audio without consent. If you think your voice might be on there, search "Fish Audio" and check. In the UK contact Shannon Sailing at Equity. In the USA contact NAVA.We WON Best Voiceover Service Provider at the One Voice Awards 2026 for the 4th time!Panic Room - talking about Focusrite interfaces and Normalisation.?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
87: Hugh Klitzke on the Conversational Read – and Why Most Coaches Are Actually Just Directing
Hugh Klitzke on the Conversational Read – and Why Most Coaches Are Actually Just DirectingThis month we're joined by Hugh Klitzke – New York-based voiceover coach, director, and the person behind conversational VO. We met Hugh at One Voice UK last year (we won a pub quiz together, which felt like a good omen) and we've been wanting to get him on the podcast ever since.Hugh spent nearly 15 years directing over 125,000 voiceover auditions at Buchwald talent agency in New York. He now specialises in one thing: the conversational read. Not a genre. Not a style. A way of performing that the industry has been asking for for years – and that a surprising number of experienced voices still struggle to deliver.In this episode, we get into why that is.We talk about what "conversational" actually means technically – and it turns out it's far more specific than "just sound natural." Hugh draws on prosody, tessitura, vowel length, consonant weight, and the emotional centre of copy to explain what's actually going wrong when a read sounds like an announcement rather than a conversation. It's the kind of episode where you'll want to take notes.We also talk about:Why the British relationship to broadcast media creates a genuinely different challenge around the conversational readThe difference between directing and coaching – and why Hugh thinks most coaches are doing the former without realising itWhy cold reading is overrated, and the one question that can shift everythingHow a chance meeting with a speech pathologist changed the way Hugh teachesHugh's Open Studio – a free, live, fortnightly Zoom session where you can watch him coach in real time, no paywall in sightAI voices, mouth clicks, and why perfection is starting to feel like a problemHugh also shares the story of how he ended up at Buchwald – scoring a film for no money, selling phones at Radio Shack, and a favour that changed everything.If you've ever felt like your read is almost there but not quite landing, this one's for you.Find Hugh at http://conversationalvo.com/ and look for Open Studio in the menu to join a free live session.?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
86: Get in the room with Liz Drury
If you've ever wondered whether in-person business networking is worth your time as a voiceover artist, this episode might just convince you it is.This month we're joined by Liz Drury, a voiceover artist based in North Lincolnshire working with clients all over the world. Her voice has been used by some seriously well-known names – Hilton, JCB, Booking.com, Nestlé, Barnardo's and the Church of England among them – across everything from corporate videos and commercials to e-learning, explainer videos, telephone systems and museum tours. She's also the host of two podcasts: Small Business Big Network, which focuses on the world of networking, and Come Here!, a podcast about heritage attractions.Liz is a genuine advocate for in-person business networking as a route to finding clients, and in this episode she shares exactly how she's made it work for her voiceover business – including how to walk into a room full of entrepreneurs and make them understand what you do and why they need you.We chat about:How Liz got into voiceover and the kinds of projects she works onWhere she finds work – and whether P2P platforms play a roleWhy she rates in-person networking so highly, and what it offers that online can'tHow to talk to corporate business owners about voiceover in a way that resonatesPractical advice for VOs who want to start showing up at networking eventsWhether you're already attending networking meetings or you've been putting it off, Liz offers a refreshingly practical take on getting out there and building real relationships with potential clients.You can find out more about Liz at www.lizdrury.comNews From Equity - Find the link to the survey mentioned in the episode HERE. NB This is only for Equity members?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.•••••••••••••••••? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
85: VO Business Systems with JD Gibson
Be honest – how organised is your voiceover business actually? ?Because having a great voice is one thing. But running a business? That's a whole other skill set – and it's one a lot of us quietly struggle with.This month JD Gibson joins us, and he is not your average voice actor. Before the mic, he spent three decades as a computer programmer, systems consultant, and business advisor. He's built his own VO business from the ground up, figured out what works, and now loves helping other creatives do the same – without the overwhelm.We got into what a CRM actually is (and why it's not as complicated as it sounds), how to track your clients and work from research all the way through to a live job, and just how much you can automate when you're a one-person operation.We also talked about something close to our hearts on this show – why running your business properly matters just as much as developing your voice. It's easy to let the admin slide when you're focused on the craft. JD's been there, made the mistakes, and come back with the systems to prove it.Plus he shared some of the most common places voiceovers get stuck and gave us a few quick wins you can actually use now.If your business systems feels chaotic, this one's for you. ?Find out more about JD - https://gibsonvo.com--------------------------Panic room - Check out the blog Helen mentions in the Panic Room here.?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/ ? Find us online:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thevosocial- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevosocial ? About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.- B Double E website - https://b-double-e.co.uk/- B Double E newsletter - https://b-double-e.co.uk/newsletter/- B Double E Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/b_2_es/Podcast sponsored by B Double E and The Voicefinder.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
84: Radio Promo Voice with Abi Phillips
We're absolutely buzzing to bring you our chat with the brilliant Abi Phillips – a voice actor who's been working in the industry for 16 years and has the awards to prove it.You've definitely heard Abi's voice. Whether you've been flicking through radio stations, watching telly, or waiting on hold (she makes even that sound good), her warm, earthy British tones have been keeping you company. She's an award-winning powerhouse in radio and TV commercials and promos, but she's equally at home delivering crystal-clear e-learning, trustworthy corporate narrations, or voicing events and award ceremonies as the Voice of God. Basically, she's the Swiss Army knife of voice actors.Abi's journey started young – like, properly young – and we were fascinated to hear how she navigated the tricky transition from child voiceover artist to independent adult voice actor. Spoiler: it wasn't always smooth sailing, but the insights she shares are absolute gold.In this episode, we dive into:The Promo World – Abi gets into the details of radio promos, explaining what it actually takes to be a promo voice and how those sessions differ from your standard commercial work. If you've ever wondered why promo voices have that thing about them, Abi breaks it down beautifully.Station Voices and Career Strategy – Being a station voice is prestigious, but does it box you in? Abi gets refreshingly honest about how being the voice of a radio station can affect what other jobs come your way, and how to navigate those waters.Age in the Industry – We asked the question: Is promo work a young person's game? Abi's answer might surprise you (and reassure a few of us!).From her First Class BA Hons in Performing Arts at Winchester University to her current status as a multi-award-winning voice with serious versatility, Abi's got stories, wisdom, and that grounded perspective we love. Whether she's delivering punchy, conversational reads or sinking into a deep, gritty character with attitude, she brings authenticity and skill in equal measure.This is one of those conversations that feels like chatting with a mate who just happens to know loads about the business. Perfect listening whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out.Grab a brew, settle in, and let's get into it.Find Abi online:Website - https://voiceoverabi.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/voiceoverabiLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/voiceoverabi/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@voiceoverabiAnnette Rizzo also joins us fresh from Equity's recent meeting to give us an update on everything they are working on.••••••••••••••••• ? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/ ? The Great Big Voiceover Social - https://greatbigvosocial.com/ ? Find us online:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thevosocial- Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/TheVOSocial- Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1498027110496615/- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevosocial ? About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.- B Double E website - https://b-double-e.co.uk/- B Double E email list - https://b-double-e.co.uk/newsletter/- B Double E events - https://b-double-e.co.uk/events/- B Double E blog - https://b-double-e.co.uk/blog/- B Double E services - https://b-double-e.co.uk/services/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
83:Building a Voiceover Business That Actually Works (Even When Times Are Tough) With Caz Duthie
If you're thinking about giving your voiceover business a proper push in 2026 – brilliant. And if you're not? That's absolutely fine too. But if you are ready to get strategic about how you run things, this episode is exactly what you need.We sat down with Caz Duthie – business strategist, lawyer, former voiceover artist, and now the person helping voice actors understand the business behind the booth. Caz knows what it's like to build something from scratch. After spending over a decade in traditional employment, she made the leap into self-employment in 2019 and founded The Business Success Company, where she works with voiceover artists who want to move beyond "just getting the work" and start running their VO career like a sustainable business.And let's be real – 2025 has been tough for a lot of people. Caz doesn't sugarcoat that. But what she does offer is practical, clear-headed advice on how to prepare for 2026, which might well be more of the same. This isn't about toxic positivity or hustling harder – it's about getting clarity on your positioning, your visibility, and your long-term growth.In this episode, Caz shares her journey from voiceover artist to business strategist, the services she offers through TBSC, and how her VO experience directly shapes the work she does nowPlus, Caz is also managing her eight-year-old daughter's emerging voiceover and acting career, with credits including BabyTV, Netflix, and an 11-show live theatre run of Tink! at The Point Theatre. So she knows a thing or two about juggling multiple plates and making it all work.Whether you're looking to tighten up your business operations, get clearer on your strategy, or just hear from someone who genuinely gets the voiceover world, this conversation is packed with insight. And if you're thinking, "Maybe 2026 is my year to actually sort this out" – well, Caz has got you covered.Listen now and start the year with a plan that actually makes sense.?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.? Get in touch with Caz– Website - https://businessbehindthebooth.co.uk/– Getting Started - https://site.cazduthie.withtbsc.com/10-secrets-to-growing-your-business– LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cazduthie– Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/businessbehindthebooth.co.uk/••••••••••••••••• ? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/ ? The Great Big Voiceover Social - https://greatbigvosocial.com/ ? Find us online:- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thevosocial- Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/TheVOSocial- Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1498027110496615/- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevosocial ? About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.- B Double E website - https://b-double-e.co.uk/- B Double E email list - https://b-double-e.co.uk/newsletter/- B Double E events - https://b-double-e.co.uk/events/- B Double E blog - https://b-double-e.co.uk/blog/- B Double E services - https://b-double-e.co.uk/services/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
82: Highs, Lows & What's Ahead: Our 2025 Review
In this episode, we chat about the moments that made 2025 memorable – from industry shifts and personal wins to the challenges that tested us along the way. We're keeping it real about what worked, what didn't, and what we've learnt from both.We also look ahead to 2026 with excitement about what's coming for the voiceover community, including our Great Big Voiceover Social event in Manchester on 7th February.?? Your hosts are Rob Bee and Helen Bee.••••••••••••••••• ? For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:– The Voiceover Social Website - https://thevosocial.com/– Subscribe to our newsletter - https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/– See which events are coming soon - https://thevosocial.com/events/– Find your closest VO Social group - https://thevosocial.com/socials/ ? The Great Big Voiceover Social - https://greatbigvosocial.com/ ? Find us online:– Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thevosocial– Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/TheVOSocial– Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1498027110496615/– LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thevosocial ? About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.– B Double E website - https://b-double-e.co.uk/– B Double E email list - https://b-double-e.co.uk/newsletter/– B Double E events - https://b-double-e.co.uk/events/– B Double E blog - https://b-double-e.co.uk/blog/– B Double E services - https://b-double-e.co.uk/services/Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
81: Running a Voiceover Business with Paul Schmidt
Join us for a conversation with Paul Schmidt, who's been a successful USA-based voice actor for over 25 years and has been working full-time for several of those. But Paul isn't just behind the mic - he's also a voiceover business coach, community builder, and the creator of the VO Freedom Master Plan and the VO Pro Community.We first met Paul at One Voice Dallas, where Helen nearly decorated his white dinner suit with a glass of red wine (oops!). Fortunately, he saw the funny side - and we weren't too mortified to ask him on the podcast!In this episode, we dive deep into the business side of voiceover - the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that separate hobbyists from professionals. Paul shares hard-won insights from his quarter-century in the industry, from the business processes he couldn't live without to the conventional wisdom he completely disagrees with.Whether you're just starting to think about the business side of VO or you're a seasoned professional looking to refine your approach, Paul's combination of practical experience and teaching expertise offers something valuable for everyone. This isn't just theory - it's real-world advice from someone who's built a thriving voiceover career whilst helping countless others do the same.About Paul SchmidtPaul Schmidt is a successful voice actor, community builder, and voiceover business coach with over 25 years of experience in the industry. He's been full-time for the last several years and lives in beautiful Richmond, Virginia.Paul is the creator of the VO Freedom Master Plan, a voiceover marketing programme designed to generate consistent opportunities for voice actors to book work, and the VO Pro Community, a private, professional, global community created to meet the needs of voice actors and audiobook narrators who want to take their careers to the next level.Connect with Paul• ▶️ Subscribe: https://vopro.pro/youtube• ? Free Voice Actor Resources: https://vopro.pro/freesources• ? Work with Paul: https://vopro.pro/workwithme• ? The VO Pro Podcast: https://vopro.pro/podcast• ?️ Paul’s voice over website: https://paulschmidtvoice.com Upcoming Events & Resources? The Great Big Voiceover Social - Saturday 7 February 2026 in Manchester Tickets are now on sale! https://greatbigvosocial.com/tickets/? Local Voiceover Social Groups Check out our website for local groups meeting around the UK: https://thevosocial.com/? Join Our Newsletter Stay up to date with all things Voiceover Social: https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/? Social Dates All upcoming social dates are listed at the end of the podcast episode.The Voiceover Social is hosted by Helen Bee and Rob Bee, bringing you insights, tips, and honest conversations about the voiceover industry. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of voice professionals.The Voiceover Social is hosted by Helen Bee and Rob Bee, bringing you insights, tips, and honest conversations about the voiceover industry. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of voice professionals.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
80: The Home Studio Booth Build with Emily Jardine
Join us for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at building the perfect voiceover home studio recording booth with the multi-talented Emily Jardine! We also catch up with Annette Rizzo from Equity's Audio Committee to find out what Equity have been up to lately.When Emily moved house, she didn't just replicate her old booth setup. Instead, she embarked on a carefully planned journey to create her dream recording space. In this episode, we dive deep into every aspect of that process, from the initial planning stages through to the finished studio.We explore why Emily decided to start from scratch rather than recreating what she already had, when she started thinking about the new booth, and the step-by-step process of bringing her booth to life. Emily generously shares the investmentinvolved (yes, actual figures!), what she's learned along the way, and what she'd do differently if she were to do it all over again. Whether you're considering building your first home studio, upgrading your current setup, or just curious about what goes into creating a professional recording space, Emily's experience offers invaluable insights. She's refreshingly honestabout the challenges, costs, and unexpected discoveries that came with the project.About Emily JardineEmily is best known to many as a coach and casting director, but did you know she's primarily a voice artist? With thousands of credits under her belt in the last 14 years, you can't switch on the TV, radio, go online or play a game these days without hearing her somewhere. Her family have becomethoroughly bored with the sound of her voice and now refer to her as 'background noise'.Emily is represented by 45 agents around the world and has production clients spanning 26 countries. Voiceover is her first love and she's thrilled she gets to spend most of her working day in the studio. Some clients include Danone, Bentley,Pantene, WhatsApp, Eurostar, Mr Muscle, University of Cambridge and LEGO.She was nominated for Female VO of the Year in 2023, 2024 and 2025, and in 2022 she won the One Voice Inspiration Award.· Meet Elizabooth here - https://www.instagram.com/p/DNoxV1bv-QE/· Website - https://emilyjardinevoiceovers.co.uk/· Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emily__jardine/· LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-charlotte-jardine-award-winning-english-voice-artist-and-singer-1317303b/? The Great Big VoiceoverSocial - Saturday 7 February 2026 in Manchester Tickets are now on sale!? Local Voiceover Social Groups Check out our website for local groups meeting around the UK: https://thevosocial.com/? Join Our Newsletter Stay up to date with all things Voiceover Social: https://thevosocial.com/newsletter/? Social Dates All upcoming social dates are listed at the end of the podcast episode.· Website: https://www.equity.org.uk/get-involved/committees/audio-committee· Email: audio@equity.org.uk The Voiceover Social is hosted by Helen Bee and Rob Bee, bringing you insights, tips, and honest conversations about the voiceover industry. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of voice professionals.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
79: Audio Drama Production with Helen Quigley
Welcome to another episode of The Voiceover Social! We're your hosts Helen Bee and Rob Bee, and today we're diving deep into the world of audio drama production with the incredibly talented Helen Quigley.Helen is a freelance producer making audio dramas for B7 Media with impressive credits for BBC Radio 4, including the courtroom drama Barred and the epic nine-part saga Mahabharata Now. She's currently making her directing debut with a festive-themed audio drama broadcasting on Radio 4 this Christmas Eve.What We ExploreIn this fascinating conversation, we discover Helen's journey from voiceover artist to acclaimed audio drama producer. We explore how her production experience has transformed her approach to voicing, why she chose the complex world of audiodrama over simpler voice work, and what makes a truly captivating audio drama performance.Helen shares invaluable insights about breaking into audio drama, the qualities that make voices shine in this medium, and her thoughts on the BBC's recent decision to cut audio dramas from Radio 3. We also get her top tips for anyone lookingto work in this specialised field.Helen's Impressive CreditsBeyond her BBC Radio 4 work, Helen has produced Theatre of the Damned (inspired by the birth of Grand Guignol in 1920s Paris), radio soap Greenborne, comic space opera Venna's Planet, and the moving family drama Harry's Home. For Audible, she created The Space Race docudrama and the psychological thriller The Effect. She was also co-producer and dialogue editor on Wondery+'s audio movie Unsinkable, featuring Brian Cox, John Malkovich and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.As a podcast producer, Helen creates business intelligence podcast Principal Navigations, edits The English Heritage Podcast, and produces Iceworld for the British Antarctic Survey. She made history producing some of the UK's first comedy podcasts for Comedy Central UK back in 2006.Working from her garden office and recording studio in Chelmsford under her boutique production company Soundliness, Helen launched her first in-house seriesHot Flashes: Menopause Monologues in February 2025.Connect with HelenHelen Quigley - Soundliness · ? Website: http://soundliness.co.uk · Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hqvoice/· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenquigley/· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HQvoicePanic RoomThis month our question is for Helen about having a photo of yourself on your website Want to ask a question for The Panic Room? Panic Room questions are taken from our regular FREE Ask Us Anything sessions. All the details are here… Join our next Q&A session - https://b-double-e.co.uk/events/ask-us-anything/The Voiceover Social is hosted by Helen Bee and Rob Bee, bringing you insights, tips, and honest conversations about the voiceover industry. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of voice professionals.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
78: Voice Actor Rates - with Louisa Gummer
Voice Actor Rates - with Louisa GummerJoin us as we dive deep into one of the most confusing aspects of the voiceover industry with the brilliant Louisa Gummer - voiceover rates! If you've ever scratched your head wondering why VO pricing seems so complicated, or if you've struggled to work out what to charge for a job, this episode is absolutelyessential listening.Louisa brings over twenty years of professional voiceover experience to our conversation, along with her unique background combining trained acting skills, a mathematics degree, and business expertise. You might recognise her warm,authoritative voice from thousands of commercials, corporates, and documentaries - or perhaps you've heard her telling Northern Line passengers where to get off on the London Underground!What We CoverGetting Started We kick off by learning about Louisa's unusualcombination of being a trained actor, with a mathematics degree and a background in business.The Rate Revelation Ever wondered why voiceover rates seem so impossibly complicated? Louisa breaks down the history and reasoning behind our industry's pricing structure, explaining why that £200-for-an-hour's-workmentality is completely missing the point when it comes to broadcast commercials.Working Out What to Charge Louisa shares her top practical tips for calculating rates, helping you understand the factors that should influence your pricing decisions beyond just the time spent in the booth.Negotiation Know-How We tackle that dreaded phrase: "We don't have the budget." Louisa offers invaluable advice on how to handle rate negotiations whilst maintaining your professional worth.Global Perspective How do UK voiceover rates stack up against other international markets? We explore the differences and what that means for British voice talent.Resources and Guidance Finally, we point you towards the best places to get reliable rate guidance so you can price your work confidently. About Louisa GummerLouisa is an award-winning voiceover artist with over two decades in the industry. Her work spans commercials, corporates, documentaries, video games, animation,museum guides, audio dramas, audiobooks, and even announcements from MRI scanners and airplane cockpits! Born in Essex and raised across England and Wales, her neutral British English accent and warm, intelligent delivery havemade her a sought-after voice in the industry.Connect with Louisa· Louisa’s website - https://louisagummer.com/· Louisa’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/LouisaGummer/· Louisa’s Instagram - https://louisagummer.com/The Voiceover Social is hosted by Helen Bee and Rob Bee, bringing you insights, tips, and honest conversations about the voiceover industry. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join our community of voice professionals.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
77: The Neurodiverse Voice: Lizzie Jobling on Coaching, Community & Creative Strengths
Join hosts Helen Bee and Rob Bee from B Double E as we sit down with the brilliant Lizzie Jobling for an inspiring and honest conversation about neurodiversity in the voiceover industry. Lizzie, a full-time voice artist for seven years and coach for five, opens up about her adult diagnoses of ADHD and autism, sharing how these experiences have shaped both her career and her approach to coaching others.In this episode, we explore the unique strengths that neurodiversity can bring to voiceover work, discuss practical strategies for managing business challenges, and celebrate the importance of representation in our industry. Lizzie's journey from discovering her neurodivergent identity to becoming aCPD-accredited coach offers valuable insights for anyone navigating similar paths.About Our GuestLizzie Jobling is a full-time voiceover artist and founder of the Voiceover Foundations course. With seven years as a full-time VO and five years as a coach, you can hear Lizzie's voice on television, radio, and even in your local supermarket. When she's not recording, she's passionate about supporting others in reaching their VO dreams.Find Lizzie at elizabethjobling.com or follow her on Instagram @that_voice_lizzie for tips, tricks, and laughs.Key Topics DiscussedPersonal Journey & Neurodiversity· Lizzie's path into voiceover and how she got started· Her adult diagnoses of ADHD and autism, and the journey of discovery· The positive and challenging impacts of neurodiversity on her VO business· Unique strengths that ADHD and autism bring to voiceover workCoaching & Professional Development· What inspired Lizzie to start offering coaching· Her recent CPD (Continuing Professional Development) accreditation and its benefits· How neurodiversity influences her coaching approach· Supporting neurodiverse talent in the creative industriesIndustry Insights· Misconceptions about neurodiversity in creative fields· The VO community's response to openness about autism and ADHD· Game-changing strategies and tools for business management· Advice for neurodiverse individuals considering VO careers· Guidance for parents of neurodiverse children interested in creative pathsConnect With Lizzie· Website: elizabethjobling.com· Instagram: @that_voice_lizzie· Course: Voiceover FoundationsThank you for listening to The Voiceover Social! We're always excited to connect with our community and hear your thoughts on our episodes.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
76: Best Newcomer with Anna Cass
In This Episode:Join hosts Helen and Rob Bee as they chat with Anna Cass, the rising star who's taken the voiceover world by storm in just two years. Fresh from winning Best Newcomer at the One Voice Awards, Anna shares her inspiring journey from musical theatre performer to award-winning voice actor.This episode is perfect for aspiring voice actors and those curious about breaking into the industry. Anna's authentic insights into the realities of starting a VO career, combined with her infectious enthusiasm for the craft, make this a must-listen for anyone on their own voiceover journey.About Our Guest:Anna Cass is a voice actor from Hertfordshire now based in London, with a background in acting and musical theatre. Despite being relatively new to the industry, she's already made her mark by winning 'Best Newcomer of the Year' at the One Voice Awards in May 2024. When she's not behind the mic, Anna loves travelling (she's just returned from six months exploring South and Central America!), attending music festivals, and caring for her pet turtle, Squirtle.What We Covered:Anna's transition from musical theatre to voiceover work and what initially drew her to the industryThe VO heroes and inspirations that shaped her approach to voice actingHer experience of the voiceover community and how it's welcomed newcomersThe biggest challenges she's faced in her first two years in the businessWhat winning Best Newcomer at the One Voice Awards means to her careerHer long-term goals and where she sees herself in the next decadeThe genres and types of work that excite her mostHer biggest learning moments and "lightbulb" realisations so farHow she approaches skill development through coaching and practiceThe most surprising discoveries about the VO industryEssential advice for anyone considering a career in voiceoverWebsite - https://www.annacass.uk/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/annacassvoice/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-cass-718a09b8/How to find Anna:Website - https://www.annacass.uk/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/annacassvoice/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-cass-718a09b8/For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
75: Branding with Helen Bee
We've been hosting the podcast for just over 1 year (yay! And BIG thanks to everyone who listens!), but we've not really talked about what either of us actually do. So this month Rob Bee is interviewing Helen Bee about branding. Asking:what the hell branding is anywaywhy it's importantwhy it's NOT about how you soundwhere to start when you're branding our own VO business.For more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
74: 40 Years Behind the Mic – Guest Tanya Rich with hosts Rob Bee and Helen Bee
? In This Episode:Join Helen Bee and Rob Bee (frmo B Double E) as they sit down with the legendary Tanya Rich, one of the UK’s most experienced voiceover artists and coaches. With a career spanning four decades, Tanya has seen it all – from the golden age of voiceover to the rise of AI, from working in radio to becoming the voice of a lift, a water cooler, and an NHS campaign.We chat about:40 years in voiceover – how she started and what’s changedManaging the punk band ‘Discharge’ – unexpected side hustle?Her coaching philosophy – including the mysterious ‘breathing through your arse’ techniqueThe future of VO – what’s next for the industry?Tanya also opens up about her lesser-known disability and the challenges of working in voiceover with a hidden condition.About Tanya RichWith over 40 years in the industry, Tanya Rich is one of the UK’s most experienced and respected voiceover artists and coaches. From voicing major brands like Amazon, Audi, and Coca-Cola to lending her tones to TV, radio, IVR, and gaming, Tanya’s versatility has made her a go-to talent for clients worldwide. She was the first female voice used for IVR in the UK and has remained a pioneer in the industry ever since.Her expertise extends beyond the mic—Tanya is a highly sought-after voiceover coach, having trained countless professionals through RichCraft Voice Coaching and contributed to leading institutions like Bath Spa University. She’s also shared her knowledge through workshops, conferences, and her own podcast, Tanya Talks.Before her voiceover career took off, Tanya had a stint managing the punk band Discharge, proving that her talents aren’t just limited to the recording booth. Whether she’s voicing a high-profile commercial, coaching the next generation of talent, or discussing industry shifts, Tanya continues to shape and influence the world of voiceover with her passion, experience, and signature no-nonsense approach.? Links & Resources:Find out more about Tanya Rich: tanyarich.co.ukWant top-notch voiceover training? Check out RichCraft Voice Coaching: richcraft.bizFor more information about The Voiceover Social visit:The VO Social WebsiteJoin the VO Social Email ListVO Social EventsVO Social local groupsVO Social InstagramVO Social FacebookVO Social LinkedIn About B Double E:Rob Bee and Helen Bee run B Double E - together we help voiceovers to be seen and heard.B Double E websiteB Double E email listB Double E eventsB Double E blogB Double E servicesPodcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
73: Voicing Animations: guest Kate Harbour with hosts Rob Bee and Helen Bee
Voicing Animations with Kate HarbourThis month Rob and Helen Bee are joined by the legendary Kate Harbour – a voice actor with more iconic credits than you can shake a script at.You’ve heard her in Bob the Builder, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time, Octonauts, The Secret Show, Chip and Potato, Go! Go! Cory Carson… Honestly, the list goes on, and if we tried to name everything, we’d be here all day. She’s also a master of radio drama (Doctor Who, Robin of Sherwood), comedy (Puckoon, The Big Ben Theory), and Netflix dubs – basically, if you’ve ever watched TV, you’ve probably heard Kate.But she’s not just a voiceover powerhouse – she also teaches. Her Acting for Animation workshops have helped countless VOs bring characters to life, whether at top drama schools or in her own private coaching sessions. So, of course, we had to sit her down and grill her on everything: How did she get into animation? How does she build her characters? What makes a great animation performance? And crucially, how does her approach to teaching differ from everyone else’s?It’s a properly juicy episode, full of insights, laughs, and a fair bit of geeking out over characters. Let’s get into it!We also chat to Annette Rizzo - from Equity’s Audio Committee. She gives us the latest news on Equity's audio audit, BBC audio drama campaign, accessibility for blind/partially sighted for equity website, AI campaign and the Equity audio committee elections.Kate Harbour’s links: Website - kateharbour.com Acting for Animation workshop - info and booking link - https://www.kateharbour.com/a4a-book-ticketEquity Links: Save Audio Drama at the BBC campaign - https://www.change.org/p/save-audio-drama-at-the-bbcStop AI Stealing the Show campaign - https://www.equity.org.uk/campaigns-policy/stop-ai-stealing-the-show VO Social Links Great Big VO Social blog -b-double-e.co.uk/the-first-great-big-vo-social-a-review/ Great Big VO Social photo gallery - greatbigvosocial.com/photo-gallery/For more information about The Voiceover Social visit: The Voiceover Social Website Email us listen@thevosocial.com Subscribe to our newsletter See which events are coming soon Find your closest VO Social group Find us online: Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group LinkedIn Podcast sponsored by B Double E.Theme tune by Rob Bee.All audio production by Rob Bee.
