Celebrating Unity and Talent with Wonderland VO: An Inspiring Journey in Voice Acting

Introduction

Welcome to a vibrant exploration of the world of voice acting, as shared in the podcast “Voice Acting Unplugged” with hosts Anthony Rudd and Margaret Ashley. This episode’s special guest, Brad Shaw, shares his remarkable journey of overcoming personal challenges and creating a supportive community through Wonderland VO. This blog post delves into Brad’s inspiring story, his vision for Wonderland VO, and his insightful advice for aspiring voice actors.

The Origin of Wonderland VO

Brad Shaw, an inspiring actor and VO entrepreneur, recounted the origins of Wonderland VO. During the lockdown, after overcoming stage three melanoma and other personal health challenges, Brad focused on creating positivity around him. This motivated him to initiate the Wonderland projects, starting with a creative endeavor based on “Alice in Wonderland.” He rallied a community of voice actors to record one-minute chunks of the book, bringing joy and encouragement to both contributors and listeners.

Building a Supportive Community

Out of these efforts, Wonderland VO emerged as an online social platform that connected voice actors across the globe. Brad’s vision was to foster a community of like-minded individuals where collaboration and camaraderie flourished. It offered regular social gatherings, script workouts with guest directors, and marketing sessions, all aiming to provide skills and support in a fair and enriching environment. The initiative soon grew into a resilient support network, characterized by its intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Challenges, Triumphs, and a Vision for the Future

Brad shared both personal and professional challenges and triumphs throughout his journey. Despite battling health setbacks, he continuously found solace and strength in these collective projects. His resilience and dedication culminated in receiving the Inspiration Award at the One Voice Awards in 2024, a testament to his remarkable efforts in the voice acting community.

Looking to the future, Brad envisions Wonderland VO continuing to evolve, guided by the sense of community and mutual support that has been its foundation. He emphasized perseverance, constant learning, and community engagement as key factors for success in the voice acting industry.

Advice to Aspiring Voice Actors

For newcomers eager to enter the world of voice acting, Brad imparted valuable advice: approach the industry with realism, perseverance, and a clear five-year plan. He stressed the importance of coaching, networking, and embracing storytelling, regardless of the genre. Engaging in activities that boost confidence and voice exploration, such as drama groups or improvisation, was advocated as a foundational practice.

Conclusion

Brad Shaw’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength found within community and creativity. Wonderland VO stands as a beacon for voice actors worldwide, promoting collaboration and growth. Aspiring voice actors can draw inspiration from his journey, embracing challenges with determination and resilience as they navigate the evolving landscape of the industry.

For additional insights and opportunities to join the Wonderland VO community, refer to Brad’s contact details in the show notes. Follow along for more episodes of “Voice Acting Unplugged,” and engage with the vibrant world of voice artistry.

Join Margaret & Anthony next time on Voice Acting Unplugged.