Inside Voice Acting Unplugged with J. Michael Collins

Introduction

Hello and welcome to an exclusive peek into “Voice Acting Unplugged,” a podcast that delves deep into the voiceover industry. In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the legendary J. Michael Collins, a behemoth in the voiceover realm, who has over 25 years of experience. Join our hosts, Margaret and Anthony, as they explore the fascinating world of voice acting with insights from J. Michael Collins.

Meet J. Michael Collins

J. Michael Collins is a renowned figure in the voiceover industry, lauded for his versatility and success as a professional voice actor. He has collaborated with top-tier organizations, earning recognition as an influential voice talent coach and demo producer. With over 50 industry awards, J. Michael is at the forefront of the voiceover craft.

From Radio to Voiceover

J. Michael shares his origin story, recounting his transition from radio to voiceover. Starting his career as a radio broadcaster, he was serendipitously drawn into voiceover when station sponsors started hiring him for commercials. By the age of 15, J. Michael was already making a substantial income, setting the stage for a successful career that saw him eventually bypass law school to fully embrace his passion for voiceover.

The Dynamics of Political Voiceover

One fascinating aspect of our conversation was the exploration of political voiceover work, especially its stark differences between the US and UK markets. Despite political shifts, J. Michael explains how political voiceover remains a lucrative and continuously active sector in the United States, driven by issue-based ads and advocacy groups.

The British Voice in the American Market

For UK voice actors aspiring to break into the US market, J. Michael offers insightful guidance. He explains that British talent often finds opportunities in commercials and non-broadcast narration, particularly for international and luxury brands. While the ceiling might be limited, a decent income is attainable with strategic marketing and agency representation.

Entering the Voiceover Industry

J. Michael’s advice to newcomers is both inspirational and realistic. He emphasizes the importance of professional training, competitive audio setups, and high-quality demo reels. Understanding the business aspect of voiceover is crucial, and newcomers should be prepared for a journey of gradual growth rather than overnight success.

The Impact of AI on Voiceover

A topic of great interest was AI’s role in the voiceover industry. J. Michael shares his perspective, noting that while AI has made some inroads, it hasn’t drastically impacted the high-end market. He views AI as a parallel industry, highlighting that creative projects still thrive on the unique qualities that human voices bring, which AI lacks.

Voiceover Conferences: Building Communities

J. Michael accentuates the value of voiceover conferences like VO Atlanta for networking and learning. Beyond the sessions, conferences serve as spaces where professionals can forge meaningful connections, often leading to collaborations and opportunities within the community.

Looking to the Future of Voiceover

In a rapidly evolving field, J. Michael anticipates changes in casting trends, particularly within the US market. He predicts a shift away from a singular “it” voice to a more inclusive approach, where diverse voices find opportunities based on merit and suitability for specific projects.

Exclusive Voiceover Retreats

J. Michael and his team organize exclusive retreats that offer intensive learning experiences in luxurious settings. These events are designed for advanced talents seeking to elevate their careers with insights from top industry professionals, offering both education and an environment for personal growth.

Conclusion

J. Michael Collins leaves us with a profound understanding of the voiceover industry and valuable advice for both aspiring and seasoned voice actors. Whether it’s exploring new markets, embracing technology, or building professional networks, his insights are invaluable for navigating the ever-evolving world of voiceover. Tune in to the latest episode of “Voice Acting Unplugged” to hear more from J. Michael Collins, and don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes.

Join Margaret & Anthony next time on Voice Acting Unplugged.