The NAVAgator - official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors

NAVA National Association of Voice Actors
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This is the official podcast of NAVA - education, advocating and investigating of behalf of the voiceover community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. JAN 28

    013 NAVAgator podcast - NAVA Demo Best Practices PT 2

    In this episode of The NAVAgator, the official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors, host Graeme Spicer finishes his exploration with Tim and Carson about the essential guidelines and best practices for voice actors when working with demo producers. The discussion emphasizes the importance of transparency, trust, collaboration, and integrity in the demo production process. They address key topics like rate clarity, turnaround times, defining relationships, payment terms, and the necessity for voice actors to be demo-ready. The conversation also delves into avoiding scams, ensuring good communication, and the issue of using real brand names in demo scripts. 00:00 Introduction to Part 2 of Demo Best Practices 01:10 Understanding Producer Rates and Turnaround Times 02:12 Building Trust and Collaboration 04:09 Defining Relationships and Payment Terms 05:47 Clarifying Services and Acting with Integrity 08:33 Recognizing When You're Demo Ready 10:22 Avoiding Scams and Promises 12:15 Effective Communication and Feedback 18:55 Final Thoughts and Common Misconceptions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    24 min
  2. 012 NAVAgator podcast - NAVA Demo Best Practices PT 1

    11/27/2025

    012 NAVAgator podcast - NAVA Demo Best Practices PT 1

    Crafting Effective Voiceover Demos: Insights and Best Practices In this episode of 'The NAVAgator,' the official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), host Graeme Spicer kicks off part one of a two-part series on the role of voiceover demos. Featuring insights from Carson Beck, a successful voice talent and producer, and Tim Friedlander, a renowned voice actor and president of NAVA, the discussion covers the importance of demo integrity, how to distinguish reputable demo producers, and the various purposes a demo serves in different stages of a career. The episode also touches on the significance of 'overproduction', the reality of building rapport with demo producers, and the potential pitfalls of DIY demos. This podcast aims to equip voice actors with the right questions to ask and considerations to make when venturing into the world of demos. 00:00 Introduction to Voiceover Demos 01:12 Meet the Experts: Carson Beck and Tim Friedlander 01:31 Navigating the Demo Production Landscape 04:17 The Role and Purpose of a Demo 07:17 The Importance of Authenticity in Demos 09:15 Avoiding Overproduction and Unrealistic Expectations 12:16 The Subjectivity of Demo Needs 22:15 DIY Demos: Pros and Cons 29:08 Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min

  3. 11/10/2025

    011 NAVAgator podcast - Sexual Harassment in the VO Community

    Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Voiceover Industry: An In-Depth Discussion with Karin Gilfry In this episode of The Navigator, the official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), host Graeme Spicer interviews Karin Gilfry, NAVA Vice President, to discuss the pressing issue of sexual harassment within the voiceover community. The conversation spans definitions of sexual harassment, unique challenges faced in the industry due to its freelance nature, and the creation of a new sexual harassment resource guide by NAVA. They delve into the complexities of addressing sexual harassment without a central HR department and offer practical advice for those who may experience uncomfortable situations. Karin also emphasizes the importance of proactive education, bystander intervention, and the role of alcohol in exacerbating these issues. The episode aims to provide a framework for understanding, preventing, and addressing sexual harassment, advocating for a community informed by mutual respect and professional boundaries. 00:00 Introduction to Sexual Harassment in Voice Acting 01:14 Defining Sexual Harassment 01:42 Challenges in the Voiceover Industry 02:37 Creating Guidelines and Best Practices 03:51 Power Imbalances and Reporting Issues 04:59 Advice for Handling Harassment 06:23 Concerns from Men and Women 07:43 Understanding Grooming Behavior 08:56 Maintaining Professional Boundaries 09:10 Addressing All Gender Scenarios 10:09 Importance of Apologies and Communication 12:34 NAVA's Role and Limitations 16:13 Encouraging Education and Awareness 20:50 Alcohol's Impact on Professional Behavior 21:44 Bystander Intervention and Support 22:49 Conclusion and Open Communication Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    24 min

  4. 09/02/2025

    010 NAVAgator podcast - On the Streets in Washington and Sacramento: Political Advocacy

    In this episode of The NAVAgator, the team from the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) discuss their political advocacy efforts in Washington and Sacramento. The team, including NAVA President Tim Friedlander, VP Carin Gilfry, and Director of Operations Matthew Parham, shares insights into their legislative focus on protecting voice actors' rights amidst the rise of AI technology. They delve into specific legislation like the No Fakes Act and state level bills aiming to regulate AI and intellectual property. The conversation highlights the challenges of advocating in a dynamically changing technological environment and the importance of bipartisan support and persistence in legislative efforts. 00:00 Introduction and Ideological Unity 00:25 Welcome Back to The Navigator 01:08 NAVA's Political Advocacy Efforts 01:51 Challenges of AI Legislation 05:04 The No Fakes Act and Federal Efforts 11:34 State-Level Legislation and Its Impact 27:25 A Day in Washington: Advocacy in Action 35:16 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    36 min
  5. 009 NAVAgator podcast - Education update with Tracy Lindley

    06/27/2025

    009 NAVAgator podcast - Education update with Tracy Lindley

    In this episode of The NAVAgator Podcast, host Graeme Spicer speaks with Tracy Lindley, Director of Education at the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA). They discuss the variety and philosophy behind NAVA’s educational programs, which blend performance and business skills to cater to diverse voice actors. Tracy shares her journey, NAVA's mission, unique class offerings, fundraising efforts, and how the organization champions inclusivity and community in the voice acting industry. Listeners are encouraged to participate and provide feedback to help shape future programming. 00:00 Introduction to the Navigator Podcast 00:49 Meet Tracy Lindley: Director of Education at NAVA 03:11 The Role and Impact of NAVA's Educational Programs 04:42 Fundraising and Community Events 05:56 Class Structure and Accessibility 08:17 Resources and Benefits for Members 10:26 Choosing Topics and Instructors 19:21 Inclusivity and Feedback 24:37 Upcoming Classes and Events 26:55 Conclusion and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    28 min
  6. 008 NAVAgator podcast - Best Practices for Authentic Casting

    06/09/2025

    008 NAVAgator podcast - Best Practices for Authentic Casting

    The Navigator: Creating Inclusive Best Practices with Nava In this episode of The NAVAgator, host Matthew Parham discusses the development and significance of NAVA's Best Practices for Authentic Casting. Joined by Jazzy Frizzle from Voices of Color, JP Karliak from QueerVox, and Aimee Gironimi from the Disabled Voice Actors Directory, the panel shares their experiences and perspectives on the importance of inclusive casting in the voice acting industry. They highlight the collaboration between diverse organizations, the challenges faced in creating these best practices, and the impact these guidelines have had on promoting intentional and authentic representation. The episode emphasizes the value of dialogue, community building, and the ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity within the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Authentic Casting 00:54 Meet the Collaborators 01:33 The Birth of Best Practices 05:52 The Importance of Safe Spaces 08:35 Challenges and Solutions in Authentic Casting 18:55 The Impact and Future of Best Practices 30:37 Final Thoughts and Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min

  7. 05/26/2025

    007 NAVAgator podcast - Voice Acting for Kids: A Parent's Guide to Best Practices

    Creating Best Practices for Kids in Voiceover: Insights from Industry Moms This episode of The NAVAgator Podcast by the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) discusses the development of the Best Practices for Kids in Voiceover. Host Carin Gilfry, with guests Jennifer Sun Bell, and Laya Hoffman (all mothers of young voice actors), share their experiences, challenges, and insights into working with children in the voiceover industry. They cover the nuances of protecting children's futures and voices, highlight crucial guidelines for auditions, directed sessions, and rate usage, and emphasize the importance of creating a safe and empowering environment for young voice actors. The episode serves as a valuable resource for parents and industry professionals working with child voice actors. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 01:41 The Origin Story of Best Practices for Kids in Voiceover 04:51 Challenges and Solutions in Kids' Voiceover Work 07:15 The Importance of Best Practices and Guidelines 08:43 Breaking Down the Best Practices 15:26 Audition Guidelines and Turnaround Times 20:16 Musical Auditions and Challenges 22:00 Directed Sessions: Best Practices 23:47 Parental Advocacy in Sessions 31:50 Rates, Usage, and Legalities 37:40 Final Thoughts and Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  8. 006 NAVAgator podcast - Standing Up For Yourself with Maria Pendolino

    05/14/2025

    006 NAVAgator podcast - Standing Up For Yourself with Maria Pendolino

    In episode six of The Navigator Podcast, Vice President Karin Gilfry speaks with Maria Pendolino, hailed as an expert negotiator in the voice acting industry; and Graeme Spicer. They discuss strategies for standing up for oneself in business dealings, drawing on Maria's career transition from finance to voice acting. Key topics include navigating negotiations, understanding client needs, setting fair rates, managing relationships with agents, and protecting oneself against potential AI misuse. This episode offers practical advice for voice actors on effectively managing their careers and ensuring fair treatment from clients. 00:00 Introduction to Negotiation for Voice Actors 00:50 Meet Maria Pendolino: The Queen of Negotiation 02:35 Maria's Journey: From Corporate America to Voice Acting 06:16 The Art and Commerce of Voice Acting 08:45 Practical Tips for Negotiating Rates 16:54 Handling Client Relationships and Quotes 22:25 Working with Agents and Managers 27:02 Contracts and AI Concerns 36:49 Conclusion and Contact Information www.voicebymaria.com Maria Pendolino is an award-winning voice actor who began her performing career scream-singing Broadway musicals like Phantom of The Opera and Les Mis in her basement, while dragging her parents along to community theatre auditions. Today, Maria works across voiceover genres like commercials, promo, animation, games, industrial, imaging, documentary, politicals, telephony, and more.  As a voiceover industry educator, Maria often presents classes and webinars that focus on topics like thinking like a business, negotiation, marketing, building a solid business foundation, and taking your income to the next level.  Maria lives in Buffalo, NY with her husband Eric and their tuxedo & calico cats. She proudly serves on NAVA's Advisory Board and is active with the National Association of Women Business Owners and the Buffalo Broadcasters Association. She was also a founding member of the Disabled Voice Actors Directory (DVAD). Her fun fact is that she was on an episode of HGTV's House Hunters. You can see more about Maria on her website, voicebymaria.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min
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This is the official podcast of NAVA - education, advocating and investigating of behalf of the voiceover community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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