What does it really take to build a successful career as a professional actor and voice actor? In this episode of the Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I sit down with actor and voice actor Zach Lazar Hoffman for an honest conversation about the discipline, mindset, and persistence required to succeed in today's entertainment industry. Zach's career spans commercials, animation, video games, television, film, and audiobooks. You've heard his voice for major brands including ESPN, BMW, Honda, Microsoft, and the Las Vegas Raiders, and gamers may recognize him from Five Nights at Freddy's: Ultimate Custom Night, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and Narcos: Rise of the Cartels. On camera, he's appeared in productions including Fear the Walking Dead, The Resident, and National Treasure. But this conversation goes far beyond résumés and credits. Zach shares how growing up with a father in the voiceover industry shaped his journey, why he ultimately chose to forge his own path, and how studying the craft of acting transformed not only his performances but his entire outlook on life. We discuss auditioning, creating believable characters, the realities of building a career in voiceover, balancing voice acting with on-camera work, and why consistency matters far more than talent alone. We also dive into Zach's remarkable health transformation, exploring how improving his physical and mental health strengthened every aspect of his life—from confidence and discipline to creativity and performance. Whether you're an aspiring voice actor, an experienced narrator, an on-camera actor, or simply someone pursuing a creative dream, this episode is packed with practical advice, inspiration, and valuable lessons from someone who's living the journey every day. Visit MikeLenzVOPodcast.com for links, show notes, and more episodes.
