Mike Lenz Voice - A Journey Into Voice Acting

Mike Lenz interviews Bob Souer, Harlan Hogan and other amazing voice-over p
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Join professional voice actor, audiobook narrator, and author Mike Lenz as he shares stories from some of the most amazing and inspiring people from all areas of the voice-over industry to help you achieve your dream of becoming a professional voice actor.

  1. 156 - Why Authenticity Wins: Sonya Wills on Social Media, Voiceover & Starting Over

    5D AGO

    156 - Why Authenticity Wins: Sonya Wills on Social Media, Voiceover & Starting Over

    What if everything about your creative career could change in less than a year? In this episode, I sit down with Sonya Wills, a former commercial actor who stepped away from the industry to focus on family, only to find her way back through an unexpected path: social media. From having no online presence to building a thriving platform in just months, Sonya shares how experimenting with content, embracing authenticity, and leaning into her real-life experience helped her discover a powerful new direction—teaching creators how to show up confidently on camera. We dive into: Why social media is no longer optional for creatives How to find your "lane" without overthinking it The difference between being authentic vs. performative What most people get wrong about content creation How to bring real emotion into voiceover and on-camera work The mindset shift that unlocks growth in both acting and content Sonya also shares practical techniques for delivering more natural, compelling performances—whether you're behind the mic or in front of the camera. Her journey is a reminder that your past experience is never wasted—and that sometimes your next opportunity is closer than you think. If you're an actor, voice actor, or creator trying to figure out where you fit in today's evolving landscape, this conversation will give you both clarity and encouragement. 🎧 Connect with Sonya: TikTok: @the_mom_next_door Learn more: Camera Smart Creator

    48 min

  2. APR 6

    155 - Emma Faye: Building a Full-Time Audiobook Career as the Clean Reads Queen

    In this episode of The Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I'm joined by audiobook narrator Emma Faye—a 2026 Audie finalist, 2024 SOVAS nominee, and the narrator many in the industry know as the Clean Reads Queen. Emma has built a thriving audiobook career by staying true to her values and creating a highly intentional brand around clean, wholesome storytelling. She has narrated more than 170 clean-read titles across genres including closed-door romance, YA fantasy, middle grade, nonfiction, and Christian books. She's also the founder of Cats Meow Productions, a boutique audiobook production company focused on bringing more clean-read audiobooks into the world. In this conversation, we talk about Emma's journey from acting and film school to full-time audiobook narration, the challenges of building a niche career in a competitive industry, and the power of saying no to the wrong projects so you can make room for the right ones. We also discuss: What "clean reads" really means in audiobook narration Building a brand around your values The realities of marketing and outreach as a narrator Coaching, social media, and creating systems that work Why there is real power in protecting your boundaries If you're an aspiring narrator, or any creative professional trying to build a career that aligns with who you are, this episode is filled with practical insight and encouragement. To check out ohter episodes head over to mikelenzvopodcast.com!

    55 min

  3. MAR 2

    154 -Mike Previti: From Musician to Full-Time Voice Actor - Building a VO Career with Patience and Purpose

    In this episode of The Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I sit down with voice actor Mike Previti to talk about building a sustainable voiceover career later in life—and what it really takes to make the leap from "safe" to creative fulfillment. Mike's journey began with childhood acting gigs in the Boston area, shifted into years as a touring musician and singer-songwriter, and eventually led him back to the microphone—this time as a full-time professional voice actor. We talk candidly about leaving a high-stress corporate job, betting on yourself, and doing the slow, steady work required to grow a VO business. We also dive into: Why the voiceover industry is not linear—and why that matters The role of social media in building visibility and credibility Networking, workshops, and unexpected referrals Faith, patience, and trusting the long game Mike's three key principles: Be patient. Be intentional. Honor the work. If you're an aspiring voice actor—or a creative professional navigating a transition—this episode offers both practical insight and honest encouragement from someone who's walking the path. Learn more about Mike at MikePrevitiVO.com To check out ohter episodes head over to mikelenzvopodcast.com!

    1h 2m

  4. FEB 2

    153 - Scam-Baiting to Private Investigations: Rosie Okumura's Wild VO Pivot

    Rosie Okumura returns to the Mike Lenz VO Podcast with one of the most unusual (and inspiring) career paths in voiceover: she turned a deeply personal moment—when her mom was scammed—into a viral YouTube crusade that now reaches millions. In this episode, Rosie breaks down how she built her VO career in Los Angeles, how her "smart assistant" and voice-matching skills became a niche advantage, and how her live scam-baiting streams evolved into a powerful platform for educating viewers while exposing scammers through comedy and improvisation. You'll also hear the behind-the-scenes reality of internet fame—privacy risks, boundaries, and "parasocial" dynamics—and why (for Rosie) the bigger threat isn't always the scammers…it can be the wrong kind of follower attention. Then the conversation takes a sharp (and fascinating) turn into Rosie's newest chapter: launching a private investigation firm, IRL Investigations, where her VO skills unexpectedly translate into real-world investigative work—process serving, surveillance, fraud cases, and finding answers for clients who just want the truth. In this episode, we cover: The exact moment Rosie realized she'd gone viral—and what happened next How voice skills + improv can become a "live demo reel" for clients Staying safe online when your audience explodes The difference between "influencer" and "content creator" (and why it matters) Why Rosie believes you're never done learning—no matter how far you've come If you're a voice actor, creator, or someone building a multi-hyphenate career, Rosie's story is a masterclass in turning a curveball into momentum—and staying grounded while you grow. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/irlrosie/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0osV_nf2b0sIbm4Wiw4RQ

    56 min
  5. 152 - Tawny Platis Interview - From Child Actor to 1.8M Followers: Tawny Platis on Consistency, Creativity, and Career Growth

    JAN 5

    152 - Tawny Platis Interview - From Child Actor to 1.8M Followers: Tawny Platis on Consistency, Creativity, and Career Growth

    Voice actor and content creator Tawny Platis returns to The Mike Lenz VO Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about building a sustainable creative career—without waiting around for permission. Tawny shares how she landed her first voiceover job at just six years old, why she stepped away from entertainment to build a "safe" business (spoiler: it wasn't safe at all), and how that business experience became the secret weapon that helped her thrive once she went full-time in voice acting. We also dig into the real role social media plays in today's VO landscape—how Tawny approaches content as creativity (not advertising), why "auditioning all day" isn't always the smartest path, and what it means to build a brand that attracts the right opportunities. Along the way, Tawny talks about the mindset shifts that changed everything: staying consistent, being willing to experiment, learning the business side of VO, and not being afraid to try new directions—even if not every idea lands. In this episode, you'll hear: How Tawny's business background helped fuel her VO success Why the business side is the biggest hurdle for many voice actors What makes content connect (and why audiences tune out "ads") How to keep your brand fresh without losing what makes it recognizable Tawny's evolving perspective on AI—and what matters most moving forward Her best advice for creatives: take control, create your own opportunities, and don't fear being "cringe" Find Tawny online at tawnyvoice.com, and follow her across platforms at @TawnyPlatis (YouTube: @theTawnyPlatis).

    53 min

  6. 10/13/2025

    151 - Mike Lenz Update

    On this episode, Mike gives an update on his career including: The powerful advice he received after he moved into voiceover, audiobook narration and podcast producing full time almost eight years ago.  How networking and attending conferences propeled his audiobook narrration career forward and how he booked his first Union audiobook title.  The importance of health and well being to maximizing your vocal performaqnce in the booth.  His Audiobook Narrator Workouts that Mike launched recently and how they help narrators work on their craft in a small and safe environment.  His podcast producing journey and how the creation of his VO Podcast led to becoming a producer of other podcasts.  The four most important words you can say to someone!  Join Mike for this exicitng update full of great information and inspiration.

    24 min

  7. 09/08/2025

    150 - Sanya Simmons Interview - From Classical Flutist to SAG-AFTRA Audiobook Narrator

    IIn this episode, Mike sits down with audiobook narrator and author Sanya Simmons to talk about her path from classical musician to becoming a voice actor and audiobook narrator. What We Cover: Building an Audiobook Career: Moving from ACX royalty-share projects to working directly with publishers The real time investment: why 5-10 hours of finished audio takes 30-40+ hours total Prep strategies for fiction vs. nonfiction projects Getting family help with research to save time Using Your Musical Background: How Sanya's flute and vocal training helps her narration Treating your voice like an instrument for better breath control and phrasing Avoiding monotonous reads by "hearing" what the author intended Networking That Actually Works: Why relationship-building beats transactional approaches How APA committee work and APAC conferences led to unexpected opportunities Staying in touch with producers without being pushy The power of showing up consistently Expanding Beyond Audiobooks: Getting into political VO and broadcast narration Dealing with union rules in right-to-work states The reality of competitive commercial and promo markets Social Media Without the Overwhelm: Building authentic presence with help from others Choosing the right platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok) Why "good enough" content beats perfect content you never post From Author to Narrator: Sanya talks about her book "A Single Mom's Guide to Raising Black Gentlemen" and how her parenting experience shapes her storytelling approach. Plus, how her sons contributed to both the book and audiobook. Key Points: Balance active projects with ongoing training Reliability builds lasting relationships: communicate early, deliver clean work, say thank you Think like a business owner: proper structure, strategic investments, tax planning Community matters: connect with mentors, peers, and people you can help Whether you're starting out or scaling up your audiobook business, Sanya shares practical advice on production, relationships, and sustainable growth. Connect with Sanya: Book: "A Single Mom's Guide to Raising Black Gentlemen"  Real talk about building a thriving audiobook career while keeping your sanity and artistic integrity. Check out more episodes over at: https://mikelenzvopodcast.com/ Voice 123 15% Discount Code link:  https://bit.ly/3BsPSaw

    1h 9m

  8. 08/04/2025

    149 - Melissa Mirren Interview

    In this episode of The Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I sit down with the incredibly versatile Melissa Mirren, a professional voice actor with over eight years of experience spanning commercials, corporate narration, e-learning, animation, and video games. Melissa shares her path from childhood performances and college theater to a multifaceted voiceover career shaped by persistence, creativity, and personal transformation. A former therapeutic recreation specialist and motivational speaker, Melissa brings a unique blend of heart and hustle to the VO world. We dive deep into her early days booking work through agencies, platforms, and direct clients; the evolution of her career from commercial reads to character-driven animation; overcoming major life challenges—including a vocal surgery, a ski injury, and a period of caregiving during her children's health crises; her return to full-time voice work in 2023 with renewed purpose and momentum We also talk about her fast-growing presence on TikTok, where she showcases her character work through creative dubs and voiceover sketches—plus her upcoming plans for community engagement and collaborative projects. In this episode, you'll learn: how to pivot your VO niche and embrace versatility; strategies for recovering professionally and vocally from setbacks; the role of resilience and real-life experience in shaping your creative voice; tips on editing, syncing, and refining character reads for social media success. Melissa's story is a moving reminder that your creative journey doesn't have to be linear—and that sometimes the detours shape your most compelling work. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Melissa at @melissamiranvo on TikTok or melissamirren.com. Check out more episodes over at: https://mikelenzvopodcast.com/ Voice 123 15% Discount Code link:  https://bit.ly/3BsPSaw

    52 min
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Join professional voice actor, audiobook narrator, and author Mike Lenz as he shares stories from some of the most amazing and inspiring people from all areas of the voice-over industry to help you achieve your dream of becoming a professional voice actor.

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