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

NAVAgator host Graeme Spicer talks with Roy Samuelson, a leading audio description (AD) performer with credits for Netflix, HBO, Disney, and A24. They explore the nuanced art of audio description, why it’s a delicate “high-wire act,” how to match tone and genre, AI’s role, and why accessibility and great storytelling go hand in hand.Guest: Roy SamuelsonAuthor of A Voice Actor’s Guide to Audio Description Performance & Founder of The Playback LoungeTimestamps00:00:00 – Opening clip: The high-wire act of AD00:00:49 – Welcome & episode overview00:02:18 – Introducing Roy Samuelson00:02:43 – What is Audio Description?00:05:22 – Common frustrations for blind audiences00:06:31 – Roy’s personal story that sparked his passion00:08:12 – The High-Wire Act: Balancing performance00:10:50 – Adapting to different genres (horror, comedy, action, kids)00:13:00 – WALL-E vs. Aaron Sorkin-style scripts00:14:25 – Writing his book on AD performance00:16:50 – The Playback Lounge: Practice community for voice actors00:20:15 – How to tell if AD is working00:21:35 – Studio & platform differences00:23:38 – AI & synthetic voices: Pros, cons, and ethics00:28:11 – Business realities and rates00:30:34 – Bridging the gap between studios and blind audiences00:33:09 – Accessibility and artistry reinforce each other00:36:28 – Wrap-up & resourcesLinksRoy’s Book: A Voice Actor’s Guide to Audio Description Performance https://roysamuelson.com/book (https://a.co/d/0fARhcUh)The Playback Lounge https://roysamuelson.com/ad-playback-loungeWebsite & Newsletter: RoySamuelson.com https://roysamuelson.com/blogBONUS - AUDIO DESCRIPTION FREE GUIDE - https://roysamuelson.com/mastering-ad-performance-guide/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the season two premiere, Graeme Spicer sits down with Memo Sauceda to trace the journey from a WhatsApp group formed at the OneVoice Conference in Dallas to the formal launch of LAVA as a committee within NAVA. Memo shares how a viral manifesto video, a pandemic, and the rise of AI voice cloning galvanized Spanish-speaking voice actors across 34 countries to organize — and why joining forces with NAVA was the right move.Timestamps:0:00 — Cold open (Jordan Peele / Obama deepfake)0:41 — Introduction & episode overview2:12 — What was OVU and what sparked it?4:57 — Early advocacy: the viral manifesto video5:55 — The talking points that predicted everything7:22 — OVU's biggest challenges & why a partnership made sense8:29 — Reaching out to the NAVA board12:37 — Transitioning from OVU to LAVA inside NAVA13:34 — Why a committee model vs. independent affiliate (CAVA comparison)16:16 — Servicing 34 culturally diverse markets16:53 — Budget realities & country-specific rate guides17:21 — Professionalism gap: US vs. Latin American recording standards20:59 — AI legislation differences across Latin America21:43 — Membership fees & economic fairness22:21 — Pricing decision: $99/year (discounts available)24:54 — LAVA membership vs. NAVA membership benefits26:07 — AI voice threats unique to Spanish-speaking talent26:29 — The Amazon anime AI dubbing controversy30:04 — Memo's vision: What does success look like for LAVA?32:52 — Paying it forward: mentorship & community35:57 — Outro & how to get involvedLinks & Resources:NAVA / LAVA membership: navavoices.orgOVU manifesto video: Instagram @ovuPodcast theme music: The Urban Renewal Project — urpmusic.comKey Quotes:"We say that we want to have a seat at the table on the decisions of what's gonna happen with our voice.""When you want to be better, you get together with people that are better than you.""If we make people understand that it's important to read the contract and really make an informed decision, then we are winning.""My life wouldn't be what it is right now if it weren't for the people that helped me at the beginning." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OverviewCarin Gilfry, NAVA board member and gala organizer, discusses with Graeme Spicer the December 2025 NAVA Gala in Los Angeles - the organization's signature fundraising event that raised $80,000 for the NAVA Foundation.0:00 - Opening1:12 - Introduction and episode overview1:36 - "Gala" pronunciation debate and setting the scene2:42 - Karin's childhood circus party story and the first NAVA Gala3:53 - Gala origins and financial success - $80,000 raised this year5:30 - NAVA Foundation vs NAVA: 501(c)(3) vs 501(c)(6) explained6:32 - NAVA Foundation programs: scholarships, contract reviews, emergency funds7:53 - 2025 Award Winners8:19 - Voiceover Service Provider Award: Kristin Paiva (Paiva Productions)10:06 - Be Brad Award split into two awards11:00 - Be Brad Award: Jeff Burns11:47 - Voiceover Community Award: Nerds Vote13:49 - Vocation Curaçao conference (April 23-26)15:00 - Voiceover Icon Award: Bill Farmer (voice of Goofy and Pluto)16:39 - Powerline dance flash mob details17:26 - Red carpet and event atmosphere18:29 - Ticket sales: sold out in 10 hours (300 tickets in 4 hours)20:45 - 2026 Gala Date: Friday, December 11, 202621:30 - Virtual gala component and closing thanksKey Takeaways450+ attendees at 2025 gala (up from 350 in 2024)$80,000 raised for NAVA FoundationFour awards presentedEvent sold out in 10 hoursVirtual component available for remote attendeesTickets typically go on sale July/August Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Practices01:10 Understanding Producer Rates and Turnaround Times02:12 Building Trust and Collaboration04:09 Defining Relationships and Payment Terms05:47 Clarifying Services and Acting with Integrity08:33 Recognizing When You're Demo Ready10:22 Avoiding Scams and Promises12:15 Effective Communication and Feedback18:55 Final Thoughts and Common Misconceptions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crafting Effective Voiceover Demos: Insights and Best PracticesIn 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 Demos01:12 Meet the Experts: Carson Beck and Tim Friedlander01:31 Navigating the Demo Production Landscape04:17 The Role and Purpose of a Demo07:17 The Importance of Authenticity in Demos09:15 Avoiding Overproduction and Unrealistic Expectations12:16 The Subjectivity of Demo Needs22:15 DIY Demos: Pros and Cons29:08 Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Voiceover Industry: An In-Depth Discussion with Karin GilfryIn 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 Acting01:14 Defining Sexual Harassment01:42 Challenges in the Voiceover Industry02:37 Creating Guidelines and Best Practices03:51 Power Imbalances and Reporting Issues04:59 Advice for Handling Harassment06:23 Concerns from Men and Women07:43 Understanding Grooming Behavior08:56 Maintaining Professional Boundaries09:10 Addressing All Gender Scenarios10:09 Importance of Apologies and Communication12:34 NAVA's Role and Limitations16:13 Encouraging Education and Awareness20:50 Alcohol's Impact on Professional Behavior21:44 Bystander Intervention and Support22:49 Conclusion and Open Communication Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Unity00:25 Welcome Back to The Navigator01:08 NAVA's Political Advocacy Efforts01:51 Challenges of AI Legislation05:04 The No Fakes Act and Federal Efforts11:34 State-Level Legislation and Its Impact27:25 A Day in Washington: Advocacy in Action35:16 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Podcast00:49 Meet Tracy Lindley: Director of Education at NAVA03:11 The Role and Impact of NAVA's Educational Programs04:42 Fundraising and Community Events05:56 Class Structure and Accessibility08:17 Resources and Benefits for Members10:26 Choosing Topics and Instructors19:21 Inclusivity and Feedback24:37 Upcoming Classes and Events26:55 Conclusion and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Navigator: Creating Inclusive Best Practices with NavaIn 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 Casting00:54 Meet the Collaborators01:33 The Birth of Best Practices05:52 The Importance of Safe Spaces08:35 Challenges and Solutions in Authentic Casting18:55 The Impact and Future of Best Practices30:37 Final Thoughts and Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creating Best Practices for Kids in Voiceover: Insights from Industry MomsThis 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 Guests01:41 The Origin Story of Best Practices for Kids in Voiceover04:51 Challenges and Solutions in Kids' Voiceover Work07:15 The Importance of Best Practices and Guidelines08:43 Breaking Down the Best Practices15:26 Audition Guidelines and Turnaround Times20:16 Musical Auditions and Challenges22:00 Directed Sessions: Best Practices23:47 Parental Advocacy in Sessions31:50 Rates, Usage, and Legalities37:40 Final Thoughts and Resources Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Actors00:50 Meet Maria Pendolino: The Queen of Negotiation02:35 Maria's Journey: From Corporate America to Voice Acting06:16 The Art and Commerce of Voice Acting08:45 Practical Tips for Negotiating Rates16:54 Handling Client Relationships and Quotes22:25 Working with Agents and Managers27:02 Contracts and AI Concerns36:49 Conclusion and Contact Informationwww.voicebymaria.comMaria 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.

Protecting your Voice Data: The Fair Voices Pledge & AI in Voice ActingIn this episode of The Navigator podcast, host Matthew Parham, along with Vice President Carin Gilfry and President Tim Friedlander, discuss the Fair Voices Pledge with Rolf Veldman, CEO of online casting site Voice123. The episode delves into the initiatives behind the Fair Voices Pledge, which ensures companies handling voice actor sound files agree not to use or sell these files for AI training without consent. The discussion highlights the importance of legislative protections for biometric data, the evolving role of AI in the voice acting industry, and how voice actors can safeguard their work. The panel provides insights from both the voice actor and company perspectives, emphasizing the need for transparency and the ethical handling of voice data.00:00 Introduction to AI in Voice Acting01:13 Overview of the Fair Voices Campaign03:26 Voice 1, 2, 3's Role and Ethical Practices07:19 Addressing AI Job Concerns10:31 Legal and Ethical Implications of AI16:23 Fair Voices Pledge and Industry Impact22:20 Future of AI in Voice Acting28:03 ConclusionFor more info: https://navavoices.org/fair-voices/Rolf is CEO of Voice123, a signatory to the fAIr Voices Pledge www.voice123.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Origins of the National Association of Voice ActorsIn this episode of the NAVAgator podcast, host Graeme Spicer speaks with Tim Friedlander, Karin Gilfry and Matthew Parham about the founding and achievements of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA). They discuss the motivations behind creating NAVA, the significant milestones achieved including a national health insurance plan and scholarships, and their efforts in advocacy and lobbying for voice actors' rights. The conversation also explores the structure of NAVA, the challenges faced during its formation, and the collective commitment of its founders towards bettering the voice acting industry.00:00 Introduction to the Navigator Podcast00:49 Origins of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA)02:34 Healthcare Initiatives and Challenges05:41 Advocacy and Organizational Structure07:09 Growth and Achievements of NAVA13:08 Roles and Responsibilities within NAVA21:40 Advocacy Efforts and Industry Impact24:41 The NAVA Gala and Future Goals29:21 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The NAVAgator, the official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), Vice President Karin Gilfry speaks with voice actor and data analyst David Cui Cui about the results of the recent NAVA survey on the State of the Voiceover Industry in 2025. They discuss various topics, including the professional landscape, home studio usage, work distribution between union and non-union actors, income levels, and the impact of synthetic voices on the industry. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of the voiceover field, offers insights into current trends, and highlights the importance of adapting to changes within the industry.00:00 Introduction and Overview01:03 Meet David Cui Cui: Voice Actor and Data Analyst02:06 The Importance of Data in Voice Acting04:45 Survey Origins and Evolution06:17 Key Findings: Voiceover Industry in 202514:08 Union Status and Home Studios18:55 In-Person vs. Remote Recording21:14 Types of Voiceover Work21:30 The Rise of Audiobooks22:36 Income Insights: Voiceover Earnings26:04 Online Casting vs. Direct Marketing28:35 AI in the Voiceover Industry31:14 Demographics of the Voiceover Industry33:35 Global Rule One: Union vs. Non-Union Work39:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Navigator, the official podcast of the National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), Carin Gilfry, Matthew Parham and Graeme Spicer discuss the realities of starting a career in voice acting. The episode addresses common misconceptions spread by social media about easy money in the industry and provides practical advice for beginners. They cover key topics such as the importance of proper training, creating a functional home studio, making effective demos, and strategies for finding work. The hosts also touch on the pitfalls of rushing to find an agent and stress the importance of continual growth and education. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone curious about entering the voice acting world.00:00 Introduction and Dispelling Myths02:20 The Reality of Starting in Voice Acting06:34 Essential Tools and Training for Beginners07:29 Key Aspects of Home Studios15:37 Choosing the Right Microphone23:24 The Importance of Professional Demos31:11 Finding Work and Marketing Yourself37:25 Agents, Managers, and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the inaugural episode of The Navigator, hosted by Graeme Spicer, the podcast delves into the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike against major video game companies. The episode features an interview with Zeke Alton, a key member of the SAG-AFTRA Interactive Negotiating Committee. Topics include the history and evolution of video game negotiations, core issues such as artificial intelligence and biometric data use, safety standards, and fair compensation. Zeke emphasizes the existential nature of the fight, aiming to protect performers' rights in an industry heavily influenced by AI. They call for solidarity among voice actors and provide resources for staying informed and involved in the ongoing negotiations.00:00 Introduction00:16 Welcome to The Navigator Podcast01:01 Background on the SAG AFTRA Strike01:43 Understanding the Interactive Media Agreement02:06 Historical Context of Video Game Strikes04:06 Current Negotiation Issues06:05 AI and Performer Protections09:46 Developers' Stance and Interim Agreements12:13 Legal and Contractual Nuances13:27 How Voice Actors Can Stay Informed20:22 The Core of the Dispute: AI and Mocap22:55 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teasing the upcoming podcast for the National Association of Voice Actors - the NAVAgator! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.