This week, host Isaac Butler talks to dialect coach Samara Bay, who helps film and TV actors learn new accents. In the interview, Samara describes her coaching process and explains the importance of combining good dialect work with good acting. Then she teaches Isaac how to speak in an Irish accent. 

After the interview Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss Samara’s tactful way of providing feedback and the distinction between “cheerleading” and “flattering.”

In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Samara talks about one particular movie that she loved working on. 

Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.

Podcast production by Cameron Drews.

If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and the Culture Gabfest—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices