Tales From the Booth Podcast

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Paulette Lifton sits down with award-winning voice actor and narrator Debbie Irwin for an insightful conversation about one of voiceover's most expansive—and often misunderstood—genres: medical narration. Drawing from more than two decades in the industry, Debbie explains how the specialty found its way into her career and why it encompasses far more than pharmaceutical commercials and complicated terminology. From hospital and academic content to e-learning, explainers, medical devices, important safety information, and more, she reveals the extraordinary range of work available within the medical world.

Together, Paulette and Debbie explore why difficult pronunciations are rarely the greatest challenge. The real skill lies in making dense, technical material clear, conversational, and meaningful. Debbie explains how she breaks down long sentences, researches unfamiliar terminology, finds the story hidden inside statistics, and determines whether she is speaking to a patient or a healthcare professional. At its core, medical narration is still acting—requiring preparation, a clear point of view, and a genuine connection to the person receiving the information.

The conversation also moves beyond performance and into the business of building a sustainable voiceover career. Debbie encourages actors to use their previous professions, personal interests, professional associations, and existing relationships to uncover opportunities. Through her "Debbie's Data Dump Doc" exercise, she helps performers recognize that everything they have done can become part of their voiceover business. She and Paulette also discuss thoughtful persistence, relationship-building, creating a competitive medical demo, the importance of including a dry sample, and practical ways to train using pharmaceutical inserts, healthcare websites, and other real-world medical copy.

Whether you come from a healthcare background, are considering medical or corporate narration, or simply want to become more confident with demanding copy, this conversation is a powerful reminder that preparation, curiosity, and the experiences you already have may become some of your greatest assets.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:

🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Mimi Maynard sits down with acclaimed dubbing director, voice director, and actor Vernon Scott for a candid conversation about a simple but often overlooked truth: great voice acting begins with great acting.

Drawing from decades of experience in film, television, ADR, loop groups, and dubbing, Vernon shares the lessons he's learned both in front of the camera and behind the microphone. From his early years as an actor to becoming one of the industry's most respected dubbing directors, Vernon offers a refreshingly honest perspective on performance, storytelling, and what it really takes to connect with an audience.

Together, Mimi and Vernon explore why authenticity matters more than technique, how studying great actors can transform your work behind the mic, and why the microphone is every bit as revealing as a camera lens. They discuss the subtle art of dubbing, what directors are truly listening for in auditions, and how actors can bring their own truth, instincts, and individuality to every role rather than simply imitating what already exists on screen.

Filled with humor, hard-earned wisdom, and a deep respect for the craft, this episode challenges the misconception that dubbing is somehow separate from acting. Instead, Vernon makes a compelling case that dubbing may be one of the purest forms of acting there is—requiring imagination, emotional truth, adaptability, and complete commitment to the character.

Whether you're an aspiring voice actor, a seasoned performer, or simply passionate about storytelling, this conversation is a powerful reminder that the most memorable performances don't come from trying harder—they come from telling the truth.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:

🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Mimi Maynard sits down with acclaimed dubbing director, filmmaker, actor, and industry advocate Joe Fria for a candid conversation about performance, casting, and the art of bringing characters to life.

Drawing from his unique journey from stage actor to sought-after director, Joe shares how his experiences in front of the microphone have shaped the way he works behind it. From discovering his creative calling in directing to building a career rooted in storytelling, Joe offers an honest look at the lessons that have informed his approach to actors, auditions, and performance.

Together, Mimi and Joe explore what directors are truly listening for in an audition, why authenticity matters more than chasing the "perfect" read, and how actors can bring their own instincts and individuality into every role. They discuss the evolving world of dubbing, the importance of musicality and rhythm in performance, and the often-overlooked physicality of voice acting—where great performances come not just from the voice, but from fully embodying the character on screen.

Filled with practical insight, industry wisdom, and a deep appreciation for the actor's craft, this episode offers valuable guidance for performers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're working in dubbing, animation, games, or on-camera, Joe's perspective serves as a powerful reminder that the most memorable performances aren't about perfection—they're about truth, connection, and commitment to the story.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:

🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Gregg Berger: The Voice of Legends, Monsters, and Heroes

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Paulette Lifton welcomes legendary voice actor Gregg Berger—a performer whose unmistakable voice has powered some of the most iconic characters in animation, video games, and television for over four decades.

Fans around the world know Gregg as the mighty Grimlock from Transformers, the lovable Odie from Garfield and Friends, and the fearless hero from The Tick. His voice has also appeared across countless beloved franchises including G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Batman: The Animated Series, and Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Gregg shares stories from inside the booth about bringing larger-than-life characters to life, sustaining a career across decades of changing technology, and finding truth and humor in even the most outrageous performances. From heroic warriors and gruff monsters to comedic sidekicks and unforgettable creatures, Gregg reveals how versatility, imagination, and pure love of the craft have shaped his extraordinary journey.

Paulette and Gregg also discuss the evolution of the voiceover industry, the magic of classic animation recording sessions, and what today's actors can learn from the golden era of ensemble voice acting.

This episode is a celebration of one of the most recognizable voices in animation history—and a must-listen for anyone who loves character acting, storytelling, and the timeless art of voice performance.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations:

🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Michael Scott: Voices That Play, Fight, and Feel Real

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, host Paulette Lifton welcomes Michael Scott—a powerhouse performer, director, and educator whose work spans film, television, animation, and the full spectrum of modern voiceover.

Known for his distinctive, award-winning voice, Michael has helped define characters and campaigns for some of the world's most iconic studios and brands—from Warner Bros., DreamWorks, HBO, Netflix, Disney, Nickelodeon, and Hulu to global names like Apple, LEGO, Nike, Pepsi, McDonald's, Toyota, Verizon, and the United States Army.

Michael dives into the craft behind standout roles such as Damon in the beloved cozy game Wylde Flowers, Tyreese in The Walking Dead, and Darryl Waterhouse in the Critics' Choice–nominated animated series Young Love. The conversation also explores his expansive work across major franchises and fan favorites including Boss Baby, Genshin Impact, League of Legends, Batman: Arkham Shadow, Marvel Rivals, Street Fighter 6, Resident Evil, and Tony Hawk Pro Skater.

Beyond the mic, Michael is a sought-after voice and performance-capture director, currently helming multiple high-profile, NDA-protected projects with top studios such as Nerdy Bear Studios, Formosa Interactive, NetEase Games, The Halp Network, and Insomniac Games. Together, Paulette and Michael unpack what it takes to build emotionally grounded performances—whether you're animating heroes, crafting game worlds, or guiding actors through complex storytelling.

This episode is a masterclass in versatility, intention, and creative leadership—perfect for actors, directors, and anyone who loves the artistry behind the booth.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations: 🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Gene Vassilaros: Casting Characters That Breathe, Break, and Belong

In this episode of Tales from the Booth, animation casting and voice director Gene Vassilaros joins host Paulette Lifton for a deep dive into the creative heartbeat of animation. From shaping iconic voices that define entire worlds to guiding performances that balance comedy, vulnerability, and truth — Gene's storytelling instincts and sharp ear for authenticity have made him one of the most trusted voices in the booth.

Together, Paulette and Gene unpack the delicate art of casting chemistry: finding that perfect spark between actor and character, and how direction can turn a great read into something unforgettable. Gene shares stories from the studio, lessons learned from years of collaboration with top talent, and insights on what truly makes a character live.

Whether you're an actor, creator, or simply love the magic behind animation, this episode reminds us that great voice direction is about more than performance — it's about connection, courage, and heart.

Follow the Voice Masters team for more inspiring conversations: 🎧 Instagram: @voice.masters 🌐 Website: voice-masters.com 🎤 Paulette Lifton: @paulette_lifton 🎬 Mimi Maynard: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Andy Roth: The Art of Voice Casting and the Humanity Behind Performance In this episode of Tales from the Booth, renowned casting director and voice coach Andy Roth joins host Mimi Maynard for an illuminating conversation about the human side of voice acting — where authenticity, empathy, and instinct meet craft and precision.

From his early work casting some of animation and gaming's most memorable voices to mentoring hundreds of actors around the world, Andy shares his philosophy on what truly makes a performance click. He and Paulette dive deep into what casting directors listen for, how to bring truth to every read, and why connection always outweighs perfection.

Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:

Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters

Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com

Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton

Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Jonathan Reiner: The Heart Behind the Hustle and Being a Talent Manager. In this episode of Tales from the Booth, Emmy-winning showrunner and talent manager Jonathan Reiner joins host Paulette Lifton for an intimate conversation about passion, perseverance, and the business of show. From his early days as an entertainment journalist to producing for major networks and founding The PaRé Way (launching October 2025), Jonathan shares the lessons learned from a career built on both creativity and compassion.

Hear how Paulette and Jonathan's friendship began at the That's Voiceover! conference — and how that chance meeting evolved into a partnership rooted in mentorship, advocacy, and building artists who lead with heart.

Whether you're an actor, writer, or creator navigating Hollywood, this episode is a reminder that behind every great career is a human story worth telling.

Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:

Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters

Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com

Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton

Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi

🎙️Tales from the Booth Podcast: Sebastian Zancanaro Localization Producer and Dubbing Casting Director

Sebastian's impressive resume includes: 🎥 Director, Producer, Writer, Actor, and Casting Director 🎭 Specialist in Creative Dubbing & Localization 🏆 Society of Voice Arts & Sciences nominee for Casting in Motion Picture Animation 🏅 Winner of Outstanding Dubbing in an Animated Motion Picture for Deep Sea

With over 13,000 hours of dubbing across 85+ TV shows & films, and 3,258+ dubbed episodes aired globally, Sebastian is a powerhouse in the world of dubbing and voice-over. His passion? Creating seamless, AAA-quality content under tight deadlines. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, Sebastian's leadership spans teams from 3 to 100+, excelling in everything from script adaptation to casting and post-production.

As the Founder & President of Officina Official Production and Pictures, his work is currently making waves on the global film festival circuit, with credits in Deep Sea, 1923, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Ice Age: The Adventures of Buck Wild, and more!

Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:

Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters

Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com

Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton

Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi

🎙️ Tales from the Booth Podcast: Jeff Howell Master Commercial VO & Dubbing Pro. With over 30 years in the voiceover industry, Jeff Howell has worn every hat—agent, casting director, producer, dubbing director, and coach—shaping some of the most recognizable voices in media. His credits span Emmy-winning animation, award-winning promos, major ad campaigns, and audiobook collaborations with icons like Leonard Nimoy.

From Magic: The Gathering to Netflix and HBO Max dubbing, Jeff brings a rare mix of creative vision and performance expertise. In this episode, he shares his journey, insider stories, and lessons from directing, casting, and coaching talent worldwide. Listen to his advice on dubbing, commercial voice over and more!

Make sure to follow the Voice Masters team here:

Voice Masters Instagram: @voice.masters

Voice Masters website: https://voice-masters.com

Paulette Lifton Instagram: @paulette_lifton

Mimi Maynard Instagram: @maynard.mimi