High Notes

In this episode of High Notes, we engage in a captivating conversation with Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight. Abi discusses her journey in the creative arts, from her theatrical family history to drama school and her extensive career in casting and talent management. We delve into the evolving landscape of talent and voiceover work, hear expert advice on navigating a creative career, and explore the significant roles Abi has held in various renowned organisations. Tune in for insightful anecdotes, professional guidance, and a closer look at the art and business of voice acting.00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:52 Guest Introduction: Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight01:34 Abby's Early Life and Inspirations05:43 Acting Journey and Drama School Experience08:42 Transition to Professional Roles and Spotlight16:13 Spotlight's Evolution and Voiceover Support21:01 Importance of Industry Relationships23:13 Conclusion and FarewellRead the full transcript here...

In this episode, we chat with Curtis James, an accomplished podcaster, producer, writer, and presenter. Curtis shares his inspiring journey from his early days experimenting with music to his experiences with grassroots podcasting, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the impact of social inequality on education and creativity.Curtis talks in depth about his podcast Class Divide, how it came to fruition, and its aim to close the educational attainment gap in Brighton. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working-class representation in creative fields, the profound influence of teachers, public speaking anxiety, and the nuances of voice and accent in public perception. It’s a really fascinating conversation.Links:Class Divide funding page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/class-divide?utm_term=kvdD4pqj9Class Divide Podcast Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7dQGuWugM9x5HQzsh1pn8l?si=ggphFak-Qaaiqu4ZWym7eg&pi=dQKQscrtTZ2rH&nd=1&dlsi=1237a64362814c9400:00 Welcome to High Notes00:24 Introducing Curtis James02:12 Curtis's Early Influences05:25 First Record Deal Experience06:22 Working with Family07:19 Breaking into Radio10:52 Challenges and Barriers15:20 Creating Class Divide22:22 Reflecting on Podcast Success23:32 Impact of the Podcast on Local Policy25:14 The Power of Storytelling and Authenticity28:40 Accents and Public Speaking31:26 Embracing the Microphone38:52 Future Plans and Challenges43:50 Final Thoughts and FarewellRead the transcript here...

High Notes: A Conversation with Sinead Garvan - From Radio to VOIn this episode, we talk to Sinead Garvan, the voice behind some of the UK’s favourite radio shows and podcasts. We chat about Sinead's journey from her early days as a young narrator in school plays to her transition from radio to voiceover.Sinead shares her experience of working with celebrities like Chris Evans, Claudia Winkleman and Nick Grimshaw, takes us through some major challenges she's faced, and shares her views on the evolving media landscape.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Meet Sinead Garvan01:09 Sinead's Early Years and Love for Narration04:31 First Job in Journalism08:17 Experiences in Radio13:44 Challenges in Journalism19:12 Transition to Voiceover Work33:22 Advice for Aspiring Voiceover Artists35:03 Future Plans and Conclusion

On this episode of HIGH NOTES, we talk to award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Marverine Cole. Over the last 21 years, Marverine has worked as a reporter, producer and news anchor for the majority of Britain's most watched and listened to broadcasters, including Sky News, 5 News, Talk TV, Classic FM, 5 Live and BBC Radio 4. Marverine is one of only 10 Black British women to have ever presented national and international news bulletins in the UK during the last 40 years. She is currently best known as a newsreader for ITV's Good Morning Britain.We also talk to Marverine about her experience training as a VO with BRAVA, politics and grassroots democracy, her advice to those breaking into the industry today and her new podcast, The Trouble with Politics, which was recently recommended by The Independent as one of the top 6 podcasts to listen to in 2024. Marverine Cole: https://marverinecole.co.uk/ We are Black Journos: https://weareblackjournos.org/ Luck Be a Lady Tonight: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01mqmytBlack Girls Don’t Cry: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0b9zfwsMarverine Cole & David Harewood talk about Black British Mental Health: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/black-british-mental-health-matters-with-marverine/id1645113032?i=1000586923149 Her Media Diary: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/her-media-diary/id1549480567The Trouble with Politics: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-trouble-with-politics/id173639788300:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:51 Guest Introduction: Marverine Cole02:14 Marverine's Early Inspirations and First Steps in Radio08:57 Transition to Television15:07 Challenges and Achievements in Media21:43 Mental Health and Resilience in Journalism30:16 Exploring Voiceover Work34:10 Launching The Trouble with Politics Podcast39:59 Advice for Aspiring Media Professionals42:20 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, we talk to Adele Cutting - a respected sound designer, audio and voice director and in the video game industry. Adele's extensive portfolio includes work on both blockbuster titles and indie games. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including Adele's journey into the gaming industry, the evolution of women's roles and casting processes for video games. Adele also shares insights on the importance of natural performances in gaming, the potential impact of AI and offers advice for voice actors looking to succeed in a competitive industry.00:00 Welcome to High Nets: The Voice Industry Unveiled00:52 Spotlight on Adele Cutting: A Trailblazer in Game Audio02:02 Adele's Journey: From Musical Theatre to Video Game Soundscapes06:32 Breaking Barriers: Women's Evolving Role in Gaming13:28 The Art of Sound Design and Voice Direction in Video Games19:39 Casting Voices: The Search for Authenticity and Talent24:43 The Casting Process and Budget Considerations25:18 The Long Game of Voice Acting26:35 The Reality of Social Media Influence in Casting28:21 Trends and Changes in the Gaming Industry30:55 The Impact of AI on Voice Acting34:13 Real-Life Directing Experiences and Challenges38:32 Training and Professionalism in Voice Acting46:15 Final Thoughts and Future-Proofing AdviceRead the transcript here...

In this episode, we talk to award-winning producer, photographer, screenwriter, game and audiobook director, Daniel Jewel.With extensive experience in leading AAA game projects and directing high-profile audiobooks, Daniel shares invaluable insights from his musical childhood through to his journey into film and then voice directing. He discusses the importance of failure, adapting to challenges, and the intricacies of working with voice actors across various platforms. This episode also explores Daniel's approach to casting and the significance of respecting NDAs, as well as practical advice for aspiring voice actors aiming to make their mark in the industry.More about Daniel https://www.danieljewelfilm.com/00:00 Welcome to High Notes: The Art and Business of Voice00:52 Spotlight on Daniel: A Voice Directing Virtuoso02:18 Daniel's Creative Journey: From Childhood to the Big Screen04:59 The Liberal Arts Advantage in Filmmaking07:06 First Steps and Lessons in Directing09:29 Navigating Creative Control and Editorial Influence13:49 Cultural Narratives and Middle Eastern Connections17:41 Transitioning to Game Directing: A New Arena19:32 Directing Voice Casts in Video Games: Insights and Experiences19:44 The Creative Process and Collaboration in Voice Acting21:52 Transitioning to Audiobook Directing: A New Chapter24:00 Skills and Attributes for Success in Voice Acting29:46 Navigating the Industry: Advice for Voice Actors32:00 Creating Your Own Path: Resilience and Adaptability39:08 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Voice ActorsRead the transcript here...

Shakespeare's Women with Actor & Writer, Lorien HaynesOn HIGH NOTES Episode 4, Melissa talks to writer, actor, and artist, Lorien Haynes. From a teenager seeking an escape from her shyness and early experiences of abuse to living and working in America, Lorien's career has involved voiceover work, drama, screenwriting, and drawing. Throughout her work, especially in her recent play ‘Shakespeare's Women', which premiered at The Globe, London earlier this year, she addresses important social issues like domestic abuse, immigration, and sexual assault.Lorien's work gives a voice to individuals who often remain unheard, representing experiences not as narratives of victimhood, but instead as nuanced portraits that include humour, love, and strength. The interview also discusses collaborative efforts in Shakespeare’s Women and its potential future development, and her incredibly important partnership with Refuge - a charity that provides support for survivors of abuse.About the 'Shakespeare's Women' play Shakespeare’s Women Go Fund MeAmerica.2 Podcast00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:51 Interview with Lorian Haynes01:42 Lorian's Journey into Acting and Writing06:19 Lorian's Experience in America13:04 Lorian's Voice Acting Career18:21 Lorian's Work on Shakespeare's Women23:28 Shakespeare's Women in Modern Context24:01 The Inspiration Behind the Play25:14 Character Dynamics and Storylines27:37 The Importance of Humor in Serious Topics28:09 The Impact of the Play on the Audience28:51 Personal Experiences and the Influence on Writing31:20 The Struggle of Discussing Abuse35:08 The Collaboration with Jude Kelly37:24 Future Plans for the Play41:36 The Importance of Support from Organizations45:09 The Success of the Play and Fundraising for Refuge46:51 Closing Remarks

In this episode of the High Notes podcast, BRAVA master characters coach, Elaine Clark, joins us all the way from San Francisco and talks about her extensive experience in the industry. From starting as a theatre major in college, she then got into advertising and copywriting before moving into Silicon Valley and delving into the corporate world. Her career took a significant turn with the emergence of the video game industry, where she took on various roles from casting and directing to producing and audio engineering. Elaine values her early involvement in the industry and finds satisfaction in identifying potential in her voice-acting students, helping to solve casting problems in the industry. Elaine also talks us through what to expect from the Characters Foundation 6 Week course here at BRAVA.A Women in Games Special.Subscribe to our newsletterFind out more about Women In GamesEpisode guide00:03 Introduction to the Podcast00:52 Special Guest: Elaine Clark - Master Characters Coach01:44 Elaine's Journey in the Voice Industry03:51 The Evolution of Voice Acting in Gaming05:31 The Business Side of Voice Acting10:26 Elaine's Experiences in Voice Acting for Games12:13 The Six Week Characters Foundation Course at BRAVA14:36 Final Thoughts and GoodbyeRead the full transcript here...