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

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

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

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

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

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

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