Mike Lenz Voice - A Journey Into Voice Acting

In this episode of The Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I'm joined by audiobook narrator Emma Faye—a 2026 Audie finalist, 2024 SOVAS nominee, and the narrator many in the industry know as the Clean Reads Queen. Emma has built a thriving audiobook career by staying true to her values and creating a highly intentional brand around clean, wholesome storytelling. She has narrated more than 170 clean-read titles across genres including closed-door romance, YA fantasy, middle grade, nonfiction, and Christian books. She's also the founder of Cats Meow Productions, a boutique audiobook production company focused on bringing more clean-read audiobooks into the world. In this conversation, we talk about Emma's journey from acting and film school to full-time audiobook narration, the challenges of building a niche career in a competitive industry, and the power of saying no to the wrong projects so you can make room for the right ones. We also discuss: What "clean reads" really means in audiobook narration Building a brand around your values The realities of marketing and outreach as a narrator Coaching, social media, and creating systems that work Why there is real power in protecting your boundaries If you're an aspiring narrator, or any creative professional trying to build a career that aligns with who you are, this episode is filled with practical insight and encouragement. To check out ohter episodes head over to mikelenzvopodcast.com!

In this episode of The Mike Lenz VO Podcast, I sit down with voice actor Mike Previti to talk about building a sustainable voiceover career later in life—and what it really takes to make the leap from "safe" to creative fulfillment. Mike's journey began with childhood acting gigs in the Boston area, shifted into years as a touring musician and singer-songwriter, and eventually led him back to the microphone—this time as a full-time professional voice actor. We talk candidly about leaving a high-stress corporate job, betting on yourself, and doing the slow, steady work required to grow a VO business. We also dive into: Why the voiceover industry is not linear—and why that matters The role of social media in building visibility and credibility Networking, workshops, and unexpected referrals Faith, patience, and trusting the long game Mike's three key principles: Be patient. Be intentional. Honor the work. If you're an aspiring voice actor—or a creative professional navigating a transition—this episode offers both practical insight and honest encouragement from someone who's walking the path. Learn more about Mike at MikePrevitiVO.com To check out ohter episodes head over to mikelenzvopodcast.com!

Rosie Okumura returns to the Mike Lenz VO Podcast with one of the most unusual (and inspiring) career paths in voiceover: she turned a deeply personal moment—when her mom was scammed—into a viral YouTube crusade that now reaches millions. In this episode, Rosie breaks down how she built her VO career in Los Angeles, how her "smart assistant" and voice-matching skills became a niche advantage, and how her live scam-baiting streams evolved into a powerful platform for educating viewers while exposing scammers through comedy and improvisation. You'll also hear the behind-the-scenes reality of internet fame—privacy risks, boundaries, and "parasocial" dynamics—and why (for Rosie) the bigger threat isn't always the scammers…it can be the wrong kind of follower attention. Then the conversation takes a sharp (and fascinating) turn into Rosie's newest chapter: launching a private investigation firm, IRL Investigations, where her VO skills unexpectedly translate into real-world investigative work—process serving, surveillance, fraud cases, and finding answers for clients who just want the truth. In this episode, we cover: The exact moment Rosie realized she'd gone viral—and what happened next How voice skills + improv can become a "live demo reel" for clients Staying safe online when your audience explodes The difference between "influencer" and "content creator" (and why it matters) Why Rosie believes you're never done learning—no matter how far you've come If you're a voice actor, creator, or someone building a multi-hyphenate career, Rosie's story is a masterclass in turning a curveball into momentum—and staying grounded while you grow. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/irlrosie/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_0osV_nf2b0sIbm4Wiw4RQ

Voice actor and content creator Tawny Platis returns to The Mike Lenz VO Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about building a sustainable creative career—without waiting around for permission. Tawny shares how she landed her first voiceover job at just six years old, why she stepped away from entertainment to build a "safe" business (spoiler: it wasn't safe at all), and how that business experience became the secret weapon that helped her thrive once she went full-time in voice acting. We also dig into the real role social media plays in today's VO landscape—how Tawny approaches content as creativity (not advertising), why "auditioning all day" isn't always the smartest path, and what it means to build a brand that attracts the right opportunities. Along the way, Tawny talks about the mindset shifts that changed everything: staying consistent, being willing to experiment, learning the business side of VO, and not being afraid to try new directions—even if not every idea lands. In this episode, you'll hear: How Tawny's business background helped fuel her VO success Why the business side is the biggest hurdle for many voice actors What makes content connect (and why audiences tune out "ads") How to keep your brand fresh without losing what makes it recognizable Tawny's evolving perspective on AI—and what matters most moving forward Her best advice for creatives: take control, create your own opportunities, and don't fear being "cringe" Find Tawny online at tawnyvoice.com, and follow her across platforms at @TawnyPlatis (YouTube: @theTawnyPlatis).

On this episode, Mike gives an update on his career including: The powerful advice he received after he moved into voiceover, audiobook narration and podcast producing full time almost eight years ago. How networking and attending conferences propeled his audiobook narrration career forward and how he booked his first Union audiobook title. The importance of health and well being to maximizing your vocal performaqnce in the booth. His Audiobook Narrator Workouts that Mike launched recently and how they help narrators work on their craft in a small and safe environment. His podcast producing journey and how the creation of his VO Podcast led to becoming a producer of other podcasts. The four most important words you can say to someone! Join Mike for this exicitng update full of great information and inspiration.