Hello!

I wanted to send a quick follow-up after our fantastic Audiobook Casting Workshop with Khai Dattoli. You all did a great job, and I was so proud of the talent showcased! Khai truly loved hearing the amazing variety of voices we have here in Houston. She genuinely wants narrators to succeed and do well.

A Quick Word on Introductions

Please remember to keep your intros short and stick to the questions asked: name, how long a VO, and a fun fact. Sticking to the questions and keeping your answers on point helps us stay on time and respects your fellow attendees' time. Please be considerate. I know that many of you were nervous, and that is completely understandable. Also, remember to have fun! Easy to say, hard to do. We are telling stories and sharing experiences—it's fun, and remember it's not something you have to do, but rather it is something you are choosing to do. Remind yourself—and here's the thing—you all are doing so well and are ahead of the curve! Investing in yourself is paying off. You're here and about to be added to a professional audiobook narrator roster! Step one is showing up, and you did it!

To help you continue your journey, here are a few key takeaways and next steps:

Things to Remember for Next Time: Always Come Prepared

It is standard practice for audiobook workshops to require you to bring your own piece under two minutes. This is because casting directors like Khai are looking for a variety of voices, not just one type. They want to hear your range and know what you can do.

When you come unprepared and perform a cold read, even if you do well, it is not an accurate representation of how you will perform as a narrator. The assumption is that for a real job, you will be prepared, having researched the book, the author, the point of view, and all the relevant details.

Next Steps for Success

1. Audiobook Samples: Focus on recording the audiobook samples that best showcase your vocal range and strengths.
2. Roster Profile: Please complete the roster profile using the link that Khai provided that evening.
3. Group Follow-Up Session: I will be offering an optional group follow-up option for all of you that registered to go over any questions you may have about Khai’s notes, how to complete your Podium profile, as well as any other questions. If you would like one on one assistance or have more in depth questions you may book a private coaching session.

Please note: This session link is exclusive to your session—please do not share this with anyone else. Register Here!

You all made me very proud to be your VO coach! I will continue to do my best to open doors for your success and I am genuinely looking forward to hearing that you have booked your first of many audiobooks!

Best,

Hanne

Hanne Rickert VoiceOver