We're going to ignore the fact it's almost been a year. I recently read a blog post from a friend (who I hope is reading this) that talked about not finishing what we start. I am guilty of this. Obviously. With lots of things really, but on really pursuing the "Business" end of my art.
As an artist, we like to believe all we need is that art, and we will be completely fulfilled if we just get to do our art, all the time, and at whatever cost. But fast forward, and add: A husband who works WAY too hard to make sure you can be an artist, a couple of car payments and a son? My focus as an artist needed to shift, to an artist who values my worth, and stops working for free.
I use the same excuses everyone else uses, and I am trying to own up to it. I'm too busy, too tired, business isn't "my thing" I just want to do the acting part... too BUSY...but the fact remains that if I want to be a well rounded VO Artist, I need to open myself up to that really REAL half of my job. Or really 3/4 of my job. No one is going to make my website for me. No one is going to populate my Twitter account for me. No one is going to promote me being on the Talkin Toons podcast for me. I have to make the choice to be my own advocate, my own manager, my own cheerleader, and my own social thermometer. So, I am making that choice. Here I am, talking on this public forum about my faults, and my journey so I can motivate other, so I better f***ing motivate myself.
The last year has been a crazy one of ups and downs. Some really REALLY amazing highs and some pretty hard lows. I shall re-cap:
I got a 3 month trial with an awesome agent. She sent me amazing auditions I had never dreamed of getting on my own, Disney, WB, Cartoon Network and everything else.
She let me go.
I was on a run when she called, to tell me that "at the moment" I wasn't a right fit for the agency. THAT will teach me to work out...
But I have come to terms with the fact that it is a GOOD thing to be let go from an agent who doesn't or can't do the work you need them to, in order to get you the work you work so hard for. I know I will find the right fit, I just can't let this set back set me ALL the way back :)
Last we spoke, I had just gotten to meet one of my heroes. I was totally motivated, a little intimidated and incredibly grateful to have such an opportunity. They say you should never meet your heroes, because they are never what you expect. This was half true...Rob Paulsen has turned out to be WAY MORE THAN I EVER EXPECTED. I was excited that he was so nice when we met, I was more excited that he was willing to chat with me about my dad, and working with him. Did I ever expect he'd agree to be my hands on mentor?? HECK NO! Is he? yes. I'm incredibly blessed to say he is now my go to for all question VO. I mean Jesus Christ?! Who else can say Rob Paulsen is their personal mentor?! Very few I'd say.
Not only is he my mentor, BUT, I get to WORK with him each week on his podcast Talkin Toons! I am the moderator, if you send your questions to the Social Stream on Ustream, I will ask him and whoever his guest is that week! It's an amazing opportunity, and I still can't believe I get to do it EVERY WEEK!
So there is a a small glimpse into the last year. I'll be posting every Tuesday from now on!
