The Audiobook Podcast

In this episode, Justine is in conversation with Scott MacMillan, Chief Strategist and Executive Publisher of Grammar Factory Publishing Company.Scott is a Toronto-based best selling author, publisher, entrepreneur, and strategy advisor to start-ups with a passion for helping entrepreneurs grow their business by extracting, productizing, and publishing their knowledge and expertise. For more information on Scott MacMillan and Grammar Factory you can find them at:grammarfactory.comfacebook.com/GrammarFactoryinstagram.com/grammarfactoryentrepreneurtoauthor.com/podcast

In this episode we are joined by Tania Patti, Agent and Publicity manager of CP Artist Management. Tania currently manages publicity commitments and opportunities for CP clients.  She has experience in film, music, comedy festivals and produced live theatre with First Nations and LGBTQIA+ communities, touring shows around the world.CP Artist Management has artists working in Australia and internationally in feature film, TV, voiceover, digital content, and onstage. The Agency is boutique in it's approach and understands the unique strengths, talents, and aspirations of each client, ensuring they are represented most effectively to achieve their long-term goals. For more information on Tania Patti and CP Artist Management you can find here:https://cpmgt.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/cpartistmgt/https://www.instagram.com/cp_artist_mgt/

In this episode, Justine is joined by Australian actor Grant Cartwright all the way from New York City. Together they will be diving into the use of pseudonyms in the audiobook industry. That is, a fictitious name, or alias, used by narrators in the industry. They offer some privacy and protection for a narrator's real name and allows them to venture into “off-portfolio” or “off-brand” genres, such as erotica and political titles, content that could be perceived as “controversial”. This is more common than listeners might know - and there are a fair few ways narrators might go about this.  For more information on Grant Cartwright you can find him at:https://www.grantcartwright.com/

In our latest episode, Justine speaks with bestselling author, entrepreneur and global presenter Andrew Griffiths. Square Sound produced Andrew's latest audio release ‘Someone Has To Be The Most Expensive, Why Not Make it You'. (Released in 2023 and written specifically for business owners) and since then SquareSound have been working alongside many of Andrews business clients & authors to guide them through their audiobook creation and release. Andrew is described by most as a street-smart entrepreneur. His business building book series, “101 Ways” offers small business owners practical, smart and realistic advice. Griffiths is Australia's #1 small business author with 14 books now sold in over 65 countries. To learn more about Andrew check out: https://www.andrewgriffiths.com.au/

“Help is not access, help is help. And access is something that equals independence.” Kate Hood.In our latest episode, Justine delves into a poignant discussion surrounding the experiences of artists with disabilities, speaking with Kate Hood, a remarkable talent whose journey embodies resilience and creativity amidst adversity.Originally from Sydney, Kate's career spans over two decades, encompassing roles as an actor, voice artist, writer, and director. However, in 2003, her life took a profound turn with a diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), propelling her into a new chapter as a disabled actor, writer, theatre maker and of course earning accolades for her captivating narrations in audiobooks.Kate took on the mantle of Artistic Director at Raspberry Ripple Productions, a pioneering theatre company in Melbourne championing disability-led performances. Through her advocacy work as a speaker and panelist, Kate tirelessly endeavours to bridge the gap between artists with disabilities and their non-disabled counterparts.To learn more about Kate and Raspberry Ripple productions check out the links below:https://www.katehood.net/http://raspberryripple.co/https://www.sydneytheatre.com.au/whats-on/productions/2024/cost-of-livinghttps://auslanstageleft.com.au/events/risky-business-malthouse-melbourne/

Welcome back to the Audiobook Podcast! .Tamala Shelton, proud Bundjalung and Lamalama actor, joins Justine in studio for this month's episode. .Tamala shares her journey to audiobooks; her experience and insight as a First Nations actor, and of mixed heritage, in navigating the industry; the process of working with a language consultant on the audiobook ‘Pemulwuy, The Rainbow Warrior' written by Eric Willmot; and ultimately, how the work she has done in the audiobook space has helped her connect with her language and culture. .We hope you enjoy this latest episode!.@tamalalalala @squaresoundstudio #audiobookpodcast #theaudiobookpodcast  #firstnations #firstnationsvoices #languageconsultation #firstnationsactors #firstnationsnarrators#podcast #audiobooks #studio #audiostudio #industryadvice #audiobookindustry #voiceover #audiobooknarration @squaresoundstudio 

Welcome back to The Audiobook Podcast!This month's episode delves into an online audio proofing software that has been innovating the audiobook industry - Pozotron. Adam Fritz, CEO of Pozotron, joins Justine to break down how it all works, how narrators can make the most of this tool, the role of AI in the audiobook industry, and what exciting future developments the company has in store for us. Square Sound have integrated Pozotron into our workflow and it has made a huge difference to the efficiency of our workflow and improved the stability and consistency in the way we proof check content for publishers and authors. As Adam has coined, Pozotron aids to “stop pickups before they happen”.We hope you enjoy this month's episode! You can reach out to Adam and the team at hello@pozotron.com 

The latest episode of the Audiobook Podcast, Justine and Abbe discuss a slightly more serious topic on performance anxiety.  In the audiobook industry, “Booth Fright” (as opposed to Stage Fright) is experienced by many actors despite the lack of admission around it. Abbe and Justine also discuss how pervasive a phenomenon this is and some ways narrators can counteract those feelings of doubt, and the negative voice that chats in your head. As a voice over coach, Abbe speaks on how she guides students through this, Justine gives the director's perspective on how you can direct someone when they're experiencing “Booth Fright”. If you want to dive deeper, there's a lot of great literature speaking on this topic.Check out the following articles and resources:https://www.schoolofvoiceover.com/talent-resources/reducing-performance-anxiety-how-to-de-stress/https://www.centerforvocalhealth.com/blog/stage-fright-vocal-muscleshttps://edgestudio.com/taming-stage-fright/https://www.nethervoice.com/overcoming-performance-anxiety/https://www.sarasecora.com/resources/2021/7/15/pzi8ngb0v8ipg3txs8a3ss3mioci7ehttps://voiceovercoach.com.au/7-things-voice-actors-should-never-worry-about/https://www.voiceoverxtra.com/article.htm?id=RA2RTA4Fhttps://www.voiceactorwebsites.com/i-am-anxiety/

Welcome back to another episode of the Audiobook Podcast! Today, Justine and Abbe are joined in conversation with Les Horovitz, voice actor and audiobook narrator.It's never too late to follow your passions. Les Horovitz worked in accounting and finance for almost 30 years, when he made the switch to becoming a professional voice over artist and audiobook narrator, with now 30 over titles to his name! We chat to him about his unique journey, insights on the industry and tips he has for aspiring narrators. The conversation opens up into the benefits of getting professional training and the craft of voice acting and audiobook narration, as well as a deep dive into pivotal steps that projected Les's career, and more voice over advise with Abbe Holmes!Find out more about Les at leshorovitz.comVoice Over Coaching inquiries, you can reach Abbe at abbe@voiceovercoach.com.au 

Episode 25 explores the vital role of audiobook's unsung heroes - the Proof Editors, also known as Quality Control (QC). After the audiobook recording phase is complete, and before it reaches your ears, the proof editors step in to begin the process of listening through the entire book.Joining us from her home in LA, Anthea Greco, Australian Voice Actor, audiobook narrator and proof editor, chats to Justine and Abbe about her journey to audiobooks and the QC process. We cover how this role operates, common errors proofers are listening out for, and as always, some fun tidbits along the way! Casting a light on a lesser known (but extremely vital) role in the audiobook industry. We hope you enjoy our latest episode!

“Talking books”, since their inception, have always had accessibility in mind. But just how much of this carries on in today's world of audiobook production?Andrew Furlong and Robert De Graauw from Vision Australia sit down with Justine Sloane-Lees to discuss accessibility in the audiobook industry, and give us an insight into Vision Australia's Talking Books production process - from a breakdown of the innovative DAISY system, to editing, casting and narration.Highlighting the crucial work of organisations such as Vision Australia in this space, this month's episode 24  is a must-listen!

In this episode, join Justine Sloane-Lees and Abbe Holmes, as they deep dive into the genre of non-fiction and discuss the boost in production of non-fiction titles in audio, examples of the different types of non-fiction and the unique circumstances and elements that can accompany this sort of genre.  We also touch on the importance of directing and casting, specifically, what makes for a good narration of a non-fiction audiobook? How does one's performance differ when working with non-fiction as opposed to fiction? (Hint: never underestimate the power of the PAUSE) Sharing fun anecdotes along the way, highlighting some of the memorable non-fiction titles they've had the pleasure working on. We hope you enjoy our latest episode! Please like, comment and share! 

In Episode 22 Justine Sloane-Lees has a good yarn with Australian-born Audiobook Director and Narrator, Olivia McKenzie-Smith. Starting with her early career as an actor in Australia and America and how she found her neiche in the audiobook industry in America.  Olivia shares her process, Australian Vs American English, how her dual roles compliment one another, what is the go to authoritative pronunciation guide, and what lengths a director will go to, to get a word pronunciation correct! They also touch on what goes into preparation of series books and how essential having a broader general knowledge is key in this work.   We hope you enjoy our latest episode and please like, comment and share with someone who cares!

In conversation with Andrew Hansen And Jessica Roberts, creators of Bab Sharkey and Director, Yen Nguyen.This husband and wife duo have penned the hilarious middle-grade series  for readers aged 8+ who love humorous texts with songs and heaps of jokes. SquareSound directed and produced 4 audio stories and layered with SFX and music to create an experience into the world of Bab Sharkey.In the discussion we touch on studio and author process, and have a few laughs and share some snippets along the way.The Audiobook Series can be found via WaveSound Audio or at any good online audiobook store.

Who's Who in the Studio? We'd like to clear some things up around the job roles that go into making a successful audiobook.  Job titles can be tossed around often without a clear sense of what exactly each person does. Until just a few years ago there were just a handful of studios that specialised in recording audiobooks in Australia but now many home and professional studio have stepped into the industry most without a clear sense of what actually goes into the preparation and production nor who's who in the studio.This episode Justine Sloane-Lees is in discussion with Ryan D'Sylva and Yen Nguyen who are part of the team here at SquareSound.

In Episode 19 , Justine Sloane-Lees has an open conversation with David Tredinnick, an awarded narrator of audiobooks, having narrated more than 150 titles. David is a pro when it comes to undersatnding period voices, so we touch on this, as well as the journey of his audiobook career and what hacks his picked up along the way. Then David turns the questions back onto Justine about her perspective on a few things. Enjoy!Noted in the podcast, audiobooks with a difference.Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy is a great example of a full cast dramatization with narration by the author.2017 Man Booker Prize winner Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders, which used a cast of twenty high-profile performers to realize some of the 166 characters in the book. And from a more journalistic bent, the audiobook of Malcolm Gladwell's Talking to Strangers, narrated by him, contains extracts from interviews he's recorded, which has seen the audiobook outstrip the print edition in sales.

There are so many authors out there not sure about what path to take when it comes to audiobooks! Now in part two we continue to assist authors making informed choices by hearing a shared experience with a published author.Donna McGeorge, the author of multiple books (some of them in audio,) "The 25 Minute Meeting" and "The First 2 hours" which were recorded with SquareSound in 2019. We ask Donna about how being published has given her release an edge,  and also translated into Korean!  Where is everything now in Donna's business 12 months after the audio release. LINKS:www.donnamcgeorge.comquikmarkmedia.com.auwiley.com/en-augildanmedia.com25minutemeetings.comthefirst2hours.com.au

There are so many authors out there not sure about what path to take when it comes to audiobooks!  In the next two podcasts we are aiming to assist authors making informed choices by hearing shared experiences from two authors, one independent and the other a publisher author.In Episode 17 we are in discussion with Lynne Cazaly, the author of multiple independent books and the audiobook “ISH” that was recorded with SquareSound in 2019. We ask Lynne about her journey almost 12 months after the release.LINKS:lynnecazaly.com.auquikmarkmedia.com.auauthorsrepublic.comwoodslane.com.auingramspark.com

In Episode 16 we chat with an audiobook enthusiast about his listening experience. Whilst Stacy Gougoulis also has a natural flair for narration as well, it is obvious that his keen interest as a listener of books has given him a lot of the knowledge which he applied into his toolbox as a narrator.  Whilst not all narrators listen to books after they finish a day in the booth, there is a lot to be learnt by understanding the listener.LINKSSquaresound.com.au@squaresoundstudio@stacygougoulis

In Episode 15 we have a little history discussion with Dr. Jennifer Bowen, (radio producer and academic) in studio with Justine Sloane-Lees.  Talking books, known more widely now as Audiobooks came about in the early 1920's, recorded on LP's and also presented by elocutionists on live radio.  And just in case you didn't think so...stories are also for men..despite the debate in the 50's "that grown men shouldn't listen to a story teller!"

In this episode we focus on some of the unexpected things you may find yourself doing when recording an audiobook. Like the recording of this podcast…!  Instead of having Abbe and Justine both in the studio, this episode was recorded from SquareSound Studio and via Source Connect we linked up to Abbe Holmes in her home studio. We love Source Connect! In light of the COVID 19 Pandemic, professional studios around the world are going remote due to the social distancing and self isolation that is upon us, but we continue to work out ways to keep on working together, so we can keep on working!  

In conversation with Luke Arnold about his debut contemporary fantasy novel, "The last smile in Sunder city".  Gripping from the first chapter, Luke has brilliantly narrated the first book of this trilogy. Actor and now author, now audiobook narrator, Luke shares his process and tells us about his first audiobook narration experience.We are excited that there is more to come too!LINKSlukearnold.nethachette.com.au/luke-arnold/the-last-smile-in-sunder-cityhachette.co.uk/contributor/luke-arnoldlmcm.com.au/artists/luke-arnold

Meet Rupert Degas. Streaming our interview via SourceConnect to Ruperts home studio in Sydney, we get a sense of what it's like for Rupert's clients when they connect with him from around the globe.  After decades of recording audiobooks we ask Rupert how he works now, what gear he uses and what makes him so damn good.LINKSrupertdegas.com  groversmillpodcast.com

Have you ever thought about being a voice over artist?  What is involved? What makes audiobook voice coaching different to other voice coaching styles?In this episode we look at voice coaching from Abbe's lens as a voice coach and from Justine's work with 3rd year acting students.  How do you know if someone's got what it takes to be a voice narrator for audiobooks?  LINKSAbbe Holme: www.voiceovercoach.com.auJustine Sloane-Lees: http://justinesloanelees.net.au

Stig's passion for audiobooks is infectious.  He has captivated millions of listeners globally and has been around longer than most doing this work.  Long time friends with Abbe, Stig talks about the ABIA award winning audiobook "Boy Swallows Universe" by Trent Dalton, and how building solid partnerships and being creative is key. Stig also discuss's the role narrators can play as an audible illustrator, and how words should lift off the page with the narrators creativity and self expression.

In the studio, Abbe and Justine discuss what to expect, what to do and what to avoid doing based on how we work at SquareSound Melbourne, Australia.In addition, Abbe shares her breathing techniques, how to use the breath in a deliberate and controlled way to minimise loud unwanted breaths, throughout the audio recording, without overthinking it!If you've never recorded in a professional studio before and your narrating an entire book, step one, be prepared before you walk into the studio! Listen to the previous episode "Preparation" as it is part one to this episode "In the Studio".

You've been selected to narrate a book.  Now what?In this episode Abbe and Justine discuss how to prepare for an audiobook narration before heading into the studio.  

In this episode we are joined by one of Australia's best and awarded audiobook narrators, Jennifer Vuletic.  Abbe and Jennifer dive into a discussion on how to approach narration in different persons, 1st, 2nd & 3rd.  Also, checking in on some of Jennifer's favourite titles and narration hacks. Enjoy.LINKSJennifer's agent : admin [at] bgmagency.com.au

Accents with Leith McPhersonGet ready to dive into a world of accents with Leith McPherson. This lady is one of the industry's best and looks after all the A-star actors before they step onto stage, screen and into the booth.LINKSDialect Archive: www.dialectsarchive.com

In conversation with Elizabeth Coleman & Caroline Lee after the recording of Elizabeth's debut novel "Losing the plot".Caroline has recorded hundreds of audiobooks and it was a pleasure having her in studio, post record, to talk with us about the book and how she prepares for audiobook narration with Elizabeth. Losing the Plot is a Wavesound production, available on RB Digital, Audiobooks.com and all major book suppliers.

In conversation with Rachael Tidd on Vocal Hygiene.How do narrators care for their voice? What are some things to consider as a voice actor when recording audiobooks? In the episode we check in with a professional narrator, actor and speech pathologist on what she does to prepare her voice before recording a books.LINKSRachael Tidd :  voiceplay [at] yahoo.com

In conversation with author Graeme Simsion and narrator Dan O'Grady.These two creatives finally meet in the SquareSound Studios, after recording the third and final novel, The Rosie Result, following from The Rosie Project and The Rosie Effect. Talking about Don, autism, audiobooks and the movie??For those who don't know the books, the novel centres on genetics professor Don Tillman, as he explores the romantic and comedic errors of a man with undiagnosed Asperger's Syndrome in a modern world.The Rosie Result is a Penguin Random House UK production and available on Audible and all major book stores.

Voice Casting for audiobooks.  This episode explores the process of how SquareSound cast for their audiobooks. How does one get selected? What are the casting agents looking for and how to submit your voice to a voice bank to be considered in the first place.LINKS www.dialectsarchive.com

I've got a great voice, should I be an audiobook narrator?Do you have a voice for audiobooks?  This podcast explores the skills of audiobook narrators and why great vocal tones don't necessarily equate to great audiobook narrators.LINKSSquareSound.com.auinstagram.com/squaresoundstudioabbeholmes.com/coaching justinesloanelees.net.au