The Audiobook Club with John York
Episode Summary: Billie Fulford-Brown | Voice Actor & Audiobook Narrator
Release Date: September 27, 2024
Host: John York
Guest: Billie Fulford-Brown, Award-Winning Voice Actor & Audiobook Narrator
1. Introduction and Recent Recognition
In this episode, John York welcomes esteemed voice actor and audiobook narrator, Billie Fulford-Brown, to discuss her recent achievements and journey in the audiobook industry.
- Billie shares her excitement about being nominated for the Audis:
"I had submitted myself for Best Fiction Narrator sort of half by mistake and was nominated... if you get nominated, that's to me, that's a win."
(Timestamp: [0:43])
Billie recounts how an unexpected nomination at the Audis, especially in a competitive category featuring talents like Ethan Hawke and Meryl Streep, felt like a significant achievement. She humorously describes the moment when she realized she had won, capturing the surprise and joy of the event.
2. Experience at APAC and Networking
John and Billie delve into the importance of attending industry events like APAC (Audio Publishers Association Conference) and the benefits of networking within the audiobook community.
- Billie emphasizes the necessity of viewing narration as a business:
"We have to start thinking like we're running a business... It's not just about being the best actor narrator in the world."
(Timestamp: [8:19])
She explains how APAC serves as a crucial platform for narrators to connect with publishers and producers, fostering relationships that are vital for career growth. Billie highlights her experience attending APAC for the first time and the subsequent opportunities it opened up for her.
3. Managing the Business Side: Marketing and Assistance
The conversation shifts to the often-overlooked aspects of the profession, such as marketing and administrative tasks.
- Billie discusses outsourcing tasks she dislikes:
"I pay people, John, because I hate it. I hate it."
(Timestamp: [10:13])
Acknowledging that narrators wear many hats, Billie shares her strategy of hiring assistants to manage her social media and administrative duties. She recommends resources like VA4VO.com for finding virtual assistants tailored to voice-over professionals.
4. Background and Transition to Audiobook Narration
Billie provides an in-depth look into her educational background and how she transitioned from traditional acting to audiobook narration.
- Her journey from theatre to voice acting:
"I studied all over the place, many places... I couldn't face doing another three-year course with a dissertation."
(Timestamp: [15:19])
Billie recounts her time at the London Centre for Theatre Studies and the challenges she faced in the acting world, which eventually led her to stumble into audiobook narration by chance. Her passion for reading and support from her husband, a sound engineer, were pivotal in her successful transition.
5. Challenges Faced as a New Narrator
Reflecting on her early days in narration, Billie discusses the unforeseen challenges she encountered.
- Balancing personal life and recording:
"Having my first baby because I was like, oh, I can't record from home. She's here all the time."
(Timestamp: [20:13])
She describes the logistical hurdles of recording with a newborn and how securing a studio space with the help of a friend was essential. Additionally, Billie touches on technical challenges like editing her recordings manually before mastering tools like punch and roll became prevalent.
6. The Art of Audiobook Narration and Preparation Process
Billie delves into the intricacies of preparing for a narration project, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation.
- Her comprehensive preparation approach:
"I have a prepper... she preps how I would prep. So I get a full synopsis of every single chapter."
(Timestamp: [26:47])
She explains how collaborating with a prepper—a close friend trained to assist her—allows her to manage multiple projects efficiently. This partnership ensures that she has detailed synopses and character breakdowns, enabling her to deliver authentic and nuanced performances.
7. Recording Techniques: Punch and Roll vs. Flub and Repeat
The discussion covers various recording techniques and their applicability in different scenarios.
- Billie advocates for learning punch and roll:
"Learn punch and roll. Once you do it, it's just learning where to punch in and not trying to be too clever."
(Timestamp: [33:06])
She shares her initial apprehensions about the technique and how mastering it significantly improved her recording efficiency. Billie also contrasts it with flub and repeat, explaining situations where each method is appropriate.
8. Overcoming Distractions and Productivity Tips
Billie and John explore strategies to maintain focus and productivity while recording from home.
- Billie’s method to combat distractions:
"I use the five-second rule... '5, 4, 3, 2, 1, press record.'"
(Timestamp: [41:24])
Implementing Mel Robbins' Five Second Rule, Billie describes how she overcomes the temptation to check her phone or engage in distractions. She also discusses setting boundaries, such as using "Do Not Disturb" modes on her devices and organizing her workspace to minimize interruptions.
9. Advice for Aspiring Narrators
Towards the end of the episode, Billie offers invaluable advice for those looking to break into the audiobook narration industry.
- Recommendations for new narrators:
"Push suggest people go towards people like Karen Commons' Narrator Roadmap... practice reading out loud and listen back."
(Timestamp: [46:03])
Billie suggests aspiring narrators pursue training through reputable courses and coaching programs, emphasizing the importance of acting skills in delivering compelling narrations. She encourages continuous learning and authenticity, advising newcomers to avoid overacting and to stay true to the characters they portray.
10. Upcoming Projects and Closing Thoughts
Billie shares her excitement about her latest project and upcoming releases, providing listeners with a glimpse into her future endeavors.
- Her latest audiobook project:
"I've got Jodi Pico's new book coming out in October in the UK... It's all about whether Shakespeare wrote his plays."
(Timestamp: [54:15])
Billie describes this project as a personal dream, expressing her passion for literature and storytelling. She mentions other forthcoming works across various genres, highlighting the diversity and richness of her portfolio.
Notable Quotes
-
Billie on the significance of Audiobook nominations:
"If you get nominated, that's to me, that's a win."
(Timestamp: [0:43]) -
On viewing narration as a business:
"We have to start thinking like we're running a business."
(Timestamp: [8:19]) -
Regarding outsourcing disliked tasks:
"I pay people, John, because I hate it."
(Timestamp: [10:13]) -
On mastering recording techniques:
"Learn punch and roll. Once you do it, it's just learning where to punch in and not trying to be too clever."
(Timestamp: [33:06]) -
Advice for maintaining focus:
"I use the five-second rule... '5, 4, 3, 2, 1, press record.'"
(Timestamp: [41:24])
Conclusion
Billie Fulford-Brown's journey from aspiring actor to acclaimed audiobook narrator underscores the multifaceted nature of the profession. Her insights into the business aspects, preparation techniques, and personal growth offer a comprehensive guide for both listeners and aspiring narrators. John's engaging host creates a platform where Billie's experiences and advice resonate, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone passionate about audiobooks.
Connect with Billie Fulford-Brown:
- Billie's Social Links (Links to be provided in show notes)
Featured Project:
- Jodi Pico's New Book
Available on Audible UK
Support The Audiobook Club:
Note: This summary excludes advertisements, introductions, and outros to focus solely on the content of the discussion between John York and Billie Fulford-Brown.