Podcast Summary: The Audiobook Club with John York
Episode: Eric Nolan AKA The Devil of Dublin | Actor, Voice Actor & Quinn Creator
Release Date: August 23, 2024

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Audiobook Club, host John York ([B]) welcomes Eric Nolan ([A]), a multifaceted actor and voice actor renowned for his creation of the character "The Devil of Dublin." The conversation delves into Eric's diverse career, his experiences with voice acting, acting in major TV shows like Vikings and Game of Thrones, and his innovative work on the Quinn platform.

Eric Nolan’s Career Journey

Breaking into Acting and Voice Work

Eric Nolan begins by humorously addressing his initial skepticism about being interviewed, highlighting his diverse roles beyond "The Devil of Dublin" ([00:14]). He recounts his unconventional path into acting, starting without formal training or acting classes ([09:35]). Eric transitioned from a sound engineering degree focused on music for movies to working as an extra on Vikings and subsequently Game of Thrones, despite lacking prior acting experience.

Notable Quote:
"I think it's the immediate imposter syndrome that happens every time someone wants to talk to me." ([01:49])

Voice Acting and Quinn

Discovery and Evolution of Quinn Work

Eric shares how his venture into audiobook narration began serendipitously through the Quinn platform. Initially, he struggled with the technical aspects of recording, leading to numerous takes and a steep learning curve. His first audiobook, The Devil of Dublin, became a life-changing project, earning him recognition as the "Sexiest Male Narrator on the Planet" by Goodreads.com ([24:00]).

Collaboration with BB Easton

Eric collaborates closely with BB Easton, the author behind The Devil of Dublin. Their partnership involves co-creating content for Quinn, where Eric voices both male and female characters, adding depth and versatility to his performances. This collaboration has expanded his creative horizons, allowing him to explore dark romance and other niche genres within Quinn's framework ([35:06]).

Notable Quote:
"I became this person. I became the Devil of Dublin." ([20:17])

Challenges and Insights

Navigating Multiple Roles and Responsibilities

Balancing acting roles in high-profile TV shows with voice acting for audiobooks presents significant challenges. Eric emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, especially when transitioning between different types of media and roles. He candidly discusses the financial uncertainties of leaving a stable job for acting, highlighting the risks and rewards involved ([01:26]).

Technical and Creative Hurdles

Eric navigated technical difficulties with limited resources, such as using FL Studio for recording instead of industry-standard software. Despite these obstacles, his commitment to quality led to successful projects. He reflects on the importance of persistence, stating that failure only occurs if one stops trying ([35:52]).

Notable Quote:
"You only fail if you stop." ([05:12])

Upcoming Projects

Sequel to The Devil of Dublin: The Devil Himself

Eric is excited to announce the sequel, The Devil Himself, a project co-written with BB Easton. This sequel expands the universe of The Devil of Dublin, introducing new characters and deeper narratives. The audiobook release is set for August 29, featuring returning cast members and new voices, including Lawrence Killen ([89:41]).

Innovative Content on Quinn

Beyond traditional audiobooks, Eric explores interactive and episodic content on Quinn. He envisions a serialized format akin to a TV series, with interconnected storylines and character developments. This approach offers listeners a more immersive and continuous experience ([35:52]).

Notable Quote:
"We're doing more voice acting than TV and film work." ([20:17])

Personal Growth and Impact

Emotional and Creative Transformation

Engaging deeply with his characters has transformed Eric both personally and professionally. He acknowledges that creating intimate and emotionally charged content for Quinn has enhanced his ability to access and express a wide range of emotions. This process has also improved his confidence and business acumen, making him more adept at managing his creative endeavors ([68:28]).

Balancing Privacy and Public Persona

Eric grapples with maintaining his private life while building a public persona through his work. He discusses the challenges of revealing his identity and the potential risks associated with fame in the entertainment industry. Despite these concerns, Eric remains committed to his creative projects, driven by a passion for storytelling and audience engagement ([83:08]).

Notable Quote:
"I've become a total asshole. No, I've been so." ([69:51])
— Eric Nolan humorously reflects on his transformation.

Conclusion

This episode provides an in-depth look into Eric Nolan's dynamic career as an actor and voice actor. From his beginnings as an extra to his acclaimed work on Quinn, Eric's journey is marked by resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of his passions. His collaboration with BB Easton and his innovative approach to audiobook narration underscore his significant contributions to the field. Listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of balancing multiple roles in the entertainment industry, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring voice actors and audiobook enthusiasts alike.

Notable Closing Quote:
"I have 18 parts in my head. I have the start, and I have the end and the in between." ([86:02])
— Reflecting on the complexity and depth of his creative processes.

Key Takeaways:

• Versatility in Acting: Eric seamlessly transitions between on-screen acting and voice acting, demonstrating versatility and adaptability.

• Innovative Collaborations: His partnership with BB Easton on Quinn showcases the power of collaborative creativity in producing engaging content.

• Personal Growth: Eric's journey highlights the importance of emotional accessibility and continuous learning in personal and professional development.

• Challenges of Public Persona: Balancing privacy with a public career presents ongoing challenges, emphasizing the need for resilience and strategic management.

For more insights and updates on Eric Nolan’s projects, visit the show notes for links to his socials and the upcoming release of The Devil Himself.