Episode Summary: Tom York | Actor & Voice Actor

Released on July 26, 2024, "The Audiobook Club with John York" features a captivating conversation with Tom York, an accomplished actor and voice actor known for his role in the acclaimed TV series "Poldark" and his innovative work with Quinn audios.

1. Introduction and Background

John York opens the episode by expressing his admiration for Tom York's work and welcomes him to the show.

• Timestamp [00:13]: John: "Hello, and welcome to the Audiobook Club. In this week's episode, we're so lucky to be joined by actor and Quinn creator Tom Yorke."

Tom Yorke shares his gratitude for the warm welcome.

• Timestamp [00:24]: Tom Yorke: "I'm very well, thank you. Thank you for having me on the show."

2. Discovering Acting and Education

John inquires about Tom's journey into acting, hinting at his early experiences in the Netherlands.

• Timestamp [00:45]: John: "How acting and performing feeling found its way to you?"

Tom recounts his introduction to drama classes at the age of five after moving to the Netherlands due to his father's work. He describes his early experiences in amateur theatre and how supportive teachers at Queen Ethelbergus College in York inspired him to pursue acting professionally.

• Timestamp [01:07]: Tom Yorke: "I just remember having the best time, you know, backstage with a bunch of other young kids... And really, that's where it got its hooks into me."

He highlights his transformative education at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), where he honed his skills and secured a reputable agent, ultimately leading to a decade-long acting career.

3. Breakthrough Role in Poldark

John shifts the discussion to Tom's notable role in "Poldark," emphasizing its significance in his career.

• Timestamp [04:22]: John: "How did that come about? Because that's huge."

Tom explains his audition process for "Poldark," where he chose to portray Sam, a zealoted Methodist preacher, over the romantic lead Drake. He reflects on the anticipation and relief upon landing the role after an extensive waiting period.

• Timestamp [06:23]: Tom Yorke: "There really is nothing better than getting that phone call..."

He describes the emotional rollercoaster leading up to the confirmation of his role, underscoring its impact on his career trajectory.

4. Embracing Uncertainty in the Acting Profession

John delves into the inherent uncertainties of an acting career, seeking Tom's perspective on managing unpredictability.

• Timestamp [08:04]: John: "How are you with that? Has that been a journey of acceptance or do you thrive off that kind of buzz?"

Tom candidly discusses his struggles with the fluctuating nature of acting work. He shares how, over time, the lack of stability began to weigh on him, prompting him to explore other creative outlets like audiobook narration and podcasting. This diversification helped him cope with the industry's uncertainties.

• Timestamp [08:42]: Tom Yorke: "I started trying to diversify my income streams rather than just waiting for the phone to ring..."

5. Venturing into Voice Acting with Quinn Audios

The conversation transitions to Tom's involvement with Quinn audios, a platform for erotic content, highlighting its rapid success and community support.

John praises Quinn Audios and inquires about its inception.

• Timestamp [17:33]: John: "How did Quinn come about for you? What drew you into making audios?"

Tom explains that financial necessity led him to voice acting, prompting him to start a podcast narrating classic novels. His genuine passion and subsequent viral post featuring a reading from "The Song of Achilles" caught Quinn's attention, leading to a collaboration.

• Timestamp [17:33]: Tom Yorke: "I was in a place where I felt like I need to diversify my income. I wanted to stay in the realm of what I love doing."

He details the collaborative process with Quinn, emphasizing the positive reception and the supportive community that quickly formed around his audios.

6. Creative Process in Producing Quinn Audios

John explores Tom's creative workflow, focusing on his approach to writing and recording audios.

• Timestamp [25:14]: Tom Yorke: "I completely agree, but I think it was liberating, actually. The constraint of time allowed me to release the over-analytical mind."

Tom outlines his method of generating and writing audios, which involves brainstorming scenarios, drafting scripts with detailed character interactions, and utilizing binaural recording techniques to enhance listener engagement. He highlights the importance of storytelling and character development in creating compelling erotic content.

• Timestamp [27:43]: John: "What a great idea."

• Timestamp [42:23]: John: "I'm very eager to know more about your... binaural recording?"

7. Building a Supportive Community

The discussion emphasizes the strong, supportive community Quinn Audios fosters, contrasting it with traditional erotic content platforms.

Tom expresses deep appreciation for the loyalty and engagement of Quinn's listeners, noting how the platform's design prioritizes user experience and connection.

• Timestamp [24:31]: John: "I have never known such support and loving group of people..."

• Timestamp [46:42]: John: "Do you think this has improved you as a person?"

Tom acknowledges personal growth through his work with Quinn, mentioning increased self-confidence and a more open approach to discussing sexuality without shame.

• Timestamp [47:18]: Tom Yorke: "I think it's got to be an improvement... more ways than I can articulate in this moment."

8. Advice for Fellow Creators

John seeks Tom's insights for aspiring creators on the Quinn platform.

• Timestamp [39:00]: Tom Yorke: "The story and the scenario are probably the most important thing... setting the scene, creating the dynamic so that it's going to be sexy when the sexy part starts."

Tom advises focusing on robust storytelling and character dynamics to enhance the erotic elements, ensuring that content resonates on a deeper level with listeners.

• Timestamp [42:23]: Tom Yorke: "There is just something about slowing down and writing longhand... feels much more fluid."

He underscores the value of authentic connection and the importance of maintaining creative control to deliver genuine and engaging audios.

9. Personal Growth and Reflections

The conversation turns personal as John and Tom discuss how working with Quinn has influenced their personal lives and perspectives.

Tom reflects on the positive changes, such as reduced stress and a more profound understanding of his own sexuality, which have enhanced his relationships and sense of self.

• Timestamp [50:38]: Tom Yorke: "I find there's something very positive about servicing female pleasure... it makes me feel good."

John echoes these sentiments, sharing his experiences of increased empathy, understanding, and emotional connectivity as a result of his creative endeavors.

10. Quick Fire Q&A: Insights into Tom's Life

To conclude the episode, John poses a series of quick questions to uncover more about Tom's personal interests and current endeavors.

Challenges:

• Timestamp [51:38]: Tom Yorke: "I'm starting to plan a wedding... trying not to put too much pressure on myself."

Downtime Activities:

• Timestamp [52:48]: Tom Yorke: "I have an extensive board game collection. We play cooperative games to enhance communication."

Upcoming Excitement:

• Timestamp [54:03]: Tom Yorke: "I'm going on holiday to Portugal with my brother, best friend, and fiancée. I haven't been on a holiday in a long time."

Wish for More Questions About:

• Timestamp [55:07]: Tom Yorke: "How do you get your hair looking that good?"

John shares humorous anecdotes about interactions with listeners, highlighting the personable nature of their engagement.

Conclusion

John wraps up the episode by thanking Tom for his time and insights, directing listeners to find more about Tom's work and Quinn audios in the show notes.

• Timestamp [57:44]: John: "Well, thank you so much for doing this. It's been such a pleasure."

Tom reciprocates the gratitude, expressing hope that listeners will enjoy the conversation.

• Timestamp [57:50]: Tom Yorke: "Thank you so much, John. This was honestly so lovely and it was really just like a chat."

Listeners can explore more about Tom Yorke's projects and connect with him through his social media links provided in the show notes.

Notable Quotes:

• Tom Yorke [01:07]: "This is the best place to be. And really, that's where it got its hooks into me."

• Tom Yorke [06:23]: "There really is nothing better than getting that phone call."

• Tom Yorke [08:42]: "Having no creative outlet without that phone ringing... started to be difficult for me."

• Tom Yorke [17:33]: "I wanted to stay in the realm of what I love doing."

• John York [46:42]: "Do you think this has improved you as a person?"

• Tom Yorke [47:18]: "I've been putting too much pressure on myself... I want to feel the joy and the space of my life."

This episode offers an in-depth look into Tom York's multifaceted career, his transition from traditional acting to voice acting, and the personal growth he experienced through his work with Quinn Audios. His candid reflections and practical advice provide valuable insights for both fans and aspiring creators in the audiobook and voice acting industries.