Caryn Clark

Why Retirement and Savings Planning is Vital – Freelancer Edition

April 23, 2025 by Caryn Clark

Are you a freelancer who has to, like everything else, make it your job to learn about saving for retirement and the options available to you? Or, do you work for a company with options like a 401K or pension?

Either way, retirement planning and savings is vital!

Getting Started

After graduating from college, I went to work in the world of finance, for a mutual fund company. I knew absolutely nothing about mutual funds, or investments, or retirement. I learned pretty quickly though, that a 401K is a nifty investment vehicle, especially when your company matches a percentage of your investment. I invested in the 401K immediately. I encouraged my roommate and friends to do the same. Now, some thirty years later, we are all happy we did.

Is a Pension or Deferred Comp an Option?

My husband has a pension, which, I feel like is unheard of in this day and age. Not many companies or entities offer pensions to their employees. We are very fortunate to have this retirement vehicle.

He also has the option of investing in a deferred compensation plan. Given, well, life, and all that it brings, he never opted to invest in it. Last week, I finally did a little research, and he is now investing into the 457b deferred compensation plan!

Consider Dollar Cost Averaging

Retirement might not be something you think about when you’re in your twenties or thirties, but it’s so important to consider. Invest early, and invest often! Dollar cost averaging is truly effective. Through Dollar Cost Averaging, you are steadily investing money at regular intervals, when the investment price is low and high, so that in the end, the cost “averages” out.

Savings and CD Laddering

It’s also important to save, to have cash on hand when you need it, or in case of emergencies. Savings accounts don’t pay very much interest. Money markets do pay a little more interest. Or, you could consider something like a CD Ladder, as explained in this video.

If you’re looking for more tips on saving money, click here! This video offers practical ways to save money in day to day life. You might recognize the voice, too.

Let Me Help You!

While I can’t help you with actual retirement planning, I can help you if you’re producing media explaining retirement planning, savings, and other financial products to consumers. Given my background in finance as a writer in the industry before becoming a voiceover actor, I have a very good understanding of personal finance. Contact me and let’s collaborate on your next project! I can even help you write copy for the videos.

Voiceover Isn’t an “Easy Gig” – A Real Monday Morning Call (True Story)

April 18, 2025 by Caryn Clark

Tell me, how’d your Monday begin? Mine kicked off with a phone call that reminded me, once again, so many people believe voiceover is easy. It’s not. Voiceover is not an easy gig.

voiceover isn’t an easy gig — Voiceover is not a get rich quick job.

📞 <Ring ring>

“Hello, this is Caryn!”

“Hi Caryn, my name is Steve…”

From the start, Steve’s tone was friendly and curious. He told me he manages a country club in SWFL and had crossed paths with a few voice actors. When he asked if I was a voice actor, I answered hesitantly: “Yesssss.”

His next question? “So… how easy is it to get into voiceover?” and kept talking.

I paused, exhaled, and then responded with conviction, “I’m gonna stop you right there. It’s not easy to get into. You hustle. Every. Single. Day.”

I’ve had countless conversations like this. Actually, two just this week alone. Well-meaning folks looking for a part-time side hustle, having heard that voiceover is a fun, low-effort gig. But here’s the reality: voiceover is a full-time commitment. It demands resilience, daily dedication, and thick skin.

To his credit, Steve was honest. “Oh, no, not at all,” he said when I asked if voice acting was his dream. “I just heard it was easy to get into.”

That moment hit me. Because I’ve heard it all before – people looking for quick wins, casual money, or fame through a microphone. And while some might sell you the fantasy, I won’t. I’ll give you the facts.

What It Really Takes to Succeed in Voiceover

Steve thought voice actors made $100–$150 per local commercial. So, I gently corrected him, explaining how market size, network affiliation, and usage rights influence rates. You can’t just hop into a booth and cash checks. You invest in:

A professional studio setup
Ongoing coaching and performance training
Voiceover marketing tools
Acting classes and business knowledge

I didn’t sugarcoat it. I walked him through the hustle – every single day – whether you’re just starting or working with national brands. This industry doesn’t cater to dabblers. It uplifts dreamers with drive.

From Side Chats to Real Insight: The Human Side of the Hustle

We talked for nearly 20 minutes about schools, neighborhoods, family, and more. I wasn’t just answering questions. I was listening, guiding, and sharing a glimpse into a world that many misinterpret.

And here’s the funny twist: I made a new friend.

I didn’t crush his curiosity. Instead, I redirected it with honesty. I reminded him that chasing a dream is beautiful. But you have to want it. Because if you don’t? This career will chew you up.

Voiceover Was My Dream, and I Built It From Zero.

Look, voiceover is not easy. I started with no experience. Just a dream and determination. One of the women Steve mentioned – the one who voiced the Oscars – became my mentor. That’s the full circle. Southwest Florida has been full of top level voice talent, and I’ve learned from legends.

But I did the work.

Some years, voiceover has brought me six figures. Other years? It’s rocky. Feast or famine is real. But I never give up. Why? Because this is my dream.

Why I’m the “Get Off My Lawn” Lady in VO

People like Steve are everywhere, hearing whispers about an “easy gig,” encouraged by online ads selling overnight success. And I get it. Those whispers are tempting.

But here’s my promise: I’ll always tell you the truth.

If you’re not ready to commit fully, then no, you probably won’t make it. If it’s your dream? Then absolutely, I’ll cheer you on. But you must show up. Every. Single. Day.

The Unexpected SEO Win

You know how Steve found me? He Googled “voiceover” and my name popped up. That’s the power of staying consistent, showing up in the digital space, and building a credible brand. That’s years of work paying off.

Final Thought: Stop Selling the Easy Gig Illusion

Again, let’s stop telling people that voiceover is a walk in the park. It’s not. But it is one of the most rewarding, creative, empowering careers out there, if you love it.

So, you want in? Beautiful. Start now. Train. Practice. Show up. But don’t expect shortcuts. And don’t listen to those who try to sell you dreams without the grind. If you’d like to chat, I do offer consultations about how to get in to voiceover. I’m not going to sugarcoat anything, so be ready for honesty. Click here to schedule a session with me. 🙂

Here are some free resources to read and study so you can learn more about voiceover:

I Want to Be a Voice Actor! by Dee Bradley Baker
VO Radio Online – chock full of great advice and help!

Why We Should Not Fear AI

April 10, 2025 by Caryn Clark

Do you know why we should not fear AI?

LinkedIn especially, often feels like doomscrolling. Between layoffs, people spending months and even years looking for a new job, freelancers slogging for connections to create relationships, and the ever present fearful chatter about AI from all points of view, it’s… exhausting. Humans fear of AI is crippling. Keep reading to learn why we should not fear AI.

Today, I came across a post talking about AI, and how, especially in the creative realm, it participates in intellectual theft. “AI isn’t creative, it’s just copying people who are.”

So true.

My friend, Todd Ellis, of Plain Brown Wrapper Media, made this comment, and it resonated with me:

“… the creative process is a PROCESS. If you eliminate a step, say “streamlining” you eliminate part of the PROCESS. Reading, listening, looking at something over & over & over again takes time, but it inspires change, strengthens flow, sparks new ideas (and a lot more I’d probably think of if I re-read this post a few times). If we eliminate that step (or any step) enough, we’ll forget how to do that step and everything suffers.

If we just bake biscuits out of a can, we lose all the skill of biscuit making grandma taught us. And those are some damn good biscuits.”

Look, I grew up in “the South” in rural central Florida. I know a good biscuit when I taste one. The ones made with bacon grease are the best.

Todd is right. We can use AI to help us along. Maybe. But if you’re actually participating in the CREATIVE PROCESS, then you have to go through each and every step of that process, in order to land in the ultimate creative nirvana.

In voiceover, there’s a creative process to understanding a script, and knowing how we can best represent the “voice” of that brand and message. If we skip any of those steps. the process suffers. I guarantee, a voice actor is not going to bring the best performance or perspective to their work.

We humans are unique. There is no machine or AI that is going to be able to replicate us, our minds, our experiences, or our creativity. There is no other thing in the world like humans.

Do not fear AI. Stop worrying about it taking our jobs. There is nothing… that can human like a human.

If you need a real, relatable voice for your project, hire human. Hire me. Contact me here and we can chat about your needs.

#hirehuman #AI #voiceover #relatable

8 Essential Voiceover Tips for Beginners – Expert Advice

April 1, 2025 by Caryn Clark

Starting a career in voiceover (VO) can be an exciting yet challenging journey. With over 20 years in the industry, both as a voice actor and a consultant, I’ve seen firsthand what it takes to succeed. If you’re considering getting into voice acting, these essential tips will guide you in the right direction. Read on for essential voiceover tips for beginners.

No Two Voiceover Journeys Are the Same

Everyone’s path in voiceover is unique. Comparing your progress to someone else’s is counterproductive. Focus on your growth and embrace the learning process.

Embrace a Learning Mindset

Voiceover is an evolving industry, and being open to learning is crucial. Absorb knowledge like a sponge, listen to industry experts, and always be willing to improve your skills.

It’s Not Just About Your Voice

Having a great voice is helpful, but voiceover is voice ACTING. Your ability to bring scripts to life, convey emotions, and connect with the audience is what truly matters.

Constructive Criticism Is Your Best Friend

If a coach tells you that you can “become a VO in just a few months” without effort, they’re misleading you. A great coach will provide honest, constructive feedback to help you grow.

Follow Directions Like a Pro

In the world of VO, following directions to a tee is a must. Whether it’s a recording session or audition instructions, your ability to adhere to details can make or break opportunities.

Be Prepared and Professional

Whether it’s a free consultation or a paid coaching session, be prepared. Take notes, ask insightful questions, and respect your mentor’s time.

Do the Homework

When a coach suggests a website, blog, or book, take the time to explore it. Research and self-education are invaluable tools in becoming a successful VO artist.

Express Gratitude

A simple thank-you message can go a long way. Whether it’s a free consult or career advice, showing appreciation helps build strong professional relationships.

Final Thoughts

Most aspiring VO artists follow these principles naturally, but some need a little guidance like these voiceover tips. Remember, you don’t know what you don’t know. Seeking experienced and honest coaches can make all the difference in your journey. If you’re looking for professional guidance, I’m here to help! Contact me here!

If you’d like to check out other resources, I recommend:
I Want to be a Voice Actor – Dee Bradley Baker’s site

Talk the Talk: Building Business Relationships with Voiceover

March 21, 2025 by Caryn Clark

There’s a lot to be said about the power of relationships in business, branding, and advertising, and using voiceover to nurture those relationships.

Building strong relationships in business is more than just networking. Actually, I hate the word “networking.” It’s about getting to know people. Really, and truly, know them. It’s about creating meaningful connections. Whether you’re a business owner, a brand strategist, or in advertising, relationships form the backbone of credibility, trust, and engagement. Understanding how these relationships impact branding and advertising can transform the way businesses communicate and connect with their audience.

The Role of Relationships in Branding and Business

Business is built on relationships. Whether between companies, employees, or clients, the strength of these relationships determines long-term success. Here’s why:

Trust and Loyalty: A strong business relationship fosters trust, which leads to customer and client loyalty.
Reputation and Referrals: Word-of-mouth referrals often come from solid business relationships. I love when I get a referral! It is the ultimate trust factor.
Collaborations and Opportunities: Connections lead to partnerships and growth opportunities.
Customer Retention: Brands focusing on relationships are more likely to retain customers long-term.

Investing in relationships within your industry helps solidify your brand’s presence, making it a preferred choice for clients and customers alike.

How Branding Creates a Feeling of Trust

Branding is not just about logos and colors; it’s about perception, and the feeling people get when the interact with the brand. Strong relationships help build a brand’s reputation, shaping how it is perceived by consumers.

Authenticity Matters: People connect with brands they trust.
Brand Advocates and Influencers: Satisfied customers and business partners become advocates, amplifying brand awareness through reviews, UGC, and word of mouth.
Consistency and Reliability: Nurturing relationships ensures consistent brand experiences for clients and consumers.

Successful brands are those that prioritize their relationships, ensuring their voice resonates with their audience.

Voiceover in Advertising: The Human Connection

Voiceover plays a crucial role in advertising by establishing a connection between the brand and its audience. The right voiceover evokes emotion, builds trust, and enhances brand identity. But how does relationship-building impact voiceover success?

Authenticity and Relatability: A voiceover artist who understands the brand’s values can communicate with authenticity. Even better – choose a voiceover who is loyal to your brand!
Consistency in Messaging: Working with the same voiceover artist across campaigns strengthens brand recognition.
Engagement and Emotional Appeal: A trusted voice fosters emotional connections, making your campaign more effective.

When a brand and voiceover artist work together consistently, they create a seamless, trustworthy experience for the audience.

Say I Love You

Your brand solves a problem for your customer. Creating and building relationships in business plays a vital role in branding and advertising. Strong connections enhance trust, foster brand loyalty, and improve the effectiveness of advertising campaigns. Focusing on relationships will elevate your brand and ensure long-term success. Don’t forget to say “I love you” to your customers. Let them know you appreciate them and the relationship you have.

I love chatting all things advertising. Hit me up to talk, or hey, if you need a voiceover for your next campaign, click here to contact me.

Links to More Info and Research:

- The Importance of Brand Consistency

Advertising Statistics Say Don’t Ignore Women When Advertising

March 12, 2025 by Caryn Clark

Ever since my first job out of college, advertising statistics have resonated with me.

That first job was a customer service representative for a mutual fund company. There I learned about invaluable stats of mutual fund returns (3 mo, 12 mo, YTD, etc), and how statistics, even in hidden ways, are used to market and sell, well… so many things.

So, what are the advertising statistics?

Lately, I’ve been doing quite a bit of marketing to automotive advertising agencies. Did you know that women buy 54% of all cars and influence 85% of all vehicle purchase decisions?

Yet, women HATE buying cars. I know I do. I’d rather poke my eyes out with a fork. We just bought a car for my stepdaughter a couple of weeks ago, and after visiting a few dealerships, we finally found a relatable and nice salesman. Oh, and a decent car.

Ok, so here are a few more ASTOUNDING stats about the general consumer (hint: ummmmm… they’re mostly women):

I don’t know what most men are doing, but the ladies are out there making it happen!

The average person is exposed to between 4,000 and 10,000 ads per day across all media platforms, including television, online, radio, and billboards. (Source: Applied Psychology)

WOAH. That’s a lot of exposure. What sinks in?

Relationships are important in advertising

Ads that create a relationship with the consumer. You have to create a bond… with one pillar of that bond being trust. Another pillar is relatability.

As you can imagine, the imagery, message, and voiceover in advertising play a very important role in all of this. A voice who is relatable to your consumer is VITAL.

Guess what? Over and over, I’m told I’m relatable… well, my voice is. 🙂 I’m just a nice gal from Pennsylvania transplanted to Florida who lives a somewhat normal life, married, one stepchild, with two (adorable rescue) dogs, who loves college football (Go Gators), traveling, collecting vintage PYREX, and shopping!

Chew on the above advertising statistics for a while. Then, give me a call when you need a voiceover. I’d love to help you.