Voice Over Training - Classes - Coaching with Nancy Wolfson of Braintracks Audio

Whether you are looking for voice over classes, voice over training, voice over coaching, a voice over coach, a voice over teacher, voice over lessons, voice acting ... you've come to the right place. Voice teacher Nancy Wolfson prepares students and produces voice demos for commercial, animation (cartoon), narration, promo and other voice fields. She will sometimes teach an introductary workshop for new students.

Click here to a bio about voice teacher and trainer Nancy Wolfson.

Braintracks Audio is operated by Nancy Wolfson who is a private Voice Over Consultant and freelance Casting Director for Commercials, Animation/CD Rom, Audio Books, Promos and Narration. She also writes, produces, and directs demos for Voice Over talent, and is recommended by top-market talent agents as the premiere “Go To” person in advising talent on Personal Branding.

Her coursework has been accredited at the university level, and beginners, working pros, and celebrities have profited from her curriculum in private and group classes throughout America, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

With over 15 yrs. experience in the Entertainment Industry, Nancy has served as the head agent of the Commercial Voice Over Department at ARL Talent Agency, a Talent Manager, and Producer of On Air Promotions (Playboy, FOX, WB/CW, ABC.) Recent freelance roles: Corporate Consultant for VH-1 & Nickelodeon, and ongoing Casting Advisor for Muzak, and Clear Channel Communications.

"I am proof that even a person with a foreign accent working remotely from outside the US can make good money in Hollywood VO with Nancy's training and demo production.”
-Adam Behr (adambehr.com)
Recent bookings: Sony, Coca Cola, Harley Davidson Intnl., BBC America, EA Games

"You're so sharp and your insight so clear and valuable._We really learned so much."
-Mariska Hargitay, "Law and Order, SVU"

Click to read a great unsolicited blog discussion about Nancy.

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Coaching Casting Production

Private In Person

Interested in booking your 1st appointment to get your current demo professionally reviewed
and/or
Ready to begin the coursework of learning and advancing towards a top market demo and launching
a moneymaking VO career with Nancy Wolfson?

If you live in LA and wish to pursue this via IN PERSON training with Nancy, then read on.

If you do not live in LA and wish to pursue this via PHONERS, please click HERE.

APPOINTMENTS
Private appointments are $130 per fifty minute session. Coaching times are on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Non-weekday appointments are available every other Saturday. These Saturday slots tend to book up far in advance.

All appointments are scheduled VIA EMAIL, NOT VIA PHONE.
To request a time slot please email Nancy at braintracksaudio@yahoo.com.
We are in back-to-back appointments with folks throughout the day and locked in the recording studio, and as such, email is often the only way for us to communicate all the details, set appointments, field cancellations, etc.

NOTE FROM NANCY
What you are about to read will explain a lot, save us time and it will include some free advice. It's a lotta info....

I don't want to overwhelm you or give you the sense that you ought to sign up for anything more than just your 1st appointment. But I want to give you a sense of what the process will look like should you elect to go the distance with me as your Personal Trainer, and probable Inside Access Point Person to a TON of new VO Casting that I’m doing on line and in person to help cast my students via agents all over the country.

I work with tons of working pros, beginners, and everyone in between with refining their VO skills and ascertaining personal branding. I'm the only former agent out there teaching this material, and as such, this course of study offers uniquely tailored advice on the particular likes and dislikes, needs and tools required by the very folks you're soon to be pursuing for job access (agents in LA, agents outside LA, internet casting, casting thru me, yadda yadda.)

Because the days of needing to have some kind of special VOICE (deep/raspy/sexy/ bold/sunny) are gone, because ad agencies are really looking for any and every kind of sound out there that can connect with the consumer, I firmly believe that anyone who has enough acting skills under their belt to tout a marketing tool called a “head shot,” or any singer out there with the skills to be pursuing work in that area, ought to also have the VO skills and marketing tool called a Voice Over Demo. Voice Over is simply another arena in which you folks can get a job, so you ought to have the skills and the tool just in case the opportunity comes up for you by default or design. Who knows - VO could wind up becoming a big piece of your acting income's pie chart - maybe it will only prove profitable in bits and pieces...but it is wise to have it in your acting bag of tricks.

And if you’re not coming from an acting background, DON’T FRET. This stuff is TOTALLY TEACHABLE.

I teach the acting that is necessary to service advertising, help you folks recognize the patterns in which ad copy is written (kinda like the Stanley Kaplan approach to VO), and — perhaps most importantly — help you better understand how casting directors and agents perceive your personal style.

By the way - this is not one of those VO classes that offers acting exercises to people who already know how to act.

Because I currently do a ton of casting with agents here and in other markets, because I used to be an agent and department head myself, I know and experience every day how much MORE there is to booking these auditions than just good solid acting.

I believe I am now one of the only coaches in town who can give my students access to current auditions even if they have not yet procured VO representation - this is pretty cool - very new - and loads of fun.

These days, a VO talent MUST learn how to work their own HOME EQUIPMENT, how to direct yourself on your own auditions that I will help you procure from your own home system, how to work mic technique, how to market yourself...all of that and so much more.

The acting is an important foundation, and if you need help in that arena, I can get you where you need to be quickly on that matter. But there is so so much more for us to work on beyond acting if you are to make the money at this that is totally out there for the taking in a way that has never been possible before.

Once we are confident your audition skills are competitive and I have a very specific take on your brand, I will produce/direct a demo that reflects these skills & unique style ($1,200). I will also help you “brand” the graphic packaging/web design ($1,200-$1,500-ish, all of which goes to my graphics associate, Village Green Studios, not to me). Visit Village Green studios here- http://www.villagegreenstudios.com

Nobody (not even I) can tell whether or not you are a "natural" until we find out how well you interpret copy.
That takes more than a few privates, and certainly more than a brief conversation.
And if it turns out to be harder than you had guessed (maybe it will, maybe it won't), I can teach you the skills that will help you get your performances where they need to be.

It would be irresponsible to guess in advance just how many privates it will take someone to learn the skills – my curriculum is 15 chapters long, so the average person needs about 15 privates before they are prepared to have me make them a demo.

(OK, having said that, I just produced a demo for a woman recently who flew through my 15-week curriculum in just 6 privates, so one never knows...that’s why I don’t commit people to purchasing any given number of privates in advance.)

You have to trust that I will get you to your goal as expediently as possible - it serves us both to work hard and fast and yet we both must be patient with whatever pace your particular learning process requires.

After demo production, there is at least one necessary post-demo private wherein I advise you on how to proceed with submitting to agents, provide an inside list of agents to whom you ought to submit, tailor your letters to those agents, discuss artwork branding, etc.

Beyond that, most folks come in either once every other week at the most or once every six weeks at the least to keep their chops up until/during/after work opportunities start to come around. As I mentioned, I become a bit of a career coach in this endeavor, so it is wise to check in every now and then for an update as the business changes constantly and I get new casting opportunities in now REGULARLY.

This audio portrait we paint of you is an important one, and it must be done properly so to last you for as long as a couple of years. You must have a finished presentation on yourself (that means artwork, website) in order to pursue representation properly and competitively, and if you are already repped by an agent and somehow got that representation without having presented them with a demo CD/web site, you will have to have one produced for you eventually. Everyone must have one - even celebrities - as the CD is a critical tool used by the agents to procure work for you, introduce you to casting people, etc.

The goal is to help agents and buyers see what is unique about your personal style (beyond your pitch, beyond natural dialect) so they can know what you are likeliest to book, thus helping you help them help you, etc.

Making money in this area of performance is more determined by one’s ability to interpret copy than by the genetic sound of the voice.

And speaking of making money: I have some major new casting avenues that have opened up in the last 3 months that are allowing me to put real auditions in front of people who have gone thru the full course of study with me into demo, which is great (more on that when we chat.)
Just last month, I cast 26 characters for a new animated series, and most of the roles went to my students!

Turning that genetic gift into something that makes you money is all about learning how to think like the folks at the ad agency are thinking, break down ad strategy, and ultimately, with solid acting skills, provide an audition that shows you can be of service to their needs.

That is what we do in here – learn the patterns of how these ad agency writers think. Well, that plus everything I said about branding, plus learning the business of the business, protocol, etc.

I am typically booked up about 3 weeks in advance; emailing a request for a time slot well in advance is advised.
Also let me know if you ware interested in being put on the Wait List – many cancellations crop up each week that afford eager and available people to get in much earlier than we might anticipate!

So – now that you know how it works, EMAIL to get a time slot and we will get you started: braintracksaudio@yahoo.com.

THANKS

Only several sessions into working with Nancy in preparation for my new demo and amazing things are happening. Immediately, Nancy saw that I've been perfecting an archetype, not developing my brand. Okay, so that's a-changing! Her material is super and we are on a roll. I can't say enough about the impact she is making on the way I approach material.
-Ellen Dostal (VOX)

Nancy is the consummate maestro of voiceover.
She is meticulous, has great insight and knows how to maximally cultivate your intrinsic vocal capacity.
Bottom line: the woman is an extraordinary teacher.
In less than two years, I've gone from being a complete neophyte to a WORKING professional with a number of T.V. spots I booked through Nancy,
including Blu-Ray, DirecTV and Sybase.
I couldn't have done it without the work I've done with Nancy.
-Chris Amodeo (VOX)

Hey Nancy,
I landed the MSN campaign! I recorded 2 spots today and Wes is in negotiations for the rest of them. So I get to Pacific Ocean Post and the first one is okay, but then they hand me the :60. This time its the freakin' Iliad. And of course, I have to read it in 12 seconds. I'm thinking, "How am I going to get through this?" Then I remembered that talking with your hands thing you taught me. IT SAVED MY LIFE!!! It was like a miracle!! In short, thank you thank you thank you!! Coaching with you has made such a difference already and I know it had a direct effect on me keeping the campaign.
-C.C. Boyce (VOX)

VO going very well for me these days; 2 years now – Voice of Audi, Callaway Golf, SRP Energy Co. of Arizona, A& E Making of Hollywoodland, just to name the highlights.
Thank you again for all your incredible tips, insights, and guidance.
In just about every session, a client, director, or writer will ask for something and I’ll know exactly what they’re after cause Nancy taught me how to interpret and respond.
Thanks again and warmest regards,
-Jeff Le Beau (ICM/DPN)

"Great job. You really are like some kind of Voice Over savant. And I mean that in a good way, a great way. It is truly amazing how your brain works - when God wired you, he wired you in a way so that you can "see the code" in the system."
-Charlie Shanian (VOX)

“Wow! I sent out the demo you produced. An agent had me in to audition for a national commercial, strictly on the basis of your demo. No interview, just straight into the recording booth. Just a few weeks after being picked up by that agent, an ad agency heard my demo and booked me on an AFTRA commercial – no audition required. Now I’ve been Taft/Hartleyed by AFTRA. Unbelievable. And to think that everyone kept telling me how hard it is to break into Voice Over! Thanks for “getting” me, helping me to get out there, and getting me started. You’re priceless.”
-Brian Beljanski (Cassell-Levy Inc.)

Nancy, You really have a unique ability to critique while building up one's confidence. That is a tremendously positive aptitude. Keep that Braintracksaudio party train rolling!
-Paul Fanning

Also meant to tell you how much I got from your very succinct, informative, and incredibly helpful Braintracks Philosophical/"Instructional" pamphlet you gave to me. Quite a textbook (in the right way) of the task(s) that are placed before the voice/over actor to work on. Also your delivery, as in the way you presented your advice was most 'up' and spiriting. Quite a valuable booklet. I will keep it close by.
-Michael Cooke

Last Thursday we did group reads in the booth. When I got the copy in my hands I was able to dissect it and make it come alive because of my training with you. Also, because of your training, I feel I’m holding my own with people who have much more experience than me. Thanks for all your help. Cheers,
-Alex Ullrich (Independent Artists)

Everyone I've ever studied with has told me to go listen to commercials, and I never understood what I was supposed to be hearing in them when I did that. But now that I've learned your techniques, it 's the first time I am actually able to hear and understand what is going on inside the reads.
-E.D. (VOX)

Study Via Phone

APPOINTMENTS
Private PHONER appointments are the same price as In-Person appointments: $130 per fifty-minute
session.

All appointments are scheduled VIA EMAIL, NOT VIA PHONE.
To request a time slot please email Nancy at braintracksaudio@yahoo.com.
We are in back-to-back appointments with folks throughout the day and locked in the recording studio,
and as such, email is often the only way for us to communicate all the details, set appointments, field
cancellations, etc.

With phoners, the student simply phones me at the time slot we have scheduled, and we have our
fifty-minute consultation over the phone.
(I’ll provide you that telephone number in the Confirmation Sheet that I will send you as we lock in your first appointment time slot.)

NOTE FROM NANCY
Given my experience and success with working with people who are phoning in from out of town, I'd guesstimate that you could make it through at least 80 percent of the curriculum that way.

The last 20 percent, well, that is often best taught/learned here in person.

While I can do demos for people via long distance quite easily (one of my most successful students studied with me via phoners from Vancouver!) I love to do them in person if possible, so if it might be possible for you to come out here when that day comes, I'd love to throw it out there that it'd be great if you could create a way in your budget to make that happen.

(We can do your last coursework chapter, Mic Technique, in person, on a Thursday afternoon, and then do your demo over in Hollywood on a Friday - I do demos on Fridays.)

People who study with me long distance (over the phone) often wind up wanting to come to LA to have me produce their demo, and, like I said, I produce demos on Fridays, so we often book the remaining one or two curriculum privates for sometime in the days before that Friday recording session.

However - just putting that out there - I do demos all the time for folks via studio here linking to a studio in your town and it works out just great. You certainly could, as others have, do 100% of the coursework via phone, no problemo.

Beginning back in 2006, the folks who have studied with me long distance have had the option of recording their demo from a studio in their hometown (without having to haul to LA) via phone patch.
However, the in-person experience of meeting and getting directed in person on the demo itself is always preferable.

It takes, on average, about 15 weeks for a student to get through all 15 chapters.

Typically, we cover one chapter per fifty minute phoner/lesson, but oftentimes a student is able to cover more than one chapter per lesson. It is impossible to ascertain in advance just how many privates it will take someone to learn the skills –
(OK, having said that, I just produced a demo for a woman who flew through my curriculum in just 6 privates,
so one never knows...that’s why I don’t commit people to purchasing any given number of privates in advance.)

You have to trust that I will get you to goal as expediently as possible - it serves us both to work hard and fast and yet we both must be patient with whatever pace your particular learning process appears to require.

After demo production, there is at least one necessary post-demo phoner private wherein I advise you on how to proceed with submitting to agents,provide an inside list of agents to whom you ought to submit, tailor your letters to those agents, discuss artwork branding, etc. Beyond that, most folks come “back” either once every other week at the most or once every six weeks at the least to keep their chops up until/during/after work opportunities start to come around.

This audio portrait we paint of you is an important one, and it must be done properly so to last you for as long as a couple of years. You must have a finished presentation on yourself (that means artwork, website) in order to pursue representation properly and competitively, and if you are already repped by an agent and somehow got that representation without having presented them with a demo CD/web site, you will have to have one produced for you eventually.

The goal is to help agents and buyers and me be clear on what is unique about your personal style (beyond your pitch, beyond natural dialect) so they can know what you are likeliest to book, thus helping you help them help you, etc.

The Best News: I have some major new casting opportunities that have opened up in the last 3 months that are allowing me to put real auditions in front of people who have gone thru the full course of study with me into demo, which is great (more on that when we chat.)
Just last month, I cast 26 characters for a new animated series, and most of the roles went to my students.

Now that you know how it works, EMAIL to get a time slot and we will get you started:

braintracksaudio@yahoo.com.

THANKS!

Regarding Nancy, when it comes to this business and craft of VO, she's the truth. Period. Learn everything you can from her. My only regret is that it took me a year to call her after I first came upon her website a couple of years ago.
-Billye Thompson (Big Fish Voice Co.)

Just had a session with Nancy. She is an effffffffffffffffffffffn GENIUS. We worked on [my session] copy. She is opening me up. Tons. Made me realize that I have never had a voice over lesson until now.
-NYC Working-Pro Student's email to her agent

Hey there-
Just got off from my session with Nancy.
I have been searching for someone like for her for years.
What a difference from many of the schleps on the East Coast.
She is FANTASTIC. Can't thank you enough for putting me in contact with her.
Just what I needed. I'm going to study with her for a bit with the hopes of banging out some of my kinks. Thanks again.
Best,
-Christine

Just got off the phone from my first session with Nancy.
Holy crap. I feel kinda like a nimrod not having realized and put into perspective the stuff that she shared with me. I can't wait to try this it out on in my next round of auditions. There really is a huge difference between radio and tv and I think I was trying to be the star when reading tv stuff when that's not really what it calls for in most cases. I'm really pretty blown away by this first session. Like "oh my god why didn't I think of that" blown away. It's volume it's pacing, it's confidence and it's perspective as to where my voice fits into the whole piece with the picture really being the star and the voice kind of just guiding the viewer/listener. In my mind, it's as if the voice is really secondary and it kind of takes a shit load of pressure off in a way. This is good. She is very good, and like I said, I can't wait to try some of this stuff on for real!!!!
Really good stuff!
Jen Sweeney, Fayetteville, AR (Big Fish Voice Co.)

Nancy, The demo is great... WOW!!! After fours years and two whack demos, finally I've got a demo I came market with confidence. You and Rick did an awesome job. You're the Best!!!
-Long-Distance Phoner Student, Detroit, MI

I have been getting sent out by the William Morris Agency in NYC since August. I love what you did for my demo! Thanks again.
-Kate Greer (William Morris Agency, NYC)

Hey, you are my mentor. Never ever forget that. I try to walk in your head. Love you and thank you.
-Carleen Wood, NYC

I think once people even have a single session with you they will understand that you give them 100% of your attention and your attitude is infectious. Before we talked yesterday, I was feeling a little discouraged, and now I have renewed faith in the process and how you we will attain success together.
Thanks again for everything!
-Rich Gates

Start Today

Before you contact us please make sure that you have read all of the information
on the type of lesson(s) that you are interested in. Following are those links:

Also, know that we only book one class at a time. We do not sell packages
of classes as each indivudual's needs are different. One lesson at a time.

If you have some experience and/or some demo tracks, you can also book a session for us to review your work. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
You cannot afford to present yourself with anything less than what would pass Top Market Inspection.

Every person trying to procure work in this arena must get an objective (sometimes harsh, sometimes reassuring, ALWAYS informative) professional review of how your inventory (your demo, your web site, your branding, your Voice Casting Profile Pages) strikes the discriminating eyes and ears of top market people who are in a position to hire you...or not hire you.

Click EMAIL US NOW below and let us know that you are ready to book an appointment and we will schedule you as soon as possible. Please email us using the email address that you wish us to keep on file for you.

Just to let you know.
Your notes are priceless.
After reading Allberger, Berkley, Shurtleff, Saulsbury, Hogan, and scouring countless blogs, your curriculum is exactly the information I need to know.
Those books just didn't bring it home for me.
They all talk about what to do in reading, but not exactly how to do it.
I've always wondered how to interpret script, what to keep in mind.
Even Shurtleff's 'pillars' fall short of what you've done. Well, here it is! Finally!
-NoelG

GROUP CLASSES

Due to the overbooked nature of Nancy’s schedule this year,
all the Braintracks Group Classes are Intro Workshops held in various cities around the globe.
Plans for 2007 include a special 2-day seminar in October at the Denver Center for the
Performing Arts
and plans are in the works for Sydney, Australia in 2008!

For now, if you live in LA and want to move forward with instruction, Nancy encourages you to
sign up for one or several private lessons that focus on YOU.

And if you’re interested in obtaining an overview lecture on MP3, click here:

For the rest of you who want more than a lecture,
if you are SUPER SERIOUS about seeing if VO is right for you
and you WANT TO GET STARTED ALREADY
with “on-microphone” training that is TAILORED to your abilities, skills, needs, and style,
and if you want to turbo charge your drive towards a customized, branded demo, agency representation, castings, and moneymaking opportunities now,
skip the group scene and book PRIVATES WITH NANCY.

Nancy coaches in person in Los Angeles,
and also via Phoners to any of you who can call in from any hamlet on the globe.

Click here if you want to book and purchase your first appointment for a
PRIVATE IN PERSON.

Click here if you wish to book and purchase your first appointment for a
PRIVATE VIA PHONER.

On The Road

Nancy Wolfson has schlepped from hell to breakfast hosting amazingly well-received
Group Intro Lectures & Classes to curious VO folk all over the US, Europe, Canada, and soon, the
Southern Hemisphere.

Recent stops have included killer workshops in Nashville, Las Vegas, Seattle, and New
York City.

This fall tour forecasts visits to TWO locations:
A special two day seminar in October at the venerable Denver Center for the
Performing Arts, and plans are in the works for a smashing weekend of great global content in Sydney, Australia!

Braintracks Lectures and/or Braintracks Group Classes (if available in your area) are great ways to share the expense of getting hours and hours of broad introductory information about what this business involves and the very basics about performance.
They are jam-packed with current tips you need to know about the industry, and they’re certainly lots of fun.

If you don’t see a posting on this page about a live Braintracks Lecture or Group Class that is upcoming in your area and you want a similar lecture from the comfort of your home or ipod, check out the downloadable MP3 lecture offerings at:

For the rest of you who want more than a lecture,
IF you are SUPER SERIOUS about seeing if VO is right for you
AND you WANT TO GET STARTED ALREADY
with “on-microphone” training that is TAILORED to your abilities, skills, needs, and style,
and IF you want to turbo charge your drive towards a customized, branded demo, agency representation, castings, and moneymaking opportunities now,
skip the group scene and book PRIVATES WITH NANCY.

Nancy coaches in person in Los Angeles,
and also via Phoners to any of you who can call in from any hamlet on the globe.

Click here if you want to book and purchase your first appointment for a
PRIVATE IN PERSON.

Click here if you wish to book and purchase your first appointment for a
PRIVATE VIA PHONER.

You’re an energetic fireball who knows her stuff!
I really enjoyed the voice over class we just finished here in Nashville. It made me go back and look at my regular voice and learn about using it correctly.
-Barry, Nashville Group Workshop

I learned more in that one workshop than I have in the 14+ years I've been doing voice-overs. I learned what it's going to take to be the V.O. talent I imagine myself to be, and that's huge. Nancy was exactly what I needed. I wish I had met her years ago.
-Sandra, Nashville Group Workshop

Nancy, I'd like to take a session with you as well. You are so good at finding the action in the copy. The booth director goes nuts after I do your direction. I would like to know what you look for. I know it is second nature for you now.
-L.K., Nashville Group Workshop

Nancy, Thanks for the swell "heads-up" to your casting director friend. I am REALLY enjoying your class and count you on that one hand where inspirational teachers dwell: a rare breed indeed. No kidding, your technique is as much fun to watch as it is informative.
Studentially yours,
-John Dacey (UCLA Extension)

Just a note to thank you once again for your terrific Voice Over course. It somehow managed to combine fun and agony. (Hmm, sounds either like ski jumping or ... never mind.)
Truly, I learned much more than I thought this was going to be about, particularly with regard to how other people read me (that's where the agony part comes in) and what I can do to express myself more clearly through, for example, those famous “60 Ways to Wink”, rather than just rattling on interminably or accepting their puzzled looks (yeah, that's the fun part).
-Danielle Bickford

I must express my sincere gratitude for all you've done for me throughout the past 12 weeks. You have been an outstanding teacher! I have truly enjoyed and appreciated your intelligence, humor, encouragement, energy, and honesty. And, I'm thrilled to say that your analysis of copy really makes sense to me. While I know there are no guarantees in this business, I appreciate the support and guidance you have given me thus far as I proceed in making a commitment to "making a go of it" in the field of voice-over. I can't thank you enough! I'm so psyched about pressing ahead and have enjoyed every minute of your class this semester! So, from one teacher (and student) to another, thank you for educating me and for inspiring me to continue in this journey.
-Nanci Peita (UCLA Extension)

You fished around a little bit and asked if we felt the coursework chapters were properly sequenced. For me, this class has proceeded in a linear and cumulative fashion, and I have found that going back and reviewing my notes from previous sessions has firmed up my understanding of the foundational aspects of the material. Beyond the density and intensity of the synopsis and the sheer volume of the scripts, your direction to each of us in class ties the concepts together very effectively. I suppose that is why I haven't made it five pages into XXXX’s book but instead keep going back to your material for further study.
Thanks for making the technical side of this work so accessible.
-Richard Detoy (UCLA Extension)

Rates

Pursuing a new line of business requires an investment of both time and
money.
The business of Voice Over is no different.
Following is what you can expect to invest financially to make yourself
highly competitive in this field:

PRIVATE AND OR PHONE CLASSES
Each private coaching leson is 50 minutes at the rate of $130.
Every individual learns at their own speed.
Some folks have made it through the coursework in as few as six or seven lessons, and the average student takes about 12-14 lessons to obtain a comprehensive, working understanding of all fifteen concepts before they are prepared to merit having a demo produced.

DEMO PRODUCTION
Your demo will be engineered by SantiSound. The cost for the demo is $1200, half of which goes to Braintracks Audio for Producing it. You can learn more about SantiSound by visiting

BRANDING / MARKETING / PACKAGING
We STRONGLY encouage our students to employ Village Green Studios for graphic and web design. We have been working with Village Green Studios for over five years. They have an understanding of Voice Over branding the rivals NONE. Prices vary depending on how long the process takes but some averages are:

Hourly Rate= $75
Demo Package / Design = 8-10 hours + $10/demo duplication (35 minimum)
Website= 15-18 hours
Print Materials= 1-2 hours per design + actual printing and shipping cost
HTML Email Account= $250 one-time set-up fee + $15/month

You can see samples at and you can contact them via

HOME STUDIO EQUIPMENT
To be competitive in today's Voice Over marketplace, having a your own computer based home studio is just about imperative. We are affiliated with Audio House Calls which is a one-stop-shop for all of your home equipment, installation and education needs. Depending on your needs packages run from $850-$1350 which includes tutoring on how to make and deliver broadcast quality recordings with your new system.

You can learn more at and you can contact them via

Student Services

CASTING
The Best News: I have some major new casting opportunities that have
opened up in the last several months that are allowing me to put real
auditions in front of people who have gone thru the full course of study
with me into demo.

I have created relationships with agents all over the country who now
use me and my well-trained students as a CASTING HUB.

Agents and Casting Directors from major and local markets email me REAL AUDITIONS DAILY. I then forward these opportunities to those students of mine who I feel are well-trained enough to represent Braintracks.

• Recently I cast 26 characters for a new animated series on CARTOON NETWORK, and most of the roles went to my students.

• I recently booked one of my students who isn’t even finished with her Braintracks coursework yet (we haven’t even produced her demo yet!) on a VO job I had her audition for me – the $5,000 payment we got her for that is more than covering the cost of all of what she’ll have spent on me for classes, demo, and home equipment!

• A few months ago, one of my students who had not yet had time to look for an agent yet (!) booked a project I sent his way that paid him $20,000.

Here’s a great story:

AUDITION SPECIFIC CONSULTS
Weoffer "audition specific" consults - $40 to purchase 10 minutes of my professional advisory/director time PER SCRIPT to thoughtfully listen to the MP3 audition track you've created – you email the audition to me, and I’ll invest 10 mins in listening and typing you back direction notes via email (not phone).

You may email multiple takes on one script, but if you want advice and direction on a second script, then it requires a second $40 for 10 minute purchase.

My notes are returned to you with plenty of time for you to refashion your performance by audition's deadline, and if you want another set of notes on that same script (if you create a revised MP3 that you want reviewed), simply purchase another 10 minutes for another $40. (consideration is engaged only after the $40 hits the Braintracks PayPal account.)

Use the PayPal button below.

Hey Nancy – The job [for which you cast me] went really well today. The producer assumed that I had been doing voiceovers for years, and was pretty surprised when I told him that I was just getting into it. (A real confidence booster for me to take on more projects!) I nailed the majority of the items on the first take. There were a couple of parts where he was unsure of the copy, asked my opinion, and actually utilized my suggestions. All in all it went extremely well. Thanks a bunch for the forward of the job, and please keep me in mind for any future projects you might come across. I appreciate it!
-Chad Randau (Wililam Morris Agency)

I just wanted to drop you a note and say "thank you" for all the auditions you have passed my way lately...I mean truly girl - whatever experience and work I can get...I'm going for it!_
-Jessica Bogart (William Morris Agency)

Again, thanks for the animation advice, girl! I booked it!
It's called Z-Squad and I play an evil sorceress, how much fun is that! I took your note (“It’s just acting”) with me and stayed as relaxed as I could. Thanks again, girlfriend!’
-Juliet Wendell-Brown (VOX)

I got SO much out of our meeting. You are a smart and funny woman, and you just "get it". I feel so much better about what material I can go in with, and also more clear about what my particular "brand" should be. I really hope to be able to go through your class series, and as long as the funds are there, I intend to do so! Thank you again SO SO SO SO SO MUCH!!!!! YOU RAWK!
-Aliki Theofilopoulus (Daniel Hoff Agency)

Thanks for the direction, Nancy. I had so much fun with that copy.
I am so glad I'm at VOX. It's all your fault.
I can't believe I like VO again. I mean it. I really, really mean it.
-Leigh Kelly (VOX)

Thanks for the coaching on Monday Nancy; I couldn't have gone to this (William Morris Agency) audition without it.
And your swell reputation didn't hurt, either.
-Tami Kagan-Abrams

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Shane (Daniel Hoff Agency) called me in this morning to read for four commercials and it went terrifically well. I was VERY prepared. Using your guidelines for marking copy and focusing on what the spots were all about, I rehearsed, but left myself open to take adjustments. Thanks again, Nancy, you're the best.
-Tom Katsis

I have to tell you how much it helps me when you send the "winning audition" that booked the job back to those of us who auditioned for it.
This allows me to study and compare the nuances that differentiate the selected talent to what I have submitted.
You continue to provide exceptional coaching and support to those of us fortunate enough to have crossed your path.
No wonder we all refer you every chance we get!
-Brian Talbot, VP Marketing, Rapp Collins Worldwide

Hi Nancy, just hearing back from you helped calm me down a bit. I went in & did two radio spots for McDonald's (Midwest regions of course ;-). Anyway, I had fun, used my training & believe it or not felt like a true professional – “nothing like Baptism by fire,” as they say.
I thought, "hey, I've done this before!" You are the best.
-Clare Jacoby

I just left the studio and wanted to let you know what
an incredible day I'm having.
My first day on my first series (for which you cast me), wow, went spectacularly!!
The writer and production supervisor said the head honchos loved my
character so much, they're writing her into more episodes.
So........how does it feel to change someone’s life, Nancy ?
Thank you!!
-Susan Balboni (VOX)

Buyer Services

NEED TO HIRE VOICE TALENT FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL, ANIMATION,
CD-ROM, NARRATION, or IN HOUSE TRAINING VIDEO?

Here's how:

1) Peruse the library of demos produced by Braintracks Audio. These are
the Best of the Best who have been trained personally by Nancy Wolfson.
Each is able to perform superior work on a level deemed professional in
the most competitive markets in the world. Talent categories are sorted
with some ear towards age and pitch characteristics, but the more information you can provide about what you are looking for (announcer? accent? character? point of view? attitude?), the more insight and ideas I can provide about other talent worth consideration.

2) Click on the names to review the talent's demo.

3) Decide upon the names of the voice talent you feel might best suit your needs.

4) Email me through this link BTA Castin and provide the following introductory information:
-- list your talent requests by name
-- provide the name of your project
-- tell me your name, the name of your company, and your telephone number
-- detail the budget you have for talent payment
-- let me know if this is a union or a non-union project
-- describe the time frame we are working under re: audition date(s) & record date(s)

Given this, I can put you in touch with the people you want to audition and/or hire. If you need to hire me to run a casting session for you, please let me know and I can provide information about costs and scheduling.

Payment checks must be present at the session the day the talent records the project.

All your talent I hired were all really great at adapting and shifting on fly to the directions I gave them and having no inhibitions with some truly wacky lines. Eric had really good mic technique, which I really appreciate in an actor; I think its one of the most important things to know.
With the mic technique down, the work goes so much faster.
You and your roster are simply the best!!!
I'm very satisfied.
-Robert Throckmorton, Producer

SUPER!
You are exactly what we wanted.
-Ashley Postlewaite
Executive Producer, Renegade Animation

Nancy, We are very pleased with the “Nancy” voice talents we’ve added to our pool.
You are the best – as evidenced by the quality, professional talents you’ve coached and sent our way.
Thank you! All the best,
-Bob Cauley
Vice President - Voice
Muzak LLC

You'll be happy to know that your tutelage helped me land three Dodger Fan Club spots. Your last lesson - the ‘Threes’ Chapter - came directly into play.
-Lindsay Jackson (NBC, On Air Promos)

You saved my life again today. I recorded 2 spots, a :30 radio and a :60.
The :60 was long, but I was unafraid. I gave them more variations than
Elton John's closet. I was doing the whole contrast and juxtaposition
thing, so if they wanted another "give us something different" read, I had
it all prepared. I was "moving furniture" all morning. They were
SO IMPRESSED.
Thank you so much!
-C.C. (VOX)

Not just blowing smoke. I feel that one of the smartest things I've done
in Show Biz is get coached by you.
-Steve G.

I had another great audition this morning and wanted to thank you for being such a great coach. Your lessons have stuck with me and leap into my brain whenever I'm in the clinch. It's so much fun to leave the audition elated by delivering the goods, so to speak. I wouldn't be here without you.
-Lisa Medwid

Okay, you can be proud of me...but only if you heap on a bunch of proudness for yourself. Without you, none of this would've happened. Y'hear? NONE.
-Bruce Barker (Imperium Seven)

Nothing has made me stronger than working with you! _Nothing has made me sharper and more focused... For this, as well as for everything,
Thank you so much!
-Kimberly Kramer (Big Fish Voice Co.)

Nancy was terrific. Already, I can see an improvement in my way of thinking and approaching the copy and spot. Nancy does an excellent job of cutting to the heart of the piece and is aiding me in reframing my mind to help use my voice more effectively and appropriately. The suggestion to work with her was spot on. I'm excited for our next session next week.”
-Jonathan Levit (VOX)

Your incredible gift for teaching and producing and your unbelievably comprehensive curriculum is sending me out into the world of commercial VO work fully loaded with confidence, technique, and inspiration. __Thank you for this and for a sublime VO demo...thank you for you!”
-Maia Guest

I just wanted to let you know how excited I am for us to be working together! I loved yesterday’s class and found your approach totally different (in a very positive way) to any I had experienced before. I felt as though I ingested more useful information yesterday than I had in all my previous classes put together. Thanks again,
-Emma Brovsky (Daniel Hoff Agency)

Thank you for your incredible coaching and for the great demo. You are an amazing teacher with an uncommon sensitivity for words. Your continuous encouragement has been priceless. I love the energy and passion you put in every class. It's been a pleasure to have met you and to have worked with you.
-Adriana Moure (Independent Artists Agency)

I am damn excited about this whole thing. You've been really amazing through this whole process and I wanted to thank you for that. From day one, you've been a great teacher -- encouraging, knowledgeable, insightful and funny. I actually feel like I know what the hell I'm doing. Which is huge compliment to you as I started out knowing pretty much squat.
--Jon Brockett

NANCY IS THE MOST INCREDIBLE INSTRUCTOR I'VE EVER HAD THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH. SHE IS A DEAD ON SNIPER WITH THE GENEROSITY TO LET YOU LOOK THROUGH HER SCOPE. EVERY PERFORMER SHOULD BE SO LUCKY TO BE COACHED BY HER. MIL GRACIAS. TU AMIGO,
-Pepe Serna (VOX)

Thank you for your great smart self. Truly. You are a great director/producer and I am happy to have you here to help!!! It is a pleasure to work with you. I have/am learning so much. I am very happy -to have my demo on your website- that is great, too.
-Wendel Josepher

I had a great time working with you. I felt like I learned a a tremendous amount, and I would and will recommend you to anyone and everyone.
All the best,
-Molly Hagan (VOX)

Thanks for your continued help and counsel. For a person so young, you are wise beyond your years.
-Steve Warren

As a 20-year veteran of voiceovers, I've been a bit skeptical of the value that a coach can offer an experienced talent.
You have shown me how invaluable a coach can be to a voiceover career.
Thanks.
-BT

I was reflecting about this year and my accomplishments.
I was so thrilled that I finally got a voice over coach, and little did I know that it would be the great and wonderful you.
I, too, feel so so very fortunate to have met you.
You have no idea how much you have added to my professional goals.
-Vanessa Bell Calloway (VOX)

Yes, Yes, I know you have a million emails to read, but I could not
go another day without thanking you for your class today. It is so
funny how it took me a very long time to fix the voiceover training I
had had before. With you after just one lesson, you have made me
feel more empowered. I cannot tell you how exciting it was to feel
the light bulb go on with a vengeance, when you gave me the concept of acting as " Tour Guide"
Thank you so very much for today.
I will see you next week, so happy you decided to coach me Nancy.
Your friend and eager student,
-Terri Hardin Jackson

“I have tears of joy. I couldn't have asked for a better experience or a more supportive coach - thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
-Edie Caggiano (Big Fish Voice Co.)

As you may have heard, there was a first-time
Voice Over conference held in Las Vegas this past week. It was
actually pretty good. There were about 300 people there of various
talent levels (full time voice over, part-timers as well as newbies or
people just curious about the business), and I anticipate it growing
next year.
...on the last day, they pulled voice over demos randomly so that
the room could hear them and their professional panel critiqued them.
My demo ended up getting pulled for public evaluation. Of the five
panelist (which consisted of pretty seasoned voiceover talent/producers
and one Las Vegas agent), all five loved the demo and hardly had any
critique on how it could have been changed. They loved the variety of
styles as well as their positioning on the demo. For example, after my
"attitude" duel read with the delivery guy spot, there is a short
"Smores Pop Tarts" spot, then an "interrupt" of my abuse PSA. They
believed that this "interrupt" reengages the listener to continue
listening to the piece to the end and shows that I can do a multitude
of styles. They also liked the ups and downs of the spot placement.
Out of the 8 demos we listened to, mine was in the top 3. Overall, it
was a hit.
As a result, the Las Vegas agent has asked me to submit my demo to her
after April 20th (she is going out of town), and an AFTRA rep (one of
the conference sponsors) that is in charge of the commercials and
promos division asked me to send the demo to Don LaFontaine's agent,
per her recommendation (he was there on Thursday night).
Many of the voice talent from around the country asked where I received
my training, and I redirected them to your ad in the gift bags, so you
may be getting some referrals.
Thanks for the fabulous training and branding :-)
-Euvonka

Graduates Making Money

GRADUATES
MAKING $$$ SAY
.
NANCY WOLFSON RULES!
Not only was the coaching I got really superior in terms of skills and business advice (that could only come from
someone who'd been an agent), I just booked the announce voice for the TYRA
BANKS SHOW because Nancy threw me the casting opportunity (2 months rent!).
She's always looking out for her clients best interest and she's not in to BS,
and that alone has more value to me than anything in this town.
I have always highly recommended Nancy and will continue to do so, she is professional, genuine and a whole lotta fun!
-- Jessi Knapp

It’s important to me that you know just how big a role you played in getting me
started in this business. I would NEVER be at the level I am now if not for you. Make
sure you tell people that. You took me from zero to sixty in a relative hurry.
You are the Master of the VO Dojo.
-Andy “Grasshopper” Chanley (VOX, Campaign Voice of Vons)
.
I just got a call from Atlas - I booked another contract job for the next two years for tv
stations in five small markets! Can I just say how much fun it is to tell you about bookings...
you are better than my mom!
xoxoxxoxoxoxoxxo
-Virginia Hamilton (VOX, Atlas)
.
I've hit the networks! Starting this Sunday at 8PM on ABC, the new announcer for Extreme Makeover - Home Edition IS . . . ME!
How I got the job: the ABC execs found my DEMO you produced on Voicebank.com and called for me and ONLY me. From that [and an audition], I got 12 episodes worth of material. I owe this whole job to the DEMO YOU GAVE ME! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
Your grateful student,
-Eric "ABC" Ancker (Arlene Thornton Agency)
.
I’m always pimpin’ you, babe. I booked something off our demo today. Thanks again. My demo is so kick-ass, I don't want to change it at all. I have done hundreds of real commercials, but your reel is the best showcase of my range. And you can quote me on that, hot stuff.
Much love always,
-Paige King (ICM, Signature Voice of ABC Family)
.
Nancy, Thanks again for the lead on CLI. I booked a principal On Camera spot for CANNON CAMERAS. It was definitely our VO demo that got me in the door there, so let's hope the ‘one good thing leads to another’ keeps up.
-Xander Bailey (Imperium Seven)
.
“Hey Girl-
Fabulous news... Guess who is now the new voice of JAGUAR?
It's me! And no, there will be no JA-GuuuU-ARRRR! Jag-waaar it is. Thought this success story would make you happy – God knows I am!”
-Juliet Wendell Brown (VOX)
.
Last month, I booked SHARP out of the booth, which I'm told is Everest without a rope. I'm the voice of Sharp. Onward, upward.
-Marc Evan Jackson (Special Artists Agency)
.
Just letting you know that I just booked this NATIONAL BANK, ongoing for 6 month, multimedia-based training program solely from sending them my demos. Yahoo! :) Thank you, thank you!!
-Sarah Wulfeck (Arcieri & Assoc., NYC)
.
Booked the A&E ‘Troy’ documentary.
Booked an on-air for DISCOVERY CHANNEL’S ‘Monster Garage.’
Could NOT -- NOT! -- have done it without you.
-Scott Gilliam (VOX, Atlas Talent Agency, NYC)
.
Thanks to your recommendation and the amazing demo, I am now represented and got my first LOOPING GIG. You are a treasure, and I'm glad to be a part of this kick-ass corral of talent!
-Randall Rapstine (Hervey Grimes)
.
I just booked a national campaign. I am now the voice of HUSKY contractor clean up bags. They sent me a DVD of the spot; it looks great. I'm getting close on a lot of big stuff. You are the master.
--Scott Henry (ICM)
.
It turns out I didn't read for this ad at all! It looks like these US CELLULAR guys called and hired me straight from my demo. That's more kudos to you!
-Ethan Keogh (Arlene Thornton & Assoc.)
.
I just booked a 22-episode gig as the Announcer on a TV show called ‘MUSCLE CAR’. It'll air as part of a group of programs called The Power Block on Spike TV. I booked it on the demo (YOUR demo), then a subsequent one-episode "audition." Most of the stuff I get is via a direct audition, but this time it was the demo that clinched the sale. Could I have booked it without you?
I think not.
-Bruce Barker (Imperium Seven)
.
I just booked a radio spot for TONIK (which is a division of BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD of GEORGIA) thru Kristin at the Stars Agency in San Francisco. And, I'll be doing it here in Las Vegas from my vacation... I love technology!
Thanks again for referring me to her.
-Jason Bowers (Stars Agency)
.
I just had to say THANK YOU; I booked my animation voice for the CARTOON NETWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I record this Monday and am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOo excited!!!
Thank you for all of your coaching and words of wisdom...
Take THAT, [Mr. Agent Who Passed on Me Last Year.] I don't even have an animation CD!!!
Allison Hopkins (Big Fish Voice Co.)
.
Stellar Stats: Manao DeMuth, a talented Chicago native who moved to LA last year, had been auditioning regularly at Special Artists Agency for four months. Certainly not a beginning actor, Manao’s auditions were well received by the booth directors, but she just wasn’t booking. Within two months of new study with Nancy Wolfson to learn the skills particular to Voice Over acting for advertising. Manao booked two National Network TV commercials (APPLEBEES and STRIDEX).
CONGRATULATIONS,
-Manao!
.
Yesterday I did a VO for another client and surprised myself at how much better I am, even after not doing any work for a long time. I kept thinking, "So this is what Nancy was talking about." Calming oneself down and not being self-conscious and letting your imagination go so you can try things you never thought of before. So, again, thanks for your coaching. Obviously you teach all the right skills, it's just getting one to believe it and in oneself. _I think you even recommended I do yoga or meditate way back when ‘cuz I'd get so wound up. How right you were.
-Lisa Medwid (Big Fish Voice Co.)
.
Nanc-e-la, Thanks in part to your wisdom and teachings, I have booked 6 spots in the past two months. Kewl, huh?
Just wanted to give credit where credit is due.
-Wendy Kamenoff (Tisherman Agency)
.
Just wanted to share with you my good news. I just got tabbed for another McGRAW-HILL project! That’s two for this year and will run through Dec. This is un-frickin-real! These jobs are great, steady work, and every job I book, I trace back to you and your coaching me along and getting me rolling in this racket. Thanks for all you have done and are doing! Would not be here without ya!
-Jeff Minnerly, Muzak-Seattle Voice Supervisor
.
Nancy, I want to share good news with you and thank you for all of your help in kick-starting my Voice Over career here in L.A. After our work together, I booked on my fourth audition!
Needless to say, I couldn't be more thrilled. You Rock!!
-Brian Talbot (Daniel Hoff Agency)
.
You are the bomb!!!
I just wanted to thank you for all the wonderful support and training you have giving me in my new venture of voiceover!! I GOT THE PART!!!! For the Mr. Men/Cartoon Network show!!!!!
Wowee!!!!!!!!!!!!
x0x0
-Jeff Stewart

Just thought you should know that the fab Lauren Karl just booked
TV Walmart!!!
Yeah, she is awesome! You were sooooo right!!!
Many thanks!’
-Portia Scott-Hicks, Head Voice Over Talent Agent, Acme Talent Agency

VO going very well for me these days: 2 years now- Voice of Audi- all radio/ TV/internet, Callaway Golf TV/Internet, SRP energy Company of Arizona, A & E Making of HOLLYWOODLAND, to name the highlights. Thank you again, for all your incredible tips insights and guidance. Nary a session goes by where a client, director or writer will ask for something and I'll know exactly what they're after, cause Nancy done told me about that. Like oh, say... CONTRASTING maybe!!! Wow, what a concept. LOL So simple but so easy to forget.
Thanks again and Warmest Regards,
-Jeff LeBeau (ICM)

I was taught by the best.
-- Chad Randau (William Morris Agency, Mazda)

WE GOT ME
AN AGENT!
.
“Well, your feeling was spot on! (Arlene Thornton) wants to sign me up...splendid!
I am thrilled and thank you once more from the bottom of my heart for your
amazing coaching, your hard work on my behalf (far beyond the call of duty and dare
I say remittance) and finally, your unflagging enthusiasm, which is catching.
I did mention your name and of course she knew of you.
So there you are, another client settled!
Lots of love and bundles of xxxxxxxxxx”
-- Tessa Shaw (Arlene Thornton Agency)

‘THANK YOU for going out of your way and singing my praises so loudly. I'm so excited. I feel as good about this as I did about quitting smoking, breaking up with a psychologically abusive boyfriend, and moving back home from Telluride.
I really owe you, and I will not forget this anytime soon or pretty much ever. You are getting your own action figure.”
-- Rachel Robinson (VOX Talent Agency)

“Great news - I'm now a client at the William Morris Agency!!
Would love to book some time with you to keep my skills sharp.”
-- Chad Randau (William Morris Agency)

“Nancy-- I'm IN!! Just got off the phone with Joy [agent, Imperium 7], whose name is suddenly so apt. I am now With Representation (almost like being With Child). I don't think it's all quite sunk in yet... but I'll probably be busting out the champagne (if only "mentally") shortly. Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
-- Bruce Barker (Imperium Seven)

“Shane called and he wants to represent me!!! I'm thrilled. Wow, it's really exciting... I honestly couldn't have done any of this without your help. YOU rock!”
-- Barrie Bernstein (Daniel Hoff Agency)

“I just wanted to pass along the good news. Honestly Nancy, I have tried and tried and tried again, but until I worked with you I never got a response from an agency.
I just met with Maureen at the Osbrink Agency. She was very complimentary and said they’d love to have me.
Thank you so much for your input and know-how. It works!”
-- Fran Tunno (Osbrink Agency)

“I wanted to say thank you, so much, for the wonderful recommendation you gave to Shane. You said some great things about me...Thank you! So, he did call me in for an audition. I read 3 spots. It was a blast! I had fun. I thought I did great! I settled in, got into my comfortable, shoeless stance and just told the story. Thanks again, Nancy. You are the bomb!!”
-- Phoebe Holston (Daniel Hoff Agency)

“Well, it's official... Maria Biber-Ferro finally has an LA agent! I met with the girls at SBV today and they loved me! I think they're pretty cool too! Whew. Your email earlier was so sweet... _And like I said, hysterical at the same time! And, I have to thank you a great deal for giving me the advice and shove in the rear that I needed! Okay... Bring it on! 'm sure I will be emailing you soon!
Many extra hugs today!”
-- Maria Biber-Ferro (SBV)

“I just signed with Arlene Thornton! :) Suffice it to say, my excitement level is at an all-time high. So THANK YOU again, SO MUCH, for giving me a kick-ass demo. I'm anxious to get out there and make the big bucks, doing what I love to do.
You rule........plain and simple!”
-- Kyle Hebert (Arlene Thornton Agency)

“Just got of the phone with the Daniel Hoff Agency. They’re my new VO agents! Thank you thank you thank you Nancy!! I couldn't have done it without you!! And of course, I'll keep you posted on everything because I owe my continued success to you.
Muchas Smoochas
--:Dylan White (Daniel Hoff Agency)

‘VOX said they'd love to work with me!!!!!! I'm soooo psyched!!! Yes indeedy!!! Thank you for all the fabulous coaching and the priceless encouragement. I can't say enough how grateful I am to you!!!!!! Much love and I'll see you on Wed. morning.”
-- Love, KC (VOX Talent Agency)

“The agent, who really still didn't know me at all, wanted me to send my VO cd to him, which I did, and he was impressed enough to have me come in and record an audition in their studio...He called me 2 days later to say my in studio audition that what I did was "frickin' awesome" :) and he took me...and I have already gone out on like 5 things in the past 2 weeks...
In all this, I give you total credit, as you gave me the tools to be ready when the time came...even if that time was 3 years later from the time I studied with you.”
-- Susan Dohan (Daniel Hoff Agency)

AGENTS SAY
.
“NANCY :: HAVE TO SAY :: THESE PEOPLE'S DEMOS ARE EXCELLENT!
No shit, way above the rest. Gifted, you are, refreshing for my ears.”
-- Elynne Dale, Head Agent, The Big Fish Voice Company

“You got it lady...you got it good.”
-- Wes Stevens, President, VOX Talent Agency

“Nancy, Thanks for all your help with my clients - THEY LOVE YOU!
-- Peter Kluge, Talent Manager, IMPACT ARTISTS GROUP, LLC

“Arlene Thornton (my new agent) said as a testament to you, you sure do find gems and are amazing yourself.
Thanks for all you've taught me. “
-- Katelin Chesna (client at Arlene Thornton Agency)

INDUSTRY
COLLEAGUES SAY
.
…You're kickin' ass...
- Ginny McSwain, Animation Voice Casting Director,
Warner Bros., ABC…pretty much everything.

I have some perspective on our (demo recording) session: you are a
wonderful director. I realize you get all kinds of students, but you must treat
them all with such grace, it's astonishing, really. I was telling a friend,
a director in film, about your manner of coaxing the best from the talent that day,
whatever the best is for the day is. That's the trick, I guess, manifest belief and trust
it'll get done, or we wouldn't be there doing it. Thanks again.
-- Kris Bosson, Network ADR Director

You give better advice, feedback and a vehicle for healing and self growth/understanding than most "shrinks" out there.”
--Linda Brennan, Hollywood’s Top Dialect Coach
MFA (Acting), MA (Clinical Psychology)

Nancy is an excellent voiceover talent and teacher.
I'm sure you are well served by your association with her.
-Rodney Saulsberry
www.rodneysaulsberry.com

You are a remarkable teacher. I recommend you all the time.
Again, my sincerest thanks.
-- Bill Colombo, Casting Director

Awesome! I find a lump of clay, send him through the "Nancy Machine", and he comes out a winner!
-- Wally Wingert (talent, CESD)

You rule 'n' stuff.
-- Rob Cross (a.k.a. "Chuck Roast," Oper. Mgr., WXRK-FM/New York)

“ mentioned you about 100 times during a VO course I took at UCLA. It, of course, wasn't as comprehensive as the privates I took with you and it was really for beginners.
I showed everyone my (Nancy-produced) demo - they even played it in class - And they were totally in awe.
The teachers at UCLA said, "this is how it should be done!
I was so proud.”
-- J. Dollar (talent, SBV)

Very productive and informative session today. I'm actually looking forward to developing my demo. And I never thought I'd ever say that. _I've been in radio for just about 15 years. I've been with some local agencies for most of that time. And about every couple of years I'd try and get my old stuff heard by people in NY or LA. When the e-mails and calls went unreturned, I decided to spare myself the self-imposed rejection. And while I have no illusions of where our continued work might take me, at least now I'm excited about trying again. Whatever happens I know I'll at least be better at what I do now. Thanks for your time and insight. Here's to the future.
-- Joe Lomonaco, Production Director, Clear Channel Commincations

I told my daughter about your "don't step out of the bear costume -- ever" advice, and she applied it to her recent performances; it has made an incredible difference.
Comedy audiences vary from club to club but the comic has to remain consistent -- not unlike an audition, they have to stay in "character", maintain their brand, and never step out of that “bear costume”! Kaitlin wanted me to personally thank you for this second hand advice -- every time she has performed in recent weeks, she gets a standing ovation -- and she is has grown very comfortable with maintaining that bear suit. Again, she thanks you -- I thank you.
-- B.C., Casting Director

Thanks again for all your support.
You're much loved by everyone who comes here.
-- Tori Hartman, Owner, Gigs On the Go

Thank you SO much for the wonderful instruction in ourfirst session! I really learned a lot, and learned even more when I started connecting the underlyingprinciples of what you said with what I already knewas an animator. The similarities are very interesting...I just didn't think to make theconnection until now. Now that I have, I'm eager to look for more. :) I'm looking forward to our session on Thursday! I just posted payment for Thursday's session via my online banking service, which indicates that the check should get to you by the 5th. Thanks again! Cheers!
-Justin

You have been a wonderful angel to us Nancy – we really appreciate it.
-Lindsay Bern, VoiceTrax West

BUYERS SAY
.
“Nancy Wolfson is the Suze Orman of Voice Over.”
- Senior Marketing Executive, Fortune 500 Co.

“All your talent I hired were all really great at adapting and shifting on fly to the
directions I gave them and having no inhibitions with some truly wacky lines.
Eric had really good mic technique, which I really appreciate in an actor;
I think its one of the most important things to know.
With the mic technique down, the work goes so much faster.
You and your roster are simply the best!!!
I'm very satisfied. Have a great holiday!”
-- Robert Throckmorton, Producer

“Nancy,
We are very pleased with the “Nancy ” voice talents we’ve added to our pool.
You are the best – as evidenced by the quality, professional talents you’ve coached and sent our way.
Thank you!"
Bob Cauley
Vice President - Voice
Muzak LLC

WORD ON
THE STREET SAYS
.
“I attended a Learning Annex class where there were 7 of the top folks in VO,
all pulling in six figures. When I asked who to train with, 4 ourtof 5 said Braintracks.”
--Terri Hardin Jackson

“My friend, Mike O'Brien is loving your training.
My friend (your student) Tracy Sandler is doing great, as well.
She is the Voice of Barbie and just booked a radio spot.
You’re the success charm.”
--Scott Henry (client at ICM)

A curious Someone Like You asked a Braintracks Graduate about his experience studying with Nancy:
Greetings! I'm a voice over actor new to L.A. trying to climb the ladder, if ya know what I mean. I'm currently training under Nancy Wolfson, and you being a success story, I'm just wondering how it was for you finally landing an agent, going out on auditions in the beginning, and ultimately booking your first gig and how are things going for you thus far? Any info. you can offer would be deeply appreciated. Thanks and take care.
B.Z. - www.vocalizm.com - Actor - Singer - Rapper - Voice Talent

The reply:
Hi, B.Z. -
You are in good hands with Nancy. Make sure she produces all your demos, because I get more work out of those demos than anything else. Also I live in Canada, so it's hard for me to say what it would be like for someone living in LA - I have my own home equipment - which is very important, and have 7 agents now.The best thing to do is hone in on what you are best at and focus on that -build a brand - which is exactly what Nancy will be doing with you in lessons and your demos. I'm also creating a set of ringtones with an urban flavor. Side projects like that are also good. VO is not an easy business, but I have been very focused and only doing it just over 1 year, and things are going well. I am booking jobs every week and have built a return business clientele. There's no free lunch here; it's hard, dedicated work, all day, every day.
Good luck,
Adam

“Yes I can help your cousin! Have him e-mail my coach in LA. Her name is Nancy Wolfson. She is #1 in LA. He really does not want to deal with anyone else. Nancy is not only 100% legit, she is the top instructor in this market. She will take him through an instruction process and then make herself available to produce and direct a demo. E mailing her is the quickest and most effective means of communication. Wish him luck.”
--Dave Ladendorff

Nancy Wolfson is by far the most effective and awesome coach I've ever had, and has a kind of sixth sense about where your talents lie, and knows how to draw the best performance out of your reads. She prefers email for first contact but will likely get back to you right away. Also, check out her site and listen to some of the demos on there to get a sense of how many people she's trained and their different 'branding' and 'signatures'. She also produces demos for her students, when she feels you've reached a satisfactory understanding of the coursework. In short, I worship her. That is the highest compliment from me that I could give any instructor.
She's great. She's always the first person I would send anyone to - she works with novices, amateurs and working pros alike; and since she used to be an agent she has her finger on the pulse of both the artistic and business side of things. And if she knows anyone else who she thinks can also be an asset to your talents and growth, she will send you to them as well. I view her as the hub from which all the other things logically radiate.
-Rachel Robinson (VOX)

I don't think I could begin to mention all the people who have great things to say about you. It would probably take me a few days.
Nancy, you're one of the biggest influences in Voice Overs and I don't think you even know it. I do, because I think I have talked to nearly everyone...listened to everyone's demo "Twice," and I know your students without even looking. The level of professionalism and quality you teach is unsurpassed from here to Maine. You are the best in the Industry and I wouldn't doubt it if there weren't a better teacher in the world. And I'm not trying to kiss ass.
That's why I was shocked to hear your voice; your level of experience is far too much to be so young. You must have done it in a past life or something.
-Shane Cormier, Agent, Special Artists Agency

Thank you for all that you've done for me this past year; you've gone beyond the call of duty and I owe you a huge debt of gratitude, not only for being a great teacher but as a challenging ass kicker and mentor of the highest quality. You’re a fine wine, Miss Wolfson, and I'm lucky to have you on my team.
-Will Greenberg (SBV)

Yesterday was great! You have a true gift. Normal people would not or could not imagine how words from a piece a of paper would sound. You know how they should sound & what person can say them. Can’t wait to see u again. To me, you are not just a voice coach, you are a life coach.
-xox Jamie Hagan

“I definitely bring up your name often to actors and am proud to do so!
YOU are actually the first person who gave me a shot! What a wonderful ride it has been for both of us, huh!!!?”
-Wendy Braun (CESD - Mervyn’s, Dell, Carnation, KCET, Ellen DeGeneres Show anncr.)

What a huge help you've been in training, networking, and (temporarily) agent-ing me. Your time at ARL obviously helped you with the day in day out quotidian bullshit, but you also have an amazing actorly/directorly ear for the work itself. What's more, you are also sympathetic to the lonely Account Exec's plight of really just wanting to scream over the radio and TV, "OUR PRODUCT NAME, OUR PRODUCT NAME, PRICE POINT, OFFER, OFFER, OUR PRODUCT NAME." It's an amazing skill set, yours is.
-Marc Evan Jackson (Innovative Artists Agency)

I thank God that our paths have crossed and that you would consider me with such regard. You are simply wonderful, Nancy, and I don't know if you are aware of your impact on the lives of your students/friends. We are blessed to know you.
-Dez Coleman (Abrams Artists Agency)

What I really think is that if Nancy didn't take a chance on me, I wouldn't be doing something I love.
-Joe Montanari (Abrams Artists)

Thank you for all you brought to my new life here: for all you did that has helped me to begin to establish myself here, and for the passion, playfullness, light, and savvy that you bring wherever you go.
-Karen Strassman (Arlene Thornton & Assoc.)

Thanks for launching me and for all your help over the years!
-Jimmy Hodson (TGMD Agency, Signature Voice on FOX SOCCER, BASEBALL, etc.)

Nancy easily holds her own in all classroom situations, has an intuitive ability to perceive and comprehend her surroundings, and is phenomenally successful at manipulating others.
She needs work on her hand-eye coordination, especially with the balls and bean-bags.
-Rhoda Resnick, (Kindergarten teacher) of Nancy at 4 yrs old

BRAINTRACKS AUDIO
APPROVED LINKS

MP3 lessons and teleseminars. Break Into Voice Over:

Why would you NOT join Voices.com?

Or Voice123.com, especially if you are starting out and wanna make money at this stuff?

Computer-based home recording studios.
Installation-Education-Consultation:

Audio, demo production and engineering. The One and Only Braintracks-Approved Engineer:

Web and graphic design. Demo packaging and duplication:

Audacity sound editing software for Windows and Mac:
audacity.sourceforge.net

A wonderful forum from Voice123.com:
voiceoversavvy.com

Go practice up on your audiobook reads and help a non-profit:
librivox.org

Can’t run a business unless you are organized, people:
blackbeltproductivity.net/blog/gtd-primer

Richard Horvitz (neither "angry" nor a "beaver")
http://richardhorvitz.com

Rodney Saulsberry is our hero:
rodneysaulsberry.com

Daily updates on tech, recording, and mic stuff:
record-producer.com

David Lawrence walks the talk, and his show is a MUST:
thedavidlawrenceshow.com

BLOGS WE LOVE:

Bob Souer, we love you!
/bobsouer.com/blog

Master VO, how you demystify the tech…
blogs.voices.com/mastervo

VOX Daily
blogs.voices.com/voxdaily

Learn about the on-camera casting world from Bonnie Gillespie:
spynotebook.org/bonnie

Cory Edwards is cutie pie AND he’s an animation writer/director:
coryscuriosities.blogspot.com

DO YOU HONESTLY THINK ALL WE DO IS VOICE OVER? THAT'S SAD... CHECK THESE SITES OUT!

oliveandbettes.com

budgetvino.com

lifehacker.com

iamglutenfree.blogspot.com

desktopography.net

thesimpledollar.com

gadgetgossip.net

Braintracks Audio is back from the hugely successful big weekend seminar
at the DENVER CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS.
Many thanks to the DCPA’s Hilary Blair for making this a
packed-to-capacity-and-then-some success!

Here is what folks had to say:

Thank you so very much for such a wonderful weekend filled with inspiration, information, brilliant new ideas, and new ways of looking at the voice-over world.
You are one of the most creative, insightful and visionary speakers I've ever had the good fortune to listen to.
I appreciate the workshop you gave this weekend very much.
What was also very nice was how the group was basically agog at the end of the day today, and all very aware that you just rocked our collective worlds and we all felt exquisitely inspired by that....
-Maxine Dunn

I can't tell you how much I got out of your class.
It was the first time ever that I have has an instructor show how the business side of things works as an integral component of success.
Furthermore, the distinguishing and illustrations of ‘expositor and referencer’ was like a huge light bulb going off in my head.
-Courtney Mizel

Thank you for spending the weekend with us! I learned more in 2 days
than I have in the past few years.
-Kevin Lockhart

Thank you for a wonderful weekend.
It's like I finally found the off switch on the fog machine.
Everything is much clearer now.
-Allen Ward

I want to thank you again for coming to Denver and sharing so much incredible information with us.
I've been in the biz a long time and you turned my ear on its head!!!
(Or something like that! :-) )
Your energy and insight are phenomenal!!
You're the freshest thing to ever hit the VO world.
Great to meet you and have the honor of working with you.
-Tia Marlier

Thank you so much for the wisdom you imparted during the class at the DCPA last weekend.
Listening to you has energized me and given me the courage to make the decision to invest in myself and really give this voice over business a try!
-Kathleen Evans

The DCPA workshop was fantastic.
The information you imparted made so much sense, especially the concept of branding and being logical about the context/service being provided when reading scripts.
For the first time, I feel like I have a clear goal and a way to achieve it.
Thank you.
-Daryl Adler

Braintracks Gives Back

To help support the fight against breast cancer,
Braintracks Audio just cast two radio spots through
Clear Channel Communications for an organization
called "Save the Tatas." savethetatas.com

Casting services and time were donated by Braintracks Audio.
Following are the spots and the wonderful students who donated their VO services and time.

Version 1:

Thanks to:
Janet Ivey, Nanci Peita, Virginia Hamilton, Kim Kramer, Amy Rose

Version 2:

Thanks to:
Rachel Robinson, Lori Alan, Tamar Feinkind, Erin Anderson, Lindsay Bern

Coming Soon: Details on the New
Braintracks Volunteer project
VO for Vets