Are You Trapped in a Voice Over Bubble?
Voice acting is, by nature, an isolated business. We spend hours in soundproof booths, recording alone. But that isolation can extend beyond our physical workspace—it can become an ingrained mindset that holds us back. Many voice actors get so caught up in the voice over industry itself that they never take the time to look outward. Instead of focusing on the broader business world and client needs, they stay within a closed circle of peers, discussing rates, gear, AI, P2P sites, and industry gossip. While having a supportive community is great, staying inside this bubble can limit your growth.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, it’s time to challenge yourself and pop that bubble.
How Did You Get Here?
When new talent enters the voice over world, they go into sponge mode—soaking up all the advice, joining social media groups, attending conferences, and networking with fellow voice actors. This is a great way to learn, but it can also create an echo chamber. The voice over community is welcoming and generous, but if you only surround yourself with fellow talent, you’re missing out on the bigger picture.
At some point, you need to leave the nest. Staying in your comfort zone may feel safe, but it won’t help you grow your business. It’s time to stop seeking validation from other voice actors and start connecting with the people who actually hire you—your clients.
That First Step is the Hardest
Newton’s first law states that a body at rest tends to stay at rest. This applies to business just as much as it does to physics. Taking that first step outside your comfort zone can feel risky. It’s easier to stick with what’s familiar—checking in on Facebook groups, debating industry topics, and comparing yourself to others.
But ask yourself: Are you truly growing? Are you actively reaching out to clients, building relationships, and exploring new opportunities? If the answer is no, then it’s time to push past the familiar.
If you’re not a little scared, anxious, or excited every day, you might not be challenging yourself enough. Start researching the industries where you want to work. Talk to your clients—ask them about their business, their pain points, and their needs. Go beyond voice over discussions and immerse yourself in the industries that hire voice talent.
Expect to Stumble
The first time you step out of your comfort zone, you might fall flat on your face. And that’s okay! Mistakes mean you’re learning and growing. You can’t expect to master marketing, sales, or client outreach overnight. The key is to keep going.
If you’re experimenting with new ways to market yourself, it may take time to see results. If you’re refining your brand, it may feel awkward at first. But the more you push forward, the more comfortable you’ll become. Progress happens outside the bubble, not inside it.
Rethink the Company You Keep
Sometimes, the biggest limitation isn’t the industry—it’s your own mindset. As creative entrepreneurs, we tend to seek approval and validation. We let past experiences define our limits. But it’s time to let go of those old beliefs.
Think you’re bad at math, so you struggle with invoicing? Let it go.
Believe you’re too shy to market yourself? Let it go.
Feel like you don’t belong in the business world? Let it go.
You have more power than you think. Instead of playing small, hold yourself accountable. Be responsible for your growth. Take charge of your business.
Stay Agile, Stay Ready
Change is inevitable. The voice over industry is always evolving, whether it’s through AI, new casting platforms, or shifting client needs. If you stay trapped in the voice over bubble, you’ll be slower to adapt.
Instead, position yourself where your clients are. Join their social networks, attend their conferences, and engage in their conversations. The more you understand their needs, the better positioned you’ll be to offer solutions.
Step Outside and Succeed
True success comes from stepping beyond the familiar. Push yourself, explore new opportunities, and take risks. The voice actors who thrive are the ones who embrace change, challenge their beliefs, and stay connected to the bigger picture.
Are you ready to pop the bubble and take your business to new heights? The only thing holding you back is you.
Thanks for reading - Anne
Work with Anne
Anne Ganguzza is a Voice Actor, Coach, Influencer, and award-winning Podcaster & Demo Producer. based in Southern California.
