‘Traxers MATT SPAUR and EVAN WIDJAJA have such amazing stories about booking gigs without representation, we just think we’ll let them take over:
“This summer, I finally got around to publishing my memoir “Making A Small Fortune: Surviving publishing, parenting, and porphyria.” At the start of 2000, I remarried, became a stepparent to three boys, and started a weekly newspaper–all at the same time, despite having never owned a business, worked on a newspaper, taken a journalism class, sold advertising, or been a parent.
Then 9/11 happened, the economy tanked, and the Afghan war started. At home, my new wife and two of my step-sons developed life-threatening illnesses. It was the craziest time of my life. (You can learn more at GoodVoiceStudios.com.)
Doing the audiobook of my own work gave me more creative freedom and distribution freedom. I also now know more about the rights-holder side of things and can be a better help to clients.
Then, within minutes of receiving my go-live notice, I got email saying I was selected for a paid per-finished-hour book narration through the AHAB platform run by Penguin Random House. It’s my first gig that wasn’t a royalty share project on ACX. The project definitely fit my zero (thank you Vicki!). And, it’s a gorgeously written book–I hear Melissa Gray’s monologue coaching as I read each chapter.
Definitely a great way to start the week!” – Matt Spaur
“I wanted to take a moment to thank you and all the Voicetrax faculty for all the guidance and coaching you have given me over the past couple of years.
In July and August, I booked my first two paid voice over projects. One from Voice123, and one on referral from (‘Traxer and Guest Director) Emiko Susilo! The first was a game show host character in a long-form instructional video for middle school students, and the second was providing the English-language voice for a non-English speaker in a piece of animated video journalism. Both projects were self-recorded and submitted to the clients.
I definitely still have some work to do, such as improving my auditioning regimen and business practices. But I am very grateful for all the tools and skills Voicetrax has taught me that have helped me get to this point in my career. Thank you so much for being part of my voice over journey!!
Best, Evan Widjaja”
Congratulations, BOTH of you! And trust us, the way ahead is paved with many more jobs like these – and thanks for sharing! Your perspiration is our inspiration. 😊