Mike Lenz has provided voice-overs for Shannon-Rose on a number of our video projects. He’s a longtime Saratoga local, former Mayor, and owner of the Menges & Curtis Pharmacy. We asked him a few questions about how he got his start in the voice acting business, and a little about his experience in the industry.

To hear Mike in action, check out his voice-over work in the videos we produced for School Turnaround, Ruby & Quiri, and Turbine Services Ltd.

You are the owner of Menges & Curtis Pharmacy, former Mayor of Saratoga Springs, and the father of 3. Why did you decide to add Voice Actor and Spokesperson to your list of jobs?

After leaving politics, I really missed being able to communicate with people. As Mayor, I had many opportunities to use my communication skills in front of groups, on the radio, and on television. The journey into voice acting actually began as a result of my exploring another interest of mine—screenwriting. This interest led me to join a local group of film makers, Upstate Independents, and it was there that I heard of a local company that trained people in voice acting. I met with the company founder and decided voice acting could be a way for me to nurture my interest in using my voice to communicate in an interesting and unique way.

Where did you get your voice-over training?

I was trained by Voice Coaches in Schenectady, NY. They are one of the top voice training companies in the US, and my experience there was extremely eye-opening and rewarding. They not only trained me, but they created 50 demo CDs for me to use in my marketing efforts. Their expertise in the field is unmatched and without their help, I would not have had a clue how to succeed in this very competitive field.

The training provided by Voice Coaches is individual… a class of one. They work to determine what your strengths are, and create your demo CD around those strengths.

What is the success rate for individuals hoping to work in voice acting?

The voice-over business is very competitive, and persistence is a quality that you must have to be successful. I’ve met so many voice actors since becoming involved in the industry, and each person has a unique story to tell. Even though it is a competitive business, we all help one another along the way. One of the reasons I started my voice-over blog was to share my experiences with other voice actors.

To what do you attribute your success?

I guess it comes back to persistence. My voice coach told me that most voice actors don’t succeed because they give up too soon. I was determined not to let that happen. The average time it takes to book your first paid job after training is seven months. As it turned out, I got my first check almost seven months to the day after I completed my training. I always encourage new voice actors to hang in there and think creatively when pursuing jobs.

How did you get your first job?

When I ran for Mayor, my campaign hired a marketing firm to create and place my television ads. After I had completed my training, I was at a fundraiser and met a man from the firm that created the media for my first campaign. We exchanged cards and I explained to him that I did voice-overs. Several weeks later, he called me and offered me a job voicing a radio ad for a local car dealership.

Now that you have been out of politics for several years, what are some of your reflections on public service?

I am so appreciative that I had the opportunity to serve in public office both as Finance Commissioner and Mayor. Looking back, I can appreciate how stressful it was to balance family, business, and public service. I had some amazing experiences and it truly helped to shape me as an individual. That being said, the experiences that I had make me appreciate even more the time I have now to spend with my family, and to explore other interests.

Are there more politics in your future?

15 years ago, all I could think about was politics. Having been through multiple campaigns and being elected to office and serving, my perspective has changed a bit. At this point in my life, I am thoroughly enjoying the time I have with my family. Being a husband and father is the best job in the world and I don’t want to miss a minute of it.

Did being Mayor inspire you to venture into the voice-over profession?

Without question. My experience as Mayor inspired me to use the talents I developed speaking in front of groups and communicating on the radio and television. The world of voice-acting is a natural extension of that desire to communicate.

You built an in-house recording studio, how is that working for you?

Having a studio in my home provides the opportunity to audition for jobs without having to leave the house. I still enjoy the experience of going to a professional studio to record a job, but having a home recording studio opens up other opportunities within the industry.

What has been the single best voice-over job?

My first job, for several reasons. It was my very first paid job, so I was thrilled that my hard work and persistence had paid off. It was a radio ad for a car dealership, which I’d always wanted to do. I’ll never forget being in the car one day and hearing a familiar voice on the radio. It took a few seconds to realize it was me!

What’s the story behind your blog?

After being in the voice-over world, I was a bit frustrated at how hard it was to get advice and information about the industry. I wished there was someone to talk to who had been down this road and could give me some real world advice. I decided if I started a blog, I could talk about my own journey and hopefully help some people along the way. I’ve really only scratched the surface of the world of social media, but I have been able to befriend many other voice actors from all over the country. Everyone has a unique story to tell on their on path to success.

Check out Mike’s blog here and his website that features some sound clips here.

Tags:   Michael Lenz · Saratoga Springs NY · Vendors · Video Production · Voice Over · voice-over talent