Meet Jessica Taylor | Award-Winning Voiceover Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Balance is such a sticky word. Who really has balance? Years ago I heard a quote that says, “You can have it all…just not at the same time.” I wish I knew who said that so I could credit him or her! There have been times in my life, where that is my mantra. Right now? My work life is so full, I love it. But so is my family life. With three sons, I just don’t have the time to take on all the voiceover work that comes my way. It’s a gift…but there are times I just wish I could sit in my booth every day for as long as I want. But then, a kid needs to be taken to a homeschool class, or I have multiple pick-ups from their various activities and programs. Right now, balance is being able to meet my needs as well as the educational and all around well-rounded life goals we’ve set for our children. In a few short years, I’ll likely have more time to myself than I can imagine, and then I’ll miss shuttling my kids around town! I try to remind myself of that when I feel frustrated at not having enough time to be in the booth working or auditioning.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have a true desire to serve my clients in best way I can. I love the idea of being in service to others; to make their job easier or more enjoyable. That brings me ultimate joy. One of my strengths is understanding what’s going to work in a project, and realizing I’m just one aspect – the voiceover needs to complement and fit in with the visuals, music and creative arch the producer is going for. I like to say my live, directed sessions are short, sweet and satisfying. Most producers or creative directors are delighted at how quickly my sessions are. I listen to direction, ask clarifying questions and then use my intuition to fuel what comes next. Ironically, being a good listener is critical to being a great voice actor.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
That’s such a challenging question. While I’ve lived in Boulder since 2016, I hold a special place in my heart for Denver where I met my husband and my kids were born – Wash Park in particular. So, this special day would involve brunch at Wash Park Grille, followed by a walk around Wash Park on a stunningly beautiful Denver day. I imagine we’d see the guy who rollerblades with a boombox on his shoulder, or at least I hope!? We’d head up to Boulder to stroll around Pearl Street for shopping and people-watching, and end at The St. Julien to enjoy live music, cocktails and great food. Shoot…forgot to fit a hike in there!! Ah, the Colorado life…it doesn’t get better, does it??

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Ah yes…I got started in voiceover with Tia Marlier, who is a voiceover talent herself, a former agent at GoVoices and the lead voiceover instructor at the Denver Center Performing Arts. Tia was instrumental in helping me get started, and I’m forever thankful for her private coaching, as well as the group classes at DCPA where the fire to really “go for it” was lit.

And, of course I have to thank my Mom, who introduced me to a friend of hers who was an audiobook narrator. It was the perfect moment to have sparked this career, as I was spinning my wheels on what was next for me…

Website: http://www.jessicaVO.com

Instagram: jessicavodotcom

Linkedin: jtaylorVO

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC34OE1VxpWc0GMw1ACU_HSg

Other: You’ve heard me on television, on the web and on the radio for projects large and small. I have a range from youthful cool to polished sophistication. A touch of vocal texture adds depth and realness to my vocal imprint. I shine when it comes to taking direction, and have a sixth sense for understanding what it is people want. My keen intuition and gut instincts fuel my creative process, and I’m ready to take risks to get the read right. A small selection of recent projects include Dixie, NatureMade, Eucerin, Spotify, Amazon, Cargill, Securitas, NBC Universal, GoHenry, Mayo Clinic, Arcalyst, IBM, Keurig, Nespresso, Colorado Tourism, Bobo’s Oat Bars, Adidas, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Recreation.gov, Hair Club for Men. I live a mostly joyful life with my husband, three sons and five hens in Boulder, Colorado. I’m a Mom, wife, sister, daughter, an avid cook, knitter, hiker, reader, traveler, homeopathy nerd and consumer of art in any form.

Image Credits
Melissa Rich, Photography (photo with headphones on)