High Notes

In this episode, Melissa sits down with professor, writer, and deep thinker, Dr. Margaret Heffernan , to explore creativity, uncertainty, and the power of authentic voice. Together, they talk about how artists and leaders can not only survive but thrive in unpredictable times, the importance of cultivating a personal style, and the art of communicating with clarity and impact. Margaret reflects on...

In this episode of High Notes , we sit down with trailblazer Lynne Franks, a visionary in PR, fashion, and women’s empowerment. From shaping modern communications to founding movements that uplift and connect women, Lynne’s story is one of courage, creativity, and community. Together, we explore her remarkable journey, from her early career breakthroughs to her transformative work with initiatives...

In this episode of High Notes , we sit down with legendary broadcaster, author, and coach Janey Lee Grace. From her days  on BBC Radio 2 with Steve Wright to her work as a coach in heart-centred communication, Janey shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey. She opens up about her memoir From Wham to Woo , her path to sobriety, and the transformative power of living, and communicatin...

In this episode of High Notes , Melissa chats with Dr Rockford “Rocky” Sansom, a renowned voice coach and author, about the power and presence of the human voice. Together, they unpack how to manage nerves, why simplicity can transform communication, and how to make your voice truly resonate. Rocky shares practical, down-to-earth strategies for building vocal confidence, connecting with your audie...

In this episode of BRAVA High Notes, we dive into what it truly means to build creative confidence and find your voice with Tricia Duffy. Tricia takes us through her inspiring journey, from a childhood filled with song and poetry to becoming a consultant, speaker, award-winning podcaster, creative mentor, and accomplished musician. Together, we explore: Overcoming imposter syndrome The value of vo...

In this episode, we talk with Colin Burgess, whose career spans royalty, the military, media, and BAFTA. Colin reflects on how finding his own voice and approach to storytelling has shaped his journey. He shares early challenges, the lessons he’s learned about leadership and resilience, and insights into building a lasting career. We also explore how BAFTA’s initiatives are helping to discover and...

In this episode, we sit down with Jane Duffus : author, journalist, and committed advocate for women’s voices. We explore why it matters for women to claim space and be heard, how humour can transform storytelling, and the power of writing women back into history and everyday narratives. Jane opens up about the lessons she’s learned from comedians, the fire that fuels her work, and the barriers sh...

In this episode of High Notes , host Melissa Thom speaks with Simon Lancaster , one of Britain’s most acclaimed speechwriters. Simon traces his path from aspiring songwriter to shaping the words of top politicians and business leaders. They explore the art of persuasive communication, the timeless power of rhetoric, and why authenticity and emotion matter on stage. With stories from his remarkable...

High Notes returns for its third season with Words at Work , a series about the role of voice in business. BRAVA founder, Melissa Thom talks to leading figures across business, culture, and communication: Simon Lancaster, Margaret Heffernan, Dr. Rockford Sansom, Jane Duffus, Colin Burgess, Tricia Duffy, Lynne Franks, and Janey Lee Grace. Together, they explore how voice shapes influence, leadershi...

In this episode of High Notes, we’re joined by iconic voice actor Bob Bergen, famous for voicing beloved characters like Porky Pig, Tweety, Marvin the Martian, and No Face from Spirited Away.  Bob discusses his journey from mimicking cartoons as a child to becoming a full-time voice actor. He offers invaluable advice for aspiring performers, emphasising the importance of craft and focus.&nbsp...

In this episode of High Notes , we sit down with Tom Keegan, an acclaimed performance director behind major AAA titles such as Jedi: Fallen Order , Wolfenstein , Call of Duty , World of Warcraft and more. Based in LA, Tom reflects on his creatively rich upbringing and his path to becoming a leading figure in video game performance direction. The conversation looks at the evolution of voice perform...

Casting for Mocap, Games & Animation with Jessica Jefferies In this episode of High Notes , host, Melissa Thom, sits down with Jessica Jefferies, a casting director who specialises in motion and performance capture for video games. Jessica opens up about her transition from actor to casting director, the challenges she faced in the industry, and how performance capture continues to evolve. The...

Inside Aardman: Bringing Clay to Life - Characters, Voice & Performance with Merlin Crossingham  In this episode of High Notes, Melissa talks to Merlin Crossingham, Creative Director for Wallace and Gromit at Aardman Animations. Merlin shares some surprising stories from his childhood that led him onto a very specific career path in animation, as well as thoughts on the timeless appeal of...

In this episode of High Notes , Andrew Whieldon Dennis reflects on his expansive career as a voice actor in the videogame industry, from indie projects to AAA blockbusters. He talks about his early inspirations, the cultural influences that shaped him, and his evolution into a true 'vocal shapeshifter'. Andrew offers a behind-the-scenes look at his acting process, emphasizes the value of consisten...

The Magic of PIxar: Voice Casting with Kate Hansen-Birnbaum In this episode of High Notes , Melissa chats to Kate Hansen Birnbaum, Casting Director at Pixar, whose credits include beloved animated films like Inside Out 2 , Soul , Elemental , and Luca . Kate shares her unconventional path into casting, which began at a San Francisco talent agency under the mentorship of seasoned actors. She offers...

Welcome to Season 2 of High Notes — the podcast exploring the art and business of voice.  Brought to you by BRAVA  https://www.brava.uk.com/ Season 2 will focus on the world of Games and Animation. This season, host, Melissa Thom, speaks with leaders across the business from Pixar, Aardman, and the world of AAA gaming. Discover how voices are cast, directed, and brought to life — from Mo...

In this episode of High Notes, we engage in a captivating conversation with Abi Longstaffe from Spotlight. Abi discusses her journey in the creative arts, from her theatrical family history to drama school and her extensive career in casting and talent management. We delve into the evolving landscape of talent and voiceover work, hear expert advice on navigating a creative career, and explore the...

In this episode, we chat with Curtis James, an accomplished podcaster, producer, writer, and presenter. Curtis shares his inspiring journey from his early days experimenting with music to his experiences with grassroots podcasting, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the impact of social inequality on education and creativity. Curtis talks in depth about his podcast Class Divide, how it...

High Notes: A Conversation with Sinead Garvan - From Radio to VO In this episode, we talk to Sinead Garvan, the voice behind some of the UK’s favourite radio shows and podcasts. We chat about Sinead's journey from her early days as a young narrator in school plays to her transition from radio to voiceover. Sinead shares her experience of working with celebrities like Chris Evans, Claudia Winkleman...

On this episode of HIGH NOTES, we talk to award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Marverine Cole. Over the last 21 years, Marverine has worked as a reporter, producer and news anchor for the majority of Britain's most watched and listened to broadcasters, including Sky News, 5 News, Talk TV, Classic FM, 5 Live and BBC Radio 4. Marverine is one of only 10 Black British women to have ever presente...

In this episode, we talk to Adele Cutting - a respected sound designer, audio and voice director and in the video game industry. Adele's extensive portfolio includes work on both blockbuster titles and indie games. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including Adele's journey into the gaming industry, the evolution of women's roles and casting processes for video games. Adele also shares...

In this episode, we talk to award-winning producer, photographer, screenwriter, game and audiobook director, Daniel Jewel. With extensive experience in leading AAA game projects and directing high-profile audiobooks, Daniel shares invaluable insights from his musical childhood through to his journey into film and then voice directing. He discusses the importance of failure, adapting to challenges,...

In conversation with Talent Agent, Natalie Edwards. In this Women in Games special, we sit down with Natalie Edwards, Talent Agent and Head of Voiceover Division at Excellent Talent, based here in the UK. Natalie talks to us about her career and her extensive work with games in particular. We also discuss important issues, including representation and diversity in the industry, as well as what tal...

Shakespeare's Women with Actor & Writer, Lorien Haynes On HIGH NOTES Episode 4, Melissa talks to writer, actor, and artist, Lorien Haynes. From a teenager seeking an escape from her shyness and early experiences of abuse to living and working in America, Lorien's career has involved voiceover work, drama, screenwriting, and drawing. Throughout her work, especially in her recent play ‘Shakespea...

In this episode of the High Notes podcast, BRAVA master characters coach, Elaine Clark, joins us all the way from San Francisco and talks about her extensive experience in the industry. From starting as a theatre major in college, she then got into advertising and copywriting before moving into Silicon Valley and delving into the corporate world. Her career took a significant turn with the emergen...