Voiceover is Not a Side Hustle

Every now and then, something happens that makes everything clear.
This week, I got an email that hit me right between the eyes.

Someone studying International Relations messaged me, saying they want to "do a bit of voice acting" to help sustain their PhD studies.
You know, just pick up voiceover as a quick money-maker.
Like it's a weekend hobby.
Like it's Uber Eats or dog walking.

It hit a nerve I’ve been too polite about for too long:

Voiceover is not a side hustle.

It’s not something you casually jump into when you need extra cash.
It’s not talking nicely into a mic.
It’s not reading words on a page and hoping for the best.

It’s an art form.
It’s a craft that demands everything, timing, breath control, emotional nuance, character work, technical knowledge, musicality, marketing, stamina.

It’s like saying, "I'm studying engineering, but while I’m at it, I’ll just become a professional cricketer for the Proteas."
Or, "While I'm finishing my psychology degree, I'll just act in a few feature films on the side."

It’s laughable.
But this is what voiceover artists deal with every day, being underestimated, misunderstood, and devalued by people who have no idea what it takes.

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So let me be clear from this day forward:

• I don't coach people looking for a quick fix.

• I don't work with people who see voiceover as a stopgap.

• I don’t hand out shortcuts to people who aren’t willing to honour the craft.

If you want to learn voiceover with me, you’re stepping into serious territory.
Respect for the art, or don’t bother reaching out.

I'm not angry.
I'm awake.

And I’m done pretending voiceover is easy just to make others feel comfortable.

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Written by:
Craig Ross
Founder of VOISA
Voice of Confidence