1. FOR ALL THE VIEWERS READING, PLEASE KINDLY INTRODUCE YOURSELF.
Hey everyone, I’m Roberto Jolliffe, though most people just call me Berto. To my family, I’ll always be “Bert.” I come from a beautifully blended heritage, my father is Panamanian, my mother a proud Nuyorican and growing up as a military kid meant home was wherever we landed. We moved often, but Texas became our anchor.
I’m a husband, a father, a creator and above all, a builder of legacies. For me, voice-over isn’t just a career, it’s a calling. Every word I speak into the mic is rooted in my journey: the cultures that raised me, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the deep belief that we all carry stories worth sharing. I have been fortunate to voice for brands like Pop-Tarts, Rap TV, Nike, HBO MAX, Vivid Seats, NASCAR, Pepsi Co., Paw Patrol, Kamala Harris, Beyond Meat, Akedo Ultimate Warrior ad more!
I’m passionate about showing others, especially my kids, that you don’t have to fit into a box. You can be multi-passionate, you can reinvent yourself, and you can build a life that looks like you. My goal is to use my voice not only to tell stories but to create opportunity, impact, and generational change.
2. PLEASE TALK ABOUT HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN THE VOICE OVER INDUSTRY.
I didn’t find voice-over…it found me.
Back in November 2020, my son was born during the height of the pandemic. For the first time in my life, I had a window to slow down and reflect. I was on paternity leave, spending more time at home than I ever had, and I found myself looking at the leftover podcast equipment from a show I’d helped friends launch the year before. The podcast had ended, but the gear was still there, just waiting for a new story to be told.
Then I remembered a conversation with my friend William Brown out in L.A., he casually mentioned a voice-over site called Voices.com. At the time, I didn’t even know VO could be a real career. But something about it stuck. I thought, “Why not now?” That moment became my 2021 New Year’s resolution.
I signed up for the site, uploaded my first samples, and the next thing I knew, I was off to the races. No studio. No formal training. Just me, a mic, and a mindset. What started as a side curiosity turned into a purpose, I didn’t even know I’d been preparing for all my life.
3. WHAT MADE YOU GET STARTED IN THE VOICE OVER INDUSTRY?
Honestly, when I look back, it feels like the universe was slowly guiding me here the whole time.
As a kid, I was always using my voice, whether it was doing impressions, hosting school talent shows, rapping at open mics, performing in plays, or reading chapters aloud in funny voices to make people laugh. I was a class clown; I performed in spelling bees and on debate teams. And over the years, I just kept gravitating toward spaces where I could speak, entertain, and connect with people.
I’ve worked behind the scenes on air for radio stations, taken improv classes at The Groundlings, performed in acting workshops, worked customer service and sales jobs where my voice was my most powerful tool, all of that was training. Every chapter in my life pointed toward this path. I just didn’t realize it.
So, when I heard about voice-over, it hit me like a thunderbolt. I wasn’t starting from scratch; I was just stepping into a lane I’d been building all along. And the craziest part? I could do it from the comfort of my home studio, on my terms, with my voice. That was the moment I knew I’d found my lane and I’ve been chasing mastery ever since.
4. PLEASE SHARE A MOMENT WHERE YOU FELT YOU WANTED TO BE INSPIRED TO BE A PART OF THE VOICE OVER INDUSTRY.
The moment I truly felt inspired to belong in this industry wasn’t when I booked a job or got my first check…it was when I found the voice-over community.
In the beginning, I was figuring things out by trial and error. I’d do full reads with zero editing, running straight takes, trying not to mess up. I didn’t know about EQ settings, mic placement, or that auditions could be improved post-recording. I was just winging it. But one day, I stumbled across some Facebook groups and YouTube channels where seasoned VO artists were sharing wisdom, breaking things down, and most importantly welcoming new talent without ego or gatekeeping.
That blew me away. I came from industries where people held their cards close, but in VO? People were opening doors, sharing knowledge, and rooting for you. Strangers became mentors. Some even became real good friends, not because of clout or credits, but because of shared journeys. That kind of community lit a fire in me. I didn’t just want to do voice-over…I wanted to grow with the people in it.
That sense of inclusion and empowerment inspired me to keep going. It made me want to get better, not just for me, but so I could eventually turn around and do the same for someone else. Because in this space, growth isn’t just personal, it’s communal.
5. PLEASE TALK ABOUT THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE IN THIS INDUSTRY AND HOW YOU OVERCOME THE CHALLENGES.
One of the biggest challenges in this industry? Silencing the noise in your own head.
In the beginning, self-doubt hit hard. I’d second-guess every audition: “Is this good enough?” But over time, I realized success in this game comes from unlearning perfectionism and leaning into authenticity. Training, coaching, conferences, all those help, but nothing replaces finding your unique voice.
You also have to understand that being a voice actor isn’t just about having a great voice, it’s about being an entrepreneur. You’re the talent, but also the marketer, the tech guy, the scheduler, the accountant, and the creative director. That means building systems, staying organized, and always finding new ways to market yourself without burning out.
The way I overcome all of it? Community. Consistency. And choosing to bet on myself every day, even when it’s hard. That’s the real difference-maker.
The biggest battle in Voice Over is YOU vs. YOU.
6. JAPAN IS KNOWN FOR SO MANY GREAT ICONIC VOICE OVER PEOPLE, SUCH AS CHARACTERS FROM ANIME OR MOVIES AND DUBBED TV SHOWS. WHO IS SOMEONE INSPIRATIONAL THAT YOU ADMIRE IN THIS INDUSTRY?
One voice that’s stayed with me for years is Sean Schemmel, the legendary voice of Goku in Dragon Ball Z. But it’s not just because he voices an iconic character of my childhood. It’s because of how he treated me, a complete stranger, like I mattered.
In 2021, I went to DreamCon in Dallas, and Sean was signing autographs. I stood in line, telling myself I wouldn’t mention I was a voice actor. “He probably hears that all day,” I thought. I had only been doing VO for six months at the time. But at the last second, I decided to say it.
He stopped everything. Looked me in the eye. Listened to my voice and said, “You’ve got something.” Then he did something I’ll never forget…he paused the whole line, told security to hold on, and gave me ten minutes of game. Real advice. A list of equipment and plugins I should get. Tips on editing, on performance, on how to stand out.
He wrote all of it on the back of a signed Goku photo. That photo is framed in my bedroom now. And guess what? Most of that list? I’ve got it now. Because that moment changed me. He gave me the kind of encouragement I now try to give others. His kindness taught me that pouring into people, no matter where they are in their journey, is how we pay it forward.
7. IS THERE ANY PROJECT OR PEOPLE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO WORK WITH OR COLLABORATE WITH?
Absolutely. I’ve got a list that stays ready!
I’d love to voice a character in Grand Theft Auto VI or the next Dragon Ball series. Shows like Rick and Morty, Invincible, and anything on Adult Swim I’m all in. I’d also love to voice promos or documentaries for the History Channel and the shows like how brands or companies are made in America inspire me so much. Also, college sports programs, Call of Duty and hip-hop-focused content. There’s something powerful about combining voice and culture, it creates moments that feel personal and unforgettable.
And when it comes to people? I’d love to work with creatives like Issa Rae, Donald Glover, Ryan Coogler or Jordan Peele, visionaries who know how to fuse authenticity with art. That’s the space I want to move in, where storytelling is bold, intentional, and layered with meaning.
8. PLEASE TALK ABOUT WHAT TYPE OF WORK YOU ARE CURRENTLY FOCUSED ON.
Right now, my main focus is on commercial voice-over, that’s the area where I’ve booked the most, and where my tone and delivery style really thrive. I love tapping into that conversational, trustworthy energy brands are looking for today.
But I’m also pushing deeper into promo and character work, because those spaces light me up creatively. There’s something magical about building a voice that sets the tone for a whole show or brings a character to life. I’ve been training hard in those areas, studying industry leaders, working with coaches, and dialing in my technique so when the opportunity comes, I’m not just ready…I’m undeniable.
I see Voice Over as a long game. So, while I honor where I’m winning now, I’m always planting seeds for the spaces I want to grow into.
9. PLEASE TALK ABOUT WHAT YOU LIKE ABOUT HOLLYWOOD ENTERTAINMENT.
What excites me about Hollywood right now is how much it’s evolving, especially when it comes to representation and storytelling.
We’re finally starting to see more real stories being told, stories that reflect different cultures, dialects, and lived experiences. It’s no longer about fitting a narrow mold. It’s about breaking those molds and amplifying authenticity.
And with platforms like streaming and global cinema booming, we’re seeing collaboration on a worldwide scale. You’ve got creators from Tokyo to Toronto to Atlanta working together to push boundaries in voice, sound, and visual storytelling.
As someone with a multicultural upbringing, that resonates deeply with me. I want to be part of that wave, where we stop asking permission and start building spaces where everyone feels seen and heard.
10. WHAT VOICE OVERS DO YOU ADMIRE THE MOST FROM HOLLYWOOD?
I’ve got deep respect for artists who bring their full selves to the mic, who don’t just read lines but embody them.
Gabe Kunda is one of those voices. His tone is powerful, but his delivery is always grounded and intentional. Then you’ve got Matthew Slim Da Reason Parham, Steven Goard, Mark Rider, Smack Louis, and Jorge Infante—all of them bring something real and raw that cuts through the noise. They’re not trying to sound like anyone else, they’re just being them. And that’s the energy I admire most.
These voices don’t just narrate stories…they shape culture. They’re living proof that authenticity wins. And watching them succeed reminds me that there’s a lane for every kind of voice if you’re willing to own yours.
11. WHAT MAKES A GOOD VOICE ACTOR?
A good voice actor shows up. Not just when it’s easy, not just when they’re booking, but every day, with consistency, curiosity, and heart.
It’s not just about sounding “good”, it’s about connecting. You need to bring humanity into every script, every sentence, every breath. That means understanding subtext, knowing your audience, and honoring the emotion behind the words.
A great VO talent is also resilient. You’ll hear “no” a lot more than “yes” in this business, but if you keep refining your craft, learning from every audition, and pushing through the quiet seasons, you’ll grow. And eventually, your name will come up in rooms you didn’t even know existed.
It takes more than a voice to make it, it takes vision.
12. NOW IN TODAY'S SOCIETY, EVERYTHING IS DONE BY REMOTE WORK. DO YOU ENJOY THIS PROCESS, OR DO YOU PREFER TO SHOW UP AT THE STUDIO?
Honestly? I love both, but there’s something powerful about building your own kingdom at home.
Working from my home studio has given me the freedom to design my space for my comfort and creativity. I can step into the booth fully centered, with no commute, no distractions, and complete control over my workflow. And when I finish a session? I’m steps away from my peace that is home. That balance is priceless.
That said, there’s a unique energy in studio sessions, like being face-to-face with creatives, soaking in direction in real-time, and vibing with producers. I’ve had the chance to do that a handful of times, and it’s always a dope experience.
But the beauty of today’s VO world is that you can thrive in both. It’s no longer about being in the “right city”, now it’s about being the right voice, and ready whenever opportunity calls.
13. WHAT TYPE OF SPECIALTY IN VOICE OVER WORK DO YOU LIKE TO FOCUS ON, OR DO YOU HAVE SEVERAL TYPES?
My current specialties are Commercial and Promo work, those are core to my foundation. I love the challenge of bringing a brand’s message to life in just 15 or 30 seconds. You’ve got to make every word matter, and I thrive in that high-stakes simplicity. Animation and gaming spaces I’m trickling into little by little.
But I’m also expanding into Audio Description, which has become a true passion project. I’ve been studying the work of Roy Samuelson and others who are leading the charge in making media accessible for the blind and low-vision community. It’s powerful work, because it’s not about you, it’s about serving someone else’s experience. When I was in the tech industry part of one of my jobs was doing mobile performance testing and always thinking about accessible UI/UX experiences which left a lifelong awareness. So, I take that mindset into all of my crafts, it has made me a better actor and a better person.
In the long run, I want to master every lane, from animation to video games to long-form narration. I’m in this for the full journey.
14. WHAT'S A TYPICAL DAY IN THE LIFE OF A VOICE OVER ACTOR?
There’s no “typical” day in VO, but here’s what mine looks like when it’s locked in.
I start my day early hit the gym to get my mind and body right. While I’m on the stair machine, I’m already scanning for auditions from my agents or pay-to-play platforms. Multitasking is a must.
After the gym, it’s dad mode: getting my kids ready for school, checking emails, reviewing scripts. Then I step into the booth for a few auditions or client projects. I keep a list of follow-ups, pre-written emails for prospects, outreach to producers, or thank-you notes to clients.
Throughout the day, I balance recording with networking, staying tapped into the community, watching webinars, or attending virtual meetups. I’ll often schedule coaching sessions or block out time to study a genre I want to improve in.
By evening, I knock out last-minute auditions, prep for tomorrow, and then switch gears back to family life. It’s a constant rhythm of hustle, creativity, and gratitude.
15. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR ANYONE THAT IS INTERESTED IN VOICE OVER WORK?
The best advice I can give? Start. Right. Now.
Don’t wait for the perfect mic, the perfect training, or the perfect moment. That “perfect” time might never come, but every day you wait is a day you could’ve been growing.
Start where you are. Use what you have. Take free classes. Watch YouTube tutorials. Join Facebook groups. Practice reading anything—scripts, cereal boxes, commercials on mute. Learn the art of storytelling. Build your confidence before the bookings come.
And most importantly, don’t compare your Day 1 to someone else’s Year 5. Everyone’s path looks different, and that’s okay. Just be relentless about showing up.
If you’ve got a voice, you’ve got a shot. Every voice actor you admire started with a dream and a decision. Be bold. Be curious. Be relentless.
16. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT MAKES A GOOD VOICE OVER ACTOR?
A great VO actor is more than a good voice—they’re a great listener.
You have to listen to the script, to the client, to the character, and to the emotional truth between the lines. You’re not just performing; you’re translating meaning into sound. You’re taking what’s written on the page and breathing life into it in a way that feels natural, honest, and unforgettable.
And you have to be flexible. This industry moves fast. One day it’s conversational reads, the next day it’s high-energy announcer. You have to be able to switch gears, take direction, and still bring yourself into every read.
What makes a great VO actor? Someone who’s coachable, committed, and completely unapologetic about bringing their full humanity to the mic.
17. YOU ARE CURRENTLY ACTIVE AS A VOICE OVER. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2025? WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOU FOR 2025?
2025 is all about leveling up—with strategy, focus, and purpose.
I’ll be going SAG-AFTRA, which is a huge milestone for me. I’m actively seeking representation in New York, Chicago, and Atlanta, and aiming to become the signature voice of a brand, a show, or a network. I’m ready for those recurring roles and long-term collaborations.
I’m also deepening my work in audio description, animation, promo, and pursuing coaching to sharpen my storytelling and emotional delivery even more. Every year, I want to evolve—not just as a voice actor, but as a businessman, a creative, and a leader in this space.
My mindset is simple: bigger reach, deeper impact, and more meaningful stories.
18. CAN YOU SHARE ANY EXCITING PROJECTS THAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON NOW?
Yes! I’m working on a few amazing projects right now.
I’m voicing an internal training program for Ohio State University through a grant initiative, it's exciting to contribute to something that's educational and forward-thinking. I’ve also got some new commercial work dropping soon for Ford and Del Taco, both of which have been a blast to record.
But the project closest to my heart? I’m writing a book called “Ahhh, So You Want to Be a VOICE OVER ACTOR?” It’s an illustrated guide for both kids and adults who want to learn about this world in a fun, accessible way. The goal is to demystify the industry and spark curiosity, because sometimes, all it takes is one spark to change someone’s life.
You’ll be able to find it on my social platforms and at TheVOBook.com.
19. IF SOMEONE WANTS TO HIRE YOU FOR ANY VOICE OVER WORK, CAN YOU PLEASE LIST YOUR WEBSITE AND HOW PEOPLE CAN REACH YOU?
For sure, I’d love to connect!
You can check out my work at BertoTheVO.com, or reach me directly at RobertoJolliffe@gmail.com. My business line is 915-443-1671, and I’m active across all social media channels @BertoBoushae.
Whether you’re looking for a commercial voice, a promo read, or someone to help bring your next project to life, let’s build something dope together.
20. ANY LAST MESSAGE YOU'D LIKE TO SAY TO ALL THE READERS ?
Live with no what-ifs.
That’s the mantra that changed my life. Don’t wait until you’re older or until the stars align…start chasing your dreams today, even if they scare you. Especially if they scare you.
At 30, I decided to bet on myself. I wish I had started sooner, but I’m grateful I started at all. And that’s what I want for you, to look back and say, “I tried. I showed up. I gave it my all.”
Your voice is powerful. Your story is yours for a reason. So be the voice for your community, your experiences, your culture. Be the sound someone’s been waiting to hear. Be the hope that your younger self never saw coming.
The world needs your voice. Don’t let it go unheard.
