The Voice Boxes

The Voice Boxes

by Articul8 Studios

How To Self-Improvement

Season 2

Mastering Voice Warmups and Cooldowns

The habits that happen before and after you hit record matter as much as the performance itself. In this episode of The Voice Boxes Podcast, voice actors Nettie Rose (vocal performance coach) and Jennifer Kellams (speech-language pathologist) share practical warmup and cooldown techniques; including humming, targeted vocal exercises, and listening to your body to avoid strain, build endurance and protect vocal health over the long term. They break down how warmups should flex based on the project and the day, why a warmup that fatigues your voice defeats its own purpose, and the mental preparation that goes hand-in-hand with physical readiness. Co-hosted by a vocal performance coach and an SLP-credentialed voice actor, The Voice Boxes Podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the technique and body-awareness that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready vocal work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. key topics Importance of warmups and cooldowns Specific warmup exercises like humming and singing Listening to your body and avoiding strain Building vocal endurance over time Mental and physical aspects of warming up sound bites "Warmups depend on the project and the day" "Never do a warmup that fatigues your voice" "Stop when your voice feels strained" Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Warmups and Cooldowns 05:00 Techniques for Effective Warmups 09:58 Managing Vocal Endurance 15:00 Cooldown Strategies and Mental Preparation Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Go-Go Gadgets! Budget-Friendly Voice Exercise and Training Tools

Vocal training doesn't require expensive equipment, sometimes a straw and a glass of water is all it takes. In this episode of The Voice Boxes Podcast, voice actors Jennifer Kellams (speech-language pathologist) and Nettie Rose (vocal performance coach) break down affordable, effective tools and techniques for building breath support and vocal endurance, including straw resistance training, DIY exercises, and respiratory trainers used in professional voice therapy. They cover the physiology behind breath support, practical hydration and humidification habits, and how simple at-home methods can strengthen the same skills that keep professional voice actors performing reliably across long recording sessions. Co-hosted by an SLP-credentialed voice actor and a vocal performance coach, The Voice Boxes Podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the technique and body-awareness that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready vocal work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. key topics Breath support exercises using water bottles and straws DIY resistance training for voice improvement Use of respiratory trainers and gadgets in voice therapy sound bites "Use a sigh to release tension." "Small straws create more resistance." "Blow tissue paper across the table." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Voice Gadgets 03:01 Understanding Vocal Physiology and Breath Support 06:00 Exploring Straw Techniques for Vocal Training 09:00 Gadgets for Breath Support and Vocal Health 11:55 Hydration and Humidification for Vocalists 14:48 Apps and Tools for Hydration Tracking 18:03 Conclusion and Future Topics Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

The Art of Vocal Control: Avoiding Overcompensation and Noise

Louder isn't always better, and for voice actors, singers, and speakers, overdoing it can quietly wreck the very instrument you're trying to showcase. In this episode of The Voice Boxes Podcast, voice actors Nettie Rose (vocal performance coach) and Jennifer Kellams (speech-language pathologist) unpack the health risks of vocal overcompensation, from shouting and over-projection to overused stylistic flourishes like scoops, cracks, and glides. They break down why exaggerated delivery often reads as inauthentic to listeners, how diaphragmatic support and resonance create natural projection without strain, and how mic technique and amplification should shape (not distort) vocal delivery. The conversation also covers pitch accuracy, stylistic moderation, and the difference between intentional vocal flourishes used sparingly and habitual overuse that fatigues both the performer and the audience. Co-hosted by a vocal performance coach and an SLP-credentialed voice actor, The Voice Boxes Podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the technique and body-awareness that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready vocal work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. Main Topics Covered: The health risks of overdoing vocal strain and noise Why loud, over-enthusiastic singing sounds off-putting The importance of pitch accuracy and stylistic moderation Techniques for maintaining vocal endurance without damage Recognizing and correcting overused vocal flourishes How to project naturally using diaphragm and resonance The influence of mic use and amplification on vocal delivery The impact of overcompensation on listeners’ stress levels and health Practical tips for singers, voiceover artists, and teachers on healthy voice practices Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to overdoing and noise in vocal performance 00:42 - Why exaggerated vocal projection feels off and how natural sounds differ 01:05 - The effect of loudness and shouting on vocal fatigue and listener discomfort 01:58 - How earwax and hearing self-volume affect overcompensation 02:50 - The importance of listening to professional examples and avoiding mimicry of bad habits 03:17 - Identifying extreme singing and the misuse of microphones 04:12 - Selecting quality voice models to learn from and avoid copying flawed techniques 05:13 - Overdone stylistic techniques like scoops, cracks, and glides that are now everywhere 06:38 - Techniques to aim for precise pitch and avoid over-scooping or sliding 07:23 - The style and potential pitfalls of singers like Barbra Streisand and Kelly Clarkson 08:21 - How to use stylistic flourishes intentionally and sparingly 09:19 - The difference between masterful cry effects and sloppy overuse 10:00 - Voiceover and stage example of over-mimicking stylized reads 11:12 - The role of moderation and seasoning in vocal “flourishes” 12:07 - The importance of knowing the rules before playing with vocal styles Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

The Science of Voice: Techniques for Sustainable Vocal Performance

Projection isn't about pushing harder, it's about knowing where to put the effort. In this episode of The Voice Boxes, voice actors Nettie Rose (vocal performance coach) and Jennifer Kellams (speech-language pathologist) dig into the real cost of vocal effort, and the techniques trained professionals use to sustain a demanding voiceover career without burning out their instrument. They break down diaphragmatic support, frontal resonance, and nasalized projection as alternatives to straining the throat, plus why regular vocal breaks and character-voice consistency both come down to the same underlying skill: effort management. Co-hosted by a vocal performance coach and an SLP-credentialed voice actor, The Voice Boxes offers a behind-the-scenes look at the technique and body-awareness that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready voiceover work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. key topics Impact of vocal efforts on voice health Techniques for sustainable voice use Diaphragmatic support and resonance takeaways Engage diaphragmatic support to reduce vocal strain Use nasalized sounds to project without yelling Practice frontal resonance for better projection Avoid excessive tension in the throat and chest Take regular vocal breaks to prevent fatigue sound bites "It takes effort to do it." "Repetitive efforts can really hurt your voice." "Adjust your voice for character consistency." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Vocal Efforts 02:53 The Impact of Vocal Strain 05:47 Techniques for Healthy Vocalization 08:58 Frontal Resonance and Projection 11:57 Managing Tension in Vocal Performance 13:58 Community Engagement and Tips Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

5 Simple Posture Hacks for Better Voice Health

The way a voice actor sits, stands, and moves shows up in every recording, which is exactly why posture and tension management are part of professional training, not an afterthought. In this episode of The Voice Boxes, voice actors Nettie Rose (vocal performance coach) and Jennifer Kellams (speech-language pathologist) break down how neck tension, muscle fatigue, and poor posture affect vocal performance and what trained professionals do differently to protect consistency across long recording sessions and multi-module projects. The Voice Boxes Podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the training and body-awareness that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready voiceover work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. Key topics Neck tension and muscle fatigue Posture and spinal alignment Impact of tension on voice and vocal performance Takeaways Poor posture and muscle tension can significantly affect voice quality. Changing posture and relaxing neck muscles can alleviate tension. Supporting the entire spine, not just the neck, is crucial for health. Hydration and magnesium help reduce muscle tension. Supporting your core and diaphragm enhances overall vocal function. Sound bites "Tension makes us more aware and then tensing more." "Change your posture regularly to relieve tension." "Support your entire spine, not just your neck." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Neck Tension and Muscle Fatigue 02:57 The Impact of Posture on Voice and Health 05:59 Strategies for Relieving Neck Tension 08:57 The Importance of Hydration and Core Support Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Fatigue and the Voice

Vocal stamina isn't luck. It's the result of habits trained professionals build deliberately, long before they hit "record." In this episode of VoiceBoxes, voice actor and speech-language pathologist Jennifer Kellams teams up with voice actor and vocal performance coach Nettie Rose to unpack vocal fatigue, one of the most common threats to consistency on long recording sessions and multi-module projects. They break down how hydration, sleep, nutrition, and stress management directly affect vocal stamina, and what trained professionals do differently to protect their instrument project after project. Hosted by Vocal Coach (Nettie Rose) and SLP-credentialed (Jennifer Kellams) voice actors with a clinical understanding of vocal mechanics, The Voice Boxes offers a behind-the-scenes look at the training and self-management that goes into dependable, broadcast-ready voiceover work for eLearning, corporate training, healthcare, and educational media. key topics Effects of fatigue on vocal cords Signs of vocal fatigue Importance of hydration and sleep Breathing and support during fatigue Stress and nutrition's role in voice health Takeaways Fatigue can cause voice cracks, gravelly voice, and slurred speech. Yawning and hydration help relax throat muscles and improve voice. Dehydration and poor nutrition exacerbate fatigue and vocal issues. Recognizing early signs of fatigue can prevent long-term damage. Managing stress and getting restful sleep are crucial for vocal health. Sound bites "Fatigue affects your voice early on." "Yawning relaxes throat muscles and boosts oxygen." "Energy drinks are not the best solution." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fatigue and Voice Health 02:03 Signs of Vocal Fatigue 04:04 Overcompensation and Vocal Strain 06:03 Health Conditions Impacting the Voice 08:03 The Importance of Sleep and Sunlight 10:03 Impact of Dehydration and Cross-Contamination 10:50 Energy Drinks and Natural Boosts 11:59 Planning Your Energy Throughout the Day 13:08 Exercise and Movement for Energy 13:55 Final Tips for Vocal Care and Fatigue Prevention Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Managing Tummy Issues for Vocal Health

In this episode, Nettie Rose and Jennifer Kellams dive into how common tummy issues like acid reflux, bloating, and digestion discomfort can impact your voice. They share practical tips, dietary strategies, and humorous anecdotes to help voice users maintain vocal clarity and comfort. Key Topics: The importance of managing stomach pressure before voice use, especially for speaking, singing, or voice acting How overeating and eating immediately before speaking can cause gurgles and burps that disrupt performances The benefits of waiting at least 30 minutes after eating before recording or presenting Tips for calming digestion, such as drinking carbonated water or warm water, and strategic food ordering The role of physical adjustments like pillows or position to reduce stomach noises Cultural and medicinal approaches, including herbal digestives and alcohol as muscle relaxants The humorous side of voice and tummy health, along with the importance of listening to your body Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to voice and tummy issues 00:16 - How eating habits affect voice clarity 00:36 - The impact of stomach gases and pressure on breathing 01:04 - Risks of over-eating before voice work 01:30 - Why burps happen and how to prevent them during recordings 01:51 - The importance of timing and letting digestion settle 02:03 - Using pillows and physical strategies to muffle digestion noises 02:19 - Effects of overeating on breath control and vocal support 02:42 - How the esophagus squeezes food and relieves pressure 03:07 - Techniques for calming digestion with food ordering 03:34 - The role of medications and natural remedies 04:19 - Curious tips from recording studios, like digestion cover pillows 05:07 - Sharing personal experiences with stomach illness and voice 06:05 - Quick fixes: carbonated water and herbal teas 06:37 - Pronunciation fun and flavor preferences (La Croix, cola flavored water) 07:48 - Cultural approaches, including traditional herbal digestives 08:01 - The proper order of eating to reduce gas buildup 08:45 - Use of Tums and natural remedies for indigestion 09:10 - Techniques like patting the stomach and burping to make room 09:39 - Enjoying sushi without discomfort and water's role 10:10 - Remedies like warm water and Asian medicinal practices 10:55 - Old wives' tales: alcohol and home remedies for stomach discomfort 11:16 - The humorous idea of using bourbon or whiskey to relax stomach muscles 11:55 - Alcohol as a muscle relaxer and medicinal aid 12:31 - Different cultural digestives: Uzo, Campari, and aperitifs 13:01 - The importance of taking care of your tummy before social or vocal engagement 13:34 - Inviting audience questions and future topics on medicinal and dietary solutions for voice users 14:09 - Closing remarks and encouragement to share experiences Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Acid Reflux and the Voice

In this episode, Jennifer and Nettie discuss the impact of acid reflux on voice health, including dietary triggers, lifestyle changes, and medical considerations. Perfect for anyone experiencing voice changes or reflux issues. key topics Impact of acid reflux on voice Dietary triggers for reflux Lifestyle modifications for reflux management Medical and natural approaches to reflux Effects of reflux on vocal cords takeaways Avoid fried, spicy, and acidic foods to reduce reflux Sleeping on the left side can minimize acid reflux Mint can relax the esophageal sphincter and worsen reflux Water before bed can trigger reflux if not careful Lifestyle changes like diet and sleep position are crucial "Tomatoes and lemons are highly acidic." "Acid can burn the soft tissue in your throat." "Lifestyle changes are key to managing reflux." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to acid reflux and voice health 01:24 Foods to avoid with acid reflux 03:09 How acid reflux affects the throat and vocal cords 04:28 The anatomy of reflux and its impact on voice 06:20 Lifestyle tips to manage acid reflux 08:15 Medical considerations and medication use 09:35 Diet and lifestyle adjustments for reflux relief 11:10 Summary and tips for managing reflux-related voice issues Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Voice Boxes Season Two: What to Expect

In this episode, Jennifer Kellams and Nettie Rose kick off Season 2 of Voice Boxes with a fun, fast-paced preview of what’s coming next. They share the topics they’re most excited to explore, from vocal health and technique to the real-life factors that affect the voice. What’s coming in Season 2 Jennifer and Nettie tease a packed season with episodes covering: Vocal gadgets and tools: what helps, what doesn’t, and what’s worth trying Acid reflux and GERD: how digestive issues can affect the voice Vocal range: what it really means to expand your range Warm-ups and cool-downs for the voice Personal confessions and lessons learned along the way Muscle tension, neck tension, and the connection between stress and the voice Breathy tone, pressed tone, and vocal effects Efforts in voice acting, including sounds that mimic being punched or shot Why these topics matter The hosts explain that voice issues often come from places people don’t immediately connect to their voice, like stress, fatigue, tension, and outside life. They also highlight how these subjects matter for voice actors, gamers, athletes, and anyone who uses their voice regularly. Jennifer and Nettie invite listeners to send in questions by email or Instagram DM so they can answer them on the show and build future episodes around audience topics. Where to reach the show Email: thevoiceboxespodcast@gmail.com Instagram: send a DM to the show @thevoiceboxes

Season 1

Hormones and Your Voice: What Changes with Age?

This episode explores the impact of hormones on the body and voice, including hot flashes, hormonal fluctuations during menopause, and how hormones like estrogen and testosterone influence vocal health and aging. Hosted by Nettie Rose and Jennifer Kellams, it offers practical insights and scientific explanations. Key Topics: Hormonal impact on vocal cords Effects of estrogen and testosterone on voice Hot flashes and hormonal fluctuations during menopause Hormones and aging of the larynx Managing hormonal changes and vocal health

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