On this episode: Actor and dialect coach Steve Corona joins Linda to pull back the curtain on the fascinating world of accents, performance, and character transformation.

Steve explains how he studies and analyzes dialects—breaking them down into unique sounds, rhythms, and cadences—and how actors can integrate those nuances into authentic, believable performances. From Scottish and Irish to Texan and Turkish, Steve shares his process for “hearing” the music of a dialect and translating it into emotional truth.

He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from working on major film sets with stars like Gerard Butler and Helen Mirren, offering a glimpse into the art and psychology of coaching actors under pressure. Along the way, he drops practical tools for any performer or storyteller—like using anchor phrases, shadowing native speakers, and finding emotional connection through voice.

Beyond Hollywood, Steve talks about how he’s taken his craft into new arenas—narrating audiobooks, helping business professionals improve their presence, and inspiring others to discover their authentic voice.

About Steve:

Steve Corona has always been fascinated by psychology and human behavior. Growing up as the fourth of five kids, he had plenty of personalities to study—and plenty of opportunities to perform. His natural empathy and love of storytelling became the foundation for a career built on both acting and coaching.

After earning his Master’s in Theatre, Steve launched his on-camera career, landing roles in film and television while also teaching dialects. A chance referral from a casting director led him to coach Gerard Butler on a major action film, sparking a new chapter as a sought-after dialect coach for A-list talent including Helen Mirren, Jason Isaacs, and Amber Midthunder.

As an actor, Steve has appeared in projects spanning every genre—from Hamlet 2 and Breaking Bad to The Lone Ranger and Army of the Dead. His on-set experiences deepened his understanding of performance psychology, which he now channels through Corona Productions—where he helps professionals master communication, presence, and storytelling on stage, on camera, and in life.

Website: https://www.coronaproductions.org

We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/

FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT:

Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/

Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com

Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com

Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/

Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home

Join Linda Bruno on the latest Voiceover Gurus podcast as she sits down with the incomparable Everett Oliver — renowned voiceover coach, booth director, and all-around industry powerhouse.

With decades of experience in the animation world, Everett brings a treasure trove of wisdom from his time working on beloved shows like The Simpsons, King of the Hill, and X-Men Evolution. In this lively, no-holds-barred conversation, Everett pulls back the curtain on his unique approach to coaching VO talent — from fine-tuning auditions so they truly pop to drawing on your own life experiences to bring authenticity to every read.

You’ll hear how his high-energy, intuitive style has helped countless actors break through performance blocks, discover their signature sound, and navigate the ever-changing demands of the industry. Plus, Everett shares insider tips on adapting to different markets, honing your skills for animation, and carving out your own niche in this competitive field.

Guests Bio:

Everett Oliver is a 30-year veteran of both the animation world and voiceover industry. His personal journey has taken him from the Big Apple as a kid to Georgia where he graduated from Clark Atlanta University, and then to Los Angeles. He has been working in the Voiceover industry for nearly three decades as an International Voice Acting Director and has worked with talent in Africa. Australia, Canada, Europe and Japan.

Everett has worked on hit animated shows including: The Simpsons, King of the Hill, Men in Black, Jackie Chan Adventures, Hellboy, and X-Men Evolution, (just to name a few), and has worked with animation industry titans, such as Disney, ColumbiaTri-Star, and Film Roman/Starz. One of the most valuable experiences that Everett brings to the table is his time as a Booth-Director for an LA based talent agency.

His mission is helping voice actors nail standout auditions with bold choices and sharp direction.

Website: https://www.voiceactingdirector.com/

We are honored to be listed in the top 30 of podcasts about Voiceover. Check out the list! https://podcast.feedspot.com/voice_over_podcasts/

FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW AND THE GURUS, PLEASE VISIT:

Coaching Website: https://voiceover.guru/ and https://learnwiththegurus.com/

Linda Bruno Voice Actress https://www.lindabruno.com

Alyssa Jayson Actress and Musician http://www.alyssajayson.com

Kevin Kilpatrick Voice Actor https://kevinkilpatrick.com/

Join our Circle Community: https://the-voiceover-gurus.circle.so/home