Episode 354: Paula Tiso on Narration for Documentaries

Acting Business Boot Camp

This week's episode is all about documentary narration. Voiceover actor Paula Tiso joins me to share her journey from sketch comedy in Los Angeles to working steadily in promos, radio imaging, true crime, and documentary series.

We talk about training, the shift from "perky" reads to grounded storytelling, and what it really takes to support a story with your voice.

About Paula:

Paula Tiso is a veteran voiceover actor whose work spans documentary narration, true crime, television affiliates, video games, and more. She's voiced Smithsonian Channel documentaries, Oxygen and ID series like Living with a Serial Killer and The Devil Speaks, and brought characters to life in games including Final Fantasy X, No More Heroes, and Fallout 76.

Whether narrating history, guiding audiences through true crime, or connecting viewers to their local TV stations, Paula's voice combines warmth, authority, and authenticity.

From Comedy to Narration

Paula started out in sketch comedy and found her way into voiceover through commercial training. She explains how those early skills built the foundation for narration work across genres.

True Crime and Empathy

Narrating true crime requires neutrality and steadiness. At the same time, it calls for empathy when addressing victims and families. Paula shares how she prepares for heavy scripts and keeps her delivery both clear and compassionate.

Core Skills for Narrators

• Commercial training as a base for timing and clarity

• Adaptability when scripts change mid-session

• Authenticity in the read, not a "performance"

• Curiosity to keep learning and exploring new material

• Preparation that marks cues and supports clean delivery

Types of Documentary Narration

• Nature: slow pacing, voice supports the picture

• History: sometimes includes character inserts, with age shifts in voice

• In-show and lifestyle: friendly and helpful

• Promos and affiliates: concise and reliable

Building a Career

Paula describes narration as building a career vine by vine, one connection leading to the next. She emphasizes curiosity, preparation, and adaptability as the keys to staying relevant.

AI and the Future

Paula also discusses how AI is impacting voiceover, and the work organizations like NAVA are doing to protect performers through transparency and consent.

Episode Takeaways

• Let the voice support the picture

• Documentary reads today are grounded and authentic

• Empathy without bias is essential in true crime

• Preparation and adaptability make sessions run smoothly

• Careers grow step by step, connection by connection

Resources and Mentions

• National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA)

• Living with a Serial Killer on Peacock

• Paula Tiso's narration shorts and blog

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