Maria Pendolino shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Maria, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
I’m finding that cost is really not the thing that is most important to them. Sure, they want to ensure that they’re paying a fair price but really – they’re looking for a partner and someone who is willing to be collaborative, communicative, and helpful. I’ve had a lot of people come seek my services after having a really cookie cutter experience elsewhere, and they’re less concerned about my rates and more concerned about what kind of access they can have to provide direction and get their project to the finish line with feedback and input.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Maria Pendolino and I’m the president of Voice By Maria Inc. I’m an award-winning voice actor based in Buffalo, New York. I provide voiceover recording services for clients who are making commercials, online explainer videos, telephone systems, award shows, documentaries, sports content, and more. One of my fun facts is that I absolutely love doing those legal and disclaimer reads that you hear at the end of commercials – I actually came in 2nd place in the Fastest Talking New Yorker contest that was sponsored by Chock Full Of Nuts Coffee in New York City.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I remember singing songs from musicals like Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables in my basement as a kid – just singing out loud while no one was watching. I thought I was so smart and talented and it was well before I knew anything about auditions or judgement or what it would actually take to be a professional actor.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
In 2014, I had to leave New York City due to health concerns and mobility challenges due to psoriatic arthritis. At that time, I was really down and thought I had to give up my acting career. It was a really challenging time in my life.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I think it is. I find it really difficult to try to maintain different personalities for public and private life. Of course, it’s hard to share everything private out to the public – but I am a pretty blunt, Italian, New Yorker – what you see is what you get.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I don’t do my work for anyone else except me. If I waited for external validation and approval – I’d be waiting forever. I think you have to do everything for yourself and for your own goals and pleasure and if other people take notice – that’s great, but it can’t be what drives you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.voicebymaria.com
Image Credits
Destiny Rogowski, Sweetheart Pinup
Dennis Kwan Headshots
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