We’re looking forward to introducing you to Samantha deSuze. Check out our conversation below.
Samantha , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
It’s part of my work. But..I really do enjoy doing Comedy/Improv here in the City. There’s nothing like a good belly laugh and doing improvisational scene work with friends to keep a good positive outlook going. I got into it about 6 years ago, and then decided to continue that here in NY. I also will take my old camera around town and grab pictures in town. This city is great photo material..Photography is one of my favorite ways to unwind.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a Voice Actor and Improv Actor originally from the Boston area. I made a very big move to NYC back in the Summer of 2024 to be closer to family and continue my career. I am a SOVAS and One Voice Award-Nominated voice actor. I’ve worked in the Commercial, live announce, narration, and audio drama space for about 6 years. Before that, I worked in the Broadcast media industry for over 20 as a Radio Personality/Production Assistant for a number of different stations around New England and was a former Weather Broadcaster for Accuweather in PA. (yes, I’m still fascinated by the weather!)
Believe it or not, I read the occasional crystal ball, tarot cards, tea leaves and ghost hunt when theres time. One other thing, I’m STILL a Red Sox fan.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. Mostly, my dad. He was in Radio for 40-something years waking up New England as a radio personality.
The fact that he could get up incredibly early and be on the air at 6 am every day was mind blowing. I used to go to work with him when I was a kid during February School vacation break. It could be tough at times because there were days where he would do radio station appearances at night somewhere, and then be expected to be on-air the very next day at 6 am. It taught me the power of resilience. I also knew I wanted to do something with my voice at a young age. I did some commercials/voice work when I was a kid for my dad’s show, That taught me how to listen and focus. (As much as a 7-8 year old can do!)
My mom taught me the art of listening. The more you listen, the more receptive you are.
Two more people were legends in the Radio biz, “Sunny” Joe White and Dale Dorman. Both were radio personalities in Boston and in New England. I considered myself very lucky to intern with them at WXKS-FM (KISS-108) at a time where I could learn about creativity, hard work, and running a successful radio business can be possible.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
YES! Right before Covid. I was working 3 different jobs. And then the pandemic wiped out all of them within a matter of weeks. I figured maybe I should start doing this VO thing full time. The first month of full on lock down, I was absolutely ready to quit. I had no idea how to Market, and if I should be doing this kind of thing during an ‘unprecedented’ time. Being away from friends and family didn’t help either. The second time was when I first moved to NYC. I had developed AfiB and then had a heart attack soon after arriving here. Sometimes life can throw monkey wrenches your way. And these almost did. Happy to say..in the immortal words of Elaine Stritch; I’m Still Here! And working harder than ever.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Quite honestly, YES. I grew up in an entertainment/media family. My dad and mom had always told me to ‘leave the ego and mask at home.’ Let people see and hear you. It was a great piece of advice I grew up with and I used it once I entered both the Broadcast and VO industry. If you can be a human being behind the mic or on camera, that will show up and audiences with see that. Being genuine counts lots.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
Traveling more! When I was a kid, I traveled to Europe every summer to visit extended family. Absolutely loved it. But I never really got to explore the rest of the US. The Grand Canyon, all of California, (would love to ski in Taos) Arizona and Utah. And giving more of my time to someone in need. My ear is always bent to listen, and mentoring a young person who may be interested in this business and watching them grow. That is something I don’t want to miss~
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.samanthadesuze.com
- Instagram: @samanthasvoxandpictures
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthadesuze
Image Credits
Robert Mattson-Headshot/Downstage Images, Walt Fraser/Improv 8 Comedy NYC-NY (other shots..Samantha deSuze
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
