Can you tell me a little about how you work?
A session can be anywhere from one hour.. to a full day. I prefer receiving at least 3 different airchecks/shows/reporting packages at least 3 working days before our first visit. Similarly, scripts to be loaded in the teleprompter need to arrive sooner. Based on my review of your skills.. and factoring in your management's input (if they're footing the bill) we agree on a list of goals and plunge in with coaching. If you're entering the TV business for the first time, it's best to have a specific goal in mind.

How Many Coaching Sessions do you think I'll Need?
It depends on our goals and your learning style. After our first coaching session I can give you a ballpark answer. My mantra is “nothing is a big deal.” Most individuals come for about 3-6 hour-long sessions. Some news companies send journalists for ongoing development. TV production companies often send out-of-state talent for a day. As for media training (preparation for tv interviews): I can generally get professionals on their feet in about 4 hours.

How much do you charge?
I have 2 fees: one standard.. and one for those of you 'paying out of your own pocket'. I do not provide “books” of lessons with discounts but I can slide a bit for students. I can work on a retainer basis or provide a contract agreement depending on my availability at the time.

Do you provide professional quality video?
Yes. I can also provide website content. For shooting in the field - you'll work with a seasoned cameraman/editor who can provide ENG crews or EFP.

Can I make a demo reel with you?
Yes. I can produce broadcast quality tapes- both studio versions and ENG news style. You will have an experienced news cameraman working with you in the field to produce your ENG style format.

Do you work on voice?
Most people have perfectly fine speaking voices, but do all kinds of wacky things when they're anchoring or reporting. I can help 'bring them back' to the natural, pleasant-sounding speaking voice they've probably lost in the process. If your everyday voice has always been problematic and you think you need a 'new voice', then I might suggest that you see a clinician who works solely with voice problems day in/day out. This generally happens once or twice a year.

Do you help people get rid of their foreign dialect?
I don't work with someone who wants to 'totally lose their accent' (not an easy thing). I do 'clean up' dialects to help you work towards your TV/radio goals- but ultimately the subjective decision as to who is acceptable is made by management. Bear in mind that this is often a grey area that can be very frustrating!

Do you help people get rid of U.S. regional accents?
Yes.

Will you put in a good word for me with an agent or news director?
I can never promise this. I have many enjoyable relationships with other professionals in my field.. but work completely independently.

I've taken some improv and acting classes. Will that help?
I don't think so. I know nothing about acting. Our work is all about figuring out how to be yourself despite the fact that you're on TV.

Do you give advice on hair, makeup and clothing?
We can discuss what works and what doesn't work for TV - and what the current 'appearance style' is - but I can't tell you if your haircut.. haircolor.. makeup and wardrobe selection are best for you. I can, however, give you referrals.