David Menkin talks about voicing the villainous Barnabas Tharmr in Final Fantasy XVI, playing Breach in Valorant, and navigating a decades-long career as one of gaming's most versatile voice actors. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from FFXVI, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Battlefield Bad Company, and more.
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Rich Keeble talks about playing Monoco and the unforgettable Trash Can Man in GOTY winner Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, fan impact, and the art of bringing legendary video game characters to life.
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Alix Wilton Regan talks Mass Effect, Divinity, Cyberpunk 2077, and playing the legendary Lara Croft in Tomb Raider. Hear her behind-the-scenes stories, fan impact, and the art of bringing legendary video game characters to life.
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David Menkin talks about voicing the villainous Barnabas Tharmr in Final Fantasy XVI, playing Breach in Valorant, and navigating a decades-long career as one of gaming's most versatile voice actors. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from FFXVI, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Battlefield Bad Company, and more.
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New episodes drop every other week.
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Rich Keeble talks about playing Monoco and the unforgettable Trash Can Man in GOTY winner Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, fan impact, and the art of bringing legendary video game characters to life.
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Alix Wilton Regan talks Mass Effect, Divinity, Cyberpunk 2077, and playing the legendary Lara Croft in Tomb Raider. Hear her behind-the-scenes stories, fan impact, and the art of bringing legendary video game characters to life.
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Celebrate the holidays with Neil Newbon in this special Christmas episode as he answers fan questions and shares insights from his incredible career. Best known for his award-winning performance as Astarion in Baldur’s Gate 3, Neil chats about acting, performance capture, gaming, and more in this festive Q&A
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Samantha Béart, the voice and performance behind Karlach in Baldur’s Gate 3, joins us to talk about bringing one of BG3’s most beloved characters to life, the emotional impact of player stories, and the craft behind her performance. They also dives into a new title Absolum and shares what to expect from the upcoming project Fading Echo.
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Mark Takeshi Ota the voice of Sun Wukong from Black Myth: Wukong, joins Tom to discuss acting in games, motion capture & bringing characters to life. Mark shares his journey across titles such as Dead Island 2, Baldur's Gate 3 & The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles.
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Jennifer Hale joins us to talk about voicing Commander Shepard in Mass Effect, how the role was shaped collaboratively, and what it takes to build a legendary career in voice acting. From cold reads and intense BioWare recording sessions to shaping one of gaming’s most iconic characters, Jennifer shares insight, humour, and stories from across her incredible career.
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What’s it really like to make games solo? In this episode of the Ready Aim Fire Podcast, Kezia & Tom chat with Ryan Laley, teacher, YouTube content creator and indie dev behind Mimic, a multiplayer survival horror game built for players and streamers.
Ryan reveals how he went from teaching game design (including a member of the Sidemen) to building a thriving YouTube community and now running his one-man studio. We talk about the highs and lows of solo development, coding, art, marketing, late night testing and the surprising ways he keeps the momentum going.
You’ll hear:
How a hobby project became a full time careerWhy teaching (and even architecture) shaped his processLetting fans watch and influence development liveBuilding a community on YouTubeBehind the scenes stories from conventions, Sidemen and Mimic
“I think the number one thing is having an idea that you are interested in first and foremost. Because games take a long time to make and you want to make something that you are interested in. If you don’t have interest in it, then it won’t matter” — Ryan Laley
If you’re curious about indie games, YouTube dev culture, or the future of survival horror, this episode is packed with insights, laughs and inspiration .
🧭 Timestamps:00:00 - Games: Art, Story, & Interaction
06:21 - Balancing Freedom and Responsibility
12:05 - Student Foley Project Success
18:18 - Teaching's Impact: Learning and Explaining
25:25 - Engaging Players in Indie Games
27:23- Game Launch with Diverse Maps
33:11 - Creating a Tactile Game for Son
39:45 - Blueprints: Intense Puzzle Gaming
43:27 - Role of a Game Publisher
51:05 - Passion Essential in Game Development
55:03 - Wholesome Feedback at Game Exhibitions
59:28 - Leveraging Audience to Fund Indie Game
👤 Guest Info:Ryan Laley - Is a notable figure in the game development community, known for his expertise in Unreal Engine. He shares comprehensive tutorials and educational content on YouTube & Twitch, helping thousands of aspiring devel...
What really happens when the person behind your favourite gaming hero finally steps into the booth knowing their voice could change a world, or let down a legion of players?
In this episode of ReadyAimFire, actor and comedian Inel Tomlinson brings us into the volatile, high stakes craft of bringing video game characters to life. From embodying the fearless Quartus in Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 to revealing what it’s really like to join an established franchise as the cool-headed Keelan in The First Descendant, Inel pulls back the curtain with warmth and surprising honesty.
In this episode you’ll hear:
The untold emotional reality of voice acting how actors navigate secrecy, fan expectations, and the fierce vulnerability of creating a character nobody’s met yet.The unsung art of voice direction in games, where scenes are recorded out of order and directors become your “gods” often saving actors’ voices in the process.Find out what it’s like to balance the unpredictable life of a jobbing actor, from surreal filming days with set dogs and Resident Evil mansions, to grappling with the looming threat of AI in creative industries.
“It’s a really tough job… you’re having to use your imagination to put yourself there, and it’s up to the voice director to transport you.” — Inel Tomlinson
Step into the fire with us this conversation might just change how you think about the stories, voices, and people who shape the games you love. Press play and join the journey.
🧭 Timestamps:00:00 - Voiceover Studio for Game Development
05:54 - Blueprints: A Unique Mystery Experience
08:27 - Unveiling Game Characters Post-Audition
10:04 - Voice Director Guides Actor's Performance
13:21 - Joining an Established Franchise Challenges
16:52 - Behind-the-Scenes in Gaming
19:41 - Wii Motion Control Memories
23:14 - Diverse Voices Enrich Gaming
26:42 - Balancing Fun and Future Uncertainty
30:23 - Real Life Resident Evil Filming
35:06 - Challenges of Solo Game Development
38:31 - AI Job Market...
After a childhood spent backstage at the opera, what’s it like to find yourself voicing one of gaming’s most unforgettable heroines?
This episode, ReadyAimFire welcomes Charlotte McBurney, the BAFTA-nominated actor behind Amicia de Rune in A Plague Tale: Innocence and A Plague Tale: Requiem, and young Jill in Final Fantasy XVI. From a whirlwind of a creative upbringing to stepping into roles that challenge heart and soul, Charlotte takes us through her journey so far, with some hilarious anecdotes and revealing insights.
You’ll hear:
How Charlotte grew up backstage at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and once ‘kidnapped’ a lollipop lady off the street to perform her own version of The NutcrackerHow the Requiem script was written with Charlotte in mind, after the devs saw what she could do in the first gameWhat Charlotte really thinks about Amicia’s signature slingshot killsWhy she believes actors who truly love games change the medium from within.
“I feel very, very deeply connected to Amicia. It's my first character that I ever got to play professionally. We sort of grew up together.” Charlotte McBurney
If you’re curious as to how a theatrical family pedigree, late-night dinner debates with Yo-Yo Ma, and sheer creative audacity combine to shape one of gaming’s most unforgettable heroines, this episode is for you.
🧭 Timestamps:00:00:00 – Introduction to acting: enchanted by the opera stage
00:05:05 – Theatre's timeless influence on gaming
00:06:36 – Voice acting: the craft of amplifying expressions
00:10:12 – Charlotte’s first experience: learning on the job
00:15:44 – The emotional toll of voice acting
00:17:09 – A script that brought her to tears: A Plague Tale’s incredible writing
00:21:56 – Surprising similarities: narrative and design in gaming and opera
00:25:44 – Discovering gaming through friendship
00:28:45 – Charlotte’s favourite game scene in A Plague Tale
00:32:30 – Recording Requiem, insights into the process
00:35:20 – Amicia de Rune’s journey ends...
What goes down when several creators of a cult classic finally step into the same room – over a decade on from shaping one of gaming’s most terrifying sci-fi experiences?
In this special episode of ReadyAimFire, we welcome Anthony Howell and Will Porter, two pivotal forces behind Alien: Isolation alongside our very own Kez, who provided the likeness and performance capture for Amanda Ripley. From the chaos of early table reads to alchemy inside the studio, together they reminisce over the creative process that redefined survival horror – and the Alien franchise itself.
You’ll hear:
The cast’s first rehearsal felt like “table read for a film”, a rarity in video games, with the entire script in hand before anything was shotWill Porter landed his writing gig after showing a game demo in a pub. He never planned to stay, but became “part of the furniture” for a year and a halfHow Samuel’s iconic “can we see it?” line became a personal favourite of the writing team, living rent-free in their vocabularyKez’s face was scanned for Amanda Ripley, before months later she had to return – just to have her ears scanned!Anthony Howell was gifted a handmade Samuels Christmas ornament by a fan, and proudly hangs it on his tree every year.
“The thrill of being part of that franchise was definitely there because it's iconic, it's a huge thing. It was more excitement than nerves.” – Anthony Howell
Whether you’re new to the original, or a superfan whetting your appetite for the upcoming Alien: Isolation 2 – this episode’s a timely trip down memory lane, and an insight into the creation of a gaming classic.
🧭 Timestamps:00:00:28 - Alien: Isolation “reunion” – meeting again after over 10 years
00:02:38 - Anthony Howell’s surprise: only his second game job
00:03:18 - How games were uncharted territory for many UK actors
00:05:41 - Project Zomboid’s unique vision and unexpected cult following
00:07:31 - Designing vulnerability: traits and accessibility in Zomboid
00:08:33 - Will Porter...
Ever wondered what goes on inside the studio for one the most acclaimed game series of all time?
In this episode of the ReadyAimFire Podcast, hosts Kez and Tom welcome an extraordinary panel featuring the performance directors, casting directors and localisation experts whose fingerprints are all over Final Fantasy XVI, Alan Wake II, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and many more beloved games: Hannah Price, Oli Chance, Morgan Rushton and Martin Vaughan.
Dive with us into translation trials, performance tribulations and endless T poses, as our guests reveal what really happens when scripts are top secret, the pressure is high, and the gaming magic that fans demand has to make it to the screen.
You’ll hear:
About dramatic graveside scenes with Ben Starr that had directors literally crying in the studio – and they almost didn’t shoot themHow Kez had to snog – with a mocap camera strapped to her face! (Imagine forgetting how to kiss, live on set!)The time Martin had to cast a character described as “Rebel Wilson, Kanye West, and Cristiano Ronaldo, all in one”How performance direction and localisation aren’t just technical roles, but creative, deeply personal crafts, turning even awkward technicalities (like the interruptions of endless T poses) into breakthrough moments.
“That's kind of the most magical thing somebody can do, is be in that room in that stupid suit and then give a heartbreaking performance” - Oli Chance
From unscripted laughter to bonding over onion rings, this is the emotion, the mess, and the beauty of storytelling in games. Settle back, press play, and enjoy!
🧭 Timestamps:00:01:07 – Introducing the performance team behind Final Fantasy XVI
00:03:12 – RADA, BAFTA, and “onion rings on a spike” - forging industry friendships
00:05:40 – From theatre to games: Hannah’s transition and juggling specificity
00:11:28 – Directing actors through grief – handling vulnerability with care
00:15:36 – The essential question that fosters safety in the booth
00...
How do you combine the technical disciplines of music, theatre and video games – to help create immersive experiences like Baldur’s Gate 3 that not only thrill, but truly move us?
In this episode of ReadyAimFire, join hosts Kezia Burrows and Tom Stacey as they sit down with Kirsty Gillmore: New Zealand-born sound engineer turned acclaimed voice and performance director for some of the industry’s most celebrated titles, including Call of Duty, Valorant and The First Descendant. Discover the winding creative path that led Kirsty from acting and post-production to shaping unforgettable characters and championing emotional safety on set.
You’ll hear:
Kirsty's personal tips for crafting great performances: from trusting her actors to the essential question that can transform a session The challenges of directing games over a process of sometimes years, from handling developer disagreements to last-minute character additionsKirsty’s journey from games industry newbie to BAFTA BreakthroughHonest reflections on creating safe spaces, advocating for representation, and knowing when to walk away from a project.
"I want my actors to feel safe physically and I want them to feel safe emotionally as well. Because…safe actors and happy actors will do better work. That’s just a thing, isn’t it?" - Kirsty Gillmore
Whether you’re a fan of Baldur’s Gate 3 – or a gamer, actor or director interested in the craft behind great games performances, this episode is as heartfelt and honest as it is insightful. Jump on in and press play.
🧭 Timestamps:00:00:41 – Kirsty’s leap from New Zealand to UK games
00:02:56 – Discovering game direction as a career path
00:04:36 – Kirsty’s advice: immerse yourself, learn from workshops
00:05:42 – How her sound background shapes directing style
00:08:56 – Creating safety for actors in mocap volumes
00:10:01 – Why asking “How are you?” transforms a session
00:14:14 – The unexpected impact of Baldur’s Gate 3 performances
00:16:37 – Relatability and div...
What’s it like to be taken on a hero’s journey – from relative unknowns to gaming royalty?
In this episode of the ReadyAimFire Podcast, we’re joined by Tom McKay and Luke Dale: the voices and faces behind Henry of Skalitz and Hans Capon in Kingdom Come: Deliverance and its highly anticipated sequel, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
Together with hosts Tom Stacey and Kezia Burrows, Tom and Luke peel back the curtain on what happens when a passionate studio, a committed fanbase and a host of talented creatives combine to create medieval gaming magic.
You’ll hear:
How Tom and Luke went from ‘mystery’ workshop auditions to embodying iconic roles, including the anxiety of “signing away your face”Stories behind the creation of memorable moments: from precision apple-shooting to not-so-precise hand cannonsThe camaraderie that comes from working almost a decade with a studio that treats everyone like familyThe craft behind KCD2’s evolutionary performance capture – and the comic relief of fighting epic battles with foam swords.
“I've never worked with people for this long… Prague and that studio and obviously this game and these characters genuinely have… a really special place in my heart. And that's not PR speak. That's the truth.” - Tom McKay
Whether you’re already a Kingdom Come: Deliverance fan or just curious about the creative chaos behind a blockbuster game, this episode dives deep into the process – with some good laughs along the way. Enjoy!
🧭 Timestamps:00:00:46 – How Tom and Luke landed their first game auditions
00:03:38 – Giving actors creative input on character development
00:07:38 – Being flown to Prague for a game audition
00:11:26 – Why Warhorse’s commitment stands out in the industry
00:18:24 – Favorite day working on Kingdom Come—emotional highs
00:22:55 – Navigating motion capture vs. solitary voiceover
00:27:13 – Upgrading to facial capture for the sequel
00:33:45 – Doing stunts and fight scenes—actors vs. stunt pros
00:34:44 – Who’s real? Playing his...
How did one of gaming’s iconic voices get – and nearly lose – his big break as Geralt of Rivia in the Witcher series?
In this episode, hosts Kezia Burrows and Tom Stacey are joined by none other than Doug Cockle. Doug takes us behind the scenes of his journey as the legendary Witcher, shares the inspiration behind Geralt’s voice, and reveals the biggest changes he’s witnessed in the games industry over the past two decades.
We also delve into Doug’s personal experiences at games conventions (alongside a fan tattoo story you won’t forget), his love of Dungeons & Dragons, and how a chance networking event landed him a role as the god Bhaal in Baldur’s Gate 3. Doug reflects on his time teaching acting, the philosophy behind bringing truth to a character, and even lets slip a few lines as Geralt - including a personal message for Tom. Plus, hear about Doug’s latest adventures with the Natural Six D&D livestream and which Witcher sign he’d pick in real life.
You’ll hear:
How persistence (and not taking rejection personally) kept Doug in the role of Geralt Doug’s humorous pitches for cameos in the Witcher Netflix series and Cyberpunk 2077 Doug’s latest project, Natural Six, a DND series featuring fellow games talent Ben Starr, Harry McEntire, Aoife Wilson, Hollie Bennett and Alex JordanCareer advice and inspiration for young actors and games professionals.
“You have to put a little piece of yourself into it because if you don't, how are you going to find the truth of the character?” – Doug Cockle
Whether you’re a Witcher superfan or just fascinated by the craft of voice acting, this episode is packed with insights and candid stories from one of gaming’s most beloved voices.
🧭 Timestamps:00:03:26 – Auditioning for Geralt: ”Make my day”
00:04:20 – Courage pays off: when CD Projekt Red tried to re-cast Geralt!
0:07:44 – The Witcher 4: what does Doug know?
00:08:13 – Where’s Doug? Cameos that never were #1: Netflix’s The Witcher
00:09:54 – Doug’s first part – and the ro...
How does someone go from directing Hollyoaks on TV – to directing a BAFTA award-winning games performance in Returnal?
In this episode of the ReadyAimFire Podcast, Damien Goodwin joins hosts Kezia Burrows and Tom Stacey to dive deep into the craft of performance direction in video games.
Damien shares how his journey unexpectedly shifted from actor and TV director to working on high profile video game titles like Dragon Age: Inquisition, Greedfall, Helldivers 2, and Returnal. The conversation spans chance industry encounters, the evolving nature of game performance, and the increasingly important role of collaborative, actor-centric direction in delivering nuanced, emotionally compelling game narratives.
You’ll hear:
How a chance encounter on a train got Damien his break in video gamesInsights on the collaboration between director, actor and development team in building a character What it was like directing Returnal, including the intense emotional weight handled by lead actor Jane PerryAdvice for aspiring games performance directors.
“No two games are the same in a lot of ways. Your process evolves according to the content that you’re working on.” – Damien Goodwin
Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt games performances or curious about breaking into game direction yourself, join us for this insightful episode.
🧭 Key Points & Timestamps:00:01:59 – From TV to gaming: Damien’s fortuitous path into the industry
00:05:13 – Directing performance–and the essentials of collaboration
00:08:01 – The shared language of actors
00:11:00 – Actors taking ownership–the created language in Greedfall
00:16:05 – Enhancing storytelling where player choice is crucial
00:18:27 – How seamless gameplay and cinematics affect performance
00:22:10 – Character development takes time: protecting the actor
00:27:07 – Researching for projects (when you’re not a great gamer!)
00:29:08 – Directing VR – surprising casting for PlayStation’s The London Heist
00:31:44 – Returnal: an intense journey...
How does a theatre-trained actor with Welsh roots become one of gaming’s most compelling voices?
In this episode of The ReadyAimFire Podcast, hosts Tom Stacey and Kezia Burrows welcome Michael Geary, voice of Warhammer 40,000’s iconic Space Marines and many more.
Michael takes us from stage to studio, sharing the art and chaos of recording powerful characters at home (with a makeshift duvet booth and occasionally anxious neighbours), the joy of playing everything from sentient mushrooms to mighty heroes, and why authenticity, inclusion and fun are central to a great performance.
You’ll hear:
What it’s really like to voice epic game roles – and why even orcs sometimes sound WelshThe technical and emotional craft behind world-class voice actingCandid reflections on building a creative life in games, and the importance of mentorship and playThe time Michael almost threw up in the booth – and it made the game!
"You can literally play any character… It’s a democratising process, being a voice actor." – Michael Geary
It’s not just about the games – it’s about the people who shape them. Join us for this warm, witty, and inspiring episode.
🧭 Key Points & Timestamps:00:02:23 – Stumbling into voiceover – advice that changed everything
00:03:04 – DIY home studio – and warning the neighbours
00:05:12 – Why voice acting is “democratizing” for performers
00:06:49 – The struggle and pride of voicing Welsh characters in games
00:09:42 – From theatre to games: Breaking down old stigmas
00:10:39 – How games lead inclusion in entertainment
00:12:01 – Teaching audio: letting actors “play” with their limits
00:13:55 – Looking after your voice: honest truths and practical tips
00:15:52 – How a theatre background shapes games performance
00:18:02 – Accidental practice: cold-reading from “sales” and shop signs
00:21:00 – LAN parties, Left 4 Dead, and gaming socials
00:28:43 – Finding characters – turning breakdowns into monologues
00:31:01 – The madness of Warhammer 40K, explained in...
What does it take to give a video game character a soul – and what happens when that performance touches hearts around the world?
In this premiere episode of ReadyAimFire, we sit down with Devora Wilde, the actor behind Lae’zel in the award-winning Baldur’s Gate 3, for an in-depth conversation into her craft and her most beloved character. From muddling through technical challenges to discovering her own voice, Devora opens up about the wild, unpredictable, and deeply human ride of bringing one of gaming’s most complex companions to life.
Discover how four and a half years behind the mic – and a self-tape filmed in a living room – led to one of gaming’s most polarising, unforgettable heroines.Hear the true impact of storytelling as Devora shares how fans’ lives have been changed, sometimes “more than years of therapy,” by the journey of her character.Get an unfiltered look at performance capture, improvisation, and collaborating through unexpected personal moments (including recording days before giving birth!).
"Sometimes I feel like I just went in and said the words… and then to have people so passionate about these characters—it’s kind of blown my mind." - Devora Wilde
Settle in and hit play. This is The ReadyAimFire Podcast, bringing you the stories behind your favourite games, from the people who make them.
🧭 Key Points & Timestamps:00:00:22 – Guest reactions: Not knowing about nudity filters
00:02:30 – Explaining Baldur’s Gate 3 in one sentence
00:03:32 – How Lae’zel is misunderstood – Devora’s emotional lens
00:04:57 – Polarised player reactions to Lae’zel
00:08:10 – Four and a half years of performance capture
00:11:20 – Surprise: Voice actors for talking cats
00:16:43 – Finding fulfilment in games vs. TV/film
00:17:22 – Gaming’s “golden age” and the power of writing
00:18:43 – Advice for actors breaking into games
00:21:24 – How romance scenes were actually performed
00:25:01 – Recording mocap for Baldur’s Gate 3 while pregnant
00:28:36 – Flexibility: Bala...
Fall in love with your favourite video games all over again.
In this very first episode of The ReadyAimFire Podcast, hosts Tom Stacey and Kezia Burrows introduce the show and share why they’re bringing the incredible people behind our favourite games — actors, directors, developers and creatives — into the spotlight.
🎙️ In this episode:
🔸 What The ReadyAimFire Podcast is all about
🔸 Why storytelling, performance, and creativity deserve more attention in gaming
🔸 Kez’s journey in Alien: Isolation — and why strong female leads matter
🔸 Tom’s adventures producing games content around the world
🔸 Dream guests (yes, Elijah Wood and Andy Serkis make the list)
🔸 Why the games industry, places like BAFTA Games and this podcast are about building community.
Whether you’re a die-hard gamer or just beginning your gaming journey, this podcast is for you: a place to learn, laugh, and meet the creatives shaping the stories you play.
🔗 Listen & Subscribe:
🎧 Spotify: https://readyaimfire.tv/spotify
🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://readyaimfire.tv/apple
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReadyAimFireStudio
🌍 Website & Email Sign-Up: https://readyaimfire.tv
📱 Follow ReadyAimFire:
Instagram: @readyaimfirestudio
TikTok: @readyaimfirestudio
Twitter/X: @rdymfr
LinkedIn: ReadyAimFire
Bluesky: readyaimfire.bsky.social
New episodes drop every other week.
Subscribe now and discover the stories behind games you love.
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Copyright 2026 ReadyAimFire
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