Behind the Mic: Jason Simpson on Acting, Anxiety, and Authenticity | Episode 247

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The courage to transform personal struggle into creative power takes center stage as voice actor Jason Simpson opens up about his 25-year journey in the entertainment industry. In this deeply authentic conversation, Simpson—whose voice has brought characters to life in Dragon Prince, My Little Pony, and Sausage Party—reveals the delicate balancing act between crippling self-doubt and artistic confidence.
Simpson pulls back the curtain on the business side of acting, sharing how his decades-long relationship with his agent has provided both career opportunities and protection from exploitative projects. "My agent has her finger on the pulse of what's happening throughout the city," he explains, highlighting the importance of professional partnerships built on mutual trust and respect.
What makes this episode particularly moving is Simpson's vulnerable discussion of anxiety. Rather than pretending it doesn't exist, he shares his approach to channeling nervous energy into performance fuel. "I've learned how to actually change that anxiety or rather fuel my confidence with it," he reveals, offering hope to anyone who battles similar feelings. The contrast between his on-camera anxiety ("I am aware that they see all of me and I don't like looking at all of me") and his voice acting confidence demonstrates how finding the right creative outlet can transform our relationship with ourselves.
Perhaps most compelling is Simpson's discussion of the freedom he finds in character work. For someone who struggles with body image in daily life, stepping into a character provides liberation: "I'm that character, this is what that character looks like. I am a-okay with that character being seen." This fascinating psychological shift offers a powerful reminder of how art allows us to transcend our limitations and insecurities.
During challenging times in the entertainment industry, Simpson's message of persistence resonates deeply: "Keep your nose pointed in the direction you want to go and just keep hustling." His reminder that rejection rarely reflects your talent provides essential perspective for anyone pursuing creative work. Through booms and busts, he remains grounded in what truly matters—family and authentic connections that sustain him through the unpredictable nature of his career.
Have you found ways to transform your anxieties into creative fuel? Listen to this episode and share your experiences with us. Subscribe to catch our full conversation with remarkable voices making a difference in the world.

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