Karen Merritt

I am thankful to God for each opportunity that has come my way. I know that may not be the typical answer, but I am grateful for the gifts God has given me, for the training to develop those gifts, and for the opportunities to share those gifts with others. I have always loved theatre/storytelling, and it is a joy and privilege for me to pursue what I love. I have had so many different career opportunities, and they came at unexpected times in my life. Early on, I performed for children, then I went on to work in many styles of theatre, from comedy improvisation to Shakespeare. Sometimes I thought one aspect of my career was falling apart, but then a new opportunity would open up (like audiobook narration or patient simulation). Then, later in my career, I was able to revisit earlier loves. Right now, I'm working with children again, performing shows, teaching creative drama, and coaching students for Shakespeare performances. I anticipate returning to more stage acting and have some projects I'd like to get produced.

The best career advice I’ve ever received was to persevere—focus on the daily tasks, continually hone your skills, and be ready when the opportunities arise. Failure is part of the process to finding success. When auditioning, consider each audition as an opportunity to act. Enjoy it! Focus on the work, and not on getting the job. In the acting business, you don't have much control over getting cast. The statistics are very grim. You can have all the talent in the world and not get cast! I consider my opportunities divine appointments, and when I don't get cast, I consider that as a sign that it wasn't meant for me. Rejoice in others' successes!

I recommend creating your own content. That way, you can always have something that you are producing. The shift to audiobook narration for me began when I decided that I was going to build my own recording studio in my home. I now have much more freedom to pursue voiceover work, rather than waiting for opportunities to come to me. Also, the more you practice your art, the better you will get! Keep sharp!

For audiobook narration, there is an increasing AI threat. Virtual AI voices are getting better and better, enough so that, for certain narrations, people are willing to listen to an AI voice. However, I have to have hope that humanity is going to win out! Each person's voice is unique, like a fingerprint. Storytelling has changed over time, but when you bring it back to the basics, storytelling is a human being talking to a human audience.

Serving others is high on my list. I really want my life to have an impact as I seek to serve others. Aside from work, another main focus in my life is being the primary caregiver for my mom, who has Alzheimer's disease. On this caregiving journey and being a part of the "sandwich generation" (caring for an elderly parent while simultaneously raising children), I have learned a lot about patience, sacrifice, compassion, empathy, and the importance of getting help - for your elderly parent and for yourself. I am a Christian, and have found great peace and strength during the tough times, and my faith in Christ has grown as a result. I can see myself helping and encouraging other caregivers someday as they face various struggles.