Game-Changing Entrepreneur Lessons From Big-Budget Ads
Every voice actor dreams of landing a Super Bowl commercial—one of the most prestigious and high-profile gigs in the industry. With over 100 million viewers, these ads make a lasting impact. But even if you don’t land a Super Bowl spot this year, there’s a lot to learn from the brands that do.
The Super Bowl is the biggest advertising event of the year, where companies spend millions crafting unforgettable commercials. The strategy, creativity, and emotional connection in these ads hold golden nuggets of entrepreneurial wisdom that can help you grow your voice over business.
So what can we learn from Super Bowl commercials? Here are five big-game business lessons every voice actor can apply.
1. Storytelling Sells—In Voice Over and Beyond
We hear it all the time: “Voice actors are storytellers.” But what does that really mean? The best Super Bowl ads don’t just sell a product—they tell a compelling story. Think about the E*TRADE talking baby making a comeback in 2023. The ad continued a beloved storyline, and fans were thrilled to see where the character had been. That’s great branding—it taps into nostalgia, emotion, and consistency.
As a voice actor, your performance should do the same. Whether it’s a commercial, e-learning narration, or corporate video, your goal is to tell a story and make an emotional connection. Your brand—YOU as a talent—should also tell a story. From your website to your social media, make sure your audience knows who you are and what you bring to the table.
As entrepreneurs, we can’t afford to skip watching and studying these commercials for golden nuggets of entrepreneurial wisdom.
2. Emotion Creates Connection
Why do people cry over beer commercials? Because brands know that emotional storytelling sells. Every year, Budweiser’s Clydesdale horses and adorable puppies steal the show, tugging at our heartstrings. The audience may not remember the product name, but they’ll never forget the emotion.
Voice actors must tap into this same emotional connection. You’re not just reading a script—you’re bringing a story to life. Whether you’re delivering a heartfelt charity ad, a relatable commercial, or an upbeat explainer video, your tone, pacing, and energy should match the message.
Business-wise, emotion matters too. Clients want to work with people they connect with. So don’t just send emails—build real relationships. Pick up the phone, hop on a Zoom call, or meet in person at industry events. Clients remember the human behind the voice.
3. Humor Makes You Memorable
Funny sells. Some of the most iconic Super Bowl ads are the ones that make us laugh. Humor grabs attention, helps people remember the brand, and makes content more shareable. Brands like Doritos, M&M’s, and Uber Eats consistently use humor to stand out.
For voice actors, comedic timing is key. If a script has a humorous or quirky tone, lean into it! Even subtle vocal shifts, pauses, and delivery style can enhance the comedic effect.
Want to sharpen your comedic skills? Try:
Improv classes (great for spontaneity!)
Comedy workshops (helpful for commercial reads)
Voice Over workout groups (getting feedback helps!)
4. Take Smart Risks
Super Bowl commercials cost $7 million for a 30-second spot—a huge gamble! But for brands that believe in their product, it’s worth the risk. As a voice actor and entrepreneur, you have to take calculated risks too. Strategic risks can yield huge rewards. Just like top brands, bet on yourself and your business.
Whether it’s:
Raising your rates to reflect your experience
Investing in a new demo to attract better clients
Marketing yourself in a new genre to expand your career
If you want to stand out, you’ve got to take risks. Smart, strategic, and bold risks.
5. Always Leave Them Wanting More
The best Super Bowl ads create anticipation. Think about how some brands build ongoing storylines year after year (Avocados from Mexico, anyone?). Your goal? Keep clients coming back for more. Exceed expectations, be easy to work with, and deliver great performances every time. When clients know they can trust you, they’ll keep hiring you.
Pro tip: Ask yourself:
How can I make my client’s job easier?
Am I reliable and responsive?
Do I deliver high-quality work consistently?
If the answer is YES, clients will keep choosing YOU for the next gig.
Watch, Learn, and Level Up
If you haven’t already watched this year’s Super Bowl ads, do it now. Take notes on:
What emotions they tap into
What stories they tell
How the voiceover enhances the ad
Super Bowl ads aren’t just entertaining—they’re entrepreneurs' lessons in disguise. As a voice actor, you can use these big-game takeaways to elevate your craft, connect with clients, and build a memorable brand. The Super Bowl may come once a year, but your voice over game happens every single day. Take what you’ve learned, apply it to your craft, and always keep pushing forward.
Thanks for reading - Anne
Work with Anne
Anne Ganguzza is California-based Voice Actor, Voiceover Coach, and award-winning Director & Producer specializing in target-marketed Voiceover Demo Production.
