1:1 session

Karen Michel: Private Session (60 mins)

AIR Members must log in to access discounted rate. 

Session Details

  • 60 minute mentorship session via Zoom or by phone
  • Karen’s schedule is flexible but needs 24 hours notice.
Having been shaped by guest starring on "Kids Say the Darndest Things" as a child, Karen possesses a deep connection to the craft of journalism. She is a good mentor for those who have some experience but are also willing to take risks and try new techniques in their stories. With her strong skill set around hosting and voice-over work, writing for the ear, audio documentaries, and features, connect with Karen if you’re looking for direct feedback and support in taking your work to the next step.

About Karen Michel

Karen Michel (she/her) started at the local public radio station in Fairbanks, Alaska, and later moved to New York, giving her keen knowledge and insight into the industry from vastly different vantage points. Along what's become a journey, Michel has produced hundreds of audio documentaries and features, most of them aired on National Public Radio in the US; won an encouraging number of awards and fellowships; and was the first audio artist to fill the Lehman Brady Joint Chair Professor of Documentary and American Studies at Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies. Michel’s stories air regularly on radio, on websites, even in film festivals, most recently the Toronto Jewish Film Festival. In addition, she has produced and hosted podcasts, is a voice coach and script doctor, and multimedia performance artist. Her photography has been exhibited in museums and other venues nationally and internationally.
Patrick Jones - Course author
There is something really beautiful about speaking directly into someone's ear, and Karen taught me how to do that. She's a skilled, experienced, and creative specialist in her field, and it was the opportunity of a lifetime to learn a skill I never thought I could learn from one of the industry's best teachers.
Karna Lozoya, VP for University Communications, The Catholic University of America and Host of the podcast "Crisis"
Karen Michel is a smart, savvy reporter and producer who can actually talk about how to do what she does so well to folks eager to level up their skills, whether reporting, producing, writing or voicing audio pieces. She has traveled the country (virtually and IRL!) encouraging reporters to use their minds, hearts and senses to tell stories.
Catherine Stifter, former producer and trainer for NPR's Diversity Initiative and On-Site Training Programs
Karen Michel tossed me upside down and shook out the dense, and long, very long sentences I’d always written for print. She challenged me to find the poetry in my voice, the song, the dignity. So grateful! 
Jessica Brockington, Journalist
Karen was most patient in coaching me on breathing and relaxation techniques. Even when I faltered and stumbled, she was still there with me. Can't ask for a better coach!
V. Law, Reporter, Al Jazeera English
It was great working with Karen! In addition to all of the exercises and tips to get my voice in tip top shape, she also helped me define my voice and where I could emphasize my personality. Thanks Karen!
Puno, Host of the podcast “Girlboss Radio”
Karen Michel is the voice coach you've always wanted. As a side dish, she delivers her advice with a healthy dollop of sly humor.
Deborah George, Editor, Radio Diaries