Human Voice and the Art of Spoken Storytelling

Drawing on more than two decades of experience as a performer and director, Toni explores how the human voice conveys emotion, connects people, and brings stories to life. His work focuses on turning words into memorable, emotionally resonant experiences through authentic vocal expression.

Since 2007, Toni has worked extensively across a wide range of audio productions: audio dramas, animations, live-action series, and commercials—both as a voice talent and a director. He has narrated more than three hundred audiobooks in Finnish, including works by authors such as Haruki Murakami, J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen King, Donna Tartt, Paul Auster, Hanya Yanagihara, Nathan Hill, Kalle Päätalo, and Miki Liukkonen. In children’s literature, he has narrated Jeff Kinney’s A Diary for a Wimpy Kid and Max Brallier’s The Last Kids on Earth series.

Verbal communication is unique to humans, and storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to share ideas. Stories help us make sense of the world, communicate our perspective, and make information memorable. They connect us emotionally, allowing a deeper understanding of other people’s experiences. Scientific studies even show that stories can synchronize listeners’ brainwaves.

The authentic human voice is a remarkable blend of emotion, communication, and connection. Our voice gives words depth and expresses even the most abstract thoughts and emotions. In spoken storytelling, the voice is not just a tool—it is a bridge to the heart, turning a string of words into an emotional journey. Every voice is unique, like a fingerprint. As actor Daniel Day-Lewis says: “Voice is a fingerprint of the soul.”

A narrator or speaker must understand and feel the story being told. This principle applies to public speaking and all forms of spoken storytelling. When the storyteller truly connects with the material—its style, rhythm, tone, genre, and atmosphere—and can communicate it effectively, the story becomes authentic and relatable. Strip away the emotion or overdo it, and the story may feel shallow, cold, or overwhelming. The audience connects with the story when it is shared from your own genuine and authentic perspective.

If you are looking for a narrator or voice talent, or coaching in the craft of spoken storytelling, get in touch!

For commercial voice-over projects and reference inquiries, contact Toni directly or book via Dictum or Vild.