Ryan Neuschafer

Reliable, experienced, obsessed with things that sound good.

I started my career in Chicago as an assistant audio engineer. The very first studio I interned for saw sessions by major label hip-hop/gospel, as well as independent talent (vocalists, songwriters, beat makers, school groups, big bands). My role evolved, and I was able to support the main engineer by handling tech setup and patching. In between assisting situations, I'd be exposed to basic editing and PT session prep for real world use.

The next studio I worked at wasn't as pretentious, and I was able to assume the role of sole engineer and studio manager. I'd spend the next few years learning how to run a studio and be a professional. In addition to recording/mixing for clients, I would also be the person gathering info on everything from instrumentation and personnel, to lunch orders and coffee preferences. Session days were often just me and the band recording a handful of songs over a day or two. The studio's equipment was somewhat vintage, and while generally in good shape, if a piece of gear went down that was my responsibility to fix, or find a tech.

I started doing more freelance work. Then I got an opportunity to join the corporate world of audiobook production. I moved to Michigan, and spent years obsessing over the human voice.

I've worked with some amazing voice actors and dedicated directors to create all kinds of audiobooks. Over time, I was able to climb the corporate ladder a bit due to my reputation as a consistent, reliable, and trusted member of the studio team. Slowly, I transitioned away from normal audio tasks to more difficult problem solving (post-sale audio fixes when re-reads are not an option, etc) and something more resembling office cubicle life; excel, metrics, efficiency, reporting. I realized I was burned out and ready to make a change.

Currently, I reside in Saint Petersberg, Florida.