Pamela Vanderway, founder of DialectCoaches.com, is a Linguistic Strategist specializing in voice and accent coaching. With expertise in phonology, cognitive science, sociolinguistics, and performance, she helps actors, voiceover artists, and corporate professionals develop accuracy and flexibility in their speech. Whether consulting with producers on accent strategy, coaching performers for authentic on-screen and stage communication, or refining corporate presentations, Pamela provides tailored guidance to enhance every voice.

The Vanderway Method, developed by Pamela Vanderway over the course of 25 years, is a clear, practical approach to learning a new accent with ease. Rather than feeling rigid or overly technical, this method gently guides you through five natural steps—helping you hear, feel, and speak in your new accent with confidence. Grounded in real-world experience and backed by linguistic science, it’s designed to be both effective and approachable. Whether you’re an actor preparing for a role or simply expanding your skills, The Vanderway Method makes the process intuitive, supportive, and—most importantly—achievable.

The Five Steps to Learning an Accent with The Vanderway Method

1. Accent Targeting

We start by identifying the specific accent that fits your needs. This includes not just the sounds but also the psychological and social aspects of adopting a new way of speaking. Establishing a clear target gives us a solid foundation to build on.

2. Accent Recognition

Next, we train your ear to pick up on the unique features of your target accent. Because our brains are wired to focus on meaning over sound, we use specific exercises to help you truly hear and process the accent’s distinct qualities—both through listening and visual observation.

3. Accent Mechanics

This step is all about increasing awareness and flexibility in the muscles that shape speech. You’ll get familiar with the exact tongue, lip, and vocal tract positions needed to produce the sounds of your new accent with ease.

4. Accent Flow

Once you’re comfortable with the individual sounds, we focus on blending them naturally into words and phrases. Speaking in a new accent isn’t just about isolated sounds—it’s about creating a smooth, natural rhythm that feels effortless in conversation.

5. Accent Integration

Through guided exercises, we help you connect meaning to the new sounds, so your brain starts recognizing the accent as a natural way of communicating. The goal is for your new accent to feel second nature—not something you have to monitor constantly. With consistent practice, it becomes a seamless part of your skillset.

To give you the best start Pamela recommends taking your first four sessions within 20 days. This schedule helps you build a strong foundation and develop independent learning skills between sessions. Some clients continue with this pace, while others may move to weekly sessions as they refine their accent. For fastest progress, some clients opt to meet several times per week.

Sessions are typically held over Zoom, making it easy to fit into your schedule and for you to record a video copy of the sessions for review. In-person sessions are available upon request, with an additional travel fee based on time and distance.

Typically sessions are 1 hour in length, but other options are available depending on the situation.

Once you request your lessons, you’ll receive an invoice through FreshBooks, which allows for easy credit card payments, including installment options.

If you need a different payment method, just let us know—we’re happy to work with you.

Please note that payment in full is due prior to scheduling classes.

Yes! Unless you have a significant hearing or motor impairment, you are fully capable of developing a new accent.

You’ve already mastered at least one accent— the one you are using right now! That one took about the first 5 years of your life to master, but with focused effort, learning a new accent as an adult happens much faster.

The key is consistent practice, not natural talent. No matter what you’ve heard before, your ability isn’t fixed. Progress is always possible.

Each session with Pamela Vanderway is designed to give you the most value possible, but daily practice between sessions is key. Watching your recorded Zoom sessions will also help reinforce what you’ve learned. While each person’s progress varies, expect a minimum of 10 to 12 sessions over the course of 8 to 10 weeks alongside daily practice to gain a good foundation in your chosen accent.