Natural speech sample for dialect reference and study
Howard Mohr
Speaker Type: Male
Origin: Des Moines, Iowa, USA (Lived in Minnesota for decades)
Occupation: Author
This video is timestamped with ad-free playback
Background & Context:
Howard Mohr was an author and humorist from Minnesota. His speech reflects Upper Midwestern English with clear Minnesota features.
Overall Speech Impression:
He spoke with a friendly, relaxed Minnesota cadence—rounded vowels, light nasal resonance, and warm, steady pacing.
Key Phonetic Features:
• Upper Midwest rounded vowels (GOAT → “goht”)
• Light nasal quality
• Clear T and D articulation
• Gentle melodic intonation
• Even, approachable pacing
How Actors Can Use This Example:
Ideal for portraying Minnesota or Upper Midwest characters, humorous Midwestern roles, or warm, community-oriented personalities.
