Newman is a 1974 graduate of the University of Georgia, and is member of the Delta Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. An alumnus of the Harvard Business School, Newman's first job in NYC was at Newsweek. After doing stand-up comedy, Newman soon capitalized on his unique vocalizations, writing the book MouthSounds (first published in 1980; recently updated with a DVD). As a regular on the radio variety show A Prairie Home Companion, his vocal sound effects and acting can be heard on all the away shows from the APHC home base in St. Paul. He has also worked heavily as a voice actor with numerous film, television, and video game credits including Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Doug (as Skeeter Valentine, Mr. Dink, and other characters), and Grand Theft Auto 2, Harry and the Hendersons, Gremlins,