At the age of 18, voice talent Sarah Natochenny got the role of a lifetime as Ash Ketchum in the Pokémon anime series. After 17 years, Natochenny will be bidding farewell to the beloved character, who’ll exit the series at the end of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series. The busy talent took some time to talk with us about what they’ve learned from being on the popular series and what’s next for them.

1) You've done the Pokemon series for over 15 years. What are some things you've learned during that timeframe?

Sarah Natochenny: I’ve learned that its possible to continue to find new aspects of a character over such a long period of time, and continue to keep it fresh and exciting for myself as an actor. I’ve learned from Ash, that it doesn’t matter how many times you lose, it’s how you play the game, it’s how you fight the battle and its all about the friends you make along the way, even if they’re your direct competition. It’s important to be kind and help people along in all our journeys.

2) After a long journey, Ash finally achieved their dream of being champion. What was it like finding out they were finally winning the big one?

Natochenny: I found out with the rest of the world, on social media! I saw videos of the episode being broadcast on screens in the streets of Shibuya in Tokyo! And usually, the English Pokémon account doesn’t announce anything that’s happened in the original (Japanese) show, but this time, they did, which was thrilling, because the whole world got to celebrate at the same time. I woke up to the news in a hotel room in Grand Rapids, Michigan, right before heading out to Grand Rapids Comic Con. I was ecstatic. After 25 years of hard work, our boy finally won!

3) Aside from Ash finally becoming champion, what are some of your favorite moments from the series?

Natochenny: I love the times I got to stretch within the character. Plot-wise, Ash and Serena on the escalator was pure bliss to watch. But I loved playing evil Ash in a Halloween episode, rapping alongside Goh, playing a British Ash, performing on stage with Pikachu in the first episode of Sun and Moon,

4) While working on Pokemon, you co-founded the charity Voices for Fosters. What's it like being able to help out animals in need?

Natochenny: Some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I helped save and nurture animals who otherwise may not have made it.

5) Over the years, you've done a slew of conventions. What have been some memorable moments doing cons?

Natochenny: Meeting the same fans over and over again is wonderful. I get to see them grow up and know that I had a small part in their joy.

6) Aside from continuing work with Voices for Fosters, what can fans expect from you in the future?

Natochenny: I’m making my own work in live action and animation and have been acting in other animated projects due out in the coming years! Follow me on social media @sarahnatochenny for updates and fun videos.

More information about Natochenny can be found on their website here. More information about the Pokémon anime series can be found here.