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Brand the Interpreter

Language Learning Podcasts

What if La Malinche—the Indigenous woman who famously served as interpreter and advisor to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico—could share her stories? Imagine the insights and experiences she could offer about the power of language and navigating the complexities of two worlds. That’s the spirit behind the Brand the Interpreter Podcast! Hosted by Mireya Pérez, an interpreter and personal brand advocate, this podcast gives today’s interpreters a platform to share their own fascinating stories, challenges, and triumphs. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the world of interpreting, from navigating high-stakes conversations to facilitating cross-cultural understanding, offering listeners a glimpse into the lives of the professionals who bring meaning across languages. Whether you’re an interpreter, a bilingual professional, or simply curious about the magic that happens behind the scenes, Brand the Interpreter immerses you in the stories of language professionals making an impact every day. It’s more than just a podcast—it’s a celebration of language, connection, and the vital human element that makes communication possible. Join us to explore how the power of language, driven by human connection, shapes understanding, opens new worlds, and transforms perspectives, revealing the deeper truths that unite us all.

Location:

Temecula, CA

Description:

What if La Malinche—the Indigenous woman who famously served as interpreter and advisor to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico—could share her stories? Imagine the insights and experiences she could offer about the power of language and navigating the complexities of two worlds. That’s the spirit behind the Brand the Interpreter Podcast! Hosted by Mireya Pérez, an interpreter and personal brand advocate, this podcast gives today’s interpreters a platform to share their own fascinating stories, challenges, and triumphs. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the world of interpreting, from navigating high-stakes conversations to facilitating cross-cultural understanding, offering listeners a glimpse into the lives of the professionals who bring meaning across languages. Whether you’re an interpreter, a bilingual professional, or simply curious about the magic that happens behind the scenes, Brand the Interpreter immerses you in the stories of language professionals making an impact every day. It’s more than just a podcast—it’s a celebration of language, connection, and the vital human element that makes communication possible. Join us to explore how the power of language, driven by human connection, shapes understanding, opens new worlds, and transforms perspectives, revealing the deeper truths that unite us all.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Pressure, Presence, Meaning with Alain Breton

12/19/2025
A trilingual childhood, a summer camp “gig” for a few bucks, and then a single moment that changed everything: the mic flipped on, and Alain Breton realized interpreting had a name and a future. I sit down with Alain to unpack how a life steeped in French, Spanish, and English turned into a craft built on meaning, nerve, and an appetite for challenge. The heart of our conversation is depth. Not age. Depth. Alain makes the case that great interpreters aren’t just fluent; they’re world-literate. Travel, odd jobs, and real-world stumbles add weight to your mental toolbox so you can keep sense intact when speakers sprint, pivot, or argue in real time. That’s why he loves parliamentary debates: no slides, no prep, just rapid exchanges where meaning is your only compass. We also get into flow state—how interest plus difficulty locks attention and lifts performance—and why following your curiosity matters as much as mastering terminology. We don’t shy away from the hard rooms. Alain shares the emotional cost of interpreting top-secret briefings about child exploitation and how visualization, so helpful in clear storytelling, can also intensify trauma. He walks us through practical ways to reset: mental anchors in the moment, then intentional decompression afterward. Pro wrestling is his palate cleanser, a reminder that it’s okay to choose something playful and harmless to break the loop. You’ll leave with three habits to level up: record yourself and review five minutes at a time, study seasoned interpreters to see how they keep coherence under stress, and build a richer life so your understanding runs deeper than any glossary. We also spotlight Found in Interpretation, Alain’s podcast co-hosted with Brian Bickford, which brings voices from parliaments to refugee camps and expands how we think about this profession. If this conversation sparked ideas or confidence in your own path, tap follow, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more language professionals find us and grow their craft. ----------------------------------------- Check out their podcast! Found in Interpretation Share your thoughts about this episode! Support the show Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:05:06

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Evolving the Craft with Vladimir Kits

12/5/2025
Ever wonder how a childhood love of RPGs could shape a world-class interpreting mindset? We sit down with conference interpreter Vladimir Kits to unpack a journey powered by curiosity, deliberate practice, and the habit of stepping inside someone else’s perspective. From snow-locked northern towns to global booths, Vladimir shows how nontraditional paths-video games, research gigs, and contest losses-can forge sharp instincts and a calm, strategic approach under pressure. We get practical fast. Vladimir explains why strong preparation begins with strategy, not just terminology: know who the speaker is, what they want, and where they sit in the wider landscape. He shares the system that helped him climb-weekly practice groups, feedback that’s specific and actionable, and an intentionally “unreasonable” experiment: interpreting a single TED Talk 100 times to train compression, cadence, and linguistic flexibility. We explore the martial arts metaphor for interpreting, collecting techniques to counter different “attacks”-and why the craft rewards curiosity disciplined by method. We also take a grounded look at AI. Vladimir breaks the pipeline into three stages: speech recognition, translation, and synthesis and argues that today’s strengths and weaknesses are uneven. Synthesis shines; recognition and context-aware translation still wobble, especially in noisy, overlapping, real-time settings. The takeaway isn’t fear; it’s clarity: use technology to prep better and move faster, but don’t outsource judgment. If he were starting again, he’d choose a strong interpreting school for technique and network; lacking that, he built community by posting daily on LinkedIn for a year, learning to ship work, find patterns, and separate signal from metrics. If evolving with the work resonates, press play. Then share your best prep habit or the most useful feedback you’ve ever received. Subscribe, leave a review, and pass this along to a colleague who could use a nudge toward deliberate practice. Connect with Vladimir Kits: LinkedIn Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:22:17

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Is Language Access at Risk? Bruce Adelson Weighs In

6/13/2025
The stroke of a pen in Washington D.C. sent ripples through the language access community earlier this year. When Executive Order 13166 was rescinded after nearly a quarter century, many interpreters and language professionals feared the worst. What would happen to language access rights? Would limited English proficient communities lose vital protections? In this illuminating conversation, former Department of Justice Senior Trial Attorney Bruce Adelson cuts through the confusion with clarity and perspective that only someone with his background can provide. "The language access as a civil right has really not changed," he explains, drawing an important distinction between executive orders (which direct federal agencies) and the underlying legal foundations that remain firmly in place through Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Supreme Court precedent. While Executive Order 14224 declares English the "official language" of the United States, Adelson helps us understand why this has no legal force while acknowledging legitimate concerns about how such declarations might empower discrimination. Rather than panicking, he encourages language professionals to recognize this as "a bump in the road" and redirect advocacy efforts toward states and local communities where meaningful change remains achievable. Perhaps most compelling is Adelson's optimism about opportunities for innovation. Just as COVID transformed remote interpreting, this moment of uncertainty could drive new approaches to language access - with interpreters perfectly positioned to lead that evolution. "Who would know the communities that we serve better than those of us that are serving the community?" host Mireya Pérez observes. Whether you're an interpreter concerned about your profession's future, an administrator trying to understand compliance obligations, or an advocate for language access rights, this episode offers the expert insights and practical guidance needed to navigate this changing landscape with confidence. So tune in. Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession: Brand the Interpreter! Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:53:50

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Listen Silently: The Inner World of an Interpreter with Ryohei Onishi

3/28/2025
What does it truly mean to be an interpreter in the deepest sense? Is it merely transferring words between languages, or something far more profound? Ryohei Onishi, returning guest and two-time TEDx speaker from Japan, takes us on a transformative journey through the evolution of his understanding of interpretation. Five years after his first talk on "de-verbalization," Ryohei's perspective has deepened into something more spiritual – what it means to truly become "the voice of others." The catalyst for this shift came from three simple words spoken by a client: "Be my voice." This command fundamentally changed how Ryohei approached his craft, moving beyond technical skill to a deeper embodiment of the speaker's intentions, emotions, and essence. He shares the mysterious "sync" moments that occur between interpreters and speakers, when the boundaries between them seem to dissolve. The conversation explores the profound silence required for genuine listening, with Ryohei noting poetically that "listen" contains the same letters as "silent." This active silence allows interpreters to fully receive another's message by quieting their own internal dialogue. We hear about the emotional weight of interpreting difficult content, like discussions of war, and the intentional "unplugging" required afterward. Perhaps most fascinating is Ryohei's perspective on interpreting in the AI age. He observes that we've moved from a world with two options (interpretation available or not) to one where some form of translation is always available – the question now is whether to choose machine or human interpretation. Rather than competing with AI on speed, Ryohei chooses to emphasize his humanity: "I'm the pilot, not the passenger." For anyone curious about what lies beyond words, beyond terminology, and beyond the technical aspects of communication, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the soul of interpretation. Join us to discover why, in Ryohei's words, "interpreting is not just the art of language, it's also the art of life." Connect with Ryohei Onishi: LinkedIn Deverbalization - 1st TEDx talk Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:56:10

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Vision, Language, and Inspiration: Ahmad Jaafeel's Story

2/28/2025
Discover the remarkable journey of Ahmad Jaafeel, who transformed his life after facing serious challenges, including significant vision loss. In this inspiring episode of Brand the Interpreter, we celebrate five years of storytelling, exploring how Ahmad's passion for language and determination to advocate for himself fueled his success in the interpreting profession. From an early age, Ahmad showed a deep interest in English, partly due to the influence of American television and video games. This unique pathway opened doors to understanding languages and connecting with people. However, his teenage years took a dramatic turn when unforeseen health issues began to impact his vision. Ahmed candidly shares his experiences navigating this life-altering reality, including the emotional toll it took and the determination it ignited within him. Moreover, Ahmad's role as an interpreter for his parents during crucial medical visits not only enhanced his language skills but also broadened his perspective on the importance of communication. This episode highlights how Ahmed's early adversities taught him invaluable life lessons about resilience, inspiration, and the power of believing in oneself. Join us as we unpack his journey, perils, aspirations, and how each challenge inspired Ahmad to rise above expectations—both his own and those of others around him. As he embarks on his new role in the interpreting field, he provides insight and hope to listeners, helping them understand the importance of self-advocacy in overcoming personal and professional barriers. This episode serves as a powerful reminder: no matter the obstacles in your path, there’s a light waiting to shine through when you believe in yourself. Engage with us and share your own stories of resilience. Subscribe, leave a review, and join the journey as we continue to explore the heart of interpreting through impactful conversations. Only on the show that shares your stories about our profession: Brand the Interpreter! #BTI5years Connect with Ahmad: ahmad.jaafil@aplustranslationsllc.com Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:01:14

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The Reflection Room: More Than Just a Hustle with Corinne McKay

1/24/2025
In today's Reflection Room, we revisit Episode #111: The Business Mindset: More than Just a Hustle and recap on some great strategies Corrine shared with us. Such as: Freelancing is a journey requiring resilience, effective marketing, and continuous growth. • Resilience is crucial for freelance success • Proactive self-marketing is essential for attracting clients • Targeting specific niches can lead to steady work • Crafting concise, client-focused communication is vital • Joining professional associations provides support and mentorship • Strategic volunteering enhances reputation and showcases skills • Personal branding is necessary in a digital world • Setting boundaries and managing expectations prevents burnout • Time management and organization significantly improve productivity • Building a supportive freelance community is imperative Tune in for an insightful recap and then dive into the full episode for the complete story! - Episode #111: The Business Mindset: More than Just a Hustle Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession; Brand the Interpreter! Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques. Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:13:54

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The Reflection Room: Interpreting Live Television with Denise Bobadilha

1/10/2025
Welcome Back to the Reflection Room! This bite-sized episode offers a quick and engaging glimpse into the key highlights, thought-provoking moments, and valuable takeaways from Episode #108: The Emotional Toll and Triumphs of Live Interpreting with Denise Bobadilha. Designed for listeners on the go, The Reflection Room condenses the conversation into a brief, impactful reflection, perfect for sparking curiosity or revisiting the main ideas. Tune in for an insightful recap and then dive into the full episode for the complete story! Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques. Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:13:54

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Season 7 Finale with Host Mireya Pérez

12/30/2024
As we close out Season 7 of Brand the Interpreter, I take a moment to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of 2024. In this heartfelt finale, I share personal stories, the moments that reminded me why this podcast matters and my gratitude to all of you - listeners, guests, and supporters - who've made this journey possible. I'll also take a look back at some of the highlights from this season, revisiting memorable moments and impactful conversations that have shaped this year. Plus, hear what's next, including upcoming Reflection Room episodes to keep the conversation going while I prepare for an exciting Season 8. Thank you for showing up and being part of this incredible Brand the Interpreter Community! Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:27:03

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The Reflection Room: Transforming Schools for Multilingual Success

12/27/2024
Welcome Back to the Reflection Room! This bite-sized episode offers a quick and engaging glimpse into the key highlights, thought-provoking moments, and valuable takeaways from Transforming Schools for Multilingual Success with Mark Byrne. Designed for listeners on the go, The Reflection Room condenses the conversation into a brief, impactful reflection, perfect for sparking curiosity or revisiting the main ideas. Tune in for an insightful recap and then dive into the full episode for the complete story! Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, some of the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques. Relevant Resources: Illinois State Board of Education: Special Education Qualified IEP Interpreters Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:17:58

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Transforming Schools for Multilingual Success with Mark Byrne

12/20/2024
Unlock the secrets of effective language access in education with our guest, Mark Byrne, a dedicated language access consultant. From a life-changing experience in Peru to a flourishing career in language access advocacy, Mark's journey is both inspiring and informative. In this episode, he shares personal stories and professional insights about building inclusive environments for multilingual students and families at the K-12 level. Discover how strategic language access planning not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances academic outcomes and community engagement. Navigate the complexities of language access legislation as we explore pioneering efforts by states like Illinois, Colorado, and New Jersey. Mark provides a comprehensive analysis of how legislation shapes language services and the crucial role of unified departmental efforts in schools. We delve into the intricacies of balancing compliance with impactful service delivery, emphasizing the academic and community benefits of investing in robust language access plans. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for educators, administrators, and policy advocates aiming to make a tangible difference in multilingual education. Mark highlights the importance of professional development in leveraging these services for maximum impact. As we anticipate future developments, including potential federal guidelines, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical advice. Join us for an enlightening discussion that underscores the importance of language access in shaping the educational landscape and empowering diverse communities. Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:58:41

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The Reflection Room: A Journey of War, Love, and Entrepreneurship

12/16/2024
Welcome to the Reflection Room! In this inaugural episode, we’re diving deeper into the themes and moments from A Journey of War, Love, and Entrepreneurship. Join our two fictional hosts as they explore the challenges, emotions, and key takeaways that stood out most from the previous episode! Think of it as an intimate post-show conversation, where we reflect on the experiences shared and discuss how they resonate in the world of interpreting. Whether it’s unpacking ethical dilemmas, emotional moments, or the nuances of navigating complex encounters, there’s something here for every interpreter to connect with. This is your chance to revisit the main episode through fresh perspectives—so settle in and enjoy your time in Brand the Interpreter's Reflection Room. Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, some of the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques. Remember that you can also connect with me via the link below! Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:21:43

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A Journey of War, Love and Entrepreneurship with Ana and Jordi Vidales

11/29/2024
What happens when love and resilience intersect in the midst of chaos? Ana and Jordi Vidales found themselves in the heart of civil war in El Salvador, their lives forever changed yet intertwined by fate. As high school sweethearts torn apart by conflict, their journey eventually led them to Chicago, where they rekindled their connection and built both a family and a business. Their story is one of overcoming adversity and finding strength in each other, a testament to the enduring power of hope and community. Ana and Jordi's foray into the world of language services began serendipitously but quickly evolved into a shared mission for language justice. They took their diverse experiences from El Salvador and the United States and transformed them into a thriving interpretation and translation business. With Ana's cautious planning and Jordi's adventurous spirit, they navigated the complexities of freelancing and established JAV Language Solutions. Their commitment to inclusivity and community engagement shines through their work, making a tangible impact in the communities they serve. In this conversation, Ana and Jordi also shed light on the delicate balance of being both business partners and life partners. They open up about the strategies that keep their professional lives distinct from their personal ones, ensuring both flourish. From addressing everyday challenges to celebrating successes, their journey emphasizes the importance of clear communication and mutual respect. Join us as we explore the Vidales' inspiring narrative, one that champions the cause of language justice and offers invaluable insights into building a successful partnership grounded in love and purpose. Connect with Ana & Jordi: Website Submit your story for Echoes of an Interpreter coming in 2025! 👉 Echoes of an Interpreter Story submission Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:06:01

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AI Meets Language Services: Opportunities and Dilemmas with Holly Silvestri

10/25/2024
Unlock the secrets of integrating AI in language services with our latest episode featuring Dr. Holly Silvestri from the Safe AI Task Force. Gain insights into the innovative applications of AI in translating and interpreting, particularly in community settings. You'll discover how AI is transforming industry standards and explore the ethical and security considerations of using AI when handling sensitive materials. Dr. Silvestri shares her expertise on harnessing AI effectively, helping language professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. Our conversation takes you through the journey of AI's evolution, from early neural networks to today's sophisticated large language models like ChatGPT, and their impact on public perception. We tackle the challenges AI poses, including its role in lesser-diffused languages and the broader implications for language access. Learn about the formation of the Safe AI Task Force, which aims to implement best practices and guidelines that prioritize fairness and ethics in the language industry. Join us as we explore the future of AI in language services, the emergence of new roles, and the importance of staying informed and adaptable. We address the misconceptions about the cost-saving nature of large language models and highlight the environmental and resource considerations. This episode also offers opportunities for involvement, inviting you to contribute to the pioneering efforts of Safe AI. Don't miss this insightful conversation that promises to equip you with the knowledge needed for informed decision-making in an AI-augmented world. SAFEAI Taskforce: safeaitf.org CSA Research - View Guidance Focument:Guidance - SAFE AI Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:19:05

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Enhancing Language Access in U.S. Schools with Judy Cortés

9/13/2024
Sponsored Episode Ever wondered how a young girl from Uruguay could rise to become a leading figure in the U.S. interpreting and education world? Join us as Judy Cortés opens up about her captivating journey from her early days in Paysandú and Montevideo to the unexpected cultural shocks of Los Angeles. Judy recalls her family's vibrant international restaurant, her strict yet enriching education, and the linguistic skills she honed along the way—all of which set the stage for her remarkable career. Discover the twists and turns of Judy's professional path, from working at the Defense Language Institute to teaching at the Modern Institute of Foreign Studies. Balancing her ambitions with family commitments, Judy transitioned into public school bilingual education, all while maintaining her credentials as a summer court interpreter. Her story is one of versatility and resilience, navigating diverse roles and making impactful contributions in each. Judy also sheds light on the pressing need for interpreting services in schools, detailing her efforts to enhance language access for families. Listen as she discusses the development of bilingual assessments, her comprehensive guidebook for educational interpreters, and the crucial distinction between translation and interpretation. Plus, don’t miss out on Judy's insights from her book "Introduction to Educational Interpreting and Translation" and a special promo code for our listeners. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone passionate about languages, education, or both. 🤓 Get the guidebook today! www.cultureandlanguage.net/products/ieit Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:49:15

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The Business Mindset: More Than Just a Hustle with Corinne McKay

8/30/2024
Unlock the secrets of a rewarding career in translation and interpreting with our special guest, Corinne McKay. From her fascinating childhood across Southern California, New York, and New Jersey to her family's incredible feat of fostering over 110 animals since COVID, Corinne's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Discover how her childhood dream of being a poet evolved into a thriving career in translation and interpreting, complete with a humorous high school memory of translating French poetry. Follow Corinne's unconventional path from teaching high school to becoming a full-time translator and later a court interpreter. Despite initial discouragement, she found her calling in the translation industry after a transformative year in France and a backpacking adventure across Asia. Learn about her pivotal decisions, like joining the Colorado Translators Association and the American Translators Association, and the life-changing advice and support that set her on the path to a successful freelance career. Tune in for an episode brimming with wisdom on how to stand out in the translation and interpreting world. Corinne delves into the necessity of strong business skills, effective marketing strategies, and the invaluable role of strategic volunteering. Whether you're looking to specialize, build credibility, or simply get inspired by a seasoned professional’s journey, this conversation promises to leave you with a treasure trove of ideas and encouragement to take your career to the next level. Connect with Corinne! Linked Training for Translators Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:11:15

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From Reluctant Student to Accomplished Interpreter with Maru Lozano

7/26/2024
What happens when a childhood spent resisting a second language transforms into a compelling career? Maru Lozano, our guest for this episode, shares her fascinating journey from her upbringing in Puerto Rico to becoming a professional translator, interpreter, and coach. Raised by a US-born father and an influential grandmother who taught English, Maru’s early aversion to learning English took an unexpected turn, molding her into an accomplished interpreter. This episode highlights the twists and turns of career paths, demonstrating how seizing unforeseen opportunities can lead to rich and rewarding professional lives. As we delve deeper into Maru’s story, we uncover the intricate differences between translation and interpreting through her experiences. From the nerve-wracking moment of her first interpreting assignment to her structured education at Nestor Wagner's School of Interpreting, Maru talks candidly about the mental rigor and practical experiences that shaped her abilities. This segment is a testament to the importance of thorough training, practical exposure, and the role of mentorship in overcoming the initial hurdles and growing into a competent interpreter, particularly in community and medical settings. Finally, we shed light on the challenges interpreters face within medical and educational environments, and the necessity for specialized training and support systems. Maru discusses the balancing act of freelance work, the financial intricacies of being a solopreneur, and the indispensable value of mentorship and networking. Her advice for aspiring interpreters includes fostering industry-wide awareness about professional standards and actively seeking shadowing opportunities to gain real-world insights. Join us for an enlightening conversation that celebrates the noble yet demanding profession of interpreting, offering practical guidance for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners. Connect with Maru LinkedIn Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:55:07

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A Caribbean Interpreter's Tale: Language, Career, and Resilience with Gennike Mayers

7/12/2024
Can you imagine uprooting your life in pursuit of language and culture, only to find yourself aiding in disaster-stricken Haiti? In this riveting episode of Brand the Interpreter, we sit down with Gennike Mayers, a multilingual language professional whose journey spans from the sugarcane fields of Trinidad to the serene shores of Tobago. Gennike's linguistic prowess in English, French, Spanish, and Haitian Creole has not only fueled her career as an interpreter but also as an author, speaker, and CEO. Listen as she recounts her formative years in Trinidad and her deployment during the catastrophic 2010 earthquake in Haiti, sharing how these experiences have shaped her professional and personal life. Follow Gennike's academic and professional trajectory, ignited by a childhood fascination with her aunt's jet-setting life as a flight attendant. From her studies at the University of the West Indies to an unexpected opportunity in Martinique, Gennike's story is a testament to the unpredictable nature of following one's passion. Discover how her language skills have opened doors to various career paths, from teaching in Martinique to facilitating political integration in the French Caribbean. Supported by her family and guided by insightful mentors, Gennike's journey underlines the importance of embracing one's interests and the serendipity of career opportunities. Uncover the nuances of Genike's professional endeavors, where she transitioned from an untrained interpreter to a seasoned professional who emphasizes the significance of booth etiquette and commitment. Hear about her role in bridging cultural gaps, her time in the interpreting booth, and the importance of relationships over status. Gennike’s story is a powerful reminder that personal connections and professional dedication can lead to extraordinary opportunities, making this episode a treasure trove of insights for language professionals and enthusiasts alike. Join us to explore the profound impact of linguistic skills in our interconnected world. Connect with Gennike: LinkedIn Instagram Website Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:13:29

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The Emotional Toll and Triumphs of Live Interpreting with Denise Bobadilha

6/28/2024
Join me, as I kick off Season 7 of Brand the Interpreter with a heartfelt recount of a challenging period that saw me lose my voice for over a month. This unexpected hiatus taught me the critical importance of listening to our bodies and taking necessary breaks. Amidst this, I navigated significant personal and professional changes, including a sudden move to the East Coast and embracing a new role. This season, I return with renewed energy and an unwavering commitment to bringing you insightful and inspiring content. This opener boasts an enriching conversation with Denise Bobadilha, a Portuguese conference interpreter who has carved a unique niche in broadcast interpreting. Denise shares her fascinating journey from journalism to interpreting at CNN Brazil, revealing the passion for world events that drives her. We delve into her personal growth, including her battles with imposter syndrome and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way. Denise’s story is a testament to the power of preparation, risk-taking, and continuous learning, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to excel in this field. As we explore the high-pressure world of live broadcast interpreting, Denise provides a candid look at the emotional and psychological toll of covering sensitive events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. We discuss coping mechanisms and the profound human connection inherent in our work. This episode is a poignant reminder of the resilience required in our profession and the crucial role interpreters play in connecting people and improving lives. Tune in to explore these themes and more as we embark on another exciting season. Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:09:58

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Season 6 Finale with Host Mireya Pérez

12/29/2023
As your guide through the intricate world of language and interpretation, I, Mireya Pérez, extend a warm invitation to join an auditory expedition into the heart of our profession on the Brand the Interpreter Podcast. This season's tapestry weaves emotional self-care with Francisca "Mana" Hoce's wisdom, historical dives into the deaf community's technological strides, and the labyrinths of Indigenous languages with Eulogio Espinoza. Together, we've navigated the personal and systemic; from the rebranding of patients in healthcare to the cold touch of AI on our field, each narrative thread is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of interpreters. Prepare to challenge your perceptions as we dissect the poisonous mantras that threaten to undermine our self-worth within the interpreting landscape. We shed light on the shadows of doubt that can envelop even the most seasoned professionals, advocating for paths paved with authenticity. The saga of La Malinche unfolds, beckoning us to explore the interpreters' place in history, while the urgent narrative of human trafficking demands our attention, highlighting the interpreter's role in this global fight. These conversations are more than discussions—they are calls to action, reminders of the weight our words carry, and the importance we must place on understanding and sharing our own history. As Season 6 draws to a close, I express deep gratitude for the stories shared and the communal growth fostered. The anticipation for Season 7's transformation is palpable, with promises of a renewed format and dynamic production to enrich your listening experience. So, as we bid farewell to this chapter, remember to subscribe for the upcoming season and immerse yourself in the narratives that bind us, inspire us, and remind us of our collective journey in the vast world of language and interpretation. Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:00:57:50

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Q&A: Associations vs Certifying Bodies

12/22/2023
As we approach the final stretch of Brand the Interpreter's sixth season, I am thrilled to share an answer episode to a question submitted by listener Laura González in Pennsylvania, a query that mirrors many of your own curiosities and experiences. This exchange symbolizes the interactive and dynamic nature of the podcast, where listener engagement has continually shaped the conversation. I hope you find this episode relevant and useful in understanding the world of associations and certifying bodies. I also encourage you to submit your question to the Brand the Interpreter Podcast for an opportunity to get featured in an upcoming episode. Thank you for joining me today. I'll see you back next episode! Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession! ----------------------------------------------------- Certifying Entities: NBCMI CCHI -------- Associations: NAETISL AAITE Share your thoughts about this episode! Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋 Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host www.brandtheinterpreter.com Facebook LinkedIn Instagram

Duration:01:10:20