Brand the Interpreter

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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

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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:
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www.brandtheinterpreter.com
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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.

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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!
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Certifying Entities:
NBCMI
CCHI
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Associations:
NAETISL
AAITE

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Ever wondered about the difference between being a qualified interpreter and a certified interpreter? Perhaps you're an interpreter looking to further your career or maybe you're an individual or business in need of interpreter services? Either way, we promise you'll gain clarity in our latest episode of the Brand the Interpreter Podcast. 

As we navigate further into the labyrinth of interpretation qualifications, we reach out to two seasoned professionals in the field - a language access consultant in healthcare and a federally certified court interpreter. They each bring a unique perspective, highlighting the nuances of certification in the medical and legal field, and how they differentiate from being a qualified interpreter. Through their eyes, we see the true value of striving for certification. Not only does it build credibility, but also instills confidence in the interpretation profession. So, lend us your ears for this enlightening episode and don't forget, your insights and experiences are always welcome here!

Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession! Brand the Interpreter!

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www.brandtheinterpreter.com
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Today's enriching conversation with Alisa Pifine, director of language access services for Catholic Charities in Louisville, Kentucky, gives a detailed insight into the evolution of language access in her community. From working at a credit union to becoming a crucial part of a non-profit organization, Alisa's journey is truly inspiring. She talks about the language access program at Catholic Charities, underlining the vital role of trained interpreters, especially in legal settings for victims of crime.

Among the many topics we cover, the significance of mental health for interpreters stands out. We discuss practical techniques to prevent burnout and establish the importance of understanding culture and heritage in the professional life of an interpreter. Emphasizing the need for resources that cater to interpreters' mental health, aiming to create a supportive environment for these critical language professionals.

Tune in! Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession; brand the interpreter!
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Connect with Alisa Pifine
languagecclou.org
https://www.facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesofLouisville
https://twitter.com/CC_Louisville
https://www.instagram.com/cclouisville/

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Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host
www.brandtheinterpreter.com
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Imagine living in a world where technological advancements have revolutionized the profession of interpreting. This tantalizing episode features an enlightening conversation with the authors of a groundbreaking textbook on remote interpreting. We uncover how digital technology has not only modified the profession but also introduced a spectrum of competency levels among interpreters. The authors share their personal stories of collaboration on the textbook, and we take you on a tour through the diverse platforms employed for remote interpreting.

This episode then takes a technological deep dive, exploring the multiple types of technology wielded for various interpreting services. Put on your explorer's hat as we navigate through the different settings and specializations these technologies cater to. Our discussion illuminates the ever-evolving role of technology in service delivery and guides interpreters on staying relevant amidst these changes. We also demystify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on technology usage in this field.

Finally, we thread together all the essentials required for successful remote interpreting, underlining the significance of protocols, standards, and ethics in the profession. Brace yourselves for a thorough discourse on the unique challenges that remote interpreting presents. The textbook's role in establishing these standards and best practices is also brought to light.

Only on the podcast that shares your stories about our profession. Brand the Interpreter!
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Connect with the authors!
Katharine Allen
Danielle Meder
Caroline Remer
Tatiana González-Cestari
Sarah Stockler
Dieter Runge
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👉The Remote Interpreter Textbook📚

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Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host
www.brandtheinterpreter.com
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What if there was a way to overcome the grueling challenges faced by interpreters and emerge from each assignment with energy to spare? That's exactly what we're exploring in today's episode with our special guest, Gabriela Bocanete. A veteran conference interpreter, trainer extraordinaire, and health coach, Gabriela is here to share a wealth of self-care strategies for interpreters. Her practical advice ranges from the importance of breaks and fresh air to ward off fatigue, to mental and emotional preparation techniques that ensure you're in the best shape to take on your assignment.

We also get an intimate look at Gabriela's impressive educational and professional trajectory, where languages, literature, and even contemporary dance have all played a part in molding the expert she is today. We hear the harrowing story of a colleague who faced a major setback at a medical conference, a potent reminder of the crucial role preparation and self-care play in optimal interpreting performance.

But it doesn't stop there. We zoom out to the larger picture, discussing the urgent need for recognition and unity within the translation profession. Gabriela lets us into her experiences with the Asociación Colombiana de Traductores e Intérpretes (ACTI) and her volunteer work with the Chartered Institute of Linguists in the UK. We wrap up our enlightening chat with Gabriela's invaluable tips on maintaining health and well-being in the interpreting field. From tidying up your workspace and minimizing distractions to simple yet powerful practices for rest and self-care, there's a gem for every interpreter in our discussion. So, don't miss out on this journey into the world of interpreting with the remarkable Gabriela Bocanete.

Tune in!
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Connect with Gabriela!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriela-bocanete/ https://www.facebook.com/vitalityandgentleresilience https://www.instagram.com/gabrielabocanete/ https://gabrielabocanete.com/vitality-resilience/ https://vimeo.com/gabrielabocanete
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Other Episode Mentioned:
👉 Mindful Interpreting with Francisca Hoces
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👉 Orange County Department of Education 7th Annual Interpreters and Translators Conference - September 29th and 30th - at the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa in Costa Mesa, California

Conference registration site link: https://link.ocde.us/ITC2023

Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋

Connect with Mireya Pérez, Host
www.brandtheinterpreter.com
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