Interpreters & Interrupters
Interpreters & Interrupters is the podcast for professional and student interpreters looking to refine their skills and stay inspired.
CHURCH INTERPRETING
Church Interpreting: Skills, Prep, Ethics, and Setup for Worship Services
Maritza welcomes listeners to Interpreters and Interrupters and explains the unique joy of interpreting for people we know, especially within a church or religious community. Drawing from her multicultural Christian church experience (English, Spanish, Swahili, and French), she describes how religious interpreting differs from typical assignments due to rapid sermons, metaphors, ancient quotes, music, and unscripted prayers, plus the emotional impact.Â
10 TIPS ON HOW TO WORK WITH AN INTERPRETER
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MY FIRST YEAR AS A MEDICAL INTERPRETER
In this episode, Maritza shares detailed insights about her journey and experiences in becoming a medical interpreter after starting as a legal interpreter in 2007. She outlines valuable tips for anyone considering a career in interpreting, offers advice for job searching and preparing for interviews, and discusses the significance of certifications like Bridging the Gap and CHI. She also offers tips for those embarking legal interpreting.Â
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EXPERT TIPS FROM AN ASL INTERPRETER
Jordana Avital is our first guest and talked about all aspects of working as an American Sign Language interpreter, but her insight applies to spoken interpreters too. A must listen if you are new to the interpreting world.Â
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DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN INTERPRETER? FIVE SIGNS + 3 RED FLAGS
There's more to interpreting than language skills. Maritza explores whether someone has what it takes to be a language interpreter, describing interpreting as a high-pressure cognitive skill used in conferences, courtrooms, and sign language settings. She shares five signs you may be built for the work: connecting dots in real time, being a “professional chameleon” who mirrors tone and intent, having “intellectual greed” as an intense drive to collect knowledge (with potential downsides like burnout), maintaining crisis calm during chaos and processing emotions later, and having deep command of both language and culture, illustrated with regional vocabulary differences in Spanish...
BECOME A COMMUNITY INTERPRETER
Inside the International Institute of Buffalo: Refugee Support and Language Services
In this episode, Robert Thoren, Recruiting and Training Coordinator, at the International Institute of Buffalo (iiBuffalo.org), discusses their work in supporting refugees and asylum seekers, as well as their language services.Â
The institute's New American Integration department helps with housing and cultural integration for newcomers. They also have an employment department offering job training and a Career Pathways Program for highly-skilled immigrants.
Thoren shares his experience in language learning and interpreting, and explains the different types of interpreting services offered by t...
Medical Terminology Practice for Interpreter Certification
Maritza, a legal and certified medical interpreter, leads a medical terminology practice session for interpreters of all languages, including ASL, sharing terms drawn from real patient-doctor visits, procedures, and pre/post-surgery appointments.Â
ProZ.com
List of TermsÂ
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_16K_sTcEsBAI-AkrCRAMc5w7O03hPwUSWI8NFzlXiw/edit?usp=sharing
Behavioral Health ENG/SP Glossary
https://www.napacounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/24600/Napa-County-CCP--Appendix-15---BH-Glossary-of-Terms-in-English-and-Spanish
Quizlet.com
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Legal Terminology Practice: Master Court & Immigration Terms
Legal Terminology Practice for Interpreters: Court, Criminal, Immigration & More
Copy and paste link below to get a copy of the terms:Â
 https://docs.google.com/document/d/15yhbzYYP16-3IkS-QPLLxAz1-s-D3daWr75sBSEcYBs/edit?usp=sharingÂ
http://quizlet.com
Maritza, host of Interpreters and Interrupters and a legal and certified medical interpreter, leads a legal terminology practice session drawn from her work in jail visits, legal consultations, and immigration proceedings.Â
This terminology practice is the best companion for certification test preparation.
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EMERGENCY ROOM INTERPRETER
Emergency Room Interpreter: Chaos, Challenges, and CompassionÂ
Senior Spanish interpreter Elena Cruz shares her journey from starting as a phone interpreter to becoming an in-person interpreter in an emergency room.Â
Elena discusses the challenges of interpreting in chaotic environments, the emotional toll, and how she manages her mental health. She also provides valuable tips for aspiring medical interpreters, including the importance of note-taking and adapting quickly to fast-paced and distressing situations.
The Best Note-Taking Techniques for Interpreters
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AI IS COMING FOR OUR INTERPRETING JOBS
AI vs. Human Interpreters: A Deep Dive into the Future of Jobs and Ethics
In this episode of 'Interpreters and Interrupters,' host Maritza discusses the potential impact of AI on interpreting jobs and the broader implications for the workforce. She explores the ethical concerns highlighted by ethicistTristan Harris, featured in the documentary 'The Social Dilemma,' and delves into the technological advancements and economic shifts driven by AI. The discussion covers everything from the corporate preference for AI to the philosophical and moral dilemmas posed by automated labor.Â
Tristan Harris - The Dangers of U...
TIPS FOR PASSING INTERPRETING TESTS
Maritza shares her personal experiences and challenges during interpreting tests and provides information on the different formats and requirements that will help you be successful.Â
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INTERPRETER ETHICS: Lessons from Ippei Mizuhara and Protecting Client Privacy
In this episode of Interpreters and Interrupters, host Maritza discusses the case of Ippei Mizuhara, an interpreter who defrauded baseball star Shohei Ohtani, emphasizing the importance of integrity and confidentiality in the profession. The episode concludes with advice on handling over-the-phone and video remote interpreting.
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INDIGENOUS LANGUAGES INTERPRETER CRISIS
Indigenous Language Interpreting Is In Demand
We delve into the world of interpreting indigenous languages, specifically Q'eqchi'. Featuring Jace Norton, founder and CEO of Maya Bridge Language Services, we explore the unique challenges and rewarding experiences of interpreting for indigenous communities.Â
This episode provides a comprehensive look at the significance of language access and the efforts to bridge gaps for speakers of indigenous language languages. Plus, how to become an indigenous interpreter.Â
Stay tuned until the end for a sample of the Q'eqchi' language!
Maya Bridge
QĘĽ...
ESSENTIAL VOICE CARE TIPS
The vocal mechanism is explained, including how vocal folds work and the impact of breath and body posture. Maritza shares practical tips for voice care, such as warming up with specific exercises, staying hydrated, dietary considerations, and avoiding harmful habits like throat clearing and smoking. Additional advice includes using a humidifier, practicing diaphragmatic breathing, and managing stress to maintain optimal vocal health.
Check out voice warm-up exercises here:
https://Voicelesson.com
https://youtu.be/i65C5Xi-IiA?si=SJ5QJGWOlwpKSmxl
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CHALLENGES IN MEDICAL & CONFERENCE INTERPRETING
Razan Roumany, shares her journey and experiences as an Arabic and Spanish medical and conference interpreter. Razan details her early inspiration to become an interpreter, her challenges, and the fulfilling aspects of her career. From deciding between medical and legal interpreting to handling interruptions and working under pressure, Razan offers invaluable insights. She also discusses the importance of preparation, effective communication with colleagues, and how to handle challenging terminology during assignments. Whether you're a seasoned interpreter or just starting, this episode is packed with essential advice and personal stories to inspire and educate.
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COMPASSION & ADVOCACY IN MEDICAL INTERPRETING
Interpreters and Interrupters welcomes Ana Fauvet, a nationally certified medical interpreter and event organizer. They discuss the delicate balance of compassion and professionalism in medical interpreting. The conversation covers the controversies of advocacy in medical settings, strategies to express compassion without breaching professional boundaries, and the crucial role of interpreters as cultural brokers. Ana shares valuable insights and personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of understanding, active listening, and empathy in interactions with patients. They also talk about Ana's inspiring event, Nadie Lucha Sola, which offers support to women undergoing cancer treatment.
<...
BECOME A PROFESSIONAL INTERPRETER NOW
In this episode, we explore the steps to becoming an interpreter in the United States. We delve into the differences between translators and interpreters, types of interpreting, and essential questions to ask yourself before starting this career. Discover the pathways to training, certification, and job opportunities, including the nuances of working with agencies and hospitals. Whether you're switching careers or starting anew, this guide provides valuable insights to help you on your journey.
Indeed.com
ACEBO
Challenges of Over-the-Phone Interpreting
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THE MRI INCIDENT: Why Interpreters Need Eyes on Their Surroundings
Maritza shares a safety-focused episode of Interpreters and Interrupters about paying attention to surroundings while interpreting, recounting a near-miss in radiology when she almost stepped into an MRI room without being cleared for metal.
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WHAT ENGLISH ONLY REALLY MEANS
This episode addresses the complexities and surprises faced by interpreters in their daily work, revealing that even simple words can pose challenges.Â
The recent political changes in the United States, including the new executive order designating English as the official language, raises concerns about the future of interpreters, particularly the removal of ASL interpreters from White House briefings.Â
The episode also offers professional advice on making a good first impression through appropriate attire and shares relaxation tips for interpreters experiencing mental fatigue, especially for those engaged in over-the-phone interpreting.
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PROS AND CONS OF OVER-THE-PHONE INTERPRETING
The Challenges and Rewards of Over-the-Phone Interpreting: Everything You Need to Know
The episode covers the history of OPI, its advantages and disadvantages, the skills required, and steps to become a telephone interpreter. Maritza provides practical advice for working conditions, handling difficult situations, and maintaining professional ethics. She also touches on the financial aspects of OPI, including compensation rates and tax responsibilities. The episode aims to provide comprehensive insights and encouragement for aspiring OPIs.
00:00 Introduction: The Most Difficult Type of Interpreting
01:06 History of Over-the-Phone Interpreting
02:30 Advantages and Disadvantages of OPI
<...10 TIPS ON HOW TO WORK WITH AN INTERPRETER
Whether you're in the legal or medical fields, this episode is a must-watch for professionals new to working with interpreters, as well as for interpreters looking to understand common challenges in the workplace.
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ARE YOU A POOR? START A ZERO-BALANCED BUDGET
Avoid Becoming Poor with a Zero Balance Budget.
In this episode, learn how to avoid financial struggles by adopting a zero balance budget. The video guides you step-by-step on budgeting, including understanding the difference between poverty and being poor, tracking your income and expenses, and building an emergency fund. Practical advice on reducing unnecessary spending, getting an affordable vehicle, leveraging public transportation, and saving diligently is provided. By following these tips, you can manage your finances effectively, eliminate debt, and start building wealth. Stay tuned till the end for a special bonus!
Edmunds.com
...
SUPER LEGAL TERMS TEST - 83 Terms!
Use Linguee.com for translations.Â
Accusatory Instrument; Acting in Concert; Adjournment; Arraignment. This could be an arraignment on information or on an indictment.Â
Arraignment on a complaint; Arrest; Arrest warrant; Assault. In the United States, we also use battery for the word assault.Â
Assistant District Attorney; Assistant United States Attorney; Bail jumping; Battery; Bench Warrant; Beyond a reasonable doubt; Bond; Burglary Case; Charging Document; Citation; Complaint; Conditional Discharge; Conversion; Court Officer; A court officer can also be known as Bailiff.Â
Court Surcharge; Criminal Justice Agency; Criminal Procedure Law; Criminal Record; Criminal Tres...
WHY I HAD TO TAKE A BREAK
Host Maritza returns to the Interpreters and Interrupters podcast to apologize for her absence, thank listeners worldwide, and explain why she’s been away since her last episode in February. She shares how she received unsettling news right before interpreting for a cancer patient and discusses the challenge of suppressing emotions on the job, including a clip of an interpreter becoming emotional while interpreting for an 11-year-old Ukrainian boy’s testimony in the European Parliament.Â
Maritza talks about posting more audio episodes and previews upcoming episodes.
Interpreter Gets Emotional: https://youtu...
SUPER LEGAL TERMINOLOGY PRACTICE
Accusatory Instrument
Acting in Concert
Adjournment
Arraignment
Arrest
Arrest Warrant
AssaultÂ
Assistant District Attorney
Assistant United States Attorney
Bail Jumping
Battery
Bench Warrant
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
Bond
Burglary
Case
Charging Document
Citation
Complaint
Conditional Discharge
Conversion
Counsel
Court
Court Officer / Bailiff
Court Surcharge
Criminal Justice Agency
C...
SUPER LEGAL TERMINOLOGY PRACTICE
Accusatory Instrument
Acting in Concert
Adjournment
Arraignment
Arrest
Arrest Warrant
AssaultÂ
Assistant District Attorney
Assistant United States Attorney
Bail Jumping
Battery
Bench Warrant
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
Bond
Burglary
Case
Charging Document
Citation
Complaint
Conditional Discharge
Conversion
Counsel
Court
Court Officer / Bailiff
Court Surcharge
Criminal Justice Agency
C...
5 SIGNS YOU'D MAKE A GREAT INTERPRETER
5 Signs You’d Make a Great Interpreter (and 3 Signs You Might Struggle)Â
Maritza and guest Elena Cruz to discuss five signs you could be an interpreter: having a split-track brain for simultaneous processing, being a professional chameleon who mirrors tone and emotion, possessing intellectual curiosity that drives constant learning, staying calm in crises and problem-solving when things go wrong, and commanding both language and culture.
They also share three signs you may not be a good fit without extra work: not liking people or lacking empathy, needing stronger English and pronunciation, and being imp...
EXPERT TIPS FROM A LEGAL INTERPRETER
From Language Lover to Interpreter: A Conversation with Athena Matilsky
Athena shares her journey into interpreting, which began with a love for Spanish. Athena describes the differences between medical and court interpreting. She also emphasizes the importance of rigorous training, self-evaluation, and preparing for challenging certification exams. Athena reveals her passion for interpreting under pressure, her geeky approach to mastering interpreting skills, and the importance of community among interpreters.Â
LINKS
GLENDON WORKSHOPS - https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/mcis-shop
US COURTS FED INTERPRETER CE...
