Parking Lot Debrief

In this episode, I sit down with Stacey and Petra to talk about how we're training the next generation of interpreters and ASL practitioners. We dig into the exciting new direction at the University of Kansas, and the reframe that's happening in interpreter education.  Instead of treating ASL and Deaf Studies as a stepping stone to interpreting, what if we centered them as the real foundat...

In this episode, Donavan shares 10 thought-provoking tidbits from his years in the interpreting field —ideas meant to give interpreters something to ponder, chew on, and discuss with others. We talk about the realities of “voicing” work, the fact that interpreters are human and make mistakes, why being a skilled interpreter doesn’t always mean being a great teammate, and the complexities of things...

In this episode, Sarah Wheeler and I explore an often-overlooked part of interpreter development: emotional intelligence, reflection, and the lack of ongoing professional support in the field. While interpreters are trained in technical skills, many leave training without guidance on processing difficult work experiences, monitoring their wellbeing, or developing the “soft skills” needed for long-...

This week, I talked with Windy about being a fat interpreter—and what it means to show up in a field and a society that often sees our bodies before our skills. We dig into: 🔹 Fatness as identity, not insult 🔹 Micro/macro aggressions on the job 🔹 The emotional + physical labor of taking up space 🔹 Biases in hiring, teaming, and “professionalism” It’s real, raw, and long overdue. Fat interprete...

In this episode, I chat with Sign Language Studios LLC about what really happens behind the scenes at interpreting agencies. We unpack how CEUs are created, who decides who's qualified to present, and how agencies juggle supporting Deaf clients, interpreters, and hearing entities all at once, all while ensuring access and quality stay at the forefront. We also dive into pay transparency, subco...

In this powerful conversation, I meet with Jac and Sabrina, my Deaf friends and working Deaf professionals as they reflect on their real-life experiences with ASL interpreters — from moments of deep connection to situations where interpreters caused harm. They share how interpreter privilege shows up, and what they wish every interpreter understood. We cover: ✨ Why interpreter fit matters ⚡ Inte...

💼✨ In this episode, we dive into the business side of interpreting — taxes, income, and staying organized as a freelancer. From understanding the difference between W-2 and 1099 work, to setting aside money for quarterly taxes, to what deductions actually mean (explained simply!), we break it all down. You’ll also get practical tips on bookkeeping, bank account setups, and tools to keep your fin...

This episode looks at how freelance vs. staff interpreting aligns with our personalities, and how we continue to show up when we’re carrying grief, heartbreak, or heavy life news on the job. Jose joins the conversation to name tokenism, allyship, and the extra burden of self-advocacy placed on interpreters from marginalized communities, while challenging us to practice real self-reflection, accoun...

Legal interpreting goes way beyond the courtroom. It’s intense, technical, emotionally heavy — and incredibly meaningful work. In this convo, we unpack the realities: mastering legal English, navigating jargon, handling high-pressure environments, and the myth that “legal signs” exist. We talk gatekeeping, the need for diverse legal interpreters (including CDIs), the challenges of limited staffing...

🌲 “Off the Grid, On the Job: Interpreting Outdoors” Wanda (hearing), Sam (Deaf) and I talk about what it take. to be an interpreter in the wilderness? From camps and conservation projects to climbing walls and multi-day trips, outdoor interpreting demands more than language skills. In this episode, we dive into: What outdoor interpreting can look like Unique demands and settings (hiking, boats, c...

In this episode, we sit down with Lee and Martin—members of the BEI Advisory Board—to discuss what interpreters really need to know about the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) certification. They break down test logistics, levels, misconceptions, and raters’ expectations in a refreshingly honest way. Whether you’re prepping for Basic or aiming for Master, this convo dives into the English...

Here is a quick reflection on launching The Parking Lot Debrief , releasing 30 episodes in its first year, and the incredible support from listeners, guests, and collaborators. I speak of a few highlights from 2025, updates on CEUs and donations, and gives a sneak peek at the more structured, thoughtful lineup planned for 2026.

What does it really mean to be an interpreter in K–12 classrooms—especially when working with Deaf and hard of hearing students with diverse language needs? In this episode, I am joined by Seth and Rachel, we go beyond the “just interpret” mindset and talk about what it truly looks like to be part of the educational team. We unpack: - The difference between mainstream vs. immersion classrooms - Wh...

In this episode, we explore the world of religious interpreting — from church services and weddings to funerals, medical and AA Meetings. We discuss what makes this work unique: interpreting scripture, music, and emotion-laden moments often through the lens of personal belief and cultural nuance. We also touch on the presence of non-certified interpreters, and whether this work should be paid or p...

In this episode, Sarah, April, and I discuss key topics in the interpreting field, including gatekeeping and the power dynamics that shape our work. We dive into knowing our worth when it comes to our pay and setting rates. We also explore the importance of mentoring, making sure we support and uplift new interpreters joining the field. Deaf Spotlight:  Mastyl Signs 👉  CEU's available here: w...

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Pollock—a Deaf professional, speaker, and writer—to talk candidly about what really matters when working with interpreters. From navigating high-energy presentations to catching subtleties like sarcasm and tone, Greg shares what it takes to match his dynamic communication style. He also dives into his powerful article, “The Dignity Defense,” exploring how inte...

In this vulnerable conversation between colleagues and friends, Audrey Ulloa and I discuss how our profession requires us to interpret across languages, cultures, and identities. We speak candidly about the real emotions that surface in these moments—and the impact they have on our work and those we work with. We unpack: 🔹 How to cultivate cultural responsiveness 🔹 Knowing when to step in — and...

In this episode, Andrea sits down with CJ and Steve to chat about the results of the National ASL Interpreter Income Study —the first large-scale look at interpreter earnings across the U.S. We discuss surprising findings, emerging themes, and what conversations they hope the community will take forward. If you’ve ever wondered how interpreter pay compares across states, settings, or experience le...

In this conversation, three interpreters share the research they’re leading—and why it matters for the field. 🔍 Shayla dives into decisional latitude —how much freedom interpreters feel they have when making tough ethical decisions. Her study explores how the outdated "conduit" model still impacts our autonomy and what our internal responses to ethical action might reveal about our prac...

Corey (Deaf) , Val (hearing interpreter) and I explore the crucial role of trust, advocacy, and human connection in medical settings, going beyond interpreting skills to discuss attitude, knowledge, and systemic barriers. We also unpack what's working, what’s not, and how interpreters, hospitals, and agencies can improve access. From emotional highs and lows, and life-changing diagnoses—to pra...

In this episode, I sit down with my best friend and interpreting colleague, Caroline, to unpack all the ways our work has impacted our personal lives. We talk about adaptability, navigating high-stakes moments, and what it's like to hold space for others while figuring out our own boundaries. From deep emotional exposure to random trivia knowledge, we reflect on the unexpected lessons, lasting...

This week, I’m joined by Tamra and Ana to dive into the real experience of being a sign language interpreting student on the brink of graduation. We talk about the good, the bad, and the straight-up overwhelming parts of navigating an ITP.From juggling life, school, and family to facing imposter syndrome and the emotional load of becoming an interpreter. Deaf Spotlight: - Sign Your Truth - ASL Liv...

🧠💬 New Mini-Episode: Trust the StumblingInterpreter training is hard—messy, emotional, and sometimes lonely. This short episode is a letter from Andrea to students in the thick of it: the tears, the tests, the doubts. Here’s the truth: ✋ No one learns it for you. 🎢 Discomfort = growth. ⏳ You haven’t failed—you just haven’t passed yet. You’re not behind. You’re becoming. 🖤 *No CEU's offer...

In this episode, guest Kyle Duarte joins us to unpack the realities of coordinating interpreters at conferences — sometimes viewed as the pinnacle of the profession. We explore what makes a truly coordinated experience (hint: it’s not just filling time slots), how to prep effectively, navigate team dynamics, and support Deaf professionals presenting their work. From thoughtful scheduling to trust-...

In this episode, we talk with WOU MA in Interpreting Studies program graduates Catherine Maier and Lydia Rogers about their recent research projects. Catherine explores how interpreters’ behaviors shift when no one is watching—highlighting the impact of presence, motivation, and authenticity in assessments, even if it’s just a video of a Deaf consumer. She asks: How can we better reflect real-worl...