In this episode, Mike Lemay shares his journey as an interpreter, detailing how he founded the Hot Sauce Interpreters community during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses his early experiences interpreting in church, the transition to professional interpreting, and the importance of energy and expressiveness in his work. Mike emphasizes the value of community and mentorship in the interpreting field, and how his unique background shaped his approach to interpretation. In this engaging conversation, Mike Lemay shares his insights on the art of interpretation, emphasizing the importance of context and energy in delivering effective interpretations. He discusses the vetting process for interpreters within the Hot Sauce Interpreters community, highlighting the need for a supportive and friendly environment. The conversation also touches on the challenges of freelancing versus working with agencies, the impact of COVID on work-life balance, and the unique experiences of interpreting for multi-level marketing events. Mike encourages new interpreters to embrace the profession and jump in, sharing his passion for the field and the community he has built.