Interpreters & Interrupters

Though this episode focuses on Spanish medical interpreting, interpreters of languages other than Spanish and legal interpreters will benefit listening to this episode. 

Are you translating word-for-word or conveying the true concept? In this episode we break down why literal interpretation can completely derail a medical encounter—and how mastering Normalization and Localization will make you a far more accurate, professional interpreter.

Whether you’re taking your certification exam or working on the hospital floor, learn how to handle tricky regionalisms, untranslatable doctor jokes, and terrifying lactation metaphors!

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Medical Interpreter Register: High vs Low, Regionalisms, Tests vs Real ER, and Ethics

Though this episode of Interpreters and Interrupters focuses on Spanish medical interpreters, interpreters of languages other than Spanish and legal interpreters will find the information on register very useful. 

Maritza explains language register for medical interpreters—high (specialized medical terms), general (everyday words), and low (colloquialisms, slang, idioms, and foul language)—and why matching register matters. It contrasts strict register expectations on certification exams with real-world hospital interpreting, where effective communication and cultural context often take priority because patients may not ask doctors for clarification. 

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Do You Have What It Takes to Be an Interpreter? 5 Signs You’re Built for It (and 3 Red Flags)

This episode of Interpreters and Interrupters explores whether you have what it takes to be a language interpreter, outlining five key signs: connecting the dots in real time, adapting like a “professional chameleon” to mirror tone and intent, having “intellectual greed” for learning and terminology, staying calm during crises and chaos in live settings, and possessing deep command of both language and culture.

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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. 

10 TIPS ON HOW TO WORK WITH AN INTERPRETER

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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 the institute. 

Additionally, Thoren talks about the organization's history, interpreter training, and their significant events, including the upcoming fundraiser comedy show Refugees of Comedy. 

For interpreters in the Buffalo area, he highlights the languages they are currently recruiting for and provides guidance on how to apply.

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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. 

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List of Terms 

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 for Interpreters: Court, Criminal, Immigration & More

Copy and paste link below to get a copy of the terms: 

 https://docs.google.com/document/d/15yhbzYYP16-3IkS-QPLLxAz1-s-D3daWr75sBSEcYBs/edit?usp=sharing 

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. 

This terminology practice is the best companion for certification test preparation.

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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. 

Tristan Harris - The Dangers of Unregulated AI on Humanity & the Workforce | The Daily Show [YouTube]

Eminem - Lose Yourself (1950s Motown Soul Cover) - Red Village AI

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