Parking Lot Debrief

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, subcontracting and what they wish both interpreters and the Deaf community understood about agency work. A real, honest look at the inner workings of agencies and CEUs!

Sign Language Studios:

https://www.signlanguagestudiosllc.com

Instagram: @signlanguagestudiosllc

Deaf Spotlight:
https://www.whitedfamilyfarm.com/

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, subcontracting and what they wish both interpreters and the Deaf community understood about agency work. A real, honest look at the inner workings of agencies and CEUs!

Sign Language Studios:

https://www.signlanguagestudiosllc.com

Instagram: @signlanguagestudiosllc

Deaf Spotlight:
https://www.whitedfamilyfarm.com/

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, subcontracting and what they wish both interpreters and the Deaf community understood about agency work. A real, honest look at the inner workings of agencies and CEUs!

Sign Language Studios:

https://www.signlanguagestudiosllc.com

Instagram: @signlanguagestudiosllc

Deaf Spotlight:
https://www.whitedfamilyfarm.com/

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

⚡ Interpreter power + privilege

🤝 How trust is built (or broken)

A must-listen for interpreters who care about community, connection, and accountability.

Deaf Spotlight:

- DOVE: https://deafdove.org/

- Inner Alignment Leadership (IAL): https://www.inneralignmentleadership.com

💼✨ 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 finances in order — plus a free resource list to help you start strong. Whether you’re staff or freelance, this convo will help you feel more confident about the money side of interpreting.

Rosemary’s Info:  QuickGuideTax.com 

0.1 GS CEU self-study course to help interpreters cope with loss of work due to the government shutdown: quickguidetax.com/shutdown.

Deaf Spotlight: 

- Dozanu Innovations: https://dozanu.com/

- The ASL Shop: https://www.theaslshop.com/

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, accountability, and responsibility for our growth and the future of the field.

Deaf Spotlight:Lotz of BBQ: https://lotzofbbqtx.com/

👉 CEU's available here: www.parkinglotdebrief.com

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, and how to hold your ground with courts and counties that don’t always get it.

Contact Anna: [email protected]

Deaf Spotlight: Hands On Travel: https://handson.travel/ 

👉  CEU's available here: www.parkinglotdebrief.com

🌲 “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, climbing, biking)

• Boundaries, safety, and teamwork on multi-day trips

• Self-care when the work is physically and mentally demanding

Deaf Spotlight: 

Corps That - https://corpsthat.org/

At the time this episode was recorded, the Deaf Spotlight: Deaf Way Colorado was highlighted in good faith as a resource for the Deaf community. Since the original air date, the organization's founder and board chair was arrested in connection with serious allegations involving a minor. These legal proceedings are ongoing.

We unequivocally do not condone harmful or illegal behavior of any kind. We remain committed to supporting safe, ethical, and trusted resources for the Deaf community.

As Deaf Way Colorado is in the process of closing, we encourage listeners to connect with Deaf Colorado for continued community support and services.

👉  CEU's available here: www.parkinglotdebrief.com

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 TEP, performance tips, and test-day mindset (spoiler: confidence is key). 

Deaf Spotlight: 

• Deaf artisans market day (DAMD): https://deafartisanmarketday.com/ 

BEI Resources: 

Texas BEI 

Study Guide

BEI Recommended Levels

BEI Recommended Levels Michigan

BEI Rater Open Enrollment

👉 CEU's available here: www.parkinglotdebrief.com

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.