Interpreters & Interrupters

Medical Interpreter Register: High vs Low, Regionalisms, Tests vs Real ER, and EthicsThough 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. Send us Fan Mail

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! Send us Fan Mail

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.Send us Fan Mail

Church Interpreting: Skills, Prep, Ethics, and Setup for Worship ServicesMaritza 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 INTERPRETERSend us Fan Mail

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. Send us Fan Mail

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. Send us Fan Mail

Inside the International Institute of Buffalo: Refugee Support and Language ServicesIn 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.Send us Fan Mail

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. ProZ.comList of Terms https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_16K_sTcEsBAI-AkrCRAMc5w7O03hPwUSWI8NFzlXiw/edit?usp=sharingBehavioral Health ENG/SP Glossaryhttps://www.napacounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/24600/Napa-County-CCP--Appendix-15---BH-Glossary-of-Terms-in-English-and-SpanishQuizlet.comSend us Fan Mail

Legal Terminology Practice for Interpreters: Court, Criminal, Immigration & MoreCopy 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.comMaritza, 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.Send us Fan Mail

Emergency Room Interpreter: Chaos, Challenges, and Compassion Senior Spanish interpreter Elena Cruz shares her journey from starting as a phone interpreter to becoming an in-person interpreter in an emergency room. 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 InterpretersSend us Fan Mail