Join me,  as I kick off Season 7 of Brand the Interpreter with a heartfelt recount of a challenging period that saw me lose my voice for over a month. This unexpected hiatus taught me the critical importance of listening to our bodies and taking necessary breaks. Amidst this, I navigated significant personal and professional changes, including a sudden move to the East Coast and embracing a new role. This season, I return with renewed energy and an unwavering commitment to bringing you insightful and inspiring content.

This opener boasts an enriching conversation with Denise Bobadilha, a Portuguese conference interpreter who has carved a unique niche in broadcast interpreting. Denise shares her fascinating journey from journalism to interpreting at CNN Brazil, revealing the passion for world events that drives her. We delve into her personal growth, including her battles with imposter syndrome and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way. Denise’s story is a testament to the power of preparation, risk-taking, and continuous learning, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to excel in this field.

As we explore the high-pressure world of live broadcast interpreting, Denise provides a candid look at the emotional and psychological toll of covering sensitive events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. We discuss coping mechanisms and the profound human connection inherent in our work. This episode is a poignant reminder of the resilience required in our profession and the crucial role interpreters play in connecting people and improving lives. Tune in to explore these themes and more as we embark on another exciting season.