Parking Lot Debrief

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: 
Deaf Way Colorado - https://deafway.co/
Corps That - https://corpsthat.org/

👉  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.

What does it really mean to be an interpreter in K–12 classrooms—especially when working with Deaf and hard of hearing students with diverse language needs? In this episode, I am joined by Seth and Rachel, we go beyond the “just interpret” mindset and talk about what it truly looks like to be part of the educational team.
We unpack:
- The difference between mainstream vs. immersion classrooms
- What language deprivation really means for interpreters
- How to support social and emotional growth alongside academics
- Practical strategies interpreters can use in the classroom
- Why best practices must evolve—and how we can do better.
This conversation is packed with practical insights and real-world takeaways for interpreters working in schools.

Deaf Spotlight:
- Forever Ten Photography: https://www.instagram.com/forevertenphotography/
- Abbey Moreland- AirBnB Host and Educator
- Ellen Mansfield (De’VIA ceramicist and painter): https://www.instagram.com/_ellen_mansfield_artist/