Ep. 33 - Unlocking Emotional Intelligence in Interpreting with Sarah Wheeler

In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical role of emotional intelligence in the interpreting profession. Sarah Wheeler, an expert in emotional intelligence and interpreting, explains how emotional awareness and regulation can enhance the effectiveness of interpreters. The conversation delves into the neuroscience behind emotional processing, the importance of grounding techniques, and practical tips for managing anxiety during interpretation. The hosts also explore the unique human element that interpreters bring to their work, especially in emotionally charged contexts like finance and personal testimonies. In this conversation, Sarah Wheeler discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in interpreting, sharing her personal journey and insights into the challenges faced by interpreters. She emphasizes the need for emotional awareness and cultural humility in the profession, as well as the impact of presentation and emotional cues on communication. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of interpreting education and the importance of building connections in a digital age. Sarah recommends literature on emotional intelligence and highlights the significance of understanding emotions in both personal and professional contexts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence in Interpreting01:18 The Link Between Emotional Intelligence and Interpreting03:08 Emotional Intelligence in Different Contexts05:36 Understanding the Brain's Role in Emotional Processing10:56 Grounding Techniques for Interpreters14:30 Tips for Managing Anxiety in Interpretation16:07 The Interpreter's Brain and Working Memory19:01 The Human Element in Interpretation20:39 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Financial Contexts23:06 The Emotional Connection in Communication24:27 Personal Journey into Interpreting and Emotional Intelligence28:34 The Role of Presentation in Interpretation29:04 Building Emotional Intelligence in Interpreting Education31:35 Challenges in the Interpreting Profession34:01 Cultural Influences on Interpreting37:11 The Performance Aspect of Interpretation39:42 Recommended Literature on Emotional Intelligence41:36 Conclusion and Call to Action