Episodes

Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
In Episode 5 of "Language Access Matters," host Carol Velandia engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Bill Rivers, a distinguished expert in language advocacy. They discuss the profound impact of advocacy, emphasizing the critical role if language access in healthcare, education, and public services. The episode explores legal mandates, challenges faced by advocates, and the pivotal role of professional associations in promoting equitable language access. Besides, passionately discussing the improvement of language access in healthcare, addressing the potential for better patient care and enhanced outcomes, the conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its impact in language access, highlighting the importance of maintaining quality through human review. This episode offers valuable insights into language access advocacy and its far-reaching effects on society.

Thursday Aug 31, 2023
Thursday Aug 31, 2023
In this episode of Language Access Matters, we dive deep into the world of AI and its pivotal role in breaking down language barriers and promoting inclusivity. Our guest, Sultan Ghaznawi, President of Hybrid Lynx in Toronto, Canada, shares his journey from engineering to becoming an AI expert in the language industry. We explore how AI can transform language access, from multilingual chatbots providing vital information to underserved communities, to preserving endangered languages and aiding individuals with disabilities. Join us as we discuss the ethical considerations, challenges, and exciting possibilities that AI brings to the realm of language access. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that delves into how AI is not just a tool, but an enabler of communication and understanding on a global scale.

Monday Jul 31, 2023
Monday Jul 31, 2023
Interpreting in mental health can be tricky and our special guest Amy Greensfelder, Executive Director at Pro Bono Counseling helps us understand what goes into language barriers in a mental health environment. Come and explore the vital role of Language Access in mental health and its connection to cultural competency. Amy shares her journey and the initiatives implemented by Pro Bono Counseling to ensure Language Access for diverse communities. Gain valuable insights into the impact of training, necessary policy changes, and steps to create successful language access plans, even on limited budgets. Don't miss this engaging conversation about the transformative power of Language Access in mental health. Tune in now!

Friday Jun 30, 2023
Friday Jun 30, 2023
Join us for a captivating podcast episode featuring Carla Fogaren, a healthcare executive and language access advocate. With her extensive background as a registered nurse and ADA Coordinator, Carla has spearheaded language access initiatives across 42 hospitals in 11 states. Her work in medical interpretation, language access, health disparities, disabilities, and regulatory compliance has garnered national recognition.
In this interview, Carla delves into the significance of effective communication in healthcare and sheds light on the challenges of achieving consensus for language access initiatives. She shares firsthand experiences in driving change and implementing solutions in the healthcare sector. The conversation covers topics such as compliance with language access laws, integrating language access in hospital settings, and meeting the needs of diverse patient populations, including the deaf and hard of hearing.
But that's not all. Carla also emphasizes the role of technology and common sense in enhancing language access services and advocates for integrating language access within the broader framework of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in healthcare. Get ready for an enlightening and captivating experience as you uncover insights on improving communication in healthcare alongside Carla Fogaren!"

Friday Jun 30, 2023
Friday Jun 30, 2023
Join us for a captivating podcast episode featuring Carla Fogaren, a healthcare executive and language access advocate. With her extensive background as a registered nurse and ADA Coordinator, Carla has spearheaded language access initiatives across 42 hospitals in 11 states. Her work in medical interpretation, language access, health disparities, disabilities, and regulatory compliance has garnered national recognition.
In this interview, Carla delves into the significance of effective communication in healthcare and sheds light on the challenges of achieving consensus for language access initiatives. She shares firsthand experiences in driving change and implementing solutions in the healthcare sector. The conversation covers topics such as compliance with language access laws, integrating language access in hospital settings, and meeting the needs of diverse patient populations, including the deaf and hard of hearing.
But that's not all. Carla also emphasizes the role of technology and common sense in enhancing language access services and advocates for integrating language access within the broader framework of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in healthcare. Get ready for an enlightening and captivating experience as you uncover insights on improving communication in healthcare alongside Carla Fogaren!"

Wednesday May 31, 2023
Wednesday May 31, 2023
Get ready for an exhilarating episode of our podcast, where we dive into the world of language access with Michael Mulé, a passionate attorney fighting for equality at the U.S. Department of Justice. Discover the pivotal role of language access in breaking down barriers and empowering individuals with limited English proficiency. With jaw-dropping insights, Michael unveils the history, current laws, and the need for a unified certification system for interpreters and translators. Brace yourself for an electrifying discussion on how we can ignite change and ensure language access for all. Tune in now and join the movement towards a more inclusive society!

Thursday May 25, 2023
Thursday May 25, 2023
Introducing "Language Access Matters," the first-ever podcast dedicated solely to the topic of Language Access! Join host Carol Gizell Velandia Pardo on a captivating journey that explores the power of language access in fostering inclusion and unlocking global business opportunities. Equal Access Language Services has always believed that there is no Inclusion unless there is Equal Access, thus, the producers of this podcast series want to dive deep, in each episode, into the benefits of language access in healthcare, education, justice, and businesses, featuring inspiring stories and thought-provoking discussions. Our inaugural episode, "The Power of Language Access in Inclusion and Global Business," sheds light on the motivations behind the podcast. Stay tuned for an enlightening and inspiring experience!