In fast-moving markets like Dubai, visibility is easy. Credibility is not.In Episode 134 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Chris Adams, Founder of CJA Consulting and Founder of Muhami (محامي), to unpack what actually drives growth in the legal industry. This was not a surface-level marketing conversation. It was a strategic discussion... Continue Reading →
Busy Work Is a Lie | Steven Puri on Flow State, Deep Work & Hollywood Discipline
Localization Fireside Chat Episode 174 Watch the full interview: https://youtu.be/5m2dzQaDLgcIn this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin Ayoub talks with Steven Puri, Founder of The Sukha Company and a former Hollywood film executive, about focus, discipline, and what it really takes to get meaningful work done in today’s world.Steven’s story bridges two worlds:... Continue Reading →
AI Scales Leadership Flaws: Why Trust Collapses Under Pressure
AI Scales Leadership Flaws: Why Trust Collapses Under PressureIn Episode 173 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Diana Fritz for a grounded conversation about what actually breaks first when pressure rises inside an organization.It is not strategy. It is not systems. It is not AI.It is trust.And trust collapses when communication fails.Watch... Continue Reading →
Humans Are the Attack Surface: Why Cybersecurity Fails Before Code Does
For years, cybersecurity has been framed as a technology problem. Stronger firewalls. Better tools. More sophisticated detection systems. Yet breaches keep happening, often in organizations that are technically well defended.The uncomfortable truth is simpler and harder to confront.Cybersecurity does not usually fail at the code level. It fails at the human level.In this episode of... Continue Reading →
Digital Trust & AI: Why Trust Is a Leadership Decision, with Gal Borenstein
Trust has quietly become one of the most fragile assets in the age of AI.As organizations rush to adopt new technologies, many leadership teams are discovering that speed without clarity creates risk. Not technical risk. Trust risk.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub sits down with Gal Borenstein, Founder and CEO of Borenstein... Continue Reading →
Is Certified Translation Finally Being Automated or Just Rebranded?
Certified translation is one of the last corners of the language industry still operating on manual workflows, PDFs, email chains, and human bottlenecks. While AI and automation have transformed many areas of localization, certified translation has remained largely untouched. Not because the technology does not exist, but because the constraints are different.In Episode 170 of... Continue Reading →
When Titles Stop Working: Why Alignment Matters More Than Applause
For many leaders, success follows a familiar script. Work hard. Climb the ladder. Earn the title. Collect the validation. From the outside, it looks like winning.But what happens when the title stops working?In Episode 169 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Barbara Stone, leadership coach, former EVP and CFO, and author, for... Continue Reading →
Cash Flow Reality: The Financial Blind Spot Founders Miss | with Uchenna Okeke
Most founders assume revenue equals health. The truth is more ruthless: businesses fail when they misunderstand cash flow and structural risk.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub sits down with Uchenna Okeke, founder of CFO Advisory Services, for a grounded conversation about the financial blind spots that quietly break growing companies.This isn’t theory.... Continue Reading →
Marketing Is Loud. Results Are Quiet. What John Dwyer Gets Right About What Actually Works
Marketing today is everywhere. Louder, faster, more automated than at any point in history. And yet, for most businesses, it works less than ever. That contradiction sits at the heart of my recent conversation with John Dwyer on the Localization Fireside Chat. John has spent decades in direct response marketing, working with brands like McDonald’s,... Continue Reading →
GenAI: From Strategy to Execution
Why leadership, trust, and operating models matter more than the technologyMost organizations today claim to have a GenAI strategy. Far fewer can point to meaningful execution.In Episode 166 of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Minyang (MJ) Jiang to unpack why generative AI initiatives so often stall once they move beyond experimentation. The answer,... Continue Reading →
Can AI Understand Us? Data, Empathy, and the Limits of Artificial Intelligence
Can AI Understand Us? Data, Empathy, and the Limits of Artificial IntelligencePublished on: Feb 03, 2026 Episode Link: https://localization-fireside-chat.simplecast.com/episodes/can-ai-understand-us-data-empathy-and-the-limits-of-artificial-intelligenceWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pbpsa9lq2XUArtificial Intelligence is everywhere. It drives decisions, automates workflows, and increasingly claims to understand human behavior. But as AI systems become more embedded in how organizations operate, a deeper and more uncomfortable question emerges:Can... Continue Reading →
When the CEO Gets Sick: Leadership Under Crisis
Most companies plan obsessively for market risk, financial risk, and operational risk. Very few plan for the most destabilizing scenario of all: what happens when the CEO gets sick.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Deborah Krier to explore a leadership blind spot that founders and boards rarely want to confront... Continue Reading →
Why Translation Is No Longer Enough for Global Growth?
For decades, translation was treated as the final step in global expansion. Build the product. Launch the campaign. Then translate.That model no longer works.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sit down with Fabiano Cid, Global Content Strategist and long-time industry leader, to unpack a reality many organizations are only starting to confront: translation... Continue Reading →
Why Leaders Misread People and Pay the Price
Most leadership failures are not strategy failures. They are judgment failures.Hiring the wrong person. Pushing the wrong message in a sales conversation. Misreading confidence for competence. Mistaking silence for agreement.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Joseph McGuire to unpack a problem that shows up in boardrooms, interviews, negotiations, and leadership... Continue Reading →
The End of SEO? How AI and GEO Decide What Gets Seen
Search has quietly crossed a threshold.What used to be a game of keywords, backlinks, and rankings is now something fundamentally different. Discovery is no longer controlled by search engines responding to human queries. It is increasingly controlled by AI systems interpreting intent, authority, and trust.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with... Continue Reading →
When Do Systems Stop Hacking Computers and Start Hacking Humans?
For decades, cybersecurity focused on defending machines.Firewalls. Networks. Endpoints. Infrastructure.But what happens when the target is no longer silicon and code, but human perception, attention, and belief?That is the central question explored in Episode 160 of the Localization Fireside Chat with Winn Schwartau, often referred to as the Civilian Architect of Information Warfare and one... Continue Reading →
Is Your Book a Business Trophy or a Revenue Engine?
Most books don’t fail because they’re poorly written. They fail because they’re strategically misused.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Susan Friedman, one of the most experienced voices in nonfiction publishing and book-based business strategy, to unpack a simple but uncomfortable truth:Most authors treat books like trophies. The smartest ones treat... Continue Reading →
Is Generosity a Leadership Advantage or a Biological Imperative?
Leadership conversations often frame generosity as a value, a moral choice, or a cultural preference. Something leaders can choose to embrace or ignore depending on style or circumstance. But what if generosity is not optional at all? What if it is biologically wired into how humans assess trust, influence, and leadership credibility?In this episode of... Continue Reading →
Cost vs Profit: Finding the Money Leaders Don’t See
Most companies are obsessed with growth. Very few are disciplined about profit.In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Dinesh Mohangupta, a cost optimization strategist known as The Money Saver, to talk about where organizations quietly lose margin and why those losses often go unnoticed year after year.This was not a... Continue Reading →
AI vs Patient Risk in Life Sciences Translation with Andres Heuberger
AI, Risk, and Trust in Life Sciences Translation When Fluency Masks Patient Risk (with Andres Heuberger)In the latest episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Andres Heuberger, VP of Sales and Marketing at Language Scientific, to tackle a topic that should be top of mind for anyone working at the intersection of regulated... Continue Reading →
How to Work With AI Without Losing the Human
How to Work With AI Without Losing the HumanArtificial intelligence is everywhere right now. In boardrooms. In HR teams. In product meetings. In customer support. In content creation. In finance. In recruiting. In operations. And yet, for all the hype, a quiet frustration sits underneath most of it.People keep saying the same thing.“AI doesn’t give... Continue Reading →
Why Culture Is Not a Feeling, It Is a System | Localization Fireside Chat Episode 154 with Andrea D. Carter
Most organizations talk about belonging as if it were a soft, emotional layer of culture. Something nice to have. Something HR can work on. Something that lives somewhere between engagement surveys and wellness initiatives.In Episode 154 of the Localization Fireside Chat, Andrea D. Carter dismantles that thinking.Belonging, she explains, is not a feeling. It is... Continue Reading →
Why Leaders Must Lead With Purpose: Bernie Franzgrote on Impact, Community, and Hard Conversations | Localization Fireside Chat with Bernie Franzgrote
Most leadership conversations stop at strategy and execution. Bernie Franzgrote takes it a layer deeper and asks the question founders and executives dread: what is the human cost of your decisions? In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat I sat down with Bernie Franzgrote, a seasoned leader, coach, and community builder whose career spans education,... Continue Reading →
Why Recruiting Needs Marketing Not Bots: EA Clarke on AI, Culture Fit, and the Future of Hiring | Localization Fireside Chat with EA Clarke
Most recruiting is broken because it treats hiring like a transaction instead of a relationship. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with EA Clarke, founder of Pivot and Edge, to unpack why early stage and growth companies keep missing on talent and how AI is being misused across the recruiting industry.... Continue Reading →
Mastering High Stakes Communication: Sam Milanchik on Presence, Pressure, and the Power of Your Voice | Localization Fireside Chat with Sam Milanchik
Most people are not afraid of speaking. They are afraid of being seen. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Sam Milanchik, founder of Pathos Labs, to talk about what really happens inside the human nervous system when everything is on the line. Sam’s background is anything but typical. He is... Continue Reading →
Why Hiring Is Broken and How to Fix It: Josh Hill on Work as a Product, Talent Density, and Human Centered Recruiting | Localization Fireside Chat with Josh Hill
Most hiring today is optimized for speed, not fit, and that is why both companies and candidates are frustrated. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Josh Hill, co founder of Super Hired and senior HR leader at Tier 11, to unpack why recruitment has become an AI driven mess and... Continue Reading →
Unlocking the Value of Experience: David Smith on Fractional Talent, Ageism, and Growing Canada’s Knowledge Economy | Localization Fireside Chat with David Smith
Most economies talk about innovation but quietly waste their most valuable asset, experience. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with David Smith, CEO of Elderberry.work, to unpack one of the biggest hidden problems in modern business, the underutilization of experienced professionals and the economic damage caused by ageism. David’s career spans... Continue Reading →
When Comedy, AI, and Accessibility Collide: Victor Varnado on Creativity, Neurodiversity, and the Future of Human Centric AI
Most people think of AI as a tool that replaces work. Victor Varnado builds AI that replaces friction. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, Victor joins me to talk about how comedy, disability, creativity, and artificial intelligence are converging into a new kind of human centered technology. Victor is a comedian, actor, and technologist... Continue Reading →
Why Women Are Still Being Told to Be Quiet: Marsha Clark on Power, Voice, and Owning Your Seat | Localization Fireside Chat with Marsha Clark
Most leadership advice for women is designed to make them easier to tolerate, not more powerful.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Marsha Clark for one of the most important conversations this show has hosted about women, leadership, and what it really means to claim your voice in rooms that were... Continue Reading →
Why Most Hiring Fails and How Jacob Crockett Is Rewiring Culture with Data | Localization Fireside Chat with Jacob Crockett
Hiring is not broken because of a lack of resumes. It is broken because most companies do not understand their own culture.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Jacob Crockett, founder of HireAligned, for a conversation that cuts straight to the heart of one of the biggest problems in modern business:... Continue Reading →
AI Without Hype: Juan Carlos Rovetta on Human in the Loop, Latin America, and Building Real Business Intelligence | Localization Fireside Chat with Juan Carlos Rovetta
Most companies do not fail at AI because of technology. They fail because they deploy it in the wrong places.This episode of Localization Fireside Chat marked a milestone for the channel. It was the first bilingual conversation in the history of the show, conducted in both English and Spanish, opening the door to a much... Continue Reading →
Why Nearshoring Is Winning: Brian Samson on Latin America, Time Zones, and Building Teams Without Losing Speed | Localization Fireside Chat with Brian Samson
Remote work did not kill time zones. It made them more valuable.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Brian Samson to unpack what is actually happening in global hiring right now, beyond the buzzwords of outsourcing, offshoring, and nearshoring.Brian has spent over two decades in staffing and talent strategy. He started... Continue Reading →
From Pro Hockey to Ending Hunger: Stephen Clarke on Receiving Through Giving | Localization Fireside Chat with Stephen Clarke, Founder of RTG Group
Most people say they want to make a difference. Stephen Clarke built a system to do it.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Stephen Clarke for one of the most unconventional conversations the show has ever had. We did not talk about technology or localization. We talked about something much harder.How... Continue Reading →
The Localization Industry Is Being Forced to Grow Up: Allison Ferch on 2025, AI, and What Comes Next | Localization Fireside Chat with Allison Ferch
The localization industry has entered its most uncomfortable phase. That is usually when real change begins.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Allison Ferch to take a hard look at where the language industry stands in 2025 and why the next few years will separate companies that evolve from those that... Continue Reading →
82% of Managers Didn’t Choose Leadership: Ben Perreau on Accidental Managers, Feedback Loops, and Building Leaders Faster | Localization Fireside Chat with Ben Perreau
Most leadership failure is not a character problem. It’s a training problem.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Ben Perreau to talk about what is quietly becoming one of the biggest organizational risks in modern business: managers who end up leading by accident.Ben’s path into leadership is unconventional and that is... Continue Reading →
Why the Future Belongs to the Uncomfortable: Nikki Barua on Leadership, AI, and Reinvention | Localization Fireside Chat with Nikki Barua
Most people want certainty. Leaders learn to operate without it.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Nikki Barua for a conversation that cuts through the noise around AI, leadership, and innovation and goes straight to the core of what it actually takes to build something meaningful in a world that refuses... Continue Reading →
Why Freelance Translators Are Being Undervalued in the Age of AI: Sophie Ouellet Tells the Truth | Localization Fireside Chat with Sophie Ouellet
The biggest lie in the AI era is that cheaper translation means better communication.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Sophie Ouellet for one of the most honest conversations we have had about what is actually happening to freelance translators as artificial intelligence reshapes the industry.Sophie is not just a freelancer.... Continue Reading →
When Uncertainty Becomes Your Advantage: Hanna Bauer on Leadership, Heart, and Resilience | Localization Fireside Chat with Hanna Bauer, Founder of Heartonomics
Most people spend their lives trying to avoid uncertainty.Hanna Bauer learned how to lead inside it. In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Hanna Bauer for one of the most human conversations we have had on the show. Her story is not about business models or technology. It is about what... Continue Reading →
Why the Most Ambitious Founders Are Literally Wired Differently: Marcus Gaughan on Building Minds on Fire | Localization Fireside Chat with Marcus Gaughan, Founder of Minds on Fire
Every meaningful startup begins the same way. Someone sees a problem others walk past and decides it is worth solving.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Marcus Gaughan, Founder of Minds on Fire, to unpack one of the most unconventional entrepreneurial journeys we have had on the show.Marcus did not follow... Continue Reading →
When Localization Becomes a Tech Company: Anna Albinsson on AI, SaaS, and the Future of Language | Localization Fireside Chat with Anna Albinsson, CEO of Gridley
The localization industry is no longer a service business. It is becoming a software business with human expertise at its core.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Anna Albinsson, CEO of Gridley, to explore what happens when SaaS thinking collides with the realities of language, culture, and translation.Anna’s background is not... Continue Reading →
From AI Hype to Real Value: Bruno Herrmann on the Future of Language Management
The language industry has spent the last decade chasing technology. Now it has to prove it can create value.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Bruno Herrmann for one of the most grounded conversations we have had about where localization is actually going. Not where vendors want it to go. Not... Continue Reading →
Why Most E-commerce ERPs Are Failing and How Harish Chandramowli Is Rebuilding the Stack
Every fast-growing e-commerce company eventually hits the same wall. Their ERP stops serving the business and starts slowing it down.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Harish Chandramowli, Head of AI at Good Day Software, to unpack why the ERP layer has become one of the biggest hidden bottlenecks in modern... Continue Reading →
When Leaders Decode Global Trust: Mauricio Ospina on Culture, Data, and Scaling Localization
In the critical evolution of global digital experience, most companies get one thing fundamentally wrong. They treat localization as translation at the edges of product delivery rather than a core driver of trust, engagement, and global growth.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Mauricio Ospina, a leader who has built and... Continue Reading →
When Language Becomes Life or Death: Dr. Nelva Lee on Medical Interpreting, Leadership, and the AI Reckoning
You do not need more healthcare technology. You need better understanding.In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Dr. Nelva Lee, one of the most influential figures in medical interpretation in North America. Her career spans healthcare administration, professional certification, federal compliance, and now the front lines of how AI is being... Continue Reading →
Your Voice Knows You Are Sick Before You Do: AI, Vocal Biomarkers, and the Future of Medicine
IntroductionWhat if your voice could tell you that you were getting sick before you ever felt a symptom?In this episode of Localization Fireside Chat, I sit down with Henry O’Connell, CEO of Canary Speech, a pioneering health technology company using artificial intelligence to detect disease through vocal biomarkers. What Henry and his team have built... Continue Reading →
How to Stop AI from Flattening Culture and Meaning
https://youtu.be/h_6i3qM5HtQ Introduction In Episode 125 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sit down with Pascale Tremblay, Executive Consultant focused on AI plus human language frameworks and operationalization. Our question is simple. How do we scale with AI without flattening culture or meaning? Pascale brings a clear message for leaders who care about quality and trust.... Continue Reading →
Pay for Thinking, Not Typing, Viveta Gene, PhD on Building Quality with Humans and AI
Introduction Viveta Gene, PhD is Head of Global Localization Solutions at Intertranslations and a researcher focused on human-in-the-loop, machine translation, and AI. In our conversation, she explains why quality in localization improves when teams measure and reward cognitive work, not just keystrokes, and how buyers can scope and pay for value instead of velocity. We... Continue Reading →
Sales That Last, Stress That Drops, Dr. Deepak Bhootra on Emotional Fluency, Coaching the Middle, and AI that Augments
IntroductionDr. Deepak Bhootra is a Sandler trainer, sales strategist, and bestselling author who helps B2B sellers and leaders build durable performance without burnout. In our conversation, he explains how emotional fluency changes discovery, why managers must coach the middle of the team, and how AI can accelerate results without replacing the human edge. He also... Continue Reading →
Language Access Failure: The Tragic Cost of Miscommunication A Conversation with Silvia Xalabarde (Episode 120)
https://youtu.be/a1HQLmKBoqY Language Access Failure: The Tragic Cost of Miscommunication Featuring Silvia Xalabarde, President of STIBCHosted by Robin Ayoub | Localization Fireside Chat – Episode 120 “What if a few words, spoken or understood, could literally save a life?” That question set the tone for one of the most powerful and sobering conversations I’ve ever hosted... Continue Reading →
The Video That Sells Trust: Tim Bradley on Strategy Over Vanity
In today’s world of digital noise and algorithmic attention spans, it’s easy for brands to believe that success is measured in clicks and views. But as Tim Bradley, Co-Founder of Pennant Video, explains in this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, views don’t always translate into value. I had the pleasure of recording this episode... Continue Reading →
Beyond Resumes: EA Clarke on Reinventing Hiring Through Storytelling and Values
Introduction Recruitment is broken. That’s the message from EA Clarke, Founder of Pivot + Edge and a leader with decades of experience in both scaling startups and building employer brands. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with EA to unpack why traditional hiring practices—endless resumes, keyword filters, and generic job... Continue Reading →
From Startup to $100M Exit: Lessons from Neil Twa on Almost-Automated Income
Introduction Scaling a business from scratch to more than $100 million in exits is an achievement few entrepreneurs can claim. For Neil Twa, that journey has been shaped by discipline, data, mentorship, and a relentless focus on building systems that work. https://youtu.be/beVs-ZK5mnc In Episode 117 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the opportunity to... Continue Reading →
Responsible AI at Enterprise Scale: Phillip Swan on Trust, Compliance, and Solving “Migraine-Level” Problems
Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic vision — it is here, shaping industries, changing workflows, and driving massive business transformations. But when it comes to highly regulated sectors such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and financial services, adopting AI responsibly requires more than enthusiasm. It demands trust, compliance, and a methodical approach. In Episode... Continue Reading →
AI Ready, Upskill Now, CLIA Leaders on Reclaim 3.0 and the Future of Language Services
https://youtu.be/SxpOolwmpek The language industry is at a turning point. Clients expect speed, quality, and smart use of AI. Teams want clarity and skills that actually help them do the work. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I speak with Peter Medahian, President of the Canadian Language Industry Association, and Kim Pines, CLIA Treasurer,... Continue Reading →
Say Yes, Take Action, Get Results with Kristin Gutierrez
Introduction In Episode 114 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sit down with Kristin Gutierrez, entrepreneur, high ticket coach, international keynote speaker, and two-time bestselling author of Say Yes and Figure It Out. Kristin returns to the show to share the mindset and methods behind moving faster with more confidence, without sacrificing quality or values.... Continue Reading →
Inside the 2025 Language Market: A Fireside Chat with Don DePalma
What happens when you bring together two voices that have lived and breathed the evolution of the localization industry? You get Episode 113 of the Localization Fireside Chat – a conversation between Robin Ayoub and Don DePalma that is anything but ordinary.Don, the founder of CSA Research and a pillar in market analysis for the... Continue Reading →
Inside the AI Human Partnership Changing Real Time Interpretation
What if the future of language interpretation isn’t about choosing between humans and AI, but syncing them? In an industry racing to automate everything, a fresh approach is gaining traction: augmenting, not replacing. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with the executive teams from Language Service Associates (LSA) and Lingolet... Continue Reading →
🔍 AI, Quality, and the Future of Localization: A Conversation with Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling
In a rapidly evolving landscape where machine learning, neural networks, and large language models are redefining the localization process, it’s rare to hear a voice that blends deep technical understanding with strategic clarity. That’s exactly what Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling, brings to the table. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin... Continue Reading →
Why Canada’s Interpreting System Is Failing — And What Needs to Change
Introduction:What happens when language rights are guaranteed by law but access fails in practice? In Episode 109 of the Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub brings together five leading voices from across Canada to explore the state of medical and community interpretation. The guests—Angela Sasso (Interpreter’s Lab), Silvia Xalabarde (STIBC), Kiran Malli (Vancouver Coastal Health), Allana... Continue Reading →
🧠 Inside the Mind of a CEO Coach: Are You Scaling-up the business or Just Playing Dress-Up?
In the high-stakes world of leadership, there’s a fine line between scaling a business and simply looking the part. In this eye-opening episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub sits down with Mario Krivokapic-Managing Partner EMEA at Masterful Coaching-to explore the uncomfortable truth behind performative leadership and what it really takes to drive growth.... Continue Reading →
How Awtomated Is Quietly Disrupting Localization Workflows
Introduction:Is it finally time to retire your localization spreadsheets? If you’ve ever juggled translation vendors, PM tasks, and automation hacks, you’ll want to meet the minds behind Awtomated. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, we sat down with Rishi Anand (Founder & CEO) and Holesh Priyankar (Chief Product Officer) to explore how their... Continue Reading →
🧩 Is a Piece of Slator Is Up for Grabs? And AcudocX Is Changing the Game
What happens when a media pioneer steps back from one success and dives headfirst into another? In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Andrew Smart, Co-Founder of Slator (www.slator.com) and Strategic Partner at AcudocX (https://acudocx.com.au/) for a raw, revealing look at the present and future of localization. From selling his... Continue Reading →
Vamos Juntos 2025: How Latin America Is Redefining Localization’s Future
Introduction In Episode 105 of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin Ayoub sat down with Charles Campbell, CEO of TBO and co-founder of Juntos, for an eye-opening conversation about Vamos Juntos 2025—a landmark summit held in Mexico City that brought together 140 localization leaders from over 25 countries.The discussion unpacked why this event was a... Continue Reading →
Stop Believing the AI Hype: Dr. Sidney Shapiro Unpacks What AI Really Can (and Can’t) Do
Dr Sidney Shapiro, Assistant Professor at Dhillon School of Business, University of Lethbridge AB Introduction In this insightful episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down with Dr. Sidney Shapiro, Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at the University of Lethbridge and long-time contributor to Canada’s tech education landscape. With deep experience bridging academia and... Continue Reading →
Christine Blanchette: Canada’s Marathoner-Turned-Media Trailblazer
What if losing your job was the best thing that ever happened to you? For Christine Blanchette, it wasn’t just a setback—it was the spark. What followed was a journey of transformation that began with a pair of running shoes and evolved into a nationally broadcast TV show, multiple speaking engagements, and a platform that... Continue Reading →
Lionbridge Language AI Unleashed: Transforming Localization with Vincent Henderson
In the latest episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the privilege of speaking with Vincent Henderson, Vice President of Language AI Strategy at Lionbridge, one of the leading global companies in localization and AI-driven language solutions. Our conversation focused on how Lionbridge is leveraging AI to revolutionize localization processes, transforming efficiency, quality, and... Continue Reading →
The Hidden Cost of Dirty Data: How AI is Transforming Data Scrubbing
In today's data-driven business environment, data accuracy is no longer optional; it is essential. Organizations depend on clean, structured data for decision-making, automation, and AI implementation. However, dirty data—characterized by duplicates, missing values, and inconsistencies—costs businesses millions in lost revenue, inefficiencies, and poor decision-making. In Episode 101 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I sat down... Continue Reading →
How is Multilingualism Transforming Global Citizenship?
In this landmark 100th episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin Ayoub welcomed two passionate language advocates, Kit Hall (Director at Language Connects Foundation, ACTFL) and Erisa Hysi (CEO & language advocate), to dive deep into the transformative role of multilingualism in global citizenship, cultural understanding, and international diplomacy. ▶️ Watch Episode 100 Here!... Continue Reading →
Meet Terminotix: Modular CAT Tool Solution, AI & Trasnaltion tech-What’s Next?
The AI Revolution in Translation: A Tipping Point? Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic vision for the translation industry; it is a present-day reality, shaping workflows, efficiency, and expectations. But where is it leading us? In Episode 99 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jean-François Richard, CEO... Continue Reading →
Navigating International Business: Tariffs, Risks & Market Expansion
A Conversation with Adil Husain, CEO of Emerging Strategy The global business landscape is shifting faster than ever. With tariffs, regulations, and AI reshaping how companies expand internationally, businesses need reliable insights to navigate uncertainty. In the latest episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin Ayoub (LinkedIn) sat down with Adil Husain, CEO of... Continue Reading →
2025 Localization Industry M&A Landscape: Key Trends and Projections
Yesterday I commented on a LinkedIn Post by Konstantin Dranch who was a guest on the Localization Fireside Chat: by saying the following: Why are localization companies scrambling for an exit or so it seems? Because AI kicked down the door, investors smelled the fire sale, and now it’s a race between cashing out, getting... Continue Reading →
Work Smarter, Not Harder: AI & CAT Tools for Translators!
Introduction The translation industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and AI-powered CAT tools are at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the pleasure of speaking with Philippe Mercier, CEO of WordScope, about how AI and automation are helping translators boost productivity, maintain high-quality standards, and... Continue Reading →
Skip the Pitch Deck: Ride the AI Wave and Monetize Your Business Idea Fast
David Hirschfeld Introduction In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub sits down with David Hirschfeld, a seasoned software development veteran and CEO of TEKYZ. With over 35 years in the tech industry, David shares his expertise on startups, AI-driven workflow transformation, and his unique Launch 1st Method. The conversation dives into actionable... Continue Reading →
Client Perspectives on Localization: Insights from Bold.com and Nielsen
Here is a summary discussion from our LFC episode 95 recording Localization is a rapidly evolving field, and understanding the client's perspective is essential for its future. In this compelling interview, Robin Ayoub hosts Cintia Kanowitz, Globalization Manager at Bold.com, and Bruno Herrmann, a seasoned globalization expert and former client-side leader at Nielsen. Together, they... Continue Reading →
Why MemoQ Is Outselling Trados in Key Markets! conversation with CRO Mugais Jahangir
In today’s fast-evolving SaaS landscape, staying ahead demands more than just innovative tools—it requires strategic partnerships, consultative selling, and adaptability to regional and industry-specific needs. To explore these critical topics, I had the privilege of speaking with Mugais Jahangir, Chief Revenue Officer at MemoQ, a leading player in the translation management software market. With over... Continue Reading →
Localization Metamorphosis: What Will We Call It Next?
Welcome to LFC Episode #92 a conversation with my guest Allison Ferch, Executive director of GALA In the ever-evolving landscape of globalization, localization has long served as the bridge between content and audiences across the world. However, as technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI), reshapes the industry, one question looms large: How long will we continue... Continue Reading →
How PhoneLive Is Transforming Church Broadcasting Using Phone Lines
An Inspiring Father-Son Story and the Role of Multilingual Communication in Faith-Based Communities In the latest Localization Fireside Chat episode 91, I had the pleasure of speaking with David and Hugh Plappert, the father-son duo behind PhoneLive, a groundbreaking company delivering church broadcasts to congregations using phone lines—yes, phone lines! At a time when AI,... Continue Reading →
Tariffs, Tech and Trade Wars: Is AI Canada’s Last Hope? A conversation with Atif Malik founder of Canadian AI Startup: Zarori
Transcript of Episode 90: Robin Ayoub:Good morning, everyone! This is Robin Ayoub with the Localization Fireside Chat. Today, we’re coming to you from the snowy Halifax region in Canada, where I’m traveling for business. Despite the winter storm, I couldn’t be more excited to record Episode 90 with a very special guest: Atif Malik, founder... Continue Reading →
From Saudi Coffee to Mexico’s Day of the Dead: Conferences and Cultures
Localization Fireside Chat - Episode 89 Introduction: Welcome to Episode 89 of the Localization Fireside Chat! In this episode, Robin Ayoub engages in a lively discussion with Charles Campbell, President of http://www.Tbo.group, and an influential figure in the globalization and localization industry. Their conversation spans a variety of topics, including Charles’ international travels, the Riyadh... Continue Reading →
Crushing Goals with the 100-Mile Mindset: Lessons from Jason Yarusi on the Localization Fireside Chat
In Episode 88 of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jason Yarusi, an ultra-runner, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, to discuss overcoming challenges and achieving greatness in both personal and professional life. Jason’s incredible journey—from a life-changing accident to running ultra-marathons and building a thriving business—offers valuable lessons for anyone... Continue Reading →
Celebrating 90 Years of the Translation Bureau: Reflections, Innovations, and a Bright Future
This year marks a monumental milestone for the Canadian Translation Bureau, as the institution celebrates 90 years of service to the nation. Established in 1934, the Translation Bureau has become a cornerstone of Canada’s language industry, providing vital translation, interpretation, and terminology services to ensure that government communication is accessible in both of Canada’s official... Continue Reading →
The Future of Localization in the Age of AI: Insights from Kajetan Malinowski
The intersection of AI and localization is becoming increasingly important in a rapidly evolving global economy. In Episode 86 of the Localization Fireside Chat podcast, host Robin Ayoub sat down with Kajetan Malinowski, a veteran of the localization industry and founder of consulting firm biangle. digital. With 17 years of experience at Lionbridge under his... Continue Reading →
Exploring the Future of Localization and Leadership with Eddie Arrieta, CEO of Multilingual Media
Eddie Arrieta - CEO, Multilingual Media In the latest episode (#84) of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Eddie Arrieta, the CEO of Multilingual Media, for a deep dive into the evolution of the localization industry, leadership in a changing world, and the impact of emerging technologies like... Continue Reading →
From the Ashes of Beirut to the Boardroom: Robin Ayoub’s Inspiring Journey of Resilience | Knack for Business
When you think of resilience, determination, and success in the business world, one name that comes to mind is Robin Ayoub. From a challenging upbringing in war-torn Beirut to becoming a prominent leader in the global language industry, Robin’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. In this special role-reversal interview... Continue Reading →
Multilingual Content Creation: Insights from VeraContent’s CEO Shaheen Samavati | Episode #83
Multilingual content creation has become a critical part of any international marketing strategy in a world where businesses are expanding across borders and audiences are becoming increasingly global. As companies seek to connect with diverse audiences, the demand for high-quality, localized content has skyrocketed. But producing content that resonates across languages and cultures is no... Continue Reading →
Beyond Textbooks: How Ibtissam Attieh is Transforming Arabic Language Education
When we think about learning a new language, we often picture traditional classrooms, textbooks, and repetitive grammar exercises. But what if there were a more engaging, hands-on way to learn? One that uses arts, culture, and interactive experiences to make the process fun and memorable? That’s exactly what Ibtissam Attieh is doing with her innovative... Continue Reading →
Celebrating 25 Years of Empowering Freelancers: A Conversation with Henry Dotterer, Founder of ProZ.com
http://www.proz.com As the Localization Fireside Chat Podcast reaches its 80th episode, it was a special honor to sit down with Henry Dotterer, the visionary founder of http://www.ProZ.com, to celebrate the platform's 25th anniversary. ProZ.com, which began as a simple idea in the late 1990s, has evolved into a cornerstone of the language industry, connecting freelance... Continue Reading →
Introducing Peter Madahian: The New President of CLIA (Canadian Language Industry Association)
Peter Madahian President, CLIA/ GM, Exacta.ca Introduction:In a recent episode of my Localization Fireside Chat, I had the privilege of interviewing Peter Madahian, the newly elected President of the Canadian Language Industry Association (CLIA). Peter is someone I’ve worked closely with over the years, and I’ve always admired his deep commitment to the language industry.... Continue Reading →
Unsupervised AI Translation Tools Racist by Design: Convenience at the Cost of Cultural Racism & Erasure
In the digital age, the allure of free, unsupervised AI translation tools is undeniable. These tools offer instant, effortless translation, seemingly the perfect solution for individuals and businesses seeking to communicate across languages. But as convenient as they may be, these tools are deeply flawed—and, at their core, they risk perpetuating racism and cultural erasure... Continue Reading →
The Vital Role of Medical Interpreters: Insights from Industry Experts
Introduction: In a recent episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, industry leaders gathered to discuss the critical role of medical interpretation in healthcare. The conversation, featuring Natalia Mytareva from the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI), Jinny Bromberg from Bromberg & Associates, Erisa Hysi from Linguist Survey, and Mila Golovine from Master Word, delved into... Continue Reading →
The State of Machine Translation for 2024: A Fireside Chat with Konstantin Savenkov
Introduction: In a recent fireside chat, Robin Ayoub, host of the Localization Fireside Chat, sat down with Konstantin Savenkov, CEO of Intento, to discuss the state of machine translation for 2024. The conversation revolved around the findings of a report published by Intento and e2f, shedding light on the current landscape of machine translation and... Continue Reading →
Curious About Arabic Education? Discover Carla El Khoury’s Unique Journey at the University of Oslo!
Introduction:In episode 76 of the Localization Fireside Chat, host Robin Ayub engages in a fascinating conversation with Carla El Khoury, a lecturer and coordinator of the Arabic program at the University of Oslo. The discussion revolves around Arabic education in the Western world, the challenges of teaching Arabic, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in... Continue Reading →
Unveiling Lionbridge Aurora AI (TM): Revolutionizing Localization with Lionbridge CTO Marcus Casal
Marcus Casal In the ever-evolving landscape of localization and translation technology, Lionbridge has made a significant stride with the introduction of Aurora AI. Recently, I had the privilege of hosting Marcus Casal, Chief Technology Officer of Lionbridge, on the Localization Fireside Chat, where we delved into the details of this groundbreaking software. Here’s a summary... Continue Reading →
Discovering the World of OTTIAQ: A Chat with Betty Cohen
Betty Cohen Hey everyone, I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Betty Cohen, the President of OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec), for Episode 74 of the Localization Fireside Chat. We had an incredible conversation about the language industry in Canada, and I wanted to share some highlights with... Continue Reading →
Democratizing Translation: AI’s Role in the Evolving Localization Landscape and Its Human Impact
Welcome to Episode #73 of the Localization Fireside Chat! In this insightful episode, we delve into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the localization industry. Moderated by Robin Ayoub, this discussion features two distinguished guests: Bruno Herrmann, an AI Deployment Strategic Expert, and Paula McGrath, the owner of International Achievers. Understanding AI's Role... Continue Reading →
Empowering Arabic Culture Through Localization: An Interview with Dareen MuKhaimer, CEO of e-Arabization
In the latest episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Dareen MuKhaimer, the dynamic CEO of e-Arabization. Dareen's journey in the localization industry is as inspiring as it is insightful. From her early days as a junior translator to leading one of the most influential localization companies in the... Continue Reading →
From Jingles to Movies: The Evolution of Brazil’s Premier Dubbing Studio
Welcome to Episode #71 of the Localization Fireside Chat Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jose Gustavo Souza, CEO of the Dubbing Company, and Renato Somera, Head of Business Development. This blog post delves into their incredible journey and the fascinating world of dubbing and localization. The Journey Begins: From... Continue Reading →
Life-Saving Conversation: The Importance of Medical Interpretation – Welcome to episode #70
In Episode 70 of the Localization Fireside Chat, titled "Life-Saving Conversation: The Importance of Medical Interpretation," we delved into the critical and life-saving service of medical interpretation. Hosted by Robin Ayoub, this episode featured a distinguished panel of professionals: Ludmila (Mila) Golovine, CEO of Masterword and founder of Safe AI; Erisa Hysi, co-founder of Linga... Continue Reading →
Navigating the Changing Landscape of the Localization Industry
Diego Cresceri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-cresceri/ Introduction The localization industry is undergoing a significant transformation due to technological advancements and evolving market demands. In a recent fireside chat, Robin Ayoub and Diego Cresceri discussed the current state of the industry and shared their insights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This blog post aims to summarize... Continue Reading →
Surviving Cancer Six Times: Tova Gaisin on Empathy and Resilience
Embracing Change and Cultivating Positivity Introduction In a world that is constantly evolving, it is essential to adapt and embrace change. This sentiment holds true not only in our personal lives but also in the business world. In a recent fireside chat, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tova Gaisin, a professional speaker and... Continue Reading →