I had the opportunity to interpret for The Guardian Football Weekly podcast interview with Gianluigi Buffon — a completely different setting, but just as intense and memorable.
A big thank you again to the team, especially Barry Glendenning and Nicky Bandini, for such a thoughtful and engaging conversation.
What stood out most?
Gigi’s passion.
He could genuinely talk for hours — reflecting on his career, his struggles with mental health, his love for art, and the deeper meaning behind everything he’s experienced on and off the pitch. It’s the kind of conversation that requires full presence, constant focus, and being ready to follow wherever it goes.
Good job I came prepared.
Two large notebooks, a few pens, and a system of symbols that, to many, probably looked like a different language altogether. There was definitely some curiosity in the room about my note-taking – but yes, they were all used… and look here’s proof 😄
What you don’t always see in these moments is how much of interpreting is about anticipation. Listening beyond words, tracking ideas, and being ready for when a speaker like Buffon dives deep, switches pace, or follows a completely new thread.
Especially in a format like a podcast where everything feels more fluid, more conversational, and less structured.
It was a real privilege to support such an open and honest exchange.
Full episode now live on The Guardian Football Weekly, link below 🎧✨