Globally Speaking

Avsnitt

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  Cultural Intelligence Series - The language specialist’s role is evolving, and enterprise AI depends on it 09.09.2026

  For years, the localization industry has told a story about speed, cost and quality. But as AI transforms how content is created and translated, that narrative and those metrics alone are no longer enough to define the value of language expertise. In our latest Cultural Intelligence Podcast episode, Maria Schnell, Chief Language Officer at RWS, explores why this moment is unlike any other in the history of language expertise. While many see AI as a replacement for translation, Maria argues that this view fundamentally misunderstands what language professionals actually do. Translation isn't the exchange of words. It's the transfer of meaning, intent, and context from one audience to another. The real value of language expertise lies in understanding culture, nuance, and human communication; capabilities that become even more important as AI becomes more powerful. This episode challenges the industry's long-standing narrative and asks a more fundamental question: what is the true value of language expertise in an AI-driven world? And as AI takes on more of the execution, how can human expertise evolve to guide the systems that increasingly shape global communication?
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  Cultural Intelligence Series - When cultural risk becomes legal risk: IP, compliance and the limits of AI 01.09.2026

  In IP, getting the language wrong isn't a quality issue but a legal one. James Lacey, CEO of Protect at RWS, joins our latest Cultural Intelligence Podcast episode to talk about something that rarely makes it into conversations about IP strategy: context. Not just the legal context of a jurisdiction, but the full lifecycle context of a portfolio; where every decision, every filing, every ownership update is connected to what came before and what comes next. A Chief IP Counsel James met in Taiwan put it simply: IP is too often seen as a cost centre managing legal rights. The shift is towards treating it as a value centre managing strategic assets. That reframe changes everything, including how you think about where AI fits in. The human in the loop isn't a safety net. It's the whole architecture.
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  Cultural Intelligence Series - Why great products get lost in global markets 12.08.2026

  Building a story that lands in one market is hard enough. Getting it to work everywhere, simultaneously, is where most global launches fall apart. Erin Roesch, Global Product Marketing Manager, joins the Cultural Intelligence Podcast to talk about what it takes to go global and why the biggest mistake teams are making right now has nothing to do with budget or bandwidth. It's about the story. As a "Builder PMM" who turns complex capabilities into clear positioning, Erin knows that business needs rarely change across markets. What changes is the trigger; the legislation, the culture, the pressure a customer is feeling. And if your story doesn't reflect that, you're not just missing an opportunity. You could be pushing people away without realizing it. Erin brings this to life through her own experience as an American living in the UK, a near-miss campaign launch in Germany, and why one country rarely equals one version. Her closing definition of Cultural Intelligence is worth the listen alone.
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  Cultural Intelligence Series - The CMO view: marketing in a world where AI changes everything 15.07.2026

  AI has handed marketers speed and scale they've never had before. But is this really a differentiator when everyone has access to the same models? Emma Fisher, VP of Marketing at RWS, and Sal Mohammed, Head of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) at LangSync and former Googler, join our latest Cultural Intelligence podcast episode to explore what modern marketing looks like in the age of AI – and why the best campaigns have very little to do with how fast you can generate content. From "we're all on a rocket ship with no way to get off" to the CMO's evolving role as orchestrator, warrior, and tastemaker (curious yet?), just make sure you buckle up. Emma and Sal dig into the rise of AEO, what it means for brand visibility as search shifts to generative AI, and how Cultural Intelligence shapes whether your content gets surfaced… or ignored. You'll also learn why relevance, resonance and trust are the only valid metrics when everyone is publishing at the same speed, and why too many content leaders are still measuring success against the wrong scorecard. If you’re interested in learning more about the ‘Content Unlocked’ report, you can find it here: [https://www.rws.com/about/content-unlocked/lp/ ](https://www.rws.com/about/content-unlocked/lp/)
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  More than words: inside the world of localization testing 09.07.2026

  In this Globally Speaking episode, we sit down with Anne Lepere and Francesca Filanti, Senior Managers in Testing at RWS, to explore what it really takes to make global products feel native, no matter where in the world they're used. Key topics covered: * Why localization testing is so much more than translation, but rather where linguistics meets engineering * The hidden technical work behind the scenes: ADB commands, debug flags, and device setups most linguists never see * Why testing functionality and language together, not separately, saves clients time, money, and headaches AI's growing role in localization and why human testers remain the final gatekeepers * What it takes to scale testing across 300+ native testers, 4,000 devices, and dozens of languages under brutal deadlines Whether you're building global products or just curious about what happens after "translate" is clicked, this episode will change how you think about the apps and devices you use every day. Download the case study to learn more: [https://www.rws.com/localization/eig/rws-enables-high-volume-localization-testing-for-a-global-tech-company/ ](https://www.rws.com/localization/eig/rws-enables-high-volume-localization-testing-for-a-global-tech-company/)
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  Cultural Intelligence Series – The new rules of global success 22.06.2026

  "Some brands are really proud - they have thousands and thousands of pages in hundreds of languages. But nobody reads them. Gone are the days when you were translating for the sake of it.” Ben Faes, CEO of RWS, joins the Cultural Intelligence Podcast for a conversation on what’s reshaping global brand strategy - and why Cultural Intelligence is now fundamental to succeed. In this episode: * Why one message no longer works everywhere - and why “American cachet” no longer carries the weight it once did * How leading global brands stay recognizable without sounding the same everywhere - and why translation alone leaves value on the table * Why automating everything is the fastest route to creating content nobody reads - and how AI is changing expectations around quality and relevance This episode explores AI volume versus AI value, meaning at scale, and meeting audiences where they are.
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  Cultural Intelligence Series – AI in life sciences - the green zone, the red zone and what comes next 04.06.2026

  How do you introduce AI into one of the world’s most regulated industries? Dan Herron, Global VP of Digital Health at RWS, joins the Cultural Intelligence Podcast to discuss how life sciences teams can responsibly apply AI in clinical operations, COAs, and linguistic validation: * Why life sciences is uniquely complex for AI adoption, and why regulation, bias, and documentation matter so much * How AI can support faster workflows in low risk areas (green zones), while a human in the loop remains essential for patient facing and regulated content (red zones) * Why the future of linguistic validation is about responsible modernization, not automation for its own sake A conversation on AI with guardrails, the human in the loop imperative, and why the industry can’t afford to wait for someone else to go first.
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  Is your digital communication truly accessible to everyone? 21.05.2026

  In this Globally Speaking episode, we sit down with Lisa Riemers and Matisse Hamel-Nelis, authors of "Accessible Communications", to explore how to move beyond checkbox compliance and build communication that genuinely works for all. Key topics covered: * Why accessibility shouldn’t be just a legal requirement * The "digital curb cut effect": how accessibility features benefit everyone * Common myths (no, accessible content doesn't have to be boring!) * AI as a double-edged sword for accessibility * Simple habits you can start today Whether you're a communications pro or just getting started, this episode will change how you think about the content you create. Find Lisa and Matisse's book "Accessible Communications" here: https://www.koganpage.com/marketing-communications/accessible-communications-9781398621848 It’s also available on Amazon and wherever you buy your books!
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  Cultural Intelligence Series - What it takes to make enterprise AI work in the real world 16.04.2026

  When AI POCs shine in isolation… but struggle at enterprise scale. Host Marine Esquenet welcomes Matt Hardy to explore why AI prototypes dazzle in demos yet struggle in production, and how cultural intelligence can bridge that gap. Matt unpacks real challenges: * Why AI POCs look flawless alone but break under production pressures * What separates "working demos" from trusted, adopted enterprise systems * How context, culture, and edge cases redefine "good" across markets Don't miss Matt's practical playbook for scaling AI across markets, functions, and those tricky edge cases. A must for any enterprise leader!
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  Cultural Intelligence Series - When AI goes global: Culture, trust and the limits of scale 20.03.2026

  In this first episode of The Cultural Intelligence Series, host Marine Esquenet sits down with Marina Pantcheva to explore what happens when global growth moves faster than our ability to manage meaning, context and trust. Marina helps us unpack: - Why culture remains one of the hardest variables for global leaders to master but also the easiest to underestimate - The real-world risks of one-size-fits-all communication across markets - What leaders must rethink to ensure their global strategies truly resonate across cultures 💡 Don’t miss Marina’s recipe for cultural confidence, blending curiosity, empathy and local insight into every decision. A powerful start to our series on Cultural Intelligence.
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  Can AI help bring underrepresented languages onto the global map? 05.03.2026

  This International Women's Day, three amazing women working with AI, language, and culture in RWS offices around the world reveal how human expertise is what makes AI truly work for authentic global connections. On this occasion, Francesca Farrell (Strategic Account Director at RWS & in charge of the Women's ERG pillar at RWS) hosts Joana Alarcão (European Portuguese Language Manager based in Porto), Joy Ngaphu (Senior Associate Language Specialist for African languages), & Jen Jooste (Talent Manager based in Cape Town). Together, they share powerful insights on: • How AI can put less-spread languages on the global map • Adapting communication styles based on context/age • Why governments are racing to catch up with tech • Why local-feeling apps often win in local markets P.S. Joy's greeting rituals in Xhosa blew our minds! Don't miss this part! Happy International Women's Day! 👩‍💻 👩‍💻 👩‍💻
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  Is studio-free dubbing really around the corner? 26.02.2026

  Is studio-free dubbing really around the corner? AI voices are improving fast. But can they truly replace actors – and should they? In our latest Globally Speaking Podcast episode, Michael Wayne (Head of Media & Entertainment at RWS) and Justin Beaudin (Founder & CEO of Adapt) come together to separate what’s possible from what’s pure hype. They unpack: * Where synthetic voices really work * Where they still fail * And what it’ll take to realistically rival traditional dubbing Hear why “one-click magic” isn’t real, and get some insights on how to create dubs that scale fast, stay true to your brand and actually sound right. If you’re weighing up AI vs human dubbing, or figuring out how to combine both in real workflows, this episode is for you. P.S. Don’t miss Justin’s brilliant “layer cake” breakdown of the AI stack – plus the quick-fire round where both guests tackle the tough questions.
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  Ahead of the AI game: IP perspectives on adoption, barriers & Human-AI balance 17.12.2025

  Did you know 92% of IP professionals plan to try AI, yet 79% cite accuracy as a top barrier? Generative AI is reshaping the IP world, but are today’s tools truly delivering? In this new episode of the Globally Speaking podcast, we dive into the findings of RWS’s “Ahead of the Game” survey, unpacking how IP professionals are using AI today, where it falls short, and what needs to change. RWS CEO of Protect, James Lacey, sits down with RWS Protect Head of Innovation, Anthony Brennand, to explore how the IP industry, which has been externally characterised as conservative, is rapidly adopting AI while remaining risk averse. They discuss IP team expectations, the essential role of human expertise, and some key data-backed insights: * 92% of respondents intend to try AI solutions, with 55% already testing multiple tools * IP teams anticipate 20–30% of workflows fully automated by AI, 40–60% enhanced, and 20–30% remaining human-led * Top barriers: accuracy/reliability (79%) and security/data protection (62%) * High satisfaction with IP translation tools; low marks for patent drafting solutions Get your free copy of the “Ahead of the Game” IP survey report: https://www.rws.com/intellectual-property-solutions/resources/why-its-time-for-ip-to-think-bigger-with-ai/
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  Discover how AI is rewriting localization with the Translation Technology Insights 2025 report 17.11.2025

  Ready to glimpse the future of translation technology? The revolution is happening now! And we condensed all the insights in the new Translation Technology Insights 2025 report! AI, shifting market dynamics and rapid tech adoption are transforming localization. Dive into the latest episode of the Globally Speaking podcast to discover how these changes impact teams, workflows, and industry leaders worldwide. Join RWS Senior Product Marketing Manager Nicole Loney as she explores fresh trends, real challenges, and game-changing opportunities. Whether you’re leading a localization team or shaping strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights: * How AI and automation are reinventing workflows * Innovative ways to tackle budget pressures * The changing roles of LSPs and corporate teams * How to build trust in AI-powered localization Don’t miss practical tips to adapt and thrive in a fast-evolving industry. Grab your free copy of the TTI report: [https://www.rws.com/about/translation-technology-insights/ ](https://www.rws.com/about/translation-technology-insights/) Dive back into the "Riding the AI shockwave report": [https://www.rws.com/about/riding-the-ai-shockwave/](https://www.rws.com/about/riding-the-ai-shockwave/ "https\://www.rws.com/about/riding-the-ai-shockwave/")
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  Your guide to selecting the right LLM 21.10.2025

  Ever find yourself wondering which AI model works best for different needs, whether it’s planning your next trip or boosting productivity at work? In this episode of the Globally Speaking Podcast, host Çetin Amirak sits down with Tomáš Burkert, Technical Lead, linguist, and AI expert with TrainAI by RWS, to unpack the art and science of choosing the right large language model (LLM). Tomas shares real-life examples, from using Gemini to plan Amsterdam getaways to tapping Claude Sonnet for smarter coding and explains why the secret to AI success lies in continuous benchmarking and clever prompt engineering. Together, they discuss insights from our TrainAI [LLM Synthetic Data Generation Study](https://www.rws.com/artificial-intelligence/train-ai-data-services/llm-synthetic-data-gen-study/), revealing that no single model tops every task or language. Their key advice? The smartest AI strategy starts with knowing your goals, testing with care, and trusting human expertise to ensure quality, context, and business alignment before automation takes over.
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  Real stories: how local nuances bring global brands to life 25.09.2025

  Have you ever considered how differently beauty standards and body ideals are perceived from one country to another? Or how, during the pandemic, brands had to navigate not only cultural nuances but also rapidly changing local regulations? These are just some of our favorite real-world challenges explored in the latest episode of the Globally Speaking Podcast. Our host, Stuart Davison, Creative Director at RWS, sits down with creative colleagues at RWS, Sukhi Jhitta, James Marshall, and Silvia Sánchez Fernandez, to uncover how global brands can craft campaigns that truly connect across cultures. You'll hear how they see AI stepping in as a creative partner, helping to speed things up while keeping human authenticity at the heart of emotionally rich campaigns. Our team will even share some behind-the-scenes stories from their time at Cannes Lions 2025. Their key advice? Harness the power of storytelling and involve local experts early. Doing so is essential not only for building authenticity but also for successfully navigating today's complex global challenges.
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  Beyond words: the rise of voice in a hands-free world 22.07.2025

  We’re excited to unveil our brand-new Globally Speaking identity! Experience it firsthand in our latest episode! This time, our host Matt Hardy sits down with Gil Hetz, VP of AI at aiOla, to explore the rise of voice as the future of human–machine interaction. Why is speech becoming the go-to interface? Because it’s faster, more natural, and simply more practical, especially when your hands are full, whether you’re on a factory floor or in a busy retail space. Gil reveals how aiOla’s technology is breaking barriers on multiple fronts. It seamlessly handles accents, background noise, and real-time processing, making voice interactions smooth and reliable, in any environment. This innovation is already powering real-world scenarios and boosting productivity and safety where it matters most. Whether you’re in tech, operations, or just curious about what's next, this episode is your front-row seat to the voice revolution. Learn more about shaping the future with on-device processing and multilingual models - and building machines that don’t just understand speech but act on it.
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  Keeping it real: Authentic brand storytelling when AI joins the team 13.05.2025

  Ready to rethink creativity in the age of AI? Step into our latest episode of the Globally Speaking Podcast, where host Çetin Amirak welcomes Dirk Simpson, Transcreation Lead at Accenture Song, for a compelling exploration of how artificial intelligence is rewriting the rules of creativity and brand storytelling worldwide. Dirk offers a behind-the-scenes look at how brands connect with people across languages, cultures, and continents. While AI unlocks new levels of personalization, it also raises big questions about authenticity, emotional impact, and cultural sensitivity. Together, Çetin and Dirk dig into the evolving relationship between human creativity and machine intelligence, showing how brands can harness AI’s speed and efficiency without losing the cultural nuance and human touch that make brand stories magical. Drawing on real-world examples, including the reinvention of iconic campaigns like Coca-Cola’s ‘The Holiday Magic is Coming’, they dive into the risks and opportunities for brands navigating this new era. How do you keep stories authentic when algorithms are in the mix? Can AI ever match the emotional spark of a great idea? Tune in for bold insights, fresh perspectives, and actionable advice to help your brand’s stories resonate in a world where creativity and technology go hand in hand.
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  Creative Series: Stories with heart — the art of storytelling 17.04.2025

  In this special Creative Series edition of Globally Speaking, join us as we dive into the art of storytelling with James Murphy, founder and Creative Director of London’s Hocus Pocus animation studio. Explore how James and his team expertly blend visual storytelling with linguistic finesse to craft authentic, culturally sensitive narratives that resonate with global audiences. James shares Hocus Pocus’ commitment to authenticity in projects like the BAFTA-nominated series Ready Eddie GO!, produced for Sky Kids, which features the real voices of autistic and neurodiverse children from around the world. He also offers insights on how to approach translation and adaptation thoughtfully when working with such meaningful content. In this exclusive conversation with our Creative Director, Stuart Davison, James also dives into the evolving role of emerging technologies like AI in storytelling - including his perspective on AI-generated voices and their potential impact on the creative process. Tune in to discover how creativity, cultural empathy, and powerful narratives come together to truly connect with audiences.
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  Women leading the way - Breaking barriers in AI and Tech 07.03.2025

  Happy International Women's Day! In this special Globally Speaking episode, our host Amanda Newton, President of Global Content Services at RWS, sits down with three remarkable leaders in AI and technology: • Pia F. Bresnan, Senior Globalization Manager at Uber • Giselle Tran, Senior Manager, Language Experience & Technology at Sage • Jennifer Vela-Valido, Localization Quality Program & Innovation Manager at Spotify and Chapters Program Director at Women in Localization Together on this special episode, they explore their unique career journeys, the challenges they've overcome, and the triumphs they've celebrated in an industry long dominated by men. Hear their perspectives on how women and gender-diverse individuals can shape the future of AI, advocating for equitable representation, and ensuring technology serves diverse global communities. Gain insights into navigating gender biases, fostering inclusivity, and the importance of curiosity and mentorship. Join us for an inspiring conversation on resilience, leadership, and the power of representation. Be part of the movement to foster a more inclusive and innovative tech industry this International Women’s Day!