ATC Loc Lessons Podcast

Down-to-earth conversations with industry voices on the trends shaping translation, localisation and the wider language services world.

Welcome to Loc Lessons, the podcast from the Association of Translation Companies hosted by Chair Corinne Saynor Smith and Vice-Chair James Brown, exploring trends and talking shop with voices from across the language services world.

ATC Loc Lessons brings industry insights without the jargon in lively conversations with guests from across the language services industry. From emerging trends to everyday challenges, we dive into the issues shaping localisation, translation and interpreting, always with a friendly, down-to-earth approach.

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Episode 1: Community, credibility & collaboration with Raisa McNab

Community, credibility & collaboration: Kicking off Loc Lessons with ATC CEO Raisa McNab on why the ATC matters now more than ever.

In this very first episode of Loc Lessons, Corinne and James are joined by none other than the ATC’s CEO, Raisa McNab. Together, they reflect on why the ATC matters today, the role it plays in supporting members through industry transformation, and how the association continues to build credibility and open up opportunities for language service companies. From training and hidden member benefits, to collaborations with client-side organisations and the evolving UK Language Industry Report, Raisa shares insights on how the ATC is championing its members in a time of rapid change. They also look ahead to Thrive 2025 in Manchester and even give a sneak peek at the ATC’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations. It’s the perfect episode to kick off the series, setting the stage for candid conversations, practical takeaways, and a closer look at the community driving the UK’s language services sector.

Episode 2: THRIVE Special with Corinne and James

Corinne & James share what’s in store for Thrive 2025 in Manchester: actionable insights, big conversations, and a right proper knees-up party.

In this special episode of Loc Lessons, Corinne and James turn the spotlight on Thrive 2025, the ATC’s upcoming unconference taking place in October in Manchester. They share the story behind Thrive’s fresh, interactive format designed to move beyond traditional conference routines and to deliver actionable takeaways attendees can put to work straight away. From skills for the future of the language services industry, to AI as an opportunity, to the all-important role of marketing, Corinne and James preview the packed programme, headline speakers, and engaging workshops that await. With networking, awards, and peer-to-peer learning at its heart, Thrive 2025 is a must.

Episode 3: UK Market Insights with Gabriel Karandyšovský

Challenges, change & cautious optimism: Researcher Gabriel Karandyšovský on the future of localisation and what’s up in the UK market.

In this episode of Loc Lessons, Corinne and James are joined by researcher, writer, and consultant Gabriel Karandyšovský, the man behind the ATC’s quarterly UK Language Industry Reports. Gabriel shares fresh insights into the state of the UK language services sector, from how companies are navigating AI’s impact on pricing and efficiency, to why UK LSCs remain more resilient and optimistic compared to their European counterparts. The discussion explores client expectations, the challenges of securing new business, and the opportunities for LSCs to stand out by staying proactive, adaptable, and client-focused. With a mix of realism and cautious optimism, Gabriel highlights how the industry can not only survive but thrive in an era of rapid change.

Episode 4: THRIVE 2025 Takeaways

Takeaways from ATC Unconference THRIVE 2025: Corinne and James talk you through what went on – on the stage and behind the scenes 

In October 2025, the ATC community came together at the iconic People’s History Museum in Manchester for ATC THRIVE 2025, a two-day unconference exploring how language service companies can grow through collaboration, technology, and genuine relationships. The theme? Building a sales-first mindset supported by marketing, technology, and teamwork to ensure language service companies are ready for whatever comes next.

Across panels, workshops, discussions, and the first-ever ATC Open Mic session, one message stood out loud and clear: growth happens when we put people and purpose at the heart of our sales strategies. From Bernadette Byrne’s masterclass on building long-term client relationships to Richard Michie’s keynote on marketing strategy delivered with a pinch of Northern charm, via insightful panels and discussions, the sessions offered one clear takeaway: there are no silver bullets; growth is hard work, a shared mindset, and a genuinely human affair.