Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristi Pearson
Hi Kristi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story is a blend of creativity, passion, and unexpected twists! Growing up, I was always involved in something, from dance classes to singing in choir to participating in every aspect of theater on and off the stage. I loved being creative and expressive and was always looking for my next project to tackle.
I started to learn American Sign Language (ASL) as a child as another means of expression, little did I know where it would lead me. When I took ASL as my world language courses in my high school in Northern Virginia, I had no idea that this beautiful language and culture would steal my heart and shape the rest of my life. After high school, I packed up and moved to Tennessee to attend Maryville College, where I graduated in ASL Interpreting and Deaf Studies while staying deeply involved in the theater.
Tennessee became home, largely because of the amazing connections I made within the Deaf and interpreting communities. The last 15 years have given me the opportunities to interpret in a plethora of settings with many diverse and incredible people. I have found that my love of a challenge and desire to be a lifelong learner has led me to work as full-time as an interpreter in higher education. I thrive on the dynamic nature of the work, and it allowed me opportunities to work with interpreting students. Mentoring, and helping to shape new generations of interpreting professionals became a calling. It was then that I decided to go back to receive my master’s degree in ASL Education at UTK, which I am proudly completing in December.
I loved all that I was doing but still wanted more. I wanted a way to blend my love of interpreting with my desire for performance and providing opportunities for new professionals. That is how Visual Noise Interpreting was created. It started with a desire to see those diverse groups I had interpreted for in the past have equal access with no worries of judgment or other roadblocks that may have left these groups feeling underserved in the past. I strive to provide equal access to all in any setting while providing opportunities for those just starting their professional journey.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As I look back on my journey to where I am now, I must acknowledge the largest struggle was finding, accepting, and portraying my authentic self. After 36 years of twists and turns, I’ve learned to accept who I am, but that definitely wasn’t always easy. For many, many, years I fought to make myself smaller so I would be more palatable to those around me. I packed away those quirks that made me uniquely and beautifully me in order to be professional and “successful”, and it worked… for a while. It wasn’t until my 30’s, with the help of my incredible partner, that I was able and willing to take that long-forgotten box and start to unpack what made me, me. That it’s okay to “make some noise” so to speak.
I looked back at the times people were turned off by how bold or outspoken I could be, how many times I was labeled a “bitch” (sorry if you can’t print that) or just “too much”, and the number of times I suffered or made myself uncomfortable to fit in; and I realized I wasn’t willing to sacrifice myself anymore. It has been a bumpy process of unlearning and healing, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I now know that I can thrive by being exactly who I am— a proud, loud, queer woman, neuro-spicy quirks, and all—and that’s where I found my true strength.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Visual Noise Interpreting?
Visual Noise Interpreting is a woman- and queer-owned ASL interpreting service committed to creating accessible, inclusive spaces for ALL. We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, comfortable, and fully immersed in the events that bring them joy. From live performances and rallies to concerts, festivals, and community gatherings, we ensure that Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals experience these moments just as fully as anyone else.
Our mission goes beyond simply providing ASL interpretation—we strive to foster environments where the Deaf community feels genuinely seen, heard, and respected. By partnering with event organizers, performers, and venues, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of each occasion, ensuring seamless communication and engagement for Deaf attendees.
At Visual Noise Interpreting, we take pride in the quality and professionalism of our interpreters, who not only excel in their technical skills but also share a passion for accessibility and inclusion. Every event we interpret is an opportunity to break down barriers and create shared experiences that leave no one on the sidelines.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was a very outgoing and bold kid. I had a natural curiosity about people and the world around me, which meant I was always striking up conversations and connecting with others. To say I was talkative is an understatement.
One of my defining traits was how fiercely I valued friendships. I wanted to be friends with everyone, regardless of their background or personality. I truly believed that everyone had something special to offer and I wanted to see the best in them. I was also very protective of the people I cared about. From a young age, I felt a strong sense of justice, and if I saw someone being mistreated I wanted to stand up for them.
In short, I was outgoing, talkative, and driven by relationships, with a deep-rooted sense of loyalty and protection for the people I cared about. These traits shaped who I am today and continue to influence how I approach my relationships and interactions with others. I have found my communities and chosen family whom I love with every ounce of my being and would do anything to support them and see them thrive.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visual_noise_interpreting/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visualnoiseinterpreting
