Meet Keturah Lewis | Founder & Principal Interpreter, The Well-Versed Interpreter, LLC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Keturah Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Keturah, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
Most people assume that sign language interpreting is solely about providing accessibility for Deaf individuals. In reality, it’s just as much about ensuring that hearing professionals and organizations benefit from the expertise, insights, and unique perspectives that Deaf professionals bring to their industries. Without skilled interpreters, valuable contributions from Deaf individuals in fields like education, healthcare, technology, and the arts could be overlooked or misunderstood. Interpreting is not just a service—it’s a bridge that allows for richer, more inclusive collaboration across all sectors.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Well-Versed Interpreter (TWVI) is more than just a sign language interpreting agency—it’s a commitment to culturally responsive, high-quality language access that ensures both Deaf and hearing professionals can fully engage, collaborate, and contribute. What sets us apart is our commitment to ensuring that the interpreting field reflects the full diversity of the Deaf community. We prioritize working with highly qualified interpreters who bring a range of cultural and linguistic perspectives, allowing us to provide more meaningful and inclusive communication experiences for all.

One of the things I’m most proud of is creating a business that isn’t just transactional—it’s transformational. We don’t just interpret words; we facilitate understanding and empower conversations.

The journey to where I am today wasn’t easy. One of my biggest challenges was shifting from being a freelancer to treating my work as a true business. That meant learning the ins and outs of business structures, marketing, contracts, and delegation—skills that aren’t taught in-depth in the field. I had to lean on experts in areas like finance, legal matters, and branding while staying true to my vision.

Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way:

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel—just optimize it. There are amazing best practices in business; the key is refining them to fit your industry and mission.

Delegation is a strength, not a weakness. Trying to do everything alone is a fast track to burnout. Finding the right team and collaborators is essential.

Passion fuels longevity. This is work I will be doing for decades, so I have to focus on projects and clients that align with my values and keep me inspired.

At the core, The Well-Versed Interpreter is about bridging gaps—not just between languages, but between cultures, perspectives, and opportunities. I want the world to know that interpreting isn’t just about accessibility for Deaf people—it’s about ensuring that the entire professional world benefits from the brilliance and contributions of Deaf individuals. TWVI is here to make that happen, one conversation at a time.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, we’d balance relaxation, adventure, and a touch of culture. We’d start with a cozy morning at Kramers, sipping Earl Grey and getting lost in a good book. A spa day and massage would be a must—because self-care is non-negotiable. For nature and movement, we’d trek through Great Falls, taking in the stunning views. Midweek, we’d take a day trip to a winery in Frederick to unwind with great wine and conversation. And, of course, we’d catch a play or dance performance at a local venue—interpreted, because accessibility matters. Finally, we’d dine at St. Vincent in DC, enjoying a laid-back but delicious meal to wrap up the perfect week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give my deepest gratitude and recognition to the Deaf individuals who have shaped my life and transformed my perspective on the world. Their wisdom, resilience, and cultural richness have not only deepened my understanding of language and communication but have also profoundly influenced my personal and professional journey. They have challenged me to grow, to listen more deeply, and to embrace a world that values multiple ways of knowing and expressing. Their impact has been immeasurable, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Website: https://www.thewellversedinterpreter.com/

Instagram: @thewellversedterp

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewellversedinterpreter