How do I explain a layoff in interviews? - what worked for you?

They always ask why I left, and I freeze. I worked as a call-centre agent before this. I also do not want to seem like a risk. What do you say?

Say it plainly and move on to what you can do. Interviewers usually move on if you do.

If a company has been in the news for layoffs, you can mention that. Often the interviewer already knows.