How I Built This with Guy Raz How I Built Resilience: Sonia Gil of Fluenz
Oct 22, 2020
Sonia Gil, Founder and CEO of Fluenz, shares her journey of transforming language learning amid the pandemic. She discusses the creative pivot from in-person immersion programs to engaging online experiences tailored for English speakers. Sonia highlights the impact of travel restrictions on her business and reveals innovative strategies she implemented to maintain cultural richness in learning. Through her insights, we explore the future of blended education and how adapting to change can open new opportunities for growth.
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Pandemic Impact
- Fluenz was thriving before the pandemic, projected to grow 100% in 2020 with expansions planned in Barcelona and Oaxaca.
- However, COVID-19 forced Sonia Gil to postpone the Barcelona launch, even turning away a guest already en route, ultimately impacting relationships with vendors, hotels, and local teams.
Crisis Management
- In crisis, review expenses, reduce to bare minimum, and prioritize your team.
- Negotiate existing commitments, create policies for refunds/postponements, and offer support to team members.
Relocation and Restart
- Sonia relocated to Colorado for focused planning during the pandemic.
- She realized that pivoting the business required restarting and innovating within 30 days.
