How I Built This with Guy Raz Advice Line with Luis von Ahn of Duolingo
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May 1, 2025 
Luis von Ahn, co-founder of Duolingo, shares his expertise on nurturing startups alongside Steph Krim, the creator of Good Things Vending. They tackle the challenge of scaling businesses while staying connected to community values. Steph seeks advice on expanding her unique vending machines that showcase local art. Luis discusses how data can reveal customer desires, aiding in strategic decision-making. Together, they explore innovative approaches to growth and emphasize the importance of understanding user behavior for entrepreneurial success.
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Users Prefer Convenience Over Live Interaction
- Luis von Ahn reveals users prefer convenience over live human interaction for language learning.
- What people say in surveys often doesn't match their real behavior or preferences.
Use Scarcity to Manage Demand
- Charge a fee or require a deposit from locations wanting your vending machines to prioritize serious partners.
- Use scarcity to manage demand and grow sustainably without overextending resources.
Leverage Help and Data for Growth
- Consider partnering with business school students or interns to support growth without immediate full-time hires.
- Leverage data actively to test what products and locations yield the best customer engagement.