December 16, 2024 • 21 mins
Welcome to the Reflection Room!
In this inaugural episode, we’re diving deeper into the themes and moments from A Journey of War, Love, and Entrepreneurship. Join our two fictional hosts as they explore the challenges, emotions, and key takeaways that stood out most from the previous episode!
Think of it as an intimate post-show conversation, where we reflect on the experiences shared and discuss how they resonate in the world of interpreting. Whether it’s unpacking ethical dilemmas, emotional moments, or the nuances of navigating complex encounters, there’s something here for every interpreter to connect with.
This is your chance to revisit the main episode through fresh perspectives—so settle in and enjoy your time in Brand the Interpreter's Reflection Room.
Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, some of the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques.
Remember that you can also connect with me via the link below!
Share your thoughts about this episode!
Thanks for tuning in, till next time! 👋
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:07):
Hello Branded Bunch.
Guess what?
There's something brand newbrewing here at Brand the
Interpreter.
Starting today, I'm introducinga brand new series called the.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
Reflection Room.
Speaker 1 (00:20):
In this unique format , you're going to hear two
fictional hosts.
That's right, the hosts arefictional, but they're witty and
they're thoughtful.
Think of them as brandyinterpreters, co-hosts, who will
take you on a journey throughthe stories and themes of our
main episodes.
Their engaging back and forthwill unpack key moments,
(00:43):
offering deeper insights andfresh perspectives you will want
to be a part of.
These shorter reflectiveepisodes are designed to give
you more to think about andconnect, but in a bite-sized
format.
The reflection rooms will dropshortly after each main episode,
with me and the guests, with meand the guests.
(01:06):
Of course.
I'd love to hear your thoughts,so make sure, after you hear it
, to drop a comment or send me amessage and let me know what
you think of the Reflection Room.
And, as always, thank you forbeing a part of this journey.
Here's to exploring moreinterpreter stories in a whole
new way.
Are you ready?
Welcome to the Reflection Room.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Welcome to this deep jive.
We're going to unpack a story.
It's not just about building abusiness, but about building a
life and a partnership.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (01:39):
And a legacy of language justice.
Yeah a legacy.
We're going to be Anna andJordi Varelas, a Salvadorian
couple who found love in themiddle of a civil war.
Oh, wow.
And then they went on andcreated a really thriving
interpreting and translationbusiness in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (01:57):
That's quite a journey.
What's so captivating abouttheir story is how it kind of
brings together personalresilience and a deep
understanding of how importantlanguage access is.
You know it's not just abusiness story.
It's really a story about humanconnection.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Right, ok, so let's set the scene here.
It's 1989, San Salvador.
Imagine your high schoolsweethearts and your whole
future is ahead of you, and then, all of a sudden, your world is
just totally turned upside downby a civil war.
Speaker 3 (02:22):
I can't even imagine.
Speaker 2 (02:23):
That's what happened to Anna and Geordi.
Geordi had to flee to stay withhis brother, while Anna and her
family they ended up takingrefuge in a walk-in closet
during this final offensive.
Oh my God, can you even imagine?
Speaker 3 (02:37):
It's just.
It's hard to even fathom thefear and the uncertainty that
they must have felt, especiallywithout all the ways that we
have to communicate instantlytoday.
Speaker 2 (02:46):
Right.
Speaker 3 (02:46):
Like no internet or social media to even stay
connected.
Just the hope that they wouldsee each other again someday.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
And speaking of reunions, get this.
Anna's family decides to govisit relatives in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (02:59):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
And guess who's already there?
Who, jordi Wow.
Fate brought them back together, and that chance encounter in
Chicago really foreshadowed thepath that they would end up on.
Speaker 3 (03:09):
Yeah, you see, when Jordi first got to Chicago, he
was just really struck by allthe struggles that his fellow
Salvadorans were having and justtrying to understand news from
home.
Speaker 1 (03:18):
Right.
Speaker 3 (03:18):
There was this huge language barrier, and it created
this sense of isolation anddesperation really, and so it
was just this powerfulrealization of how crucial
language access really is.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
It's like that experience planted a seed.
Speaker 3 (03:32):
Absolutely, it really did.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
It showed him like firsthand how communication, or
the lack of communication, canhave such a profound impact on
people's lives 100%.
Speaker 3 (03:42):
So Geordie initially went on to work as a bail
bondsman, but that seed you knowthat seed was planted.
He stayed with him.
Meanwhile, Anna was alreadydoing some translation work and
she would share her storiesabout what it was like to be an
interpreter, and I think thatreally sparked something in
Jordi.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
It's fascinating how those individual experiences
eventually converged right.
Yeah, they saw this need, ashared passion and this
opportunity to create somethingthat was meaningful together.
Speaker 3 (04:11):
And that is exactly what they did.
They joined forces, you know.
They combined Anna's expertisewith Jordi's entrepreneurial
spirit and that's how theycreated JV Language Solutions.
But it wasn't just aboutbuilding a business, you know,
it was about building it as amarried couple.
That adds a whole other levelof complexity, wouldn't you say?
Speaker 2 (04:31):
Right.
Building a business with yourspouse, it must be like
navigating a whole other levelof partnership right.
Speaker 3 (04:36):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (04:37):
What do they have to say about the challenges and the
rewards of something like that?
Speaker 3 (04:40):
Well, they're very open about the fact that it's
not always easy.
They really stress theimportance of clear
communication, which is probablyimportant for any partnership,
right, but even more so whenyou're running a business
together.
They also talked about the needto respect each other's
strengths and then strategicallykind of divide the
responsibilities.
You know, it's about findingthat synergy where you're both
(05:02):
kind of using your strengths andthen supporting each other
where you have weaknesses.
Speaker 2 (05:07):
So I'm curious did they share any specific examples
about how they divide thoseresponsibilities or any advice
for other couples who might beconsidering going down that same
path?
Speaker 3 (05:18):
Oh, they did.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Okay, great.
Speaker 3 (05:19):
Jordi.
He focuses on the sales andmarketing side of the business.
Speaker 2 (05:23):
Okay.
Speaker 3 (05:23):
While Anna she manages the finances and
operations.
They also talked about settingindividual quotas and then
celebrating each other'ssuccesses.
Speaker 2 (05:31):
I love that.
Speaker 3 (05:32):
Which I think is a great way to kind of keep that
healthy sense of competition,you know keep the motivation up,
even within a marriage.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
That's a great point.
It sounds like they have founda way to make it work, but it's
not without its challenges.
What about those times whendisagreements come up both in
the business and in theirpersonal life?
How do they navigate that?
Speaker 3 (05:51):
Well, they admit to having their disagreements, even
arguments, which is totallynormal for any couple, of course
, let alone one that's running abusiness together but they
really emphasize that oncethey're on the job,
professionalism always comesfirst.
It's like they have thisunspoken agreement to put the
clients and their shared missionfirst, even when things maybe
(06:14):
get a little heated.
Personally, Right.
Speaker 2 (06:17):
That level of commitment and professionalism
is really impressive.
It speaks volumes about howdedicated they are to what they
do.
It really does.
And speaking of dedication,their passion for language
justice really shines through ineverything that they do,
especially when you see themworking within the nonprofit
sector.
Speaker 3 (06:33):
Right.
For them, language access isn'tjust a service.
It's a fundamental right.
It's a cornerstone of a trulyinclusive society inclusive
society.
They see their work as a way toempower communities and create
a space where everyone has avoice, regardless of what
language they speak.
Speaker 2 (06:50):
That's a powerful way to think about it.
Speaker 3 (06:52):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
It's not just about providing like translation or
interpretation.
It's about fostering realequality and ensuring that
everybody has that opportunityto participate fully in civic
life.
Speaker 3 (07:03):
A hundred percent notice illustrate that Anna
shares this really vivid exampleof a city council meeting where
indigenous speakers are givenample time to express themselves
in Mixteco, spanish and English.
And it wasn't just a tokengesture.
It was about creating anenvironment where those speakers
felt really heard, respectedand like their perspectives were
actually valued.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
It's about going beyond just checking a box right
.
It's about creating thatculture of inclusion where
language diversity is not justtolerated but celebrated.
Speaker 3 (07:31):
Exactly, and they're not afraid to push back against
clients who view interpretationas just a formality, a box to be
ticked.
They advocate for bestpractices and they challenge
those who just treat languageaccess as an afterthought
instead of a core element ofinclusivity.
Speaker 2 (07:48):
So they're not just providing a service, they're
really advocating for a changein mindset, a shift in how
people view language and itsrole in creating a more just and
equitable society.
Speaker 3 (07:59):
Yeah, that's a great way to put it, and that advocacy
is really intertwined withtheir belief in community
empowerment.
You know they've seen firsthandhow language barriers can
silence entire communities andprevent them from getting vital
resources and advocating forwhat they need.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
That's such a powerful point.
It's like language accessbecomes a gateway to so many
other forms of empowerment.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
It does.
Speaker 2 (08:22):
Whether it's access to health care, education or
just feeling like you belong inyour community.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
And they're quick to point out that it's not about
giving voices to the voiceless.
It's about amplifying voicesthat have been ignored for so
long.
Speaker 2 (08:34):
It's about recognizing that those voices
have always been there, but theyhaven't always been given the
space or the resources to beheard.
Speaker 3 (08:41):
Exactly, and their work with these nonprofits has
helped marginalized communitiesgain a voice and actually be
able to participate more fullyin civic life.
They talk about how satisfyingit is to be able to see that
tangible impact of their work onthese communities.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
It's inspiring to hear how their own personal
journey has fueled thiscommitment to social impact.
Speaker 3 (09:01):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:02):
They've clearly taken their own experiences and
turned it into a driving forcefor creating this positive
change.
Speaker 3 (09:09):
Absolutely, and it's so fascinating how they managed
to keep that personal connectionwhile also building this
successful business.
Speaker 2 (09:17):
Right.
Speaker 3 (09:17):
I'm kind of curious did they talk about how they
handle disagreements, especiallygiven the unique dynamic of
their partnership?
Speaker 2 (09:24):
That's a great question because even with
shared passion and values, Iimagine there must still be
moments where navigating thosepersonal and professional
boundaries can get a littletricky.
Speaker 3 (09:34):
Oh for sure.
Well, they did touch on thatand they actually have a pretty
good sense of humor about it.
Jordy jokes that he's the bossbut, then quickly adds that Anna
is the boss when it'sconvenient for him.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Oh, I love that.
Of course it's a joke, but ithints at the playful way they
navigate their roles andresponsibilities.
You know what I mean?
Speaker 3 (09:52):
I it hints at the playful way they navigate their
roles and responsibilities.
You know what I mean.
I love that it sounds like theydon't shy away from the
complexities of theirpartnership, but they approach
it with a really healthy dose ofhumor and self-awareness
Exactly.
Speaker 2 (10:03):
And they emphasize that their shared passion for
language, justice and theircommitment to their clients
that's what helps them overcomeany disagreements that they have
Right no-transcript, especiallywith AI-powered interpretation.
Speaker 3 (10:46):
What do you think?
How do Anna and Jordi viewthese advancements?
Do they see it as a threat totheir profession or an
opportunity?
Speaker 2 (10:54):
That's a great question.
We'll find out in part two ofthis deep dive.
Stay tuned.
Speaker 3 (11:05):
Welcome back to our deep dive into the inspiring
world of Anna and Jordi Vidalis.
We left off talking about howthey view the rise of AI in the
interpreting world Threat oropportunity?
What do they think?
Speaker 2 (11:17):
I'm really curious to hear their take on this whole
AI thing.
I mean, technology is advancingso fast these days.
It's got to be on their minds.
Speaker 3 (11:23):
Yeah, you're right.
Their perspective is reallyinteresting.
It's nuanced.
They see the potential benefits, like how AI can improve
accessibility and make languageservices more affordable.
They even mentioned a platformcalled Wordly Wordly.
Yeah, they say it uses AI forinterpretation during city
council meetings, so it'salready out there.
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Wow, that's wild.
So they acknowledge that AI canbroaden access, especially when
traditional interpreting isn'tfeasible for whatever reason.
Speaker 3 (11:50):
Exactly.
But they're also very clearabout this Technology should
never totally replace humaninterpreters.
They talk about culturalsensitivity, nuanced
understanding, that connectionyou get with a human AI just
can't replicate it.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
That makes a lot of sense.
Language isn't just words on apage right.
It's about understandingemotions, context, cultural cues
, all the stuff that makescommunication real and
meaningful.
Speaker 3 (12:15):
You hit the nail on the head, and they brought up a
really important point about AIpotentially making existing
inequalities worse, like if werely too much on technology,
what about those communities whocan't even access it in the
first place?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
That's a huge concern .
We can't let the excitementover tech overshadow the need
for equal and inclusive languageaccess for everyone.
So it sounds like Anne andJordi are pushing for a balanced
approach, using AI's strengthswhile holding on to the human
element, the culturalsensitivity.
Speaker 3 (12:42):
Yeah, absolutely.
They believe interpreters arecrucial in this whole evolution.
They even encourage theirfellow interpreters to, you know
, keep learning about new tech,stay ahead of the curve, see how
it can be used effectively.
Speaker 2 (12:54):
So it's not about being afraid of change.
It's about adapting, findingways to use tech to make the
work even better.
Speaker 3 (13:08):
Exactly, and you know what they actually think.
The demand for good, skilledhuman interpreters will increase
as technology gets moreadvanced.
Speaker 2 (13:11):
Really, that's interesting.
Speaker 3 (13:12):
Because more organizations are starting to
understand that real, authenticcommunication needs that
cultural piece, that sensitivityAI can't quite grasp, so
they'll need those human skillseven more.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
It's kind of a paradox, isn't it?
Speaker 3 (13:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:25):
Technology creates a need for even more specialized
human skills.
Speaker 3 (13:29):
Exactly.
They see this as a uniquechance for interpreters to
really lead the way in languagejustice.
As the field changes, they canfight for fair working
conditions, make sure things aredone ethically and push for
interpreting to be seen as thehighly skilled profession it is.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
That's so important.
As things evolve, interpretersneed to have a voice in shaping
the future and ensuring thattheir profession's core values
are protected.
But with all this new stuffhappening, the pressure to keep
up, I imagine there must be somereal challenges along the way,
right.
Speaker 3 (14:01):
Oh, there definitely are.
Anna and Jordi are very honestabout that.
Running a business, especiallyone in a field that's always
changing, takes a ton ofresilience and being able to
adapt.
Speaker 2 (14:12):
So what are some of the biggest hurdles they've had
to overcome?
Speaker 3 (14:15):
They talked about the long hours, the constant
pressure to stay competitive,the need to always be learning
and adapting, finding andkeeping qualified interpreters
who are passionate aboutlanguage justice.
That's a big one too.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
I can imagine it's got to be tough to find people
who not only have the languageskills but also that sensitivity
, that commitment to ethicalpractices.
That's a special combination.
Speaker 3 (14:37):
It really is.
They also mentioned thefinancial risks that come with
running a business, especiallywhen you depend so much on
contracts and funding.
But even with all thosechallenges, they seem to have
this unshakable belief in whatthey do, this joy that just
shines through.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
That's what's so inspiring.
Right, they've faced obstacles,setbacks, all the uncertainty
of being entrepreneurs, but theybuilt a successful business
without compromising theirvalues, their dedication to
language justice.
Speaker 3 (15:07):
And they did all that while raising a family and
staying strong as partners.
They even mentioned theirdaughter helps out with the
business sometimes.
Speaker 2 (15:13):
Wow, that's amazing.
A true family affair Shows youthe power of shared passion and
purpose.
It sounds like they found thatsweet spot, integrating work and
life in a way that's meaningfuland sustainable.
Speaker 3 (15:24):
Absolutely.
They created something biggerthan just a business.
It reflects who they are attheir core, what they believe in
the impact they want to make.
Speaker 2 (15:31):
So looking forward, what's next for JAV Language
Solutions?
What are their hopes for thefuture?
Speaker 3 (15:37):
That's exactly what we'll explore in the last part
of this deep dive.
Stay tuned.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
Welcome back to the Deep Dive.
We're wrapping up our look atAnna and Jordi Videlis, you know
, going from escaping a civilwar to building a business that
fights for language justiceright here in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (16:00):
Yeah, it's pretty amazing.
Their story really shows thepower of resilience, love and a
deep commitment to making theworld a more inclusive place.
But we're not quite done yet.
We've explored their past,We've dug into their present and
now it's time to look ahead.
What's on the horizon for JAVlanguage solutions and what
wisdom can they share withaspiring interpreters and
(16:21):
entrepreneurs out there?
Speaker 2 (16:22):
I'm especially interested in their thoughts on
the future of language services.
It's such a fast-paced industryand, with tech becoming so
important, things are changingconstantly.
What do they see coming andwhat advice do they have for
people navigating this newlandscape?
Speaker 3 (16:38):
Well, they really stressed continuous learning.
You know, the interpretingworld never stands still,
especially with technologyconstantly integrating, so
staying ahead of the curve iskey.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
So it's not enough to just be fluent in the languages
you interpret.
You also have to understanddifferent industries, keep up
with tech and sharpen thosebusiness skills.
Sounds like a lot to handle.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
It is, and they really urge aspiring
interpreters to find mentors, goto conferences and never stop
training.
It's about being a lifelonglearner, always looking for ways
to improve your skills andknowledge.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Sounds like they believe in the power of
community, not just within thelanguage services field, but in
the broader business world too.
Speaker 3 (17:13):
Absolutely.
They talked a lot aboutnetworking and building
relationships in theinterpreting community.
They see collaboration andsharing knowledge as essential
to the growth of the wholeprofession.
Speaker 2 (17:24):
It's like a rising tide, lifts all boats right,
Sharing resources, advocatingfor better work conditions and
setting high standards for theindustry.
Speaker 3 (17:32):
Exactly For those who are thinking about starting
their own business, especiallyin language services.
They had some great advice.
Having a clear vision iscrucial, they said.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
What do they mean by that, Like beyond wanting to
start a business?
What kind of vision are wetalking about?
Speaker 3 (17:47):
They said, it's all about defining your core values.
What are the principles thatwill drive your business
decisions?
What niche do you want to focuson?
And, maybe the biggest question, what kind of impact do you
hope to make?
It's about making sure yourbusiness is in sync with a
mission that truly resonateswith you personally.
Speaker 2 (18:04):
So it's not just about profit, it's about making
a difference.
Speaker 3 (18:08):
Right on.
And they didn't forget aboutthe practical side either.
Having a solid business plan isa must, they said.
About the practical side either.
Having a solid business plan isa must, they said.
Outlining your services, targetmarket, financial projections,
marketing strategy those are allcritical steps.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
So it's about blending those big dreams with a
down-to-earth understanding ofhow business works.
Speaker 3 (18:26):
Exactly.
They really encourage aspiringentrepreneurs to tap into all
the available resources andsupport systems, things like
small business incubators,mentorship programs and
networking events.
Having a supportive communitycan make a world of difference.
Speaker 2 (18:40):
Yeah, building that network of advisors, mentors and
collaborators can provideguidance and encouragement when
you need it most.
Starting a business can feellonely, but having a support
system makes it less daunting.
Speaker 3 (18:51):
They also stress the importance of perseverance.
Building a business takes time,hard work and resilience.
There will be bumps in the road, challenges, setbacks, doubts.
It's about staying focused onyour vision and trusting your
ability to get through thosetough times.
Speaker 2 (19:08):
It's about having grit, that determination to keep
pushing forward even whenthings get rough, right to keep
pushing forward even when thingsget rough Right.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
They urged entrepreneurs to find joy in the
journey, celebrate the smallwins and remember why you
started in the first place.
Speaker 2 (19:22):
It's about staying connected to that sense of
purpose, finding fulfillment inthe work itself.
That's what will keep you goingthrough the highs and lows of
building something new.
Speaker 3 (19:31):
They made a point that really stuck with me the
changing landscape of languageservices isn't just about
technology.
It's about people.
Speaker 2 (19:37):
It's about remembering that behind every
translation, everyinterpretation, there's a human
story, a need to connect, tocommunicate, to be understood.
Speaker 3 (19:45):
Exactly.
They believe that interpretershave this incredible power to
bridge divides, buildunderstanding and empower
communities, all through thepower of language.
Speaker 2 (19:54):
It's not just about words on a page.
It's about conveying, meaning,creating spaces where everyone
feels heard and respected.
Speaker 3 (20:02):
And they're hopeful about the future of the field.
They believe the need forskilled interpreters will just
keep growing as moreorganizations see the value of
authentic, culturally sensitivecommunication.
Speaker 2 (20:12):
It's exciting to think about the possibilities.
There will be challenges, sure,but there's also so much
potential to make a positiveimpact.
Speaker 3 (20:21):
As we wrap up our deep dive into Anna and Jordi's
story, I think it's a good timeto reflect on a question they
asked how can you contribute tolanguage justice in your own
community?
Speaker 2 (20:30):
It's a thought-provoking question that
encourages us to look around,see the language barriers that
exist and consider how we canhelp bridge those gaps.
Speaker 3 (20:39):
Whether it's advocating for better language
access policies, supportingorganizations that champion
language justice, or simplybeing more mindful of the
diverse language needs in ourcommunities, we all have a role
to play.
Speaker 2 (20:50):
Anna Jordy's story shows us that, even in the face
of huge obstacles, love,resilience and a shared passion
for making a difference canripple outward, creating
positive change far beyondourselves.
Speaker 3 (21:03):
Their journey isn't just about building a business.
It's about building bridges toa more inclusive and equitable
future.
It's a powerful reminder ofhuman connection, the importance
of finding your own voice andthe unwavering belief that
everyone deserves to be heardand understood.
Speaker 2 (21:19):
And that's what the deep dive is all about right,
Exploring these amazing stories,learning from others and
discovering new ways to make theworld a little brighter, a
little more connected.
Thanks for joining us, Thankyou.
Hello Branded Bunch.
Guess what?
There's something brand newbrewing here at Brand the
Interpreter.
Starting today, I'm introducinga brand new series called the.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
Reflection Room.
Speaker 1 (00:20):
In this unique format , you're going to hear two
fictional hosts.
That's right, the hosts arefictional, but they're witty and
they're thoughtful.
Think of them as brandyinterpreters, co-hosts, who will
take you on a journey throughthe stories and themes of our
main episodes.
Their engaging back and forthwill unpack key moments,
(00:43):
offering deeper insights andfresh perspectives you will want
to be a part of.
These shorter reflectiveepisodes are designed to give
you more to think about andconnect, but in a bite-sized
format.
The reflection rooms will dropshortly after each main episode,
with me and the guests, with meand the guests.
(01:06):
Of course.
I'd love to hear your thoughts,so make sure, after you hear it
, to drop a comment or send me amessage and let me know what
you think of the Reflection Room.
And, as always, thank you forbeing a part of this journey.
Here's to exploring moreinterpreter stories in a whole
new way.
Are you ready?
Welcome to the Reflection Room.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Welcome to this deep jive.
We're going to unpack a story.
It's not just about building abusiness, but about building a
life and a partnership.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (01:39):
And a legacy of language justice.
Yeah a legacy.
We're going to be Anna andJordi Varelas, a Salvadorian
couple who found love in themiddle of a civil war.
Oh, wow.
And then they went on andcreated a really thriving
interpreting and translationbusiness in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (01:57):
That's quite a journey.
What's so captivating abouttheir story is how it kind of
brings together personalresilience and a deep
understanding of how importantlanguage access is.
You know it's not just abusiness story.
It's really a story about humanconnection.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Right, ok, so let's set the scene here.
It's 1989, San Salvador.
Imagine your high schoolsweethearts and your whole
future is ahead of you, and then, all of a sudden, your world is
just totally turned upside downby a civil war.
Speaker 3 (02:22):
I can't even imagine.
Speaker 2 (02:23):
That's what happened to Anna and Geordi.
Geordi had to flee to stay withhis brother, while Anna and her
family they ended up takingrefuge in a walk-in closet
during this final offensive.
Oh my God, can you even imagine?
Speaker 3 (02:37):
It's just.
It's hard to even fathom thefear and the uncertainty that
they must have felt, especiallywithout all the ways that we
have to communicate instantlytoday.
Speaker 2 (02:46):
Right.
Speaker 3 (02:46):
Like no internet or social media to even stay
connected.
Just the hope that they wouldsee each other again someday.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
And speaking of reunions, get this.
Anna's family decides to govisit relatives in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (02:59):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
And guess who's already there?
Who, jordi Wow.
Fate brought them back together, and that chance encounter in
Chicago really foreshadowed thepath that they would end up on.
Speaker 3 (03:09):
Yeah, you see, when Jordi first got to Chicago, he
was just really struck by allthe struggles that his fellow
Salvadorans were having and justtrying to understand news from
home.
Speaker 1 (03:18):
Right.
Speaker 3 (03:18):
There was this huge language barrier, and it created
this sense of isolation anddesperation really, and so it
was just this powerfulrealization of how crucial
language access really is.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
It's like that experience planted a seed.
Speaker 3 (03:32):
Absolutely, it really did.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
It showed him like firsthand how communication, or
the lack of communication, canhave such a profound impact on
people's lives 100%.
Speaker 3 (03:42):
So Geordie initially went on to work as a bail
bondsman, but that seed you knowthat seed was planted.
He stayed with him.
Meanwhile, Anna was alreadydoing some translation work and
she would share her storiesabout what it was like to be an
interpreter, and I think thatreally sparked something in
Jordi.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
It's fascinating how those individual experiences
eventually converged right.
Yeah, they saw this need, ashared passion and this
opportunity to create somethingthat was meaningful together.
Speaker 3 (04:11):
And that is exactly what they did.
They joined forces, you know.
They combined Anna's expertisewith Jordi's entrepreneurial
spirit and that's how theycreated JV Language Solutions.
But it wasn't just aboutbuilding a business, you know,
it was about building it as amarried couple.
That adds a whole other levelof complexity, wouldn't you say?
Speaker 2 (04:31):
Right.
Building a business with yourspouse, it must be like
navigating a whole other levelof partnership right.
Speaker 3 (04:36):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (04:37):
What do they have to say about the challenges and the
rewards of something like that?
Speaker 3 (04:40):
Well, they're very open about the fact that it's
not always easy.
They really stress theimportance of clear
communication, which is probablyimportant for any partnership,
right, but even more so whenyou're running a business
together.
They also talked about the needto respect each other's
strengths and then strategicallykind of divide the
responsibilities.
You know, it's about findingthat synergy where you're both
(05:02):
kind of using your strengths andthen supporting each other
where you have weaknesses.
Speaker 2 (05:07):
So I'm curious did they share any specific examples
about how they divide thoseresponsibilities or any advice
for other couples who might beconsidering going down that same
path?
Speaker 3 (05:18):
Oh, they did.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Okay, great.
Speaker 3 (05:19):
Jordi.
He focuses on the sales andmarketing side of the business.
Speaker 2 (05:23):
Okay.
Speaker 3 (05:23):
While Anna she manages the finances and
operations.
They also talked about settingindividual quotas and then
celebrating each other'ssuccesses.
Speaker 2 (05:31):
I love that.
Speaker 3 (05:32):
Which I think is a great way to kind of keep that
healthy sense of competition,you know keep the motivation up,
even within a marriage.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
That's a great point.
It sounds like they have founda way to make it work, but it's
not without its challenges.
What about those times whendisagreements come up both in
the business and in theirpersonal life?
How do they navigate that?
Speaker 3 (05:51):
Well, they admit to having their disagreements, even
arguments, which is totallynormal for any couple, of course
, let alone one that's running abusiness together but they
really emphasize that oncethey're on the job,
professionalism always comesfirst.
It's like they have thisunspoken agreement to put the
clients and their shared missionfirst, even when things maybe
(06:14):
get a little heated.
Personally, Right.
Speaker 2 (06:17):
That level of commitment and professionalism
is really impressive.
It speaks volumes about howdedicated they are to what they
do.
It really does.
And speaking of dedication,their passion for language
justice really shines through ineverything that they do,
especially when you see themworking within the nonprofit
sector.
Speaker 3 (06:33):
Right.
For them, language access isn'tjust a service.
It's a fundamental right.
It's a cornerstone of a trulyinclusive society inclusive
society.
They see their work as a way toempower communities and create
a space where everyone has avoice, regardless of what
language they speak.
Speaker 2 (06:50):
That's a powerful way to think about it.
Speaker 3 (06:52):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
It's not just about providing like translation or
interpretation.
It's about fostering realequality and ensuring that
everybody has that opportunityto participate fully in civic
life.
Speaker 3 (07:03):
A hundred percent notice illustrate that Anna
shares this really vivid exampleof a city council meeting where
indigenous speakers are givenample time to express themselves
in Mixteco, spanish and English.
And it wasn't just a tokengesture.
It was about creating anenvironment where those speakers
felt really heard, respectedand like their perspectives were
actually valued.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
It's about going beyond just checking a box right
.
It's about creating thatculture of inclusion where
language diversity is not justtolerated but celebrated.
Speaker 3 (07:31):
Exactly, and they're not afraid to push back against
clients who view interpretationas just a formality, a box to be
ticked.
They advocate for bestpractices and they challenge
those who just treat languageaccess as an afterthought
instead of a core element ofinclusivity.
Speaker 2 (07:48):
So they're not just providing a service, they're
really advocating for a changein mindset, a shift in how
people view language and itsrole in creating a more just and
equitable society.
Speaker 3 (07:59):
Yeah, that's a great way to put it, and that advocacy
is really intertwined withtheir belief in community
empowerment.
You know they've seen firsthandhow language barriers can
silence entire communities andprevent them from getting vital
resources and advocating forwhat they need.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
That's such a powerful point.
It's like language accessbecomes a gateway to so many
other forms of empowerment.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
It does.
Speaker 2 (08:22):
Whether it's access to health care, education or
just feeling like you belong inyour community.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
And they're quick to point out that it's not about
giving voices to the voiceless.
It's about amplifying voicesthat have been ignored for so
long.
Speaker 2 (08:34):
It's about recognizing that those voices
have always been there, but theyhaven't always been given the
space or the resources to beheard.
Speaker 3 (08:41):
Exactly, and their work with these nonprofits has
helped marginalized communitiesgain a voice and actually be
able to participate more fullyin civic life.
They talk about how satisfyingit is to be able to see that
tangible impact of their work onthese communities.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
It's inspiring to hear how their own personal
journey has fueled thiscommitment to social impact.
Speaker 3 (09:01):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (09:02):
They've clearly taken their own experiences and
turned it into a driving forcefor creating this positive
change.
Speaker 3 (09:09):
Absolutely, and it's so fascinating how they managed
to keep that personal connectionwhile also building this
successful business.
Speaker 2 (09:17):
Right.
Speaker 3 (09:17):
I'm kind of curious did they talk about how they
handle disagreements, especiallygiven the unique dynamic of
their partnership?
Speaker 2 (09:24):
That's a great question because even with
shared passion and values, Iimagine there must still be
moments where navigating thosepersonal and professional
boundaries can get a littletricky.
Speaker 3 (09:34):
Oh for sure.
Well, they did touch on thatand they actually have a pretty
good sense of humor about it.
Jordy jokes that he's the bossbut, then quickly adds that Anna
is the boss when it'sconvenient for him.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Oh, I love that.
Of course it's a joke, but ithints at the playful way they
navigate their roles andresponsibilities.
You know what I mean?
Speaker 3 (09:52):
I it hints at the playful way they navigate their
roles and responsibilities.
You know what I mean.
I love that it sounds like theydon't shy away from the
complexities of theirpartnership, but they approach
it with a really healthy dose ofhumor and self-awareness
Exactly.
Speaker 2 (10:03):
And they emphasize that their shared passion for
language, justice and theircommitment to their clients
that's what helps them overcomeany disagreements that they have
Right no-transcript, especiallywith AI-powered interpretation.
Speaker 3 (10:46):
What do you think?
How do Anna and Jordi viewthese advancements?
Do they see it as a threat totheir profession or an
opportunity?
Speaker 2 (10:54):
That's a great question.
We'll find out in part two ofthis deep dive.
Stay tuned.
Speaker 3 (11:05):
Welcome back to our deep dive into the inspiring
world of Anna and Jordi Vidalis.
We left off talking about howthey view the rise of AI in the
interpreting world Threat oropportunity?
What do they think?
Speaker 2 (11:17):
I'm really curious to hear their take on this whole
AI thing.
I mean, technology is advancingso fast these days.
It's got to be on their minds.
Speaker 3 (11:23):
Yeah, you're right.
Their perspective is reallyinteresting.
It's nuanced.
They see the potential benefits, like how AI can improve
accessibility and make languageservices more affordable.
They even mentioned a platformcalled Wordly Wordly.
Yeah, they say it uses AI forinterpretation during city
council meetings, so it'salready out there.
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Wow, that's wild.
So they acknowledge that AI canbroaden access, especially when
traditional interpreting isn'tfeasible for whatever reason.
Speaker 3 (11:50):
Exactly.
But they're also very clearabout this Technology should
never totally replace humaninterpreters.
They talk about culturalsensitivity, nuanced
understanding, that connectionyou get with a human AI just
can't replicate it.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
That makes a lot of sense.
Language isn't just words on apage right.
It's about understandingemotions, context, cultural cues
, all the stuff that makescommunication real and
meaningful.
Speaker 3 (12:15):
You hit the nail on the head, and they brought up a
really important point about AIpotentially making existing
inequalities worse, like if werely too much on technology,
what about those communities whocan't even access it in the
first place?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
That's a huge concern .
We can't let the excitementover tech overshadow the need
for equal and inclusive languageaccess for everyone.
So it sounds like Anne andJordi are pushing for a balanced
approach, using AI's strengthswhile holding on to the human
element, the culturalsensitivity.
Speaker 3 (12:42):
Yeah, absolutely.
They believe interpreters arecrucial in this whole evolution.
They even encourage theirfellow interpreters to, you know
, keep learning about new tech,stay ahead of the curve, see how
it can be used effectively.
Speaker 2 (12:54):
So it's not about being afraid of change.
It's about adapting, findingways to use tech to make the
work even better.
Speaker 3 (13:08):
Exactly, and you know what they actually think.
The demand for good, skilledhuman interpreters will increase
as technology gets moreadvanced.
Speaker 2 (13:11):
Really, that's interesting.
Speaker 3 (13:12):
Because more organizations are starting to
understand that real, authenticcommunication needs that
cultural piece, that sensitivityAI can't quite grasp, so
they'll need those human skillseven more.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
It's kind of a paradox, isn't it?
Speaker 3 (13:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:25):
Technology creates a need for even more specialized
human skills.
Speaker 3 (13:29):
Exactly.
They see this as a uniquechance for interpreters to
really lead the way in languagejustice.
As the field changes, they canfight for fair working
conditions, make sure things aredone ethically and push for
interpreting to be seen as thehighly skilled profession it is.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
That's so important.
As things evolve, interpretersneed to have a voice in shaping
the future and ensuring thattheir profession's core values
are protected.
But with all this new stuffhappening, the pressure to keep
up, I imagine there must be somereal challenges along the way,
right.
Speaker 3 (14:01):
Oh, there definitely are.
Anna and Jordi are very honestabout that.
Running a business, especiallyone in a field that's always
changing, takes a ton ofresilience and being able to
adapt.
Speaker 2 (14:12):
So what are some of the biggest hurdles they've had
to overcome?
Speaker 3 (14:15):
They talked about the long hours, the constant
pressure to stay competitive,the need to always be learning
and adapting, finding andkeeping qualified interpreters
who are passionate aboutlanguage justice.
That's a big one too.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
I can imagine it's got to be tough to find people
who not only have the languageskills but also that sensitivity
, that commitment to ethicalpractices.
That's a special combination.
Speaker 3 (14:37):
It really is.
They also mentioned thefinancial risks that come with
running a business, especiallywhen you depend so much on
contracts and funding.
But even with all thosechallenges, they seem to have
this unshakable belief in whatthey do, this joy that just
shines through.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
That's what's so inspiring.
Right, they've faced obstacles,setbacks, all the uncertainty
of being entrepreneurs, but theybuilt a successful business
without compromising theirvalues, their dedication to
language justice.
Speaker 3 (15:07):
And they did all that while raising a family and
staying strong as partners.
They even mentioned theirdaughter helps out with the
business sometimes.
Speaker 2 (15:13):
Wow, that's amazing.
A true family affair Shows youthe power of shared passion and
purpose.
It sounds like they found thatsweet spot, integrating work and
life in a way that's meaningfuland sustainable.
Speaker 3 (15:24):
Absolutely.
They created something biggerthan just a business.
It reflects who they are attheir core, what they believe in
the impact they want to make.
Speaker 2 (15:31):
So looking forward, what's next for JAV Language
Solutions?
What are their hopes for thefuture?
Speaker 3 (15:37):
That's exactly what we'll explore in the last part
of this deep dive.
Stay tuned.
Speaker 2 (15:48):
Welcome back to the Deep Dive.
We're wrapping up our look atAnna and Jordi Videlis, you know
, going from escaping a civilwar to building a business that
fights for language justiceright here in Chicago.
Speaker 3 (16:00):
Yeah, it's pretty amazing.
Their story really shows thepower of resilience, love and a
deep commitment to making theworld a more inclusive place.
But we're not quite done yet.
We've explored their past,We've dug into their present and
now it's time to look ahead.
What's on the horizon for JAVlanguage solutions and what
wisdom can they share withaspiring interpreters and
(16:21):
entrepreneurs out there?
Speaker 2 (16:22):
I'm especially interested in their thoughts on
the future of language services.
It's such a fast-paced industryand, with tech becoming so
important, things are changingconstantly.
What do they see coming andwhat advice do they have for
people navigating this newlandscape?
Speaker 3 (16:38):
Well, they really stressed continuous learning.
You know, the interpretingworld never stands still,
especially with technologyconstantly integrating, so
staying ahead of the curve iskey.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
So it's not enough to just be fluent in the languages
you interpret.
You also have to understanddifferent industries, keep up
with tech and sharpen thosebusiness skills.
Sounds like a lot to handle.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
It is, and they really urge aspiring
interpreters to find mentors, goto conferences and never stop
training.
It's about being a lifelonglearner, always looking for ways
to improve your skills andknowledge.
Speaker 2 (17:06):
Sounds like they believe in the power of
community, not just within thelanguage services field, but in
the broader business world too.
Speaker 3 (17:13):
Absolutely.
They talked a lot aboutnetworking and building
relationships in theinterpreting community.
They see collaboration andsharing knowledge as essential
to the growth of the wholeprofession.
Speaker 2 (17:24):
It's like a rising tide, lifts all boats right,
Sharing resources, advocatingfor better work conditions and
setting high standards for theindustry.
Speaker 3 (17:32):
Exactly For those who are thinking about starting
their own business, especiallyin language services.
They had some great advice.
Having a clear vision iscrucial, they said.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
What do they mean by that, Like beyond wanting to
start a business?
What kind of vision are wetalking about?
Speaker 3 (17:47):
They said, it's all about defining your core values.
What are the principles thatwill drive your business
decisions?
What niche do you want to focuson?
And, maybe the biggest question, what kind of impact do you
hope to make?
It's about making sure yourbusiness is in sync with a
mission that truly resonateswith you personally.
Speaker 2 (18:04):
So it's not just about profit, it's about making
a difference.
Speaker 3 (18:08):
Right on.
And they didn't forget aboutthe practical side either.
Having a solid business plan isa must, they said.
About the practical side either.
Having a solid business plan isa must, they said.
Outlining your services, targetmarket, financial projections,
marketing strategy those are allcritical steps.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
So it's about blending those big dreams with a
down-to-earth understanding ofhow business works.
Speaker 3 (18:26):
Exactly.
They really encourage aspiringentrepreneurs to tap into all
the available resources andsupport systems, things like
small business incubators,mentorship programs and
networking events.
Having a supportive communitycan make a world of difference.
Speaker 2 (18:40):
Yeah, building that network of advisors, mentors and
collaborators can provideguidance and encouragement when
you need it most.
Starting a business can feellonely, but having a support
system makes it less daunting.
Speaker 3 (18:51):
They also stress the importance of perseverance.
Building a business takes time,hard work and resilience.
There will be bumps in the road, challenges, setbacks, doubts.
It's about staying focused onyour vision and trusting your
ability to get through thosetough times.
Speaker 2 (19:08):
It's about having grit, that determination to keep
pushing forward even whenthings get rough, right to keep
pushing forward even when thingsget rough Right.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
They urged entrepreneurs to find joy in the
journey, celebrate the smallwins and remember why you
started in the first place.
Speaker 2 (19:22):
It's about staying connected to that sense of
purpose, finding fulfillment inthe work itself.
That's what will keep you goingthrough the highs and lows of
building something new.
Speaker 3 (19:31):
They made a point that really stuck with me the
changing landscape of languageservices isn't just about
technology.
It's about people.
Speaker 2 (19:37):
It's about remembering that behind every
translation, everyinterpretation, there's a human
story, a need to connect, tocommunicate, to be understood.
Speaker 3 (19:45):
Exactly.
They believe that interpretershave this incredible power to
bridge divides, buildunderstanding and empower
communities, all through thepower of language.
Speaker 2 (19:54):
It's not just about words on a page.
It's about conveying, meaning,creating spaces where everyone
feels heard and respected.
Speaker 3 (20:02):
And they're hopeful about the future of the field.
They believe the need forskilled interpreters will just
keep growing as moreorganizations see the value of
authentic, culturally sensitivecommunication.
Speaker 2 (20:12):
It's exciting to think about the possibilities.
There will be challenges, sure,but there's also so much
potential to make a positiveimpact.
Speaker 3 (20:21):
As we wrap up our deep dive into Anna and Jordi's
story, I think it's a good timeto reflect on a question they
asked how can you contribute tolanguage justice in your own
community?
Speaker 2 (20:30):
It's a thought-provoking question that
encourages us to look around,see the language barriers that
exist and consider how we canhelp bridge those gaps.
Speaker 3 (20:39):
Whether it's advocating for better language
access policies, supportingorganizations that champion
language justice, or simplybeing more mindful of the
diverse language needs in ourcommunities, we all have a role
to play.
Speaker 2 (20:50):
Anna Jordy's story shows us that, even in the face
of huge obstacles, love,resilience and a shared passion
for making a difference canripple outward, creating
positive change far beyondourselves.
Speaker 3 (21:03):
Their journey isn't just about building a business.
It's about building bridges toa more inclusive and equitable
future.
It's a powerful reminder ofhuman connection, the importance
of finding your own voice andthe unwavering belief that
everyone deserves to be heardand understood.
Speaker 2 (21:19):
And that's what the deep dive is all about right,
Exploring these amazing stories,learning from others and
discovering new ways to make theworld a little brighter, a
little more connected.
Thanks for joining us, Thankyou.
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