The Reflection Room: A Journey of War, Love, and Entrepreneurship

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!

Transcript

Speaker 1 0:07

Hello Branded Bunch. Guess what? There's something brand new brewing here at Brand the Interpreter. Starting today, I'm introducing a brand new series called the.

Speaker 2 0:19

Reflection Room.

Speaker 1 0:20

In this unique format, you're going to hear two fictional hosts. That's right, the hosts are fictional, but they're witty and they're thoughtful. Think of them as brandy interpreters, co-hosts, who will take you on a journey through the stories and themes of our main episodes. Their engaging back and forth will unpack key moments, offering deeper insights and fresh perspectives you will want to be a part of. These shorter reflective episodes are designed to give you more to think about and connect, but in a bite-sized format. The reflection rooms will drop shortly after each main episode, with me and the guests, with me and the guests. Of course. I'd love to hear your thoughts, so make sure, after you hear it, to drop a comment or send me a message and let me know what you think of the Reflection Room. And, as always, thank you for being a part of this journey. Here's to exploring more interpreter stories in a whole new way. Are you ready? Welcome to the Reflection Room.

Speaker 2 1:30

Welcome to this deep jive. We're going to unpack a story. It's not just about building a business, but about building a life and a partnership.

Speaker 3 1:37

Okay.

Speaker 2 1:39

And a legacy of language justice. Yeah a legacy. We're going to be Anna and Jordi Varelas, a Salvadorian couple who found love in the middle of a civil war. Oh, wow. And then they went on and created a really thriving interpreting and translation business in Chicago.

Speaker 3 1:57

That's quite a journey. What's so captivating about their story is how it kind of brings together personal resilience and a deep understanding of how important language access is. You know it's not just a business story. It's really a story about human connection.

Speaker 2 2:11

Right, ok, so let's set the scene here. It's 1989, San Salvador. Imagine your high school sweethearts and your whole future is ahead of you, and then, all of a sudden, your world is just totally turned upside down by a civil war.

Speaker 3 2:22

I can't even imagine.

Speaker 2 2:23

That's what happened to Anna and Geordi. Geordi had to flee to stay with his brother, while Anna and her family they ended up taking refuge in a walk-in closet during this final offensive. Oh my God, can you even imagine?

Speaker 3 2:37

It's just. It's hard to even fathom the fear and the uncertainty that they must have felt, especially without all the ways that we have to communicate instantly today.

Speaker 2 2:46

Right.

Speaker 3 2:46

Like no internet or social media to even stay connected. Just the hope that they would see each other again someday.

Speaker 2 2:52

And speaking of reunions, get this. Anna's family decides to go visit relatives in Chicago.

Speaker 3 2:59

Okay.

Speaker 2 2:59

And guess who's already there? Who, jordi Wow. Fate brought them back together, and that chance encounter in Chicago really foreshadowed the path that they would end up on.

Speaker 3 3:09

Yeah, you see, when Jordi first got to Chicago, he was just really struck by all the struggles that his fellow Salvadorans were having and just trying to understand news from home.

Speaker 1 3:18

Right.

Speaker 3 3:18

There was this huge language barrier, and it created this sense of isolation and desperation really, and so it was just this powerful realization of how crucial language access really is.

Speaker 2 3:30

It's like that experience planted a seed.

Speaker 3 3:32

Absolutely, it really did.

Speaker 2 3:34

It showed him like firsthand how communication, or the lack of communication, can have such a profound impact on people's lives 100%.

Speaker 3 3:42

So Geordie initially went on to work as a bail bondsman, but that seed you know that seed was planted. He stayed with him. Meanwhile, Anna was already doing some translation work and she would share her stories about what it was like to be an interpreter, and I think that really sparked something in Jordi.

Speaker 2 4:00

It's fascinating how those individual experiences eventually converged right. Yeah, they saw this need, a shared passion and this opportunity to create something that was meaningful together.

Speaker 3 4:11

And that is exactly what they did. They joined forces, you know. They combined Anna's expertise with Jordi's entrepreneurial spirit and that's how they created JV Language Solutions. But it wasn't just about building a business, you know, it was about building it as a married couple. That adds a whole other level of complexity, wouldn't you say?

Speaker 2 4:31

Right. Building a business with your spouse, it must be like navigating a whole other level of partnership right.

Speaker 3 4:36

Yeah.

Speaker 2 4:37

What do they have to say about the challenges and the rewards of something like that?

Speaker 3 4:40

Well, they're very open about the fact that it's not always easy. They really stress the importance of clear communication, which is probably important for any partnership, right, but even more so when you're running a business together. They also talked about the need to respect each other's strengths and then strategically kind of divide the responsibilities. You know, it's about finding that synergy where you're both kind of using your strengths and then supporting each other where you have weaknesses.

Speaker 2 5:07

So I'm curious did they share any specific examples about how they divide those responsibilities or any advice for other couples who might be considering going down that same path?

Speaker 3 5:18

Oh, they did.

Speaker 2 5:19

Okay, great.

Speaker 3 5:19

Jordi. He focuses on the sales and marketing side of the business.

Speaker 2 5:23

Okay.

Speaker 3 5:23

While Anna she manages the finances and operations. They also talked about setting individual quotas and then celebrating each other's successes.

Speaker 2 5:31

I love that.

Speaker 3 5:32

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 5:38

That's a great point. It sounds like they have found a way to make it work, but it's not without its challenges. What about those times when disagreements come up both in the business and in their personal life? How do they navigate that?

Speaker 3 5:51

Well, they admit to having their disagreements, even arguments, which is totally normal for any couple, of course, let alone one that's running a business together but they really emphasize that once they're on the job, professionalism always comes first. It's like they have this unspoken agreement to put the clients and their shared mission first, even when things maybe get a little heated. Personally, Right.

Speaker 2 6:17

That level of commitment and professionalism is really impressive. It speaks volumes about how dedicated they are to what they do. It really does. And speaking of dedication, their passion for language justice really shines through in everything that they do, especially when you see them working within the nonprofit sector.

Speaker 3 6:33

Right. For them, language access isn't just a service. It's a fundamental right. It's a cornerstone of a truly inclusive society inclusive society. They see their work as a way to empower communities and create a space where everyone has a voice, regardless of what language they speak.

Speaker 2 6:50

That's a powerful way to think about it.

Speaker 3 6:52

Yeah.

Speaker 2 6:52

It's not just about providing like translation or interpretation. It's about fostering real equality and ensuring that everybody has that opportunity to participate fully in civic life.

Speaker 3 7:03

A hundred percent notice illustrate that Anna shares this really vivid example of a city council meeting where indigenous speakers are given ample time to express themselves in Mixteco, spanish and English. And it wasn't just a token gesture. It was about creating an environment where those speakers felt really heard, respected and like their perspectives were actually valued.

Speaker 2 7:24

It's about going beyond just checking a box right. It's about creating that culture of inclusion where language diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated.

Speaker 3 7:31

Exactly, and they're not afraid to push back against clients who view interpretation as just a formality, a box to be ticked. They advocate for best practices and they challenge those who just treat language access as an afterthought instead of a core element of inclusivity.

Speaker 2 7:48

So they're not just providing a service, they're really advocating for a change in mindset, a shift in how people view language and its role in creating a more just and equitable society.

Speaker 3 7:59

Yeah, that's a great way to put it, and that advocacy is really intertwined with their belief in community empowerment. You know they've seen firsthand how language barriers can silence entire communities and prevent them from getting vital resources and advocating for what they need.

Speaker 2 8:16

That's such a powerful point. It's like language access becomes a gateway to so many other forms of empowerment.

Speaker 1 8:22

It does.

Speaker 2 8:22

Whether it's access to health care, education or just feeling like you belong in your community.

Speaker 3 8:27

And they're quick to point out that it's not about giving voices to the voiceless. It's about amplifying voices that have been ignored for so long.

Speaker 2 8:34

It's about recognizing that those voices have always been there, but they haven't always been given the space or the resources to be heard.

Speaker 3 8:41

Exactly, and their work with these nonprofits has helped marginalized communities gain a voice and actually be able to participate more fully in civic life. They talk about how satisfying it is to be able to see that tangible impact of their work on these communities.

Speaker 2 8:55

It's inspiring to hear how their own personal journey has fueled this commitment to social impact.

Speaker 3 9:01

Yeah.

Speaker 2 9:02

They've clearly taken their own experiences and turned it into a driving force for creating this positive change.

Speaker 3 9:09

Absolutely, and it's so fascinating how they managed to keep that personal connection while also building this successful business.

Speaker 2 9:17

Right.

Speaker 3 9:17

I'm kind of curious did they talk about how they handle disagreements, especially given the unique dynamic of their partnership?

Speaker 2 9:24

That's a great question because even with shared passion and values, I imagine there must still be moments where navigating those personal and professional boundaries can get a little tricky.

Speaker 3 9:34

Oh for sure. Well, they did touch on that and they actually have a pretty good sense of humor about it. Jordy jokes that he's the boss but, then quickly adds that Anna is the boss when it's convenient for him.

Speaker 2 9:45

Oh, I love that. Of course it's a joke, but it hints at the playful way they navigate their roles and responsibilities. You know what I mean?

Speaker 3 9:52

I it hints at the playful way they navigate their roles and responsibilities. You know what I mean. I love that it sounds like they don't shy away from the complexities of their partnership, but they approach it with a really healthy dose of humor and self-awareness Exactly.

Speaker 2 10:03

And they emphasize that their shared passion for language, justice and their commitment to their clients that's what helps them overcome any disagreements that they have Right no-transcript, especially with AI-powered interpretation.

Speaker 3 10:46

What do you think? How do Anna and Jordi view these advancements? Do they see it as a threat to their profession or an opportunity?

Speaker 2 10:54

That's a great question. We'll find out in part two of this 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 how they view the rise of AI in the interpreting world Threat or opportunity? 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 advancing so fast these days. It's got to be on their minds.

Speaker 3 11:23

Yeah, you're right. Their perspective is really interesting. It's nuanced. They see the potential benefits, like how AI can improve accessibility and make language services more affordable. They even mentioned a platform called Wordly Wordly. Yeah, they say it uses AI for interpretation during city council meetings, so it's already out there.

Speaker 2 11:42

Wow, that's wild. So they acknowledge that AI can broaden access, especially when traditional interpreting isn't feasible for whatever reason.

Speaker 3 11:50

Exactly. But they're also very clear about this Technology should never totally replace human interpreters. They talk about cultural sensitivity, nuanced understanding, that connection you 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 a page right. It's about understanding emotions, context, cultural cues, all the stuff that makes communication real and meaningful.

Speaker 3 12:15

You hit the nail on the head, and they brought up a really important point about AI potentially making existing inequalities worse, like if we rely too much on technology, what about those communities who can't even access it in the first place?

Speaker 2 12:28

That's a huge concern. We can't let the excitement over tech overshadow the need for equal and inclusive language access for everyone. So it sounds like Anne and Jordi are pushing for a balanced approach, using AI's strengths while holding on to the human element, the cultural sensitivity.

Speaker 3 12:42

Yeah, absolutely. They believe interpreters are crucial in this whole evolution. They even encourage their fellow 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, finding ways 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, skilled human interpreters will increase as technology gets more advanced.

Speaker 2 13:11

Really, that's interesting.

Speaker 3 13:12

Because more organizations are starting to understand that real, authentic communication needs that cultural piece, that sensitivity AI can't quite grasp, so they'll need those human skills even 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 unique chance for interpreters to really lead the way in language justice. As the field changes, they can fight for fair working conditions, make sure things are done ethically and push for interpreting to be seen as the highly skilled profession it is.

Speaker 2 13:44

That's so important. As things evolve, interpreters need to have a voice in shaping the future and ensuring that their profession's core values are protected. But with all this new stuff happening, the pressure to keep up, I imagine there must be some real challenges along the way, right.

Speaker 3 14:01

Oh, there definitely are. Anna and Jordi are very honest about that. Running a business, especially one in a field that's always changing, takes a ton of resilience 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 and keeping qualified interpreters who are passionate about language 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 language skills but also that sensitivity, that commitment to ethical practices. That's a special combination.

Speaker 3 14:37

It really is. They also mentioned the financial risks that come with running a business, especially when you depend so much on contracts and funding. But even with all those challenges, they seem to have this unshakable belief in what they 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 they built a successful business without compromising their values, 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 their daughter helps out with the business sometimes.

Speaker 2 15:13

Wow, that's amazing. A true family affair Shows you the power of shared passion and purpose. It sounds like they found that sweet spot, integrating work and life in a way that's meaningful and sustainable.

Speaker 3 15:24

Absolutely. They created something bigger than just a business. It reflects who they are at their 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 the future?

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 at Anna and Jordi Videlis, you know, going from escaping a civil war to building a business that fights for language justice right here in Chicago.

Speaker 3 16:00

Yeah, it's pretty amazing. Their story really shows the power of resilience, love and a deep commitment to making the world 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 JAV language solutions and what wisdom can they share with aspiring interpreters and 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 industry and, with tech becoming so important, things are changing constantly. What do they see coming and what advice do they have for people navigating this new landscape?

Speaker 3 16:38

Well, they really stressed continuous learning. You know, the interpreting world never stands still, especially with technology constantly integrating, so staying ahead of the curve is key.

Speaker 2 16:44

So it's not enough to just be fluent in the languages you interpret. You also have to understand different industries, keep up with tech and sharpen those business skills. Sounds like a lot to handle.

Speaker 3 16:54

It is, and they really urge aspiring interpreters to find mentors, go to conferences and never stop training. It's about being a lifelong learner, always looking for ways to improve your skills and knowledge.

Speaker 2 17:06

Sounds like they believe in the power of community, not just within the language services field, but in the broader business world too.

Speaker 3 17:13

Absolutely. They talked a lot about networking and building relationships in the interpreting community. They see collaboration and sharing knowledge as essential to the growth of the whole profession.

Speaker 2 17:24

It's like a rising tide, lifts all boats right, Sharing resources, advocating for better work conditions and setting high standards for the industry.

Speaker 3 17:32

Exactly For those who are thinking about starting their own business, especially in language services. They had some great advice. Having a clear vision is crucial, they said.

Speaker 2 17:42

What do they mean by that, Like beyond wanting to start a business? What kind of vision are we talking about?

Speaker 3 17:47

They said, it's all about defining your core values. What are the principles that will drive your business decisions? What niche do you want to focus on? And, maybe the biggest question, what kind of impact do you hope to make? It's about making sure your business is in sync with a mission that truly resonates with 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 about the practical side either. Having a solid business plan is a must, they said. About the practical side either. Having a solid business plan is a must, they said. Outlining your services, target market, financial projections, marketing strategy those are all critical steps.

Speaker 2 18:22

So it's about blending those big dreams with a down-to-earth understanding of how business works.

Speaker 3 18:26

Exactly. They really encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to tap into all the available resources and support systems, things like small business incubators, mentorship programs and networking events. Having a supportive community can make a world of difference.

Speaker 2 18:40

Yeah, building that network of advisors, mentors and collaborators can provide guidance and encouragement when you need it most. Starting a business can feel lonely, 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 on your vision and trusting your ability to get through those tough times.

Speaker 2 19:08

It's about having grit, that determination to keep pushing forward even when things get rough, right to keep pushing forward even when things get rough Right.

Speaker 3 19:15

They urged entrepreneurs to find joy in the journey, celebrate the small wins 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 in the work itself. That's what will keep you going through 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 language services isn't just about technology. It's about people.

Speaker 2 19:37

It's about remembering that behind every translation, every interpretation, there's a human story, a need to connect, to communicate, to be understood.

Speaker 3 19:45

Exactly. They believe that interpreters have this incredible power to bridge divides, build understanding and empower communities, all through the power 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 for skilled interpreters will just keep growing as more organizations see the value of authentic, culturally sensitive communication.

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 positive impact.

Speaker 3 20:21

As we wrap up our deep dive into Anna and Jordi's story, I think it's a good time to reflect on a question they asked how can you contribute to language 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 can help bridge those gaps.

Speaker 3 20:39

Whether it's advocating for better language access policies, supporting organizations that champion language justice, or simply being more mindful of the diverse language needs in our communities, 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 can ripple outward, creating positive change far beyond ourselves.

Speaker 3 21:03

Their journey isn't just about building a business. It's about building bridges to a more inclusive and equitable future. It's a powerful reminder of human connection, the importance of finding your own voice and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves to be heard and 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 the world a little brighter, a little more connected. Thanks for joining us, Thank you.