Victoria Flexner

Kristin Richardson’s company, Sherah, taps into the most powerful resource available to help overburdened caregivers: Moms.

Liz Toombs’ design company, PDR Interiors, is offering Greek houses across the country some sleek new interiors.

Allyson Conklin prides herself on her holistic, personalized approach to working with brands in the beauty and lifestyle industries.

Cathy Bissell’s animal rescue foundation works with partners across the U.S. to reduce the number of animals in shelters, while providing free spaying and neutering programs.

Helen Underwood launched her first aid training course to provide life-saving skills to people who work in all kinds of settings.

Daria Kuk created The Ventures Awards to identify high-potential startups and connect them with a network of leading investors.

Shannon Nelson’s travel agency, Her World, works with women looking to explore the globe, alone or in groups.

There's actually some surprising trends, when it comes to consumers'drinking habits. And yes, orange wine is still in. December 9, 2024

When Alena Sunavska first started teaching foreign languages, she noticed that most of her students were facing the same challenge: They struggled to understand the fundamentals of how to effectively acquire a new language. Sunavska began to think about how foreign languages are taught, and decided to come up with her own teaching methods, ones that would make learning a new language feel less intimidating and more approachable. In 2008, she launched the London Language Studio. In the 16 years since Sunavska launched, she and her team of tutors have helped hundreds of students build confidence and develop strategies to understand the psychology behind learning languages – including clients like the U.S. Embassy in London. Today, the London-based founder is continuing to grow her business, even as AI and technology-based language learning apps are on the rise. Here's our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project. How is your business different from others in your industry? We don’t just teach languages – we teach how to learn languages. Before our students dive into their lessons, we equip them with universal tools and strategies to unlock their learning potential. These tools can be applied to any language, at any age, anywhere in the world. By empowering students to take charge of their own learning, we flip the traditional model — our tutors become a guide, not the sole source of knowledge. Tell us about your biggest success so far. For me, success isn’t defined by a specific milestone or an external award, but by the countless transformations I’ve witnessed in the students we’ve worked with over the years. When a student who once felt discouraged or unsure about their language skills suddenly becomes fluent enough to navigate life in a new country, land their dream job or have meaningful conversations in a new language – that is success. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? The unrelenting pace of running a business and managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Running a language school means constantly balancing between administrative tasks, coordinating lessons, ensuring student satisfaction, and growing the business. And let’s not forget that life outside of work doesn’t pause! For a long time, I struggled with fitting everything into the 24 hours I had each day. It took me far too long to realize that there was no way I could handle it all alone. The solution was twofold. Delegating tasks to my team has been crucial. And, I’ve also accepted that perfection isn’t always achievable – that sometimes, good enough is just fine. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? Covid marked a pivotal moment in my personal and professional life. The inevitable shift to online learning was both a challenge and an opportunity. While technology allowed us to continue reaching students, it also amplified a growing concern I had long observed: The increasing reliance on impersonal, app-based language learning tools and AI. These tools, while useful in many ways, can’t replace the human connection that is essential for effective language learning. Language is about communication, connection, and cultural exchange — none of which can truly be replicated by an algorithm. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? When you’re starting out, it’s easy to believe that you need to do everything yourself—that no one else can execute your vision quite like you can. But I’ve learned that this mindset can be a major roadblock to growth. The key to scaling a successful business is delegation. As soon as possible, build a team you trust and give them the freedom to take ownership of their areas of responsibility. How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? Nature has an incredible ability to reset your mind and spirit. Listening to the rustle of leaves, absorbing the feeling of sun on my skin, or breathing in fresh crisp air— all of these reminders of nature’s simplicity and resilience ground me in the fact that even in chaos, there’s harmony. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? “Otan Exo Esena” by Greek artist Dimitris Mitropanos. It translates to: “When I have you,” and it’s a masterpiece! Music has an amazing way of lifting your spirits, and for me, this one is like a personal anthem – it reminds me of my past, my journey, and why I started this business in the first place. Who is your most important role model? I draw inspiration from many people in different ways. I’m constantly inspired by individuals who demonstrate resilience, intelligence and creativity in overcoming challenges and finding innovative solutions. There’s a quiet power in those who rise above difficulties and use their experiences to improve the world around them.

Madhavi Parikh founded I-SPIE Health to provide holistic guidance to individuals and their loved ones throughout their cancer journeys.