Meet Stephanie Zornoza | CEO & Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Zornoza and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Oh, where do I even begin? The heart of The ASL Shop isn’t just about teaching ASL; it’s about creating profound connections within our beautifully diverse community. Imagine the feeling of finding that one hairdresser who just gets it right – that’s the experience we aim to replicate, but with language and culture.

Learning ASL or exploring Deaf culture opens up a new dimension of connection. It transcends mere communication; it’s about those heart-to-heart, “I see you” moments that only language can facilitate.

I’ve worked with so many families, professionals, and individuals from various walks of life, and let me tell you, the transformation is nothing short of magical. When parents, coworkers, and friends start signing, it’s like watching a flower bloom in fast-forward. The connection, the understanding, the love that flows – it’s palpable. And that? That’s the real impact of what we do.

The ASL Shop is my platform to spread this magic. Beyond teaching ASL, we’re breaking down barriers and fostering connections. We’re about creating those “aha” moments, where interactions move from coexisting to deeply connecting.

Our mission is to ensure no one feels sidelined in a world buzzing with interaction. We’re here to make sure everyone is included in the conversation, to share in the laughter, the insights, and the genuine human connections that make life so rich.

That is how The ASL Shop is making a difference, one sign at a time. In essence, it’s more than a place to learn ASL; it’s a community where everyone is welcomed, seen, and connected. We’re not just teaching a language; we’re building a community together, ensuring everyone finds their place and feels a part of something greater.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Essence of Our Business:

Our business, a Deaf-owned company, offers a comprehensive self-paced course for ASL beginners, complemented by an exclusive community and Zoom sessions for learning ASL from anywhere, along with in-person classes. This multifaceted approach ensures that anyone, regardless of their location or schedule, can embark on their journey to learning ASL in a supportive and immersive environment.

What Sets Us Apart:

What truly distinguishes us is our identity as a Deaf-owned company. In a world brimming with language courses, our unique perspective from within the Deaf community offers our students an authentic learning experience. Our lessons are not just about language; they’re about culture, identity, and community, taught by those who live it every day.

Our Journey and Pride:

Our journey at The ASL Shop has been a series of profound moments, each one special in its own right. But there’s one experience that stands out, shining a light on the essence of our mission and the joy it brings not just to me, but to the lives we touch.

I remember working with a young student, someone who had never met a Deaf person before. The anticipation and curiosity in their eyes were palpable, a mix of nervousness and excitement at entering a new world of communication. It was a reminder of the responsibility and privilege I hold as a teacher and a role model.

In one of our sessions, we delved into the basics of ASL, starting with simple, everyday topics. “What’s your favorite pet?” I asked. Their response was immediate, “A dog.” With a smile, I showed them the sign for DOG, their eyes lighting up with understanding. “What color?” I continued. “Brown,” they replied. I then guided them through constructing a full sentence in ASL: “I HAVE BROWN DOG.”

The moment the sentence came together, their face was full of joy and emotion. “I just signed a whole sentence!” they exclaimed, their expression one of pure excitement. The anticipation of showing this new skill to their father was a powerful testament to the impact of our work. It went beyond teaching a language; it was about creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of possibilities for our students and their families.

This interaction was a humbling and heartwarming reminder of why we do what we do. Each “aha” moment from a student not only signifies a breakthrough in communication but also marks the beginning of a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Deaf community and culture. These moments are what we live for at The ASL Shop. They reinforce our commitment to making ASL accessible and enjoyable for everyone, nurturing a space where learning goes hand in hand with connection and growth.

Overcoming Challenges:

Our journey hasn’t been easy, but the support from our community—small but mighty—has been unwavering. Teaching individuals who were initially ignorant about Deaf culture and ASL was challenging, but seeing their transformation into curious and eager learners has been rewarding. The real challenge lies in combating the misinformation spread by those who, despite being new to ASL and unaware of its cultural nuances, choose to teach ASL on social media without heeding feedback from the Deaf community. Our mission is to shift this perspective by emphasizing the value of inclusivity and the importance of learning ASL directly from Deaf individuals.

Our Brand and Story:

Our brand transcends the conventional bounds of an ASL course; it’s a celebration of Deaf community and culture. It stands on the principle that learning ASL from Deaf individuals is not just about language acquisition but immersing oneself in and honoring the rich heritage of Deaf culture. This principle is the foundation of all we do, from our instructional approach to how we engage with our community.

We’re dedicated to fostering an environment where learning and cultural appreciation go hand in hand, enabling everyone to explore the depth and diversity of the Deaf world. Our mission is to enrich lives through ASL, offering a journey of discovery, understanding, and respect for the Deaf community’s vibrant culture and history.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d be thrilled to show them the absolute gems of our city, crafting a week they’d never forget. Our adventure would begin at Abbot Kinney, a neighborhood known for its charming, eclectic vibe and myriad of cute shops. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the local culture and find unique treasures.

After some leisurely exploration, we’d head over to my space in Hollywood. It’s a special place for me, not just for work but also as a creative haven, and I’d love to share that piece of my world with them. We’d definitely take a selfie there to capture the moment!

Right next door to my space is where you’ll find Pi00a, a Deaf-owned pizza restaurant. Sharing a meal here isn’t just about the delicious food; it’s about supporting and experiencing the vibrant Deaf community that enriches this city.

When it comes to coffee, there’s no place like Muddy Paw on Sunset Blvd. Their coffee is strong, just how I like it, and the atmosphere is unbeatably welcoming. It’s my go-to spot for a caffeine fix and a moment of relaxation.

For dining, I have two absolute favorites. Doubting Thomas, with their irresistible burrito, rice bowl, and a carrot cake that’s simply to die for, is a must-visit. The flavors are unforgettable, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch.

As the day turns into night, Quarter Sheets becomes our go-to for dinner. Their meatballs and pizza are unparalleled, offering a flavor experience that will leave you dreaming about it long after the trip is over. Their pizza, especially, is something you won’t find anywhere else – it’s that good.

I’m quite the foodie, and sharing these favorite spots is my way of celebrating the city’s diverse, delicious offerings. This itinerary isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s about savoring moments, indulging in the local flavors, and creating memories that last a lifetime

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Without a moment’s hesitation, the shoutout at the core of my story goes to my incredible team and, most profoundly, to my husband, Travis. From the inception of The ASL Shop, Travis has been the rock on which its foundation rests. His unwavering encouragement and belief in me and our mission have been nothing short of transformative. On days filled with doubt, his reassurance was the beacon that guided me back to my path, ensuring that my vision stayed clear and focused.

Travis has worn countless hats in this endeavor – from being the cameraman capturing our content, the accountant keeping our dreams financially viable, to the lighting expert who always sets us in the best light. Not to mention, he’s been the one diligently answering emails, mailing packages, and, above all, being the fiercest cheerleader and supporter. His dedication extends beyond the professional; he ensures that I am always at my highest energy, especially while filming. There have been countless times when he’s said, “No, you need to redo this video,” pushing me to deliver my best.

I could not have embarked on this journey without him. His multifaceted contributions have not only propelled the business forward but have also ensured that I remain inspired and motivated every single day. So, thank you, Travis, for being the cornerstone of both my personal and professional life. Your support means everything.

While Travis holds a special place in this story, it’s also vital to recognize the collective effort of all my team members. Their dedication, hard work, and passion for our mission have been instrumental in shaping The ASL Shop into what it is today. Together, we’ve created a community that transcends the ordinary, making real connections and changing lives one sign at a time.

Website: www.theaslshop.com

Instagram: @theaslshop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theaslshop

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theaslshop

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theaslshop

Image Credits
Photo of Stephanie holding The ASL Shop Tote Bag – @Ali.M.Mojahedi