In this episode, we speak to Gonzalo Fuenzalida. He's the founder and CEO of Chile Nativo Travel. The company offers a varied program of travel in the Patagonia region of South America. It's noteworthy for introducing multisport tours that combine activities such as kayaking, horse-riding and trekking in Patagonia.

Another equally remarkable feature is the company's longevity. It has been in business for roughly a quarter of a century and has survived many crises in that time. The company has used each crisis as an opportunity to grow, making its program and offering more versatile and sustainable.

Gonzalo Fuenzalida summarises the essential elements of his approach to business that have brought success as:

• Never giving up
• Keeping things simple
• Growing carefully

A detailed breakdown of what's covered in the show is provided below.

1:20 – Intro & background
1:42 – Leaving accounting for adventure
2:59 – Early struggles: post-9/11 launch, remote-first from day one
4:33 – First crisis: park fire leads to ranch experiences & expanded offerings
6:58 – 2008 crisis: budget trips & pioneering the independent W trek
8:22 – Building the trip portfolio: horses, trekking, backpacking, tailor-made
12:16 – Pandemic: zero layoffs, sustainability overhaul, overland trips born
14:56 – Post-pandemic boom & accidental head chef stint
17:01 – Team building: pay well, hire on gut, annual mystery staff trips
21:11 – Camp contract cancelled → builds premium eco-camp from recycled plastic
23:03 – Multi-sport tours & award-winning e-bike trips
24:17 – 3 keys to success: don't give up, keep it simple, grow carefully
26:18 – Handling complaints: the refund that avoided a lawsuit

Who is this episode most relevant for?

Are you looking to become a travel entrepreneur? Do you want to escape a desk job to work among people out in nature? If so, this episode is particularly relevant for you.

Resources mentioned:

• Overland adventure videos: vimeo.com/chilenativo

Company website: chilenativo.com

Show support:

• Ease of Mind Productions – making audiobook recording easy (easeofmind.co)

Connect with us:

• Website: businessinnovators.global
• Email: info@businessinnovators.global
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If you're working for or running a values-driven business and you're facing a challenge you'd like another entrepreneur's take on, get in touch by emailing info@businessinnovators.global. We'll invite podcast guests to offer ideas and perspectives on your questions.