In this update I’m reacting to a TikTok clip that’s doing the rounds about Whales English. It shows a parent being interviewed in Chinese, and I’ll be totally honest: I don’t understand what’s being said word-for-word. But you don’t need subtitles to pick up the tone—this parent is clearly upset, and the vibe is very much “what is happening with the company?” I talk about what the video appears to show: unhappy parents, mentions of empty offices, and the very worrying idea that refunds aren’t being given. For anyone teaching online (or thinking about it), this kind of situation is a reminder of how quickly things can change in the China ESL space and why you need to keep your eyes open. My main takeaway is to stay informed, protect yourself financially, and avoid relying on just one platform or one company for your income—because when parents lose trust, the knock-on effect hits teachers too.