In this special bonus episode, we celebrate International Women’s Day with Kerry Walker, CEO of Southern Discoveries. Kerry shares her journey in tourism, from starting as a hotel receptionist in Taupō to leading one of New Zealand’s top tourism businesses. She reflects on the challenges women face in leadership, including gender bias, imposter syndrome, and the importance of resilience and continuous learning.
We discuss how the industry can create more inclusive workplaces, the value of mentorship, and why diversity in leadership matters. Kerry offers practical advice for women aspiring to leadership, enco...
In this special bonus episode, we celebrate International Women’s Day with Kerry Walker, CEO of Southern Discoveries. Kerry shares her journey in tourism, from starting as a hotel receptionist in Taupō to leading one of New Zealand’s top tourism businesses. She reflects on the challenges women face in leadership, including gender bias, imposter syndrome, and the importance of resilience and continuous learning.
We discuss how the industry can create more inclusive workplaces, the value of mentorship, and why diversity in leadership matters. Kerry offers practical advice for women aspiring to leadership, encouraging them to build strong skill sets, advocate for themselves, and challenge the status quo.
She also shares insights on personal brand, workplace culture, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. In closing, she reflects on the progress made for women in tourism and the work still needed to ensure equity at all levels.
00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show
00:24 The Significance of International Women's Day
00:47 Celebrating Women in Various Fields
01:07 Reflecting on Progress and Challenges
01:49 Empowerment and Inspiration
02:51 Interview Introduction: Kerry Walker
03:49 Kerry Walker's Career Journey
06:54 Challenges and Successes in Leadership
11:01 Barriers and Strengths in Leadership
15:12 Personal Brand and Mentorship
22:58 Creating Supportive Environments for Women
24:54 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
26:08 Advice for Women in Leadership
28:08 Shoutouts to Inspirational Women
29:44 Conclusion and Thank You
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Today's Guest
Kerry Walker - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-walker-2a73ba18/
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