TIME – Travel Industry Mentor Experience

Send us a textWhat happens when a chance encounter at a panel event transforms a career path? Join us as we chat with Brianna Drummond, the inspiring Product Operations Team Leader at Inspiring Vacations, who shares her journey into unexpected opportunities. From skepticism to success, discover how Brianna's scholarship experience, mentorship with sales coach Nicole O'Sullivan, and bold steps outside her comfort zone have redefined her professional growth and leadership abilities.Without a sales background, Brianna reveals how understanding personality traits and communication styles can revolutionize networking. We swap stories about the challenges and triumphs of becoming more outgoing, and Brianna explains how pushing beyond familiar boundaries can lead to meaningful connections. With insights into vibrant networking scenes in Melbourne and Sydney and tips for leveraging LinkedIn, this conversation is packed with strategies to elevate your career and personal development.But it's not all business! We spice things up with some podcast banter, a quest for Melbourne's best croissants, and family tales of unpatented inventions. Laugh along with us as we explore the quirks of life, like waiting hours to witness a rare flower bloom or the whims of dressing up for a podcast. Tune in for a lively mix of professional insights, personal anecdotes, and a reminder that growth often comes in the most unexpected ways.

Send us a textCurious about the profound impact of mentorship on career growth? Join us as Arnaud and I unpack the transformative journey that began with a 90-minute mentoring session. He shares their experience of stepping outside familiar circles to seek guidance from industry expert Neil Agar, all prompted by significant organizational shifts. Our discussion covers not only the selection process for a mentor but also highlights the importance of diverse perspectives. With a sprinkle of humor and light-hearted jabs about my own availability for advice, we explore how our community facilitates these enriching interactions, leading to impactful professional development.Our conversation then flows into the lasting power of mentorships beyond formal sessions, shedding light on the genuine commitment of mentors who volunteer their time purely for the joy of fostering mentee growth. Discover the mutual benefits of these relationships, including the exchange of fresh generational insights. We paint a vibrant picture of how spontaneous community support and mentorship can spark personal growth, touching on personal anecdotes that include upcoming birthdays and the creation of meaningful connections. Prepare for an engaging episode full of anecdotes, humor, and insightful discussion on professional and personal development within a supportive community.

Send us a textPenny Spencer, the visionary force behind the Time mentoring program, joins us to celebrate 15 years of transformative impact in the travel industry. Discover how Penny nurtured this initiative through tough times like the Global Financial Crisis and COVID-19, all while expanding its reach to New Zealand and increasing its vibrant community of mentees and mentors. Her insights into the resilience and passion required to sustain such a program promise valuable lessons for anyone interested in career progression and industry retention.Reflect with us on the multicultural tapestry that unites our hosts and our guest, celebrating shared roots and the crucial support from partners like Air New Zealand. As we gear up for the grand 15-year celebration event, expect lively discussions on gratitude, humility, and aligning personal and professional goals. Hear anecdotes that highlight the power of networking and mentorship in sparking inspiration and fostering a supportive network, even for those who can't directly participate. This episode is a heartfelt homage to the connections that fuel growth and the community spirit that makes it all possible.

Send us a textEver tried to perfect the art of finding the ideal croissant? It's been a humorous and delicious journey for us this year, filled with unexpected twists, wardrobe choices, and, yes, the occasional pastry mishap. We also take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude as we wrap up an incredible 2024, celebrating our 50th episode and reflecting on our climb in Australia's podcast ranks, all thanks to our amazing guests. Mentorship has been our guiding light, illuminating the path for both the seasoned and those just starting their careers. In our latest episode, we celebrate these bonds that extend beyond the workplace, forming friendships that last a lifetime. We share tales of growth from graduation events, emphasizing that the journey of personal and professional development is ongoing and rewarding, with or without financial incentives. The tales of personal triumph and connection have been nothing short of inspiring, reminding us of the power of mentorship networks. As we gear up for 2025 and the 15th anniversary of the TIME program, fresh formats are on the horizon. We also reminisce about some quirky revelations from past participant stories—did you know we had a guest who was once a Russian opera singer? Looking forward, there's excitement in the air for future Mardi Gras plans. This year has been a memorable one, and with a sprinkle of gratitude and a dash of humor, we thank our listeners and look forward to more enriching adventures together.

Send us a textJoin us for an exciting episode featuring the dynamic Celia Ho, the digital marketing maestro at AAT Kings, as she unpacks her unique career journey. Picture the bustling scenes at Brisbane Airport with our high-spirited guest, Arnaud Michelin, setting the pace. Celia creatively recounts her journey using the metaphor of an airport adventure, with the acronym T-I-M-E serving as her runway to professional growth and transformation. As she shares her hesitations and eventual decision to embark on "Flight 53," Celia's reflections on embracing change and seizing opportunities will resonate with anyone charting their own path.In our lively discussion, we unravel the profound impact of mentorship and networking on growth. Celia likens her own journey to running a marathon, breaking down immense goals into achievable strides. With tales of inspiring encounters, including a memorable networking moment with industry veteran Rick, the episode unfolds insights into holistic business practices. As the talk turns personal, we venture into Celia's fashion adventures with Marimekko, dispel Autobahn myths, and share endearing stories of organizational quirks at home. This episode promises a vibrant mix of professional insights and personal anecdotes, offering a rich tapestry of inspiration and discovery.

Send us a textEver wondered how mentorship can revolutionize your career? Get ready to be enlightened as we chat with Shelley Martin, Business Development Manager at Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Shelley opens up about her compelling journey into the TIME community and how a colleague’s positive experience sparked her desire to embrace mentorship. She candidly discusses the significance of career health checks, especially post-COVID-19, and reveals why having a mentor is invaluable at any career stage. Tackling imposter syndrome? This episode is for you. Shelley shares how her mentor’s guidance transformed her confidence and the importance of a strong network within the TIME community. We delve into the unique and supportive nature of the Queensland travel industry, where close-knit relationships play a crucial role. Learn how networking and mentorship can lead to transformative personal and professional growth.As we switch gears to a more relaxed conversation, expect laughter and camaraderie. From memorable fashion moments at Cruise 360 to hilarious personal anecdotes involving Anna and her dad, this segment brings a mix of humor and heart. We also chat about future meet-ups in Queensland, cooking French cuisine, and even introduce a fun new podcast segment where listeners guess company abbreviations. This episode promises not only valuable insights but also plenty of laughs and engaging stories.

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to career advancement and the power of mentorship with our special guest, William Kaafi, the Guest Services Team Leader at Norwegian Cruise Line. Will’s journey from feeling unprepared to achieving a promotion through the TIME mentorship program is nothing short of inspiring. Guided by the support of Angela Middleton and the mentorship of Simon Bernardi, Will’s story vividly illustrates how encouragement and guidance can transform professional trajectories. Tune in to hear about the essential leadership skills he developed and the delicate balance he maintains between supporting his team and managing personal responsibilities.Dive into the pivotal role of data analysis in customer service and learn how it can shape decision-making and break down perception biases. Will shares firsthand experiences on the importance of networking and maintaining a robust LinkedIn presence to cultivate industry relationships. From engaging workshops to the positive energy at industry events, this episode is brimming with insights and motivation. Get ready to embrace the vital lessons on stepping out of your comfort zone and harnessing the benefits of a supportive network in your career journey.

Send us a textEver wondered how a stint at a local brewery could reignite someone's passion for the travel industry? Tune in to hear Peta Godfrey, Managing Director at Travel Focus, share her incredible story of resilience and reinvention amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover how a pivotal scholarship from Tour Atlas and the transformative TIME program helped her rediscover her strategic vision for her business, all while balancing the demands of professional and family life with the guidance of mentor Penny Spencer. Peta's journey is a masterclass in finding opportunity in adversity and cultivating a renewed sense of purpose.And that's just the beginning. We'll also take you on a delightful detour through Sydney's best croissant spots (once again), and you'll learn why adding personal travel anecdotes can revolutionize your sales strategy. Plus, get a backstage pass to the surprising past of one of our guests, a former drummer of the rock band Tokyo Spares, now thriving in the travel industry. From early 2000s fashion reminiscing to celebrating the TIME-less elegance of French men, this episode is packed with engaging stories, practical wisdom, and plenty of laughs. Don't miss this captivating blend of business insights and personal reflections.

Send us a textWhat if you could translate the joy of dance into your professional life? Join us at the bustling Melbourne Airport, where we sit down with Kristina Sambaher, State Manager for New South Wales and ACT at Ponant and Paul Gauguin Cruises, as she shares her unique journey with the TIME (Travel Industry Mentor Experience) program. Kristina opens up about her application process, the instant connection with her mentor Alice at the Four Seasons, and how this mentorship experience has been nothing short of transformative.Change is inevitable, but it's how we navigate it that defines us. Kristina reflects on her participation in the Flight Centre Travel Group Emerging Leaders Program in 2017, emphasizing the importance of change for personal and professional growth. With Alice’s mentorship, Kristina found a creative and supportive outlet through their walk-and-talk sessions, which fostered a productive environment. We explore how different settings can influence our work and the invaluable role of a mentor in adapting to new challenges.But it's not all work and no play. We indulge in a nostalgic conversation about our shared love for dance. Kristina, a former ballroom dance instructor with Arthur Murray Dance School, reminisces about her favorite dance style, the jive, that lit up her teenage years. Our discussion spans various dance forms and their significance, with some delightful anecdotes about producing ballroom dance TV shows and even the cultural roots of the tango. This episode is a vibrant mix of mentorship, embracing change, and the joy that comes from our passions.

Send us a textJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Bryan Swadling, Master Planning Manager at Scenic World, as he shares his fascinating journey from the TIME program to leading long-term strategic initiatives. Learn how Brian, guided by his mentor, navigates the complexities of planning for the future of iconic attractions like Scenic World and Bridge Climb. Discover the secrets behind creating sustainable plans that stand the test of time and avoid costly mistakes, as well as a hint at an intriguing challenge that might be on the horizon for the bridge climb.Ever wondered how stepping outside your daily company environment can spark fresh perspectives? Brian sheds light on the benefits of professional development and networking, despite the logistical challenges. From memorable guest speakers to reframing performance management conversations, Brian provides invaluable insights into how external viewpoints can transform your approach. Tune in for anecdotes about impactful sessions and the golden rule of taking away three key points from every conversation.Finally, we delve into the power of networking and the evolving role of LinkedIn in professional growth. Brian recounts a memorable graduation speech and discusses the unique challenges faced by the attractions industry, like dealing with weather impacts on visitor numbers. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt farewell celebrating Brian's recent graduation and a personal revelation you won't want to miss. This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and a genuine passion for professional and personal growth.