Swim Against The Tide

In this fascinating conversation, Darren Burn shares his unique journey from starting his career as a young, budding ITN journalist to the CEO and Founder of Out Of Office, a luxury travel company focused on the LGBTQ+ community. 
He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his early experiences in journalism, the challenges of starting a business, and the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
The conversation also touches on the significance of diversity and inclusion in the travel industry and the lessons learned from mistakes along the way. 
He emphasizes the importance of honesty in customer relations and the need for travel companies to provide genuine insights into destinations, particularly for the LGBTQ community.

The discussion also touches on the challenges of sustainability in the travel industry and the growing demand for experiential travel that connects clients with local cultures.

The SATT Team :) 
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In this engaging conversation, Ed Pyke shares his journey from a young kitchen porter to the CEO of Simpson Travel. 

He discusses his early experiences in the travel and hospitality industry, the importance of customer experience, and the unique position of Simpson Travel in the market.

Ed emphasizes the importance of building trust and delegating responsibilities in leadership, the significance of recruiting the right team for growth, and the challenges and changes faced after private equity investment.

Additionally, he highlights sustainability initiatives in the travel industry and outline future growth plans and opportunities, while reflecting on early career lessons and the value of seizing opportunities.

The SATT Team :) 

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In this conversation, James Dare shares the journey of co-founding the Salad Project, a restaurant chain focused on healthy, customisable eating. 

He discusses the opportunity the COVID-19 pandemic gave him, and his fellow founder Flo in planning for their world domination. Emphasising the importance of trusting gut instincts, having a clear vision, and the organic growth of the business.

James shares his views on the importance of understanding market fit, and the dynamics of running a business with a partner and the significance of customer feedback.

He shares insights on funding strategies, building a strong team, and adapting to local markets, reflecting on the lessons learned from mistakes and the significance of enjoying the entrepreneurial journey.

The conversation also touches on the upcoming launch of their cookbook, showcasing their culinary journey.

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The SATT Team :) 

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In this week’s episode, Annabel Turpin, Chief Executive of Storyhouse, tells us about commercial realities in the Arts sector. She discusses the importance of community engagement, the challenges faced in different regions, and the balance between commercial viability and charitable goals.

She emphasizes the significance of storytelling in fundraising and the need for arts centres to be responsive to their local communities. 

Annabel also highlights the evolving funding landscape and the opportunities for arts organisations to present themselves as solutions to societal issues – a place to bring people together.

She emphasizes the importance of civic leadership, embracing change, and fostering innovation through a culture of learning from failure.

Annabel shares insights on effective communication during times of change, her leadership style focused on honesty and clarity, and the long-term planning necessary for the sustainability of arts organizations. 

The discussion also touches on the impact of the pandemic on arts and culture, the importance of community engagement, and future goals for fostering creativity and collaboration.

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The SATT Team :) 

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In this week's conversation, Michael Glanville shares his extensive journey in the marine industry, discussing the evolution of MDL marinas under his leadership and the complexities of marina operations.

He highlights the growth of the business, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the significance of team dynamics and leadership in navigating these challenges.

Michael emphasizes the need for differentiation in this very competitive market and the critical role of hospitality and enhancing customer experience, as well as creating a vibrant community for all of his marinas. 

He shares insights on leadership, investment strategies, the lessons learned from past mistakes, and the sustainability initiatives that give the brand and his team a clear advantage in this competitive market.

Finally, Michael tells us about his next adventure as he moves full-time into his executive coaching business and hands over the reins to somebody new.

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The SATT Team :) 

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In this fascinating conversation, Sean Taylor, Founder and President of Zip World, shares his journey from a challenging childhood and military career to building a successful adventure tourism business. 

He discusses the growth and evolution of Zip World, its diverse offerings, and the importance of community impact and sustainability through B Corp certification. 

Sean also reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, including the challenges of investment and the significance of maintaining control in business, building a strong team, fostering innovation, and maintaining a fun and resilient work culture.

He reflects on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the significance of creating a positive work environment. 

He concludes with valuable lessons learned throughout his military and entrepreneurial journey.

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In this conversation, Chris Lorenzo shares the journey of Seafarer, a market leader in the yachting and sailing sector, proudly celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025.

He discusses his transition from the corporate travel industry (with some interesting insights into life at 18-30 holidays in its heyday) to entrepreneurship, the evolution of Seafarer's offerings, and the importance of sustainability and community impact in the sailing industry.

Chris emphasizes the resilience of travel, the significance of personal service in a competitive market, and the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

Finally, Chris shares how he is now planning to pass on the reigns of the business, ready for another 30-years of successful, plain-sailing in the travel industry.

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In this conversation, Charlotte Harrington shares her journey from her traditional background in retail to becoming a leader of a growing social enterprise.

She discusses the importance of values in business, the impact a social enterprise can have, and the evolving landscape of conscious consumerism.

Charlotte also highlights the innovative structure of her leadership role as co-CEO and the challenges faced in promoting sustainability and social impact in the business world and the importance of feedback in business culture.

She emphasizes the significance of building a strong team aligned with company values, navigating uncertainty, and making decisions based on both data and gut instinct. 

Charlotte also highlights the unique position of her social enterprise in the market, the importance of unrestricted funding for charities, and offers advice for future leaders to trust their instincts.

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In this engaging conversation, Rob Russell, owner of AC Group, shares his journey in the travel industry, detailing his transition from hotelier to business owner.

He discusses the operations of the group, a destination management company, and how they cater to the travel and holiday needs of international tourists coming into the UK and France. 

The conversation delves into the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the evolution of leadership styles, and the importance of team dynamics in a hybrid work environment.

He highlights trends for 2025, including the growing interest in unique travel experiences in the UK and France, the significance of team dynamics in delivering exceptional service and the impact of TV tourism on travel trends and the innovative experiences offered by his company.

Finally, Rob also reflects on lessons learned throughout his journey in the tourism industry, advocating that you must trust your instincts and always focus on core strengths.

We hope you enjoy this podcast, if you do, please leave a like and subscribe to our channel!

The SATT Team :) 

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