TIME - Travel Industry Mentor Experience

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What 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.

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Join 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.

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Get ready for a fabulous episode as we welcome Barry Laaksonen, Sales Manager for Silversea, who shares his transformative journey through the TIME mentorship program. Ever wondered how top professionals build the confidence to voice their opinions in executive meetings or develop strategic thinking skills? Barry reveals the secrets, all thanks to the expert guidance from mentors like Ankur Wadha. Plus, we have a fun fashion update: polka dots are back, and they're hotter than ever with French top model Arnaud Michelin leading the trend!

But that's not all—this episode also takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss the art of delivering impactful graduation speeches and the profound personal growth that comes from living abroad. From honing listening skills in Chile to embracing Finnish heritage, you'll hear stories that underscore the importance of adaptability and self-awareness. We wrap up by celebrating the mentoring process in the post-COVID fashion industry, sharing touching anecdotes of pride and joy as mentees succeed. Remember, it's not just about guidance but forming meaningful, supportive connections. Happy Friday and stay fabulous!

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Ever wondered how introverts can excel in the tourism industry and beyond? Join us as we chat with Demi Kavaratsis, the dynamic founder of DK Executive Business Consultancy and a mentor at TIME. Demi shares her incredible journey from her Greek-Australian roots to leading roles at Agencia and Expedia Group. She offers invaluable insights into helping foreign companies thrive in Australia and reflects on her path to becoming an influential mentor, inspired by her own experiences and the drive to uplift others.

Discover the surprising ways introverts can shine in travel and presenting roles, debunking the myth that these positions are only for extroverts. Demi provides practical tips on managing energy, building confidence, and setting achievable goals. Through personal stories and mentoring experiences, she highlights the importance of preparation, encouragement, and accountability in fostering personal and professional growth. These strategies not only help introverts but anyone looking to maximize their potential.

Finally, Demi opens up about her transformative mentorship journey. She candidly discusses her initial doubts and the realization of her impactful role as a mentor. From traveling across Australia to support her mentee Laura to the power of self-presentation, Demi's stories are both inspiring and relatable. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted yet insightful discussion on managing relationships with key stakeholders, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in professional development and personal growth.

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Have you ever faced the daunting task of reinventing yourself in the professional world? Jenna Rank, Marketing Director at Saltwater Hotel and Resorts, joins us to recount her transformative journey from extrovert to introvert, navigating the new terrain of networking and personal growth post-COVID. She reminisces about the rush of her graduation night, sharing the podium with nerves and excitement, and credits the TIME  program for shaping her into the speaker she is today. Her story is a masterclass in adaptability, as she finds her voice in a changing industry and solidifies connections that reach far beyond the superficial.

As our conversation drifts from personal evolution to the sensory delights of coffee and pastries, you're invited to a mouth-watering rivalry between Melbourne and Sydney's culinary scenes. Jenna and us debate over the cities' coffee cultures and the quest for the elusive perfect croissant, all while revealing bits of our personal histories – including her own unexpected detour through the world of archaeology. This episode is a blend of laughter, earnest insights, and the occasional culinary letdown, promising a rich tapestry of stories that interweave the professional with the profoundly personal. Join us for an episode where genuine connections are brewed, and life's unexpected flavors are savored.

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Embark on a journey of growth and discovery with Brett Thomson, the corporate sales maestro from APAC at TAG, as he recounts his transformative experience with the mentorship program TIME. With the wisdom of his mentor, industry titan Martin Cowley, Brett navigates the complexities of B2B relationships and commercial strategy, revealing the profound impact of mentorship on his career trajectory. You're guaranteed to walk away with a blueprint for approaching professional mentorships that marry structure with the necessary flexibility to thrive in today's dynamic sales landscape. Our conversation doesn't just skim the surface; we plunge into the essence of adaptability and open-mindedness, the secret ingredients for success in the modern business world.

Networking can seem like a minefield, especially for the introverts among us, but fear not—we dissect the intricacies with ease and a touch of humor. As Brett and Arnaud & Timo swap tales from our troves of professional adventures, from horticulture to acting stints, we uncover the hidden skills that shape us outside the boardroom. Our banter about the Melbourne-Sydney rivalry through the prism of French cafes provides more than just a chuckle—it's a testament to the unexpected ways our personal journeys enrich our professional networks. Tune in for an episode that's as much a celebration of authentic connection and community as it is a guide to the perpetual art of learning and giving back.

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Embark on a transformative exploration of mentorship and connection as Mira Yates, the vibrant membership manager from Cato, unveils the impact of the TIME mentorship program on her career voyage in Australia's tourism landscape. Alongside her, Arnaud, the charming French (dragon) queen of croissants, shares an unexpected twist on the grit and endurance of marathon running and how they mirror the strides one must take in career longevity. Together, their stories weave a tapestry of guidance, growth, and the pursuit of passion that will leave you pondering the relationships shaping your own professional journey.

This episode is an aromatic blend of personal development and cultural delight, taking you from the bustling industry events of Sydney and Brisbane to the historical twists of the beloved croissant. You'll uncover the essence of meaningful networking, where authenticity triumphs over mere connections, and community support becomes the cornerstone of thriving in the tourism sector. So join us, for a conversation that promises to enrich your palate and your path, with laughter, lessons, and a shared love for the experiences that unite us.

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When former catwalk model Arno, never so good at catwalking Timo and the amazing Kylie Wapp from ANZCRO bring their vibrant energy to our podcast, you know it's going to be a memorable exchange. This episode is an enthralling journey through professional development, complete with the candid tales of navigating mentorship waters. Kylie, under the guidance of industry stalwarts like TIME superstar Ingrid Berthelson and her supportive CEO, candidly shares her ascent from state BDM to national account manager and her aspirations, painting a vivid picture of TIME mentorship's transformative effect on career trajectories.

Ever wondered what a 'business therapist' might look like? Our conversation humorously reveals just that as we recount the first-time jitters of meeting mentors and how these relationships evolve into cornerstones for personal and professional growth. Arno's unique perspective sheds light on the importance of networking, despite geographic challenges, and we find solace in sharing tales from the mentorship trenches. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions and insights, guaranteed to bring both laughter and a deep appreciation for the bonds formed through mentorship.

To cap off, we dive into the empowering narrative of women making strides in the travel industry. Gender-specific events, leadership challenges, and overcoming self-imposed barriers are all on the agenda, as we explore the landscape of female empowerment in professional spaces. Kylie's recent academic TIME triumph serves as a beacon for all listeners, proving that with the right guidance and tenacity, the sky's the limit. Join us for a session that promises to leave you inspired, a tad more knowledgeable, and eager to embrace the power of mentorship in your own life.

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Embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional enlightenment as Kira Loh from Globus Family of Brands Asia Pacific opens up about her transformative experiences as a mentee. With the help of her mentor Vara in the TIME program, Kira navigated the intricacies of rekindling industry connections and reshaping her career path. What's more, we get a sneak peek into the personal styles that grace our episodes, like Arnaud's vibrant Mardi Gras getup. This discussion isn't just a peek behind the professional curtain; it's a celebration of the unexpected inspirations found in mentorship and the vibrant TIME community.

Pull up a chair and find your spark as Kelly Wacher's workshop left Kira with lessons that resonate and chuckles that linger. We weave through the challenges and triumphs of marketing to that discerning 45-60 demographic, unveiling the craft that turns a campaign into a conversation. And, as if that's not enough to whet your appetite for knowledge, we toss in a playful podcast game that challenges us to think outside the box - quite literally - by omitting certain words from our dialogue in future episodes. With gratitude, we wrap up another enriching session.

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Season four launches with a flourish as we sit down with Daryl Dixon of Globetrotter Corporate Travel, who shares the transformative insights from his TIME mentoring journey. Guided by his astute mentor,  Daryl delves into the complexities of leadership and the art of people management, revealing that the road to self-awareness is as challenging as it is rewarding. Amidst tales of French cultural nuances and a shared affection for gluten-free croissants, we uncover the profound impact mentorship has on carving one's professional trajectory, and how it's seasoned with moments that remind us to savor the lighter side of life.

As we chart the rhythm of our daily lives, balancing our time becomes an intricate dance that often feels like a choreographed number we can't quite master. Yet, our discussion illuminates how the dedication to carving out time for the gym or state-based networking events is more than just a commitment to self; it's a step towards nurturing a thriving professional landscape. Daryl's experiences with graduations and the buzz of networking highlight the irreplaceable value of community. And as we ponder the blending of virtual and physical spaces for workshops, it's evident that the quest for professional development is an ever-evolving journey that thrives on accessibility and engagement.

The episode takes a dynamic twist with a candid look at the unpredictable tides of social media, illustrated by a surprising encounter with a Taylor Swift concert reel. We explore the importance of authentic branding and the continuous journey of leadership development, underscoring the role of organizations in fostering growth. As we applaud Daryl's graduation and his commitment to the WA community, we shine a light on the collective effort needed to reinvigorate the travel industry post-pandemic. Each story shared in this episode paints a picture of the power of involvement and the significance of each individual's contribution to the larger narrative of community rebuilding. Join us for an episode that promises laughter, learning, and the kind of camaraderie that inspires action.

More about Daryl
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daryldickson/