Sian Sykes was born on the edge of Snowdonia and enjoyed growing up in beautiful North Wales. During her adult life, she used to work in Creative Media in London as a Project Director. However after working 15 years and working 18 hour days in the industry, she wanted a better balance in life, to reconnect with nature and to be closer to the sea and mountains. 

That's when she re changed her focus in life and moved back home, to do what she loves doing. Now she guides people stand up paddle boarding in beautiful places.

Since working in the city, Sian has travelled the world, building up vast experience of leading expeditions to Nepal, Mongolia, India, China, Peru, Morocco and the Alps.

Sian loves a SUP challenge! Sian has completed a number of record breaking SUP challenges. She was part of the first team to cross England on a paddle board, she was then the first person to ever SUP solo the 3 British lakes, Llyn Tegid, Windermere Lake and Loch Awe in 3 days, all unsupported. Sian was also the first person to circumnavigate Anglesey on a SUP which took her 5 days to complete the 120km journey in very challenging sea state conditions.

Sian is a real activist, Sian’s recent achievement was a big expedition with a real purpose by highlighting the epidemic we face with disposable single use plastics. She was the first person to SUP circumnavigate Wales (solo and unsupported), a 1000km journey along canals, rivers and sea. She raised money for charity, collecting plastic along the way, inspiring others to make a pledge against plastics and educational talks.

Sian enjoys linking her love for the water and mountains through SUP. Her love for the outdoors is infectious, and she’s inspired people of all ages and from all walks of life to get out and SUP.

***

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. 

Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure!

***

Show notes

• Who is Sian
• Growing up and being introduced to the great outdoors by her mother at 3 weeks old
• Her love for the outdoors 
• Her teenage years 
• Going to university and how she changed 
• Chasing wealth and status
• Working in Advertising in Manchester and London 
• Making a career change after 15 years 
• Living for work
• Feeling detached from who she actually was
• Not feeling fulfilled anymore
• Wanting to make a U turn 
• Getting qualification in the outdoors
• 6 months working in London and 6 months working in the outdoors
• Separating from her ex-husband 
• Discovering paddleboarding by chance and loving it
• Crossing England from Bristol to Reading on a paddle board
• Gaining experiences and choosing the qualifications
• The community in Llanberis, Wales 
• Building up contacts and connections
• Volunteering in outdoor centres and taking groups on Duke of Edinburgh Award
• Needing to prove herself 
• Going after her International Mountain Leader Award which took 3 years to achieve
• Talking about the financial concerns of making a career change
• Making the transition into the outdoor industry
• Stand Up Paddleboarding Adventures and Expeditions
• SUP around Anglesey 
• Plastic Pollution in coastal areas
• Being warned about adventure blues 
• Starting up her own business and becoming freelance 
• Finding your passion
• Surfers Against Sewage - We are Ocean Activists. We are the voice of the ocean. Campaigning for a thriving ocean, thriving people.
• Anglesey becoming the first county to become plastic free
• Water Skills Academy (WSA) 
• WSA - SUP Expedition Guide 
• Advice for women who want to get more qualifications in the outdoor industry
• How to connect with Sian
• Final words of advice for other women who want a career in the outdoors

Social Media

Website: www.siansykes.com 

Instagram: @sian_sykes 

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@psychedpaddleboarding 

In today's fast-paced world, many of us dream of breaking free from the shackles of the corporate world and embracing a life filled with adventure, purpose, and personal fulfilment. Meet Tatty Pettigrew, a courageous woman who made that dream a reality. With an unwavering spirit and a thirst for spending time outdoors, Tatty escaped the confines of her corporate career in London and embarked on a remarkable journey that combines people, education, adventure, and the great outdoors.

Growing up, Tatty was sporty but never considered herself particularly outdoorsy. It was during her teenage years that she discovered the transformative power of outdoor adventures while participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE). This experience ignited a spark within her, and she became an advocate for the program, recognising its ability to shape young minds and in-still a love for the outdoors.

Her journey into the outdoor world began with thorough research and introspection. Tatty wanted to ensure she was making the right decision, and her meticulous nature led her to spend two years weighing her options and considering the potential risks and rewards. Supported and encouraged by her family, she finally found her path.

Committing to the Outdoor Instructor Training Course offered by Land & Wave. This intensive 15-week residential program immersed her in the world of outdoor instruction. From coasteering to climbing, she pushed herself outside her comfort zone, developing not only her skills but also her self-confidence.

Building a career in the outdoors wasn't without its challenges, but Tatty persevered. Starting as a seasonal instructor, she gained valuable experience in various locations, including New Zealand, where she volunteered for a children's charity. Over time, she transitioned into freelance work, relishing the flexibility it provided. Through dedication and hard work, she built a strong portfolio of clients and established herself in the industry.

Tatty Pettigrew's story serves as a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to break free from the ordinary and pursue a life filled with passion and purpose. Her unwavering spirit, determination, and love for the great outdoors exemplify the essence of the Tough Girl Podcast. Join us in celebrating Tatty's remarkable journey and be inspired to create your own path of exploration, challenge, and transformation.

***

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. 

Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure!

***

Show notes

• Who is Tatty
• Living in Dartmouth, Devon for the past 3 years
• Working as an outdoor instructor
• Growing up, being sporty but not outdoorsy
• Doing Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) in her teenage years and why she’s a massive advocate for it now
• Deciding to give up her corporate career in London and retrain as an outdoor instructor 
• Experiencing the outdoors during a team building day at work
• Finding out about Outdoor Instructor Training Course
• Attending an Open Day with Land & Wave 
• The questions and concerns before making the decision 
• The fear of making a mistake and doing the wrong thing
• Researching and thinking for about 2 years before making the final decision.
• Doing the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
• Exploring all of her options for getting into the outdoors
• Her process for making decisions 
• Trying to figure out what the right option is 
• Being an over thinker and suffering from ‘analysis paralysis’ 
• Being supported and encouraged by her family 
• How the pandemic impacted on her decision making 
• What the Outdoor Instructor Training Course looked like 
• 15 weeks, full time residential (including food & accommodation), kit package, and training Monday to Friday 9 to 5pm 
• Building up experience during the summer months 
• Enjoying all the waterspouts especially coasteering 
• The challenges of climbing and being pushed outside her comfort zone
• The challenges of training over the cold winter months (Oct - Feb) and being lucky with the weather
• Working as a volunteer for a children’s charity in New Zealand (food and accommodation covered)
• Not being able to move to New Zealand due to lockdown.
• Building up a career in the outdoors and what that looks like
• Starting off as a seasonal instructor and doing seasonal work in New Zealand
• Branching out into the freelance work and being able to get plenty of work
• Enjoying the flexibility of freelance work 
• Building up her portfolio of clients over the past few years
• Working hard during the season April - October
• Using the winter time to work on gaining new skills and focusing on Continuing Professional Development (CPD) 
• What it’s like being a woman in the outdoors 
• Being surrounded by good female role models in the industry 
• The women who’ve inspired Tatty on her journey
• Anna McNuff 
• Sue Barrett - Adventure Queen Mother follow on IG @adventurequeenmother
• Getting the balance right between work and personal time
• Working towards her Mountain Leader Qualification
• Sea Kayaking Leader Qualification 
• Forest School Leader 
• Volunteering with the Lifeboat Crew for The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) 
• Discussing, the potential for injury, the wear and tear on your body as you get older, and the potential impact of motherhood on your outdoor career
• Moving from the steady pay check from the corporate world to being freelance and being self employed
• Financial stress? Especially during the winter months when there isn’t as much work.
• Keeping track of finances, being planned and organised. 
• Doing the last two legs of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
• Spending 3 months sailing from Seattle to London   
• Making friends for life and why the people made the challenge
• How to connect with Tatti on Instagram
• The 3 words which resonate - Explore. Challenge. Transform.

Social Media

Instagram: @tatti.pettigrew

Patricia Boardman, a former textile designer, has transformed her love for the outdoors into a thriving career as a freelance outdoor instructor. With a strong belief that anyone can pursue their passion for the outdoors, Tricia's journey showcases the power of perseverance and a deep connection with nature. From teaching young adults the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award to leading groups on mountain expeditions across the UK, Tricia's days are filled with diversity and adventure.

For the past 15 years, Tricia has dedicated herself to working as an outdoor instructor. A few years ago, she made the courageous decision to transition into full-time freelancing, allowing her to fully immerse herself in her passion. Her genuine love for the outdoors and her desire to push herself out of her comfort zone have been the driving forces behind her success.

Growing up in South Manchester, Tricia developed a love for hiking and camping in her late teens. She found like-minded individuals who shared her passion for walking, forging lifelong friendships along the way. Inspired to progress further in the outdoor industry, Tricia pursued her Mountain Leader (ML) Qualification, a milestone she achieved despite not having the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award during her school years.

In a male-dominated environment, Tricia persevered, accumulating quality mountain days and fitting in training around her work commitments. She honed her skills in navigation and micro-navigation, pushing herself to be the best she could be. Gradually, she began picking up weekend work and building her reputation through word-of-mouth recommendations, steadily establishing a network of connections in the industry.

Tricia reflects on the early years of her career, recognising the challenges she faced as a woman in the industry. However, her unwavering determination and passion for working with people propelled her forward. Over time, she had the opportunity to lead expeditions with children in destinations such as India, Peru, and even climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Witnessing young adults progress and grow, particularly during her time in Peru, solidified her love for her work.

The pandemic brought about changes in Tricia's life, including being made redundant. However, armed with some savings, she took the leap into full-time outdoor work, embracing the freedom and fulfilment it brought. She shares practical advice for women seeking to gain experience in the outdoors, emphasising the power of asking and being truthful about one's abilities.

As a sole trader using her own name, Tricia finds joy in the variety of her work and the balance between her personal love of the outdoors and her professional pursuits. She plans to expand her qualifications, particularly in water-based activities and cave leading. Despite the occasional challenges, Tricia remains motivated, continuously striving to improve her climbing skills and push her boundaries.

Tricia is passionate about promoting diversity in the outdoors and is particularly motivated to inspire girls, especially in faith schools, to embrace nature and adventure. Being of mixed heritage—half Indian and half Scottish—she takes pride in being a role model for the girls she teaches and strives to make the outdoors accessible to all.

With her infectious enthusiasm, Tricia shares magical moments she has experienced in nature and her unwavering dedication to helping people reach their full potential. Her final words of advice serve as an inspiration for women who aspire to work in the outdoors, along with valuable guidance on obtaining qualifications and pursuing their dreams.

***

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast was sponsored by Land & Wave! We hope you've been inspired by Patricia Boardman's incredible journey and her passion for the outdoors. Remember, with perseverance and a love for nature, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. 

Stay tuned for more empowering stories and don't forget to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on new episodes, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. Thank you for joining us on this adventure!

***

Show notes

• Tricia Boardman
• Woking as an outdoor instructor for the past 15 years
• Deciding to go full time as a freelancer a few years ago
• Her love for the outdoors 
• Making friends with people at 17/18 years old with people who loved walking
• Liking to push herself out of her comfort zone
• Going on day hikes and camping
• Growing up in South Manchester
• Studying textiles at college and working in a bar part time 
• Deciding to take on her Mountain Leader (ML) Qualification 
• Not getting the chance to do the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award as it wasn’t available at her school 
• Meeting people who already had their ML qualification and being encouraged to do it.
• Wanting to progress further in the outdoors
• Learning in a male dominated environment 
• Getting her quality mountain days in and fitting in the training around work
• Doing solo days and spending time walking in the outdoors 
• Focusing on navigation and micro navigation 
• Starting to pick up a few pieces of work here and there at the weekends
• What it was like being a woman in the industry when she first started working in it 20 years ago
• Thinking about working full time in the outdoors
• Getting the opportunity to lead a few expeditions with children abroad, to India, Peru, and taking on Kilimanjaro 
• Helping young adults progress and grow 
• Loving her time spend in Peru
• Making changes to her life after the pandemic
• Being made redundant and having some money behind her while making the transition to working outdoors full-time.
• Her love for working with people 
• Getting work when she first started out 
• Building up a network and connections, and being recommended via word of mouth
• Gaining experience in the industry via work shadowing and volunteering with waking groups
• Practicalities of getting work experience and how to go about it
• Advice and tips for women who want to gain more experience in the outdoors
• The power of asking people 
• Why it’s important to be truthful about what you can and can’t do
• What a typical week looks like during busy season
• Loving the variety of the work 
• Working as a sole trader and using her own name
• The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) 
• Thinking about getting further qualifications - especially water based qualifications 
• Cave Leader Qualification 
• Tips for dealing with the bad days 
• Balancing work with her personal love of the outdoors 
• Working slowly towards climbing all of the Wainwrights 
• Wanting to go up a grade in climbing 
• Climbing with friends who climb harder than her, in order to push herself to get better and make progress
• Buying a van in September 2022  (Transit - long wheel base) and doing the renovation with her partner (Nick).
• Take the van on a climbing trip to the South of France and following the sunshine before heading back to the UK
• Living in the van (instead of camping) to help keep costs down while working
• Pay for a day’s DofE work (£130 - £150)
• Making a living from working in the outdoors and taking on other additional jobs throughout the winter months.
• Being booked up with work throughout the summer months
• Diversity in the outdoors and her thoughts of working in the industry 
• Working in Faith Schools and helping to inspire girls to get outdoors and spend time in nature
• Being half Indian and half Scottish and feeling proud that she can be a role model to the girls she is teaching
• Wanting to make the outdoors accessible
• Being encouraged by her mum “don’t let anyone stop you, just do what you want to do” 
• Discrimination in the outdoors? And how things have changed over the years
• Magical moments in the outdoors and why she loves spending time in nature
• Her passion for helping people to reach their potential 
• Final words of advice for other women who want to work in the outdoors
• Advice for getting your qualifications 

Social Media

Tori is one half of West Country Adventures. She is a qualified teacher, and kayak coach turned climbing coach, aiming to inspire and support women in their ambition to become independent rock climbers.

During our conversation, Tori candidly shares the challenges of working in the outdoors, particularly the wage disparities and financial challenges faced by women. She offers advice on how to gain experience, emphasising the importance of volunteering, shadowing, and observing others at work.

Tori's own journey involved studying outdoor education, travelling, managing a climbing retreat in Spain, and joining a team of polar explorers going up to the North Pole. Through these experiences, she has gained a wealth of knowledge and skills, and now offers valuable insight into the opportunities available for those interested in pursuing a career in the outdoors.

Tori is passionate about the outdoors and the benefits it offers, particularly for mental health. She also highlights the changing landscape of the industry, with governing bodies working to encourage women to work in the outdoors and provide support for them.

***

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. 

Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure!

Show notes

• Who is Tori
• Working with female clients 
• Being athletic and loving team sports
• Studying at Exeter College 
• Being a member of the Scouts 
• Embarking on a career in the outdoors
• Teaching in a formal classroom setting 
• The wage disparity between the outdoors and other industries
• Studying outdoor education and what it was like
• Starting out with very little knowledge 
• Developing personal skills
• Needing to be to 18 to work in the outdoors
• Doing her Bachelor’s degree (Geography and Outdoor Education) at Manchester Metropolitan University 
• Is university worth it?
• How to connect with and contact employers
• Advice for getting experience
• Why a wide range of experience is essential
• Looking for volunteer opportunities 
• Shadowing and observing others at work
• Don’t go too niche too soon
• Going travelling to Europe after university 
• Managing a climbing retreat in Spain
• Taking on a full time apprentice role in Yorkshire
• Joining a team of polar explorers going up to the North Pole
• Teaching polar explorers how to canoe on their sledges
• Loving paddlesports and climbing 
• The opportunities available 
• Leading overseas expeditions (After qualifying as a Mountain Leader (ML) and First Aider)
• Teaching on youth development programs
• Making the time for experiences outside and why it’s important
• Benefits for your mental health
• The challenges of working in the outdoors
• Wages and money 
• Costs of equipment and clothing 
• Dealing with the miserable days
• The financial challenges of women working in the outdoors
• Women dropping off in the qualifications/award system in their late 20s
• Flexibility and wages and why it’s even harder when you have children
• How the Industry has changed over the past 16/17 years
• The support from governing bodies to encourage women to work in the outdoors
• Dealing with knocks to her confidence
• Mountain Training and their 5 year plan (2021 - 2025) 
• Gear for women that fits 
• Running women only courses
• Concerns about dealings with periods
• How to connect with Tori
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Website: www.westcountryadventures.co.uk

Instagram:

@itsadogslife_climbing
@westcountry_adventures 

Jennie has found her calling in the breathtaking landscapes of Dorset. As an outdoor instructor working for Land & Wave, she brings her passion for adventure to life, inspiring others to embrace the wild side of nature.

Growing up on a farm in Cheshire, Jennie discovered her love for water and sailing at an early age. Spending time in North Wales and later working on sailing yachts in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, she developed a deep connection with the outdoors and a thirst for exploration.

However, as life progressed and her children embarked on their own journeys, Jennie realised it was time to pursue her own dreams. Seeking fulfilment beyond her role at a local primary school, she found herself at a crossroads. After the loss of a close family member, she embarked on a soul-searching journey, determined to follow her passion for the outdoors.

The decision to join the Outdoor Instructor Training at Land & Wave was a turning point. Despite initial doubts and concerns, Jennie realised that age should never hold someone back from pursuing their dreams. With unwavering support from her children, parents, and partner, she made the bold move to Dorset, renting out the family home and immersing herself in the 15-week training program.

Jennie's dedication and love for water activities shine through as she shares her experiences from the first season of work. From challenging weather conditions to connecting with clients, she has embraced every aspect of her new career. Drawing inspiration from role models and mentors within the industry, Jennie continues to learn and grow, setting her sights on future qualifications such as Paddle Sport Leader (PSL) and Mountain Leader.

Balancing the demands of work and personal time in the outdoors is a constant endeavour, but Jennie remains determined to avoid burnout. Coping with the physicality of the job and managing logistics is a part of her daily routine, and she has valuable advice for women aspiring to make a career in the outdoors.

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. 

Tune in every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 am UK time to be inspired by empowering stories of women working in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this adventure - hit the subscribe button and be a part of the wild ride!

Show notes

• Who is Jennie
• Growing up on a farm in Cheshire
• Being the youngest of 3
• Her love for water and sailing
• Spending time in North Wales 
• Working on sailing yachts in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean
• Meeting her husband and having children 
• Starting to work in her local primary school
• Not feeling fulfilled 
• Losing a close family member
• Thinking about what she wanted to do next
• Deciding to follow her passion for the outdoors
• What it was like when her children left home 
• Figuring out the next stage in her life
• Being scared of making a change
• Learning to see change as an opportunity 
• The starting point and putting a plan in place
• Going around in circles to start
• Becoming qualified as a dog groomer and starting her own business from home
• Doing research into outdoor providers 
• Thinking about the costs, the location and the timings
• Attending an open day at Land & Wave
• How everything felt right 
• Fear and concerns before committing to start the Outdoor Instructor Training 
• Was she too old at 48?
• Why fear should not hold you back
• Making it work financially and logistically 
• Having support from her children, her parents and partner
• Moving down to Dorset in May and starting to rent out the family home
• The Outdoor Instructor Training Course - 15 weeks, 15 qualifications.
• Paying for a kit package
• Attending an open weekend and meeting other people on the course
• Her love for the water activities 
• Getting a job at the end of the course
• What the first season of work has been like; from the clients, to the work, and the weather
• Role models and mentors
• Learning from other instructors 
• Future career steps and making plans for the winter
• Wanting to do her, Paddle Sport Leader (PSL) Qualification through Land and Wave
• Looking at doing her Mountain Leader Qualification
• Getting the balance right between work and spending time in the outdoors
• Burnout?
• Coping with the physicality of the work
• The logistics of moving kit around
• Advice for other women who want to make a career in the outdoors

Social Media

Website: www.landandwave.co.uk

Instagram: @landandwave

Facebook: @landandwave

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@landwave9920

Join us as we dive into the captivating story of Rachael Crewesmith, an extraordinary mountaineer, rock climber, hill walker, and mountain bike guide. Discover how Rachael fearlessly defies boundaries in a male-dominated industry, taking on epic challenges and inspiring others along the way.

Rachael in her own words: 

“I’m a mountaineer, rock climber, hill walker, mountain biker and occasional paddler. I divide my time between the sprawling Scottish Highlands and the compact but wild mountains of Snowdonia where I work as a mountaineering instructor and mountain bike guide.

I have ridden my bike across Nepal, round and round the Strathpuffer 24 hr endurance course and down the twisty, rooty trails of the forests of the Highlands. I have climbed up 100 Munroes (and counting), El Capitan in Yosemite, to 6000m in the Himalaya and up the north face of Ben Nevis. My favourite day out ever was climbing The Original Route on The Old Man of Hoy, on Orkney. 

I’ve also spent time just travelling for travelling sake, especially in Asia. I visited Burma (Myanmar) at the same time as President Obama and witnessed the carnival of the first US state visit ever. I have walked across the living root bridges of Cherrapungee in north-eastern India and ridden the Darjeeling steam train. I have had dinner with the Nepali Army in Bhojpur and breakfast with the monks of north-eastern Thailand. I love coming home to the UK and realising just how amazing our diverse country is. From laverbread in South Wales to fresh mussels cooked in a jetboil on a Hebridean island, I love our country and all it has to offer.”

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. 

Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure!

Show notes

• Who is Rachael
• Working as an outdoor professional 
• Living in Llanberis in North Wales
• Where her love of the mountains comes from 
• Being obsessed with hockey from a young age
• Being inspired by her mum - who has previously swum the English Channel!
• Having a year out between school and university 
• Spending time in Nepal and going to Everest Base Camp at 18
• Meeting a boy who was into climbing
• Joining the mountaineering club at Nottingham University 
• Why climbing didn’t come naturally to her
• Studying archeology at university 
• Working as a hockey coach
• Leaving university and getting a job at a climbing wall
• Not having a plan in her career
• Not knowing what she wanted to do 
• Becoming a Rock Climbing Instructor (RCI) 
• Following up and doing her Mountaineering Climbing Instructor (MCI) 
• Becoming a Mountain Leader (ML) and doing 40 qualifying days 
• Loving the variety of what she can do with her qualifications 
• The challenges of working in the outdoor industry
• Making the transition to becoming a freelancer
• Why it’s important to build connections and networks
• Getting work 
• The advantages of being a women in the outdoors
• Elitism in the industry
• Observing other women working in the industry
• Working with certain choice companies and what she’s looking for
• Pay in the industry as a mountaineering instructor and mountain leader
• Asking for more money and being paid what your worth
• Favourite type of work to get 
• Remaining positive when dealing with miserable weather while out working
• Professional enthusiasm!
• Winter Mountain Leader Qualification 
• 10% of Winter ML holders are female
• Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI)
• Women in Mountain Training Conference 2022
• The importance of networking 
• Proximal Role Models - Rebecca Williams 
• Women’s Trad Festival 
• Irish Women’s Rock Festival 
• Advice for women who want to gain more qualifications
• Dr. Will Hardy - completion rates of Mountain Leader Qualification 
• Bangor University and Mountain Training PhD - Developing excellence in outdoor provision: enhancing training pathways for outdoor qualifications. 
• Why you should practice with a variety of people 
• Tips for finding people to train with 
• Women in Mountain Training Facebook Page
• Climbing the ‘Old Man of Hoy’ part of the Orkney archipelago off the north coast of Scotland.
• What VS means in climbing - Very Severe 
• An explanation of traditional climbing grades
• Balancing the job/work with your love/passion for the outdoors
• Being able to pick and choose her work
• Being a Trustee of Cam&Bear Fund for Adventure 
• How to connect with Rachael  
• Wanting to run the Welsh 3000ers in under 12 hrs 
• “Think big, start small, but do start”

Social Media

Website: rachcrewe.com 

Instagram: @rachcrewe 

Twitter: @rachcrewe

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-crewesmith-75211530/

Sophie Tanner is an Outdoor Adventure Activity Instructor and the Director of Land & Wave, a thriving outdoor company based in Dorset, UK. With a passion for inspiring more females to join the outdoor industry, Sophie is dedicated to providing training, employment, and incredible experiences to encourage women to embrace the great outdoors.

As one of the four Directors of Land & Wave, Sophie plays a vital role in shaping the company's direction and success. She has a deep understanding of what Land & Wave does and the positive impact it has on people's lives.

Born and raised in Dorset, Sophie's love for the outdoors began at an early age, she spent countless hours at the beach and by the water, fostering a connection with nature that would shape her future. Encouraged by her family to engage in sports and spend time outdoors, Sophie developed a strong affinity for exploring and trying new things.

At the age of 16, Sophie contemplated her life's path. She desired to attend university but still yearned for opportunities to spend time outside. Taking a gap year at 18, she embarked on an adventure to Australia and New Zealand, immersing herself in the wonders of the natural world. This experience solidified her passion for outdoor adventure and led her to pursue a degree in Outdoor Adventure Recreation at university.

During her summer holidays, Sophie made the most of her time by working at kids' holiday clubs and providing sports coaching in schools. She eagerly prepared for life after graduation, taking a nine-month journey to Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Colombia, and Canada. These travels enriched her perspective and further fuelled her desire to make a difference in the outdoor industry.

Upon joining Land & Wave, Sophie dedicated herself to acquiring additional qualifications necessary for her outdoor pursuits. She obtained her First Aid qualification and completed her Mountain Leader training in Wales, paving the way for her to work full-time in the outdoors. Sophie thrived on the physical challenges of her job while also emphasising the importance of rest and recovery.

Recognising the barriers that women face in the outdoor industry, Sophie offers valuable advice for other women who aspire to work in this field. She shares her insights on dealing with challenging situations, encourages more women to sign up, and organises Open Days with Land & Wave to provide opportunities for women to explore outdoor career options.

Throughout her career, Sophie has witnessed significant changes in the outdoor industry over the past 15 years. She discusses these transformations and offers advice to women and girls seeking to gain experience in this dynamic field. Sophie highlights the Outdoor Instructor Fast Track Route and the thrilling activity of Coasteering as pathways for women to connect with Land & Wave.

To connect with Land & Wave and learn more about their initiatives, Sophie encourages listeners to explore the company's website and social media channels. In her final words of advice, Sophie leaves a lasting message for aspiring outdoor enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. Don't miss out on these empowering episodes sponsored by Land & Wave. 

New episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday throughout July at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure!

Show notes

• Being 1 of 4 Directors of Land & Wave
• What Land & Wave does
• Living in Swanage
• Growing up in Dorset and her early years
• Spending time at the beach and by the water
• Being encouraged by her family to get into sports and spending time outdoors
• Working with her older sister Rosie
• Her love for exploring and trying new things
• Thinking about what she wanted to do with her life at 16
• Wanting to go to University but still wanting to spend time outside
• Taking a gap year at 18 to go to Australia and New Zealand
• Studying an Outdoor Adventure Recreation Course at University
• Making use of her summer holidays
• Working at kids holiday clubs and doing sports coaching in schools 
• Making plans for after graduation
• Going travelling for 9 months visiting; Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Columbia & Canada.
• Starting at Land & Wave
• Getting additional qualifications needed for the outdoors
• Doing her First Aid qualification and doing her Mountain Leader training in Wales
• Wanting to work full time in the outdoors
• The challenges of working in the outdoor industry 
• Dealing with the physicality of the job
• Rest & recovery 
• Advice for other women who want to work in the outdoor industry 
• Barriers for women working in the outdoor industry
• Dealing with challenging situations while at work
• Encouraging more women to sign up
• Open Days with Land & Wave
• What has changed in the industry over the past 15 years 
• Advice for women and girls who want to gain experience in the outdoor industry
• Outdoor Instructor Fast Track Route 
• Coasteering 
• How to connect with Land & Wave
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Website: www.landandwave.co.uk

Instagram: @landandwave

Facebook: @landandwave

Youtube: @landwave9920