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!
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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
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