Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Leadership with Louisa O’Connor
7 January 2025
"Underestimate me, and I’ll embarrass you. Tell me I can’t do it, and I’ll do it anyway."
In this inspiring episode of Marketing in the Madness, host Katie Street is joined by Louisa O’Connor, Managing Director of Seen Presents, to discuss the critical need for more women in leadership roles, particularly in the marketing, events, and experiential industries. Together, they explore how saying "yes" to opportunities, pushing beyond comfort zones, and fostering diverse workplaces can create meaningful change.
Key Discussion Points:
- Louisa’s Leadership Journey: From starting as a project assistant to becoming the MD of Scene Presents, Louisa shares her career-defining moments and the mindset that helped her lead and grow her agency to 32 employees in just two years.
- Breaking Gender Barriers: The challenges women face in climbing the corporate ladder, especially in the male-dominated marketing and events industry, and how we can drive more equity in leadership roles.
- The Power of Saying Yes: Why embracing opportunities, even when intimidating, can lead to growth, resilience, and long-term success.
- Diversity Drives Innovation: How creating diverse teams—across gender, ethnicity, and experience—fuels creativity and keeps businesses relevant in today’s fast-changing landscape.
- Leadership Advice for Women: Louisa’s actionable tips for aspiring female leaders, including starting small, building confidence, and turning failures into learning opportunities.
- The Role of Mentors and Allies: Stories of how male and female mentors played pivotal roles in Louisa’s journey and how to cultivate supportive professional relationships.
This episode is a must-listen for women aspiring to leadership roles in marketing, events, and beyond. It offers actionable advice on overcoming barriers, building confidence, and driving workplace diversity while highlighting the importance of fostering a culture where everyone can thrive.
Don’t miss this candid conversation packed with insights and strategies to inspire the next generation of female leaders. Listen now and discover how to take your career to new heights.