In this episode, I sit down with Antonija Čagalj, the driving force behind Yachtmaster Group, ICE Charter Expo, Croatia Yacht Show, Icebreaker Magazine, and Charter Meetup – basically, one of the most connected people in the global yacht charter scene. Antonija shares her incredible career journey, how it all started, and what inspired her to build the platforms that are now shaping the industry. We talk about the passion that keeps her motivated, the turning points that defined her path, and...
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In this episode, I sit down with Antonija Čagalj, the driving force behind Yachtmaster Group, ICE Charter Expo, Croatia Yacht Show, Icebreaker Magazine, and Charter Meetup – basically, one of the most connected people in the global yacht charter scene. Antonija shares her incredible career journey, how it all started, and what inspired her to build the platforms that are now shaping the industry. We talk about the passion that keeps her motivated, the turning points that defined her path, and...
In this episode, I sit down with Antonija Čagalj, the driving force behind Yachtmaster Group, ICE Charter Expo, Croatia Yacht Show, Icebreaker Magazine, and Charter Meetup – basically, one of the most connected people in the global yacht charter scene. Antonija shares her incredible career journey, how it all started, and what inspired her to build the platforms that are now shaping the industry. We talk about the passion that keeps her motivated, the turning points that defined her path, and...
Hollie welcomes Oliver Heer, an IMOCA sailor with a uniquely technical and international background, who took the road less traveled into solo ocean racing. Unlike many who come through the traditional Mini Transat or Figaro pathways, Ollie’s journey was shaped by working alongside legends like Alex Thomson and a deep technical understanding of the sport. In this episode, Ollie opens up about running one of the leanest Vendée Globe campaigns in 2024, a shoestring operation with just two full-...
In this episode, host Hollie sits down with Richard Selby, the dynamic CEO of British Superyacht. Richard shares the inspiring journey of founding British Superyacht, a sector membership organisation dedicated to superyacht professionals and businesses across the British Isles, including the Isle of Man and Channel Islands. Launched just last September, British Superyacht has been "growing from strength to strength", listening to the sector's needs and facilitating crucial support. Discover h...
In this powerful episode, we sit down with marine industry icon Ken Clinton for an in-depth conversation about leadership, passion, and what’s next as he takes the helm as CEO of Rec Boat Holdings, part of Groupe Beneteau. Ken isn't your typical "corner office" executive — he's a boots-on-the-ground leader who has spent his entire career shoulder-to-shoulder with his teams, customers, and craftsmen. Known for his hands-on approach at Intrepid Powerboats, Ken talks about why being present, get...
Behind the scenes of Boot Düsseldorf!Ever wondered what it takes to pull off one of the best boat shows in the world? In this episode, we’re chatting with the man behind Boot Düsseldorf—Petros Michelidakis! He’s the mastermind making sure this incredible event runs smoothly, from coordinating thousands of exhibitors to keeping up with the latest marine trends.Lets chat prep, the buzz, and some behind-the-scenes secrets of what really goes into creating such an epic show. Petros shares some st...
Jouku Huju, a leader from IFBSO, the global organization dedicated to ensuring boat shows' success joins Hollie to ahead of the European boat show season! We discus the essential role IFBSO plays in supporting exhibitions, uniting the boating industry, and sharing best practices across five key areas: sales and marketing, communication, sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and IT technology. We explore the challenges boat shows face, from economic cycles to the impact of global eve...
Wow - the likeness is crazy, Tony Lewis, one of the world's most acclaimed Robbie Williams tribute artists joins Hollie on episode 45 of Achieving Excellence. Tony’s resemblance to Robbie Williams is so good it once even fooled Liam Gallagher! From his beginnings as a plumber to becoming a full-time tribute artist, Tony shares his incredible journey. We explore how he masterfully imitates Robbie's voice, mannerisms, and persona, and how he balances his demanding career with family life. ...
I have personally had the pleasure of leadership training with Graham and it was truly inspiring. I am so excited to share a small part of the value he offers with his leadership insights in this thought-provoking conversation. We discuss what it means to be a healthy leader and a leader worth following. Join us as we explore the essential qualities and habits that set exemplary leaders apart. We'll discuss the importance of physical and mental well-being, emotional intelligence, and th...
When designing a yacht, the importance of acoustics and sound systems cannot be overstated. A yacht is not just a means of transportation; it is a mobile sanctuary, an entertainment hub, and a luxurious retreat. The quality of the acoustic environment plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience of being on board. Properly designed acoustics ensure that conversations can be held comfortably without the intrusion of engine noise, the sound of waves, or other ambient distractions. T...
Join Hollie for episode 42 with Marc Hawxhurst, the visionary President and Founder of Nova Luxe Yachts LLC. Established in 2017, Nova Luxe is at the forefront of revolutionizing the yachting industry with sustainable electric solutions. His story is one of resilience and innovation, starting from humble beginnings in a call center to mastering supply chain management, SQL, and eventually becoming a contractor for major companies like WebMD and Charter. Marc’s entrepreneurial spirit runs deep...
A business built on a childhood dream! Harry is the perfect example of playing to your strengths! His clarity in his direction at such a young age is astounding. Its astonishing that this successful business was built by a school boy with a dream. Harry is committed to professionalism, safety and attention to detail. It was clear from our conversation that this is not a business that cuts any corner. They prepare for every shoot in the most thorough way possible and handle the unpredictable n...
If you don’t know of ‘The Yacht Fella’ then I am not quite sure where you have been. The social media sensation who is known for his enticing writing talent! To some he appears lucky, but beneath the surface this man is incredibly talented, persistent and passionate about everything he does. Kevin is an award-winning journalist whose work appears in the New York Times, Esquire, GQ, The Wall Street Journal, Men's Journal, Robb Report and numerous marine publications. He is the former ex...
From Olympic Dreams to Yacht Building Realities In this episode, Robert joins Hollie as he shares his remarkable journey from the realm of Olympic aspirations to the top end of yacht building. Through a candid conversation with Boatbuilding News, Robert delves into the pivotal decision to transition from the pursuit of athletic glory to forging a career in the maritime industry. Drawing from his Olympic experience, Robert reflects on the invaluable lessons of teamwork and individual c...
Rene is more than just transforming a company, Rene is transforming the whole category! He is a creative professional with a passion for sustainable solutions. As CEO, Hansen will leverage operational and strategic experience from his roles in the snowboarding, recycling, digitalisation of farming, and energy industries, thereby bringing a "unique perspective" to the helm of X Shore. His extensive business background, combined with a strong product focus, aligns seamlessly with the visi...
I am not sure I have met anyone with a more positive outlook on life as Kitty McGowan. She smiles through adversity and is a true asset to the yachting industry locally in Florida and globally. Kitty McGowan has worked in nearly every aspect of the boating, fishing and superyacht communities for the past 30 years. Having grown up in Fort Lauderdale, she is no stranger to all things water. Several years after graduating from Florida State University with a degree in Communic...
Nicky Vaux "The Boat Princess" is one of the warmest people in the industry. Without fail she greets everyone with a smile and a hug! Radiating positivity, it is no surprise she is warmly welcomed at the forefront of many boat shows. She speaks publicly about her love for the industry, her delight at helping others and raising those around her up. When she says he favourite motto is "a rising tide lifts all boats" she truly means it! An advocate for females in the industry, and collaboration ...
Do you want to know who the real Bill Springer is? Hear his story, his challenges, his successes and how he became "Billy Swizzle" With his infectious personality and brilliant anecdotes I know this episode will be one of the most popular in the Boatbuilding News "Breaking America" series! Bill Springer is a Senior Contributor for Forbes with a focus on luxury yachting and boating, Bill covers topics such as new yacht debuts, superyachts, sailing events, and yacht lifestyle. His articl...
In this instalment, we had the honour of sitting down with the legendary Rick Thomas, a luminary figure with an extensive and invaluable impact on the global marine industry Over the course of 35 remarkable years as the founder of Nautical Structures, Rick has navigated a journey filled with seizing opportunities at every turn. What sets Rick apart is not just his impressive tenure, but the unparalleled network he has cultivated. With the ability to connect with any relevant individual or ski...
Michael Straughan's career spans 30 years within the automotive and luxury industries From his early days at Nissan, where his love for the Nissan Micra project emerged, to holding senior positions at Aston Martin, Volvo Cars, LDV, Jaguar Land Rover, and Sunseeker, Michael has certainly made an impact! Discover what sets Aston Martin apart and their allure in the luxury automotive industry and gain insights into Michael's genuine passion for leadership and learning. "A person who never makes ...
Get ready for an exciting pre-show special episode as we gear up for the 35th anniversary of METSRADE in Amsterdam. This year, METSRADE introduces "The Foiling Pavilion," a game-changing addition to this special marine industry trade show. Boatbuilding News speaks with Luca Rizzotti, the president of The Foiling Organization and the founder of We Are Foiling, to explore his unwavering passion for a foiling future. In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of foiling, disc...
In this episode, I sit down with Antonija Čagalj, the driving force behind Yachtmaster Group, ICE Charter Expo, Croatia Yacht Show, Icebreaker Magazine, and Charter Meetup – basically, one of the most connected people in the global yacht charter scene. Antonija shares her incredible career journey, how it all started, and what inspired her to build the platforms that are now shaping the industry. We talk about the passion that keeps her motivated, the turning points that defined her path, and...
