Terry Dixon, founder of "Terry's Reading Walkabouts," started his walking tours in 2016. He has since raised over £26,000 for more than 30 local charities. Terry offers 22 different themed walks. In this episode, we discuss how Terry got started with his walks, how he promotes them, and how his project management background has helped him. We also discuss why Reading is such a wonderful town and the importance of history. Terry also highlights how he adapts to challenges, and why it’s important to look for opportunities.

HIGHLIGHTS

Adaptability and Opportunity Recognition: Terry highlights the importance of innovation and finding new opportunities even in adversity. This highlights the crucial business lesson of remaining agile and actively seeking out new possibilities, even when faced with significant obstacles.

Diversification of Offerings and Continuous Product Development: Terry constantly evolves his core product, creating two new walks a year and developing 22 different walking themes. This commitment to expanding his offerings and keeping content fresh ensures repeat engagement from his "band of wonderful followers" and appeals to a wider audience.

Prioritising Customer Experience: Terry emphasises that beyond fundraising, his primary goal is for people "to have a wonderful experience". This dedication to delivering a high-quality experience fosters a loyal "enthusiastic band of walkers" who often return, demonstrating how exceptional customer service can drive repeat business and cultivate strong community ties through word-of-mouth promotion. 

TIMECODES

00:00 Introduction

00:27 Introduction to Terry

01:40 About Terry’s Reading Walkabouts

03:50 Reading is a wonderful place to live!

05:17 Terry’s Pride of Reading Award

06:45 Terry’s charities

08:29 How Terry chooses the charities he works with

09:45 Terry’s favourite walk!

11:30 How Terry promotes his walks

12:51 Why history is awesome!

13:22 How Terry promotes his walks continued

14:17 Challenges Terry has faced/ Look for the opportunities

14:22 How Terry’s Project Management experience has helped him

19:03 How to find out more about Terry’s walks

20:44 Terry’s final thoughts