Welcome back to The Boat Princess Podcast—where we dive into the stories shaping the marine industry, one conversation at a time.

Today’s episode comes to you from a somewhat luxurious and beautifully soundproofed location… the back of a Bentley Flying Spur at the Southampton Boat Show (thank you Bentley Motors). And joining me in the passenger seat is someone who has become a leading voice in marine marketing and communications—Kate O’Sullivan, founder of ADPR.

With a background in PR and a deep understanding of the marine space, Kate has built ADPR into one of the most respected communications agencies in the industry, working with some of the biggest names in boating. Known for her strategic thinking and no-nonsense approach, she’s passionate about helping brands tell better stories and connect more meaningfully with their audiences.

Kate’s journey from employee to employer is one that many aspire to but few truly understand, and in this episode she shares what that transition really looks like behind the scenes. We talk candidly about leadership styles, building a team, and the mindset shift required to step into ownership.

We also zoom out to the bigger picture—what the boating industry could be doing better when it comes to promoting itself, attracting new audiences, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing world.

And of course, Kate breaks down ADPR’s ACE system—her strategic framework that’s helping marine brands communicate more effectively and grow with purpose.

It’s insightful, honest, and set against the unmistakable quiet luxury of a Bentley —so settle in and enjoy the ride.

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Maximilian Eagle and I met some 4 years ago when he was very green in this industry. It has been such a pleasure to see him grow with Sunseeker London Group and to bump into him at multiple Boat Shows in Europe.

I have to say, Sunseeker London Group always take such care of me at Boat Shows. They are one of my favourites for relationship building, and this podcast along with some others, was recorded onboard an absolutely stunning Sunseeker at Southampton Boat Show because of their and Sunseeker International's generosity in giving me such a luxurious space to record.

My boating life began on Poole Harbour, in the UK, home of Sunseeker, so I must confess I have always had a soft spot for them.

Max is a young man - still in his 20's and he displays an honesty and openness that is refreshing in the world of Boat Brokerage. In our conversation we delve deep into his career path and the challenges he had to face on the way - one of which was the ultimate challenge anyone can face - thankfully he came through that - for which I and I am sure many many others, especially his family, are truly grateful. You see, when we see Max now, on the Sunseeker stand, presented meticulously with a smart outfit and haircut many would envy, we might make assumptions. Max is the perfect example of what Boat Brokers often have to do themselves - don't judge a book by it's cover. Get to know the real person and build a relationship with them - that is in fact how you build trust for them to buy from you rather than another broker. People buy from people and I am sure that is why Max's career continues to grow.

With boys his age myself, I have to say, without being condescending, that I am incredibly proud of this young man and it was such a moment of joy for me to interview him on my podcast.

I hope you enjoy it. I hope it will encourage other young men and women to become part of the boating industry - we need you. We need your fresh approach, your enthusiasm, your drive, your innovation, your openness, your smiles and frankly we need young people to realise that this industry is in dire need of you. The average age for someone in the US in this industry is 64. That's scary. And something we need to fix.

Hopefully my conversation with Max may be a small start - please pass it on to anyone you think might be inspired to join us.

Nicky x

For more info on Sunseeker London Group go to:

https://www.sunseekerlondon.com/luxury-yachts/office

For more information on Sunseeker International go to:

https://www.sunseeker.com/

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and sign up for my news and event invites at:

https://www.theboatprincess.com/

We often speak about being a minority in a male dominated industry as being a potential disadvantage but maybe sometimes it can actually be an advantage? For oh I don’t know something typical like stunt boat driving for Cameron Diaz???

In my podcast interview with Sarah Donohue at Southampton Boat Show she told me about the opportunity she had to be a stunt driver for Cameron Diaz because she was the ONLY powerboat racing driver that was female in the UK - so maybe sometimes it can actually work to our advantage to be the fewer in numbers occasionally. Having said that, I suspect she would have achieved it anyway competition or not - she's perfect for the role. Sarah is a dynamic and incredible person with a self-belief and confidence in herself that is admirable and aspirational. Listen to my interview with her as we explore how she got into this incredible space and how much she enjoys not only the racing but being part of making this sport safe and accessible to others all over Europe.

Sarah is a keen marine conservation advocate, commercial diver, freediver, stingray diver, climber and marine biologist in study, she was also nominated as a 'Woman of Achievement' at 'Woman of the Year' in London several years ago. One of her proudest moments.

Her energy exudes into the microphone - I know you will enjoy and be inspired by this one. Enjoy Nicky x

For more info about Sarah or to connect with her you can follow her on Instagram @sarahdonohueofficial or find out more on her website www.sarahdonohue.com

At our marina, Empire Marina Lake Macquarie we are proud sponsors of the Offshore Power Racing at Lake Macquarie, see more about the event HERE