Parsons-Sooley, Barb. Audio interview about hiking and starting a guiding company.

• Main Author: Crane, Katie
• Other Authors: Parsons-Sooley, Barb
• Format: Audio
• Language: English
• Published: 2020
• Subjects: Work; Newfoundland
• Online Access: http://collections.mun.ca/cdm/ref/collection/ich_avalon/id/8609

Barb Parsons-Sooley discusses setting up her guiding company and why she chooses to incorporate local history and stories in her business model. 00:00 Information about case study project; 00:28 Name of company; 00:37 Initial challenges to setting up business; 01:24 Measuring success of hikes and tours; 02:24 Choosing trails to hike, partnering with other businesses; 03:48 Learning about good hiking trails; 04:09 Working as a firefighter and paramedic in Alberta; 04:17 Diagnosed with PTSD and trying different therapies to help; 04:56 Guided hikes in Bonavista region, Baccalieu trail region, licensed to guide anywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador; 05:54 Chose Baccalieu Trail region because it is home; 06:28 Working local history and stories into the guided hike; 07:17 Learns history and story by asking questions and listening to locals; 08:06 Important to share this information; 08:47 Difference between hiking with tourists vs locals; 09:12 Favourite thing about hiking and offering tours; 09:35 Would not change operations if she were starting again; 10:31 Tours right now are mostly for locals due to pandemic; 11:01 Tips for othe