Episode 70 : Fiona Drane - Islands to Impact
Fiona Drane is a tourism consultant, a proud Glaswegian, a mum, a wife and a passionate advocate for Scottish tourism. Having grown up in Cambuslang, her love for Scotland’s countryside and islands has shaped both her life and her career, leading her to the Scottish Borders and a role helping tourism businesses grow and communities thrive.
From a holiday job answering enquiries at the Scottish Tourist Board to more than 30 years working in tourism, Fiona shares how her career has evolved alongside the industry. We hear about the experiences that shaped her, the importance of understanding the financial realities of running a business and why she has chosen to focus on helping tourism businesses plan for the future.
Fiona’s love of Scotland’s islands is a real highlight, from childhood adventures on Bute and Arran to exploring the Hebrides with her husband. With 35 Scottish islands visited, there are plenty of stories to share, as well as a special appreciation for the people and places that make each island unique.
We also explore Fiona’s work with Scottish Community Tourism and her belief that great places to visit must first be great places to live. She shares why tourism should benefit local communities, create opportunities for young people and support the places that welcome visitors, rather than simply measuring success by visitor numbers.
This is a conversation about lifelong learning, the people who shape our careers and the importance of staying curious. Fiona reminds us that being a small business does not mean you cannot be strong, and that tourism can play a powerful role in helping rural communities thrive.
The Award Winning Women in Wellies Podcast is sponsored by Scottish Law firm, Gillespie Macandrew, advising on all areas of land & rural business, private client, energy and real estate.
Connect with Fiona on social media : LinkedIn - Fiona Drane Tourism Marketing \\\\ Instagram - @fionadranemarketing \\\\ Website – www.fionadranetourismstrategy.co.uk
Episode Recorded on 2nd October 2026.
All views expressed are our own.
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