Ignite MNC – Interview – Zoe Eather – The Smart City Podcast
In this our second interview of speakers and presenters that will be attending Ignite MNC 2018 we feature Zoe Eather of The Smart City Podcast.
Zoe is a tech savy Smart Community advocate and loves the opportunities that a connected world brings to communities and regions.
On 7 November Zoe will be speaking about “Transformation by design”at Ignite MNC in Bellingen.
The event will bring together creators, thinkers and innovators from the Mid North Coast region and beyond.
Don’t forget to grab your ticket before they are sold out – follow the link below.
Interview – Zoe Eather
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Roma then moved to Brisbane to study engineering when I was 17. I then moved back out to Roma to work in civil construction and moved around with work to places like Dirranbandi, Injune, Warwick and Tambo, and finally stopped for a bit in Toowoomba.
Given the choice between living in the city or country which would you choose and why?
I currently live in Toowoomba which is the perfect mix of country and city for me. But I want drive west instead of east and to do more work in the regional areas.
Describe your area of expertise?
I am a Smart City or rather a Smart Community advocate and enthusiast which means I promote the use of technology and smart ways of working, as enablers to make the places we live more liveable, accessible and sustainable for all.
What is the greatest hurdle you have had to overcome in your career and how did you do it?
In April this year I left my good, secure government job to pursue my passion and start The Smart City Podcast. It was hard but I knew it was something I had to do. I got together a plan and my #numberonefans for support and took the leap!
If you could solve one problem or issue what would it be?
The technological divide that exists between the cities and the regions. I don’t what people to think that they have to move to the city to be successful.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stop asking for advice and take your own. You need good mentors to weigh in but ultimately no one really knows what they are doing so it’s up to you to make your own path.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?
J.K. Rowling because I think she is just brilliant. P.S Harry Potter was the first book I ever read in full when I was 15 years old.
The best advice you have being given during your life?
A quote from Craig Harper “don’t sabotage your considerable talent and potential with considerable self-doubt and insecurity. Write your story with courage and passion!”
What are you looking forward to most about attending Ignite MNC at Bellingen?
Meeting other excited innovators that are passionate about being smart in our regions.
What are your plans for the next year?
I just found out that I was successful in my Churchill Fellowship application so that means I will be heading overseas for 2 months next year to look at all things Smart Mobility which includes connected and autonomous vehicles, mobility as a service and shared access to mobility options. My other plans are to grow the podcast, speak and spread my message in as many regions across Australia and the world as I can and help local councils on the journey to become smarter.
To find out more about Zoe and to listen to her podcast
The Ignite MNC Symposium is a business and community event designed to bring together people who work, run businesses and live in the Mid North Coast. The event is designed to inspire new thinking, vibrant conversations and to form collaborative partnerships. – aka; if you want to do break the mould – to do something different – to find a tribe to support you, to make the Mid North Coast an innovative, inspiring and vibrant place to live and work… For access to further information and tickets visit www.rdamnc.org.au