Ten Questions in Ten Minutes: With Peter Taylor

Peter Taylor is a motivational speaker, author and mentor, who has been conducting talks on inspiration and motivation for several years. He’s also written an autobiography, ‘Don't postpone Joy’. His extensive skills have developed from a curious mix of business (hospitality) and sport (equestrian).

Business to Business - What inspired you to start up your business?
Peter Taylor - My options to become employed were severely limited once I became blind and deaf. It was clear that I had to employ myself.

BtoB - Who has influenced you the most professionally?
PT - Several people have influenced my diverse careers. In the hospitality sector, it was Graeme Latham, my catering lecturer at Technical College who was also the food Master of the Australian Wine and Food Society.
Second were my two equestrian mentors, Lockie Richards, the NZ National Coach and my tutor in Germany, Selma Brandle. Both taught me how to communicate and appreciate the intrinsic talent and unique personality of each horse I worked with. I also had the extraordinary opportunity to work alongside Lorrayne La Framboise, the National Coach and Team Manager of the Canadian Olympic 3 Day Event Team as her assistant.
Third, was Judith Peters, my business mentor, my immediate superior at the Centennial Park Trust in Sydney, Australia. Yvonne Godfrey has directed my speaking career.
It has been my privilege to hear the stories and watch the techniques of many people who have influenced my life.

BtoB - How would you describe yourself as a businessman?
PT - I am passionate, have an eye for detail and remain focused on my task. Like a Jack Russell Terrier, I will hang on to the scraggy end until all parties are satisfied.