We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katy Johnson . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katy below.

Katy , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

At the age of 19, I found myself in an incredible yet challenging situation. Living in Iowa, I had the fortune of meeting a guy from a famous TV show while I was in an airport in LA. He invited me to Cabo San Lucas for a trip with another couple. Having barely traveled and never having been outside the country, I enthusiastically accepted, not fully understanding the expectations or the implications of such a journey. This trip marked my first venture out of the country.

It turned out to be a trip filled with unexpected twists. Naive and inexperienced, I failed to establish clear boundaries or have an upfront conversation about the trip’s nature. What I thought was a casual trip between friends took an alarming turn.

In Cabo, The guy I accompanied became upset, invaded my privacy by going through my phone, and eventually, in the dead of night in Mexico, he kicked me and my things out of his hotel room. To add to the ordeal, he withheld my flight details for my return the next day.

Distressed and desperate, I sought refuge at the hotel. Hotel security came to my aid and offered me a free room for the night. Grateful but anxious, I pondered my predicament with a meager bank account and a sense of hopelessness.

Morning arrived with a heavy burden of anxiety. My financial situation was dire, and I faced the daunting reality that a one-way ticket back to Iowa was financially out of reach over 1,000 USD. In a moment of vulnerability, I broke down whilst sitting on my suitcase in the airport, my emotions overwhelming me.

In this desperate moment, a compassionate man approached me. A man in his mid-40s, exuding a blend of skater and surfer styles but with a professional demeanor, offered help. He introduced me to three other men, his friends from Phoenix, and without hesitation, he coordinated with his assistant to book a flight for me. They were heading to Phoenix, and my flight back to Des Moines conveniently connected through there.

The kindness and generosity of these strangers, especially the man who orchestrated my return, provided not only financial relief but also a sense of safety and care. He shared that he had a daughter my age and empathized with my situation, urging me to always communicate expectations and exercise caution, particularly when traveling with men. He emphasized the importance of being in control of my travel plans and bookings.

He owned several skate/surf shops akin to PacSun in the Southwest and wished me well on my journey. I said my goodbyes, and with a heart filled with gratitude, I made my way back home. The experience left an indelible mark on me, reminding me that genuine acts of kindness and compassion still exist in the world.

It’s a lesson I carry with me—to be cautious, to communicate openly, and to ensure I’m always financially prepared for any trip. The stranger’s benevolence instilled in me a commitment to help others in distress, a debt I strive to pay forward. Girls, I urge you to exercise caution, set clear boundaries, and always be prepared when embarking on journeys. The wisdom I gained that day has become my beacon of safety and responsibility while traveling or accepting any invites.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Katy Johnson, once a published model featured in numerous magazines such as Sports Illustrated, Glamour, FHM, Esquire, GQ, Men’s Health etc. to then, a travel blogger, influencer, and I’ve dedicated the past six years to a travel and women’s empowerment documentary. I travel the globe, interviewing women to discuss topics like equality, empowerment, and self-love, striving to raise awareness for peace and equality. Additionally,

I run a non-profit focused on empowering women and preserving the environment. My passion for travel and connecting with diverse individuals has always been a driving force, especially when supporting these women through life’s challenges.

Recently, I made a career shift into luxury real estate, collaborating with my dear friend Jason at The Oppenheim Group. Despite the slower luxury market due to higher interest rates, we continue to facilitate property transactions and assist clients in buying and selling. This transition has brought immense fulfillment, and I am truly passionate about this new endeavor.

What distinguishes me is my confidence, propensity for taking risks, strong communication abilities, and the invaluable experience of traveling to 100 countries. This extensive travel has enriched my understanding of diverse cultures, enabling me to easily connect and relate to individuals from various backgrounds and regions, forming meaningful connections worldwide.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

In life and career, I’ve navigated several transformative shifts, the most significant being after my divorce. This period marked a profound personal growth, propelling me into the realm of fierce independence. Concurrently, I chose to step away from the modeling industry and embarked on a global journey, kickstarting a women’s empowerment documentary and establishing a non-profit.

For years, I traversed the globe, dedicating myself to these projects, investing not only time but a considerable portion of my savings. Despite the substantial effort and resources, the journey was undeniably worth it. Now, I find myself in a new phase, diving into the luxury real estate market. Though it entails relentless phone calls and the necessity of a fixed office presence, I revel in the change. This transition has bestowed upon me a fresh perspective and sense of purpose.

Obtaining my real estate license wasn’t just about passing an exam on the first try. It was about building an extensive network and fostering relationships with influential and affluent individuals, potentially becoming valued clients.

Starting anew or embarking on an unforeseen path can indeed be intimidating or frustrating at times. However, I firmly believe that these pivots often serve as pivotal moments that redirect the trajectory of one’s life. Embracing risks and, above all, maintaining self-belief are paramount in this journey.

Any advice for managing a team?

In my approach to managing interns or fellow employees, I emphasize the importance of expressing genuine appreciation and respect. Treating everyone with kindness while maintaining a forward and direct approach is key. I firmly believe that when the people you work with feel respected and valued, it motivates them to put in their best effort. If there’s a need to address a mistake or an area for improvement, I start by acknowledging their strengths and achievements. Personalizing communication by using their names and consistently acknowledging their successes and contributions is vital.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.onemodelmission.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamkatyjohnson
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/iamkatyjohnson
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/officialkatyjohnson
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/katyjohnson1
• Youtube: youtube.com/katyjohnson

Image Credits
The red dress red carpet photo credit goes to Chad Cedric Salvador and the white dress close up headshot photo credit is Getty Images. Use whichever ones you find the most applicable.