Speak up and Show Up!
by Amber Larkins, OOH Today
We recently published our annual list of the Top Women Driving Growth in Out-of-Home (OOH) for 2025. Today, we are highlighting Meghan Walsh, Senior Vice President, Talon
Meghan is a seasoned OOH professional with 15+ years of experience across an extensive portfolio of clients. She brings a wealth of knowledge, particularly when it comes to the ever-changing OOH landscape, and demonstrates a deep understanding of diverse client needs. Meghan believes that trust is the cornerstone of strong client, media partner, and internal team relationships, and fostering confidence in one another is necessary for long-term success. Meghan is a well-respected leader and friend to many throughout the OOH industry.
One of her anonymous nominators says, “Meghan has worked on Top OOH spenders like HBO, WB/ Turner and Chanel, recently has transitioned to new role to SVP and had grown business organically under the Talon umbrella with her guidance.”
Speak up and Show Up!
Meghan has directly reported into both male and female C-suite levels. This has provided her with a well-rounded perspective and helped her navigate different professional dynamics. Each of them offered unique insights, styles of leadership, and approaches to challenges, however seeing other women succeed in a similar path can be inspiring and fosters a community of support and opportunities.
“I think women in our industry should arrive with more confidence and believe that they are just as smart and capable. For example, a woman may hesitate to apply for a position if she only meets 5 of the 10 requirements, while a male counterpart likely wouldn’t hesitate,” Meghan said. “It speaks to a broader issue around self-perception and societal conditioning. Many women are socialized to be more cautious or perfectionistic, whereas men as often encouraged to take risks. When women show up knowing their worth and trusting their capabilities, it can shift the whole dynamic – not just for them, but others watching and following their lead.”
She says that women have been underrepresented in executive roles, but there has been a shift in that momentum.
“Our industry has not been, and wont ever be successful because of one person’s contributions – it’s important to show up and make your voice heard, regardless of age, gender, or title. Advocate for yourself and earn the trust amongst your peers,” Meghan said.
“Our industry has not been, and wont ever be successful because of one person’s contributions – it’s important to show up and make your voice heard, regardless of age, gender, or title. Advocate for yourself and earn the trust amongst your peers,” Meghan said.
Advice for Women in the Industry
Meghan has two pieces of advice for women starting out in the industry:
- Speak up and show up! Actively participate in any/all networking events, panels, and conferences, even if its out of your comfort zone (or male-dominated). You may not be an expert (yet) but sticking to only what’s comfortable can limit opportunities. Leaders and decision-makers notice employees who take on tough projects or step up in unfamiliar situations, and fear of failure or discomfort can hold you back from reaching full potential.
- Find a mentor. This is key and not encouraged or seriously pursued enough. Find someone you can trust and that has your best interests at heart. Many women struggle with imposter syndrome or self-doubt, and a mentor can provide encouragement and constructive feedback.
Meghan is especially grateful for the mentorship she received from Vanessa Hartley.
- Advertisement -
