Women in Wildlife

Welcome back to the pod! This episode is a special one, as we kick things off by reflecting on our recent Women in Wildlife expedition to Uganda and Rwanda! We share some of our favourite moments from the trip, the amazing women we met along the way, and why this experience meant so much to us.We're then joined by Jane, a ranger guide working in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, who we were lucky enough to meet while trekking with mountain gorillas! Jane takes us through her journey into wildlife conservation, from originally dreaming of becoming a teacher to joining the Uganda Wildlife Authority in 2018 and eventually finding her way into guiding.We chat about what it's really like being a female ranger in Uganda, from the challenges of working in remote forests and balancing family life to navigating an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men. Jane also gives us a glimpse into life as a gorilla trekking guide, what she loves most about her job, and some of the challenges that come with it.We also dive into the impact gorilla tourism has had on local communities, particularly the opportunities it has opened up for women, and why Jane hopes to see more women taking on leadership roles in Uganda's wildlife tourism industry. To finish, Jane shares her advice for young women wanting to follow a similar path.We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did!Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://www.womeninwildlife.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlife

For September’s Women in Wildlife podcast episode, we are joined by wildlife professional, mother and published author Tina Strachan to talk about building a career in wildlife, navigating motherhood, and finding unexpected opportunities along the way.With more than 20 years in the wildlife industry, Tina shares how becoming a mother changed the shape of her career without bringing it to a stop. From stepping away from fieldwork during a high-risk pregnancy and studying vet nursing during maternity leave, to returning to wildlife work while navigating childcare and family life, Tina speaks openly about the realities and mental load of balancing motherhood with a career in conservation.We also explore how motherhood became part of another unexpected chapter in Tina’s career: becoming a published author. After returning to her childhood love of writing following the birth of her second child, Tina entered a writing competition that ultimately connected her with HarperCollins. Drawing on her years working in zoos and conservation, she went on to create The Wilder Zoo, a three-book children’s series that brings wildlife and conservation into the lives of young readers.Along the way, we hear about Tina’s winding career through zoos, wildlife research, breeding and release programs, and koala conservation. Tina reflects on persistence, support networks, changing priorities and why having children doesn’t have to mean giving up a career in wildlife.Check out Tina's website here: https://www.tinastrachan.com or purchase her books here https://harpercollins.com.au/search?q=wilder+zooAny questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://www.womeninwildlife.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlife

In this episode, joint CEOs of Lion Landscapes Amy Dickman and Alayne Cotterill open up about what it really takes to lead together as women in conservation. They share how Lion Landscapes was built not just on a shared passion for wildlife, but on a deliberate decision to work differently; more collaboratively, more openly, and with a leadership model that reflects their strengths. The conversation explores how that partnership came together, why shared leadership felt natural to them, and how it has allowed them to build something stronger than either could have done alone. They also speak honestly about the pressures women face in conservation leadership, including the expectation to be excellent at everything at once. From pregnancy and motherhood to fieldwork and international careers, Amy and Alayne reflect on the real compromises and support systems that have shaped their paths. What stands out most is their belief that leadership doesn’t have to look a certain way to be effective- and that women bringing vulnerability, honesty, and collaboration into leadership can be a real strength. For women navigating wildlife careers, their message is clear: you do not have to do it all alone, and you do not have to do it all at once.If you're inspired by their work, consider supporting Lion Landscapes or sharing their approach to community-led conservation: https://www.lionlandscapes.org/Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://www.womeninwildlife.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlife

Welcome back to the Women in Wildlife Podcast! In this episode, joint-CEOs Alayne and Amy share how their charity 'Lion Landscapes' came to life and why their work goes far beyond protecting lions alone. These two powerhouses of conservationists talk about building conservation models that respond to human-wildlife conflict in East Africa, and how the real starting point is understanding the needs of local communities. Rather than approaching conservation as something imposed from the outside, they explain how trust, collaboration, and patience are what make long-term coexistence possible. A major theme in the conversation is the cost of living with wildlife and how Lion Landscapes works to change that balance so communities can see real benefit from conservation. Across the episode, what stands out most is their belief that conservation works best when people are put at the center of it. If you're inspired by their work, consider supporting Lion Landscapes or sharing their approach to community-led conservation: https://www.lionlandscapes.org/There is a part 2 episode with Alayne and Amy which focuses on their experiences as joint-CEOs in the wildlife sector, so stay tuned for that!Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://www.womeninwildlife.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlife

This episode explores the idea of empathetic distress and why it can be so draining for people who work in caring, high-emotion roles, including those within the wildlife industry. We have emotional intelligence Olivia Oginska as our guest on this episode, who explains the difference between compassion and the kind of emotional exhaustion that comes from taking on the suffering of others, and why the term “compassion fatigue” is often misunderstood. The conversation looks at how empathy, values, and workplace pressures can combine to leave people feeling overwhelmed, especially when they care deeply but don’t feel able to change what they are seeing. Olivia also shares how self-awareness is the foundation for managing these feelings, and why it matters to understand what specifically is triggering the emotional response. She talks about the role of support systems, reframing, and knowing what is within your control, especially in environments where repeated exposure to distress can make hopelessness feel normal. The episode offers practical encouragement for anyone who wants to keep caring without becoming consumed by the emotional weight of the work, and reminds listeners that strong passion can be sustained with the right mindset, support, and boundaries.Unfortunately, due to technological difficulties, we won't be releasing the part 2 mentioned throughout this episode. You can learn more about Olivia's work at the Human Savvy here: https://behumansavvy.com/ or follow her on instagram at @vetgonerealAny questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlife

In this month's episode of the WIW podcast we explore the journey of Dr. Sharon Mulindi, a dedicated wildlife veterinarian from Kenya. She shares her experiences working in remote areas, facing challenges as a woman in the field, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts. Dr. Mulindi's story highlights the importance of representation, community involvement, and a holistic One Health approach in wildlife conservation.The episode begins with Sharon's childhood inspiration from Nairobi National Park, which sparked her early interest in wildlife medicine. She discusses her journey through vet school and her specialization at Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Sharon provides insights into the realities of working as a wildlife vet in remote and sometimes dangerous areas, emphasizing the vital role of local communities and traditional knowledge in conservation. Sharon shares strategies for building relationships, safety, and trust in challenging environments, whilst also emphasising the importance of representation for women, especially African women, in wildlife careers. We also chat about how having a One Health approach links wildlife, human, and ecosystem health, with Sharon recounting memorable cases, including elephant rescues and translocations. The episode concludes with practical advice for young women aspiring to enter conservation and veterinary fields, offering inspiration and guidance for the next generation. You can follow Dr Sharon on Instagram @sha.ron_mulindiAny questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlifeMusic by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX 

In this month's topic-focused episode, science communication expert and author Zoe Kean shares insights from her book "Why We Like This", delving into the fascinating parallels between wildlife health and human diseases, particularly cancer. She explores the paradoxes of evolutionary biology related to aging, sex, and cancer, and how cancer is an ancient and universal phenomenon in multicellular life. We learn about transmissible cancers in Tasmanian devils, the role of genetic diversity and evolution in cancer resistance among species like elephants, whales, and naked mole rats, and the application of ecological and evolutionary theories to cancer treatment strategies. Zoe also highlights the impact of inbreeding and genetic bottlenecks on endangered species’ health and vulnerability, and the potential for cross-disciplinary research in conservation and medicine. By understanding cancer through evolution, innovative therapies and prevention methods may emerge, offering hope for both human health and wildlife conservation. This episode was a very unique one, offering a fresh perspective on disease and conservation, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary thinking in tackling complex biological challenges.Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlifeMusic by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX

This month's episode is adventure packed, with the very inspiring Dr Sheddy, a veterinary professional redefining conservation and animal care through innovative projects through sea and land. From working in Australia to sailing across Central America and Asia, Sheddy is making a tangible difference in animal welfare and community health. The main topics of this episode include the transition from traditional vet roles to international wildlife work, launching and running a veterinary clinic from a sailboat, and the importance of vet wellness and burnout prevention. Dr Sheddy emphasizes community engagement and sustainable animal care, while also discussing the challenges of funding and growing a mobile veterinary practice via YouTube. She shares cross-cultural insights on pet and wildlife care and highlights the importance of building local partnerships for long-term impact. She discusses the challenges of working in rural Australia and becoming a wildlife vet, and her transition from clinical work to charity and outreach. The episode delves into the challenges and learnings from sailing and maintaining a mobile clinic, the impact of preventative care and community health outreach, and the importance of building trust in remote communities. Dr Sheddy shares strategies for growing support and community donations, collaborations with local vets, and cultural perceptions of animals across regions. She also addresses the importance of education and resource provision to promote change, and the development of vet wellness retreats to combat burnout. Looking ahead, Dr Sheddy discusses future plans for training programs, wildlife volunteering, and expanding her impact, while maintaining work-life balance and the longevity of her projects. Her final words offer advice for vets exploring new pathways.Resources & Links:Vet Tails Websites: vettails.com/aboutYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcDSkw35FYqsFgMqoZjt7zQ/about  Sheddy's instragram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.sheddy_the.sailing.vet/Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlifeMusic by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX 

In this episode we’re delighted to be joined by Akanksha Sood Singh, a natural history filmmaker from India who has spent over 25 years telling powerful stories about lesser-known species and underrepresented voices in conservation.We explore Akanksha’s journey into wildlife filmmaking, from her beginnings in science to building a career in natural history filmmaking. Akanksha shares the challenges of navigating a Western-dominated conservation space, and how these experiences have shaped her approach to storytelling, with a strong focus on authenticity, ethics, and amplifying local voices.Throughout the conversation, we discuss the evolution of conservation storytelling, including the balance between visual impact and meaningful narratives, and how emerging technologies and short-form media are changing the way stories are told. Akanksha also reflects on the importance of telling stories rooted in local places, and the role that filmmakers, scientists, and communities all play in shaping more inclusive and representative narratives.A key part of this work is her role as the founder of The Gaia People, a platform dedicated to supporting local storytellers, amplifying diverse voices, and creating more equitable opportunities within conservation and filmmaking. Through this work, she is actively challenging traditional power structures in the industry and helping to build a more inclusive and representative future for conservation storytelling.We also talk about her incredible work founding Women of the Wild, an initiative supporting underrepresented women in conservation, and the importance of creating space and opportunities for diverse voices in the field. Akanksha shares honest insights into the systemic challenges that still exist, as well as practical advice for young women wanting to pursue careers in conservation and filmmaking, particularly in marginalised regions.Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlifeMusic by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX

Who can post, and who can't? Welcome back for part 2 of our conversation with Connie Needham, which is a topic-based episode where we delve into the profound effects of social media on wildlife welfare and conservation. While social media can be a fantastic tool for bringing awareness and support for wildlife conservation, we openly discuss how close contact photos and sensationalized content can cause serious short and long term wildlife welfare concerns, unethical wildlife tourist choices, as well as fueling illegal pet pet trade. Connie explains how these images often normalize unsafe interactions with wild animals, contributing to misconceptions about their behavior and habitat needs. The conversation highlights the growing influence of social media as a primary source of information, shaping public perceptions and expectations of wildlife. Connie explores the unintended consequences of portraying wild animals in human environments, which can fuel illegal pet trades and unethical tourism practices. Connie emphasises the importance of shifting the narrative from seeking the perfect shot to promoting respect and understanding for animals' natural behaviors and autonomy. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own social media practices and consider how they can contribute to a more ethical portrayal of wildlife. This episode serves as a call to action for all people- tourists and wildlife professionals alike to prioritise education and conservation in their online presence. Connie's Instagram: connie.needhamConnie's Youtube: youtube.com/@connie.needham?si=IQilIILIqGhc6Nh3&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnNAyL33mETLXKKmD-NOSJDx2NRMkSLD9fCuChTjAm-BWbU4jJopAR2bkePPY_aem_0z6MARvM0GI-vyKicEB4xAProject Wild: https://www.projectwild.uk/about Any questions or queries contact [email protected] to our resources:Website: https://women-in-wildlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/women.in.wildlife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077369770841Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninwildlifeMusic by Thomas Hagen from SLAUX