Two Women, One Vision: Challenging Expectations in Conservation Leadership

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