Throughout this week, The Central App is celebrating International Women’s Day by featuring one amazing woman from our community each day, highlighting their unique journeys and contributions.

Transitioning from the fashion industry into dog behaviour and nutrition was not a traditional career path for Lisa Telle. Lisa focused on building a business that blended adventure, training, and community. She entered the industry from a background that differed from traditional expectations. Lisa felt a constant need to prove her expertise in behavioural science and genetics to be taken seriously.

Instead of shrinking from the challenge, she studied harder and asked better questions. Lisa eventually built her own table through a podcast and active community engagement.

"One room I had to fight to get into was the room of being taken seriously as a dog professional," Lisa said. These experiences shaped her into a leader who values depth over ego.

Her advice to other women is to start before they feel completely ready. Lisa believes that waiting to be "ready enough" often allows less qualified voices to speak louder. Transparency regarding pricing, boundaries, and business mistakes is a key part of her leadership style. She shares her journey openly to help shorten the struggle for others.

"When we share the how, we shorten someone else’s struggle," Lisa said. She advocates for an environment where curiosity is welcome and heart-led competence is celebrated.

A significant milestone was watching her team of women manage the business operations with confidence. Lisa has successfully shifted from a sole operator to a leader who trusts her team. Upholding brand values and caring for dogs at a high level are now shared team responsibilities. This collective effort allows the business to serve the community even when Lisa is not present. The future of her business focuses on flexible work that does not penalise ambition. Lisa advocates for career designs that align with life changes such as raising families or relocating.

"Flexibility should not mean lesser opportunity or lesser pay," Lisa said. She believes that when women are supported, the entire community benefits.

Empowered humans raise regulated beings. Lisa believes this benefits both the dogs and the humans around them. This vision remains a central pillar of her ongoing work in the region. Lisa continues to focus on uplifting the Central Otago community.