In this episode of the Lead to Soar podcast, Michelle Redfern is joined by Dr Catriona Wallace , a serial entrepreneur, CEO, and global authority on responsible AI, ethics, and the future of work.
Catriona has built, led, and exited AI and machine-learning businesses in environments dominated by men, capital, and technical gatekeeping. She speaks candidly about what it takes to lead in AI, venture capital, and STEM without conforming to the norms that exclude women.
This conversation goes beyond representation. It focuses on power, judgement, and leadership responsibility in an economy increasingly shaped by algorithms, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
In this episode, we cover
Why the absence of women in AI is a leadership failure, not a pipeline issue
How AI systems replicate and amplify existing bias when decision-makers lack diversity
What thriving in male-dominated AI, STEM, and venture capital environments actually requires
The leadership behaviours great CEOs consistently demonstrate, regardless of industry
Why ethical AI is a business and governance issue, not a technical afterthought
What women need to know before stepping into AI, tech leadership, or investment spaces
Why this matters
AI is already shaping hiring, performance management, surveillance, and access to opportunity. When women are missing from the rooms where these systems are designed, funded, and governed, the consequences are structural and long-lasting.
This episode is for women leaders, board members, investors, and executives who want to understand how technology decisions intersect with power, accountability, and outcomes, and why women’s leadership in AI is now a business imperative.
Links and resources
YouTube algorithms and the manosphere (Reset Australia / Mumbrella):
https://mumbrella.com.au/youtube-algorithms-exposing-young-men-to-the-manosphere-reset-australia-734877
About the guest
Dr Catriona Wallace is a globally recognised entrepreneur, CEO, and advisor in artificial intelligence and machine learning. She is a leading voice on responsible technology, AI ethics, and the future of work. Catriona is the CEO of an ethical AI advisory, Chair of venture capital fund Boab AI, and founder of Flamingo AI, with operations in Australia and the United States. She has been recognised by the Australian Financial Review as one of Australia’s most influential women in business.
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