When Science Speaks

When Science Speaks is a web series profiling innovative and interesting people working in science and technical fields - from academia, to industry, to the non-profit world. Mark and his guests explore: how to be a powerhouse advocate for science and your research; how to advance your career in meaningful ways that make you happy; how to push back on the assault on science; and other related issues of interest happening in the world. You can listen and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app or podcast player.

From Code to Content: How You Can Achieve Your Engineering Career Goals with Jordan Cutler 04/12/2024

Storytelling, Personal Brand Building and Following Your Passion with Tulani André 04/05/2024

Storytelling, Personal Brand Building and Following Your Passion with Tulani André In this episode, I sit down with Tulani André, Vice President, Social Media at National Geographic, to discuss the power of storytelling, brand building, and following your passion in career transitions and professional success. [00:00:00] Introduction: Tulani André is an expert in creating successful social media campaigns and brand presences for major organizations. Tulani shares insights from her diverse career spanning National Geographic, Amazon Prime Video, and Fox Corporation. [00:01:00] Tulani's Career Journey: Tulani emphasizes the importance of aligning career paths with personal passions rather than specific industries or companies. She shares her experience transitioning between sectors, emphasizing the value of social storytelling and connection. [00:02:00] Career Transitions: Tulani offers practical advice on preparing for career transitions, stressing the significance of having an exit plan and cultivating positive relationships within organizations. [00:03:00] The Power of Storytelling: Tulani discusses the importance of storytelling in engaging audiences, particularly for scientists and engineers. She highlights the need for authenticity and a clear understanding of the "why" behind one's work. [00:04:00] Crafting Impactful Narratives: Tulani advises professionals to take a step back and view their work from a broader perspective, identifying the significance of their contributions within larger ecosystems and societal contexts. [00:05:00] Key Takeaways: Tulani underscores the value of following one's passions, developing exit strategies, and building positive relationships within organizations to drive career success. 00:10:00] Connecting with Others: Tulani emphasizes the importance of adopting a broader perspective, encouraging professionals to elevate themselves above the minutiae of their work to understand its broader impact. By making connections and leveraging social media, individuals can engage audiences and foster curiosity about niche topics. [00:11:00] Building Your Personal Brand: Tulani offers practical advice for professionals entering the job market, emphasizing the importance of leveraging writing and speaking opportunities to showcase expertise and thought leadership. By sharing insights and engaging with industry conversations, individuals can amplify their personal brand and attract opportunities. [00:12:00] Writing and Speaking Opportunities: Tulani encourages professionals to seek out writing and speaking opportunities to showcase their expertise and perspectives. Whether contributing to publications or participating in conferences, these activities can help individuals establish themselves as thought leaders in their field. [00:13:00] Embracing Exposure and Connection: Tulani shares her approach to speaking engagements, emphasizing the value of exposure and connection over monetary compensation. By seizing opportunities to share insights and engage with audiences, individuals can build meaningful connections and enhance their personal brand. [00:14:00] Amplifying Industry Conversations: Tulani advises professionals to actively participate in industry discussions by sharing relevant articles and insights on social media. By contributing to ongoing conversations and amplifying important topics, individuals can position themselves as valuable contributors within their field. [00:15:00] Buidling Your Brand: As professionals navigate their career journeys, Tulani encourages them to embrace opportunities for self-expression and connection. By leveraging writing, speaking, and social media engagement, individuals can build their personal brand and establish themselves as influential voices within their industry. [00:17:00] Making Authentic Connections: Tulani emphasizes the importance of genuine connections in networking and personal branding. She acknowledges the courage it takes to reach out to others and encourages individuals to find common ground and genuine interests when initiating conversations or collaborations. [00:18:00] Balancing Reverence and Relevance: Tulani discusses the challenge of maintaining a historic brand's reverence while making it relevant in today's world. She highlights the importance of creating timely and engaging content that resonates with audiences, driving conversations and fostering connections. [00:19:00] Segmenting Audiences and Tailoring Messaging: Tulani stresses the significance of understanding diverse audience segments and tailoring messaging to meet their unique preferences and interests. By segmenting audiences and crafting personalized content, brands can effectively engage with their followers and build meaningful connections. [00:20:00] Partnerships and Multi-Platform Engagement: Tulani explores the value of strategic partnerships and multi-platform engagement in reaching diverse audiences. By collaborating with other brands and leveraging various channels, brands can expand their reach and create impactful content that resonates with different audience segments. [00:21:00] Emotional Connection and Brand Impact: Tulani emphasizes the importance of fostering emotional connections with audiences to drive brand impact. By considering the desired emotional response and crafting authentic messaging, brands can create meaningful experiences that resonate with their followers and drive engagement. [00:22:00] Goals for Nat Geo's Social Campaigns: Tulani shares her goals for Nat Geo's social campaigns, focusing on increasing relevance, engagement, and visibility. By creating timely and compelling content, Nat Geo aims to captivate audiences and reinforce its position as a leading source of exploration and discovery. [00:23:00] Crafting Relevant and Engaging Content: Tulani discusses the process of crafting relevant and engaging content that resonates with audiences. By aligning content with current events, trends, and audience interests, brands can capture attention and foster meaningful connections with their followers. [00:24:00] Reverence Plus Relevance: Tulani highlights the importance of balancing reverence for Nat Geo's legacy with a focus on relevance in today's media landscape. By combining respect for the brand's heritage with innovative approaches to storytelling, Nat Geo aims to captivate audiences and drive meaningful engagement. [00:25:00] Providing Accessible and Memorable Content: Tulani discusses the importance of providing accessible and memorable content that resonates with audiences. By making complex topics understandable and engaging, Nat Geo aims to inspire curiosity and empower audiences to explore the world around them. [00:26:00] Goals for 2024: Tulani shares her personal goals for 2024, focusing on fitness and creative expression. By pursuing activities like running a half marathon and writing a romance novel, Tulani aims to challenge herself and find joy in new experiences. [00:28:00] Wrapping Up: Mark expresses gratitude to Tulani for sharing her insights and highlights the importance of connecting with audiences through authentic storytelling. He commends Nat Geo's efforts to engage with diverse communities and inspire curiosity through compelling content. [00:29:00] Impactful Social Engagement: Mark reflects on Nat Geo's ability to create impactful social engagement by providing accessible and engaging content. He praises the brand's commitment to fostering connections and driving meaningful conversations about important topics. [00:30:00] Making Science Accessible: Mark acknowledges the role of organizations like Nat Geo in making science accessible and engaging for audiences worldwide. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in conveying complex scientific concepts and driving positive change in society. [00:31:00] Personal Growth and Development: Mark encourages listeners to pursue personal growth and development by setting goals and challenging themselves. He applauds Tulani for her commitment to fitness and creative expression and encourages listeners to find joy in new experiences. [00:32:00] Authenticity and Creativity: Mark highlights the importance of authenticity and creativity in personal and professional endeavors. He commends Tulani for her passion and dedication to her goals and encourages listeners to embrace their unique interests and talents. [00:33:00] Building Meaningful Connections: Mark underscores the value of building meaningful connections and fostering genuine relationships in both personal and professional settings. He encourages listeners to engage with diverse communities and leverage their passions to make a positive impact in the world. [00:34:00] Conclusion: Mark concludes the episode by thanking Tulani for sharing her insights and encouraging listeners to apply the lessons learned to their own lives. He invites listeners to tune in to future episodes of When Science Speaks for more inspiring conversations with leaders in science, technology, and innovation. /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/30694093

From Stargazing to Podcasting: A Journey Through Astrophysics, E-Learning, and Entrepreneurship with Colin Gray, Ph.D. 03/04/2024

How to Make Your Next Presentation Memorable 02/09/2024

Crafting Compelling Narratives: A Deep Dive into Atomic Storytelling Techniques with Chris Hare 01/19/2024

Crafting Compelling Narratives: A Deep Dive into Atomic Storytelling Techniques with Chris Hare On this episode of When Science Speaks, host by Mark Bayer dives into the world of storytelling with guest Chris Hare, exploring the impact and importance of a high-impact storytelling approach Chris has developed and used with his clients called "Atomic Storytelling." Episode Highlights: The Quest for Effective Storytelling: Mark and Chris kick off the episode discussing the widespread discussion on storytelling and the lack of informed advice. Chris introduces the concept of Atomic Storytelling and its transformative power. Chris's Journey with Microsoft: Chris shares a pivotal moment in his career, working on a project for Microsoft and discovering the effectiveness of content derived from successful developers. The Pitfalls of Manufacturing Stories: The duo explores the common challenge of manufacturing stories and emphasizes the need for genuine, impactful narratives in business contexts. Atomic Storytelling in Action: Chris provides a practical example involving a defibrillator company, illustrating how Atomic Storytelling can create a powerful emotional connection. Balancing Emotion and Rationality: Mark and Chris discuss the importance of blending emotional and rational elements in storytelling, especially in B2B contexts. Overcoming Storytelling Challenges: Chris addresses the common belief that not everyone is a natural storyteller, emphasizing the learnable nature of storytelling skills. The Scientist's Strength in Vision: Chris highlights the strength scientists possess in envisioning the future and emphasizes the importance of sequencing and storytelling to bring others along on the journey. Brian Janous's Journey at Microsoft: An intriguing anecdote about Brian Janous's mission to make then-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer understand and appreciate the energy vision at Microsoft, showcasing the persistence required in long-term storytelling. Unveiling the Narrative at Amazon: Chris discusses Amazon's narrative of being data-driven and its potential limitations. The story unfolds as he reveals a crucial insight about the third-party seller side and the initial focus on resellers. The pivotal shift occurs when a VP starts meeting with sellers, leading to the discovery that brand owners drive a significant portion of Amazon's business. The Human Connection in Storytelling: Emphasizing the importance of understanding data while maintaining a broader perspective. Chris highlights the role of continuous human connection and the value of not relying solely on data-driven insights. Embracing Imperfections in Stories: Acknowledging the messiness of stories and the common misconception that a story must be perfect. Sharing a personal coaching session experience that emphasized the power of authenticity and imperfection in storytelling. Co-Creation and Feedback: Advocating for involving stakeholders in the storytelling process. Encouraging feedback and collaboration to enhance the narrative and ensure internal alignment within organizations. Exploring whether a good story can overcome poor delivery and vice versa. Chris shares a personal experience of overcoming a challenging delivery by grounding the presentation in powerful storytelling. The Moth Experience: Recommending listening to storytelling platforms like The Moth and 99 Percent Invisible to understand diverse storytelling styles. Resources mentioned in the episode: Guest Chris Hare's LinkedIn Chris's , The Storied Future /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/29551133

Dopamine and Desire: The Neuroscience of Captivating Writing with Bill Birchard 11/17/2023

Dopamine and Desire: The Neuroscience of Captivating Writing with Bill Birchard In this enlightening podcast episode, Bill Birchard, a seasoned journalist and business writer, delves into the fascinating world of writing and its impact on the brain. Through extensive research, Bill discovered a treasure trove of information on how language can stimulate various regions of the brain, and in turn, enhance reader experience. Episode Highlights: The Discovery of a Goldmine: Bill shares how his late-career exploration led him to a wealth of research on how language affects the brain. He stumbled upon decades of behavioral and imaging experiments that uncovered the neurological responses triggered by different types of language. Writing with Impact: The discussion centers around Bill's quest to write with more impact, ultimately resulting in his book. He explains how specific words and phrases, when crafted effectively, can fire up the brain and release dopamine, creating what he calls a "brain buzz." Embodied Cognition: Bill explores the concept of embodied cognition, where specific words engage not only the language processing circuit but also parts of the brain associated with physical experiences. This, he argues, leads to a more immersive reading experience. The Role of Dopamine: Bill breaks down the neurochemical process in the brain, highlighting dopamine's crucial role in the reward circuit. He explains how this neurotransmitter influences desire, pleasure, and, ultimately, the learning process. Principles of Great Writing: The conversation unfolds as Bill discusses eight principles of great writing, each backed by research showcasing its impact on different brain regions and the reward circuit. Key Takeaways: Specificity is Power: Bill emphasizes the neurological underpinnings of the principle that specificity in writing is more powerful than generalities. He explains how our brains engage more deeply when words evoke sensory and motor experiences. Abstract Words and Simulation: While specificity reigns supreme, Bill acknowledges that abstract words also play a role in stimulating the brain through associations and simulations. Conclusion: Listeners are treated to a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between language, the brain, and the art of writing. Bill Birchard's insights provide a roadmap for writers looking to tap into the neurological responses that make impactful writing truly unforgettable. Resources mentioned in the episode Link to purchase BIll's most recent book, Bill's /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/28688498

Thriving in Industry: Key Lessons for Scientists with David Giltner, Ph.D. 11/03/2023

Thriving in Industry: Key Lessons for Scientists with David Giltner, Ph.D. Introduction This week's episode features David Giltner, Ph.D. David is an accomplished figure in the field of technology commercialization, product development, and career design, with over two decades of experience in developing cutting-edge photonics technologies for commercial use. In 2017, he founded Turning Science to provide training and support for scientists looking to transition into the private sector. David holds a BSS and PhD in physics and boasts seven patents in laser spectroscopy and optical communications. David's books, "Turning Science Into Things People Need" and "It's a Game, not a Formula," have been instrumental in guiding scientists through their career transitions. Transitioning from Academia to Industry We start by discussing David's early career after earning his PhD. David highlights the challenges he faced when transitioning from academia to industry. He emphasizes the lack of guidance on careers outside academia and how he navigated this transition independently. David's decision to work with lasers, a familiar field from his graduate work, led him to industry, where he contributed to the development of semiconductor laser technology. The presence of a highly educated workforce made the transition smoother, yet David admits he grappled with adapting his working habits from academic research to the corporate environment. Preparing for a Career in the Private Sector We then cover David's advice for current PhD candidates interested in pursuing careers in the private sector. David stresses two major points: the importance of designing a career path and understanding the industry game. He outlines a five-step approach, highlighting the significance of identifying strengths, defining a target, and emphasizing the art of storytelling. Furthermore, David underscores the necessity of comprehending the industry dynamics to thrive in the corporate world. Avoiding Common Mistakes in the Private Sector David discusses common missteps scientists make when transitioning to the private sector and how to avoid them. He outlines three prevalent challenges. First, he observes that many PhD scientists enter the workforce feeling the need to prove themselves as the smartest person in the room, a mindset unsuited for teamwork. Second, he notes the tendency to lose sight of company priorities and get engrossed in curiosity-driven projects, contrary to the results-oriented nature of industry. Last, David highlights the struggle scientists face in making decisive recommendations, as academia's emphasis on certainty clashes with the fast-paced decision-making required in the corporate sector. David's Books and Themes We then shift the discussion towards David's books, beginning with "Turning Science Into Things People Need." David explains that the book emerged from his desire to provide guidance to scientists seeking rewarding careers outside academia. He then introduces his second book, "It's a Game, not a Formula," which serves as a playbook for succeeding in industry. David's forthcoming third book promises to delve deeper into the diverse career paths scientists can pursue, including roles as employees, entrepreneurs, or collaborators between academia and industry. Working Internationally: Cultural Considerations We delve into the nuances of working with PhDs in industry, especially when it comes to international collaborations. David acknowledges social and communication customs vary globally, which can impact how scientists present themselves in interviews or collaborations. He emphasizes the power of storytelling as a universal tool to convey accomplishments without feeling like one is bragging. David encourages scientists to share experiences through narratives, allowing potential employers or collaborators to visualize their contributions effectively. Upcoming Goals for 2024 Mark concludes the episode by discussing David's goals for the upcoming year. Besides the release of his third book, David is eager to expand on two new workshops. The first focuses on building a scientific consultancy side gig, offering PhD candidates and postdocs opportunities to leverage their strengths. The second workshop, "Startup Basics for Scientists," aims to demystify entrepreneurship for scientists considering venturing into the world of startups. David emphasizes the importance of understanding both the benefits and challenges of starting a company, highlighting the unique strengths scientists can bring to entrepreneurship. Resources mentioned in the episode: David's books /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/28498670

Scientists as problem-solvers: Applying scientific insights to global challenges, with Nicholas Dirks, Ph.D. 10/27/2023

Navigating Transitions: Insights from Aditya Mahara on Science and Industry Shifts 10/20/2023

Navigating Transitions: Insights from Aditya Mahara on Science and Industry Shifts Introduction: Welcome to the When Science Speaks podcast. In this episode, Mark is joined by Aditya Mahara, a seasoned senior product manager in the health tech industry. Aditya shares his insights on transitioning from Nepal to the US, the importance of discomfort in personal growth, and the significance of clear communication in the biomedical field. Aditya's Transition to the US: Aditya reflects on his journey from Nepal to the US, emphasizing the value of discomfort in his growth process. He shares relatable nuggets applicable to various life transitions, including academic and industry shifts. The Power of Uncomfortable Moments: Aditya highlights how discomfort has consistently driven his growth, whether adapting to a new country or transitioning between academic and industry environments. He encourages embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal and professional development. Discovering a Passion for Physics: Aditya traces his love for science back to high school, where he defied societal expectations to pursue his passion for physics. He emphasizes the universal nature of physics, transcending cultural boundaries. The Influence of Teachers: Mark and Aditya discuss the impact of teachers on their respective journeys. Aditya shares his positive experience with professors at Rollins College, underscoring their role in shaping his academic path. Biomedical Engineering and Effective Communication: The conversation shifts to the unique communication skills of biomedical engineers. Aditya suggests that the interdisciplinary nature of the field fosters strong communicators who can bridge the gap between different stakeholders. Communication in Academia vs. Industry: Aditya contrasts communication in academia, where expertise tends to be highly specialized, with the business-oriented approach in industry. He emphasizes the need for clear, generalizable communication when multiple disciplines collaborate. Aditya's 2023 Reflection and Goals: Aditya reflects on his accomplishments in 2023, touching on family, full-time work, and side projects. He shares his experiences with his growing toddler, professional development as a product manager, and the unexpected success of his industry transition support venture. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Connecting with Adidya on /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/28375829

From Basic Research to Community-Building and Entrepreneurship with Elena Itskovich, Ph.D. 09/21/2023

From Basic Research to Community-Building and Entrepreneurship with Elena Itskovich, Ph.D. Early Academic Journey Elena's journey from studying physics and computer science to discovering her passion for life sciences and medicine. Overcoming challenges in academic pursuits and finding her calling in translational research. Translating Complex Science for Wider Audiences Practical techniques for effective science communication, emphasizing the importance of practice and feedback loops. Building community through volunteering and honing skills in event organization and speaker recruitment. The Multilingual Advantage Elena's experience as a trilingual communicator (Hebrew, English, Russian) and the benefits of immersing oneself in a language for effective communication. Overcoming initial translation challenges by thinking and generating content directly in the target language. mAcademia Podcast: Bridging Industry and Academia Exploring the journey from basic research to practical applications, and understanding career trajectories for scientists. Insights into the collaborative nature of academia and the importance of interdisciplinary ventures. Pursuing a PhD in genetics to becoming a passionate advocate for science communication and entrepreneurship. Emphasizing the importance of building communities and seeking out opportunities, especially for foreign students and scientists. Discussing her role as a board member of Science Abroad, a nonprofit organization that supports Israeli scientists living abroad. Highlighting the impact of community-building and mutual support in overcoming the challenges faced by international students. Resources mentioned in the episode: , an entrepreneurship program she co-founded to empower Israeli scientists in building companies based on research and science. , a podcast exploring the bridge between the industry and academia to understand how basic scientific findings take shape into products and strategies and following the career paths of researchers who are in academia or outside of it , an Israel-based nonprofit organization that harnesses the power of senior Israeli scientists living abroad. Through its wide-reaching professional and social network /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/28109966

Science Policy Lessons and a Passion for the Marine Environment with Amber Mace, Ph.D. 09/15/2023

Science Policy Lessons and a Passion for the Marine Environment with Amber Mace, Ph.D. This week's episode features Amber Mace, Ph.D., CEO of the California Council on Science & Technology (CCST). We discuss Amber's early career in science policy, her upcoming transition from CCST to the California Academy of Sciences, and the institution's ambitious mission, with a focus on Amber's approach to building strategic partnerships and her enthusiasm for learning and collaboration in her new role. [00:01:30] Amber's Early Career Amber reflects on her early career, which began with teaching scuba diving and water safety at Berkeley. Her deep connection to the ocean and interest in marine ecology laid the foundation for her journey into science policy. [00:06:00] Environmental Policy and Marine Ecology We explore the common thread in Amber's career: a focus on environmental policy and marine ecology. We discuss the pivotal experiences that shaped her passion for bridging the gap between science and policy. [00:10:15] Transition to Science Policy Amber shares insights into her transition from an academic background to science policy. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the disconnect between science and policy, and how this inspired her to advocate for better communication. [00:15:30] Mission and Vision at the California Academy of Sciences Amber discusses her upcoming transition in late September from her position as CCST's CEO after a decade of innovative and strategic leadership. CCST Deputy Director Sarah Brady, Ph.D. has been appointed by the Board of Directors as Interim CEO. Amber discusses her new role at the California Academy of Sciences and the Academy's bold mission to reverse biodiversity decline. She emphasizes the critical role of strategic partnerships in achieving this vision. [00:20:45] Building Strategic Partnerships Amber outlines her approach to building strategic partnerships, emphasizing the need for collaboration across sectors. She highlights the importance of galvanizing support from philanthropy, policy, and the private sector. [00:25:20] Learning and Collaboration Amber expresses her excitement about the learning opportunities and collaborations that await her at the California Academy of Sciences. She looks forward to combining her background in policy with her passion for ecology and conservation. [00:30:00] Conclusion Mark congratulates Amber on her upcoming role and looks forward to future discussions on conservation, biodiversity, and the Academy's mission to regenerate the natural world. Resources mentioned in the episode /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/28040592

Secrets of Successful Career Development with Alaina G. Levine 08/25/2023

Secrets of Successful Career Development with Alaina G. Levine In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Alaina G. Levine, who defied conventional boundaries and nurtured a diverse tapestry of interests. From STEM to performing arts, business to communications, Alaina's life is a testament to the power of weaving different threads into a vibrant career. Let's explore her captivating journey and the influences that shaped her unique path. Episode Highlights: Early Curiosity and Multidimensional Interests: Alaina reminisces about her childhood characterized by an insatiable curiosity for a multitude of subjects. Her fascination spanned across science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), performing arts, business, and communications. From early interactions with mathematical puzzles to her community theater experiences, Alaina's interests were diverse and unquenchable. Threads of Passion: Throughout her life, four essential threads interwove Alaina's experiences—STEM, performing arts, business, and communications. These passions guided her choices and led to unique opportunities that nurtured her multifaceted interests. Influential Figures: Alaina credits her mother, a writer, for igniting her love for literature, books, and writing. Growing up in a family of science, engineering, and mathematics enthusiasts, Alaina inherited a passion for these disciplines. Her mother's support and belief in her zest for life allowed Alaina to explore her interests unabated. Nurturing Multiple Passions: Alaina's mother advocated for her to engage in activities that fostered her diverse interests. This support allowed Alaina to immerse herself in performing arts, business ventures, and writing. Her experiences in high school, such as excelling in magazine sales and performing on stage, exemplify her ability to blend different interests. Art and Science Convergence: The conversation turns to the intriguing intersection of art and science. This convergence is emblematic of the creativity and innovation inherent in scientific endeavors. Academic Choices: Alaina discusses her academic journey, which led her to major in both mathematics and anthropology at the University of Arizona. Her initial aspirations for theoretical astrophysics shifted toward mathematics due to her passion for numbers and equations. Additionally, she saw a meaningful correlation between anthropology and mathematics, exploring how these seemingly disparate fields could intertwine. Innovation through Interdisciplinarity: Alaina underscores the significance of interdisciplinary studies and how they foster innovation. By connecting diverse subjects like math and anthropology, individuals can approach complex challenges with a fresh perspective. This approach, Alaina believes, is crucial for addressing grand challenges like climate change and other global issues. True Innovation Defined: The episode discusses true innovation, where Alaina outlines the concept of solving problems by interconnecting diverse domains. This approach, akin to systems thinking, allows individuals to navigate uncharted territories and make groundbreaking discoveries. Embrace Your Authenticity: Alaina and Mark discuss the importance of embracing authenticity and individuality in STEM careers, allowing joy to be a guiding force. Connecting with Emotions: Alaina emphasizes the significance of sharing personal experiences and emotions to foster a sense of community and solve challenges collectively. Joy and Humor in STEM: The conversation explores the misconception that STEM fields are overly serious and highlights the importance of finding joy and humor in scientific pursuits. Overcoming Practical Pressures: Alaina discusses the increasing pressure on college students to choose practical career paths due to financial considerations and offers insights into balancing passion and practicality. Building Your Unicorn Career: Alaina outlines her upcoming book, "Create Your Unicorn Career," guiding listeners through a step-by-step process to build a personalized, fulfilling, and successful STEM career. Recognizing Value: Alaina encourages STEM professionals to recognize their value and skill set, enabling them to confidently explore new opportunities and career paths. Shifting Mindsets: Alaina shares strategies to shift mindsets, overcome fear, and navigate transitions while staying true to oneself and embracing change. Upcoming Webinars: Alaina announces upcoming webinars aimed at helping STEM professionals develop successful career strategies, job search tactics, and unicorn career creation techniques. Tune in to this inspiring episode of the When Science Speaks podcast to learn how to create your own unicorn career in STEM and find joy, meaning, and financial success. Stay updated on upcoming webinars and connect with Alaina G. Levine to unlock valuable insights and strategies for your STEM journey. Resources mentioned in the episode Free career consult with Alaina: Anyone is welcome to book a free career consultation with Alaina to answer any questions about how to Create Your Unicorn Career: Website: Socials: X, LI, IG: @AlainaGLevine /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27850056

From Economics to Life Sciences: An Unconventional Path to Academia and Beyond with Ali Divan, Ph.D. 08/18/2023

From Economics to Life Sciences: An Unconventional Path to Academia and Beyond with Ali Divan, Ph.D. Main Topic Time Stamps: [00:02:28] Music and science connection. [00:04:23] Journey to PhD. [00:09:49] Lyme disease treatment exploration. [00:12:38] Modeling neurologic Lyme disease. [00:14:06] Lyme disease and animal studies. [00:19:09] Mountains and their significance. [00:20:51] Overcoming obstacles and pivoting. Summary In this episode featuring Ali Divan, Ph.D., Ali talks about his career journey and why he decided to pursue a Ph.D. Now the founder and principal of his own firm, Trulitica, Ali specializes in providing technical due diligence services to investors in the life science industry. His aim is to ensure that investors allocate their funds to companies with genuine technology and a significant impact on human health. By carefully examining the milestones and claims made by startups, Ali speaker assesses their technical feasibility and truthfulness. Through his comprehensive technical due diligence, Ali strives to empower investors to make informed decisions and avoid investing in companies solely focused on generating hype and seeking acquisition, rather than creating meaningful contributions to human health. Ali's ultimate goal is to collaborate with strong founders and innovative technology to make a lasting impact and contribute to successful product launches that foster camaraderie and teamwork within the team. He expresses his desire to be involved in several product launches where he witnesses the creation of meaningful products for the market. Ali firmly believes that by working alongside determined founders and leveraging cutting-edge technology, he can achieve this objective. Furthermore, he highlights how successful product launches can cultivate a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among the individuals involved. Overall, Ali's aspiration is to contribute to the success of product launches and cultivate a positive work environment. Resources mentioned in the episode /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27790407

Science Communication in a Politicized World: Challenges and Strategies with Your Local Epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina, Ph.D. 07/14/2023

Science Communication in a Politicized World: Challenges and Strategies with Your Local Epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina, Ph.D. This episode of When Science Speaks features Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, Ph.D., an epidemiologist data scientist and senior scientific consultant at a nonpartisan health policy think tank. Dr. Jetelina is also the creator of the influential newsletter, Your Local Epidemiologist, which aims to translate evolving public health science for evidence-based decision making. Dr. Jetelina shares her surprising experiences working with policymakers during the pandemic, especially in a challenging landscape where epidemiology and politics intersected. She expresses her astonishment at how policymakers in Texas, despite the political climate, were receptive to listening to scientists and implementing innovative policies. She also highlights the significant impact of policy interventions in real-time, such as the use of Uber to deliver vaccines and reduce disparities. Moving on to the role of scientists in advisory positions, Dr. Jetelina acknowledges the challenges of effectively communicating with policymakers. She emphasizes the importance of speaking in plain language and providing the bottom line upfront. Policymakers prefer concise policy briefs that focus on the essential scientific evidence, allowing them to make informed decisions efficiently. Dr. Jetelina also discusses the need for scientists to better understand policymakers' needs and align their communication accordingly. Regarding science communication in general, Dr. Jetelina shares several go-to principles and tactics she employs. She emphasizes the significance of listening to communities and stakeholders to address their needs effectively. By maintaining a bidirectional relationship with the audience, whether policymakers or the general public, scientists can better insert science and evidence into decision-making processes. Dr. Jetelina further stresses the importance of providing meaningful context, reducing cognitive burden, incorporating storytelling, and offering actionable solutions in scientific communication. The conversation then delves into the challenges of combating misinformation, which has become increasingly prevalent in the modern information ecosystem. Dr. Jetelina suggests two key approaches: combatting misinformation reactively and proactively. While debunking individual rumors can be time-consuming, teaching the public how to recognize and critically evaluate misinformation is a more effective long-term strategy. She also highlights the need for proactive communication, which involves anticipating public needs and providing timely information. Dr. Jetelina emphasizes the urgency of integrating both reactive and proactive approaches into public health and science communication. The discussion concludes with a focus on trust and the disturbing trend of harassment faced by scientists communicating evidence-based information. Dr. Jetelina attributes this behavior to the politicization of science and the growing fear among individuals. She emphasizes the importance of addressing emotion and building trust through relatability and transparency. The episode offers valuable insights for listeners interested in science communication and science policy. Dr. Jetelina encourages individuals to take the leap and start communicating, whether through personal efforts or by finding suitable mouthpieces to convey important scientific findings to the public. She emphasizes the power of practice and the importance of having a proactive approach to science communication during emergencies. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Dr. Caitlyn Jetelina, as she shares her experiences, challenges, and strategies in navigating the intersection of science, policy, and public health communication. Resources mentioned in the epidsode How to subscribe to the newsletter /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27464805

Medical Communications and Navigating the Transition from Getting Your Ph.D. to a Fulfilling Career Outside Academia with Gertrude Nonterah, Ph.D. 07/07/2023

Medical Communications and Navigating the Transition from Getting Your Ph.D. to a Fulfilling Career Outside Academia with Gertrude Nonterah, Ph.D. Introduction In this episode of When Science Speaks, host Mark Bayer is joined by Dr. Gertrude Nonterah, founder of the Bold PhD.. Gertrude helps PhD students and academics transition into non-academic careers. She shares her expertise on career development, non-academic paths in the biomedical sciences, personal development, and medical communications. This episode is sponsored by the One for the Week newsletter, which provides valuable resources for boosting effectiveness in various professional settings. Guest Background Dr. Gertrude Nonterah is an expert in microbiology and immunology, having earned her PhD from Temple University. She also holds a BS in biology from Penn West Edinboro University and a BS in registered nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. The Importance of Curiosity in Choosing a Scientific Path Mark begins the conversation by asking Gertrude about her journey into science. Gertrude explains that while she excelled in various subjects during her school years, her father, a retired scientist, encouraged her to pursue science due to her exceptional language skills and overall competence. Growing up in Ghana, Gertrude's natural curiosity and love for reading further fueled her interest in understanding how things work, which eventually solidified her decision to choose the science track in high school. Transitioning from Biology to Nursing to a Ph.D. Gertrude discusses her educational journey, which initially involved pursuing a pre-med major in biology. However, the high cost of medical school led her to explore other options. After a friend recommended an accelerated nursing program, Gertrude decided to pursue nursing as it still allowed her to work in the medical field. Subsequently, she pursued a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology, followed by a postdoctoral research position at the University of California, San Diego. Embracing a Career in Science Writing After completing her postdoc, Gertrude realized that the academic path was not for her. She began exploring different avenues and started a freelance writing business. Focusing on healthcare and scientific topics, Gertrude honed her skills and built a portfolio that eventually led her to secure a science writing position at a marketing agency. She emphasizes the importance of simplicity in explaining complex scientific concepts, drawing from her experience as a teacher and her entrepreneurial mindset. Daily Life as a Medical Communicator Gertrude shares insights into her daily routine as a medical communicator. Her work involves attending meetings with various stakeholders, such as research and development teams, marketing teams, and product teams. She collaborates with these teams to understand research results, create content assets, and support marketing strategies. Gertrude's role also entails content creation, including writing blog posts, designing posters, and developing PowerPoint presentations. She emphasizes the significance of creating engaging content that appeals to a broad audience and communicates complex topics simply. Different Approaches to Video and Written Content Creation Gertrude discusses the similarities and differences in her creative process when developing video content versus written content. She emphasizes the importance of hooking the audience in the first few seconds of a video to maintain their attention. By employing relatable visuals and asking thought-provoking questions, she ensures that viewers are captivated. Gertrude also encourages scientists interested in creating video content to make it accessible, engaging, and relatable to their target audience. The Evolving Landscape of Science Communication Gertrude highlights the increasing interest in scientific and medical information among the general public, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She notes that people are seeking accurate and simplified explanations of scientific concepts, especially with the proliferation of misinformation. Gertrude emphasizes the need for medical communicators to address public concerns, build trust, and present information in a way that resonates with different audiences. Additionally, she discusses the importance of scientists taking an active role in public engagement, sharing their research in understandable terms, and fostering thought leadership. Conclusion Dr. Gertrude Nonterah's journey from academia to science writing provides valuable insights into science communication. Her emphasis on simplicity, relatability, and engagement in content creation resonates with the evolving landscape of science communication. By effectively communicating complex scientific concepts to the public, medical communicators can bridge the gap between experts and general audiences, fostering trust and understanding. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Gertrude's LinkedIn The Bold Ph.D. YouTube The Bold Career /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27398661

Science Communication and the Impact of Community Colleges on Biotech and Beyond with Linnea Fletcher, Ph.D. 06/30/2023

Science Communication and the Impact of Community Colleges on Biotech and Beyond with Linnea Fletcher, Ph.D. In this episode of the show, Mark interviews Linnea Fletcher, Ph.D., Biotechnology Department Chair, & Director, InnovATEBIO National Biotechnology Education Center at Austin Community College. Dr. Fletcher shares her journey into science, her perspective on the evolving life sciences industry, and the importance of public understanding of biotechnology. Dr. Fletcher emphasizes the need for early engagement in science education and highlights the increasing complexity and diverse applications of biotech in various industries. She also discusses the importance of cross-disciplinary knowledge and the challenges of communicating accurate information to the general public. Major topics discussed in the episode: Linnea's Background and Early Interest in Science: Linnea shares her early fascination with science and her determination to pursue a career in the field. She recounts her experiences working in different labs and attending lectures during her college years. Evolution of the Life Sciences Industry: Linnea discusses how the biotech industry has become increasingly complex and diversified over the years. She highlights the exponential growth of biotech applications, including healthcare and bioindustrial products. The conversation touches on the emergence of sustainable bioproducts and the exploration of life in various environments. Attributes for Success in Life Sciences: Linnea emphasizes the importance of public understanding of biological sciences and biotech, not only for healthcare but also for environmental impact. She encourages continuous learning and interdisciplinary engagement to keep up with advancements in the field. Communication Challenges and Misinformation: Linnea acknowledges the communication challenges between industry leaders and the general public in accurately conveying the impact and safety of biotech advancements. She discusses the difficulty of evaluating the relative risks and benefits of certain technologies and emphasizes the need for an informed population. Envisioning the Bioscience Workforce Summit: Linnea shares details about the upcoming summit in Washington DC [which occurred in June 2023], where industry, educators, and government representatives discussed emerging technologies and the need to collaborate to create a bioscience workforce for the future. The summit aimed to address the current gaps in the bioscience workforce and the increasing demand for skilled professionals. Austin Community College's Role in Biotech Education: Linnea explains how Austin Community College has evolved over the years to become a major force in economic development and workforce education. She highlights the collaboration with industry professionals, the state-of-the-art equipment, and the focus on meeting the needs of local industries. Linnea also mentions the dual credit high school programs and advanced technical certificates offered by the college. Resources mentioned in the episode /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27331380

3 Keys to telling high-impact stories that advance your agenda (+ 1 trap to avoid at all costs) 06/16/2023

3 Keys to telling high-impact stories that advance your agenda (+ 1 trap to avoid at all costs) In this special episode, I'm going to share valuable insights on crafting impactful stories that captivate listeners and achieve the results you're seeking. Sponsor Message: This episode of When Science Speaks is sponsored by OneSkin, a company led by PhD scientists committed to revolutionizing skin aging. OneSkin has patented the first peptide (protein building block) that reverses skin aging at the molecular level. Listeners can get a special 15% discount on any OneSkin product. Simply visit oneskin.co, use promo code Science15 at checkout, and take advantage of this exclusive offer. Episode Highlights: Importance of Storytelling in Science Communication: Craft compelling stories to evoke emotions and engage listeners. Relatable stories can effectively communicate complex topics. Keys to Telling an Impactful Story Shift the spotlight from yourself to the needs and interests of your audience. Identify what matters most to your listeners and address their priorities. Capture their attention by delivering information that impacts their lives. b) Utilize "The Motown Method": Hook your audience in the first 10 seconds with something intriguing or surprising. Don't wait to deliver the key message; engage listeners from the start. c) Reward Your Reader: Understand the brain's desire for new and helpful information. Trigger the reward circuit in the brain by delivering valuable content. Engage readers through curiosity and the release of dopamine. Avoid the Unsung Hero Trap: Remember that the hero of your story is the listener or reader. Keep the focus on what matters to them and their priorities. Identify the overlap between your initiatives and the audience's interests. Non-linear Storytelling: Start with the punchline or key message to pique curiosity. Create open loops that keep listeners engaged and wanting more. Share additional details and context as the story unfolds. Understanding Stakeholder Assessment: Consider how your stakeholder is evaluated by their own stakeholders. Research what matters to decision makers in your professional sphere. Tailor your storytelling to align with their expectations and goals. Conclusion: Crafting impactful stories requires a deep understanding of your audience, their interests, and the art of storytelling itself. By focusing on the story listener, utilizing The Motown Method, rewarding your readers, avoiding The Unsung Hero trap, and adopting non-linear storytelling, you can captivate your audience and achieve your desired impact. Tune in to future episodes of When Science Speaks for more insights and inspiration. Resources mentioned in the episode Special 15% off discount on your OneSkin purchase for When Science Speaks listeners. Visit oneskin.co and use the promo code Science15 at checkout to take advantage of this exclusive offer. /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27168840

Communicating Through COVID: Messaging, Missteps, and Fixes for the Future with Amelia Burke-Garcia, Ph.D 06/02/2023

Communicating Through COVID: Messaging, Missteps, and Fixes for the Future with Amelia Burke-Garcia, Ph.D In this episode of the When Science Speaks podcast, Mark welcomes back Dr. Amelia Burke Garcia, an award-winning digital health communicator and researcher with 20 years of experience. Amelia is a program director at NORC at the University of Chicago, where she worked on the CDC's Covid-19 response and directed the award-winning "How Right Now/Que Hacer Ahora" campaign. She is also the author of the newly released book, "Communicating through a Pandemic: A Chronicle of Experiences, Lessons Learned, and a Vision for the Future." In this interview, Amelia shares the major themes of her book and provides insights into effective communication during a pandemic. Key Themes: Recognizing the Emergence of Pandemics: Amelia emphasizes that the Covid-19 pandemic is not an isolated event but follows a long line of previous pandemics. She highlights the importance of understanding outbreak, epidemic, and pandemic response as an active part of the public health system. It is crucial to be prepared for future pandemics to effectively manage and mitigate their impact. Individualized Experiences and Context: While the pandemic affected the world as a whole, Amelia acknowledges that each individual's experience was unique. Factors such as location, occupation, socioeconomic status, race, access to information, and trusted sources influenced people's experiences. Understanding these contextual differences is crucial for effective communication and addressing health disparities. Lessons Learned and the Need for Improvement: Amelia believes the pandemic has provided valuable lessons. It has shed light on health disparities and communication challenges. Moving forward, there is a need to invest in public health infrastructure, improve communication strategies, and prioritize health equity. The goal is to address the issues highlighted during the pandemic and better prepare for future crises. Insights on Communication during the Pandemic: Challenges of Messaging: Amelia explores the evolution of messaging throughout the pandemic, highlighting the challenges faced in communicating effectively. She discusses the example of mask-wearing recommendations, which shifted based on factors such as supply shortages, vaccine availability, and emerging variants. The rapid changes in recommendations posed challenges in conveying consistent messages to the public. Importance of Expectations Management: The podcast delves into the lack of expectations management during the pandemic. Mark suggests that transparency regarding the rapidly evolving nature of the virus and the corresponding changes in guidelines would have been beneficial. Addressing uncertainties and openly acknowledging the need for adjustments in recommendations could have helped manage public expectations. Transparency and Scientific Learning: Amelia emphasizes the importance of transparent communication, especially when scientific knowledge evolves rapidly. In a pandemic, where the virus spreads quickly, messaging should adapt to new evidence and discoveries. Communicators should be transparent about the changing nature of information, acknowledging that adjustments may be necessary based on emerging scientific knowledge. Combating Misinformation: The discussion touches upon the challenge of combating misinformation and disinformation during the pandemic. Amelia acknowledges the presence of misleading information and the need for trusted experts to debunk false claims. In an environment with abundant misinformation, effective communication becomes even more critical to ensure accurate and reliable information reaches the public. Resourcres mentioned in the episode Special discount for When Science Speaks listeners: OneSkin, led by PhD scientists dedicated to helping people age in a healthy, vibrant way, patented the first protein building block scientifically proven to reverse skin aging at the molecular level. Listeners of When Science Speaks receive a special 15% discount off an entire OneSkin order (any products, no minimum purchase). And if you haven’t yet experienced OneSkin products and decide to subscribe, you’ll get a first time subscriber discount plus an additional 15% off your subscription with the special SCIENCE15 code. Just go to and use the promo code Science15 a checkout. Dr. Amelia Burke Garcia's , "Communicating through a Pandemic: A Chronicle of Experiences, Lessons Learned, and a Vision for the Future" /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/27025299

How You Can Achieve Financial Success with Expert Help from ‘The Money Scientist’ Maria James, Ph.D 05/18/2023

The Researchers' Writing Academy: A Systematic Approach to Overcoming Academic Writing Challenges with Anna Clemens, Ph.D 05/12/2023

The Researchers' Writing Academy: A Systematic Approach to Overcoming Academic Writing Challenges with Anna Clemens, Ph.D This episode features Anna Clemens, Ph.D., an academic writing coach and the founder of the Researchers' Writing Academy. Anna earned her PhD in material science and has published articles in Scientific American and other popular science magazines. Her mission is to make academia a more diverse and joyful place for researchers from all backgrounds. We discuss common problems faced by researchers in academic writing, including procrastination, difficulty getting started, and fear of rejection. Anna shares her insights and the process she teaches to help researchers overcome these challenges and improve the quality of their papers. Our conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and familiarizing readers with the topic to enhance the overall effectiveness of academic writing. Key Points: Bilingualism and First-Generation Scholars: Successful scientist-communicators often possess bilingualism or are the first in their families to attend college. They face the challenge of translating complex subjects for their family members while avoiding condescension. The ability to bridge scientific knowledge and effective communication sets them apart. Common Problems in Writing for Journals: Researchers often struggle with two main issues: getting started and avoiding rejection or publishing low-quality work. Procrastination is common among busy researchers who prioritize other tasks over writing due to the absence of strict deadlines. Younger researchers, such as PhD students, frequently struggle with getting started and find it challenging to focus on writing amid numerous responsibilities. The Researchers' Writing Academy: Anna Clemens and her team work with researchers at all levels, including assistant professors, postdocs, and PhD students. The academy addresses the challenges of getting started and publishing in higher impact factor journals. The emphasis is on teaching a systematic process for writing scientific papers, focusing on developing a concise and compelling story. The process involves considering the reader's perspective, connecting with their existing knowledge, and organizing the information effectively. Benefits of Storytelling in Academic Writing: The narrative structure facilitates understanding and engagement for readers. Storytelling encourages deep thinking and improves the overall quality of the paper. Researchers learn to align their findings with a coherent narrative, guiding readers from background information to motivation and then to the results and discussion. The process of storytelling helps researchers overcome the challenges of writing and enhances the overall impact of their work. Conclusion: The Researchers' Writing Academy provides a valuable resource for researchers struggling with writing challenges in academia. By teaching a systematic approach and emphasizing storytelling, Anna Clemens, Ph.D. and her team help researchers overcome procrastination, improve the quality of their papers, and enjoy the writing process. By bridging the gap between scientific expertise and effective communication, the The Researchers' Writing Academy aims to elevate the accessibility and impact of scientific literature. Resources mentioned in the episode: Special discount for When Science Speaks listeners: OneSkin, led by PhD scientists dedicated to helping people age in a healthy, vibrant way patented the first protein building block, scientifically proven to reverse skin aging at the molecular level. Listeners of when Science Speaks, receive a special 15% discount off an entire one skin order (any products, no minimum purchase). And if you haven't yet experienced OneSkin products and decide to subscribe, you'll get a first time subscriber discount plus an additional 15% off your subscription with the special SCIENCE15 code. Just go to and use the promo code Science15 a checkout. /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26821317

Startups and the Transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship with Ricky Patel, Ph.D. 04/28/2023

Startups and the Transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship with Ricky Patel, Ph.D. This episode of the "When Science Speaks" podcast features Ricky Patel, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Point Science Analytics, a startup that simplifies biotech information for investors and consultants. Point Science Analytics aims to filter and curate for investors and consultants in biotech, energy, and new space industries all the information they need to make informed decisions, revolutionizing due diligence in these industries. During the interview, I refer to Ricky as a "purple unicorn" due to his ability to communicate complex scientific information to a general audience and also thrive in a science-focused environment. We discuss how being bilingual and being the first in his family to go to college helped Ricky become an effective communicator. Key points discussed in the episode: Ricky realized the need for a scalable platform when working with multiple clients who required due diligence reports on biotech companies. The AI platform Ricky is developing with Point Science Analytics scrapes company websites, LinkedIn, Crunchbase, media releases, etc., and curates the information into one document for the user to access easily. Ricky emphasizes the importance of discipline and the ability to work alone without motivation, a skill honed during a Ph.D. Other transferrable skills from the Ph.D. include analytical reasoning, information extraction, and research skills. Ricky plans to expand the platform to include the energy and new space industries, which are expected to be worth trillions of dollars by 2030. The platform aims to give investors and consultants all the information they need to make informed decisions without having to hire a Ph.D. analyst. Ricky earned his PhD in clinical neuroscience from King's College London, and his experience in academia includes working on ALS and dementia. He left academia due to life events that led him to focus on mental health and childhood traumas. Resources mentioned in the episode /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26667315

Building Trust in Science: Understanding the Process Behind Research and Communication with John C. Besley, Ph.D. 04/20/2023

Building Trust in Science: Understanding the Process Behind Research and Communication with John C. Besley, Ph.D. This episode features John Besley, Ph.D., a professor at Michigan State University, who is focused on understanding how scientists communicate complex science to the public. Professor Besley's research includes surveys of thousands of American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) members, where he examines their goals for communication and the tactics they use to achieve them. Professor Besley emphasizes that scientists need to identify their audience-specific behavioral goals and build strategies to achieve them. He also reminds scientists to communicate in a way that makes them perceived as smart, caring, and high in integrity rather than giving into the temptation of flaming people on social media. Professor Besley highlights the importance of scientists communicating their work to have a real-world impact. Surveys show that scientists want to increase literacy, correct misinformation, and encourage people to take actions like wearing masks, planting pollinators, and buying electric vehicles. However, it's important to communicate in a targeted and specific way to address people's perceptions of social norms, risks and benefits, and self-efficacy. Professor Besley advises anticipating obstacles and addressing them proactively in the message. Our discussion also touches on how to approach emotionally charged issues by focusing on evaluative beliefs rather than discrete emotions. Scientists should strive to ensure that decision-making processes are transparent, inclusive, and enable everyone to have a voice. We discuss the importance of understanding the process behind scientific research and communication to combat rejectionism and misinformation, highlighting the need to address specific integrity issues, such as motive and competence, to build trust with audiences. We also delve into the different types of behaviors, such as non-behavioral trust, that are crucial to consider when communicating science. Resources mentioned in the article by John C. Besley, Ph.D. /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26604246

Space, Storytelling, and Science Communication with Mat Kaplan 04/14/2023

Space, Storytelling, and Science Communication with Mat Kaplan In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of space exploration with our special guest, Mat Kaplan. Mat is a seasoned radio host who recently stepped away from the mic after two decades and a thousand episodes of the Planetary Society's acclaimed podcast, Planet Radio. In this interview, Mat shares his passion for science and space, his approach to presenting complex information to the public, and his secrets to conducting engaging interviews with renowned scientists, engineers, astronauts, and authors. Main Discussion: Learn about the Planetary Society, a professional home for space enthusiasts for over 22 years, and its programs and initiatives. Explore the origins of the Planetary Society, founded in 1980 by Carl Sagan, Bruce Murray, and Lou Friedman, with the mission to empower the world's citizens to advance space science and exploration. Discover how the Planetary Society has evolved over the years, with tens of thousands of members, and a new generation of talented staff dedicated to their vision of knowing our cosmos and our place within it. Hear about the Planetary Society's contributions to space missions, including allowing the public to share in them by putting their names on plaques or CDs, and their efforts to shepherd missions through Congress by forming a caucus for planetary science and working with the Executive Branch. Learn about the Planetary Society's new initiatives, such as its online member community and book club, and its passion for sharing the beauty and joy of space and science with everyone on Earth. Key Points: Mat Kaplan's inspiring body of work with Planet Mat Kaplan: Radio How Mat combined his twin passions for radio and space exploration Mat's approach to presenting complicated information in an accessible and fascinating way The importance of doing thorough research and homework before interviews The art of listening and being prepared to change directions during interviews Showing appreciation for the work of the guests and sharing their fascination Mat's passion and energy for the topic and how it engages listeners Elements of a good question, including finding unique nuggets of information Utilizing the internet to access resources and enhance interviews Events: Find out about the Planetary Defense Conference in Vienna and the asteroid Hunters IMAX, and how the Planetary Society is involved in these exciting initiatives. Resources Mentioned in the Episode - - - /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26541774

Finding Your Dream Job Outside Academia with Solopreneur Natalia Bielczyk, Ph.D. 04/07/2023

Finding Your Dream Job Outside Academia with Solopreneur Natalia Bielczyk, Ph.D. Overview In this episode of When Science Speaks, Mark Bayer introduces Dr. Natalia Bielczyk, a career advisor, neuroscientist, author, and blogger, as they discuss how to find a dream career and the changing job market for PhDs. Dr. Bielczyk shares her personal experience of transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship and provides valuable advice to PhD graduates who struggle with their career path. From identifying natural abilities to finding a large organization with growth opportunities, Dr. Bielczyk provides actionable steps to success. The podcast wraps up with a discussion of luck in career development and the importance of authentic connections. Timestamps of Major Topics [00:00:09] When Science Speaks" with Dr. Natalia Bielczyk [00:03:39] Challenges faced by PHDs outside academia [00:07:14] Navigating Money and Career Paths as a PhD Graduate [00:10:40] Ontology of Value Tests for Career Advancement [00:14:33] Career paths for PhDs after the AI revolution [00:18:09] The Role of Luck in Career Development Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Natalia's website: https://nataliabielczyk.com/ Ontology of Value: https://ontologyofvalue.com/ Natalia's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OntologyofValue Key Quotes [00:07:53] PhD graduates typically have a lot of general competence. 00:10:56] You have to focus on yourself and building a skill set that's more than publication records [00:17:59] You have to be very open and vocal about what your strengths are. Offer your help to other people and that's how you build your personal brand. It will not help happen overnight. But this is exactly what your professional future will be. You have to be known for who you are. [00:09:51] Statistics don't lie - your chances of staying in academia are so slim, that would be just very risky. [00:17:29] I think after all, you really have to focus on yourself and what you're good at and how to communicate it on social media, in person, but also in this meso scale level, so through communities. So you have to really, more than ever, be a good networker and establish your values, establish your core competencies, and and just vocalize them. [[00:16:11] Then I would probably choose a large organization, and I would make sure that on my career path, I open myself doors to manage people because this is something, obviously, you can build a bot to manage, but that's not the gist. That's not the core of management. That's not how it works because people really want to work with people. /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26474043

8 Neuroscience-based techniques for writing in ways that engage and excite your readers with author Bill Birchard 03/31/2023

8 Neuroscience-based techniques for writing in ways that engage and excite your readers with author Bill Birchard In this episode of When Science Speaks, host Mark Bayer sat down with veteran journalist and author Bill Birchard to talk about his latest book, Writing For Impact, 8 Secrets From Science that will fire up your readers' brains. The book delves into the science of how the brain processes language and how writers can use this knowledge to engage their readers. Here are three tips from the episode on how to write for impact: 1. Use vivid language: Research shows that using vivid language can create more impactful writing. As Birchard explains, "The brain loves specific sensory stimulation. The more sensory information the writer provides, the more the scene comes alive." 2. Write in a conversational tone: Writing in a conversational tone can make readers feel like they are having a conversation with the author. This can make the writing more enjoyable to read and can help to build a connection between the writer and reader. 3. Use storytelling: Using storytelling in writing can be a powerful tool for engaging readers. As Birchard says, "Stories stick in our brains because they're more vivid and more memorable than facts and data." Writing for Impact provides a fascinating look into the science of writing and how writers can use it to create more engaging content. If you're interested in improving your writing skills, be sure to check out this episode of When Science Speaks. Main topics in the interview and when you'll find them in the audio recording [00:03:38] The Science of Effective Writing [00:07:01] Measuring Brain Response to Reading [00:10:29] Simplifying Writing for Reader Engagement [00:13:54] Writing Strategies and Chatbot Algorithms [00:17:09] Universalizing the Podcast Message Key quotes from the episode [00:16:50] What's the 1 sentence that captures what you're going to say in your book? In my book, of course, I'll just emphasize here, what's the message of my book? It's reward your reader. 3 words, reward your reader. [00:10:03] In the book, I've isolated 8 strategies that are supported by science that drive the reward circuit. [00:02:48] Turns out there's a mountain of research when it comes to how the brain processes language. [00:10:32] The research shows that people desire, they learn from, and they act done, things are expressed simply. [00:08:15] So When I talk about the brain consumes words, the way it consumes just about everything else, that's the reward circuit that I'm talking about. [00:13:02] Keep it insightful. Keep the "ah-ha's" flowing because that's what you wanna aspire to as a writer. [00:07:46] If what you read is activating the motor circuit in the brain, and that in turn is activating the reward circuit in the brain, then you can make inferences as to what's engaging readers and what's a better way to write. [00:03:24] And when you start looking at that, you start to see, at least as a writer, you start to see that the brain reacts in different ways to all those four kinds of writing. [00:12:20] Readers aren't reading your writing because they like your style. They're reading your writing because they like the reward they get from your writing. [00:09:32] And in reading, you're gonna not only start reading, you're gonna keep reading and presumably be persuaded to act on what you're reading. [00:14:20] The arrival of Chat GPT does not mean that people are going to stop learning how to write. You could say that instead, the chat GPT is just going to raise the level of writing. [00:11:15] The period never comes soon enough. Bring closure to thoughts in a small way as you possibly can readers are gonna comprehend that quicker and they're gonna be more engaged. [00:06:13] And my undergraduate degree was in biology. I never happened to use that, but having written my whole life, I've often wondered what happens in the brain? [00:12:04] Keep it simple. And there's another great phrasing you came up within the book. [00:01:44] His newest book, which we're gonna talk about in just a moment. It's called Writing For Impact, 8 Secrets From Science that will fire up your readers' brains. [00:04:55] Words and meaning are processed very much the same way as stimuli of other kinds. [00:15:29] Can you get the software to say, okay, we started with clarity and we wanna leap to being engaging, can these strategies then be incorporated in the software? [00:08:45] It's the reward circuit in the brain that's doing that. [00:14:57] How do you raise your writing from clear and educational, informative writing to engaging and rewarding writing. And I believe the strategies in my book help you do that. [00:15:09] You might say you could make the argument and guess I'm making the argument that you are with Chat GPT gonna start at a higher level, and then you're gonna go up up a level. [00:05:04] The brain is looking at whether that word is worthy or not worthy. The same way it's looking at whether something or to drink is worthy or not worthy or eat or establishing a friendship. [00:02:18] We're gonna have a link in the show notes so you can preorder Bill's book, which will be released on April 4, 2023, and also a link to an offer on Bill's website, where you can get an accompanying workbook for free by pre- ordering the book. Resources mentioned in the book to Writing for Impact: 8 Secrets from Science That Will Fire Up Your Readers’ Brains by Bill Birchard Bill's where you can get a free workbook if you pre-order the book: Link to the episode Link to the special 15% discount for When Science Speaks readers at enter SCIENCE15 at checkout) /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/26401941

Career Development Advice for Academics Looking to Get Promoted or Find Meaningful New Jobs with Tory Wobber, Ph.D. 03/10/2023

"Magic Words Author Jonah Berger, Ph.D. on His Latest Book About Persuading Through the Power of Words 03/03/2023

Science in the Service of Skin Care with Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D. (+ Special Offer for Listeners) 02/17/2023

Science in the Service of Skin Care with Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D. (+ Special Offer for Listeners) This week's episode features Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D., Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of ONE SKIN, an innovative skincare company that addresses skin health at the molecular level, targeting the root causes of aging so skin functions, feels, and looks younger. Listeners get a special offer when they go to OneSkin.co: Enter SCIENCE15 to get a 15% discount on your ONE SKIN purchase. On this week's show, we discuss a range of issues related to entrepreneurship and the science of skin care, including: What initially sparked Alessandra's interest in science: 03:19 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: On all the news, when I was seeing the news, they were cloning Dolly, the sheep. They were cloning the first mammal, animal. And that I thought to myself, Oh my God, maybe I can one day clone my family and they will always be around. I will not be, I don't need to be afraid of losing one day my dad. I can bring back my grandfather. And that sparked me the idea of going into science and this whole knowledge of not liking to see losing others for diseases was what started bringing me. Maybe one day I can find the cure of a disease. Maybe one day I can work with something that will help me not lose my family. That was the first when I was still very young that we were made me science and as I was studying all my biology teachers, I was always very interested in cell biology. And that's why I decided in college to continue researching and studying biology. Alessandra's career journey, including when she decided she wanted to be an entrepreneur: 06:08 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: When I went to college, I had this notion that I wanted to do science, but it was still very obscure how I will get there, if I would really be able to bring something into reality and get some of the science. In college, I was already focused on research that was translational. When I started college, I was already completely passionate about the idea of working with stem cells and the potential of stem cells to differentiate into any cell type of your body and be able to regenerate different tissues. So when I was in college, I looked for an internship in a lab that was researching stem cells. I knew that I wanted to translate. I didn't know how would be the path that one day I would start the company, that was not clear. I knew that I needed to learn how to do science, so I would need to do a master and a PhD. Even when I finished my PhD, I had not a clear idea. I still went for a postdoc in Portugal where I continue learning and learning different biomaterials to use different ways of associating with stem cells to promote wound healing. And at that point, when I was already in my postdoc that I was doing research for ready eight years in total, if I count when I started my internship, my master, my PhD, I started to get a little bit frustrated. I was doing a lot of good research. I was learning a lot and I was being involved in different projects that was all very challenging, was teaching me a lot, but I was not seeing the next phase. What I would do next, how I will fulfill that desire of seeing science being translated. So still in Portugal, I tried to start a startup there that was using stem cells, but cell therapy, it's very regulated. It's hard to go to humans. So I have some, had some colleagues that were veterinarians. So together we start the company that would provide stem cell treatment for dogs, cat and horses. But we didn't know what we were doing. And at the beginning was everything super hard to get to the path of what was a startup and how you get funds and how you create this product. So basically we started the idea, but that never went very far, but I was already okay, I want to translate. And then eventually my friends from Brazil that also did PhD in the same lab that me, Carolina had just moved to San Francisco to join an accelerator program where they were also wanting to translate some of the research into a product or into a company. And it was interesting because then she was starting this year, I was starting that company in Portugal, getting a little bit frustrated. And then after the program, they decided they would be focusing this new company on skin research. And then eventually she called me and she said to me, Alessandra, I'm here in San Francisco. I have some ideas on understanding skin aging and validating efficacy of product. And I cannot think of anyone better than you to come to join this project. We had no guarantee of what we were doing or where we would go, but there was a new opportunity there for me. And I just said, okay, I'm packing, I'm moving to the US. Let's start this company. Let's see where we can go. Alessandra's research and ONE SKIN's scientific advancements in skin care: 13:41 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: I can even make the connection of my PhD and the company, how we started. And it's interesting because when you start a company, you need to be open-minded. Things change. I was doing this research on skin regeneration, building 3D skin models. And the goal really was to promote a better wound healing. But in that process, I learned how to culture skin cells. I learned how to build 3D skin models. When I was on my postdoc also, I was helping on another project that was doing high throughput screening of micro RNAs. So I started learning high throughput screening as well. And when I was learning all those skills, I had no idea that eventually I would use those skills in my own startup. But what I always tell myself and I tell others is it doesn't matter, even if you are like completely happy or unhappy with what you're doing at the moment, if you are lost a little bit of what path you would take, show up every day and try your best and learn what you have to learn because eventually what you learn, you can use later on. So when I was there in Portugal, a little bit frustrated, still doing research and not seeing how I would translate that to research, I was still showing up at the lab and learning things, new things. And those skills that I was learning there, eventually they were the ones they needed to one skin. When I came to One Skin, the first idea when Carolina called me was let's build 3D skin models to understand the aging process and validate products that are on the market. So we had already the knowledge of building 3D models, but sometimes we use very young skins because it's easier to build 3D models of skin using young cells. So the goal now was, okay, let's understand the aging process because the products that are aimed to promote rejuvenation, they will be applied on a more mature skin. So we need to see the effect on this skin and what's the difference. So we started building this platform. One Skin then, just to go back a little bit, One Skin has always has the mission of target root causes of aging to promote skin health. So we are really looking to ways that we can connect the health of your skin with your overall health, promote a younger state of your skin, and that will result in a better appearance as well as you bring a product that's cosmetic, but with the goal that will also help your whole body to be aging better. So we started with this platform. Alessandra's approach to science communication as a bilingual scientist: 21:13 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: I would say that's still a challenge. It is super hard because especially when you're passionate as I am about the science, I always tend to go into too many details and then when we start to having to communicate this to others, at the beginning I was going very deep on the details and then I was seeing on people's face that they were not understanding what I was saying. So the first thing I feel to start developing that skill is just talk to people that have no science background. That they understand what you're saying. If they're not understanding, you need to clarify your message. And then it was hard for me because when I simplified the message and I don't give all the details, it feels that I'm not giving all the science that is there. I always had that challenge with me because I wanted to explain more, but at the end, we need first to educate and have the interest of people. So we need to get simple, even though I don't say all the science, I need to be able to show the difference. For instance, we have developed an algorithm that in the beginning, I would say that measures epigenetic changes inside the cell through methylation profile, and it's able to determine and correlate with the chronological age of the skin, and I say that no one understands. But if I just tell you that we have an algorithm that's able to measure the real biological age of your DNA, and then I can tell you by measuring the biological age of a product that's really rejuvenating, reducing the biological age of the skin. Now people can understand and get interested about it. And a lot of that comes from speaking and talking with non-scientists. We have several documents where we write what is the science and now let's cut all this "epigenetic methylation" and let's simplify the message. And we focus a lot on educational content on our Instagram and all on our website. There is a blog section where we talk a lot about science and I started and I still struggle a little bit with that. I'm still in the learning process, but we are always trying the best. 23:38 Mark Bayer: Right. And it is difficult. It's really hard to do. There's so much information and it is an iterative process. So the more you're doing this, the better you're getting at it. And then of course you're seeing the reaction of people. They actually do get what you're talking about rather than when you're talking, using these scientific terms and they're just bewildered because it's the first time they're hearing that. 25:13Mark Bayer: really interesting and so true. Let me ask you, many listeners are interested in entrepreneurship, but they don't really have an idea of what it's all about, whether it's to start a company or work for a startup and understanding that there is no typical day in your work experience, I'm wondering if you could share some of the mainstays of your work schedule, things that you often see on your calendar as things that you need to do just to give listeners a sense about what it is to work for a startup or a startup company. An insider's description of life as an enterpreneur at a start-up 25:43 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: For both sides, if you're working for a startup or if you're starting your company, you need to know that you will be wearing several hats. But to be very honest, in the very beginning, a lot of the daily basic tasks will be very similar to what you were doing in the academia. You will still be working in a lab doing the research. So the part of research, it's very similar to the academia. What it adds, it adds other layers. So the research usually in the startup environment is more focused. So you have very clear objectives that you need to respond. You're doing experiments, looking to proof of concept and looking more objectively while when you're in academia, if you do one experiment and something show up, you just start digging and you just go to a completely different project and that's not a problem because you're just reaching and learning. So this is a big difference. But on the beginning, the daily base inside the research lab, it's very similar. What it changed then, like when you're starting a company, is that you have other tasks as well. Pitching your company all the time to investors. You're also hiring new employees. In the beginning, for the first three years, ONE SKIN was only scientists. We were seven scientists doing research with this platform. When we start moving to create the product and create the brand, then now other pieces start to show up. I needed to start thinking about the communication, the content that we are creating to blogs or even Instagram, talking more to investors. And then eventually when you go to having a product in the market, you have operational sales and marketing and all different things. Today, as a chief scientific officer at ONE SKIN, I still lead the science that we are researching, the new research, the development of new products that we are doing at the company. I also do a lot of collaboration with the universities that are researching some of our active peptides that we have to other applications beyond the skin. I do a lot of work reviewing documents that share the data that we get in the lab to the marketing side, so it's accurate and being sure that anything that's going out there is very accurate on the science side. I lead with hiring process and also other fun things as well, because we have products, we are deciding which packaging will be for the new products. So we have meetings with the designers. And for instance, today, some of the things that I will be doing, I'm recording this podcast now. Then I need to analyze some data of a clinical study that we are running. I need to oversee the experiments that was run this week and check some that we'll do next week, need to go over some documents of scientific communication and also using one of the packages and some things that are going for our next product, so it goes a little bit around several things you need just when you're in a startup, multitasking, it will be also very important to be able to wear different hats and being creative because not always you have funds to do everything on the perfect way. So we need to be very creative on how we can be different, how we can even do our research with the resource that we have available. A special disount offer for listeners of When Science Speaks 30:35 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: We are very excited to launch it. So it's a product that has as an active ingredient the peptide that we discovered and developed here in the lab. And it was specifically designed for the skin of your eye region. So we received skin samples from the eyelid, leftover of plastic surgery. So we were using very specific eyelid skin to be testing and validating this formula to promote a better appearance, a more firm skin for a specific for this eye area. And we're very excited. We optimized the formula using our platform as well. We use our platform to test all the active ingredients that goes together with our peptide and in the final formula to ensure that there is no toxicity. There's no side effects that can be used in sensitive skin. And then we were able to do this specifically using skin from the eye area, which is something very new and unique. And this product is coming up at the end of this month. So we are very excited about it. 31:40 Mark Bayer: All right. So cool. Yeah. Listeners look out for that and also the promotional code that you'll have as well. Alessandra's advice for listeners thinking about getting involved in startups 32:26 Alessandra Zonari, Ph.D.: Yeah, sure. To make the jump going out of academia and jumping to start a company, you have two options. You can either join an early stage startup, or if you have an idea, or if you have already research coming from your PhD, you can start your own company. What I would say it's what we did a little bit was for starting to find accelerator programs that can help you on the start point. So we joined IndieBio - it's an accelerator program specifically for biotech companies, specific for scientists that want to become entrepreneurs. So this is very helpful because there are mentorships. You meet different founders that are on the same stage as you and you start creating this network. And a lot of times you learn with other founders how to do things, how to get off the ground. My advice would be to try to find an accelerator program. Try to find people that complement your skills, that are also passionate about what you're looking or trying to solve. And there will be ups and downs. Don't give up on the first down and always remember that you never fail because you're always learning something and what you learn, no one will take from you. So you will use this next. So just do the best and good luck in any journey that anyone decides. Resources mentioned in the episode Special discount code for When Science Speaks listeners: 15 percent off your purchase of any of the skin treatments at Use SCIENCE15 at checkout /episode/index/show/markbayer/id/25963248

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When Science Speaks

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