Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Her Path to Success

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli speaks with Dr. Kim Cobb, climate scientist and Director of the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society at Brown University.

Dr. Cobb shares how her research uses corals as archives of Earth’s climate history, helping scientists understand how phenomena like El Niño and La Niña have changed over thousands of years. She discusses her experiences conducting fieldwork across the tropical Pacific, witnessing the devastating effects of climate change on coral reefs, and how those experiences pushed her to think beyond understanding climate change toward helping solve it.

The conversation also explores Dr. Cobb’s path into climate science, her work contributing to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, her evolution as a scientist and leader, and her commitment to supporting women and the next generation of scientists. From reconstructing Earth’s past to preparing for its future, Dr. Cobb offers an inspiring look at how scientific curiosity can grow into meaningful action.

How much does sleep really shape the way we think, feel, and function?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Dr. Jessica Lunsford-Avery, Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University, whose research explores the connections between sleep, mental health, cognition, and psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents.

We discuss the science behind sleep and circadian rhythms, why adolescence is such an important period for sleep and brain development, and how disrupted sleep can intersect with conditions such as ADHD and other mental health challenges. Dr. Lunsford-Avery also shares her path into psychiatry and research, what continues to drive her questions as a scientist, and advice for students interested in neuroscience, psychology, and medicine.

This conversation is a reminder that something we do every single night can offer a fascinating window into the brain, and into our overall well-being.

What can a creek tell us about the impact humans are having on our planet?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Mary Poteet, Associate Professor of Practice in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Poteet studies how aquatic ecosystems respond to human-driven disturbances, from urbanization and rising temperatures to climate change and water availability.

We talk about her path from studying biological sciences and civil engineering to earning her Ph.D. in Integrative Biology, her research on urban creek ecosystems and vulnerable species, and the importance of getting students involved in real scientific research early in their careers. Dr. Poteet also shares her perspective on mentorship, navigating an interdisciplinary career, and what she hopes the next generation of scientists will bring to environmental research.

Whether you're interested in ecology, environmental science, climate change, or simply figuring out where your own curiosity might lead, this conversation is a reminder that some of the biggest scientific questions can begin by paying attention to the world right outside your door.

How can a microscopic worm help us understand some of the most complex diseases of the human brain?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Dr. Anne Hart, Professor and Chair of Neuroscience at Brown University, whose research uses the tiny nematode C. elegans to uncover fundamental mechanisms of the nervous system.

Dr. Hart shares her journey into neuroscience and how her research has helped illuminate questions surrounding neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, as well as sleep, fatigue, stress, and sensory signaling. We also discuss the power of simple model organisms to answer surprisingly complex questions, the unexpected turns that shape a scientific career, and her advice for young people hoping to enter neuroscience and research.

This conversation is a reminder that some of science's biggest discoveries can begin with the smallest subjects.

What does it take to make great health care work behind the scenes?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Sima Patel, MHA, Senior Director of Operations & Strategy for the Department of Pediatrics at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin. With a background that began in neuroscience and evolved into health care administration, Sima has built a career at the intersection of medicine, leadership, strategy, and operations.

We talk about her journey from studying the brain to leading within health care, what it takes to turn big ideas into systems that actually work for patients and providers, and the many ways someone can make an impact in medicine without becoming a physician. Sima also shares lessons from her leadership journey and advice for young women exploring careers in health care.

What happens when you refuse to choose just one path?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Trinna Cuellar, a scientist, biotech leader, and entrepreneur whose career has taken her from studying RNA biology to developing new approaches in drug discovery and women’s health.

We talk about what it takes to turn scientific curiosity into real-world impact, the transition from scientist to leader, navigating uncertainty in research and entrepreneurship, and why some of the most interesting careers aren't perfectly planned.

Dr. Cuellar also shares the lessons she has learned from taking risks, leading teams, and continuing to make room for curiosity—both inside and outside the laboratory.

For students wondering whether they have to choose between science, leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurship, this conversation is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful path is the one that connects them all.

What happens to our brains as we age? How is Alzheimer's disease changing lives, and what gives researchers hope for the future?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Anna Campbell Sullivan, board-certified clinical neuropsychologist and Associate Professor at the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's & Neurodegenerative Diseases. We explore how memory works, what neuropsychologists do, the early signs of cognitive decline, and the latest advancements in Alzheimer's research.

Dr. Sullivan also shares her journey into neuroscience, lessons from working with patients and families, and advice for students interested in medicine, psychology, and brain research.

Whether you're fascinated by the brain, considering a career in neuroscience, or simply curious about memory and aging, this conversation offers valuable insights and hope for the future.

What if the immune system plays a much bigger role in the brain than we ever imagined? In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Staci Bilbo, the Haley Family Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience and Interim Chair of Neurobiology at Duke University. We discuss her groundbreaking research in neuroimmunology, the discoveries that changed how scientists think about the brain, and her journey from a curious student to one of the world's leading neuroscientists. Dr. Bilbo also shares advice for aspiring researchers, the importance of asking bold questions, and what continues to inspire her work today.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about science, perseverance, and the power of curiosity.

What does it mean to truly think like a scientist?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Dr. Elizabeth Co, Senior Lecturer in Biology at Boston University, about her journey into science education and her passion for helping students build confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. We discuss the importance of creating inclusive learning environments, what makes a great teacher, and her advice for students pursuing careers in STEM and medicine.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Meena Iyer about her inspiring journey in STEM, the experiences that shaped her career, and the curiosity that continues to drive her work. We explored the importance of asking meaningful questions, embracing challenges, finding mentors, and building a career rooted in purpose. Dr. Iyer also shares thoughtful advice for students interested in research and offers an honest perspective on navigating both the opportunities and obstacles that come with a career in science. Whether you're an aspiring researcher or simply curious about the people behind scientific discovery, this conversation is filled with valuable insights and inspiration.

What does it take to turn a passion for science into a career dedicated to helping others?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Ms. Nerisha Pillay, an incoming medical student at the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine and a member of Women in Neuroscience. Nerisha shares her journey into medicine, the experiences that shaped her commitment to healthcare, and how mentorship, resilience, and curiosity continue to guide her path.

Together, they discuss finding purpose in STEM, preparing for medical school, overcoming challenges, the importance of representation in healthcare, and advice for students who dream of making an impact through medicine and neuroscience.

Whether you're a future physician, researcher, or simply exploring a career in STEM, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of leaders.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Melissa Herman, a neuroscientist dedicated to advancing our understanding of the brain while mentoring the next generation of researchers. We discuss her journey into neuroscience, what first inspired her to pursue scientific research, and the challenges and rewards of a career in STEM.

Dr. Herman also shares valuable advice for students interested in neuroscience, the importance of curiosity and resilience in research, and why mentorship plays such a vital role in scientific discovery. Whether you're considering a future in medicine, neuroscience, or research, this conversation offers meaningful insights and inspiration for aspiring scientists.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ms. Marissa Marquez, an emerging neuroscientist and member of the Bess Frost Lab community. In this episode, she shares her journey into neuroscience, the experiences that sparked her passion for research, and the importance of mentorship and community in science. We discuss what it's like to begin a career in neuroscience, lessons she's learned along the way, and her advice for students interested in STEM. Whether you're curious about brain science or looking for inspiration to pursue your own passions, this episode offers valuable insights into the next generation of researchers shaping the future.

What can rivers, groundwater, and city infrastructure teach us about the future of our planet? In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with geoscientist and Ph.D. researcher Josiah Sananda to explore how environmental science, water quality, and urban ecosystems intersect with some of today's biggest global challenges. Josiah shares his journey into geoscience, the importance of interdisciplinary research, and how young scientists can make a meaningful impact through curiosity, fieldwork, and innovation. Whether you're interested in Earth science, sustainability, or STEM careers, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.

What drives our decisions? Why are some brains more vulnerable to addiction than others? And what does neuroscience teach us about resilience and behavior?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Dr. Micky Marinelli shares her path from studying neuroscience in France to leading a research laboratory at UT Austin. We discuss dopamine, reward pathways, stress, addiction research, mentorship, and the importance of curiosity in science.

Whether you're interested in medicine, neuroscience, psychology, or biomedical research, this conversation offers an inside look at the questions scientists are working to answer—and the journey behind a career in discovery.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Okeanis Vaou, a neurologist, movement disorders specialist, and sleep medicine expert at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Vaou shares her journey into neurology, her passion for helping individuals with Parkinson's disease, and the exciting advances transforming patient care today.

We discuss the role of sleep in neurological health, how deep brain stimulation is changing lives, the importance of early diagnosis, and ongoing efforts to make Parkinson's research more inclusive and representative of diverse communities. Dr. Vaou also offers valuable advice for students interested in medicine, neuroscience, and clinical research.

Whether you are interested in neuroscience, healthcare, or stories of leadership in medicine, this conversation offers an inspiring look into the future of brain health and the people working to improve it.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Lynn McBee, a biotech executive, education leader, and philanthropist whose work has transformed opportunities for students and communities across Texas. With a background in biochemistry and years of leadership in nonprofit organizations, workforce development, and STEM-focused education initiatives, Lynn shares how science, leadership, and service can intersect to create lasting impact. Together, they discuss the importance of empowering young women in STEM, building confidence as a leader, creating opportunities for underserved communities, and staying committed to meaningful change even when challenges arise. This conversation is filled with insights on leadership, resilience, and using your career to make a difference beyond yourself.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Audrey Brumback, physician-scientist and pediatric neurologist whose research explores how neural circuits develop and how differences in brain development can contribute to neurodevelopmental conditions. Dr. Brumback discusses her path into neuroscience, the questions that drive her research, and how studying brain development can improve our understanding of learning, behavior, and neurological disorders. We also talk about mentorship, curiosity in science, and the importance of making neuroscience more accessible to future generations of researchers and physicians.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Staci Loewy, a radiogenic isotope geochemist and laboratory manager at the Jackson School of Geosciences. We discuss her journey into geoscience, her work using isotope geochemistry to study Earth’s history and supercontinent reconstruction, and the innovative analytical techniques being developed in her lab. Dr. Loewy also shares insights on mentorship, scientific curiosity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and encouraging students to pursue research opportunities in STEM.

This episode of Her Path to Success is a little different.

While the podcast is centered on amplifying women in STEM, this conversation highlights the importance of mentorship and allyship in creating those opportunities. I sat down with Dr. Mike Mauk to talk about his role in the Women in Neuroscience (WiN) program and how initiatives like WiN are working to support and uplift the next generation of women in science.

We discuss the purpose behind WiN, the impact of mentorship, and why creating inclusive spaces in STEM requires collaboration from everyone—not just those directly represented.

If you're interested in leadership, mentorship, or building more equitable spaces in STEM, this episode offers a really important perspective.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Jeanne Goka, a visionary educator and the founding principal of the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders.

From growing up in a family impacted by Japanese American internment to leading one of the most transformative all-girls public schools in the country, Jeanne’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, courage, and the belief that education can change lives.

We talk about:

• How education can break cycles of poverty and inequality
• The importance of creating spaces where girls feel seen, heard, and empowered
• What it truly means to build confidence and leadership in young women
• Lessons from decades of leading in environments shaped by social and racial challenges

Under her leadership, every graduate of the Ann Richards School was accepted into college—proving that when you invest in girls, you transform entire communities.

This episode is for anyone who believes in the power of education, leadership, and creating opportunities where they don’t yet exist.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Ms. Jessica Shurer, MSW, LCSW, a leading voice at CurePSP, to explore the urgent and often overlooked world of rare neurodegenerative diseases like PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy).

Dr. Shurer shares her journey into neurology, the challenges of diagnosing and treating complex brain disorders, and how research, advocacy, and patient-centered care intersect to create real impact. We also dive into the importance of awareness, the role of innovation in advancing treatment, and what the future holds for patients and families navigating these conditions.

This episode is a powerful reminder of how science, compassion, and persistence come together to drive change in medicine.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Anna Bostoganashvili, a senior neuroscience student at Centre College and current research intern at Mount Sinai. Anna shares how her early curiosity about the brain evolved into a deep commitment to neuroscience research, and what it’s really like working in both liberal arts and major academic medical environments.

We explore her journey through mentorship, including her experience as a WiN (Women in Neuroscience) intern, and how being part of a supportive, women-focused community shaped her confidence and career vision. Anna also opens up about the graduate school application process, how she approaches uncertainty, and the mindset that has helped her stay resilient through challenges.

From practical advice for underclassmen to reflections on success and purpose, this conversation offers an honest and insightful look into what it means to pursue neuroscience with intention.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Dr. Claudia Lucchinetti, Dean of Dell Medical School and an internationally recognized neurologist and researcher.

Dr. Lucchinetti’s groundbreaking work in multiple sclerosis has revealed that MS is not a single disease, but a spectrum of distinct pathological patterns—an insight that has had major implications for personalized treatment approaches. Her research in neuroimmunology continues to shape how scientists and clinicians understand immune-mediated damage in the brain.

Beyond her research, Dr. Lucchinetti is a leader in medical education and healthcare innovation, working to redefine how physicians are trained and how care is delivered.

We explore:

• How MS research has evolved and what it reveals about the brain
• The role of the immune system in neurological disease
• What it takes to lead a medical school and drive change in healthcare
• The intersection of research, clinical care, and education
• Advice for students interested in neuroscience and medicine

This conversation offers a powerful perspective on how science, leadership, and medicine come together to drive meaningful impact.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Hopp, Associate Professor and researcher at the Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Dr. Hopp’s work focuses on microglia—the immune cells of the brain—and how they influence the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Her research highlights a fascinating dual role: microglia can help clear harmful proteins like tau, but when dysregulated, they may also contribute to the spread of these toxic aggregates.

We explore:

• How microglia impact brain health and aging
• The role of tau protein and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s
• Why calcium signaling in brain cells matters
• The future of therapies targeting the brain’s immune system

This conversation offers a powerful look into how cutting-edge neuroscience is reshaping our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases—and what that means for the future of medicine.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dignity Butts, a student at Harvard University and a Women in Neuroscience alum. She is a powerful advocate for health equity and community-centered care.

From addressing systemic disparities to rethinking how underserved populations access healthcare, her perspective challenges us to reconsider what dignity truly means in medicine. We talk about the realities behind inequity, the role of advocacy in driving change, and how one voice rooted in purpose can transform systems.

This conversation goes beyond healthcare. It is about humanity, justice, and the courage to create spaces where everyone is seen, heard, and cared for.

What if Alzheimer’s disease could be detected years before symptoms begin—and even prevented?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia speaks with Dr. Winnie Pak, a neuroscientist and clinical strategy leader working at the forefront of neurodegenerative disease research. With a career spanning over 20 years in pharmaceutical leadership and clinical trials, Dr. Pak focuses on translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world solutions for patients.

We explore:

• Why Alzheimer’s begins long before symptoms appear
• The shift from late-stage treatment to early detection and prevention
• How clinical trials actually work—and why patient trust matters
• The growing role of biomarkers like tau and blood-based diagnostics
• How lifestyle factors like sleep, metabolism, and activity impact brain health

Dr. Pak also shares how her personal experiences shaped her mission and why she advocates for focusing not just on lifespan—but “brain span”: living longer with strong cognitive health.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in neuroscience, medicine, or how research becomes real-world impact.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, host Sia Gullapalli sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Karen Duff, a leading expert in Alzheimer’s disease research.

Dr. Duff shares insights into her groundbreaking work studying tau pathology, the molecular mechanisms driving neurodegeneration, and how advances in neuroscience are shaping the future of Alzheimer’s treatment.

She also reflects on her journey into science, the importance of persistence in research, and her advice for students interested in pursuing careers in neuroscience and biomedical research.

This conversation offers a fascinating look into the science behind brain health and the researchers working to solve one of medicine’s greatest challenges.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli speaks with Dr. Esther Melamed, a neurologist, neuroimmunologist, and physician-scientist whose work explores the powerful intersection between the immune system and the brain.

Dr. Melamed shares her journey into neurology and neuroimmunology, reflecting on the moments during her training that shaped her path as a physician-scientist. She explains how immune-mediated neurological diseases are transforming our understanding of brain health and why neuroimmunology has become one of the most exciting frontiers in modern medicine.

The conversation also explores what it means to bridge research and patient care — from translating discoveries in the lab into treatments for patients to learning from clinical experiences that inspire new scientific questions.

Beyond the science, Dr. Melamed discusses the importance of mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting the next generation of physician-scientists, particularly women entering academic medicine.

Together, we explore the future of neuroimmunology, the challenges of scientific discovery, and the profound impact that research can have on patients’ lives.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Dr. Caralyne Jackson, a distinguished neurologist and national medical leader, to discuss the intersection of clinical excellence, advocacy, and leadership in medicine.

Dr. Jackson shares:

• Her journey into neurology and what drew her to the field

• The evolving challenges facing physicians today

• The importance of patient advocacy and ethical leadership

• How young women can pursue medicine with confidence and clarity

• Lessons on resilience, service, and long-term impact

This episode offers powerful insight for aspiring physicians, neuroscience students, and anyone passionate about making a difference through healthcare.

What if the earliest signs of neurodegenerative disease begin long before symptoms appear?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Dr. Bess Frost, Associate Professor of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry at Brown University. Dr. Frost’s lab investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia.

Together, they explore how disruptions in nuclear architecture, tau pathology, and chromatin organization contribute to cognitive decline — and what this means for early detection and prevention. Dr. Frost also shares insights into her journey in science, navigating academia as a woman in research, and the importance of curiosity-driven discovery.

This conversation bridges molecular neuroscience with real-world impact, offering students and aspiring scientists a deeper look at how laboratory research shapes the future of brain health.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we spotlight Dr. Ellen Ochoa — engineer, astronaut, and former Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. As the first Hispanic woman in space, Dr. Ochoa broke barriers in 1993 and went on to fly four Space Shuttle missions.

But her story goes far beyond firsts. From her early work in optical engineering to leading one of NASA’s most important centers, Dr. Ochoa’s journey reflects resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to expanding opportunity in STEM.

We discuss:

• What it takes to become an astronaut

• Leadership lessons from space exploration

• The importance of representation in science

• Advice for young people who dream big

Her path reminds us that exploration is not just about discovering new worlds — it’s about expanding who gets to lead.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Courtney T. Byrd—renowned speech-language pathology researcher and founder of the Michael and Tami Lang Stuttering Institute. We discuss her personal journey into stuttering research, the importance of culturally responsive care, and how innovative tools like virtual reality and interactive technology are transforming clinical practice. Dr. Byrd also shares insights on bridging research and real-world treatment, addressing gaps in clinician training, and advice for the next generation of communication science leaders.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Jori Fleisher, a movement disorders neurologist and trailblazer in home-based care for people living with advanced Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia.

Dr. Fleisher’s work lives at the intersection of medicine, research, empathy, and systems redesign. From stepping into patients’ living rooms instead of hospital hallways to centering caregivers who are often overlooked, she has reimagined what meaningful, equitable neurological care can look like.

We talk about the moments that shaped her career, the emotional realities of caring for patients with progressive neurologic disease, the power of compassionate communication, and what it truly means to build healthcare systems that meet people where they are. We also explore her commitment to mentoring the next generation and her advocacy for women in neuroscience.

This conversation is about more than medicine — it’s about listening, humility, and designing care that honors humanity.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Dr. Susan Durham, a leader in pediatric neurosurgery, to explore the intersection of technical excellence, emotional resilience, and purpose-driven leadership.

Dr. Durham shares her journey into medicine and what drew her to pediatric neurosurgery—a field that demands not only surgical precision, but deep empathy for children and their families. We discuss how she learned to make life-altering decisions under pressure, navigated moments of doubt early in her career, and evolved from an individual surgeon into a Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery.

This conversation also dives into leadership lessons that can’t be taught in textbooks, mentorship in academic medicine, the realities of working in a historically male-dominated field, and how her definition of success has evolved over time. Dr. Durham reflects on loss, growth, legacy, and what she hopes future generations—especially young women considering neurosurgery—understand before stepping into this path.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I’m joined by Dr. Colgin, a leading neuroscientist whose work explores how neural circuits and brain rhythms support learning and memory. We discuss her journey into neuroscience, her lab’s research on hippocampal networks and neural oscillations, and how foundational memory research connects to brain health and disease. Dr. Colgin also shares insights on interdisciplinary collaboration, mentorship, and what the next decade may hold for memory science—along with advice for students interested in research.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Mesha Martinez for a powerful conversation about leadership, advocacy, and using your voice with intention. Dr. Martinez shares her journey navigating spaces that were not always designed to include everyone, and how those experiences shaped her commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.

We discuss the role of representation, the responsibility that comes with leadership, and how lived experience can become a source of strength rather than limitation. This episode explores what it means to lead with purpose — not for recognition, but to open doors for others and build systems that are more equitable and inclusive.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Beekhuyzen, a technologist, entrepreneur, and global advocate for gender equity in STEM. We explore her personal journey into technology, what inspired her to found the Tech Girls Movement Foundation, and why technology is ultimately about solving human problems—not just writing code.

Our conversation dives into digital literacy as a human right, the power of storytelling in reshaping who belongs in tech, and how inclusive systems—not just surface-level diversity—lead to better solutions. Dr. Beekhuyzen also shares advice for young people, especially girls, who want to launch tech-for-good initiatives, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for meaningful change in their communities around the world.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Thomas, an engineer, educator, and innovator whose work bridges engineering, design, and education. We explore how creativity fuels technical excellence, why playful learning belongs in serious STEM spaces, and how hands-on experiences can transform the way students see themselves as problem-solvers.

From the origins of Squishy Circuits to the mission behind the Playful Learning Lab, Dr. Thomas shares insights on interdisciplinary leadership, accessibility in STEM education, and how curiosity—when nurtured—can shape lifelong innovators. This conversation is a reminder that the future of STEM isn’t just technical—it’s imaginative, inclusive, and human.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Urmi Hossain, a finance professional, author, and global advocate for women’s empowerment, to discuss navigating career growth while staying rooted in purpose. She reflects on her journey into finance, the obstacles she faced early on, and the lessons she learned about confidence, networking, and leadership in a competitive industry.

We explore the role of mentorship and community in shaping success, how writing and public speaking helped her amplify her voice, and the habits that have supported her personal and professional growth. Drawing from her global perspective, she also shares insights on how diverse experiences strengthen leadership—and leaves listeners with empowering advice for young women stepping into their own paths.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Tiffany Yu, a leading voice in disability visibility and the founder of Diversability, to explore how identity, resilience, and storytelling intersect with leadership and advocacy. Tiffany reflects on her personal journey, the early challenges of launching a global disability community, and how conversations around inclusion have evolved over time.

We also discuss turning difference into strength, balancing vulnerability with leadership, and the responsibility organizations have in creating truly inclusive spaces. This episode highlights the power of representation and the impact young leaders can have in shaping a more accessible and equitable future.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we speak with Jayashree Karnam, a technology leader in quality engineering at NCR Voyix, about building reliable systems, leading high-impact teams, and navigating a career in engineering.

Jayashree shares how she first discovered her passion for technology, what drew her to quality engineering, and the pivotal experiences that shaped her professional journey. She offers an inside look at what quality engineering means in a fast-paced tech environment and why it is essential to innovation, trust, and scalability. Through reflections on leadership, mentorship, and resilience, Jayashree provides powerful insights for aspiring engineers—especially young women—who want to grow into leadership roles while maintaining excellence and integrity in their work.

In this powerful episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Dr. Monica Gandhi—infectious disease physician, public health leader, and Director of the UCSF Center for AIDS Research—to explore a career defined by science, advocacy, and impact. Dr. Gandhi shares pivotal moments from her medical training, what led her to focus on HIV prevention for women, and how her mission has evolved to center equity and community voices.

From pioneering research in HIV prevention to public communication during the COVID-19 pandemic, this conversation highlights the responsibility of scientists to engage beyond the lab. Dr. Gandhi also reflects on mentorship, leadership, and resilience, offering invaluable advice for students passionate about public health, global health, and creating meaningful change.

In this inspiring episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Ishitha Arekapudi—young pilot, aviation advocate, author, and founder of the IHS Sky Riders program—to explore what it means to chase bold dreams at a young age. Ishitha shares how she discovered aviation early on, the challenges of becoming a pilot in a traditionally male-dominated field, and the unforgettable moment of her first solo flight.

From flying gliders to powered airplanes, earning certifications and scholarships, and launching programs that empower underrepresented students in aerospace, Ishitha reflects on how aviation shaped her confidence, leadership, and sense of purpose. She also opens up about her future aspirations in astrobiology and space exploration, her book Cleared for Takeoff, and why she believes young people—especially women—will define the next era of flight.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Dr. Baki, a leader in cosmetic science and academic leadership, to explore how science, consumer health, and innovation intersect. Dr. Baki shares her journey into cosmetic science, the mentors and pivotal moments that shaped her path, and how she has balanced research, teaching, and leadership throughout her career. She also discusses the growing role of cosmetic science in personal care and wellness, her experiences as a woman in STEM, and the importance of mentorship in guiding the next generation of scientists. This conversation offers valuable insight for students interested in chemistry, cosmetic science, leadership, and impact-driven careers.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with Tara Nagle, a Senior Research Engineer at Cleveland Clinic, to explore how engineering and medicine intersect to drive meaningful innovation. Ms. Nagle shares her journey into biomedical research, the challenges she navigated as a woman in a highly technical field, and the role collaboration plays in advancing patient care. From mentorship to the future of healthcare technology, this conversation offers valuable insight for students interested in engineering, research, and impact-driven careers.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Dr. Ximena Bernal, a leading behavioral ecologist whose groundbreaking work uncovers the complex communication, survival strategies, and ecological interactions of animals in their natural environments. Known internationally for her research on predator–prey dynamics and acoustic communication, Dr. Bernal’s work bridges biology, evolution, and environmental science to reveal how behavior shapes life on Earth.

Together, we explore her career path, the curiosity that drives her research, and the lessons she has learned as a scientist navigating a male-dominated field. This conversation is perfect for students, young researchers, and anyone curious about animal behavior, science, or finding their path in STEM.

Today, I’m joined by someone whose journey proves that resilience can take many forms.
Jayden Ogbodo is a former Marine, researcher, emergency department technician, and now a student anesthesiologist assistant — a path defined by service, discipline, and heart. In this conversation, we dive into how the Marine Corps shaped her mindset, how her diverse healthcare roles sharpened her purpose, and how science, grit, and identity guide the future she’s building.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Katherine Vasquez, a first-generation Latina scientist whose journey from Lone Star College to a Bioengineering PhD at Rice University challenges every stereotype about who belongs in STEM.

Katherine shares how the Women in Neuroscience (WiN) Internship reshaped her future, how mentors like Dr. Nico Osier helped her see her own potential, and what it means to stay resilient while navigating academia as a first-gen student.

Together, they explore identity, imposter syndrome, late starts, mentorship, and the importance of representation in research. Katherine’s story is a powerful reminder that there is no “right timeline” to becoming a scientist—only your own.

Dr. Nancy Hopkins, renowned molecular biologist and gender equity advocate, joins Her Path to Success to share her inspiring journey — from groundbreaking discoveries in zebrafish genetics to leading transformative change for women in science. In this episode, she reflects on her research, resilience through setbacks, and the power of mentorship and advocacy in shaping a more inclusive future for STEM.