Explore every episode of the podcast Scientista

National security isn’t just about borders and threats—it’s about how we prepare, respond, and rebuild. CNN analyst and Harvard professor Juliette Kayyem joins Monica Medina and Dr. Sweta Chakraborty to talk about women in crisis leadership, why “less bad” is a winning strategy, and what every family should know about the “72 on you” rule for disaster preparedness. From political violence to parenting in the age of disinformation, Kayyem brings clarity—and calm—to a world that feels anything but secure.

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What do Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, and Mary Robinson have in common? According to Jean Oelwang, the founding CEO of Virgin Unite, it’s not charisma or power—it’s humility. In this episode, Jean shares stories from decades spent alongside the world’s most influential changemakers, from helping Mandela and Graca Machel launch The Elders to working with Mary Robinson and Paul Polman on Planetary Guardians. She explains why great leaders make others shine, how to practice what she calls “urgent patience,” and what it really takes to lead with empathy in a divided world.

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Clean energy is winning on technology—but losing the story. Jigar Shah tells Sweta Chakraborty and Monica Medina why solar, wind, and EVs need the swagger (and budget) of a “Got Milk?” campaign. From plug-in hybrids to nuclear power, he explains how better narratives—and a billion-dollar confidence boost—can keep the transition moving forward.

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Jennifer Morris, CEO of The Nature Conservancy, joins the Scientista Podcast to share her journey from women’s development projects in Namibia to leading thousands of employees across 80 countries. She discusses how TNC is reimagining conservation through innovative finance, science, and technology—from “nature bonds” that unlock billions for biodiversity to AI tools that monitor forests and oceans in real time.

Listen in as Morris explains why people and communities are at the heart of lasting environmental solutions—and what it takes to guide the world’s largest environmental nonprofit in a time of climate crisis.

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What does it take to manage a presidential campaign? In this episode of the Scientista Podcast, we sit down with Julie Chávez Rodriguez, who served as campaign manager for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Julie takes us inside one of the most intense races in U.S. history—sharing how she prepared Harris for a defining debate stage moment, built a staff of thousands across battleground states, and navigated the unique challenges women face in leadership. She also reflects on her family legacy as the granddaughter of César Chávez, the role of Latino voters, and why organizing remains the backbone of democracy.

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You may know her as Billie Eilish’s mom, but Maggie Baird is also an activist, storyteller, and founder of Support + Feed, a nonprofit tackling hunger, equity, and climate change with plant-based meals. What began as a living room idea during COVID has grown into a movement spanning 11 cities—delivering nutritious meals to communities cut off from healthy food, hosting free farmers markets, and inspiring fans worldwide to take the Support + Feed pledge.

Maggie is also reshaping the music industry from the inside, working with Billie, Finneas, and partners like REVERB to push arenas toward plant-based menus, cut down on waste, and prove that sustainability can be the easier, better option. Her philosophy? Progress over perfection. Whether it’s one plant-based meal a day or one arena ditching single-use plastic, small shifts add up to big change.

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Lindsay Levin, Co-Founder of TED Countdown, joins Monica Medina to reflect on how the initiative has grown into a global platform reaching millions. Levin shares how TED Countdown is flipping the climate script — spotlighting solutions, building radical collaborations, and spreading hope through powerful storytelling.

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“Are we still talking about gender?” Yes—because it’s not solved. Climate leader Helen Mountford sits down with Dr. Sweta Chakraborty and Monica Medina to reveal how women are driving bold climate solutions around the world, why organizations perform better when women lead, and how philanthropy can unlock their potential.

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Climate shocks are coming — faster, harder, and more often. American University’s Dana R. Fisher explains why the climate movement can’t afford to ignore local organizing, and how community power can drive national change. From disruptive protests to neighborhood resilience projects, Fisher shares a data-driven, hopeful vision for turning local action into systemic climate solutions.

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In this episode of the Scientista Podcast, meteorologist and Climate Central’s VP for Engagement Bernadette Woods Placky explains why local weather forecasters may be the most trusted—and underutilized—climate communicators we have.

We talk about her path from aspiring gymnast to award-winning meteorologist, how attribution science is changing the climate conversation, and why communication is as critical as policy and technology in building climate resilience.

🎧 In this episode:

• Why weathercasters are often the only scientists people know
• How climate change is transforming everyday weather
• The rise of attribution science and real-time climate tracking
• What trust and curiosity have to do with climate action

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We’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes with Gina McCarthy—former EPA Administrator and the first-ever White House National Climate Advisor.

From her early days in local public health to shaping national climate policy at the highest levels of government, Gina shares what it takes to lead with purpose, protect communities, and push for bold action in the face of political headwinds. She reflects on her role in crafting the Inflation Reduction Act, defends environmental safeguards, and makes a compelling case for why public service is ultimately about protecting people, not just policy.

If you missed it the first time, this is your chance to hear from one of the most trusted voices in climate and health. And if you’ve heard it before, it’s well worth a replay.

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What if we could prevent disease before it starts? Dr. Raj Panjabi—former White House Senior Director for Global Health Security—explains how biotech, AI, and early intervention can revolutionize healthcare. But with science under attack and public health funding at risk, the stakes couldn’t be higher. He also reflects on how his mother’s career as a scientist shaped his own mission to serve. This episode dives into the personal, the political, and the possible.

Note to listeners: On issues not directly related to Flagship Pioneering or its companies, Raj’s views are based on his general experience and background and should not be attributed to Flagship Pioneering

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After four decades at The Washington Post, Ruth Marcus made a decision few journalists ever face: she resigned after her column — critical of Jeff Bezos’s editorial policy — was blocked from publication.

In this episode, Ruth opens up about the events leading to her departure, the editorial shift she saw under Bezos’s ownership, and why she believes dissenting voices are essential to democracy. She also reflects on her accidental entry into journalism, the evolution of the media industry, and the deep connection between writing and critical thinking — even in the age of AI.

This is a conversation about courage, integrity, and the high stakes of telling the truth in an era of corporate-owned newsrooms and fragmented information.

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As we welcome new listeners to the Scientista Podcast, we’re highlighting some of our most popular conversations from the archive.

In this timely episode, climate scientist and bestselling author Katharine Hayhoe shares what it really takes to talk about climate change — especially with people who might not want to hear it.

She discusses why facts alone aren’t enough, how to reach people where they are — including through shared values like faith — and why empathy is a critical tool for climate action.

If you’re new to the show, this is the perfect place to start.

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The deep sea is one of Earth’s last frontiers—and the battle over who gets to mine it is heating up. This week on the Scientista Podcast, host Monica Medina sits down with Leticia Carvalho, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, to talk about her mission to regulate deep sea mining before it’s too late.

From overseeing negotiations in Jamaica to fending off pressure from billion-dollar mining interests, Carvalho is holding the line on behalf of the planet. She shares her journey from oceanographer to global regulator, the risks of unregulated exploitation, and what it’s like to be a woman leading in a male-dominated space.

This is a rare inside look at the science, diplomacy, and power struggles shaping the future of our ocean.

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Bill Nye the Science Guy joins the Scientista Podcast for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about making science accessible, the role of humor in advocacy, and what it takes to keep going when the world feels upside down. Co-hosts Dr. Sweta Chakraborty and Monica Medina talk with Bill about everything from vaccine misinformation and climate denial to his early days in stand-up comedy and how a Steve Martin lookalike contest helped launch his TV career. They also dive into the fight for women in science, how to lead with authenticity, and why voting is one of the most important actions we can take for the future of science.

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Dr. Ashish Jha, Dean of the Brown School of Public Health and former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator, joins the Scientista Podcast to talk about what happens when women are left out of health research and policymaking—and why fixing that gap is critical for everyone’s well-being. From pandemic lessons to the future of public health, Dr. Jha shares candid insights on science, leadership, and how to build a system that works for all.

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Kathi Vidal has spent her career at the heart of American innovation — first as an engineer, then as Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. But as she explains in this episode, the system that fuels invention and economic growth is far from equitable. Just 12-13% of patents are granted to women, and the numbers are even lower for other underrepresented groups.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Vidal shares why intellectual property matters, how the U.S.-China rivalry over innovation is evolving, and why inclusive inventing isn’t just good for equity — it’s essential for solving global challenges. From climate solutions to AI to pocket therapists for kids, this episode reveals how expanding who gets to invent can shape the future for all of us.

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Former NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco joins the Scientista Podcast to talk about her lifelong love of the ocean, what’s threatening its future—and why she still has hope. From marine protected areas to blue carbon, she shares how the ocean can be a powerful climate solution and why science-based policy is more essential than ever. Plus, hear what it was like to attend the premiere of David Attenborough’s new documentary Ocean, and what gives her the strength to keep pushing for change.

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Her Deepness: Sylvia Earle on a Lifetime Underwater and the Fight to Save the Sea

In this special World Oceans Day episode of the Scientista Podcast, we dive deep with legendary oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle. From leading the first all-female aquanaut team to founding Mission Blue and advocating for marine protected areas, Earle shares stories from her lifetime of exploration and activism. She reflects on how the ocean has changed, why it matters more than ever, and what gives her hope for the future. With warmth, wisdom, and urgency, Earle calls on all of us to protect the blue heart of our planet—before it’s too late.

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What do pigeons, volcanoes, and climate change have in common? For Dr. Elizabeth Gray, they’ve all been part of her unlikely journey from bird nerd to CEO of the National Audubon Society.

In this episode of the Scientista Podcast, Dr. Gray shares how birds led her to science, conservation, and climate advocacy, and why she believes birds can unite us across politics, geography, and generations. From spark birds to career curveballs, this conversation is full of wisdom, heart, and hope.

Dr. Gray also opens up about the staggering threats facing birds today, and how Audubon is working to build inclusive, community-driven conservation across the country. As she says, “Birds are magic. They’re also messengers. When birds disappear, it’s a sign that something’s gone wrong.”

Don’t miss this one, it just might change the way you see the world outside your window.

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As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reverses his stance on COVID-19 vaccines for children and pregnant women, the stakes of vaccine misinformation have never felt higher. In this episode of the Scientista Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Nikki Romanik — former Chief of Staff & Deputy Director of the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy — to unpack the consequences of politicized public health messaging.

Dr. Romanik shares what it was like working at the highest levels of government during the pandemic, addresses the enduring myth of a link between vaccines and autism, and explains what it will take to rebuild public trust in science. If you’ve been wondering how we got here, and what comes next, this conversation is essential listening.

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Conservation leader Sally Ann Ranney joins the Scientista Podcast to share the surprising story that started it all—napping inside a tree as a child—and how that deep connection to nature led her to spearhead a bold international campaign: a 10-year moratorium on Arctic development.

She talks with Dr. Sweta Chakraborty and Monica Medina about what makes the Arctic the epicenter of climate change, why women are leading the movement to protect it, and how trust, science, and courage are reshaping global conservation.

🌍 Listen in for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the fight to safeguard our shared future.

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Dr. Whitney Strauss, Executive Director, AdvoCare Foundation; Philanthropist, Food Systems Expert, and Author, joins us to talk about food systems, health equity, and what it takes to drive real change. From the fight for healthier food access to battling misinformation and building trust at the community level, Whitney shares lessons from her career—and why she believes success always comes with failure. Plus, her personal journey of resilience, from earning her PhD to navigating unexpected curveballs along the way.

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Musician, activist, and climate advocate Adam Met joins the Scientista Podcast to talk about using the power of music—and the influence of artists like Taylor Swift—to mobilize fans for climate action. From street performances in Central Park to sold-out arenas and a PhD in climate policy, Adam shares his unique journey blending entertainment and advocacy. He explains why concerts are the perfect place for collective action, what other artists can learn, and why building a climate movement starts with meeting people where they are. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about music, activism, and the role we all can play.

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Jennifer Klein, Professor of Professional Practice at Columbia SIPA and former Director of the White House Gender Policy Council, joins the Scientista Podcast to talk about fighting for the 28th Amendment, confronting the global backlash against gender equality, and why it mattered to be the first person to say “menopause” in the Oval Office. A conversation about persistence, progress, and the power of showing up.

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From enlisting in the Army at 19 to becoming one of the nation’s most powerful voices for LGBTQ rights, Charlotte Clymer has never taken the easy path. In this episode, she joins the Scientista Podcast to reflect on her journey, what service taught her, and how her identity as a trans woman, a veteran, and a person of faith shapes her advocacy today. We talk about the dangers of erasing trans voices, the backlash against inclusion in the military and sports, and why building community—and showing up—matters now more than ever.

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On this episode of the Scientista Podcast, we sit down with Gina McCarthy—former EPA Administrator and the first-ever White House National Climate Advisor—for a candid, urgent conversation about what’s at stake for science, health, and the planet. From her early days in local government to leading historic climate action under President Biden, Gina reflects on the power of persistence, the role of public service, and what it will take to keep progress alive in the face of political pushback. It’s straight talk from one of the most trusted voices in environmental leadership.

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Astro Teller, Captain of Moonshots at X (Alphabet’s Moonshot Factory), joins the Scientista Podcast to talk about bold ideas, big failures, and why Pippi Longstocking is still his role model. From AI to innovation culture, Astro shares what it takes to lead with humility, audacity, and purpose—and how embracing failure might be the key to building a better future.

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Climate scientist and communicator Dr. Katharine Hayhoe joins the Scientista Podcast to break down the most powerful climate solution we have: our voice. In this episode, she shares how to make climate conversations more effective—and more human—by starting with what people already care about. From disinformation to hope, this is a must-listen for anyone who wants to talk about climate in a way that actually inspires change.

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What does a bright-red bird have to do with global conservation? For Patricia Zurita, Chief Strategy Officer at Conservation International, it was the Andean cock-of-the-rock that first sparked her passion for protecting nature. In this episode, Patricia shares how that pivotal moment in Ecuador’s cloud forests led her to a career at the intersection of economics, conservation, and global policy. She explains why biodiversity is critical to human survival, how we can create economic incentives for sustainability, and why protecting nature is ultimately about protecting people. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the power of nature, science, and smart policy to shape our future.

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How do we protect the climate policies that shape our future? Lora Snyder, former Staff Director for the House Natural Resources Committee, joins The Scientista Podcast to break down the fight for renewable energy, coastal restoration, and conservation policy. From defending the Inflation Reduction Act to countering fossil fuel interests, she shares what’s at stake in the push for true energy independence and why smart climate policy is critical for both the planet and the economy. Listen now for an inside look at how environmental policy is shaped—and why it matters more than ever.

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How does representation shape leadership? In this episode of The Scientista Podcast, Tamara Wilds Lawson, President & CEO of the Washington Area Women’s Foundation, shares how growing up around strong women in leadership shaped her path. From her family’s legacy of activism to her work advancing gender and racial equity, she discusses why visibility, community, and service are critical for driving change. Listen now for an inspiring conversation on leadership, representation, and building a more inclusive future.

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How do you stop the next pandemic before it starts? Dr. Nikki Romanik, former Deputy Director and Chief of Staff for the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness, has spent her career answering that question. In this episode of The Scientista Podcast, she takes us behind the scenes of pandemic response, from Ebola to COVID-19, and reveals what it will take to protect the world from the next outbreak.

From fighting misinformation to rebuilding public trust in science, Nikki breaks down the critical lessons we can’t afford to ignore. 

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What happens when the air your child breathes makes them sick? For Ebony Twilley Martin, it sparked a journey from concerned mother to climate justice leader. In this episode of The Scientista Podcast, the former Executive Director of Greenpeace USA shares how environmental racism, activism, and leadership intersect—and why frontline communities must be at the center of climate solutions.

From breaking barriers in the environmental movement to challenging the backlash against diversity and inclusion, Ebony brings a powerful perspective on what it takes to drive real change.

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Sherri Goodman: The Godmother of Climate and Security

Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a national security risk. In this episode of The Scientista Podcast, Sherri Goodman, the expert who coined the term “threat multiplier,” explains how climate-driven disasters are reshaping global defense strategies.

As a former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense, Goodman shares how the military is preparing for climate risks, why global alliances matter more than ever, and what it will take to build a safer, more resilient future.

If you care about security, climate action, or how science shapes policy, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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