

Inspiring Kids in STEM Podcast
Welcome to We STEM the Future’s podcast, Inspiring Kids in STEM, hosted by Ani Nishanian. We STEM the Future is committed to inspiring and educating young minds about the boundless opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This podcast features insightful interviews with professionals and innovators from various STEM fields, offering listeners a unique glimpse into real-world applications and exciting career paths. Ani’s mission is to break down barriers that often prevent children, regardless of their background, from exploring STEM, making these subjects approachable and engaging for everyone. By highlighting the critical role young people can play in solving today’s challenges and shaping tomorrow’s world, Inspiring Kids in STEM empowers its listeners to embrace their potential and pursue their passions in STEM, knowing that their contributions can truly make a difference
In this inspiring episode of the "Inspiring Kids in STEM" podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger—a former NASA astronaut, geologist, and passionate STEM educator. From teaching high school science to venturing beyond Earth as a Mission Specialist on the Space Shuttle Discovery, Dottie’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. She has contributed to scientific missions that deepened our understanding of the universe, and her firsthand experiences continue to fuel her dedication to inspiring future scientists, engineers, and explorers. Tune in as Dottie shares her unique perspective on how curiosity, resilience, and STEM can push the boundaries of what’s possible and motivate us all to reach for the stars.
Episode 8: Dorothy 'Dottie' Metcalf-Lindenburger
In Episode 7 of "Inspiring Kids in STEM," Ani Nishanian interviews Cristine Gollayan, a Senior Manager for Sony’s Global Information Security Department and a leading advocate for STEM and diversity. They explore her career in cybersecurity, her role in deploying programs across Sony’s global operations, and the impact of cybersecurity on protecting critical systems. Cristine shares her experiences in advancing women in technology and how STEM education can open doors to careers in tech. Through their discussion, Ani highlights how young innovators can contribute to the growing field of cybersecurity and create a more inclusive future in STEM.
Episode 7: Christine Gollayan
In Episode 6 of "Inspiring Kids in STEM," Ani Nishanian interviews Dr. Charles Becker, a renowned expert in economic demography and urban economics. They explore his research on social security forecasting, healthcare utilization, and poverty, discussing how economics intersects with STEM fields to address global challenges. Dr. Becker shares insights on how economic modeling and data analysis help shape policies that influence everything from healthcare access to education. Through their engaging conversation, Ani emphasizes the importance of understanding economic systems and how young innovators can use this knowledge to drive positive change in policy, development, and societal well-being.
Episode 6: Dr. Charles Becker
In Episode 5 of "Inspiring Kids in STEM," Ani Nishanian interviews Dr. David Joulfaian, an esteemed economist and expert in public finance. They delve into his extensive research on taxation, wealth transfer, and the critical role of economics in shaping public policy and societal well-being. Dr. Joulfaian shares insights on how STEM fields, particularly economics, influence government decisions, from budgeting to wealth distribution, and how these factors contribute to sustainable development. Through their engaging conversation, Ani highlights the importance of understanding economic systems and how young innovators can leverage this knowledge to make informed contributions to policy, finance, and societal progress.
Episode 5: Dr. David Joulfaian
Episode 4 of Ani Nishanian's podcast, "Inspiring Kids in STEM," features an insightful conversation with Dr. Anna Seferian, the Associate Dean of the School of Business at UMGC. In this episode, Ani and Dr. Seferian discuss the intersection of business and STEM, highlighting how innovation and entrepreneurship play key roles in advancing technology. Dr. Seferian shares her experiences in leadership, her passion for education, and the importance of embracing challenges to make an impact. She also offers valuable advice to young listeners on pursuing careers that merge science, technology, and business.
Episode 4: Dr. Anna Seferian
In the third episode of Inspiring Kids in STEM, Ani Nishanian interviews Brian Roy, an accomplished aviation and technology professional with over 2,000 flight hours and a rich career in both piloting and instruction. Brian, a 1992 graduate of U.S. Air Force pilot training, shares his journey from aviation to his current role as Program Director at General Dynamics Information Technology. He discusses how early exposure to STEM shaped his career, from mastering essential math and physics skills to applying aerodynamics and problem-solving in real-life flight scenarios. Brian emphasizes the importance of STEM in the evolving aviation world, offering advice for young aspiring aviators on key subjects. His insights into the role of technology, such as flight simulations and navigation systems, show how STEM advancements are critical to aviation's future. The episode is full of practical tips and motivational wisdom for students looking to explore aviation or any STEM field, highlighting the vast possibilities a strong STEM foundation can offer.
Episode 3: Brian Roy
In this episode of Inspiring Kids in STEM, Ani Nishanian has a meaningful conversation with Ms. Williams, an advanced academic teacher specializing in STEM education and recycling. Throughout the interview, Ms. Williams shares her journey in teaching and her passion for integrating environmental sustainability into the classroom. Ani and Ms. Williams explore the role of STEM education in tackling real-world issues like recycling and sustainability, demonstrating how educators can empower the next generation to make a positive impact. This episode not only highlights Ms. Williams' innovative approach to teaching but also inspires young listeners to engage with STEM and consider how they, too, can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Episode 2: Ms. Logan Williams
In the first episode of Inspiring Kids in STEM, Ani Nishanian sits down for an enlightening interview with Dr. Vipul Mondal, a leading expert in pain management and minimally invasive spine interventions. The conversation delves into Dr. Mondal's journey in the medical field, highlighting his dedication to advancing healthcare through innovative technologies. Ani and Dr. Mondal discuss the importance of STEM education in shaping the future of medicine, emphasizing how young minds can contribute to groundbreaking advancements. This episode not only showcases Dr. Mondal's inspiring career but also encourages young listeners to explore the intersection of science and healthcare, motivating them to consider how they can make a difference in the world through STEM.
Episode 1: Dr. Vipul Mangal
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“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
-Winston Churchill