In this episode, I talk with Jacqueline N. Tyes, CEO of Reach3E, about her inspiring journey from being an educator to becoming a CEO. We explore the transformative path she took and the impact she's making through her company.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jacqueline:

• What motivated you to transition from teaching to writing and starting Reach3E?
• How has your teaching experience influenced your work at Reach3E?
• What strategies does Reach3E use to promote diversity and equal access in education?
• Can you share the inspiration behind your children's book, "The Beauty of Black A to Z"?
• How has your blog, "The Encourager," helped empower your readers?
• What advice do you have for parents and educators to help children develop self-awareness and confidence?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About From Classroom to CEO: A Journey of Empowerment:

• Jacqueline's Background: Jacqueline N. Tyes is a Navy veteran and former educator with 17 years of experience teaching pre-K through eighth grade. She transitioned to writing and founded Reach3E to continue her passion for service and empowerment.
• The Birth of Reach3E: After retiring due to an injury, Jacqueline revisited her love for writing, creating a blog and co-authoring books. Reach3E (Enlighten, Encourage, Empower) was born from her desire to mentor and support children through various initiatives.
• Promoting Literacy and STEM: Jacqueline emphasizes the importance of literacy and STEM education, especially for girls, and shares strategies Reach3E uses to promote diversity and equal access.
• Overcoming Challenges: Jacqueline discusses how the loss of her mother motivated her to continue encouraging others and how personal challenges can be turned into opportunities for growth and connection.
• Empowering Through Writing: Jacqueline's book, "The Beauty of Black A to Z," aims to help children develop a positive self-image and a love for learning through fun and engaging content.
• Self-Awareness and Reflection: Jacqueline highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-awareness in personal development and how these practices can help individuals navigate life's challenges and build confidence.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with Wendy Coleman Blue, Career & Placement Coach for the Engineering and Technology Career Pathway at Thrive Scholars, about the future representation in STEM and career opportunities within this field.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Wendy Coleman Blue:

• How did you get started in your current role?
• What challenges do underrepresented students face in STEM education, and how can we address them?
• Are there any trends you see in the demand for STEM jobs, and what skills are needed to succeed in them?
• How can we increase representation of women and people of color in STEM fields?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About STEM Future Representation & STEM Careers:

• Wendy's Career Journey: Wendy shares her diverse career path, spanning from higher education to corporate America, and now in the nonprofit sector. Her experience in various fields provides her with a unique perspective on STEM education and career development.
• Challenges for Underrepresented Students: Wendy highlights the barriers faced by students from historically marginalized communities, including lack of access, exposure, and advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of community support and strategic coaching to help these students navigate their educational and career paths.
• Current Trends in STEM: Wendy discusses the growing interest in computing and the need for students to understand their motivations for choosing specific STEM disciplines. She stresses the importance of helping students articulate their ""why"" and the kinds of problems they are passionate about solving.
• Increasing Representation in STEM: Wendy introduces her ""Four E's"" strategy to increase diversity in STEM: Engage, Expose, Equip, and Explore. She explains how each step is crucial in supporting students' journeys and helping them envision their futures in STEM.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Tamuka Chidyausiku, Founder of STEAMulater LLC, about exploring citizen science and STEAM entrepreneurship.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Dr. Chidyausiku:

• How did you get started in what you are doing today?
• Who do you serve in your business?
• How does STEAMulater utilize art and pop culture to teach STEAM?
• How does STEAMulater promote diversity, equity, and inclusion?
• How does citizen science and research contribute to the mission of STEAMulater?
• What are some future goals for STEAMulater and its impact on the next generation of STEAM leaders?
• Can you share some success stories or notable outcomes from STEAMulater's programs, highlighting the impact they've had on participants' lives and careers?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Citizen Science and STEAM Entrepreneurship:

• Dr. Chidyausiku’s journey in STEM started at Claflin University, a historically black college in South Carolina. He realized the need for more black scientists and decided to focus on recruitment and retention in STEM fields.
• STEAMulater LLC targets young adults, 18 years and older, who are either interested in or already pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
• The company's programs, like "Hip Hop Biochemistry" and "STEAM Olympics," integrate art and pop culture with science education to make learning more engaging and accessible.
• Dr. Chidyausiku emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in STEM. He explains that diverse backgrounds and perspectives are crucial for innovative problem-solving and advancing scientific research.
• STEAMulater’s mission includes promoting DEI by providing tools and support for underrepresented groups to succeed in STEM fields. This involves creating new examples and methods of teaching that resonate with diverse communities.
• Citizen science and research are key components of STEAMulater’s approach. By involving ordinary citizens in scientific research, the company aims to democratize science and encourage more people to participate in solving real-world problems.
• Future goals for STEAMulater include expanding its reach and impact, particularly through collaborations with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other educational institutions. Dr. Chidyausiku envisions a world where more people from diverse backgrounds are actively engaged in STEAM fields and contributing to groundbreaking research and innovation.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with Kevin J DeBruin, Former NASA Rocket Scientist and Founder of SPACE CLASS, about the exciting intersection of space science and education.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kevin J DeBruin:

• How did you get started in what you are doing today?
• Who do you help in your business now and how?
• What was your journey and role like at NASA?
• What made you decide to transition from NASA to starting your own company?
• How do you explain complex science topics in a fun, easy-to-understand way?
• How do you balance your roles as an author, YouTuber, and TV host?
• How do you integrate fitness into your busy schedule?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About The Rocket Scientist Educator:

• Early Inspiration: Kevin's passion for space science began at age 10 after watching the movie "October Sky.”
• Path to NASA: His journey to NASA involved overcoming multiple rejections and obtaining a master's degree in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech.
• Role at NASA: As a systems engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Kevin worked on missions like the Europa Clipper, integrating complex spacecraft systems.
• Transition to Education: Kevin's love for educating others about space science led him to leave his dream job at NASA and start SPACE CLASS.
• Audience Engagement: Kevin tailors his educational content to various audiences, from young children to professionals, using analogies and relatable references.
• Entrepreneurial Drive: His decision to leave NASA was influenced by a desire for greater freedom, financial potential, and the ability to make a unique impact.
• Balancing Multiple Roles: Kevin emphasizes time management and self-discipline to juggle his various roles, ensuring fitness remains a foundational aspect of his routine.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with Apoorva Panidapu, a global speaker, researcher, and writer, about being a human calculator.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Apoorva Panidapu:

• How did you get started in what you are doing today?
• Can you elaborate on how you became known as the human calculator?
• What advice do you have for students who struggle with math and how can we make math more accessible and engaging for them?
• How can we address gender bias in early STEM education and encourage girls to pursue STEM careers? Can you share any personal experiences or success stories?
• What do you think are some of the biggest challenges Generation Z faces, especially in transitioning from school to college to the workplace? Are there specific skills they should focus on?
• What advice do you have for young people who aspire to make a difference in their communities and beyond?
• Can you share a mistake you made on your journey and what you learned from it?
• What is one thing people can start doing right away to get involved in STEM or improve their skills?
• Are there any tools or resources you recommend for those interested in STEM?
• How can people get in touch with you for more information or to stay updated on your work?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Being a Human Calculator:

• Early Start and Visibility: Apoorva's journey began at 12 years old when she appeared on NBC's Genius Junior, which gave her significant visibility and a platform to talk about gender bias in STEM.
• Becoming a Human Calculator: She earned the nickname due to her exceptional mental computation skills, learned through using the abacus, which helped her perform complex calculations quickly.
• Advice for Math Learners: Apoorva emphasizes making math relatable by connecting it with personal interests, like art or music, and encourages finding practical applications of mathematical concepts.
• Addressing Gender Bias in STEM: It's crucial to introduce young students to diverse role models and address unconscious biases early. Apoorva shares her own experiences of overcoming gender stereotypes and stresses the importance of visible representation.
• Generation Z Challenges: Gen Z seeks meaningful work and values personal connections, diversity, and environmental responsibility. They need to adapt quickly to new technologies and focus on continuous learning.
• Finding Hope and Curiosity: Apoorva highlights the importance of hope and curiosity, suggesting that young people should pursue their passions and remain

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with M-T Strickland, CEO of Metric Mate, about blending STEM with fitness innovation.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask M-T Strickland:

• Who do you help in your business now, and how?
• How did your early STEM experiences shape your career path, especially with your first business?
• What inspired your transition from corporate roles to founding Metric Mate, a fitness technology company?
• How did your mathematics and electrical engineering background influence the development of Metric Mate's innovative platform?
• Could you explain how Metric Mate's platform works to revolutionize fitness?
• In what ways do you envision Metric Mate contributing to the advancement of STEM education and opportunities for underrepresented individuals?
• How do you integrate giving back to STEM, like with the 21st Century STEM Foundation, into Metric Mate's mission?
• What was your biggest challenge when you started your career or that others made starting in this industry?
• What is the one thing people can start immediately if interested in being in your career?
• Are there any tools you provide that can help with that?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Blending STEM with Fitness Innovation:

• The meeting highlighted Lady T as the host and M-T Strickland, CEO of Metric Mate, as the guest. Strickland shared his journey from engineering to founding Metric Mate, focusing on data analytics and fitness technology. The company aims to revolutionize resistance training with personalized workout guidance using AI. Metric Mate collaborates with schools to introduce students to data analysis through real-life fitness applications, yielding positive results in promoting physical activity among students.
• Strickland discussed challenges in managing support systems during entrepreneurial pursuits, emphasizing the importance of balancing corporate jobs with entrepreneurship aspirations. He advocates for STEM education and supports underrepresented groups through initiatives like the 21st Century STEM Foundation. Despite challenges, Strickland continues promoting STEM education through Metric Mate's mission. To learn more about Metric Mate's innovative blend of science and fitness, individuals can engage with the company on social media or visit their website for technology-enhanced workouts tailored to diverse fitness levels.
• Metric Mate's approach integrates science and fitness through technology-enhanced workouts, offering personalized guidance for users of all fitness levels. The company's engage

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In This Episode, I talk with Danielle Lewis, CEO of HBCU STEM Education Run, and Miracle Sims, actress, author, entrepreneur, and CEO of Miracle Plays LLC, about Empowering STEM and STEAM futures.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Danielle Lewis and Miracle Sims:

• Why do you feel STEM is important for our kids?
• What advice can you give about the need for more representation in STEM?
• How do you engage the community through your organizations?
• What memorable moments have you had that highlight the impact of your work in STEM and STEAM?
• What advice would you give to young girls and underrepresented youth to encourage them to pursue STEM and STEAM careers?
• What tools and resources do you provide to support STEM and STEAM education?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Empowering STEM and STEAM Futures:

• Importance of Early Exposure to STEM**: Danielle Lewis highlights how early exposure to STEM can shape children's interests and career paths, sharing her personal journey influenced by her mother's engineering background.
• Representation in STEM**: Both guests stress the need for diverse representation in STEM fields. Diverse perspectives lead to better problem-solving and innovation.
• Community Engagement**: Danielle discusses the various fitness events and educational programs hosted by HBCU STEM Education Run, aimed at promoting health, wealth, and education in the Black community.
• Combining Faith and Science**: Miracle Sims shares how she integrates faith and science in her work, particularly through her character, Madam Miraculous, in educational events at her church.
• Advice for Young Aspirants**: The guests encourage young people to pursue their dreams despite potential discouragement and to seek out clubs, programs, and resources that can help them develop their interests in STEM and STEAM.
• Tools and Resources Provided**: Danielle and Miracle offer various resources, including scholarships, live events, educational programs, and children's books to support and inspire the next generation of STEM and STEAM professionals.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.

In this episode, I talk with our guests Naomi Meredith, Dr. DJ Cass, Dr. Christopher Robles, Lorraine Zajac, Jeff Perry, Lucy Schwarzenberg, and LJ Henderson. Each brings a unique perspective on STEM education and innovation, sharing their passion and expertise.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Our Guests:

• How did you first become interested in STEM, and why do you believe it's important for students?
• What role do you see STEM playing in shaping future careers and industries?
• How can we encourage more diversity and representation in STEM fields?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About STEM:

• Naomi Meredith emphasizes the importance of early STEM education and its impact on developing critical thinking and creativity in children.
• Dr. DJ Cass discusses USC's STEM programs aimed at empowering underrepresented students in STEM fields.
• Dr. Christopher Robles highlights the significance of mathematics in overcoming barriers to STEM careers.
• Lorraine Zajac shares her passion for introducing children to 3D modeling and printing, fostering problem-solving skills at a young age.
• - Jeff Perry delves into engineering leadership and the importance of purpose-driven careers in STEM.
• Lucy Schwarzenberg advocates for girls' participation in STEM through Nerd Girl News, inspiring young women to pursue STEM courses and careers.
• LJ Henderson, as the Gem of STEM, pioneers early STEM education strategies, aiming to build a solid foundation for future STEM leaders.

About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.