SC147: Day 31 Intent To Results STEMulating Conversations With Dr. Q podcast

43:43

In this STEMulating Conversations episode, hope dealer Mia McNeil, ESq., Tennessee State Director for AARP, joins us to unpack the truth behind the organization’s mission, the power of advocacy, and why aging is everyone’s issue. AARP isn’t just about senior discounts—it's shaping the future of healthcare, equity, and livable communities. Mia brings energy, insight, and truth as she dispels the common myths about AARP — it’s not just for "old folks," and it's not just about discounts. She shares how the organization champions critical issues like healthcare access, digital inclusion, and livable communities for all ages. We explore what AARP actually does—and why it matters for people of all ages, the importance of intergenerational collaboration and planning for the silvering generation, what professionals, entrepreneurs, and policymakers should consider in building inclusive futures. Listen in and get inspired to think bigger, plan smarter, and live with purpose—at any age.…

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SC160: Dr. Shanna Jackson-The Community College Catalyst 40:38

11 days ago40:38

40:38

Whether you are an educator, student, or aspiring leader, this STEMulating Conversation with Dr. Shanna Jackson, President of Nashville State Community College will leave you inspired by the power of selfless leadership and the transformative potential of community colleges. We explore how community colleges serve as powerful bridges to opportunity for students of all ages and generations. Dr. Jackson shares insights on the benefits of having a presence on multiple campuses across a seven county service area. She leads with purpose and is intentional about creating pathways and partnerships that not only expands access to higher education, but also prepares students to succeed in high-demand careers. Dr. Jackson also offers thoughtful reflections on the importance of finding the right fit in leadership roles, embracing work-life integration, and aligning personal values with professional purpose. She speaks candidly about how that alignment has shaped her path and enabled her to create meaningful impact in higher education.…

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SC159: Deanna Meador-Tech Tailoring the Future of Fashion 41:20

18 days ago41:20

41:20

In this episode, Deanna Meador shares her inspiring journey in launching Couture Technologies, a groundbreaking company redefining how we shop for clothes online. With a mission to solve one of e-commerce’s biggest challenges—fit and sizing—Deanna and her team have developed virtual try-on and 3D body modeling tools that personalize the online shopping experience. The result: happier customers, fewer returns, and a more sustainable retail ecosystem. Deanna is passionate about sharing her story to help others learn, grow, and take bold steps into the world of entrepreneurship. She reflects on how technology, fashion, and sustainability intersect, and how innovation can drive real-world impact. Outside of Couture, Deanna is a dedicated DIY enthusiast, especially when it comes to home renovations. Whether she’s designing tech solutions or remodeling a space, her creativity and hands-on approach shine through.…

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SC158: Missy Acosta's Smile Impact- Purpose Driven Leadership 42:16

25 days ago42:16

42:16

In this episode of the STEMulating Conversations, we welcome Missy Acosta, Senior Vice President of Brand Experience at Delta Dental of Tennessee. Missy is a a purpose-driven leader with a career rooted in storytelling, strategy, and service across several industries/ She shares how her belief in the power of a healthy smile goes far beyond oral health—it’s a tool for building confidence, From leading brand initiatives at Delta Dental to garnering Legislative support to address oral health in the State, to serving on nonprofit board , Missy discusses how she blends creativity with compassion, and why true leadership is about creating impact—and doing it with a smile. From early career influences to the leaders who challenged and uplifted her, Missy also acknowledges how mentorship has fueled her growth and deepened her commitment to leading with purpose.…

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SC157: Dr. Katherine Y. Brown- The CPR Lady Leading With a Lens of Resuscitation 37:05

5 weeks ago37:05

37:05

In this episode of STEMulating Conversations , we sit down with Dr. Katherine Y. Brown, affectionately known as The CPR Lady —a title earned not just from her passion for teaching lifesaving skills, but from a life committed to reviving potential in every form. From going door to door in her community to teach CPR, to leading efforts that breathe life into careers, organizations, and people, Dr. Brown has made “resuscitation” more than a medical term—it’s her mission. Whether she's saving lives, uplifting others, or reigniting purpose, she reminds us that revival is always possible. Join us for an inspiring conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the power of showing up—heartbeat by heartbeat. Dr. Brown is a passionate volunteer with the American Heart Association, having trained over 300,000 people internationally in CPR and wants to ensure that everyone is trained in this life saving technique. Learn more about Dr. Brown's CPR work by listening to her TEDx Talk…

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SC156: Speak with Bliss-Clear, Confident and Connected Communication 30:48

5 weeks ago30:48

30:48

In this episode, MiMi Bliss, owner of Bliss Communications emphasizes the importance of public speaking as a core competency—for all professionals at any level and in all fields. As a seasoned public speaking coach and former TV reporter, she teaches that the ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and authentically is a critical skill, not a “nice-to-have” soft skill. MiMi shares practical tips on structuring presentations, managing anxiety, and connecting with diverse audiences. She also discusses how effective communication can elevate careers, boost credibility, and foster collaboration across disciplines. Her advice is particularly aimed at helping technical experts translate complex ideas into accessible and engaging messages. Follow her on LinkedIn to view her microtraining videos on presentation preparation and public speaking.…

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SC155: Renowned STEM Storyteller Dr. Sibrina Collns- Educating to Inspire 36:23

7 weeks ago36:23

36:23

In this episode of STEMulating Conversations , we chat with the incredible Dr. Sibrina Collins — a chemist by training, a science educator by passion, and a natural-born storyteller. With a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry, Dr. Collins started out in the lab but soon realized her heart was in inspiring the next generation of scientists through education and outreach. A renowned STEM storyteller, Dr. Collins has carved out a unique path in academia — stepping away from traditional research roles to embrace administrative leadership. Her mission? To ignite a love for science in students from all backgrounds and to make STEM accessible, engaging, and inclusive. And here’s a fun twist — during the pandemic, Dr. Collins brought her lab skills into the kitchen and discovered a brand new hobby: baking! Tune in as she shares her journey from the lab bench to becoming a powerful advocate for science education, how storytelling can transform the way we teach science, and why following your passion can lead to the most meaningful impact. Learn more about Dr. Collins at SibrinaSpeaks.com…

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SC154: Dr. Terry Esper is Achievement in Motion--Scholar, Professor and Global Supply Chain Expert 50:34

8 weeks ago50:34

50:34

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Terry Esper, professor of logistics at The Ohio State University and a regular contributor to NPR, The Wall Street Journal, and Sirius XM. With a captivating mix of personal storytelling and professional insight, Dr. Esper walks us through his journey from the heart of Detroit to Philander Smith College (now University) a small HBCU in Arkansas to becoming a globally recognized expert in supply chain management. He shares how his early experiences shaped his curiosity about how goods move, how systems connect, and how supply chains impact everything from the economy to everyday life. Dr. Esper also breaks down why supply chain management is more relevant than ever and how it intersects with social equity, technology, and global trade. Whether you're a business professional, a student, or just curious about how the world works behind the scenes, this STEMulating conversation offers inspiration and perspective on the often-invisible systems that shape our lives.…

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SC153: Dr. Alfred Degrafinreid II is Connecting Leaders for a Stronger Tennessee 47:00

8 weeks ago47:00

47:00

In this week’s episode, we welcome Dr. Alfred Degrafinreid II, President and CEO of Leadership Tennessee, for a STEMulating conversation on the critical role of relationship building in effective leadership. Alfred discusses how bringing leaders together,especially when tackling tough issues, requires trust, empathy, and connection. A proud alumnus of Tennessee State University followed by a law degree and a doctorate, Alfred shares how a visit to the State Capitol as an undergraduate SGA leader sparked his passion for civic engagement and leadership at a statewide level. He recounts a powerful moment when one of the most successful businessmen in the country told him, “You have the most important job in Tennessee—you can do what even governors can’t.” That conversation continues to fuel his mission. As President and CEO of Leadership Tennessee, Alfred is committed to making the state #1 in every metric that matters. His passion is clear as he talks about the daily fulfillment he finds in working alongside diverse, dynamic leaders from across Tennessee. Tune in to hear how leadership, when grounded in relationships, can truly transform a state.…

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SC152a: BONUS -Leading Through the Loss of a Loved One 15:34

9 weeks ago15:34

15:34

This bonus conversation with Keith Conerly,is a testament to strength, vulnerability and an unwavering faith in God. He shares the heartbreaking yet heartfelt story of the sudden passing of his beloved wife of 32 years. He opens up about the loss, the grief, and the journey of navigating life without his lifelong partner. Keith reflects on the difficult questions that follow such a profound loss: How do you lead when your world has changed forever? When do you go back to work? How do you establish a new normal? Through his experience, he offers wisdom on resilience, the power of support systems, therapy, and the delicate balance of personal healing while carrying the weight of leadership.…

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SC152: Keith Conerly--A Corporate Leader Exemplifying What It Means to Put What Matters Most First 32:57

10 weeks ago32:57

32:57

In this episode, we have a STEMulating Conversaion with Keith Conerly, a Sr. Vice President at Compass Group USA . A chemist by training, he shares how his time at Jackson State University, an HBCU in Mississippi, and his volunteer and mentoring roles in NOBCChE shaped his leadership principles. Keith reflects on the invaluable lessons he learned during his college years—lessons that continue to guide his approach to leadership today. A firm believer in meeting people where they are, Keith emphasizes the importance of embracing the whole person in the workplace. He discusses how true leadership goes beyond professional skills, focusing on empathy, understanding, and personal growth. His leadership and mentoring philosophy is simple yet profound: If one person touches one other person, then everyone is eventually touched. Liisten in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, mentorship, and the power of human connection in driving success. Who are Keith's Chaotic Connections? Former President Barak Obama and NBA Legend Steph Curry.…

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SC 151: Season Six Trailer 2:40

14 weeks ago2:40

2:40

Season 6 of STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q

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SC 150: Do Your Best 12:23

3 years ago12:23

12:23

A parent recently asked me to give his sons advice and words of encouragement for the beginning of their college career. What I shared with them inspired this episode's message. Do Your Best Get Some Rest Leave the Nest

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SC149: Cheering Beyond Athletics to Champion Chemistry for All- Natalie LaFranzo, PhD 27:43

3 years ago27:43

27:43

What does it mean to be a "cheerchemist"? Are you a cheerleader? Are you a chemist? The answer to both question is YES. This week's guest, Natalie LaFranzo, PhD, has used her talents for inspiring others since her college days of cheering sports events at Bradley Univesrity. She began to transfer her skill of cheering into championing after receiveing her PhD and became more active in the American Chemical Society . She has held a range of leadership roles at all levels and is passionate about ensuring the chemical enterprse exeplifies the ACS core value of diversity,equity, inclusion, and respect. Her most recent accomplishment of being elected to the Society's Board of Directors will empower her to be an even greater Champion of Chemistry for ALL! Follow Natalie on Twitter: @CheerChemist Connect on LinkedIn: Natalie LaFranzo…

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SC148: Harold M. Love, Jr., PhD--From the State HBCU to the State Legislature 28:13

3 years ago28:13