Shows
Science WiseSeason Two Wrap-Up: Your questions, bold answersDESCRIPTION: Wrapping up Season 2, Drs. Rori Rohlfs and Emilia Huerta-Sanchez return with a special twist: this episode is driven by your questions—and answered by the inspiring scientists we’ve featured all season.This finale isn’t just a look back—it’s a conversation shaped by curiosity. With insights from guests like Dr. Joann Trejo, Dr. Lisa White, Dr. Maria Orive, and more, Rori and Emilia dive into what it takes to thrive in science. They go beyond the lab, from missed opportunities and navigating stereotypes to building resilience and finding unexpected breakthroughs.A big tha...2025-06-0326 minScience WiseHow to Survive Science When You Can’t Know EverythingEmilia and Rori sit in-studio with Dr. Anne Stone to discuss how scientists can succeed without having all the answers. They share three big takeaways—from handling disagreements in research, to choosing the right path for your work, and why coding skills still matter. It’s helpful advice for scientists at any stage of their career.EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:39 – Lesson 1: Resolving disagreement by citing authoritative sources 02:21 – Lesson 2: Balancing interest, opportunity, and strategy in research choices 03:44 – Lesson 3: Why every scientist should learn to code — even if you won’t master itCREDITS: This...2025-05-2705 minScience WiseIntegrating Genetics and Anthropology with Dr. Anne StoneDESCRIPTION:Dr. Anne Stone joins Emilia and Rori for an in-person conversation, sharing her journey into the world of ancient DNA and human evolution. Dr. Anne, a Regents Professor at Arizona State University, shares how her childhood curiosity led to a career studying ancient DNA and human evolution. Dr. Stone reflects on her early life, time studying in Germany, and education at Penn State. She talks about her research on ancient diseases like tuberculosis, her work in forensic genetics, and the challenges she faced along the way.EPISODE CHAPTERS:02:10 – Early life and family2025-05-2035 minScience WiseHow to Seek Knowledge and Adventure In Science WorkRori and Emilia discuss key lessons from their conversation with Dr. Dawn Wright, an accomplished oceanographer known for her remarkable achievements and approachable demeanor. They delve into the importance of being open to new experiences, seeking regular feedback from advisors, and staying flexible with one's career path. They also reflect on Dr. Wright's bold decisions, such as leaving tenure, and her enthusiasm for sharing science with the world.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:31 Lesson 1: Embrace New Experiences01:45 Family Influence and Inspiration02:42 Personal Reflections and Support04:02 Lesson 2: Seek Regular Feedback05:46 Dr...2025-05-1310 minScience WiseCharting New Territories with Oceanographer Dr. Dawn WrightEmilia and Rori chat with Dr. Dawn Wright, Chief Scientist of Esri and former faculty at Oregon State University, about her incredible journey in marine geology. Dr. Wright shares her experiences growing up under the influence of an ambitious mother, her challenges and milestones in academia, and her groundbreaking research adventures. Her stories encapsulate her dive into the Challenger Deep, overcoming academic obstacles, and exemplary mentorship. Dr. Wright also discusses self-care and balancing personal and professional ambitions.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:26 Meet Dr. Dawn Wright: Marine Geologist Extraordinaire01:52 Dr. Wright’s Early Life and Influences...2025-05-0635 minScience WiseHow to challenge harassment and set firm boundariesNote: This episode includes discussions on sexual harassment.Join Rori and Emilia as they discuss key insights from their interview with Dr. Pilar Ossorio. They focus on her strategies for dealing with harassment and her bold career change from molecular biology to bioethics. Pilar's proactive approach to harassment and her career shift offer key lessons. They also discuss her important work on race and ethnicity in scientific research, showing how these categories can vary depending on context.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:32 Confronting Harassment: Dr. Pilar Ossorio's Strategy03:07 Lessons on Handling Harassment04:12...2025-04-2909 minScience WiseLeading Change with Resilience with Dr. Pilar OssorioNote: This episode includes discussions on sexual harassment.Hosts Rori and Emilia talk with Dr. Pilar Ossorio, a University of Wisconsin Madison law professor, to dive into her unique journey through human genetics, law, and bioethics. Dr. Ossorio, also a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, opens up about growing up in an academic and diverse family, overcoming misogyny and prejudice, and her shift from microbiology to law. She shares her work on major genetic projects like the 1000 Genomes Project, her advocacy against sexual harassment, and her contributions to bioethics. EPISODE...2025-04-2240 minScience WiseHow to Manage Service Without Sacrificing ResearchEmilia & Rori reflect on Dr. Wakimoto’s journey—from science fairs to academic service—discussing the impact of first authorship, challenges for first-gen students, and the importance of protecting students' time.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:38 Lessons on protecting the environment01:35 The importance of first authorship05:49 Reflecting on academic service09:21 Discussing Dr. Wakimoto’s thoughts on retirementCREDITS: This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Smith Production Coordinator, Marissa Alcantar. The hosts of Science Wise are Emilia Huerta-Sanchez and Rori Rohlfs. This is a Diferente Creative production.2025-04-1510 minScience WiseCultivating Curiosity with Dr. Barbara WakimotoRori and Emilia chat with Dr. Barbara Wakimoto, geneticist, and Professor Emerita at the University of Washington. Dr. Wakimoto shares her journey from growing up on an Arizona farm to becoming a leader in genetics, her family’s World War II internment experience, and her pioneering work on heterochromatin.EPISODE CHAPTERS:02:03 Dr. Wakimoto's Early Life and Family Background22:17 Diving into the Science24:58 Building a Supportive Lab Environment25:27 The Journey to Tenure29:17 Balancing Service and Research39:03 Reflections on Retirement40:31 Revise and Resubmit: Career Reflections...2025-04-0843 minScience WiseHow to Build Strength and Community in STEMListen in as the hosts explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Mary Jo Ondrechen, a trailblazing gay two-spirit computational chemist, whose career spans from the post-Stonewall era of the 1970s to today. The hosts delve into Dr. Ondrechen’s innovative approaches to building connections in a challenging and often hostile environment. They also discuss the detrimental effects of poor leadership on both morale and progress, and the critical importance of resilience, self-belief, and finding alternative paths during difficult times. The episode highlights the power of community, meaningful connections, and knowledge sharing in overcoming adversity and achieving success.EP...2025-04-0107 minScience WiseFrom Childhood Curiosity to Bioinformatics Breakthroughs with Dr. Mary Jo OndrechenHosts Rory Rohlfs and Emilia Huerta-Sanchez chat with Dr. Mary Jo Ondrechen, a leading computational chemist known for her work on predicting protein functions and designing machine learning software. They talk about her contributions to helping Indigenous scientists, her love for science from an early age, and the mentors who made a difference in her career. Dr. Ondrechen also shares what it’s like being an openly gay, two-spirit scientist and reflects on her career journey, the importance of mentorship, and her work to make science more inclusive for future generations.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:29 Meet Dr. Ma...2025-03-2534 minScience WiseHow to Steer Your Career with the Help of MentorsEmilia and Rory discuss Dr. Joann Trejo's inspiring journey from fixing bikes in Stockton to becoming a UC Berkeley professor. They explore the pivotal role of mentorship in her life, from a vice principal to academic mentors, and share key insights on starting small, building infrastructure and balancing service with research. EPISODE CHAPTERS:02:36 Building Mentorships: Reaching Out and Making Connections05:11 Personal Mentorship Stories: Emilia and Rory Share06:48 Starting Small: Lessons from Dr. Joann Trejo11:31 Balancing Service and Science: Strategies and Challenges14:45 Gratitude and Farewell: Appreciating Dr. Joann...2025-03-1815 minScience WiseScrappy science: From patching bike tires to cell signaling with Dr Joann TrejoEmilia and Rori chat with Dr. Joann Trejo, a daughter of Mexican migrant farm workers who blossomed into a respected pharmacology professor at UC San Diego. Dr. Trejo shares how thinking beyond the lab helped her reach her goals and grow in biomedical research. EPISODE CHAPERS:02:52 Dr. Trejo's Early Life and Family Background06:34 Educational Journey and Early Influences10:26 College and Early Research Experiences19:43 Pursuing a Faculty Position23:07 Balancing Academia and Mentorship24:41 Facing Bias and Discrimination25:43 Why some scientists should get an MBA...2025-03-1138 minScience WiseHow to turn field [mis]adventures into life lessonsEmilia and Rori share the biggest lessons gained from their conversation with Dr. Lisa White, such as learning to filter advice and prioritizing student well-being and safety during fieldwork. EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:57 Lessons from Dr. Lisa White: New Eyes in Science02:31 Mentorship and Belonging in Geology04:10 Navigating Advice and Personal Filters06:09 Field Work Challenges and Emotional SafetyCREDITS: This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Smith Production Coordinator, Marissa Alcantar. The hosts of Science Wise are Emilia Huerta-Sanchez and Rori Rohlfs. Special thanks to Dr. Lisa W...2025-03-0410 minScience WiseUnearthing Scientific Change with Dr. Lisa WhiteRori and Emilia speak with Dr. Lisa White, a multidisciplinary scientist in paleontology, oceanography, and geology about her inspiring journey from growing up in diverse San Francisco to shifting her focus from art and photography to geoscience.She discusses the challenges and triumphs she faced in a predominantly homogeneous field, her extensive research, and her role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. Despite facing racism and misogyny, Dr. White remains committed to her passion for geology and advocates for environmental justice while inspiring the next generation of diverse scientists.EPISODE CHAPTERS:02:35...2025-02-2541 minScience WiseHow to Lead with Purpose & EmpathyRori and Emilia hash out their interview with Dr. Maria Orive, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned from her experiences. Like the struggle for work/life balance, the critical role of supportive peers, and the undeniable importance of hard work over natural talent.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:44 Lesson 1: Basic Needs03:04 Lesson 2: Peer Inspiration05:26 Lesson 3: Hard Work Over Natural TalentCREDITS: This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Smith. Production Coordinator, Marissa Alcantar. The hosts of Science Wise are Rori Rohlfs and Emilia Huerta-Sanchez. Special thanks to Dr. Maria Orive. This...2025-02-1808 minScience WiseLeveraging personal experience to reimagine academic culture with Dr. Maria OriveEmilia and Rori speak with Dr. Maria Orive from the University of Kansas, who shares her journey as a Cuban American who became a renowned population geneticist. She discusses growing up in a Cuban American community in Olympia, Washington, and her academic journey through Stanford and UC Berkeley, including the challenges she faced. As an associate dean and fellow at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Dr. Orive highlights the significance of mentorship, the importance of resilience, and the balance between work and personal life in academia.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Science Wise...2025-02-1140 minScience WiseLIVE Episode - Creating a Feminist Scientific Institute with the faculty of LIIGHIn this special live recording of Science Wise, hosts Rori and Emilia sit-down in Juriquilla, Mexico with the founding faculty of LIIGH (Laboratorio Internacional de Investigación sobre el Genoma Humano), to discuss the lab's groundbreaking origins, remarkable achievements, and impressive collaborations among its founding faculty (all women), which have helped propel the lab to international recognition and growth. Special thanks to Dr. Alejandra Medina Rivera, Dr. Lucia Morales, Dr. Daniela Robles-Espinoza, Dr. Maria Avila Arcos. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:26 The inspiration behind Science Wise02:36 Introducing LIIGH04:14 Highlighting LIIGH's Founding Faculty05:11 D...2025-01-1248 min
Science WiseSeason wrap-up: Putting lessons into practiceRori and Emilia reflect on conversations they had with their brilliant guests this season, such as the invaluable lessons learned from their experiences, and the personal impact these stories have had on their own lives.The episode also answers listener questions and touches on the universal challenges faced by women in science and the strategies that their guests used to overcome them.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:20 Diverse Paths to Science: Personal Stories and Inspirations02:34 Life Lessons from Science: Integrating Family, Managing Stress, and EmbracingChange08:24 Listener...2024-05-2719 min
Science WiseHow to be bold and gracefully assertiveEmilia and Rori reflect on their insightful conversation with Dr. Fatimah Jackson, her admirable balance of family and career, her resilience in facing challenges, and her boldness in making life-changing decisions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:47 Lessons from Dr. Fatimah Jackson01:02 Lesson One: The Power of a Grounded Scientific Mission03:11 Lesson Two: Balancing Sacrifice and Ease in a Scientific Career06:14 Lesson Three: Bold Moves and Graceful Assertions09:51 Reflecting on Dr. Fatimah Jackson's Impact and Closing ThoughtsCREDITS: This episode i...2024-05-2010 min
Science WiseUncovering Human Evolutionary Truths with Dr. Fatimah JacksonEmilia and Rori, host Dr. Fatimah Jackson, covering her groundbreaking journey as an African American woman in science, her significant contributions to understanding genetic variation in Black populations, and her challenges and triumphs in academia. Jackson shares insights from her early life, her exploration of human biology stirred by personal experience and cultural heritage, and her academic career path that led her from Cornell University to Howard University. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:56 Dr. Jackson's Early Life and Influences03:59 From Tight Jeans to Biological Anthropology06:06 The Journey to C...2024-05-1342 min
Science WiseHow to think critically about your careerRori and Emilia discuss their takeaways from their conversation with Dr. Maria ElenaZavala. They highlight the importance of drawing lessons and inspiration from one's family, thevalue of mentors beyond shared identities, and the necessity of diverse mentorship types. Theconversation also covers personal growth through mentorship, both as mentors and mentees,and the impact of community and support networks in academic and scientific careers.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:21 Lesson One: Drawing Inspiration from Family03:15 Lesson Two: The Importance of Trust and Rapport...2024-05-0613 min
Science WiseTransformative mentoring and mentee-ing with Dr MariaElena ZavalaRori and Emilia engage in an enlightening conversation with the remarkable Dr. MariaElena Zavala, a pioneering plant developmental biologist, and the first Latina to receivea PhD from UC Berkeley's botany department. Dr. Zavala shares insights into her earlyfascination with plants, and navigates through her educational and professional path,revealing the challenges and triumphs of being a woman of color in science. Dr. Zavalaalso delves into her impactful work in mentoring and amplifying the participation ofunderrepresented groups in STEM fields, which has earned...2024-04-2930 min
Science WiseHow to build diverse supportive relationshipsEmilia and Rori highlight their main takeaways from their conversation with Dr. Sue Rosser. Such as the importance of building relationships with those who share your identity, setting ambitious goals, and seeking mentorship during career transitions. Dr. Rosser's story is a powerful example of overcoming adversity and making significant contributions to feminism and academia.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:43 Life of Dr. Sue Rosser00:58 Lesson One: The Power of Shared Experiences02:04 Lesson Two: The Courage to Demand Recognition05:29 Lesson Three: Embracing Big Ambitions and Necessity07:27 Lesson Four...2024-04-2211 min
Science WiseBreaking the Mold: Dr. Sue Rosser's STEM RevolutionRori and Emilia engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Sue Rosser, a pioneering figure for women in STEM. Having started her career in the 1960s, Dr. Rosser has made significant contributions through her research in zoology, studies on the experiences of women in STEM, and her advocacy for feminist principles within these fields. Dr. Rosser discusses the challenges she faced, including sexual harassment and the struggle for recognition in academic publishing. The discussion also touches on her experiences as a lesbian in academia, and her thoughts on the current state and future of women in STEM.2024-04-1538 min
Science WiseHow to be an intuitive mathematicianRori and Emilia discuss their take-home lessons from Dr. Ivelisse Rubio such as the importance of focus and dedication in research, the value of critical thinking and mathematical logic in navigating life, and the necessity of sustainability in academic and scientific efforts.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:04:45 The Power of Mathematical Thinking in Life06:11 Learning to Avoid Burnout: Ive’s Organizational Challenges07:50 Sustainable Models for Academic Programs09:07 Reflections and Gratitude: Wrapping Up the EpisodeCREDITS: This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Sm...2024-04-0808 min
Science WiseBuilding Bridges in Mathematics, with Dr Ivelisse RubioEmilia and Rori chat with Dr. Ivelisse Rubio, a professor of mathematics and computer science at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, about her impactful educational initiatives, and her significant contributions to promoting diversity in the mathematical sciences. Highlighting Dr. Rubio's academic journey, from her undergraduate studies in Puerto Rico to her Ph.D. at Cornell University, and her passion for creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in mathematics. The episode also touches on the importance of mathematical thinking in everyday life.02:08 From Puerto Rico to Cornell: Dr. Rubio's Academic Journey10:27 Creating...2024-04-0127 min
Science WiseHow to transform adversity into resistance capitalBONUS: Emilia and Rori summarize their engaging conversation with Dr. Leticia Marquez Magaña, inspired by her experiences with adversity and lack of mentorship. They reflect on her strategies for navigating and enacting change within academic systems and building resistance capital, drawing from Dr. Marquez Magaña's realizations and changes she'd make in hindsight.EDPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:10 Reflecting on Dr. Leticia Marquez Magaña's Inspirational Journey00:43 Navigating Challenges and Learning from Adversity00:57 The Power of Mentorship and Advocacy02:47 Understanding Institutional Dynamics and Advocating for Cha...2024-03-2510 min
Science WiseThe pressure and power of being first, with Dr Leticia Márquez-MagañaDr. Leticia Marquez-Magaña, a trailblazer in the science community shares her inspiring journey from being the first in her family to attend college to becoming the first Latina faculty member in the Department of Biology at San Francisco State University. Dr. Marquez-Magaña discusses her transition from microbiology to research on health equities, her efforts to make biomedical research more inclusive, and the challenges and strategies she's encountered in advocating for diversity in science. We delve into her upbringing, family life, and the motivations behind her career shift. It highlights the importance of representation, mentorship, and resilience in fa...2024-03-1834 min
Science WiseHow to seize the right opportunities for our goalsBONUS EPISODE. Rori and Emilia summarize the inspiring journey of Dr. Francine Gachupin and explore key takeaways from her career, such as the importance of understanding one's goals and leveraging opportunities.00:00 Introduction and Admiration for Francine00:05 Francine's Patience and Dedication to Tribal Communities00:44 Reflections and Lessons from Francine's Journey02:10 Francine's Approach to Opportunities and Challenges03:24 Francine's Resilience and Adaptability in Academia05:37 The Impact of Francine's Upbringing on Her Career07:10 Personal Reflections: Emilia's Experience as an Immigrant09:08 Personal Reflections: Rori's Experience...2024-03-1110 min
Science WiseHealth Equities Research. With Dr. Francine GachupinIn this episode of Science Wise, hosts Rori and Emilia interviewed Dr. Francine Gachupin, a professor at the University of Arizona who advocates for health improvement in tribal communities. Influenced by her upbringing and work experience, Dr. Gachupin discusses the struggles she faced navigating academia as an Indigenous scientist, and her efforts to make the world of science more inviting for women and Indigenous communities. With a focus on chronic disease prevention in tribal communities and the protection of subjects in American Indian research, Dr. Gachupin urges NIH and other institutions to respect, appreciate, and understand the importance of...2024-03-0440 min
Science WiseHow to create a more supportive environment in academiaBONUS EPISODE - Emilia and Rori summarize their three biggest takeaways from episode two with Dr. Carmen Domingo. Among them, the importance of a supportive environment in the field of science, and the pivotal role that nurturing relationships and collaborative efforts play towards success. This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Smith. Sound Engineering by Keagan Stromberg. Production Coordinator, Marissa Alcantar. A Diferente Creative production.2024-02-2610 min
Science WiseIntegrating science to fit your life with, Dr. Carmen DomingoIn this episode of Science Wise, hosts Rori and Emilia have an enriching conversation with Dr. Carmen Domingo, the first woman dean of the College of Science and Engineering at San Francisco State University. Dr. Domingo, a product of Californian public schools and a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of California, Berkeley, highlights her experiences and struggles as Latina in science. Drawing from her personal journey, she emphasizes on creating an inclusive scientific environment that fosters growth and personal understanding. Dr. Domingo elaborates on her philosophy of prioritizing student welfare and value-based decision-making, while also...2024-02-1933 min
Science WiseWhat if we had science fairy godmothers?Welcome to Science Wise! In this episode Emilia and Rori share their personal science journeys, and what you can expect to get out of this podcast. They also emphasize the value of mentorship, sharing wisdom and experiences to aid others in navigating their own career paths, kinda like having science godmothers.Science Wise is a podcast designed to inspire and guide people embarking on a science career. Hosted by Emilia Huerta Sanchez, Associate Professor of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology at Brown University, and Rori Rohlfs, Associate Professor of Data Science at the University...2024-02-1217 min
Science WiseWelcome to Science Wise!A quick listen to help you understand what Science Wise is and why you should listen. 2023-10-2601 min
Under the Radar PodcastMore Than A Footnote: Uncovering The Contributions Of Women In STEMTwo dozen senators ask for temporary protective status for Venezuelans in the U.S. Can a Latino-oriented campaign for 2020 work in Julian Castro’s favor? And Netflix closes the curtain on Cuban-American family sitcom “One Day at a Time.”
Guests:
Julio Ricardo Varela — Co-host of the “In The Thick” podcast, Latino USA contributor and founder of Latino Rebels.
Maria Cramer — Reporter at The Boston Globe.
Later in the show…
From Rosalind Franklin, whose work led to the discovery of the DNA double-helix, to Katherine Johnson, whose math skills were critical to the...2019-03-2457 min
STEM Fatale PodcastEpisode 029 - Jane Cooke Wright | Oncologist & SurgeonAlternate Title: The Fairy Godmother of Chemotherapy
Emlyn tells Emma about the revolutionary oncologist and surgeon who contributed immensely to chemotherapy, Dr. Jane Cooke Wright, and Emma tells Emlyn about the hidden female figures behind population genetics!
PLEASE FILL OUT THE SURVEY: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwuYfCujp_voMx1I37E4MB1Tk_UbncK6z8Khn4DC683fV-3A/viewform?usp=sf_link
Sources
Main Story - Jane Cooke Wright
“WOMEN IN SCIENCE: JANE C. WRIGHT REVOLUTIONIZED CANCER RESEARCH (1919-2013)” by Dr. Ellen Elliot. https://www.jax.or...2019-02-1846 min