She+ Geeks Out Podcast

She+ Geeks Out

We interview brilliant humans who share their journeys, insights, and experiences. Each interview is with someone from the Good Humans Club. We bring you the voices of those from all walks of life to share with you what they geek out about-- their passions, talents, struggles, and successes. This doesn't mean that they're going to be tech talks (although they might be!). Each episode will feature the hosts and their guests talking about topics including health, psychology, art, music, learning, and more-- the list goes on. Episodes are fun and engaging and provide some nuggets of information that you can take away. Oh, and yeah, they might be awkward sometimes. That's just how we roll. read less
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Episodes

Navigating the Challenges of Women in Politics with She Should Run Founder Erin Loos Cutraro
Apr 17 2024
Navigating the Challenges of Women in Politics with She Should Run Founder Erin Loos Cutraro
In our latest episode, we interview Erin Loos Cutraro, the founder and CEO of She Should Run, a nonprofit dedicated to encouraging women to run for office - it’s so needed! Did you know that women still hold less than 30% of all elected offices across the federal, state, and local level, and the numbers are even lower when looking at women from underrepresented communities? Black women comprise less than 6% of officeholders in Congress, statewide elective executive offices, and state legislatures; only 7.9% of all women state legislators identify as Latina; and, roughly 0.23 percent of U.S elected officials identify as LGBTQIA+. Women are still less likely than men to have thought about running for office or to express interest in running for office in the future. Women are less likely to have opted into leadership roles from a young age. In fact, few of us– less than 2%– grow up with the dream to run for office one day. There’s lots of work to do!Before the interview, we chat about the movie American Fiction and how the Black American experience is portrayed in media. [00:02:22] Felicia and Rachel discuss the movie American Fiction.[00:10:50] Interview with Erin.[00:11:15] Origin story and childhood upbringing.[00:18:34] Challenges for women candidates.[00:22:42] Running for office aspirations.[00:23:46] Women in political roles.[00:29:35] Nonpartisan space and misconceptions.[00:33:13] Running for public office journey.[00:36:17] Women's surge after 2016 election.[00:41:17] A different political climate.[00:45:35] Overcoming political exhaustion and paralysis.[00:49:12] Finding women who aren't looking.[00:53:12] The importance of diverse opinions.[00:57:28] Future goals and hopes.[01:00:49] The opportunity in Gen Z. Links mentioned:https://sheshouldrun.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlooscutraro Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Women in Science From Antarctica to Mars with Judit Jimenez Sainz and Tiffany Vora
Apr 3 2024
Women in Science From Antarctica to Mars with Judit Jimenez Sainz and Tiffany Vora
In this episode of the She Geeks Out podcast, Felicia and Rachel interview two remarkable scientists who were part of the Homeward Bound expedition to Antarctica. Tiffany Vora is the Vice Chair of Digital Biology at Singularity University and a faculty member at EY Tech University. Dr. Judit Jimenez Sainz is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Valencia and University College London. They discuss their passions for mentorship, diversity, and translating cutting-edge science into practical solutions for societal advancement.[00:01:09] Women in STEM advancement.[00:04:36] Subverting the white savior trope.[00:07:59] The power of fictional characters.[00:12:23] STEM careers and Mars exploration.[00:15:31] Technology and healthcare advancements.[00:21:55] Future of cancer research.[00:24:07] Genetic testing and preventive surgery.[00:29:01] Space exploration benefits humanity.[00:32:45] Space community joy.[00:35:28] Women in STEM and Antarctica.[00:39:02] Mars simulation in high Canadian Arctic.[00:42:22] Women in Antarctica community.[00:46:49] Climate change and advocacy.[00:49:37] Transforming Doom and Gloom into Action.[00:56:09] Future plans and goals.[00:58:39] Future priorities in science.[01:01:31] Party and dancing passion.[01:03:50] New podcast merch available.Links mentioned:https://homewardboundprojects.com.au/https://tiffanyvora.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvora/https://jimenezsainzlab.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/juditjimenezsainz/https://www.teepublic.com/user/she-geeks-out Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Geeking Out about Space, Women in STEMM, Climate Change and more with Dr. Michaela Musilova
Mar 20 2024
Geeking Out about Space, Women in STEMM, Climate Change and more with Dr. Michaela Musilova
Dr. Michaela Musilova, an accomplished astrobiologist, author, and analog astronaut, joins the She Geeks Out podcast to discuss her mission of making science and climate change accessible to all. She shares insights from her space-related research and leadership roles, including being part of Homeward Bound Excursions empowering women in STEMM.  [00:00:16] Dr. Michaela Musilova, astrobiologist, author.[00:06:00] Importance of sharing pronouns.[00:09:42] Space dreams and inspiration.[00:13:36] Overcoming obstacles to study abroad.[00:15:00] Life on other planets.[00:21:35] Blackmailed out of grant.[00:23:11] Overcoming challenges and guilt.[00:26:57] Overcoming financial challenges in Hawaii.[00:32:31] Passion for astrobiology research.[00:36:06] Building settlements on Mars.[00:38:25] Space exploration and balance.[00:43:36] An impactful expedition experience.[00:44:29] Female leadership in STEM fields.[00:48:33] Pursuing Science and Technology[00:52:18] Creating your own path.[00:57:50] Geeking out about rocks.[09:23] Sign up for our mailing list. Links mentioned: Leading DEI Conversations program: https://bit.ly/49JosgNhttps://www.instagram.com/astro_michaelahttps://twitter.com/astro_michaelahttps://www.facebook.com/astroMichaelaMichaela’s Chuffed Funding Campaign: https://chuffed.org/project/astrosevensummits Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Navigating the Complexities of Real Estate, Wealth, and Power with Derek Lumpkins and Melony Swasey
Mar 6 2024
Navigating the Complexities of Real Estate, Wealth, and Power with Derek Lumpkins and Melony Swasey
Dive into the world of redlining and real estate with Derek Lumpkins and Melony Swasey, hosts of the Black Lining Forum podcast. Discover how they are reshaping narratives by centering black and brown perspectives on owning real estate. Learn about anti-racist practices to combat discriminatory practices like redlining. Also, celebrate Women's History Month and its focus on empowerment and resilience in the face of challenges.  [00:01:38] Women's History Month.[00:04:23] Gender evolution and inclusivity.[00:10:35] Community building and racial understanding.[00:14:35] Real estate as wealth pathway.[00:19:38] BIPOC professionals facing housing challenges.[00:21:38] Buying the Hood.[00:27:03] Homeownership and wealth building.[00:30:20] Tangible benefits of owning property.[00:33:06] Corporations vs. individuals in property ownership.[00:38:01] Community responsibility in real estate.[00:41:47] Market Rent Dilemma[00:45:18] Exploring new menu options.[00:49:07] Self-care in a capitalistic society.[00:52:57] Redlining and real estate wealth. Links Mentioned:Blacklining Forum podcastBlacklining Forum on YouTubeSGOLearning.comSheGeeksOut.com/podcast for code to get a free mini course@thedeluxchronicles@melony.swasey @goodbostonlivingRefreshstrategiestoday.com Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
The Real Cost of Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination with Emily Nix
Feb 21 2024
The Real Cost of Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination with Emily Nix
Join us for an important conversation about gender and  the workplace as we explore topics ranging from confirmation bias to gender-based violence and the subtleties of power gap relationships. Our guest is Emily Nix, Assistant Professor of Finance and Business at the USC Marshall School of Business and a labor economist who studies the economic impacts of violence against women, the gender income gap, inequality, and human capital accumulation. Her research and expertise have been featured in the Economist, the Guardian, the Financial Times, NPR, and more. We talk about her research on violence against women at work, the impact of Dobbs on job applications to companies offering abortion travel benefits, and more. We discuss her research on violence against women at work, the complexities of workplace romances, the impact of power dynamics on career trajectories, and the cultural reflections of these issues as portrayed in popular media. We also talk about reproductive rights in the US and their influence on businesses, the evolution of the field of economics, particularly in gender-focused research, and more!You can find Emily at https://sites.google.com/site/emilyenix/ and https://twitter.com/EmilyNix100 Episode Chapters:(0:00:06) - Navigating Confirmation Bias in the WorkplaceWe address confirmation bias in the workplace and offer insight on navigating bias from authority figures.(0:11:33) - Exploring Workplace Violence and Gender DynamicsEconomics and social issues intersect, examining gender inequality, violence, and harassment in the workplace and their economic impact.(0:17:26) - Power Gap Relationships in the WorkplacePower gap romances in the workplace, gendered dynamics, and potential impact on career advancement and earnings.(0:25:24) - Workplace Relationships and Gender DynamicsWorkplace relationships, retention effects, power dynamics, harassment, and cultural reflections are discussed in this chapter.(0:33:10) - Exploring Same-Sex Couples and Workplace DynamicsNature's dynamics of same-sex couples and workplace dating, using Finnish data to study violence against women and global relevance.(0:37:14) - Addressing Violence Against Women FindingsWorkplace violence, economic costs of rape, unemployment outcomes, gender dynamics, criminal justice, economic opportunities, and addressing violence against women.(0:47:08) - Impact of Reproductive Rights on BusinessesCorporate stances on political and social issues, gender, political polarization, and reproductive rights have repercussions on workplace culture and healthcare provision.(0:55:47) - Changing Economics and Gender LandscapeGoldin's work on gender economics aims to influence policy and improve outcomes for violence, harassment, and workplace issues.(1:00:55) - Geeking Out and Book vs Show DebateGeeking out over "Lessons in Chemistry," following Emily Nix on Twitter, and her focus on economics research. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Embracing Change with Sonia Karkare
Jan 24 2024
Embracing Change with Sonia Karkare
In today’s episode, we talk with the wonderful Sonia Karkare. Sonia is an adjunct professor and doctoral candidate at Kent University and an advisor to Kent State’s Women’s Center, the Empower School for Health, and the CyberPeace Institute. Her current priority is on gender equity, with a focus on the impact of challenging work environments on global immigrant women leaders.Navigating the professional world as an immigrant woman in tech comes with its unique set of challenges, a truth Sonia knows all too well. Her perspective enriches our discussion on adaptation and resilience, as we share related stories from our past. From the shock of a new culture to the thrill of breaking barriers in technology, Sonia highlights the power of curiosity and the courage it takes to claim your space in unfamiliar environments. These narratives underscore the importance of mentorship and the transformative potential of technology, not only in our professional lives but in our ongoing fight for gender equity.Before we speak with Sonia, we share some thoughts on Dr. Claudine Gay's resignation and how race, gender, and power dynamics in academia are tied to the current backlash to DEI, which we'll talk more about in our next episode!(0:00:06) - DEI Backlash and Power DynamicsDEI backlash, targeted attacks on female university presidents, and complexities of race and power dynamics in Dr. Claudine Gay's resignation from Harvard.(0:07:43) - Higher Ed Backlash & Gender EquityAcademic leaders' unpreparedness, elitism in higher education, media's role in shaping narratives, and contrasting reactions to DEI.(0:15:24) - Journey of a Multicultural CareerSonia's journey from Mumbai to tech entrepreneurship, navigating challenges, and exploring how embracing change led to a beautiful path of learning and supporting gender equity.(0:27:15) - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Identity DevelopmentOvercoming imposter syndrome, growth mindset, speaking up, and adapting in diverse environments as a woman of color.(0:37:32) - Navigating Challenges and Leading TeamsLeadership as a woman in a male-dominated environment, balancing professional demands and personal convictions, and mentoring the next generation.(0:45:08) - Impact on Immigrant Women LeadersGlobal immigrant women leaders in tech, challenges, and hopes, while discussing worthiness, support systems, and allyship.(1:00:33) - Use Technology for Successful TransformationsStrategic use of technology, change management, political buy-in, communication, and future work in gender equity and professional spaces.(1:07:41) - Grateful Conversations and Call to ActionEngaging dialogue with guest Sonia, gratitude for respectful conversation. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Challenging Inequality, Power, and Violence with Rachel Locke
Jan 10 2024
Challenging Inequality, Power, and Violence with Rachel Locke
We're diving into 2024 with Rachel Locke, the Director of the Violence, Inequality, and Power Lab at the Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego. She's here to untangle the connections between societal violence and inequality. It’s more important than ever, especially at the start of a wild election year.We tackle the challenges caused by the power plays that keep violence and unfairness going. We're not buying into simple stories – we know real solutions come from understanding the complicated mix of issues causing conflicts. Our talk reveals the tough reality of these problems and how the VIP Lab is committed to making real changes in a world that's loudly calling for reform.Finally, we shine a light on the difficulties women and women of color face in politics. The rise in harassment against public figures makes us wonder about where inclusive governance is headed. We discuss what recent studies say about how this kind of bullying challenges mental health and political involvement.(0:00:08) - Exploring Workplace Inclusion and Humanitarian WorkPersonal updates, Felicia’s purple hair, and an interview with Rachel Locke on her career journey and creating a better world. (0:08:13) - Exploring Violence, Inequality, and PowerNature's violence and inequality are intertwined, highlighting the importance of addressing power dynamics in the VIP Lab's interdisciplinary approach to applied research. (0:20:39) - Recognizing Complexity in Power DynamicsPower dynamics, complex issues, and binary thinking hinder social justice efforts in addressing violence and promoting change. (0:32:04) - Threats and Harassment Against Public OfficialsNature's alarming increase in threats and harassment towards local officials, particularly women and women of color, may undermine gender balance in political representation. (0:36:21) - Harassment's Impact on Officials' Mental HealthPublic officials face gender-based harassment and threats, cope with limited support, and find therapeutic value in sharing their struggles. (0:55:51) - Amplifying Voices and Embracing PossibilityNature's joy, partnerships for change, personal growth, and the upcoming election year's potential for our future. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Finding Your Soul Purpose with Jung Starrett
Dec 27 2023
Finding Your Soul Purpose with Jung Starrett
We can’t think of a better way to end the year than with a lovely conversation with Jung Starrett {https://www.soulcoleader.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/jungstarrett/}, a transformational leadership coach who traded in her legal suit for a soul suit. Her story shines a spotlight on why it’s so important to find joy in the work we all do. We talk about emotional intelligence, building and supporting trauma-informed spaces, and creating those magical "third spaces" where you can be you. Get ready to rethink your path and explore the soulful side of leadership!Before we dive in with Jung, we talk about the possibility of alien life here on Earth and what we’re seeing as trends in the DEI space for 2024.Episode Chapters:(0:00:06) - Workplace Inclusion and AI ImpactWe discuss the potential impact of AI on DEI, including inclusivity, diverse representation, and communication with whales.(0:08:08) - Leaders Embrace DEI for Attracting TalentDEI is critical in the workplace, impacting the Great Resignation and globalization, as discussed by leadership coach Jung Star.(0:20:19) - Discovering Desired Qualities in LifeIntention and letting go can manifest desires, as seen in a retreat's shell selection and finding a partner.(0:25:05) - Power of Like and Soul Co-JourneySoul Co's journey explores infusing soul into corporations, questioning traditional success and education, and developing inner capacities for effective leadership and change.(0:36:31) - Learning From the FutureTheoryU's transformative power in teaching Emotional Intelligence Skills, deep listening, and inner work for personal and societal regeneration.(0:45:01) - Creating Safe Spaces and Trauma HealingCreating a safe space for deep listening and presence, addressing trauma healing and its impact on our responses to disruption.(0:57:31) - Space & Community for Personal GrowthExploring the concept of a 'third space' for personal growth and the dynamics of working with a life partner in business. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Reimagining Inclusion with Mita Mallick
Oct 18 2023
Reimagining Inclusion with Mita Mallick
Ever wondered why inclusion matters in the workplace? Get ready for a transformative ride as we unleash a brand new season of She+ Geeks Out with Mita Mallick, Head of Inclusion, Equity, and Impact at CARTA and author of the new book Reimagining Inclusion! We unpack Mita's journey from feeling excluded during her formative years to becoming an influential leader, debunking prevalent myths that inhibit progress in creating a more inclusive workspace.Mita offers practical tips for creating a more inclusive workplace and debunks prevalent myths that stand in the way of progress. Listen in as we discuss everything from the complexities of allyship and the importance of sponsorship, to the potential of hybrid work driving inclusion, and the power of authentic apologies.Grab Mita's book, Reimagining Inclusion: Debunking 13 Myths to Transform Your WorkplaceFollow Mita and Dee C. Marshall's podcast, Brown Table TalkFind Mita on  LinkedInEpisode Breakdown:(0:00:07) - Season 4 Welcome and IntroductionWe discuss goals to make the world brighter, YouTube, darkness and pain, and self-care for balance.(0:03:34) - Inclusion and LeadershipMita Mallick shares her journey from exclusion to inclusion, offering practical tips and her book's success in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller lists.(0:11:27) - Navigating Discomfort and Inclusion in ConversationsMita shares experiences of exclusion, challenges to traditional leadership, and navigating conversations without answers.(0:18:09) - Navigating Allyship and Inclusion in CrisisWe discuss allyship complexities, tangible receipts, individual conversations, and joy to counter grief.(0:28:06) - Busting Myths and Reimagining InclusionWe bust meritocracy myths, explore remote-first companies, and discuss complexities of allyship.(0:35:16) - Hybrid Work and Importance of SponsorshipMita breaks down how hybrid work drives inclusion and why sponsorship is so important.(0:47:56) - Authentic Apologies and the State of DEIApologizing, admitting mistakes, allyship, DEI, and hybrid work discussed to drive inclusion. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Geeking Out with Luke Lennon
Aug 30 2023
Geeking Out with Luke Lennon
Learn more about Luke's work at https://www.joinnamesake.com/ and https://www.visiblehands.vc/!(0:00:08) - Remembering Sinéad O'Connor & Exploring StartupsWe close out the season discussing Shanae DeConnor's art and activism, and Luke Gleden's work investing in BIPOC entrepreneurs and helping trans people.(0:07:26) - Building With IntentionVisible Hands revolutionizes venture capital with values-based investments, family support, childcare, and the Visionaries Accelerator.(0:18:15) - Funding Changes and Namesake CollaborativeDarnell Moore shares insights on changing funding landscape, his company namesake streamlining identity management for transgender and non binary individuals, and the unique challenges they face.(0:29:41) - Concerns in LGBTQ+ Community About Bad ActorsVisible Hands simplifies the process of changing queer and trans names, while protecting against bad actors and considering the state of Pride Month.(0:35:28) - Boston's Challenges and OpportunitiesExploring brands, capitalism, queer/trans business owners, student influx, segregation, fragmentation, green space, luxury/accessibility.(0:42:08) - Ocean Sprite Cranberries and Self-Care DiscussionFelicia shares her love of learning, her internship, her passions, her rescues, and her self-care routine. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.
Geeking Out with Trish Fontanilla Part 2!
Aug 2 2023
Geeking Out with Trish Fontanilla Part 2!
If you'd like to watch us on video, we've finally done it! Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD1QHflnO1s&t=555s today! You can find Trish at https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishf/ and https://www.trishofalltrades.com/!(0:00:08) - AI's Future in Personal Branding (6 Minutes)We continue our conversation about community, personal branding, volunteering and more. We discuss the potential implications of AI technology, the potential for a gender-neutral voice for AI technology, and how the technology we use can affect how we hear ourselves and the world around us. We also discuss how different manufacturers can affect the sound of our hearing aids, and how our perception of ourselves and the world around us can change with new technology. Join us for part two of this conversation, now available on our YouTube channel at Shaking Sound. (0:06:23) - Starting a YouTube Channel, Hand Gestures (10 Minutes)We explore how shame can manifest differently in different cultures, like the Asian and Jewish cultures, and how shame can be passed down through generations. We reflect on our own experiences with shame, from our own parents to a traumatic language class experience. We discuss the importance of understanding our own experiences of shame, and how we can use it to our advantage. (0:15:57) - The Value of Workplace Community (5 Minutes)We discuss the role of community managers and the impact they can have, as well as the presence of virtual tools like Donut to help bridge the gap between employees. We also explore how different cultures manifest shame and how it can be passed down through generations. (0:20:30) - The Evolution of Niche Communities (9 Minutes)We examine the transition from Community Manager Appreciation Day to Community Manager Development Day and discuss the importance of investing in people in order to build social capital. We also consider how the pandemic has pushed people towards niche communities and the value of finding people with a range of shared experiences. Finally, we explore how shame can manifest differently in different cultures and how it can be passed down through generations. (0:29:19) - Personal Branding and Authenticity (9 Minutes)We examine how society, personal branding, and reclaiming our own identities shape our ideas of professionalism. We reflect on our experiences with hair straightening, curling, and the beauty of our natural texture. We explore the transition from Community Manager Appreciation Day to Community Manager Development Day, and the importance of investing in people through training and development. (0:38:03) - Podcasting Events, Personal Branding, and Volunteering (10 Minutes)We look at how AI technology can influence personal branding and the role of community managers. We transition from Community Manager Appreciation Day to Community Manager Development Day and how investing in people can help to build and strengthen communities. We explore the presence of shame in different cultures and how society, personal branding, and reclaiming our own identities can shape our ideas of professionalism. Lastly, we reflect on our own experiences with shame and how to move forward in spite of it. (0:48:29) - Volunteering and Filipino Community Engagement (8 Minutes)We can volunteer in many ways - from donating money to donating feminine products and coffee, to mentoring and talking to people. It is important to take mental health breaks at work, and we can use social media and other forms of communication to share the positive experiences we have volunteering. AI technology can influence personal branding, as well as the role of community managers. (0:56:55) - Obsession With Pie and Pie Preferences (13 Minutes)We explore the controversy of what constitutes a pie and how it can reveal a lot about someone's job. We discuss the potential for pies to be calzone-like desserts and the variety of pies around the world. We also discuss the importance of investing in people, the implications of AI technology, and the power of volunteering in our communities. We reflect on our own experiences with shame and how it can manifest differently in different cultures. Finally, we explore how society, personal branding, and reclaiming our own identities shape our ideas of professionalism. Visit us at https://shegeeksout.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out SGOLearning.com and SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.