GENZ in STEM

In this final episode of the Gen Z in STEM podcast, we take it back to the beginning by talking about civil engineering.  We reflect on our journey as civil engineering students in the Netherlands (University of Twente).

From late-night study sessions to learning to navigate Dutch culture, we get real about the highs, the lows, and everything in between. We share what drew us to civil engineering, how we adapted to studying abroad, and the most important lessons we’re taking with us as we close this chapter and look ahead to life after university.

Whether you're considering studying engineering internationally or just want an honest look into what it's really like to be a woman in STEM, this episode is a heartfelt wrap-up of our shared academic experience, filled with stories, laughter, and reflection.

In this episode, we sit down with Eugénie Pezé-Heidsieck, co-founder and CTO of Nūmi, the groundbreaking biotech startup transforming infant nutrition with in vitro breast milk. In this episode, Eugénie shares her entrepreneurial journey, the science behind Nūmi’s mission to provide a healthier alternative to traditional formula, and the unique challenges of leading a biotech company as a female founder balancing motherhood and innovation. The conversation explores the importance of support systems, self-care, and the drive to disrupt the industry for the better.

Nūmi’s pioneering work has recently earned major international recognition, including winning the prestigious €100,000 Grand Prize at the 2025 Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge and being featured in Forbes France’s 30 Under 30 list. Their cell-based breast milk technology is setting new standards in infant nutrition, with plans to launch in the US and reshape the future of early childhood health.

In this conversation, Carrie shares her unique journey from studying environmental policy and law to becoming co-CEO of Clue, a femtech startup. She discusses the importance of diverse backgrounds in the tech sector, particularly in understanding consumer needs and data privacy. Carrie emphasizes the challenges and lessons learned in leadership within a startup environment, the critical role of women in tech, and the future of investing in women's health through innovative data collection and analysis.

Biomimicry, the term you may not know yet but that will revolutionise the way you think. Biomimicry is a simple concept with a powerful message. We speak with Ayla Kiser, a biomimicry expert who has worked on incorporating biomimicry principles to products. We delve into the concept of biomimicry, exploring its definition, relevance, and applications in various industries. Ayla shares her journey in the field, and shares with you the importance of learning from nature to solve human challenges sustainably.

This episode helps you in your internship research journey. This is a bonus episode in time for the holidays. We feature a HR /recruiting expert ( Pascale Liroy) and two students ( Dina Karmous and Michelle Vaculik) who share their journeys and approach to help you on your own.

In this episode, we speak with Thais Rigolon, an agile expert with experience in both corporate and startup environments, especially in fintech. Thais is also involved with Mulheres de Produto, a community supporting women in product management. We explore how agile methodologies are driving change in Brazil's fintech sector and discuss the value of role models and community in professional environments.

In this episode, we sit down with Friederike Reissig, lead chemist at Greenlyte, a startup on a mission to decarbonize the atmosphere using cutting-edge technology. We explore how their breakthrough innovations capture CO2 and transform it into usable applications, the dynamic world of startups, and the unique challenges of leading in the green tech space. Friederike, who has researched advanced materials for sustainable energy, shares her journey from academia to industry, her experience leading an all-women team, and the importance of collaboration in addressing climate challenges. 

More and more startups are currently being created. Whether it's tech, finance, AI-related businesses, or others, individuals are stepping up and innovating. 
But what skills can you foster to successfully take on a business that will benefit others? And be able to bring solutions to problems. 
Today we’re talking with Lina Baquero.
Lina is from Colombia and started her first business in high school. She has also lived in Argentina and Panama. She is now studying two majors: Systems engineering and business administration. Today we talk about what it took to found Bakerini. The value of combining stem skills with social sciences such as business.
And how she’s applying finance as well as other skills to work on new ideas.