What if the immune system plays a much bigger role in the brain than we ever imagined? In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Staci Bilbo, the Haley Family Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience and Interim Chair of Neurobiology at Duke University. We discuss her groundbreaking research in neuroimmunology, the discoveries that changed how scientists think about the brain, and her journey from a curious student to one of the world's leading neuroscientists. Dr. Bilbo also shares advice for aspiring researchers, the importance of asking bold questions, and what continues to inspire her work today.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about science, perseverance, and the power of curiosity.

What does it mean to truly think like a scientist?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I speak with Dr. Elizabeth Co, Senior Lecturer in Biology at Boston University, about her journey into science education and her passion for helping students build confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. We discuss the importance of creating inclusive learning environments, what makes a great teacher, and her advice for students pursuing careers in STEM and medicine.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Meena Iyer about her inspiring journey in STEM, the experiences that shaped her career, and the curiosity that continues to drive her work. We explored the importance of asking meaningful questions, embracing challenges, finding mentors, and building a career rooted in purpose. Dr. Iyer also shares thoughtful advice for students interested in research and offers an honest perspective on navigating both the opportunities and obstacles that come with a career in science. Whether you're an aspiring researcher or simply curious about the people behind scientific discovery, this conversation is filled with valuable insights and inspiration.

What does it take to turn a passion for science into a career dedicated to helping others?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Ms. Nerisha Pillay, an incoming medical student at the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine and a member of Women in Neuroscience. Nerisha shares her journey into medicine, the experiences that shaped her commitment to healthcare, and how mentorship, resilience, and curiosity continue to guide her path.

Together, they discuss finding purpose in STEM, preparing for medical school, overcoming challenges, the importance of representation in healthcare, and advice for students who dream of making an impact through medicine and neuroscience.

Whether you're a future physician, researcher, or simply exploring a career in STEM, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of leaders.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Melissa Herman, a neuroscientist dedicated to advancing our understanding of the brain while mentoring the next generation of researchers. We discuss her journey into neuroscience, what first inspired her to pursue scientific research, and the challenges and rewards of a career in STEM.

Dr. Herman also shares valuable advice for students interested in neuroscience, the importance of curiosity and resilience in research, and why mentorship plays such a vital role in scientific discovery. Whether you're considering a future in medicine, neuroscience, or research, this conversation offers meaningful insights and inspiration for aspiring scientists.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ms. Marissa Marquez, an emerging neuroscientist and member of the Bess Frost Lab community. In this episode, she shares her journey into neuroscience, the experiences that sparked her passion for research, and the importance of mentorship and community in science. We discuss what it's like to begin a career in neuroscience, lessons she's learned along the way, and her advice for students interested in STEM. Whether you're curious about brain science or looking for inspiration to pursue your own passions, this episode offers valuable insights into the next generation of researchers shaping the future.

What can rivers, groundwater, and city infrastructure teach us about the future of our planet? In this episode of Her Path to Success, we sit down with geoscientist and Ph.D. researcher Josiah Sananda to explore how environmental science, water quality, and urban ecosystems intersect with some of today's biggest global challenges. Josiah shares his journey into geoscience, the importance of interdisciplinary research, and how young scientists can make a meaningful impact through curiosity, fieldwork, and innovation. Whether you're interested in Earth science, sustainability, or STEM careers, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.

What drives our decisions? Why are some brains more vulnerable to addiction than others? And what does neuroscience teach us about resilience and behavior?

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Dr. Micky Marinelli shares her path from studying neuroscience in France to leading a research laboratory at UT Austin. We discuss dopamine, reward pathways, stress, addiction research, mentorship, and the importance of curiosity in science.

Whether you're interested in medicine, neuroscience, psychology, or biomedical research, this conversation offers an inside look at the questions scientists are working to answer—and the journey behind a career in discovery.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Okeanis Vaou, a neurologist, movement disorders specialist, and sleep medicine expert at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Vaou shares her journey into neurology, her passion for helping individuals with Parkinson's disease, and the exciting advances transforming patient care today.

We discuss the role of sleep in neurological health, how deep brain stimulation is changing lives, the importance of early diagnosis, and ongoing efforts to make Parkinson's research more inclusive and representative of diverse communities. Dr. Vaou also offers valuable advice for students interested in medicine, neuroscience, and clinical research.

Whether you are interested in neuroscience, healthcare, or stories of leadership in medicine, this conversation offers an inspiring look into the future of brain health and the people working to improve it.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia Gullapalli sits down with Lynn McBee, a biotech executive, education leader, and philanthropist whose work has transformed opportunities for students and communities across Texas. With a background in biochemistry and years of leadership in nonprofit organizations, workforce development, and STEM-focused education initiatives, Lynn shares how science, leadership, and service can intersect to create lasting impact. Together, they discuss the importance of empowering young women in STEM, building confidence as a leader, creating opportunities for underserved communities, and staying committed to meaningful change even when challenges arise. This conversation is filled with insights on leadership, resilience, and using your career to make a difference beyond yourself.