Her Path to Success

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Dr. Ximena Bernal, a leading behavioral ecologist whose groundbreaking work uncovers the complex communication, survival strategies, and ecological interactions of animals in their natural environments. Known internationally for her research on predator–prey dynamics and acoustic communication, Dr. Bernal’s work bridges biology, evolution, and environmental science to reveal how behavior shapes life on Earth.

Together, we explore her career path, the curiosity that drives her research, and the lessons she has learned as a scientist navigating a male-dominated field. This conversation is perfect for students, young researchers, and anyone curious about animal behavior, science, or finding their path in STEM.

Today, I’m joined by someone whose journey proves that resilience can take many forms.
Jayden Ogbodo is a former Marine, researcher, emergency department technician, and now a student anesthesiologist assistant — a path defined by service, discipline, and heart. In this conversation, we dive into how the Marine Corps shaped her mindset, how her diverse healthcare roles sharpened her purpose, and how science, grit, and identity guide the future she’s building.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Katherine Vasquez, a first-generation Latina scientist whose journey from Lone Star College to a Bioengineering PhD at Rice University challenges every stereotype about who belongs in STEM.

Katherine shares how the Women in Neuroscience (WiN) Internship reshaped her future, how mentors like Dr. Nico Osier helped her see her own potential, and what it means to stay resilient while navigating academia as a first-gen student.

Together, they explore identity, imposter syndrome, late starts, mentorship, and the importance of representation in research. Katherine’s story is a powerful reminder that there is no “right timeline” to becoming a scientist—only your own.

Dr. Nancy Hopkins, renowned molecular biologist and gender equity advocate, joins Her Path to Success to share her inspiring journey — from groundbreaking discoveries in zebrafish genetics to leading transformative change for women in science. In this episode, she reflects on her research, resilience through setbacks, and the power of mentorship and advocacy in shaping a more inclusive future for STEM.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, Sia sits down with Dr. Erika Hamden, an astrophysicist and NASA mission leader whose work is expanding our view of the universe. From growing up curious about the night sky to building cutting-edge balloon and space telescopes like FIREBall-2 and Eos, Dr. Hamden shares how she’s turned imagination into discovery.

They talk about the challenges of leading large research teams, what happens when missions fail, and how programs like NASA’s PI Launchpad are shaping the next generation of space explorers. Dr. Hamden also opens up about her journey from chef to scientist, the making of her new book Weird Universe, and the importance of making science accessible to everyone.

In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to speak with Dr. Muireann Irish from the University of Sydney, a cognitive neuroscientist whose research explores how memory, imagination, and empathy shape who we are. We talked about what happens in the brain during Alzheimer’s and dementia, how imagination helps us understand ourselves, and why empathy matters in science. I loved hearing about her journey into neuroscience and how she’s inspiring more women to pursue research and curiosity-driven careers.

In this episode, I speak with Emmanuella Bassey, a neuroscientist and proud alum of Women in Neuroscience (WiN), whose journey from early academic challenges to completing her master’s degree at Université de Toulouse III reflects resilience, curiosity, and passion.
We explore how WiN helped her find confidence in research, the mentors who shaped her path, and how she hopes to empower the next generation of women in science.

Whether you’re a student exploring neuroscience or simply passionate about women in STEM, Emmanuella’s story will leave you inspired to dream boldly and support others along the way.

In this episode, I sit down with Ms. Nudelman, founder of Women in Neuroscience (WiN), whose story spans over seven decades of courage, innovation, and advocacy. From being one of the top math students in her high school during the 1950s, to navigating discrimination in the workplace, to pioneering technical roles for women at IBM, Judi’s journey is both inspiring and deeply human.

We talk about her early dreams in theater, her bold career pivots, her experience as a caregiver for her husband with a neurodegenerative disease, and the legacy she’s building through WIN. Judi’s story reminds us that resilience and mentorship can change not just individual lives, but entire fields.

Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or simply someone who cares about gender equity in STEM, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep pushing boundaries.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Dr. Raven the Science Maven—an internationally recognized molecular biologist, educator, and creator who’s making science accessible and inspiring for all. Known for her engaging science raps and her work in equity and inclusion in STEM, Dr. Raven shares her story of embracing authenticity, building community, and using creativity to transform science communication. Tune in to hear about her path, the challenges she’s overcome, and her advice for young changemakers ready to leave their mark.

In this episode of Her Path to Success, I sit down with Asheley Van Ness, a leader in criminal justice reform who has worked across philanthropy, government, and the nonprofit world. Together, we explore what real systemic change looks like—beyond symbolic gestures—and the role communities play in shaping the policies that affect them most. Asheley shares her perspective on addressing the root causes of crime, ensuring equity remains at the center of reform, and turning research into actionable policy. She also reflects on her personal journey, leadership lessons, and the crucial role that youth and students can play in driving meaningful change. Whether you’re curious about careers in social justice, public health, or advocacy, this conversation offers inspiration and guidance from one of the field’s most impactful voices.