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She's STEMspirational! Meet youth inventor Lydia Denton. At 15, she's already been honored for many of her inventions, including the Beat the Heat car seat. In this episode we explore strategies for engaging girls in STEM and inventing, as well as secrets to being well-rounded and happy.

[00:52] Lydia's Background and Inventions:

• Lydia shares her journey as an inventor since the second grade.
• Her diverse education path, from homeschool to charter arts school to early college, has shaped her well-roundedness.
• Lydia shares a prototype of her newest invention, the Halcyon bracelet, designed to address Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs).
• We discuss some of Lydia's winning inventions, including the Beat the Heat car seat, Breathe, and the Picadae Helmet.
• Lydia shares insights on how STEM has taught her resilience and problem-solving through challenges.

[07:33] Problem Solving and Inventing Process:

• We delve into Lydia's invention process and her strategic approach to solving problems.
•  Lydia emphasizes the vital role of mentors in helping young inventors overcome obstacles during the creation process.

[11:21] STEM and Encouraging Diversity:

• The conversation shifts to promoting women's participation in STEM, challenging stereotypes and creating inclusivity. 
• Lydia shares strategies for encouraging young women's interest in STEM and cites examples of role models, including when Miss America did a science experiment as her special talent and ended up winning the whole competition and Emily's Wonder Lab on Netflix.
• Acting and STEM go hand in hand --  Lydia shares how her involvement in acting complements her STEM pursuits, enhancing her communication skills.

[15:09] Upcoming Plans and Dreams:

• Lydia talks about her recent LA trip for a competition on her Breathe invention and the diverse team of females behind it (Spoiler alert: they won first prize in their age group)
• We explore the importance of female STEM role models and the impact of representation.
• Lydia shares some bookspirations -- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind and Chasing Space 

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*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.