In this episode, I sit down with Nadežda Pejović, a patient advocate and global representative, to explore the multifaceted challenges of living with rare diseases like porphyria.

Dok privodimo kraju prvu sezonu Puzzle Science podcasta, želela bih da se osvrnem na naše zajedničko putovanje kroz osam snažnih epizoda, od kojih je svaka obradila teme koje su mi izuzetno važne.

Počeli smo sa Senkom, razgovarajući o identitetu, jedinstvu i vernosti svojim vrednostima u nauci i društvu. Darko je podelio zašto je važno biti povezan sa svojim korenima, a Branka je naglasila značaj sistemske podrške. Tim nas je podsetio na važnost glasnog zagovaranja i prihvatanja društvenih odgovornosti, dok je Karolina osvetlila uticaj rasta desničarske politike na imigrante i poverenje u nauku. Na kraju, Elizabeta mi se pridružila u tri epizode kako bismo istražile empatiju, odgajanje ljudi i zašto je ključno boriti se za prava.

Neočekivano, svaka epizoda povezala se sa temom koja duboko odjekuje u meni: zajednicom i preuzimanjem odgovornosti prema njoj.

To me dovodi do Srbije, gde su studentski protesti doveli do široko rasprostranjenih blokada fakulteta, zahtevajući pravdu i odgovornost. Njihova hrabrost inspiriše me da podignem njihov glas i podignem svest o njihovoj borbi za bolje društvo—borbu koju sam ostavila iza sebe, ali za čiju podršku sada preuzimam odgovornost.

Setimo se reči profesorke Marije: „Gospodar nenormalnog rizika treba da snosi posledice njegove realizacije.“

Hvala vam što ste bili deo ove sezone. Vidimo se u drugoj sezoni, koja počinje 31. januara razgovorom o retkim bolestima sa divnom Nadjom.

Ostanite jaki, budite svesni i borite se za ono što je ispravno.

As we wrap up the first season of Puzzle Science, I wanted to reflect on the journey we’ve shared through eight impactful episodes, each covering topics that matter deeply to me.

We began with Senka, discussing identity, unity, and staying true to your values in science and society. Darko shared why connecting to our roots is essential, and Branka emphasized the importance of system support. Tim reminded us to speak up and embrace our societal responsibilities, while Carolina shed light on the effects of right-wing political growth on immigrants and trust in science. Finally, Elisabeth joined me for three episodes to explore empathy, raising humans, and why standing up for rights is critical.

Unexpectedly, every episode connected to a theme that resonates profoundly with me: community and owning our responsibilities to it.

This brings me to Serbia, where student protests have led to widespread faculty blockades, demanding justice and accountability. Their courage inspires me to amplify their voices and raise awareness about their fight for a better society—a fight I left behind but now take responsibility for supporting.

Let’s remember the words of Professor Marija: "The master of an abnormal risk should bear the consequences of its realization."

Thank you for joining me this season. I’ll see you in season two, starting January 31st, with a conversation about rare diseases with the lovely Nadja.

Stay strong, stay aware, and stand for what’s right.

In this special finale, we wrap up our insightful conversation with Elisabeth Pavez-Lorie, diving into the challenges of being a CEO and a female co-founder in the demanding world of startups. We discuss the importance of humility, embracing diversity, and rethinking approaches to preclinical studies in light of 2024’s tough startup climate. Elisabeth shares her perspective on the so-called snowflake generation and why standing up for people’s rights matters more than ever.

Before diving into the episode, I want to shine a light on the student protests in Serbia. Following a tragic incident in Novi Sad, where corruption and mismanagement led to the loss of 15 lives, citizens and students are demanding accountability. Despite oppressive measures, their determination to fight for justice is inspiring. Let's raise awareness and stand in solidarity.

Enjoy this thought-provoking conclusion to our conversation. Wishing you a Merry Christmas, wonderful holidays, and moments of joy with those who matter most. And as always, listen to your heart.

Welcome to the last month of 2024! In this Part II episode with Dr. Elisabeth Pavez-Lorie, we dive deep into the raw realities of motherhood—and parenthood as a whole.

We explore why it’s essential to walk the talk, shifting the narrative from motherhood to parenthood, and how to raise children with a mindset of contributing to humanity. From teaching about consequences to accepting when your child is no longer a child, this episode brings wisdom, vulnerability, and practical insights.

We also tackle tough topics: dealing with bullying, supporting abused children, losing health, and the importance of showing vulnerability to your kids. Wrapping it up, we reflect on the ever-elusive work-life balance and question whether a "church-state separation" approach applies.

Tune in, listen with your heart, and let’s embrace the beauty and challenges of raising the next generation!

This month has been a whirlwind, filled with learning curves and technical challenges, but also incredible conversations. After a memorable interview with Dr. Carolina Corzo, I’m thrilled to share another special episode, kicking off a three-part series with the inspiring Elizabeth Pavez Lorie.

Elizabeth is a remarkable woman: a scientist, a mother, a CEO, and a force of nature. In this deeply moving conversation—yes, the first one that brought me to tears—we dive into the profound topics of immigration and its political implications. Elizabeth shares her journey as a war immigrant and unpacks the importance of empathy, humility, and finding purpose amidst adversity.

We explore Sweden's school system and challenge the weight of titles before closing this first part with a pivotal decision: Elizabeth’s move to Germany with her young family. The struggles and mental health impact of this choice will be explored in the next episode, so stay tuned!

As always, listen not just with your ears, but with your hearts. Despite a few technical hiccups, this episode is worth every moment. Souk it up and enjoy!

November is a special month—it's my birthday month and the release of the fifth episode of Puzzle Science, a personal milestone! This episode, recorded actually first in the series, was a deep learning journey for me. I’m thrilled to share it with my ‘sister from another mother,’ Dr. Carolina Corzo.

In this conversation, we explore Dr. Corzo’s inspiring journey from Guatemala to Austria. Her story is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and focus, marked by the need to choose sometimes paths based on job availability, not necessarily her passion—a reality for many. We also discuss the impact of right-wing political growth on immigrants, an especially relevant topic in light of recent U.S. elections.

Tune in, listen with an open heart, and enjoy the insight-packed episode!

In the fourth episode of Puzzle Science, titled Skeleton of an Invertebrate TiMollusc: No Bones but Still Strong, I sit down with Tim Wollesen, a Professor of Zoology at the University of Vienna, specializing in EvoDevo. We dive into Tim's childhood fascination with collecting dead animals (trust us, there's a funny story behind it!) and explore the nuances of the German school system and the impact of parental support. Our conversation touches on the value of basic research, effective science communication, and the art of slowing down—in both research and life. We also discuss the dynamics of intercultural marriage, the balance between support and critique in mentorship, and the power of language. We delve into how words can heal or harm, the importance of speaking up, and embracing our societal responsibilities. It’s a conversation rich with diverse insights—tune in with an open heart and share your thoughts!

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Branka Radić Sarikas, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Children’s Cancer Research Institute, for a heartfelt and insightful conversation. We cover a range of topics, including:

Dr. Sarikas shares valuable advice for her younger self and offers insights for both new and experienced PhD students. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, authenticity, and practical guidance for anyone in the world of science.

Remember: listen with your hearts.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Darko Donevski, a PhD in Astrophysics and Cosmology from the University of Marseille. We dive into his fascinating research and explore why astronomy is not just about distant stars but has deep relevance to each of us. Beyond the science, we discuss the importance of cultivating interests outside the academic world, the value of connecting with one's roots, and how luck often intertwines with research success. Dr. Donevski also offers a refreshing perspective on gender bias and the ways forward, even as a white male scientist. We wrap up with an in-depth look at the growing field of scientific communication and why it deserves recognition as its own discipline. Tune in, take notes, and engage with this thought-provoking conversation.