This episode features a conversation with Nafees Norris, a biopharmaceutical process engineer who is making science fun and accessible for kids in Philadelphia. Nafees shares how he went from being the only Black man in most professional science settings to creating an interactive lab where children can experience hands-on learning beyond traditional classroom experiments. Rather than making volcanoes and slime, his students work with industry-grade equipment and safe materials to tackle real scientific challenges through engaging competitions. Nafees opens up about initially feeling inadequate to teach but realizing the importance of sharing his journey with young people who need to see someone like themselves succeeding in science. Through creative teaching methods, like comparing pharmaceutical processes to a car wash, he's breaking down complex concepts and inspiring the next generation of scientists, all while emphasizing that good character is just as important as technical skills.

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