She+ Geeks Out Podcast

Dr. Michaela Musilova, an accomplished astrobiologist, author, and analog astronaut, joins the She Geeks Out podcast to discuss her mission of making science and climate change accessible to all. She shares insights from her space-related research and leadership roles, including being part of Homeward Bound Excursions empowering women in STEMM. 

[00:00:16] Dr. Michaela Musilova, astrobiologist, author.

[00:06:00] Importance of sharing pronouns.

[00:09:42] Space dreams and inspiration.

[00:13:36] Overcoming obstacles to study abroad.

[00:15:00] Life on other planets.

[00:21:35] Blackmailed out of grant.

[00:23:11] Overcoming challenges and guilt.

[00:26:57] Overcoming financial challenges in Hawaii.

[00:32:31] Passion for astrobiology research.

[00:36:06] Building settlements on Mars.

[00:38:25] Space exploration and balance.

[00:43:36] An impactful expedition experience.

[00:44:29] Female leadership in STEM fields.

[00:48:33] Pursuing Science and Technology

[00:52:18] Creating your own path.

[00:57:50] Geeking out about rocks.

[09:23] Sign up for our mailing list.

Links mentioned: 

• Leading DEI Conversations program: https://bit.ly/49JosgN
• https://www.instagram.com/astro_michaela
• https://twitter.com/astro_michaela
• https://www.facebook.com/astroMichaela
• Michaela’s Chuffed Funding Campaign: https://chuffed.org/project/astrosevensummits

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Dive into the world of redlining and real estate with Derek Lumpkins and Melony Swasey, hosts of the Black Lining Forum podcast. Discover how they are reshaping narratives by centering black and brown perspectives on owning real estate. Learn about anti-racist practices to combat discriminatory practices like redlining. Also, celebrate Women's History Month and its focus on empowerment and resilience in the face of challenges. 

[00:01:38] Women's History Month.

[00:04:23] Gender evolution and inclusivity.

[00:10:35] Community building and racial understanding.

[00:14:35] Real estate as wealth pathway.

[00:19:38] BIPOC professionals facing housing challenges.

[00:21:38] Buying the Hood.

[00:27:03] Homeownership and wealth building.

[00:30:20] Tangible benefits of owning property.

[00:33:06] Corporations vs. individuals in property ownership.

[00:38:01] Community responsibility in real estate.

[00:41:47] Market Rent Dilemma

[00:45:18] Exploring new menu options.

[00:49:07] Self-care in a capitalistic society.

[00:52:57] Redlining and real estate wealth.

Links Mentioned:

• Blacklining Forum podcast
• Blacklining Forum on YouTube
• SGOLearning.com
• SheGeeksOut.com/podcast for code to get a free mini course
• @thedeluxchronicles
• @melony.swasey 
• @goodbostonliving
• Refreshstrategiestoday.com

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Join us for an important conversation about gender and  the workplace as we explore topics ranging from confirmation bias to gender-based violence and the subtleties of power gap relationships. Our guest is Emily Nix, Assistant Professor of Finance and Business at the USC Marshall School of Business and a labor economist who studies the economic impacts of violence against women, the gender income gap, inequality, and human capital accumulation. Her research and expertise have been featured in the Economist, the Guardian, the Financial Times, NPR, and more. 

We talk about her research on violence against women at work, the impact of Dobbs on job applications to companies offering abortion travel benefits, and more. We discuss her research on violence against women at work, the complexities of workplace romances, the impact of power dynamics on career trajectories, and the cultural reflections of these issues as portrayed in popular media. We also talk about reproductive rights in the US and their influence on businesses, the evolution of the field of economics, particularly in gender-focused research, and more!

You can find Emily at https://sites.google.com/site/emilyenix/ and https://twitter.com/EmilyNix100

Episode Chapters:

(0:00:06) - Navigating Confirmation Bias in the Workplace
We address confirmation bias in the workplace and offer insight on navigating bias from authority figures.

(0:11:33) - Exploring Workplace Violence and Gender Dynamics
Economics and social issues intersect, examining gender inequality, violence, and harassment in the workplace and their economic impact.

(0:17:26) - Power Gap Relationships in the Workplace
Power gap romances in the workplace, gendered dynamics, and potential impact on career advancement and earnings.

(0:25:24) - Workplace Relationships and Gender Dynamics
Workplace relationships, retention effects, power dynamics, harassment, and cultural reflections are discussed in this chapter.

(0:33:10) - Exploring Same-Sex Couples and Workplace Dynamics
Nature's dynamics of same-sex couples and workplace dating, using Finnish data to study violence against women and global relevance.

(0:37:14) - Addressing Violence Against Women Findings
Workplace violence, economic costs of rape, unemployment outcomes, gender dynamics, criminal justice, economic opportunities, and addressing violence against women.

(0:47:08) - Impact of Reproductive Rights on Businesses
Corporate stances on political and social issues, gender, political polarization, and reproductive rights have repercussions on workplace culture and healthcare provision.

(0:55:47) - Changing Economics and Gender Landscape
Goldin's work on gender economics aims to influence policy and improve outcomes for violence, harassment, and workplace issues.

(1:00:55) - Geeking Out and Book vs Show Debate
Geeking out over "Lessons in Chemistry," following Emily Nix on Twitter, and her focus on economics research.

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Listen in as Julia Taylor, Founder and CEO of GeekPack shares her remarkable transition from intelligence work to tech entrepreneurship. Her story is a tapestry of life-altering moments—her first deployment, finding love, and the challenges faced as a military spouse, ultimately leading her to the tech world. She recounts how a simple Google search sparked her coding passion, emphasizing the value of community and mentorship. As Julia's tale unfolds, we also peel back the layers on the evolution of remote work, from the logistical hurdles of global teams to the personal joys of travel and flexibility.

Before our conversation with Julia, we dive into the wild world of DEI backlash. It’s messy out there, people!

(0:00:06) - Backlash and Nuances of Workplace Inclusion

(0:11:49) - Julia's Journey

(0:23:38) - Challenges and Benefits of Remote Work

(0:34:59) - Importance of Supportive, Knowledgeable People

(0:38:37) - Scaling a Business and Shifting Work

(0:49:15) - Tech Economy and Future Outlook

(0:55:42) - Puppies and Core Values

(1:02:36) - Finding Self-Care and Purpose

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

In today’s episode, we talk with the wonderful Sonia Karkare. Sonia is an adjunct professor and doctoral candidate at Kent University and an advisor to Kent State’s Women’s Center, the Empower School for Health, and the CyberPeace Institute. Her current priority is on gender equity, with a focus on the impact of challenging work environments on global immigrant women leaders.

Navigating the professional world as an immigrant woman in tech comes with its unique set of challenges, a truth Sonia knows all too well. Her perspective enriches our discussion on adaptation and resilience, as we share related stories from our past. From the shock of a new culture to the thrill of breaking barriers in technology, Sonia highlights the power of curiosity and the courage it takes to claim your space in unfamiliar environments. These narratives underscore the importance of mentorship and the transformative potential of technology, not only in our professional lives but in our ongoing fight for gender equity.

Before we speak with Sonia, we share some thoughts on Dr. Claudine Gay's resignation and how race, gender, and power dynamics in academia are tied to the current backlash to DEI, which we'll talk more about in our next episode!

(0:00:06) - DEI Backlash and Power Dynamics
DEI backlash, targeted attacks on female university presidents, and complexities of race and power dynamics in Dr. Claudine Gay's resignation from Harvard.

(0:07:43) - Higher Ed Backlash & Gender Equity
Academic leaders' unpreparedness, elitism in higher education, media's role in shaping narratives, and contrasting reactions to DEI.

(0:15:24) - Journey of a Multicultural Career
Sonia's journey from Mumbai to tech entrepreneurship, navigating challenges, and exploring how embracing change led to a beautiful path of learning and supporting gender equity.

(0:27:15) - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Identity Development
Overcoming imposter syndrome, growth mindset, speaking up, and adapting in diverse environments as a woman of color.

(0:37:32) - Navigating Challenges and Leading Teams
Leadership as a woman in a male-dominated environment, balancing professional demands and personal convictions, and mentoring the next generation.

(0:45:08) - Impact on Immigrant Women Leaders
Global immigrant women leaders in tech, challenges, and hopes, while discussing worthiness, support systems, and allyship.

(1:00:33) - Use Technology for Successful Transformations
Strategic use of technology, change management, political buy-in, communication, and future work in gender equity and professional spaces.

(1:07:41) - Grateful Conversations and Call to Action
Engaging dialogue with guest Sonia, gratitude for respectful conversation.

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

We're diving into 2024 with Rachel Locke, the Director of the Violence, Inequality, and Power Lab at the Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego. She's here to untangle the connections between societal violence and inequality. It’s more important than ever, especially at the start of a wild election year.

We tackle the challenges caused by the power plays that keep violence and unfairness going. We're not buying into simple stories – we know real solutions come from understanding the complicated mix of issues causing conflicts. Our talk reveals the tough reality of these problems and how the VIP Lab is committed to making real changes in a world that's loudly calling for reform.

Finally, we shine a light on the difficulties women and women of color face in politics. The rise in harassment against public figures makes us wonder about where inclusive governance is headed. We discuss what recent studies say about how this kind of bullying challenges mental health and political involvement.

(0:00:08) - Exploring Workplace Inclusion and Humanitarian Work

Personal updates, Felicia’s purple hair, and an interview with Rachel Locke on her career journey and creating a better world.
 

(0:08:13) - Exploring Violence, Inequality, and Power

Nature's violence and inequality are intertwined, highlighting the importance of addressing power dynamics in the VIP Lab's interdisciplinary approach to applied research.
 

(0:20:39) - Recognizing Complexity in Power Dynamics

Power dynamics, complex issues, and binary thinking hinder social justice efforts in addressing violence and promoting change.

(0:32:04) - Threats and Harassment Against Public Officials

Nature's alarming increase in threats and harassment towards local officials, particularly women and women of color, may undermine gender balance in political representation.
 

(0:36:21) - Harassment's Impact on Officials' Mental Health

Public officials face gender-based harassment and threats, cope with limited support, and find therapeutic value in sharing their struggles.

(0:55:51) - Amplifying Voices and Embracing Possibility

Nature's joy, partnerships for change, personal growth, and the upcoming election year's potential for our future.

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

We can’t think of a better way to end the year than with a lovely conversation with Jung Starrett {https://www.soulcoleader.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/jungstarrett/}, a transformational leadership coach who traded in her legal suit for a soul suit. Her story shines a spotlight on why it’s so important to find joy in the work we all do. We talk about emotional intelligence, building and supporting trauma-informed spaces, and creating those magical "third spaces" where you can be you. Get ready to rethink your path and explore the soulful side of leadership!

Before we dive in with Jung, we talk about the possibility of alien life here on Earth and what we’re seeing as trends in the DEI space for 2024.

Episode Chapters:

(0:00:06) - Workplace Inclusion and AI Impact
We discuss the potential impact of AI on DEI, including inclusivity, diverse representation, and communication with whales.

(0:08:08) - Leaders Embrace DEI for Attracting Talent
DEI is critical in the workplace, impacting the Great Resignation and globalization, as discussed by leadership coach Jung Star.

(0:20:19) - Discovering Desired Qualities in Life
Intention and letting go can manifest desires, as seen in a retreat's shell selection and finding a partner.

(0:25:05) - Power of Like and Soul Co-Journey
Soul Co's journey explores infusing soul into corporations, questioning traditional success and education, and developing inner capacities for effective leadership and change.

(0:36:31) - Learning From the Future
TheoryU's transformative power in teaching Emotional Intelligence Skills, deep listening, and inner work for personal and societal regeneration.

(0:45:01) - Creating Safe Spaces and Trauma Healing
Creating a safe space for deep listening and presence, addressing trauma healing and its impact on our responses to disruption.

(0:57:31) - Space & Community for Personal Growth
Exploring the concept of a 'third space' for personal growth and the dynamics of working with a life partner in business.

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Rachel spoke with Lilah Sturges, an incredibly talented writer, as she shares her unique lens to the evolving comic book industry. Listen as Lilah opens up about her journey with the popular series, Lumberjanes, and the hurdles she's faced as a transgender woman in conservative Texas. We celebrate the increased representation of women, non-binary, and queer individuals in comics and how it's shaping the industry. She also shares her experiences collaborating with brilliant people and the importance of telling powerful stories where the characters are from typically marginalized groups so that readers know that they’re okay, allowed to be who they are, allowed to be confused sometimes and that they’re worthy of love and friendship.

You can find Lilah at https://lilahsturges.com/ and be sure to get a copy of Girl Haven!

0:01:41 - Four-Day Work Week Benefits and Challenges (90 Seconds)

0:06:25 - Lila Sturgis and Her Graphic Novel (78 Seconds)

0:09:54 - Recognition in the Comic Book Industry (70 Seconds)

0:14:16 - Writing and Supporting Girls in Texas (133 Seconds)

0:23:50 - The Writing Process (101 Seconds)

0:38:31 - Severance and Workplace Commentary (58 Seconds)

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Ahh did we laugh! Get ready to bust a gut with our special guest, Amma Marfo, a comic genius who's not only cracking us up but also lending her voice to the BIPOC comic community in Boston. We talked about her journey as a stand-up comedian, her experiences giving a TED talk, and how she's challenging the status quo.

We're not just about giggles, we're also talking about the weighty side of comedy and its role in highlighting complex societal issues. Amma's creation of FODBALL Productions highlights the importance of diversity in the comedic world. 

We also talked about the other work Amma does, as a speaker, writer, and content designer. From finding creativity in everyday tasks to sharing our favorite books and animations, we're exploring all corners of the creative sphere. And as we wrap things up, we're highlighting the power of sharing - whether it's memes, videos or simply your voice, it's all a cherished act of love. Join us for a joy ride that's equal parts fun, enlightening and thought-provoking!

Also, here's our PSA for Thirst Aid Kit. Bring it back! Or we will! :D

Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.