Every great science fair project starts with a simple question: ‘why?’, which sparks a pursuit of curiosity to ultimately discover the ‘how.’ Join Youth Science Canada’s Stuart McKelvie as he interviews science fair alumni to take a deep dive into their passion for STEM. If you’re wanting to start a science fair project, interested in STEM or just want to hear some great career & life advice, this is the podcast for you.
Why to How: Adventures in STEM
Claim This Podcastby Youth Science Canada
22 episodes
Updated Daily
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Podcast Overview
Every great science fair project starts with a simple question: ‘why?’, which sparks a pursuit of curiosity to ultimately discover the ‘how.’ Join Youth Science Canada’s Stuart McKelvie as he interviews science fair alumni to take a deep dive into their passion for STEM. If you’re wanting to start a science fair project, interested in STEM or just want to hear some great career & life advice, this is the podcast for you.
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Publishing Since
11/23/2020
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Recent Episodes
January 8, 2026
Sarah Simionescu
<p>In this episode of the Why to How podcast, CWSF 2016 alum Sarah Simionescu discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of overcoming analysis paralysis and learning through experience. She highlights the necessity of collaboration and seeking advice from those who have navigated similar paths, as well as the importance of customer feedback in the development process. </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction to STEM Journeys</p><p>01:22 Sarah's Science Fair Experience</p><p>05:50 The Impact of STEM Fairs</p><p>08:06 Transitioning to Coding and Education</p><p>09:18 Navigating University Challenges</p><p>10:41 Research and Growth in Computer Science</p><p>17:51 Finding Co-op Opportunities</p><p>23:04 Building a Startup: SalesBop</p><p>27:33 Acquisition and Current Work at MongoDB</p><p>34:16 The Importance of Mentorship</p><p>36:43 Learning Through Experience</p><p>37:38 Building Confidence Through Presentation Skills</p><p>42:49 Navigating Feedback and Iteration</p><p>43:06 Working at a Dream Company</p><p>45:47 Advice for Aspiring Software Developers</p><p>52:36 Creating Impact Through Community</p><p>57:45 The Value of Sharing Your Work</p><p>01:05:46 Thanks for Watching Outro Video.mp4</p>
December 8, 2025
Claire Sehn
<p>In this episode of the Why to How podcast, we interview Claire Sehn, a young innovator who won the Junior Discovery Platinum Award at the Canada-Wide Science Fair for her project 'Beat the Blaze: Preventing Wildfires and Drought With a Novel, Biodegradable Treatment.' Claire discusses her biodegradable treatment designed to prevent wildfires and drought, the inspiration behind her project, her research and development process, and her experiences in the lab. She shares insights on balancing her interests, the support she received from family and friends, and her aspirations for the future. She also emphasizes the importance of curiosity and determination in tackling environmental challenges and encourages other young scientists to explore their passions.See Claire's project here: https://partner.projectboard.world/ysc/project/beat-the-blaze-preventing-wildfires-and-drought-with-a-novel-biodegradable-treatment*Chapters*00:00 Introduction to Claire and Her Project03:48 The Inspiration Behind Beat The Blaze06:35 The Science of the Hydrogel09:44 Research and Development Process13:00 Experiences at Science Fairs15:48 Advice for Young Scientists18:57 Future Aspirations and Interests21:48 Balancing School and Science Projects24:44 The Importance of Curiosity in Science27:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement46:28 Thanks for Watching Outro Video.mp4</p>
October 30, 2025
Sara Waqas
<p>In this episode of the Why The How Podcast, host Stuart McKelvie interviews Sara Waqas, a young scientist who has made significant strides in mental health research, particularly focusing on schizophrenia. Sara discusses her award-winning project that aims to develop personalized treatments based on neurobiological profiles. She shares her journey of inspiration, the research process, and the importance of community engagement in mental health. Throughout the conversation, Sara emphasizes the need for flexibility in research, the impact of mentorship, and the significance of pursuing interests in STEM. She also addresses misconceptions about schizophrenia and the challenges faced during her project, while encouraging others to explore their passions in science.</p><p><br></p><p>See Sara's project here: https://partner.projectboard.world/ysc/project/neurobiologically-informed-targeted-schizophrenia-treatment-a-multi-omic-fmri-approach</p><p><br></p><p>*Chapters*</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Sarah Waqas and Her Achievements</p><p>01:02 Understanding the Project: Targeted Schizophrenia Treatment</p><p>03:01 Inspiration and Research Journey</p><p>06:02 Project Development and Flexibility</p><p>09:00 Timeline and Research Process</p><p>11:59 Mental Health Research Approach</p><p>17:01 Challenges in Mental Health Research</p><p>20:05 Impact of Research on the Community</p><p>24:00 Misconceptions and Surprises in Research</p><p>27:05 Overcoming Challenges and Mental Blocks</p><p>33:42 Exploring Chemistry and Learning Resources</p><p>35:20 Finding Mentors and Building Connections</p><p>39:10 Support from Friends and Family</p><p>41:49 Balancing Multiple Commitments</p><p>47:16 Protecting Mental Health in Research</p><p>50:04 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome</p><p>54:38 The Importance of STEM Projects</p><p>57:11 Developing Communication Skills</p><p>59:57 Future Aspirations and Research Goals</p>
22 total episodes available
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