WIE Rise Together: Breaking Barriers in STEM

About WIE Rise Together: Breaking Barriers in STEM

Join professionals in STEM as they share real-life experiences navigating work-life balance, dual careers, and personal growth. Each episode offers inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tips to help you thrive in your career and connect with a global community.

Publisher

wiestaff

Category

business · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 May 2025

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   You Made It. Now What?

   Picture this: the corner office, the strong reviews, the title you worked years to earn. And a small voice asking, "Is this it?" If that voice sounds familiar, this episode is for you. LaRhonda sits down with a career coach to challenge the idea that a career is something you climb. Instead, it is something you design, test, adjust, and sometimes completely rebuild. Here is what we get into: Who really needs a career coach? Spoiler: it is not just people in crisis. We cover what coaching looks like in practice, and how assessments can surface your strengths, motivations, and blind spots. There are no wrong answers, only better questions. Is a little chaos the price of greatness? We take on the uncomfortable idea that high performance may require seasons of imbalance, and how to tell the difference between a sprint with a purpose and a slow burn toward exhaustion. From expert to leader. Being great at the work and being great at leading people who do the work are two very different skills. We talk about stepping into a role before you feel ready, and how to shrink imposter syndrome by growing competence, credibility, relationships, and self-awareness. Planning for a future that keeps moving. When industries shift faster than any five year plan, what keeps you relevant? We look at pivoting, prioritizing, and diversifying your skills before you are forced to. What if you get everything you wanted? Using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, we explore why achievement and fulfillment are not the same thing, and where meaning, purpose, and belonging fit in. The dark side of the corner office. Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy, known as the Dark Triad, can look a lot like confidence and charisma in the workplace. We discuss how to spot the difference and protect your effectiveness while you do. Everything circles back to one question: when you feel stuck, how do you move forward? Press play for practical ideas on handling transitions, building real confidence, and crafting a career that is not just impressive, but genuinely yours.

2. 

   9 Sept 2026

   Beyond the Data: Effectively Communicating Science That Matters Across a Global Community

   In this episode, we speak with Aleksandra Ziembińska‑Buczyńska about the power of effective scientific communication, one of the most essential tools for reducing risk, building trust, and strengthening human performance. Together, we explore how scientific communication advances knowledge within the global scientific community and how it aligns with IEEE’s core values of trust, clarity, and community building. Our conversation highlights the human side of science. While scientific work is grounded in facts and data, emotions shape the journey, from the excitement of launching new projects to the exhaustion or sadness that can accompany the completion of long‑term research. Aleksandra reflects on how communicators can connect with audiences authentically while remaining anchored in evidence. We also discuss practical strategies for making complex topics accessible, including communicating with clarity, focusing on the merits of the work, and preparing to explain data in ways that diverse audiences can understand. The episode closes with an exploration of avoiding excessive “glitter” in communication, ensuring that engaging techniques support learning rather than distract from the message. Ultimately, this episode highlights how effective scientific communication creates understanding, fosters collaboration, and enables people around the world to share knowledge across disciplines, cultures, and boundaries. When science is communicated effectively, we build not only understanding, but also trust and community.

3. 

   11 Aug 2026

   Leadership Worth Following: Unlocking Executive Potential with Randy Hain

   What does it take to become a leader worth following? In this episode, we welcome Randy Hain, founder of Serviam Partners, co-founder of Leadership Foundry, executive coach, speaker, and author of 13 award-winning books. Drawing on more than three decades of experience in senior leadership, executive search, and talent development, Randy shares insights gained from coaching leaders at some of the world's most respected organizations. Inspired by Stephen Covey's definition of leadership as "communicating to another person their worth and potential so clearly they are inspired to see it themselves," Randy discusses the powerful role leaders, mentors, and coaches play in helping others grow. We explore whether leaders are born or made, the importance of virtues and character in leadership, the concept of life's "fourth quarter," executive coaching at different career stages, and how major disruptions such as COVID-19 and AI are reshaping leadership conversations. Randy also shares practical advice on building trust, giving candid feedback, embracing change, and creating a lasting impact through service to others. Whether you're an aspiring professional, an experienced executive, or a leader looking to elevate others, this conversation offers actionable insights and inspiration for every stage of your leadership journey.

4. 

   6 Jul 2026

   Money, Power, and Purpose: Redefining Financial Freedom for Women

   In this episode, we sit down with Caroline Tanis, a leading financial advisor and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, who has dedicated her career to advancing financial literacy and empowerment for women. She shares the pivotal moment that sparked her passion for financial planning—realizing how little women are taught about managing, protecting, and growing their wealth.  Our conversation explores how financial plans differ across genders, the unique challenges faced by high-performing women in diverse professions, and the impact of major life transitions such as divorce, career changes, and parenthood. We examine how financial strategies evolve through every stage of life—from student years to entrepreneurship, family building, retirement, and legacy planning.  Listeners will gain practical insight into navigating taxes, avoiding common money traps, and teaching children healthy financial habits. We also discuss how to prepare for unexpected life events, build generational wealth, and make intentional choices today that secure your financial future.  Finally, Caroline reflects on her professional journey, sharing lessons learned and advice for professionals who aspire to build independent, purpose-driven practices.  This episode offers clear, actionable guidance for anyone seeking financial confidence, resilience, and long-term prosperity. Guest: Caroline TanisHost: LaRhonda Julien

5. 

   9 Jun 2026

   Leading Humans in an AI World: Conquering Imposter Syndrome and Showing Up With Purpose

   Guest - Kim Meninger, Leadership Coach, Consultant & Keynote SpeakerHost - LaRhonda Julien In this episode, we explore what it truly means to “make it easier to be human at work” in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven landscape. Our guest, an experienced leader turned executive coach, shares how a successful corporate career evolved into a mission-driven practice focused on helping individuals and organizations thrive. The conversation highlights how real-world experience can be transformed into meaningful impact for others.We dive into the ever-present challenge of imposter syndrome, what it is, who it affects, and how the rise of AI and rapid technological change is reshaping self-doubt in the workplace. From Mary Oliver’s The Journey to practical advice for navigating internal criticism, our guest offers actionable insights for professionals at all levels, especially women and underrepresented groups who experience imposter syndrome at higher rates. Listeners will also gain perspective on leadership in action, from first-day mindset strategies to trust-building techniques, from overcoming burnout-inducing “reactive habits” to adopting grounded, intentional behaviors. We explore how leaders influence team culture through their presence, and how high performers can better access their “best selves” when it matters most. The episode introduces the LEADS framework, Listen, Examine, Align, Develop, Support, as a practical guide for personal and professional growth, alongside foundational techniques for managing stress, triggers, and overthinking. We also touch on leadership differences across genders, the evolving expectations of modern teams, and insights from work with organizations such as the Council for Women of Boston College, Women Accelerators, and WITI. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or simply striving to grow, this conversation offers powerful tools to help you lead with clarity, resilience, and humanity in an increasingly complex world. Guest Bio Kim Meninger is a leadership coach, consultant and TEDx speaker who is on a mission to make it easier to be human at work. She believes that what holds us back in the workplace is rarely our ability to do the work itself. It’s the fears, doubts and insecurities we bring to our interactions with others. Kim strives to reveal the messy human side of the workplace and provide actionable strategies to help us more confidently navigate our work environments. Because when we are more confident, we are more innovative, collaborative and inclusive and that's better for everyone! Kim previously held leadership positions managing strategic relationships at EMC and Monster. She holds a BA in psychology and an MBA from Boston College. She is also an ICF Professional Certified Coach. Kim hosts the Impostor Syndrome Files podcast and leads a weekly Leading Humans discussion forum, which is free and open to all. To learn more about Kim and her work, visit: KimMeninger.

6. 

   11 May 2026

   Build a Transferable STEM Career: Manage Your Career Like a Business

   In this special Mother's Day episode, Wendy Anderson-Cocke speaks about how technical professionals can take ownership of their careers with intention. Wendy shares lessons from moving from corporate engineering to entrepreneurship, why professionals should treat their careers like a business, and how flexible work can support both performance and personal priorities. This episode offers practical strategies for flexible work, personal branding, burnout prevention, and creating a personal “board of directors” to guide career growth. Listeners will learn how small changes, clearer boundaries, and engineering-style problem-solving can help them show up more fully at work and in life. Host: LaRhonda Julien

7. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Finding your pause: Communicating with Clarity Under Pressure

   In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia Kane—CEO and Founder of the Kane Intentional Communication™ Institute, mindfulness instructor, and author of The Pause Principle—to explore how intentional communication can elevate leadership, confidence, and career growth in STEM. Cynthia shares her personal journey and how mindfulness and communication work together to help leaders show up with clarity, calm, and purpose.We dive into the everyday challenges women in STEM face—from finding their voice in high-pressure environments to navigating interruptions, bias, and self-doubt. Cynthia offers practical strategies to stay grounded in difficult conversations, reframe negative self-talk, and communicate with confidence when it matters most.Listeners will gain insight into the power of “the pause” as a leadership tool, the role of mindfulness in shaping workplace culture, and the habits that set effective leaders apart. This empowering conversation provides actionable guidance for anyone looking to strengthen their voice, expand their impact, and lead with intention. Host: Rawan Alghamdi

8. 

   11 Mar 2026

   From Curiosity to Calling: Building a Purpose‑Driven STEM Career

   In this episode, we dive deep with Distinguished Lecturer John McDonald, a globally recognized leader whose career is defined by technical excellence, extensive publications, and a lifelong commitment to volunteering and mentorship. John shares how an early spark of curiosity grew into a purpose-driven path—one shaped by service, professional communities, and intentional leadership. Together, we unpack the real challenges facing today’s students and young professionals: balancing demanding academic pressures, building confidence, developing communication and emotional intelligence, and cultivating networks that truly matter. John offers practical, actionable strategies to thrive in school while preparing for the complex dynamics of the modern workplace.Listeners will gain rare insight into the discipline behind authoring more than 150 technical publications, the impact of mentorship on career trajectory, and the mindset required to make meaningful, long-term contributions to the engineering profession. This candid and inspiring conversation is essential listening for anyone seeking not just a job in STEM—but a purpose-filled, resilient, and influential career. Guest: John  McDonald, Founder & CEO, Electric Power System Engineer JDM Associates, LLCAbstract Host: La Rhonda Julien Inspection Performance Specialist, Georgia Transmission Corporation

9. 

   9 Feb 2026

   Tech Unplugged: Spotlighting Women in Cybersecurity

   What happens when a software engineer follows her curiosity … and ends up redefining what cybersecurity research can look like? She started in software, pivoted to research, and landed on the IEEE Top 30 list. This month on WIE RISE TOGETHER, we are "Tech Unplugged" with Anastasija  Collen, a Senior Cybersecurity Researcher and Associate Professor pushing the boundaries of digital defense.From spotting the next big security trends to mastering the art of the career pivot, Anastasija shares the roadmap to success in cybersecurity. Plus, we get real about the power of mentorship and why rest is a non-negotiable part of the job.Tune in now to hear how she’s charting pathways to STEM  and securing our connected world!

10. 

    13 Jan 2026

    REST FIRST, RISE NEXT: The Confidence & Clarity Playbook

    Bobbie Carlton on Creating Success with Clarity, Confidence & CompassionExecutive coach Bobbie Carlton joins host Abinaya Inbamani in this empowering episode of WIE RISE TOGETHER. Together, they explore how women can rest intentionally, rise purposefully, and show up fully in their careers and lives. Bobbie shares practical insights on visibility, wellness, money mindset, and navigating the emotional load of leadership and family.This conversation is packed with encouragement, truth, and actionable strategies to help you stay grounded, claim your voice, and set aligned goals. A thoughtful playbook for anyone seeking balance, purpose, and empowered growth.

11. 

    16 Dec 2025

    The Juggle is Real: Surviving the Challenges of a Dual-Career Couple

    Ever wondered how dual-career couples keep it all together when life feels like a high-wire act? Hosted by Geetika Tandon, this episode features Jenifer Castillo Rodriguez, IEEE Region 9 Director and aviation industry leader, and Francisco Carrero, Chair of IEEE MOVE Puerto Rico, chemical engineer, and humanitarian volunteer. Together, they share candid insights into managing morning chaos, coping with unpredictability, and balancing the invisible mental load while sustaining professional growth and family harmony. Through personal stories and practical tips, this episode offers inspiration and actionable advice for thriving amid the beautiful chaos of work-life integration. Guests: Jenifer Castillo Rodriguez, Director,  Aircraft Parts Repair & Overhaul Services,  Lufthansa Technik. Francisco Carrero, Product Sales Manager, Biopharmaceutical Filtration. Host: Geetika Tandon Managing Director, Deloitte Consulting Cloud, AI and Digital

12. 

    18 Nov 2025

    Tech Unplugged: Spotlighting Women in AI - Career Growth & Future of Artificial Intelligence

    Is AI coming for our jobs? How do you rise from analyst to director? Join host Kelly Onu and guest Nimisha Gnanasekaran, Director of Data Science at Western Digital, as they discuss AI trends, leadership, and breaking barriers for women in tech.

13. 

    15 Oct 2025

    The Juggle is Real: Surviving the 'Nester' Years as a Dual Career Couple

    Remember when you could answer work emails, wrangle a toddler, and fold laundry—sometimes all at once? So do we! Join Pankaj Sinha and Geetika Tandon, a dynamic couple-turned-survival-guides as they look back (and laugh) at the chaos of raising kids while juggling two careers. With battle stories, hindsight wisdom, and the occasional “Why did we think that would work?” moment, this podcast proves that making it through the nester years deserves its own medal—and maybe a podcast, too.

14. 

    16 Sept 2025

    STEM Strong: Navigating the Job Market with Confidence

    Own Your Worth: A Guide to Confident Career Moves In the competitive world of STEM, success isn't just about your skills, it's about how you present yourself. This episode features an HR expert who offers a transformative approach to job searching, helping you break through the barriers and own your career. Get ready to turn a simple job hunt into a powerful strategy for building the future you deserve.

15. 

    19 Aug 2025

    The PIE Framework: Performance, Image & Exposure for Professionals in STEM

    In this inspiring episode of the IEEE WIE Rise Together podcast, executive coach and former engineer Jahnavi Brenner shares how the PIE framework can transform the careers of technical professionals. In this framework, our guest explains how we can use our presence, combined with our image and exposure, to build an authentic personal brand. Jahnavi offers practical strategies for engineers at every stage. Tune in to learn how to become visible, valued, and impactful in your work.

16. 

    16 Jul 2025

    Balancing Work and Life in STEM Careers

    In this empowering episode of the IEEE WIE Podcast Program, the host, Dr. Abinaya Inbamani, sits down with biotech changemaker Anbumathi to explore one of the most pressing topics in STEM today: work–life balance. From navigating demanding careers to managing societal expectations — especially for women in STEM — the conversation dives deep into real-world challenges, practical strategies, and personal insights. Whether you're just starting out or deep into your STEM journey, this episode offers valuable wisdom on setting boundaries, managing guilt, handling burnout, and building a rhythm that honors both professional ambition and personal well-being.

17. 

    18 Jun 2025

    Global Perspectives on Women in STEM

    C-Suite Executive Sanyogita Shamsunder and Managing Director Geetika Tandon discuss the experiences and strategies of women thriving in STEM fields globally in this interview.

18. 

    29 May 2025

    Moms Who Innovate: Balancing STEM Careers and Parenthood

    This episode explores how mothers balance STEM careers and parenthood, offering insights for women in technology and science, and is an interview.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

59,604

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

35

Social presence

0

YouTube

85

Engagement

32

Contact WIE Rise Together: Breaking Barriers in STEM

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.