Why STEM? Podcast

Why STEM? Podcast
Podcast Description
Welcome to The Why STEM Podcast—where purpose meets possibility in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Hosted by Dr. Ramees Madourie, a seasoned STEM educator, speaker, and visionary leader, this podcast explores the personal and powerful “why” behind the journeys of today’s most inspiring voices in STEM. From students and scientists to educators, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, each episode dives deep into transformational stories, career insights, and the social impact of STEM education and innovation. Whether you're navigating your own path in STEM or supporting the next generation of leaders, this podcast is your go-to source for motivation, mentorship, and momentum. 🔍 What You'll Get: Real stories from diverse leaders in STEMPractical advice on careers, leadership, and innovationInsights on equity, access, and diversity in STEMSTEM education strategies for teachers and institutionsInspiration for students, parents, and professionals alike ✅ Perfect for: Educators, students, STEM professionals, career changers, school leaders, youth mentors, diversity advocates, and anyone passionate about the future of science and technology. 🌍 Available On: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a variety of themes surrounding STEM, including personal narratives, career development, resilience in the face of challenges, and the impact of equity and diversity in the field. Specific episodes such as those featuring tech executives and first-generation engineers delve into topics like leadership during crises and overcoming academic rejection, while also discussing practical advice for aspiring professionals and educators.

Welcome to The Why STEM Podcast—where purpose meets possibility in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Hosted by Dr. Ramees Madourie, a seasoned STEM educator, speaker, and visionary leader, this podcast explores the personal and powerful “why” behind the journeys of today’s most inspiring voices in STEM.
From students and scientists to educators, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, each episode dives deep into transformational stories, career insights, and the social impact of STEM education and innovation. Whether you’re navigating your own path in STEM or supporting the next generation of leaders, this podcast is your go-to source for motivation, mentorship, and momentum.
🔍 What You’ll Get:
- Real stories from diverse leaders in STEM
- Practical advice on careers, leadership, and innovation
- Insights on equity, access, and diversity in STEM
- STEM education strategies for teachers and institutions
- Inspiration for students, parents, and professionals alike
✅ Perfect for:
Educators, students, STEM professionals, career changers, school leaders, youth mentors, diversity advocates, and anyone passionate about the future of science and technology.
🌍 Available On:
YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms.
In Episode 6 of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Jess Hastings, Senior Vice President at Benesch, to explore the intersection of civil engineering, mentorship, and shaping the next generation of STEM leaders.
Jess shares his journey from being a curious kid building with LEGOs in Nebraska to leading major infrastructure projects that shape communities. More importantly, he talks about his passion for investing in students, bridging the gap between industry and education, and why engineers need to do a better job of showing just how cool and impactful this field can be.
💡 Key Topics in this Episode:
How early experiences and role models shaped Jess’s path into civil engineering
The evolving field of civil engineering and the role of new technology
Mentorship’s critical role in inspiring students to pursue STEM careers
Advice for students, young engineers, and professionals considering leadership
How companies and schools can partner to make STEM more accessible
✨ “Not every kid wants to do engineering—and that’s fine. But when even one student asks another question or sparks an interest, that’s amazing. It’s a feeling you can’t describe.” – Jess Hastings
Whether you’re a student, educator, or STEM professional, this episode will leave you inspired about the power of engineering to build both structures and futures.
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Disclaimer
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