Curious Minds
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© Jula He and Beatrice Milasan
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The Curious Minds podcast is made for the next generation of aspiring young entrepreneurs, innovators, and change-makers. Every episode features a memorable industry professional who will impart their invaluable experiences, expertise, and insights. From the future of food to space exploration, this is your go-to source for in-depth discussions on the most exciting and transformative emerging technologies. Get ready to be inspired as we take you on a journey to the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship.
46 Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Tim, an accomplished industrial designer with over 20 years of experience shaping the intersection of technology and everyday life. At Intuitive, his design work on surgical robotics and XR platforms helped transform minimally invasive surgery, reducing recovery times from weeks to days and redefining what’s possible in the operating room. He later brought his expertise to Intel, GE, and Meta, contributing to the evolution of emerging technologies from consumer devices to VR. Tim reflects on the lessons learned from building design teams and pushing the boundaries of how technology can integrate into everyday life as well as critical areas like healthcare. Tune in to hear his insights on innovation, impact, and the future of design.
In this episode of the Curious Minds Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Flynn—a theatre major turned award-winning entrepreneur—whose work through The YOU Power Project is transforming how young people see themselves and their futures. We explore themes of youth empowerment, uncovering what truly drives you, and how to leave a lasting mark on the world. From sparking confidence and creativity to building systems that amplify human potential, Jessica shares her journey and insights on making purpose your greatest superpower.
In this episode of The Curious Minds Podcast, we’re joined by Luka Lamaj—founder, innovator, and community catalyst. Luka takes us through his journey from leading grassroots innovation efforts with NATO and serving on the board of NSIEA, to hosting Microsoft Reactor’s Tech Odyssey podcast and building his own stealth startup. We dive into his work at the intersection of AI, decentralized systems, and community, and explore why empowering others through dialogue, education, and collaboration is central to his mission as a builder and leader.
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jeevan Perera, a Senior Engineer at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, whose career has spanned over three decades of pioneering work in aerospace and mission management. Dr. Perera shares the personal journey that led him to NASA, the pivotal moments and challenges he faced along the way, and the groundbreaking projects he’s contributed to — from the Space Shuttle program to risk management systems for the International Space Station. He also offers advice for students and young professionals interested in STEM, insights into the collaborative culture at NASA, and his thoughts on where the future of aerospace is headed.
In this episode, we sit down with Sam Zellner, Founder/CEO of InspireIP and a Team Lead at PQAI who's passionate about helping organizations turn ideas into action. Sam shares his insights on what it takes to move an idea from concept to reality, emphasizing the importance of clear processes and strong collaboration across teams. We discuss the common challenges that organizations face in managing their intellectual property and how modern tools can simplify and enhance the invention process. From creating systems that encourage idea-sharing to leveraging technology for smarter decision-making, Sam offers valuable strategies for unlocking the inventive potential of any workplace. Whether you’re an inventor, an IP professional, or just curious about how to cultivate better ideas, this conversation offers thoughtful insights and practical advice.InspireIP: https://inspireip.com/PQAI: https://projectpq.ai/
In this episode of the Curious Minds podcast, we dive deep into the neuroscience of habit formation, procrastination, and motivation with Dr. Kyra Bobinet, MD, MPH—an award-winning health innovator, physician, and behavioral expert. With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Bobinet shares her insights into the science behind creating lasting habits and overcoming procrastination. As the CEO and founder of Fresh Tri, she reveals how the latest neuroscience can help us break unproductive cycles and build motivation in our everyday lives. Join us for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable strategies to help you design a life of lasting change. Tune in for an exploration of brain science that can truly transform how you approach habits and productivity.
In this episode, we're thrilled to have Elliot Swartz, a scientist at The Good Food Institute, join us for an in-depth conversation about the future of food. Elliot's work primarily focuses on the development and commercialization of cultivated meat (a.k.a. lab-grown meat). We'll explore how cultivated meat is produced, the scientific challenges involved, and the potential impact on the environment, animal welfare, and food security. Elliot also shares insights into the regulatory landscape and the steps needed to bring cultivated meat to the mainstream market. Whether you're a foodie, a sustainability enthusiast, or just curious about the future of protein, this episode is packed with valuable information and forward-thinking ideas. Tune in to learn how science is paving the way for a more sustainable and ethical food industry.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Ruchira Rajan Huntington, a leader in Deloitte's Innovation team, where she specializes in sustainability and financial services. Ruchira shares her expertise in driving early-stage ideation, market testing, and prototyping, with a keen focus on achieving product-market fit through creative and agile methods. With over eight years of experience in management consulting, particularly in customer growth and go-to-market strategies, Ruchira brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. We'll explore the challenges of innovation in financial services and how her passion for the outdoors fuels her strategic approach. Join us for a conversation on testing assumptions, finding product-market fit and challenges in innovation and consulting - as well as ways to overcome the
In this episode, we sit down with Christina Nesheva, a seasoned leader at the nexus of strategy and commercialization in biotech, life sciences, and deep tech. With a proven track record of aligning R&D roadmaps with pivotal value inflection points and crafting optimal commercialization strategies, Christina has been instrumental in driving innovation across these high-impact sectors. Currently, as Chair of the Board at Officinae Bio, a pioneering biotech company focused on optimizing mRNA medicines, she spearheads strategy development, strategic partnerships, and fundraising efforts. Christina also advises an early-stage biotech VC fund and several startups, bringing her expertise to the forefront of biotech and deep tech innovation. Tune in for an exciting episode that speaks about innovation, the functioning of the deep tech world, and necessary mindsets for success no matter what industry you're working in.
In this episode, we sit down with Neil C. Hughes, a renowned tech columnist, #1 best-selling author, and award-winning podcaster. Based in the UK and working with international clients across five continents, Neil has been recognized as one of the "Top 9 Influential Tech Leaders on LinkedIn" and a "LinkedIn Top Voice." After working in IT for decades, he decided to make a bit of a career shift and turn toward more creative pursuits. Join us as we explore topics such as AI, the essence of creativity, and learn tools the next generations can make the most of in the coming years.
In this episode of the Curious Minds podcast we welcome Josef Scarantino, a seasoned startup and investment leader with over 20 years of experience in social innovation, entrepreneurship, and early-stage investing. Josef has worked with founders, investors, and ecosystem builders across more than 50 countries, collaborating with global brands like Techstars, Western Union, Google, Microsoft, and Tiger Global. As a 3x impact founder and respected mentor, he shares his insights on building impactful startups and the importance of inclusivity and diversity, particularly advocating for neurodiversity and people with disabilities. Tune in for valuable lessons and inspiration from Josef's incredible journey and vision for the future.
In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Zajack, a seasoned marketing professional turned educator who is passionate about transforming the marketing and communications industry through practical knowledge, creativity, and strategic thinking in the classroom. With extensive experience, including her role as Sr. Director of Portfolio & Innovations Communications & Programs at Nokia, she now oversees the curriculum development and faculty recruitment for two master's programs at Georgetown University. Holding a PhD in Education, she is dedicated to infusing technology into learning to create equal opportunities across geographies. Tune in as she shares insights on marketing trends, corporate reputation, and the future of education alongside AI.
In this episode, we sit down with Keeisi Caballero, a dynamic leader who has made significant strides working at multiple tech startups. With a robust background in business management and a master's in physics, Keeisi has successfully led grant writing efforts, developed innovative STEM programs, and facilitated strategic partnerships. While working at companies like Techstars, Spaced Ventures, and Expanding Frontiers, Keeisi navigated various challenges as a female first-generation immigrant in many male-dominated spaces, and during this conversation, we learn about the frameworks and mindsets that helped her achieve her goals. Now at Common Future, she still carries that same drive and passion. Join us for an inspiring talk about breaking barriers in the workplace and overcoming hardship.
In this episode, we are thrilled to interview Roger Spitz, a celebrated futurist and former Global Head of Technology M&A at an investment bank, where he advised on transactions totalling $25 billion. Now a leading authority on foresight, unpredictability, and systems innovations, Roger is a venture capitalist and expert advisor to the World Economic Forum’s Global Foresight Network. As the president of Techistential and chair of the Disruptive Futures Institute, Roger has delivered hundreds of keynotes globally and advised boards, leadership teams, and investors on strategic disruptions. His influential frameworks have been featured in Fast Company, Gartner, MIT Technology Review, and WIRED. Tune in for insights from one of the world's foremost experts on navigating the future.
In this episode, we briefly mention Roger's book. For more info click here: https://www.koganpage.com/business-and-management/disrupt-with-impact-9781398616882
Official Techistential website: https://www.techistential.ai/
Join us for an insightful conversation with Steve Shwartz, the author of "Evil Robots, Killer Computers, and Other Myths: The Truth About AI and the Future of Humanity." Steve began his illustrious career as a postdoc in the AI program at Yale University's Computer Science Department. He has founded and co-founded three AI-centric companies, including Esperant, a leading business intelligence tool in the 1990s, and Device42, one of the fastest-growing software companies today. With experience in two IPOs and several successful M&A exits, Steve is also an active angel investor and AI consultant. Tune in to hear his expert insights and experiences in the world of artificial intelligence.
View Steve's book here: www.aiperspectives.com/evil-robots
On this episode of the Curious Minds podcast, join us for a conversation about mental health, wellness, and the startup world with Matthew Helt. Matt has had a wide range of careers from numerous creative pursuits including professional photography to even owning his own marketing agency. Eventually, he branched out into the tech startup world, becoming a Sr. Implementation Consultant within the company's ecosystem development team. As we discover in this episode, while all these accomplishments are certainly meaningful one of the most rewarding parts of Matt's life came afterward when he began his professional coaching career. Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation around how we can call integrate better mental health practices into our daily lives.
On our latest episode, follow along as we explore the world of financial wellness with Danial Khan, widely known as "The Financial Wellness Guy." With a wealth of experience managing Stanford University's Financial Wellness Program, Danial has spent over a decade empowering students, early career professionals, and entrepreneurs to achieve financial security and freedom. Key topics in this episode include: tips for first-time investors, risk management strategies, and valuable frameworks to apply to your own life. Listen in to gain valuable insights and practical tips for fostering a healthier relationship with money and personal finance.
Our latest episode of the Curious Minds podcast features Sid Pailla, an individual who is passionate about enabling financial well-being for ALL hardworking Americans. As the CEO of Sunnyday Fund, he works with impactful leaders to make workforce financial well-being easy, accessible, and rewarding - starting with emergency savings.
Sunnyday Fund has been featured in online newspapers like Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Pailla is also the board member of WorkLife Partnership, a non-profit that delivers individualized health and financial resource navigation services for low and moderate-income employees, and strategic insights to employer’s leadership.
In this latest episode of the Curious Minds podcast, follow us on a transformative journey towards abundance with Carl Grant. From writing and publishing his own book to decades of experience as a business leader, community advocate, and family man, Carl illuminates the path to a life brimming with purpose and fulfillment. Through his insightful guidance, we uncover the importance of a positive mindset, selfless service, discovering one's purpose, spiritual growth, and embracing challenges. Join us for an inspiring and memorable episode as we learn how to live life abundantly.
We frequently speak about Carl's book, "How to Live the Abundant Life" which you can view here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1637351941/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk
Discover the extraordinary journey of Jennifer Stojkovic, a pioneering executive leader at the forefront of food and tech innovation. From her roots in Silicon Valley, collaborating with industry giants like Google and Facebook, to her pivotal role in advancing alternative protein and sustainability, Jennifer's story is one of relentless ambition and global impact. Join us as we explore her trailblazing career, from keynote stages to international missions, and uncover the transformative power of her vision for a sustainable future.
In this episode we hear about Jennifer's #1 Bestselling book, The Future of Food Is Female: Reinventing the Food System to Save the Planet. Learn more here: https://www.amazon.ca/Future-Food-Female-Reinventing-System/dp/B09WQBJQ74.)
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