Published by D.J. Ferguson
The STEAM Success Blueprint deconstructs career acceleration strategies from the world's top science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics leaders. Host The New Chemist, interviews MIT legends, Ivy League chancellors, biotech pioneers, and leading research directors to extract actionable blueprints you won't find in textbooks. Previous guests included: Provost R. Beyah, Dr. R. Langer, Chan. G. May, Amb. S. Collie, G. Zuckerman, Dr. C. Hardy, K. Woumn, Dr. V. Miranda, Dr. J. Burrows, J. Desmond PhD, A. Utthayakumar MEM & more to discuss career blueprints.
Listen on Apple Podcasts10 min
An Interview with A Mentor- Dr. Robert Langer, Sc.D. (MIT Institute Professor) on aspects of the Future of Diabetes Medicine Research ====== Diabetes therapy is entering a new phase. For decades, the central challenge was how to deliver insulin more safely, more intelligently, and more responsively. The research work by Dr. Langer has produced a generation of technologies aimed at making therapy more autonomous: glucose-responsive insulin systems, microneedle patches, implantable rescue devices, lipid nanoparticles, and mRNA-based approaches to protein replacement. At the same time, a separate revolution emerged from pharmacology. GLP-1 receptor agonists, dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists, and now triple GIP/GLP-1/glucagon agonists have changed expectations for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. ===== Music by ANDRII KORNIEV from Pixabay ==== Views of this interview reflect those of my guest and I. They don't constitute medical or professional advice. We disclaim any loss in any way.
26 min
An Interview with A Mentor- Chancellor Gary May, 7th Chancellor of University of California, Davis- Recorded in 2026 INTERVIEW OVERVIEW Chancellor Gary S. May 7th Chancellor, University of California, Davis KEY FIGURES • 433 underrepresented students earned Ph.D.s in science and engineering at Georgia Tech — most in the nation • 73% of SURE program participants went on to graduate school • 200+ technical publications; 15 book contributions; 1 patent • $13.2 billion annual economic contribution to California • 40,000+ students enrolled at UC Davis • $1 billion+ in annual sponsored research Some of the questions in this interview included: Background: Created the Summer Undergraduate Research in Engineering/Science (SURE) program backed by NSF. Founded FACES and the University Center of Exemplary Mentoring with NSF and Sloan Foundation grants. Produced the most Ph.D.s among underrepresented groups in science and engineering in the nation. Q3. SURE sent 73% of participants to graduate school. What design principles separate a research experience that genuinely transforms a student from one that's merely decorative on a résumé? Q4. Through FACES and the University Center of Exemplary Mentoring, 433 underrepresented students earned Ph.D.s — the most in the nation. If a provost called you tomorrow wanting to replicate that, what's the one structural element they cannot skip — and the mistake institutions most often make? Background: Steve W. Chaddick Chair, Georgia Tech School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dean, Georgia Tech College of Engineering — largest and most diverse engineering school in the nation (400+ faculty, 13,000 students). Executive Assistant to President G. Wayne Clough. Elected to the National Academy of Engineering, 2018. Q5. You went from the Chaddick Chair to dean of the largest, most diverse engineering school in the country while sustaining 200+ publications. How did you manage the scholar-administrator tension, and what did serving as executive assistant to President Wayne Clough teach you about executive leadership before you ever held the title? Q6. Leaders keep emerging from your Georgia Tech orbit including President DesRoches at Rice, Isbell at UIUC, President Ayanna Howard now at Spelman, President Blake at Georgia State, Provost Beyah as provost. Coaches have coaching trees — you have a leadership tree. Was this the product of a deliberate, repeatable system for developing leaders, or a culture that leadership simply grows in? Q7. Often a mentor sees leadership potential in someone before they see it in themselves. When you spot that raw material in a young faculty member or administrator, what exactly are you looking for — and how do you have the conversation that plants the seed of "you could run an institution one day"? Background: 7th Chancellor, UC Davis (2017–present). Four colleges, six professional schools, 40,000+ students, $1B+ in annual sponsored research. Ranked 3rd best public university in the United States (Wall Street Journal/College Pulse, 2024). Ten-year strategic plan: To Boldly Go. Music by Nikita Kondrashev from Pixabay
1 hr 0 min
[Re-Aired] Mastering Science Communication with Simar Bajaj, Multi-Award-Winning Science Journalist -- In this remixed fireside chat from 2023, we sit down with Simar Bajaj then a Harvard undergraduate student and now: a Stanford medical student, Knight-Hennessy Scholar, Oxford Marshall Scholar, and Harvard University graduate. Join us as we discuss Simar's incredible achievements in science communication, the perseverance his field demands, and the sheer hard work behind producing top-tier journalism. As a current award-winning former New York Times reporter and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Simar shares invaluable insights from his experiences writing for major outlets like NPR , The Atlantic , and The Washington Post , as well as publishing first-author research in premier medical journals. This is truly a must-listen episode! Connect with Simar: Website: https://www.simarbajaj.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simar-bajaj/ Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guest(s). This episode is designed to provide educational and intellectually stimulating support for peer pharmacists in training. It is not intended to serve as medical advice or recommendations. For personalized medical guidance, please consult your local board-certified physician, PA, NP, or pharmacist.
3 hr 13 min
A Highlight on Mentorship: An Episode with Key Academic Mentors -- Please note: The views of this podcast represent those of my guest(s) and I. These are not for professional or medical consultation or advice. We disclaim any loss in any way. Please see a state and board-certified health professional for medical advice and consultation.
1 hr 3 min
The Blueprint: Dr. Cray Noah, MD Returns- 2.0 (UCLA/Harvard/Georgia Tech) --- Innovation isn't accidental; it's designed. Welcome to The Blueprint, a show committed to inventing the future and closing the gap between aspiration and achievement. We deconstruct the mechanics of success in modern science to provide access to the insights that matter most. On this episode with Dr. Cray and Chadwin Hanna (MD-PhD Student at University of Florida), we sit down again in December 2025, five years after his initial guest appearance with Dr. Cray Noah, a General Surgery Resident at UCLA and an emerging leader at the intersection of engineering and medicine. A graduate of Harvard Medical School and a summa cum laude Biomedical Engineer from Georgia Tech, Cray has a track record of moving technical ideas from concept to clinical practice. We dive deep into his journey, and have real conversations on wellness, success and the journey of being a surgery resident. Also, this conversation includes: The Future of Transplants: His current feasibility study using hematopoietic stem cells to eliminate long-term immunosuppression in liver transplant recipients. From the GT environment to the operating room, this is a masterclass in navigating—and leading—the next era of discovery. Definitely an episode worth listening to. Please note: The views of this podcast represent those of my guest and I, and do not constitute medical advice, suggestions, or opinions. We disclaim any loss in any way. Music is open source.
10 hr 31 min
A Celebration of Excellence with Leaders in Academia, Medicine, Engineering, & Athletics- Black History Month Celebration! Here is the complete list: Chancellor Gary May ( Chancellor of UC Davis), Dean Raheem Beyah (Dean, College of Engineering, Georgia Tech), Dr. Emery Brown, MD, PhD ( Anesthesiologist-Statistician, Harvard/ MIT/ Mass. General Hospital), Chase Griffin ( Toigo Fellow, Investment Fellow, Athlete Creator and Quarterback, UCLA), Nagela Nukuna (Product Lead, The White House), Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton (Evolutionary Biologist and Assistant Professor at Princeton University and Two Time Emmy Nominated PBS Host), Leselle Vincent ( Senior Associate, Center for Public Impact), Sonola Onasanya ( ESG Equity Analyst, Net Purpose), Gabriel Galaraza (Professional Services Manager, Amplitude), Kyle Woumn (Engineering Manager, Nerd Wallet and Forbes 30 Under 30, 2022), Ms. Pinder (Vice Principal, Bishop Michael Eldon School, The Bahamas), Mr. Bourne ( Chemistry Teacher, B.M.E.S.) ,Mr. R. Deveaux (Deputy Permanent Secretary, The Ministry of Education, The Bahamas), Former Ambassador S. Collie ( Former Bahamian Ambassador to Washington, DC), Mr. Isaiah Swann ( MD-PhD Student at The University of Virginia), Dr. Jenaye Burrows, MBBS (Medical Doctor), Chadwin Hanna ( MD-PhD Student, The University of Florida), Dr. Kuna Fortingo, MD ( Medical Resident), Dr. Sheena Collie (Chief Medical Officer, Doctors Hospital, The Bahamas), Aaron Levarity (Professional Basketball Player in France & from The Bahamas).
33 min
The STEAM Success Blueprint: An Interview with an Engineering Genius- Jee'von Pratt ( Howard University Senior Student & Graduate Student Aspirant for Georgia Tech/ NYU) --- In this episode of The STEAM Success Blueprint , we sit down with Jee'Von Pratt , an aspiring robotics engineer graduate student whose journey spans from overhauling 2-stroke marine engines in Nassau, Bahamas to pushing the boundaries of computational fluid dynamics at Howard University. Aspiring to attend graduate school at either Georgia Tech or NYU, he is on a path to making a great positive difference in the world. Also, in this interview we get the insights of this Bahamian genius, on the ideas of Dr S. Kahf and Dr. Robert Langer from UCLA and MIT respectively. --- Please note the views of the podcast represent those of my guests and I, and they don't constitute medical, professional or clinical advice or suggestions. Please see a board and state certified health professional.
31 min
The STEAM Success Blueprint: Understanding "Grit", Resilience and Mental Toughness with a long-time friend- Jordan Mike Ph.D., LPC-MHSP (TN), NCC --- In a world of attempts to provide quick solutions and high-pressure environments, true mental toughness is often misunderstood. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Jordan Mike, PhD to better understand key concepts in mental health, resilience and growth as a professional. Drawing on Frederic Flach’s Resilience and Harvard Business Review's Mental Toughness books, and modern counseling insights, we discuss the necessity of "disruption" to build a new structure. We also explore the intersection of cultural background and professional success, discussing how our Bahamian roots influence leadership styles in high-stress environments. Whether you are a pharmacist, engineer, or leader, this episode reveals the emotional intelligence skills that allow for building resilience. --- Please note: The views of this podcast represent those of my guest and I, and we disclaim any loss in any way. Please see a licensed and state certified professional for medical advice and professional advice or suggestions.
2 hr 5 min
T.S.S.B.- Interviews in Greenlandic- STEAM-ip iluatsitsinissaanut pilersaarut: Dr. Emery N. Brown ( Harvard-MIT), Dr. Robert Langer (MIT) aamma Dr. L.C. Campeau kalaallisut (kalaallisut) -- STEAM-ip iluatsitsinissaanut pilersaarut: Dr. Emery N. Brown ( Harvard-MIT), Dr. Robert Langer (MIT) aamma Dr. L.C. Campeau kalaallisut (kalaallisut) --- The STEAM Success Blueprint: Interview Highlights with Dr. Emery N. Brown ( Harvard-MIT), Dr. Robert Langer (MIT) and Dr. L.C. Campeau in Kalaallisut (Greenlandic)
20 min
Welcome to the STEAM Success Blueprint. We are so glad you are listening in! Today we have with us a special guest- Sonya Weigle and a special co-host- Chadwin Hanna, MD-PhD Student at the University of Florida! Sonya Weigle is a senior executive and strategic advisor in the life sciences and biotech industry, known for her expertise in leadership development, innovation strategy, and organizational transformation. Her work sits at the intersection of science, business, and leadership, helping organizations move from complexity to clarity. Throughout her career, she has partnered with executives, founders, and cross-functional teams to navigate growth, change, and high-stakes decision-making. She brings a pragmatic, human-centered approach to leadership grounded in real-world experience and informed by the evolving demands of science-driven organizations. As a speaker, Sonya is valued for her clear insights, grounded perspective, and ability to translate complex challenges into actionable strategies. Her talks resonate with leaders seeking to build resilient teams, drive innovation responsibly, and lead with confidence in rapidly evolving environments. -- Please note the views of this podcast represent those of my guest and I, and do not constitute medical or professional advice, consultations or suggestions. We disclaim any loss in any way. Please see the respective professionals for specific advice or consultations. --- Thanks again for listening! -- Recorded in 2026
1 hr 34 min
The views of this podcast represent those of my guest and I,and the translations were done using software. Any error in translation reflects that of the software, not the authors or producer. Ang mga pananaw ng podcast na ito ay kumakatawan sa mga pananaw ko at ng aking panauhin, at ang mga pagsasalin ay ginawa gamit ang software. Anumang pagkakamali sa pagsasalin ay sumasalamin sa pagkakamali ng software, hindi ng mga may-akda o prodyuser. Pandangan podcast ini mewakili pandangan saya dan tetamu saya, dan terjemahannya dilakukan menggunakan perisian. Sebarang kesilapan dalam terjemahanmencerminkan kesilapan perisian, bukan pengarang atau penerbit.
1 hr 24 min
The views of this podcast represent those of my guest and I,and the translations were done using software. Any error in translation reflects that of the software, not the authors or producer. Les opinions exprimées dans ce podcast sont celles de moninvité et les miennes, et les traductions ont été réalisées à l'aide d'un logiciel. Toute erreur de traduction est imputable au logiciel et non aux auteurs ou au producteur. Pwen de vi ki nan podcast sa a reprezante opinyon envite mwen an ak mwen, epi tradiksyon yo te fèt ak yon lojisyèl. Nenpòt erè nan tradiksyon an reflete erè lojisyèl la, pa otè yo oswa pwodiktè a.
58 min
A Highly Ranked Episode for the Overall Group: TNCPG Remix-Fireside Chat Remix - Interview with Simar Bajaj (Harvard University) ( Re-aired) ----In this fireside chat remixed episode and podcast interview with Simar, a Marshall Scholar and graduate of Harvard University, we discuss Simar's achievements in science communication, his perseverance, and the hard work required to produce good work, science communication, and good journalism. Furthermore, Simar provides insights as he is a developing and achieving young leader in the science and journalism arenas. Definitely an episode worth listening to!Here are the links to his website and LinkedIn Page:1. Simar's website: https://www.simarbajaj.com/2. Simar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simar-bajaj/----Note: The views of this podcast represent those of my guest(s) and I.Note: Purpose of these episodes- not at all, for advice or medical suggestions. These are aimed to provide support for peer pharmacists in training in educational andintellectually stimulating ways. Again, these are not at all for medical advice, or for medical suggestions. Please see your local state and board-certified physician, PA or NP, and pharmacist for medical advice andsuggestions.--- Recorded in 2023
9 hr 8 min
🎙️ Your Ultimate Holiday Listen: 9+ Hours of Unstoppable Inspiration! 🌟 This Thanksgiving, spice up your holiday with stories that inspire, empower, and leave you in awe. Whether you’re prepping the feast, traveling, or unwinding with loved ones, this 9-hour+ marathon episode is packed with powerful conversations from trailblazers across medicine, academia, engineering, and sports. 🦃✨ -- Meet the Inspiring Leaders Featured in This 9-Hour+ Episode: Chancellor Gary May – Chancellor of UC Davis, a visionary in higher education. Provost Raheem Beyah – Georgia Tech, driving innovation and diversity. Dr. Emery Brown, MD, PhD – Anesthesiologist-Statistician at Harvard/MIT/Mass General Hospital, a leader in neuroscience and data science. Chase Griffin – Toigo Fellow, Athlete Creator, and UCLA Quarterback, redefining success on and off the field. Nagela Nukuna – Product Lead at The White House, tackling complex national challenges. Leselle Vincent – Senior Associate at the Center for Public Impact, making a global difference. Sonola Onasanya – ESG Equity Analyst at Net Purpose, advancing ethical investments. Gabriel Galarza – Professional Services Manager at Amplitude, enhancing user engagement through analytics. Kyle Woumn – Engineering Manager at NerdWallet and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, bridging tech and finance. Ms. Pinder – Vice Principal at Bishop Michael Eldon School, The Bahamas, shaping young minds. Mr. Bourne – Chemistry Teacher at B.M.E.S., inspiring future scientists. Mr. R. Deveaux – Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, The Bahamas, fostering educational growth. Former Ambassador S. Collie – Former Bahamian Ambassador to Washington, DC, a champion of diplomacy. Mr. Isaiah Swann – MD-PhD Student at The University of Virginia, on the path to medical innovation. Dr. Jenaye Burrows, MBBS – Medical Doctor, advancing healthcare in The Bahamas. Chadwin Hanna – MD-PhD Student at The University of Florida, blending medicine and research. Dr. Kuna Fortingo, MD – Medical Resident, dedicated to improving patient care. Dr. Sheena Collie – Chief Medical Officer at Doctors Hospital, The Bahamas, a leader in healthcare transformation. Aaron Levarity – Professional Basketball Player, The Bahamas, inspiring through athletic excellence. Each of these individuals shares their journey, challenges, and triumphs, creating a tapestry of stories that inspire and empower. 🎧✨ Note: The views of this podcast represent those of my guest(s) and I, and do not constitute medical or professional advice, suggestions or consultation. Please see the respective board and state certified healthcare professionals.
49 min
In this dynamic podcast interview with Simar, a Senior at Harvard University, we discuss Simar's achievements in science communication, his perseverance, and the hard work required to produce good work, science communication, and good journalism. Furthermore, Simar provides insights as he is a developing and achieving young leader in the science and journalism arenas. Definitely an episode worth listening to! Here are the links to his website and LinkedIn Page: 1. Simar's website: https://www.simarbajaj.com/ 2. Simar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simar-bajaj/
2 hr 12 min
In this episode, we combine a wealth of information from pioneers in pharmacology & drug design ( Dr. L. Jungheim ( Former Mentor) & Dr. L.C. Campeau (Associate Vice President, Head of Small Molecule Process R&D at Merck) , bioengineering ( Dr. Robert Langer,Sc.D. - MIT Institute Professor & Co-Founder of Moderna) and designing bioisosteres ( Dr. Kevin Brown, James F. Jackson Professor of Chemistry, IU-Bloomington) ), to present salient and key insights on careers in those areas and advice and skills needed to do well in those fields. Definitely an episode worth listening to! The order of the interviews: 1. Dr. Robert Langer, Sc.D. 2. Dr. L.C. Campeau, Ph.D. 3. Dr. K. Brown, Ph.D. 4. Dr. L. Jungheim, Ph.D. -- Note: The views on this podcast represent those of my guest(s) and I.
18 min
Podcast Description: In this special holiday episode of Where Great Minds Meet , host D.J. Ferguson welcomes acclaimed filmmaker DJ Caruso for an exclusive conversation about his latest Netflix epic, Mary . Known for his dynamic storytelling and cinematic brilliance, Caruso has helmed a range of iconic films, including Disturbia , I Am Number Four , and Eagle Eye . Together, they delve into the creative vision behind Mary , the challenges of bringing this biblical story to life, and its powerful themes of faith and resilience. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast represent those of the host and guest.
15 min
Welcome to Where the Great Minds Meet , the podcast that celebrates interdisciplinary innovation. In this episode, we are thrilled to host Joel Smallbone from the Grammy-winning duo behind for KING & COUNTRY. Join us as we explore their creative process, the integration of technological advances in their music production, and how their work inspires hope and resilience through its profound messages. Discover the mathematical elegance behind rhythm, the engineering of sound, and their passion for using music as a medium for education and societal impact. This episode is a compelling conversation about how the arts enrich the STEAM framework, making it a vital part of education and innovation. Subscribe, download, and share to join the conversation and expand your horizons with us! ---- Please note the views of this podcast, reflect those of my guests and I. Also, please consult the relevant state and board-certified professionals for advice or consultation. Once again, thanks again for listening! -- Open Source Music : Aleksey Chistilin from Pixabay
54 min
Bridging the Gap Beyond the Textbook: Integrating Flash Cards and Audio for Organic Chemistry --- We are bridging the gap between visual and auditory learning in organic chemistry. By integrating 500 reactions from open-source reaction cards from Educational Reaxy’s Flash App with deep-dive podcast audio, we have created an immersive, multi-sensory tool for mastering named reactions. This project is designed to make complex chemistry concepts more accessible and engaging. Note: This content is for educational purposes only.
44 min
Blueprint: Evidence Over "Rearrangements and Vibes" — No “SN1 Rearrangement-like Policies” Guest: Dr. Oye Owolewa, PharmD Guest Bio United Sates Representative Oye Owolewa (D-D.C.) is a dedicated public servant and community advocate committed to uplifting the voices of underserved communities. Elected in 2020 as the U.S. Representative for the District of Columbia, Rep. Owolewa made history as the first Nigerian American elected to Congress. His leadership is rooted in a passion for equity, social justice, and empowering marginalized populations. Born to Nigerian immigrant parents, Rep. Owolewa grew up in Massachusetts before moving to Washington, D.C., where he earned his Doctorate in Pharmacy from Northeastern University. His background in healthcare has fueled his advocacy for accessible and affordable healthcare, mental health resources, and economic empowerment. Prior to his role in Congress, Rep. Owolewa actively served his community through various grassroots initiatives. He worked closely with local organizations to provide educational support, mentorship, and resources for D.C. residents. His focus on youth engagement and civic education has inspired young leaders to become active participants in their communities. In Congress, Rep. Owolewa continues to champion policies that promote racial and economic equity, expand mental health support, and address systemic injustices. He is a strong advocate for D.C. statehood, ensuring that residents of the nation's capital have full representation in Congress. His legislative priorities include economic development, healthcare awareness, and youth empowerment, aiming to create opportunities and resources for all D.C. residents. With a steadfast commitment to service, Rep. Owolewa remains dedicated to improving the lives of his constituents and building a more inclusive and just society for all. Episode Summary What happens when you apply mechanistic thinking—Woodward-level rigor and Percy Julian-level ingenuity—to public policy in Washington, D.C.? In this episode of Blueprint: Inventing the Future , we speak with Dr. Oye Owolewa, PharmD, who is running for DC City Council, exploring how clinical precision and evidence-based reasoning can translate into durable solutions for STEAM education, workforce development, digital equity, mental health, and civic empowerment. We frame D.C. governance like an organic synthesis problem: stabilize intermediates, control reaction conditions, eliminate “side reactions,” and design for yield—so opportunity is not theoretical, but repeatable. Music Credit Music: Reach The Top by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com ```
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