Why STEM? Podcast

Dr. Rameesh Madourie
  • 5.0 (1)
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  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. 

Episodes

  1. JAN 14

    My Why: From Curiosity in Jamaica to Purpose in STEM | Dr. Rameesh Madourie | S1 Finale- Episode 8

    This episode is personal. In this solo Season 1 finale of The Why STEM Podcast, host Dr. Rameesh Madourie shares the story he hasn’t told yet, his own. From growing up in Jamaica with curiosity and imagination, to becoming an educator and leader committed to equity and opportunity, this episode explores the moments, mentors, and purpose that shaped his “Why.” Dr. Madourie reflects on early inspiration, the power of teachers who believe in potential, the role of Career & Technical Education, and why STEM is more than content,  it’s empowerment, access, and possibility. He also looks back on Season 1 guests and looks ahead to what’s coming next for the Why STEM community. Whether you’re an educator, student, STEM professional, or someone still searching for your purpose, this episode is a reminder that your Why matters. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear about: Growing up curious in Jamaica and discovering a love for STEM The teachers and mentors who sparked confidence and leadership How education and CTE connect learning to real-world opportunity Why STEM is a tool for equity and empowerment Reflections on Season 1 and what’s ahead for Season 2 Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    9 min

  2. 12/10/2025

    Purpose, Passion & the STEM Path | Why STEM Podcast - Ep 7

    In this reflective episode, we dive deep into the “why” behind STEM careers the motivation, passion, and defining moments that drive professionals to innovate, lead, and push boundaries. Whether you're a student exploring STEM or a seasoned professional seeking renewed purpose, this conversation will help you reconnect with the heart of your STEM journey. Join our featured guests — Jess Hastings, Dr. Fernando Branch, Nahjee Maybin as they sit with our host Dr. Rameesh Madourie to share personal insights, inspiring stories, and the experiences that shaped their paths. ✨ In this episode you’ll learn: What inspires leaders to choose a STEM career How purpose fuels resilience and innovation The moments that reignite passion on the professional journey Why understanding your “why” is essential for long-term success If this episode inspires you, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the growth of the Why STEM Podcast! 🎧 Also available on all major podcast platforms Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    11 min

  3. 08/20/2025

    Building Futures: Civil Engineering, Mentorship & Impact with Jess Hastings | Why STEM Podcast Ep 6

    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. Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    40 min

  4. 07/16/2025

    From Struggling in Math to Leading: Zach Nahman’s Nonlinear STEM Journey | Why STEM Podcast Ep 5

    What happens when a student struggling in precalculus becomes a tech leader in software engineering? In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Zach Neihman, a mechanical engineer turned software leader, to explore how powerful mentorship, failure, and self-discovery can spark a lifelong passion for STEM. Zach opens up about the pivotal moment in high school when his math teacher, Coach Johnson, refused to let him quit. That "no" changed the course of his life. From overcoming early academic struggles to finding his path through engineering, software development, leadership, and even poetry, Zach’s story is a powerful reminder that nonlinear journeys are strengths. 🎧 Whether you're a student, educator, career-changer, or STEM enthusiast, this episode will inspire you to redefine what success in STEM looks like. ✅ Subscribe and turn on notifications 📺 Watch the video version on YouTube 🔁 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    57 min

  5. 07/09/2025

    Redefining Excellence: Dr. Fernando Branch on Turnaround Leadership | Why STEM Podcast Ep 04

    In this powerful episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Fernando Branch joins host Dr. Rameesh Madourie to share his remarkable journey from Memphis to becoming a transformative leader in STEAM education. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Branch reflects on his early challenges, the inequities he witnessed firsthand, and the pivotal educators who changed his life. He dives deep into: The realities and misconceptions of school turnaround work How STEAM education can drive equity and social mobility The role of students in shaping their success His groundbreaking research on law enforcement's impact on Black male principals The origin story of Colorado Men of Color and the power of community healing This episode is a must-watch for educators, leaders, and changemakers striving to break barriers and create intentional, inclusive, and high-impact learning environments. Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    50 min

  6. 07/02/2025

    Bold Leadership | Frannie Matthews on STEM, Risk & Resilience | Why STEM Podcast Ep. 03

    What does bold leadership look like in the face of uncertainty, failure, and change? In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Frannie Matthews, tech executive, former CEO of the Colorado Technology Association, and educator, shares powerful lessons on leading through crisis, embracing failure, and trusting a beginner’s mindset. From navigating an undiagnosed learning difference to rising through the ranks of IBM and leading during the pandemic, Frannie’s story is packed with truth, strategy, and resilience for leaders at every level. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why doing nothing is often the riskiest decision ✅ How Frannie overcame the limits of suspected dyslexia and self-doubt ✅ The value of foundational learning in the age of AI ✅ How her hospitality background shaped her tech career ✅ What bold leadership looks like — even when you’re afraid ✅ Practical advice for women in STEM and emerging leaders Who is this episode for? → Emerging leaders in tech and education → High school/college students considering STEM careers → Women navigating leadership roles → Educators, mentors, and decision-makers shaping the future of STEM Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    1h 4m

  7. 06/25/2025

    From Military Brat to CEO | How Failure Built Nahjee Maybin’s STEM Success | Why STEM Podcast Ep. 02

    What does it take to turn setbacks into leadership success?  In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast, host Dr. Rameesh Madourie talks with Nahjee Maybin, CEO of Kenyatta Computer Services, about how failure, grit, and resilience shaped his path from a multicultural, military upbringing to earning two STEM degrees and leading his own tech company by the age of 26.  Nahjee shares real-life lessons on why delaying gratification matters, how to embrace challenges (even when they seem impossible — like earning a Geophysics degree), and why doing something is always better than living with regret.   In this episode, you’ll learn:  ✅ How failure became the foundation for Nahjee’s leadership journey  ✅ Lessons from pursuing a Math and Geophysical Engineering degree  ✅ How his multicultural upbringing gave him a global leadership perspective  ✅ The mindset shift that helped him navigate setbacks & career pivots  ✅ Why resilience matters for young professionals and future leaders  ✅ Practical advice for students & professionals on facing challenges head-on   👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YK3VmbmDrJI&list=PLdBOgOf389-6xAQnzHRGs5zmw7NWSHeHc Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    51 min
  8. From Rejection to Licensed Civil Engineer | Breaking the Mold with Kemmy Mizinga | Why STEM Podcast Ep. 1

    06/18/2025

    From Rejection to Licensed Civil Engineer | Breaking the Mold with Kemmy Mizinga | Why STEM Podcast Ep. 1

    Told he couldn’t be an engineer — now a licensed Civil Engineer building bridges in Colorado. In this powerful first episode of the Why STEM Podcast, host Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Kemmy Mizinga, a first-generation African-American Civil Engineer, to explore the highs and lows of pursuing a career in STEM. Kemmy shares how a high school counselor’s doubt nearly derailed his dreams — and how grit, mentorship, and resilience helped him break the mold and achieve success in the engineering world. If you’re a student, educator, parent, or STEM professional looking for real stories that inspire and empower, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Kemmy turned academic rejection into fuel for successThe mindset of a first-generation immigrant family pursuing STEMWhy mentorship and representation matter in engineeringWhat it takes to thrive in STEM even when the odds are stacked against youAdvice for students struggling with math and confidence Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    50 min

  9. 06/13/2025

    Why STEM? | The Mission Behind the Why STEM Podcast

    Welcome to the Why STEM Podcast, where we ignite curiosity, break barriers, and empower the next generation of STEM leaders. Hosted by Dr. Rameesh Madourie, this show is dedicated to students, educators, professionals, and changemakers who believe that STEM education should be accessible, inspiring, and transformative.  In this brief intro episode, Dr. Madourie shares:  ✅ Why the Why STEM Podcast was created  ✅ Who this podcast is for (students, first-gen leaders, educators, professionals)  ✅ What you can expect from future episodes — real stories, raw truths, and powerful insights from diverse voices in STEM  Whether you're navigating a STEM career, teaching the next generation, or searching for stories that inspire, this is your community. This is your podcast.  Send a text Support the show ✅ Subscribe to the Why STEM Podcast — new episodes every Wednesday ✅ Partner with us: Info@Stemvise360.com ✅ Follow us on YouTube: Why STEM Podcast

    3 min
  • 9 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

About

  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. 

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Rameesh Madourie
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 STEMVise 360 LLC
  • Show Website
    Why STEM? Podcast