All Things STEM

CSU STEM-NET

On this show we will explore all things STEM. Most importantly we will highlight the incredible CSU STEM faculty, students, staff and administrators that bring us the best STEM research and the best STEM education.

  1. Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs): Learning from the Past, Preparing for The Future

    FEB 19

    Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs): Learning from the Past, Preparing for The Future

    In this episode of All Things STEM, Dr. Frank A. Gomez welcomes Dr. Rick Sperling, who brings thoughtful insight into how Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) support students through the lenses of culture, identity, and institutional practice. Together, they reflect on how “servingness” is about more than enrollment numbers—it’s also about the day-to-day choices and structures that shape student experiences. They also discuss how shifts in research funding can influence institutional priorities and decision-making, and what that can mean for accountability and whose voices are included. Along the way, they explore common challenges in grant narratives, the difference between representation and shared influence, and why self-determination can be a powerful driver of long-term, meaningful progress. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why HSIs benefit from pairing key metrics with deeper measures of impact and student experienceHow funding uncertainty can shape priorities—and why including students, families, and communities mattersHow deficit narratives get rewarded in proposals—and what gets lost because of itThe difference between representation and shared influence (including who shapes curriculum, rewards, and opportunity pathways)About the guest: Dr. Rick Sperling is Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of Community-Based Research at St. Mary’s University (San Antonio, TX). He earned a PhD in Educational Psychology from UT Austin and brings quantitative expertise to questions of race, culture, power, and institutional behavior in HSIs—especially around hiring, tenure, assimilation, deficit mindset, and systemic racism. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    42 min
  2. The Plastic Illusion: What We’re Not Being Told

    JAN 14

    The Plastic Illusion: What We’re Not Being Told

    In this episode of All Things STEM, host Dr. Frank Gomez speaks with Susan Keefe, California Director of Beyond Plastics and former Oracle executive, about one of the most misunderstood issues in environmental policy: the belief that plastic recycling works as intended. After nearly 30 years in the technology sector, Susan shifted her career toward environmental advocacy following a personal reckoning tied to chemical contamination and childhood cancer cases in her hometown of Toms River, New Jersey. That experience led her to examine the connections between plastics, fossil fuels, public health, and corporate accountability. Throughout the conversation, Susan explains why plastic recycling was never designed to function at scale, how decades of industry messaging shaped public behavior, and what actually happens to plastic once it enters the waste stream. She draws on policy research, waste-tracking investigations, and on-the-ground advocacy to illustrate where systems fail—and where meaningful change can still occur. Listeners will also hear insights on: The health risks associated with plastics and their chemical additives Why “recyclable” labels are often misleading Gaps in enforcement of California’s plastic reduction laws Practical steps individuals, communities, and institutions can take now This episode offers a clear look at the realities behind plastic use and recycling, and challenges listeners to rethink convenience, demand transparency, and consider solutions that protect public health and the environment. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    49 min
  3. Part III: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    07/30/2025

    Part III: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    In this episode of All Things STEM, host Dr. Frank Gomez welcomes Dr. Christopher Meyer, Dean of Science and Mathematics at Fresno State, and Dr. Lynn Cominsky, Physics Professor at Sonoma State University. Together, they discuss the escalating threats to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in education, the sweeping cuts to federal grant funding, and the profound impacts these changes have on students, faculty, and institutions. The conversation dives into: The termination of billions in federal grants and its toll on campus research, innovation, and student opportunities.The dismantling of evidence-based programs like the What Works Clearinghouse, and what that means for education and accountability.How faculty and universities are adapting—turning to state initiatives, philanthropy, and industry partnerships for support.The broader consequences of policy shifts on DEI, Pell Grants, TRIO programs, and access for low-income and DACA students.Resistance from higher education institutions, including lawsuits and campus advocacy, and why leadership and solidarity are more critical than ever.Dr. Meyer and Dr. Cominsky highlight the human stories behind these policy changes, emphasizing the resilience of students, the responsibility of educators, and the urgent need to safeguard equity and innovation in STEM. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    46 min
  4. Part II: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    06/30/2025

    Part II: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    In this timely episode of All Things STEM, Dr. Frank Gomez is joined by Dr. Carmen Domingo and Dr. Leticia Márquez-Magaña of San Francisco State University for a candid conversation on the shifting landscape of higher education. They delve into the real-world impact of sweeping federal budget cuts, the chilling effect on DEI efforts, and the personal and professional toll on students, faculty, and researchers. Grounded in experience and driven by a commitment to justice, this episode explores how leadership, collaboration, and community can push back against systemic setbacks. Tune in for a bold discussion on what it means to lead, resist, and reimagine during uncertain times. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    51 min
  5. Part I: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    05/21/2025

    Part I: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

    In this urgent and thought-provoking episode, host Dr. Frank Gomez is joined by Dr. Amy Sprowles, Associate Professor of Cellular and Molecular Biology at Cal Poly Humboldt, and Dr. Heather Macías, Associate Professor of Teacher Education at Cal State Long Beach. Each of our guests has distinguished themselves as scholars, teachers, and leaders, dedicated to promoting excellence, diversity, and harmony in education. Together, they confront the growing existential threats to higher education—ranging from sweeping cuts to NSF and NEH grant funding, to the dismantling of DEI efforts under current political pressures. The conversation dives deep into how these changes are affecting faculty, students, and campuses, and explores how public institutions can resist, adapt, and continue advancing inclusive and innovative teaching and research. This is Part I of a powerful two-part series that highlights the need for community, courage, and clarity in a time of unprecedented uncertainty. 🔗 Listen now to hear how California State University faculty are standing strong and reimagining what it means to educate, advocate, and endure. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    48 min
  6. Strength Beyond the Gym: Dr. Guillermo Escalante on Bodybuilding, Leadership, and Resilience

    04/11/2025

    Strength Beyond the Gym: Dr. Guillermo Escalante on Bodybuilding, Leadership, and Resilience

    In this powerful episode of All Things STEM, Dr. Frank Gomez sits down with Dr. Guillermo Escalante—bodybuilder, educator, and Interim Associate Dean at CSU San Bernardino—to explore how the discipline of fitness fuels leadership in higher education. From his roots in Costa Rica to balancing fatherhood and academia, Dr. Escalante shares how resilience and vision can create real impact. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity, building structure, and shaping student success. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    38 min
  7. The Human Side of Technology: Ethical Implications and Innovations

    08/23/2024

    The Human Side of Technology: Ethical Implications and Innovations

    In today's episode, we're excited to have Dr. Roberto Gonzalez, a cultural anthropologist with an incredible journey that takes him from mechanical engineering to hands-on fieldwork with indigenous communities in Southern Mexico. Dr. Gonzalez’s work spans a wide range of topics, from the everyday practices of subsistence farming to indigenous science and the ethical dilemmas surrounding military tech and algorithmic policing. His research is a cool mix of hard science and social science, giving us a fresh perspective on how technology is changing our world. We’ll also dive into his experience with the Human Terrain System program and his latest thoughts on the tech industry’s growing involvement with defense contracts. This conversation is all about why it’s so important to consider the ethics of AI and other advanced technologies. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    44 min

  8. 05/31/2024

    Building the Future: Inside the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon

    In this episode of All Things STEM, Dr. Frank A. Gomez speaks with Dr. Fred Smoller, Associate Professor of Political Science at Chapman University and President of the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon. Join us as we delve into Fred's journey and the exciting developments of the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon. They discuss the origins and evolution of the Sustainability Decathlon, a competition that promotes green, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions. The conversation highlights the educational significance of hands-on experiences in sustainable housing projects and examines strategies for sustaining and expanding such initiatives through innovative funding models and community engagement efforts. Episode Credits Produced, edited, and mixed by Monica Alarcon Hosted by Dr. Frank A. Gomez Music licensed by Premium Beat

    39 min
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About

On this show we will explore all things STEM. Most importantly we will highlight the incredible CSU STEM faculty, students, staff and administrators that bring us the best STEM research and the best STEM education.

Information

  • Creator
    CSU STEM-NET
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    All Things STEM