From Chemistry to Community: Kai Stowers on Science, Leadership, and the Human Side of Change

In this episode of Culture Stew, host Maria Morukian speaks with Kai Stowers, a chemist turned Leadership and DEI Consultant and Coach. Kai shares his journey from the lab to a career centered on building high-performing, inclusive teams, driven by a passion for both science and the human dynamics of leadership. Through candid stories, he reflects on the challenges of embracing one’s full identity in professional spaces, especially as a transgender man in male-dominated fields. Maria and Kai explore the importance of empathy, community, and the resilience needed to create lasting change. They discuss the complexities of navigating workplace culture as a scientist, the transformative power of trust in leadership, and the role of vulnerability in growth and solidarity.

About Kai Stowers, MA, PCC: Kai Stowers is a scientist turned Leadership and DEI Consultant with a passion for building inclusive, resilient teams. After beginning his career as a chemist focused on novel therapeutics, Kai's interest shifted toward understanding the impact of leadership and culture on human potential and organizational success. Today, Kai is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with a master’s in Organizational Psychology and Change Leadership from Columbia University. His unique perspective as a transgender man and his dedication to mindfulness, intentional development, and learning bring a rich depth to his coaching practice.