Goddess of Technology

Marie Gonzales, M.Sc., M.A.

Goddess of Technology is an educational podcast specializing in health, cultures, arts, business and technology. GT's mission is to educate, motivate and inspire women of color in the technology industry to achieve their career goals. For the long term, GT's vision is to foster a community wherein women of color mutually empower each other on their professional growth journey by passing on their skills, knowledge, experience and wisdom to each other. My name is Marie, and I'm your podcast host. | Contact: coucou.goddess@gmail.com

  1. 9h ago

    198. Thalidomide Scandal: The Price of Blind Trust in Health Advice

    In this podcast episode, we’re learning about one of the largest pharmaceutical disasters in modern history: the Thalidomide scandal. We’re exploring how a medicine that is marketed as safe and revolutionary becomes responsible for thousands of devastating birth defects around the world and how this tragedy fundamentally changes drug safety forever. Moreover, we’re examining a question that is surprisingly relevant decades later: Why do people continue trusting health claims without sufficient evidence? From miracle cures to questionable wellness advice on social media, history repeatedly demonstrates how hope, fear, marketing and authority can influence our health decisions. This episode is not merely about the past. It is about you, beautiful. It is about understanding how scientific evidence works, why skepticism is a form of self-care, and how you can confidently navigate health trends in the age of TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and artificial intelligence. If you’ve ever wondered whom to trust when it comes to your health, love, this episode is for you. I would love hearing your opinion and, if applicable, your personal experience with this topic. Please send me an e-mail at coucou.goddess@gmail.com. REFERENCES American Lung Association (2026) Health TikTok Trends: Which Ones Are Safe and Which Ones Are Dangerous? BBC News (2011) The women behind the thalidomide scandal. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (2018) After 60 Years, Scientists Uncover How Thalidomide Produced Birth Defects. Frontiers in Public Health (2026) Health misinformation and social media trends. Guardian (2012) Thalidomide scandal timeline. McBride, W.G. (1961) Thalidomide and congenital abnormalities. The Lancet. Science Museum (2026) Thalidomide. Stephens, T.D. and Brynner, R. (2001) Dark Remedy: The Impact of Thalidomide and Its Revival as a Vital Medicine. Thalidomide Trust (2026) About Thalidomide. Vargesson, N. (2011) Thalidomide-induced teratogenesis: history and mechanisms. Birth Defects Research Part C.

  2. Jul 23

    197. Radium Girls: The Dark Side of Trust

    In this podcast episode, we’re learning about the Radium Girls, the young women who painted luminous watch and instrument dials in the United States during the 1910s, 1920s and 1930s, and whose work became one of the most devastating workplace safety scandals in modern industrial history.  We’re exploring the discovery of radium, the glamour of the radium trend, the tragedy of radium jaw, the role of corporate silence, and the powerful legacy these women created for worker protection, occupational health and socially responsible leadership. This episode is not only about the past, Goddess.  It is about the present responsibility of every organization that introduces new technology, new materials, new processes or difficult company news. It is about what leaders owe to employees when the truth is uncomfortable. It is about what you and I can do when something is marketed as innovative, magical, luxurious or revolutionary, while the risks remain unclear. If this episode resonates with you, love, I would be happy to hear your opinion and, if applicable, your personal experience with workplace safety, corporate communication, trend culture or responsible innovation. You can e-mail me at coucou.goddess@gmail.com. REFERENCES Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2014) ‘Toxicological Profile for Radium’. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. American Physical Society (2004) ‘December 1898: The Curies Discover Radium’, APS News. Britannica (2026) ‘Radium Girls: The Women Who Fought for Their Lives in a Killer Workplace’. Coursey, B.M. (2022) ‘The National Bureau of Standards and the Radium Dial Painters’, Journal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Curie, M. (1911) ‘Radium and the New Concepts in Chemistry’, Nobel Lecture. Fröman, N. (1996) ‘Marie and Pierre Curie and the Discovery of Polonium and Radium’, NobelPrize.org. Martinez, N.E. (2021) ‘Radium Dial Workers: Back to the Future’, International Journal of Radiation Biology. Nobel Prize Outreach (2025) ‘Marie Curie: Women Who Changed Science’. Oak Ridge Associated Universities (2025) ‘Radium Girls: The Health Scandal of Radium Dial Painters in the 1920s and 1930s’. Roberts, W.C. (2017) ‘Facts and Ideas from Anywhere’, Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings. United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (2023) ‘Radium’. Zurich Municipal (2024) ‘How to Stay Safe on TikTok in a World of Viral Trends and Hidden Risks’.

  3. Jul 16

    196. Eating Disorders Amplified by Social Media: The Hidden Cost of Digital Perfection

    In this podcast episode, we’re exploring how social media amplifies eating disorders, body dysmorphia and unhealthy relationships with food, fitness and self-worth. From the rise of the looksmaxxing movement and hyper-curated beauty standards to toxic fitness culture, orthorexia disguised as ‘clean eating’ and the deeply disturbing persistence of pro-anorexia communities online, we’re uncovering how digital platforms influence the way you see your body and your value as a human being. We’re discussing how algorithms reward extreme transformation content, why eating disorders increasingly affect men and boys, how influencers monetize insecurity, and why socially praised behaviors can quietly evolve into harmful obsessions.  Furthermore, we’re examining the psychological mechanisms behind comparison culture, validation-seeking and identity formation in the age of social media. This podcast episode is not about demonizing health, fitness, beauty or ambition. It is about understanding where self-improvement ends and self-destruction begins.  Most importantly, we’re learning how to protect ourselves and support loved ones who may silently struggle with disordered eating behaviors in a culture that frequently rewards them. If you have an opinion on this topic or if you would like to share your personal experience, you can e-mail me at coucou.goddess@gmail.com.  Your story, perspective and voice matter deeply to our Goddess of Technology community. REFERENCES American Psychiatric Association (2022) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th edn, text revision. Washington DC: American Psychiatric Publishing. Eating Disorder Hope (2026) ‘Eating Disorder Models’. Available at: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/risk-groups/eating-disorder-models (Accessed: May 25th, 2026). Eating Disorder Hope (2026) ‘Male Body Builders and Disordered Eating’. Available at: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/risk-groups/men/male-body-builders-and-disordered-eating (Accessed: May 25th, 2026). Eating Disorder Hope (2026) ‘Men and Eating Disorders’. Available at: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/risk-groups/men (Accessed: May 25th, 2026). Montenido (2026) ‘How Social Media Can Trigger Disordered Eating Behaviors’. Available at: https://www.montenido.com/blog/social-media-trigger-disordered-eating-behaviors (Accessed: May 25th, 2026). Perloff, R.M. (2014) ‘Social Media Effects on Young Women’s Body Image Concerns: Theoretical Perspectives and an Agenda for Research’, Sex Roles, 71(11–12), pp. 363–377. Rodgers, R.F. and Melioli, T. (2016) ‘The Relationship Between Body Image Concerns, Eating Disorders and Internet Use’, Clinical Psychology Review, 44, pp. 101–112. Springer (2024) ‘Social Media and Eating Disorder Symptoms’. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40337-024-00992-3 (Accessed: May 25th, 2026). Tiggemann, M. and Slater, A. (2013) ‘NetGirls: The Internet, Facebook, and Body Image Concern in Adolescent Girls’, International Journal of Eating Disorders, 46(6), pp. 630–633. Elsevier ScienceDirect (2023) ‘Social Media Exposure and Eating Disorder Risk’. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1471015323000223 (Accessed: May 25th, 2026).

  4. Jul 9

    195. Anonymous: How Hacktivism Changed Cybersecurity Forever

    Anonymous is one of the most mysterious and controversial collectives in the history of the internet. In this podcast episode, we’re exploring how an online movement originating from anonymous internet forums transforms into a globally recognized hacktivist phenomenon associated with cyberattacks, digital protests, political activism and international controversy. We’re uncovering the origins of Anonymous, the cultural environment that contributed to its rise, the symbolism behind the Guy Fawkes mask and the historical moments that elevate the collective into mainstream global consciousness. Furthermore, we’re examining some of the most famous Anonymous hacks in chronological order, including operations against governments, corporations, extremist organizations and Russia during the war in Ukraine. We’re discussing why these attacks happen, how they impact society and why cybersecurity, privacy and digital responsibility become increasingly important in a hyperconnected world. Moreover, we’re learning how you can become more socially responsible online without becoming a hacktivist yourself. Cybersecurity is no longer exclusively a concern for governments, intelligence agencies and multinational corporations. It increasingly becomes a human responsibility connected to privacy, ethics, digital literacy and social awareness. Beautiful, I would absolutely love hearing your thoughts and personal experiences related to cybersecurity, internet culture, privacy or digital activism. You can always e-mail me at coucou.goddess@gmail.com. REFERENCES Anonymous Hackers.net (2024) ‘Anonymous History’. Available at: https://www.anonymoushackers.net/anonymous-history/#google_vignette (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026). Britannica (2025) ‘Anonymous’. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Anonymous-hacking-group (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026). CNBC (2022) ‘What is Anonymous?’. Available at: https://www.cnbc.com/2022/03/25/what-is-anonymous-the-group-went-from-4chan-to-cyberattacks-on-russia.html (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026). Crime and Investigation (2024) ‘Anonymous: Evolution of a Hacktivist Collective’. Available at: https://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/articles/anonymous-evolution-hacktivist-collective (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026). EBSCO Research Starters (2024) ‘Anonymous’. Available at: https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/biography/anonymous (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026). The Week (2015) ‘Anonymous and its Biggest Hacks’. Available at: https://theweek.com/articles/486636/anonymous-secret-groups-5-biggest-hacks (Accessed: May 22nd, 2026).

  5. Jul 2

    194. Messiah Complex: The Psychology Behind Cult Leaders and Devoted Followers

    In this podcast episode, we’re exploring the psychology behind the ‘Messiah Complex’ and understanding how individuals come to see themselves as saviors, leaders, or ‘chosen’ figures. We’re uncovering how these dynamics influence relationships, reshape identities, and in certain cases, evolve into cult-like environments where control, dependency, and emotional manipulation take place. We’re diving into real-life dynamics, recognizing early patterns, and understanding how to respond strategically when someone you love becomes deeply influenced by such belief systems. Moreover, we’re exploring how cult environments operate, why people are drawn to them, and how individuals can gradually find their way back to autonomy and self-trust. If you have ever witnessed someone distancing themselves from reality, positioning themselves as a ‘healer’ or ‘savior,’ or becoming deeply devoted to a leader who presents themselves as one, this episode is designed to provide you with clarity, tools, and direction. Goddess, I invite you to reflect on your own experiences as you listen, and if you feel called to share your perspective or personal story, you’re warmly invited to send an e-mail to coucou.goddess@gmail.com. REFERENCES American Psychological Association (n.d.) Messiah Complex. APA Dictionary of Psychology.iCliniq (2022) Understanding Savior Complex.Psychology Today (2014) The Messiah Syndrome.Psychreg (2023) Understanding Messiah Complex: Psychological Implications and Therapeutic Approaches.WebMD (2023) What Is a Savior Complex?

  6. Jun 25

    193. Pizza: A Cultural Journey Through Time and Taste

    In this podcast episode, we’re exploring the history of pizza—one of my absolute favorite foods—and uncovering how a simple dish evolves into a global cultural and economic powerhouse. We’re diving into its ancient origins, tracing its transformation in Naples, and understanding how it expands across continents to become a symbol of both tradition and innovation. Furthermore, we’re discovering the strategic, cultural, and emotional layers behind pizza, revealing why it resonates so deeply with you on both a personal and collective level. This episode invites you to look beyond the surface of what pizza represents. It’s not merely food—it’s identity, craftsmanship, resilience, and community. Moreover, it reflects how simplicity, when executed with precision and care, can evolve into something extraordinary. By the end of this episode, you’re gaining insights that extend far beyond culinary appreciation, empowering you to apply these lessons to your own life, business, and creative pursuits. I’d love for you, beautiful, to share your perspective and your personal experiences with pizza through the contact form linked in the general podcast description. What does pizza mean to you? Which moments, places, or people do you associate with it? REFERENCES Albala, K. (2011) Food Cultures of the World Encyclopedia. Santa Barbara: Greenwood.CNN Travel (2023) ‘The history of pizza: Naples and beyond’.La Cucina Italiana (2021) ‘The incredible tale of pizza’.Montanari, M. (2006) Food Is Culture. New York: Columbia University Press.Serventi, S. and Sabban, F. (2002) Pasta: The Story of a Universal Food. New York: Columbia University Press.

  7. Jun 18

    192. Toxic Workplaces: When to Stay, When to Resign, and How to Recover

    In this podcast episode, we’re learning about coping with toxic workplace environments, identifying whether you should stay or leave, understanding the psychological effects of unhealthy organizations, recovering during job hunting, rebuilding trust after negative professional experiences, and protecting your mental health if you decide to remain in a harmful work culture. Many professionals experience situations in which workplace behavior becomes emotionally draining, psychologically unsafe, or ethically questionable. Organizational psychology research shows that toxic work environments can lead to burnout, chronic stress, loss of confidence, and difficulty trusting future employers. Understanding how to recognize these patterns and how to respond strategically is essential for protecting your well-being, your career development, and your long-term success. In this episode, we’re examining how toxic workplace dynamics develop, which warning signs should never be ignored, how to decide whether staying or leaving is the right choice, how to recover psychologically while searching for a new position, and how to rebuild professional confidence after negative experiences. Furthermore, we’re discussing what you can do if leaving is not immediately possible, and how to maintain emotional stability and personal integrity even in an unhealthy environment. If you have experienced a toxic workplace yourself, beautiful, I’m inviting you to share your opinion or your personal experience through the contact form linked in the general podcast description. Please indicate if you prefer your contribution to remain anonymous. Your perspective contributes to our Goddess of Technology community, and your story may help another listener recognize that they are not alone. REFERENCES Davey, L., 2019. The Good Fight: Use Productive Conflict to Get Your Organization and Your Team Back on Track. Toronto: Page Two Books.Leiter, M.P. and Maslach, C., 2016. Burnout at Work: A Psychological Perspective. New York: Routledge.Mullen, C., 2024. ‘You can’t fix a toxic workplace. It will only change if leadership changes.’ LinkedIn post.Schein, E.H., 2010. Organizational Culture and Leadership. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.World Health Organization, 2019. Burn-out an occupational phenomenon: International Classification of Diseases. Geneva: WHO.

  8. Jun 11

    191. Masking Autism: How Leaders and Coworkers Can Support and Empower

    In this podcast episode, we’re exploring autistic masking and camouflaging—understanding how individuals on the autism spectrum consciously or unconsciously adapt their behavior to meet social expectations, and uncovering the profound psychological, emotional, and professional implications of this phenomenon. We’re examining why masking often develops, how it presents in high-performing environments, and what it truly costs individuals who engage in it daily. Furthermore, we’re identifying how leaders and coworkers hold the power to either reinforce masking or create environments where authenticity becomes a strength rather than a risk. This episode invites you, beautiful, to reflect on your role in shaping psychologically safe workplaces while uncovering practical, strategic ways to support and empower neurodivergent talent. There is more beneath the surface than what is visible—and what you learn here has the potential to transform not only workplace culture, but human connection itself. If you feel called to share your perspective or your personal experience with masking, I warmly invite you to reach out through the contact form linked in the podcast description. Your voice contributes to a deeper, more conscious community. REFERENCES Autism Awareness Australia (n.d.) Understanding autistic masking and camouflaging.Autism.org (n.d.)Masking: Deconstructing the myths.National Autistic Society (n.d.) Masking.Neurology Advisor (n.d.)Autism masking and its mental health impact.Wikipedia (n.d.) Autistic masking.

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About

Goddess of Technology is an educational podcast specializing in health, cultures, arts, business and technology. GT's mission is to educate, motivate and inspire women of color in the technology industry to achieve their career goals. For the long term, GT's vision is to foster a community wherein women of color mutually empower each other on their professional growth journey by passing on their skills, knowledge, experience and wisdom to each other. My name is Marie, and I'm your podcast host. | Contact: coucou.goddess@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    Marie Gonzales, M.Sc., M.A.
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    190
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Marie Gonzales, M.Sc., M.A.
  • Show Website
    Goddess of Technology