In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Yaga Richter, a scientific leader working to advance Earth system predictability across timescales.

As a Special Projects Lead to the NSF NCAR Director, Yaga leads the Earth System Predictability Across Timescales initiative, helping shape scientific strategy, interdisciplinary partnerships, and team-based approaches that support a more resilient future.

We talk about her unconventional journey into science--moving from Poland to the United States at 13, starting college at 14, and putting herself through school while studying Mathematics and Physics--and how those early experiences shaped her approach to leadership, collaboration, and resilience.

From studying atmospheric gravity waves during her PhD to tackling questions at the interfaces between atmospheric layers, disciplines, and societal needs, Yaga’s work is grounded in one core idea: when we reconnect what has been fragmented, we unlock better science and better outcomes for people.

This conversation dives into what Earth system predictability actually means, why interdisciplinary science matters now more than ever, and what it looks like to lead one of the largest Earth systems organizations.

In today's episode with Lily Myers, we explore her incredible journey from a YouTube video enthusiast to a NASA researcher. As a freshman at UC Berkeley, Lily has already made significant strides in astrophysics, including leading her school's astronomy club and conducting experiments in zero-gravity. Join us as we delve into her experiences with the NASA SEAS internship and discover what it's like to float in zero-g. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights into the universe!

In this episode, we’re talking with Melissa Pore--an award-winning Engineering educator who has helped students literally send their work to space. She’s been behind satellite launches, ThinSat missions, NASA collaborations, and hands-on programs that empower students to do real research and real engineering.

We get into what it means to trust students with big ideas, how to build community in STEM spaces, and why the best learning happens when you’re allowed to tinker, experiment, fail, and try again. Melissa’s energy is the kind that makes you feel like your biggest goals are actually achievable.

If you’ve ever felt small in a big field, this conversation is the reminder that you belong here.