In this episode, we welcome back a familiar voice from our very first season—Dr. Dale Wesson. Known for his insightful and candid perspectives, Dr. Wesson joins us for a thought-provoking (and perhaps a bit controversial) discussion on the coveted R-1 designation in higher education.

Drawing from his recent opinion piece in Inside Higher Ed, Dr. Wesson unpacks the implications of the updated criteria for the Carnegie Classification and what “R-1” should truly signify for colleges and universities. We explore how this redefinition could reshape institutional priorities, impact funding and prestige, and influence the broader mission of higher education.

Whether you’re in academia, policy, or simply curious about how these classifications drive competition and change, this conversation challenges assumptions and invites you to think critically about the future of research universities

In this milestone 100th episode rebroadcast, we revisit an inspiring conversation with Dr. Calvin Mackie — engineer, entrepreneur, author, and the dynamic founder and CEO of STEM Global Action, formerly known as STEM NOLA.

Born out of a vision to bring hands-on STEM education to the youth of New Orleans, STEM NOLA has grown into a national movement, impacting communities across the country through STEM Global Action. Dr. Mackie shares how a simple mission — to inspire, engage, and expose K–12 students to science, technology, engineering, and math — has evolved into a powerful force for equity, empowerment, and education.

In this episode, Dr. Mackie reflects on the early days of STEM NOLA, the challenges of scaling a grassroots effort, and what drives him to keep pushing forward. His passion for creating opportunities where none existed before is both contagious and deeply moving.

Tune in to celebrate this landmark episode with us and be reminded of the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership in STEM education.

In this reflective solo episode of STEMulating Conversations, we pause for a personal check-in with a powerful reminder: time is our most valuable resource. Titled "A Note to Self", this episode unpacks the real meaning behind work-life integration—not balance—and the necessity of aligning our actions with what truly matters.

With candid honesty, we explore how to manage the many demands on our time without losing ourselves in the hustle. You'll hear a fresh perspective on three timeless truths:
⏳ Time is Equal – Everyone gets 24 hours.
♻️ Time is Nonrenewable – Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
💰 Time is Money – So how are you spending it?

In this special rebroadcast of STEMulating Conversations, we revisit an inspiring dialogue with St. Mary's College of Maryland President Emerita Tuajuana Jordan. Dr. Jordan reflects on her leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, student-centered leadership, and resilience in the face of challenge. She shares lessons on navigating institutional change, empowering teams, and maintaining integrity while leading through uncertain times. Her insights on legacy, mentorship, and the power of purposeful leadership remain as relevant today as ever. Whether you're a seasoned leader or emerging in your career, this conversation offers timeless wisdom on leading with impact and intention.

In this special rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes, Dr. Q revisits a powerful and thought-provoking conversation with renowned mentoring expert, scholar, and author, Dr. Beronda Montgomery. A professor, researcher, and author of Lessons from Plants, Dr. Montgomery offers wisdom on how mentoring—like growth in nature—requires intentionality, adaptability, and nurturing environments.

Together, they explore what it truly means to mentor with purpose, how to cultivate spaces for personal and professional growth, and the lessons we can learn from the natural world about leadership, development, and care. Whether you're a mentor, mentee, or someone who simply values community and growth, this episode delivers timeless insights that continue to resonate.

This week on STEMulating Conversations with Dr. Q, we're honoring a trailblazer in STEM education and outreach—Tokiwa Smith, founder of SEM Link—by rebroadcasting one of our most impactful episodes: SC80.

As Tokiwa celebrates her birthday on July 4th and the 20th anniversary of launching SEM Link, we take a moment to recognize her unwavering commitment to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. A true lover of math and science, Tokiwa turned her passion into purpose when she created SEM Link, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting student achievement and career exploration in STEM fields. For two decades, SEM Link has worked to increase student exposure to real-world STEM experiences and professionals—bridging the gap between the classroom and the broader STEM community.

Join us as we revisit Tokiwa’s powerful story, her vision for equitable STEM education, and the impact of two decades of SEM Link. This celebratory episode reminds us that when passion meets purpose, transformation follows.

Happy Birthday, Tokiwa—and cheers to 20 years of STEM empowerment!

In this inspiring episode of STEMulating Conversations, Dr. Q sits down with emerging leader Kenny Rolle, whose leadership journey began as a junior high basketball team manager and led him all the way to serving as Student Government Association President at Tennessee State University to coveted NFL Communication Specialists roles. Kenny reflects on the lessons he's learned from both peers and mentors, offering fresh insights into the evolving face of leadership.

Kenny’s path is marked by consistency and commitment. With wisdom beyond his years, he shares practical advice on making an impact, embracing authenticity, and listening to the voices of those you serve. From navigating campus leadership to building a legacy of influence, this conversation reminds us that age doesn't define leadership—action does.

In this enlightening episode of STEMulating Conversations, Dr. Q sits down with Samaad Wes Keys, PhD, a passionate advocate for education and a Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation. Samaad shares his inspiring journey—from his early days as a classroom teacher in New Jersey to now shaping national strategies that uplift Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

With humor and insight, he discusses how his lived experiences inform his work and his dedication to ensuring equity and excellence in higher education. Samaad unpacks the unique strengths and enduring impact of HBCUs, and why they remain a vital force in shaping brilliance and innovation. He also reflects on the power of mentorship, the importance of culturally affirming spaces, and the need for intentional investment in institutions that have historically done so much with so little.

Whether you're an educator, policymaker, student, or simply someone who cares about the future of equitable education, this episode will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to support the mission of HBCUs in a new way.