Leading Yourself and Others as an Emerging STEM Leader

In the latest episode of the Twinning Strategy podcast focusing on leadership in STEM, our hosts welcomed Diane Rigos, a multifaceted scientist and educator renowned for her advocacy for women in STEM fields. As the founder of Episitimi, a nonprofit dedicated to leadership training for women, Diane brings a wealth of knowledge aimed at helping emerging leaders navigate the complexities of the scientific landscape. With 82 episodes under their belt, the hosts were game to delve into today’s pressing issues surrounding funding cuts, the state of scientific job markets, and the essential role of mentorship.

Diane opened the discussion with a powerful statement about the current challenges faced by young scientists in the U.S., emphasizing the increased anxiety stemming from funding shortages and job insecurities. With these precarious conditions, she underscored the importance of her work to empower young graduates and industry professionals to build their leadership skills. Her passion for mentorship shone through as she reflected on the genuine anxiety many students harbor about their futures in science, a sentiment echoed by the hosts who shared personal anecdotes reflecting the harsh realities of pursuing advanced degrees.

The dialogue evolved to explore the nuances of mentorship, particularly how emerging professionals often seek guidance in times of crisis. Diane highlighted the effective strategy of utilizing mentoring circles, where groups of mentees interact with multiple mentors, creating a more comfortable and open atmosphere. This format not only alleviates the pressure of one-on-one interactions but also fosters community among mentees, opening avenues for collaboration and support.

As the conversation progressed, the issue of gender disparities in STEM was broached, with Diane passionately discussing how current political climates hinder efforts for diversity and inclusion in scientific fields. She explained the troubling trend where organizations receiving government funding are forced to shy away from topics of diversity, complicating efforts to empower women in science. Despite the challenges, Diane remains optimistic about the potential for change and emphasized the need to reach a critical mass of women in various environments to cultivate creativity and productivity.

The hosts and Diane resonated on the necessity for empathy and understanding in leadership styles, highlighting that leaders must adapt to the needs of those they lead, rather than conforming to outdated models that stifle individual expression. Mental health, self-awareness, and mindfulness practices were discussed as key components of effective leadership—Diane advocates for using tools like meditation to enhance one’s presence and connection with others.

In closing, Diane provided an inspiring reminder for aspiring leaders: foster your leadership qualities early on, nurturing the understanding that leadership can take many forms and starts with self-awareness. She proposed that future leaders, especially women, should engage in experiences that allow them to explore their leadership potential, no matter the position they hold.

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