0:02 Challenge of Being a Scientist3:14 Transitioning to the Private Sector4:56 Understanding Industry Partnerships10:50 The Impact of AI on Research13:45 Language and Reality35:08 Knowledge vs. Wisdom39:56 The Role of Academia in Innovation43:31 The Importance of Industry Collaboration50:20 Preventing Burnout in Academia51:00 Succeeding in the Private Sector58:10 Creating Your Own PathIn this episode, we explore the challenges faced by scientists transitioning from academia to the private sector, where Dr. David Giltner is drawing from personal experiences as a physicist. We discuss the gap between academic training and industry demands, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and navigating ambiguity in a profit-driven environment. We share insights from Dr. David Giltner's book aimed at scientists entering industry, highlighting the crucial role of communication and storytelling in making scientific work accessible. Additionally, Dr. David Giltner cautions against overreliance on AI, stressing that it cannot replicate the human capacity for dealing with uncertainty and ethical dilemmas. The conversation also addresses issues of burnout and the significance of balancing financial and psychological rewards in one's career. Dr. David Giltner concludes with advice for emerging scholars to embrace risks and pursue paths that resonate with their passions, fostering innovation and personal growth.Who is Dr. David Giltner?

Dr. David Giltner bridges the academic-industry divide from both sides. Having spent 25 years developing cutting-edge technologies into commercial products, he understands exactly what companies need from scientific expertise. Through his company TurningScience, he's taught thousands of researchers to translate their scientific value into industry & business terms. David holds 7 patents and is a published author of 3 books on building a rewarding career in industry.

Chung Huong Institute's Senior Scientist, Robert A. Harris, AKA #MADBOB is back! ⁠0:02 ⁠The Power of Crazy Ideas⁠45:30 ⁠Reality of Academic Careers⁠47:47 ⁠Mindset and Well-BeingIn this episode, we navigate the complexities of academia and the importance of supporting unconventional ideas, often overlooked in favor of more traditional research pathways. Dr. Robert A. Harris share his thoughts on the prevailing flaws in the funding system, which often favors well-trodden paths and famous names over groundbreaking yet unproven inquiries. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize the importance of nurturing creativity and a sense of adventure in scientific research—qualities essential for true innovation.A significant part of our dialogue centers on mentoring young researchers in a world where professional expectations loom large. Dr. Robert A. Harris reflects on the challenges they face, including the pervasive "publish or perish" mentality that can stifle bold ideas. As an advocate for setting a supportive environment, Dr. Robert A. Harris stress the importance of authenticity in academic interactions and the courage needed to pursue divergent paths in research. Dr. Robert A. Harris also touch on the foundational understanding of what constitutes a scientific hypothesis and the often blurry line between knowledge and understanding.We explore the role of technology and AI in research, reflecting on how they can assist but also complicate the landscape of scientific inquiry. I voice concerns about the overreliance on technological solutions that may overshadow fundamental scientific thought processes. The conversation also dives into the balance of traditional methodology and new innovations, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven exploration to bring fresh insights to established knowledge.As we conclude, we tackle the often overlooked topic of mental well-being in academia, addressing the persistent negativity in that sphere. Dr. Robert A. Harris urges listeners to appreciate the privileges of education and the potential for joy within it, while encouraging a mindset shift towards positivity and acceptance of diverse journeys in academia. This exploration not only resonates with the experience of current students but also fosters a broader discussion about our societal narratives surrounding success and fulfillment in the academic realm.Through our conversation, we hope to inspire fellow researchers to embrace their wildest ideas and take bold steps, advocating for a culture that celebrates creativity and resilience as we continue to forge paths in the ever-evolving field of science.Who is #MADBOB ? Find out here: https://chunghuonginstitute.org/madbob

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Shanae Thomas, a leading advocate for inclusive and equitable education. Dr. Thomas shares insights from their two-decade journey, addressing challenges faced by marginalized communities post-pandemic. We explore the significance of authentic listening and emotional connectivity in education, alongside their "legacy framework" that integrates diversity into curricula. Dr. Thomas discusses strategies to engage students in meaningful dialogue around trauma and social justice, emphasizing the vital role of community support. This conversation may inspire you to foster inclusive environments that empower all voices.

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0:02 Introduction to Dr. Shania Thomas

15:32 The Challenge of Invalidation

17:16 The Legacy Framework

20:30 Building Community Connections

24:21 Advice for the LGBTQ+ Community

27:05 The Role of Curriculum in Inclusion

32:45 Empowering Students in Learning

40:14 Secrets to Effective Curriculum Design

47:11 Defining a Curriculum Architect

52:44 Closing Thoughts on Happiness

Who is Dr. Shanéa Thomas?

Dr. Shanéa Thomas, LICSW, CSE (he/she/Dr.) is a bold lecturer, seasoned scholar–practitioner, TEDx Speaker, and AASECT’s (American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists) 2024 Sexuality Educator of the Year, has more than 20 years of professional clinical social work experience in the Washington, D.C. metro area. As a proud Howard University School of Social Work graduate, Dr. Thomas’ main commitment in the field is training and strategizing with social workers, educators, and service providers around building safer therapeutic, educational and workplace spaces for all people. He has facilitated over 120 workshops centering needs around diversity, equity and inclusion, grief and loss, mental health, sex and gender, and LGBTQIA+ populations.

Dr. Thomas ended his 10-year position at the University of Southern California School of Social Work as a Senior Lecturer in 2022 to further the commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity through the University of Maryland School of Public Health as their LGBTQ+ Training Specialist and Assistant Clinical Research Professor. She has assisted the Prevention Research Center in launching their national training program using evidence-based tools to build LGBTQIA+ competency in practice amongst mental health professionals.  After witnessing a deep disconnect between decision-makers, direct service professionals, and the community, and recognizing the urgent need for educators and practitioners to thrive, not just survive, Dr. Thomas shifted from her appointed role as Executive Director of Accreditation at the Council for Social Work Education to invest more intently into Thomas Consulting and Therapeutic Services. Today, she partners with clinicians, educators, and healthcare leaders highlighting what she calls as "The Thomas Standard" to build strategies and cultures rooted in empathy, accountability, and transformative growth through the lens of grief, legacy and equitable strategy.
My current book in pre-production, “Accountable Care and Identity Camaraderie for Transgender and Queer Service Providers: Preventing Burnout” (Bloomsbury Academic, release date July 9, 2025) centers the experiences of those who hold marginalized identities within community work, with recommendations to organizations on how to uplift their work environments to prevent burnout and encourage longevity.