Ep. 21 - Kathleen Richardson

Some conversations come full circle.

In this episode of Moving Forward, Linda Anderson is joined by Dr. Kathleen Richardson—a lifelong friend, former college roommate, and now a globally respected scientist and educator. Linda and Kathy first met as students at Alfred University, sharing space, late-night conversations, and a formative season of becoming. Decades later, they reunite to reflect on how culture, curiosity, and purpose have shaped their paths.

Today, Kathy is a Pegasus Professor at the University of Central Florida, a leader in optics and materials science, a mentor to generations of scientists, and the 2025 recipient of the International Congress on Glass President’s Award, honoring a lifetime of contribution to the international glass community. Beyond the accolades, Kathy’s story is one of stewardship, resilience, and hope.

In this thoughtful and deeply human conversation, Linda and Kathy explore:

• How early environments and relationships shape who we become
  

• The cultures of science—and what healthy, purpose-driven scientific spaces look like
  

• Identity, voice, and navigating life as a woman in STEM
  

• Failure, uncertainty, and how challenge can be both productive and healing
  

• Mentorship, curiosity, and sustaining hope across demanding seasons
  

• Trusting curiosity as a guide toward meaningful contribution—whether or not you see yourself as a “scientist”
  

This episode is an invitation to reflect on your own journey: the cultures that shaped you, the setbacks that refined you, and the curiosity still calling you forward.

✨ Whether you work in science, education, leadership—or simply live with curiosity and purpose—this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and hope.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes in the power of learning, connection, and stewardship.

Thank you for listening—and for taking time to reflect on your own journey.

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Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay

Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez