The She Persists Podcast

Michigan Mars Rover: How 2 Women Are Building Robots for International Competition

Most engineering students are told to focus on grades and internships—until they step into a competition and realize real innovation happens under chaos. Isabel Boncher and Riya Desai, leaders of the University of Michigan Mars Rover Team, reveal how they manage a 200-person engineering juggernaut, build robots that simulate Mars missions, and turn failure into fuel for success. In [http://success.In] this episode, discover the inside story of designing a competitive robotic arm that increased its range of motion by 75%, and learn how these students master complex systems while balancing demanding workloads. Isabel shares her journey from freshman to team president—navigating leadership, design, and reliability challenges at a global competition in Utah—and how that experience catapulted her toward aerospace internships at Boeing and VAST. Riya opens up about machining over half of their robotic arm parts before college, and the thrill of troubleshooting a rover with no visibility—sometimes scoring points in the chaos. You [http://chaos.You]'ll also break down the culture of Michigan's intense yet supportive engineering environment, how project teams integrate with coursework, and the importance of mentorship—especially for women in tech. They reveal the secret sauce for balancing ambition and wellness, why asking questions is key, and how to push past the fear of standing out as a woman in engineering. If you’re dreaming of space, robotics, or just breaking through tough terrain, this episode is your blueprint for persistence, innovation, and leadership. Perfect for aspiring engineers, STEM enthusiasts, and anyone ready to turn setbacks into breakthroughs. Lessons learned here go far beyond the rover—because when you persist through chaos, you build not just machines, but your future.

Illini Electric Motorsports: How 3 Women Are Changing Motorsports and STEM Spaces

Emma, Ariella, and Dhriti are building the electric race cars of the future. This episode takes you behind the scenes of designing a Formula SAE vehicle, highlighting teamwork, innovation, and breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces. Discover how they manage sensors, battery designs, and powertrain systems, turning challenges into growth opportunities. Emma shares her journey to SpaceX, Ariella discusses system integration, and Dhriti reveals powertrain design secrets. They also tackle imposter syndrome and foster a community of women in STEM. These young women prove that resilience and curiosity drive breakthroughs. Their stories challenge stereotypes and inspire future engineers. Whether you're passionate about tech or seeking inspiration, this episode offers a glimpse into the minds of tomorrow’s top EV engineers.

Physics, Dragons, and Curiosity at MIT with Jaylee Bouwhuis

Jaylee Bouwhuis, a first-year physics enthusiast at MIT, shares her inspiring journey of embracing uncertainty and exploring diverse passions. From astrophysics to storytelling, Jaylee's story is a testament to the power of curiosity and community. She candidly discusses transitioning to MIT’s fast-paced environment, navigating homesickness, and mastering the art of asking for help. Discover how her love for dragons and diverse academic interests shape her unique scientific journey. Jaylee highlights her involvement in groundbreaking research, from simulating galaxies to exploring dark matter, and how these experiences foster confidence and real-world impact. She also emphasizes the supportive culture at MIT, countering stereotypes of fierce competition with stories of mentorship and shared passions. Perfect for students, aspiring scientists, or anyone questioning their career path, her story inspires us to pursue what excites us and embrace the beautiful mess of learning. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of identity, resilience, and the limitless possibilities when curiosity meets community. If you’re seeking inspiration and a reminder that it’s okay not to have all the answers, this conversation with Jaylee is a must-listen.

Girls of Steel Robotics: Redefining Leadership and Innovation in High School STEM

In this episode of She Persists, Sophia and Viana from the Girls of Steel robotics team share what it’s really like to lead one of the most impactful student-run robotics programs in the country. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Girls of Steel is an all-girls robotics organization that goes far beyond competition—mentoring younger teams, leading global outreach initiatives, and creating a pathway that supports girls in STEM from elementary school through high school. Sophia and Viana talk about how they first got involved in robotics, what surprised them when they joined, and what it takes to run a fully student-led program that supports multiple teams across different age groups. They also share their experiences mentoring younger students, building international connections through FIRST Ladies, and leading outreach programs that have introduced thousands of students to robotics, including initiatives focused on underserved communities. The conversation also explores the role of accessibility and representation in STEM, the impact of mentorship, and how engineering can be used as a tool for social change—from local workshops to global projects like low-cost robotics education initiatives. This episode is a powerful look at what happens when leadership, community, and technical innovation come together—and how building robots can ultimately mean building confidence, belonging, and opportunity for the next generation of girls in STEM.

Purdue Engineers Without Borders: Keira Morrin and Eliza Thurs

Join us as we dive into the inspiring stories of Keira Morin and Eliza Thurs, two passionate Purdue juniors who are making waves with Engineers Without Borders. From their first days on campus, Keira and Eliza have been on a mission to change the world, one project at a time. In this episode, Keira shares her heartfelt journey leading a water distribution project in Rwanda, where her work is not just about engineering but about bringing hope and change to communities in need. Meanwhile, Eliza opens up about her pioneering research on lung tissue, aiming to make a real difference in women's health globally. These young engineers are not just tackling technical challenges; they're breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a woman in STEM. Balancing the intense demands of Purdue's engineering programs with their drive to make a global impact, Keira and Eliza are proving that engineering is as much about people and passion as it is about numbers and equations. This episode is perfect for anyone who believes in the power of innovation, diversity, and the human spirit. Tune in to hear how Keira and Eliza are turning their dreams into reality and inspiring the next generation to follow in their footsteps.