Dr. Melissa Röhrig is a researcher specializing in materials science, particularly in permanent magnets and their applications.

Monica and Melissa discuss the significance of permanent magnets in the context of energy transition and decarbonization, the challenges of sourcing critical materials, and the importance of sustainable processing and recycling methods.

Dr. Röhrig shares her research on cryogenic treatment and its potential benefits for improving magnetic properties and corrosion resistance. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by women in research, the importance of collaboration, and Melissa's personal journey from Brazil to Germany. The episode concludes with encouragement for future generations of researchers.

Smart Coatings | Dr. Assarian & Dr. Javaherdashti

In this special webinar episode of the Material Business Podcast, Monica is joined by Dr. Reza Javaherdashti and Dr. Arezoo Assarian and delve into the critical issues surrounding corrosion and microbial corrosion (MIC). They explore innovative solutions through advanced coating technologies, including antimicrobial and self-healing coatings. The discussion highlights real-world case studies, the role of bacteria in corrosion processes, and the importance of risk assessment in managing corrosion. The episode concludes with insights into future trends in coating technologies and the responsibility of the industry to develop sustainable solutions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Innovative Coatings

34:16 Understanding Coatings and Their Functions

40:36 The Evolution of Smart Coatings

46:55 Challenges with Traditional Antimicrobial Coatings

53:07 Innovative Solutions in Antimicrobial Coatings

58:17 Multifunctional Microcapsules in Coatings

01:03:30 Future Trends in Smart Coatings

01:09:30 Final Thoughts and Responsibility for the Future

Monica Hernandez and Alec Groysman delve into the intersection of corrosion science and artificial intelligence (AI). Alec shares his extensive background in corrosion, emphasizing the importance of AI in solving corrosion-related problems. The discussion covers key topics such as corrosion kinetics, the determination of corrosion rates, and the optimal use of corrosion inhibitors. Alec highlights the necessity of collaboration between corrosion professionals and experts in AI, mathematics, and physics to advance the field. The conversation concludes with a call for integrating AI methodologies into corrosion education and research, while also appreciating the beauty of science and its humanitarian aspects.

Got a great idea? Make sure it’s protected. Austin Bonderer isn’t just a patent expert—he’s also an engineer who’s spent the last 25 years helping inventors and researchers secure their products, marks, and innovations.

Dr. Victoria Mattingly (she/her), also known as Dr. V, is an organizational psychologist, keynote speaker, and founder of Mattingly Solutions—a consulting firm focused on workplace inclusion, allyship, and mental health. A cancer survivor living with mental illness and alopecia, Dr. V blends academic expertise with personal resilience to help others feel seen, heard, and supported. She’s the author of Inclusalytics and the forthcoming companion books Act Like an Ally and Work with an Ally. Through her bold voice and human-centered approach, Dr. V empowers people to show up as better allies—and better humans—at work and in life.

Ingeniero Químico con Maestría en Energías Renovables y 21 años de experiencia en procesos industriales, innovación y transición energética. Presidente de la Asociación Colombiana de Hidrógeno - Hidrógeno Colombia, donde lidera la adopción del hidrógeno en sectores estratégicos del país. Ha impulsado proyectos de reducción de emisiones en plantas industriales para producción de fertilizantes, y desarrollo de producción de amoniaco verde, obteniendo exitosamente para ellos financiamiento con entidades internacionales como Banco Mundial y GIZ. Ha sido reconocido como Profesional Prominente por la Asociación Colombiana de Ingeniería Química (2023) y Profesional Sobresaliente en Productividad Industrial (2019, 2017)

Dr. Naim Turner-Bandele shares his inspiring journey from aspiring professional soccer player to the founder and CEO of Latimer Enterprises, an energy research and consulting firm. He discusses the nonlinear path of entrepreneurship, the importance of mentorship, and the role of self-discovery in achieving one's goals. Dr. Naim emphasizes the significance of resilience, intuition, and the impact of historical figures on his journey, encouraging listeners to pursue their dreams and embrace their unique paths.

Monica interviews Zoonie Nguyen, a multifaceted entrepreneur and filmmaker, about her journey from engineering to empowering women through storytelling and leadership. Zoonie shares her experiences, challenges, and the importance of finding one's voice. The discussion also delves into her documentary 'How She Dares', which aims to inspire and activate women entrepreneurs. They explore themes of self-care, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the significance of community and representation in entrepreneurship.

Monica speaks with Brenda "Maxx" Cumby McGee, a retired union carpenter and model, who shares her inspiring journey from the modelling industry to carpentry. Brenda discusses the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, the importance of union representation, and her passion for creating functional workwear for women in trades. She emphasizes the need for more women in non-traditional jobs and encourages listeners to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. Brenda also shares her entrepreneurial journey in launching her clothing line, Got Street Blues, aimed at providing women with safe and well-fitting workwear.

Monica Hernandez and Angela Cope explore the themes of self-discovery, collaboration, and the importance of storytelling in the workplace. Angela shares her journey of navigating multiple roles, the challenges women face in the tech industry, and the significance of mindfulness and self-care. The discussion emphasizes the need for individuals to find their authentic selves and the power of sharing personal stories to inspire and connect with others.

Una conversación inspiradora para cualquier mujer que esté considerando una carrera en ingeniería o que desee crecer profesionalmente sin dejar de lado su identidad y su bienestar.

Dr. Jing Liu holds the position of Associate Professor and UA Engineering Research Chair in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta (U of A). Dr. Liu completed her Ph.D. and conducted postdoctoral research in the Department of Materials Engineering at the University of British Columbia from 2011 to 2018. Her research expertise encompasses several domains, including high-temperature and high-pressure aqueous electrochemistry, hydrometallurgy, corrosion and materials degradation, as well as materials innovation for sustainable energy transition. In recognition of her contributions, Dr. Liu was honored with the 2022 Petro-Canada Young Investigator Award at U of A, and also the MetSoc 2024 Brimacombe Award.

Dr. Alec Groysman comes back to the podcast with a theme that we all should be starting to look at: How to use A.I. to solve corrosion problems.

In this episode of the Material Business Podcast, Monica Hernandez and corrosion engineer Alec Groysman discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and corrosion science. They explore the importance of AI in predicting corrosion behavior, the historical development of corrosion models, and the need for collaboration among professionals in the field. The conversation emphasizes the potential of AI to revolutionize corrosion engineering and the necessity of sharing data and knowledge to improve predictive models.

En este episodio de Material Business en español, Monica entrevista a la Dra. Patricia Carrizo, una mujer resiliente que logró su doctorado en ingeniería sin beca, viajando por todo el país para cumplir su sueño. Patricia nos cuenta cómo la arqueometalurgia le abrió un camino inesperado, combinando ciencia, historia y pasión por el arte.

Desde analizar artefactos mapuches hasta descubrir pigmentos ocultos en pinturas centenarias, este episodio nos recuerda que la ciencia también es humana y que detrás de cada logro hay una historia de esfuerzo, dudas y valentía.

🎧 Escúchalo si estás por rendirte — o si necesitas una chispa para seguir adelante.

Monica interviews Eslam Mahmoud Yassin Osman, an asset integrity engineer from Sudan, who shares her inspiring journey through the challenges of her career and personal life. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, collaboration in engineering, and the significant role women play in crisis situations, particularly in Sudan. Eslam discusses her experiences during the ongoing conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the resilience of women who have stepped up to support their families.

Monica Hernandez interviews Patricia Carrizzo, a chemical engineer specializing in archaeometallurgy.

They discuss the significance of studying ancient metals, the methodologies involved, and the interdisciplinary nature of the field.

Patricia shares fascinating discoveries about ancient alloys and their modern applications, as well as her academic contributions, including a published book on reverse engineering of ancient metals.

The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by women in engineering and the importance of inspiring the next generation of female engineers.

Learn more at https://www.infinitygrowth.ca/

Book:

Reverse Engineering of Ancient Metals (January 2022)https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-72842-7https://link.springer.com/search?query=reverse+engineering+of+ancient+metals&facetcontent-type=Book

Metallography, Microstructure, and Analysis (MMA) special issue (April 2023)

https://link.springer.com/journal/13632/volumes-and-issues/12-2

In this episode, Monica Hernandez speaks with Isabel Alvarez, a lawyer and gender auditor, about the critical issue of sexual harassment in the workplace. They discuss the definition of sexual harassment, its impact on victims, legal protections available, and the importance of allyship in combating this pervasive issue. Isabel shares insights on the challenges victims face when reporting harassment and highlights the need for societal change and awareness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of speaking out and seeking help, as well as the progress being made in legal frameworks to protect victims.

In this conversation, Monica Hernandez and Jason Land delve into the complexities of sustainability and corrosion management, particularly in the context of the solar energy industry. They discuss the importance of effective corrosion management systems, the evolution of corrosion practices, and the need for collaboration and communication across various engineering disciplines. Jason shares insights from his extensive experience in the corrosion industry, emphasizing the significance of data quality and the lessons learned from past mistakes. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of solar energy structures through proactive corrosion management.Chapters00:00Introduction to Sustainability and Corrosion06:16Corrosion Management Challenges12:28Industry Trends and Regulatory Insights18:30Collaboration Across Disciplines24:30Learning from Experience and Data Sharing30:25Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this episode of the Material Business Podcast, host Monica Hernandez interviews Carolina Navia, a Colombian mining engineer based in the United States. Carolina shares her journey in the mining industry, discussing her experiences in both underground and open pit mining, the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, and the importance of mentorship and resilience. She emphasizes the need for effective communication and understanding in leadership roles, and reflects on her adaptation to a new culture after moving to the U.S. Carolina's story is one of determination, growth, and the pursuit of opportunities in the face of adversity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carolina Navia

02:20 Understanding Mining Engineering

05:21 Experiences in Mining Operations

09:05 Leadership Lessons in the Field

11:41 Women in Mining: Challenges and Inspirations

15:32 Adapting to a New Culture

22:31 Personal Growth and Resilience

30:11 The Role of Mentorship

34:03 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of the Material Business Podcast, host Monica Hernandez speaks with Bami Dele Faryi, a multi-award-winning leader in STEM. Bami shares her journey from being a biomedical scientist to a leader and mentor, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, resilience, and the power of mentorship. She discusses the challenges she faced, the significance of owning one's achievements, and the need to empower the next generation in STEM fields. Bami's holistic approach to her identity and career serves as an inspiration for listeners at any stage of their professional journey. In this conversation, Bami and Monica discuss the importance of embracing failure as a part of growth, the impact of mentorship and feedback, the significance of recognition through awards, and the journey of writing and sharing personal stories. They emphasize that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for reflection and learning, and that constructive feedback can empower individuals to pursue their goals. Bami shares her experiences with awards and how they serve as a message of visibility and encouragement for others. The discussion also highlights the importance of storytelling and how sharing experiences can inspire and motivate others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bami's Journey

09:57 Owning Your Achievements

20:12 The Importance of Mentorship

29:57 Transitioning from Science to Leadership

40:01 Resilience and Perseverance in Career Growth

30:09 The Impact of Feedback and Mentorship

33:10 Recognition and Awards: Acknowledging Efforts

39:35 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Stories