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    And The Winner Is...Science!

    en-usDecember 18, 2019

    Podcast Summary

    • Exploring the world through BBC and NPR, and the competitive nature of scienceSupport local radio stations for inspiring stories and remember, being first isn't the only goal in science or podcasts, it's about making a difference.

      The BBC and NPR, through their storytelling and competitive nature, inspire us to think and learn. The BBC offers a window to the world, providing information and inspiration without dictating our thoughts. Meanwhile, NPR's podcasts, including Shortwave, compete to engage listeners and donors, with a special focus on Camille Schrier, the pharmacy student who combined her love of science and pageants to win Miss Virginia. Science, like the podcast world, is competitive, with researchers vying for grants and discoveries. But in the end, it's the unique combinations of passions and talents that set individuals apart. So, support your local public radio station and tune in for more inspiring stories. And remember, whether it's science or podcasts, being first isn't the only goal – it's about making a difference.

    • Overcoming Obstacles with Determination and ResilienceDetermination and resilience can help individuals pursue their passions despite challenges. Camille Schrier's journey to the Miss America pageant despite grad school pressure and lack of a talent shows this. Companies like Amgen and Apple Card also embody this spirit by pushing boundaries in science and innovation and offering rewards programs.

      Determination and resilience can help individuals overcome obstacles and pursue their passions. This was exemplified by Camille Schrier, who, while working on her pharmacy degree and feeling the pressure of grad school, still found the time and courage to pursue her dream of competing in the Miss America pageant. However, she faced two challenges: the absence of a performing talent and the swimsuit competition. But when the swimsuit competition was abolished in 2018, Camille saw an opportunity to focus on the only remaining obstacle – her talent. With the support of her mother, she took it as a challenge and found a unique way to showcase her abilities, ultimately leading her to compete and succeed in the pageant. Moreover, the discussion also highlighted the importance of companies like Amgen, pushing the boundaries of science and innovation to address some of the world's toughest diseases. And in a more personal way, Apple Card, with its cash rewards program, offers individuals the opportunity to earn rewards on their everyday purchases. Both examples demonstrate the power of perseverance and the progress being made in various fields.

    • Science Demonstration at Miss Virginia PageantA scientist used hydrogen peroxide, food coloring, dish soap, and potassium iodide to create a large plume of colorful foam, demonstrating the importance of catalysts and chemical reactions, inspiring curiosity and excitement in kids and adults.

      Science can be engaging and entertaining, even for children. Camille, a scientist and pharmacy student, showcased this at the Miss Virginia pageant through a simple yet captivating science demonstration. Using hydrogen peroxide, food coloring, dish soap, and potassium iodide as her materials, she demonstrated the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, creating a large plume of colorful foam. This reaction, while fun and visually appealing, is also educational, highlighting the importance of catalysts and chemical reactions. Through her performance, Camille effectively showcased her talents and passion for science, while inspiring excitement and curiosity in kids and adults alike. Science truly is all around us, and with the right approach, it can be both entertaining and enlightening.

    • Combining Pageants and Science EducationEffectively communicating the value of science to diverse audiences, especially those with unconventional interests, is essential for inspiring future generations.

      Camille's innovative approach to combining the Miss America pageant and science education was met with uncertainty due to the traditional nature of the pageant and the potential perception that science doesn't fit the mold. However, Camille's strong public speaking skills and ability to engage children in science proved successful. She hoped to inspire young girls who love science to believe they could still participate in beauty pageants, and she achieved this outcome on a much larger scale than expected. It's crucial to reach audiences who may not have a predisposition towards science and inspire them with effective communication and relatable experiences.

    • Miss America Organization empowers women through opportunities and scholarshipsThe Miss America Organization offers young women confidence, artistic expression, and substantial scholarships, empowering them to develop essential skills and pursue their goals.

      The Miss America Organization provides young women with opportunities for personal growth, artistic expression, and substantial scholarship funding. Camille Schrier, a contestant from Virginia, shared how the competition has given her confidence in public speaking and a creative outlet. Moreover, the organization awarded $75,000 in scholarships in Virginia alone this year, with Camille receiving over $21,000. These opportunities and financial resources can be empowering for women, as they can help them develop essential skills and pursue their goals. Despite the removal of the swimsuit competition, some may still question the organization's empowerment factor. However, the experiences and benefits shared by participants like Camille demonstrate the value and potential impact of the Miss America Organization.

    • Insights from Easycater and BlackRock's PodcastsEfficient catering solutions and informed investment strategies are crucial for businesses and individuals, as discussed on Easycater and BlackRock's podcasts.

      Both Easycater and BlackRock's podcast, The Bid, offer valuable insights for different aspects of business and personal finance. Easycater, a corporate catering solution, aims to simplify food management for companies, providing access to over 100,000 restaurants nationwide and budgeting tools. BlackRock's podcast, The Bid, focuses on investment challenges and market insights, with CEO Larry Fink discussing retirement and other issues where global capital markets play a role. These resources highlight the importance of efficient catering solutions and informed investment strategies for businesses and individuals alike.

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