Do you let out an audible sigh of frustration every time someone says, “We’ve never been more divided” and wish you had a space to engage in dialogue that shows this is simply not true? Or maybe you have a gut feeling that your lived experience isn’t the only one out there but you’ve never known anyone that was significantly different from yourself.
The Get Uncomfortable Podcast is for anyone wanting to build community by and through making the uncomfortable conversations about politics, religion, and race common-place. Get started here twice a month and see where this journey can take you.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Do you let out an audible sigh of frustration every time someone says, “We’ve never been more divided” and wish you had a space to engage in dialogue that shows this is simply not true? Or maybe you have a gut feeling that your lived experience isn’t the only one out there but you’ve never known anyone that was significantly different from yourself.
The Get Uncomfortable Podcast is for anyone wanting to build community by and through making the uncomfortable conversations about politics, religion, and race common-place. Get started here twice a month and see where this journey can take you.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
**Show Notes: Get Uncomfortable Podcast Episode with Rochelle Forney**
**Introduction:**
- Host: Adam Smith
- Podcast: Get Uncomfortable
- Episode Title: "Breaking Biases and Building Resilience: A Black Woman Engineer's Journey"
- Guest: Rochelle Forney, Electrical Engineer at Ford Motor Company
**Key Points:**
**1. Introduction to Rochelle Forney:**
- Rochelle Forney, an electrical engineer at Ford Motor Company, shares her journey and experiences in the STEM field.
- Discussion about the challenges faced by historically marginalized groups in pursuing STEM education and careers.
**2. Background and Early Career:**
- Rochelle's background as a non-traditional student and a single mother.
- Transition from working in the mailroom at First Energy to pursuing engineering.
- A pivotal moment with the CEO of First Energy that opened doors for her and changed her life.
**3. Academic Challenges and Resilience:**
- Discussion about the challenges faced during college, retaking classes, and dealing with biases.
- The importance of resilience and the skills acquired from overcoming academic challenges.
**4. Creating Community and Support:**
- The significance of programs like Choose Ohio First in creating a supportive community for STEM students.
- The role of intentional community-building events and mentorship in navigating the challenges of college.
**5. Navigating Academic Barriers:**
- Advocacy for self in academia and the importance of sharing personal stories to create understanding.
- Challenges faced by non-traditional students and the need for educators to consider diverse backgrounds.
**6. Transition to Professional Life:**
- The distinction between studying engineering and practicing engineering.
- Discussion on the importance of soft skills, communication, and interpersonal abilities in the workplace.
**7. Facing Corporate Challenges:**
- Challenges and biases faced by a black woman in the corporate engineering space.
- Overcoming biases by breaking stereotypes and changing perceptions.
**8. Advice to Young Professionals:**
- Advice for young professionals entering the workforce, including being humble, asking questions, and breaking biases.
- The importance of listening to understand and build resilience.
**9. Conclusion:**
- Gratitude for the opportunities and support received throughout Rochelle's journey.
- Closing remarks and encouragement to stay uncomfortable.
**Closing:**
- Acknowledgment of the podcast's production team.
- Call to action for listeners to support the podcast through reviews, emails, or sharing episodes.
**Contact Information:**
- Host: Adam Smith - https://hearadamspeak.com/
- Podcast: Get Uncomfortable - https://getuncomfortablepodcast.com/
**Outro:**
- Thank you for listening to Get Uncomfortable.
- Stay tuned for more uncomfortable conversations and inspiring stories.
These show notes provide a concise summary of the podcast episode, highlighting key themes and takeaways for the audience.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
