Rori and Emilia engage in an enlightening conversation with the remarkable Dr. MariaElena Zavala, a pioneering plant developmental biologist, and the first Latina to receivea PhD from UC Berkeley's botany department. Dr. Zavala shares insights into her earlyfascination with plants, and navigates through her educational and professional path,revealing the challenges and triumphs of being a woman of color in science. Dr. Zavalaalso delves into her impactful work in mentoring and amplifying the participation ofunderrepresented groups in STEM fields, which has earned her prestigious awards andrecognition. Her story highlights the crucial role of mentorship and representation infostering diversity within the scientific community.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:37 Celebrating Dr. Maria Elena Zavala's Trailblazing Journey in Science06:07 The Power of Curiosity: Choosing Science Over Tradition13:38 Mentoring and Making a Difference: Learning from Life and Academia16:11 Navigating Academic Challenges: From UC Berkeley to Indiana16:51 Transition to Yale: Pursuing Pollen Longevity and Roots18:19 Choosing CSUN: A Decision Driven by Student Potential26:50 The Power of Mentoring: Shaping Futures Beyond the Lab29:09 Revise and Resubmit: Reflecting on a Career Without RegretsCREDITS: This episode is produced and edited by Maribel Quezada Smith. SoundEngineering by Keagan Stromberg. Production Coordinator, Marissa Alcantar. ADiferente Creative Production.