In this episode of She Leads Science, Dr. Rachele Pojednic joins Dr. Liz Joy for a compelling conversation on the evolving role of scientists across academia, industry, and public communication. Trained as an exercise physiologist, Dr. Pojednic grounds her work in the powerful idea that exercise—particularly strength training—is one of the most important levers we have for longevity, shaping muscle health, metabolism, and aging. A central theme is the importance of clear, credible scientific communication, using platforms like podcasts and social media to translate evidence without losing rigor. She also highlights her work at Restore Hyper Wellness, reflecting growing demand for accessible, science-informed health strategies. The discussion emphasizes that careers in industry are not only viable but essential for scientists seeking real-world impact. Ultimately, the episode challenges traditional career paths and underscores the importance of bridging science, communication, and innovation to improve health at scale.

In this episode of She Leads Science, Dr. Liz Joy sits down with Dr. Michelle Mottola, a globally recognized leader whose work has helped transform exercise during pregnancy from a source of caution and confusion into an evidence-based standard of care. Together, they explore Dr. Mottola’s scientific journey, her leadership in advancing maternal health research, and the growing global recognition that cardiometabolic health during pregnancy can shape a woman’s future risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The conversation highlights her groundbreaking work on gestational diabetes, exercise safety, and the long-term health implications of pregnancy, as well as her success translating research into practice through the NELIP program. Dr. Mottola also shares one of her most memorable and practical messages for pregnant women: don’t eat for two, eat twice as healthy. This episode is a compelling look at the science, leadership, and global impact of exercise during pregnancy.

In this episode of She Leads Science, host Dr. Liz Joy sits down with pioneers Drs. Mary Jane De Souza and Nancy Williams to explore the science and leadership behind the Female Athlete Triad. Together, they trace their paths into research, reflect on navigating male-dominated fields, and discuss how their work reshaped the understanding of energy deficiency, menstrual function, and bone health in physically active women. The conversation unpacks the physiology of energy deficiency and examines the long-term consequences for reproductive and skeletal health. They also address persistent misconceptions, gaps between science and clinical practice, and the importance of translating complex research into actionable care. Finally, they reflect on mentorship, leadership, and the power of collaboration between scientists and clinicians to drive meaningful change in women’s health. Highlighted below are recent publications on the expansion of our understanding of the Female Athlete Triad, and its translation into clinical care.

De Souza MJ, Williams NI, Misra M, Nattiv A, Joy E, Barrack M, Ricker EA, Gorrell S, Koltun KJ, O'Donnell E, Mallinson RJ, Salamunes ACC, Woodruff K, Fredericson M, Plessow F. 2025 Update to the Female Athlete Triad Coalition Consensus Statement Part 1: State of the Science and Introduction of a New Adolescent Model. Sports Med. 2026 Feb;56(2):327-373. doi: 10.1007/s40279-025-02333-z. Epub 2025 Dec 31. PMID: 41474493; PMCID: PMC12982264.

Williams NI, De Souza MJ, Misra M, Nattiv A, Joy E, Barrack M, Ricker EA, Gorrell S, Koltun KJ, O'Donnell E, Mallinson RJ, Salamunes ACC, Woodruff K, Fredericson M, Plessow F. 2025 Update to the Female Athlete Triad Coalition Consensus Statement Part 2: Clinical Guidelines for Screening, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Return to Play for Adolescents and Adults. Sports Med. 2026 Feb;56(2):375-427. doi: 10.1007/s40279-025-02332-0. Epub 2025 Dec 31. PMID: 41474492; PMCID: PMC12982345.

In this episode of She Leads Science, host Dr. Liz Joy sits down with Kathryn (Katie) Porter Starr, PhD, RD—Associate Professor at Duke University, Research Health Scientist at the Durham VA, and Chief Science Officer at Vivo. Katie’s research focuses on how nutrition and strength training can preserve muscle, function, and independence in older adults, particularly those facing obesity, frailty, or surgery. In this conversation, Katie explains the science behind protein, resistance training, and “nutritional vulnerability,” and why protecting muscle is central to healthy aging. She also shares what it’s like to lead research and innovation across academic medicine, the VA, and the private sector while raising three young daughters, including twins. The discussion explores leadership, mentorship, and the realities of balancing multiple professional roles with family life, while providing insights into building a meaningful scientific career and managing the many demands of life beyond the lab.

In this episode of She Leads Science, Liz Joy sits down with Janet E. Fulton, PhD, an epidemiologist and former Chief of the Physical Activity and Health Branch at CDC, whose work has quietly shaped how the U.S. measures, understands, and promotes physical activity. Together they unpack Janet’s path and leadership in federal public health, what “surveillance” really means (and why it isn’t as scary as it sounds), and how data on steps, sedentary time, and walkable communities can actually move mayors, health systems, and school boards to act. They also talk candidly about disruption at CDC, the future public health workforce, and what it really takes to lead science with integrity in a time of mistrust.

Kim Brunisholz, PhD, MST, is an implementation scientist at Johnson & Johnson, where she serves as the Director of Scientific Affairs, Population Health Research. When she's not working, you can find her on a bike or a pair of skis, or cheering on the University of Utah gymnastics team. Kim knows what it takes to translate science into practice to improve people's lives. She is an inspirational leader and wise beyond her years! Hope you enjoy our conversation!

She Leads Science is a conversation-driven podcast hosted by Dr. Liz Joy, spotlighting women leading breakthroughs in medicine, public health, and scientific discovery. Each episode explores their work, real-life career paths, leadership lessons, and how science moves from lab to clinic to community—warm, honest, and occasionally funny.