Tell Us a Story:

The story that resonates most with this conversation is how our paths first crossed, as it sets the groundwork for our collaborative efforts. It all started during the pandemic. I was staying with my parents, trying to navigate the completion of my master's program and contemplating my first job amidst a global crisis. Feeling a surge of bravery, I began reaching out to individuals whose work I admired, with you, Titus, standing out among them.

I came across your article, The 2020s Will Be the Decade of the Bioeconomy, which brilliantly connected my undergraduate studies and my master's inquiries about how to make a meaningful contribution. I reached out to you on LinkedIn, and you graciously agreed to chat.

However, the process was not as smooth as I had hoped. You were transitioning jobs at the time, and it took us a couple of months to finally connect.

Indeed, it took several emails from you, gently reminding me to schedule our call.

This delay proved beneficial, as it allowed me to immerse myself in your writings, including your initial articles for Bioeconomy.XYZ. By the time we spoke, I was eager to ask more insightful questions, which made our conversation engaging. I distinctly recall you pausing after my third question, wondering if I was interviewing you!

This happened after I asked about finding mentors, to which you replied that my questions were quite challenging.

That was indeed one of the topics that sparked our initial connection. You then invited me to write for Bioeconomy.XYZ. Despite my hesitations about my writing skills, I agreed, and it turned out to be an invaluable experience during the pandemic.

Bioeconomy.XYZ became a creative outlet for me, as well as for you during that tumultuous time. Your approach to my initial writing submission was commendable. The constructive feedback you provided guided me toward improving my writing, which ultimately led to my role as Managing Editor.

Taking feedback is an essential skill, and it was clear to me that you could excel in editorial capacities based on your response to my suggestions.

Who Are You and What Are You Doing?

I grapple with that question daily. Currently, I serve as the Managing Editor of Bioeconomy.XYZ while also working as a Senior Consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, where I tackle various challenges.

My journey to this intersection of business and bioeconomy is fascinating. Often, life experiences only make sense in retrospect. Looking back, I can see how my love for science began during my high school research projects and continued through my undergraduate studies in biochemistry at Calvin College.

While in Nepal for an interim study trip, I discovered different levels of impact in healthcare. The exceptional medical professionals I encountered provided life-saving care, yet the system relied heavily on their presence. If they left, the system faltered.

I later pursued a Master's in Business at the Catholic University of America, aiming to merge my scientific background with business acumen. This educational path opened my eyes to the vital role that business plays in translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications.

Titus: Your journey beautifully illustrates the convergence of science and business. Now, you're also weaving in creative writing. What inspired this shift?

Introspectively, I lean more towards creativity than strict analytical thinking, thanks to my creatively inclined parents. My foray into writing began during my trip to Nepal, where I penned an emotional blog post despite battling motion sickness. My professor’s encouragement sparked the realization that I could integrate my scientific interests with writing.

Titus: Many scientists possess a surprising amount of creativity. My own journey of creative expression began during my career rather than through traditional artistic avenues.

Indeed, my reflections during the pandemic led me to conceptualize biotechnology as humanity's highest art form. I pondered the essence of being human and how science could embody our best traits, drawing inspiration from literature like Dante’s *Divine Comedy to frame this perspective.*

What Advice Do You Have for Us?

First and foremost, surround yourself with diverse individuals who challenge you. The 'I dare you to do it' person is invaluable in your circle. They push you to pursue your ideas and aspirations.

Titus: I strive to be that audacious friend, always ready for adventure!

Secondly, cultivate a life-giving environment even amidst challenges. I've focused on fostering generosity, surrounding myself with individuals who share their time and passions generously. This reciprocity creates a nurturing cycle, both professionally and personally.

Lastly, be cautious about how you define yourself. In science, definitions are fluid; they only exist until disproven. Over-identifying can limit personal growth. Embrace a mindset of exploration, allowing yourself to evolve and learn from mistakes.

Titus: I wholeheartedly agree! Learning from mistakes and others' feedback is one of the most efficient ways to grow.

Listen to the full episode and follow along to meet the rest of our incredible guests in Season 2:

Interested in discussing biotechnology or bioeconomy innovations? Let’s connect! If you have exciting science projects that contribute to the conversation, please comment below!

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