Inspiring Participation in STEM

Episode 126 w/ DJ Dr. Muk

Check out last week’s newsletter: Leadership for Gen Z Professionals

Participation in STEM

You ever think about what got you into STEM in the first place?

Like really think about it?

It’s not secret that I have a focus in STEM with all I do with IncrediPaul

But let’s dive into the why of STEM

Maybe it was building random things with no instructions.


Maybe it was breaking stuff apart just to see how it worked.


Maybe it was a teacher who lit a fire in you—or a project that actually made science feel real.

Whatever it was, here’s the truth:

STEM isn’t just labs and laptops. It’s impact. It’s creativity.
It’s problem-solving that actually changes lives.

But here’s where we’ve got to be intentional:

If we want to stimulate interest in STEM—whether in a classroom, on TikTok, or in the workplace—it’s not about throwing facts and formulas at people.

It’s about showing how STEM connects to what people care about.
The environment. Justice. Creativity. Innovation. Freedom.

It starts with curiosity.
It grows through connection.
And it sticks with purpose!

This week’s guest knows all about the purpose and creativity part of stimulating interest in STEM. Enter Tamuka Chidyausiku, Ph.D AKA “DJ Dr. Muk” who is the founder of STEAMulater LLC and a Principal Scientist in Protein Engineering working at a drug discovery start up.

Learn more by clicking the button or YouTube link to learn more about his story and his impact globally!

MORE DETAILS ABOUT EPISODE

Tamuka “DJ Dr. Muk” Chidyausiku, is a protein engineer, science communicator, and educator passionate about making STEM accessible through pop culture and the arts. As the founder of STEAMulater LLC and a Principal Scientist in Protein Engineering working at a drug discovery start up, he blends hip hop, interactive sci-art, and social media to engage & educate a wide range of audiences in molecular biology and protein design. In this episode of IncrediPaul Leadership, Paul Faronbi speaks with him about his unique approach to making STEM accessible through hip hop culture. They discuss Dr. Muk's journey from his early fascination with science to his innovative program, STEAMULATOR, which combines hip hop and biochemistry to engage diverse communities in learning. The conversation also touches on the importance of mentorship, leadership in science, and the evolving nature of career paths in STEM fields.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM EPISODE

  • Engagement in science can be enhanced through fun and interactive methods like STEAMULATOR Games.

  • His journey highlights the significance of mentorship and community support in pursuing a scientific career.

  • The integration of AI in protein engineering is revolutionizing the field.

  • Leadership in science involves not just technical skills but also the ability to mentor and inspire others.

  • Career paths in STEM are not linear; individuals can pivot and explore various opportunities.

  • The importance of self-advocacy in directing one's career path is crucial for young scientists.

  • The future of science communication lies in blending traditional education with engaging, modern methods.

LEADERSHIP QUOTE

“It’s true that charisma can make a person stand out for a moment, but character sets a person apart for a lifetime.”

John C. Maxwell

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