Becoming Incredible: Balancing Leadership, Growth, and Community with Paul Faronbi

"How can we embrace mentorship, self-reflection, and inclusive leadership to amplify our impact as scientists?"

Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Paul Faronbi, better known as IncrediPaul®, shares how research scientists can lead with intention, foster inclusive communities, and grow personally and professionally.

From his work as a chemical engineer in R&D to founding Nala STEM and coaching young professionals, Paul offers candid insights on mentorship, self-care, and integrating your values into your impact.

Who is this for?

1. Research scientists looking to mentor and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders
2. Graduate students and postdocs exploring how to align personal growth with professional impact
3. Scientists and educators building authentic, supportive communities beyond the bench

What’s it about?

Paul’s journey from chemical engineering R&D to founding NALA STEM and establishing the IncrediPaul brand underscores the importance of mentorship and community. He emphasizes the importance of balancing technical skills with ongoing development in communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence, while also practicing self-care, gratitude, and faith as essential components of sustainable leadership. Navigating current challenges to DEI initiatives, Paul advocates for staying true to inclusive values and embracing growth as a continuous process, finding joy along the way.

🔑 Key Takeaway:
Leading with intention, mentoring with empathy, and nurturing your own growth can transform you—and the communities you serve—far beyond the bench.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Paul Faronbi
01:54 Balancing Multiple Roles
02:25 The Importance of Self-Care
03:27 Journey into Podcasting
05:07 Life as a Scientist
06:27 Challenges in STEM and DEI
08:32 Leadership in Tough Times
14:22 Path to Becoming a Scientist
19:32 Building Communities in STEM
24:34 Advice for Young Professionals
33:32 Balancing Technical and Soft Skills
35:50 The Compound Effect: Small Steps to Big Changes
37:36 Gratitude and Reflection in Leadership
37:47 Relentless Solution Focus: Shifting from Problems to Solutions
41:59 Nala STEM: Building a Supportive Community
48:08 Faith and Leadership: Integrating Personal Values
58:47 The Journey of Personal Growth and Development
01:09:16 Collaborating Beyond STEM: Bridging Worlds
01:14:15 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Guest:

Paul Faronbi, Ph.D. | Chemical engineer, leadership coach and podcast host at IncrediPaul®, and founder of NALA(STEM).

Host:

Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact