EP#27 - UNVEILING STEM'S MENTAL TOUGHNESS: EMPOWERMENT FOR SUCCESS with AJ Kikumoto

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with AJ Kikumoto, CEO of Queen Publishing Agency. We dive deep into a compelling topic: "Unveiling STEM's Mental Toughness: Empowerment for Success."Here are Some of the Key Questions I Ask AJ Kikumoto Include:How did your journey begin? What led you to where you are today as the CEO of Queen Publishing Agency and an author?Can you share how your experiences as a mother of six, and your journey through pageants, have influenced your focus on mental toughness, particularly in STEM?How do you connect the concept of mental toughness with the challenges faced by students in STEM, especially in the context of schooling and navigating tough subjects like math and science?What challenges did you face in aligning your journey as an author with becoming a business leader, and how did you overcome them?Can you talk about some of the books you’ve written and the inspiration behind them, especially how they tie into themes of mental toughness and empowerment?How do you empower the next generation, particularly young girls and underrepresented individuals, to succeed in male-dominated fields like STEM?What advice would you give to other parents or aspiring authors who want to write books that inspire and empower?Here are Some Key Takeaways from Our Discussion on "Unveiling STEM's Mental Toughness: Empowerment for Success":AJ's Journey: AJ Kikumoto shares her inspiring journey from being a mother of six and a pageant competitor to becoming the CEO of Queen Publishing Agency. She emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy and how her experiences in both personal and professional life have shaped her focus on mental toughness.Mental Toughness in STEM: AJ highlights the challenges that students face in STEM, especially in subjects that can be intimidating like math and science. She discusses the importance of teaching resilience and perseverance, using real-life examples from her children’s experiences with learning and overcoming obstacles.Becoming a CEO and Author: AJ talks about the transition from author to business leader, and how having great mentors has been key to her success. She underscores the importance of mentorship not only for adults but also for children, as a way to guide and empower them in their journeys.Books and Empowerment: AJ introduces her children’s book series, including "Zoe’s Great Adventures," which was inspired by her children's experiences with apraxia of speech. She explains how these books are designed to help children and parents navigate challenges, foster resilience, and find joy in the journey.Empowering the Next Generation: AJ discusses her mission to empower young girls and underrepresented individuals in STEM fields, where mental toughness is essential for success. She talks about the importance of mentoring, finding passion in various activities, and how these experiences can build the mental fortitude needed to thrive.About the Host: Tiffani TeacheyTiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani owns Thrive Edge Publishing and is the owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.As an engineer with over 19 years of experience, Tiffani is passionate about inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift—the 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book—at www.stemistheway.com.