Sipping on Science: Dr. Kimberly Minor’s Impactful Innovations

As we near the end of Women’s History Month, it’s time to take a break from our usual cocktail-themed chats and toast to another remarkable woman. Here’s a taste of the conversation that Dr. Kimberly Minor had with host Bob Cutler.

This week, we’re swirling a hot toddy in hand while celebrating the stellar contributions of Dr. Kimberly Minor, a force of nature in the realm of climate science and an advocate for women in STEM.

“So I’m one of 120 fellows who were chosen by [AAAS] (The American Association for the Advancement of Science), the people who run Science magazine and the Light and Health Foundation,” said. Minor. “To be part of a huge campaign that we did for over five years to really elevate women in STEM and make sure that young boys and girls can see the diversity of people who are able to work in STEM.”

During the conversation they talk about what where her career in science has taken her. 

“You’ve studied Mount Everest. You’ve gone to the North Pole and the South Pole. You’ve obviously been in North America. I’m assuming you’ve been in South America. Have you been to every continent?” asked Cutler.

“No. This is a point of great sadness and chagrin for me. I have never been to Australia or New Zealand. I am absolutely a fangirl of their culture, of their films, of their music, and obviously the environment there,” said Minor. “And I’ve never been to Australia or New Zealand! That seems like it’s a research paper away from happening at some point.”

Dr. Minor’s path isn’t just a tale of personal triumph but a beacon for urgent action against the shifting climates that threaten our global backdrop. Every project she tackles offers a deeper understanding of our warming world, turning the abstract fears of climate change into clear, actionable knowledge. Whether she’s charting melting ice caps or erratic weather patterns, Kimberly’s work paints a picture as vivid as it is vital.

“I think about it 24-hours a day. I have friends who are challenged to even sleep at this point,” said Minor. I’m worried, and we’ll have to see how it looks next year. But it seems like there’s a shift, and we don’t know exactly what it is. We’re not gonna be able to know until we have years of data, right? Because weather isn’t climate. But we do see some departures from the norm in the last couple of years that are very concerning.”

Listen as they do a deep dive into the science of climate change, STEM and STEAM, and women in the field. They touch on many different interesting topics – including paying a visit to the elves at the North Pole. 

Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a cocktail aficionado, we invite you to join us on our Cocktails with Friends podcast, where we share insider tips, secret recipes, and engaging conversations with fellow enthusiasts of fine food and drink.

Cheers!