In this discussion, Talithia Williams, a statistician at Harvey Mudd College and PBS NOVA host, emphasizes the importance of tracking personal health data for better medical decisions. She shares insights on the need for inclusivity in math education and highlights the vital role of mentorship in overcoming barriers in STEM fields. Talithia and Steve Levitt also explore the challenges Black individuals face in mathematics and discuss how real-world applications of data can engage students and transform education.
The impact of inclusive math education can inspire students from all backgrounds to pursue careers in STEM.
Tracking personal health data can lead to better interactions with the medical system and empower individuals in making informed decisions about their health.
Disparities and biases faced by black women in maternal healthcare require addressing through better understanding of data and statistics within the medical profession.
Deep dives
1. The Impact of a Math Teacher's Affirmation
Talicia Williams shares how a high school math teacher's affirmation of her math abilities, especially coming from a different racial and gender background, had a profound impact on her decision to major in math and pursue a career in the field.
2. Uncovering the Power of Data in Statistics
Talicia discusses her fascination with statistics after taking a BioStats elective in college. She recalls a specific project analyzing the impact of smoking during pregnancy, which revealed racial and gender disparities. This experience inspired her to pursue a PhD in statistics and uncover how data can be used or misused to shape societal understanding and influence policy.
3. The Need for Math Appreciation and Inclusive Education
Talicia emphasizes the importance of math appreciation and inclusive education in K-12 schools. She discusses how de-emphasizing certain math skills and focusing on the wonder and relevance of mathematics can help engage and inspire students from all backgrounds. Talicia also highlights the significance of teaching the history and contributions of underrepresented mathematicians, breaking down barriers, and providing equal opportunities for success.
Empowering women with data-driven choices
The podcast episode discusses how the speaker, who is a statistician, used data to make informed decisions regarding her reproductive health. She explains how she and her partner learned about the symptom thermal method and used data to track ovulation and increase their chances of conceiving. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of tracking health data and how it can lead to better interactions with the medical system. She shares a personal experience where bringing her own data to the table with a healthcare provider led to a more collaborative and respectful conversation. Overall, the episode highlights the potential impact of empowering individuals with data-driven choices in their healthcare.
Addressing bias and disparities in maternal healthcare
The podcast episode sheds light on the disparities and biases faced by black women in maternal healthcare. The speaker shares her personal experience of being treated differently based on her educational background during childbirth. She also discusses the higher maternal mortality rates among black women, attributing it to discrimination and unequal treatment within the healthcare system. The episode highlights the need to address these biases and calls for better understanding of data and statistics within the medical profession. It also emphasizes the importance of providing equitable care and improving outcomes for all women, regardless of their background.
Talithia Williams thinks you should rigorously track your body's data. She and Steve Levitt trade birth stories and bemoan the state of STEM education.
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