What would change if your broader impacts strategy prioritized clarity and connection over perfection and prestige?

In this behind-the-scenes conversation, host Dr. Vanessa Rosa sits down with two key members of the Science with Impact team —Yasmina Demaj, Strategic Science Communicator, and Rafael Fernanz , Video Producer—to explore how and why the team approaches science communication differently.

From designing audience-first messaging to helping researchers feel comfortable on camera, this episode breaks down how the team measures societal change through the SDD framework—Scale, Depth, Duration—and why clarity, trust, and connection are more valuable than views or prestige.

Whether you’re a PI planning a broader impacts strategy or a grad student just dipping your toes into public engagement, this episode offers tools to help you clarify your “why” and amplify your message.

Exclusive Impact Stories

🤔 Who is this for?

  1. Researchers & faculty rethinking what meaningful outreach looks like—and how to measure it.
  2. SciComm professionals designing strategy, messaging, or media that drives connection, not just clicks.
  3. Students & early-career scientists learning how to show up on camera and explain their work with purpose.

📋 What is it about?

In this behind-the-scenes episode, host Dr. Vanessa Rosa speaks with Yasmina Demaj and Rafael Fernanz, the core creative team behind Science with Impact. Together, they unpack what it really takes to communicate science with clarity and purpose—from writing for impact to producing engaging, trust-centered videos. The conversation dives into how their team supports researchers in sharing stories that move beyond prestige metrics and toward long-term, measurable change.

🔑 Key Takeaway: Impactful science communication starts with intention. By grounding your message in real-world relevance—and designing with your audience in mind—you can create clarity, trust, and connection that last far beyond the screen.

⌚️ Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to the Team

00:12 The Shift from Prestige to Purpose

01:13 Behind the Scenes: Meet the Team

02:32 Personal Journeys into Science Communication

03:45 The Role of Science in Our Lives

05:50 Visual Storytelling in Science

08:17 Simplifying Science for the Public

12:31 The SDD Framework for Measuring Impact

18:30 Challenges in Measuring Human Change

28:21 The Future of Science Communication

34:18 Podcast Goals and Aspirations

📣 Guests:

Rafael Fernanz — Award-Winning Director and Video Producer; Founder of Cinematic Memories

Yasmina Demaj — Strategic Science Communicator, STEM Equity Researcher

🎙️ Host

⁠Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D⁠., is the founder of ⁠Science with Impact⁠, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.

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Science with Impact connects science and society by innovating research and education using interactive 3D molecular animation.

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Science with Impact provides:
1. Evidence-based impact measurement and communication.
2. Lasting national and local partnerships with STEM organizations.
3. Impact-centered professional development for students.