267. Cecilia: Women Life & Science

In this episode of the Happy Whole You podcast, Dr. Anna Marie talks with Cecilia Zapata-Harms, the founder of Women Life and Science, Inc., about how a synchronistic moment turned a simple idea into a podcast, a nonprofit, and an annual conference and retreat for women in science and beyond. Cecilia shares the story of how she went from casually imagining a show for "regular women" to building a growing community, navigating fears, doubts, and logistics along the way, and creating programs that support women from high school through entrepreneurship.

Key Points:

• How a commute-time idea sparked a podcast for "regular women"
• Perfectly timed, "synchronistic" call inviting Cecilia to host a show
• Jumping into a 13-week podcast pilot with no prior experience
• Best friend as the very first guest and early supporter
• Evolution of the show into Women Life and Science, Inc.
• Creation of an annual Women Life and Science conference and retreat
• Continued collaboration with keynote speaker Courtney McDermott
• Mission to support women across all ages and career stages in science and beyond
• Elevate Her program vision: STEM support + women entrepreneurs proving ideas
• Community offerings like the monthly Science Café and yearly retreat in Greenville, SC

About Cecilia Zapata-Harms:

Cecilia Zapata-Harms, MS, MHA, is a founder, entrepreneur, and executive with over 30 years of experience in the life sciences, biotechnology, and healthcare industries. She has held leadership roles in strategy, startups, program administration, and mergers and acquisitions, beginning her career at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research under Dr. Robert Day and later working with Dr. Lee Hartwell and Dr. Stephen Friend. She went on to lead strategic development and oversee regional and international clinical research partnerships. In 2017, she founded 3rdEyeBio, LLC, an accelerator for early-stage biotech ventures, and in 2024, she founded and became CEO of Palmetto InnovaSphere, Inc., a life science accelerator in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She also serves as founder and board chair of Women, Life and Science, Inc., and is a board member of the Luskin Family Foundation.

Check out the non-profit event on April 30th, 2026: https://wlscience.com/

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