The STEM Yard

Feb 11, 2026

Episode 2: NCSO Student Staff

Go behind the scenes with the NCSO undergraduate student staff, a dynamic group of former Science Olympiad competitors who turned their love of STEM into leadership, mentorship, and service. In this episode, Max Thai, John Palmer, Benjamin Bates, Everett Brostedt, and Azlyn Raja share their personal Science Olympiad journeys, favorite competition memories, and the experiences that shaped who they are today. 

Jan 26, 2026

Episode 1: Rodney Smith

Principal Rodney Smith of Alston Ridge Middle School shares why the Science Olympiad matters, offering a school leader’s perspective on how NCSO builds teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a strong culture of STEM learning. 

Jun 17, 2025

Episode 10: 2025 SONT Part 2

Part two of The STEM Yard’s special coverage is here! Join us LIVE from the 2025 National Science Olympiad Tournament at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln! This episode features interviews with North Carolina teams sharing their Nationals experiences, competition strategies, celebration plans, and advice for future participants. Highlights include a special segment with the Division B National Champions. Don’t miss this exciting glimpse behind the scenes of Nationals 2025! 

Jun 10, 2025

Episode 9: 2025 SONT Part 1

In part one of our Nationals Series, host Alonzo Alexander sits down with Sue Ellen Pegg, College Relations Director at University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Maiya Yu, Science Olympiad Board member. 🎧 Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, inspiration, and the start of our journey through Nationals 2025! 

May 9, 2025

Episode 8: Live from States

Ready for some science shenanigans? This week on the STEM Yard, we’re LIVE from the NC Science Olympiad State Tournament!  Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at these young scientists as they tackle challenges that’ll make you question your own school projects. Don’t miss out on the fun—tune in, laugh with us, and let’s nerd out together! 

Apr 7, 2025

Episode 7: States Preview

The State Tournament is just around the corner, and we’re here with the NCSO crew! Join us for our latest episode where Lisa, Jayne, and Jason break will be chatting about the upcoming tournament on April 25th and 26th—because who doesn’t love some STEM-tastic shenanigans? The team discusses the bungee drop event, home bases, the theme for this year and so much more. So grab your lab goggles and tune in! Because if STEM were a sport, this would be the Super Bowl! Host Alonzo Alexander dives into Emily's journey from Science Olympiad to soaring through the skies. ✨ Curious how she went from science experiments to mastering flight? Spoiler: No capes were involved! 

Mar 24, 2025

Episode 6: Emily Torkelson

In this episode of the STEM yard we’ve got Emily Torkelson joining us—not just your average Configuration Design Engineer at Aurora Flight Sciences, but also a former Science Olympiad competitor and world champion flyer! 🏆✈️ Host Alonzo Alexander dives into Emily's journey from Science Olympiad to soaring through the skies. ✨ Curious how she went from science experiments to mastering flight? Spoiler: No capes were involved! 

Mar 10, 2025

Episode 5: Dave Glenn

Get ready to be inspired! This week on the STEM Yard podcast, Alonzo chats with the phenomenal Dave Glenn, a true champion of the Science Olympiad program! 🎉 From parent to coach to regional director, Dave's journey is filled with passion and dedication for nurturing young minds in STEM. 🌟 You'll hear his heartfelt stories and gain invaluable tips on tackling the thrilling Ramp and Roll 🎢 event! 

Feb 24, 2025

Episode 4: Jimmy Jordan

Join us for an inspiring episode of the STEM Yard podcast as we sit down with Jimmy Jordan, the Event Leader for Just Plane Awesome, Flight and Helicopters. With over 13 years of dedicated volunteering with NC Science Olympiad, Jimmy's passion for aviation and education culminated in his well-deserved title of Volunteer of the Year in 2024. Discover his incredible journey, insights into fostering STEM education, and how he's making a difference in the lives of young aspiring scientists and engineers. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or simply a STEM enthusiast, this conversation is packed with motivation and valuable lessons. Don’t miss out—tune in now to hear from one of the most impactful voices in NC Science Olympiad. 

Feb 10, 2025

Episode 3: Ben Miller

Get ready to be inspired! An exciting new episode of The STEM Yard podcast is dropping, and you won't want to miss it! Join Alonzo as he chats with the amazing Ben Miller—former Science Olympiad competitor and current Event Leader for Wind Power! With an impressive West Point background and a Civil Engineering degree, Ben is here to share his journey and ignite your passion for STEM. Whether you're a curious student, an innovative educator, or a die-hard Science Olympiad fan, this episode is packed with insights that will elevate your Wind Power game! Tune in now and let the inspiration flow!