Dr. Michelle Dickinson is a nanotechnologist and founder of Nanogirl Labs, an educational company committed to helping kids around the world find their passion in STEM fields. When New Zealand went into lockdown to combat Covid-19, her in-person science theater events were all canceled, forcing Michelle to get creative at warp speed.

In this episode, Michelle tells the story of the pivotal Monday that changed everything — from losing the business' entire annual income, to juggling live interviews with national press and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern — and the inspiring week of teamwork (and tears) that followed to launch a new digital platform.

It’s impossible not to be inspired by Michelle’s story of resilience, which includes building a professional TV studio in two days, and camping out there throughout the lockdown with her husband and co-founder to produce daily content using everyday objects for a global audience.

Michelle also discusses how their team tripled in size during a time of mass unemployment, the brilliant way they are partnering with charities, and the importance of designing kids’ products with parents at the forefront (hint: parent cheat sheets included!).

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On Change of Plans, we feature innovative individuals — from entrepreneurs and winemakers, to artists and chefs — who have found creative ways to adapt in times of crisis.

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Change of Plans is produced by Boutique Japan. Our Sound Editor is Eléonore Simon. Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.