Free Educational Topics in Los Angeles & Orange County

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  • Break the Cycle: Why We Repeat the Same Patterns—and How to Stop

    Melinar Sardar, M.A., CPLC, CEO / Founder, Heal with Zeal, LLC and Sardar Coaching and Training

    “Break the Cycle: Why We Repeat the Same Patterns—and How to Stop” helps audiences understand how both the conscious and subconscious mind shape the habits, reactions, and relationship dynamics we find ourselves stuck in. Melina Sardar, M.A., CPLC, explains why certain emotional patterns feel so familiar, why we return to them even when they no longer serve us, and what it takes to create space for new choices. This talk guides participants to recognize their triggers, increase self-awareness, and develop healthier responses so they can step out of old cycles and into a more empowered way of living. MORE >

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  • Dare Mighty Things – A Short History of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    The origins of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory date back to the 1930s, when Caltech professor Theodore von Kármán oversaw pioneering work in rocket propulsion. After unsuccessful and sometimes hazardous experiments, several of his graduate students were forced to move their work off campus. They chose the Arroyo Seco, a dry canyon wash north of the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California – and future home of JPL. This early work grew into a laboratory of over 4000 employees that has sent spacecraft to every planet in our solar system and two spacecraft now in interstellar space. MORE >

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  • Agents of Influence: Gaming for Truth in an AI World

    Anahita Dalmia, CEO, Alterea Inc.

    In today’s digital landscape, truth has become harder than ever to pin down. Artificial intelligence generates flawless fakes, while social media echo chambers amplify only what we already believe. The result is a world where misinformation spreads faster than fact, and trust feels increasingly fragile. This session explores how gaming can be more than play—it can be a powerful tool for navigating this reality. MORE >

    Through the lens of Agents of Influence, a spy-themed educational game, we will look at how interactive storytelling and game mechanics can break through cognitive blind spots, disrupt the echo chamber effect, and train players to think critically about the information they consume.

    Audience members will leave with practical insights into how the design principles behind gaming can be applied to education, communication, and leadership. They will discover strategies for helping digital natives—and themselves—recognize manipulation, question assumptions, and make more informed choices in an era shaped by AI and algorithmic feeds. Above all, participants will come away with a renewed sense of possibility: that the very technologies fueling misinformation can also be reimagined as tools for truth, resilience, and agency.

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  • A Martian’s Thoughts about being a Good Speaker and Leader

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    The theme of this talk will revolve around the significance of effective communication, leadership, and vision in the context of space exploration, particularly missions to Mars. It will emphasize the importance of clear communications, strong leadership qualities, and visionary thinking in overcoming challenges and achieving success in endeavors such as space travel to Mars. It will also highlight notable figures who have exemplified these qualities throughout history, drawing parallels between their achievements and the challenges faced in space exploration. Overall, the theme will convey the message that effective communication and leadership are essential for the success of future Mars missions and for those who aspire to follow their dreams. MORE >

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  • Are We Alone? For Kids

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    Imagine looking up at the stars and wondering: “Is someone out there wondering about us too?” Scientists ask that question every day! But first, they have to figure out what life really is — anything that grows, eats, and changes. To search for life, we use giant telescopes on Earth and even floating in space! We send brave robots on missions, like the Mars Sample Return to bring back pieces of Mars, and the Europa Clipper to explore a moon covered in ice! Scientists also use the Drake Equation, a kind of space treasure map, to guess how many alien civilizations might be out there. But there’s a puzzle called the Fermi Paradox — if life should be everywhere, why haven’t we seen it yet? Our plan? Build better telescopes, explore more worlds, and never give up! Maybe you will be the space explorer who finds the answer! MORE >

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  • Mars: Conquest and Colonization

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    This presentation traces humanity's journey to the Red Planet, starting with Mariner 4's pioneering flyby. The current phase of Mars exploration features advanced missions like Mars Odyssey, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, Curiosity Rover, and Perseverance Rover, each contributing invaluable data about Mars' surface, atmosphere, and potential for life. Looking ahead, ambitious projects such as Mars Sample Return aim to bring Martian samples back to Earth for detailed study, while the ARTEMIS program envisions human missions to Mars, paving the way for future colonization. How will these endeavors shape our understanding and presence on Mars? Join us to explore this exciting frontier. MORE >

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  • Unveiling the Cosmos: The James Webb Space Telescope

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a marvel of modern engineering, poised to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos like never before. Its state-of-the-art spacecraft, featuring an advanced telescope and pioneering technologies such as a massive sunshield and cutting-edge infrared sensors, is a testament to human ingenuity. Launched on December of 2021, the JWST is offering an unparalleled vantage point for celestial observation. It has already captured stunning images of the earliest galaxies, providing breathtaking insights into their formation. Moreover, its detailed study of exoplanet atmospheres has revealed intriguing clues about potential habitability. The JWST also delves into the search for technosignatures, hinting at the tantalizing possibility of extraterrestrial civilizations. How will the JWST reshape our understanding of the universe, and what new wonders will it uncover next? Dive into the fascinating world of the JWST and join the quest for cosmic knowledge! MORE >

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  • Mars Explorers Unite: A Cosmic Adventure for Kids!

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    Embark on a captivating journey to the red planet with a presentation for students from Kindergarten to 12th grade. Delve into the mysteries of Mars to provide a kid-friendly understanding of the planet. They will learn about NASA’s endeavors on Mars, from its initial exploration to current missions. They will also learn NASA's plans for the future, igniting curiosity about the endless possibilities of Martian exploration. The kids will discover the allure of Mars and why it has captivated the imagination of scientists and dreamers alike. The kids will learn about how one might journey to Mars, and about the essential elements and tools required for survival on the red planet. For kids aspiring to become a NASA astronaut or work for NASA in other positions, the presentation will offer valuable insights into how to achieve their goals. This presentation aims to inspire and educate, fostering a sense of wonder and determination in the next generation of space enthusiasts. MORE >

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  • Journey to the Moon: A Kid’s Guide to Space Exploration

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    Embark of an educational adventure designed specifically for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. This engaging presentation covers a spectrum of topics aimed at fostering a fascination for space exploration including: (1) facts about the Moon for kids, (2) a short history of NASA’s exploration of the Moon, (3) why kids would want to go to the Moon, (4) how kids can go to the Moon, (5) a summary of NASAs plans to return to the Moon with its ARTEMIS program, and (6) how kids can prepare to become a NASA astronaut. Join Mr. Lehman on this captivating journey as we ignite the spirt of exploration and curiosity for the next generation of space enthusiasts. “Journey to the Moon” promises to be an informative and inspiring experience for students eager to learn about the wonders of our universe. MORE >

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  • From Concept to Cosmos: A Journey through Project Management Principles and NASA’s Best Practices

    David Lehman, Project Manager, Retired from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    In this presentation Mr. Lehman will summarize the basic principles of project management. This will be followed by a summary of NASA’s process for managing space projects throughout the life cycle, including formulation which consists of Phase A (concept & technology development) and Phase B (preliminary design and technology completion phase), approval for implementation, and implementation which includes Phase C (final design & fabrication), Phase D (system assembly, integration & test, launch & checkout), and Phase E (operations and sustainment). He will address how NASA forms teams including the importance of key roles such as Project Manager, Project Systems Engineer (PSE), Safety & Mission Assurance Manager, and System Managers. He will then address the role of systems engineering in project management and the process of how PSEs mature their systems-level preliminary designs, and then address the expected maturity state of projects as they progress through the life cycle. Finally, Mr. Lehman will present three case studies in project management: the Deep Space 1 mission, the Mars Climate Orbiter failure lessons learned, and the last mission of the Space Shuttle Challenger. MORE >

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