This month’s Nashville &Member Spotlight features researcher and data analyst, Michaela Marinic. Join us as we learn more about what they do and what helps them spark their creativity.
Who are you and what do you do?
I work for a research and evaluation non-profit, Three Cubed, with the mission of fostering equitable, sustainable futures. Our work uncovers environmental, health and social disparities and brings people together for community-driven solutions based in justice. In my role, I specialize in statistics, machine learning and mapping, or GIS (Geographic Information Systems). I love finding ways to tell stories with data and interactive visualizations to make our results big and beautiful, interesting and useful.
What’s something we don’t know about you?
Despite my job title, I also hold a degree in English language and literature. I’ve attended writer’s workshops around the country and have a special interest in poetry, though my skills are a little rusty now.
What inspires or motivates you to get out of bed?
Breakfast.
What is one thing you can’t live without?
My bike or e-scooter.
Where do your brightest ideas come from?
Definitely my peers; I am constantly inspired by the people in my life and my profession, and I love seeing how they approach problems in creative ways. As a small and independent non-profit, collaboration is a key part of all our work at Three Cubed, and through combining our skills and expertise with diverse groups of people, we are able collectively to pull off incredible projects.
How do you spark your creativity when you’re feeling in a rut?
I tend to slow down and turn inward, going for a walk or hike. Sometimes I just need to clear out the distractions and let my mind rest and find its natural curiosity again. Other times I love talking to new people or old friends to hear about what they’re doing, and we end up talking about new ideas in the process.
Where is your favorite place to decompress & unwind?
Most of the time it’s my couch, having a cozy evening or reading before bed, but I love a weekend backpacking trip with friends when we’re all able to get together!
When do you feel your best, and what do you do to stay in good vibrations?
I feel my best when I’m rested, eating homemade foods, and pursuing a hobby or interest outside of work, especially if I’m trying something new. Maybe that sounds basic, but I think we’re pretty simple creatures at the end of the day.
Why did you choose Ampersand Studios as your workspace?
Ampersand is in a great location – right next to downtown, but without the traffic, noise and grayness. I love the floor to ceiling windows all around the space that look out on trees and greenspace, and the interior decorating is gorgeous with plenty of comfortable places to sit and work. Everyone on the staff and in the space has been so friendly and enjoyable to be around – I look forward to meeting new people each day when I come in.
Where can our community connect with you?
Our website is www.threecubed.org, and we love working together with organizations related to environmental or social policy and justice. Our social media is in transition given the shake-up at Twitter/X, but keep an eye out for updates! You can also reach me directly at mmarincic@threecubed.org.
