The story collider presents: Wired Lives

What happens when technology and the human mind intertwine? The Story Collider is teaming up with InterfaceNeuro at Georgia Tech to bring you an evening of powerful, true stories from individuals whose lives have been shaped by brain-computer interfaces.

From groundbreaking scientific advancements to deeply personal transformations, five storytellers will share their journeys of connection, discovery, and resilience.

Hosted by Meisa Salaita and Kellie Vinal.

Doors at 5 pm, show at 5:30 pm ET.

Stories by:

Monica Satoskar is a dedicated Senior Test Engineer with over 13 years of experience at GDIT, specializing in ensuring software quality and efficiency. Her expertise in automation testing and quality assurance has been instrumental in delivering reliable solutions. Beyond her professional career, Monica is a devoted mother of two daughters who inspire her every day. She balances her technical work with a deep passion for art and creativity. Her love for resin painting led her to establish MonicaPours, a small business where she creates and sells unique resin artwork. Through her artistic journey, she blends vibrant colors, textures, and natural elements to craft stunning pieces that bring joy to her customers. With a keen eye for detail—both in testing and art—Monica thrives in environments that challenge her creativity and analytical skills. Whether it’s ensuring flawless software performance or pouring resin into mesmerizing designs, she approaches every endeavor with precision, patience, and passion.

Brandan Mehaffie: Graduate University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy. Retired Director of Pharmacy Asset Protection Rite Aid Pharmacy. Married 25 years to wife Kelly and have two adult daughters Mae and Riley. Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2016 and recipient of deep brain stimulation surgery in 2022. I am a huge sports buff and gym rat. I enjoy spending time with and cooking for family and friends.

Ian Burkhart is a C5 complete tetraplegic from a diving accident in 2010. He is the founder and president of the BCI Pioneers Coalition and the North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium President. After participating in a few clinical trials, he understood the need for engagement of individuals with lived experience from the start. Ian was the first person in the world to restore movement to a paralyzed limb using a BCI neuroprosthetic. He is also the Executive Director of the Ian Burkhart Foundation, which raises funds for medical equipment for other individuals living with paralysis. His research focuses on amplifying the lived experience of people with disabilities.