In this powerful episode, I share a transformative moment witnessed in a crowded festive shopping scene – where a Mama shopper's unexpected blackout reveals the raw, vulnerable truth about what really matters during the Christmas holiday season. *Warning: Some listeners may find the details shared in this episode upsetting, please look after your mental health* Through a poignant personal story, I challenge all Scholarly Mamas® to release perfectionistic holiday expectations and instead focus on...
Dec 16, 2024•17 min•Season 2Ep. 91
Are you a Scholarly Mama® preparing for the holiday season and already feeling like you're drowning in PhD guilt? Well, if so, this episode is for you! Join us as we break down three powerful strategies to help you prioritise what truly matters: your family and your well-being. In this heartfelt episode, we discuss: How to set strategic academic boundaries during the holidays A simple technique to capture meaningful family moments Ways to protect and honour family time like the most important me...
Dec 09, 2024•17 min•Season 2Ep. 90
In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of Scholarly Motherhood, exploring how unexpected setbacks can remind us of what truly matters and can also become a catalyst for creating something new. Drawing from personal experiences, the episode offers a timely reminder of the importance of being grateful for the little things as we navigate Scholarly Motherhood with both grace and efficiency. I finally unveil some personal hacks that have kept me going over the years as a Scholarly Mama®. M...
Dec 02, 2024•20 min•Season 2Ep. 89
This is a Reflective Replay of Episode 61: 'Why Doing It All Is Keeping You Stuck and How to Break Free'. As a Scholarly Mama myself, I understand the challenges of juggling motherhood with the demands of PhD life. But I'm here to share the raw truths of this juggle, the pitfalls of the "do it all" mentality, and the power of embracing our authentic, multifaceted selves. In this episode, I share why doing it all is keeping you stuck and how to break free from this trap. This episode is a concent...
Nov 25, 2024•13 min•Season 2Ep. 88
Can high-achieving Scholarly Mamas® have it all? In this powerful guest episode, Transformational Coach Unyime Oguta shatters the myth that women must choose between academic success and family life. Drawing from her own journey through burnout while pursuing her second degree, Unyime shares game-changing insights on creating space for your dreams without sacrificing your well-being or family relationships. In this episode, we unpack: Recognising burnout signals before they become critical Break...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 2Ep. 87
Ever held back the tears after receiving a rejection letter, email or phone call so your kids wouldn't see you cry? In this raw and real episode, we're tackling the gut-punch moments of academic life as a Mama – from grant rejections to viva struggles. Whether you're questioning your place in academia or wondering how to pick yourself up after a setback, this episode is your permission slip to be beautifully in-progress. We dive into: The unique sting of academic rejection while juggling motherh...
Nov 11, 2024•21 min•Season 2Ep. 86
Ever wondered why some individuals seem to achieve success so effortlessly and others struggle to pick up the peices after not achieving a goal first time round? Have you ever felt like you'll never have success in your PhD or academic career because you didn't achieve a scholarly or personal goal or two by a certain time? Perhaps you thought you'd be much further along by now... but here you are... still... If this sounds like you, I want to share some insights from a TEDx talk by Dr Carol Dwec...
Nov 04, 2024•21 min•Season 2Ep. 85
Do you feel pressured to get your PhD done, but somehow struggle to keep up the pace as a Scholarly Mama®? Do you ever feel like you never have enough time to get into deep work as you navigate your PhD with kids in tow? If you're navigating your PhD with little ones, I want to help you finish well. If this is your goal, allow me to share with you, in this episode, why consistency matters more than speed! This is PART 2 of a 2-part episode (you'll find PART 1 in Episode 83). It's an episode won'...
Oct 28, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 84
Do you feel pressured to get your PhD done, but somehow struggle to keep up the pace as a Scholarly Mama®? Do you ever feel like you never have enough time to get into deep work as you navigate your PhD with kids in tow? If you're navigating your PhD with little ones, I want to help you finish well. If this is your goal, allow me to share with you, in this episode, why consistency matters more than speed! This is PART 1 of a 2-part episode (you'll find PART 2 in Episode 84). It's an episode won'...
Oct 21, 2024•20 min•Season 2Ep. 83
Have you ever felt like an imposter on your PhD journey as a Scholarly Mama®? If you're navigating your PhD with kids, I'm sure you've experienced those feelings of not belonging or feeling like you're not enough to see this journey through and finish well. If this sounds like you, then this is the episode won't want to miss! Tune in for 10 powerful reasons why you're stronger than you think :-). Read the related blog post: You're Stronger Than You Think Mama: 10 Powerful Reasons Why Want more? ...
Oct 14, 2024•27 min•Season 2Ep. 82
As a Mama pursuing a PhD, have you ever heard someone say it's the journey, not the destination ? What comes up for you when you hear it? Maybe you think, 'Oh, surely they don't understand...' or maybe 'That doesn't apply to me or PhD Motherhood'. In this episode, we will explore what this means for Scholarly Mamas®. A truly thought-provoking episode you won't want to miss! Read the related blog post: Stop Waiting for Your PhD to Be Done: Why Scholarly Mamas Need To Embrace the Journey Now Want ...
Oct 07, 2024•30 min•Season 2Ep. 81
In this episode, we welcome special guest Lynn from researchwithlynn.com to share her story of navigating maternity leave as a PhD student. Lynn and I met on Instagram a few years back and have been following each other ever since so I am so grateful that we have made this episode happen…. we've wanted to do this for quite some time and I'm just so glad that she is finally here on the show today. Lynn is a Mama of one, she's recently had her beautiful daughter… she's also a wife, a nurse by prof...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 2Ep. 80
In this episode, we dive into the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a PhD while juggling the demands of motherhood. I share my personal journey of transforming PhD panic into purposeful progress on part-time hours, offering invaluable insights for Scholarly Mamas® everywhere. Whether you're considering a PhD, in the thick of your doctoral studies, or supporting a Scholarly Mama® , this episode offers encouragement, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on blending academia and motherhood. ...
Sep 23, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 79
Are you feeling stuck in your PhD research, grappling with writer's block, or struggling to generate fresh ideas? In this episode, we tackle the common challenge of creative block in doctoral studies. Join us as we explore 7 practical tips tailored specifically for mothers juggling family life with their PhD journey. From embracing micro-productivity to implementing creativity rituals, I provide actionable strategies to reignite your academic spark. Whether you're working on your literature revi...
Sep 16, 2024•17 min•Season 2Ep. 78
In this episode, I share valuable strategies for Scholarly Mamas® to thrive in this new academic year. Key topics include: Creating realistic schedules and maximising productivity Setting priorities and maintaining healthy boundaries The importance of self-care and stress management Building a support network and utilising available resources Practical tips for balancing childcare and academic pursuits Techniques for staying up-to-date in your field efficiently Setting and reviewing SMART resear...
Sep 09, 2024•40 min•Season 2Ep. 77
In this episode of the Mrs Mummy PhD® podcast, we dive into the world of holiday travel with kids for Scholarly Mamas®. Perfect for PhD or academic mothers looking to balance family time with their studies, we cover: The benefits of taking breaks from your research for a family break Practical tips for planning budget-friendly trips around academic schedules Essential packing lists that cater to both family needs and academic necessities Strategies for creating enriching experiences that blend e...
Sep 02, 2024•46 min•Season 2Ep. 76
Welcome back to another PhD Graduation Celebration PLOG! This is my third and final PhD Graduation PLOG and it's all about my PhD Graduation Celebration Party/Dinner which was affectionately called 'The Dr's In'! What a moment of celebration on the beautiful island of Barbados with family and friends :-). If you've enjoyed the previous two 'PhD Graduation PLOGS' then this will be an episode you won't want to miss! Read the related blog post here: My PhD Graduation: The Ultimate Finale To A Remar...
Aug 26, 2024•17 min•Season 2Ep. 75
This episode features guest Dr Amy Camilleri Zahra, a remarkable individual who balances multiple roles as a mother, wife, disability rights activist, academic, and public speaker. Amy shares her inspiring journey from surviving a life-threatening illness that led to amputations, to pursuing a PhD and becoming a powerful advocate for disability rights. We explore how she managed the demands of motherhood alongside her doctoral studies, her impactful work with Amputees4Amputees , and her experien...
Aug 19, 2024•59 min•Season 2Ep. 74
In this episode, I share my second PhD graduation PLOG (think vlog but for podcasts!) which details my actual graduation day! What an AMAZING day it was indeed, with lots of memories made and so much fun! So come along with me for my PhD graduation day PLOG :-). Thank you for sharing this journey with me, if you've been a regular listener for a while, you won't want to miss this episode! Read the related blog post here: My PhD Graduation: The Ultimate Finale To A Remarkable Journey Want more? 1....
Aug 12, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 73
In this episode, I share my PhD graduation PLOG (think vlog but for podcasts!) all about my pre-graduation ceremony preparations! Yes, Mama, 5 whole degrees and this is only my second graduation ceremony as I didn't attend my three postgrad graduation ceremonies! So come along with me for the journey of my PhD graduation over the next couple of episodes :-). Thank you for sharing this journey with me, if you've been a regular listener for a while, you won't want to miss this exciting update! Rea...
Aug 05, 2024•19 min•Season 2Ep. 72
In this reflective replay, we discuss the power of the reflective pause when Scholarly Mama® life gets overwhelming and how it can help us reach our goals with less stress and more joy. Navigating PhD life as a Mama can feel overwhelming at the best of times. As a Mama doing a PhD, you can't simply 'believe' your way through the juggle-struggle! You need practical strategies to help you navigate this challenging journey. So Mama, are you ready to transform your Scholarly Mama® journey? Let's get...
Jul 29, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 71
In this heartfelt episode, host Dr Michelle Gibbs breaks down 10 ways you can keep mum guilt at bay as an ambitious Scholarly Mama® who is juggling both academic pursuits and family life. Infused with personal stories, this episode is filled with practical tips to help you pursue your scholarly ambitions with confidence and purpose, without sacrificing those precious family moments! If you are in the throes of Scholarly Motherhood, juggling all the things, with mum guilt knocking on your door, t...
Jul 22, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 70
In this thought-provoking episode, guest Dr Gertrude Nonterah aka Dr Gee from The Bold PhD , bestows her wisdom about all things personal branding, networking and careers by design and highlights how important this is for Scholarly Mamas®. Dr Gee completed her PhD in Microbiology and Immunology and now works as a Medical Communications professional, speaker and career coach for PhDs and PhD students via TheBoldPhD.com. As a wife and mum, she is committed to helping other PhDs and PhD students to...
Jul 15, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 69
In this episode, I share another deep reflection from my recent travels to an academic conference in my field. Tune in to hear my travel musings and learn how to reach your full potential in Scholarly Motherhood. Read the related blog post here: How To Reach Your Full Potential in Scholarly Motherhood Want more? 1. Check out the Mrs Mummy PhD® blog . 2. Follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , Pinterest , Tik Tok or Threads 3. Join us inside Scholarly Mamas®! 4. Check out my Doodle Dozen® c...
Jul 08, 2024•30 min•Season 2Ep. 68
In this episode, I share one of many reflections from an academic conference I recently attended in my field. Tune in to learn why it's time to stop navigating PhD Motherhood alone and begin building meaningful connections with other Scholarly Mamas® who 'get it'. Read the related blog post here: Why It's Time to Stop Navigating PhD Motherhood Alone Want more? 1. Check out the Mrs Mummy PhD® blog . 2. Follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , Pinterest , Tik Tok or Threads 3. Join us inside ...
Jul 01, 2024•20 min•Season 2Ep. 67
In this inspiring episode, guest Dra Yvette Martínez-Vu from Grad School Femtoring recollects her experience of navigating academia as a first-generation PhD student and BIPOC (Black/ Indigenous/ People of Colour) Mother with amazing insights on her femtoring services, her Chicana m(other)work, and her commitment to empowering first-gen scholars. She also discusses her journey of navigating motherhood, disability, and chronic illness in graduate school. She also shares her purposeful work toward...
Jun 24, 2024•59 min•Season 2Ep. 66
In this week's episode, we're reflecting on Father's Day and an extraordinary guy who shaped my motherhood through his fatherhood! Tune in to listen to this very special 'Reflective Replay' of a previous episode :-). Read the related blog post: Father's Day Special: How My Dad's Fatherhood Shaped My Motherhood You can also take the Purposeful Scholarly Mama® trait quiz and I'll send you some personalised tips for becoming a more purposeful Scholarly Mama® ! Want more? 1. Check out the Mrs Mummy ...
Jun 17, 2024•16 min•Season 2Ep. 65
Self-care has become the new buzzword. The internet and social media are inundated with self-care messages. As busy Mamas, it's great that we don't have to look far for reminders about the importance of self-care. But what about Dads? Don't they need to practice self-care too? In this episode, I want to talk about why self-care matters for Dads too, this Father's Day and beyond! Read the related blog post: 6 Key Reasons Why Dads Should Prioritise Self-Care You can also take the Purposeful Schola...
Jun 10, 2024•16 min•Season 2Ep. 64
I am so excited to introduce to you something I wish I had when I was navigating the juggle-struggle of PhD Motherhood. Introducing Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS - our brand new virtual co-working space designed for busy Scholarly Mamas® who have a million things on their plates but little time on their calendars. If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, click the link below. Read all the details here about Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS! You can also take the Purposeful Scholarly Mama trait quiz ...
Jun 03, 2024•19 min•Season 2Ep. 63
Have you ever wondered why, amidst the accolades of academia and the joys of motherhood, a sense of fulfilment still seems elusive? In this episode, we approach this conundrum with honest introspection. We're conditioned to celebrate our roles as mothers and scholars, yet many of us harbour a quiet dissatisfaction that undermines our accomplishments. I share some wisdom from my grandmother that sparked an epiphany about where we're directing our energies and how this aligns—or doesn’t—with our d...
May 27, 2024•16 min•Season 2Ep. 62
