For The Culture Podcast

Welcome back, fam! Season 4 has arrived with a bang, and we're loaded with exciting content just for you. Join us in this episode as we give you a sneak peek into what's been happening since our last chat. Life has taken us through twists and turns, bringing growth, challenges, and opportunities to our doorstep. And hey, as students head back to school, we're sharing some golden tips to help you set those goals and ace your academic journey. Don't forget to spread the love by liking, following, and sharing with your crew. Here's to a spectacular autumn ahead – cheers to all our amazing listeners!

In episode 6, we recognize World Cancer Day by discussing two articles that were recently published that speak on new data coming out of the American Cancer Society stating a sharp decline in cancer-related deaths as well addressing cancer care inequities and challenges to better treatment strategies for the African American population. Listen as we give our critical take on these two topics and provide insights to the historical aspects of cancer care in the U.S., where we currently find ourselves as early-in-career researchers, and how we plan to use our knowledge and networks to advance cancer health equity in the future. Please continue to like, share, and comment as we round out season 3. If there are any topics that you would like us to cover, please reach out to us on any of our social media platforms. Thank you for your support! Resources: • Addressing the Continued Existence of Racial Inequities in Cancer Care • The Surprising Reason for the Decline in Cancer Mortality

Happy New Year fam! We're back for part two of Season 3. We're not done with the season yet. We've got an amazing guest to kick off the year! In this episode we're joined by the talented and driven, Jaysón Davidson. Jaysón is a Clinical Informatics Research and PhD Candidate in the Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics program at University of California San Francisco (UCSF). At UCSF, he is a member of Dr. Atul Butte's lab, where he intends to develop methods to effectively stratify the differences in disease and drug response outcomes between populations with different social determinants to improve overall healthcare quality and equity. Jaysón primarily studies treatment utilization, and health outcomes of Type 2 Diabetes patients that are treated within the UC-Health system. If this episode doesn't motivate you to get that late start of the year going, we don't know what will. Listen as we discuss belief in self, trusting others and the process, representation, determination, imposter syndrome, intentionality, and so much more. Be sure to follow Jaysón on social media; dude is destined to great things! As always, be sure to Like, Share, and leave a comment. We are always seeking for new ways to improve and grow our audience. Resources Black in Chem: https://blackinchem.org Twitter: @jayson_davidso7, @BlackInChem LinkedIn: Jaysón Davidson

Todays episode is a live stream of our mid-season finale for season 3. Join us as we recap 2022 and look forward to 2023. We're joined by fiends of the podcast for our annual hangout session. How was 2022 for you? What big plans do you have in 2023? We'd love to hear all about it.

In today's episode, we are joined by the skilled humble Dr. Antentor O. Hinton Jr. Dr. Hinton is a tenure track Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics and the Ernest E. Just Early Career Investigator at Vanderbilt University. There his laboratory focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms responsible for neurogenic hypertension regulation, cardiac dysfunction in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and type 1 diabetes, studying mitochondrial dysfunction's role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, obesity , and its complications and more. His biography is extensive and we encourage everyone to check it out. This episode is all about mentorship, being teachable, and being patient. Listen as Dr. Hinton takes us through his journey in STEM and hear how he gives credit to those who paved the road of the career path that he currently on and how he is now paving that same road forward for the others. This episode has something for everyone. Check it out and be sure to share with a friend, family member for fellow colleague. Resources: Lab: https://lab.vanderbilt.edu/hinton-lab/ Twitter: phdgprotein86

Our first guest of Season 3 is none other than the multitalented Alex Muir. Mr. Muir is a Human Resource Technician and Future Work Strategist. Before his current role, Alex was a Management Consultant at KPMG and EY. As a Cornell University grad with over 15 years of experience in HR, Finance, and Business Development, we were able to tap into some of his knowledge as it relates to the intersection of business of science. He shares how he works with scientists to elevate their professional development, no matter what stage of career they are in. He challenges our audience to leverage the technology that we have at our fingertips to create opportunities, share our research, and tell the story that shows the value of our work and how we are uniquely positioned to fulfil scientific and business needs. He encourages his clients and our listeners to be clear on the questions someone is asking you. If there is any that's unclear, be sure to get clarity on the purpose of the question. People may sometimes ask loaded questions during conversations or interviews, but it's incumbent upon us to ask for clarification so that both parties are on the same page and engage in clear and comprehensive dialogue. Check out this amazing episode and bring a pen! You can also view the extended episode on our YouTube channel. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alexmuir1 Twitter: alex_muir1 Email: alexmuir1@theminuet.org Website https://theminuetgroup.com Outro Music credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8FuAzgwTw4

It's official! Season 3 is finally here. Tune is as we gear up for another season full of amazing and informative episodes. We have a number of dynamic and diverse guests lined up so stay tuned. In today's episode we keep it very casual. As we enter the Fall homecoming season, we decided to discuss our different experiences attending homecoming at HBCUs (Historically Black College/Universities) vs PWI's (Predominately White Institutions) as during undergrad and grad school. Many of our experiences were similar but there were some distinct differences. What was your favorite homecoming experience? Remember to find balance in your STEM journey. Work hard but take time to enjoy yourself. Check out a homecoming event if you are currently an undergrad or grad student, and always enjoy your time responsibly.

This is the last episode of season 2 everyone! Can you believe it? We were so luck to sit down and have a conversation with Assistant Professor at South Carolina State University and founder of BeSTEMsational, Dr. Janae Sweeny, M.S., PhD. This episode of full of amazing anecdotes and advice for early career students in STEM to be sensational and excel in school. It's also a relatable episode for early-stage Investigators. Her non-traditional journey through STEM and path to assistant professorship highlights the opportunities and oftentimes the struggles that students of color on the STEM journey. Listen as Dr. Sweeney discusses how she found her passion to teach and the tough questions she had to ask herself when she left the MD track and focused her energy to attain a PhD in Biology. Her love of music, fashion, and being a diehard sneakerhead provides her with a few extra cool points with her students and as she seeks to reach, educate, and help them find their path in science and medicine. Dr. Sweeney encourages us all to treat others the same way we'd like to be treated and to grind, hustle, and be driven to succeed in whatever we do. Be sure to connect with Dr. Sweeney if you want to know more about her role at South Carolina State University or if you're interested in collaborating or creating with this driven scientist. Resources: website - www.drjanaesweeney.com @Bestemsational - IG @itssimplyjanae - IG @itsdrjanae – twitter

In today's episode we're joined by the Dr. Henry Henderson, PhD. Henry is a native of Mobile, AL and currently resides in Atlanta, GA. He received his B.S. from Southern University and A&M College and his Ph.D. in Integrative Biosciences with a concentration in cancer biology from Tuskegee University. Following his graduate studies, he completed his postdoctoral training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he also served as an FDA-AACR Oncology Educational Fellow. Currently, Dr. Henderson is currently an oncology Medical Science Liaison (MSL) in the cancer diagnostics sector and aspires to become a medical affairs executive. Tune in as we discuss everything from what an MSL is to the value in creating a backwards timeline to develop your career. Dr. Henderson is a major proponent of sharing his professional aspirations and career journey publicly, and not moving in silence or keeping it to himself. It's all about representation and exposure, right? It's one of the reasons he and co-founder Sigourney Bell, created Black in Cancer. Be sure to check out this engaging and illuminating episode and check out all the wonderful things that Black in Cancer is doing. As always, please continue to like, share, and comment on this podcast and others. We'd love to hear from you. Twitter: @FTCPodcast421 / @fortheculturepod - IG/LinkedIn @Blackincancer @DrHJHenderson

In today's episode, the hosts of For the Culture Podcast discuss about past and upcoming research conferences. It's hard to believe that for many of us, it's been 2+ years since we've attended an in-person research conference. For a lot of grad students, it'll be their first time ever attending one. Attending research conferences is one of the major perks that we get to take advantage of in our journey to get a degree. Listen as we discuss our past experiences and talk about lessons learned from attending conferences in the past, in addition to and how we prepare for conference attendance this year. We share tips on applying for travel awards, networking, prioritizing what sessions to attend, challenges of being an introvert in these spaces, positioning yourself to grab a coveted internship, job, or fellowship and so much more. We're outside again, but still playing it safe! Tune in and leave a comment by telling us one your research conference highlights or lowlights. We'd love to hear about your experiences too. We appreciate your continued support. Please continue to like, share, and comment. We'd love to know what you think about the podcast this season.

In today's episode, we're joined by the founders of IM Clinical Research Center, LLC., a new research center created specifically to recruit, educate, and bring awareness to black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). The founders, Mr. Javonte Maynor (CEO), Ms. Ebony Owens (CBO), and Ms. Marchelle Albritton (COO) are dynamic individuals in their own right. They also bring years of diverse experience in clinical trial research and healthcare administration to IMCRC. The company aims to produce quality data while safely conducting clinical research protocols to all ethnicities, centered on ethics, efficiency, and accuracy. Listen in as we discuss diversity and recruitment, meeting patients where they are, building trust in the community, and so much more. Be sure to check out this organization as they seek to change how we conduct research in the BIPOC community and achieve health equity. Reach out to IMCRC if you have any questions about clinical research or want to learn more about what they do. They'll be happy to chat with you. Don't forget to like, share, and comment on this episode! Website: www.imclinicalresearch.com Instagram: IM Clinical Research Center

In today's episode, we're joined by the multitalented and resilient Dr. Dominique Stephens. Listen as he shares his journey in science. The path to his current post doc at the University of Texas, in Austin wasn't an easy one for sure, but the lessons learned through the challenges faced in academia provided a unique lens that strengthened his resolve to succeed in science. These experiences translate to his mentorship to young Black and Brown scientists to show them that science can be their thing too. He's a firm believer in being real with students and not allowing them to be disillusioned about the research and academic enterprise. Dr. Stephen's currently focuses on studying the immune and inflammatory response during viral cell stress and how to modulate that response. Tune in as we talk about combing different disciplines of science, creating a space for scientists who also lift and love working out, music, and many more topics. Be sure to follow this rising scientist as he aims to clear the path for the next generation of scientists as he takes strides to make discoveries that improve the human condition. Follow Dr. Stephen's podcast and YouTube channel. As always, don't forget to like, share, and comment on this and all our episode.

In this week's episode we are joined by the kind and talented, Alexis Mobley. Alexis is a PhD candidate in the Neuroscience and Immunology programs at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. She is also co-founder and president of Black in Immuno whose mission is to amplify, celebrate, and support Black voices in immunology. Listen to Alexis discuss her journey through science, which has been full of happy accidents and doors opening due to being open to opportunities. As a self-proclaimed introvert, she details how she would latch on to extroverts to help make those intros especially when networking during conferences but also describes how it's up to her to ask for what she needs to progress in her program. Alexis also shares how she enjoys spending time with her child, playing tennis and being in a choir as some of the joys that she finds outside of science and how they are important in finding work/life balance in her life. She further encourages us all to uplift and respect all identities without ableism, racism, and any other kind of ism. Tap in and listen to this thought-provoking episode. Don't forget to follow Alexis on twitter and support the organizations she champions. Resources: Alexis Mobley - @AlexisSMobley Black In Immuno - @BlackinImmuno Black & Disabled in Higher Education - @DisInHigherEd

In this week's episode we are joined by the funny and multi-faceted co-founders of Let's Get STEMulated, LLC, Ms. Brittany Bush and Ms. Sha'Kayla Nunez. These talented scientists are PhD candidates at Morehouse School of Medicine and have a research focus in neuroscience and cancer biology, respectively. Tune in as we learn about their “not-so-straight-forward-journey through-science” and how those lived experiences inspired them to create an organization whose purpose is, in part, to provide the next generation of young people with the building blocks, exposure, and opportunities needed to be successful in the STEM field. We also discuss topics including, challenges of entrepreneurship as a PhD student, extramural resources, imposter syndrome, the need for HBCUs, and providing a space of women and people of color to lend their much-needed perspective and excel. Don't forget to check out their website to grab some of their cool merch and donate to their scholarship fund. Resource: https://letsgetstemulated.weebly.com

In this week's episode, we break down the January 2022's Nature Career Corner's article entitled, “Owning, not doing: my transition from master's to PhD student”. We discuss our own experiences in applying or trying to apply the tips the author notes for success during the PhD process. Everyone's journey through the PhD process is different but there are several tried-and-true tips that may set you up for success. We encourage you to read the article as well as check out this insightful episode. Don't allow yourself to get too bogged down during your journey to attaining your PhD and sharing your research with the world. The road to your goals will be bumpy, but you've got this! Success is right on the other side of your failures, keep going. Resources: DOI: 10.1038/d41586-022-00135-1

In this week's episode, the artistic and dexterous Ralph White III sits down with us as our very first guest for Season 2. Ralph showcases his energetic and dynamic personality with him throughout the eposide. We quickly learnt that we share a lot in common with Ralph. He is currently a 5th year PhD candidate at the University of Minnesota Medical School. There, his research focus involves evaluating synergy between kinase inhibitors and the standard of care therapeutics against castration-resistance prostate cancer. Ralph is a self--described musician who happens to do scientific research. Tune in to hear Ralph's thoughts on setting priorties, getting things accomplished, and the importance of being authentically you in the spaces you find yourself in. Check out this fun episode and dont forget to listen, subscribe, and follow Ralphs own podcast, Scientifically Sound. Outro instrumental prod. by seiba. Connect with Ralph White III: @4theSci_Sound, @RalphWhiteIII

Happy New Year! We're excited to bring you Season 2 of For The Culture Podcast. In this week's episode, we recall the last few weeks of 2021 and look forward to what we look forward to (both personally and professionally) in 2022. We discuss the importance of measurable goal setting. Pacing yourself is essential, especially if you want to achieve your academic goals as a student. We also provide a sneak peak to some exciting guests and topics we have in store this season. Stay tuned! Thanks for your support!

It's the SEASON FINALE Ya'll!!! In this episode, we recap season highlights, including recounting some of our favorite episodes, behind the seasons prep, and lessons learned from producing a whole 20 episode podcast from scratch. We did that and we thank YOU, our listeners for your continued support. We have much in store for 2022. We've been receiving your feedback and welcome more as we grow our audience. In season 2 we will strive to dig deeper to pull out the real stories and tackle real issues with our guests and share them with you. 2021 was full of challenges and opportunities, lets all remember to recount and take stock in all of the hard work we've put in. Remember to give ourselves some grace and be appreciative for the lives we are fortunate to live. This project has been fun for us! Leave a comment on our socials, like, and share this podcast with others. Thank you!

In this week's episode, we're joined by one of our very own co-hosts, Lawrence McKinney. He's currently finishing his PhD in Biomedical Sciences at Morehouse School of Medicine and is a native of Rivera Beach, FL. We chose this opportunity share a little bit more about our team and our journey on this road of science to date. Lawrence discusses everything from how his Thanksgiving break was to networking, future goals, and the obstacles he's overcome to get here today. We were able to get a glimpse of his unique perspective on public health and basic science since he has expertise in both. Lawrence discusses how teamwork and leadership are skills that translate well into work in academic research. He acknowledges his faith as the major contributor in keeping him grounded throughout his journey in science and in life. Lawrence reminds us of all that on the road to achieving your goals you will face and overcome obstacles. He wants us to know that “knowing that you've done it before[overcoming obstacles], is confirmation that you can do it again”. Check out this and all our episodes, available on all major podcast streaming platforms.

In this week's episode, we continue learning more about the hosts of For The Culture Podcast. Specifically, we take a deeper dive in their current work in science as well as future aspirations. Up next, Mr. Kofi Kyenku Khamit-Kush. He details his unique journey in STEM as a current PhD student, and alumnus of both Morehouse College and Morehouse School of Medicine. Kofi shares his growth as a scientist and lessons learned along the way. He also elaborates on the connection between Science and Spirituality, and the purpose he finds in cultivating the next generation of Black scientists. Kofi also shares some of his future plans after PhD matriculation. The episode concludes with Kofi sharing his perspectives on striving to be the best son, man, and future father (of scientists) that he can be. Kofi encourages listeners be inquistive about what their interests are and to pursue conversations and networks with those with similar passions. Do not make decisions based on fear remain open to ALL possibilities, even those which seem like a departure. Kofi's parting message is to not be afraid to operate outside of one's comfort zone, that's where your opportunities for self-improvement are! Check out this engaging and informative episode! You'll be sure to leave with a few nuggets of wisdom and perspective.

This week, we're joined by the talented and driven Principal Research Scientist, Ms. Vivian Smith. Vivian vividly recounts her journey in STEM and shares how it led her to a career in biosafety and security. Determination, favor, and opportunity are among the things that led Vivian to work for the not-for profit organization, Battelle. This opportunity allows her to partner with nations across the world to safeguard our interest here in the United States. Vivian reminds young scientists that there are so many transferrable skills they can leverage. She notes, “If you can manage your lab then you can manage grants and government contracts”. Vivian candidly shares a moment where a colleague advocated for her when they could have easily remained silent. She promote the advocacy of Black women in all spaces and so do we at For The Culture Podcast. Vivian is laser focused on achieving her goals and outlines her progress on the top three goals she set in motion many years ago. Tune in to this insightful conversation and learn tips on how you too can go from being good to being great! Resources (Books): Good to Great What got you here won't get you there

In this week's episode, we learn more about the hosts of For The Culture Podcast. Specifically, we take a deeper dive in their current work in science as well as future aspirations. Up first, Dr. Ian Saunders. He details the unique experience of preparing, defending his dissertation, and graduating during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ian shares his unique perspective on being his own advocate, making necessary sacrifices, and transitioning into an industry post-doctoral program. He reminds us to be kind to ourselves and to protect our mental health. Dr. Saunders notes that the science won't be any good if we aren't. The episode concludes with Ian sharing some of his future goals and aspirations and his thoughts on the type of impact he wants to have in the field of science. Ian wants listeners to not be afraid of being unsure about what's next for them post-graduation or the next chapter in their lives. Being flexible and open to the possibilities is sometimes part of the plan. Check out this engaging and informative episode! You'll be sure to leave with a few nuggets of wisdom and perspective.

In this week's episode, the multifaceted Dr. Marlon Fuller pays us a visit. He's a pharmacist, entrepreneur, inventor, philanthropist, and father of four with years of experience in the hospital, retail, and pharmaceutical industries. Marlon is currently works as a Senior Medical Science Liaison at Biogen. We had the opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics from the tapping into your network to taking a “buckshot” approach to job searching. Dr. Fuller reminds us to not get caught up in chasing the bag, instead chase your purpose. In the end, you'll be happier and have longevity in your profession. At the end of the day, having passion and potential will ultimately lead you to your purpose in life. Don't miss out on this powerful and informative episode!

In this weeks episode, we're joined by the amazingly talented Mr. Brandon Applewhite. Brandon is a first generation American, born to parents from Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, respectively. He obtained his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering with a minor in biomedical engineering from the University of South Florida, where he was also a member of the Honors College. Brandon is currently a fourth year PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at the University of Miami. His research utilizes biomaterial strategies to study the mechanisms of arteriovenous fistula surgical failure and to develop an eventual treatment. Tune in as he discusses his journey into biomedical engineering, his hopes for the future, and tip on how to protect your mental while doing a PhD. Brandon details how mentorship played a big part in where he is today. That's why he's such a champion of mentorship and serves as role model for other young minority scientists.

In this episode, we discuss the National Institutes of Health (NIH) new initiative name UNITE. This initiative is intended to identify and address structural racism within the NIH-supported and the greater scientific community. Addressing discrimination and problems of racism within the NIH is crucial to providing equitable opportunity and funding for scientists and research that impact the health and well-being of all Americans. We broadly discuss the impact that initiative can have in addressing past wrongs and provide our thoughts on solutions that could aid the NIH in gauranteeing that scientific funding and opportunities are available and accessible to all, especially scientists of color. This is a big issue, and we barely scratch the surface on this one. This conversation will continue, and we hope that this new initiative will spark ideas and conversations that will help move the needle in the right direction. Resources: https://www.nih.gov/ending-structural-racism/unite https://www.training.nih.gov/programs/sip https://www.nigms.nih.gov/training/RISE https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/funding/nimhd-funding/

In today's episode, we're joined by the motivated and driven Ronson Washington, MSCR. Ronson is a native of Alabama who received is undergrad degree at Alabama A&M and his master's in clinical research at Morehouse School of Medicine. Ronson shares with us how his work experience and love for working in the lab informed his passion for working in clinical research today. He describes what a day in the life of a Clinical Research Associate is and discusses how his transition from academia to industry has been. Listen as Ronson shares his knowledge of translational research, tips for breaking into clinical research, and how he uses his role to advance health equity. We cover the gamut in this one. Tap in as we discuss HBCU marching bands, informed clinical trial decision making, future aspirations, and so much more!

In this episode, we're joined by the wonderful and brilliant, Dr. Takerra “TK” Stephenson. This multi-talented Scientific Affairs Manager, Content Developer, and alumni of Morehouse School of Medicine is a big fan of the show! She calls the podcast her “Scientific Breakfast Club”. Pretty cool, huh? From Georgia Southern University to the National Institutes of Health and beyond, TK shares how her personal experiences guided her to pursue a career in science. Listen as she gives her take on the term “work-life-balance”. TK encourages us to just put the pipette down, invest in your mental health, and to not be afraid to ask questions. Tune into this powerful episode. We know you will leave with a few inspirational nuggets that will inform how you can work to find balance in both your personal and professional life.

In today's episode, we take on the huge question of whether you can or should bring your full authentic self to work. Work could be your academic institution, your lab, or any job you currently have. We share some of our thoughts on the matter from our lived experiences. We also lend some potential solutions on how to best address lack of diversity, improve work culture, and allowing space for others to feel comfortable and heard in the work setting. What you do you think? Can you bring your full authentic self to work? Leave a comment and let's discuss.

In today's episode, our guest is Jasmine George, PhD candidate at Morehouse School of Medicine and RISE fellow studying the mechanisms of renal lipid metabolism and lipotoxicity in obese and type 2 diabetic mice. She shares with us how she got the curiosity bug early in life and how it has led to her current passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion around science policy and communication. Listen as Jasmine lends some helpful advice on how we all can affect change and combat misinformation by making science simple and interesting. This is a fun episode! We discuss everything from HBCU marching bands to dungeons and dragons! Tap in, leave a comment, and share! Resources: HBCU SPCT: https://scipolnetwork.org/page/college-tour Spring ‘21 Reflections Blog post: https://scipolnetwork.org/news/416136

In today's episode, we're joined by a dear friend and colleague, Dr. Patrick Carriere. He's a student physician attending Wake Forest School of Medicine. Listen as he discusses his story of being a “non-traditional” student and how being intentional, yet adaptable, led him to complete a PhD in Biomedical Sciences and soon a Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Carriere shares advice and lessons learned about preparation meeting opportunities. He encourages others to bet on themselves, do what brings them joy, and to lift up others as they climb. Tap in for this thoughtful discussion. Resources: https://myidp.sciencecareers.org

In part two of our mentorship episode, we continue our conversation on mentorship, we start to look in the mirror. No matter the stage you are in science, you have knowledge to impart on someone who is coming up behind you. So, are you a mentor? Most of us are familiar with upward mentorship, but what about lateral mentorship? We can learn a lot from our peers and support each other throughout our careers in science. Remember, all great leaders have mentors. Great mentors help us achieve personal and professional goals by challenging, coaching, and being our cheerleader. What qualities do you look for in a mentor? Let's keep the conversation going! Resources: https://nrmnet.net https://www.abrcms.org/index.php/education-training/student-webinars/item/546-mentor-career-resources https://www.blackincancer.com/mentorship

In part one of our mentorship series, we define mentorship. How does one identify a mentor? What are qualities of a good mentor? These are just some of the questions we talk though in this episode. A good mentor can be pivotal in helping you reach the professional and personal milestones we set for ourselves. Don't go through this journey on your own. Seek out mentorship along the way. Take the first step, set up an informational interview and just ask. Let's get the conversation going! Resources: https://career.berkeley.edu/Info/InfoInterview https://smr.aaas.org/resources/ https://www.pathwaystoscience.org/index.aspx

In today's episode we discuss some of the thoughts PhDs consider when thinking about the next phase of life, post-graduation. There are many options available to recent graduates because they all have many transferrable skills. Its incumbent on the individual to seek out these opportunities. This can come in the form of reaching out to your institutions career development office or seek out people who are doing what you see you doing in the future. This process can be overwhelming. We do our best to break down some of the pros and cons (from our perspective) of pursing an academic postdoc, an industry postdoc or getting a full-time position in the government or pharmaceutical industry sectors. Our discussion is simply meant to get you thinking about some things to consider. It is in no way exhaustive or prescriptive. We will be inviting future guests who can lend better insights into each of these possibilities. Do your homework and make time for the things that matter. Afterall, it is YOUR future. Resources: https://cheekyscientist.com/transferable-skills-recruiters-are-looking-for/ https://www.academictransfer.com/en/blog/career-opportunities-after-the-phd/ https://smdp.icpdprograms.org https://jobs.sciencecareers.org/jobs/academia/postdoc/

In today's episode, we're joined by our inaugural guest, Dr. Chris Chambliss. He's a 2021 PhD and master's in clinical research graduate from Morehouse School of Medicine. His area of research is in Sickle Cell Disease research. Tune in hear Chris highlight how his personal experiences and academic profession merge and serve as the fuel he uses make strides and leave a lasting impact in his field. For Dr. Chambliss, preparation and passion have elevated his purpose to eradicate Sickle Cell Disease. Please visit the links below to find out how you can show your support or become an advocate.  Resources:  https://sicklecellga.org https://bethematch.org

In today's episode, we discuss the importance of time management and having work-life-balance. Is it even possible? Tune in to learn some tips on how to home in on staying focused during your grad school journey. Take time for yourself. You're no good to yourself or your team if you're not at your best mentally. The struggle is inevitable. Just know that strength and growth are on the other side of struggle. That's where you'll find your rhythm and success in grad school. You got this! Resources: 1.) https://www.editage.com/insights/what-does-a-phd-weekend-actually-look-like?refer=scroll-to-2-article&refer-type=article-stories 2.) https://finishyourthesis.com/time-management/

In today's episode, we dive deeper into the process of getting into graduate school. Sharing successes, failures and even a few battle scars bring so much insight into the experinces of early career and future grad student. Sacrifice leads to success, so stay focusd on the big picture, believe in yourself, and trust the process.

It's our inagural episode! Tune in as we give you an inside look into our journey to become research scientists. Hear about how we got to where we are today and listen to some of the lessons and gems learned along the way.

This podcast is an unfiltered conversation about the lived experiences of grad students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field. This podcast provides a platform for students and early-career professionals to discuss their development as individuals, scientists, and community leaders in order to inspire the next generation of scientists. We do it for the culture!