Grad School For Grown Folks Hosted by Dr. Tonya Vetter

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This podcast is perfect for anyone in graduate school working on a doctorate, or maybe you're thinking about going back to school. Here, we talk about graduate degrees and living very real lives. Now, I am the "APA Queen." So, yes, we will talk about the journey of tackling graduate writing successfully, but we also talk about real-world issues that sometimes make the journey feel impossible. This show will help you navigate the terrains as a doctoral student, and I share gems as an editor, dissertation coach, and someone who's been in your shoes! So, let's go!

Dr. Tonya Vetter


    • Dec 5, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 13m AVG DURATION
    • 85 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Grad School For Grown Folks Hosted by Dr. Tonya Vetter

    It's Showtime! No Quitting Allowed!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 9:38


    In today's episode, I share five (5) critical tips to help you finish during one of the busiest seasons. It's the season most doctoral students feel like quitting and giving up. Well, do not......Listen to this episode first! Let's dive in!

    Wait! Who's in Charge? Is it my Chair or Committee?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2023 8:41


    It's the research proposal and research defense season. Many students need clarification on who's in charge when it's time to respond to feedback on their papers. Is it the chair or committee? In this episode, I share five ideas and discuss this issue. Let's dive in!https://www.dissertationdoctor.org#leadership #educators #dissertationdoctors #graduates #gradschool #blackphd #phdjourney #phdlife #phdhelp #docstudents #graduateschool #phdchat

    Preparing for Fall Like a Champion!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 11:16


    Don't start the Fall semester without checking out this episode. This episode is for those who are experienced, new, and graduating. Students. So, whether you're a new student or seasoned- start the semester like a Champion with these four (4) things.Checkout https://www.dissertationdoctor.org/

    Stay Connected to the Research in the Summer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2023 9:06


    The summer is usually when graduates disconnect from their studies due to burnout and overwhelm. In today's episode, I share three quick tips to help you get through the summer while remaining connected to your study and enjoying the break!

    It's the Month of Madness!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2023 11:41


    It's May! We call this month "Make it Happen May!" If you're in a graduate program, you're in one of three phrases. You're either graduating, getting organized for the next phase, or entering a program. https://www.dissertationdoctor.org/

    Get What You Need From Your Chair Now!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2023 7:26


    Nothing frustrates us more than a university that falls short of providing the absolute best for our clients. Need a strategy to get your chair more involved in your process? We have you covered with these (5) five tips!

    Do This and Get a Strong Start!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2023 12:18


    This is an exciting time of year for graduate students! The best strategy is a "strong start." On today's episode, I share four (4) things that will put you ahead of the game.  Are you ready?  Let's dive in!

    Top 3 Dissertation Disasters

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2023 9:57


    Happy New Year! 2022 was an amazing year in the grad school world, but a few things bubbled over into the "never again" column! On today's episode, I share the "Top 3 Dissertation Disasters" we witnessed. I also share suggestions to help you avoid potholes. Ready? Let's dive in!

    Watch Out for the Scammers!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2022 15:11


    We are living in very strange times, my friends! On today's episode, I will share warning signs you need to look out for as you choose editors and providers to support you as a graduate student. Lastly, you'll get about six (6) questions you should ask them when finding a potential editor or service provider.https://www.dissertationdoctor.org/

    The Game has Changed! What's Your Strategy?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2022 10:46


    Time flies when we're having fun, and changes are approaching in colleges and university graduate programs. Today's episode is all about having the proper strategy to respond to those changes. You do not want to miss today's episode.

    When Your University Falls Short

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2022 15:41


    Today's episode is about filling in the gaps when your university falls short. Does your university assign tasks but not provide instructions such as modeling and examples? Do you commonly feel lost and alone in your program? Well, this episode is for you!

    Navigating Marriage and Relationships as a Graduate Student feat. Dr. B. Williams

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 43:19


    Today's episode is one of my favorites because I have Dr. Brian Williams joining me for an important conversation -Navigating Marriage and Relationships as a Doctoral Student. Balancing a full-time work schedule, graduate school, and day-to-day expectations can be overwhelming. Today, Dr. Williams and I discuss ways to pursue your doctoral dreams and have a strong relationship or cultivate a stronger one. Trust me! This is a conversation you don't want to miss. You'll laugh a lot and learn plenty. Enjoy it and share it!Check out Dr. Brian Williams https://basicwisdomllc.comDissertation Doctors https://www.dissertationdr.us

    When Back to School & Grad School Collides Successfully

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2022 12:53


    It's the back-to-school season! It's also time for some of you to head back to graduate school. This will be the time for some of you to start working on your research for the first time, and you're wondering if it's possible to do it without losing your mind. The answer and the best strategy known to man are shared in this episode. Let's dive in!

    Program Impersonators! Yikes!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2022 14:31


    In this new episode, we will discuss how to thrive in graduate school, although you're not getting what you signed up for and feel like you're experiencing a "program impersonator and false advertisement." Check it out!

    Get Instrument Permission With Ease

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2022 20:01


    Getting permission to use an instrument for your study can be confusing, so in today's episode, I share the most important steps to take to obtain permission for authors to complete your study successfully. Trust me! This is a Chapter 3 episode you don't want to miss. 

    Are You and Your Chair on the Same Page?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022 14:14


    In today's episode, we dive into a tricky one. Are you and your chair on the same page? Are you working on Chapter 1, but they're thinking about Chapter 1? If so, you don't want to miss this one! I share three ways to get you all on the same page immediately. Buckle up and take a listen! 

    Do What They Tell You!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2022 14:42


    There was once a time when I could give graduate students steps for writing their dissertation, and it would apply to all of them. Well, that day has come and gone. Every chair has their own ideas about what a great dissertation entails, and sadly, sometimes it's not only incorrect but also makes no sense. However, if you want to graduate, you must "Do what they tell you to do!"

    Staying Connected to Your Topic During During the Summer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022 7:15


    A major mistake I see many graduate students make during the summer is, well...nothing! That's right! Some of them completely abandon their studies until the following semester. Then, struggle when school starts. Today's episode is a must! Check out the quick tips to avoid this disaster. 

    Decompress and Recommit

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2022 10:39


    What a semester and school year! Transition is a natural part of life and it can be a challenge. Today's episode is all about transitioning from one phase to the next with ease and harmony. Let's dive in!

    Should I Start With Chapter 1 or Chapter 2?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2022 9:21


    This is a common question I get.  Graduates are confused about where to start.  I think you'll be surprised! If you're confused, this is a great episode for you. Let's dive in.

    Have a Successful Graduate Program & Enjoy Your Summer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2022 7:50


    In today's episode, I share three tips on having a successful summer semester and enjoying your summer. This is our first real summer since COVID, and I don't want you to miss it! However, you must have a strategy. Let's take a listen.

    Pushing to the Finish Line

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2022 15:25


    Pushing to the finish line isn't easy, but you did it! On today's episode, I share four essentials to transitioning peacefully.

    Let's Address the Elephant in the Room

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2022 15:27


    I'm the last person to push the race card, but let's address the elephant in the doctoral programs. You have to push play if you want to hear more.https://www.dissertationdr.us

    Red Marks Everywhere!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2022 12:28


    Feedback is golden! It's the fastest way to get to graduate school where you want to go. I'm sharing what you should do with the feedback in today's episode to keep the momentum. Also, I share what to do when you have not received any support from your chair. This is an episode you don't want to miss. Let's go!

    Pivot, Plan, and Play the Game to Win!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2022 19:57


    In this emergency episode, I share seven important tips for how you need to take control of your program and get YOURSELF to the finish line. Remember, graduate school is a business, so your chair might not be as eager to get you done. Don't worry! I have you covered in this episode. Grab a pen and paper and look for upcoming tips on my website for the newbies. https://www.dissertationdr.us

    Never Fight With Research Questions Again! Ever!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2022 19:21


    Research questions are absolutely the most important element of your study next to your participants and your instrument.  In fact, this is what we affectionately refer to as “research alignment.” In today's episode, I share how to nail your research questions, get them approved, and move on! The goal is to get you to the finish line. Let's Go!This mini-course (about 20 minutes) shows you how to nail your research questions and get them approved. There is a difference between quantitative questions and qualitative research questions! Find out what they are here: https://www.dissertationdr.us/offers/YpYCgdwy/checkout

    I'm a Dr. Now What, Because I'm Broke?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2022 21:09


    So, you're a doctor. You did it. Great! One of the most common problems doctors have after graduation is a frustration with what to do next and how to make more money. In today's episode, I am going to help you out. I share five things that will shift your life immediately if you take action.  I share how I was able to leave my full-time job in 15-months and work as an entrepreneur. Let's dive in!Get "Rich Teachers Sleep Well" Now!

    Position Yourself Early as a Purposeful Professional

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2022 14:12


    Today's episode is one of my favorites. We dive into positioning yourself early, effectively, and purposefully as a professional. Yes! There are so many mistakes people make when they first become graduate students. So today, we're going to talk about the top three mistakes that people make when they become graduate students and how you can avoid those mistakes. So buckle up for this episode, grab a pen and paper, and invite your friends. Let's dive in!Get help now at https://www.dissertationdr.usGrab the book "Rich Teachers Sleep Well" Now!

    Pop Up Episode- Quick Tips on Writing an Analysis (Review of Literature)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2022 4:09


    This is a quick one, Docs! Some of you are struggling with Chapter 2 because you struggle with writing an analysis. It's okay. I have you covered in less than 5 minutes on this episode! An analysis is your opportunity to:·       contextualize the information·       explain the evidence for your reader ·       tell the reader why the evidence ·       explain what it means  and/or ·       explain how the article connects to other ideas in your writing

    Have I Changed or Your Perception?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2022 9:17


    If you recently gotten back in school, you've probably been accused of being different since you've taken on the new audacious goal. Well, today's episode "I Haven't Changed, or Your Perception?" is just for you. In today's episode, we tackle how to approach the naysayers and how to handle the judgement that comes with becoming a professional student. Look, you don't want to miss this one.  Let's dive in!

    perception changed dissertation i haven your perception
    Cuts, Bruises, and Grad School for Grown Folks

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2022 14:20


    Today's episode talks about cuts, bruises, and Grad School for grown folks! There are great benefits to getting support early. Today, I share three (3) reasons you want to shore up support early to get through your program with grace and less grind. 

    I Have the Answers!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2022 14:25


    In today's episode, I answer my three (3) top questions over the last 3 months. 1. How many days do I need to give my chair to respond to my emails and provide feedback before reporting them to the dean?2. When should I start writing my first chapter?3. What should I do if I no longer have access to the population I originally designed my study for and received IRB approval?Check out "Rich Teachers Sleep Well."

    Collecting Research Data During Chaos

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2022 12:50


    In today's episode, I share five (5) tips that will help some of you plan the data collection process while we're still battling Covid restrictions.Keep it simple.Think accessibility.How can you get to your participants?When can you get to them?What will be best, safe, and convenient for all?

    Synthesize the Literature Like a Pro!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2022 10:05


    Hi, docs! You need today's episode. It's all about the literature review. I'm sharing five (5) ways to nail it! Synthesize the literature like a pro and write with confidence. This can be done if you:Compare commonalities and contrast/ show differences.Identify relationships among the different studies. Comment on major themes and patterns you discovered on the topic and how it ties in with your study.Discuss the pros and cons and how they connect with your study.Point out gaps in the literature.https://www.dissertationdr.usGet Rich Teachers Sleep Well Now

    Does Your Chair Feel Like an Enemy or an Ally?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2022 12:15


    The academic relationship with your chair is a partnership. Sadly, the new generation of professors guiding candidates now tasked with this responsibility seems a little confused about their role. Is your chair an ally, or do they feel more like an enemy? In today's episode I share three ways to help you  build a better relationship.

    Love Life Regardless and Dominate 2022 Gracefully!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2021 13:43


    I know 2021 has been quite a year, but you made it!  Some of you have soared beyond measure!  In today's episode, I share three ways we're going to dominate 2022-gracefully.  That's right!  We're flipping the script!  Today's episode is one you do not want to miss.  Rich Teachers

    Rich Relationships or Relationship Broke?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2021 17:36


    Today's episode is a necessity!  We often focus on what's important to us and neglect our relationships, especially as graduate students, leaders in education, and entrepreneurs. Well, the holidays are a great time to repair those relationships and reassess what's important.  The truth is, we can amass all the wealth in the world and be "relationship broke," which still equates to unhappiness.  Today's episode is one you'll want to share.  It's inspired by my book "Rich Teachers Sleep Well."  Let's dive in!Get your digital interactive copy of Rich Teachers Sleep Well!

    2021 Bonus: Resilient Writers (3 Top Traits of Resilience in Graduate School)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2021 9:22


    You did it! The semester is over. There are some themes I've in those who FINISHED and those who FINISH WELL! Yep, in today's episode, I share the secrets of those who love the journey despite the ups and downs. Transform your life and money story with Rich Teachers Sleep Well! Get it NOW!

    I'm Graduating! What's Next?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2021 14:33


    Congratulation graduates!  It's common for graduates to worry about their next step after graduating with their doctorate.  One of my clients greatest concerns is whether the time and all of the work will be worth it in dollars.  In today's episode, I talk about what's in your "creativity bank" account!  Yes, you have one.  Trust me.  This is an episode you do not want to miss.  Don't forget to get "Rich Teachers Sleep Well."

    Rich Teachers Sleep Well (Exclusive)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2021 14:25


    Have you ever found yourself frustrated and feeling stuck in your career and life? Have you ever feared that you may be spending all of your time and effort on an education that might be worthless? If so, this episode is just for you!  I just released my new interactive digital book "Rich Teachers Sleep Well." This book is anyone, from the woman an attorney to the father who feels stuck in his 9 to 5.  That means joy, a fulfilling service, and money.  In my mind, the archetype of the teacher is one whose value is vast, and so are their gifts.  The tune of the "broke teacher" soundtrack is done! The truth is - We are all teachers, and we have a new song to sing, and each day, a new lyric is written, and a new note is being played.  This is an episode you don't want to miss!  Tag a teacher!Order your copy now! 

    Out of Sight? Out of Mind!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2021 9:02


    Keep the lines of communication flowing with these five tips. If you've been MIA and you need to re-establish communication with your chair, do not worry! We have you covered in this episode! Have a communication plan.Keep your word and work with integrity.Have a regularly scheduled meeting with the chair, even if there's nothing to report.Schedule "Zoom" Milestone MeetingsAsk if there's a time or period, such as summer, when they do not review papers.

    Choose Your Chair Using These Six (6) Tips!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2021 15:29


    There are six essential things you want to consider when selecting your dissertation chair.  Their:1. Expertise (Find out what makes them an expert on that topic. Is it work history and experience, if so to what degree? How do they work with others? Introverts or Extroverts?2. Accessibility (Are they nationally known, popular, or like to vacation?  Are they full-time or adjunct professors- How many other jobs do they have?) Find out indirectly.3. Feedback Styles: (Do they actually provide feedback such as comments. If so how, will it be text feedback in the comment section, video feedback, etc?) 4. Success Record: How well have previous students done under their guidance? How many students graduate on time?5. Personality Styles: Because of the collaboration process between the two of you, pay attention to the nonverbals and verbal cues.6. Attitudes Toward Methodology: Methodology is one of the greatest obstacles in the dissertation and research process, so being on one accord with your chair on such a topic is critical. Ask questions about methodologies and find out where your potential chair stands on the issue.The goal is to remove as many barriers as possible ahead of time because it will save you time. 

    "The Literature has Spoken. Are you Listening"

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2021 9:42


    Today's episode is a good one! The literature will lead you to the gap with these six (6) questions, but you must be willing to listen. What is the significance of this research to my work or the broader field?How can this article help me formulate my research questions?Does the author's argument require more clarification?What issues or questions has the author not addressed?Is there a different perspective that I can consider?What other factors could have influenced the results?Are the methods or procedures used outdated or no longer considered valid in your field? 

    Reboot! The Quickest Way to Recover from Burnout!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2021 9:19


    The quickest way to recover from burnout and stress is by rebooting. I share (5) quick ways to quickly reboot and get excited about writing again in today's episode! Let's go! Study in a different space. Switch it up.Don't write alone. Switch with the days.Integrate the use of your chair a little more.Focus on one section at a time.Have fun along the way!

    It's Burnout Season: A Rare Moment of Vulnerability

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2021 13:02


    It was 3:30 am, and I was thinking of my clients. I understand it's burnout season. You all are trying to turn "water into wine..." in your roles as leaders and teachers in education. You all are also trying to finish your program and keep it all together. The truth is.....each day the thread is unraveling, and you are tired. I see you...I feel you.....

    Is It a Threesome?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2021 10:32


    This is the only threesome you'll hear me talk about!!!  Yikes! Check it out!

    Literature Review Tips and Resources

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2021 8:20


    Today's episode is quick but informative!  If your literature review is in the works, make sure it doesn't sound like a diary or novel.  Yikes!  Also, here's three resources that will be extremely helpful.1. Writing a Successful Thesis or Dissertation: Tips and Strategies for Students in the Social and Behavioral Sciences 1st Edition by Fred C. Lunenburg (Author), Beverly J Irby (Author)2. Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design | SAGE Publications Inc3.  Research Design | SAGE Publications Inc

    Need Feedback from Your Chair? Do These 5 Things!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2021 7:07


    Hi guys, today's  episode is all about how to get most bang for your buck when it comes to your dissertation chair.  These (5) tips have changed the feedback game for my clients! Trust me. You need this information. 1. Be prepared.2. Ask the right questions.3. Follow up with a recap email.4. Do what they ask of you.5. Remember, they work for the university not just you!

    Q&A's You Don't Want to Miss!!! Trust Me!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 21:36


    Look, today's Q & A's are mind-blowing!!! Seriously! I come out slugging, but I also have great answers for you. Today, I tackle four questions we got, and they are home runs!1. What do you do if you want to change your dissertation title after IRB approval?2. When should you get a dissertation editor or coach?3. What should you do and expect if you and the coach aren't a great fit after you've hired them?4. What do you do if you need to stop services in the middle because of a wedding or pregnancy?

    Be Diligent in Doing Your Due Diligence

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2021 10:34


    You have to ask better questions to get better results doc students.  It's time for some of you to look for a dissertation coach and an editor. In today's episode, I will help you avoid online scams and tons of frustration!  It's all about the quality of our questions.  Let's take a listen. 

    Ask a Better Question

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2021 11:44


    You do not want to miss the next two episodes Doc students! It's time for some of you to look for a dissertation coach and an editor. In today's episode, I will help you avoid online scams and tons of frustration!  It's all about the quality of our questions.  Let's take a listen. 

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