Office Hours with Dr. Lacy
I help doctoral students finish their dissertations in 12 months or less so they can graduate and become DOCTOR!
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Capitalism Vs. Commerce In Your Consulting Business
11/24/2025
Capitalism Vs. Commerce In Your Consulting Business
Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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How You Will Fail Your Dissertation Defense And How To Avoid It
11/22/2025
How You Will Fail Your Dissertation Defense And How To Avoid It
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges faced by doctoral students, particularly focusing on the feelings of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's achievements and the mental barriers that prevent individuals from acknowledging their capabilities. Lacy encourages listeners to shift their mindset from fear of failure to celebrating their successes throughout their academic journey. Takeaways The core of why it's so hard and overwhelming is you have such deep-seated fear and disbelief. You keep mentally rehearsing all of the reasons why you're going to fail. You don't see that as proof of you knowing what you're doing. The fact that you made it to the end of the dissertation is significant. Many doctoral students do not make it to the end, which is proof of your resilience. Self-doubt can hinder your ability to recognize your achievements. It's important to shift your mindset from fear to confidence. Acknowledging your hard work is crucial for personal growth. You are the one who collected and analyzed the data. Recognizing your journey can empower you to embrace your identity as a doctor. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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Why You Won't Write Your Dissertation Over Break
11/19/2025
Why You Won't Write Your Dissertation Over Break
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome faced by academic writers, particularly those working on dissertations. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's own knowledge and capabilities, and how fear can hinder progress. Lacy advocates for making a firm decision to produce work as a way to combat these fears and encourages writers to develop effective strategies for their writing process. Takeaways You know more than enough to write a full draft. Imposter syndrome is rooted in fear and self-doubt. Reading and taking notes won't eliminate imposter syndrome. Making a decision to produce work is crucial. Confronting fears is necessary for progress. Imposter syndrome is a narrative we create for ourselves. Writing is a skill that can be honed over time. Focus on making progress rather than achieving perfection. Setting realistic goals can enhance writing productivity. Consistency in writing leads to successful dissertation completion. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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You Have No Plan for What’s Next After The Dissertation
11/17/2025
You Have No Plan for What’s Next After The Dissertation
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the journey of transitioning from a doctoral student to a successful consultant. She emphasizes the importance of believing in one's own value, the potential of leveraging academic knowledge for business, and the necessity of visibility in marketing oneself. Lacy shares her personal experiences and insights on overcoming self-doubt, balancing academia with entrepreneurship, and building a sustainable consulting business. Takeaways You can pursue both academia and entrepreneurship. Many fear putting themselves out there due to uncertainty. Your education holds significant value that can be monetized. Self-belief is crucial in transitioning from student to consultant. Visibility is key to attracting clients and opportunities. You don't need a perfect brand to start a business. A clear problem and solution define a successful business. Your dissertation can serve as a business plan. Overcoming fear of visibility can lead to client acquisition. Starting small can lead to significant growth in consulting. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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I Was At My Breaking Point With The Dissertation - Dr. Jessica Morganfield
11/08/2025
I Was At My Breaking Point With The Dissertation - Dr. Jessica Morganfield
In this conversation, Dr. Jessica Morganfield shares her journey through the dissertation process, highlighting the importance of support systems, the emotional toll of research, and the value of academic coaching. She discusses her experiences with advisors, the challenges of navigating a PhD program, and the significance of community in overcoming obstacles. The conversation culminates in reflections on her dissertation defense and advice for future doctoral candidates. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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The Lies We Tell Ourselves About The Dissertation Process
11/05/2025
The Lies We Tell Ourselves About The Dissertation Process
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges faced by doctoral students in completing their dissertations. She emphasizes the importance of structure, support, and accountability rather than waiting for the 'right time' to finish. Dr. Lacy addresses common misconceptions about needing help, the role of advisors versus dissertation coaches, and introduces her program, the Finish Your Dissertation Institute, which provides comprehensive support to help students graduate successfully. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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The Key To Writing Your Dissertation Faster
11/01/2025
The Key To Writing Your Dissertation Faster
Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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5 Reasons Why You Haven't Written Your Literature Review
10/29/2025
5 Reasons Why You Haven't Written Your Literature Review
Dissertation Information Literature Review Intensive: Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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3 Reasons Why You Will Fail Your Comprehensive Exams
10/25/2025
3 Reasons Why You Will Fail Your Comprehensive Exams
Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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My Life After Finishing The Dissertation - Post Doc Diaries
10/22/2025
My Life After Finishing The Dissertation - Post Doc Diaries
In this episode, Dr. Lacy introduces a new series focused on the postdoctoral experience, sharing her personal journey after completing her dissertation. She discusses the emotional challenges faced after graduation, the importance of preparing for life beyond academia, and the necessity of having a clear vision and reward to navigate this transition. Dr. Lacy emphasizes the significance of believing in one's potential and the power of community support in achieving personal and professional goals. Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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The Skill That Separates Scholars Who Finish Their Dissertations From Those Who Don’t
10/18/2025
The Skill That Separates Scholars Who Finish Their Dissertations From Those Who Don’t
In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the critical aspects of navigating the dissertation process, emphasizing the importance of taking ownership, understanding the role of your chair, and establishing effective systems for writing and accountability. She encourages listeners to embrace their leadership role in their research journey and to develop a clear vision and plan to achieve their academic goals. The conversation highlights the necessity of drafting, seeking feedback, and maintaining resilience in the face of challenges, ultimately empowering students to take charge of their dissertation journey and graduate successfully. Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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This One Decision Will Change How Fast You Finish Your Dissertation
10/16/2025
This One Decision Will Change How Fast You Finish Your Dissertation
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the critical role of feedback in the dissertation writing process for doctoral students. She addresses common fears and misconceptions surrounding feedback, emphasizing that it is essential for academic success and graduation. Dr. Lacy provides insights into overcoming emotional burnout, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and the importance of submitting drafts for review. She encourages students to adopt a mindset of progress over perfection and outlines strategies for effectively navigating the dissertation journey. Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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How You Can Start Writing Today
10/11/2025
How You Can Start Writing Today
You don’t need more time. You don’t need another book or a better plan. You just need to start. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy shows you exactly how to get words on the page today using a simple 10-minute strategy that works even if you feel stuck or unsure. If you’ve been telling yourself you’re not ready or that you need to read more before you write, this is your reminder that clarity comes from action—not overthinking. This is your starting point. No pressure. No perfection. Just progress. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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It's You vs. You In The Dissertation: Full Moon In Aries
10/08/2025
It's You vs. You In The Dissertation: Full Moon In Aries
Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading:
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This Is What Writing With ADHD Really Feels Like
09/03/2025
This Is What Writing With ADHD Really Feels Like
Trying to write your dissertation with ADHD is not just hard—it’s like washing dishes in freezing water while your brain screams at you to stop. In this honest and eye-opening episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down what writing actually feels like when you're neurodivergent and why traditional advice like “just focus” and “eliminate distractions” only makes it worse. You’ll learn why your brain needs dopamine more than discipline, how to structure your writing time to stay engaged, and why creative side projects might be the key to finally finishing your dissertation. If you’ve been stuck, bored, or questioning your ability to do this at all, this episode will help you feel seen—and give you a new way forward. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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Why You Never Do What You Say You Will
08/27/2025
Why You Never Do What You Say You Will
You keep making plans. Telling yourself this week will be different. Promising your chair, your friends, and yourself that you're going to finish this draft. But somehow the days go by and nothing gets done. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down the real reason behind the cycle of avoidance and broken promises. It’s not laziness. It’s not a lack of time. It’s the deep hit your confidence has taken and the fear that your best might not be good enough. If you're tired of feeling like a disappointment and ready to finally trust yourself again, this episode will show you how to rebuild belief, reset your plan, and take your next step forward. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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How You Can Start Writing Today
08/20/2025
How You Can Start Writing Today
You don’t need more time. You don’t need another book or a better plan. You just need to start. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy shows you exactly how to get words on the page today using a simple 10-minute strategy that works even if you feel stuck or unsure. If you’ve been telling yourself you’re not ready or that you need to read more before you write, this is your reminder that clarity comes from action—not overthinking. This is your starting point. No pressure. No perfection. Just progress. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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Your Dissertation Is an Assignment
08/13/2025
Your Dissertation Is an Assignment
You keep telling yourself this dissertation has to be perfect. That it has to honor your family, your community, your ancestors. And that pressure is the reason you haven’t written a single page in weeks. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy reminds you of one simple truth—your dissertation is not your life’s masterpiece. It’s an assignment. It’s your first attempt at research, not your final one. You’ll learn why chasing perfection keeps you stuck, how fear disguises itself as overthinking, and what it actually takes to hit submit. If you want to finish faster and with way less stress, this episode will give you the permission and the plan to do it. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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The Power of Your Decisions - Mars In Libra
08/09/2025
The Power of Your Decisions - Mars In Libra
In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the interplay between grief and creativity, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's Mars sign, particularly in Libra. The conversation explores decision-making dynamics, the shadow side of people-pleasing, and the significance of setting boundaries. Dr. Lacy also provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to embrace change and self-discovery while navigating their personal and professional lives. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Book An Astrology Reading: Chapters 00:00 Navigating Grief and Creativity 02:12 Understanding Mars in Libra 07:27 Decision-Making Dynamics 12:02 The Shadow Side of People-Pleasing 16:35 Communicating Boundaries Effectively 23:04 Astrological Insights for Each Sign 25:10 Aries 29:19 Taurus 33:41 Gemini 36:50 Cancer 41:11 Leo 45:44 Virgo 50:35 Libra 53:10 Scorpio 58:46 Sagittarius 1:02:59 Capricorn 1:06:46 Aquarius 1:11:22 Pisces
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Why You Need To Invest In Yourself
08/06/2025
Why You Need To Invest In Yourself
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of investing in dissertation coaching and support for doctoral students. She emphasizes that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step in navigating the challenges of the dissertation process. Lacy highlights the limited role of dissertation chairs and the need for additional resources and community support. She introduces her program, Qual Scholars, as a way to provide structured support for students, encouraging them to seek help and not to go through the process alone. Chapters 00:00 The Value of Dissertation Coaching 02:14 Understanding the Role of Your Chair 05:57 The Importance of Support in the Dissertation Process 08:58 Finding the Right Resources and Community 11:40 The Role of Coaching in Achieving Goals 14:04 Qual Scholars: A Supportive Community for Doctoral Students 16:43 Choosing the Right Support for Your Dissertation Journey Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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How To Write 10 Pages In 2 Days
07/30/2025
How To Write 10 Pages In 2 Days
Description In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of having a structured writing system to enhance productivity and confidence in writing. She introduces her '10 Pages in Two Days' writing retreat, which aims to help participants produce significant written work in a short time frame. The retreat focuses on teaching a systematic approach to writing, addressing mental blocks, and providing a supportive environment for writers. Dr. Lacy emphasizes the need for preparation and offers insights into what participants can expect during the retreat, including common questions and answers. Chapters 00:00 The Power of a Writing System 01:47 Introducing the 10 Pages in Two Days Retreat 04:53 The Importance of a Writing Routine 08:28 Day One: Learning the Process 11:44 Day Two: Overcoming Mental Blocks 15:47 Preparing for the Retreat 19:48 Common Questions and Answers Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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Be A Doctoral Expert - New Moon In Leo
07/26/2025
Be A Doctoral Expert - New Moon In Leo
In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of self-belief, the role of astrology as a guiding tool, and the significance of the new moon in initiating personal growth. She emphasizes the need to trust oneself, overcome perfectionism, and embrace change, particularly during Leo season. The discussion also touches on the impact of relationships on personal development and the importance of community support. Lacy provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to find their voice and authenticity while navigating their journeys. Chapters 00:00 Believing in Yourself Despite Doubts 02:25 Understanding Astrology as a Guide 06:08 Navigating New Beginnings with the New Moon 09:13 The Importance of Rising Signs in Astrology 11:45 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Growth 14:11 The Role of Validation in Personal Growth 16:55 Trusting Yourself in the Face of Uncertainty 19:18 The Power of Self-Expression During Leo Season 21:51 The Journey of the Dissertation Process 24:39 Embracing Change and New Opportunities 27:36 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth 29:56 Astrological Insights for Each Zodiac Sign 32:23 Aries 33:49 Taurus 36:23 Gemini 39:23 Cancer 41:30 Leo 44:26 Virgo 47:04 Libra 51:06 Scorpio 54:30 Sagittarius 57:44 Capricorn 1:00:00 Aquarius 1:06:00 Pisces Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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Your Doctoral Journey To Damascus - Mercury Retrograde In Leo
07/23/2025
Your Doctoral Journey To Damascus - Mercury Retrograde In Leo
In this episode, Dr. Lacy explores the intersection of astrology, spirituality, and personal growth, particularly through the lens of Mercury retrograde in Leo. She reflects on her own journey from 2018 to 2020, discussing the challenges and transformations she faced, including the transition from being a doctoral student to a professional. The conversation also delves into the biblical story of Saul's transformation into Paul, drawing parallels to personal identity and the importance of self-reflection during Mercury retrograde. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and the decisions they face during this astrological period. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Astrology and Spirituality 12:11 The Journey to Embracing Business and Identity 19:20 The Road to Damascus: Transformation and New Beginnings 27:30 The Unique Position of Privilege 33:03 Understanding Retrogrades and Their Impact 44:29 Navigating Change and Decision-Making 51:00 Embracing Transformation and Future Directions Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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“I’m Investing in My Future” with Ashley Thomas
07/16/2025
“I’m Investing in My Future” with Ashley Thomas
Ashley Thomas didn’t wait for permission to take her next step—she made the decision to invest in herself. In this episode, she shares how she went from high school chemistry teacher to doctoral candidate, all while balancing work, life, and the emotional weight of the dissertation process. We talk about what it really means to bet on your future, why group coaching changed everything, and how she learned to ask for help without shame. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth it to invest in support—Ashley’s story will show you what’s possible when you do. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Ashley Thomas (She, her, hers) I am Ashley Thomas, a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I have been a teacher for 19 years in the DeKalb County School District, with nine years in the middle school setting, teaching all sciences and ten years at the high school level, teaching general and accelerated chemistry, AP chemistry, and forensic science. I earned my B.S. in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana, master’s from Keller Graduate School in information systems, and an M.Ed. and Ed.S. in instructional technology from Kennesaw State University. I am a firm believer in leveraging my technology expertise to support my fellow peers while developing my students’ skills. I have facilitated various professional development initiatives over the past decade. I have also presented at multiple levels, including both instructional technology and educational research conferences, at the local, state, national, and international levels. During my tenure in my local school district, I was named Star Teacher in 2019, Stephenson High School’s Teacher of the Year 2023- 2024, and the DeKalb County School District’s High School Teacher of the Year 2023-2024. I have been granted the Explore Learning Leadership Award for Implementation in 2015 and 2016. I also earned the KSU’s Bagwell Scholar Award in Spring 2022 while earning my specialist degree. I was also honored in the Georgia Senate with a Resolution for Stephenson’s Teacher of the Year in 2024. I am currently a doctoral candidate at Kennesaw State University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout my studies. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to an eclectic array of music, spending time with my family and friends, and traveling whenever possible. I was affected by Hurricane Katrina and had to take my last semester classes at Spelman College and Georgia State University. I must give credit where it’s due. I successfully completed my BS while navigating that bump in the road, and I also pursued a doctoral degree while experiencing the loss of my sister and, subsequently, my father within 18 months. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 02:50 Meet Ashley Thomas: A Journey in Education 05:42 The Decision to Join the Program 10:28 The Value of Community and Support 15:04 Navigating Personal Challenges 19:01 Experiencing the Writing Retreat 24:02 Investing in Your Future 24:31 Investing in Yourself 25:22 The Power of Community and Support 27:28 Planning for Success 30:31 The Importance of Outcome-Driven Goals 32:03 The Value of Group Coaching 35:19 Embracing Support and Vulnerability 39:08 Commitment to the Process 42:55 Taking the Leap: Just Do It
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Getting a PhD Is Easy If You’re Willing to Stop Fighting the Process
07/09/2025
Getting a PhD Is Easy If You’re Willing to Stop Fighting the Process
You think the problem is your topic or your writing. It’s not. The problem is you’re still trying to make the process make sense. In this truth-telling episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down why so many smart, capable students stay stuck in the dissertation phase—while others fly past them with mediocre drafts. If you are exhausted from rewriting, over-researching, or waiting for your chair to finally make sense, this episode will shift everything. Learn why your chair doesn’t need you to be brilliant, why perfect is the enemy of done, and how trusting your own voice can get you to graduation faster. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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The Truth About What It Really Takes to Write a Literature Review
07/07/2025
The Truth About What It Really Takes to Write a Literature Review
Literature Review Starter Pack: Summary In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges of writing a literature review, emphasizing that the struggle often stems from a lack of direction and understanding of the purpose of the review. She highlights the importance of knowing one's perspective before diving into literature, the political nature of citations, and the need for a structured approach to writing. Dr. Lacy provides practical advice on defining the problem, understanding its significance, and creating a strategy for writing effectively. She also offers resources and support for those looking to improve their writing process. Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Chapters 00:00 The Struggle of Writing a Literature Review 02:37 Understanding the Purpose of Reading vs. Writing 06:45 The Importance of Strategy in Research 09:40 Identifying Your Research Perspective 12:30 The Role of Literature in Research 16:25 Navigating Citations and Research Paradigms 19:24 The Importance of a Literature Review 22:27 Crafting Your Research Questions 25:00 Developing a Working Outline for Your Literature Review 29:14 The Process of Writing and Editing
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I Became the Person I Always Thought I Would Be with Dr. Danielle McArdle
07/02/2025
I Became the Person I Always Thought I Would Be with Dr. Danielle McArdle
In this episode, Dr. Danielle McArdle reflects on what it really took to become the version of herself she always imagined. She shares how the PhD process tested her confidence, challenged her identity, and forced her to let go of the idea that she had to figure it all out on her own. We talk about the real work of finding your people, navigating difficult advisor relationships, and learning how to trust your voice. This conversation is a reminder that you are not here just to earn a degree. You are here to become the kind of scholar and leader you always knew you could be. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Danielle McArdle (She/her) Insta: daniellehmcardle About Me: My name is Danielle McArdle and I will be graduating this spring with a PhD in Management with a specialization in sports marketing from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. I am in expert of fandom in women's sports and I hope to change the world through my research. This fall, I will join the faculty of the University of Georgia. Go Dawgs! What I Have Done: Outside of my academic background, I have served as the coordinator of corporate partnership for the National Women's Hockey League and have completed the United States Olympic Committee's Finding Leaders Amongst Minorities Everywhere (FLAME) Program. I also served as the Workforce Administrator of the Orlando Venue of the 2016 Copa America Centenario. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:56 Navigating PhD Challenges 05:46 The Role of Mentorship 09:10 Overcoming Academic Hurdles 12:03 The Advisor Transition 14:49 Building a Supportive Community 18:14 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 33:58 Navigating Dissertation Challenges 39:06 The Importance of Thought Partners 44:24 Emotional Resilience in the Dissertation Process 49:24 Innovative Data Collection Strategies 54:14 Preparing for the Defense 01:01:33 The Value of Community Support 01:04:23 Looking Ahead: New Beginnings
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If Your Brain Goes Blank Every Time You Try to Write, Listen to This
06/25/2025
If Your Brain Goes Blank Every Time You Try to Write, Listen to This
Every time you sit down to write, your brain goes blank. You know what the goal is—finish the dissertation—but the words just won’t come. In this solo episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down exactly why this keeps happening. She shares how burnout, shame, and lack of clarity are working against you, and why more time isn’t the answer—better energy management is. You’ll learn about the Scholar Basics, the real reason your writing plan keeps falling apart, and the one question that can help you get unstuck today. If you’ve been showing up for everyone else and wondering why you can’t show up for yourself, this episode is for you. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram:
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“I Don’t Have to Do This By Myself Anymore” with Dr. Girsea Martinez
06/18/2025
“I Don’t Have to Do This By Myself Anymore” with Dr. Girsea Martinez
What if the biggest breakthrough in your dissertation journey had nothing to do with writing—and everything to do with finally asking for help? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Girsea Martinez get real about the grief, guilt, and pressure that can derail your academic progress. They unpack what it means to carry personal loss while collecting data, why rewriting can feel like reliving trauma, and how community became the turning point that changed everything. If you’ve been silently struggling, convinced you have to figure it out alone—this episode will remind you that you don’t. Girsea Martinez (she/they) Girsea on LinkedIn and IG Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Chapters 00:00 Navigating Grief and Higher Education 02:52 Post-Defense Reflections and Healing 06:13 The Defense Experience: Insights and Strategies 08:57 The Impact of Personal Loss on Academic Journey 11:57 Community Support and Resilience in Academia 14:54 Balancing Grief and Academic Responsibilities 18:12 The Role of Identity in Research and Writing 21:11 The Emotional Toll of Data Collection 23:55 Finding Purpose in the Dissertation Process 26:49 Navigating the Dissertation Journey 30:01 The Power of Community in Writing 34:15 Embracing Self-Care and Progress 37:59 The Emotional Weight of Rewriting 42:43 Overcoming Doubt and Finding Support 45:33 Investing in Community for Success
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We Can't Heal In Isolation With Dr. Michelle Rascon-Canales
06/11/2025
We Can't Heal In Isolation With Dr. Michelle Rascon-Canales
What happens when your world falls apart in the middle of your PhD? In this raw and powerful conversation, Dr. Michelle Rascon-Canales shares how grief, neurodivergence, and academic pressure collided—and how she found her way back through coaching, community, and creativity. We talk about why writing in isolation doesn’t work, how the wrong advisor relationship can shake your confidence, and what it really takes to keep writing when life gets heavy. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re the only one struggling to keep it all together behind the scenes—this one’s for you. Michelle Rascon-Canales (She/her) Instagram: @michellephd_lmsw Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: Qual Scholars Website: Qual Scholars’ Instagram: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 03:06 Navigating Personal and Academic Challenges 05:51 The Impact of Grief on Academic Pursuits 09:00 The Role of Community in Overcoming Obstacles 11:59 Finding Support Through Coaching 15:03 Transforming Writing Practices 17:48 The Importance of Self-Care in Academia 21:02 Building a Supportive Network 23:56 Conclusion and Reflections 25:12 The Importance of Writing in Community 29:06 Navigating Relationships with Advisors 32:44 The Iterative Process of Writing 38:43 Embracing Neurodiversity in Academia 45:13 Finding Safety in the Writing Process
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