E41 - Academia wasn't worth my life: Leaving academia, not-so-alternative careers and redefining success

In this episode of Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts, I’m joined by scientific writer and science communicator Sónia Gomes Pereira to talk about the moment she realised that the traditional academic path simply wasn’t worth the cost.Sónia shares her journey from a curious science-loving kid to a PhD in integrative biology and biomedicine, navigating a complex interdisciplinary PhD project, and eventually deciding to leave academia behind. Along the way, we talk about the hidden pressures of academic life, the discipline it takes to survive a PhD, and the personal events that can force us to reconsider what really matters.We also explore what happens after academia: realising that there are countless possible alternative (or not-so-alternative!) paths beyond academia, and figuring out next steps despite overwhelm.This conversation touches on:The emotional and practical challenges of a PhDdiscipline, burnout, and compartmentalising work and lifeleaving academia and redefining successfinding many possible paths beyond academiabuilding a life that actually aligns with your valuesIf you’ve ever questioned whether the academic path is really the right one for you, this episode will feel very familiar.__________Sónia's info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniagomespereira/Website: https://www.soniagomespereira.com/__________Support the showLet's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram:@moms.mats.manuscripts@shantiscience_yogaReach out: [email protected]