ConnectED

What happens when you’re wildly successful in academia—but realize you want something else?In this episode of ConnectED, we’re joined by Dr. Ashley Ruba, a developmental psychologist turned UX researcher, coach, entrepreneur, and founder of After Academia.From studying infant emotion perception at the University of Washington to building a career and brand that empowers others to leave academia, Ashley shares an honest and deeply reflective look at identity, transitions, and choosing yourself.We talk about:➤ Her winding academic journey as a first-generation college student➤ Studying thousands of babies (literally!) and managing research solo➤ Creating work-life boundaries during grad school—and sticking to them➤ Her transition into UX research and what’s changed in the field➤ What no one tells you about grief, ego, and letting go of the “professor path”Ashley also shares the emotional realities of career pivots, the importance of community, and how clarity often follows action—not the other way around.Resources Mentioned:➤ Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab➤ The Good Enough Job by Simone Stolzoff➤ Transitions by William Bridges➤ The Professor Is In by Karen KelskyConnect with Dr. Ashley Ruba:➤ Website: ashleyruba.com➤ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyruba-phd/➤ After Academia: afteracademia.com (coming soon or redirect from her main site)Follow Me for More:➤ Instagram: @connected.phd➤ LinkedIn: Haille Trimboli➤ YouTube: @theconnectednetwork➤ Spotify: ConnectED PodcastShare it, tag a fellow PhD, and leave a review. Every listen helps build a world where your PhD journey is valid—wherever it leads.#PhDJourney #AfterAcademia #UXResearch #PhDToIndustry #GradSchoolLife #WomenInSTEM #FirstGenPhD #ConnectEDPod #WorkLifeBoundaries #AcademicTransition #HigherEdExit #AshleyRuba

What makes a workplace truly well?It’s not yoga classes and kombucha on tap, it's leadership, culture, and thoughtful design. In this episode of ConnectED, we sit down with Dr. Patricia Grabarek, an I/O psychologist, author of Leading for Wellness, and co-founder of Workr Beeing. From researching personality typologies at Penn State to advising global organizations, Patricia shares how her PhD journey helped her build a career centered on making work better—for everyone.We discuss: ➤ How she found her way to I/O Psychology after studying stress in health contexts ➤ What to look for (beyond rankings) when choosing a PhD program ➤ Her dissertation on personality types and performance in emotional labor roles➤ What it's really like to write a dissertation while working full-time➤ Strategies for staying connected to academia while thriving in industryPatricia also offers real-talk advice on writing, advisor dynamics, identity shifts, and how to communicate research in ways that actually make an impact.Resources Mentioned:➤ Leading for Wellness by Patricia Grabarek and Katina Sawyer➤ PhD Comics – A lifesaving laugh for every stressed-out scholar➤ Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) Annual Conference➤ APA Journal Access (for staying connected to research in practice)Connect with Dr. Patricia Grabarek:➤ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciagrabarek➤ Website: https://workrbeeing.com/book/➤ Podcast: Workr Beeing on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listenFollow Me for More:➤ Instagram: @connected.phd➤ LinkedIn: Haille Trimboli➤ YouTube: @theconnectednetwork➤ Spotify: ConnectED Podcast❤️ Love this episode? Share it with a fellow PhD, tag a friend who needs a dose of workplace inspiration, and leave a review!We’re here to normalize the messy middle, celebrate the journey, and stay ConnectED.#PhDJourney #IOLife #WorkplaceWellness #LeadershipDevelopment #PhDToIndustry #WomenInPsychology #ConnectEDPod #WellbeingAtWork #AcademicToIndustry #LeadingForWellness

What kind of leadership does it take to thrive in extreme environments? And how can research on offshore oil rigs translate into boardrooms and trading floors?In this episode of ConnectED, we sit down with Dr. David Carnegie, a leadership and talent strategist with decades of experience advising C-suite teams across global banks, asset managers, and high-growth companies. His journey began offshore—in the literal sense—as an HR leader in the oil and gas industry, where he became fascinated by the leadership dynamics on remote production platforms.That curiosity led to a PhD at Aberdeen Business School, where David explored the impact of first-line supervisors in high-risk, high-pressure environments. Since then, he’s built a career at the intersection of research and industry, bringing academic rigor to some of the world’s most complex organizations.We discuss:➤ What sparked David’s interest in offshore leadership and led him to pursue a PhD➤ The experience of researching on oil rigs (including 43 days offshore!)➤ How his findings surprised senior leaders—and why context matters more than you think➤ Practical tips for writing, networking, and staying motivated in a solo research journey➤ How to bring academic rigor into fast-paced commercial environmentsDavid also shares candid insights about life post-PhD, why he didn’t pursue a tenure-track path, and how graduates can translate their research skills into real business impact.Resources Mentioned:➤ The Competent Manager by Richard Boyatzis (1982)➤ David’s newsletter: The Super SupervisorConnect with Dr. David Carnegie:➤ LinkedIn: David Carnegie, PhDFollow Me for More:➤ Instagram: @connected.phd ➤ LinkedIn: Haille Trimboli ➤ YouTube: @theconnectednetwork➤ Spotify: ConnectED PodcastLove this episode?Share it with someone exploring academia, leadership, or life beyond the PhD. Tag a fellow researcher, leave a review, and help grow this community of curious minds and change-makers.#PhDJourney #LeadershipResearch #RemoteWork #OilAndGas #HumanFactors #ConnectEDPod #AcademicToIndustry #FirstLineLeadership #WorkplaceLearning #HigherEd #GlobalLeadership #PhDLife

In this episode of ConnectED, we meet Dr. Lawrence Carter, a powerhouse educator, union leader, and systems thinker who recently earned his EdD in Organizational Leadership from Grand Canyon University.From lifeguard and PE teacher to instructional leader and board representative, Lawrence takes us on a journey marked by grit, strategy, and purpose-driven education. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating a doctoral program while juggling full-time work, life, and big dreams.We cover:➤ Why Lawrence chose the EdD—and how it differs from a PhD in theory and practice➤ The critical importance of choosing a program that fits your life and your goals➤ The mindset shift: viewing your dissertation as a living body of work➤ Emotional regulation, culturally responsive teaching, and his 318-page research study➤ Tips for time management, focus, and surviving seven years with four chairs and three methodologists➤ How he uses systems thinking—from coaching to union leadership—to create equity and impactDr. Carter shares actionable wisdom for doctoral students and professionals alike—reminding us that the journey is not just about a title, but about becoming someone capable of creating real change in our communities.Resources Mentioned: ➤ Being Bright Is Not Enough: The Unwritten Rules of Doctoral Study by Peggy HawleyConnect with Dr. Lawrence Carter:➤ LinkedIn: Dr. Lawrence Carter➤ Email: [email protected] Me for More:➤ Instagram: connected.phd➤ LinkedIn: Haille Trimboli Ph.D.➤ YouTube: TheConnectEDNetwork➤ Spotify: ConnectED PodcastLove this episode?Drop a review, tag a friend in the dissertation grind, or share with a future doctoral student who needs a dose of motivation and strategy.#EdDJourney #PhDvsEdD #DoctoralLife #DissertationTips #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #LeadershipInEducation #EducationalEquity #DoctoralWisdom #ConnectEDPodcast #AcademicSuccess

When Dr. Sophia Diop was just five years old, she asked her mom a simple question: "What’s the highest level of school?"Her mom said, "A doctorate."Sophia replied, “Okay, I'll go all the way to the top.”And she did.In this week’s episode of ConnectED, we dive into the incredible, multifaceted journey of Dr. Diop—chef, entrepreneur, IT professional, and global thinker—who recently completed her PhD in Global Leadership and Change at Pepperdine University.In this episode, she shares:➤ How her background in acting, culinary arts, and consulting shaped her leadership lens➤ Why athletes as peacebuilders inspired her dissertation, and the SMD model she developed➤ How she balances a tech career, entrepreneurship, and research—without losing focus➤ Why she believes the PhD is less about a title and more about personal meaning➤ Her advice: “Don’t think too much. Don’t listen to people. Look within—and just go.”This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered if they’re “too all over the place” for a PhD. Sophia proves that your multidimensional self is the strength—not the barrier.Resources Mentioned:➤ Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl➤ Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman➤ The Clash of Civilizations by Samuel P. HuntingtonConnect with Dr. Sophia Diop➤ LinkedIn - Sophia D, MBAStay Connected with Me:➤ Instagram: @connected.phd➤ LinkedIn: Haille Trimboli, Ph.D.➤ YouTube: @TheConnectEDNetwork➤ Spotify: ConnectEDLove this episode?Drop a review, tag a PhD friend, or share your favorite quote with us. This podcast was made for the curious, the driven, and the globally minded—just like you.Tune in now on YouTube or Spotify.#PhDWithPurpose #GlobalLeadership #WomenInDiplomacy #AthleteLeadership #Peacebuilding #DoctoralJourney #PhDLife #LeadershipDevelopment #ConnectEDPodcast #MultidisciplinaryScholar #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalGrowth #GlobalThinker

What does it mean to truly learn something—and how do we design education that actually works?This week on ConnectED, I’m joined by Dr. Julia Phelan, learning engineer, researcher, consultant, and co-founder of Two Eleven. From her early days as a psychology major to earning her PhD at UCLA while raising two kids, Julia has spent over two decades helping individuals and organizations rethink how people learn.We talk:The class that shifted her entire academic trajectoryWriting a dissertation with a baby in a swing beside herWhat most people get wrong about effective learningHow she transitioned from academia to applied workThe hidden science behind onboarding, assessment, and instructional designJulia brings wisdom, humor, and deep insight into what it means to build truly impactful learning experiences—no matter the context.Resources Mentioned:The Learning Gap and The Teaching Gap by James StiglerHow People Learn by Bransford, Brown & CockingResearch on retrieval practice by Elizabeth and Robert BjorkItem Response Theory (IRT) and Adaptive Learning PlatformsConnect with Dr. Julia Phelan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliacphelan/Love this episode?If Julia’s story resonated with you, don’t forget to: ✔️ Subscribe to the ConnectED Podcast ✔️ Leave a review and share with your PhD friends ✔️ Follow along on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more episodes and clipsFollow Me for More:Instagram: @connected.phdLinkedIn: Haille TrimboliYouTube: @theconnectednetworkSpotify: ConnectED PodcastYour journey matters—and we’re here to stay ConnectED 💫#ConnectEDPodcast #PhDJourney #LearningEngineer #WomenInResearch #UCLAAlum #InstructionalDesign #LearningScience #EdResearch #AcademicLife #QuantitativeResearch #HowPeopleLearn #WorkplaceLearning #PhDCommunity

What if your PhD wasn’t about having it all figured out—but about following your curiosity wherever it leads?This week on ConnectED, I sit down with Dr. Ashley Voeks, a first-gen college student from Detroit who earned her PhD in French Studies at UT Austin, dove deep into 16th-century literature and religious violence, and ultimately found her place in educational technology and customer success.In this honest, reflective conversation, Ashley shares:How she got into French… because Spanish was full (true story!)The deep pull toward literature and learning—even without a clear career planWhy finding a fully funded PhD program was non-negotiableMoving across the country solo for grad school—and finding her footing in TexasHer dissertation on religious toleration and its unexpected relevance todayWhat it really felt like teaching for the first time (spoiler: it wasn’t perfect)Why she made the leap from academia to edtech—and how she still stays connectedHow she’s now coaching language students and faculty to build confidence and careersWhether you’re wrestling with imposter syndrome, thinking about what comes after your PhD, or trying to balance big ideas with real-life choices, this episode will leave you feeling seen, grounded, and inspired.Resources MentionedBook: Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide by Christopher Caterine Connect with Dr. Ashley VoeksLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashleyvoeks Stay Connected with Me:Instagram: connected.phdLinkedIn: Haille Trimboli, Ph.D.YouTube: @TheConnectEDNetworkSpotify: @connectEDHelp us reach more curious, purpose-driven PhD students by sharing this episode with a friend or colleague. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. 💬 Tag us with your favorite takeaway!#ConnectEDPodcast #PhDJourney #FirstGenPhD #HumanitiesPhD #WomenInAcademia #FrenchStudies #CareerPivot #AcademicTransitions #EdTechCareers #LanguageLearning #CustomerSuccess #ReligiousTolerance #HigherEdReform #PhDLife #LetGoOfPerfect

What happens when a global security leader managing crisis across 60+ countries decides to pursue a PhD in the middle of a pandemic?In this episode of ConnectED, we sit down with Daniella Bove-LaMonica, Director of Crisis Management and Global Emergency Response at MetLife and doctoral candidate in Global Leadership & Change at Pepperdine University.In this candid and insightful conversation, Daniella shares:How her experience in post-9/11 government work shaped her research focusThe moment three margaritas and a pandemic sparked her PhD journeyWhy she’s investigating resilience strategies in corporate security teamsTips for balancing full-time leadership, parenting, and doctoral workHow she’s applying academic tools like systems thinking and research design to influence corporate decisionsResources Mentioned:Book: Global Leadership: Research, Practice, and Development – Edited by MendenhallBook: Leadership: Theory and Practice by Peter NorthouseConnect with Daniella Bove-LaMonica:LinkedIn: Daniella Bove-LaMonicaStay Connected with Me:Instagram: @connected_phdLinkedIn: Haille Trimboli, PhDYouTube: @TheConnectEDNetworkSpotify: ConnectEDEnjoyed this episode? Share it with someone navigating a PhD or career in corporate leadership. Subscribe and leave a review!#ConnectED #PhDJourney #CrisisLeadership #CorporateResilience #WomenInLeadership #SecurityProfessionals #AcademicJourney #PhD #PhDJourney #academia #dissertation #gradschool

What if your PhD program didn’t exist yet—so you helped create it?In this episode of ConnectED, I chat with Dr. Dan Weberg, a nurse, author, Ironman athlete, and the first person to earn a PhD in Healthcare Innovation at Arizona State University. Dan’s story is one of curiosity, complexity, and courage—shaped by ER nights, complex leadership theory, and a refusal to follow the status quo.This episode dives into:How Dan’s background in emergency nursing shaped his leadership lensHis experience helping launch the first-ever Healthcare Innovation PhDWhat he learned from failing a college econ class and redefining successWhy simulation and complexity science became his dissertation playgroundTips for doing your PhD while working full-time (and training for triathlons)Resources Mentioned:Quantum Leadership Connect with Dr. Dan Weberg:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnursedan/Website - http://www.drnursedan.com/Follow Me for More:Instagram: ⁠⁠@connected.phd⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Haille Trimboli⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠@TheConnectEDNetwork⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠ConnectED⁠Loved this convo? Share it with a nurse, PhD, leader, or innovator who’s reimagining what’s possible.#ConnectED #NursingInnovation #PhDToPractice #HealthcareLeadership #AltAc #SystemsThinking #DrNurseDan

What is the true purpose of a doctoral degree? Is it just a piece of paper—or something more profound?In this episode of ConnectED, we sit down with Dr. Trevor Gerhardt, a global educator, researcher, TEDx speaker, and thought leader in work-based learning. Originally from South Africa and now based in the UK, Trevor takes us through his rich and reflective doctoral journey—from training clergy in the Church of England to becoming a powerful voice in experiential education.We discuss:What sparked his decision to pursue a doctorate and why he chose the EdD pathHow professionalism and identity are shaped through educationHis experience navigating a cohort-based program at Canterbury Christ Church UniversityThe emotional resilience it takes to finish a doctorate (heart monitor and all!)His research on authentic leadership and strategic imposterismTrevor also shares advice for current and aspiring PhD students on time management, staying focused, and holding onto your “why.” Plus, he opens up about how to stay grounded when academic pressures rise.Resources Mentioned:Recommended in this episode: ⁠Robert Kegan’s work on adult development⁠.Connect with Dr. Trevor Gerhardt:Ted Talk: ⁠When Life Gives You Too Many Lemons | Trevor Gerhardt | TEDxPCL⁠Website: ⁠https://www.drtrevorgerhardt.com/⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@drtrevorgerhardt⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-trevor-gerhardt-sfhea-510912120/⁠Follow Me for More:Instagram: ⁠@connected.phd⁠LinkedIn: ⁠Haille Trimboli⁠YouTube: ⁠@TheConnectEDNetwork⁠Spotify: ⁠ConnectED⁠Love this episode? Share it, tag a fellow creator or PhD, and leave a review!#PhDJourney #WorkBasedLearning #AuthenticLeadership #EdD #HigherEducation #ConnectEDPod #ExperientialLearning

What happens when you start a PhD at 20, discover your path mid-dissertation, and spend the next 30 years helping leaders unlock their potential?In this week’s ConnectED episode, we welcome Dr. Dan Hiltz, founder of Leadership Squared and longtime leadership development expert. With a PhD in sociology from the University of Notre Dame, Dan has designed and led programs for organizations like the US Navy Blue Angels, Harvard Business School, Twitch, and Mastercard.In this episode, we explore:How starting a PhD with no roadmap led to a lifetime of leadership workHis three-part framework for choosing a dissertation topic (that works for careers too!)What early career teaching in corporate settings revealed about pedagogy and peopleAdvice for PhDs looking to break into leadership developmentWhy leadership is personal—and what new managers get wrongResources Mentioned:Book: The Structure of Scientific Revolutions by Thomas KuhnBook: It’s Your Ship by Mike AbrashoffLeadership Squared – leadershipsquared.comConnect with Dr. Dan Hiltz:LinkedIn – Dan Hiltz, PhDStay Connected with Me:Instagram – @connected_phdLinkedIn – Haille Trimboli, PhDYouTube – @TheConnectEDNetworkSpotify – ConnectEDEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your PhD or leadership-curious crew.#ConnectED #LeadershipDevelopment #PhDJourney #PhDToIndustry #AltAc #AcademicTransitions #PhDCommunity #LifelongLearning

How do you go from writing about colonial desert borderlands to managing complex programs in the logistics industry?In this week’s episode of ConnectED, we meet Dr. Morgan Veraluz, a historian turned program manager who now works at Expeditors, blending his love of research and analysis in a new professional space.We discuss:What inspired his deep dive into environmental and indigenous histories of the Chihuahuan borderlandsHow archival research and environmental data shaped his academic workThe grief and growth of transitioning from academia to industryHow to translate PhD skills—like writing, research, and systems thinking—into real-world valueHis candid reflections on classism, imposter syndrome, and managing your mentorsResources Mentioned:⁠The Middle Ground by Richard White⁠⁠Playing Indian by Philip Deloria⁠⁠The Center for Southwest Research at UNM⁠⁠Dissertations and Theses⁠Connect with Dr. Morgan Veraluz:LinkedIn – ⁠Morgan Veraluz, PhD, PMP⁠Stay Connected with Me:Instagram – ⁠⁠@connected_phd⁠⁠LinkedIn – ⁠⁠Haille Trimboli, PhD⁠⁠YouTube – ⁠⁠@TheConnectEDNetwork⁠⁠Spotify – ⁠⁠ConnectED⁠Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow academic on the fence about what’s next.#ConnectED #PhDToIndustry #HumanitiesPhD #AcademicLife #CareerPivot #AltAc #PostPhD

What happens when your PhD research collides with TikTok trends, chronic pain threatens your academic journey, and your mission becomes saving lives? Meet Dr. Emily Pfender, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pennsylvania studying maternal health and how social media is shaping reproductive behavior.In this thought-provoking episode of ConnectED, we explore: How Instagram influencers are reshaping conversations about birth controlWhat it’s like navigating a PhD while living in chronic painWhy Dr. Pfender says “Never pay for a PhD”—and what to consider when funding your journeyHer research trips to Tanzania and how she’s building health literacy through women’s circlesThe power of boundaries, gratitude, and choosing research that lights you upResources Mentioned:Book: Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert CialdiniConnect with Dr. Emily Pfender:Instagram – @emilypfenderLinkedIn - Emily Pfender, PhDStay Connected with Me:Instagram – @connected_phdLinkedIn – Haille Trimboli, PhDYouTube – @TheConnectEDNetworkSpotify – ConnectEDEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone navigating their PhD or passionate about women’s health!#ConnectED #PhDLife #WomensHealth #ReproductiveJustice #AcademicJourney #HealthCommunication

What happens when a high-powered tech executive walks away from a 20-year career to start a PhD? In this inspiring episode of ConnectED, Dr. Karin Moore shares her courageous pivot from corporate burnout to researching and advocating for women and girls in STEM.We cover:Why she left the tech industry to pursue a PhDHow she built her dissertation around women’s lived experiences in STEMHer insights on the real barriers women face in male-dominated fieldsThe launch of her business, The STEM Woman, and what she’s doing nowAdvice for anyone considering a bold career change into academiaResources Mentioned:Cooper (2022) – ROI Analysis of Graduate ProgramsBook: Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-ZinnHidden BrainFresh Air (NPR)Huberman LabWiser Than Me with Julia Louis-DreyfusConnect with Dr. Karin Moore:Website – https://thestemwoman.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinmoore Stay ConnectED with Me:Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠Watch on YouTube⁠Listen on SpotifyEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone in your PhD or STEM community! #ConnectED #PhDLife #WomenInSTEM #CareerPivot #STEMLeadership #AcademicJourney #PhD #PhDJourney #academia #dissertation #gradschool

Ever wondered how to transition from academia to industry? Or how a PhD in Learning Design & Technology translates into corporate research? In this episode of ConnectED, Dr. Natalie Perez shares her unexpected journey from aspiring English professor to research scientist at Amazon. We discuss:✨ How she transitioned from academia to industry ✨ The skills from her PhD that helped her stand out✨ How she successfully pitched a research project to leadership✨ Her best advice for PhDs looking to enter industry🔗 Resources Mentioned:📖 Creswell’s Mixed Methods Research💼 Connect with Dr. Natalie Perez:🔗 LinkedIn 🎧 Stay Connected:📸 Instagram 💼 LinkedIn🎥 Watch on YouTube🎧 Listen on Spotify💡 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your PhD community! #ConnectED #PhDToIndustry #AcademicLife #TechAndResearch #GradSchoolLife #PhD #Academia #Dissertation

How does a PhD in adult learning and leadership development translate into real-world impact? In this episode of ConnectED, Dr. Magali Balayn Lelong shares her journey from academia to consulting, the challenges of a PhD, and how she applies her research to leadership development and organizational transformation.She dives into:✨ The burning question that led her to pursue a PhD✨ The biggest misconceptions about writing a dissertation✨ How to balance research, consulting, and business✨ The importance of conferences and community in academia✨ Practical strategies for leveraging experiential knowledge in the workplace🔗 Resources Mentioned:📖 The Logic of Inquiry by John Dewey💼 Connect with Dr. Magali Balayn Lelong:🔗 LinkedIn🎧 Stay Connected:📸 Instagram 💼 LinkedIn🎥 Watch on YouTube🎧 Listen on Spotify💡 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your PhD community! #ConnectED #PhDJourney #AcademicLife #LeadershipDevelopment #GradSchoolLife #Dissertation #PhD

How does a PhD lead to national conversations on housing, gentrification, and social inequality? In this episode, Dr. Kfir Mordechay shares his unexpected path into academia, the challenges of a PhD program, and how he uses data to uncover critical issues shaping cities and communities. From navigating imposter syndrome to making research accessible beyond academia, this episode is packed with insights for PhD students, early-career researchers, and anyone passionate about using knowledge for impact.🔗 Resources Mentioned:📖 Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman📌 Connect with Dr. Kfir Mordechay🏫 Dr. Kfir Mordechay’s Website💼 Connect with Dr. Mordechay on LinkedIn🌟 Stay ConnectED for More PhD Stories & Career Insights:📸 Instagram: @ConnectedPhD🔗 LinkedIn: ConnectED📺 YouTube: ConnectED 🎧 Spotify: Listen to More Episodes Here👉 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your PhD community! #ConnectED #PhDJourney #AcademicLife

The PhD journey is more than just research and dissertations—it’s about resilience, growth, and redefining what’s possible. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nelu Nedelea, Systems VP of Mission and Ministry at Mercy, to talk about his unconventional path, from growing up in Romania under communism to navigating the highs and lows of a PhD program while balancing work and family life.We dive into:✅ Why he pursued a PhD in Global Leadership & Change✅ How he discovered his research focus (and why you don’t need to have it all figured out from day one!)✅ The challenges of imposter syndrome, work-life balance, and staying motivated✅ The real-world impact of his dissertation on leadership and belonging in healthcare✅ What life looks like after a PhD—career shifts, public speaking, and continuous learningBook Recommendations from Dr. Nelu Nedelea:📖Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell📖 The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life. by Robin Sharma 📖 The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama & Desmond Tutu Connect with Dr. Nelu Nedelea:🔗 LinkedIn: Nelu NedeleaFollow ConnectED for More PhD Stories & Career Insights:📸 Instagram:@ConnectedPhD🔗 LinkedIn:Haille Trimboli📺 YouTube:ConnectED Podcast🎧 Spotify:Listen HereIf this episode resonated with you, let us know! Drop a comment or DM and share with a fellow PhD navigating this journey. 🚀✨

What’s it really like to research conflict and terrorism at the PhD level? In this episode of ConnectED, I sit down with Dr. Samuel Goldenberg to dive into his journey through academia, his research on suicide terrorism and political violence, and how he’s applying his expertise today.We talk about: Why he chose to pursue a PhD in political science The biggest surprises and challenges of his PhD journey His dissertation findings on terrorist groups and strategic decision-making How PhD students can stay motivated when tackling complex and intense topics Life after the PhD—how he’s using his research to make an impact📚 Recommended Reads from Dr. Goldenberg: Toms Comments: Advice for (and from) Young Political Scientists – Read online for free The Professor Is In – Explore the website📲 Follow Dr. Samuel Goldenberg: Website:https://www.samuelkgoldenberg.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelkgoldenberg Twitter/X:https://x.com/SK_Goldenberg Bluesky:https://bsky.app/profile/skgoldenberg.bsky.social🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful PhD stories!📲 Follow ConnectED for more PhD journeys: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/connected.phd/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectEDNetwork LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/connected-phd/

🎙️ Welcome to ConnectED – The Podcast for PhDs at Every Stage! The PhD journey is exciting, challenging, and often isolating—but you don’t have to go through it alone. ConnectED is here to share real stories from PhDs at every stage—aspiring, current, and graduates—so we can learn, connect, and thrive together. Join me, Haille Trimboli, PhD, as I sit down with incredible PhDs to explore: ✅ What inspired them to pursue a PhD✅ The highs, lows, and unexpected moments of their academic journey✅ How they’re using their expertise post-graduation in academia, industry, entrepreneurship, and beyond Whether you’re thinking about a PhD, deep in dissertation mode, or navigating life after graduation, this podcast is for you. Get inspired, gain insight, and find your people—because academia wasn’t meant to be a solo journey. 🌟 New episodes weekly! Subscribe now and stay connected. Follow Along:📲 Instagram💼 LinkedIn📺 YouTube #PhDPodcast #PhDLife #AcademicJourney #GradSchool #PhDCommunity