Stupid Genius PhD Podcast

Ep 105: Finding Balance in Your PhD with PhDoireann

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT

PhDoireann joins Stupid Genius to dive into the ever-important topic of finding balance during a PhD. Doireann, a PhD student and advocate for work-life balance, shares her insights on self-care, overcoming guilt, and making time for life outside academia. Tune in for lots of laughs as they discuss why balance matters and how to achieve it!

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Ep 104: Staying Accountable to your Writing

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMT

This week on Stupid Genius, Emily talks all about accountability—specifically, how it helps writers, like you, stay on track. Whether you're writing a PhD thesis, a novel, or just trying to get that blog post done, accountability can make a huge difference. Emily talks about how to set up systems that keep you motivated, how to bounce back when you’ve fallen behind, and why accountability isn’t about pressure—it’s about progress.

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Ep 103: The Three Minute Thesis (3MT): What it is and How to Win

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:00:08 GMT

On this week of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie tackle a popular academic competition that sounds simple but can be deceptively challenging: the Three Minute Thesis, or 3MT. Mollie shares her experience as she won her faculty heats /(twice!) and went on to compete at the university level. They also break it down into what the 3MT is and where it comes from, how to write a great 3MT, and how to perform it.

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Ep 102: Untraditional Academia with Kenzie Brenna

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The incredible Kenkie Brenna @kenziebrenna joins Emily and Mollie to chat about her less-than-perfect experience with an education system not designed for her, her inspiring untraditional route into academia and how she now, in her thirties, finds herself a student all over again and loving every aspect of that crazy, beautiful learning journey.

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Ep 101: "Am I the Asshole?" PhD addition

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:00 GMT

This week on Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie are diving into a juicy, cathartic topic that I think every grad student and academic will appreciate: Am I the Asshole? PhD Edition. They're reacting to posts from Reddit where people spill their academic grievances and try to figure out who’s really at fault. Are you ready for some drama?

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Ep 100: PhD Advice Session

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:00 GMT

This week on Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie welcome the very first PhD advice session. This is a series on Stupid Genius where you send in your current dilemmas or anything that you want advice on (via Instagram), and Emily and Mollie give you their unprofessional advice.

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Ep 99: Publishing Fails: Desk Rejects, Rejections, and Perseverance

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:00:00 GMT

This week of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie are tackling one of the most soul-crushing aspects of academic life: publishing fails. If you’ve ever faced a desk rejection, felt gutted by peer-review comments, or wondered if anyone else struggles with endless cycles of rejection—you’re not alone. You have Mollie. Today Emily interviews Mollie about her experiences navigating the turbulent world of academic publishing.

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Ep 98: Turning Research into Revenue with Dr Jessica Steinberg

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:57 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily interviews the brilliant Dr. Jessica Steinberg. Jessica shares her journey from academic research to entrepreneurial success, turning her PhD expertise into a consultancy business in legal cannabis markets. She discusses starting her business, balancing consultancy with research, and how academics can monetize their skills, providing practical insights for those seeking to blend academia and entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn how to turn research into revenue while staying true to your passion for impact.

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Ep 97: New Years Resolutions and Did We Keep Them?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:00:41 GMT

Emily and Mollie discuss whether or not new resolutions are a good thing. They talk about what theirs were for 2024, whether they achieved them, and they share an exciting announcement for 2025.

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Ep 96: Why We're Taking a Break This Festive Holidays

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:00:56 GMT

On this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk about taking a break, and they play some fun festive games to get everyone in the mood for a break. This will be the last episode of 2024, and you won't want to miss it!

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Ep 95: Revisiting Unwrapping Consumerism at Christmas

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:37 GMT

Are you ready to unwrap the truth behind our festive fun? In this thought-provoking episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie delve into the world of consumerism at Christmas. From its humble origins to the present day, they explore the grip consumerism holds on Christmas. The Stupid Geniuses discuss the impact of the rise of commerce and consumerism at Christmas on society and the environment. They also give some ideas on how to embrace a more conscious Christmas without sacrificing the holiday spirit. But what do they know?

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Ep 94: Reducing Screen Time to Increase PhD Productivity

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:34 GMT

In this week of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie are diving into something Emily has been experimenting with for the past two weeks—reducing her screen time. Spoiler: it’s been a rollercoaster. Emily has been testing a bunch of strategies to spend less time on her phone and Mollie has question - about her process, what worked, and what didn’t. Join them as they explore how this two-week detox went.

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Ep 93: Should AI be Used in Academia and Research?

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:00:16 GMT

In this week of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss whether AI should be used in academia and PhD research (spoiler alert: they are more than a little sceptical!). They dive into the dark side of AI from ethical concerns and bias issues to the massive environmental impact using AI has on the planet.

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Ep 92: How to Find Conference's in your Field

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:16 GMT

In this week’s episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk about one of the key parts of a PhD—attending conferences. Conferences are great for networking, presenting your work, and staying up-to-date in your field. But the big question is: how do you even find them? They break it down into four strategies, with tips, tricks, and even some potential pitfalls to avoid.

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Ep 91: PhD Red Flags

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:40 GMT

This week on Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss their red flags when it comes to PhD students. From overworking and burnout to struggling to celebrate others' successes. Join them as they chat about the warning signs that can make or break your PhD journey!

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Ep 90: Knowing When to Quit your PhD with martivetjourney

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:50 GMT

On this week of Stupid Genius, Emily chatted with Martina, a second-year veterinary student in her 30s, who made the bold decision to leave her PhD after realising it wasn't the right path for her. She shares her journey from completing a master's in forensic science and anthropology, navigating the challenges of self-doubt, and ultimately pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a vet. Tune in to hear how she transitioned from academia to veterinary school and how quitting her PhD became the best decision she ever made.

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Ep 89: PhD Horror Stories: Academia's Spookiest Moments

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:09 GMT

In this Halloween special of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie explore the scariest PhD horror stories from real students, featuring advisor nightmares, ghosting supervisors, and experimental disasters. Tune in for a chilling episode full of shocking tales from academia and tips on surviving your PhD nightmares. Happy Halloween!

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Ep 88: Motivation vs Dedication

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:22:36 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Emily's partner - Vincent explore the key differences between motivation and dedication, and why dedication is the real driver of academic success. They share practical tips on how to build discipline, maintain progress, and stay consistent, even when motivation is low.

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Ep 87: 12 VIVA Tips 12 Months On

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:56 GMT

In this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Mollie shares her top 12 VIVA tips one year after successfully passing hers. Emily and Mollie discuss key questions like whether you need to dress to impress, how to choose your examiners, and how best to prepare mentally and physically. Tune in for practical advice and reflections on Mollie’s VIVA experience.

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Ep 86: Unpopular PhD Opinions

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 07:00:14 GMT

Warning: this episode contains unpopular opinions PhD students might find offensive. Is a PhD *actually* hard? Are some PhDs harder than others? Does having money make your PhD easier? Tune in as Emily and Mollie share and discuss some unpopular PhD opinions.

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Ep 85: Spilling the Beans: New Babies, Travelling Tales and PhD Life

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:09 GMT

In this catch-up episode, Mollie shares baby updates and discusses life as a new mum, while Emily catches you up on her summer adventures as a fourth-year PhD student.

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Ep 84: Should the Public Have a Say in Your Research? A Conversation with Dr Amanda Bates

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:14 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie dive into the world of Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) with Dr Amanda Bates. They discuss how PPI is changing research by putting the voices and needs of patients and the public at the forefront of scientific inquiry, highlighting Amanda’s personal experiences and insights from the field. Tune in to discover the impact of PPI on both researchers and communities and learn practical tips for including meaningful public engagement into your own work.

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Ep 83: The Sober Curious Movement and the Potential Benefits for your PhD

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:00:14 GMT

Emily and Mollie explore the increasingly popular sober curious movement and its potential benefits for PhD students. They delve into the history and rise of the movement, and they discuss how reducing or eliminating alcohol can lead to many potential benefits for PhD students. Sharing their personal experiences, Emily and Mollie provide practical tips for embracing a sober curious lifestyle that doesn't compromise fun. Whether you're considering sobriety or simply curious about cutting back, this episode offers valuable insights into how curbing alcohol can enhance your academic journey and overall well-being.

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Ep 82: Things We Don't Regret Buying As PhD Students (Part 2)

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:42 GMT

In this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie are back sharing their top recommendations for items they don't regret buying as PhD students. They discuss the benefits of loafers, interview transcription services, and a hairbrush...yes a hairbrush. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to making smart, impactful purchases during your PhD journey.

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Ep 81: Publish or Peril? A Conversation with a Publishing Professor

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:48 GMT

In this highly requested episode, Emily and Mollie delve into the often daunting world of academic publishing. They are joined by a special guest, Professor Claire Hannibal, an award-winning researcher with extensive publishing experience. Professor Hannibal shares invaluable insights and answers listener questions on various aspects of the publish or peril culture in academia.Tune in to learn about the best time to start writing for publication, tapproaching potential co-authors, and how to choose the right journals. Claire also provides advice on balancing thesis writing with publishing, finding opportunities beyond journals, effectively communicating with supervisors about publishing goals and much more.

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Ep 80: Preparing for a Difficult Conversation

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:46 GMT

In this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie tackle the art of having difficult conversations in academia and the importance of nurturing positive relationships throughout your PhD journey. Emily and Mollie explore practical strategies for approaching tough discussions, like the COIN model, and emphasise the importance of active listening and mutual understanding to resolve conflicts. Tune in to discover how mastering these communication skills can transform challenging interactions into opportunities for personal growth and stronger academic collaborations.

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Ep 79: Future Proofing Your PhD: The Skills Employers Want You to Have

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:25 GMT

Emily and Mollie share the three most important skills you need to develop and demonstrate throughout your PhD to make you the ideal job candidate. They chat about how your PhD is a perfect environment to showcase these important skills to future employers, and they give some ideas of how you can work on improving them.

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Ep 78: How to Create and Utilise a Gantt Chart

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:48 GMT

Emily and Mollie tackle the practical and often overlooked topic of Gantt charts for project management of the PhD. They explain the history, structure, and benefits of using Gantt charts, especially in organising a PhD timeline. They provide a step-by-step guide on creating and effectively utilising Gantt charts, discussing everything from listing tasks to setting realistic deadlines and managing workload. They also share personal experiences and insights into how Gantt charts can keep you accountable and help you communicate with supervisors. Whether you're a PhD student or managing other projects, this episode offers valuable tips to master your project planning with Gantt charts. Tune in to learn how to streamline your research and achieve your academic goals!

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Ep 77: Overcoming Your Need for Constant Validation during the PhD

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:35 GMT

Join Emily and Mollie on this episode of Stupid Genius as they unravel the validation myth that holds many professionals back. Discover the steps to overcome the need for approval from others and build a genuine sense of self-worth in the workplace. Learn how to navigate your career confidently and authentically, free from the pressure of seeking validation.

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Ep 76: Being the Hero of Your PhD Journey

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:56 GMT

Have you ever thought of yourself as a hero? Well, maybe it's time you should. In this episode, Emily and Mollie discuss the hero's journey, and how understanding where you are on yours might just be what you need to push your PhD to the next level. Join the stupid geniuses as they chat about answering your call, overcoming challenges, being on the brink of a breakthrough, and much more.

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Ep 75: Things We Don’t Regret Buying as a PhD Students (Part 1)

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:38 GMT

In this week's episode of "Stupid Genius," Emily and Mollie share their top recommendations for items they don't regret buying as PhD students. They discuss the benefits of overhead headphones for focused studying, the comfort of linen trousers, and the practicality of a good rucksack. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to making smart, impactful purchases during your PhD journey.

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Ep 74: Overcoming Writer's Block

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:02 GMT

Writing is an essential part of being a PhD student and academic. Yet, many of us suffer from writer's block and a lack of motivation when it comes to putting pen to paper or words to screen. We may also find we are distracted easily and struggle with writing anxiety. In this episode, Emily and Mollie discuss some useful techniques to help you overcome these challenges and help you get those creative, writing juices flowing.

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Ep 73: Saying No Successfully in Academia

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:56 GMT

In this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie delve into the essential skill of saying no effectively in professional and academic settings. They discuss the importance of recognising when to decline opportunities to avoid burnout and ensure optimal productivity. They provide practical advice on how to say no effectively, manage the emotional aspects of say no, and offer real-life examples to help listeners maintain their well-being while preserving positive work relationships.

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Ep 72: Self-funding a PhD with PhDwithKatie

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:00:47 GMT

University of Oxford DPhil student and online content creator, Katie Hutchinson aka @phdwithkatie, shares her secrets on how to successfully self-fund your PhD - and enjoy it! Katie discusses the biggest challenges self-funding can bring along with her greatest moments, and she gives some fantastic tips on how to effectively and efficiently manage the self-funding process.

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Ep 71: Overthinking the Art of Overthinking

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:12 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss the common issue of overthinking during a PhD, exploring its psychological roots and sharing practical strategies to manage it effectively. Listeners will gain insights into breaking the cycle of overthinking and learn techniques to stay focused and productive in their academic journey.

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Ep 70: Is a PhD Worth Your Time?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:47 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie tackle the ultimate PhD question: is doing a PhD worth your time? If you’re considering a PhD or you’re in the midst of studying for one already then this is the episode for you. Tune in to rediscover your motivation, learn more about what a PhD can bring to you both personally and professionally and understand why doing a PhD is worth your time… probably.

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Ep 69: Can You Learn To Be Charismatic?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:00:15 GMT

In this week's episode, Emily and Mollie delve into the science and strategies behind charismatic behaviour, exploring how it can significantly enhance influence and collaboration in both personal and professional settings. Learn how traits like authenticity and trust can be cultivated to boost your charisma and inspire those around you.

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Ep 68: All You Need to Know About Parenting and the PhD

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:00:46 GMT

Emily and Mollie delve into the unique experiences of parenting while pursuing a PhD. They discuss the challenges and joys of balancing parenthood and academic pursuits, and are joined by two incredible guests, Bridgette Glover and Dr. Michelle Gibbs, who share their personal experiences and insights. Together, they explore the support available for parenting PhD students, the role of institutions in better supporting them, and offer valuable advice for those navigating, or thinking about embarking on, this unique journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of parenting and academia.

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Ep 67: Research Logs and Reflexivity

Wed, 29 May 2024 07:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode, Emily and Mollie explore the importance of research logs and reflexivity in the academic journey, highlighting how keeping a detailed research journal can enhance productivity and self-awareness. They share personal experiences and practical tips on maintaining these logs to track progress, manage stress, and support overall well-being during a PhD.

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Ep 66: Should You Go it Alone as an Early Career Researcher?

Wed, 22 May 2024 07:00:46 GMT

Emily and Mollie discuss whether collaboration is important for researchers or whether it's ok to go it alone. They chat about the potential drawbacks of choosing to work in a research team before addressing the value that can be gained from collaborating. They give some tips and tricks on how you can repsond to the potential challenges that might arise when working with others on research projects, to ensure you are getting the most out of your collaborative projects.

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Ep 65: Can You Be Playful During Your PhD?

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:30 GMT

This week Emily and Mollie explore playfulness during the PhD. They discuss how incorporating playfulness into academic and professional settings can enhance creativity, reduce stress, and foster collaboration. They highlight the benefits of maintaining a positive mindset, infusing humour into interactions, and gamifying tasks, and they chat through some of the common misconceptions and challenges associated with playfulness in the workplace. Tune in to learn how you can reap the benefits of infusing playfulness with your PhD.

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Ep 64: Welcome to the World of Toxic Resilience

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:00:42 GMT

What is toxic resilience and why is it rife in academia, especially for PhD students? Join Emily and Mollie as they discuss the workplace trend that we could all do without. On this episode, they share their own and their listeners' experiences of dealing with toxic resilience and they discuss ways we might work towards combatting toxic resiliience.

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Ep 63: PhD Funding: What Happens When Time Runs Out?

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:43 GMT

Join Emily and Mollie in this episode of Stupid Genius where they explore the realities of PhD funding, from understanding timeframes to the challenges of not finishing on time and how that can affect you personally and professionally. They share stories from those facing funding constraints and they offer some insights on practical solutions.Emily and Mollie chat critically about the different options that might be available when funding ends and how to navigate the complexities of completing a PhD when time has run out.

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Ep 62: Pregnancy, the PhD and Why No One is Talking About It

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:00:28 GMT

In this eye-opening episode, Emily and Mollie dive deep into the unspoken challenges of conceiving and navigating pregnancy while pursuing a PhD. From the startling lack of resources and support to the societal taboos that surround this topic, Mollie shares her journey with raw honesty and vulnerability. Join Stupid Genius as they shed light on an overlooked aspect of academia and advocate for a more open dialogue around pregnancy and fertility during doctoral studies.

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Ep 61: Navigating Long-Distance Relationships during a PhD

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:11 GMT

Join Emily and her partner, Vincent for an intimate conversation as they explore the intricacies of maintaining a long-distance relationship while one partner pursues a PhD. In this episode, they delve into the joys and challenges of navigating differences in academic and non-academic lifestyles, sharing personal anecdotes and insights along the way. From scheduling conflicts to emotional connection, they candidly discuss the strategies they have employed to nurture the relationship despite the distance. Whether you're a fellow PhD student or the partner of one, tune in for heartfelt reflections, valuable advice, and a deeper understanding of love across distances. But what do they know?

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Ep 60: Back Together! Lots of Stupid and a Side Order of Genius

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:00:16 GMT

The Stupid Geniuses are back! Join them for life updates, lots of stupidity and a side order of genius.

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Ep 59: Researching Feminst Art and Inclusivity: A Conversation with Dr Bee Hughes

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:00:40 GMT

The stupid geniuses are joined by the incredible Dr Bee Hughes to discuss the topic of gender inclusivity. Dr Hughes shares their own experiences as a nonbinary person and insights from their research on embodied experiences and the feminist tradition of self-examination. Learn about fostering inclusive spaces and the impact of small daily practices in promoting gender inclusivity and visibility. Don't miss out on how you can become a better ally and get involved in LGBTQ+ activism.

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Ep 58: Exploring the History of the PhD

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:00:12 GMT

In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie explore the history and evolution of the PhD. From its ancient origins in Greece to its modern-day significance, they delve into the first official award of the PhD, tracing its development across Europe and beyond. They celebrate notable milestones, such as the emergence of the research-focused PhD in 19th century Germany and its adoption by universities worldwide.

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Ep 57: Engaging in Peer-Review as a PhD Student and Early Career Academic

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:00:15 GMT

In this episode, Emily and Mollie discuss the peer-review process including what it is, what to do, what not to do, and everything in between. As researchers, engaging in peer-reviewing is a key part of our role and yet, it can be tricky to know how to start and it can also ignite that pesky imposter syndrome as we question if we are good enough to review someone else's work. But Stupid Genius has got your back as they outline what a typical review should focus on, and they provide a handy list of things to do and things to avoid whilst engaging as a reviewer. But what do they know?

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Ep 56: Shining a Light on Gender Equality in Academia: The Importance of Allyship

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:11 GMT

Join the Stupid Geniuses as they discuss gender equality in academia and the importance of allyship. With International Women's Day approaching, they explore some of the issues facing women in the academic sphere and they share some statistics that might surprise you! They share some inspiring stories of amazing women who are breaking barriers in this often challenging environment. They also hear from men on how they can contribute to promoting gender equality in academia. Don’t miss out on this insightful episode, tune in now and be part of the conversation!

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Ep 55: To Strike or Not to Strike? Understanding Industrial Action in Academia

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:00:58 GMT

Do you want to know more about the strike action that took place throughout universities across the UK? Well, Emily and Mollie are joined by the amazing Dr Bee Hughes, who, as a longstanding University College Union member and activist, has answers to all of our union-related questions! In this episode, they discuss who University College Union are and what their mission is, what the key issues are in academia that have led to industrial action, and how we as academics and PhD students can get more involved in this incredibly important cause.

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Ep 54: Crafting an Outstanding Academic CV

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:09 GMT

Join Mollie and Emily as they dive into the world of academic CVs and share tips on how to make yours stand out from the crowd. From the basics of structuring your CV to when and how is best to start the process, this episode will help you showcase your achievements and advance your academic career. Whatever stage of the PhD you are at, it is never too early to start crafting the perfect CV so, tune in now for useful advice and handy tips!

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Ep 53: Love and Gratitude: Navigating a PhD with Support

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:45 GMT

Join us for a heartwarming Valentine's Day special as Emily and Mollie celebrate the unsung heroes behind every PhD journey: their loved ones.

In this episode of Stupid Genius, they explore the profound impact that supportive partners, family members, and friends have on our lives as we navigate the challenges of academia. Through heartfelt stories, relatable anecdotes, and insights, they shine a light on the love and gratitude that sustains us through the highs and lows of the PhD journey. Whether it's a simple gesture of kindness or spending quality time with the ones we love, they discover the power of expressing appreciation and fostering connection with those who mean the most to us. Join Emily and Mollie as they celebrate love, gratitude, and the joy of journeying through academia with the ones we hold dear.

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Ep 52: We're All Going to Fail

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 14:34:23 GMT

Failure is coming your way whether you like it or not. But the Stupid Geniuses are here to explain why we shouldn't shy away from failure. In this episode, inspired by the work of Professor Joe Moran, Emily and Mollie chat about concepts such as "cruel optimism" and discuss why the academic experience particularly, promotes failure. They discuss how as PhD students, academics and simply as human beings, we are all united by failure. But what do they know?

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Ep 51: Ghosted By Your Supervisor

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:01 GMT

Being ghosted by your PhD supervisor is no joke and is way more common than you might think. But what to do when your supervisor gives you the cold shoulder? On this week's episode of Stupid Genius Emily and Mollie discuss when to know you're being ghosted, how receiving radio silence from your supervisor can affect both you and your project, and they discuss some practical tips for how you might go about addressing the issue. But, what do they know?

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Ep 50: So We've Heard You Want to Start a Podcast

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:00:41 GMT

As academics, hosting a podcast is a great way to demonstrate impact and to disseminate your and others' research. But how do you go about it? This is the question Emily and Mollie answer in this week's episode as they discuss the practicalities of creating a podcast. They consider what one year of Stupid Genius has taught them about podcasting and about themselves and they discuss their favourite moments of podcasting. But what do they know?

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Ep 49: Returning to Your PhD and Tackling the Post-Holiday Blues

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:32 GMT

Trying to get back into your PhD work after a few merry weeks off, while facing the greyness of a gloomy January, is difficult at the best of times. But you are not alone! Join the Stupid Geniuses as they discuss what the "post-holiday blues" means, why lots of people experience them, and how to spot the signs. They also discuss ways to try to tackle this feeling and they outline what we can all do to make, in the words of researcher Nancy Girard, the "January blahs" a little less blah. But what do they know?

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Ep 48: New Year New You?

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Stupid Genius are back discussing all things the New Year and resolutions. They chat about the difference between setting New Year’s resolutions and setting goals and they share some of their own past and present ambitions. Emily and Mollie challenge each other on what should be left behind in 2023 and they share some of the listeners 2024 ‘ins’.

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Ep 47: Unwrapping Consumerism at Christmas

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT

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Ep 46: Holidays Are Coming, Christmas Special

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:00:53 GMT

That's right, the holidays are coming - even for PhD students! Join Emily and Mollie on this festive episode as they discuss all things Christmas! Think Christmas traditions, favourite festive films, the best Christmas foods and embarrassing Christmas stories.

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Ep 45: Preparing for a Restful Winter Break

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:00:09 GMT

The winter break can provide a brilliant opportunity to recharge your academic batteries. However, winding down and taking a break isn’t always easy as a PhD student or Early Career Researcher. In this episode, Emily and Mollie chat about some of the challenges that you might face when taking a break over Christmas, and they discuss useful strategies that you can use to effectively prepare for the break. They discuss useful tips like organisation leading up to the holidays, setting boundaries, signalling and more. But what do they know?

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Ep 44: Is Your Phone Standing in Your Way of PhD Success?

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:00:46 GMT

This week Emily and Mollie delve into the ways excessive screen time can hinder productivity and mental health for PhD students. They open up about their own struggles with striking the balance between mobile phone use and productivity, while also providing strategies and insights for maintaining a healthy balance. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and practical tips for navigating the digital era as a PhD student.

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Ep 43: Diversity and Inclusion in Academia with Chiedza Ikpeh

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 08:00:11 GMT

This week Emily and Mollie are joined by the amazing Chiedza Ikpeh. Chiedza is the Director of the RARA (Real and Authentic Representations of Africans and Caribbeans) Education Project and she is also an EDI Consultant, and Multi-Academy Trustee. Chiedza is also a Doctoral Researcher and she is doing amazing research around the barriers to career advancement faced by marginalised Black women in secondary education. Join the Stupid Geniuses and Chiedza as they discuss advancing diversity and inclusion in academia, critical race theory and intersectionality theory, and much, much more. Find Chiedza on Instagram @theblackresearcher_ and @education.rara

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Ep 42: Are You Laughing Enough?

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 08:00:30 GMT

Join the Stupid Geniuses in this hilarious episode as they chat about the benefits of laughter and explore why we all need to crank up the chuckles in our lives. Listen as Emily and Mollie discuss how we can all laugh more and they take part in some on-air laughing yoga. Prepare for contagious giggles as they uncover how laughter boosts mental and physical health and makes life oh-so-much brighter. But what do they know?

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Ep 41: Conflict With Your Supervisors?

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:35 GMT

Academia is a world often riddled with obstacles, and navigating conflicts with your supervisors or team can feel like walking a tightrope. Join Emily and Mollie as they discuss strategies for handling conflicts from practicing empathy and taking a growth mindset to prioritising clear communication. But what do they know?

Whether you're a PhD student or a professional interested in navigating conflicts within academia, this episode is for you!

This week's episode is brought to you by WeParticipated.

WeParticipated is the UK's ultimate research recruitment app. It allows you to easily find willing participants to engage in your research. With WeParticipated, you can easily create and advertise your study to a pool of eager participants. You can recruit five participants for FREE every month! WeParticipated offers incredible add-ons to supercharge your study's performance from boosting visibility to recruiting as many participants as your study needs. Download WeParticipated now on the App Store and Google Play.

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Ep 40: Becoming a Doctor

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:15 GMT

One half of Stupid Genius is officially a doctor! Tune in to this episode for an unfiltered and uncensored account of what it’s really like to sit a PhD VIVA. Expect far too much information and a big dollop of unprofessionalism as Emily and Mollie share some handy tips that might just help you to pass your VIVA. But what do they know?

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Ep: 39: PhD Horror Stories

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 08:00:56 GMT

This week Emily and Mollie are getting spooky with some PhD horror stories. Join the Stupid Geniuses for a Halloween special of murderous PhD students, creepy participants, and much more!

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Ep 38: Why We All Need to Talk About Dwarfism with Dr Erin Pritchard

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:13 GMT

In this episode the Stupid Geniuses are joined by researcher, dwarfism activist and all around amazing woman, Dr Erin Pritchard, for a frank and revealing discussion of dwarfism and dwarfism awareness. As a woman with dwarfism, Dr Pritchard shares some of the significant challenges and barriers faced by individuals living with dwarfism, from navigating inaccessible environments to combating harmful cultural representations. She also shares some brilliant advice on how we can all be better allies to people with dwarfism. Through a heartfelt discussion of the discrimination and abuse that people with dwarfism encounter on a daily basis, this episode sheds light on the critical importance of raising awareness of this issue.

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Ep 37: Preparing to Pass Your VIVA

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:39 GMT

The VIVA is the most important milestone in the PhD journey and so it's crucial you are fully prepared for everything it throws your way. In this episode, Emily and Mollie share some brilliant tips on how to ace your PhD viva preparations. From selecting and getting familiar with your examiners to taking a break from your thesis, from sitting your mock VIVA to ensuring you get into the right mindset, the Stupid Geniuses discusses everything you need to make your VIVA preparations a success!. So, whether your VIVA is fast approaching or it's still months or years away, this is an episode you need to listen to! But, what do they know?

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Ep 36: What Your Supervisor Really Thinks About You

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:34 GMT

Get ready to journey into the world of PhD supervision as Emily and Mollie explore what PhD supervisors wish their students knew. In this episode, the Stupid Geniuses hear from experienced PhD supervisors who reveal their secret challenges and what really motivates them to supervise doctoral students. Listen as these senior academics disclose some of their supervising joys, frustrations and pet peeves. Emily and Mollie reflect on some of their own experiences and they give some advice on what not to do. But what do they know?

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Ep 35: Dressing the PhD Part

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:00:15 GMT

In this episode, Emily and Mollie dive into the world of academic fashion, exploring how to craft your personal style as a PhD student. Emily and Mollie share insights into their own academic wardrobes and offer practical advice on how to dress for success. They chat about balancing comfort and professionalism in your day-to-day PhD life and they give guidance on how to style yourself in meetings, at conferences and when teaching. But what do they know?

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Ep 34: Hitting Rock Bottom

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 07:00:45 GMT

Doing a PhD is tough on your mental health and there might be points when you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom. The sheer size and extent of the project means that your mental health is likely to experience highs and lows at different points of the PhD. Emily and Mollie discuss which aspects of the PhD have challenged their mental health. They chat through ways of identifying when your mental health might be slipping and they talk about what to do when you feel like that’s happened. But what do you they know?

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Ep 33: Schmoozing or Losing with Senior Academics

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:00:56 GMT

Growing your network is a must when you're a PhD student. Having senior academics in your network can be a real career boost and can lead to potential collaborations and co-authorship opportunities, mentoring relationships, the chance to receive constructive feedback, and it can lead to future job opportunities. On this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss how to meet and approach senior academics, how to engage in meaningful conversation, and how to nurture these relationships. They also share some things to avoid when networking with senior academics. But, what do they know?

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Ep 32: Participants, Persuasion and the Art of Perseverance

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:00:17 GMT

Recruiting and managing your participants might just be one of the most important things you do during your PhD and yet, it doesn't come without its difficulties. On this week's episode, Emily and Mollie discuss how to find participants for your study, how to gain and maintain access, and the importance of being mindful of your participants' needs. They also chat about confidentiality, being explicit about what can be gained from the study, how to be persuasive and icrucially, how to persevere in the face of challenges. But, what do they know?

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Ep 31: Getting the Most Out of Your Living Situation

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:00:44 GMT

Doing a PhD can often mean moving to a new city, finding a new place to live, and making that place a home. Emily and Mollie discuss how to get the most out of your living situation as a PhD student and they share thoughts on what you might want to avoid. The Stupid Geniuses share their own experiences of flat sharing with dodgy housemates, navigating temporary homelessness, securing a mortgage as a PhD student, and lots more. But what do they know?

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Ep 30: Being Proud of Your Success When Others Aren't

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:00:51 GMT

How can we feel proud of our achievements? Does academia help to foster an environment where we can be proud of ourselves? What is tall poppy syndrome and have you ever been made to feel like one? Emily and Mollie discuss these questions and more on this week's episode of Stupid Genius. They chat about how we can be better cheerleaders for ourselves and for others and how energy vampires might be stopping you from feeling proud.

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Ep 29: PhD 101, Answering Your Questions

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:00:33 GMT

This week the Stupid Geniuses answer your questions! They chat about 5 things they wish they’d known at the start of their PhD, how to get started on the PhD each day, methods of note taking, how to establish a PhD routine, and much more! But, what do they know?

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Ep 28: Standing Out from the Crowd and Becoming a Lecturer

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:00:50 GMT

As a PhD student, you're probably already thinking about the future. If becoming a lecturer is your goal or if you're trying to decide whether that is the path you would like to take, this is the episode for you. In this episode Emily and Mollie go through everything you can do to make yourself hirable as a lecturer and to stand out from the crowd. From disseminating research, to student engagement, from funding to research proposals and much more, Emily and Mollie share their experiences of securing a job as a lecturer.

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Ep 27: The Secret to Prioritising

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 07:00:50 GMT

Learning to prioritise can help with time management, reduce stress levels and enable you to feel more in control of your workload but, it takes work and practice.This week on Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie chat through the pros and cons of different prioritisation techniques such as setting non-negotiables, using the Eisenhower principle and establishing firm boundaries, and lots more! They share their thoughts on how people can use these techniques to manage ever-growing workloads whilst being mindful of health and wellbeing. But what do they know?

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Ep 26: Travelling Solo

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:00:08 GMT

Doing a PhD often brings wonderful opportunities to see the world. Although sometimes that means travelling alone which can seem scary! Emily and Mollie dive into their experiences of travelling solo and they share some tips and tricks for how to make it an amazing experience. But what do they know?

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Ep 25: Academia vs Personality with Empty Space Inbetween

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 07:00:33 GMT

Joined by the hilarious co-hosts of the Empty Space Inbetween podcast, Emily and Mollie question whether working in academia or doing a PhD means stripping yourself of your personality. With their guests, Emily, Mollie discuss why they think that the expectation for academics to fit a certain mould is outdated and unhelpful, and why it’s much better that we all embrace our quirks. But what do they know?

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Ep 24: Dating a PhD Student

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 07:00:50 GMT

As PhD students, we tend to focus on how doing a PhD impacts our own lives. But this week on Stupid Genius we chat about how the decision to do a PhD affects the people around us and particularly, our romantic partners. Tune in for a surprise, special guest as we question what it’s like to date a PhD student, what some of the biggest challenges are, and how to best support each other through what can be a challenging time. But what do we know?

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Ep 23: Tired of No Sleep?

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:00:58 GMT

Are you getting enough sleep during your PhD? Do you have good sleep hygiene? Join Emily and Mollie as they discuss what the hell sleep hygiene is and how we might go about improving it. The Stupid Geniuses reflect on their own sleeping habits and share some of their personal do's and don'ts for getting a good night sleep. But what do they know?

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Ep 22: Supervisory Meetings

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 07:00:19 GMT

Supervisory meetings are such an important part of doing a PhD, so it's crucial that you know how to manage them and how to get the most out of them. In this episode, the Stupid Geniuses reflect on how they felt about their supervisory meetings at the beginning of their doctoral journey compared to now. They share how they plan for these meetings, what it's like during them and what actions they take afterwards. But what do they know?

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Ep 21: Stupid Research

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 07:00:26 GMT

More often than not research is genius. But sometimes, just sometimes, it can be pretty stupid. Join Emily and Mollie as they share some ridiculous, hilarious, and unbelievable studies that have made it to the lab. Think Nasa funded inappropriate relationships with dolphins, treadmill running shrimps, and a new theory behind opposable thumbs. Emily and Mollie share why they think some research is just stupid. But what do they know?

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Stupid Genius Trailer

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 10:46:22 GMT

Why waste time working on your PhD when you could listen to Emily and Mollie talk about theirs. Join the Stupid Geniuses as they discuss the highs and lows of the PhD experience from navigating awkward conferences, managing an unmanageable workload and overthinking the art of overthinking. Expect zero professionalism, lots of laughs, an abundance of stupidity and occasionally, a moment of genius.

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Ep 20: Making Friends as an Adult

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:00:20 GMT

Making friends as an adult is hard, there are no two ways about it. But Emily and Mollie are here to tell you that you are not alone. In this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss the importance of adult friendships, their experiences with making new friends in adulthood and they share some advice on how to put yourself out there in the sometimes scary world of mate dates. But what do they know?

Link to Sandra Mikulic, plus size runner: https://instagram.com/bigfit_i_run?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

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Ep 19: Mastering Your Motivation

Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:11 GMT

Finding motivation can be a struggle but this episode is here to help you get back on track. Emily and Mollie talk about how to get your motivation back. They discuss setting measurable goals, taking inspiration from your support network, keeping your eyes on the prize and how a shift in perspective can be a motivating game changer. But what do they know?

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Ep 18: Life After PhD with Bethology

Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:46 GMT

Find out what life is like for PhD students once they complete their viva. PhD graduate, current post-doctoral research fellow and content creator, Bethology, joins Emily and Mollie to discuss life after the PhD. They chat about Beth's experience of the viva, what she misses most about being a PhD student, what the hardest thing was about transitioning from PhD student to postdoc and what her favourite thing is about being a doctor. Beth and the Stupid Geniuses give some advice on how to deal with a disappointing viva experience and how to keep going as a later stage PhD student. But what do they know?

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Ep 17: Criticism. It’s Nothing Personal

Wed, 10 May 2023 07:06:19 GMT

Receiving criticism on your work is part and parcel of working in academia, but it's not always the easiest pill to swallow. The Stupid Geniuses talk about how feedback should always be constructive and something to feedforward, and how it's important to be able to detach yourself from this. They also share some of their thoughts about how to deal with comments that appear to be negative and also, how to give constructive criticism. But what do they know?

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Ep 16: The Dark Arts of Public Speaking

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:43 GMT

In this weeks episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk about the often dreaded art of public speaking. Public speaking is one of the most common phobias and yet it is something that we all have to do, particularly in the PhD world. Rather than running from it, the Stupid Geniuses talk about how embracing the fear is the only way to get better and they share some tips and tricks on how to make a great presentation. But what do they know?

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Ep 15: Spilling the Tea

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:00:45 GMT

Join Emily and Mollie on this episode of Stupid Genius as they spill the tea on some of theirs and their listeners best fails. The Stupid Geniuses share some spectacular interview and zoom malfunctions with bleeding legs, swollen faces and naked mishaps all thrown in. They discuss how we can all learn from our failures and how at the end of day, at least you'll get a good story out of it. But what do they know?

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Ep 14: Smash that Interview

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:34:42 GMT

On Episode 14 of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss preparing for job interviews and how to present the best version of yourself. They chat about the importance of researching the institution and the role you are applying to and why it's crucial that you know your CV inside and out. They also share some other key tips and tricks to make sure that you smash your interview. But what do they know?

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Ep 13: What is Success?

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 07:00:14 GMT

On this week's episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk about what success means to them in general and while doing a PhD. They talk about how success is often construed as money, fame and material gains but they discuss how this sort of success isn't sustainable and often comes at the expense of others and true contentment. But what do they know?

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Ep 12: Applying for a PhD

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:00:36 GMT

On this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss how to apply for a PhD. The Stupid Geniuses each share their own unique PhD application experiences and they share some handy tips prospective doctoral students can use when applying for PhDs. But what do they know?

A useful resource when looking for a PhD:

https://www.findaphd.com/

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Ep 11: Would You Rather?

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 07:00:10 GMT

In the first episode of Season 2, the Stupid Geniuses play a game of would you rather. Put your quiz hats on ready to answer these PhD themed would you rather’s, with a few smutty ones thrown in for good measure.

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Ep 10: Mental Health with Lewis Buxton

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:00:40 GMT

In the last episode of the season, the Stupid Geniuses welcome a very special guest, the poet, writer and theatre maker, Lewis Buxton. Lewis joins the Stupid Geniuses to discuss mental health and particularly, men's mental health. In this extended episode, Lewis shares some of his fantastic poetry from his debut collection of poems 'Boy in Various Poses', through which Lewis questions the myriad of gender with curiosity and wit, inviting you to rethink your own assumptions around gender and mental health.

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Bonus Ep: Happy International Women’s Day?

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 17:00:17 GMT

In this bonus episode, the Stupid Geniuses talk about all things International Women’s Day. Being a woman in academia can be challenging for many reasons and there is a long way to go in the pursuit of gender equity. Emily and Mollie discuss the leaky pipeline, the different challenges that women may face, they reflect on the barriers they themselves have faced and they consider how we might move forward. They also hear from a few of their inspiring colleagues who share their experiences of being women in academia.

If you want to search and compare the gender pay gap data for your institution (sorry not sorry) click here: https://gender-pay-gap.service.gov.uk/

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Ep 9: Chat GPT in Academia

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 08:00:17 GMT

On Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss Chat GPT. They chat about what Chat GPT is and what it’s emergence might mean for academics. They talk about some of the possible negatives that Chat GPT might pose for those in academia and they also consider what is potentially great about it. But what do they know?

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Ep 8: Practicing Positivity

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 08:00:17 GMT

If you’re thinking about doing a PhD, if you’re already a PhD student and you need to fall back in love with your studies or, if you want to support a loved one doing a PhD, this is the Stupid Genius episode for you. It’s easy to get bogged down in the challenges and the negatives of doing a PhD. But on this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie celebrate all that is great about being a PhD student. From freedom and flexibility to meeting new, passionate people. From travelling the world to challenging your mind. Emily and Mollie discuss why doing a PhD may well be one of the hardest but most rewarding (and fun!) things you could do. But what do they know?

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Ep 7: Feeling Overwhelmed

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 08:00:32 GMT

On Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk about feeling overwhelmed. Everyone experiences overwhelm at some point whether it is due to work, study or their personal life and so it is important to be able to read the signs before you reach burnout. The Stupid Geniuses reflect on what makes them feel overwhelmed, how to tell if you are starting to feel that way and they discuss some simple actions you can take to help overcome it. But what do they know?

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Ep 6: Conferences

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:00:29 GMT

On Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk conferences. They discuss how to select which conference is best for you, the different experience you get from going solo and how to show up with confidence. Spoiler: drunk mini golf is not always advisable at a conference, especially when the clothes come off. They also share some useful tips for anyone who is planning to apply to or attend a conference. But what do they know?

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Ep 5: Stroking Egos

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 08:00:44 GMT

On Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie talk inflated egos and why academia seems to be the breeding ground for them. They discuss why some academics may struggle to stay grounded, why having a runaway ego might cause you problems and how to deal with stroking egos. But what do they know?

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Ep 4: Resilience

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:00:47 GMT

If you're human (which you probably are if you're listening to this podcast) then you will have faced adversity. On Stupid Genius Emily and Mollie welcome their first guest, athlete and PhD student Bex Walker. In this episode they are interested in how people can build resilience from adversity and how resilience is a key skill for everyone but particularly, when you're doing a PhD. They chat about what resilience is, techniques we can use to turn painful and challenging experiences into opportunities for learning and growth, and the importance of a positive mindset. But what do they know?

Links:

Dr Lucy Hone: 3 secrets of resilient people:

https://www.ted.com/talks/lucy_hone_3_secrets_of_resilient_people?language=en

On Purpose with Jay Shetty: 3 strategies to rapidly improve your resilience and mental strength:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Mna25HpuFgASdpqjZzYo2?si=RzPUrkY5QveUmgrFMhOFmA

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Ep 3: Personal Brand

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 08:00:10 GMT

On Stupid Genius Emily and Mollie chat about personal branding. You may not know it, you may not like it, but you have a personal brand. Join the Stupid Geniuses in figuring out what it means to have a personal brand, how to use it to your advantage and how to persevere through the cringe. But what do they know?

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Ep 2: Imposter Syndrome

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 08:00:56 GMT

Struggling with self doubt? Afraid you're a fraud? You're human so the answer is probably yes. In this episode of Stupid Genius, Emily and Mollie discuss all things imposter syndrome. They chat about what imposter syndrome is, how it manifests itself and they take a quiz to find out just how screwed they really are. Finally they give some handy tips and tricks to overcome it such as managing expectations, positive visualisations and the importance of avoiding comparison. But what do they know?

Want to take the imposter syndrome quiz? Link below:

https://www.idrlabs.com/3-minute-impostor-syndrome/test.php

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Ep 1: Take a Break

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 09:04:13 GMT

On Emily and Mollie's first show they talk about the importance of taking a break and how it's not always as easy as it seems when you're doing a PhD. The Stupid Geniuses discuss setting boundaries, the guilt that comes with taking time off and why you should never work on weekends. But what do they know?

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