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In the final 2025 episode of Mindful Academy, host Jennifer Askey is joined by consultant and academic life coach Mya Andersen of Student Empowered. The discussion delves into the challenges and transformations faced by first-year college students, emphasizing skills like self-authorship and self-advocacy. Maya shares insights from her work helping students and their families prepare for and thrive in the college environment. They also explore the broader issues of undergraduate education, the pressure of professionalization, and the value of a college degree in today's evolving landscape.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:06 Mya Anderson's Background and Approach
02:56 Impact of COVID on Higher Education
05:51 Challenges in Student Services
11:26 The Value of an Undergraduate Degree
16:07 Navigating College and Personal Growth
25:56 Supporting Students Through Challenges
35:37 Mentoring Adolescents for Success
37:53 High Stakes in Higher Education
38:40 Treating College Like a Big Ticket Item
43:41 The Professionalization of Undergraduate Degrees
49:01 The Importance of Coaching and Career Services
52:43 Challenges Faced by Faculty and Students
58:26 Gen Z and the Changing Educational Landscape
01:06:42 Concluding Thoughts and Resources
Resources:
10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People. A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation – and Making Your Own Life Easier, by David Yeager
https://thestudentempowered.com/
https://www.instagram.com/the_student_empowered/
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy, host Jennifer Askey interviews Lisa Leander, the founder and CEO of WiBE. Initially launched as the Women in Business Education Network, WiBE has pivoted to a more inclusive mission focusing on where imagination builds excellence. Leander shares her journey of founding WiBE during the pandemic, growing its membership, and the recent pivot to include both men and women in creative leadership roles. The discussion delves into the importance of leading with curiosity, fostering a supportive and innovative community, and maintaining a sense of joy even in challenging times. They also touch upon the significance of personal branding, creative problem-solving, and the necessity of psychological safety in fostering innovation. Throughout the interview, both Leander and Askey emphasize the value of community, strategic networking, and finding ways to sustain one’s creative spirit in both professional and personal spheres.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:07 Meet Lisa Leander: Founder of WiBE
01:11 The Birth and Evolution of WiBE
02:57 Creative Leadership and Changes in Education
05:15 Leading with Curiosity
09:14 Embracing Creativity and Innovation
17:01 Navigating Challenges in Higher Education
19:52 The Importance of Community and Support
22:48 Inclusivity and Future Directions for WiBE
28:31 Understanding University Budget Models
28:57 The Importance of Inner Circles
29:52 Navigating Leadership Challenges
30:55 Embracing Innovation and Creativity
32:16 Surviving Toxic Work Environments
34:22 Building a Supportive Community
37:11 The Value of Personal Branding
42:08 Leveraging Visibility for Opportunities
49:29 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy, host Jennifer Askey speaks with Dr. Steve Haberlin from the University of Central Florida. Dr. Haberlin discusses his extensive background in meditation and mindfulness, beginning with his martial arts training in the 1980s, and how these practices have influenced his academic journey. The conversation delves into the integration of mindfulness into educational settings, specifically how Dr. Haberlin incorporates meditation into his classroom to help students manage stress and enhance learning. They also explore the connection between mindfulness and the body, and touch on Dr. Haberlin upcoming book, 'Meta-Meditation,' which addresses the intersection of meditation with modern technologies such as neurofeedback, virtual reality, and AI. This episode offers valuable insights for educators and leaders interested in incorporating mindfulness practices into their personal and professional lives.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:48 Steve's Journey into Meditation
03:54 The Benefits of Meditation
12:59 Teaching Meditation in the Classroom
18:15 Embodiment and Mind-Body Connection
26:43 Upcoming Book and Future Insights
27:34 Exploring Digital Mindfulness Tools
27:47 Neural Feedback and Meditation
28:46 Virtual Reality Meditation
29:19 Navigating Meditation Technology
30:00 Pedal Assist Bikes and Meditation
31:19 E-Bikes and Meditation Practice
33:31 The Evolution of Meditation Practices
34:09 Challenges in Sustaining Meditation Practices
37:42 Personalizing Meditation Practices
41:56 Meditation for Academics and Professionals
43:46 The Timelessness of Meditation
50:34 Conclusion and Resources
Resources:
Deepak Chopra’s meditation training
Emily Fletcher and Ziva Meditation
Muse neural feedback headband
Steve Haberlin’s books and articles
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In this episode of the Mindful Academy interview series, host Jennifer Askie engages in an illuminating conversation with Dr. LaNysha Adams, author and survivor of sudden cardiac arrest, who joins from Albuquerque. They discuss LaNysha's book, her survival story, and the significant leadership lessons derived from her ordeal. The conversation expands into a broader discussion on the principles of mindful and values-based leadership in higher education, particularly focusing on the year 2025. Jennifer and LaNysha delve into the importance of personal agency, psychological safety in the workplace, and the role of self-reflection in effective leadership. Dr. Adams also shares insights into her current role at Santa Fe Community College, leading the Student Wellness Center, and the innovative practices she employs to maintain wellness among her staff and students. The episode underscores the vital connection between personal wellness and professional effectiveness, offering practical tools and strategies to implement in everyday leadership.
FREE AUDIO BOOK LINK HERE: https://audio.mepowerbooks.com/
Find LaNysha Adams on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanysha/
And IG: https://www.instagram.com/edlinguist/
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:52 Guest Introduction: Dr. LaNysha Adams
02:12 Navigating Higher Education Challenges
04:45 Personal Identity and Professional Growth
07:59 Surviving Sudden Cardiac Arrest
09:14 Life After Cardiac Arrest
22:06 Writing 'Me Power' During the Pandemic
27:05 Exploring Self-Relationship Post-Cardiac Arrest
27:39 The Concept of 'Me Power' and Self-Awareness
29:42 Practical Empowerment Strategies
30:48 The Importance of Reflection and Self-Care
32:28 Embodiment and Academic Challenges
34:47 The Role of Journaling and Reflection
36:19 Understanding the Body's Intelligence
38:00 Creating Space for Wellness
41:22 Leadership and Wellness Practices
45:17 Top Tools for Personal and Professional Wellness
53:59 Community College Wellness Initiatives
56:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Creating Cultures of Safety and Alignment in Academia
In this episode of The Mindful Academy, host Jennifer Askey delves into the importance of psychological safety and alignment within academic institutions. Building on her previous discussion about coaching skills for leaders, Jennifer explores how creating a culture of respect and excellence can enhance psychological safety for staff and faculty members. She emphasizes the roles of academic chairs, shared governance, and the evolving nature of higher education. Key points include strategies for fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves, the significance of departmental alignment, and the challenges of balancing independence with collaboration. Jennifer also shares insights from her consulting work and offers practical advice for academic leaders aiming to cultivate a supportive and high-achieving culture. The episode includes calls for audience engagement and previews future topics in mindful leadership and academic coaching.
00:00 Introduction to The Mindful Academy
00:36 Building on Coaching Skills: Psychological Safety and Alignment
03:16 Creating a Positive Department Culture
06:50 Navigating Generational Differences in Academia
13:12 Aligning Department Goals and Priorities
21:09 Fostering Psychological Safety through Alignment
22:30 Conclusion and Contact Information
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In this episode of Mindful Academy, Jennifer Askey discusses the importance of coaching skills for academic leaders. Drawing on her recent experience with department chairs at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Jennifer explains how incorporating coaching techniques can alleviate the burden of being the sole problem-solver. She introduces key coaching practices like waiting before responding, asking open-ended questions, and helping to define goals. These methods can help create a collaborative and positive departmental culture, essential for mutual success. Jennifer also previews that future episodes will dive into promoting shared vision and psychological safety within academic departments.
00:00 Welcome to the Mindful Academy
00:07 The Importance of Coaching Skills for Academic Leaders
00:18 Coaching Skills in Practice: A Case Study from Nebraska
03:39 The Role of Department Chairs in Creating a Positive Environment
06:38 The Challenges Faced by Academic Leaders
07:37 Introducing the WAIT Acronym
10:45 The Power of Asking Questions
15:37 Defining Goals and Strategic Thinking
17:45 Conclusion and Next Steps
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Stepping into leadership in higher education often comes without a roadmap. In this episode of The Mindful Academy Podcast, host Jennifer speaks with Angela Pashia - coach, former tenured academic librarian, and founder of Lead With Curiosity.
Angela shares why every library leader needs a coach, and how adopting a coaching mindset transforms leadership. From breaking free of “vocational awe” to navigating conflict and burnout, Angela explains how curiosity, listening, and empowering others create healthier, more confident leaders.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why leadership is a skill you must develop, not something you’re born with.How “vocational awe” contributes to burnout in higher ed.Practical ways coaching skills help leaders navigate change and conflict.Why leading with curiosity fosters trust, collaboration, and resilience.Whether you’re a library leader, faculty member, or anyone navigating the challenges of higher education, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and practical strategies for sustainable leadership.
Learn more about Angela’s work: leadwithcuriosity.org
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In this solo episode of Mindful Academy, Jennifer recaps a series of nine interviews with professionals who have transitioned from traditional academic roles to various supportive and entrepreneurial positions. She discusses the common themes and valuable lessons drawn from these conversations, emphasizing the importance of community, available resources, and the potential for academics to successfully pivot their careers. She also highlights the significance of understanding one's zone of control and making mindful choices to manage challenges in both professional and personal contexts. Special attention is given to practicing acceptance and conversion of adversity into growth opportunities.
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:19 Recap of Past Interviews
04:47 Key Takeaways from Interviews
06:22 Navigating Career Stages
09:56 Exploring Alternative Career Paths
16:07 Current Challenges in Academia
19:35 Zone of Control and Making Choices
38:02 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Topics
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In this episode of the Mindful Academy, host Jennifer Askey interviews Michelle Thompson, Esquire, a coach who assists both academics and lawyers in achieving their professional goals without compromising their personal well-being. They discuss the similarities between the challenges faced by academics and lawyers, particularly concerning overwork and the need to please others. Michelle shares her personal journey from practicing law to becoming a coach, emphasizing the importance of building systems to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The conversation covers tools like EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) and planning strategies to manage stress and improve productivity. Additionally, Michelle talks about her passion for woo practices like tarot reading and pendulums, and how they help reduce decision fatigue. The episode provides insights into maintaining a fulfilling professional life while staying connected to one's body and emotional health.
00:00 Welcome to the Mindful Academy
00:06 Introducing Michelle Thompson, Esquire
01:06 Michelle's Dual Coaching Roles
02:17 Challenges Faced by Lawyers and Scholars
04:45 The Pressure to Earn Your Keep
13:10 Michelle's Journey from Law to Academia
19:55 Discovering Coaching and EFT
36:17 The Importance of Embodiment in High-Pressure Jobs
41:14 The Systemic Pressures in Academia and Law
43:13 The Grind of Academic Work
44:00 The Role of Systems in Academic Writing
45:20 The Importance of Community in Academia
48:41 Yoga and Mindfulness for Academics
51:57 Balancing Work and Personal Life
52:41 The Power of Planning and Organization
56:14 Embracing Woo and Alternative Modalities
58:23 Promoting Your Work and Finding Community
23:03 The Reluctance of Lawyers to Embrace Wellness
25:09 Introduction to EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques)
25:48 The Science Behind Stress and Cortisol
28:44 Practical Applications of EFT
34:24 The Importance of Embodiment in High-Pressure Professions
44:02 The Role of Systems in Academic and Professional Success
46:58 The Power of Community and Vulnerability
51:57 Balancing Woo and Practicality in Entrepreneurship
58:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
Resources referenced in the episode:
Tapping In: A Step-by Step Guide to Activating Your Healing Resources Through Bilateral Stimulation, by Laurel Parnell
My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies, by Resmaa Menakem
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma, by Bessel van der Kolk
Writing Your Journal Article in 12 Weeks: A Guide to Academic Publishing Success, by Wendy Belcher
To get in touch with Michelle:
Insta: @resistant_vision
Upcoming Writing Retreat: https://resistantvision.com/academics/
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy, host Jennifer converses with Jo Van Every, a veteran in helping academics refine their writing. They discuss Jo's background, career transitions, and her move from Canada to the UK. Jo explains her work with the Academic Writing Studio, emphasizing her methods with neurodivergent clients and her approach to accommodating different writing styles and needs. They also explore the importance of personalized strategies, the value of co-working, and the development of supportive writing routines. Additionally, the episode covers tips on managing long-term projects, the balance between prescribed methods and individual quirks, and the role of enjoyment and self-care in sustaining a successful academic career. Jo offers insights into her new small group program for book writers and touches on her personal practices for maintaining mental and physical well-being.
Learn more about Jo VanEvery
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome to The Mindful Academy
00:51 Jennifer's Journey into Coaching
01:53 Introducing Jo Van Evry
02:08 Joe's Background and Current Work
03:56 The Academic Writing Studio
05:28 Group Coaching and Neurodivergence
08:41 The Magic of Co-Working
12:44 Writing Challenges and Strategies
20:50 The Importance of Reflecting on Progress
27:23 Balancing Writing with Other Responsibilities
29:56 The Process of Writing a Book
37:03 Finding Motivation and Purpose in Writing
39:47 The Value of Group Support
46:51 Choosing Your Own Path
47:27 Building Long-Term Relationships
49:37 Daily Routines and Community Engagement
55:29 Experimenting with Writing Techniques
01:01:41 The Importance of Regular Practice
01:07:00 Balancing Work and Self-Care
01:17:50 Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures
01:24:43 Final Thoughts and Resources
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy Podcast, Jennifer chats with career coach Jen Polk of From PhD to Life. Together, they unpack the evolving landscape of academic careers and explore the challenges and opportunities facing faculty, postdocs, and PhDs considering a pivot out of academia.
Jen shares insights from over a decade of coaching scholars as they clarify their values, redefine success, and navigate identity shifts in their professional lives. From the emotional toll of academic culture to the practical tools for career transition, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering, “What’s next?” after the academy.
Whether you’re feeling burnt out, curious about new paths, or simply seeking greater alignment between your work and your values, this conversation offers empathy, encouragement, and actionable wisdom.
Show Notes:
Jen's free webinar for Career Clarity
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How do you bring your whole self into the academy?
In this episode, Dr. Raquel Wright-Mair—associate professor, scholar of higher ed equity, and yoga teacher—joins Jennifer to talk about the intersections of justice, leadership, and embodied wellness in academic spaces.
They discuss:
The realities of navigating higher education as a racially minoritized scholarWhy burnout, grief, and stress must be addressed somatically—not just intellectuallyHow Raquel integrates yoga philosophy into her teaching, research, and serviceWhat "retreat" can really mean for academics looking to reclaim themselvesPlus, hear the story of how one Instagram post led to a transformative yoga retreat in Costa Rica—and what’s next in Belize 2026.
Listen in to explore a new model of heart-centered leadership and healing in higher education.
Show Notes:
Learn more about Dr. Raquel
Inna Satyah Yoga & Well-Being
Belize 2026 Yoga Retreat
The Slow Professor, by Maggie Berg & Barbara Seeberg
The Caring University, by Kevin McClure
Spiritual Intelligence: Going Beyond IQ and EQ to Develop Resilient Leaders, by Stephen K. Hacker and Marvin Washington
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In this inspiring conversation, coach and creative professional Chris Mitchell joins Jennifer to explore how creatives—especially those also working in academia—can better support and sustain their creative practices. From designing personalized structure to redefining professional identity beyond institutional roles, Chris shares her experience working with artists, performers, designers, and academics to help them create meaningful, balanced lives. Tune in to hear how small shifts in mindset, daily practices, and boundaries can have a transformative impact—and why you don’t have to choose between structure and creativity.
About Chris Mitchell:
Chris Mitchell is a Life, Career, and Professional Development Coach with over three decades of experience in leadership roles across the arts and creative industries. She is an Internationally Accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC), a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), and a practicing creative herself. Chris supports artists, creative entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders in gaining clarity, building confidence, and moving forward with purpose in their creative practices, businesses, and careers. Chris has spent her career working alongside creatives—and loves helping them thrive. She understands the real-world challenges and opportunities of building a fulfilling, sustainable life as a creative professional —and brings this insight into every coaching relationship -
In this episode of The Mindful Academy Podcast, host Jennifer sits down with Lisa Munro, an academic publication consultant, to discuss the essential yet often overlooked skill of academic writing. Lisa shares her journey from historian to writing coach and dives into the structural challenges of publishing, particularly for women and scholars of color. They explore argument formation, the intricacies of peer review, and the importance of fostering a supportive writing community. Whether you’re a scholar looking to refine your work or someone navigating the complexities of academia, this episode offers valuable insights into making the publication process smoother and more successful.
Episode Details
Resources:
Learn more about Lisa
Writing Your Journal Article in Twelve Weeks: A Guide to Academic Publishing Success (second edition)
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In this insightful episode, Jennifer talks with Anna Clemens, a PhD chemist turned writing coach, about her journey from science journalism to founding the Researchers’ Writing Academy. Anna shares how her love of writing during her challenging PhD years inspired her to help other academics write and publish more efficiently—particularly those aiming for high-impact journals.
Show Notes:
Learn more about AnnaAnna's Podcast on bullet journalingUnstressable, the bookEpisode Details
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In this episode of the Mindful Academy podcast, Jennifer Askey chats with Jennifer Van Alstyne, an expert who helps academics enhance their online presence. They discuss moving beyond the typical, bland faculty website to create dynamic and authentic online spaces that reflect individual research and personalities.
Jennifer Van Alstyne shares her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing mindful self-promotion and effective social media strategies without feeling overwhelmed. The conversation also touches on the personal journeys of academics, including themes of healing, self-authorship, and balancing professional demands with personal well-being.
Jennifer Van Alstyne provides valuable resources and advice, including her website, The Academic Designer, and information about an upcoming website contest, to help academics improve their online visibility and share their stories effectively.
Resources:
The Social Academic blog https://theacademicdesigner.com/blog/Free online presence course https://higheredpr.teachable.com/p/free-online-presence-courseEpisode Details
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As we transition from the Year of the Dragon to the Year of the Snake, we embrace what my friend calls the Do-Over New Year—a second chance to realign our goals and intentions. In this episode, we dive into the idea of alignment—ensuring that the work we do and the ways we spend our time truly reflect our values and desired impact. Joining me is Carole Chabries who is crystal clear about their business goals, the clients they serve, and the impact they want to make. Together, we explore how to stay in alignment and create meaningful work that feels right.
Carole's Role Call deck: https://theclareogroup.com/rolecall
The Art of Gathering book https://www.priyaparker.com/book-art-of-gathering
The book on meetings from Harvard Jennifer referenced: https://hbr.org/1976/03/how-to-run-a-meeting
Episode Details
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In our latest Mindful Academy podcast episode, we explore the critical need for institutional change in higher education with Rebecca Pope, author and faculty development expert. Learn about her appreciative inquiry programs and her books, including 'Unraveling Faculty Burnout.'
Rebecca's books: https://theagileacademic.com/books/
Nick Petrie on Burnout: https://nicholaspetrie.com/about
Kate Linder's coaching program: https://www.higheredcoaches.com/
Episode Details
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy, Carol Chabries and Jennifer discuss academic leadership. Carol is the founder of the Clario Group, which supports leaders in higher education. They talk about originality and the need for leaders to embrace templates and simplicity. They also discuss the post-pandemic world and the need for leaders to interrupt themselves and give themselves space to think. Carol and Jennifer also announce two upcoming events they are doing together: Impact 2025, a half-day online workshop on February 11th, and a workshop in September.
Show Notes:
Clareo Group, Carole Chabries:
https://theclareogroup.com/From PhD to Life, Jen Polk:
https://fromphdtolife.com/Create the Future, Jenny Mehmedovic:
https://www.createthefuture.online/Books by Lisa Feldman Barret:
https://lisafeldmanbarrett.com/books/how-emotions-are-made/
https://lisafeldmanbarrett.com/books/seven-and-a-half-lessons-about-the-brain/
Episode Details
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In this episode of The Mindful Academy, I dive into the critical topic of mental health in academia, inspired by a recent Nature article that sheds light on the struggles PhD students face. Drawing on my experiences as a coach and former professor, I reflect on how systemic challenges—like financial pressures, isolation, competitiveness, and difficult supervisor relationships—can lead to anxiety, burnout, and depression. These challenges don’t just affect students; they ripple out, influencing academics at all career stages.
I also share some of my favorite strategies for maintaining mental health hygiene, including mindfulness, movement, connecting with a supportive community, and staying grounded in your personal values. Plus, I discuss the importance of seeking help through resources like employee assistance programs, coaching, and peer support. Whether you’re a graduate student, a postdoc, or an established academic, this episode is a reminder that your well-being matters—and that you’re not alone in facing these challenges.
Episode Details
- Visa fler
