Thriving in Balance: Mental Health and Work-Life Strategies

In this episode, Jacey and Uthpala share personal stories and practical strategies for managing mental health and achieving work-life balance as postdocs and graduate students. They discuss the challenges of major life transitions, highlight wellness resources at Duke, and offer honest feedback on what worked for them. Shamitha shares helpful advice and resources for using creative outlets and physical activity for destressing. The episode covers wellness events, the Duke University Postdoctoral Association (DUPA), and tips for finding your community.

Show notes for this episode are available on our website: https://sites.duke.edu/dukedialogues/2025/04/29/episode-3-thriving-in-balance/

Navigating Professional Growth: Alumni Insights, AI Tools, and Academic Paths

In this episode, we explore how leveraging alumni networks, utilizing AI tools, and navigating academic career paths can significantly impact your professional growth. Shamitha shares her personal journey and insights, while Uthpala discusses the role of AI in job applications and the nuances of academic job searches.

Show notes for this episode are available on our website: https://sites.duke.edu/dukedialogues/2025/04/29/episode-2-navigating-professional-growth

Building Welcoming Communities and International Perspectives

In this episode, we discuss how welcoming initiatives and international resources come together to create a supportive environment for everyone at Duke. Uthpala shares his journey as an international postdoc navigating immigration pathways and support networks, while Jacey highlights resources and practical tips for building welcoming communities. Sheilla speaks on the barriers she experienced in accessing these resources. We cover support for postdocs and grad students and share actionable advice for both international scholars and allies.

Show notes for this episode are available on our website: https://sites.duke.edu/dukedialogues/2025/04/29/episode-1-building-inclusive-communities