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Are you an academic thinking about leaving the ivory tower but unsure of your next step? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ashley Ruba, a developmental psychologist turned UX researcher, career coach, and founder of After Academia. Ashley shares her personal journey of leaving academia, the challenges she faced, and how she successfully transitioned into the industry.

We dive deep into:
 ✅ The reality of the academic job market and why so many PhDs are leaving
 ✅ How to recognize and translate your academic skills into industry roles
 ✅ The power of personal branding and how social media can accelerate career growth
✅ Common fears that hold academics back—and how to overcome them
✅ Why job applications fail and what PhDs can do to stand out

Ashley’s story is both inspiring and practical, packed with actionable insights for academics considering a career change. Whether you’re actively job searching or just starting to think about your options, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for success.

🎧 Listen now and start shaping your future beyond academia!

Support the show

Check out Leslie's website at www.YourWordsUnleashed.com!

The three ways Leslie can help you with coaching & developmental editing:

#1: Six-month Your Words Unleashed signature book writing coaching program. Through 8 hour-long sessions tailored to your own needs and goals, we will pinpoint what’s keeping you stuck. We’ll figure out personalized solutions and strategies so you can create direction and lasting momentum with your book writing. I’ll also provide detailed feedback on your writing throughout

#2: Four-month Career Reset Program for Overwhelmed Academics who want to reconnect with purpose. Over the course of 6 hour-long sessions, we’ll clarify your personal career vision, create space for what matters, overcome internal obstacles to change, and define what success means on your own terms so you can work less and live more.

#3: Group Workshops that balance personal well-being with writing productivity. Topics include transforming your dissertation into a book; connecting to the deeper purpose of your work; as well as boundary setting.

Check everything out! If you're interested, shoot me an email at ...