In this episode, I sit down with Amy LeClair, PhD — a medical sociologist and recent K to R Essentials graduate — for a powerful conversation about moving from being a perpetual collaborator to pursuing independent research, describing how she found support through structured mentorship and community during a pivotal career phase. She discusses the challenges of balancing her research on healthcare equity with personal life changes, including welcoming twins while pursuing her professional goals.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Moving from supporting other researchers to driving her own research agenda on LGBTQIA+ health equity
• Recognizing the need for support during the K-to-R transition rather than struggling alone
• Understanding that perfectionism and comparison to others can derail research productivity
• Learning practical strategies like periodization (A weeks and B weeks) to maintain momentum during busy periods
• Finding value in community during times of funding uncertainty in academic research
• Developing a clear professional "North Star" to guide decisions during challenging circumstances
• Normalizing the idea of seeking specialized support for career development in academia

Whether you’re early in your K award or eyeing your next submission deadline, this conversation is a reminder that betting on yourself is always a wise decision.