In this episode, Dr. Onwuemene explores why it’s often hard to chart a non-traditional path — and why it’s also deeply rewarding.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Difficulty of Breaking Away: Dr. Nwemena reflects on her early career, explaining how her clinical training initially seemed like enough, but soon revealed itself as only part of the equation. Pursuing research meant she had to step outside her comfort zone, embrace ambiguity, and go against the prevailing norms.
2. Social Pressure and Isolation: She addresses the pervasive social pressure to conform to traditional clinical roles, a challenge familiar to any clinician considering research. Leaving the well-worn path can lead to isolation from peers who may not understand or support the choice.
3. Risk of Repercussions: Choosing an unconventional path can lead to misunderstandings, resistance, and even active pushback. Dr. Nwemena shares ways to navigate these dynamics, from finding allies to staying focused on the greater purpose behind the decision.
4. Fear of Uncertainty: As clinicians, it's tempting to pursue safe, predictable routes. But Dr. Nwemena encourages listeners to confront this fear, emphasizing that the growth gained from venturing into the unknown is invaluable and shapes resilient, adaptable researchers.
5. Finding Support and Resources: While clinical environments may lack the infrastructure to support budding researchers, Dr. Nwemena provides tips for finding communities and resources outside the immediate work environment, such as joining peer groups, virtual workshops, or specialized research programs.

Advice for Listeners: If you're a clinician who feels the call to contribute through research, recognize that the challenges are real but manageable.

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Quotes:

• "Swimming against the current? Now that’s hard — but that’s where real growth happens.”
• “The beauty of going against the status quo is that it turns you into someone resilient, adaptable, and fearless.”

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Sponsor/Advertising/Monetization Information:

This episode is sponsored by Coag Coach LLC, a leading provider of coaching resources for clinicians transitioning to become research leaders. Coag Coach LLC is committed to supporting clinicians in their scholarship.

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