In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the interplay between grief and creativity, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's Mars sign, particularly in Libra. The conversation explores decision-making dynamics, the shadow side of people-pleasing, and the significance of setting boundaries. Dr. Lacy also provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to embrace change and self-discovery while navigating their personal and professional lives.

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Book An Astrology Reading: https://www.qualscholars.com/offers/8q2V7xF3/checkout

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Grief and Creativity

02:12 Understanding Mars in Libra

07:27 Decision-Making Dynamics

12:02 The Shadow Side of People-Pleasing

16:35 Communicating Boundaries Effectively

23:04 Astrological Insights for Each Sign

25:10 Aries

29:19 Taurus

33:41 Gemini

36:50 Cancer

41:11 Leo

45:44 Virgo

50:35 Libra

53:10 Scorpio

58:46 Sagittarius

1:02:59 Capricorn

1:06:46 Aquarius

1:11:22 Pisces

In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of investing in dissertation coaching and support for doctoral students. She emphasizes that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step in navigating the challenges of the dissertation process. Lacy highlights the limited role of dissertation chairs and the need for additional resources and community support. She introduces her program, Qual Scholars, as a way to provide structured support for students, encouraging them to seek help and not to go through the process alone.

Chapters

00:00 The Value of Dissertation Coaching 02:14 Understanding the Role of Your Chair 05:57 The Importance of Support in the Dissertation Process 08:58 Finding the Right Resources and Community 11:40 The Role of Coaching in Achieving Goals 14:04 Qual Scholars: A Supportive Community for Doctoral Students 16:43 Choosing the Right Support for Your Dissertation Journey

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Description

In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of having a structured writing system to enhance productivity and confidence in writing. She introduces her '10 Pages in Two Days' writing retreat, which aims to help participants produce significant written work in a short time frame. The retreat focuses on teaching a systematic approach to writing, addressing mental blocks, and providing a supportive environment for writers. Dr. Lacy emphasizes the need for preparation and offers insights into what participants can expect during the retreat, including common questions and answers.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of a Writing System 01:47 Introducing the 10 Pages in Two Days Retreat 04:53 The Importance of a Writing Routine 08:28 Day One: Learning the Process 11:44 Day Two: Overcoming Mental Blocks 15:47 Preparing for the Retreat 19:48 Common Questions and Answers

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of self-belief, the role of astrology as a guiding tool, and the significance of the new moon in initiating personal growth. She emphasizes the need to trust oneself, overcome perfectionism, and embrace change, particularly during Leo season. The discussion also touches on the impact of relationships on personal development and the importance of community support. Lacy provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to find their voice and authenticity while navigating their journeys.

Chapters

00:00 Believing in Yourself Despite Doubts 02:25 Understanding Astrology as a Guide 06:08 Navigating New Beginnings with the New Moon 09:13 The Importance of Rising Signs in Astrology 11:45 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Growth 14:11 The Role of Validation in Personal Growth 16:55 Trusting Yourself in the Face of Uncertainty 19:18 The Power of Self-Expression During Leo Season 21:51 The Journey of the Dissertation Process 24:39 Embracing Change and New Opportunities 27:36 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth 29:56 Astrological Insights for Each Zodiac Sign

• 32:23 Aries
• 33:49 Taurus
• 36:23 Gemini
• 39:23 Cancer
• 41:30 Leo
• 44:26 Virgo
• 47:04 Libra
• 51:06 Scorpio
• 54:30 Sagittarius
• 57:44 Capricorn
• 1:00:00 Aquarius
• 1:06:00 Pisces

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

In this episode, Dr. Lacy explores the intersection of astrology, spirituality, and personal growth, particularly through the lens of Mercury retrograde in Leo. She reflects on her own journey from 2018 to 2020, discussing the challenges and transformations she faced, including the transition from being a doctoral student to a professional. The conversation also delves into the biblical story of Saul's transformation into Paul, drawing parallels to personal identity and the importance of self-reflection during Mercury retrograde. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and the decisions they face during this astrological period.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Astrology and Spirituality 12:11 The Journey to Embracing Business and Identity 19:20 The Road to Damascus: Transformation and New Beginnings 27:30 The Unique Position of Privilege 33:03 Understanding Retrogrades and Their Impact 44:29 Navigating Change and Decision-Making 51:00 Embracing Transformation and Future Directions

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Ashley Thomas didn’t wait for permission to take her next step—she made the decision to invest in herself. In this episode, she shares how she went from high school chemistry teacher to doctoral candidate, all while balancing work, life, and the emotional weight of the dissertation process. We talk about what it really means to bet on your future, why group coaching changed everything, and how she learned to ask for help without shame. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth it to invest in support—Ashley’s story will show you what’s possible when you do.

Dissertation Information

• Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/
• 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/
• The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 
• Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 
• Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Ashley Thomas (She, her, hers)

I am Ashley Thomas, a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I have been a teacher for 19 years in the DeKalb County School District, with nine years in the middle school setting, teaching all sciences and ten years at the high school level, teaching general and accelerated chemistry, AP chemistry, and forensic science. I earned my B.S. in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana, master’s from Keller Graduate School in information systems, and an M.Ed. and Ed.S. in instructional technology from Kennesaw State University. I am a firm believer in leveraging my technology expertise to support my fellow peers while developing my students’ skills. I have facilitated various professional development initiatives over the past decade. I have also presented at multiple levels, including both instructional technology and educational research conferences, at the local, state, national, and international levels.

During my tenure in my local school district, I was named Star Teacher in 2019, Stephenson High School’s Teacher of the Year 2023- 2024, and the DeKalb County School District’s High School Teacher of the Year 2023-2024. I have been granted the Explore Learning Leadership Award for Implementation in 2015 and 2016. I also earned the KSU’s Bagwell Scholar Award in Spring 2022 while earning my specialist degree. I was also honored in the Georgia Senate with a Resolution for Stephenson’s Teacher of the Year in 2024. I am currently a doctoral candidate at Kennesaw State University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout my studies.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to an eclectic array of music, spending time with my family and friends, and traveling whenever possible.

I was affected by Hurricane Katrina and had to take my last semester classes at Spelman College and Georgia State University. I must give credit where it’s due. I successfully completed my BS while navigating that bump in the road, and I also pursued a doctoral degree while experiencing the loss of my sister and, subsequently, my father within 18 months.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

02:50 Meet Ashley Thomas: A Journey in Education

05:42 The Decision to Join the Program

10:28 The Value of Community and Support

15:04 Navigating Personal Challenges

19:01 Experiencing the Writing Retreat

24:02 Investing in Your Future

24:31 Investing in Yourself

25:22 The Power of Community and Support

27:28 Planning for Success

30:31 The Importance of Outcome-Driven Goals

32:03 The Value of Group Coaching

35:19 Embracing Support and Vulnerability

39:08 Commitment to the Process

42:55 Taking the Leap: Just Do It

You think the problem is your topic or your writing. It’s not. The problem is you’re still trying to make the process make sense. In this truth-telling episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down why so many smart, capable students stay stuck in the dissertation phase—while others fly past them with mediocre drafts. If you are exhausted from rewriting, over-researching, or waiting for your chair to finally make sense, this episode will shift everything. Learn why your chair doesn’t need you to be brilliant, why perfect is the enemy of done, and how trusting your own voice can get you to graduation faster.

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Literature Review Starter Pack: https://qualscholars.com/

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges of writing a literature review, emphasizing that the struggle often stems from a lack of direction and understanding of the purpose of the review. She highlights the importance of knowing one's perspective before diving into literature, the political nature of citations, and the need for a structured approach to writing. Dr. Lacy provides practical advice on defining the problem, understanding its significance, and creating a strategy for writing effectively. She also offers resources and support for those looking to improve their writing process.

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Chapters

00:00 The Struggle of Writing a Literature Review 02:37 Understanding the Purpose of Reading vs. Writing 06:45 The Importance of Strategy in Research 09:40 Identifying Your Research Perspective 12:30 The Role of Literature in Research 16:25 Navigating Citations and Research Paradigms 19:24 The Importance of a Literature Review 22:27 Crafting Your Research Questions 25:00 Developing a Working Outline for Your Literature Review 29:14 The Process of Writing and Editing

In this episode, Dr. Danielle McArdle reflects on what it really took to become the version of herself she always imagined. She shares how the PhD process tested her confidence, challenged her identity, and forced her to let go of the idea that she had to figure it all out on her own. We talk about the real work of finding your people, navigating difficult advisor relationships, and learning how to trust your voice. This conversation is a reminder that you are not here just to earn a degree. You are here to become the kind of scholar and leader you always knew you could be.

Dissertation Information

• Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/
• 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/
• The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 
• Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 
• Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Danielle McArdle (She/her)

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/daniellehmcardle

Insta: daniellehmcardle

About Me:

My name is Danielle McArdle and I will be graduating this spring with a PhD in Management with a specialization in sports marketing from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. I am in expert of fandom in women's sports and I hope to change the world through my research. This fall, I will join the faculty of the University of Georgia. Go Dawgs!

What I Have Done:

Outside of my academic background, I have served as the coordinator of corporate partnership for the National Women's Hockey League and have completed the United States Olympic Committee's Finding Leaders Amongst Minorities Everywhere (FLAME) Program. I also served as the Workforce Administrator of the Orlando Venue of the 2016 Copa America Centenario.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:56 Navigating PhD Challenges

05:46 The Role of Mentorship

09:10 Overcoming Academic Hurdles

12:03 The Advisor Transition

14:49 Building a Supportive Community

18:14 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

33:58 Navigating Dissertation Challenges

39:06 The Importance of Thought Partners

44:24 Emotional Resilience in the Dissertation Process

49:24 Innovative Data Collection Strategies

54:14 Preparing for the Defense

01:01:33 The Value of Community Support

01:04:23 Looking Ahead: New Beginnings

Every time you sit down to write, your brain goes blank. You know what the goal is—finish the dissertation—but the words just won’t come. In this solo episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down exactly why this keeps happening. She shares how burnout, shame, and lack of clarity are working against you, and why more time isn’t the answer—better energy management is. You’ll learn about the Scholar Basics, the real reason your writing plan keeps falling apart, and the one question that can help you get unstuck today. If you’ve been showing up for everyone else and wondering why you can’t show up for yourself, this episode is for you.

Dissertation Information

Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/

10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/ 

Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/ 

Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/