The Psych Overflow Podcast

In this episode, “Current Rollback of DEI Initiatives and the Shifting Landscape of Academia,” Darby and Stan join us to break down what DEI is, why it has become a political target, and how recent rollbacks are reshaping academic/research life. We discuss what these changes mean for current and future researchers, the broader implications for equity in academic/research, and steps individuals and institutions can take to protect and advance DEI efforts in this shifting landscape.

In this episode, Anh sits down with special guest Sarvenaz to dive into the unique experiences and challenges of applying to PhD programs as international students. Anh and Sarvenaz share their journeys—from the first steps of researching programs to handling application requirements, financial considerations, and cultural adjustments. They provide valuable insights, helpful tips, and encouragement for international students navigating this complex process. Whether you're preparing to apply or simply curious about the path, this conversation offers an honest and inspiring look into the journey toward a PhD in the U.S.

In this episode, Armin sits down with Clinical Psychology PhD students Adrelys Mateo and Emily Satinsky from the University of Southern California to discuss their recently published commentary, "Reshaping the Training Landscape by Addressing Cultural Taxation." They explore how minoritized doctoral students are disproportionately burdened with DEI responsibilities due to their minoritized status, affecting their mental health and academic productivity. Tune in to hear their insights on how we can better support students and faculty to create more equitable academic environments.

In this episode Phil (2nd year clinical student), Natalie (2nd year BCS student), and Gabe (4th year clinical student) discuss if you should pursue a PhD. They talk about what personally led them to do a PhD as well as circumstances in which it might not be feasible or worthwhile to seek one.

Welcome to Episode 7 of the Psych Overflow Podcast! This week, Elayne (rising 3rd year PhD student), Phil (rising 2nd year PhD student), and Armin (rising 2nd year PhD student) provide an insider view of how the Clinical Science students make the most of their summer semester while completing their PhDs!

Welcome to Episode 6 of the Psych Overflow Podcast! Have you ever wondered how graduate students spend their summers? Is it the time to learn new skills, get ahead of research, reenergize, or relax? In this episode, Natalie (1st year PhD student) and Armin (1st year PhD student) provide an insider view of how Brain and Cognitive Science students make the most of their summer semester during graduate school. (Stay tuned for part 2 from Clinical Science students!)

In this episode Armin (1st year PhD student), Iony (Assistant Professor of Psychology), and Gabe (3rd year PhD student) discuss tech and how we use it to assist with our own research. We talk about many things tech related while trying to generally keep the conversation focused around research covering data analysis to literature reviews. Our discussion is particularly relevant now, as the recent paradigm shift in AI research is revolutionizing how we approach academic work.

In Episode 4, we are joined by Dr. Iony Ezawa (Assistant Professor of Psychology), Anh Dao (1st year PhD student), and Armin Bazarjani (1st year PhD student). Today, we discuss our experiences pursuing work-life balance as graduate students and faculty. For listeners who are feeling burned out or unmotivated, we hope this episode can be a reminder that you aren't alone (!). We each reflect on our own successes and challenges in pursuing work-life balance - with a central theme that work-life balance may look different for everyone. Let's get started!

In Episode 3 of the Psych Overflow Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Iony Ezawa (Assistant Professor of Psychology), Natalie Peraza (1st year PhD student), and Gabe León (3rd year PhD student). Today's episode is about the admissions process for PhD programs in Psychology. We reflect on our own experiences navigating the admissions process, and we discuss what it's like being on the other side! From both a graduate student and a faculty perspective, we offer tidbits of wisdom and encouragement for students who are considering a similar journey. Let's dive in!

Join us for Episode 2 of the Psych Overflow Podcast! In today's episode, Anh Dao (1st year PhD student), Phil Newsome (1st year PhD student), and Gabe León (3rd year PhD student) discuss their experiences with "imposter syndrome" while pursuing a PhD in Psychology. Listen in to learn more about imposter syndrome (i.e., feeling like you don't belong; like you are an imposter), how we can work through it during our academic journeys, and how we can help others do the same!