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Feeling overwhelmed and mentally exhausted? In this episode, I share how tuning into your body can quiet your mind and restore balance. You’ll learn two simple, powerful exercises to reconnect with your body’s wisdom.

These practices are quick, easy, and don’t require any special equipment. If you’re ready to move from stress to clarity, this episode is for you. For more tips and the full transcript, visit YourWordsUnleashed.com/75.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

Feeling overwhelmed and stretched too thin? You’re not alone! In this episode, I chat with Dr. Brandy Simula—executive coach, leadership expert, and former professor—about how to set boundaries, avoid burnout, and align your work with what really matters.

Brandy shares her own journey from academia to coaching, the six biggest causes of burnout, and why “work-life balance” isn’t the goal—we should aim for work-life alignment instead. Plus, she offers super practical tips for setting priorities (without guilt!) and protecting your time while still showing up for others.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the grind, this episode is for you. Tune in for some real talk and actionable strategies to help you work and live with more purpose.

Connect with Brandy on LinkedIn or at brandysimula.com.

Listen now and take back your time!

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

In this episode, I open up about the power of taking risks in writing and why it’s essential for creating meaningful, lasting impact. A recent conversation with my mom inspired me to reflect on the importance of sharing personal and political perspectives—even when it feels scary or uncomfortable.

I explore two big reasons why stepping outside your comfort zone can transform your writing. Taking a clear stance in your writing isn’t about stirring up controversy—it’s about being true to yourself and inspiring change. Whether it’s framing your work through your values or sharing what’s at stake for you personally, I hope this episode encourages you to embrace courage in your writing.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

Why on earth have I invited a financial planner onto a podcast that is mostly focused on writing?

It's because academics need more financial literacy and often don't know where to go for solid advice. I've seen many people take a head-in-the-sand approach to topics like money, loans, income, and retirement savings. This avoidance becomes especially pronounced in academia where jobs are scarce and low-paying. It's a space where financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming and paralyzing.

This is why I am absolutely *thrilled* to welcome Inga Timmerman PhD, CFP® onto Your Words Unleashed podcast. She's an assistant professor of finance and a certified financial planner. Inga offers financial planning and investment management services specifically tailored for mid-career academics navigating job changes or transitioning out of academia. Listen in for practical financial advice for academics at all stages of their careers!

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

In this final episode of 2024, I pause to reflect on the past year and prepare for the next. This episode focuses on the power of reflection through 10 thought-provoking questions that guide you to celebrate your successes, identify challenges, and set meaningful intentions for 2025. Whether you’re assessing professional wins, grappling with setbacks, or reconnecting with your values, I provide a framework to process your year with clarity and intention.

Grab a notebook and settle into a quiet space. Use these prompts to close out the year with gratitude and set yourself up for a focused, fulfilling new chapter!

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

Public scholarship is near and dear to my heart, which is why I’m super excited to welcome Dr. Kevin McClure as my guest in this episode.

An expert on college leadership, management, and workplace culture especially at broad-access institutions, Kevin’s public scholarship covers a wide range of topics. His latest book, The Caring University: Reimagining the Higher Education Workplace After the Great Resignation, will be released with Johns Hopkins University Press in 2025.

In our conversation, Kevin shares plenty of advice for academics who want to do more public scholarship, including how to write op-eds.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

This episode dives into the single most transformative mindset shift that academics can make: moving away from a success/failure binary. We often get caught up in meeting others’ expectations and trying to adhere to narrow definitions of success in the academy. But what might be possible if you created your own definition of success that didn't rely on outcomes or performance? I give you three steps to start moving away from a lens of success versus failure and towards a mindset that embraces process, non-linearity, and imperfection. This episode brings you back in touch with your own inner guidance and intuition so you can move forward with more confidence.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

On today's episode I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Cathy Mazak, founder of Scholars Voice and host of the Academic Writing Amplified podcast, for an insightful conversation on the unique challenges that mid-career academics face. Cathy shares her expertise on how tenured scholars—particularly women and non-binary faculty—can redefine their goals and build meaningful support networks in this transformative career stage.

Listen in to gain practical strategies for tackling unfinished projects, balancing administrative responsibilities, and sustaining a productive writing practice. Whether you’re looking to rekindle your scholarly passion or refine your focus post-tenure, this episode offers really valuable guidance!

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

In this episode, I dive into why writing in plain language is a game-changer for academics. Instead of feeling pressured to use fancy jargon, imagine connecting with readers by simply saying what you mean. I share a client’s story that shows how clear writing can make research more engaging and powerful. You'll also get  tips on figuring out who your audience is, avoiding the trap of assuming everyone knows what you know, and why simplicity is actually the harder (yet more effective) option. The big takeaway? Writing in plain language doesn’t mean dumbing things down—it’s actually a way to make your work more impactful and accessible to everyone.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...

Send us a text

When I left the academy roughly two years ago, I had many challenging emotions to navigate. I felt angry, sad, and afraid of what would come next in my life and new business. I was surprised by the depth of these emotions because I had been working diligently towards leaving my faculty position for several years. I also knew I wasn’t the only one.

So, in this fourth installment of my series on Leaving Academia, I am thrilled to have someone with extensive knowledge of how to navigate these complex emotions. Dr. Chinasa Elue is a professor, grief coach, and host of the Grieving in Color podcast. Our conversation will give you great insight into the emotions academics experience when they leave the academy (through their own choice or not). We talk through how to grieve the loss of one's identity as an academic and move towards finding new purpose.

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

The three ways Leslie can help you in 2025:

#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 Zoom 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 on my website and if you are interested in any of these, please shoot me an email at ...