Your Unapologetic Career Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kemi Doll
Are you ready to become the CEO of your career? Join Kemi Doll – physician, surgeon, researcher, coach, and career strategist – as she guides you on the journey to transform your academic life, so that you can channel your ideas, passions, and skills into a successful and nourishing career. In each episode, she’ll be taking a deep dive into one CORE growth strategy so you can gain confidence and effectiveness in pursuing the dream career in academic medicine that you worked so hard to achieve. Tune in for an always authentic, sometimes a little raw, but unapologetically empowering word. Learn more at www.kemidoll.com.
In this encore episode, Kemi explores the concept of self-trust and how it is essential for growing your career, especially for women of color in academic medicine. She reflects on the challenges of defining our value through the eyes of others and offers practical strategies to transition from seeking external validation to fostering a strong sense of self-trust.
Tune in to discover how to shift your mindset from "I try" to "I do," giving you the confidence to make decisions that align with your true goals and aspirations. This episode is a clear reminder that building self-trust is not just a personal endeavor but a necessary step toward creating a fulfilling career on your own terms.
Mentioned
- The Path Made Clear
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this episode, Kemi talks about the uncomfortable but necessary role feedback plays in making your career stronger.
She explores why critique can feel so personal, especially when you care deeply about the work you are doing, but no matter how strong your work is, your own perspective will always have gaps. At some point, you need input from people who can see what you cannot.
This episode is a direct and necessary conversation for anyone who wants their work to get better, go further, and create more opportunities. As Kemi makes clear, not being able to receive and process feedback can become a real career limitation.
Related Episodes
- Episode 06: The Key to Making Better Career Decisions
- Episode 20: Career Advice Audit (Part 1)
- Episode 21: Career Advice Audit (Part 2)
- Episode 24: From Career Chandeliering to Informed Believers
- Episode 78: Discerning True Supporters From Frenemy Energy
- Episode 151: Upgrading the Mentor-Leader Relationship
- Episode 154: Discerning Quality Input Through Career Transitions
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this episode, Kemi explores the changing landscape of academic medicine and public health, highlighting why professionals in these fields crave more variety. She tackles a common myth that leaving academia for a new path is simply an easy escape. Kemi points out that while the temptation to find an easier route is strong, true fulfillment takes hard work and a clear understanding of your personal goals.
Listen in to discover how to question traditional structures and find ways to pursue your passions both inside and outside of the medical field. This episode is a great reminder that while making a career change can be intimidating, it often leads to deep satisfaction when you take deliberate, focused action.
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Using her own childhood as a starting point, Kemi considers how emotional warmth, safety, and nurturing continue to shape high-achieving women, especially Black women.
This episode invites you to think honestly about the experiences that shaped you, how those experiences show up today, and what it looks like to build something different for the next generation.
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Many high achievers know they need to ask for help. But what happens after you've started reaching out and still find yourself feeling disappointed?
In this episode, Kemi reflects on a season that required her to ask for more support than ever before. She shares how those experiences challenged some of her assumptions about relationships, community, and what support actually looks like in practice.
If you've ever wondered why asking for help can feel so vulnerable or why people's responses don't always match your expectations, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective that may change the way you approach support, both in your career and in your life.
Check out Dr. Kemi's new column:
NEJM Voices
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
Join the waitlist for the January 2027 Get That Grant® cohort: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
As a special companion to A Terrible Strength, Kemi shares an original poem by master poet, playwright, storyteller, theatre producer, and cultural architect Hannah Hasan.
This poem was directly inspired by the powerful, personal stories and truths shared in A Terrible Strength.
Take a quiet moment and let this poem hold space for what so many Black women have carried.
Credit: Hannah Hasan | Instagram: @iamhannahhasan
Hannah Hasan is a master poet, playwright, storyteller, theatre producer, and cultural architect whose work lives at the intersection of truth, memory, and communal liberation. For over two decades, she has written, documented, performed, and archived the true narratives of underrepresented communities.
Mentioned
Epoch Tribe
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
Join the waitlist for the January 2027 Get That Grant® cohort: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Fresh off her 11-city book tour, Kemi is looking back at the personal revelations and unexpected lessons she gathered along the way. With the upcoming Essence Fest and Martha’s Vineyard Black Book Festival stops, she unpacks why real-world audience connection matters just as much as hitting sales numbers.
In this conversation, Kemi answers listener questions from Instagram about how she navigates talks with everyone from patients to clinicians. You will also hear about the tour's most surprising, healing moments.
Ultimately, this episode shows the power of designing intentional experiences and nurturing your professional passions. Listen now for Kemi’s real-world advice on building meaningful connections in your own career journey.
Mentioned
Episode 230 - Preparing for the Season You Say You Want: Dr. Kemi Doll on Academic Writing Amplified
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
Join the waitlist for the January 2027 Get That Grant® cohort: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this encore episode, Kemi challenges the hustle culture belief that you have to work yourself to exhaustion to succeed. Instead of a typical productivity lecture, we are looking at how to use strategic procrastination to your advantage.
Procrastination gets a bad reputation, but it can actually protect your creativity and reduce unnecessary stress. This is not an excuse to put everything off. It is about knowing exactly when to wait so you can break the cycle of last-minute panic without dropping your high standards.
Tune in to learn how to handle talk slides, abstract submissions, and SOPs without sacrificing your sanity or your standards.
Applications for the July 2026 Get That Grant® cohort have been extended through Tuesday, June 23 at 11:59 PM PST.
If you've been considering GTG, this is your final opportunity to apply for the July 2026 cohort. Participants also receive immediate access to Writing for Excellence: Persuasive Scientific Writing, Kemi's newest training for writing clear, persuasive, and competitive grant proposals and manuscripts—giving you a repeatable process you can use throughout your career.
Submit your application here.
Not quite ready? Join the waitlist for the January 2027 cohort: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career, Kemi brings you an encore conversation with Cathy Mazak of the Academic Writing Amplified podcast about her new book, A Terrible Strength, and the journey of moving from physician, researcher, and professor to debut author.
Kemi pulls back the curtain on the writing and publishing process, from developing the book proposal to finding the right agent, building a writing team, protecting time to write, and preparing for the full-time work of promoting the book.
This conversation is a grounded look at what it means to bet on yourself, prepare for the season you say you want, and trust that big dreams are worth the hard work they require.
Check out Cathy’s podcast: Academic Writing Amplified
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Being "First, Only, Different" in academic medicine and public health forces us to stay incredibly sharp. We have to remain alert just to ensure we aren’t shortchanged on resources, pay, or structural support.
But over time, this defensive mindset creeps into areas where it doesn’t belong.
When you are constantly on guard at your institution, you naturally start fixating on what everyone else is doing with their research, funding, and careers. It is an exhausting trap.
In this encore episode, Kemi breaks down why this happens and how staying in survival mode is quietly derailing your peace of mind and your progress toward a sustainable career.
Applications are now open for the July 2026 cohort of Get That Grant®.
The wait is over! If you've been thinking about joining us and are ready to get clear on what matters most for your career and build a strategy that reflects that clarity, now is the time. This is our final cohort before 2027.
Apply here.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Mentioned:
New England Journal of Medicine Article: Structural Solutions for the Rarest of the Rare — Underrepresented-Minority Faculty in Medical Subspecialties
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this week’s episode of Womb Wisdom, we bring you an episode with Dr. Stephanie Hack, MD/MPH, FACOG - host of The Lady Parts Doctor Podcast - who spoke with Kemi about reading her new book and her reaction as a Black woman and an OBGYN. They cover uterine cancer, Black women’s health, and the importance of advocating for better medical care.
The conversation challenges the "strong woman" archetype that leads to ignoring symptoms, offering advice on how to truly listen to one’s body and demand quality care.
Check out Dr. Hack’s podcast: The Lady Parts Doctor
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
See Dr. Kemi on tour:
Dr. Kemi is on book tour —bringing this conversation directly to our communities through live readings, real talk, and fantastic co-hosts!!
If she’s coming to your city, come be in the room. Bring someone you love.
➡️ View the full tour and get tickets
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this encore episode, Kemi looks at the nonsense fed to early-career faculty in academic medicine and public health, especially women of color, passed off as good advice. While most of it is just harmless chatter, some of these comments actually do damage. They stick with you, get under your skin, and hold you back. If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of these toxic tips, consider this replay your reality check and your reset button. Let’s dive in.
Applications are now open for the July 2026 cohort of Get That Grant®.
Apply here.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this episode, Kemi sits down with Magogodi oaMphela Makhene of Madame Speaker Says for a conversation that will reframe everything you thought you knew about excellence, authority, and who gets to tell your story.
They get into why working hard and letting your work "speak for itself" is quietly costing you, and why brilliant women who stay silent about their intentions get written out of their own story. Kemi shares what she finally stopped doing that unlocked her authority, what it actually cost her to build in public, and why fearlessness is a scam and what to do instead.
She also takes us inside the journey behind her book, A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing, a science-backed, deeply personal framework to help all women, especially Black women, recognize their body's signals, unlearn the normalization of pain, and demand the equitable, life-saving care they deserve.
If you've ever made yourself smaller so someone else could be more comfortable, this one is for you.
Share it with a womb sister you love.
Check out the interview on Madame Speaker Says, Dr. Kemi Doll: Your Excellence Is Not Enough. On Black Women's Health, Authority & Building in Public
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
See Dr. Kemi on tour:
Dr. Kemi is going on a national book tour this May and June—bringing this conversation directly to our communities through live readings, real talk, and fantastic co-hosts!!
If she’s coming to your city, come be in the room. Bring someone you love.
➡️ View the full tour and get tickets
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
When your career starts to feel like nothing more than a never-ending to-do list, it’s a clear sign that you’ve lost the lead. It’s draining to feel like you're just checking boxes instead of building the life you actually wanted.
In this encore episode, Kemi looks at exactly how that shift happens and why it feels so hard to break out of. She shares some practical, real-life ways to help you take the wheel again and find your footing so you can finally reclaim control of your career.
Coming soon: Applications for the Get That Grant® July 2026 cohort will open to the waitlist. Join here: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
It’s publication day!
Today, Kemi is celebrating the release of A Terrible Strength and taking a moment to reflect on what it took to bring this book into the world. From the emotional weight of writing and deciding what stories to tell, to navigating a new industry and the impact of success on relationships, she shares what was hard, what mattered, and why it was all worth it.
She also breaks down what this book actually is, who it is for, and why it is meant to create a true before-and-after in how we understand Black women’s health. This is not just a book launch. It is an invitation into deeper awareness, better care, and a different level of responsibility for how we show up for ourselves and each other.
If you haven’t heard the first two parts of this series, you can go back and listen to:
Episode 222: Journey to A Terrible Strength Part 1
Episode 223: Journey to A Terrible Strength Part 2
Mentions:
Dr. Sharon Malone
This Here Flesh by Cole Arthur Riley
Episodes mentioned:
Episode 100: Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 1
Episode 101: Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 2
Order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
See Dr. Kemi on tour:
Dr. Kemi is going on a national book tour this May and June—bringing this conversation directly to our communities through live readings, real talk, and fantastic co-hosts!!
If she’s coming to your city, come be in the room. Bring someone you love.
➡️ View the full tour and get tickets
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
With book launch just 7 DAYS away, Kemi is taking us deeper into what happened after the book deal for A Terrible Strength. In part 2 of this 3-part series, she shares the emotional ride of landing a major publishing deal, the support system that helped her write the book, and what it looked like to move from ideation into execution.
This episode offers an honest look at traditional publishing, long-term creative work, and what it takes to stay committed to a vision big enough to change lives.
Mentions:
Harmony imprint
Jane Jones
Episodes mentioned:
Episode 190: What Book Covers Reminded Me about Leading While Learning
Pre-order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
See Dr. Kemi on tour:
Dr. Kemi is going on a national book tour this May and June—bringing this conversation directly to our communities through live readings, real talk, and fantastic co-hosts!!
If she’s coming to your city, come be in the room. Bring someone you love.
➡️ View the full tour and get tickets
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
With just 14 DAYS until book launch, Kemi is opening up about the long road it took to create A Terrible Strength!
In this 3-part series she will share what actually happened behind the scenes of this major creative project. Whether you are thinking about writing your own book or are just navigating a long-term goal of your own, there are many gems to learn from how she navigated the years leading up to this release.
Mentions:
Jamia Wilson
Tanya McKinnon
Monique Shields
Episodes mentioned:
Episode 100: Unapologetically Vulnerable — Kemi’s Interview (Part 1)
Episode 101: Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview (Part 2)
Episode 159: The Three Ps of Your Career — PURPOSE
Episode 161: The Three Ps of Your Career — PACE
Episode 163: The Three Ps of Your Career — PEACE
Pre-order Dr. Kemi’s Book:
A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing
See Dr. Kemi on tour:
Dr. Kemi is going on a national book tour this May and June—bringing this conversation directly to our communities through live readings, real talk, and fantastic co-hosts!!
If she’s coming to your city, come be in the room. Bring someone you love.
➡️ View the full tour and get tickets
Join us in Healing Our Wombs atwww.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
When your career starts to feel like nothing more than a never-ending to-do list, it’s a clear sign that you’ve lost the lead. It’s draining to feel like you're just checking boxes instead of building the life you actually wanted.
In this encore episode, Kemi looks at exactly how that shift happens and why it feels so hard to break out of. She shares some practical, real-life ways to help you take the wheel again and find your footing so you can finally reclaim control of your career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
We all have a different style when it comes to our careers. In academia and public health, most people fall into one of four categories: the builder, traveler, maintainer, or adapter.
In this episode, Kemi breaks down these different types of dynamism and the unique value each one brings to the field. By rethinking what a 'successful' career path looks like, she pushes back against the usual judgments we face.
Tune in to see which style fits you and learn why your specific approach is actually what makes you effective.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Is cycle syncing actually worth it? While this concept has become a buzzword in wellness circles, the episode examines the science behind it, aiming to burst some of the myths surrounding cycle syncing.
Join Kemi as she sorts through the noise regarding how diet can impact menstrual symptoms and the reality of exercise performance throughout the menstrual cycle and learn how to be more aware of your cycle without falling for the hype.
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
To wrap up our writing series, Kemi re-examines the standard practice for grant submissions and writing in academic medicine. In this episode, she breaks down the flaws of the “submit and pray” mentality that many face, calling for a more structured and proactive strategy.
Kemi encourages us to move past a reactive approach to a formal protocol that establishes a system for writing and time management. With her unique 5S framework for success, she aims to give us the tools to take control of our writing habits and career path.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this recent Womb Wisdom episode, Kemi is interviewed by Myleik Teele, entrepreneur, coach, mentor, and community builder. Together they discuss the alarming statistics surrounding cervical cancer among Black women and the systemic issues that contribute to delayed diagnoses and inadequate care.
Moved by the tragic story of beauty influencer Jessica Pettway, who died from misdiagnosed cervical cancer, Kemi points to this loss as a wake-up call to push the conversation beyond pregnancy and call for a radical shift in how gynecologic care is approached for Black women.
Listen as Kemi gets real about the preventable factors of cervical cancer. With takeaways on HPV, the need for regular screenings, and the importance of advocating for oneself in medical settings, this conversation is both eye-opening and necessary.
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Career isolation doesn’t just affect morale, it can quietly shape the quality of your writing, limiting creativity, clarity, and the willingness to take intellectual risks.
In this episode, Kemi explores how isolation shows up in academic and grant-writing spaces, especially when you are the “first,” “only,” or navigating environments without shared perspective. She highlights why strong writing isn’t built in a vacuum: it’s strengthened through supportive networks.
Tune in for a perspective shift that may change how you approach feedback, collaboration, and the plan you need to rebuild the conditions that make excellent writing possible.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Menopause is a natural transition that affects those with female reproductive organs, yet society often frames it as a challenge to be conquered. Kemi argues that this perspective is not only misleading but also dangerous. Instead of embracing menopause as a natural part of life, many women are bombarded with advice on biohacking and achieving an idealized version of health. This "menopause gold rush" has led to a flattening of the conversation, ignoring the complexities and risks associated with this stage of life.
This episode serves as a reminder that menopause is not a battle to be fought but rather a natural transition that requires understanding, support, and awareness. Join Kemi as she explores these important themes and discover the importance of understanding the risks associated with menopause, particularly the rising rates of endometrial cancer.
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
As institutions like the NIH and CDC face challenges, many professionals find themselves at a crossroads, forced to pivot their research focus to secure funding while grappling with a loss of passion and purpose.
But what if there’s a better way? Join Kemi as she explores pivoting versus strategic framing. Learn the difference and how to choose.
Coming soon: Applications for the Get That Grant® April 2026 cohort will open to the waitlist. Join here: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this Womb Wisdom episode, Dr. Kemi dives into the vital findings of the Black Women's Health Study. Launched in 1995, this significant study investigated various health issues affecting Black women including breast cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and fibroids.
Tune in as Kemi highlights key findings on risk factors for fibroids, including dietary habits, exercise, and age, while also debunking common myths surrounding birth control and soy consumption.
The episode serves as a reminder that while more research is needed, there is already a significant body of evidence that can help inform better health choices for Black women. Don’t miss this essential conversation that equips you with ways to optimize your womb health!
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book, A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb & Your Survival Guide to Healing.
Join us in Healing Our Wombs.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
As competition for grants becomes increasingly fierce, understanding the nuances of effective writing is essential.
A good idea alone is not sufficient for securing funding. The truth is, even the most groundbreaking ideas can fall flat if not communicated clearly and compellingly. The excellence of your writing should match the excellence of your idea. By investing time and effort into honing your writing abilities, you can significantly improve your chances of securing funding and making a meaningful impact in your field.
Tune in for tips that could change your funding game!
Coming soon: Applications for the GTG April 2026 cohort will open to the waitlist. Join here: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this episode, Kemi continues the Womb Wisdom series with a captivating conversation featuring Dr. Jamie Knopman, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and author of "Own Your Fertility." Together, they explore the intricacies of womb health, egg freezing, and the emotional journey surrounding fertility.
Join Kemi and Dr. Knopman as they unpack the complexities of fertility, the importance of informed decision-making, and the empowerment that comes from understanding your own body and health choices.
What They Cover:
- The significance of positionality in medical narratives and how it influences patient care.
- Common misconceptions about egg freezing and the realities of fertility at different ages.
- How personal experiences, such as divorce and health challenges, can enhance empathy in medical practice.
- The cultural nuances that affect women's health decisions, particularly for women of color.
Connect with Dr. Knopman | Website | Book
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this Womb Wisdom episode, Kemi names the no-win tension Black board certified gynecologists and gynecologic oncologists walk into the moment they decide to educate publicly.
If a Black physician doesn’t show up online, folks may ask, “Where are the trusted black doctors?” When they do show up, the critique becomes, “Ugh, they’re just building a brand.” But the reality is: if you don’t build visibility (aka branding), people who need accurate info won’t find you, and misinformation wins.
Tune in as Kemi unpacks why that framing is both understandable and dangerously oversimplified. Yes, there are people using womb health as a marketing lane, pushing fear-based content, rigid narratives, and misinformation that spreads faster than nuance ever will. But the answer isn’t blanket distrust. The answer is discernment.
Listen in to learn how to vet what you’re hearing, who you’re hearing it from, and what actually turns womb suffering into healing.
Black Women’s Health Experts to Follow
- Camille Clare MD MPH
- The Period Doctor
- Dr. Teni Brown
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Are you struggling to assess your writing skills? This episode marks the beginning of an exciting series dedicated to writing, and it sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the nuances that often go unnoticed in academic writing.
Many individuals struggle to gauge their writing abilities, often feeling uncertain about where they stand. This uncertainty is not just a personal dilemma; it reflects a broader issue within academic culture.
Join Kemi in dissecting the challenges of receiving constructive criticism in academic writing and discuss strategies to improve your own self editing skills.
Coming soon: Applications for the Get That Grant® April 2026 cohort will open to the waitlist. Join here: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere right now, and grant writing is no exception. But is it making proposals stronger or quietly lowering the bar?
Join Kemi as she shares her unfiltered thoughts on the implications of AI in academia. She discusses the decline in writing instruction for researchers and the potential consequences of relying on AI to craft grant applications. With a keen eye on the future, Kemi speculates on how this shift might impact the quality of submissions and what researchers need to do to stay competitive.
Don’t miss out on these insights. Tune in now!
Coming soon: Applications for the GTG April 2026 cohort will open to the waitlist. Join here: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Are you aware of the unique challenges surrounding womb health, especially for Black women?
Welcome to the Womb Wisdom series on the Your Unapologetic Career Podcast, where Kemi dives deep into womb health, healing, and the often-overlooked issues surrounding it. In this first episode, Kemi explores the hidden crisis of womb suffering and the importance of critical thinking in navigating gynecologic health.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of womb health and the systemic issues that affect Black women today. Tune in to empower yourself with knowledge and join the movement for better womb health for all women.
Pre-order Dr. Doll’s Book: A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing By Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR
Join us in Healing Our Wombs at www.kemidoll.com/womb.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
Happy New Year! The start of a new year often brings with it a wave of energy and motivation, and this episode captures that feeling perfectly.
Join Kemi as she shares her excitement about the upcoming release of her book in May and how it represents a culmination of her journey, including themes of womb health, courage, and living with intention. She also outlines the new podcast format for the year. This shift aims to reflect her authentic journey while continuing to provide valuable insights into career navigation.
And as you embark on this new year, take a moment to ask yourself: What do people get when they get you? This question serves as a powerful prompt for self-reflection and growth, guiding you toward a more intentional and fulfilling year. Let’s make this year one to remember!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
As we approach the new year, Kemi encourages you to reflect on your journey.
In our latest episode, Kemi shares her top five lessons learned in 2025, covering everything from the power of routine to the importance of sleep. These lessons serve as guiding principles as we move forward. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, professional ambitions, or simply striving for a better work-life balance, these insights can help you thrive.
Join me in reflecting on these lessons and consider how they can apply to your own journey in the coming year.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In a world of uncertainty, trusting yourself is more crucial than ever. This week’s episode is all about trusting yourself and making bold career moves in uncertain times.
As you listen in, you’ll hear Kemi emphasize that during times of instability, people often face two natural reactions. One might feel inclined to hunker down, avoid risks, and lay low. However, the more empowering response is to recognize that the perceived stability of external structures is often a mirage. Instead of retreating, we should bet on ourselves and take calculated risks.
Kemi outlines a four-step process for making leap decisions. Tune in to discover how to leap into your unapologetic career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
In this episode, Kemi is joined by Dr. Caitlin Collins, an Assistant Professor in trauma surgery and surgical critical care at University of California, San Francisco. Her research has focused on alternative payment models, health equity, and quality improvement within surgical populations. She has explored the impact of bundled payment reimbursement models within a general surgery population and worked on the implementation of a quality improvement platform for trauma patients in Southwestern Cameroon. She is also an alumni of The Get That Grant ® program.
Join Kemi and Caitlin for an insightful conversation into overcoming feelings of apathy and frustration, the significance of mindset work, and the value of intentional decision-making in academia.
CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- The unique challenges faced by trauma surgeons and the importance of emotional care.
- How to navigate systemic barriers as a junior faculty member.
- The role of mindset work in reclaiming agency and purpose in your career.
- Strategies for intentional decision-making and prioritizing self-care in a high-pressure environment.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Collins on Instagram (@cocai4u) and X (@CRCollinsMD) to show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Text Dr. Kemi directly.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
On this inspirational episode Kemi shares her transformative journey of building KD Coaching from a side hustle to a powerhouse in the field of academic medicine and public health.
Throughout the episode, she shares her struggles and triumphs, detailing how she built her coaching company while juggling multiple responsibilities, including her full-time job and family life. Her commitment to her clients has resulted in a staggering $80+ million in grant funding.
This episode is not just about numbers, it's a celebration of resilience, growth, and the profound changes that can happen when you believe in your purpose and the value of your work. Don't miss this inspiring journey!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, Kemi welcomes Dr. Nina Zhao, an otolaryngologist and educator who shares her unique journey in academic medicine.
Dr. Zhao is an Assistant Professor and fellowship-trained Laryngologist in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University. She serves as the medical director of the University Hospitals Swallowing Program and as the Associate Program Director for the residency program. Dr. Zhao’s passions include medical and surgical education, laryngology, and swallowing disorders. Her research interests include outcomes and quality improvement in dysphagia management and program evaluation, assessment, and measurement design in surgical education. And she is also an alumni of The Get That Grant ® program.
Join Kemi and Nina for an insightful conversation on assessment, self-trust, and the power of community in shaping the future of medicine.
CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- The importance of aligning personal purpose with professional goals.
- How to navigate feelings of isolation and uniqueness in academic medicine.
- The role of community in fostering resilience and motivation.
- Strategies for maintaining focus and clarity in chaotic environments.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Zhao on LinkedIn to show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Dr. Nadia Abuelezam, an Associate Professor at Michigan State University and an epidemiologist dedicated to advancing health equity among Arab and MENA American populations. Join Kemi and Nadia as they reflect on Nadia's transformative journey from feeling undervalued and stuck in her academic career to embracing her purpose and finding agency in her work.
Nadia shares the emotional toll of being in a system that often prioritizes institutional needs over individual passions and recounts her journey of self-discovery, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and how she is now paving the way for future scholars in her field.
Together, they explore the power of purpose-driven work in overcoming systemic barriers and how participating in the Get That Grant® coaching program contributed to her shift in mindset.
CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- The significance of community and resilience in creating impactful work.
- What fulfillment looks like beyond traditional measures of success.
- The power of purpose-driven work, especially in the face of challenges.
- How rejection can serve as an opportunity for growth and refinement.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Abuelezam on LinkedIn @nabuelezam to show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, Kemi welcomes Dr. Francesca Duncan, a physician and researcher specializing in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Together, they explore the often-overlooked topic of lung cancer screening, especially within black and brown communities, where disparities in access and awareness persist.
As they dig into the current state of academic medicine, they discuss the institutional inertia that hinders progress and the necessity of systemic responses to the challenges faculty face. Francesca reflects on her transformative experience in the KD Coaching program, Get That Grant® program, revealing how it has empowered her to reclaim her time, prioritize her purpose, and enhance her productivity.
Join Kemi and Francesca for an insightful conversation filled with valuable strategies for navigating the tumultuous landscape of academic medicine, fostering self-trust, and ultimately thriving in your career.
CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- Understanding the critical need for lung cancer screening in underserved populations.
- The importance of community support and mentorship in navigating academic challenges.
- Strategies for reclaiming personal time and setting boundaries to enhance productivity.
- The role of self-trust in professional development and career satisfaction.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Duncan on LinkedIn and Instagram (@drfancy14) to show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Imposter syndrome, as defined, is that nagging feeling that your achievements are merely luck rather than a reflection of your hard work and capabilities. Kemi emphasizes that while this feeling is common, it can be misdiagnosed.
This discussion is not just about feeling inadequate; it’s about recognizing the difference between genuine skill gaps and the emotional turmoil that can accompany holding a marginalized identity in a predominantly white space.
Listen now as Kemi invites us to reflect on our experiences and consider how we can face the fire of self-awareness.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
The rules of the game changed. The gig economy has already reshaped academic medicine. The old guarantees are gone; tenure, titles, and “waiting your turn” are not a strategy. These four non-negotiables are.
If you’ve felt the shift, but haven’t had the language or the plan, this conversation gives you both. Join in as Kemi breaks down what’s changed, what’s not coming back, and the four non-negotiables you need to navigate grants, promotions, and opportunities to lead your career on purpose so you can build work that is sustainable, funded, and aligned.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week’s episode explores the intersection of plagiarism allegations and systemic issues in academia. How do we navigate these challenges while maintaining authenticity?
Join Kemi as she reflects on an unexpected twist that led to the creation of this episode, the options she considered and the lessons learned from this experience, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and connection in the face of adversity.
This enriching conversation not only addresses the immediate concerns of plagiarism allegations but also invites a broader reflection on the future of academia. Tune in now to gain insights that could change the way you view your academic journey.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, Kemi tackles the pressing question: What does the new standard of academia look like in the wake of recent upheavals? As institutions grapple with shifting ideologies, Kemi explores the implications for academic faculty and the emergence of a new "gig economy" within academia.
In this episode, she emphasizes the need for faculty to redefine their self-worth, viewing themselves as valuable resources rather than mere commodities to be leveraged by institutions. Kemi also outlines the importance of understanding the connections between your input and output, and how to articulate your unique contributions, your “collateral benefits”, within this evolving landscape. Tune in now to join the discussion.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Have you felt the tremors of change in the academic job market? The landscape of academia is shifting, and job security is no longer what it used to be.
In our latest episode, Kemi’s diving into the shifting sands of job security in academia. As institutions reevaluate tenure and funding structures, Kemi candidly explores the implications of these changes and encourages listeners to stop waiting and start facing the fire. What does the new standard of academia look like, and how can we adapt? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to rethink our assumptions about job security and our roles within these evolving systems.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week Kemi dives into the world of global health with Dr. Neelima Navuluri, a pulmonary and critical care physician at Duke University and the Durham VA. Together, they explore her impactful work in Kenya and the challenges of addressing chronic lung diseases in resource-limited settings.
In this conversation, Neelima shares her journey from a passion for global health to her specialization in post-tuberculosis lung disease, highlighting the importance of self-trust and purpose-driven work. As she reflects on the current chaotic landscape of global health, Neelima emphasizes the need to resist apathy and stay committed to meaningful change, despite the obstacles.
Join in as they discuss the significance of community, the power of mindset shifts, the importance of maintaining clarity in the face of uncertainty and Dr. Neelima’s experience with the Get That Grant® program.
CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS:
- The role of self-trust in navigating a career in global health.
- How to find purpose and motivation amidst chaos.
- The importance of community and validation in academic spaces.
- Strategies for staying committed to impactful work despite external challenges.
MENTIONS:
Duke University
Ampath Consortium
USAID
NIH
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Continuing our conversation from last week on keeping apathy at bay in a chaotic world, this episode dives into how to stay focused on your goals.
Drawing on Timothy Snyder's critical lessons from his book, "On Tyranny," Kemi emphasizes the importance of fighting for the integrity of our professions and institutions in the face of growing authoritarianism and misinformation. Listen in for insights on how to leverage our privileges and skills for meaningful impact, even amidst chaos.
This episode is your roadmap to regain focus and purpose in your career by creating structures that support your work and maintain your commitment to meaningful contributions, ensuring that when the dust settles, we have something to return to.
MENTIONS
On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder
American Academy of Pediatrics
American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
How do we keep apathy at bay in a chaotic world? Join the conversation as Dr. Kemi shares her personal reflections on the emotional toll of navigating professional responsibilities while grappling with the realities of the world around us.
In this episode, Dr. Kemi discusses the importance of recognizing the meaning of our work, the unique roles we play in social change, and how to combat feelings of apathy in the face of adversity.
She offers 4 foundational stepping stones to help you regain your footing and purpose amidst chaos, emphasizing that we each have a vital role to play in our communities. Tune in for insights and inspiration!
MENTIONS
Deepa Iyer
Professor Britney Cooper
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
“Just because you don't know how to do the thing you really want to do, whether it's research or programming or whatever, doesn't mean that you don't get to go after it with fervor and a passion.“ - Kemi Doll
This week, Kemi takes us on a personal journey through the creative process behind her upcoming book cover. She reflects on the importance of strategic planning, the thrill of seeing your ideas come to life, and the courage it takes to assert your vision, even when you're new to the game.
Join in as she reveals the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped her book cover and offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to discover the beauty of leading while learning, and the magic that comes from passionately pursuing your vision.
And don’t miss the official cover reveal of A Terrible Strength, happening tomorrow on Kemi’s Instagram (@kemidoll).
MENTIONS
Jereshia Hawk
James Webb Telescope
Coco Wyo (adult coloring books)
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, we're shaking things up! In this episode, Kemi invites you to join her for a refreshing break from the usual career-focused content. Embracing the concept of "recess," she encourages you to explore the importance of fun and leisure in your busy lives.
Join in as Kemi shares a variety of personal recommendations, from insightful podcasts to engaging TV shows and exciting books, all aimed at helping you cultivate joy outside of work.
So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage, sit back, and let’s dive into this delightful recess of recommendations that will inspire you to carve out time for yourself.
Mentions + Recess Recommendations:
- Podcast: What Should We Talk About? with Jenny Yang
- Episode: Asian+Black SINNERS deep dive, teaching Ryan Coogler about Mississippi Chinese, Need a Hot Pope, Immigrant farm-to-table, THE STUDIO on AppleTV - Blakely Thornton, Dolly Li (S1E1)
- TV Show: Couples Therapy
- Podcast: Emsolation
- Listen to one free premium episode here!
- Book: Buried Deep by Naomi Novik
Bonus Recommendations:
- Previous Episode: 180 Disturbing Relationship Patterns Among High-Achieving Women, with Dr. Shirlene Obuobi, MD
- Movie: Sinners from Ryan Coogler
- Movie: Wicked
- TV Show: Fringe
- TV Show: The Newsreader
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, we celebrate the resilience and strength of women of color in leadership!
Join Kemi as she explores insights from Vanessa Priya Daniel's book "Unrig the Game" highlighting challenges and actionable gems that resonates deeply with women of color in academic medicine and public health. She also discusses the importance of celebrating milestones, setting boundaries, and embracing the superpowers that come with diverse experiences.
Listen now for inspiration and practical strategies to navigate your leadership journey.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In the world of academic medicine, the transition into new roles can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you're a fresh graduate stepping into your first faculty position or a mid-career professional changing jobs, one tool stands out as invaluable: the informational interview. Informational interviews are not just casual coffee chats; they are strategic opportunities to gather information that can shape your career path.
In this episode Kemi highlights the importance of this often underutilized resource and provides actionable strategies for making meaningful connections, avoiding common pitfalls, and maximizing the value of your networking efforts.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
As summer approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on our career goals and the boundaries we need to set to achieve them. However, in the fast-paced world of academia, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant demands of work and personal life.
Through enlightening observations, Kemi highlights the importance of articulating and maintaining boundaries to protect our time and energy for meaningful work. She also addresses the cultural kryptonite that makes it difficult for many of us to assert our needs and prioritize our passions.
Tune in for insights and strategies to reclaim your time.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Looking for ways to diversify your research funding? Check out this week’s episode where Kemi discuss how to get creative with non-NIH funding!
Tailored especially for women of color in academic medicine and public health, Kemi shares her insights on the structural differences between NIH and other funding entities, emphasizing the need for adaptability in grant writing.
Episode Highlights:
- Structural Differences between NIH vs. Other Funding Sources
- The Importance of Diversifying Your Funding Portfolio
- Writing for Non-NIH Applications: Key Strategies
- The Role of Theoretical Frameworks in Grant Writing
- Building Your Confidence and Passion for Your Work
This episode is not just about securing grants; it's about reclaiming your narrative and empowering yourself to thrive in an evolving academic landscape. Tune in to gain insights that could transform your research career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Join Kemi for this empowering conversation that reminds us that betting on ourselves is not only necessary, but also a powerful step towards achieving our dreams. This information is especially timely as many are feeling the pressure of crumbling systems and the need to reclaim our narratives.
In this episode, Kemi shares her personal struggles and insights on embracing discomfort as a necessary step toward growth including her current challenge of preparing for the release of her upcoming book.
This is your reminder that you are not alone in this process; many are navigating similar challenges. If you’re ready to embrace your journey and bet on yourself, this episode is a must-listen.
MENTIONED - EP. 51 Holding the Vision
🔔 NOW OPEN: Applications for the Get That Grant® July Cohortare open. If this episode sparked something in you — a desire to move differently, to honor your time, to lead from a place of clarity — we’d love to walk with you. Join a community of women of color committed to the inner work of creating real, lasting change. Click here to apply and secure your spot.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this episode, Kemi welcomes Dr. Adesuwa Akhetuamhen, an emergency medicine physician and faculty member at Emory University. Dr. Akhetuamhen’s research focuses on preventative medicine for emergency department patients at risk for neuro-cardiovascular disease. She has substantial experience in clinical medicine, with specialized training and expertise in addressing racial health disparities, conducting medical education research, and neuro-cardiovascular disease prevention in emergency care settings.
Tune in as they discuss Adesuwa's experience with the Get That Grant® program, she reflects on the importance of community, mentorship, and the actionable strategies that have propelled her career forward. Adesuwa's candid insights reveal how she navigated the challenges of motherhood while achieving significant milestones, including securing her first grant shortly after completing the program.
Conversation Highlights:
- The importance of community in academia
- Navigating motherhood and career milestones
- Overcoming challenges and celebrating wins
- The power of passion in research
If Adesuwa’s story resonated with you - and you’re looking for structured support, community, and strategy in your own academic journey - now’s the time to take the next step.
Applications are now open for the July 2025 cohort of Get That Grant®.
Apply here.
P.S. New this round: We’re piloting direct institutional payments - and this is the last time GTG® will be offered at its current price.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Akhetuamhen on LinkedIn and Instagram (@adeakhmd) to show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Ever feel buried under your academic workload? You're not alone! We are literally in a structure that is designed to create and foster the experience of time scarcity and overload.
Join Kemi as she explores the structural factors contributing to this overwhelm and encourages us to recognize that our experiences are not isolated. By acknowledging the design of academic roles, Kemi empowers us to take ownership of our time and set healthy boundaries. Tune in now for actionable strategies to help you regain control of your schedule.
🔔 NOW OPEN: Applications for the Get That Grant® July Cohortare open. If this episode sparked something in you — a desire to move differently, to honor your time, to lead from a place of clarity — we’d love to walk with you. Join a community of women of color committed to the inner work of creating real, lasting change. Click here to apply and secure your spot.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
And if you’re also a high-achieving WOC facing these challenges and seeking to navigate your path more effectively, Get That Grant is here to support you! Join the waitlist for our April 2025 Get That Grant cohort! Enrollment for the April cohort is exclusive to our waitlist, so sign up now to take the first step toward turning your aspirations into reality.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this episode, Kemi welcomes Dr. Allison Wu. Dr. Wu is Principal Investigator of the Wunderfull Lab. She is a clinician-researcher board certified in pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition as well as obesity medicine. Her research focuses on epidemiology and health services research in pediatric nutrition and obesity. She completed her fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition at Boston Children’s Hospital and the Harvard-wide Pediatric Health Services Research Fellowship at Mass General Hospital for Children. She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Together, they explore Dr. Wu's unique journey that intertwines her love for science, nutrition, and working with children, shaped by her family's background in academia and the restaurant business. Join the conversation as Dr. Wu shares her experiences with coaching, her insights on how supportive environments can foster growth, confidence, and collaboration and the importance of grant writing in creating meaningful change.
Conversation Highlights:
- Navigating maternity leave and career transitions
- The role of coaching in professional growth
- Building community and collaboration in academia
- The importance of intentionality in career development
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Wu on LinkedIn to show her some love!
🎯 Inspired by Dr. Wu’s journey?
Applications are now open for the July 2025 cohort of Get That Grant®! If you’re ready to build confidence, clarity, and community as you secure funding for your work, we’d love to support you.
👉🏾 Join the Waitlist + Apply Now to take the next step. Spots are limited!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Are you merely checking boxes, disappearing when challenges arise, or actively seeking growth?
In this encore episode, Kemi dives into the concepts of coasting, ghosting, and growing in our career journey. With a focus on self-awareness and intentionality, Kemi encourages us to reflect on how we show up in our professional lives.
When you shift into an intention and really a dedication that I will grow, you shift from something finite to an infinite journey. Tune in for an empowering exploration that will inspire you to audit your experiences and make intentional decisions for your future.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this encore episode, Kemi welcomes Dr. Tamorah Lewis, a neonatologist and pediatric clinical pharmacologist, to discuss the intricate dance of motherhood and career. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of being high-achieving women of color in academia.
Join Kemi and Dr. Lewis as they candidly reflect on their personal journeys, the evolving definition of success in motherhood, the vital role of supportive partnerships and the intentional steps we can take to empower our children.
Highlights from this episode:
- Embracing Imperfections in Motherhood
- The Importance of Self-Worth and Identity
- Navigating Career and Family Dynamics
- The Role of Support Systems in Parenting
- Redefining Success as a Working Mother
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Lewis on X (fka Twitter) @TamorahLewisMD and show her some love!
More about Dr. Tamorah Lewis, MD, PhD - Dr. Tamorah is a physician scientist and the Division Head for Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at SickKids. In this role, her goal is to advance the hospital-wide vision for Precision Child Health and collaborate with multiple clinical Divisions to research and implement precision therapeutics. She will provide clinical care in the Level IV NICU at SickKids. Prior to this new role, Lewis was at Children's Mercy Kansas City in the Divisions of Neonatology and Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology for seven years. She worked as an attending in the Level IV NICU and led translational / clinical research in neonatal pharmacology.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses emotional abuse and the challenges high-achieving women of color face in abusive relationships. Listener discretion is advised, and support resources are available if needed. National Domestic Violence Hotline – 800-799-7233.
In this powerful episode, Kemi sits down with Dr. Shirlene Obuobi, a multi-talented cardiologist, author, and artist, to discuss the often-overlooked nuances of abusive relationships, particularly among high-achieving women of color.
Shirlene shares her personal journey through an emotionally abusive marriage, shedding light on the patterns that many successful women face. Together, they explore how societal pressures, guilt, and the desire for tenderness can make women vulnerable to manipulation and control. This candid conversation serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of recognizing red flags and advocating for oneself.
Tune in as they discuss:
- The Impact of Societal Expectations on Relationships
- Recognizing Red Flags in Abusive Relationships
- The Role of Community and Support Systems
- Strategies for Empowering A Friend Who May Need It
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Obuobi on Twitter @shirleneobuobi and on Instagram @shirlywhirlmd to show her some love and don't forget to explore her monthly column featured in the Washington Post!
And check out her previous episode: 139 Creating Lucrative Careers Alongside Academic Medicine with Dr. Shirlene Obuobi, MD
More About Dr. Shirlene Obuobi, MD - Shirlene Obuobi, MD, is a cardiologist at the Cardiovascular Institute with a special focus on women’s heart health. Her work centers on health equity and innovative medical storytelling—leveraging narrative and graphic formats, including comics, to educate at-risk and underserved communities about cardiovascular disease. She earned her medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, where she also completed her internship, residency, and cardiology fellowship. Beyond medicine, Dr. Obuobi channels her passion for the human heart into writing romance novels, with two published works to her name.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
It's time to prioritize YOU! In this final installment of the Federal Funding Threats series, Kemi explores the crucial topic of self-care amidst the chaos of the current funding landscape. With a focus on enhancing our well-being, Kemi shares personal insights and practical strategies to help you navigate these challenging times.
Tune in to discover how to maintain your energy, emotional resilience, and connection to your work’s purpose, even when the external environment feels uncertain.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this episode, Kemi welcomes Dr. Mia Yang, a geriatrician and associate professor at Wake Forest School of Medicine, to discuss her unique journey in the healthcare system. Dr. Yang received her medical degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine and has been in practice between 10+ years. She has expertise in treating diabetes, Alzheimer's dementia, dementia, among other conditions and she is also is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Join the conversation as Mia shares her insights on the challenges of geriatrics, understanding the complexities of patient care, and the importance of grant writing in creating meaningful change.
Highlights:
- Mia's journey in balancing clinical work and research
- The significance of grant writing and strategic planning
- Building a supportive community and mentorship in healthcare
- Advice for women of color faculty in the Get That Grant® program
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Yang on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and BlueSky (@askdrmia.bsky.social) to show her some love! You can also check out her podcast, Ask Dr. Mia: Answers on Dementia Caregiving, at www.miayangmd.com.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this unplanned episode, Kemi dives into the current federal funding landscape and its implications for public health and academic medicine.
With a focus on the NIH and NSF, Kemi explores the challenges posed by current leadership and the importance of standing firm in our commitments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of federal funding, public health, and the intricate dynamics of leadership.
Join in for an insightful discussion that will empower you to take charge of your career and advocate for meaningful change.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
And if you’re also a high-achieving WOC facing these challenges and seeking to navigate your path more effectively, Get That Grant is here to support you! Join the waitlist for our April 2025 Get That Grant cohort! Enrollment for the April cohort is exclusive to our waitlist, so sign up now to take the first step toward turning your aspirations into reality.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
This week, Kemi continues the discussion on the federal funding crisis and its impact on academic medicine and public health.
While some face direct threats, others remain relatively stable. If you're in a secure position, this episode is for you! Learn how to step up as an advocate and make a meaningful difference for colleagues in crisis. Tune in now!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In our latest episode, Kemi sit down with Dr. Sharon Onguti, an infectious diseases specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she has served since 2022. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, she completed her fellowship at UT Health San Antonio and a sub-fellowship in Antimicrobial Stewardship at Stanford University.
Dr. Onguti holds an MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and is a board member of the Society of Bedside Medicine, she is dedicated to medical education and serves as Associate Program Director of the Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program. She is also is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Join the conversation as Dr. Onguti shares her remarkable journey in medicine, highlighting her innovative use of AI in healthcare.
Highlights:
- Discover how she navigates multiple roles and responsibilities while finding clarity and focus through coaching.
- The importance of aligning your career with personal values and interests.
- Why regular reflection and inventory of your activities help ensure alignment with long-term goals.
- Insights on cultivating a high-functioning support network and redefining mentorship to propel your career forward.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Onguti on LinkedIn and Twitter/X show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
And if you’re also a high-achieving WOC facing these challenges and seeking to navigate your path more effectively, Get That Grant is here to support you! Join the waitlist for our April 2025 Get That Grant cohort! Enrollment for the April cohort is exclusive to our waitlist, so sign up now to take the first step toward turning your aspirations into reality. Applications will be sent directly to the waitlist on Monday, February 17.
Sign up for the waitlist now at www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this thought-provoking episode, Kemi dives into the emotional landscape of uncertainty and fear that health equity researchers and those feeling threatened are experiencing in today's chaotic climate.
Join Kemi as she outlines five crucial steps to navigate this challenging time, find your footing amidst the chaos and take actionable steps towards a more empowered future.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Transitioning from clinical nursing to impactful research is no small feat. In our latest episode, join Kemi as she explores Dr. Kashica Webber-Ritchey's journey from the bedside to academia.
Dr. Webber-Ritchey focuses on health promotion among underserved and at-risk populations, with a particular emphasis on healthy lifestyle behaviors such as physical activity and diet. She serves as the lead nursing scientist for notable projects, including Nursing During COVID-19 and Black Girls Move (2023–2025). Her collaborative research experience encompasses quantitative, qualitative, and systematic review methodologies, as well as expertise in the development, implementation, and evaluation of digital surveys. She is also is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Join the conversation as Dr. Webber-Ritchey shares her transformative journey from clinical practice to research, focusing on addressing obesity disparities in Black youth and their families and how she navigated the challenges of academic life, overcame imposter syndrome, and learned to leverage her strengths through strategic mentorship and community support.
Highlights:
- Discover how strategic career coaching helped her navigate the challenges of academia, secure funding, and find her path.
- Learn how mentorship and a clear plan can transform your career.
- The unique skill set required for academic success and how Dr. Webber-Ritchey found clarity and confidence in her career path.
- The importance of planning, setting boundaries, and the powerful impact of community support.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Webber-Ritchey on LinkedIn and Twitter/X @RitcheyWebber show her some love!
And if you’re also a high-achieving WOC facing these challenges and seeking to navigate your path more effectively, Get That Grant is here to support you! Join the waitlist for our April 2025 Get That Grant cohort! Enrollment for the April cohort is exclusive to our waitlist, so sign up now to take the first step toward turning your aspirations into reality. Applications will be sent directly to the waitlist on Monday, February 17.
Sign up for the waitlist now at 👉🏽 www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Happy New Year! Our first episode of 2025 is here, and it's all about resilience and creating a life that can withstand personal challenges.
Join Kemi as she reflects on a challenging yet rewarding 2024 and invites us to explore the concept of building a life you can fall apart in—a life that stands firm even when you're not at your best. Tune in now to explore these ideas and start your year with a renewed sense of purpose.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above)where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
As we close out 2024, we're excited to share a recap of the year's top 10 podcast episodes that resonated most with our community. From tackling poor performance in teams to navigating career phases with purpose, pace, and peace, Kemi revisits pivotal discussions that shaped our year. Tune in to reflect on the year and prepare for 2025 with renewed purpose and clarity.
And thank you for being part of our journey and adjusting to our new schedule. Your support and engagement mean the world to us. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Top 10 Episodes Of 2024:
- Episode 164 How To Approach Poor Performance
- Episode 159 The Three Ps of Your Career - PURPOSE
- Episode 161 The Three Ps of Your Career - PAC
- Episode 163 The Three Ps of Your Career - PEACE
- Episode 156 Getting Through Tough Times
- Episode 152 How to Use Procrastination Effectively
- Episode 148 Four Lessons From A Season Of Challenge
- Episode 146 Should You Have An Exit Strategy?
- Episode 143 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
- Episode 142 Setting Yourself Apart - The Superpower Of Academics
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Our latest episode wraps up the Career Dynamics series by answering your insightful questions. Tune in to discover how to communicate your leadership style effectively and advocate for your needs in any professional setting. Whether you're a traveler, builder, adapter, or maintainer, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you thrive in your career.
Listen now and join the conversation on how to lead your career with impact and intention.
MENTIONED:
Episode 171: Adaptors - The execution GOATs (Career Dynamics Series Part 5)
Episode 170: Maintainers- 5 Steps Ahead of the Chaos (Career Dynamics Series Part 4) Episode 169: Travelers (Career Dynamics Series Part 3)
Episode 168: Builders Builders Builders (Career Dynamics Series Part 2)
Episode 166: Introducing the Career Dynamics Series - A Deeper Dive Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Are your partnerships truly filling the gaps? In this last Bonus MINI episode on Surviving Fall 2024, Kemi breaks down how to choose collaborators who complement your strengths and weaknesses—not just those you like. Tune in for high standards on strategic partnerships and practical steps to elevate your collaborations.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Our latest podcast episode features Sarah Peitzmeier. Dr. Peitzmeier is a is a mixed-methods social epidemiologist focusing on gender-based violence and sexual health, particularly in marginalized populations such as LGBTQ communities and sex workers. Her current NIH-funded work focuses on intimate partner violence (IPV) in transgender populations, to better understand trans survivors' experiences and build validated tools for IPV screening in healthcare settings. Dr. Peitzmeier is also developing and testing interventions to reduce sexual assault against cisgender women and transgender undergraduates on college campuses. She is committed to community-engaged research that addresses under-researched community priorities, including her work on chest binding and health in transmasculine individuals. This work builds on her prior quantitative and qualitative research investigating the role of violence in propagating risk of HIV, HPV, and other sexual health concerns. She is also is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Tune in to learn how structured coaching and self-leadership have transformed her academic career, helping her navigate transitions and build resilience.
Highlights:
- The importance of having a safe space where individuals can show up as their "messy" selves without judgment, allowing them to fully express all aspects of their personality.
- How embracing imperfections can lead to growth and acceptance.
- Why planning and structure are not just important but essential for creating freedom and reducing friction in one's work
- The importance of owning all parts of you, including the seemingly insignificant quirks, and how this contributes to a sense of groundedness and confidence in one's abilities.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Peitzmeier on Twitter/X show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Discover how to reserve your energy for work that truly inspires. In this brief bonus episode, learn strategies for focusing on what matters, streamlining distractions, and strengthening support systems to stay resilient in uncertain times.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this inspiring episode, Kemi sits down with Dr. Jovita Murillo. Dr. Murillo received a Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH) from Claremont Graduate University. Her research interests involve exploring the intersectionality between social determinants of health and health disparities. Her long-term research goals are to develop policies that can address the social needs of women of color and minority populations within health systems. This includes developing a comprehensive understanding of how policies, protocols, and practices that exist in society perpetuate structural determinants in health systems. Dr. Murillo hopes to address the science-practice gap by targeting interventions that can be used to advance measures to protect, preserve, and promote the health and safety of minorities. She is also is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Join the conversation as Dr. Murillo discusses the challenges she faced in academia, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative power of coaching. She reveals how she navigated a traditional and conservative public health program, negotiated for startup funds, and ultimately secured a tenure-track position.
Highlights:
- The profound changes one undergoes in how they speak, think, and interact with others through self-reflection and soul-searching
- The concept of "soul-wrenching" and how these challenges can feel like spiritual warfare but ultimately lead to becoming a stronger, better version of oneself.
- The difference between superficial advice and the need for real, impactful guidance that addresses the root of challenges in academic and professional settings.
- The institutional and cultural barriers in academia that hinder brilliant minds, particularly those from marginalized communities.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Kemi recorded some thoughts on navigating our current landscape in academic medicine, especially. If research is integral to your career, check this mini bonus episode out. Spoiler: Get your eggs out of one basket!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this final installment of our captivating "4 Career Dynamics" series, Kemi explores the world of the ADAPTER.
Adapters are the unsung heroes who execute their roles with unwavering quality and humanity, regardless of the circumstances. They are the quiet leaders who seed courage through action, inspiring those around them by simply getting the job done with grace and empathy.
Join Kemi as she unravels the unique attributes of adapters, exploring their roles as the worker bee, scientist, and CEO within their dynamic. Discover how adapters implement daily micro-solutions with creativity, update practices based on new information, and work seamlessly with anyone. Yet, with their incredible skills comes the need for discernment and boundary-setting to prevent exploitation and ensure alignment with their values.
This episode is a tribute to the ADAPTERS who teach and inspire through their actions, and a reminder of the interconnectedness of all career dynamics. Tune in to gain insights into how these quiet leaders make a significant impact in any organization.
MENTIONED:
Episode 170: Maintainers- 5 Steps Ahead of the Chaos (Career Dynamics Series Part 4)
Episode 169: Travelers (Career Dynamics Series Part 3)
Episode 168: Builders Builders Builders (Career Dynamics Series Part 2)
Episode 166: Introducing the Career Dynamics Series - A Deeper Dive
Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week!Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Welcome back to the show! Today, we are exploring the third career dynamic in our ongoing series: The MAINTAINERS.
Often overlooked, maintainers are the unsung heroes who hold up the ceiling, keeping structures strong and allowing others to focus on their roles. Maintainers also excel at off-boarding outdated ideas and people, absorbing vital information from routine meetings, and enforcing new work culture standards.
Tune in as Kemi does a deep dive of how maintainers ensure stability, manage change, and keep structures strong through the lens of self-leadership roles, breaking down the Worker Bee, Scientist, and CEO.
If you identify as a MAINTAINER, we’d love to hear from you! Text us with your thoughts and questions.
MENTIONED:
Episode 169: Travelers (Career Dynamics Part 3)
Episode 168: Builders Builders Builders (Career Dynamics Part 2)
Episode166: Introducing the Career Dynamics Series - A Deeper Dive
Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In our ongoing exploration of the “4 Career Dynamics", today we dive into the intriguing world of the "TRAVELER".
Travelers are the dynamic individuals who move from place to place, leaving behind a trail of innovation and transformation. They bring a unique energy that activates change, making them invaluable in any organization, particularly in academic medicine and public health.
In this episode, Kemi unpacks the unique strengths and challenges of Travelers. These cultural sponges thrive in diverse environments, intuitively spotting unspoken connections and inspiring action. However, Kemi also points out that while their energy is critical for sparking innovation, Travelers can sometimes confuse their creative spark for leadership. Recognizing when it's time to move on is key to maintaining their impact and vitality.
If you think you might be a Traveler or want to explore how to harness your Traveler energy, tap that text button and join the conversation as we explore how to align our career dynamics for greater success!
MENTIONED:
Episode 168: Builders Builders Builders (Career Dynamics Part 2)
Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
Episode166: Introducing the Career Dynamics Series - A Deeper Dive
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this episode, we continue our exciting series on the "4 Career Dynamics" by taking a deep dive into the first dynamic: The BUILDER.
Builders are the visionaries who transform small ideas into large, impactful institutions. They excel at finding resources, possess deep institutional knowledge, and are masters at harmonizing relationships to achieve their goals. But what truly sets Builders apart is their ability to see the long game, while focusing on each step that builds upon the last to create something truly remarkable.
If you find joy in creating lasting impact and have a knack for strategic planning and resource finding, you might just be a Builder. Join in as Kemi explores how Builders can leverage their unique skills through the lens of the Self Leadership Team—comprising the Worker Bee, the Scientist, and the CEO and harness your Builder skills to achieve your career goals without the frustration.
And if you're new to this series, make sure to catch up on our previous episode mentioned below for a comprehensive introduction to these fascinating concepts.
MENTIONED:
Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
Episode166: Introducing the Career Dynamics Series - A Deeper Dive
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
We're thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with Kemi and Deepika Slawek. Dr. Slawek is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Montefiore Health Systems and Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, NY in the Division of General Internal Medicine. She is board certified in Infectious Diseases, Addiction Medicine, and Internal Medicine and is the Co-Director of the Montefiore Medical Cannabis Program. Dr. Slawek studies how to reduce morbidity and mortality in people with HIV (PWH) and people who use drugs (PWUD) using a harm reduction framework. She aims to study solutions for PWH and PWUD informed by her clinical experiences and patient’s experiences. Dr. Slawek is the recipient of a K23 award from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to test how different formulations of medical cannabis effect neuropathic pain and inflammation in PLWH in an innovative quasi-experimental study. She is leading groundbreaking foundation-funded research to determine whether medical cannabis is effective in reducing opioid analgesic use in people with pain and is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
In this episode, Dr. Slawek shares her passion for HIV research, the social justice aspects of her work, the transformative power of coaching and:
- The value of carving out time for self-reflection and understanding the "why" behind your actions.
- How stopping to evaluate your work can be challenging but ultimately leads to more effective and meaningful use of your time.
- The importance of aligning your daily tasks with your broader values and goals.
- How regularly taking the time to assess your work and its impact can keep you grounded and prevent burnout, especially when the world feels overwhelming.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Slawek on Twitter/X and LinkedIn and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
🌟 Exciting new series alert! Welcome to the launch of our new multi-part series on the "4 Career Dynamics."
In this introductory episode, Kemi dives into the concept of career dynamics and how they shape our professional journeys. Inspired by the overwhelming response to Episode 143, Kemi explains how different individuals bring unique strengths to their careers through four distinct dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, and Adapters. Throughout this series, Kemi will take a deeper dive into each career dynamic, exploring their unique challenges and successes. She invites you to text your questions and comments, making this an interactive experience.
Tune in to understand your own career dynamic and how to leverage your strengths for a more fulfilling professional journey.
MENTIONED:
Episode 143: 4 Career Dynamics: Builders, Travelers, Maintainers, Adapters
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Have you ever felt that being highly competent and organized can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword? If so, you're not alone.
In our latest episode, Kemi addresses a listener's letter about the challenges of being overly competent in the workplace. Kemi dives into this concept, which she refers to as the "talent trap," and discusses how demonstrating competence can sometimes lead to being overworked and under-supported. Tune in to discover practical strategies for setting boundaries, advocating for your needs, and managing your career phases effectively.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their own excellence and looking for strategies to balance their workload while maintaining high standards.
MENTIONED:
66 The Talent Trap Of High Achievers
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Struggling with team performance? Our latest podcast episode dives deep into the art of managing workplace relationships.
Join Kemi as she explores two critical areas that often lead to performance issues. She breaks down these concepts into relatable scenarios, providing a structured approach to diagnosing and addressing the root causes of team member struggles.
Kemi also discusses the human elements of will and skill, offering a nuanced perspective on how desire and capability impact performance. Listen now for essential tips for enhancing your leadership skills and creating a more effective team environment.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In the final part of our three-part series on, "The Three P's of Your Career," Kemi dives into the third P: PEACE.
Listen in as she explains why peace, while always important, becomes a leading factor only after purpose and pace. Kemi discusses how peace emerges from the courage to align with your purpose, the discipline to pace yourself, and the wisdom gained through experience.
These insights are not just theoretical but are grounded in real-world applications. The journey through purpose, pace, and peace is not linear; different phases may resurface at various times. However, understanding these phases can provide a roadmap for navigating your career more intentionally. Tune in now and find your peace!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Tune in as Kemi reconnects with Dr. Kiara Alvarez an Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and School of Medicine. Dr. Alvarez specializes in mental health equity with a focus on Latinx and immigrant mental health, adolescent and young adult mental health equity, and youth suicide prevention.
In this conversation, Dr. Kiara shares her journey through the Get That Grant® and the Liberate coaching programs offering invaluable insights into the transformative power of long-term coaching and community support.
Join the conversation as they discuss:
- The initial challenges and milestones Dr. Kiara faced when she first joined the Get That Grant® coaching program
- The significance of self-trust and creating new core memories that redefine career trajectories.
- How coaching has enabled Kiara to take risks, trust her instincts, and make impactful decisions in her career.
- The importance of stepping back to assess the bigger picture and aligning daily activities with long-term goals.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Álvarez on Twitter/X and Instagram @kalvarezphd and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Welcome to the second part of our three-part series, "The Three P's of Your Career." In this episode, Kemi dives into the second P: PACE and shares her insights on the importance of maintaining a sustainable pace in your professional journey, especially after achieving significant success.
It's no longer just about forward momentum; it's about thoughtful decision-making and strategic delegation. By slowing down and assessing each opportunity carefully, you can make informed choices that align with your long-term goals. Recognizing this shift and maintaining a balanced pace is crucial to sustaining your career growth. Tune in to learn how to master the PACE phase of your career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
Dr. Chen is a clinical psychologist, chronic pain specialist, and health services researcher. Her research focuses on social determinants of health and the implementation of evidence-based psychosocial interventions for chronic pain and trauma. Dr. Chen is currently supported by a VA Career Development Award and other VA and NIH grants focused on increasing patient involvement in treatment decision-making and leveraging VA’s national healthcare system data to examine disparities in access to telehealth treatments for chronic pain and co-occurring opioid use disorder.
She has also founded a therapy practice specializing in serving first and second-generation Asian Americans and is a long-term KD Coach client. Kemi and Jess have an open, freewheeling discussion covering:
- The nascent days (2020!) of Kemi’s coaching and the evolution since
- Her journey from an early career faculty member to a funded researcher and entrepreneur.
- Reflections on the shifts in academic culture she’s gone through
- Her experiences with the KD Coach programs, including the transformative Inner Leader Retreat.
- Insights on how coaching has helped her cut through the noise of academia to focus on making a real impact.
For those at the beginning of their coaching journey, Dr. Chen leaves you with a golden nugget: investing in yourself is a bet you'll never regret. Embrace the journey, and let it unfold into something larger than you might have ever imagined.
Loved this convo? Please go check out Jess’s website at https://www.jessicachenphd.com!
Newsletter: If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this exciting episode, Kemi shares the incredible news of her recent promotion to full professor, achieved in just eight years since starting her faculty position. As she reflects on this milestone, Kemi introduces a new three-part mini-series focusing on the different waves of influence in her career, starting with the first phase: PURPOSE.
Listen in as Kemi dives deep into the significance of defining your purpose, how it transforms your career journey, and why it's essential for a fulfilling and joyful professional life. Join Kemi as she unpacks the first P of your career development journey and sets the stage for reflecting, redefining, and realigning your career goals.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In our latest podcast, Kemi interviews Dr. Oluwateniola “Teni” Brown, a board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, and Assistant Professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Brown leads diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at Northwestern Medicine as the Director for Obstetrics and Gynecology and for McGaw Medical Center.
Her clinical focus includes pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and fistulas, while her research centers on treatment disparities, surgical outcomes for pelvic floor disorders, and bias in medicine. She's dedicated to providing quality, compassionate, and equitable care and is an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Dr. Brown's insights offer a powerful message: Bet on yourself, embrace the journey, and never settle for anything less than the joy you deserve in both life and career. Join the conversation as they discuss:
- Dr. Brown’s decision to enroll in "Get That Grant" and "Fully Funded" and how coaching helped her navigate challenges, apply skills, and realize her dreams.
- The importance of a supportive community with a shared language and strategic structure that allows for articulating your ambitions without intimidation.
- The power of coaching in strengthening one's personal authority and decision-making skills.
- Why learning to lead oneself effectively, empowers you to navigate your professional journeys more confidently.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Brown on Twitter/X @teni_brown and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
You can text us here with any comments, questions, or thoughts!
In this episode, Kemi examines the often-overlooked challenge of adjusting to new norms when you make a significant career move. Whether you're changing institutions, shifting roles, or altering your professional circle, Kemi breaks down the nuanced steps of navigating this complex process.
Listen closely as Kemi explores:
- The difficulty in recognizing new professional norms and why our past experiences might cloud our judgment.
- The importance of curiosity and questioning our automatic reactions to unfamiliar workplace behaviors.
- Strategies for being open to new interpretations and allowing time for emotional adjustment to align with intellectual understanding.
- The vital role of community in reflecting on and understanding our experiences, preventing self-sabotage, and embracing change.
This episode serves as our reminder that change isn't just about embracing new opportunities; it's also about the delicate art of relearning and adapting to a new environment's unspoken rules.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
Have you ever felt like you're just putting out fires, unable to make real progress? This episode speaks directly to that experience, offering a heartfelt and practical guide to finding motivation and moving forward, even when times are tough.
Listen in as Kemi dismantles the myth of powerlessness and redefines motivation during adversity. She breaks down the steps to reignite your executive functioning, from acknowledging the tough times to taking decisive action that aligns with your deepest priorities.
Kemi's voice serves as a reminder that your struggles are seen, your battles are shared, and most importantly, that tough times are not your forever. Tune in to step out of the paralysis and into a career that's as resilient as it is rewarding.
Podcast Episodes Mentioned:
30 Learning How To Quit
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
REMINDER: Your Unapologetic Career Podcast now releases episode every other week! Can't wait that long? Be sure you are signed up for our newsletter (above) where there are NEW issues every month!
In this insightful episode, Kemi sits down with Dr. Landry and Dr. Lewiss. With their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for mentorship, these two emergency medicine physicians delve into the nitty-gritty of career development, offering tangible tools for navigating the professional world with grace and intention. And they wrote a book about it: 'Microskills: Small Actions, Big Impact!
Adaira Landry, MD, MEd, is an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at the Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital and co-founder of WritingInColor.org.
Resa E Lewiss MD is a Professor of Emergency Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and creator host of The Visible Voices Podcast.
Tune in as they discuss:
- The inspiration behind "Microskills" and its applicability beyond the medical field.
- The importance of recognizing privilege and the book's role as a guide for those not born into it.
- Practical advice on setting boundaries and structuring your day for success.
- The art of networking for introverts, and why understanding the difference between conversation and commitment is crucial.
- The significance of maintaining a local reputation amidst growing broader recognition.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refresh your approach, this episode is packed with insights on mentorship, workplace navigation, and personal ambitions.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Landry on X/Twitter, LinkedIN, Instagram; www.adairalandryMD.com and Dr. Lewiss on LinkedIN, Instagram, X/Twitter, Podcast; www.resalewissmd.com to show them some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations. You’ll get the best of the best plus new monthly content.
P.S. The Your Unapologetic Career Podcast is now releasing episodes every other week. Can't wait that long? Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for fresh new monthly essays!
Are you at a crossroads in your career, contemplating a major shift that not only changes what you do daily but also who you are professionally? It can be very disorienting in transition periods.
As we evolve in our careers, the changing dynamics can feel like a treacherous river crossing, leaping from rock to rock in pursuit of a future that feels like freedom. With her signature blend of empathy and no-nonsense advice, Kemi offers a blueprint for managing the identity shifts that accompany career evolution, urging us to discern the quality of feedback we receive, filtering out the noise that attempts to pull us back to a past self and embracing the input that propels us toward our true north.
Tune in and learn how to manage change with confidence and clarity.
JOIN Kemi's Book Journey community here: kemidoll.com/booklist.
Podcast Episodes Mentioned:
30 Learning How To Quit
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
P.S.
Exciting News Alert!
The Your Unapologetic Career Podcast is now shifting gears to make room for an incredible new chapter - Kemi's upcoming book! We will now be releasing episodes every OTHER week. Can't wait that long? Join Kemi's exclusive Book Journey Team Newsletter (like above) for behind-the-scenes peeks, early breaking news, and all things Kemi! Stay tuned for this thrilling next step!
Join Kemi as she unpacks the critical role of community in achieving success – and how our work experiences can really warp what we think ‘community’ even means. From the importance of holding a shared vision to the power of celebrating every step forward, Kemi reminds us that we are stronger together than we are alone.
You will hear firsthand how she navigated the challenges of feeling isolated in her research and the steps taken to create a network of support, leading to meaningful progress in the fight against health inequities. AND – an update on her current journey – writing a book!
Listen in for more on why building community is a missing step to project achievement and hear Kemi’s special invitation to a new community she is building.
JOIN Kemi's Book Journey community here: kemidoll.com/booklist.
Podcast Episodes Mentioned:
100 Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 1
101 Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 2
Jereshia Said Episode:
How This Full-Time Academic Researcher Got Booked Out & Banked Over $12,000 In Less Than 3 Months
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
P.S.
Exciting News Alert!
The Your Unapologetic Career Podcast is now shifting gears to make room for an incredible new chapter - Kemi's upcoming book! We will now be releasing episodes every OTHER week. Can't wait that long? Join Kemi's exclusive Book Journey Team Newsletter (like above) for behind-the-scenes peeks, early breaking news, and all things Kemi! Stay tuned for this thrilling next step!
In a world where the hustle culture often glorifies working to the point of exhaustion, Kemi brings us a refreshing perspective on how to work smarter, not harder. This episode isn't your typical productivity talk; it's a deep dive into the nuanced strategy of using procrastination as a tool for success. Yes, you read that right—procrastination, the very thing we've been taught to avoid like the plague, can actually be your ally in achieving professional excellence.
To be clear, this isn't about encouraging procrastination across the board, but rather about understanding when to apply it effectively to maximize creativity and minimize unnecessary stress. Whether you're grappling with talk slides, abstract submissions, or crafting SOPs, this episode is your guide to breaking the cycle of last-minute panic without sacrificing your high standards.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this laser-focused episode, Kemi zeroes in on a pervasive yet often unspoken issue in academic medicine and public health: the dual role of research mentor and direct leader / supervisor. Kemi dissects the inherent conflict of interest when one person plays both mentor and leader, offering four actionable steps to ensure these relationships remain healthy, productive, and free from the pitfalls of power dynamics. From recognizing the conflict to seeking external counsel, she doesn't hold back on her expectations for both mentor-leaders and mentees.
This episode isn't just a call to awareness—it's a blueprint for cultivating psychologically safe professional environments. Join in for a candid, no-nonsense discussion that could redefine your career trajectory.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Today's episode features a mini listener letter session with Kemi addressing casual questions received through DMs or short emails. Kemi will discuss two significant topics and these are heavy hitters – toxic workplaces and the complexities of authorship in academia.
Don't forget to share your listener letter by emailing podcast@kdollcoach.com. Let's dive in!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, Kemi is joined by Dr. Lori-Ann Edwards, a pediatric anesthesiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital. As a pediatric anesthesiologist, Dr. Edwards is dedicated to providing perioperative care for pediatric patients undergoing anesthesia. Her keen interest lies in enhancing the quality and safety of anesthesia delivery within this patient population. Leveraging her experience in quality and performance improvement research, she is committed to designing initiatives aimed at establishing sustainable, high-quality, and cost-effective perioperative care. Dr. Lori-Ann Edwards is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
The episode unfolds with a deep dive into the challenges and mindset shifts required for lasting change. Join the conversation as Dr. Edwards unveils the profound impact of coaching, from cultivating confidence to mastering the art of prioritization and unlocking her "unicorn time” and
- The profound impact of coaching on her professional trajectory, unraveling the layers of personal growth and empowerment.
- The strategies and insights gained through coaching that enabled her to navigate the complexities of her demanding profession.
- The broader implications of coaching, emphasizing the untapped potential within every individual and the transformative influence it can have on personal and professional spheres.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Edwards on Twitter/X @LoriEd2022 and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this raw and unfiltered episode, Kemi reflects on the tumultuous start of 2024, weaving through personal and professional challenges. From juggling CEO duties and coaching sessions to unexpected upheavals resembling unwelcome party guests, she shares her pivotal lessons and challenges the misconception of waiting for a calm moment to begin living, emphasizing the need to embrace joy and creativity amid chaos.
The only way out is through, and investing in a supportive "thru crew" is key.
This episode encapsulates the resilient spirit of navigating challenges, finding brilliance within and serves as a powerful reminder, urging us to create brilliance in the least plausible circumstances by staying aligned with our purpose and cutting out the noise in our work life.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
ENCORE EPISODE! As women of color in academic medicine and public health, many of us have encountered being the first person of color in our division or department. This experience is commonly discussed from an identity perspective, focusing on the challenges of being "first, only, or different." However, there's another aspect to being first – the way you navigate your career and approach your work. In this episode, Kemi discusses four specific ways you can be a trailblazer in your career by shaping your behavior, along with strategies for handling resistance and discomfort when doing so. Let's dive in!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, Kemi discusses the importance of having an exit strategy in academia. She urges us to regularly assess our career paths, challenging the belief that academia is the sole option. Kemi also emphasizes the significance of recognizing personal agency and maintaining an exit strategy as a valuable tool for defining our value, identifying opportunities, and making informed choices. Tune in for more insights on navigating academia with intention and purpose.
Previous Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 1 - Ten Lies Of Academic Medicine
Episode 22 - Is It Time To Leave Your Institution?
Episode 26 - Leaving When Your Post Tenure Promotion?
Episode 30 - Learning How To Quit
Episode 52 - Finding Your Faculty Identity
Episode 63 - Your Faculty Title Versus What You Actually Do?
Episode 68 - The Two Suspects That Cloud Our Judgment
Episode 77 - The Academic Bait And Switch
Episode 117 - Decoupling Success From Suffering
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
With nearly two decades of clinical experience as an adult nurse practitioner, Dr. Lisa Carter-Bawa (formerly Carter-Harris) is a distinguished behavioral scientist. Currently serving as the Director of the Cancer Prevention Precision Control Institute at the Center for Discovery & Innovation (CDI) at Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey, she also holds leadership roles at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center consortium. Dr. Carter-Bawa's research focuses on the intricate factors influencing decision-making in lung cancer screening, with a particular emphasis on understanding the impact of stigma.
Her advocacy for incorporating the patient perspective in lung cancer screening has been supported by funding from organizations such as the National Cancer Institute and the American Lung Association. Beyond her research endeavors, she actively contributes to various professional bodies, including chairing the Stigma & Nihilism Task Group of the American Cancer Society’s National Lung Cancer Roundtable and serving on the Editorial Board of Nursing Research. Additionally, she is involved in executive roles on boards and committees dedicated to enhancing cancer prevention, early detection, and reducing inequities in care at both academic and national levels and is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as she shares how coaching has helped her break free from the hamster wheel, redefine success, align her work with her purpose and
- The impact of coaching on redefining success for yourself and breaking free from the hamster wheel mentality.
- The importance of defining one's purpose and how it transforms your perspective and decision-making.
- Why shifting from external validation to internal gratification, leads to better integrity and a sense of pride in her work.
- The difference between success being a title versus an integrated, purpose-driven experience.
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Carter-Bawa on Twitter/X @drCarterBawa, on LinkedIn and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
High-achieving women of color in academic medicine and public health often experience the disappointment of unmet expectations and grapple with guilt over unavailability. In this episode, Kemi explores the connection between guilt and preparation, asserting that sacrificing preparation compromises the quality of our output, to the detriment of both ourselves and those we serve.
The episode calls on leaders to overcome the guilt trap and adopt a new narrative that emphasizes self-preparation for the greater good. Tune in to discover more.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
The episode focuses on the concept of dynamism in academic medicine and public health, with Kemi introducing four distinct types: the builder, the traveler, the maintainer, and the adapter. Each type brings unique value to academia, challenging conventional judgments about career paths.
Join in as Kemi explores the characteristics, contributions, and potential misconceptions of each type, sharing personal anecdotes and observations. The episode also examines the possibility of transitioning between dynamism types throughout one's career.
Tune in to explore and discover your kind of dynamism and learn why your dynamism is your superpower.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Are you tired of empty promises and unfulfilled commitments in academic medicine and public health?
In this episode, Kemi challenges the prevailing culture of "BS-ing” in academia, naming the superpower that will set you apart. This skill is the key to standing out, fostering collaborations, achieving high-impact publications, and accelerating promotions. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this episode offers invaluable insights to navigate the complexities of academic life and set yourself apart from the masses. Let's go!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Welcome to the first episode of 2024!
In this insightful and reflective episode, Kemi discusses end-of-year traditions, challenges in academic medicine, and advocates for a balance between work and reflection. Tune in and kick off the new year with a renewed perspective on progress, creativity, and personal well-being.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
On this special year-end episode of the "Your Unapologetic Career" podcast, Kemi takes a nostalgic journey through the top 10 episodes of 2023 and shares her own growth, challenges, and the collaborative effort behind creating each impactful episode.
Tune in to celebrate the highs, reflect on the lessons, and gear up for another year of empowering career insights. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Honorable Mentions:
- Episode 117- Decoupling Success From Suffering
- Episode 132 - Building Self-Trust
- Episode 125 - Do More By Choosing Less
Top 10 Episodes Of 2023:
- Episode 111 - Conscious Collaborations With Dr. Whitney Robinson
- Episode 106 - Academia vs. Corporate: Which Is Better For WOC? With Executive Coach Monique Shields
- Episode 102 - Normalizing Transition From Clinical Work
- Episode 93 - Are You Taking Action Or Waiting On A Miracle?
- Episode 104 - How Hypervigilance Can Ruin Your Career
- Episode 103 - Dear Mentors
- Episode 99 - Creating Quality Work Amidst Chaos
- Episode 100 - Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 1
- Episode 94 - Finding Your Career Spark In 2023
- Episode 97 - What's Missing In Academic Leadership
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, we embark on an illuminating journey through creating a lucrative career alongside academic medicine.
Tune in as Kemi and Dr. Shirlene Obuobi share their personal experiences, challenge the boundaries of conventional thinking and debunk the myth that hobbies and passions should remain separate from one's professional identity.
Dr. Shirlene Obuobi is a Ghanaian-American physician, cartoonist, and author who was raised in various locations, including Chicago, Illinois, Hot Springs, Arkansas, and The Woodlands, Texas. When she is not tending to patients in the hospital, and even sometimes while doing so, she indulges in the art of comic creation, crafting stories on her mobile device, and doting on her trio of feline companions. Her current residence is in Chicago, where she is in the final stages of her cardiology fellowship.
Tune in as they discuss:
- Navigating the perception of creative work and its value in academic medicine
- How they deal with the pressures, demands, and expectations that came with growing success
- Setting and maintaining boundaries as your visibility increases
- How it feels when proximity is more important than authenticity in relationships
- the power of defying stereotypes as Black women in academic medicine
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Obuobi on Twitter @shirleneobuobi, on Instagram @shirlywhirlmd to show her some love and don't forget to explore her monthly column featured in the Washington Post!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
How do high-achievers foster truly reciprocal friendships? Many of us don’t believe they exist because of how often we are doing most of the giving. This episode is your “how to" guide for engaging in high-quality friendships that nurture your own growth.
This is a conversation between Kemi and Monique R. Shields. Monique is an executive coach for women in the C suite, founders, entrepreneurs and women of color in academic medicine and public health.
Listen in as they have an open discussion about intentional conversations that cultivate true tangible support, celebration and cheerleading within their friendship - where both friends feel not only free but also encouraged to celebrate each other's victories in spontaneous, authentic moments.
Highlights from this episode:
- The importance of intentional and high-quality conversations
- Three types of intentional discussions that contribute to the strength of friendship bonds
- The significance of sharing origin stories
- The roles of self-awareness, communication, and genuine enthusiasm
- The prerequisite of self-work for authentic connections
If you loved Monique as much as we do, you can also find her on her new podcast "Ambition Without Compromise" on all major podcast platforms and she's on IG and LinkedIn @moniqueRshields if you'd like to connect more real-time.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Join Kemi as she shares a real-life scenario of unexpected childcare loss and how it prompted her to document the day on Instagram. What started as a glimpse into her life quickly turned into a powerful conversation about productivity, success, and the misconception that high achievers don't face disruptions.
This episode isn't just about managing chaos; it's a deep dive into taking ownership of your time, making intentional decisions, and challenging the notion that productivity means avoiding disruptions altogether. Tune in as Kemi breaks down four crucial steps she took to navigate the day. These four essential steps are a strategic approach to reclaiming control and productivity in the face of unexpected challenges.
If you're ready to dive deeper into these transformative skills, enrollment for the Get That Grant® coaching program is open, providing a unique opportunity to revolutionize your approach to career challenges. Apply now to join a community committed to cultivating resilience and intentional success.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, Kemi addresses an untapped skill: quitting!
We have often given ourself jobs that we don’t consciously realize – and these roles can wreak havoc on your productivity, focus, and ability to make steady career progress. Today, Kemi talks about: The Cleanup Crew, The Happiness Committee, and the Voluntary Accounting Service.
Listen in as Kemi challenges us to resign from these jobs ASAP and redirect our focus to the activities that truly pave the way for a more fulfilling professional journey.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
It's not sexy to talk about sacrifice these days, but we’re going there anyway. In this thought-provoking episode, Kemi shares her personal journey and relationship with sacrifice along her unusual and impactful career journey.
She discusses navigating unpopular decisions both as a traditional academic medicine trainee and later as a non-traditional academic faculty. Taking us behind the scenes in decisions like starting a coaching service, retiring from active surgery, having an unapologetic for-profit enterprise, and focusing only on women of color, she highlights how both sacrifice and investment were required to stay true to her values.
This episode is a powerful reminder that embracing discomfort and committing to growth can lead to extraordinary rewards, even when others don't fully understand your choices. And it's an invitation to reconsider your own path and the vital role that investment and sacrifice play in creating an extraordinary and fulfilling life.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Edwards is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine (BUSM). She maintains a clinical practice in hematology at Boston Medical Center (BMC) with a specific research interest in plasma cell disorders such as systemic immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis. She is committed to improving the care of vulnerable patient populations using her translational research platform to address unanswered questions encountered in clinical care.
After internal medicine residency, she completed a hematology and oncology fellowship at BUSM/BMC, obtaining rigorous training through the comprehensive cancer center and the world-renowned BU Amyloidosis Center. Her current research, a collaboration with the Center for Regenerative Medicine (CReM) and BU Amyloidosis Center, focuses on using novel disease models for hematologic malignancies to study the earliest signs of disease, test treatments and develop the most promising therapeutic agents for clinical trials.
She is an active mentor for students and residents, has a strong passion for teaching and mentoring trainees, and is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as she shares her transformative journey from disempowerment and disillusionment in academia to a profound shift in perspective and
- the importance of finding one's purpose even after knowing your scientific interests
- What she learned is required to serve a larger mission effectively
- Transforming empathy, from sacrificial and boundaryless, to self-empowering
- What being the best version of herself began to look like externally
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Edwards on Twitter @CamilleVEdwards, on Instagram @camillevedwards2023, and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
As high achievers, we are driven by an automatic need to meet external expectations while balancing the pressure to prove ourselves with a NARROW margin of error.
In this episode, Kemi emphasizes the importance of disentangling our intrinsic desires from the checkboxes and expectations set by others. She encourages us to embark on a journey toward a more fulfilling and sustainable career. To do this, she challenges us to ask ourselves a powerful question. This question serves as a compass for uncovering genuine desires beyond external definitions of success. Tune in to learn more.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Welcome back to the show! Listen in as Kemi explores a fascinating topic—building self-trust.
You may be very familiar with the tension between not wanting to succumb to external pressures and the innate desire for collaboration and connection with like-minded professionals as this is a journey that resonates deeply with many in academic medicine and public health.
In this episode, Kemi offers a unique and practical strategy that is essential to the journey of self-trust. This subtle but impactful change will activate an INTERNAL ALERT SYSTEM, allowing us to realign our actions with our goals in real-time. Let’s go!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this eye-opening episode, Kemi passionately addresses the prevalent toxic culture in academic medicine and public health. Drawing inspiration from the book "Burn It Down," she unearths how the pursuit of success often leads to tolerance of toxic behavior in the name of results, creating a cycle that normalizes poor management skills, lack of organization, and inadequate communication.
Kemi challenges this paradigm, urging a shift in mindset and emphasizing the crucial role of personal and professional development in preparing individuals for leadership positions. Tune into this thought-provoking episode for an empowering discussion on reshaping the narrative in academic medicine and public health.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
This episode serves as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to optimize their career journey, find balance, and achieve long-term success!
Tune in as Kemi delves into the concept of "patching the leaks" in your career. Using a metaphor of filling a pitcher, Kemi encourages us to examine our workloads, assess our energy drains, and make intentional choices to improve our career experiences.
Don't miss this episode if you're seeking actionable strategies to enhance your work-life balance and career fulfillment.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Karlene Cunningham is a health psychologist and clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at Brody School of Medicine. In the department, she wears several hats, including being the interim co-director of the Behavioral Medicine Division, the vice chair of diversity inclusion for the department, and the chair for all of the departments at the School of Medicine. But her passion lies in her work of directing the SHARE2 Lab, which stands for Sexual Health And Reproductive Equity Engagement Lab. Her lab is where she uses a reproductive justice lens to conceptualize the gaps in perinatal mental health research, trains healthcare learners to center patient needs, and works toward improving systems/structures that care for birthing people, especially those who are birthing in rural contexts.
She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin to learn more about Karlene’s journey into coaching and the profound shift she experienced through our Get That Grant® coaching program:
- Recognizing the power of language and framing in academic research
- Approaching the struggle of overworking as a trauma response
- How she personally internalized rest as a form of resistance and empowerment
- The tangible impact of isolation on her career and the importance of finding the right community
- The value of taking one's time and savoring the content while embarking on the journey of transformation through coaching
Loved this convo? You can find more information about Dr. Karlene Cunningham and her important work on her lab's website, https://www.share2lab.com. Also, please go find Dr. Cunningham on Twitter @DrKarleneCunni1 and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this week's episode, Kemi continues her exploration of the faculty researcher and PI journey, focusing on a critical yet often overlooked aspect—the challenging seasons.
With a mix of personal anecdotes and coaching insights, she reveals the normalcy of these tough phases and urges us to acknowledge that we are not alone in facing them. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing these challenges as a natural part of the journey, remembering that they are temporary, and, most crucially, prioritizing self-care.
The message is clear: if you're currently navigating a tough season, this episode offers invaluable guidance to help you emerge stronger and more resilient. Don't miss it!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Calling all PIs and aspiring PIs – this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in as Kemi walks us through the four essential phases of executing a project. You’ll hear her discuss the importance of not letting regret lead us to disrespect our prior efforts. Instead, we explore how to honor our work like a treasured keepsake, even if it's time to put it on the shelf. Remember, the end of one project is just the beginning of new possibilities and future endeavors.
So grab your notepad and reflect on your projects – where do they stand? Then join in on this profound exploration of leadership and the fulfilling, ever-evolving journey of a PI.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Welcome back to the show, folks! You are in for a frank and enlightening conversation about a common scenario that many of us have found ourselves in. You know the situation: a friend rambles on about someone being head over heels for them, while you can see all the red flags waving. Well, it's time to apply the same scrutiny to our institutions.
It's that awkward dance when someone or something appears to be fully supportive, but deep down, it's just a mirage. In this episode, Kemi explores why this disconnect occurs, the necessity of facing the truth, and offers practical advice for navigating such situations.
Press play and let’s get started with aligning our actions with reality!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Say goodbye to overwhelm and hello to focused success! In this episode, Kemi reveals the surprising path to productivity.
Tune in as she takes us on a transformative journey through the power of intentional choices by sharing how this "choose less, do more" approach can lead to astonishing results, where quality work and fulfillment become the norm.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Sheila Rajagopal received her M.D. at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, during which she also received an M.P.H. in quantitative methods with a focus on genetic epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health. She completed her internal medicine residency training at the University of Pittsburgh, a fellowship in hematology/oncology, and an additional fellowship year focused on cancer genetics at the University of Chicago, where she received an M.Sc. in biomedical informatics. She is currently a physician-scientist early investigator at the National Cancer Institute, where her lab studies how genetic data collected in routine oncology (including inherited and tumor sequencing) can be better used to refine predicting response to cancer treatment and patient outcomes.
She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as we delve into Sheila's journey, her unique areas of expertise, and the valuable insights she gained from coaching:
- Navigating major challenges in the job search
- A significant breakthrough in the coaching program that involved identifying her “resistance mechanisms”
- How she adopted an iterative approach to personal development and detaching from the notion of personal failure as a high achiever
- How setting aside Get That Grant® time on her schedule even post-program allows her to continue implementing the coaching tools and practices in her daily life
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Rajagopal on Twitter @tardistraveller and show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
On this week's episode, Kemi reflects on a recent coaching group's quarterly gameplan call, revealing how high-achieving women of color in academic medicine and public health consistently navigate setbacks and emerge stronger.
Listen in as Kemi shares the game-changing approach to setting goals, aligning intentions, and achieving meaningful milestones that drive your career forward.
Ready to discover the art of making tangible, irreversible progress, even when faced with unexpected challenges? Let's go!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
This week we are continuing our conversation on the significance of setting standards to achieve sustainable success aligned with our career mission.
Don't miss out on this empowering discussion as Kemi shares how to discover the keys to recognizing toxic mentor relationships, embracing change, and achieving sustainable success in your career journey.
If you missed Part 1, be sure to catch up for even more valuable insights. Episode 121: Creating Effective Mentor Relationships Part 1.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, Kemi discusses the significance of setting standards to achieve sustainable success aligned with our career mission.
She explains that the key to effective mentor relationships lies in honesty and clear communication. By being specific about their needs and expectations, mentees can assess the quality of the relationship and ensure it supports their growth. This is also true for mentors!!
Tune in and discover the power of building meaningful mentor/mentees connections.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
This episode is all about the intersection of motherhood and ambition, particularly for high-achieving Black women!
We are so excited to welcome Dr. Tamorah Lewis to the podcast! Dr. Lewis is a physician-scientist (MD PhD), Division Head for Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at SickKids in Toronto, Canada and is a proud mother of three children, Quinton (13), Lydia (10), and Elijah (6).
Listen in as Kemi and Tamorah discuss the intricacies of balancing ambition and motherhood. They emphasize the importance of nurturing emotional intelligence, self-worth, and character in their children while recognizing the value of building a supportive village to help them thrive.
Highlights from this episode:
- Redefining success as a working mother
- Challenges and triumphs of motherhood
- The power of representing Black culture
- The evolving parent-child relationship
- Rejecting the "Either/Or" narrative and embracing multidimensional roles as working mothers
If you enjoyed this conversation with Tamorah as much as we do, head over to Twitter @TamorahLewisMD and show her some love!
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
We are naturally in professions where the culture is that the “ends justify the means.” We actually prize people who will put their comfort, their sleep, their family secondhand, and just work, work, work, work, work. This can be a very noble characteristic, but it's not sustainable.
To get to a point in which our work is sustainable and very much aligned with our career mission, we simply cannot be afraid to have STANDARDS. We need them!
Tune in as Kemi shares how we can structure our own excellence by creating and enforcing standards around how we work.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Cultivating a self-leadership mindset is a crucial part of building a successful career on your terms.
In this episode, Kemi revisits her concept of the CEO, the Scientist, and the Worker Bee and offers clear insight into how 1) they impact our success and 2) how we can organize them in order to make the important shifts to up-level our careers.
For more on this topic check out our previous episode: Episode 02: The CEO, Scientist, and Worker Bee.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
“If I achieve this, then I will have balance, enjoyment, freedom, and flexibility in my career.” Sound familiar? The sneaky underbelly of this statement is that achievement comes first, then your well-being comes after…
When important things like balance, enjoyment, and freedom are nice to have but not required in our day to day, they will always come last or not at all. And success will always be synonymous with sacrifice.
High achievers, it's time we detox from this mindset!
Tune in as Kemi invites us to decouple success from suffering and offers strategies for how to do this.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
J. Deanna Wilson, MD, MPH, is an Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Community Health. Dr. Wilson's research interests include reducing substance use-related health disparities, with an emphasis on opioid use disorders in adolescent and adult populations. This includes integrating harm reduction into primary care settings, developing low threshold models of care to improve engagement and retention of historically marginalized and racially and ethnically minoritized populations, and improving resilience and coping using mindfulness as a strategy to mitigate chronic pain.
She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- Striking a balance between the work that has to be done and what you desire to do
- How she transformed the academic environment she was in to give her space to do her most satisfying work
- What caused her grant writing process to evolve from suffering to enjoyment
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Wilson on Twitter @DrDeannaWilson and show her some love!
Our struggle with boundaries is so often about using the wrong tool at the wrong time.
Tune in as Kemi highlights a critical piece of effective boundary setting – our identities – and discusses how this root orientation can either enforce or dissolve boundaries!
For more on this topic check out Episode 16: Creating Effective Boundaries in Your Career.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
When it comes to asking for help we often do everything but actually ask. This makes sense in a passive-aggressive culture of academics. While this is understandable why it happens, it doesn't have to be this way.
Listen in as Kemi offers insights on the things that we should think about when we plan to ask for help to improve the quality of our information gathering and, ultimately, our success.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Crooks is an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, College of Nursing and an affiliate faculty at the Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science (CDIS) in the UIC Department of Medicine. Her community-engaged research program centers on protecting Black female sexual and reproductive health. She has developed a conceptual model describing the sociocultural processes and conditions influencing Black female sexual development and STI/HIV risk funded by the NIH (F31NR016624). She recently created the IMARA for Black Male Caregivers And Girls Empowerment (IMAGE) program, which engages Black male caregivers in the protection of Black girls to reduce early sexual engagement, sexual violence, and STI/HIV risk.
Dr. Crooks’ other research projects focus on developing a measure to identify girls at risk for early sexual debut, sexual trauma, and STI/HIV, improving Black maternal health, and health outcomes among sex workers in Chicago.
She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How she fell victim to burnout and who came to the rescue
- What it looked like for her to set and hold boundaries for herself
- A pivotal moment in the coaching application process that solidified her decision to join the cohort
- When transparency and vulnerability became key ingredients to her success
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
The concept of ‘fundable ideas’ is both an important component of understanding grant strategy and a nebulous barrier rife with bias. Listen in as Kemi offers thoughts as to how Fundable Ideas applies to researchers with marginalized perspectives and topics - often the case for women of color in academic medicine or public health.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Today's conversation is about a very juicy topic, collaborations. And this is not going to be a surface-level discussion. Kemi and her guest, Dr. Whitney Robinson, are going all in!
Dr. Robinson is an Epidemiologist whose work focuses on gynecologic conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, and unexplained bleeding. She is also a very devoted podcast listener and an amazing collaborator.
If you're ready to be inspired to have better collaborations, then listen in as Kemi and Whitney break the mold of what we typically think about what a collaboration really entails so that you can have a more fulfilling experience.
Highlights from this episode:
- What are collaborations with heart
- Kemi and Whitney's collaboration story
- Elements of a successful collaboration
- Establishing trust for an effective collaboration
- How you can work through disagreements with mutual respect
- The importance of feedback around the work and also the collaborative relationship
If you loved Dr. Robinson as much as we do, you can also find her on Twitter @WhitneyEpi to connect more real-time.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
So many faculty have worked so hard for so long, created so much benefit, and poured into mentees, yet they don't get to experience the actual enjoyment of their career.
This may have been your experience, or you’ve witnessed it with a colleague. Listen, we can have better. There is more available.
In this episode, Kemi shares that when you want better balance and don’t see immediate improvement, this quickly turns into no longer believing that what we truly desire in our career is really possible. There is an underlying reason why we aren't seeing the kind of progress we want to see in our career expansion – and it has to do with your learning style!
Tune in as she reveals the internal problem that results in stagnation when searching for work-life balance and how to dig ourselves out of that place.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Leslie Appiah is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Chief of the Division of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado. She is a fellowship-trained pediatric and adolescent gynecologist and Director of the Fertility Preservation and Reproductive Late Effects program at the Comprehensive Cancer Center and Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.
Dr. Appiah’s clinical and research interests include team science and outcomes research in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult fertility preservation, reproductive late effects in cancer survivorship, and hormone replacement therapy in the medically complex patient. She is passionate about improving the health of girls and women so that they may pursue life, career, and education unencumbered by reproductive health concerns. She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How to say NO with pleasure, peace, and confidence as a leader with many varying responsibilities
- How keying into her energy balance has improved her productivity and leadership ability
- How she finally shifted away from the strategy she learned in every other coaching experience and found greater balance AND impact
- Her advice to mid and senior-level academics thinking about coaching and want to experience a similar transformation as she did
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Appiah and show her some love on Twitter @DrLeslieAppiah and Instagram @drleslieappiah
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
There is a part of academic culture that says we do this all for the greater good therefore, if we're too focused on finances and money, then somehow, we are not pure to the calling.
Don't fall for the okey-doke of the academic culture y’all. Don't fall for it.
Understand that the steps that you take to improve yourself as a faculty member, to improve your own relationship with work, and to improve how you work, can have tangible and direct financial returns for you.
In this episode, Kemi is going to explicitly outline this link and talk about the financial return on investment of academic career development coaching.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
The truth is that for high-achieving WOC, betting on ourselves is the norm. We have gone through training programs, spent six figures of debt getting degrees, etc. But that kind of betting on ourselves is structured and normalized to the point we don’t even see it as risky.
In this episode, Kemi is challenging us to think about how we can bet on ourselves in terms of choosing to want something different that takes us deeper into our work, which may not have all the checkmarks or gold stars of the traditional path.
Listen in as she talks through the need to build our own structure around risk endeavors, and feeling confident and comfortable that it makes sense for us - even if it doesn't make sense to anybody else.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
We are so excited to welcome back Monique R. Shields to the podcast! Monique is an executive coach for women in the C suite, founders, entrepreneurs, and women of color in academic medicine and public health.
Listen in as Kemi and Monique have an open conversation about some of the themes, challenges, and perspectives they’ve personally experienced or seen from coaching women of color in academic medical settings.
Highlights from this episode:
- The challenges with money for WOC in academics and corporate
- The harmony and distinctions in performance assessment in academics vs. corporate
- Gaining clarity on the definition of what support looks like in your career
- Why mediocrity is so pronounced in these industries
- How training programs can help to address leadership concerns
- The significant difference between a WOC who is an entrepreneur, in corporate or in academic medicine
If you loved Monique as much as we do, you can also find her on her new podcast "Ambition Without Compromise" on all major podcast platforms and she's on IG and LinkedIn @moniqueRshields if you'd like to connect more in real-time.
And if you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Dr. Arora graduated from the University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, Texas, and completed her Internal Medicine Residency and Medical Hematology and Oncology Fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. She holds the John Eiler Endowed Professorship in Cancer Research and is an Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology/Oncology, at UT Health San Antonio.
As a medical oncologist, her clinical and research specialty is in hepatobiliary cancers, focusing on drug development in patient populations that are typically underrepresented, such as older patients, Latinos, and patients with liver dysfunction. She is also an alumnus of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- What wasn't working in her career that led her to apply to our Get That Grant® coaching program
- Becoming aware of career isolation and mapping out a plan to build a community of support
- The incremental shifts she experienced that radically transformed how she approach her career
- How letting go of what's not serving you is you taking action on the belief that things could be better
- What she has now in her academic life that she didn't have before coaching
- Her advice to anyone thinking about coaching and want to experience a similar transformation as she did
Loved this convo? Please go find Dr. Arora on Twitter @DrSukeshiArora and show her some love!
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Being “First Only Different” doing the kind of work that we do comes with a needed level of hypervigilance. It’s necessary so that we can be sure that we are not experiencing what otherwise would be a default: lower quality support, pay, space, etc.
However, the longer we do that, the easier it bleeds into places it doesn’t belong.
If we're constantly having to keep tabs and make sure that we are being supported or we're getting paid appropriately, part of our routine habits includes paying too much attention to what everybody else is doing with their careers. This is a problem!
Listen in as Kemi explains why this is a problem and how hypervigilance is actively ruining your progress toward a sane career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Episode References:New England Journal of Medicine Article: Structural Solutions for the Rarest of the Rare — Underrepresented-Minority Faculty in Medical Subspecialties
Mentorship is a valuable aspect of academic medicine. And although mentors and mentorship are not perfect, it's impossible to be successful with no mentorship. That would be a mess!
So, this episode is directly for the Mentors. We thank you. We appreciate you.
And also, some of y'all need HELP.
This episode is about starting that conversation about help. Listen in as Kemi sheds some light on what she has learned from coaching mid and senior-career faculty around the challenges that make it harder to access the help, the shifts, and the strategy that you desire in order to make a significant change in how you operate in your career.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
Episode References:
EP. 82 Stop Adapting to Survive
Despite the fact that it's normal to grow and change over the course of our lives and careers, the culture of academic medicine is not built in ANY WAY to reflect this.
We spend at least 7 years going from medical school to training to faculty and all the way through it’s reinforced over and over that once we make the transition to faculty, that's it - the last transition.
The norm and the expectation is that we're going to stay in clinical medicine and love it until the day we retire.
If that’s you? Great! AND - for those of you who feel like there is something wrong with you because you are ready to do less clinical work, this episode is for you.
Listen in as Kemi shares insights on how she went through this process and opens up the conversation as to why transitioning from clinical work should be normalized.
If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations.
In this episode, we are continuing our conversation from Episode 100:Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 1.
Kemi is back in the hot seat, being interviewed by her friend and incredible executive coach, Monique Shields of Seven Pines Leadership. And this week Kemi is revealing a secret pleasure project that’s in the works.
Join in as Kemi steps further into vulnerability and shares
- Her secret pleasure project
- Her resolve and how it has evolved over time
- Why she choose to pursue this current project and who it’s for
- How therapy has played a role in her journey to self-awareness
- How being adaptable has served her
- A specific encounter in her career and how it transformed her
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go! Don’t be shy, it’s #vulnerability season.
If you loved Monique as much as we do, you can also find her on her new podcast "Ambition Without Compromise" launching March 29th on all major podcast platforms and she's on IG and LinkedIn @moniqueRshields if you'd like to connect more real-time.
🎧 🎙Episode 101: Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 2. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
It's a celebration y’all!! We are celebrating our 100th episode of the Your Unapologetic Career Podcast.
Thank you all for listening to the podcast and sharing it with your peeps. This is as much your celebration as it is ours, so thank you. We appreciate your continued support.
To celebrate, we have a special treat for you. Kemi is taking the hot seat and is being interviewed by her friend and incredible executive coach, Monique Shields of Seven Pines Leadership. This conversation is so good!
In an exercise in vulnerability and personal growth, Kemi peels back the layers of her journey and shares
- Her secret sauce for intentional community building
- Her views around her big dreams
- Why she is leaning further into vulnerability
- What she expects to gain from the exercise in public vulnerability
Have a topic you want Kemi to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go! Don’t be shy, it’s #vulnerability season.
If you loved Monique as much as we do, you can also find her on her new podcast "Ambition Without Compromise" launching March 29th on all major podcast platforms and she's on IG and LinkedIn @moniqueRshields if you'd like to connect more real-time.
🎧 🎙Episode 100: Unapologetically Vulnerable: Kemi's Interview Part 1. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Creating quality work in our careers is a goal that we all have. But how do we do that consistently?
Kemi defines it as work that is intentionally impactful to the people, audience, and place that you desire it to be. And that this impact is durable so that people can go back to it repeatedly and still experience its power.
In this episode, Kemi shares the components required to create quality work and how to consistently produce this level of work and not have it feel like luck.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙Episode 99: Creating Quality Work Amidst Chaos. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
ENCORE EPISODE! I don’t know about y’all but I never learned how to quit anything in academic medicine. And yet, unless you have some kind of 100% perfect “No” response from the minute you started on faculty, you likely have at least 1 thing on your plate that just needs to go. Knowing it needs to go doesn’t mean you are any closer to quitting – because that’s just not what we do.
It’s not about not knowing what to write in the email, we have to go deeper.
In this episode, Kemi talks about the consequences of not learning how to let go, how to quit, when you really need to and walks you through 4 steps to let something go today.
Have a topic you want her to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 98: {ENCORE} Learning How To Quit. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
There are many norms around leadership and managing people, yet there are no norms around self-management. It’s true for academics and beyond.
Why is this important? Because the skill of self-management is a major component of a successful leader.
Listen in as Kemi shares her own experience with various leadership roles, why an expert level of self-management is required to be an effective leader, and the key features of self-management that show up fully in leadership.
Have a topic you want her to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 97: What's Missing in Academic Leadership. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
It's not surprising that as women of color in academic medicine and public health, a lot of us have the experience of being the first person of color in our division or department or doing the kind of work we're doing. We know and live this, right?
When discussing this experience of being “first, only, or different,” we're talking about it from an identity perspective, which is incredibly critical, but this is just ONE kind of being first.
There's another kind of being first. There's the kind of being first around your behavior and how you approach navigating your career differently.
In this episode, Kemi shares four very specific ways that you could be first at how you're approaching/behaving in your career and how to manage resistance and deep discomfort when doing so. Let's Go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 96: How To Survive Being A Different Kind of "First". Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Barnes is an Assistant Professor in Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Delaware. Her research examines the social-emotional well-being of minoritized populations. She has published papers in several journals including Infant and Child Development, the Journal of School Violence, Aggression and Violent Behavior, and Beyond Behavior. She is the creator of the Scholarly Self-Care podcast and is the 2021 recipient of the Joseph E. Zins Award for SEL Research from the Collaborative for Academic Social and Emotional Learning. She is also an alumna of our Get That Grant® coaching program!
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- What drew her to apply to our Get That Grant® coaching program as an education researcher
- How she felt the Get That Grant® program could lend support with the next phase of her career as she approached tenure approval
- The strategies she has learned that are game-changers for her career experience
- Why she has more confidence in her “NOs” to opportunities that don't align with her work regardless of who is asking
- The radical difference she has noticed with grant writing pre and post our Get That Grant® coaching program
- Her advice to education researchers who are thinking about joining Get That Grant® (SPOILER: Shoot your shot sis!)
If you loved this convo, please go find Dr. Barnes on Twitter @drtianbarnes and show her some love!
We are talking today about how to find our career spark in 2023.
Kemi defines career spark as the connection to a sense of possibility and growth for the future. This is something that we all want.
BUT - how do we know what our career spark is? And once we’ve found it, how do we protect it?
Listen in as Kemi walks us through three steps to finding our career spark and keeping it alive for ourselves.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 94: Finding Your Career Spark In 2023. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
When we want our entire experience to change, we will do something odd: we will want that deeply... while sitting around hoping it happens. Instead of considering the usually inconvenient things that we know work...we will just wait for a miracle.
That's not how change works and we are about to get dragged! LOL
Listen in as Kemi challenges us to create the experience we want in our careers by answering this question for ourselves: Rather than waiting on a miracle– are you doing what you know is required to get the result you are looking for?
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 93: Are You Taking Action Or Waiting On A Miracle? Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
**We’re taking you back to an oldie, but a goodie, one of our top episodes of 2021, and a forever skill to help you bring ownership to your time and energy. {ENCORE}
We all do this. We know we do it, but it’s still so hard to stop. Or we have gotten much better with our Nos, but it’s still painful and energy-draining to execute. Yet, we know we have to say No – a LOT more.
This week Kemi tackles one of the biggest self-imposed causes of overwhelm. When we stack our schedule with things we don’t actually want to be a part of, we lose time and we compound resentment. This cycle has to stop!
Listen in as Kemi walks us through 4 common scenarios that have us uttering “Yes”, when we really mean “No.” And she doesn't just identify them, she walks us through 4 interventions we can make right away.
This is the kind of value that keeps on giving so take a listen today!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 92 {ENCORE} 4 Ways To Stop Saying Yes When You Really Mean No.
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!**
As we begin a new year, there are usually some things that we declare that we don't want to be the same at the end of next year.
Whether that thing is tangible or not, what we're trying to do is engineer a transformation so that we have a different experience in our careers.
This is excellent - and it is important to identify for ourselves the actual experience that we want to have while changing. Because the process of engineering that kind of change looks very different than just racing towards checking boxes off of the to-do list.
In this episode, Kemi will walk us through what that looks like and offer a structure for engineering transformational change in our career experience.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 Episode 91: Engineering Change In Your Career Experience. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
As women of color in academic medicine, public health, and allied fields, we simultaneously have the following qualities: 1) a desire to serve the greater good and 2) a strong interest in tangible productivity. Because of this, it's common to feel like we lose ourselves in our work.
The reason for this is that the academic culture is effective at taking what's already there - our desire to serve and our desire to have tangible productivity - and exploit them in the absence of anything else.
In this episode, Kemi shares how academic culture hijacks our sense of SELF and how we can reclaim our sense of SELF in our careers.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙90 Reclaiming Your Sense of SELF in Your Career. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Our Top 10 most popular episodes of 2022 and some behind the scenes of how they came to be.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙{Bonus} Top 10 Episodes of 2022. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Michelle Ogunwole is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She is a health disparities researcher, social epidemiologist, and General Internal Medicine physician additionally boarded in obesity medicine and lifestyle medicine.
Dr. Ogunwole’s research focuses on racial disparities in maternal health among African American women with a specific interest in African American women's experience within the healthcare system and barriers to follow-up after pregnancy. Her clinical work focuses on managing chronic disease in the preconception and postpartum period, particularly for women with medically complicated pregnancies that confer elevated future cardiovascular risk. Her quality improvement efforts center around transitions of care from obstetrics to primary care for historically marginalized populations who experience medically complicated pregnancies. She is also an alumna of our Get That Grant coaching program!
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How coaching has given her clarity and motivation regarding the next best move in her career after checking “all the boxes” and feeling stuck
- The tools that have empowered her to work through moments of overwhelm
- The shifts that she has experienced in her thoughts around handling things outside of your control
- The value of curating a space where you can openly celebrate your wins and work through challenges in community with like-minded people
- How to slow down from chasing gold stars and dig deep to understand what you want and need so you can get back to a place where you feel peaceful and excited about your career again
If you loved this convo, please go find Dr. Ogunwole on Twitter and IG @drchellmd and show her some love!
Being overwhelmed is a common feeling for faculty who engage in research as a big part of their role.
As we approach the end of the year, we begin to have thoughts about all the places we thought we would be versus where we actually are. Add to that the holiday season to-do list and festivities and it’s the perfect recipe for feeling out of control at a time when you want to just relax and ease into the end of the year.
Being able to get to a place where you can recognize and then manage your way out of overwhelm is a key professional and personal development skill that you want to be able to learn and then hone for yourself.
In this episode, Kemi shares three tangible action steps you can take to decrease overwhelm.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙88 Taking Steps out of Overwhelm. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Mya Roberson is a social epidemiologist, health services researcher, and assistant professor. She is also an Associate Editor of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at JAMA Dermatology and a Board Member Trustee at Brown University.
In 2021, she completed her Ph.D. in Epidemiology at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health where she was a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Research Scholar and a Truman Scholar (PA 2015). Her research interests are in applying epidemiologic methods to health services research to promote health equity using big data. She is especially interested in equity in cancer care delivery for Black people in the US South. She is also an alumna of our Get That Grant coaching program!
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How coaching has given her strategy, execution, and discernment to be able to achieve her BIG goals in a more feasible way that worked out both personally and professionally
- How her experience with overwhelm shifted once opportunities were in alignment with her purpose
- Her newfound courage to pursue the career she desires even if it means creating something that she hasn't seen before
- Becoming BOLD in her asks by owning her value
- Her message to the Ph.D. non-clinical folks out there wondering if they would benefit from joining our Get That Grant coaching program (Spoiler Alert: Girl, yes! In this program, Public Health is not an afterthought)
If you loved this convo, please go find Dr. Roberson on Twitter @MyaLRoberson and show her some love!
It's been nearly a year in the making......
Introducing our Get That Grant Program Coaches! These are fantastic, accomplished faculty in their own right who all went through Get That Grant themselves as clients. They are now trained Program Coaches and excited to help other women of color faculty get free.
Listen in for:
WHO these amazing ladies are...
WHY they decided to move from client to coach...
REAL TALK on what's challenging about coaching in Get That Grant...
Their FAVORITE coaching moments thus far...
And what may be next!
Kemi also opens up about her journey of being ready to hire coaches and expand her reach. This is a great BTS episode to check out!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙86 Introducing the Get That Grant Program Coaches!. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
This episode is a beautiful story of Kemi’s career evolution.
Listen in as Kemi describes how for her 40th birthday, she read through her journals from the previous two decades, reflecting on all the changes and growth she has experienced. She shares the importance of taking time to journal and set clear intentions for your time and your life.
Often we disregard the "underneath progress" (the growth of our roots) and only focus on the flowers. Meaning, we start counting our efforts based on when it was visible and discount the things we wrestled with to cause the bloom in the first place. This is why it is easy to undervalue ourselves and edit down our true value and potential, even when we feel like we're moving from a very empowered space.
Let's rewrite the story of where things started for us because all of that internal work, all of that struggle - all of that, counts! Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙85 Learning From 20 Years of Journals. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
There is a theme in academic medicine that rolls around annually where newbies start tweeting questions like how are you all doing all these meetings and still getting your work done or how do you balance XYZ?
This is definitely the culture of academic medicine, yet every year it feels like a new problem where we just woke up and realized that the way that the academic culture is set up is not actually designed for anybody to be able to functionally do all of the things within the time given.
Think about how powerful a culture must be that it is so deeply dysfunctional yet we are all on the train.
Listen in as Kemi dissects the power of academic culture and how we can flip it around for ourselves.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙84 Flipping The Power of Academic Culture. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
A main ingredient in creating your unapologetic career is clarity.
We have established review and evaluation processes for gaining clarity around the more tangible things we do for our jobs but what does this look like for the other things that we constantly bring up difficult such as:
- organization
- time management
- navigating politics and power
- optimizing mentor and leader relationships
- developing your vision into actual tangible goals, ETC.
All of these things are available to learn, integrate, and master. In this episode, Kemi is helping us get a little bit more clear about how we assess ourselves and our progress by sharing a self-assessment tool that might be helpful for you as you move from learning to mastery of your career experience. Let’s go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙83 Career Skills Development: From Learning to Mastery. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Adapting to survive in the insane structures of academic medicine and public health is a superpower. However, when you adapt to survive in your careers, you are recreating the exact circumstances that you do not want. In this episode, Kemi calls for you to stop using this old strategy to try to create your unapologetic career because it doesn't work.
To be clear, this skill of adapting is not a bad thing. It got you really far to where you are. She simply wants you to be able to update your strategies to match what you actually want in your life and career - by adapting to THRIVE instead. Listen in as she shares how to make this shift. Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙82 Stop Adapting to Survive. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Being in cycles of disappointment is exhausting. But we high achievers often create and sustain them unknowingly, because they are linked to how we succeed in the first place. When what you use to be successful - which is learning what people's expectations are of you, and going hard and crushing it - trying not to do that feels insane. So, we’ll disappoint ourselves instead, then try to make up for that – and launch the cycle. End the madness!
There is another option, listen in as Kemi explains what that option is and why this approach leads to growth and freedom. Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙81 Breaking Cycles of Disappointment. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Toyosi Onwuemene is an Assistant Professor of Medicine-Hematology at Duke University School of Medicine and has clinical and research interests in hemostasis/thrombosis and therapeutic apheresis. Her long-term goal is to develop and run therapeutic apheresis multi-center trials with a focus on applications of therapeutic plasma exchange in thrombotic disorders which disproportionately affect women of color. She is also an alumna of our Get That Grant coaching program!
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How she went about bridging the gaps in the institution to allow for progression in her career
- Her introduction to ‘feedback loops ‘and how that has transformed her perception of her work
- Her purpose mantra and how it has impacted how she educates peers and mentees about hematology
- The result of leading with her value by bringing the secret projects to the front line
If you loved this convo, please go find Dr. Onwuemene on Instagram + YouTube (@Coagcoach) and show her some love!
There are two very powerful characteristics that are admirable in high-achieving women of color faculty in academic medicine and public health: 1) a dogged determination to get things done and 2) a private, inner working world These same two reasons can also cause so much pain, challenge, and frustration for you and your career. In this episode, Kemi celebrates these characteristics and shares how they can be transformed into tools that can be used in service of you, your own freedom, and building the career that you want.
Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙79 How High Achievers Can Flip The Script. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Relationships have the power to both help you grow and stunt your growth. That is why discerning between healthy and unhealthy professional relationships is an important skill. In this episode, Kemi discusses frenemy energy. What it is, how it shows up, how to discern it, and how you can minimize the impact of it on your professional life and the career moves you're trying to make. Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙78 Discerning True Supporters from Frenemy Energy. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Unpopular opinion: successful integrated research careers and the folks who get successfully funded don’t just get there by luck. There is a gap between the dream academic medicine sells and the reality of the research training, or lack thereof, that is provided. As a field, Kemi would like us to stop lying about that gap.
Listen in this week for why Kemi thinks it’s critical to tell people the truth about the kinds of careers they are and are not prepared for and how that knowledge leads them closer, not farther, from their goals. Time to stop selling the fantasy, folks.
Have a topic you want Kemi to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question and Kemi might just tackle the topic on this show!
🎧 🎙Episode 77: The Academic Bait and Switch. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Ufere is a transplant hepatologist and medicine instructor in the gastroenterology division at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA. Her work focuses on building palliative and supportive care interventions and increasing health care system empathy to improve the quality of life and care for patients with advanced liver disease and their caregivers. She is also an alumnae of our Get That Grant coaching program!
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- How she got away from labeling herself with a job title to getting to the heart of what actually drives her
- The steps she took to ensure that she built a career she loved from the get-go
- The coaching tool that helped her shift how she respects and values her time
- The value she found in the freedom to disappoint people on behalf of her goals
- The coaching fundamental that has led to her obtaining true productivity precision
- What it looked like to view her grant as an informational pathway instead of judgment on her own value (spoiler alert: she #gotthegrant!)
If you loved this convo, please go find Dr. Nneka on Twitter (@NnekaUfereMD) and show her some love!
We are finally recognizing the importance of ongoing active professional development for faculty to grow their skills, self-awareness, and ability to take action toward their goals. Fortunately, coaching is gaining traction in academic medicine and public health - and I think this is a good thing, especially for women of color.
Still, I want you to be skeptical about coaching. Spoiler alert, I am not about to extol all the reasons why you need to make sure you have an uber-certified coach. Instead, I’m sharing HOW to identify a coaching experience that is designed to help you have an effective transformation.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙75 Why you should be skeptical of coaching! Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
There is this thing that is baked into so much of our experiences and the culture of academics where the expectation is that if you're ever going to be high achieving, ideally, you need to be perfect. Your point needs to be perfect. Your presentation needs to be flawless. Your paper needs to be invulnerable to critique. And - that's just not possible.
Yes, this is a very strong motivator but it’s a strong motivator that has multiple consequences including stress, anxiety, and distraction from the work you showed up to do.
So let's let go of perfectionism and embrace excellence instead. Listen in to learn more.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙74 Excellence vs. Perfection. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Weeks is a physician and scientist at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA. She is passionately driven to study the prediction of myeloid malignancies or acute leukemias in people who have precursor conditions. She is also an advocate and peer-educator on issues of racial justice and health equity and she currently serves as co-chair on the anti-racism task force for the American Society of Hematology. She is a junior faculty mentor for the “Dismantling Inequities in Medicine” Internal Medicine Residency mentorship group at Brigham and Women’s Hospital as well as an alumnae of our Get That Grant coaching program.
Listenin as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- Why the transition from medical school to residency to fellowship to faculty left her feeling like she was pushed off of a conveyor belt
- How she was able to pursue multiple passions in her career by building her OWN table
- What allowed her to gain clarity on her purpose so she could open space to actually do the work that was more meaningful to her
- What led to her experiencing joy in her career success rather than sacrifice
- The transition from finding somebody new to lead you versus discovering yourself as the leader
If you loved this convo, please go find Lachelle on Twitter (@Lachelle_Dawn), IG (@Dr.Lachelle_Dawn), https://www.drlachelledawn.com and show her some love!
This week we are doing a listener letter with a #plottwist. This letter is from a supportive bae wanting to know how he can best support his person! 😍
For us high-achieving women, finding a supportive oasis is rare. And so I’d like to give a special shout-out to all of you who are in those supportive roles. Boos, baes, friends, mamas, cousins - we appreciate you. We need you. And this episode just might help you understand how to support us better.
In this episode, I’ll help shed some light on what we’re going through in our careers and HOW you can best encourage and uplift us.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙72 Supporting Us in Our Academic Careers. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
As high-achieving women of color in academic medicine being able to get done what we want to get done is a priority but we often sabotage this goal with what I’m calling shadow tasks.
These are tasks that we have agreed to do but they don't have space, time, or structure anywhere on our calendar or to-do list. The reason why they are so detrimental to productivity is that the task doesn't actually matter yet they keep us constantly living in this world of vague overwhelm.
Listen in as I share how you can identify these culprits, how they sabotage our productivity, and what to do about them.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙71 How Shadow Tasks Sabotage Your Productivity. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Transitions are not easy but they are necessary for our growth. A common challenge is teasing out whether we still have something to accomplish where we are on our journey or whether we're ready to move on.
This is especially important in academia where the norm is to wait until someone else tells us a transition is due. Here are my thoughts about when YOU know it's time and how to leave effectively.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙70 Transitions Done Well - Step by Step. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Brewer is a preventive cardiologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and a health equity researcher focused on the development of community-based interventions to promote cardiovascular health, in underserved and minoritized racial and ethnic groups. Her work incorporates community-based participatory research approaches and innovative digital health solutions. She is the first African American woman cardiologist in her department (Whoot-Whoot!) - and an alumnae of our Get That Grant coaching program.
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- The experience that led to her becoming a strong advocate of community-based participatory research
- How overwhelm and burnout led to her feeling unfulfilled despite doing work that she loves - and how coaching has helped restore the passion in her work
- What led to the shift in recognizing her value, and owning her feeling of self-worth
- The powerful questions she asks in order to structure her time for maximum efficiency
If you loved this convo, please go find LaPrincess on Twitter (@DrLaPrincess), IG (@alphaprincesa) and show her some love!
Decisions, decisions, decisions. In decision-making, there are two common feelings that lead people to make choices for their careers that they later regret. This matters because the series of decisions we make is the difference between enjoying or suffering through our career.
I want us all to be aware of these two feelings so that we can interrupt the pattern. This episode is short and sweet. And ‘once you know better, you do better.’ Let’s go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙68 The Two Suspects That Cloud Our Judgment. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
When we are struggling to find fulfillment in our work, there is often a disconnect between what we say we want and a scary truth - at the core, we believe what we want is impossible. At the end of the day, we have to make a way out of no way.
So how do you actually do this? Listen in as I offer you four steps to do so. Let's go!
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙67 Making a Way Out of No Way in Your Career. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
You are a high-achieving, bad*ss woman. You work hard and you prove yourself, time and again. And then – first slowly, but then in major ways – you start to feel TRAPPED. How is this happening? Does success mean you have to suffer?
The Talent Trap is real and in many ways is the fossil fuel on which academic medicine runs. But just like fossil fuels, the resource is finite, inefficient, and bad for your health! Take a listen this week and come get free with me.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙66 The Talent Trap of High Achievers. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
When unpleasant things happen, especially interpersonally, a part of us righteously stands up in defense of ourselves. We need to uphold our boundaries and yet the fog of anger can also lead to less than ideal decisions.
So if popping off is not the answer, how do you get out of a space of reacting and into responding?
In this episode, I'll walk you through three steps I take to be unapologetic about my boundaries while not buying more pain in the future.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙65 Reacting vs. Responding in 3 Steps. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Conversations around “stealing ideas” are common in academic medicine, public health, and allied fields. An important question that's often left out of the conversations is why idea theft is even a thing in our field?
In this episode, I talk about a direct link between common advice that we tell our early-career faculty and how it contributes to this culture of "stealing ideas".
I'm offering this into the conversation in hopes that it prompts some reflection for those that are further along in their career to consider changing how we might give advice to those who are starting out. And for those beginning their career, I hope you will be even more courageous in changing the status quo.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙64 Stealing Ideas. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Our faculty titles mean so much, after working so hard to achieve them. Seeing that email signature with “....Professor” next to your name is such a celebration. It’s also quite vague. The same title encompasses many different day-to-day jobs. And therein lies the challenge and the vulnerability. You're really excited to have it, but you're not really doing the work or the research that you came there to do.
**In this episode, we tackle the question of your faculty title vs. what you actually do, and talk about how the answer can help to clarify and improve your experience of your career.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!**
🎧 🎙63 Your Faculty Title vs. What You Actually Do. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
I hope we have all had an experience that seemed downright MAGICAL. The ones where we have no idea how something happened, but it clearly did because the results are undeniable. It’s like magic!
Well, this is often the feedback we get about our coaching program, Get That Grant. When coaching people in the GTG Coaching Program, they're experiencing the coaching but they don't see all that has gone into creating the program. And so the experience can seem magical.
I want to offer that the reason why the experience feels magical is that every single aspect of this coaching program is intentional. Let’s dive in to talk more about this.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙62 The Myth of the Magical Coach. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Melisa Wong is a thoracic medical oncologist and geriatric oncology clinician-investigator at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Melisa’s research aims to transform cancer care for older adults—to help patients clarify their goals and values in the face of uncertainty and support oncologists to keep these truths at the core of the care they provide.
Melisa directs the UCSF Older Adult Cancer Care Program and co-chairs the Cancer and Aging Research Group Health Services Research Core. She is the PI of a National Institute on Aging (NIA) Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leaders Career Development Award in Aging (K76). Prior research funding includes an NIA R03, American Society of Clinical Oncology Young Investigator Award, UCSF KL2, and UCSF Pepper Center Advanced Scholars Award. She is also an alumnae of our Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing coaching client!
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- Having a pandemic baby with no childcare – and surviving
- Maxing out on what she could achieve to avoid burnout on her own (she did a lot!) – and then turning to coaching
- How learning how to make decisions in a new way removed the fear of screwing up
- The counterintuitive process of using planning and goal setting and structure to ADD more flexibility to her day
If you loved this convo, please go find Melisa on Twitter (@melisawongmd) and show her some love!
I have been waiting to talk about this topic for a while and the time is now.
There is a lot of nonsense that gets said to early-career faculty, especially women of color, in academic medicine and public health in the guise of ‘advice’. Lots of it is harmless, but some things are not – they stick, they get under the skin, and it’s not okay.
If you’ve ever heard any of these, I hope this episode is a cleansing balm. Let’s do this.
Have a topic you want me to cover on the podcast? To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙60 Nonsense Disguised as Early Career Advice. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
When the consistent experience of our work as high-achieving women of color faculty in academic medicine is one of challenge, compromise, and struggle, this leads to us having a distorted view of the actual work that we are doing. When we are in that distorted view and we start making decisions, we make terrible decisions.
Please, please, please, don't do this. There is a solution to the distortion. Take a listen and let’s go!
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙59 Protecting Yourself From A Distorted Career Experience. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Autumn Ivy is a physician-scientist and assistant professor on the tenure track at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine. She is clinically trained as a child neurologist and also has a PhD in neurobiology. Her work examines epigenetic mechanisms of early-life exercise, and how that can influence brain development and function with a focus on those mechanisms in disorders of cognition in neurological disorders. She is an alumnae of our (one-time only!) Reclaim Retreat, the Get That Grant coaching program, and ongoing amazing coaching client.
Listen in as we discuss her coaching journey and:
- Seeing ALL of the potential pitfalls and taking what felt like an unconventional career path anyway.
- How she reclaimed the mindset to "center her vision" in the basic science space.
- How gaining clarity of her vision gave her the confidence to no longer question if she is allowed into a space but to instead focus on how she can harness what is around her to support the vision.
- How she learned to trust her own ideas and decision-making skills and now is confident in making sound decisions in service of her vision.
If you loved this convo, please check out Dr. Ivy’s website at www.ivylab.org then go find her on her brand new IG page (@dr_autumnskyeivy) or connect with her on Twitter (@AutumnSkyeIvy) and show her some love!
Who has ever bitten off WAY more than they can chew?! “I said yes to WHAT?!” #Relatable.
When this happens our first instinct is often to put our heads down, focus, and Get It Done By any means. But maybe, you may have started to realize that grinding it out is really not the best tactic.
Here’s what I offer instead. Take a listen and let’s go!
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙57 Biting Off More Than You Can Chew - Tips for Overwhelm. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
In-person conferences are back and while some of us love them, they can be a dreaded event for others.
If you are in the latter camp or would just like some new strategies to help you prepare for conferences, enjoy yourself while there and return home refreshed, then this episode is for you.
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙56 Conference Strategies To Preserve Your Sanity. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
**I've been doing this podcast for a YEAR. Wow.
Reflection is a powerful tool for personal growth. It helps you to not only download your thoughts to clarify what you're actually thinking but it also allows you to see, honor, and celebrate your growth - and hone in on opportunities to improve. Are you new to reflection or looking for new ways of reflecting?
In this episode, I am doing a real-time reflection of my March Madness trip. Three conferences, six and a half days and so many ah-ha moments.
Have a burning question you want me to tackle? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s do it!**
🎧 🎙55 Reflections on When I Missed My Own Value. Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Jin Kim-Mozeleski is an Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University in the School of Medicine in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences. Her work examines social determinants of health behaviors and health behavior change and she applies that to the study of tobacco use and tobacco-related health disparity. She is also an alumnae of our Get That Grant coaching program.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- How she overcame anxiety that manifested as indecisiveness
- The mindset shift she implemented that up-leveled her productivity precision
- How the balance of inner work with the external factors transformed her experience
- What has helped her to muster up the courage to do things that don't come naturally to her
If you loved this convo, please go find Jin on Twitter (@JinKimMoz) and show her some love!
The real question is does academic medicine deserve Black women? (Answer – no). However, let’s talk about it.
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙53 Is Academic medicine worth it for Black women? (Listener Letter #4) Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Questioning your identity within your academic career is not uncommon. In many ways, the training we endure to get to a faculty position strips us of our internal definition of identity, offering an institution-based definition in its place. Without the awareness that this question might be lurking, we can set ourselves up for unhelpful behavior and thought patterns that persist for years. Listen in as I discuss how to make a shift and proactively define your personal identity in your academic career.
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 52: Finding Your Faculty Identity
As high-achieving women of color in academic medicine, public health, or allied fields we all have a vision for our life. In fact, we have a big audacious vision. This vision we have for our careers is what got us to where we are, yet we tend to minimize that vision for several reasons.
In this episode, I want to focus on three reasons why we minimize our vision and what we can do to move past it. If you are ready to make a shift and boldly claim your vision, act on your vision and align your actions so you can bring this vision to life, this episode is for you.
This is your invitation. It's time to shift. Let's go!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 51: Holding The Vision
Is your goal to own, protect, and execute on your value? Do you want to build a career based on the perspective that you bring and the impact that you know your work can have on the world? Is your goal to build a career that renews and excites you? Then there are three non-negotiable skills that you need to master. Without these skills, your career becomes one of frustration, resentment, restriction, and ultimately burnout.
Listen in to learn about the three skills that are required to build a value-based and successful career in academic medicine or public health on your own terms. Let's go!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 50: 3 Non-negotiable Self Leadership Skills
Dr. Eugenia C. South is an Assistant Professor at Penn Medicine, Faculty Director of the Urban Health Lab, and Vice Chair for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in the Department of Emergency Medicine. Her work focuses on dismantling structural racism through research and action. She is also an alumnae of our (one-time only!) Reclaim Retreat and the Get That Grant coaching program.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- What it felt like to be in a deficit mindset and feel shame while externally looking successful
- The significance of completing an audit on her projects and supporters led to owning her value
- How stepping out in courage and giving BACK a funded grant empowered her to focus on the opportunities more aligned with her purpose
- The actual process of using a coaching tool that resulted in an Op-Ed and a multi-million dollar grant
- What changed that caused her to go from publishing 1 paper in a year to 12 papers in a year and now having an overflow of grant funds to support her mission
If you loved this convo, please go find Gina on Twitter (@Eugenia_South) and show her some love!
When you've experienced negative consequences as a BIPOC woman trying to use your agency, you may feel like you only have two choices. You can stay and settle for a substandard career or you can quit. I want to invite you to consider other options and move beyond an institutional mindset. It is possible to be proactive and intentional about your next career steps.
Listen in as I demonstrate what it looks like to move in reflection instead of reaction. Let's go!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 48: Betrayal, Certainty, and the 'BIPOC Perspective'
Today let's talk about some Taboo Topics! Mentors and Money. Power dynamics are real in academic medicine and often the most important conversations get shut down because we don’t know how to have them and frankly, we don’t know what we don’t know.
This week, we’re talking about what it means to optimize your relationships with mentors and leaders beyond the superficial. For money, we're talking about salaries (yep, we’re going there, how the common messaging pressures you to go with the status quo, and what to do about it.
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 47: Taboo Topics: Mentors and Money
Do you ever feel like you have to re-learn things to REALLY get it? This is definitely the norm for me. Recently three unrelated situations came up and I gleaned some valuable reminders that I want to emphasize for myself and for you, my Pod Peeps so that we keep them top of mind. Ready to find out what they are? Let's go.
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 46: 3 Things I (Re)Learned Today
Dr. Bertha Hidalgo is an Associate Professor with Tenure, genetic epidemiologist, and science communicator at the University of Alabama-Birmingham School of Public Health. Her work focuses on genomic risk assessment of cardiometabolic diseases and public health messaging in the COVID19 pandemic. She is also an alumnae of the Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing amazing coaching client.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- Being a multi-passionate scientist and influencer but still lacking confidence
- The common path to avoid the “K funding cliff” that left her both funded and miserable
- What it actually felt like to tap into her true potential again (spoiler – terrifying!)
- How publishing 3 papers in 6 months became an afterthought to what she really gained from coaching
If you loved this convo, please go find Bertha on Instagram (@dr.berthahidalgo) and Twitter (@berthahidalgo) and show her some love!
Transitioning into motherhood as high-achieving women of color means that nothing will be the same. There is no normal to go back to nor can we reclaim the pace we had before. The bottom line is that the career life that we were living before becoming a parent has died.
The transition into motherhood, however, is an incredible opportunity to radically change how you think about productivity, success, and impact. It may be baptism by fire, but this new life stage gives presents an opportunity to recreate your career on a whole new standard.
In this episode, we'll talk about some practical ways that you can create your unapologetic life and career alongside your motherhood journey.
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 44: Navigating New Motherhood in Academic Medicine [Listener Letter]
When it gets to that point where the definition of who you are, your goal, and why you're doing what you're doing is the list of activities that you have to complete, this is a sure sign of a total lack of career control.
In this episode, I want to talk about this loss of career control to help us truly understand where and how the switch happens. I'll also provide you with strategies to reclaim career control and get back on track!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 43: Reclaiming Career Control Today
Most grant-getting workshops focus on the "how-tos" of writing and on deciphering between the requirements of the various sections of the grant and avoiding major pitfalls. While these skills are important and necessary, they are not sufficient – not even close. If your goal is to secure funding doing the work you love, you’re gonna need more, period.
In this episode, I offer what I think are four critical skills, not just to write excellent grants, but to secure the funding and support for your most valued work without losing your mind. Grab your notebook, put your phone on DND, and let’s go!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
Dr. Tiffany Green is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin Schools of Public Health and Medicine in the Departments of Population Health Sciences and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her work focuses on improving outcomes and saving the lives of Black birthing people and their infants from her powerful and unique view as an economist. She is also an alumna of the Get That Grant coaching program!
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- Being a seasoned grant writer, but lacking both clarity and adequate boundaries
- How a skeptic of ‘self-help’ experienced profound transformation in a coaching program
- The moment where a little tough love went a long way
- Why she describes the Get That Grant coaching program as a ‘trojan horse’!
- The primary characteristic of the fellow faculty in her coaching cohort that led to such a profound connection
If you loved this convo, please go find Tiffany on Twitter (@Tiffany_L_Green) and show her some love!
I don’t know about y’all but I’m tired of setting low expectations because “who knows what’s going to happen this year.” If this is the new normal, I still know I want more. Last year taught me a major lesson on hard work and surrender. Seeds planted bloom when they are ready. This week, I'm sharing a powerful formula – the type of seeds and the right intervals - to set up your fantastic 2022.
Happy New Year and let’s GO!
Do you have a question or topic ideas for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 40: Your Formula For a Fantastic Year
Short and sweet. Three steps to transformation for Your Unapologetic Career.
Happy Happy New Year!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 39: The Only 3 Steps You Need
An episode to support end-of-year reflection – Are you Coasting, Ghosting, or Growing? I know I do all 3, do you? Take a listen this week to walk through a process of review of how we show up and why it matters.
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 38: Are you Coasting, Ghosting, or Growing?
This episode basically starts with a pet peeve of mine. It’s not because there’s anything wrong with people saying “I want to be more X” - X = confident, focused, disciplined, or ‘boundaried’ – it's just that I have SO much to say in response and I usually have to hold back. I mean, who wants to be coached AT by a random colleague?!
But y’all are my peeps, so it’s a safe space. This week on the podcast, I’m talking about THE fundamental error I hear, and subsequently see, after faculty have done the work to realize they want more self-development. It is SO great to know where you want to grow – confidence? Focus? Discipline? Boundaries? - and – awareness is just the first step. I walk through common errors, what they sound like, and leave you with a self-directed alternative path instead. Cheers to personal growth!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 37: Confidence, Focus, Discipline, and Boundaries
I don’t think we consciously delegate responsibility for our career dreams, but it is the default setup of academic medicine. We get used to our role being ‘securing the spot’ and our institution’s role is to deliver on the promise. That is the entire setup for training and in many ways is still the setup for faculty members. Works great - as long as you don’t have specific goals and dreams for your career.
Well – that ain’t me or my folks! In this week’s episode, I give examples of what delegating responsibility for our career dreams looks like for faculty members, and how to take full ownership instead. It’s a mindset shift and it’s a powerful one. If you are in reflection mode and setting up your 2022, this one is definitely for you!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 36: How To Take Responsibility For Your Dreams
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
There are 3 things that happen to me every single time I know I’m ready to grow. Without fail. Like clockwork. First, I am suddenly crystal clear on what I no longer what to be doing. #Reclaimingmytime. I could write a dissertation about why I am ‘done done, for real.’ Second, I feel a growing hopefulness for what is possible for the future and I can start to articulate what I DO want. And then there’s the third thing – the sticker. The one that trips me, and many of us, up every time:
I start trying to make the growth comfortable.
In this week’s episode, I break down how it’s possible that we can be so clear on wanting to change, feel like we are ‘trying’, and yet ultimately get stuck staying still. There are tried and true ways we all attempt to make growth comfortable when it simply isn’t. Take a listen this week to some common patterns, and how to find your out of them. It’s nearly the end of the year, and we’re not going out like that!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 35: Making Growth Comfortable
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Part of career development is simply learning the unspoken rules and some very valuable tips on strategy to help you avoid rookie mistakes. But that’s just part of it, and honestly, that’s the easy part. The real meat of any true career development – which is actually both professional and personal development – is learning how to translate both your value and your values from internal desires to external structure, focus, and success.
And THAT requires safe space.
You can’t grow authentically in the same place where you have to pretend. If you are committed to growth, then making safe space around you right now – is critical. I’ve had a lot of experience in watching people make transformations that they didn’t think were possible. In this week’s episode, I go through the specific characteristics of the safe spaces that make these transformations possible – so you can audit, refine, and makes sure you find your own. Let’s get into it.
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 34: Safe Space and Career Development
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
The road as faculty in academic medicine and public health can be bumpy – some bumps are expected and have a lot of narrative built around them (paper rejection, grant just missing the pay line) and those are fine. I’m talking this week about the bumps that are…worse. The things that can throw us way off –
like making BIG mistakes – that aren’t so cozily wrapped up in pep talks. These things make us question ourselves and our abilities. If we are not careful, they start to leech from our futures too. I don’t want y’all going out like that.
In this episode, I talk about 4 career stumbling blocks that can trip us up, but need not get us off track. We’re going through them one by one and considering alternative perspectives that are less ‘rose-colored glasses’ and more realistic agency. You know, exactly what we need to get through tough times. Let’s go!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to
podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Marjory Charlot is an Assistant Professor, thoracic medical oncologist, and health equity researcher at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Her work centers on the experience and outcomes of Black patients with cancer in order to intervene and eliminate racial disparities in cancer outcomes. She is also an alumnae of the Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing amazing coaching client.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- Having a great new job, a start-up package, the needed research training and still being a ‘hot mess’
- What is sounded like to have all of the “WHATs” but none of the “HOWs”
- The powerful question that changed how she makes decisions on all new opportunities
- Breaking free of email running her career life
- Creating her blueprint to execute her day to day and her long-term goals with clarity
- Unabashed #squadgoals bragging on her fierce coaching community ;)
If you loved this convo, please go find Marjory on Twitter (@MarjoryCharlot) and show her some love!
So - career transformation is not a walk in the park. I will never stop preaching how important it is for us to uproot the trainee mindset that has overwork, overwhelm, and dissatisfaction to be the norm in academic medicine. We must uproot this and replace it with building a career based on your value. However, I acknowledge – it’s not easy!
Most powerful things aren’t. In this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career, we talk through a critical consequence of owning your value – the effect on important professional relationships and you navigate these waters.
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 31: The Consequences of Aligning Your Career with your Value
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
I don’t know about y’all but I never learned how to quit anything in academic medicine. And yet, unless you have some kind of 100% perfect “No” response from the minute you started on faculty, you likely have at least 1 thing on your plate that just needs to go. Knowing it needs to go doesn’t mean you are any closer to quitting – because that’s just not what we do.
It’s not about not knowing what to write in the email, we have to go deeper.
In this episode, I talk about the consequences of not learning how to let go, how to quit, when really need to, and walk you through 4 steps to let something go today.
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 30: Learning How To Quit
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
We all do this. We know we do it, but it’s still so hard to stop. Or we have gotten much better with our Nos, but it’s still painful and energy-draining to execute. Yet, we know we have to say No – a LOT more. This week I tackle one of the biggest self-imposed causes of overwhelm. When we stack our schedule with things we don’t actually want to be a part of, we lose time and we compound resentment. This cycle has to stop!
In this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career, I walk you through 4 common scenarios that have us uttering “Yes”, when we really mean “No.” And we don’t just identify them, I walk you through 4 interventions you can make right away. This is the kind of value that keeps on giving so take a listen today!
Do you have a question for the podcast? To submit a Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
🎧 🎙 EPISODE 29: 4 Ways to Stop Saying Yes When You Really Mean No.
Check out this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
This Listener cannot get a hold of the clinical work that keeps seeping in around her boundaries. The triple threat – clinical, research, and teaching excellence – is always the goal, but the bottom line is clinical works just has to happen, so what gives? Raise your hand if this is relatable! 🙋🏾♀️ This week on the podcast, I honor this struggle and offer you my step by step process of breaking down what’s happening and building up to a structure more sustainable for you. Take a listen and bring something to take notes.
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
Dr. Jessica Chen is a practicing psychologist and health services researcher focused on the equitable delivery of care for PTSD in the setting of chronic pain and co-occurring substance use disorders in the VA system. She is also an alumni of my Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing amazing coaching client.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- The primary fear that triggered her to consider coaching
- The price of compromise on your authenticity, regardless of career success
- The coaching tool that has become her anchor and her superpower for flexibility
- Being able to lead and secure her first $1.1M independent award without fear
- The best metaphor I have heard to date on career coaching!
If you loved this convo, please go find Jess on Twitter (@jesschenphd) and show her some love!
This Listener knows she’s ready to leave. But how to go about telling people? And what about the scars from her current position? This week I answer her questions and go deeper – into the worry behind these questions and what we must to do optimize both the job search and starting a new institution.
To submit your Listener Letter, send an email to podcast@kdollcoach.com with your question, and let’s go!
We define Early Career by the number of years you have been around, being pre-promotion, and/or pre-funding. Sure, it has structural functions to define it this way, and benefits in the grant game.
If you want to inventory yourself for an Early Career mindset, take a listen to this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career podcast today!
This is one of those HOW episodes. Specifically, the How of leveling up your support for your unapologetic career. Many of us are surrounded by wonderful cheerleaders and expert advisors and yet we lack the most crucial element of support – the one that matters the most when your back is against the wall with frustration, challenge, or exhaustion in your career. That support is not generic – it’s specific. It’s not ‘tough love’, either. This is curated support that comes from one category of people – Informed Believers.
This week, I go through the signs that you may be lacking true Informed Believers in your circle (it’s beyond the group chat, girl), exactly what the criteria is for Informed Believers, and – the best part – how you can find these unicorns in your midst right now. If you are ready to shore up your dream team of support and leave behind the life of the lonely achiever forever – take a listen to this week’s Your Unapologetic Career podcast today!
Dr. Carrie Francis is an Associate Professor in the Pediatric Otolaryngology Division of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Kansas University Medical Center (KUMC). She is also a woman on a mission to improve workforce development and innovation in academic medicine, an expert in medical education and serves as the inaugural Associate Dean for Workforce Innovation and Empowerment. She started her coaching journey with the 2020 RECLAIM Retreat, then enrolled in our Get That Grant group coaching program.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- How she realized she was NOT ready when she first tried coaching years ago
- What it felt like to be super accomplished and yet still yearning for ‘more’
- The key ingredients beyond motivational words, that she needed and found in coaching
- The GTG frameworks she found most powerful as a med-ed oriented leader
- Her panic moment and the real risk she took in signing up for coaching
- Rediscovering ‘that chic’ in herself as a new ideal and her powerful motivation
If you loved this convo, please go find Carrie on Twitter (@PedsOtoDoc) and show her some love!
Yep, let’s go there. This can be a taboo topic in academic medicine and it shouldn’t be. Whether it’s paralyzing fear of the consequences of an exit or being so stuck in settling that we’ve stopped imagining better – we avoid the question of leaving our institutions - to our detriment. But you know what, there is no need to avoid it! In fact, I offer to you that embracing this question no matter how you feel about your current job is valuable and smart. This is not the episode you think it is.
This week, I go through the 3 steps you can follow to go from ruminating on this question to taking action – and address why we should ALL be doing this on a regular basis. Bonus unintended share about what it was like to have no kids in my house for a week J. If you are ready to buck institutional culture (don’t worry, it’ll stay between you and me…) and discover the value behind this taboo topic – take a listen to this week’s Your Unapologetic Career podcast today!
If you are serious about creating the career of your dreams, you probably know that getting advice is critical. The problem is what to do with it! How to judge whether the advice is good or bad, helpful or not, is a hazy maze without a framework. The truth is that ensuring you are following the right career advice requires an internal clarity that most folks are avoiding. No more!
This is a big topic and I’m covering it over 2 episodes. In Part 2 this week, we cover how to consider the CONTENT of career advice, and how to define if it’s valuable, and the key question that should filter your decision to move forward. This is a must-listen! Check out Episode 21 of Your Unapologetic Career today!
If you are serious about creating the career of your dreams, you probably know that getting advice is critical. The problem is what to do with it! How to judge whether the advice is good or bad, helpful or not, is a hazy maze without a framework. The truth is that ensuring you are following the right career advice requires an internal clarity that most folks are avoiding. No more!
This is a big topic and I’m covering it over 2 episodes. In Part 1 this week, we cover how to consider the source of career advice, and the MAJOR relationship element that most of us don’t even realize could be operating. Add another tool to your self-leadership toolbox and take a listen to Episode 20 of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Kiara Alvarez is a child clinical psychologist, a researcher focused on mental health inequities in the field of youth suicide prevention and the wellbeing of Latinx and immigrant youth and their families. She is also an alumni of my Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing amazing coaching client.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
-
What her ‘unicorn’ criteria were for finding a coach
-
Securing a K23 in a well-respected institution and something still being off
-
The coaching tool that finally helped her gain a unifying clarity on her career goals
-
Finding sanity and a different relationship to work in the midst of a pandemic with a 3-year old at home
-
How shifting to see grants as the tool, and not the goal, led her to do something she’d never done before with her R34 application
-
What it’s really like to be in a radically authentic community with a shared process
If you loved this convo, please go find Kiara on Twitter (@kalvarezphd) and show her some love!
It’s easy to say No to the things you don’t want to do. But what about all of the things you DO want to do?! How do those fit into the regular rules of space and time? This advice came smack in the middle of the roller coaster ride of 2020 and remains urgently applicable today. If you are struggling with FOCUS amid ‘all the things’ in your career – this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career is for you. I want you to claim focus, and I want you to claim it today. Take a listen!
We are not robots and we are absolutely going to miss deadlines and not get things done! We can give ourselves grace and still want to be clear on how to avoid repeating the same patterns. The bottom line is that some of our productivity wounds are self-inflicted. Not all, but some. We usually only have one refrain for this – being angry or disappointed and then trying again. Rinse and repeat.
We can get away with this, it’s just not pleasant. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing exactly how self-sabotage starts and how to use self-coaching to interrupt the cycle.
Most of us start out with aspirational boundaries that crumble under pressure – and that’s normal. We don’t need to judge ourselves for this! We do need to know that these reactionary, two-dimensional boundaries are where we may start, but not where we have to end. Effective boundaries are a mandatory requirement of a successful, sustainable, and nourishing career. They are not optional, they are essential.
In this week’s episode, I do deep dive on boundaries, offering you 3 solid steps to creating effective boundaries in your career. I leave you with a challenge I hope is irresistible. Take a listen to this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career today!
Dr. Shekinah Elmore is a radiation oncologist, essayist, public speaker, and clinician-researcher who is dedicated to improving multidisciplinary care for Black patients with cancer, especially in a global context. She is also an alumnus of my Get That Grant coaching program and an ongoing amazing coaching client.
Take a listen to hear some real behind the scenes of her coaching journey:
- Why, when she first reached out for coaching, I turned her down
- Finding certainty in building an innovative career without a clear roadmap ahead
- The powerful shift she experienced in her very first coaching session
- Calmly writing, submitting, and getting a grant in the midst of a hurricane and other ‘small’ inconveniences
- Being a ‘not a group person’ in a group coaching program
If you loved this convo, please go find Shekinah on Twitter (@pre_rad) and show her some love!
It’s easy to shy away from a bold proclamation of high standards – especially when the focus might be right back on YOU. We also have a very confused ‘wellness’ conversation going on in academic medicine that conflates striving for EXCELLENCE and overworking as synonymous – which is a lie.
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing my thoughts on how this erroneous coupling came to be, why you have full permission to have HIGH standards for yourself and those you work with, and ultimately, why I am so sure that you can do it! I’m gassing you up! Take a listen today.
We are not here for mediocrity. Period. But sometimes that leaves us wondering if we are consigned to overworking?? The answer is – Absolutely not!
This week I talk about how we got to the place where striving for GREATNESS in your career has somehow become synonymous with overwork and burnout. That’s some institutional mindset y’all. I’m breaking that down and reminding us all that YES, we can be STELLAR – and our ideas deserve it. Take a listen today!
Constant Vigilance. I feel it too. That never-ending feeling “Am I doing enough?” The reason that you say you are ‘at capacity’, but more and more things keep getting added to your plate. The energy that fuels a constant renegotiation of our worth in our careers. Constant Vigilance is toxic. And I’m here to tell you, it is NOT yours to carry.
The truth is that the game is rigged. And we can waste our energy on this vigilance or pivot and invest a much more compelling challenge. This week, I walk you through some signs you may be in Constant Vigilance and how to pivot, if you so desire. Take a listen today!
Elevating your self-concept is a coachy-phrase that I would eye-roll at until it smacked me dead in the face. In a lot of ways disenrolling from trainee mindset, dreaming big, and having an unapologetic career is identity shifting work. This is a personal episode on my recent shift. I’m sharing because I must – and I want to ignite courage in the rest of us to do the same.
In this week’s episode of Your Unapologetic Career, I go deep on a year-plus long journey of career redefinition and what it actually looked like on the inside, behind the scenes of what triggered some of my most popular KD Coaching Newsletters. I also share a book recommendation that you absolutely should NOT read if you aren’t looking for career-altering growth. (Don’t do it, Girl!) Take a listen today and come find me on the socials to share your #biggoals!
Most of what goes into deciding to embark on coaching and then finding the ‘right’ coach for your needs is internal. At some point, you decide that the status quo is no longer going to cut it, and you are ready for growth and development without institutional conflict of interest. That alone is a major step. Then, that’s when I start getting all of the questions in my DMs. How should I choose a coach? How do I know this is the right decision? Again, mostly internal but I do have one major piece of advice. It comes from my own experience with (not so great and absolutely stellar) coaching and it boils down to this: Personality vs. Process.
In this week’s episode, I go in on the difference between the two, and why you should be much more invested in one over the other. Now go get some coaching!
I recognize that my thoughts in this episode go counter to so much early career advice, and I don’t care. I’m leaning in anyway. I care about this so much, because underneath the frenzy to “do anything to get a grant” is something quite problematic - a deep-seated devaluation of your value and worth. And we’re 👏🏾 not 👏🏾 having 👏🏾that👏🏾!
This week I talk about why you need to use STRATEGY rather than reactivity in the grant game - from the very beginning.
Whether you are just starting out on faculty or 10 years into your career and trying to come up for air, this episode is for you!
So here’s the thing – I get stuck too! There are many ways we can feel stuck in our careers – wrong job, wrong mentor, failed research, and unending rut….
The stagnation is exhausting. It’s the place where many many poor choices are born. In this episode, I open up about how I got majorly stuck earlier this year – and went and used my own advice to get out. Take a listen for a peek behind the scenes of my entrepreneurship journey and how this particular tactic to get unstuck is widely applicable to our academic careers!
And here’s the video link I reference in the episode!
None of us ever want to fail. Ever. And yes, we know ‘failure is required on the way to success’ and all of that nonsense – but still, failure sucks. And because it does, we’ve got some pretty creative ways we are socialized to deal with failure in academic medicine.
They are effective - they are just not without consequence. In this episode, I detail the main approaches I see to how we deal with failures like paper rejections and grants not getting funded, and why those may not be the best your best strategy, friend. Listen in today on what these approaches are, what their consequences may be, and what you are certainly missing out on when you’re not paying attention.
With regard to opportunities, we get told 2 things: Say No and blame your mentor and Never say Yes right away, ask for time to think about it. So, both of these are reasonable and also horribly incomplete. If you’ve been trying to follow this advice and still at a loss for how to deal with ‘opportunities’ this episode is for you.
The truth is that delaying a decision - without a process to make the decision - does not actually lead to a better decision. In this episode, I walk you through what is missing from the standard advice, signs that you may not have a true decision making process, and a few tangible steps to create your own method of not good or bad, but high quality decisions. Take a listen today!
For the busy bee, delegation offers incredible value. It’s become a buzz-worthy resource that’s considered a privilege. But what about when you delegate only to end up with similar stress levels as before?! If you aren’t yet seeing the fruits of your delegated labor - this is for you.
In this episode, I challenge you to rethink the way you approach delegation. We’ll break down how to prioritize the crucial components that you need to establish in order to make the most of any delegation opportunity. The land of milk and honey (freedom to work from your zone of genius) might sound like a dream, but today I’m sharing the first steps on the path to make it real.
Here is the truth I realized: There is no one responsible for creating the career I want but me.
Hi, I'm Kemi! I have a biomedical engineering degree from Duke University, went to Columbia P&S for med school, and on to Chicago for OBGYN residency training, UNC for gynecologic oncology fellowship, and a post-doctoral research fellowship in Health Policy and Management. I secured 3 independent grants as a fellow, and another 5 in my first 3 years on faculty. I study race, gender, cancer, and health in the US. My love languages are French fries, motivational quotes, and calling out B.S., in that order.
After years of schooling and training, we can be so accustomed to delegating our futures that we forget to switch gears once we start as faculty. I know I did. A course correction was critical and the main ingredient to my success - fully funded research doing the work I love, a balanced life with my spouse and 2 littles, and a true sense of meaning and nourishment from my career.
I coach because all of this is attainable for ALL of us.
Though mindset work, career organization, and deliberate strategy.
No more settling, no more burnout.
I am so grateful to have this platform to remind us of our own values and empower us to pursue fulfilling and nurturing careers. Join me weekly as I guide you on the journey to transform your academic life so that you can channel your ideas, passions, and skills into a successful and nourishing career. In each episode, I’ll be taking a deep dive into one CORE growth strategy so you can gain confidence and effectiveness in pursuing the dream career in academic medicine that you worked so hard to achieve. Tune in for an always authentic, sometimes a little raw, but unapologetically empowering word. Learn more at www.kemidoll.com.
Let's do this!
Come find me on twitter, IG or facebook @kemidoll. Interested in coaching? Hit up my DMs or check out kemidoll.com/grant for more info!
Listen, there are really no new ideas when it comes to productivity. In fact, pretty much all of them can be boiled down to 3 core elements.
In this episode, I explain what these elements are and why they are NOT actually the root of productivity struggles. We’ll unpack why although they’re super simple, we find them so hard to implement – and what to do about it.
C’mon achievers, let’s go not just for success, but sustainability. Take a listen!
If I was forced to put everything I have to say in 1 podcast episode, this is as close as I could get. The beginning of any and all career transformation, the HOW behind getting those grants and winning the game sustainably, the logic that underlies pretty much everything else to follow all start with this – The Ten Lies of Academic Medicine. Today, we’re going in and we’re not taking prisoners. Consider it a professional dragging from the deepest well of love and caring for your careers. I respect you, so I’m going to tell you the truth.
Let’s go y’all!
Come find me on twitter, IG or facebook @kemidoll. Interested in coaching? Hit up my DMs or check out kemidoll.com/grant for more info!
The process of building a successful career on your terms calls for a self-leadership mindset which too few of us have truly learned how to cultivate. In this episode, I explain my concept of the CEO, the Scientist, and the Worker Bee.
Throughout my time in academic medicine, I've recognized these characters in myself and in other's careers across the board. So I'm offering clear insight into how they impact our success and how you can organize them in order to make the important shifts to up-level your career.
Ready for that quantum leap? It’s time to pause and listen up!
Facing failure sucks! It throws us off balance and usually into one extreme (Being) or another (Doing).
In this episode, I spotlight the need to strike a balance between all the feelings and actually taking action. Often we don’t even recognize which rut we are in.
Whether we’re recovering from grant rejection, difficult colleagues, botched experiments or any other kind of ‘failure’ - the principles that underlay a healthy and speedy recovery remain essentially the same. Today, I lay out those principles so you can ride the waves of any career trial and keep you moving toward your success.