Grad School Femtoring: Inclusive Grad School Stories, Personal Development, and Productivity Tips for First-Gen BIPOCs

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I address the crucial factors to consider when choosing a thesis or dissertation advisor for graduate school. Drawing from my experience coaching graduate students, I emphasize the importance of communication styles, respect, kindness, and support beyond just research alignment. I break down the topic into two scenarios: for those applying to g...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I share various strategies to track progress on long-term projects like dissertations, publications, and other manuscripts, emphasizing the importance of accountability and externalizing progress. From time-based tracking and task checklists to visual cues and planners, I offer methods you can personalize to help you maintain momentum when moti...

In this replay episode, I share 10 monthly reflection questions designed to help you track and achieve your goals effectively. You’ll learn how and why I developed these questions to promote personal and professional development, combat imposter syndrome, and reinforce a growth mindset. You’ll also gain tips for consistent practice and strategies to make the exercise enjoyable and rewarding. Click...

This replay episode on spoonie productivity discusses strategies for managing the holiday season when you are a spoonie and have limited energy. Addressing chronically ill and disabled individuals, I share personal experiences and practical tips on honoring your culture and legacy without sacrificing your wellbeing. The episode highlights the importance of setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I share my personal experience of how my business was impacted by higher education funding cuts and how I adapted by making micro pivots, focusing on nurturing relationships and creating a meaningful impact. Using my 2025 impact report as a case study, I discuss what an impact report is, share metrics from my own work, and provide actionable st...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I discuss the growing trend among educators to revert back to analog tools in the classroom as a response to the rise of AI and digital tools. I explore why analog methods facilitate better learning environments. Additionally, I provide practical recommendations for incorporating more analog tools into your work and life to boost your learning,...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I sit down with Dr. Janice Castro, a bilingual, licensed psychologist specializing in Latine mental health and adult ADHD. Dr. Castro shares her personal and professional journey growing up as the daughter of Peruvian immigrants, dealing with trauma, and navigating the challenges of being a first gen college grad. We delve into the topic of mot...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I tackle the common misconception that rest only counts if you're asleep, napping, or doing nothing. Inspired by Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith's book, titled Sacred Rest, I introduce several often-overlooked types of rest and offer practical examples of how you can start practicing them. Join me as I explore how different forms of rest can restore yo...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I discuss the emotionally charged nature of writing and the systemic barriers that often hinder consistent writing progress. I share my experiences with overcoming these obstacles during my time in grad school and introduce the concept of a “gentle writing retreat.” With a focus on compassion and realistic goal-setting, I outline how to structu...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I address a common concern among coaching and consulting clients, which is the question of doing enough. I discuss concepts of discernment and defining 'enough' for yourself by creating personal rules that increase confidence and self-trust. By recognizing your body’s signals or cues and setting flexible guidelines, you can make decisions that...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I feature Stephanie Sanchez, a former grad admissions consulting client now completing a master’s program abroad at the London School of Economics. Stephanie shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a nonprofit career to academia to impact immigrant communities. The conversation covers strategic program selection, overcoming writing c...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I address the challenge of how to maintain progress on your goals when you have low energy. I share my own personal experiences and offers practical advice on checking in with your body, incorporating rituals, and setting flexible, energy-appropriate goals. I also discuss the importance of self-compassion, recognizing and accepting your energy...

In episode 343 of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I introduce the first recording of my new client spotlight series, featuring an inspiring conversation with Dr. L. Paloma Rojas Saunero, a Latina physician epidemiologist and postdoctoral scholar at UCLA. Dr. Rojas Saunero shares her journey of transitioning from burnout and false urgency to aligning her workflow, creative process, and life with...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I guide you through the often awkward and uncomfortable process of writing your own letter of recommendation for grad school. I explain why professors might delegate this task to students and offer a detailed breakdown of how to structure your letter. I also share reflection prompts, a checklist for ensuring a strong draft, and the importance o...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I address the prevalence of masking and overcompensating as survival mechanisms for first-gen and neurodivergent students. I also share persona reflections and explore why these behaviors develop, how they can lead to burnout, and what practical strategies you can test out today to resist them. You’ll learn the importance of finding identity-af...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I discuss the significance of rewarding yourself and how to celebrate small wins as a student. Drawing from personal experiences and the science behind it, I explain how celebrating achievements can boost motivation. I also share several practical strategies for rewarding yourself, including writing affirming notes, sharing wins with others, ta...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast we focus on the importance of cultivating curiosity and care in careers with guest Naseem Kapdi. Naseem, a career coach and founder of Kimiya Coaching, shares her journey from teaching to coaching, emphasizing the power of pausing and playing in personal and professional development. We explore overcoming hustle culture, leaning into intuition,...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I share my top five productivity tips for chronic illness, autism, and ADHD. Inspired by the many shortcomings of conventional productivity advice, particularly its lack of inclusivity for disabled, neurodivergent, and chronically ill individuals, I share strategies that can be adaptable for those who are autistic, ADHD, or spoonies. These tips...

Listen to this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast if you’re struggling to secure and maintain mentors. I share strategies for first-gen and BIPOC students and professionals to learn how to find mentors and strengthen their mentoring relationships. I also emphasize the importance of taking initiative and regularly checking in with your mentors, among other lessons. Tune in to get all the...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I discuss the increased issue of paused and canceled graduate admissions for fall 2025, especially for PhD programs. I offer context and insights on the factors contributing to this situation, including budget cuts, federal policy changes, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on university finances. I also share actionable strategies for pro...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I am joined by Dr. Analia Gomez Vidal, a bilingual multihyphenate professional and founder of AGV Services LLC. We discuss the specific challenges faced by international students in the US, including the hurdles of applying for grad schools, navigating financial constraints, and overcoming career barriers. Dr. Analia shares her journey from bei...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I share my personal experience with goal setting and how it often led led to feelings of failure. I then delve into 10 common myths related to goal setting, explaining why they keep us stuck and how to overcome them. From the illusion of perfectionism to the false belief in hustle culture, I address these barriers and offer strategies to set mo...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I share my particular approach to goal setting and how it differs from traditional methods. I introduce a layered goal-setting strategy that aligns with personal values and capacities. I also invite you to one of my limited live public workshop for an in-depth, interactive goal-setting session. Join me on August 28 at 3pm PT or catch the replay...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast we discuss all things budget-friendly meal planning for busy grad students and professionals. Our returning guest, Jasmine Hormati, a registered dietician and founder of Mending Ground Nutrition, offers some great tips on planning and prepping meals that honor our cultural traditions while being mindful of our time, energy, and budget. Jasmine d...

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I discuss the recent “Big Beautiful Bill” and its impact on funding options for low-income, first-gen students pursuing graduate education. I share key changes that include the elimination of Graduate PLUS Loans, the introduction of new loan caps, and how to explore alternative funding options for both Master's and PhD programs. I also provides...