Dr Melanie Smith
The Academic Edge
Cut through the noise. Write better. Create your academic career on your terms. Welcome to The Academic Edge — the podcast for academics who want to do excellent work without burning out. Hosted by Dr Melanie Smith— published author, academic writing coach, and former academic with 17 years in the sector — this show offers honest, practical insight into how to write, publish, and thrive in today’s academic landscape.🎙 New episodes weekly. Subscribe now to sharpen your thinking, elevate your writing, and reclaim your time.
Author
Dr Melanie Smith
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Jun 12, 2026
Where to listen?
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Episodes
How To Improve Academic Writing Through Deliberate Practice 31.12.2025 16:47
In this episode I talk about the concept of deliberate practice and its application to improving writing skills, particularly in an academic context.
How to Write a Monograph Quickly 24.12.2025 23:04
In this episode, I talk about the intricacies of writing a monograph. I outline the challenges faced by writers and introduce a structured approach to writing a monograph efficiently.
4 Things Successful Academic Writers Do Pt 4 17.12.2025 22:22
In this episode, I talk about the final essential element that contribute to the success and sustainability of academic writers. I focus this time on the importance of constant improvement in writing skills, strategic choices in project selection, and the critical role of reading in enhancing writing technique.
4 Things Successful Academic Writers Do Pt 3 10.12.2025 14:09
In this conversation, I talk about the critical habit of writing first for successful academic writers. I address common 'reasons' for not prioritizing writing, emphasizing the importance of establishing a consistent writing routine. By challenging self-imposed narratives and protecting writing time, academics can enhance their productivity and develop sustainable writing practices.
4 Things Successful Academic Writers Do Pt 2 03.12.2025 16:16
In this episode, I talk about the second characteristic of successful and sustainable academic writers: having a writer's identity. I emphasize the importance of self-identification in academic writing and how it influences the prioritization of writing in one's career.
4 Things Successful Academics Do Pt 1 26.11.2025 17:27
In this episode, I talk about the key actions of successful and sustainable academic writers, focusing on the importance of time management and time tracking. I explain how tracking time can reveal the reality of one's work habits, confront long-held narratives, and ultimately lead to more intentional and focused writing practices. The episode serves as a call to action for academics to adopt...
Binge and Bust Writing 19.11.2025 14:34
In this episode, I talk about binge and bust writing among academic writers. I explain how this writing pattern, characterized by procrastination followed by intense writing sessions, leads to stress, burnout, and lower quality work. Being a sustainable academic requires writing habits that foster momentum and productivity, not burnout, and ultimately to a more fulfilling academic career.
(Writing) Career Trapdoors 12.11.2025 29:56
In this conversation, I discuss the concept of career trap doors in academia, particularly focusing on writing and the choices that can hinder an academic's career progression.
Academic Training (or lack of it) 05.11.2025 12:08
In this conversation, I discuss the inadequacies of academic training, particularly in relation to PhD programs, and emphasizes the need for essential skills that are often overlooked. I outline six critical areas of training that academics should focus on to enhance their careers. I encourage listeners to reflect on their own practices and identify areas for improvement to foster a more sustainab...
Do You Write To Think? 29.10.2025 9:13
Keywords: writing, thinking, academic writing, drafting process, creativity, writing process, coaching, productivity, writing techniques, academic success In this conversation, we talk about the idea of 'writing to think,' addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of a structured writing process. Successful writers refine their thoughts through a structured drafting p...
5 Things I Wish I Had Known As a Junior Academic 23.10.2025 20:05
Key Words: academia, career advice, academic success, writing skills, networking, work-life balance, strategic thinking, boundaries, mentorship, professional development In this conversation, I share valuable insights from my academic career, focusing on 5 key lessons I wished I had known when starting her career, and 5 things that served me well. Academia is not a meritocracy Understanding your i...
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