Think Alike?: A Neuronline Podcast

In this episode, PhD candidate Blakely Lockhart and mentor Michael Nestor, PhD, discuss how mentorship can help early-career scientists navigate the evolving intersection of research, policy, industry, and public engagement. Their conversation explores risk-taking, science communication, systems thinking as well as the value of mentoring relationships that create opportunity while allowing both pe...

In Part 2 of their conversation, Cori Fain, Karina Alviña, and Eduardo Rosa-Molinar dig into what to do when mentoring relationships don't go as planned, from unresponsive advisors to unhealthy dynamics. They share practical strategies for advocating for yourself, starting hard conversations, and building a mentoring network (including peers, committee members, and program involvement) to ensure b...

In this first half of a two-part conversation, Cori Fain, Karina Alviña, and Eduardo Rosa-Molinar reflect on mentoring as an evolving, deeply human relationship shaped by curiosity, generosity, and time. From tough love and long conversations to peer mentoring and building communities in unexpected places, they explore how recognizing potential and creating space for others can be truly career- an...

Thank you for listening and contributing to Think Alike: A Neuronline Podcast this year! As we wrap up this season, here's a look back at the conversations and stories we've heard. From undergraduates to seasoned PIs, a range of mentors and mentees shared practical advice - how to communicate, navigate tough conversations, manage schedules, find balance, introduce yourself, and say goodbye. Here a...

In this episode, Dr. Stefânia Forner and former mentee Elizabeth Andrews reflect on their decade-long journey from mentor and mentee to colleagues and friends. Through stories of courage, mistakes, and growth - including a bold introduction and a memorable lab mishap - they reflect on learning through failures, building a dynamic network of mentors, and how to know when to move on to a new stage i...

In this episode, Hannah Lichtenstein and Mikayla Kendall describe their mentoring relationship, covering how they navigated busy and ever-changing undergraduate schedules and diverse learning styles, as well as the power of "mentoring up" and asking for help. They share how they've kept open to a variety of future career options, and how learning from mistakes became a cornerstone of growth for ea...

In this episode, Dr. Yosif (Joe) Zaki and Dr. Zach Pennington join mentor Dr. Denise Cai to reflect on the journey of building a neuroscience lab from the ground up. Together, they share candid stories about building trust and creating an environment where it's safe to disagree. From exchanging thoughtful feedback to debating scientific ideas and growing together, this episode explores how mentors...

In this episode, Kira Bailey, PhD, and her former student, Chandler Carr, reflect on the the evolution of their academic relationship and the innovative projects they collaborated on, including neuroaesthetics research and co-teaching a class. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about mentorship, creativity, hard work, and the shared passion for science that connects them even across divergin...

In this episode, Jan Naegele, PhD, and her former graduate student, Meghan Van Zandt, PhD, discuss strategies for building confidence and public speaking skills as a scientist, touching on personal experiences from graduate school to current research endeavors. Dive into their stories about mentoring, public speaking, and the importance of collaboration in the lab. This episode is a must-listen fo...

In this episode, Carmen Maldonado-Vlaar, PhD, and her former students, Dinah Ramos Ortolaza, PhD and Paola Muñoz Rodriguez, discuss the importance of nurturing diverse talent in the field, share stories of resilience, and reflect on how to help mentees thrive in their careers. Find information about this episode and more resources for your neuroscience career on Neuronline at https://neuronline.sf...

In this episode, mentor Claire Sexton and former mentee Naiara Demnitz share their neuroscience mentorship story. They reflect on trust and transparency in their relationship, the importance of including mentees in your network, and how they have adjusted to cultural differences when moving institutions. Listen for an engaging discussion that highlights how mentors can have a lasting impact on res...

In this episode, mentor Randy Nelson, PhD, and former mentee Staci Bilbo, PhD, reflect on their experiences in academia, sharing insights on the importance of passion in science, navigating the ups and downs of research, and the evolving landscape of academic expectations and careers. This candid conversation offers valuable lessons for both aspiring scientists and seasoned researchers alike. Find...

In this episode, mentor Dr. Ramesh Raghupathi discusses the dynamics of mentorship styles and creating a supportive environment in the lab with mentees Dr. Taylor McCorkle and PhD candidate Nishell Savory. This conversation delves into balancing shared values with independent thinking, seeking diverse perspectives, and passing on mentorship lessons to future generations of neuroscience students. F...

In this inaugural episode, mentor Karina Alviña, PhD, and mentee Farhana Afroz, PhD, reflect on the importance of a combination of personal understanding and respect for one another's scientific ideas to developing a successful mentoring relationship. Their story includes the challenges of research during the COVID-19 pandemic, changing institutions, and navigating unfamiliar cultural norms, along...

Welcome to Think Alike? , a podcast series from Neuronline that delves into the art and science of mentorship within the neuroscience community. Join for candid conversations between mentors and mentees as they share their personal stories, challenges, and triumphs, while offering valuable insights and strategies for success at every career stage. From navigating academia to fostering professional...