Naturally Surviving

Trying to write your dissertation with ADHD is not just hard—it’s like washing dishes in freezing water while your brain screams at you to stop. In this honest and eye-opening episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down what writing actually feels like when you're neurodivergent and why traditional advice like “just focus” and “eliminate distractions” only makes it worse. You’ll learn why your brain needs dopamine more than discipline, how to structure your writing time to stay engaged, and why creative side projects might be the key to finally finishing your dissertation. If you’ve been stuck, bored, or questioning your ability to do this at all, this episode will help you feel seen—and give you a new way forward.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Inst

You keep making plans. Telling yourself this week will be different. Promising your chair, your friends, and yourself that you're going to finish this draft. But somehow the days go by and nothing gets done. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down the real reason behind the cycle of avoidance and broken promises. It’s not laziness. It’s not a lack of time. It’s the deep hit your confidence has taken and the fear that your best might not be good enough. If you're tired of feeling like a disappointment and ready to finally trust yourself again, this episode will show you how to rebuild belief, reset your plan, and take your next step forward.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

You don’t need more time. You don’t need another book or a better plan. You just need to start. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy shows you exactly how to get words on the page today using a simple 10-minute strategy that works even if you feel stuck or unsure. If you’ve been telling yourself you’re not ready or that you need to read more before you write, this is your reminder that clarity comes from action—not overthinking. This is your starting point. No pressure. No perfection. Just progress.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

You keep telling yourself this dissertation has to be perfect. That it has to honor your family, your community, your ancestors. And that pressure is the reason you haven’t written a single page in weeks. In this episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy reminds you of one simple truth—your dissertation is not your life’s masterpiece. It’s an assignment. It’s your first attempt at research, not your final one. You’ll learn why chasing perfection keeps you stuck, how fear disguises itself as overthinking, and what it actually takes to hit submit. If you want to finish faster and with way less stress, this episode will give you the permission and the plan to do it.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the interplay between grief and creativity, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's Mars sign, particularly in Libra. The conversation explores decision-making dynamics, the shadow side of people-pleasing, and the significance of setting boundaries. Dr. Lacy also provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to embrace change and self-discovery while navigating their personal and professional lives. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/ Book An Astrology Reading: https://www.qualscholars.com/offers/8q2V7xF3/checkout   Chapters 00:00 Navigating Grief and Creativity 02:12 Understanding Mars in Libra 07:27 Decision-Making Dynamics 12:02

In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of investing in dissertation coaching and support for doctoral students. She emphasizes that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step in navigating the challenges of the dissertation process. Lacy highlights the limited role of dissertation chairs and the need for additional resources and community support. She introduces her program, Qual Scholars, as a way to provide structured support for students, encouraging them to seek help and not to go through the process alone.   Chapters 00:00 The Value of Dissertation Coaching 02:14 Understanding the Role of Your Chair 05:57 The Importance of Support in the Dissertation Process 08:58 Finding the Right Resources and Community 11:40 The Role of Coaching in Achieving Goals 14:04 Qual Scholars: A Supportive Community for Doctoral Students 16:43 Choosing the Right Support for Your Dissertation Journey   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages I

Description In this episode, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of having a structured writing system to enhance productivity and confidence in writing. She introduces her '10 Pages in Two Days' writing retreat, which aims to help participants produce significant written work in a short time frame. The retreat focuses on teaching a systematic approach to writing, addressing mental blocks, and providing a supportive environment for writers. Dr. Lacy emphasizes the need for preparation and offers insights into what participants can expect during the retreat, including common questions and answers. Chapters 00:00 The Power of a Writing System 01:47 Introducing the 10 Pages in Two Days Retreat 04:53 The Importance of a Writing Routine 08:28 Day One: Learning the Process 11:44 Day Two: Overcoming Mental Blocks 15:47 Preparing for the Retreat 19:48 Common Questions and Answers   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars

In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the importance of self-belief, the role of astrology as a guiding tool, and the significance of the new moon in initiating personal growth. She emphasizes the need to trust oneself, overcome perfectionism, and embrace change, particularly during Leo season. The discussion also touches on the impact of relationships on personal development and the importance of community support. Lacy provides astrological insights for each zodiac sign, encouraging listeners to find their voice and authenticity while navigating their journeys.   Chapters 00:00 Believing in Yourself Despite Doubts 02:25 Understanding Astrology as a Guide 06:08 Navigating New Beginnings with the New Moon 09:13 The Importance of Rising Signs in Astrology 11:45 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Growth 14:11 The Role of Validation in Personal Growth 16:55 Trusting Yourself in the Face of Uncertainty 19:18 The Power of Self-Expression During Leo Season 21:51 The Journey of the Dissertation Process 24:39

In this episode, Dr. Lacy explores the intersection of astrology, spirituality, and personal growth, particularly through the lens of Mercury retrograde in Leo. She reflects on her own journey from 2018 to 2020, discussing the challenges and transformations she faced, including the transition from being a doctoral student to a professional. The conversation also delves into the biblical story of Saul's transformation into Paul, drawing parallels to personal identity and the importance of self-reflection during Mercury retrograde. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and the decisions they face during this astrological period. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Astrology and Spirituality 12:11 The Journey to Embracing Business and Identity 19:20 The Road to Damascus: Transformation and New Beginnings 27:30 The Unique Position of Privilege 33:03 Understanding Retrogrades and Their Impact 44:29 Navigating Change and Decision-Making 51:00 Embracing Transformation and Future Directions Dissertatio

Ashley Thomas didn’t wait for permission to take her next step—she made the decision to invest in herself. In this episode, she shares how she went from high school chemistry teacher to doctoral candidate, all while balancing work, life, and the emotional weight of the dissertation process. We talk about what it really means to bet on your future, why group coaching changed everything, and how she learned to ask for help without shame. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth it to invest in support—Ashley’s story will show you what’s possible when you do. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/ Ashley Thomas (She, her, hers) I am Ashley Thomas, a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I have been a teacher for 19 y

You think the problem is your topic or your writing. It’s not. The problem is you’re still trying to make the process make sense. In this truth-telling episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down why so many smart, capable students stay stuck in the dissertation phase—while others fly past them with mediocre drafts. If you are exhausted from rewriting, over-researching, or waiting for your chair to finally make sense, this episode will shift everything. Learn why your chair doesn’t need you to be brilliant, why perfect is the enemy of done, and how trusting your own voice can get you to graduation faster.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

Literature Review Starter Pack: https://qualscholars.com/ Summary In this conversation, Dr. Lacy discusses the challenges of writing a literature review, emphasizing that the struggle often stems from a lack of direction and understanding of the purpose of the review. She highlights the importance of knowing one's perspective before diving into literature, the political nature of citations, and the need for a structured approach to writing. Dr. Lacy provides practical advice on defining the problem, understanding its significance, and creating a strategy for writing effectively. She also offers resources and support for those looking to improve their writing process. Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/ Chapters 00:00 The Struggle

In this episode, Dr. Danielle McArdle reflects on what it really took to become the version of herself she always imagined. She shares how the PhD process tested her confidence, challenged her identity, and forced her to let go of the idea that she had to figure it all out on her own. We talk about the real work of finding your people, navigating difficult advisor relationships, and learning how to trust your voice. This conversation is a reminder that you are not here just to earn a degree. You are here to become the kind of scholar and leader you always knew you could be. Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/ Danielle McArdle (She/her) Danielle.h.mcardle@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/daniellehmcard

Every time you sit down to write, your brain goes blank. You know what the goal is—finish the dissertation—but the words just won’t come. In this solo episode, Dr. Marvette Lacy breaks down exactly why this keeps happening. She shares how burnout, shame, and lack of clarity are working against you, and why more time isn’t the answer—better energy management is. You’ll learn about the Scholar Basics, the real reason your writing plan keeps falling apart, and the one question that can help you get unstuck today. If you’ve been showing up for everyone else and wondering why you can’t show up for yourself, this episode is for you.   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

What if the biggest breakthrough in your dissertation journey had nothing to do with writing—and everything to do with finally asking for help? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Girsea Martinez get real about the grief, guilt, and pressure that can derail your academic progress. They unpack what it means to carry personal loss while collecting data, why rewriting can feel like reliving trauma, and how community became the turning point that changed everything. If you’ve been silently struggling, convinced you have to figure it out alone—this episode will remind you that you don’t.   Girsea Martinez (she/they) https://www.linkedin.com/in/girsea Girsea on LinkedIn and IG   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual Scholars’ Instagram: https://instagram.com/qual_scholars/

What happens when your world falls apart in the middle of your PhD? In this raw and powerful conversation, Dr. Michelle Rascon-Canales shares how grief, neurodivergence, and academic pressure collided—and how she found her way back through coaching, community, and creativity. We talk about why writing in isolation doesn’t work, how the wrong advisor relationship can shake your confidence, and what it really takes to keep writing when life gets heavy. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re the only one struggling to keep it all together behind the scenes—this one’s for you.   Michelle Rascon-Canales (She/her) Michelle.rascon.canales@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rascon-canales Instagram: @michellephd_lmsw   Dissertation Information Qual Scholars Community: https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat: https://qualscholars.com/10pages/ The Finish Your Dissertation Institute: https://qualscholars.com/theinstitute/  Qual Scholars Website: https://qualscholars.com/  Qual

Join us for the 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

Here’s why writing is so hard

Join us for the 10 Pages In 2 Days Writing Retreat https://qualscholars.com/10pages/

Join the Qual Scholars Community https://qual-scholars.circle.so/ Find the resources your need to get to graduation. https://qualscholars.com/