The Third Degree [Empowering Post-Graduate Researchers] | Podcast on RSS.com

The Third Degree [Empowering Post-Graduate Researchers]

The Third Degree [Empowering Post-Graduate Researchers]

by Dr Craig J Selby | Academic Director | The Third Degree

Courses Social Sciences

Season 3

Building. a Writing Routine That Works for You!

In this episode, we unpack what it really takes to build a writing routine that genuinely works for you. Instead of chasing rigid productivity methods or obsessing over word counts, we explore how better self-awareness, environment, and realistic habits form the foundation of sustainable academic writing. We discuss why small, consistent steps matter far more than grand plans - and how momentum grows not from daily output, but from curating your ideas, nurturing clarity, and showing up in ways that support your wellbeing. This episode serves as a gentle reminder that good writing routines are crafted, not imposed!

Starting Before You're Ready

In this episode, we unpack the myth that writing begins only when "you're ready"! Academic writing isn't a polished performance -- it's an exploratory process that helps shape your thinking from the very first rough notes through to the final draft and editing. By redefining what it means to be "ready to write", we open ourselves to the messy, creative, and essential work of developing ideas through writing itself.

Writing, Reflection, and the Spirit of Academic Writing Month (AcWriMo)

November marks Academic Writing Month - a time to pause and reflect on our writing habits, challenges, and growth. In this episode, we explore what academic writing truly means beyond word counts and deadlines, recognising writing as an evolving process of thinking, questioning, and discovery. It's an invitation to revisit your goals, reinvigorate your momentum, and remember that every scribbled note, question, reflection, and paragraph is part of your research journey.

Season 2

Mental Health & Our Doctoral Journey

I couldn't let Mental Health Awareness Month pass without saying something, even if I'm extremely late to the party, especially something to help motivate others on their Doctoral journey. To say that I've been to hell and back in the past few months is an understatement, but it is so important for me to share my experiences and observations, and to offer any advice I can in order to help others take more control over their mental health.

Realities of the PhD Workload: What to Expect?

Many candidates start a doctorate without fully understanding the workload and workflows involved. In this episode, I explore what we should typically expect from the doctoral journey, and offer some understanding as to how we use this to our advantage when planning.

Should You Do a PhD? 10 Hard Questions to Ask Yourself!

Choosing to proceed with your doctoral journey is a huge decision, and one that shouldn't be taken lightly. The journey can be extremely rewarding, as well as frought with challenges. In this episode, I pose ten 'hard' questions that you should ask yourself before commencing your journey. Being realistic and honest with yourself in answering these questions will help you plan more effectively to enable your journey greater chances of success!

Season 1

Self Reflection and Progress During Your PhD

As we knock on 2025's door, taking time to reflect on our progress, achievements, and hurdles is certainly a good idea. Such reflection helps us on not only our research journey, but also with our personal and professional development. This episode explores some simple frameworks that we can use to reflect on our doctoral journey thus far, and to help us plan for the upcoming year.

Demystifying Ethics Approvals

Ethics approvals can appear daunting, but they really are not. Ethics is always a 'negotiation on a continuum' and your application for ethics approval is part of that negotiation. Yes, you are likely to get feedback and need to make amendments, so ensure you plan your documentation and timelines accordingly. This episode briefly explores the steps in the process, so that you can start getting yourself ready! Don't leave it to the last minute, because you need this before your data collection!

Transitioning from Coursework to Independent Research

Undergraduate and many masters level programmes are structured. The student is told what to read, and how to progress. The PhD is very self driven though; you are in the drivers seat, and that responsibility can be quite daunting at first. In this episode we look at some key challenges and strategies to ensure a smooth transition, and to ensure that you are mentally prepared for your PhD journey, and ready to take ownership of the project!

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in PhD Planning

A well-planned PhD journey saves time, reduces stress, and leads to more impactful outcomes. That's all good and true, but there are many traps that doctoral candidates can stumble into. In this episode, we explore several common pitfalls and how a candidate can mitigate and resolve them. We can't cover everything, but we can discuss key, commonly-agreed upon pitfalls to help you out!

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