Moms, Mats and Manuscripts

Ksenia Volkova Tomaz
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Moms, Mats and Manuscripts is a podcast hosted by Ksenia Volkova Tomaz, a former molecular biologist, yoga teacher and mindset coach for scientists, and mom. This is a space for honest, unpolished conversations about the parts of academia and ambition we don’t talk about enough. Here, we explore the mental and emotional load of being a young scientist or high-achieving woman: the pressure to constantly produce, the identity crises, the inner critic, the fear of slowing down, the guilt around rest, the invisible labour of motherhood, and the messy process of redefining success on your own terms. I share personal stories, science-backed insights, and yoga-psychology tools to help you navigate burnout, self-worth, boundaries, and the overwhelming push to “do more.” Think of this space as a friend's couch, where you can have a cup of coffee, relax, exhale and be seen.

  1. 2D AGO

    E40 - Leaving academia without burnout (with Dr Ana Amaral)

    The story of our today's guest, Ana Amaral, challenges the typical "I left academia because I burned out" narrative. With a biochemistry PhD, postdocs at Cambridge and Karolinska Institute, and an incredibly supportive boss, she had everything needed for academic success. Yet something was missing - so she decided to leave and look for it elsewhere. This episode explores how body wisdom and intuition can guide major career decisions, even when logic says to stay put. Ana shares how yoga, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence helped her recognise that safety isn't the same as fulfilment. We talked about: Why following joy mattered more than following a predetermined pathHow to recognise when your body is telling you it's time to changeTransferable skills from PhD to entrepreneurshipThe role of emotional intelligence in scientific environmentsRedefining success on your own termsWhether you're questioning your academic path or simply curious about alternative careers after a PhD, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on leaving academia with clarity rather than desperation. Topics: career transition, leaving academia, PhD journey, postdoc experience, entrepreneurship, leadership coaching, intuition, body awareness, emotional intelligence, work-life balance, academic culture, career fulfilment Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    1h 12m

  2. FEB 6

    E39 - I thought I'd be further ahead by now

    Four years into self-employment, almost two years of this podcast... and instead of feeling settled, I’ve been sitting with a lot of mixed emotions. In this birthday reflection episode, I talk honestly about the thought many of us carry: “I should be further ahead by now.” I reflect on academic conditioning, linear timelines, grief around identity shifts, motherhood and building a business in “hard mode,” and the pressure to measure ourselves by standards that were never designed for our lives. This episode is a somewhat rambling, vulnerable pause before we move into upcoming conversations about non-linear and so-called “alternative” career paths out of academia. It’s about redefining success, following curiosity instead of hustle, and learning to sit with uncertainty without immediately trying to fix it. If you’re feeling behind, conflicted, or pulled between wanting more and honouring where you are, I’m right there with you, and I hope you feel less alone after listening to this birthday reflection. Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    23 min

  3. JAN 20

    E38 - When you're ambitious but exhausted: a gentle approach to goals

    Struggling with New Year’s resolutions, goal setting, or motivation as a PhD student, academic, or ambitious parent? In this solo episode of Moms, Mats & Manuscripts, I talk about what is not working with traditional goal setting when you’re exhausted, and how to approach goals more gently and sustainably. We explore goals without burnout, realistic planning for busy seasons of life, and how to stay ambitious without falling into perfectionism or all-or-nothing thinking. This episode covers gentle goals, self-compassion, productivity for academics (or parents of young kids!), and planning the year ahead when your capacity is limited. Perfect for: PhD students and early-career researchersAcademic mums and parentsAmbitious women feeling tired, overwhelmed, or stuckAnyone rethinking productivity, discipline, and success_________ If you resonate with this topic, I'm hosting a Gentle Goals online event on February 15th. Join the waitlist here: https://shantiscienceyoga.lpages.co/gentlegoals-waitlist/ Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    28 min

  4. JAN 9

    E37 - New Year, new podcast (kind of)

    Welcome to the new chapter! In this solo episode of Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts, I share what’s changing on the podcast in 2026 and my vision for the year ahead.  I talk about the upcoming episode series focused on motherhood in and around academia, including family planning during a PhD, parenting as a postdoc or researcher, identity shifts after becoming a mother, and balancing ambition with care. I also introduce a series on alternative careers after academia, exploring non-linear career paths, leaving academia, and creating meaningful work beyond the traditional academic track. If you’re looking for a podcast for PhD students, women in academia, academic mothers, or scientists questioning the traditional academic career path, this episode offers a preview of the conversations coming next - so I hope you stick around! Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    15 min
  5. E36 - (S3E16) Starting a family in academia: a conversation on fears, ambitions and the myth of perfect timing (with Dr Asya Martirosyan)

    12/03/2025

    E36 - (S3E16) Starting a family in academia: a conversation on fears, ambitions and the myth of perfect timing (with Dr Asya Martirosyan)

    In this honest and beautifully chaotic episode, Dr Asya Martirosyan joins me once again for a vulnerable conversation about starting a family in academia: the fears, ambitions, cultural expectations, and the persistent myth of “perfect timing.” We dive into the pressures placed on women in STEM to excel at everything: building a career, being a present mother, running a household, staying balanced and ambitious… often without any real support or open discussion. We talk about:  • fears around motherhood and “ruining” our kids  • cultural influences on how we imagine parenting  • the myth that children limit success  • why academia makes family planning feel impossible  • why mothers are expected to sacrifice everything  • and how kids can also bring a different kind of motivation. I hope this episode will be the start of a recurring series on motherhood in academia - because these conversations are deeply needed, and I plan to bring more guests to share their stories. Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    1h 32m
  6. E35 - (S3E15) Science, startups, and sanity: finding balance while wearing many hats with Dr Asya Martirosyan

    11/12/2025

    E35 - (S3E15) Science, startups, and sanity: finding balance while wearing many hats with Dr Asya Martirosyan

    In this episode of Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts, Ksenia sits down with Dr Asya Martirosyan to explore the highs and lows of life in academia, the pressures of PhD and postdoc work, and how she rediscovered her love for science when freed from external expectations. We dive into: The mental and emotional toll of PhD life and academic pressure; How cultural factors affect the way we work, perceive criticism and show up in academia; Rediscovering curiosity and doing science for the sake of science; Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship while staying grounded in rigorous research; Dr Asya’s journey with her startup, AuroraFit, and how she’s bringing safe, science-backed longevity treatments to people; Balancing passion projects, career, and personal life while protecting mental health. If you’re an early-career researcher struggling with stress, self-worth, or imposter syndrome, or wondering what's next, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and inspiration from someone who has lived through it and come out thriving. _____________ Asya's info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-asya-martirosyan/ Aurora Fit: https://aurorafit.de/ _____________ Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    1h 19m
  7. E34 - (S3E14) Speak up: A conversation on finding your voice and confidence with Emma Gaskin

    10/30/2025

    E34 - (S3E14) Speak up: A conversation on finding your voice and confidence with Emma Gaskin

    Public speaking, whether in a conference room or on stage, can feel absolutely terrifying. For many scientists, it’s part of the job, yet few of us are ever taught how to really do it: how to command a room, connect with an audience, and share our message with confidence and authenticity. In this episode, Ksenia talks with Emma Gaskin, a former speech therapist and founder of The Speaking Hub, who now helps women in business and leadership find their voice and speak with impact. We dive into: - Why public speaking feels so scary (and how to move through that fear) - The power of storytelling - even in data-heavy, scientific talks - How posture, breath, and nervous system regulation affect your voice - How to recover gracefully when you freeze or lose your train of thought - Why being human, imperfect, and relatable makes you a better speaker Whether you’re a scientist preparing for your next conference talk, a professional learning to lead meetings, or someone who simply wants to feel more confident being heard, this conversation is full of practical tools and mindset shifts to help you speak up with courage and clarity. ____________ Emma's information: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thespeakinghub/ Instagram: @emmajgaskin Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    1h 3m
  8. E33 - (S3E13) Becoming the mentor you needed: a conversation with Dr Liz Berry about mental health, mentorship and changing academic culture

    10/14/2025

    E33 - (S3E13) Becoming the mentor you needed: a conversation with Dr Liz Berry about mental health, mentorship and changing academic culture

    What makes a great mentor, and how can we create a healthier, more compassionate academic culture? In this episode of Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts, we talk with Dr Liz Berry, assistant professor at New York Medical College and creator behind @dr.lizberry on Instagram and TikTok. Liz shares her honest experiences moving from PhD student to educator, how burnout shaped her approach to mentorship, and why she believes rest and compassion belong in every lab and lecture hall. We explore: The difference between supportive and harmful mentorship (and how mentorship can make or break one's experience)How academic culture often rewards overwork (and what needs to change)Why rest, boundaries, and vulnerability make us better teachers and scientistsHow Liz models sustainable success for her students and teaches with compassion - without lowering standardsIf you’ve ever struggled with burnout, imposter syndrome, or the pressure to “do it all,” this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone, and that change in academia starts with how we care for ourselves and each other. _______________ Dr Liz Berry links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.lizberry/ Website: https://razberryscience.my.canva.site/dr-lizberry?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacrlKL1MrpxJTEdEKyr3R8s9ylEAfShvD_cE2UNsvp9tYkz1FWUjnOwKlfz-w_aem_iqHk0JglI6ZBO24h96kF7Q Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats! I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line. We're also on Instagram: @moms.mats.manuscripts @shantiscience_yoga Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com

    1h 5m
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About

Moms, Mats and Manuscripts is a podcast hosted by Ksenia Volkova Tomaz, a former molecular biologist, yoga teacher and mindset coach for scientists, and mom. This is a space for honest, unpolished conversations about the parts of academia and ambition we don’t talk about enough. Here, we explore the mental and emotional load of being a young scientist or high-achieving woman: the pressure to constantly produce, the identity crises, the inner critic, the fear of slowing down, the guilt around rest, the invisible labour of motherhood, and the messy process of redefining success on your own terms. I share personal stories, science-backed insights, and yoga-psychology tools to help you navigate burnout, self-worth, boundaries, and the overwhelming push to “do more.” Think of this space as a friend's couch, where you can have a cup of coffee, relax, exhale and be seen.

Information

  • Creator
    Ksenia Volkova Tomaz
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Moms, Mats and Manuscripts
  • Show Website
    Moms, Mats and Manuscripts