Vida De PhD

Lorena Aceves
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In this podcast, I, Dr. Aceves, create space for scholars in and outside of the academy to authentically share their professional and personal journeys. We often think that the path to success is a linear one, but in telling our story, we quickly learn that is far from the truth. My goal is to cultivate a platform where scholars young and wise can learn about the diverse ways people (particularly individuals with PhDs) get to where they are today and emphasize the story behind the journey. I also dive into topics that are important to students and early career folks on solo episodes. Tune in!

  1. MAR 5

    Navigating Uncertainty with Certainty: Lorena & Vanessa

    This episode is part of the Navigating Uncertainty with Certainty series of Vida de PhD. In this conversation, Lorena & Vanessa sit with uncertainty and explore what it really means to navigate life, career, and identity when the next step isn’t fully mapped out. Through personal reflection and thoughtful dialogue, this episode invites listeners to slow down, name the questions they’re carrying, and recognize that uncertainty isn’t a weakness—it’s often a sign of growth. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt caught between where they’ve been and where they’re going next. Whether you’re in academia, transitioning out, or redefining success on your own terms, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and a reminder that you are not alone in the unknown. En amor y poder, Lorena

    47 min

  2. FEB 19

    The Journey of Dr. Ximena Franco-Jenkins

    In this episode of Vida de PhD, Lorena sits down with Dr. Ximena Franco-Jenkins to unpack a journey that proves academic paths don’t have to be linear to be powerful. From aspiring flight attendant and future law student to developmental psychologist and systems-level research leader, Ximena shares how her lived experience as an immigrant, bilingual Latina shaped her commitment to children, families, and multilingual learners. She opens up about discovering research through hands-on clinical work, navigating graduate school as a parent of two (yes—she defended her thesis and dissertation while raising toddlers!), and choosing a research center path over the traditional tenure track. They also discuss what it really means to be grant-funded, why implementation science focuses on the how (not just the what), and the critical role of mentorship and community in sustaining a meaningful career. Ximena leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: give yourself permission to belong. Your lived experience is expertise—and building community is how we create lasting impact. En amor y poder, Lorena

    25 min

  3. FEB 5

    Navigating Uncertainty with Certainty with Dr. Aceves- The Beginning

    This episode marks the beginning of a new era of Vida de PhD. The show will continue to feature interviews with incredible scholars navigating both academic and non-academic paths, while also shining a light on the journey into the unknown that so many of us are currently walking. These conversations will be part of a series titled “The Journey of [Guest Name].” This season also introduces a new series, “Navigating Uncertainty with Certainty,” featuring fireside-style conversations with guests who are joining me in sharing their wisdom, reflections, and lessons learned along the way. In addition, there will be solo episodes—like this one—where I speak candidly about the raw realities of reinventing myself and my career after being unexpectedly laid off.   When guests join me, they’ll share their insights alongside what I continue to learn as I move through this season of change. So buckle up and walk this journey with me. This episode is just the beginning. I can’t wait to look back on this moment and know—like everything else—that it was exactly as it needed to be. En amor y poder, Lorena PS- I’m also excited to share The Aceves Approach (which I share in the episode) — my coaching, professional development, and research consulting services designed to support students, emerging scholars, and professionals in taking intentional action during times of transition. Whether it’s one-on-one coaching, professional development workshops, or research consulting, The Aceves Approach is here to help you move forward with confidence and clarity in your personal and professional life.

    20 min

  4. 12/31/2025

    Gratitude and Farewell 2025

    In this episode, Lorena shares some news and reflections as she navigates this new season of life that she's been launched into unexpectedly. She also expresses her deep gratitude appreciation for everyone and everything. Feeling invigorated for the next season. Bring on 2026! En amor y poder, Lorena

    14 min

  5. 12/18/2025

    The Journey of Dr. Adriana Umaña-Taylor

    Lorena had the honor of interviewing Adriana! For the longest time, which she admits in the episode, she has admired Adriana's work. It was really awesome for Lorena to sit down with her and learn about where her professional journey started. They dove into the importance of really great mentors even when they may not have all the tools to guide us. Their belief and commitment can go a long way. Tune in to learn more! En amor y poder, Lorena

    37 min

  6. 12/12/2025

    The Journey of Dr. Sara Vecchiotti

    Sara has a pretty amazing story of pursuing not only a PhD but also a JD. Lorena dives into a fruitful conversation with Sara about all the unique places her PhD and JD journey took her professionally! If you are someone interested in a non-academic journey this episode is for you. Or if you want to just learn more so you can support someone as a mentor this is also for you! Tune in!

    46 min

  7. 12/05/2025

    The Journey of Dr. Maciel Hernandez

    Learn hear how Maciel navigated her Mexican heritage in pursuing her higher education and then her PhD. Lorena and Maciel dive into sharing how their families are from the same Mexican state. We also talk about the importance of speaking up promote someone else especially when they can't be in the room. Maciel shares a powerful story. Tune in to hear more! En amor y poder, Lorena

    45 min

  8. 10/22/2025

    Promoting the Value of Public Health Research, Featuring Andra Wilkinson

    This interview is part of a new series on Vida de PhD—a podcast hosted by Lorena Aceves, a research scientist at ChildTrends, that explores stories of impact at the intersection of research and people. In collaboration with Child Trends, this series aims to spotlight researchers whose work meaningfully supports youth, families, and communities. In this episode, Lorena interviews Dr. Andra Wilkinson, senior researchscientist at Child Trends, about her journey into research, her approach to impactful science, and her vision for the future of public health research.

    19 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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About

In this podcast, I, Dr. Aceves, create space for scholars in and outside of the academy to authentically share their professional and personal journeys. We often think that the path to success is a linear one, but in telling our story, we quickly learn that is far from the truth. My goal is to cultivate a platform where scholars young and wise can learn about the diverse ways people (particularly individuals with PhDs) get to where they are today and emphasize the story behind the journey. I also dive into topics that are important to students and early career folks on solo episodes. Tune in!

Information

  • Creator
    Lorena Aceves
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    69
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lorena Aceves
  • Show Website
    Vida De PhD