#311 Mark Bayer: From Research to Relevance—Helping PhDs Get Heard (and Hired) — Part One

Mark Bayer spent 20 years in the U.S. Congress shaping major policies and managing high-stakes communication for senior lawmakers. 

In Part One, he reflects on what those years taught him about messaging, persuasion, and why most PhDs—despite their brilliance—struggle to translate their value. From Capitol Hill to Harvard Medical School, Mark now helps scientists and researchers communicate like insiders.

This episode is a masterclass in what PhDs get wrong—and what they already have right.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:

The First “R&D” Mix-up

“I thought they were talking about research and development. But it was Republicans and Democrats.”

The 8% Problem

“Only 8% of PhDs stay in academia. But nearly all are trained as if that’s the only path.”

Misunderstood Advantage

“PhDs are analytical, resilient, focused—yet many don’t see those as selling points.”

Beauty vs. Relevance

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Importance is in the eye of the stakeholders.”

Your Message Has 10 Seconds

“Lead with the punchline. Or your audience will drift.”

Why Communication ≠ Dumping Data

“Scientists want to show everything they know. But that’s not the job. The job is to answer the question.”

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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Mark Bayer

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