

Academic Writing Amplified
Cathy Mazak, PhD
The podcast for academic womxn who want to write and publish more while rejecting the culture of overwork in academia.
Cathy Mazak, PhD, helps you create the career (and life) you want by centering your writing. Kick guilt and overwhelm to the curb and amplify your voice to make a real impact on your field--without breaking down or burning out.
Cathy Mazak, PhD, helps you create the career (and life) you want by centering your writing. Kick guilt and overwhelm to the curb and amplify your voice to make a real impact on your field--without breaking down or burning out.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 15, 2025 • 26min
265: Using Navigate To Transition Out Of Admin And Back To Faculty: Client Case Study With Anne Vo
In this bonus episode, I share a featured interview with Navigate program alumni, Dr. Anne Vo. She reflects on her experience transitioning from an administrative role to faculty and how the Navigate program helped her rediscover her academic focus. Anne’s story is a powerful reminder that career transitions—whether leaving or returning to academic life—can be challenging but incredibly rewarding when supported with structure, community, and tools for success. Anne shares her personal insights on overcoming fears, setting boundaries, and reclaiming time for scholarly work. If you’re considering a career shift or simply want to boost your productivity and reclaim your academic time, this conversation is a must-listen! Tune in and hear more about Anne's journey and how the tools she learned in Navigate empowered her to thrive in her academic career. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Apply here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Apr 8, 2025 • 33min
264: Funding Freezes
In this episode, I dive deeper into the ongoing impact of the current U.S. administration on higher education, particularly focusing on the financial pressures universities face due to federal funding freezes. I discuss how these cuts are threatening the foundation of academic research and what academics can do to take charge of their careers amid this uncertainty. Rather than fueling fear, I aim to provide practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. I encourage you to stay connected to your purpose and mission in academia, even if it means adapting to new ways of doing your work. Are you ready to regain control of your academic career and navigate these tumultuous times with confidence? Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Apr 1, 2025 • 31min
263: [Should I Quit Academia Series] Should I Leave Academia Now That T***P Is President?
In the concluding episode of the podcast series, Should I Quit Academia, I address how the current US president and administration are impacting higher education. From federal cuts affecting grants and research to reductions in funding to institutions and students, a lot of disruption is happening in academia. During this time of uncertainty, it may seem like quitting academia is more appealing than ever. I give you a series of questions to ask yourself to see if a career pivot is the right choice. My goal is to help you make a decision based on a belief in your value, not fear. The stability of academia is an illusion, and recognizing it will help you protect yourself and move forward with clarity and intention. Do I think higher ed is going anywhere? No. However, it is clear that significant changes are happening and will continue to happen during this presidential term. I encourage you to reflect on my questions in this episode and think about how you want to impact your field and get your voice out into the world. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Mar 25, 2025 • 49min
262: [Should I Quit Academia Series] On Writing And Becoming A Book Coach With Jennie Nash
Have you ever wondered about careers outside of academia? Or are you considering leaving the world of research and teaching behind? Transitioning from academia to a writing-focused career or exploring new ways to get your voice into your industry can be exciting and overwhelming. In today's episode, I am joined by Jennie Nash. Jennie is the CEO of Author Accelerator, a book coaching certification program that works with coaches and writers all over the world. We delve into the power of writing—whether for academic papers, books, or other forms of storytelling—and the importance of defining your purpose and audience. We also explore the role of a book coach, offering insights into how they help writers shape their ideas, navigate challenges, and find their voice. If you’re looking to refine your writing and connect with your reader more effectively, this episode is for you. Listen in to discover how to turn your ideas into impactful publications. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Mar 18, 2025 • 23min
261: [Should I Quit Academia Series] Why Changing Universities Isn’t The Answer To Your Publishing Problems (Re-Release EP 163)
Are you struggling with publications and wondering if changing universities will solve your writing problems? Think again! In this episode, I dive into the truth behind the misconception that a new university position will magically unclog your publication pipeline. I’ve worked with professors from various institutions who have held every type of position. I’ve seen first-hand that the real key to unlocking your writing success is not in your external circumstances but in how you approach your writing practice and time management. Lessening your teaching load or switching to a more research-focused position isn't going to help you publish more. If you don't address your writing practice, your issues will follow you no matter what job you take. If you’re tired of struggling with a clogged pipeline and are ready to regain control of your academic writing, this episode is for you. Learn how building a sustainable writing practice and focusing on professional development will make it easier to get your voice out into the world so you can influence your field. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 2min
260: [Should I Quit Academia Series] Choosing to Leave Academia and Create Something New: An Interview with Jane Jones (Re-Release EP 40)
Dr. Jane Jones, a sociology PhD and a successful writing coach, shares her inspiring journey transitioning from a tenure-track position to entrepreneurship. She discusses the harsh realities of academia, especially for marginalized individuals, and highlights the emotional challenges faced during this shift. Jane emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the need for supportive structures for academics at different career stages. Her insights into productivity and the coaching process offer valuable guidance for those contemplating their own career pivots.

4 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 29min
259: [Should I Quit Academia Series] Higher Ed Is In Crisis - It’s Time To Make Your Move [Re-Release EP 56]
Higher education is facing a critical crisis as profit motives overshadow meaningful academic work. The conversation urges academics to reevaluate their identities and move beyond institutional expectations. It emphasizes the importance of reforming academic systems to support personal values and achievements. Listeners are encouraged to develop better time management and planning strategies, enabling them to escape the burnout cycle while contributing significantly to knowledge creation.

Feb 25, 2025 • 26min
258: [Should I Quit Academia Series] You Are Not the Container [RE-RELEASE 50]
In today's episode, I want to challenge how we think about our academic careers. For many of us, our professional lives are heavily defined by the rules of the institution or "container" through which we work—whether it's a graduate program, a tenure-track position, or unreasonable requirements from the university. I want you to flip that way of thinking altogether. Instead of letting your institution or the promise of tenure dictate your path, you can apply your scholarly work to a container that better suits your academic mission statement and career goals. You are not the container, and your knowledge, skills, and research can be leveraged in multiple ways so that you can create a career that is fulfilling and truly aligns with who you are and what you value. If you are frustrated with your current position or are curious about quitting academia, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to separate your work from the container and the benefits of pursuing a different career path. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

Feb 18, 2025 • 25min
257: [Should I Quit Academia Series] How To Know If It's Time To Quit Academia [RE-RELEASE 176]
If you're feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or questioning your place in the academic world, you may have thought about quitting. But you worked so hard and invested so much time into becoming a professor. Are you really ready to move on to a new career? In this episode, I discuss the challenges of deciding whether it's time to quit academia. I share how to assess your current situation, identify the root causes of your dissatisfaction, and explore if there’s a way to make your academic career more enjoyable. Whether you’re a professor on a tenure track or are already a permanent faculty member, this episode guides you through the self-reflection process to help you make an informed decision about the future of your academic career. For full show notes visit scholarsvoice.org/podcast. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube

8 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 19min
256: Pipeline + Practice = Flow
In this episode, I explain how pipeline + practice = flow. Learn how having a clear, organized publication pipeline and a well-defined writing practice can help you consistently move your projects forward and get them out into the world. I’ll dive into why both of these elements are crucial for academic scholars to master and how having a clear plan for your projects alongside an intentional approach to your writing can unlock productivity and creativity. I’ll also talk about an exciting opportunity, my Spacious Writing Retreat. This intimate retreat is designed to help you refine your publication pipeline and writing practice in a supportive, immersive setting. If you’re a professor struggling to balance multiple projects, feeling stuck in your writing routine, or looking to bring more flow and consistency to your work, this episode is for you. Whether you’re looking for actionable strategies or are curious about the writing retreat experience, I will give you the tools and inspiration to address the problems with your writing practice and publications head-on. Click here to get all the retreat details and submit an interest form! CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Our 12-week Navigate: Your Writing Roadmap® program helps tenure-track womxn and nonbinary professors to publish their backlog of papers so that their voice can have the impact they know is possible. Get on the waitlist here! Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here! If you would like to hear more from Cathy for free, please subscribe to the weekly newsletter, In the Pipeline, at scholarsvoice.org. It’s a newsletter that she personally writes that goes out once a week with writing and publication tips, strategies, inspiration, book reviews and more. CONNECT WITH ME: LinkedIn Facebook YouTube