Dissertation Deconstructed

IRB Approval Without the Anxiety: What Every Doctoral Student Needs to Know

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300919/fan_mail/new] The IRB process can feel intimidating, confusing, and filled with endless revisions—but it doesn’t have to derail your dissertation journey. In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Nixon breaks down how to successfully prepare for IRB review, avoid common mistakes, and navigate revisions with confidence. Learn the essential dos and don’ts of the IRB application process, why working closely with your dissertation chair matters, and why conducting research before approval can seriously delay your progress. Drawing from experience chairing over 50 doctoral committees, this episode also shares real insight, encouragement, and practical strategies to help doctoral students move through the process with clarity and confidence. Plus, a heartfelt reflection on recently watching five students earn their doctorates—and the joy of calling them “Doctor” for the very first time. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! http://www.denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Surviving the Dissertation Process: Real Talk From a Recent Graduate

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300919/fan_mail/new] In this inspiring and practical episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Baker—recent doctoral graduate, entrepreneur, and higher education professor—for an honest conversation about what it really takes to survive and successfully complete the dissertation journey. Dr. Baker shares firsthand experiences, lessons learned, and the strategies that helped her push through challenges from proposal to defense. Whether you are just beginning your dissertation or trying to regain momentum, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and actionable insight from someone who has recently crossed the finish line. What You’ll Learn * What surprised Dr. Baker most about the dissertation process * How she balanced academic writing with professional and personal responsibilities * Strategies that helped her stay organized and motivated * How she handled feedback, revisions, and moments of self-doubt * The importance of mentorship, support systems, and self-advocacy * Advice for ABD students who feel stuck or overwhelmed * Reflections on defense day and life after earning the doctorate Connect with Dr. Tiffany Baker: https://www.inspiredu-design.com Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! http://www.denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Building the Literature Review: Using an Outline to Write with Clarity and Confidence

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300919/fan_mail/new] Feeling overwhelmed by your dissertation literature review? In this episode of Dissertation Constructed, learn how to use a strategic outline to organize research, identify key themes, and write with clarity and confidence. You’ll gain practical tips for pacing your writing, ethically using AI as a support tool, and staying motivated as you move forward—one section at a time.  Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! http://www.denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Beating Procrastination, Burnout, and the Urge to Quit: Mindset & Habits That Work

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300919/fan_mail/new] In this episode, we dig into one of the biggest challenges doctoral students face: procrastination, burnout, and the overwhelming urge to quit. You’ll learn why these feelings show up, how to recognize them early, and the mindset and habits that help you push through with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re at the beginning of your dissertation journey or deep into Chapter 4, this episode gives you the practical tools and emotional encouragement you need to keep going. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! http://www.denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

From Confusion to Clarity: Finding Your Theoretical Framework

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300919/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, we tackle one of the most challenging—and essential—parts of the doctoral journey: developing your theoretical framework. Many students struggle to move from uncertainty to understanding when it comes to aligning theory with research purpose. Join Dr. Denise Nixon as she breaks down how to identify, evaluate, and select a framework that provides direction and credibility for your study. An excerpt from a previous episode featuring Dr. Azadeh Osonloo sheds light on key factors to consider when developing the theoretical framework. You’ll learn practical strategies for connecting your research questions to existing theory, avoiding common pitfalls, and articulating your framework with confidence. This episode will help you move from confusion to clarity in building a strong theoretical foundation for your dissertation. Dr. Azadeh Osonloo - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/azadeh-o-b73189b/  Article: Understanding, selecting, and integrating a theoretical framework in dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your “house”  by Dr. Cynthia Grant and Dr. Azadeh Osanloo Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! http://www.denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/