"The Guts and the Will" with Val Soto

academia on fire

Is science even real anymore? What is real? And do people still believe in science? Just when we thought grad school couldn’t get more chaotic, the NIH funding landscape threw us a curveball. This week, Avery and Yassine dive into the messy realities of pursuing science in uncertain times, from funding struggles to the bigger question of how we connect research to real-world impact. We also check in on our PhD journeys... and yes, we have updates on Avery’s dating life too. 🧠 -As always, stay educated and seek confusion! Connect with us: 📩 educatedbutconfused@gmail.com [educatedbutconfused@gmail.com] 💸 Support: patreon.com/educatedbutconfused [http://patreon.com/educatedbutconfused]

Fourth Year Confessions: Grants, Goals, and the Glorious NeeDoh Gumdrop

It's Year 4 for the Educated But Confused podcast! Join Yassine and Avery for personal and professional updates, a deep dive into the challenges of transitioning after grant work or big deadlines, and the inside scoop on fourth year. Plus, we're spilling the tea and de-stressing with NeeDoh Gumdrops. As always, stay educated and seek confusion! Get connected with us: Contact us for educated thoughts or general confusions at educatedbutconfused@gmail.com [educatedbutconfused@gmail.com] Support us by joining our patreon!patreon.com/educatedbutconfused [http://patreon.com/educatedbutconfused]

Mentorship & Legacy with Dr. Daniel Tranel: A Standing Ovation

Hello, listeners— It is with the deepest honor, respect, and gratitude that we, Avery and Yassine, bring you this truly special episode. Our guest is none other than Dr. Daniel Tranel—Professor of Neurology, Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Senior Director of the Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship, and Director of the Neuroscience Graduate Program at the University of Iowa. These titles barely scratch the surface of his contributions to science and mentorship, for which we owe him immense gratitude. Join us in this meaningful conversation as we celebrate Dr. Tranel’s impact on the scientific community, unpack his 2024 Carver College of Medicine Distinguished Mentor Award, explore his passion for mentorship, discuss the importance of scholarship, reflect on major scientific milestones, and gather invaluable advice for students. And if that wasn’t special enough—this episode was recorded to the minute on Dan’s birthday. Enjoy the magic of the Iowa Vibes! -As always, stay educated and seek confusion! Get connected with us: Contact us for educated thoughts or general confusions at educatedbutconfused@gmail.com [educatedbutconfused@gmail.com] & follow us on instagram @ebcpod [https://www.instagram.com/ebcpod?igsh=MXd3OGVtNXF4ZjUyeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] :) Support us by joining our patreon!patreon.com/educatedbutconfused [http://patreon.com/educatedbutconfused]

gritty but berated

In today’s episode, Yassine and Avery wrap up their third year of grad school, reflecting on key lessons learned and setting intentions for the year ahead. Join us as we look back, plan forward, and embrace the chaos and clarity of academic life. —As always, stay educated and seek confusion! 💡 Get in touch: 📩 Email us at educatedbutconfused@gmail.com [educatedbutconfused@gmail.com] 🎙️ Support the show: Join our Patreon at patreon.com/educatedbutconfused [http://patreon.com/educatedbutconfused]

"The Guts and the Will" with Val Soto

In this episode, Avery and Yassine catch up with Val, one of the original hosts of educated but confused who co-founded the show with them before leaving last year after completing his Master’s in Neuroscience at the University of Iowa. Val is now teaching at Southern Oregon University, and we dive into his journey and all the new directions he’s taken in life and work since stepping away from academia. We start off strong with Yassine's thought-provoking question: What are Val’s views on the gut microbiome, and how does it impact brain function, free will, and determinism? Val shares his insights, bridging science with philosophy in a discussion that’s both mind-expanding and full of practical implications. Next, we explore: How has Val’s sleep research from grad school influenced his teaching? Val tells us about a course he developed and taught called “Explorations of Foundational Health.” From neuroscience-informed stress management to exploring sleep, consciousness, and the nature of free will, Val brings a unique and holistic perspective to health and well-being. Finally, we ask: How has life shifted from the pressures of grad school to the world of professional teaching? Val reflects on the highs, challenges, and personal growth that have defined his transition from student to educator. Tune in to this inspiring episode that brings us full circle with an OG host, diving deep into the big questions and practical lessons on health, consciousness, and the future of science and education! -As always, stay educated and seek confusion! Get connected with us: Contact us for educated thoughts or general confusions at educatedbutconfused@gmail.com [educatedbutconfused@gmail.com] & follow us on instagram @ebcpod [https://www.instagram.com/ebcpod?igsh=MXd3OGVtNXF4ZjUyeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] :) Support us by joining our patreon!patreon.com/educatedbutconfused [http://patreon.com/educatedbutconfused]