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The Academic Edge

Author: Dr Melanie Smith

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Cut through the noise. Write better. Create your academic career on your terms.

Welcome to The Academic Edge — the podcast for academics who want to do excellent work without burning out.

Hosted by Dr Melanie Smith— published author, academic writing coach, and former academic with 17 years in the sector — this show offers honest, practical insight into how to write, publish, and thrive in today’s academic landscape.

🎙 New episodes weekly. Subscribe now to sharpen your thinking, elevate your writing, and reclaim your time.
19 Episodes
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In this conversation, I delve into the pervasive issue of academic burnout, exploring its causes, warning signs, and the cultural factors that contribute to it. If you want help with your managing your academic workloads so you can get your writing done without burning out, you can find my free resources here:➡️ FREE COACHING
In this episode, I talk about the formula of writing journal articles and the common pitfalls that lead to rejection. I emphasize the importance of understanding this particular genre so you can avoid the 5 big pitfalls of journal article writing to maximise your publication success rates. If you want free training on this, you can find this at:➡️ Free Training
In this episode, I talk about the common reasons why academic writers feel stuck and presents a four-part framework to help identify and overcome these obstacles.
In this episode I discuss the importance of identifying 'drainers' and 'drivers' in academic writing. I emphasizes the need for a personal audit to recognize what hinders productivity and what supports it.
In this episode I share valuable writing advice derived from my own experiences and the insights of my direct mentors.
In this episode I explore the intricate relationship between academic writing and the feelings of shame that often accompany it. She discusses how shame can prevent academics from seeking help and how it is deeply embedded in the culture of academia.
In this episode, I delve into the complexities of workload management, emphasizing the distinction between stress and time management. The conversation also explores strategies for managing workload and stress, including the necessity of bargaining for control over one's tasks and environment to enhance productivity and mental well-being.
In this episode I talk about the concept of deliberate practice and its application to improving writing skills, particularly in an academic context.
In this episode, I talk about the multifaceted nature of academic success, emphasizing that it is not solely defined by titles or positions. I encourage listeners to define their own version of success while highlighting key characteristics that contribute to a fulfilling academic career.
In this episode, I talk about the intricacies of writing a monograph. I outline the challenges faced by writers and introduce a structured approach to writing a monograph efficiently.
In this episode, I talk about the final essential element that contribute to the success and sustainability of academic writers. I focus this time on the importance of constant improvement in writing skills, strategic choices in project selection, and the critical role of reading in enhancing writing technique.
In this conversation, I talk about the critical habit of writing first for successful academic writers. I address common 'reasons' for not prioritizing writing, emphasizing the importance of establishing a consistent writing routine. By challenging self-imposed narratives and protecting writing time, academics can enhance their productivity and develop sustainable writing practices.
In this episode, I talk about the second characteristic of successful and sustainable academic writers: having a writer's identity. I emphasize the importance of self-identification in academic writing and how it influences the prioritization of writing in one's career.
In this episode, I talk about the key actions of successful and sustainable academic writers, focusing on the importance of time management and time tracking. I explain how tracking time can reveal the reality of one's work habits, confront long-held narratives, and ultimately lead to more intentional and focused writing practices. The episode serves as a call to action for academics to adopt time tracking as a tool for improving their writing productivity and effectiveness.
Binge and Bust Writing

Binge and Bust Writing

2025-11-1914:34

In this episode, I talk about binge and bust writing among academic writers. I explain how this writing pattern, characterized by procrastination followed by intense writing sessions, leads to stress, burnout, and lower quality work. Being a sustainable academic requires writing habits that foster momentum and productivity, not burnout, and ultimately to a more fulfilling academic career.
In this conversation, I discuss the concept of career trap doors in academia, particularly focusing on writing and the choices that can hinder an academic's career progression.
In this conversation, I discuss the inadequacies of academic training, particularly in relation to PhD programs, and emphasizes the need for essential skills that are often overlooked. I outline six critical areas of training that academics should focus on to enhance their careers. I encourage listeners to reflect on their own practices and identify areas for improvement to foster a more sustainable and fulfilling academic career.
Do You Write To Think?

Do You Write To Think?

2025-10-2909:13

Keywords: writing, thinking, academic writing, drafting process, creativity, writing process, coaching, productivity, writing techniques, academic successIn this conversation, we talk about the idea of 'writing to think,' addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of a structured writing process. Successful writers refine their thoughts through a structured drafting process.A rigid writing process can enhance creativity rather than stifle it.Polishing a single paragraph for hours is not an effective writing strategy.Academics often avoid the upfront thinking required for clear writing.Understanding the difference between writing to think and writing as a process is crucial.Interrogating others' writing processes can provide
Key Words: academia, career advice, academic success, writing skills, networking, work-life balance, strategic thinking, boundaries, mentorship, professional development In this conversation, I share valuable insights from my academic career, focusing on 5 key lessons I wished I had known when starting her career, and 5 things that served me well. Academia is not a meritocracyUnderstanding your institution's reality is crucial.Work allocation often lacks equityPhD training does not equate to writing skills for academia.Building an external network is essential for collaboration.
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