Papa PhD Gold: Four Practices You Must Learn From Gig Workers as a Scientist

Welcome to the second episode of Papa PhD Gold! In this riveting conversation, we have the pleasure of delving into the world of gig workers with Professor Sue Ashford from the University of Michigan, as she shares her insightful research on how these workers maintain their identity and vitality in a professional world full of uncertainties. Sue introduces us to the four key connections that experienced gig workers build to manage anxieties and thrive in their careers. This includes building supportive networks of peers or mentors, creating inspiring workspaces, identifying meaningful purposes for oneself, and establishing sustainable routines. Each of these connections plays a crucial role in sustaining creativity, productivity, and mental well-being amidst the challenges of independent work. And that is why it applies to you as a scientist. Whether you’re a gig worker, an academic, or simply curious about the dynamics as an independent professional, this episode is sure to offer you valuable perspectives and actionable takeaways. Come along and dive in! Sue Ashford is the Michael and Susan Jandernoa Professor in the Management and Organizations group at the University of Michigan, Stephen M. Ross School of Business. She has previously taught at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College and received her MS and Ph.D. degrees from Northwestern University. Sue’s passion is using her teaching and research to help people to be maximally effective in their work lives, with an emphasis on self-leadership, proactivity, personal growth, and leadership and its development. Her teaching at the Ross School currently focuses on the executive MBA program (negotiation) and several short-term executive education programs (leadership, change, growth). She also teaches regularly in the Leading Women Executives program of the Corporate Leadership Center and for various companies. Key take-home messages: Building Connections: Sue Ashford emphasizes the importance of connecting with people who elevate and encourage you. Whether it’s a mentor, a writing group, or your spouse, these connections serve as a support system, keeping you on track and affirming your path. Creating a Space for Success: The place where you work can profoundly impact your productivity and mindset. Sue shares stories of various professionals who have tailored their workspaces to boost focus and creativity, turning their immediate environments into sources of inspiration. Finding Purpose: Understanding why you engage in your work can help you overcome the challenges of an independent career path. Sue shares her personal story of perseverance, driven by a desire to share wisdom and make an impact. Establishing Routine: If we consider routines as the “warden of accomplishment”, adopting consistent habits, such as setting daily intentions and defining weekly rhythms can support us in maintaining focus and achieving our goals. Why Listen? Sue Ashford’s interview reminds us that while the path of gig work can be fraught with anxiety, intentional actions focusing on connection, space, purpose, and routine can build a solid foundation for a fulfilling career. Connect with Us: Have thoughts about this episode? Want to recommend a guest for us to interview? Share your voice with us! Visit speakpipe.com/papaphd to leave a voice note. We value every piece of feedback and look forward to featuring some in future episodes. Tune In: Don’t miss this insightful conversation aimed at helping you redefine your path Beyond the Thesis. Subscribe to Papa PhD on your favorite podcast platform, and join us next week for another inspiring episode! P.S.: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. How do you apply these principles in your work life? Share with us on our social media channels or reply directly to this email! This episode’s links: Sue Ashford | WebsiteThe Power of Flexing | BookAgony And Ecstasy in the Gig Economy | Article Episode Transcript Sue Ashford: What we found is the things that these experienced gig workers did, the ones that describe their identity as pretty firm, they knew who they were and they lived it, and they describe their working life as more vital, So they created what they needed for themselves to contain the anxieties that came from working in this style. So they did four things. They created four connections. So I’ll describe one, and then we’ll give you a chance to ask a questons. I have not done that. David Mendes: I’m curious to hear about that. Yeah. Sue Ashford: Okay. So one is a connection to other people. So people that, elevated them and encouraged them and focused them. So, you know, it might be if you’re a writer, you were in contact with your editor. If you’re a consultant, just one person had an independent group of consultants that were independent consultants that got together and they would share. For academics, it’s often a writing group, where you get together and you share ...