What drives us to pursue a PhD—and what happens when that drive fades or fractures under pressure?
In this candid and thought-provoking episode, David welcomes Dr. Agnieszka Piotrowska – founder of The Scholars Mentor – to talk about the invisible struggles of doctoral life, especially for international PhD students. Drawing on her background in psychoanalysis and personal coaching, Agnieszka brings clarity and compassion to the often-taboo subjects of anxiety, burnout, and self-doubt in graduate education.
Whether you’re considering leaving academia, seeking tools to navigate the pressure, or just want to hear you’re not alone, this conversation is packed with insight, strategies, and real talk.
Dr Agnieszka Piotrowska is a filmmaker, academic and certified life coach whose work unpacks the invisible stories people carryparticularly those who appear outwardly successful but wrestle with anxiety, isolation or a lingering sense of unfinished business. Through The Scholars’ Mentor, her coaching and mentoring platform, she supports international PhD students and accomplished professionals in reclaiming their voice and directionnot through empty affirmations, but through honest conversation, creative exploration, and a clear-eyed view of whats really going on beneath the surface.
🔍 In this episode
Why international PhD students face heightened psychological challenges
The internal saboteur: what happens when your reasons for doing a PhD aren’t your own
Vetting supervisors and institutions – what most students overlook
Self-sabotage, homesickness, and how to spot the signs early
Navigating the decision to quit (or stay) with intention and self-respect
Small practices that help: talking, journaling, meditation, sunlight, movement
What AI can do in supporting PhD mental health, and what it shouldn’t
See the resources section below for Agnieszka’s’s links!
This episode’s resources:
Thank you, Agnieszka Piotrowska!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Agnieszka, let her know by clicking the link below and leaving her a message on Linkedin:
Send Agnieszka Piotrowska a thank you message on Linkedin!
Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David!
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Michael Dargie – Branding for Researchers
Michelle Niemeyer – Bending Time, Beating Academic Burnout
Karina Machado – Being a Young Scientist in the Global South
Katerina Thomas – Career Growth and Mentorship