Endurance And Overcoming Challenges Episodes

From Clinicals to Critical Care: Nurse Mikaela’s Survival Stories In this episode, Dr. Shandra sits down with Nurse Mikaela Ausbon-Harrison to share raw nurse survival stories from her nonlinear path from animal science to nursing. They dive into the grit required to survive clinical rotations, the intensity of "Code Blue" moments, and the harsh realities of toxic workplace cultures. Mikaela also offers a firsthand account of navigating life-threatening pregnancy complications, providing a un...

“Mental Endurance” with Dr. Shandra & Dr. Dar In this thoughtful and motivating episode, Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar dive into the theme of mental endurance and what it truly takes to keep going on the academic journey—especially through the toughest moments. Sharing personal stories from their own educational paths, both speakers explore why having a meaningful “why” is crucial for sticking with your goals, how to stay focused when obstacles arise, and how the process of overcoming challenges is fo...

In this episode Dr. Shandra and Dr. Dar come together to share their personal journeys from challenging beginnings to academic and professional success. They reflect on overcoming adversity, building resilience, and the importance of seeking and accepting help along the way. Both hosts discuss their struggles with confidence, academics, and family circumstances, as well as pivotal moments—like advocating for themselves and appreciating the support of mentors—that helped them navigate from high s...

In this episode, Jonathan Jackson Williams, tackles the challenges and strategies tied to physical activity and recovery. He highlights the significance of listening to one's body and knowing when to take a break from gym routines. Jonathan, a kinesiology student at California State University, Dominguez Hills, emphasizes balancing fitness goals with self-care and underlines how consistency leads to fitness success. Jonathan shares his journey, including his transfer from Mount San Antonio Co...

In this thought-provoking episode of Academic Survival, Dr. Kelly Dobson unveils the untold challenges and obstacles that can hinder a timely graduation from college. Join host Shandra McDonald as she delves into Dr. Dobson's personal journey, from financial dilemmas to unexpected distractions, and how they affected his academic progression. Discover the pivotal moments when Dr. Dobson had to prioritize his passions over societal expectations, and the significance of recognizing when it's time ...

Adell Coleman and Anna DeShawn, the hosts of the Head Nod podcast, are joining me on the Academic Survival podcast to share their insights on exploring the Black experience at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Adell Coleman, a seasoned professional working at DCP Entertainment, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the podcasting industry. Meanwhile, Anna Deshawn, the CEO of TheCube, has a passion for amplifying diverse voices and creating meaningful conversations. With their pers...

Overcoming the odds, Dana Spencer was determined to provide a better future for her and her unborn child. Little did she know that her college days would take an unexpected twist, leading her to a career in direct marketing as a single mother. Despite the challenges, Dana's unwavering dedication to her goals has enabled her to graduate from college, become financially free through real estate, and inspire others to pursue their dreams no matter what life throws at them.

Dr. Shandra L. McDonald, a college graduate with a lifelong battle with reading, set out on a quest to prove her doubters wrong, but discovered her own inner strength and resilience to academically survive college and beyond. "Don't let other people's expectations hinder your journey - make your own goals and make decisions that are consistent with achieving them!" Shandra is a podcaster, guest lecturer, speaker, coach, and author. She is passionate about helping college freshmen succeed in th...

Velmar learns to balance work, school, and relationships as she finds strength and emotional support in college. "I told myself in college I wouldn't do that because I came out of high school with literally no close friends, because I failed to build on friendships that I could have had because I was so focused on school. And what's important to you should be your priority." Velmar Amador-Lankster is a 1st-year student at UC San Diego, double majoring in Political Science: Public Law, and Soci...