Moms, Mats and Manuscripts
Moms, Mats and Manuscripts is a podcast hosted by Ksenia Volkova Tomaz, a former molecular biologist, yoga teacher and mindset coach for scientists, and mom. This is a space for honest, unpolished conversations about the parts of academia and ambition we don’t talk about enough.
Here, we explore the mental and emotional load of being a young scientist or high-achieving woman: the pressure to constantly produce, the identity crises, the inner critic, the fear of slowing down, the guilt around rest, the invisible labour of motherhood, and the messy process of redefining success on your own terms.
I share personal stories, science-backed insights, and yoga-psychology tools to help you navigate burnout, self-worth, boundaries, and the overwhelming push to “do more.”
Think of this space as a friend's couch, where you can have a cup of coffee, relax, exhale and be seen.
Moms, Mats and Manuscripts
S2E4 - Ivna's thesis story part 3 - Post-defense reflections and future plans
We're back after a month-long hiatus with a special in-person episode, recorded during a surprise podcast retreat! 🎙️
Here we talked about a pivotal moment in Ivna's academic journey: her thesis defence. She shares her reflections on the experience, the emotional highs and lows of reaching this milestone, and how it feels to officially close the PhD chapter of her life.
We also explore her thoughts about what comes next—the mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with having a world of possibilities ahead. From dealing with the fear of the unknown to embracing new beginnings, this conversation is a raw and honest look at navigating life after academia.
Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share our podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats!
I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop us a line.
We're also on Instagram:
@moms.mats.manuscripts
@shantiscience_yoga
Reach out: moms.mats.manuscripts@gmail.com
