It's been over one year since the pandemic brought a halt to many of our day-to-day lives, and all signs point to it being with us well into the summer. In this week’s episode, the hosts reflect on what has carried them through thus far and what they plan to rely on in order to bring some sense of normalcy to their lives in spite of living amidst pandemic conditions. From small everyday enjoyments to weekly habits and from guilty pleasures to general outlooks on life, the hosts share their pandemic favorites as both reflection and inspiration for the next stretch.

In addition to the challenges many academics are facing with various work-from-home-arrangements, the pandemic has put economic strains on universities and other organizations, leading to a drop in traditional employment opportunities for academics. In this episode, the hosts consider the so-called alt-ac career as a possibility for academics to look outside of the narrow confines of tenure track positions and other teaching-centered appointments. Addressing alt-ac positions both as a long term career plan and as a way to "pivot" during these challenging times, the hosts outline their own experiences applying to as well as working in such roles in humanities-based fields.

Collaborations with colleagues can be a source of strength and inspiration. Some collaborations, like this podcast, for example, allow colleagues and friends to pursue their mutual interests while receiving feedback and support via a social outlet. Amidst this pandemic, forging and maintaining such relationships is more important than ever. Join Judith and Erin as they discuss different types of collaborations in the academy, ways to connect and network with like-minded scholars, the benefits such working relationships may provide, and how to set ground rules and boundaries in collaborative environments.

This episode references:

The Maynooth University Motherhood Project virtual conference on the topic of ‘Motherhood and Work’ (June 24th and 25th, 2021), call for papers located here: .

Two facebook groups for academic mothers:

IAMAS connects those interested in feminist mothering and the progressive change that needs to happen including scholars, media, politicians, and others:

https://www.facebook.com/iamafeministmom

PhD Mamas:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/852878781433293