Skip to content
Log in Join free
Dissertation Deconstructed cover art

Denise Nixon

Dissertation Deconstructed

A How To , Education and Self-Improvement podcast

#126 in How To · 🇿🇦
Good podcast? Give it some love!

About the show

Hosted by Dr. Denise Nixon, Dissertation Deconstructed is your essential guide to navigating the doctoral journey—from your first research question to post-graduation success. The podcast offers practical resources, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you build a high-quality dissertation, one step at a time. Hear from professors, academic professionals, and doctoral researchers who share their experiences and strategies for success. From research design and writing tips to defense preparation and time management, you’ll gain valuable knowledge to support your academic goals. But the journey doesn’t end there. Dr. Nixon also explores how to leverage your doctorate after graduation—highlighting career options, professional development strategies, and ways to make the most of your degree in academia, entrepreneurship, and beyond. This podcast will inspire and empower you to thrive in your doctoral journey and beyond.

Newest episodes

Recruiting Quantitative Research Participants: What Every Researcher Should Know

26 min

Send us Fan Mail Struggling to find participants for your dissertation? In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Denise Nixon shares practical, ethical, and effective strategies for recruiting participants for quantitative research studies. Learn how to increase survey response rates, recruit in rural and island communities, avoid common recruitment mistakes, and collect the quality data you need to successfully complete your dissertation. Whether you're preparing for IRB approval or launching your survey, this episode will help you recruit with confidence. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Nobody's Responding?! Here's Why Your Qualitative Study Isn't Getting Participants

34 min

Send us Fan Mail Your IRB has been approved, your study is ready to go—but no one is responding. Now what? In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Denise Nixon shares practical, ethical strategies for recruiting participants for qualitative research. Learn what to consider before launching your study, what to do when recruitment stalls, how to increase participation without violating IRB requirements, common mistakes to avoid, and why staying connected with your dissertation chair can make all the difference. If participant recruitment is delaying your dissertation, this episode will help you get back on track with confidence. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

IRB Approval Without the Anxiety: What Every Doctoral Student Needs to Know

20 min

Send us Fan Mail The IRB process can feel intimidating, confusing, and filled with endless revisions—but it doesn’t have to derail your dissertation journey. In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Nixon breaks down how to successfully prepare for IRB review, avoid common mistakes, and navigate revisions with confidence. Learn the essential dos and don’ts of the IRB application process, why working closely with your dissertation chair matters, and why conducting research before approval can seriously delay your progress. Drawing from experience chairing over 50 doctoral committees, this episode also shares real insight, encouragement, and practical strategies to help doctoral students move through the process with clarity and confidence. Plus, a heartfelt reflection on recently watching five students earn their doctorates—and the joy of calling them “Doctor” for the very first time. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Similar podcasts

All episodes

Recruiting Quantitative Research Participants: What Every Researcher Should Know

26 min

Send us Fan Mail Struggling to find participants for your dissertation? In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Denise Nixon shares practical, ethical, and effective strategies for recruiting participants for quantitative research studies. Learn how to increase survey response rates, recruit in rural and island communities, avoid common recruitment mistakes, and collect the quality data you need to successfully complete your dissertation. Whether you're preparing for IRB approval or launching your survey, this episode will help you recruit with confidence. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Nobody's Responding?! Here's Why Your Qualitative Study Isn't Getting Participants

34 min

Send us Fan Mail Your IRB has been approved, your study is ready to go—but no one is responding. Now what? In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Denise Nixon shares practical, ethical strategies for recruiting participants for qualitative research. Learn what to consider before launching your study, what to do when recruitment stalls, how to increase participation without violating IRB requirements, common mistakes to avoid, and why staying connected with your dissertation chair can make all the difference. If participant recruitment is delaying your dissertation, this episode will help you get back on track with confidence. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

IRB Approval Without the Anxiety: What Every Doctoral Student Needs to Know

20 min

Send us Fan Mail The IRB process can feel intimidating, confusing, and filled with endless revisions—but it doesn’t have to derail your dissertation journey. In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, Dr. Nixon breaks down how to successfully prepare for IRB review, avoid common mistakes, and navigate revisions with confidence. Learn the essential dos and don’ts of the IRB application process, why working closely with your dissertation chair matters, and why conducting research before approval can seriously delay your progress. Drawing from experience chairing over 50 doctoral committees, this episode also shares real insight, encouragement, and practical strategies to help doctoral students move through the process with clarity and confidence. Plus, a heartfelt reflection on recently watching five students earn their doctorates—and the joy of calling them “Doctor” for the very first time. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Surviving the Dissertation Process: Real Talk From a Recent Graduate

40 min

Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring and practical episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Baker—recent doctoral graduate, entrepreneur, and higher education professor—for an honest conversation about what it really takes to survive and successfully complete the dissertation journey. Dr. Baker shares firsthand experiences, lessons learned, and the strategies that helped her push through challenges from proposal to defense. Whether you are just beginning your dissertation or trying to regain momentum, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and actionable insight from someone who has recently crossed the finish line. What You’ll Learn What surprised Dr. Baker most about the dissertation processHow she balanced academic writing with professional and personal responsibilitiesStrategies that helped her stay organized and motivatedHow she handled feedback, revisions, and moments of self-doubtThe importance of mentorship, support systems, and self-advocacyAdvice for ABD students who feel stuck or overwhelmedReflections on defense day and life after earning the doctorateConnect with Dr. Tiffany Baker: https://www.inspiredu-design.com Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Building the Literature Review: Using an Outline to Write with Clarity and Confidence

24 min

Send us Fan Mail Feeling overwhelmed by your dissertation literature review? In this episode of Dissertation Constructed, learn how to use a strategic outline to organize research, identify key themes, and write with clarity and confidence. You’ll gain practical tips for pacing your writing, ethically using AI as a support tool, and staying motivated as you move forward—one section at a time.  Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Beating Procrastination, Burnout, and the Urge to Quit: Mindset & Habits That Work

16 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dig into one of the biggest challenges doctoral students face: procrastination, burnout, and the overwhelming urge to quit. You’ll learn why these feelings show up, how to recognize them early, and the mindset and habits that help you push through with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re at the beginning of your dissertation journey or deep into Chapter 4, this episode gives you the practical tools and emotional encouragement you need to keep going. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

From Confusion to Clarity: Finding Your Theoretical Framework

22 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Dissertation Deconstructed, we tackle one of the most challenging—and essential—parts of the doctoral journey: developing your theoretical framework. Many students struggle to move from uncertainty to understanding when it comes to aligning theory with research purpose. Join Dr. Denise Nixon as she breaks down how to identify, evaluate, and select a framework that provides direction and credibility for your study. An excerpt from a previous episode featuring Dr. Azadeh Osonloo sheds light on key factors to consider when developing the theoretical framework. You’ll learn practical strategies for connecting your research questions to existing theory, avoiding common pitfalls, and articulating your framework with confidence. This episode will help you move from confusion to clarity in building a strong theoretical foundation for your dissertation. Dr. Azadeh Osonloo - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/azadeh-o-b73189b/  Article: Understanding, selecting, and integrating a theoretical framework in dissertation research: Creating the blueprint for your “house”  by Dr. Cynthia Grant and Dr. Azadeh Osanloo Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

From Doctorate to Digital: 7 Ways to Land an Online Teaching Job

27 min

Send us Fan Mail Are you ready to take your academic expertise online? Host Denise Nixon explores seven practical strategies to help scholars, educators, and recent doctoral grads land their first online teaching job. If you are looking to supplement your income or transition fully into digital education, this episode offers clear, actionable steps to position yourself for success in the virtual classroom. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

The Dissertation Chair Dilemma: Choosing the Right Mentor for Success

16 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Denise Nixon discusses the importance of finding a dissertation chair and committee to develop a quality dissertation. She highlights five key factors and the essential element of patience duirng the process. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Unlocking the Literature Review: Expert Tips for Success

37 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Denise Nixon welcomes university professor and researcher Dr. Meredith Park. Dr. Park discusses the importance of writing a detailed and cohesive literature review for the dissertation and shares her expert tips for success. For more information about Dr. Park, please contact her at drmeredithpark@protonmail.com. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

The Art of Inquiry: Best Practices for Interviews

14 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Denise Nixon discusses the importance of interviews in qualitative research and five key strategies for conducting effective interviews. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Blueprint for Success: The Vital Role of the Theoretical Framework in Dissertation Research

32 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into a common challenge faced by doctoral learners: understanding and developing a theoretical framework. Special guest Dr. Azadeh Osanloo discusses the importance yet common misunderstanding of the theoretical framework in research. She shares her perspective on why she felt compelled to co-author the article to aid students and professors alike. She explains that the theoretical framework is essential as it serves as the blueprint for the entire dissertation, guiding the research philosophically, epistemologically, methodologically, and analytically. Osanloo further elaborates on how students can discover and utilize theoretical frameworks to support and structure their research effectively. Dr. Azadeh Osonloo - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/azadeh-o-b73189b/  Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Mastering the Manuscript: Expert Tips for Professional Editing and Dissertation Writing

35 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of dissertation writing and professional editing. Our expert guest, Dr. Mandie Koroi, a professional editor, shares invaluable tips on how to elevate your manuscript to a professional level and write a quality dissertation. What to Expect: Key strategies for organizing your dissertationTips for effective self-editing before submitting your workThe role of a professional editor Practical advice on avoiding common pitfalls during the writing processWhether you're just starting your dissertation journey or in the final stages of polishing your manuscript, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed. Tune in and transform your writing process with tips and strategies for success. Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Don't Stop Writing: 5 Key Strategies to Overcome Your Fears

11 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, podcast host Denise Nixon shares 5 key strategies to overcome the fears and mindsets of researchers when writing their dissertations. Researchers often get discourages when they encounter obstacles, like busy work schedules and information overload with all of the schoalrly articles and resources they collect during this process. This episode will explore five strategies to get you started and keep you going on your journey to your completed quality dissertation. Music by moodmode from Pixabay Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Are you Fluent in the Academic Language?

28 min

Send us Fan Mail Host Denise Nixon discusses four keys to integrating academic tone and language into your writing. Music by moodmode from Pixabay Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

Dissertation Deconstructed: Conversations on Building a Quality Dissertation

13 min

Send us Fan Mail Host Denise Nixon discusses the mission of the podcast and shares her personal story of her dissertation journey. Music by moodmode from Pixabay Music by Moses Harris from Pixabay  Music by Krzysztof Szymanski from Pixabay Subscribe & Follow the Show! https://denisenixon.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisenixon/ Podcast Disclaimer https://denisenixon.com/podcast-disclaimer/

–

0 ratings from members

5
4
3
2
1

Rate this podcast

Log in to rate and review the shows you listen to.

No reviews yet — be the first member to rate "Dissertation Deconstructed".

This podcast, its content and its artwork are not owned by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Castquire.

Keep listening

Discover more podcasts like this.

Browse podcasts See the charts

Up next

  1. Nothing queued. Use + Queue on any episode to line it up.

0:00 0:00

Cookies

We set only what the site needs to sign you in and remember your theme. No advertising, no analytics. Read more.