Leanne Sobel is a Strategic Design Consultant and Researcher. She has a background in communication design and strategy and is passionate about the opportunities for design in business. Leanne is currently a PhD Candidate at the University of Technology Sydney, investigating the role of design in strategy. Leanne brings a wealth of experience to her practice, having worked on public and private sector projects in roles spanning design, strategy, management, research, and education.    In this episode we talk about Leanne’s route into study and her transition from work into the PhD.   Leanne shares her intense experience of starting her doctoral journey with small children during a pandemic!   She talks about the techniques and routines that have helped her navigate the challenges she has faced.   Leanne reminds us to not set the bar unrealistically high and the importance of reflecting on what is and isn’t working for you.   Most of all Leanne wanted people to know that, if you are negotiating the PhD whilst caring for others, you are not alone.   The book Leanne mentions is: ‘Burnout: Solve Your Stress Cycle’ by Emily and Amelia Nagoski. You can contact Leanne here: www.leannesobel.com If you would like a useful weekly email to support you on your PhD journey you can sign up for ‘Notes from the Life Raft’ here:  https://mailchi.mp/f2dce91955c6/notes-from-the-life-raft