In this episode of the WPO Journey into Academia podcast, hosts Cat Burkat and Thasarat engage in a profound conversation with Dr. Sonal Tuli and Dr. Carla Siegfried about the importance of support systems for women in academic ophthalmology. They share their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and how they built networks of mentorship and support. The discussion highlights the evolution of these relationships over time, the loneliness that can accompany leadership roles, and the significance of offering support to others during tough moments. The episode serves as a reminder that no one walks this road alone and that leadership is as much about giving support as it is about receiving it.

Key Takeaways:

• Both speakers emphasize the importance of mentorship in their careers.

• Perseverance and grit are essential traits for success in academia.

• Building a network of mentors can significantly impact one's career trajectory.

• Support systems evolve over time and can come from peers as well as senior mentors.

• Communication and transparency are vital in leadership roles.

• Feeling lonely in leadership is common, but finding peer groups can help.

• Listening and being present for colleagues in distress is crucial.

• Women in leadership may hesitate to make tough decisions, but collaboration can ease this process.

• Offering help without overstepping boundaries is important in supporting others.

• Leadership involves both giving and receiving support.