Scilence S2: 59 Medical Physics & KNOW YOURSELF

THIS WEEK'S EPISODE IS POWERFULLY INSPIRATIONAL.  My guest loved doing maths in her spare time and knew she wanted to make an impact through science.  Her mother was a nurse, so she spent many hours in hospitals.  For many years it was assumed that she would be a doctor.  

No one in her family went to university, but her mother always encouraged her to make her own money and have her own independence.  Her parents encouraged her to make her own decisions and follow her own instincts and interests.  Medical physics was where she had her lightbulb moment. 

In this week's episode, we discuss self-doubt.  Everyone doubts themselves, but we can’t keep doubting the path we are on.  There will be uncertainties along the way and we have to be careful not to adopt the insecurities of others - but ultimately we have to be clear in our own minds about what is right for us. 

Having two older brothers meant that she learned to make her voice heard.  Her mum helped back her up.  Coming from an all-girls school, she became self-conscious in physics, as a minority.  That was her first experience in dealing with judgement, as one of few girls in physics. 

You are the only person who understands your wellbeing and what you need to be aligned.  Its ok to be selfish, if that enables you to be your best - to maintain boundaries. 

My guest talks about motherhood and career saying that its not a balance, it's a juggle.  She worked part-time and was really supported by male colleagues.  You don’t always know how you're going to be received as the only woman in the room, but it is essential that egos are left at the door.  With her attitude and hardwork, she is now a Professor.  

My awesome guest is pushing to change male attitudes towards women - just by being herself.  She believes that society has been set up by men for men.  Women then try to be like men and we need to stop doing that, by facing our vulnerabilities, not hiding them.