This is a podcast about the mental health crisis in academia, featuring an interview with Simona Lackner, a researcher and expert on mental health in academics.

The conversation covers various topics, including:
- The challenges of academia, particularly for early-career researchers: Lackner talks about the pressure to publish, the long hours spent in labs, and the emotional toll of research.
- The impact of the "publish or perish" culture: Lackner highlights how this culture can lead to burnout, exclusion, and mental health issues.
- The importance of empathy and emotional intelligence: Lackner emphasizes the need for academics to learn how to deal with their emotions and communicate effectively with others.
- Solutions to mitigate the crisis: Lackner proposes introducing training programs on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and communication, as well as creating a safe space for academics to discuss mental health concerns.
- Building a better academic system: Lackner dreams of an academic environment where researchers can focus on lifelong learning, artistic process, and deep self-reflection, while also considering the implications of their research on society.
The conversation raises several questions about how academia can support researchers who are already dealing with particular needs, such as:
- How can institutions provide accommodations for researchers with mental health conditions or neurodivergence?
- What role can departments, labs, and universities play in supporting researchers' mental well-being?
- How can individuals take care of their own mental health and develop strategies to manage stress and burnout?
Overall, the podcast highlights the need for a systemic shift in academia to prioritize well-being, empathy, and community building.