Not Financially Optimal, But Right: Inside the Australian Academic System with with Roxy Pebdani

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In this episode of Academics and Their Money, Neeka Miremadi and Inga Timmerman sit down with Roxy Pebdani to explore what it really looks like to build an academic career across borders, systems, and life stages, while keeping money, equity, and values in view.

Roxy shares her personal and professional journey as the child of Iranian immigrants, growing up as a third culture kid, studying and working across the US, and ultimately relocating her family to Sydney, Australia, with two very young children. She reflects on the realities of academic mobility, the financial and emotional tradeoffs of living in one of the most expensive cities in the world, and why some decisions that are not financially optimal can still be deeply right for quality of life and family well being.

The conversation dives into budgeting habits, long term thinking around money, and how Roxy’s relationship with spending evolved over time, particularly around sustainability, durability, and value versus simply choosing the cheapest option. She also compares the US and Australian academic systems in detail, explaining differences in promotion structures, leadership roles, union protections, salary norms, and negotiation practices.

Roxy offers an inside look at Australia’s superannuation retirement system and contrasts it with US retirement saving challenges, highlighting how structural differences can dramatically change long term financial outcomes for academics. She also discusses gender equity in academia, imposter syndrome, career progression, and the importance of mentorship, especially for women and underrepresented groups.

Finally, Roxy reflects on why she would still choose academia even with unlimited financial means, emphasizing her passion for leadership, equity work, and creating systems where academics feel supported, celebrated, and able to thrive. The episode closes with practical advice for academics applying for jobs internationally, stressing the importance of tailoring application materials to country specific expectations.

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Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.