Show Notes
EP#023 - Summary
In this compelling episode of Higher Power Tech Podcast, we sit down with Dr. William "Billy" Comar, a PhD biochemist currently living and working in Zurich, Switzerland. His journey is anything but conventional, filled with ups and downs, valuable lessons, and unwavering perseverance.
From an early fascination with the human body sparked by a childhood book to earning his PhD in biochemistry, William’s path was shaped by passion, resilience, and unexpected turns. Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he initially set out to become a medical doctor but found himself navigating academic struggles, self-discovery, and career pivots before ultimately finding his calling.
After an extended undergraduate experience—taking over ten years to complete his degree—William eventually earned his PhD in biochemistry. His journey included setbacks such as academic probation, financial struggles, and moments of doubt. However, he persisted, leveraging mentorship and personal determination to transform obstacles into opportunities.
Upon completing his PhD, he took on a teaching role at Arizona State University, but soon realized he wanted more financial security and career growth. Transitioning into industry, he became the Laboratory Manager at Naviq Nasix, where he now leads innovative efforts in cancer diagnostics to improve treatment options for patients.
Beyond his career, William speaks about personal growth, moving to Switzerland to support his wife’s desire to be closer to family, and the challenges of job searching in a new country. His story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of cultivating the right environment for personal and professional success.
This episode is filled with inspiration, wisdom, and candid reflections on overcoming failure, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. Whether you're navigating a career change, struggling with setbacks, or simply looking for motivation, William’s journey is proof that success isn’t always a straight path—it’s about perseverance, learning, and embracing the process.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on career growth, education, and the importance of pushing past adversity to achieve excellence.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
10:00 Transition to College Life
22:19 Hitting Rock Bottom
34:14 Turning Struggles into Strengths
43:50 Transitioning from Academia to Industry
51:45 Navigating Career Changes
01:01:05 Finding Purpose in Work