Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

Katie Boyce shares her expert insights on endometriosis care, treatment options, and the importance of patient advocacy for long-term management. DetailsEpisode SummaryIn this second episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, we speak with guest Katie Boyce, a Board Certified Patient Advocate with a robust background in biochemistry and astrophysics. We discuss the complexities of endometriosis care from patient and specialist perspectives. We explore the treatment options for endometriosis as well as its causes and the critical importance of specialized care. Through Katie's personal journey with endometriosis and her experience working with endometriosis patients, she shares expert insights on the nuances of endometriosis diagnosis, the controversy surrounding various treatments, and the hopeful future of new medical advancements.Key TakeawaysWhat makes endometriosis a particularly challenging condition to understand, diagnose, and treatPros and cons of popular endometriosis treatments, including the debated use of drugs like Lupron and Orilissa, and what the latest research saysThe critical role of expert surgery for endometriosis and fertility concerns, and why choosing the right surgeon matters for long-term outcomesHow endometriosis patients can navigate the healthcare system to find the best care for endometriosis, including tips for vetting doctors and making informed treatment decisions.Promising new treatments for endometriosis and the future of research in the field, offering hope to those affected by the condition"The journey to managing endometriosis is as much about empowerment and informed choices as it is about medical treatment." - Katie BoyceRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Endometriosis Connect with Kate Boyce and follow her on InstagramPart 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Guest BioKatie is a board-certified patient advocate, owner of Endo Solutions LLC, and consulting chemist with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. She assists individuals in finding the right integrative healthcare team needed to navigate the complexities of living with Endometriosis. Additionally, Katie educates and empowers patients on social media, working to bridge the gap between healthcare providers, researchers, and patients. She serves as a consumer reviewer for evaluating medical research applications submitted to the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, reflecting her commitment to ensuring the patient's voice is heard and that research initiatives align with tangible patient outcomes**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

In this first episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, Margaret Melville of Lasa Health joins to discuss this underrepresented condition. Margaret transformed her decade-long struggle with endometriosis and celiac disease into a mission to improve women’s healthcare today. She talks about the alarming shortage of OB-GYNs and primary care providers who have specialized training in endometriosis and the importance of early diagnosis of endometriosis to manage this progressive disease. We explore common misconceptions and myths about endometriosis, the dangers of false cures, and the importance of patient advocacy and clinician education. We also cover the many applications of Lasa Health, a technology platform designed for women with chronic pelvic pain. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the complexities of endometriosis and pelvic pain or find endometriosis support.Key Takeaways The importance of early diagnosis for effective management of endometriosis and prevention of chronic pain or organ lossThe need for clinicians to educate themselves and their patients about endometriosis, self-advocacy, and treatment optionsMargaret’s background in global health innovation and the founding of Lasa Health, which improves diagnosis and pain management of endometriosis through technology and educationReal-life applications of AI in improving patient care qualitySystemic issues in healthcare that hinder effective diagnosis and treatment of endometriosisFalse “cures” of endometriosis to be aware ofThe future of endometriosis care, including further innovation and community advocacyA preview of upcoming episodes, including interviews with endometriosis specialists, advocates, and surgeons"You have bias and you have years of things being done a certain way that we're fighting against. Getting doctors and healthcare administrators who are so busy and have so many [responsibilities]... Getting them to care about pelvic pain, or changing the way things are done at their hospital or clinic to improve care for pelvic pain patients, that is a monumental hurdle." - Margaret MelvilleRelated to this episode:Resources for EndometriosisLearn more about Lasa Health: www.lasahealth.com Follow Margaret on LinkedIn🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Guest BioMargaret Melville is the CEO & Cofounder of Lasa Health. She suffered from pelvic pain for over a decade and visited 25 doctors before finally being diagnosed with endometriosis and celiac disease. Margaret previously worked at USAID's Global Health Center for Innovation and co-founded a medical device startup. She has an MBA from INSEAD. She is passionate about using AI / ML to revolutionize the way we diagnose and care for women with chronic health conditions. **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Learn what’s to come in psychedelic therapy research including risk mitigation, contraindications, and treatment purposes as Andrew Penn explores this important subject.Episode SummaryIn this conversation, Andrew Penn, co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses (OPENurses), discusses the use of psychedelics in therapy and the challenges and concerns surrounding this emerging field. He addresses psychedelic misconceptions and hype, emphasizing the need for more research and caution. He also explores the potential benefits and risks of psychedelic retreats as well as the importance of psychedelic harm reduction. Penn highlights the specific considerations for using psychedelics in individuals with bipolar disorder and the need for further study in this area. Additionally, he discusses the potential impact of hormonal factors on psychedelic therapy and the recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression. This conversation explores the manifestation of depression, contraindications for psychedelic use, serotonin syndrome, and the future of psychedelics.Discussed in this episode: The need for psychedelic therapy research to separate the hype from the realityHarm reduction strategies, such as safe spaces and support, in the use of psychedelicsRisks of bipolar disorder and psychedelics and the careful considerations to understandInteractions between psychedelics and hormones and the need for more researchThe recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression in mental health careContraindications for psychedelic use, including a history of psychosis, cardiovascular disorders, and certain medicationsThe dangers of serotonin syndrome that can occur from the over-use of psychedelics The use of psychedelics in clinical vs. non-clinical settings "One myth to unpack is this idea that [psychedelic use] is ‘one and done’ and ‘curative.’ And frankly, I was part of that hype at the beginning, too, because in our very early studies, that's what we were starting to see." - Andrew PennRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Listen to the series on Psychedelic-Assisted TherapyLearn more about the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic NursesStay in touch with Andrew Penn on his website and LinkedIn.Check out Unseen Women in Psychedelic History by Maria Mangini🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Guest BioAndrew Penn, MS, PMHNP is a psychiatric nurse practitioner, clinical professor at the UC San Francisco School of Nursing, and a researcher on psychedelic therapies at the UCSF Translational Psychedelic Research Program (TrPR). He has been an investigator in studies examining MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, on psilocybin-assisted therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease and depression, and was a co-PI on the phase 2 study of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression, recently published in JAMA. An internationally invited speaker, he has taught at SXSW, TEDx, Aspen Institute, and the Singapore Ministry of Health. Additionally, he has published widely on psychedelic therapies and their intersections with nursing and is the co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses. He can be found at AndrewPennNP.com.**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Listen to Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, physician and attorney, discuss the safety, legal, and clinical considerations regarding psychedelic therapy in the U.S.Episode SummaryIn this second episode of the three-part series on psychedelic-assisted therapy, Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, a physician and attorney specializing in psychedelics, discusses various aspects of psychedelics and their integration into healthcare. Dr. Morski shares her journey and how she became passionate about educating clinicians on psychedelic medicine. We discuss the current legality of psychedelics in healthcare, safety concerns, and the lack of protocols. Dr. Morski talks about what to consider when choosing a psychedelic therapy provider, emphasizing the importance of training, ethics, and safety measures. We touch on the debate of whether therapists should have personal psychedelic experiences before offering guided psychedelic therapy, and the potential for psychedelics to become part of mainstream healthcare. Listen to this insightful conversation to explore the challenges of psychedelic therapy, the potential benefits of psychedelics for women's health, and advice for physicians and patients interested in exploring psychedelic treatments. Learn about the exciting developments in psychedelic research, including the investigation of psychedelics for stroke recovery and the exploration of non-hallucinatory psychedelics.Key TakeawaysThe need for clinician education on the use and potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapyThe legality of psychedelics as medical treatment medicine in the U.S.The need for safety protocols and guidelines in psychedelic therapy The importance of vetting facilitators and retreat centers that offer psychedelic therapies, and how to go about that process The debate on whether therapists should have personal psychedelic experiences to have common ground with patientsLegal challenges and potential lawsuits that currently limit the mainstream use of psychedelics in healthcare“There are a lot of things you can do [when choosing guided psychedelic therapy]. But pay attention to your intuition because you are handing over your consciousness to this person. And if you have any doubts in your gut about that, that's going to be setting you up for failure from the beginning." — Dr Lynn Marie Morski Related to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Listen to the series on Psychedelic-Assisted TherapyCheck out the Psychedelic Medicine Association or follow them on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram Check out the Psychedelic Medicine Podcast.  Follow on Twitter, Facebook and InstagramStay in touch with Dr Lynn Marie Morski 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Guest BioLynn Marie Morski, MD, JD, is the president of the Psychedelic Medicine Association, host of the Psychedelic Medicine Podcast, and the Director of Education at Unlimited Sciences. She sits on the advisory boards of Psychedelics Today, Cybin, VETS, Inc. (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions), the Oxenberg Foundation, and the Ketamine Task Force.Dr. Morski received her medical degree from St. Louis University School of Medicine, completed family medicine residency at Mayo Clinic, and did her sports medicine fellowship at the University of Arizona. She later received her law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and is a member of the California Bar.**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Learn about the ethics and healthcare policies involved in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert join to discuss the implications.Episode SummaryWelcome to the first episode in our three-part series where we explore the world of psychedelic therapy. In this episode, health policy experts Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert join to discuss the experiences of psychedelic-assisted therapy and its profound social implications. This series aims to uncover the complexities and potential of psychedelic mental health treatment options.Key TakeawaysControversial medical debate on whether psychedelic therapy practitioners should have personal psychedelic experiencesConcerns around cultural appropriation in psychedelic therapies and the need for respectful acknowledgment of indigenous practicesThe complexity of patient-clinician dynamics if a patient prefers a provider who has personal experience of their conditionSignificance of professional practice guidelines that ensure ethical and culturally sensitive approaches in guided psychedelic therapyThe future of psychedelics in therapy and its potential to revolutionize mental health careEnjoy this insightful first episode as we unravel psychedelics and mental health with Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert. Tune in for the next two episodes of this exciting series dedicated to exploring psychedelic therapy research.Related to this episode:Resources for Mental HealthLearn more about the Rockingstone GroupConnect with Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline LampertArticle on first NDA for psychedelics🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Welcome to Season 5 of Fempower Health where we empower you to advocate for your health through every stage of life. Every week, we engage in discussions with women’s health experts on topics like sexual wellness, mental health, pelvic floor, aging, women-related cancers, relationships, and much more.Some topics we’ll cover in Season 5 include:Psychedelics Deep Dive: Navigating Health Policy, Ethical Practice, and Cultural Considerations, Integration into Healthcare, and the Latest Psychedelic Research and Mental Health ImplicationsEndometriosis Deep Dive: The Path to Earlier Endometriosis Diagnosis, A Deep Dive into Endometriosis Pathophysiology Diagnostics, and Treatments, Expert Perspective on Laparoscopy, and a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist's Tips for Managing Pelvic PainA Discussion on Tongue Tie & BreastfeedingMetabolic Health Specific to Women Hysterectomies: Do You Need One and If you Do, What to Prepare forFertility Treatments: Discussing Atypical Patient Use CasesC-Sections: Nothing but the FactsSpecial thanks to Jordanna Davis, Jacqueline Lampert, Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, Andrew Penn, RN, MS, NP Katie Boyce, BCPA, Dr. Shanti Mohling, Caitlyn Tivy, DPT, Margaret Melville, Justine Witzke, Victoria Facelli, and all who helped make these women’s health episodes accessible to all. 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

If you’ve ever heard that menopausal hormone therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer, this new health report may surprise you. In this bonus episode, women’s health and menopause management expert Dr. Mindy Goldman sheds light on the complex world of Menopause Hormone Therapy. We explore pivotal insights from the Ester Trial, revealing potentially safer transdermal estrogen. We talk about a fascinating Today article that uncovers the impact of statistical manipulation on reported studies, especially concerning the relationship between breast cancer and hormone therapy.Dr. Mindy Goldman shares her expert opinion on how estrogen alone might be safer than we thought, and why synthetic progesterone requires a closer look. We also discuss the controversial use of testosterone in women, the challenges with federal laws, and FDA-approved options for improving libido.Dr. Goldman is a Clinical Professor in the Department of OB/GYN at UCSF and the Director of the Gynecology Center for Cancer Survivors and At-Risk Women. In addition to her role as Midi’s Chief Clinical Officer, she’s a nationally recognized expert in the management of women’s health issues, including menopause, for women with cancer or at high risk. She helped author guidelines for the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and has won several notable awards.Discussed in this episode:Dr. Mindy’s work with breast cancer survivors as an OBGYNCommon myths of menopause hormone therapyA discussion on the ESTHER Study and recent menopause data release in TodayRisks and safety of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone therapyFDA-approved drugs for women’s sexual function Gender disparities in medical research Hormone therapies and other treatment options for high-risk populations such as cancer survivors Menopause symptoms in breast cancer treatment Hormone therapies, medications, and lifestyle strategies as post-cancer treatment options Dr. Mindy Goldman’s professional experience as a menopause advocate combining breast oncology with gynecology“It's important to realize that there aren't national guidelines that talk about the use of hormones in people at high risk for cancer, which includes people with a family history, people who have had prior biopsies with atypical change, people with genetic mutations, and people with cancer. The standard of care has always been not to use hormones in those situations because the thought was that hormones could increase the risk of breast cancer or increase the behavior of breast cancer.” - Dr Mindy GoldmanRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter Menopause health report (Dec 2023): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37847875 ESTHER Study: Learn more.Dr. Goldman’s story: www.joinmidi.com/post/mindy-goldman Dr. Mindy Goldman on LinkedinMidi Health: www.joinmidi.com Menopause book recommendations: www.bookshop.org/lists/top-picks-for-menopause 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain and debilitating periods. Up to 80% of women may experience fibroids before the age of 50, but this condition remains under-researched and misunderstood. In this episode, Tanika Gray Valbrun joins to discuss uterine fibroid facts and share hope for women grappling with this condition. She tells her story, voicing her commitment to raising awareness through her organization, The White Dress Project. Tanika leads the conversation about patient-doctor communication, listening to women’s voices, and the importance of community support. We discuss the link between black women and fibroids, and consider why there remains a lack of research in women’s reproductive health.Tanika Gray Valbrun is the Founder and Senior Advocate of The White Dress Project, a non-profit organization committed to spreading uterine fibroids awareness. Ms. Valbrun is an award-winning journalist, educator, and non-profit founder with a passion for women’s health. She works with doctors, health advocates, and elected officials across the country to get legislation passed, including having July declared as “Fibroids Awareness Month.”Discussed in this episode:Facts about uterine fibroidsTanika’s experience of uterine fibroids, surgery, and advocacyRacial disparities regarding uterine fibroidsPatient advocacy when communicating with healthcare providersUterine fibroid treatment optionsChallenges in women’s health research today The White Dress Project and its influence on women’s access to uterine fibroid support“I always say that a patient's story is data, especially with something like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or PCOS. There are variations in how it can show up in your body.” - Tanika Gray ValbrunRelated to this episode:Related Episode: Uterine Fibroids and Heavy PeriodsRelated Episode: Uterine Fibroids | Minimally Invasive Surgeon Dr. Jessica Opoku-AnaneRelated Episode: Uterine Fibroids and the Need for Better Standard of CareThe White Dress Project: www.thewhitedressproject.org White Dress Project Instagram: @wecanwearwhite Tankika’s Instagram: @tgvwearswhiteTwitter: @wecan_wearwhiteFacebook/Meta: The White Dress Project: We CAN Wear WhiteMentioned: 'Sex Matters' by Dr. Allison McGregorAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: www.acog.org Recommended Books on Your Body and Menstrual Health 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

How can you sync your fitness routines with your menstrual cycle? And why should you? In this episode, exercise physiology expert Jess Freemas discusses the connection between periods, workouts, and women’s hormonal phases. She is from Orreco, a bio-analytics platform that helps athletes. At Orreco, Jess helped pioneer the FitrWoman app, which empowers female athletes and exercise enthusiasts to understand their bodies and optimize their performance. Jess explains the challenges, stigmas, and misconceptions surrounding menstruation, working out, and how tracking your menstrual cycle can equip you to adapt your exercise habits for improved health. You’ll learn strategies to manage period symptoms, the science behind exercising according to menstrual cycle phases, and ways to level up your fitness for life.Jess is a Female Athlete Specialist at Orreco. Based in the U.S., Dr. Freemas is advancing female athlete research and delivering high-impact consultation to various athletes and teams across the NWSL, WNBA, NCAA, and Team USA. Jess holds a Master's degree in Exercise Physiology and a Ph.D. in Human Performance from Indiana University and has published work detailing the effects of menstrual cycle hormone fluctuations on female physiology and performance.Discussed in this episode:Research on the menstrual cycle and working outWomen’s hormones and their impact on energy, mood, and nutritional needs What happens when women stop working out because of their period?How women can follow a menstrual cycle workout plan to improve health and performance How the FitrWoman app helps women align their workouts and athletic goals with their menstrual cyclesWays to improve menstrual education and awareness for overall health“We want the menstrual cycle not just to be seen as a burden, but that it means you might feel better at certain times. You should log it and notice when you're feeling good and when you might be feeling worse. It's a tool to really figure out your own individual patterns so that you can optimize your health that way.” — Jess FreemasRelated to this episode:Related episode: Why Women Should Sweat in Sync With Their Cycle | Jenni HulburtResources and episodes on Nutrition & Exercise  Jess on LinkedIn: Jess FreemasOrreco Website: www.orreco.com FitrWoman App: www.fitrwoman.com Orreco Social Media: @orreco1FitrWoman Social Media: @fitrwomanRecommended Books: View the Bookshop here 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Listen to Melody Joy Paine discuss finding joy in the midst of pain and grief. Learn from her insights as a filmmaker and advocate for pediatric rare disease patients. Episode Details: In this episode, rare disease advocate Melody Joy Paine speaks about the power of staying present, authentic storytelling, and finding joy amidst life’s deepest pain. Melody is a brilliant filmmaker who helps rare disease patients and their families share their stories. Her dedication to providing a platform that allows her subjects to express their vulnerability without outside dictation has set her apart in her field. Her work showcases a profound exploration of what it means to be human, even in life’s toughest circumstances. In this conversation, Melody discusses her encounters with emotional resilience through the chaotic beauty of a large family and experiencing the sudden loss of loved ones. We explore how to make connections with others, and what it means to find joy and meaning in life beyond just a diagnosis. We also discuss the values Melody encapsulates in her business, "Imperfect Joy”.Discussed in this episode:Learning to find joy during painful grief and lossMelody’s profession as a filmmaker for rare disease patients and familiesHow to use storytelling as an advocacy toolAcknowledging guilt over taking time for self-carePediatric rare disease and its impact on mothersThe coexistence of pain and joy in hard times Examples of families navigating and coping with a child’s rare diseaseEncouragement to talk about mental health and build community for well-being “An important part of advocacy that’s often missing is connecting with the people. When we want to answer questions of what it looks like to cultivate joy, to be connected, to not let a diagnosis bring our entire life down, we look to people’s stories for answers. It's through experiencing it with them that we can see meaning and purpose in this journey." — Melody Joy Pain Related to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Melody’s website: www.imperfectjoy.com Melody’s Instagram: @imperfect_joy_n-Lorem Foundation: www.nlorem.org Related Books: www.bookshop.org/lists/top-picks-for-mental-health 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**