GynoCurious

n this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes Robyn Moreno — Emmy-nominated TV host, storyteller, and author of "Get Rooted" — for a rich conversation about healing as a lifelong journey rather than a destination. Robyn shares the pivotal moment that set her on a 260-day healing path: a crescendo of life pressures that left her literally and metaphorically on the floor, prompting her to stop running from herself and start examining the wounds she had long been tripping over. Drawing on her Mexican American heritage and the ancient practice of curanderismo, Robyn introduces listeners to the Aztec concept of susto — a soul loss caused by trauma — and how recognizing it in herself became the first step toward reclaiming her wholeness.

Central to Robyn's journey is the discovery of her ser — a deep inner knowing that lives beneath the noise of fear, trauma, and outside demands. She explores how the women in her lineage, including a great-grandmother who was a curandera, offered a map back to herself that was older and truer than the external markers of success she had been chasing. The conversation weaves together themes of ancestral wisdom, the end of old maps, the impact of patriarchy and colonization on women's sense of self, and the radical act of trusting one's own lived experience — especially in midlife, when hormones, mortality, and accumulated wisdom conspire to demand a reckoning.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes Dr. Manisha Dayal, a licensed clinical psychologist based in Chicago with nearly three decades of experience specializing in trauma-informed care. Dr. Dayal shares her personal journey into psychology — rooted in a deep connection with her aunt in India who had Down Syndrome — and how that early experience shaped her commitment to understanding the inner worlds of others. Together, Amy and Manisha explore how Western psychology has historically failed to account for the diverse cultural backgrounds of patients, and why a decolonized, culturally humble approach to care is not just preferable but essential.

The conversation dives into the nuances of cultural humility — acknowledging one's own biases and meeting clients within their own lived frameworks. Through vivid patient stories involving genital mutilation, Indigenous women fleeing domestic violence, and immigrant communities navigating systemic racism, the two discuss the complexity of separating harmful cultural practices from meaningful cultural identity. They also explore how trauma is increasingly part of the public lexicon, debating both the value of that visibility and the risk of the word being overused and diluted.

Dr. Dayal also introduces listeners to somatic therapy and the mind-body connection, explaining how the body stores trauma and how body-centered techniques — from grounding exercises to breath awareness — help regulate the nervous system and facilitate healing. The episode closes with a deeply personal note: Manisha's own dramatic birth story in India informs her passion for supporting pregnant women, particularly women of color, in advocating for themselves within a medical system that has long silenced them. It's a rich, wide-ranging conversation about healing, identity, courage, and the radical act of showing up with curiosity and care.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, Amy speaks with Debbie Kadagian, a licensed integrative psychotherapist who brings together an extraordinary range of healing modalities. Debbie's journey spans from Ashtanga yoga teacher to certified Ayurvedic practitioner, and eventually to becoming a psychedelic psychotherapist and social worker. She shares how each transition in her career was organically inspired by her curiosity and life experiences, including a transformative Panchakarma cleansing ritual that opened her emotionally and set her on the path to studying Ayurveda. Her work now focuses on helping clients integrate psychedelic experiences, running therapeutic groups, and bridging Western psychiatry with alternative healing approaches.

A central theme of the conversation is Debbie's pioneering work with psychedelic medicines, particularly ibogaine and ayahuasca. She explains her role in pre- and post-integration therapy, helping clients prepare for and process their psychedelic journeys at vetted retreat centers like Root and Wisdom in Costa Rica. Debbie describes the remarkable outcomes she's witnessed — from addiction recovery to the resolution of PTSD in veterans—and discusses how these medicines create neurochemical resets that diminish cravings and compulsive behaviors. She also shares her passion for the SOLAS Foundation, which she created to make expensive ibogaine treatment accessible to those who cannot afford it, believing that transformative healing should not be a privilege reserved only for the wealthy.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes Dr. Tracey Flum, a board-certified OB-GYN with over three decades of experience, to discuss the complexities of menopause in today's healthcare landscape. Both physicians examine whether the boom in menopause-focused telehealth companies represents genuine progress in women's healthcare or a new revenue stream capitalizing on women's vulnerabilities. Dr. Flum shares how her ADHD drew her to the intense environment of labor and delivery, and discusses her transition from obstetrics to medical gynecology as her body demanded a different pace.

In this solo episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy discusses female sexual dysfunction following her attendance at the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH) annual meeting in Long Beach, California. She begins by highlighting a troubling gap in healthcare: despite 30-59% of adult women experiencing sexual dysfunction, the majority of physicians don't ask about sexual activity or comfort during appointments, and patients rarely bring it up themselves. Dr. Amy emphasizes that sexual health is an integral part of overall health and should include discussions about both dysfunction and pleasure. Dr. Amy explores the four main categories of female sexual dysfunction as defined by ISSWSH: hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), female sexual arousal disorder, female orgasmic disorder, and genital pelvic pain or penetration disorder. She explains that these conditions must be chronic, lasting at least six months and occurring in at least 75% of sexual experiences while causing personal distress. The episode covers the complex, multifaceted nature of sexual health problems, acknowledging that causes can range from physical issues like hormonal changes and medical conditions to psychological factors including stress, trauma, relationship problems, and sociocultural influences. The episode concludes with an empowering call to action, urging women to be brave and demand attention for this important aspect of their health. Dr. Amy reassures listeners that treatments are available and can range from simple solutions like vaginal moisturizers and lubricants to more complex interventions including hormonal treatments, pelvic physical therapy, and specialized counseling. She encourages anyone experiencing distressing sexual dysfunction to seek help from clinicians trained in women's sexual health, emphasizing that working toward better intimacy is absolutely worth pursuing.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt explores the role that hair stylists play in the health and wellbeing of their clients. Joined by Jennifer Donovan, a seasoned stylist and salon owner, the conversation delves into the emotional and psychological significance of hair. Together, they discuss how hair is not just about aesthetics or trends, but a deeply personal form of self-expression, identity, and even healing. Jennifer shares her journey from childhood inspiration to professional success, highlighting the importance of building trust and understanding each client’s unique needs and life experiences. The episode goes beyond surface-level beauty, addressing the intimate relationship between stylist and client. Jennifer explains how a good stylist listens deeply, offering support through life’s transitions—whether it’s coping with hair loss from medical treatments, navigating changes during menopause, or simply finding the courage to embrace a new look. The salon chair becomes a safe space for vulnerability, empowerment, and community, where clients can process emotions and regain confidence. The discussion also touches on the impact of societal pressures, the value of healthy hair practices, and the importance of using quality products. Listeners will come away with a new appreciation for the holistic role of hair stylists in promoting wellbeing. The episode emphasizes that hair care is about more than appearance—it’s about mental health, self-esteem, and the power of human connection. Through stories and expert advice, Dr. Amy and Jennifer Donovan remind us that caring for our hair can be an act of self-care, resilience, and transformation, both inside and out.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt explores the role that hair stylists play in the health and wellbeing of their clients. Joined by Jennifer Donovan, a seasoned stylist and salon owner, the conversation delves into the emotional and psychological significance of hair. Together, they discuss how hair is not just about aesthetics or trends, but a deeply personal form of self-expression, identity, and even healing. Jennifer shares her journey from childhood inspiration to professional success, highlighting the importance of building trust and understanding each client’s unique needs and life experiences. The episode goes beyond surface-level beauty, addressing the intimate relationship between stylist and client. Jennifer explains how a good stylist listens deeply, offering support through life’s transitions—whether it’s coping with hair loss from medical treatments, navigating changes during menopause, or simply finding the courage to embrace a new look. The salon chair becomes a safe space for vulnerability, empowerment, and community, where clients can process emotions and regain confidence. The discussion also touches on the impact of societal pressures, the value of healthy hair practices, and the importance of using quality products. Listeners will come away with a new appreciation for the holistic role of hair stylists in promoting wellbeing. The episode emphasizes that hair care is about more than appearance—it’s about mental health, self-esteem, and the power of human connection. Through stories and expert advice, Dr. Amy and Jennifer Donovan remind us that caring for our hair can be an act of self-care, resilience, and transformation, both inside and out.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt explores the intersection of travel, adventure, and women's health with Tara Short, founder of Green Edventures Tours. Tara shares her recent travel experience snorkeling with sperm whales in Dominica and discusses how her passion for nature and big animal encounters evolved from childhood dreams into a 17-year business leading adventure women travel groups. The conversation examines how travel serves as more than just recreation—it's a pathway to personal transformation, self-discovery, and healing that parallels the journey through illness and wellness. The episode delves into the unique barriers (historically) women faced in outdoor recreation and travel, from practical concerns like appropriate gear to deeper psychological fears about venturing into unfamiliar territory. Tara explains how her tours create non-competitive learning environments where women can step outside their comfort zones, whether climbing Kilimanjaro or simply joining a group of strangers on the other side of the world. She emphasizes the bravery inherent in saying "yes" to these experiences and how group travel allows women to rediscover themselves, let go of control, and reset their nervous systems through nature-based experiences.

Dr. Amy and Tara announce an exciting collaboration: a Hot Springs and Mindfulness tour in Iceland scheduled for November 10-16, specifically designed to address the perimenopause and menopause. This intimate 10-person journey will combine wellness practices—including cold water therapy, flotation therapy, sound bathing, and visits with Icelandic wellness practitioners—with educational discussions about women's health during midlife transitions. The conversation concludes with reflections on how travel disrupts routines, promotes neuroplasticity, provides something to dream about, and ultimately contributes to both physical mobility and mental wellbeing as women age.

In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes Alexandra Fine, CEO and co-founder of Dame, a pioneering sexual wellness company. Together, they dive into the world of sex toys as essential resources for sexual pleasure, education, and empowerment. The conversation explores the persistent pleasure gap between genders, the cultural taboos that hinder open discussions about sexuality, and the importance of reclaiming pleasure as a vital part of overall health and wellbeing.

Alexandra shares her journey from aspiring sex therapist to entrepreneur, highlighting how Dame’s products are designed not just for pleasure, but also for promoting sexual health and confidence. The episode covers a wide range of topics, including the science behind sexual satisfaction, the role of communication in intimate relationships, and the ways in which products like vibrators, lubricants, and massage candles can enhance both solo and partnered experiences. The hosts also discuss the evolving understanding of desire, arousal, and the impact of hormones like testosterone on libido.

Listeners are encouraged to view sex toys as tools for self-discovery and empowerment, regardless of age or relationship status. The episode emphasizes the value of accessible, high-quality products and reliable information, especially for those who may feel uncomfortable seeking resources in person. With warmth and candor, Dr. Amy and Alexandra Fine invite everyone to embrace pleasure, challenge outdated norms, and prioritize sexual wellness as an integral part of a healthy, fulfilling life.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes Ruthie Pines, a senior public and community health major at Ithaca College, to share her transformative experience studying abroad in India. Ruthie recounts her journey from initially pursuing exercise science to discovering her passion for public health, inspired by a professor’s global work. She describes the challenges and excitement of leaving her comfort zone, navigating health concerns, and immersing herself in a new culture during her three-month stay in India. Ruthie’s time in India was spent exploring public health, gender, and sexuality through both academic coursework and hands-on research. She discusses the structure of India’s healthcare system, her independent project on sex education and women’s sexual health in rural communities, and the complexities of understanding consent and gender roles in a different cultural context. Ruthie reflects on the importance of approaching research with humility, recognizing her own biases, and the value of learning directly from local women and health workers. The conversation delves into broader themes of gender violence, shame, and the power of women’s communities—both in India and globally. Ruthie shares how the experience made her more compassionate and aware, especially as someone who had never before been a minority. She emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness, self-reflection, and the need to check one’s intentions when engaging in global health work. The episode closes with Ruthie’s reflections on the joy of building community and the lasting impact of her journey on her personal and professional growth.

Questions of comments?

Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff