GynoCurious

In this episode of Gyno Curious, Dr. Amy Novat takes listeners on a journey of healing and mindfulness with her esteemed guest, Dr. Beth Abrams. Dr. Abrams, a child and adult psychiatrist, shares her unique approach to integrating Western and Eastern healing practices. With her background as a professional musician, poet, and visual artist, Dr. Abrams offers a holistic view on how creative and expressive arts intertwine with mental health care.

The conversation delves into important topics like the limitations of current psychiatric practices dominated by psychopharmacology, the essential nature of integrative medicine, and the critical role of breathing techniques. Dr. Abrams introduces the concept of 'coherent breathing' and explains how this simple yet profound practice can help regulate the nervous system, improve mental well-being, and build community among individuals.

Listeners are also given a glimpse into Dr. Abrams' work with veterans at the VA.Through engaging storytelling and scientific explanations, this episode underscores the significance of balance, compassion, and the numerous, accessible ways to achieve mental and emotional healing. Whether you are a medical professional or someone seeking tools for personal well-being, this episode of Gyno Curious offers invaluable insights.

CORRECTION on the episode from Beth: "I taught with the Breath-Body-Mind Team that gave workshops on BBM breathing and movement practices to active duty soldiers at FORT DRUM in NY* for 2 separate trainings. (Not at FORT BRAGG in NC where my dad was stationed during the Korean War!). I must have had my beloved dad on the brain.

https://health.usnews.com/doctors/beth-abrams-2541491

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

Gynocurious welcomes Karen Bellone, a certified end of life doula, educator and founder of the Seventh Sense Care Collective to discuss the role of a death doula and the value a doula brings to the bedside, to the family and community of a dying person. With the loss of rituals around death and the medicalization of dying our communities have become very distanced from the traditions that have historically assisted people in the dying process.

Karen's experiences with art, nature and the collective human spirit underscore the transformative potential of acknowledging and preparing for death, ultimately advocating for a cultural shift towards more mindful and communal approaches to dying.

www.theseventhsense.org

The Reign of Moonlight (Karen's photographic work)

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of Vulva Views, hosts Amy Novat and Alison Chawla engage in a candid discussion about embracing beauty, self-confidence, and the power of positive self-perception. They open with lighthearted banter about fashion and the pressure of accepting compliments, highlighting Alison's recent short haircut and her effort to graciously accept praise. They delve into the societal challenges many women face in acknowledging their attractiveness, sharing personal anecdotes that illuminate the journey toward loving oneself unapologetically.

The hosts transition into a deeper exploration of the intersection between beauty and power, referencing cultural narratives and historical examples, including a re-telling of the classic tale of Snow White. Amy and Alison reflect on the pressures women face in male-dominated fields and societal expectations around physical appearance. They stress the importance of standing confidently in one’s own skin and how this confidence can be a source of significant influence and empowerment.

Throughout the episode, Amy and Alison underscore the importance of kindness, not only towards oneself but also in interactions with others. They advocate for women supporting other women genuinely, promoting a culture where compliments are given freely and received with confidence. The episode wraps up with a compelling discussion on how small acts of kindness and self-love contribute to a more compassionate world, and a reminder that Vulva Views is about viewing every aspect of life, both positive and negative, with authenticity.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novat engages with Mystkue Woods, MEd (she/her), a sexuality arts educator and consultant based in Philadelphia, PA. Mystkue, the CEO of Mystkue Publications, L.L.C, delves into her unique approach to integrating expressive arts such as poetry, dance, music, drama, and storytelling to promote positive attitudes towards sexual and reproductive wellness across cultures and communities. They discuss the nuances of sexual education in the United States, exploring how it often fails youth, and the need for more comprehensive and compassionate approaches.

www.mystkue.com

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novatt delves into the theme of community service and the various ways individuals contribute to the health and education of others. Dr. Novatt interviews two dedicated professionals, Ashley Rayner and Antonia Hughes, who work at Planned Parenthood of Greater New York. Ashley, a health educator, and Antonia, a comprehensive adolescent pregnancy prevention educator and CAP coordinator, share their passion for educating young people about sexual and reproductive health. They discuss the challenges they face, such as addressing misconceptions about Planned Parenthood and dealing with resistance from parents and community members.

The conversation also touches on important topics such as gender identity, meeting people where they are, and the impact of comprehensive sex education on young lives. Both guests provide insights into their personal journeys and how their professional roles have shaped their perspectives. They emphasize the significance of empowering youth through accurate information and support, highlighting their commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and respectful dialogues about health and well-being. The episode concludes with a personal touch, as Dr. Novatt and her guests reflect on what brings them joy outside of their professional lives, showcasing a holistic view of their commitment to service and community.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this episode of "Vulva Views," hosts Amy Novat and Alison Chawla delve into the intricate subject of menstrual cycles and the experience of raising daughters who will soon face this biological transition. They start the conversation by sharing some casual opening lines, amusing anecdotes, and an appreciation for going barefoot on a warm day. The discussion soon shifts to the macro and micro impacts of menstruation, including societal attitudes, personal experiences, and the euphemisms used to describe menstrual cycles. Amy and Allison candidly talk about how their families and surroundings acknowledged (or failed to acknowledge) menstrual cycles when they were younger and reflect on how it is different now with their own children.

The episode takes a heartfelt turn as both hosts recount their personal stories and the emotional landscapes surrounding menstruation. They emphasize the importance of support and open conversations between parents and their children. Allison shares touching memories from her past, including how friends helped her navigate her first period when her mother was ill. Both hosts advise parents to prepare for their children’s first periods in practical ways, like assembling care packages and providing age-appropriate books, underscoring the importance of letting their kids know they can talk about anything without fear of judgment or shame.

Finally, the hosts explore broader social implications, discussing how menstrual education and support can empower young girls. They stress the need for removing the stigma and shame often associated with menstruation and advocate for creating an environment of openness and understanding. Amy and Allison also touch upon the physiological and psychological challenges tied to menstruation, such as endometriosis and premenstrual mood changes, providing a well-rounded dialogue that aims to both inform and comfort their listeners.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this enlightening episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novatt welcomes back physical therapist Keri Gill Smith to delve deeper into the conditions of lymphedema and lipedema. Dr. Novatt and Keri provide a detailed overview of lymphedema, a condition resulting from damage to the lymphatic system leading to chronic swelling. They dispel common misconceptions and share up-to-date research, offering listeners a better understanding of lymphedema's risks and management strategies.

Links:

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

Keri Gill-Smith PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, speaks to GynoCurious about her work at a physical therapist. She speaks in detail about the role of the lymphatic system and how she interfaces with patients who have disruptions to their lymphatic system, causing lymphedema. As a practitioner of manual lymphatic drainage techniques she helps us learn how to identify, care for and treat lymphedema; for those who might be challenged with this change in their body as a result of cancer treatments, injuries and genetic disorders.

Keri Gill-Smith Practice Information:

For More information about lymphedema I recommend these sites:

Lymphedema Advocacy Group - Their mission is to advance lymphedema care in the United States by advocating for improved access to care for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease www.Lymphedematreatmentact.org

Lymphedema Education and Research Network- (LE&RN)- LE&RN's mission is to fight lymphatic diseases through education, research, and advocacy. They seek to accelerate the prevention, treatments and cures for lymphedema, lipedema, lymphatic anomalies, and the continuum of lymphatic diseases. www.lymphaticnetwork.org

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

In this enlightening episode of Gyno Curious, host Amy delves into the world of massage therapy with special guest Suzu Kawamoto, a certified abdominal therapy collective practitioner. The conversation begins with Amy sharing her curiosity about why massage therapists often avoid the abdomen, setting the stage for an insightful discussion. Suzu shares her personal journey into the field of massage, influenced by her Japanese heritage and early experiences with healing touch in her family.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff

Dear Sister is a breathtaking memoir about two sisters and the high-profile case involving Nikki Addimando, who was incarcerated for killing her longtime abuser. Michelle Horton, her sister, tells the audience about the harrowing years of Nikki's trials, incarceration and the devastating fall-out to raise Nikki's young children and to battle the criminal justice system. She speaks about her own healing journey in spite of the devastation to her family and community as they bore witness to the injustices of a legal system steeped in archaic notions about domestic violence victims. Michelle speaks openly and honestly about this heart wrenching experience and its impact on her life.

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Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff