What if the future of living longer and healthier was built around you? In this episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with Tony Medrano, CEO and Founder of LongevityPlan.AI, to break down the science behind longevity, peptide therapies, and the rise of digital twin technology. He is a three-time Ironman Triathlon Finisher, who has seen and experienced firsthand the health benefits of digital twin technology and peptide therapies both himself in Ironman training and when working with athletes in the NBA, NFL, and on the U.S. Olympic Team. The conversation highlights the existing scientific research behind peptides, what more needs to be done, how they can benefit your health, and the ways in which LongevityPlan.AI is supporting people in their quest for longevity.

Tony and his team at LongevityPlan.AI offer clients/patients both membership to their Longevity Club (which includes daily workouts and talks by scientists and healthcare professionals) and peptide therapy plans in consultation with licensed U.S. physicians. 

From personalized health strategies to cutting-edge tools designed to help you optimize your body and mind, this conversation explores how technology is changing the way we think about aging — and what that could mean for your future.

🎧Tune in now to discover how how personalized health strategies and cutting-edge science can help you build your own longevity plan to live a longer and healthier life—both with and without peptide therapies in the mix. And share this info on one of today's hottest health topics with your friends! 

Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Longevity and Health Optimization
(05:44) Understanding Peptides and Their Benefits
(12:13) Safety and Efficacy of Peptide Therapies
(16:45) The Concept of Digital Twins in Health
(24:26) FDA Approval and Quality Assurance in Peptide Therapies
(29:35) Longevity Club: Community and Resources for Wellness
(33:05) Peptides for Healing and Recovery
(37:51) Targeting Inflammation and Fat Reduction
(38:48) Mental Acuity and Cognitive Enhancement
(43:54) Navigating Peptide Therapy
(47:50) Personalized Medicine and Longevity Planning
(52:21) Engaging the Medical Community
(55:26) Future of Peptide Therapy and Longevity Club

*Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical  advice. Our guest, Tony Medrano, while not a physician, works in consultation with licensed U.S. physicians at LongevityPlan.AI, who have take the lead in reviewing medical history, determining which patients are eligible for peptide therapies, and consulting with U.S. licensed pharmacists to determine specific dosing.

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Learn more about this episode's guest, Tony Medrano here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymedrano/
*Learn about and join LongevityPlan.AI's Longevity Club and check out the company's peptide plans and medical review process here.
*Follow LongevityPlan.AI on Instagram @longevityplanai and on their LinkedIn (where they have reseach-based articles) and Facebook pages. And visit them on their new TikTok @longevityplan.ai

Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What would you do if your symptoms kept getting brushed off — only to find out it was Stage 4 colon cancer? In this episode of the YMyHealth Podcast recorded LIVE at Fight CRC's 2026 Call on Congress in Washington, DC, co-host Julie Woon, talks with Elizabeth Wachsberg, who shares her story of being diagnosed with colon cancer at 38 after years of misdiagnoses and unanswered questions. Now a Stage 4 colon cancer survivor, she’s shares her journey from misdiagnosis to survivorship and becoming a fierce advocate form early detection.

During our discussion, Elizabeth highlights the red flags she wishes people talked about sooner, why younger adults can’t afford to ignore colorectal cancer, and how self-advocacy at doctor's appointments can truly save your life. It’s an honest, eye-opening conversation that could change the way you think about your health and how to navigate it.

🎧Tune in now to learn how to 'trust your gut' and a new way to self-advocate for a colonoscopy!
 
Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Elizabeth Wachsberg's Story
(01:04) Life Before Diagnosis: Symptoms and Misdiagnoses
(03:53) Multiple Doctors and Missed Opportunities
(07:07) The Moment of Diagnosis: Tumor in the Colon
(09:32) Emotional Impact and Family Support
(14:40) Understanding Stage 4 Colon Cancer and Treatment Options
(16:31) Hope and the Possibility of Cure
(20:04) The Role of Cultural Messaging and Young Adults
(22:20) Identity and Survivorship Post-Diagnosis
(26:49) Advocating for Yourself in Medical Settings
(28:23) Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
(29:54) Trusting Your Gut and Taking Action
(32:51) Healthy Lifestyle Choices and Myths about Diet and Cancer
(35:01) The Impact of Online Misinformation and Personal Decisions
(36:26) The Importance of Medical Science and Treatment
(39:57) Reflections on Survivorship and Hope
(43:04) Allowing Yourself to Have Bad Days
(44:03) Looking Forward: The Future of Cancer Treatment and Advocacy
(47:02) What Gives Elizabeth Hope Today
(47:51) Closing Remarks and Resources

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn more about this episode's guest, Elizabeth Wachsberg here:
*Follow her on Instagram @elizabethwachsberg and on Tiktok @elizabethstage4story

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host and Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here:
https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What does it really take to build a family through surrogacy? In this episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman talks with Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation, who pulls back the curtain on the emotional, financial, and often misunderstood realities of the surrogacy journey. From navigating the entire process from embryo creation to finding a surrogate to childbirth and breaking down barriers to challenging the stigma surrounding surrogacy, this conversation offers an honest look at what it means to create family in today’s world — and why access to that surrogacy matters more than ever.

The conversation also highlights the unique work that The Surrogacy Foundation is providing to make surrogacy understandable, accessible, and affordable. Zach and his wife Alexandra (from YMyHealth Podcast Episode 101) are on a mission through their foundation to "propel surrogacy into the mainstream."

🎧Tune in now to learn the six steps of the surrogacy journey, resources, and what today's landscape looks like in the U.S. for family building for millennials and beyond.

Highlights: 

• (00:00) Introduction to Surrogacy and Family Building
• (02:45) Zach French's Journey and Background
• (05:46) Understanding the Surrogacy Process
• (08:28) Building Relationships in Surrogacy
• (11:15) The Role of Escrow in Surrogacy
• (14:09) Current Landscape of Surrogacy in the US
• (17:13) Misconceptions and Awareness of Surrogacy
• (20:00) The Need for Better Research in Fertility
• (23:40) The Rising Costs of Surrogacy
• (26:21) Understanding Infertility and Its Impact
• (27:31) Barriers to Accessing Surrogacy
• (30:10) Innovative Solutions for Education and Support
• (34:50) Overcoming Financial Barriers in Surrogacy
• (42:34) Addressing Stigma Surrounding Surrogacy

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Learn more about this episode's guest, Zach French here: linkedin.com/in/zachhfrench

*Learn about The Surrogacy Foundation here.
*Follow The Surrogacy Foundation on Instagram @thesurrogacyfoundation and on their LinkedIn and Facebook pages.

Organizations Zach highlighted in the episode: 

• American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
• Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART)
• Hatch Fertility 

 
Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What happens when a life-changing diagnosis completely rewrites the plan for building your family? In this inspiring episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with Alexandra French, who shares her personal journey through breast cancer, surrogacy, and her mission to support others. Now the Co-Founder of The Surrogacy Foundation, Alexandra opens up about her deeply emotional journey to have her daughter through surrogacy.

From the hard conversations and  "expecting the unexpected" to the hope, resilience, and support that carried her through, Alexandra shares the real side of what surrogacy looks like behind the scenes. The conversation highlights how Alexandra's journey inspired her mission to help others facing similar paths, breaking down the emotional, legal, and relational realities of surrogacy while showing how her foundation is creating meaningful support for families along the way.

🎧Tune in now to learn the biggest misconception about surrogacy and how it can be a beautiful path to building your family. 

Highlights:

• (00:00) Introduction to Women's Health and Surrogacy
• (01:21) Alexandra's Cancer Journey and Surrogacy Decision
• (05:14) Navigating Surrogacy Concerns and Relationships
• (09:51) Mental Health Challenges in Surrogacy
• (13:49) Communicating Surrogacy to Family and Friends
• (17:58) Unexpected Challenges in the Surrogacy Process
• (20:52) Dispelling Myths About Surrogacy
• (22:50) The Birth of the Surrogacy Foundation
• (29:13) Empowerment Through Surrogacy

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Learn more about the work of this episode's guest, Alexandra French, Co-Founder of The Surrogacy Foundation here: https://alexandrafrenchatlanta.com/ and learn about The Surrogacy Foundation here. 
*Follow The Surrogacy Foundation on Instagram @thesurrogacyfoundation and on their LinkedIn and Facebook pages. 
 
Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What happens when a podcast built on real stories, hard conversations, and health empowerment hits 100 episodes? 🎙️ Join us as we celebrate the 100th episode of the YMyHealth Podcast!!! In this special milestone episode, YMyHealth Podcast Co-Hosts Julie Woon and Melissa Schenkman share behind-the-scenes insights, as they reflect on the moments that inspired and surprised them, the impactful stories YMyHealth Contributors have shared, what's connected  listeners as they navigate their healthcare, and the YMyHealth Podcast's future plans to empower your health journey.

🎧Tune in now to here details on some of our most favorite episodes and on what's coming for Season 2 of 2026  this fall.

Highlights:

• (00:00) Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Milestone Reflection
• (02:46) The Journey of YMyHealth Podcast
• (05:51) Themes of Openness and Personal Stories
• (08:40) Caregiving: The Unsung Heroes
• (11:24) Invisible Struggles: Mental Health and Chronic Illness
• (13:55) Prevention and Health Literacy
• (16:48) Research and Its Importance in Healthcare
• (19:48) Men's and Women's Health: Unique Challenges
• (22:22) The Role of Policy and Advocacy
• (25:23) Entrepreneurship in Healthcare
• (28:20) Future Directions: Navigating the Healthcare System
• (31:04) Community Engagement and Support
• (33:49) Looking Ahead: Season Two Plans

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

We are SO grateful for those whose skill sets and financial support helped bring the YMyHealth Podcast to life!!

A big thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

Sarah Jane Ponce, Founder and COO at Digital Lumad and Podcast Director/ProducerBrand Strategist- (*You can get in touch here.)
 
Kendall Hackett and Jasmine Duncan of Kendall Media Co - Learn more about there company and social media content creation by visiting here.

*Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about  YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Hosts:

Founder, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon

What would you do if a symptom you almost ignored changed your life forever? That's exactly what happened to Janae Finley, PT, DPT. In this episode, YMyHealth Podcast Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with early onset breast cancer survivor and physical therapist Janaye Finley, who shares her deeply personal journey through diagnosis, treatment decisions, recovery, and survivorship. You’ll also learn how Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (*formerly TurningPoint) helps people navigate the physical and emotional challenges that can come with breast cancer through specialized rehabilitation and vital support services all in one place. Plus, you'll hear the incredible story of how Janae went from a breast cancer patient at  Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation to now its Assistant Clinical Director!

From recognizing early warning signs of breast cancer to finding ways to cope emotionally during uncertain moments, this conversation offers insight, hope, and practical information for anyone in their 20s, 30s, and 40s impacted by breast cancer—whether personally or through someone they love.

🎧Tune in now to learn about the early sign and symptom of breast cancer most people do not know to watch for! Share this episode with your friends and family.

Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Its Mission
(00:59) Early Onset Breast Cancer: A Personal Journey
(03:47) Understanding Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
(07:53) Navigating Treatment Options and Decisions
(10:29) Physical and Emotional Challenges During Treatment
(13:32) Coping Strategies and Resources for Survivors
(16:31) The Role of Healthcare Teams in Patient Care
(18:19) Turning Point: A Lifeline for Survivors
(21:19) Unique Services Offered at Turning Point
(24:06) Advocacy and Empowerment for Young Survivors
(28:07) Misconceptions About Breast Cancer
(30:49) Navigating Healthcare and Self-Advocacy
(32:45) Reflections and Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients
(33:49) Conclusion and Upcoming Events

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Learn more about this episode's guest, Janae Finley, PT, DPT, CLT, CES, under the clinical team section here.
**Check out Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (formerly TurningPoint) at: irisbcr.org
Follow them on Instagram @irisbcr and on the Iris LinkedIn and Facebook pages as well as the Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation YouTube Channel

** Rutgers University Research Study of the Genetics of Breast Cancer- Join the fight against breast cancer by submitting your sample easily today. Learn more about the study here: https://join.rugcc.org/r?ngxff7
 
Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What's a birth doula and how do you know if one is right for you? In this episode of the YMyHealth podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with birth doula and mom of four, Zakela Mickens, to explore the vital role of birth doulas in supporting women through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They discuss how having a doula at your side during your pregnancy journey helps women feel informed, empowered, and cared for throughout.

The episode also highlights the positive impact of birth doulas on birth outcomes and addressing racial disparities in maternal health. While birth doulas are beneficial for pregnant women of all races and ethnicities, they are particularly helpful in the Black community,  where women are still facing alarming disparities in maternal healthcare outcomes. That's why more women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are turning to birth doulas for the support, advocacy, and reassurance they deserve during pregnancy and birth.

🎧Tune in now to learn about the research-backed health benefits a birth doula provides and Zakela's questions to ask prospective doulas to find the right person for you. Share this episode today with a friend who is in the family planning process or already on their pregnancy journey!

Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
(01:00) What is a Birth Doula?
(02:06) Differences Between Doulas, Nurses, and Midwives
(04:01) Personal Journey to Becoming a Doula
(13:59) Benefits of Having a Doula During Birth
(16:28) Supporting Birth Plans and Medical Team Collaboration
(20:46) Different Birth Scenarios and Doula Support
(21:23) Postpartum Support and Early Parenting
(23:49) The Fourth Trimester and Postpartum Care
(30:58) Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Health
(35:39) The Role of Doulas in Promoting Health Equity
(41:42) Key Takeaways About Birth Doulas

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Learn more about this episode's guest, Zakela Mickens, by subscribing to her YouTube Channel, @TheCinchonLynch and follow her on Instagram @poweredbychocolatemilkco
 
*Donate to help Zakela financially support families in need of genetic screening for cancer by donating here: https://www.paypal.me/ZMickens

*Birth Doula Resources Zakela Recommends Checking Out*

• DONA International (the world's leading doula certification organization 
• Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Association
• Healthy Start Program- Maternal & Child Health 
• Sunshine Health Medicaid Program

Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

Are you a person who is a problem solver and has an entrepreneurial spirit for making the world a better place? In this episode, YMyHealth podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman, talks with Dr. Erica Barnell, the Co-Founder and Chief Medical & Science Officer of Genescopy, a health diagnostics company that produced the first FDA-approved, RNA-based noninvasive colorectal screening test. Dr. Barnell, a fellow millennial, who co-founded the company at 24 years old, shares her journey from scientific research to healthcare entrepreneurship to prevent colorectal cancer and save lives. Our conversation highlights how she has navigated uncertainty, broken through barriers as a female founder, and is redefining success on her own terms. Plus, she talks about key milestones in entrepreneurship, challenges she has faced as a female founder, and shares valuable advice for aspiring health entrepreneurs. 

If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something bigger (or different), her story is a reminder that the leap is rarely linear—but it can be worth it!

🎧Listen now to this inspiring episode to hear Dr. Erica Barnell's valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs!

Highlights: 

• (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Its Mission
• (02:50) The Journey from Academia to Entrepreneurship
• (05:56) Challenges in Healthcare Entrepreneurship
• (08:37) Navigating Funding and Investment
• (11:26) Building a Strong Team
• (14:12) Key Milestones in the Entrepreneurial Journey
• (17:10) Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
• (19:57) The Importance of Representation in Healthcare
• (22:45) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Future Entrepreneurs

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn more about this episode's guest, Dr. Erica Barnell and her company, Genoscopy here: https://www.geneoscopy.com/about-us/our-leadership/

*Check out the work Genoscopy is doing in RNA-based technology and the ColoSense test here: https://www.geneoscopy.com/gastrointestinal-health/colorectal-cancer-screening/
 https://www.geneoscopy.com/geneoscopys-new-fda-approved-stool-collection-method-simplifies-at-home-colorectal-cancer-screening/

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

Why are so many women not realizing they have ADHD until their 20s, 30s, or even 40s? And why does it suddenly feel harder to manage over time? In this episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman talks with Bailey Pilant, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified ADHD expert, who unpacks the often-overlooked realities of ADHD in women—from missed diagnoses to the very real impact of female hormones.

Together, their conversation explores the complexities of ADHD in women, especially in their 20s-40s, and the impacts ADHD can have on relationships, careers, and family life. We get into the nuances most people aren’t talking about. Throughout, Bailey shares personal insights along with practical, real-life ways to better understand and manage ADHD effectively without the shame or confusion so many women carry.

🎧Tune in now to learn about how ADHD presents differently in women, the role your hormones play, and how we can help better support those in our lives who are navigating our busy, on-the-go world with this condition.

Highlights:

• (00:00) Introduction to ADHD in Millennials
• (01:54) Bailey's Journey and Specialization in ADHD
• (07:51) Understanding ADHD: Stigmas and Misconceptions
• (13:35) Statistics and Gender Disparities in ADHD Diagnosis
• (19:08) ADHD Symptoms: Gender Differences and Life Stages
• (24:22) Hormonal Influences on ADHD
• (29:05) Pregnancy, ADHD, and Medication Management
• (31:49) Perimenopause and ADHD Challenges
• (33:03) Understanding ADHD and Hormonal Influences
• (34:58) Navigating the Diagnosis Process
• (38:01) Assessment and Evaluation for ADHD
• (40:48) Therapeutic Approaches to ADHD
• (44:42) Managing Daily Life with ADHD
• (47:49) Evaluating Treatment Effectiveness
• (49:41) ADHD in Romantic Relationships
• (51:10) ADHD in the Workplace
• (55:17) Balancing Home and Social Life
• (57:08) Empowerment and Acceptance of ADHD

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/

*Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!*
Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey.

It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE. 

Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at [email protected] for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn more about this episode's guest, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, Bailey Pilant at The Wave Counseling here: https://thewavecounseling.com/about
Follow her daily @ on her pages on Instagram and Tiktok.

*Bailey's Top Resources for Finding a Neurodivergent Therapist*
ndtherapists.com and chadd.org

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

What if the way your brain works isn’t something to “fix”—but something to understand? In this insightful episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Bailey Pilant gets real about her personal journey with ADHD and autism (two neurodivergent conditions), and how finally understanding her neurodivergence changed everything—from how she sees herself to how she supports others.

She talks with Co-Host Julie Woon about what it actually looks like to navigate a world that isn’t built for neurodivergent minds—and why neurodivergent-affirming therapy and finding the right community can be game-changers. Bailey breaks down the difference between feeling “off” and feeling understood, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize.

This conversation goes beyond personal insight—it’s about rethinking the system itself. From therapy approaches to broader cultural shifts, Bailey shares what needs to change so neurodivergent individuals aren’t just getting by—but are actually supported in ways that help them thrive.

🎧Tune in now to learn and better understand neurodivergence from Bailey and help be a part of the change to transform mental health support in your community and beyond! And don't forget to share this episode with a friend!

Highlights:
(00:00) Introduction to Neurodivergence and Mental Health
(01:56) Personal Journey: From Diagnosis to Therapy
(05:46) Understanding Neurodivergence: Definitions and Forms
(11:17) The Gender Gap in Neurodivergence Diagnoses
(17:06) Subtle Signs of Neurodivergence in Women
(23:49) Understanding Neurodivergence and Its Impact
(25:11) Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy: A Holistic Approach
(29:02) Therapeutic Techniques for Neurodivergent Individuals
(30:07) Finding the Right Therapist for Neurodivergence
(32:58) The Importance of Community and Peer Support
(34:40) Reflections on Personal Mental Health Journeys
(38:09) Empowerment and Acceptance for the Different
(39:12) Changing Societal Perceptions of Neurodivergence

Links:
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Learn more about this episode's guest, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, Bailey Pilant at The Wave Counseling here: https://thewavecounseling.com/about
Follow her daily @ on her pages on Instagram and Tiktok.

*Bailey's Top Resources for Finding a Neurodivergent Therapist*
ndtherapists.com and chadd.org

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host and Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here:
https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com