Welcome to The Gynarchy, a podcast where women's health and feminism intersect. Hosted by Dr. Kirti Patel, a board-certified ob/gyn with over 25 years of experience, this podcast dives deep into the topics that matter most to women.
From the realities of childbirth and menopause to cultural trends and global women’s issues, we cover it all. This isn't just another health podcast—it's a space where we acknowledge the barriers women face in a patriarchal world and challenge the status quo. Expect candid conversations with top experts and inspiring guests who bring their unique perspectives to the table.
Our mission is to empower women with knowledge and support, helping you take charge of your health and your life. Join us on this journey as we break through the barriers of the patriarchy and envision a new world led by The Gynarchy.
Be sure to subscribe to The Gynarchy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for listening!
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Inclusivity statement: The Gynarchy is created for an audience of girls, women, and those assigned female at birth with a focus on their health and experiences. For ease of storytelling we often use she/her pronouns, however the Gynarchy is committed to inclusivity of all gender identities and sexual orientations. We are committed to building a world where where everyone can feel seen, heard, and valued.
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In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with board-certified OB-GYN, author, educator, and OB hospitalist Dr. Jennifer Lincoln about what patients should really expect during labor and delivery. We discuss her new book, The Birth Book: An OB-GYN’s Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery, and dive into the realities of childbirth, informed consent, birth trauma, patient advocacy, and the current maternal health crisis in the United States.
Dr. Lincoln shares her journey into obstetrics and explains why she felt compelled to write a comprehensive, accessible guide focused specifically on labor and delivery. We discuss how misinformation online, distrust in the medical system, and gaps in prenatal education can leave patients feeling unprepared and disempowered. She also offers practical guidance for advocating for yourself during labor, navigating birth preferences, understanding interventions like epidurals and C-sections, and creating a more informed and empowering birth experience.
Topics we cover in this episode:
Why Dr. Lincoln wrote The Birth Book and the gap it fills in pregnancy education
How social media has changed the way patients seek information about childbirth
Common myths and misinformation about labor, epidurals, inductions, and C-sections
The growing distrust of physicians and the impact of misinformation online
How the U.S. maternal healthcare system contributes to poor birth outcomes
Maternal healthcare deserts and the shortage of OB-GYNs and labor units
Why labor and delivery care is often undervalued in hospital systems
How to advocate for yourself during labor and delivery
Questions patients should ask their providers before birth
The importance of informed consent and shared decision-making
Why Dr. Lincoln uses the term “birth preferences” instead of “birth plan”
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) and misconceptions surrounding repeat C-sections
Cesarean delivery on maternal request and respecting patient autonomy
How prior trauma, medical anxiety, and tokophobia can shape birth decisions
What birth trauma can look like and why patients do not need to “prove” their trauma
Supporting patients experiencing stillbirth and gaps in physician training around grief and loss
The role of partners and doulas in labor support and advocacy
Postpartum depression and anxiety
What an empowered birth experience can look like
How providers can improve communication by changing the way they ask questions
Funny and memorable labor and delivery stories from Dr. Lincoln’s career
Managing difficult family dynamics and protecting patients’ autonomy during labor
The ethics of forced medical interventions during pregnancy
How pregnancy can impact legal and medical autonomy in the United States
Why declining fertility rates are connected to healthcare access and family support systems
The longstanding problem of dismissing women’s pain in medicine
Pain management during labor, gynecologic procedures, and IUD insertions
Why believing women is essential to improving healthcare experiences and outcomes
Tune in Monday, June 1st, and subscribe to The Gynarchy Podcast to stay updated on future episodes.
Connect with Jennifer Lincoln, MD: Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com Book: The Birth Book: An OB-GYN’s Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery Podcast: Let’s Talk About Birth Instagram/TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Inclusivity statement: The Gynarchy is cr...
Episode 39: All About Puberty with Vanessa Kroll Bennett and Cara Natterson, MD
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with puberty educator Vanessa Kroll-Bennett and pediatrician and bestselling author Cara Natterson a, co-founders of Less Awkward, about the complex, evolving experience of puberty. We cover what puberty really is, why it’s starting earlier and lasting longer, and how parents can better support their kids through the physical, emotional, and social changes of these years.
Vanessa and Cara share their journey into puberty education and explain why open, ongoing conversations—no matter how awkward—are essential. We discuss the science behind puberty, including hormonal changes, brain development, and the wide range of what is considered “typical.” They also break down common misconceptions, highlight differences in how boys and girls experience puberty, and offer practical, realistic guidance for parents navigating this stage alongside their children.
Topics we cover in this episode:
What puberty is and how it extends beyond physical changes
Why puberty is starting earlier and lasting longer than in previous generations
Key contributors to earlier puberty, including environmental factors, body composition, and stress
How chronic stress impacts kids’ development and hormone regulation
What parents can realistically control—and why guilt isn’t helpful
Practical tips for supporting healthy habits: nutrition, movement, sleep, and balance
Why failure and setbacks are essential for growth and resilience
Early signs of puberty in girls and boys
Emotional changes, including mood swings and shifting behavior
The difference between puberty and adrenarche (body odor, acne, hair growth)
Common but confusing changes like asymmetrical breast development and spontaneous erections
Typical timelines for puberty and why variation is normal
Signs that a first period may be approaching
Normal vaginal discharge and why it’s important to talk about openly
When to seek medical care for delayed or irregular periods
The impact of intense athletics and the female athlete triad
Episode 38: Feminist Art: Cross-Stitch with Stephanie Rohr
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with cross-stitch artist and author Stephanie Rohr about feminist art, fiber crafts, and how she turned a traditional “women’s hobby” into a bold, subversive creative business that challenges norms and reclaims the value of women’s work.
Stephanie shares her journey from learning cross-stitch as a child to launching her business, StephXStitch, how she uses humor, pop culture, and activism to create her snarky, feminist designs, and some of the challenges she’s faced along the way.
Topics we cover in this episode:
The history of cross-stitch and its roots in women’s domestic labor
How fiber arts have been undervalued and excluded from “fine art” spaces
Stephanie’s journey from theater to running a successful cross-stitch business
The rise of “subversive cross-stitch” and feminist messaging in craft
How the internet and digital tools transformed cross-stitch design and accessibility
The meditative and mental health benefits of cross-stitch
The challenges of pricing handmade art and overcoming imposter syndrome as a creative entrepreneur
Viral moments, media features, and unexpected controversies along her journey to success
Using humor, pop culture, and profanity to challenge patriarchy
Making art accessible through finished pieces, DIY kits, and patterns
Why cross-stitch—and feminism—is for everyone
Tune in on Monday, May 4th, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all of our episodes.
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with board-certified OB/GYN and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon Dr. Cheruba Prabhakar about fibroids, one of the most common conditions affecting women. We cover what fibroids are, how they present, and why so many women go undiagnosed for years despite significant symptoms.
Dr. Prabhakar shares her expertise in fertility-sparing fibroid surgery and explains how fibroids can impact bleeding, pain, and reproductive health. We discuss how fibroids are diagnosed, when treatment is necessary, and the full range of options—from watchful waiting and medical management to minimally invasive surgical approaches. She also breaks down the differences between hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, and open procedures, including recovery times and risks.
Topics we cover in this episode:
What fibroids are and how common they are
Why many women normalize heavy or painful periods
Common symptoms of fibroids, including heavy bleeding, bulk symptoms, and infertility
How fibroids are diagnosed with pelvic exams and ultrasound
When MRI is used for further evaluation and surgical planning
How fibroids can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes
The relationship between fibroids and endometriosis
When it is appropriate to monitor fibroids without treatment
Medical management options, including hormonal therapies and newer medications
Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery: what it is and how it differs from open surgery
Robotic and laparoscopic myomectomy and hysterectomy
Hysteroscopic fibroid removal for intracavitary fibroids
Uterine artery embolization: what it is and when it may be appropriate
Risks and benefits of different surgical approaches
Recovery timelines for hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, and open procedures
Fibroid recurrence rates and the role of genetics
Lifestyle factors that may help reduce fibroid growth, including diet and vitamin D
Adenomyosis: what it is and how it differs from fibroids
Episode 36: Fitness Basics with Laurel Beversdorf and Sarah Court, DPT
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with physical therapist Dr. Sarah Court and strength and conditioning coach Laurel Beversdorf of Movement Logic about the fundamentals of exercise for women. We cover how to start exercising safely, why cardiovascular and strength training are critical for health, and how to evaluate online fitness advice without feeling overwhelmed.
Sarah and Laurel break down practical strategies for building cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance, while also explaining why effort and consistency matter more than following trends. They share guidance on choosing exercises you enjoy, understanding moderate vs. vigorous intensity, and how to structure strength training for maximum benefit.
Topics we cover in this episode:
How to start exercising if you’ve never worked out before
Common myths about strength training and women getting “bulky”
The impact of patriarchal beauty standards on fitness culture
How to evaluate exercise advice online and avoid misinformation
Understanding the CDC’s physical activity guidelines
Cardiovascular exercise: moderate vs. vigorous intensity and the “talk test”
Using perceived effort scales (1–10) to measure exercise intensity
Examples of cyclical cardio: walking, running, biking, swimming, rowing
Strength training basics: volume, sets, reps, and effort
The four foundational movement patterns: squat, hinge, push, and pull
Choosing exercises and equipment for beginners, including machines vs. free weights
How to structure strength workouts across multiple days to avoid fatigue
Reps in reserve: leaving 1–3 reps at the end of a set to gauge effort
Progressive overload: increasing weight or reps safely over time
Benefits of exercise for bone health, metabolism, overall longevity, and more
Why consistency and enjoyment matter more than perfection
Tune in on Monday, April 6, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all of our episodes.
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with financial consultant and coach Julie Praline aka “The Wealth Visionnaire” on Instagram, about women, wealth, and financial empowerment. With over 20 years of experience in corporate finance and investment management, Julie shares practical strategies to help women build confidence with money, invest wisely, and create financial freedom — or what we like to call “work optional” power.
We discuss why women often avoid financial conversations, how to overcome shame and fear around money, and why understanding your numbers is essential for independence, especially in relationships. Julie shares her philosophy of “money dates,” the importance of aligning spending with your values, and why boring investing often wins in the long run.
Topics we cover in this episode:
• Money as power and a tool for freedom and choice • Overcoming emotional barriers, shame, and avoidance around money • How to structure “money dates” and build consistent financial habits • Aligning spending and saving with your values and future goals • Salary negotiation strategies and closing the gender pay gap • Financial planning around maternity leave and caregiving • Protecting yourself financially in relationships and marriage • Separate vs. joint accounts and preventing financial abuse • Important money conversations before having children • Preparing financially for divorce (even if you think it won’t happen) • Investing fundamentals: diversification, asset allocation, and long-term strategy • Risks of following hot stock tips and social media financial trends • Different types of assets: stocks, bonds, real estate, cash, commodities, crypto, and luxury goods • Why women investors often outperform men • Retirement planning with longevity in mind (planning to age 100) • Long-term care planning and not becoming a financial burden to your loved ones • The power of compound growth and starting early Julie’s top tips: consistency, honesty, and self-forgiveness with moneyFinancial disclaimer: This episode is meant for educational purposes only, and not professional financial, tax, or legal advice. Please seek the advice of a certified financial adv
In this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with gastroenterologist and host of the House of Pod podcast, Dr. Kaveh Hoda, aka “fiber zaddy”, about gut health, the microbiome, and how to have a healthy digestive system without a fear of food. We cover practical strategies for improving gut health, common GI issues, and why certain trendy tests and detoxes may not be worth your time.
Dr. Hoda explains what makes a gut healthy, why fiber is essential, and how diet shapes the microbiome. He shares insights on the rising rates of colon cancer, red flags you should never ignore, and how to balance a diet that supports your gut while still enjoying food.
Topics we cover in this episode:
RFK Jr.’s new upside-down food pyramid vs. MyPlate and the ongoing saturated fat debate
How low-fiber diets can cause diverticula and other issues in the colon
What defines a healthy gut and why microbial diversity matters
Strategies to improve gut health: fiber, hydration, plant-based foods, and fermented foods
Pros and cons of probiotics, microbiome testing, and trendy detoxes
Gender differences in the gut
The most common gastrointestinal issues
Red flags that require medical evaluation
Rising rates of colon cancer in younger adults and potential contributing factors
Dr. Hoda’s top tips for gut health
Tune in on Monday, March 9, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all of our episodes.
Welcome to Season 4 of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I’m speaking with award-winning health journalist and author Meghan Rabbitt about how women can better understand, advocate for, and take charge of their health.
In Episode 33: The New Rules for Women’s Health, Meghan draws from her decades of experience covering women’s health and her new book, The New Rules of Women’s Health: Your Guide to Thriving at Every Age, to discuss why women have been historically overlooked in medical research, how misinformation spreads in women’s health spaces, and what women need to know to make informed decisions about their bodies and care.
Here are some of the topics we discuss:
What are “the new rules” of women’s health?
Why “male default” medicine harms women and the importance of sex-specific medical research
The rise of medical misinformation and health influencers in social media
How to identify credible sources and evaluate health information on your own
Highlights from The New Rules of Women’s Health book
How women can become more informed, active participants in their healthcare
Making the most of short doctors’ appointments
Reducing shame and breaking taboos about discussing women’s bodies and health
How pregnancy can affect your health postpartum and beyond
Helpful tips to optimize your health
Tune in on Monday, February 23, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all our episodes.
Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I’m speaking with licensed marriage and family therapist, and AASECT certified sex therapist, Dr. Holly Wood about healthy romantic relationships.
In”Episode 32: Healthy Relationships”, Dr. Wood shares her expertise in relationships, sexual wellness, and trauma recovery and discusses what makes a relationship truly healthy, particularly focusing on safety, communication, having boundaries, and intimacy.
Here are some of the topics we discuss:
What defines a healthy romantic relationship
Recognizing red flags: disrespect, emotional invalidation, manipulation, causing harm
Conflict resolution and communication strategies
Can you recover from infidelity?
Household labor and how to create equitable / fair relationships
How to maintain a healthy relationship long-term
Sexual mismatch
Boundaries and maintaining your individual identity while in a relationship
Tips on navigating your relationship while parenting
Tune in on Monday, December 8 and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all our episodes.
Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I’m speaking with Dr. Arghavan Salles, a surgeon, researcher, and national leader in diversity, inclusion, and equity, on the topic of sexual harassment
In “Episode 31: Sexual Harassment”, Dr. Salles brings her unique perspective having studied gender bias and stereotypes during her surgical training and also as an NIH-funded researcher to discuss how sexual harassment contributes to gender inequity in medicine, academia, and in greater society in general.
Here are some of the topics we discuss:
Dr. Salles discusses her background and research in gender-based issues during her surgical and post doctoral training
How the #MeToo movement sparked change… and a backlash
How rape culture contributes to abuse and victim blaming
Understanding what constitutes sexual harassment
Why healthcare and medicine have a sexual harassment problem
The negative impacts of sexual harassment on the workplace and on individuals
Advice for those experiencing or observing sexual harassment
Tune in on Monday, November 24 and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all our episodes.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Inclusivity statement: The Gynarchy is cr...
Why many women feel dismissed and the importance of self-advocacy in care
Tune in on Monday, April 20, and make sure to subscribe and stay updated on all of our episodes.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Inclusivity statement: The Gynarchy is created for an audience of girls, women, and those
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.
Inclusivity statement: The Gynarchy is cr...
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