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Have you ever wondered why we're still using euphemisms for female body parts in 2024? Or why your doctor dismissed pain that kept you bedridden for days? The shocking truth is that women's health remains shrouded in medical mystery —not because we lack the capability to understand it, but because we've systematically failed to prioritize it.

In this eye-opening conversation with Saskia and Lucy, founders of "What Nobody Told Us," we dive deep into the alarming gender health gap and its real-world consequences. When a December 2023 report revealed the dismal state of reproductive healthcare, these two friends decided enough was enough. They're now building a platform to provide the education many of us never received, challenging the status quo that has normalized women's pain and dismissed their concerns for generations.

The statistics are staggering: less than 2.5% of public funding goes toward reproductive health research, and females represent only 37% of clinical trial participants. This research gap means treatments developed for men are simply applied to women without proper testing. Meanwhile, women with conditions like endometriosis wait an average of eight years for diagnosis while being labeled "difficult" when they advocate for themselves.

Perhaps most troubling is how this medical gaslighting begins early. From hiding tampons up our sleeves as teenagers to being told severe menstrual pain is just something to endure, we internalize shame about normal bodily functions. Lucy, a doctor herself, describes the heartbreaking experience of watching patients light up when they finally feel heard—often for the first time in their healthcare journey.

Whether you're looking to understand your own body better or want to join the fight for healthcare equality, this conversation offers both validation and hope. The gender health gap wasn't created overnight, and closing it will take all of us speaking up, sharing stories, and refusing to accept pain and dismissal as inevitable parts of having a female reproductive system.

Follow @whatnobodytoldus on Instagram to join their growing movement and access the reproductive health information nobody told you —but everyone deserves to know.

Disclaimer: This podcast represents the opinions of Dr. Bridget Melton, MD and licensed therapist Marissa Volinsky, MS, LPC, NCC. The contents of our podcast and website should not be taken as medical advice. The contents of our podcast and website are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any condition or disease or substitute for medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental health professional, or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before starting or discontinuing treatment.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. These services are free and confidential.

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Science meets sociology in this thought-provoking episode where we tackle revolutionary genetic technology alongside persistent gender double standards in entertainment.

First, we dive into CRISPR gene editing – a medical breakthrough recently used in Japan to eliminate an extra chromosome in a Down syndrome embryo. We explore the incredible potential of this technology to address genetic conditions while wrestling with the ethical boundaries. Could targeting disease genes evolve into selecting for eye color, height, or intelligence? The specter of "designer babies" raises profound questions about equity, accessibility, and the limits of human intervention in genetics. Where do we draw the line when it comes to editing our future children?

The conversation then shifts to an equally contentious topic: why can't female characters be unlikable? Sarah Jessica Parker recently commented that female antiheroes can't exist or be liked in the same way as male antiheroes. We dissect the cultural double standard where complex, morally ambiguous men like Tony Soprano are beloved, while women who display realistic human reactions (like Skylar White from Breaking Bad) are vilified. These expectations trace back centuries, with historical and religious roots that enforced women's roles as moral centers of the household.

Throughout our discussion, we celebrate the recent wave of female-created media breaking these molds – from Fleabag to Killing Eve to unfiltered comedy specials that present women as gloriously flawed humans rather than perfect paragons. We share our honest experiences of motherhood that echo these same tensions between unrealistic expectations and messy reality.

Between the serious topics, we lighten the mood with tales of our Fourth of July celebrations (yes, even in England!) and share upcoming plans to record together when Bridget visits the States in August.

Have thoughts on CRISPR technology or female antiheroes? We'd love to hear them! Share your perspective with us on social media or leave a review.

Disclaimer: This podcast represents the opinions of Dr. Bridget Melton, MD and licensed therapist Marissa Volinsky, MS, LPC, NCC. The contents of our podcast and website should not be taken as medical advice. The contents of our podcast and website are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any condition or disease or substitute for medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental health professional, or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before starting or discontinuing treatment.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. These services are free and confidential.

https://psychoticpypodcast.com/
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What if mothers had a retreat designed exclusively for them, where every detail was handled, where experts helped them reconnect with themselves, and where they could form genuine connections with other women navigating the same journey? That's exactly what therapist, Marissa Volinsky, has created with Off-Duty: A Mom's Retreat, a revolutionary retreat launching April 2026 in Stone Harbor, New Jersey.

Motherhood, despite its many joys, can be profoundly isolating. Even surrounded by family and friends, mothers often struggle with their identity beyond being "mom," battling body image concerns, feeling overwhelmed, and experiencing relentless guilt whenever they prioritize themselves. Off-Duty addresses these universal challenges through a carefully curated experience combining professional guidance with genuine relaxation.

Unlike family vacations (which Marissa aptly describes as "parenting in a different destination"), this retreat allows mothers to temporarily step away from responsibilities and rediscover themselves. With workshops led by a licensed therapist, a pelvic floor specialist, and a registered dietitian, participants receive valuable tools for sustainable self-care. The intimate setting—limited to just 12 women—fosters meaningful connections, creating what Marissa calls a "village sisterhood" where vulnerable conversations flow naturally and lasting friendships form.

The retreat's coastal location at The Reeds provides the perfect backdrop for activities ranging from yoga and sunset cruises to spa treatments and empowering group ceremonies. Every detail is meticulously planned, allowing participants to simply show up and be present—perhaps the greatest luxury for someone accustomed to managing everyone else's needs.

Ready to fill your cup and return to your family as a more grounded, present version of yourself? Follow @off_duty_mom_retreats on Instagram or visit offdutyretreats.com to secure your spot. Early registrants receive $200 off, but spaces are limited and filling quickly. Remember: taking time for yourself isn't selfish —it's essential.

Disclaimer: This podcast represents the opinions of Dr. Bridget Melton, MD and licensed therapist Marissa Volinsky, MS, LPC, NCC. The contents of our podcast and website should not be taken as medical advice. The contents of our podcast and website are for general informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any condition or disease or substitute for medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental health professional, or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before starting or discontinuing treatment.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. These services are free and confidential.

https://psychoticpypodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/psychoticpypodcast
https://www.facebook.com/psychoticpypodcast