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GynoCurious

GynoCurious

By: Radio Free Rhinecliff
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About this listen

 Welcome Gynocurious listeners, I am Dr. Amy Novatt, board certified ob-gyn, your host of GynoCurious. With each program we are going to explore the experience of being an ob-gyn, the science that guides our practices and the stories women- cis, trans and nonbinary, have shared as they seek health and wellness. From both sides of the speculum we will investigate what it means to be a healer and to be healed. I have been reflecting on 32 plus years of practice; thinking about all that I have learned, heard and thought about and wanted to bring it to a larger audience. This will not be a medical show that tells you how much estrogen you should take or the scientific method used to evaluate data but instead, a conversation about the larger canvas looking at what its like to be a medical professional working with women and how patients experience the world of ob-gyn. What is it like sitting in the exam room with a thin sheet of paper covering your naked body? What has been the impact of a cancer diagnosis? What it is like to go through the menopause?….These are just a few examples of conversations I hope to bring to you. My intention is not to expose my patients personal histories but rather use their stories as stepping stones to explore many aspects of our bodies, our psyches and the landscape of the medical world. In a time when most of us are frustrated by the American medical system; with the challenges of limited access, financial limitations, gender and racial discrepancies in care, the insurance morass and a host of other hurdles; my hope is that GynoCurious creates a community of guests and listeners that bring us all closer- to openly explore and understand the experience of illness and health and to break open decades of silence, misunderstanding and shame for having a vagina. We are going to talk about our fears, sexual explorations and aging adventures with respect, inquiry and science. For me, knowledge and awareness brings awe, authority and autonomy. This podcast represents the opinions of Dr. Novatt and her guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. While we make every effort to ensure that the information shared is accurate, we welcome any comments, suggestions, or corrections. This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast. In no way does listening, reading, emailing or interacting on social media with our content establish a doctor-patient relationship. Dr.Novatt does not receive any money from the pharmaceutical industry.© 2023 & 2024 Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • Money Matters?

    Money Matters?
    Jul 3 2025

    In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt sits down with Vicki Haak, a seasoned financial advisor. The episode dives into the evolution of the taboo surrounding financial discussions, particularly focusing on how women were historically excluded from these crucial conversations. Vicki shares her personal journey, revealing how a childhood devoid of financial literacy propelled her into a career where she merged her love for numbers with an innate desire to empower others in understanding financial matters.

    Amy and Vicki explore the psychological aspects of money management. They discuss how financial stress can significantly impact overall health, contributing to conditions like anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular issues. The conversation highlights the unique challenges women face in the financial world and the importance of self-empowerment, financial literacy, and the need for more women in advisory roles. Vicki's insights shed light on the importance of acting as one's own fiduciary and the role that confidence and education play in financial well-being.

    As the episode progresses, Vicki offers valuable advice on overcoming the intimidation often associated with financial discussions. She encourages women to 'own it,' emphasizing the power of knowledge and the importance of having a supportive advisor.

    Questions of comments?
    Call 845-307-7446 or email comments@radiofreerhinecliff.org

    Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff
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    40 mins
  • Mental Health in College Years

    Mental Health in College Years
    Jun 26 2025

    Listen again to Episode 63 since it is graduation time.....In this episode of GynoCurious, host Dr. Amy Novatt engages in a conversation with Dr. Wendy Freedman, the Director of Counseling Services at Vassar College. They discuss the multifaceted challenges and emotional struggles faced by college-aged persons, including the pressures of identity development and the impact of cultural expectations on mental health. Through their dialogue, Dr. Freedman opens up about her personal and professional journey, sharing her passion for psychotherapy and her observations on the evolving needs of young adults in today's society. She highlights the importance of vulnerability, community support, and emotional resilience in fostering well-being among students.

    The conversation also touches upon the pervasive influence of social media, the meaning and impact of the "woke" and "cancel" culture, and the critical role of parenting in promoting emotional and mental development. Dr. Freedman stresses the dual necessity of allowing young people to overcome struggles and providing a supportive environment. As the episode draws to a close, Dr. Novatt and Dr. Freedman discuss practical ways parents can foster resilience and independence in their children while maintaining a secure and loving presence.

    Questions of comments?
    Call 845-307-7446 or email comments@radiofreerhinecliff.org

    Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff
    Show more Show less
    50 mins
  • Do We Really Need Dietary Supplements?

    Do We Really Need Dietary Supplements?
    Jun 19 2025

    In this episode of GynoCurious, Dr. Amy Novatt delves into the evolving nutritional needs of women across different life stages with expert guest, Rebecca Blake, RD. Dr. Amy and Rebecca discuss the rapid growth of the wellness and supplement industry, which saw the US dietary supplement market valued at $53.58 billion in 2023, and question the efficacy of many popular supplements. Together, they ponder whether these products fill crucial nutritional gaps or simply capitalize on brilliant marketing strategies. Rebecca Blake, a clinical nutrition subject matter expert with extensive experience in the field, shares her nuanced perspective on gender-specific nutritional advice. She argues that while some supplements may be beneficial during times of physiological stress or hormonal changes, the key lies in understanding individual nutritional needs rather than succumbing to one-size-fits-all solutions. Amy and Rebecca critically assess popular trends like cycle syncing and adaptogen use, often finding them unsupported by robust science, yet acknowledge the psychological comfort they may offer individuals. The episode also touches on Rebecca's personal and professional experiences with nutrition and fertility. They discuss the impact of specific supplements and diet modifications on conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and unexplained infertility. While emphasizing the importance of a whole foods-based diet and the limitations of the supplement industry, Rebecca and Amy encourage listeners to be inquisitive and critical about their supplement choices. The episode concludes with practical advice on evaluating and integrating supplements into one’s life, urging listeners to consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.
    /w.rebeccablakenutrition.com
    IG: @rebeccablakenutrition

    Questions of comments?
    Call 845-307-7446 or email comments@radiofreerhinecliff.org

    Produced by Jennifer Hammoud and Matty Rosenberg @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff
    Show more Show less
    50 mins
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