The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

Welcome to The Gynarchy Podcast! In this premiere episode, I am thrilled to have Malia Funk, a former startup founder, young finance professional, and passionate women's health advocate, join me for a fun and inspiring chat on the basics of feminism.

In "Feminism 101," we discuss what feminism means to us, discuss important milestones, and why it’s still relevant and needed today.

Throughout this engaging conversation, we share our thoughts on:

Common misconceptions and myths about feminism
What inspired us to be feminists
Women and men’s changing roles in modern society
The importance of inclusivity & intersectionality
Historical milestones
Audience comments & questions

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Whether you’re new to feminism or a longtime feminist, I hope this episode offers valuable perspectives and inspiration for advocating for women's rights in your daily life. Join me for a lively and fun discussion with charming Malia Funk!

Tune in on Thursday, August 1, 2024 and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

‌Looking forward to having you join us!

Where to connect with Malia Funk:

TikTok: @povbymalia
Instagram: @povbymalia

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Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Medical disclaimer: The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

1 Listener

Episode 18: Women: Society’s Safety Net with Jessica Calarco, PhD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

03/17/25 • 56 min

Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I am speaking to sociology professor, award-winning teacher, expert on families, school, and inequalities, and author, Jessica Calarco, about her book Holding it Together: How Women Became America’s Safety Net.

In “Episode 18: Women: Society’s Safety Net”, Dr. Calarco offers insights from her groundbreaking research on how women’s labor is undervalued, often taken for granted, and routinely left unpaid. We discuss societal myths, how we can push back against these harmful narratives, and advocate for better policies to create a more equitable future.

Here are some of the topics we discuss:

Examples of how women are society’s safety net
How the COVID-19 pandemic starkly brought these inequities to light
Harmful myths that contribute to this problem, including: the Myth of Meritocracy, the Mars-Venus Myth, the Supermom Myth, the Myth of Good Choices
Socioeconomic impacts of social policies on women
How women are forced into motherhood
Men’s incentives to avoid care work
The appeal of the “trad wife” trend
The outsize influence of billionaires and corporations on policies
Policies in other countries with greater gender equality that do work

Tune in on Monday, March 17, 2025 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

Where to connect with Jessica Calarco:

Website: Jessica Calarco

Bluesky: Jess Calarco (@jessicacalarco.bsky.social)

Instagram: Instagram (@jesscalarco)

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jesscalarco

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 10: Intimate Partner Violence with Amy Kaufman

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

09/30/24 • 50 min

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about intimate partner violence, including accounts of abuse, trauma, and its impact on mental and physical health. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is affected by intimate partner violence, please seek support from a trusted individual or contact a local support service for help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline in the US can be reached at 800-799-7233.

Welcome to an important episode of The Gynarchy Podcast. Today, I am honored to be joined by Amy Kaufman, a survivor of intimate partner violence (IPV) and an advocate who is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting others in their journey to healing.

In "Intimate Partner Violence," we discuss the realities of IPV, the effects on survivors, the challenges of leaving these situations, and advice on how to escape. Amy shares her personal story, offering insights and hope to others who may be experiencing similar challenges.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Amy Kaufman shares her story of survival
We discuss tactics used by abusers, including love bombing, coercive control, and psychological manipulation
Recognizing the various types of abuse, including physical, emotional, psychological, and financial
How pregnancy and children can be used as a tool to entrap victims
Challenges that can make leaving these situations difficult
How to document abuse
Challenges within the legal system
The importance of a support system
Advice to those who are in abusive situations and seeking help

This episode is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of intimate partner violence and support those affected by it.

Tune in on Monday, September 30, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

Where to connect with Amy Kaufman:

Twitter: @‌amykaufman84 (https://x.com/amykaufman84)

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 15: The Sex Ed Crisis with Danielle Bezalel

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

02/03/25 • 46 min

Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I'm speaking to sex educator and executive producer and host of The Sex Ed with DB Podcast, Danielle Bezalel, aka “DB”, about the deeply flawed state of sexual health education in the US.

In “Episode 15: The Sex Ed Crisis”, Danielle brings her expertise in comprehensive sexual health education to discuss how our inadequate, outdated, and shame-based sex ed programs are failing young people and what we can do to change that.

Here are some of the topics we discuss:

The current state of sexual health education in the US
Religious and cultural influence on sex education, particularly purity culture
The harmful messages shared in abstinence-only programs
Goals of comprehensive sexual education
The need for mandated consent education
The rise of misogyny and rape culture
Providing age appropriate sex education to children in the home and at school
Harms of poor sex ed, including increased risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases
Better, international models for comprehensive sexual education

Resources referenced in this episode:

Guttmacher Institute: Sex Education and HIV Education

Tune in on Monday, February 3, 2025 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

Where to connect with Danielle Bezalel:

Instagram: @‌sexedwithdbpodcast Instagram (@sexedwithdbpodcast)

TikTok: @‌sexedwithdb Sex Ed with DB on TikTok

Twitter/X: @‌sexedwithdb Sex Ed with DB (@SexEdwithDB) on X

Email: [email protected]

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 7: Risks of Vaginal Birth with Jocelyn Fitzgerald, MD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

09/09/24 • 48 min

Jocelyn J. Fitzgerald MD (@jjfitzgeraldMD) on X

Welcome to another crucial episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I am privileged to have Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald, a board certified ob/gyn and urogynecologist, and Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, join me to discuss the often-overlooked topic of the risks associated with vaginal birth, specifically risks to the pelvic floor.‌

In "Risks of Vaginal Birth," we explore Dr. Fitzgerald brings her expert knowledge and perspective to help you understand the changes that can occur to the pelvic floor following vaginal birth, what factors contribute to injury, and things to consider before, during, and after vaginal delivery.

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

Dr. Fitzgerald's inspiration and journey to becoming a urogynecologist
What urogynecology is, as a subspecialty in ob/gyn
What the pelvic floor is
The impact of vaginal birth on pelvic floor health
Common pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse
Symptoms of pelvic floor disorders
What other factors can contribute and increase risk of pelvic floor disorders
How to prevent, minimize, and manage risks of vaginal birth
A brief overview of treatment options

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This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in understanding the pelvic floor and what the impact of vaginal childbirth is on the pelvic floor. Join me for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald that will empower you with knowledge and prepare you for better informed decision-making.

Tune in on Monday, September 9, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

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Where to connect with Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald:

Twitter: @jjfitzgeraldmd

Instagram: @jjfitzgeraldmd

Instagram (@jjfitzgeraldmd)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelynfitzgeraldmd/

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 5: Feminist Icon: Taylor Swift with Kelly Joy, MD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

08/26/24 • 62 min

Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I am thrilled to have Dr. Kelly Joy, a fellow ob/gyn and Swiftie, join me for a fun episode to discuss the impact of Taylor Swift as a feminist icon.

In "Feminist Icon: Taylor Swift," we discuss the ways Taylor Swift has influenced and shaped feminist discourse through her music and public persona. Warning: there is a lot of fan-girling on this episode!

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

We share how Taylor Swift and her music has personally inspired us
Taylor’s cultural impact on girls and women everywhere
Her incredible achievements in and impact on the music industry
Highlights from the Miss Americana documentary
Taylor’s most iconic feminist moments, including taking control of her musical legacy and counter-suing her sexual assaulter
Her social causes, advocacy, and philanthropy
Her political stances and influence on voting
Criticism of Taylor Swift’s advocacy as being just another example of “white feminism”

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This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in better understanding the intersection of pop culture and feminism, and specifically how Taylor Swift is shaping these today. Join me for a lively and fun conversation with Dr. Kelly Joy as we discuss this iconic star.

Tune in on August 26, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.
Where to connect with Dr. Kelly Joy:

Twitter: @kjoymd

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 3: Attacks on Abortion and Birth Control with Diane Horvath, MD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

08/01/24 • 52 min

Welcome to another important episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! In this crucial discussion, I am honored to have Dr. Diane Horvath, a board certified ob/gyn, complex family planning physician, and abortion provider, join me to discuss the pressing issues surrounding attacks abortion and birth control.

In "Attacks on Abortion and Birth Control," Diane joins me to shed light on the current political climate and its impact on women's reproductive rights. We explore the challenges faced by women in accessing essential health services and the broader implications to society.

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

Personal stories and experiences from Dr. Horvath
The current state of abortion and birth control rights
The shortage of abortion care providers and need to increase training
How abortion laws further impact the physician shortage
The impact of political and legislative actions on women's health
Why decisions about abortion should rest with patients and their physicians and not legislators
Ways to advocate for and protect reproductive rights

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This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of reproductive health and the ongoing fight for women’s rights. Join me for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Diane Horvath that will empower you with knowledge and inspire you to take action.

Tune in on August 1, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay up to date on all our episodes.

L‌ooking forward to having you join us!

Where to connect with Dr. Diane Horvath:

Twitter: @GynAndTonic
Website: https://www.partnersinabortioncare.com

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Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 20: Shattering Glass Walls with Amy Diehl, PhD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

04/21/25 • 56 min

Welcome to another episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I am speaking with information technology leader, gender equity researcher, and co-author Amy Diehl, PhD about her book Glass Walls: Shattering the Six Gender Bias Barriers Still Holding Women Back.

In “Episode 20: Shattering Glass Walls” we discuss the structural and cultural barriers that hinder women’s success in the workplace, despite decades of progress we have made. Dr. Diehl names the problematic behaviors, offers examples from her book, and practical advice and strategies for overcoming these biases so women can empower themselves and others.

Here are some topics we discuss:

An overview of Dr. Diehl and co-author Dr. Dzubinski’s gender bias research
Defining ‘glass walls’, the six gender bias barriers that hold women back in the workplace: male privilege, disproportionate constraints, insufficient support, devaluation, hostility, acquiescence
The importance of recognizing and naming the behaviors that reflect these biases
How male privilege is the bedrock from which all the other biases grow
Examples from the book of the six gender bias barriers
How to approach solutions and strategies for dealing with these barriers
How one can check their own bias with the “flip it to test it” technique

Tune in on Monday, April 21, 2025 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

Where to connect with Amy Diehl:

Website: Amy Diehl, PhD / Gender Bias and Gender Equity Expert + Speaker

Bluesky: Amy Diehl, Ph.D. (@amydiehl.bsky.social)

Instagram: Instagram (@amydiehlphd)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-diehl/

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 4: The State of IVF and Fertility Medicine with David Sable, MD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

08/19/24 • 66 min

Welcome to another essential episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! In this episode, I am honored to be joined ob/gyn, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, life sciences investor, and professor Dr. David Sable, to discuss the state of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments and the future of fertility medicine.

In "The State of IVF and Fertility Medicine," we discuss the ongoing challenges and threats to the field. Dr. Sable provides valuable insights about infertility treatment, the current challenges in reproductive medicine, and the future directions in the field.

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

The overturning of Roe v. Wade and its implications on IVF care
Advice for people concerned about their fertility
The demand and supply mismatch and barriers to access for fertility treatments and potential solutions
The future outlook for IVF and fertility treatments
The mental health impact of fertility treatment

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This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in gaining a better understanding about the current challenges in IVF and fertility medicine and future solutions. Join me for an enlightening conversation with Dr. David Sable that will inform and inspire you.

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Tune in on August 19, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

‌Looking forward to having you join us!

Where to connect with Dr. David Sable:

Twitter: @dbsable
LinkedIn: David Sable

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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Episode 8: All Things Menopause with Sameena Rahman, MD

The Gynarchy with Dr. Kirti Patel

09/16/24 • 45 min

Welcome to another essential episode of The Gynarchy Podcast! Today, I am honored to be joined by Dr. Sameena Rahman, board certified ob/gyn, sexual medicine specialist, and NAMS certified menopause medicine specialist, to discuss the often misunderstood and under-discussed topic of menopause.

In "All Things Menopause," we discuss the physical, emotional, and social aspects of menopause, providing an overview of what to expect and how to manage this significant life transition. Dr. Rahman shares her expert insights and practical advice to help navigate this stage with confidence and ease.

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Here’s what we’ll cover:

Dr. Rahman's background and journey to specializing in menopause and sexual medicine
Defining menopause
The symptoms associated with perimenopause during the transition, including what Dr. Rahman refers to as the 3 B’s: bleeding, brain, and burning
How our patriarchal culture dismisses menopausal women’s symptoms
The larger health risks that menopause can be associated with, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and dementia
Reconsidering the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with newer data
Contraindications for HRT use
Non-hormonal treatments for menopause symptoms
Sexual health in menopause

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This episode is essential listening for anyone approaching or experiencing menopause, as well as those who want to learn more to help other women through this transition. Join me for an fascinating conversation with Dr. Sameena Rahman that will inspire and inform you.

Tune in on Monday, September 16, 2024 and make sure to subscribe to stay updated on all our episodes.

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Where to connect with Dr. Sameena Rahman:

Instagram: @gynogirl
Instagram (@gynogirl)
YouTube: Gynogirl TV
GynoGirl TV
Podcast: Gynogirl Presents: Sex, Drugs, & Hormones
- On Apple Podcasts:
  Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones
- On Spotify:
  Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

Bluesky: @thegynarchy
Instagram: @thegynarchy
TikTok: @thegynarchy
YouTube: @thegynarchy

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