Brown Women Health

Welcome to the Brown Women Health Podcast! In our first episode of 2024, join Priya Sanghvi and Ritika Jhawar as they dive into a crucial conversation surrounding mental health awareness within the South Asian community. Joined by esteemed psychiatrist, Dr. Harkirat Kaur, this episode explores the importance of breaking cultural stigmas and advocating for mental well-being. Discover Dr. Kaur's journey into psychiatry and what stood out was her unwavering confidence despite the prevalent stigmas in the South Asian community. She shares her commitment to the growth of the psychiatric field and her dedication to creating more awareness. Gain insights into the evolving landscape of psychiatry and the shift towards more holistic interventions, beyond traditional medication. Explore common misconceptions surrounding seeking help for mental health issues within South Asian communities, and learn practical steps for erasing stigma and overcoming barriers to access care. Delve into Dr. Kaur's personal experiences as a South Asian woman in the field of psychiatry, uncovering the challenges she's faced and the strategies she's employed to overcome them. Tune in to this enlightening episode and join the movement towards destigmatizing mental health in South Asian communities! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Welcome to the latest episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast, hosted by anchor Ritika Jhawar. In this engaging episode, Ritika welcomes a very special guest, Marissa McKool, a certified life coach on a mission to empower women in public health to reduce stress and find balance in their lives. Marissa's impressive background includes earning her Masters in Public Health at Emory University, completing a prestigious CDC fellowship, and holding influential leadership positions at UC Berkeley. But what truly distinguishes Marissa is her unwavering commitment to challenging the toxic hustle culture and championing the importance of rest and self-care. Marissa's personal journey led her to establish McKool Coaching, where she provides personalized support and offers courses dedicated to women dealing with stress and striving to reach their personal goals. In this episode, Ritika and Marissa delve deep into the concept of rest, exploring its various forms and how we can all carve out space for it in our hectic lives. The conversation kicks off with a thought-provoking discussion on whether rest is a privilege, particularly for those in demanding professions such as public health. Marissa generously shares the initial steps to shift our mindset and experience mental rest, even in high-pressure jobs. They explore the unique challenges of balancing time-consuming careers that often revolve around serving others, and they offer valuable insights on different approaches for individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Marissa also takes a deep dive into the two theories of rest she outlined, shedding light on the distinction between giving ourselves rest when our body craves it versus when we feel we "deserve" it. Their conversation delves into the critical issue of trusting ourselves not to take advantage of rest, and they provide practical strategies to regain focus after taking a well-deserved break. Motivation to resume work after rest is another key topic explored, especially in a world where constant adrenaline often drives productivity. As future healthcare professionals, Ritika and Marissa contemplate how to effectively educate the new generation about the vital role of rest and self-care in their careers. The conversation takes an intriguing turn when Ritika introduces a thought-provoking statement by motivational speaker @thewizardliz, who suggests that "laziness is a privilege." Marissa and Ritika engage in a thoughtful discussion about whether rest and laziness are distinct concepts and share their unique perspectives on this statement. Throughout the episode, Marissa generously shares her expertise on the four types of rest - physiological, physical, mental, and emotional. She emphasizes that rest is a fluid concept, unique to each individual, and underscores the importance of attuning ourselves to our mind and body. They empower listeners to recognize how rest can be integrated into even the smallest moments of their lives, highlighting that shifting our mindset toward rest is a gradual process. In conclusion, Ritika expresses her heartfelt gratitude to Marissa for her invaluable insights into the crucial topic of rest and for shedding light on how we can prioritize ourselves without sacrificing our career aspirations. Now, to connect with Marissa McKool and explore more of her work, be sure to visit her social media links and website: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publichealthcoach/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@publichealthcoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-mckool-a9701892/ Website: https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/ Free Calendar Tips: https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/free Podcast: https://www.mckoolcoaching.com/podcast Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the Brown Women Health Podcast, and be sure to subscribe for more insightful discussions on women's health and well-being. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Welcome to the Brown Women Health Podcast, where we explore vital health issues faced by South Asian women. In this episode, anchors Priya Sanghvi and Mariam Khan discuss the stigma around disabilities in the South Asian community with their guest, Anna Samson, who has firsthand experience navigating life with a disability. They delve into Anna's journey with disability advocacy, influenced by personal experiences and academic knowledge. Anna shares her diagnoses, the impact they had on her worldview, and the changes she noticed after receiving them. The conversation touches on the specific issues South Asians with disabilities face, including difficulties in accessing medical help. They also explore the Spoon theory and its relevance in understanding chronic conditions. Throughout the episode, they highlight the intersections between South Asian culture and disability culture, emphasizing the significance of community support. They discuss how the stigma around disabilities affects social interactions within and outside the community, including friendships and dating. Anna defines "disability" and "disability justice" and shares a powerful message for South Asians to challenge assumptions and reimagine disability positively. Join them in breaking the stigma, promoting awareness, and fostering a compassionate society for individuals with disabilities in the South Asian community. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Did you know that South Asians have a higher risk of kidney disease due to elevated rates of diabetes and high blood pressure? . . . Welcome to the Brown Women Health Podcast, where we bring you insightful conversations on various aspects of South Asian health. In this episode, your hosts Ameek Bindra and Pooja Velury, student doctors, sit down with Dr. Priyanka Gogte, a renowned nephrologist, to discuss the critical topic of kidney health. This episode is co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale and Tanushri Akula. Dr. Priyanka Gogte, an expert in kidney health, joins us to provide valuable advice on optimizing kidney health and recognizing warning signs before it's too late. As we dive into the conversation, we explore the factors that contribute to the increased risk of kidney disease among South Asians, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Together with Dr. Gogte, we discuss her job title and function, as well as what sparked her interest in kidney health. Discover why kidneys are crucial organs for overall health and gain a deeper understanding of common kidney disorders and their warning signs. Dr. Gogte generously shares proactive lifestyle measures that can be taken to ensure optimal kidney health. In addition, we explore how high blood pressure and diabetes specifically increase the likelihood of kidney problems. Dr. Gogte draws from her experiences working with South Asian patients, shedding light on their knowledge of kidney health and the challenges they may face. Culturally competent care plays a significant role in Dr. Gogte's practice, and we delve into its importance and impact on patient outcomes. Together, we aim to uncover the barriers preventing some individuals in the community from seeking help for kidney-related issues and discuss strategies to overcome them. Listen in as Dr. Gogte provides insights into early signs that indicate kidney problems, empowering our listeners to be proactive and identify potential concerns at an early stage. By tuning into this episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast, you won't just gain valuable knowledge about kidney health; you'll also be equipped with the tools to take charge of your own well-being. Don't miss out on this informative conversation that has the potential to positively impact your life. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Join podcast anchors Mariam Khan and Tanushri Akula as they delve into the world of pediatric occupational therapy (OT) and developmental disabilities with special guest Asha Rao, OT. In this episode, they explore the unique role of a pediatric OT, the specific disabilities addressed in the pediatric field, and the training differentiations for disability treatment. Discover Asha's personal journey and the reasons behind her career choice as an OT. Uncover the distinctions between pediatric OT and other branches of OT as Tanushri asks insightful questions. Gain a deeper understanding of how OT can help children with developmental disabilities and the signals that parents should look out for to identify the need for OT intervention. Mariam raises thought-provoking inquiries about the presence of ableism in OT, including parental beliefs and the healthcare training itself. Explore the challenges faced by disabled children, compared to adults, and how Asha strives to address these issues within her practice. The conversation also touches on disability justice and different models of disability. Tanushri delves into the reception of Asha's work within the South Asian community. Together, they explore the attitudes and knowledge surrounding pediatric disabilities in the South Asian diaspora and the broader People of Color (POC) community. They also discuss how factors like the model minority myth and immigrant upbringing can hinder proper diagnosis and treatment, along with internalized biases that impede access to necessary care. Finally, Mariam and Asha discuss the efforts made to reduce obstacles for patients with additional difficulties, be it financial, cultural, or mobility-related. They delve into the necessary flexibility required in the field and how Asha ensures patients receive the treatment they need. Tune in to this enlightening episode as Mariam, Tanushri, and Asha shed light on the world of pediatric OT and the journey towards inclusive healthcare practices. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Join us for an eye-opening conversation on the Brown Women Health Podcast as we sit down with Dr. Sulman Aziz Mirza, a triple Board Certified psychiatrist, social media influencer, and advocate for mental health in South Asian communities. In this episode, we delve into the topic of pill shaming and its impact on these communities, exploring the myths surrounding medications and the importance of proper understanding and support. Dr. Mirza shares his inspiring journey, from his psychiatry career to becoming a prominent social media influencer in the mental health space. Discover what inspired his passion for pharmaceuticals and medications, and how his unique experiences have shaped his expertise in Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. With a keen focus on South Asian communities and communities of color, we delve into the concept of pill shaming. Dr. Mirza provides insightful perspectives on the challenges individuals face when seeking mental health treatment and how cultural factors can contribute to stigma and misconceptions. We address common myths about psychiatric medications and uncover the truths behind them, shedding light on the signs that may indicate a need for psychiatric medicines. Dr. Mirza offers valuable guidance on effectively managing medications and making informed decisions about the right treatment options. Dr. Mirza's vast knowledge and experience in the field, coupled with his empathetic approach, make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health awareness and breaking down barriers within South Asian communities. Tune in to the Brown Women Health Podcast to gain valuable insights from Dr. Sulman Aziz Mirza, MD, and his expertise in psychiatry, addiction medicine, and supporting mental health in diverse communities. Together, let's debunk misconceptions, combat pill shaming, and promote a more inclusive approach to mental well-being. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

Join anchor Ritika Jhawar on the latest episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast as we have a captivating conversation with Ragini, the founder of Cardamom Counselling. Ragini is a qualified counsellor with a diverse background in clinical and educational spaces worldwide, including prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the London School of Economics. In this episode, Ragini shares her expertise on various thought-provoking topics. She provides a quick summary of her publications on grief and aunty jokes, offering our listeners valuable insights. We explore Ragini's research on the burden of grief for widows in India and discuss the sources she consulted, as well as her vision for how India can move forward. Drawing from her expertise, Ragini delves into the concept of the patriarchal bargain and shares her perspective on whether it truly represents a flexible arrangement for women in relationships. We also discuss ways in which women can connect with each other to break the aunty stereotype, including online and in-person organizations. Ragini gives us a glimpse into her specialty as a mental health care provider, shedding light on her unique approach and the areas she focuses on. She reveals her favorite topic to discuss and shares her journey of learning about gender bias in healthcare. We explore the discrimination women face in mental healthcare, with a specific focus on the experiences of South Asian women. Tune in to this engaging and enlightening episode as we navigate through these important topics with Ragini. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast, host Priya Sanghvi speaks with certified psychologist Dr. Kira Vimalakanthan about Autism in South Asian communities. Dr. Vimalakanthan shares her insights on common stigmas and misconceptions surrounding Autism in these communities, and sheds light on the effective programs and support interventions offered by the SAAAC Autism Centre. The conversation also touches on the controversial topic of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and the reasons why women of color often go undiagnosed. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of Autism and learn what to look out for when diagnosing girls or individuals who don't present the "typical" Autism symptoms. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

In this week's episode, hosts Ritika and Ameek sit down with Shahmir H. Ali, a public health researcher at the New York University School of Public Health, to talk about his dissertation research on the effect of family structure on diet patterns. Shahmir shares his insights on the relationship between family structure and dietary habits, and how social and cultural factors can impact our eating habits. He explains that having a higher level of educational attainment is linked to meeting more dietary recommendations, while family size does not show a consistent trend. He also discusses how young adults living alone tend to have a higher intake of healthy food groups, while older adults may consume more added sugars and processed meat due to caregiving duties. During the podcast, we ask Shahmir some guiding questions on how we can educate communities on proper dietary recommendations, what socio-economic factors could be playing a role in Asian American adults' dietary habits, and ways we can bring up this conversation as students and family members who may not have a large say in group dynamics. Finally, Shahmir offers some simple tips on how we can begin taking care of our diet. Tune in to this insightful episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast to learn more about how family structure can impact our dietary habits and what we can do to promote healthier eating habits in our communities. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode, co-hosts Ritika Jhawar and Ameek Bindra get real about an important topic that hits close to home for the South Asian community: heart health. They bring up a really good point about how heart disease isn't just an old people thing - it can affect younger adults and even children too! That's why they're bringing in Ashish Mathur, founder of the South Asian Heart Center, to share his insights and expertise on this issue. But what makes this episode extra special is that they're putting the spotlight on South Asian women's heart health. Let's face it, women don't always get the attention they deserve when it comes to health issues. And South Asian women are no exception. Ritika and Ameek are here to change that, and Ashish is the perfect guest to help them do just that. So, whether you're a South Asian woman yourself, or you know someone who is, this episode is definitely worth a listen. They'll be diving into the unique challenges that South Asian women face when it comes to heart health, and the steps we can take to improve our heart health. Get ready to learn something new and make some positive changes for your health! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode of the Brown Women Health podcast, co-anchors Tanushri Akula and Priya Sanghvi are joined by Dr. Mukta Chauhan, DPT, for the final installment of our sexual health mini-series. Dr. Chauhan shares her expertise on the topic and answers some common questions related to pelvic floor dysfunction, such as the difference between pelvic health and gynecology, common signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, and conditions like vaginismus that often get mistaken for other medical issues. Dr. Chauhan also talks about the importance of cultural competence in the field of pelvic health and shares her observations on how knowledgeable South Asian women are about pelvic health and pelvic health docs. She also explains how a pelvic PT can help someone have a better sex life and discusses the importance of knowing whether to see a gynecologist or a pelvic PT. Join us as we delve into the world of pelvic health and sexual wellness with Dr. Mukta Chauhan on the Brown Women Health Podcast. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast, anchor Pooja Vellury and podcast director Tanushri Akula are joined by special guest Bushra Mollick. Bushra is an expert in providing culturally sensitive and aware sexual education and has created a Bengali language education website (www.bdsexeducation.com/) and a social media presence (Instagram: @bushraapa) to break down the sex stigma in the South Asian community. Pooja and Tanushri discuss with Bushra the importance of creating sex education resources in South Asian languages and how her work is providing much-needed education in a culturally sensitive manner. Join the conversation to learn more about the challenges of translating health-related or sex-related words into South Asian languages and the impact of culturally sensitive sexual education in the South Asian community. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Happy Galentine's Day! On this special episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast, join new anchor Mariam Khan with Ameek in talking about a topic that's crucial to our health and wellbeing: sexual health. Unfortunately, sexuality and izzat (honor/shame) are often linked in South Asian culture, but we believe that it's time for us to break down these barriers and take control of our bodies. This Valentine's Day Month, we want to empower our listeners to enjoy the holiday, the safe way. Joining us today is Student Doctor and Women's Health Advocate, Pallavi Mhaskar, to discuss STI and pregnancy prevention, as well as common sexual health myths that many of us weren't taught growing up. Pallavi will share her insights and expertise on this important topic and help us understand the importance of sexual health in our lives. Join us for a thought-provoking and informative episode! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Happy New Year! We hope that you have a wonderful 2023 :D In honor of setting New Years Resolutions, we wanted to post a #ThrowbackThursday of a recent podcast we taped on nutrition, sleep and fitness. Enjoy this snippet of a conversation we had with Anita Mirchandani, a registered dietitian and certified fitness professional. Catch the full episode 'Expert Dietitian Reveals the Simple Trick to Achieving Balance in Your Nutrition and Fitness' to learn more! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode, Ameek is joined by guest speakers Prabhnoor & Naviya, recent psychotherapy graduates and currently practicing therapists. Prabhnoor and Naviya are mental health advocates who started their own podcast, So Tell Me More: A Dive into Psychotherapy, with the goal of raising awareness of mental health and psychotherapy topics in an accessible way. They have featured various speakers from around the world on their show, discussing topics such as mental health in different cultures, the impacts of COVID-19, and therapy in pop culture. In our episode, Prabhnoor and Naviya share their journey of learning and unlearning stigma within mental health, and how they use their education to improve the mental health of South Asian Canadians. Join us as we delve into the important work of Prabhnoor and Naviya and learn about their experiences as therapists. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Welcome to the "Brown Women Health Podcast," where co-anchors Tanushri and Ameek dive into all things health and wellness with a focus on the experiences and perspectives of South Asian women. In this episode, join Tanushri and Ameek as they sit down with registered dietitian nutritionist, exercise specialist, and certified fitness professional Anita Mirchandani. They'll discuss the important connection between sleep, food, and fitness and how to achieve balance in your nutrition and fitness lifestyle. Anita shares her favorite part about counseling clients - breaking down the science and applying the latest health news in a more practical, meaningful approach. But that's not all - get to know Anita on a personal level as she shares her love for cooking, baking, and outdoor adventures with her two sons. From biking on the Bronx River Pathway to exploring new trails in Westchester County, Anita is all about leading an active and balanced lifestyle. And of course, she'll share her thoughts on the importance of moderation, including when it comes to enjoying a glass of wine. Don't miss this informative and inspiring episode of the Brown Women Health Podcast. Tune in for practical, science-backed advice on how to prioritize rest and proper nutrition for your best health. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Would we really be a desi podcast if we weren't on Desi Standard Time? In honor of breast cancer awareness month, we spoke with Dr. Beenish Bhaidani, an OBGYN based in the United States, about breast cancer in South Asian women. 1 in 8 women get breast cancer in their lifetime, and every two minutes someone new is diagnosed. Breast cancer is super important to be aware of, yet the subject can be a taboo in our community. Because of this, South Asian women tend to get diagnosed at later stages than other ethnic groups. Listen into our episode with Dr. Bhaidani, where we do a comprehensive dive into breast cancer and cover everything you need to know (yes, we cover it all!) --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Reproductive Health is a multifaceted topic, especially through the lens of a South Asian LGBTQ+ Woman. And, there is so much that is yet to be discovered in the realm of South Asian LGBTQ+ health. Join us today for a very eye-opening episode with Alyy Patel, a trailblazing LGBTQ+ activist, author, scholar, and influencer. Recently, Alyy published their first book Don't Tell My Parents: Queer Diasporic Truths. Alyy's work and unapologetic existence aim to challenge enforced assimilation while empowering others to embrace their authentic selves. Learn more about Alyy and their work at Alyy Patel | LGBTQ Trailblazer --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

In this episode, listen to Simar and Ishani interview Toral Shah, Founder of The Urban Kichen, a Nutritional Scientist, Integrative Medicine Practitioner, Health writer, and Consultant. Toral is a passionate educator, researcher and advocate for breast cancer prevention and uses evidence-based science and nutrition along with lifestyle medicine to help optimize health and reduce the risk of disease. You can find more about Toral & The Urban Kitchen at www.theurbankitchen.co.uk --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Many of us have marked becoming and being successful with academic and professional achievements. At a certain point in our lives, typically mid 20s (from Marisa's personal and client experience), that slows down or plateaus (done with school, working). At this stage, we may feel as though we've lost our sense of purpose, are hard on ourselves for not being 'productive enough' each day, or no longer working towards something academic or professional. Marisa asks her clients to reflect on their definition of success, and guide them in redefining it in a way that serves them best. You can find Marisa's Instagram page @welcomingwellness.me or check out her website: www.welcomingwellness.me --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, hear a snippet of Dr. Simran Malhotra's story of being a BRCA Previvor. Dr. Malhotra, MD is an Internist and Palliative Medicine specialist, as well as a BRCA previvor. After having a conversation regarding cancer and its stigmas in the South Asian community, listen to Simran's personal story with cancer and going through different surgeries in the midst of a pandemic. Hear the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere else! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Did you know that Endometriosis affects roughly 10% of people globally? In today's episode, Tanushri will be talking to Elizabeth K'mali about endometriosis. Endometriosis is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and/or infertility. Elizabeth is an endometriosis survivor and has an empowering story to share. You can check out her endometriosis pages on Instagram, @southasiansurvivor and @arewehealedyetpod This episode is part of the Know Your Rights, Period. Miniseries co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale and hosted by our podcast research director, Tanushri Akula! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Pap smears sound uncomfortable, but they don't have to be! I know I have a bit of fear surrounding them as well. Listen to this candid snippet between Ameek and Dr. Vaidehi Mujumdar on decreasing your discomfort around pap smears. This is only a preview of our podcast with Dr. Mujumdar. Listen to the full thing "Everything You Need to Know About Pap Smears" on our page. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

What are some of the most common menstrual myths you've heard in our community? Have you ever felt period shame before? There's so much to unpack here. Today, as part of our Know Your Rights, Period. Series co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale, we are having a special Instagram live with Megha Desai, the President of The Desai Foundation The Desai Foundation is a public foundation that aims to elevate the health and livelihood of women and children through community programs in the U.S. and India. This Live left me feeling so inspired, I hope you feel the same way after listening

September is PCOS Awareness Month! In this episode with Dr. Ami Patel, PharmD, BCPS, we cover ways to combine traditional and holistic practices to manage PCOS, as well as the high prevalence of PCOS among South Asians. We also briefly talk about period health. Ami can be found on Instagram and Tik Tok at PCOS.holistic.coach, or her website pcosholisticcoach.com. This episode is part of our Know Your Rights, Period. miniseries co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

It's time for you to Know Your Rights, Period. Mrinal Gokhale (she/her) is a tech professional, mental health advocate, freelance writer, and author. Her first book, Saaya Unveiled: South Asian Mental Health Spotlighted, is a collection of true stories that illustrate mental health stigma in South Asian cultures. This episode is an introduction of the Brown Women Health Menstruation Mini Series, co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale and Ameek Bindra. If you would like to suggest a topic or nominate a speaker for our podcast, DM us on our social media pages! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Everytime I hear about anemia, i-ron! Anemia is so prevalent in our South Asian community, so we spoke with Aleenah, who guides us on her holistic health journey with anemia, as well as the self-advocacy she had to use when speaking with medical professionals regarding it all. Aleenah Ansari (she/her) is equal parts storyteller, world traveler, and journalist at heart who's rooted in the stories of people behind products, companies, and initiatives. She's written about travel, entrepreneurship, and representation in media for Business Insider, CNBC, The Seattle Times, Kulfi, and more. Join us on our chat with her to talk about anemia, mental health, and more! This episode is part of the Brown Women Health Menstruation Mini Series, co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale and Ameek Bindra. If you would like to suggest a topic or nominate a speaker for our podcast, DM us on our social media pages! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, now is the time to educate yourself on reproductive health. From period poverty and shame to high prevalence of reproductive disorders, student doctor Pallavi Mhaskar has seen it all. Join Pallavi to discuss the biggest myths, medical treatment barriers, and stigmas on menstrual health in the South Asian community, and how YOU can help change the narrative. Motherhood in Childhood -- UN Report The Risks of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Diabetes Vary by Ethnic Subgroup Among Young Asian Women This episode is the first of the Brown Women Health Menstruation Mini Series, co-produced by Mrinal Gokhale and Ameek Bindra. If you would like to suggest a topic or nominate a speaker for our podcast, DM us on our social media pages! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Did you know that cervical cancer is highly preventable and that January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month? On that note, the first episode of the Season 3 of Brown Women Health Podcast is here to cue you about the symptoms, screening schedule, and more! Around 13,000 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year. However, it is a preventable, high treatable disease associated with long term survival. Regular cervical cancer screenings such as Pap smears and HPV testing are very important for early detection and timely and appropriate treatment. In addition, early HPV vaccination acts as a key measure in preventing cervical cancer. There's an additional stigma associated with Pap Smears, especially in the South Asian community leading to the underutilization of these life saving screenings by South Asian women. We're joined by Dr Vaidehi Mujumdar, MD, in this episode, as we discuss cervical cancer, risk factors, and preventive measures. We also unpack how communities of color are disproportionately affected by these cancers and debunk the misconceptions surrounding Pap Smears! Tune in to this episode as you get your screening scheduled today! Follow Brown Women Health on https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth, https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth, or https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

What is intergenerational trauma? Whether its the effects of grandparents living through the Partition or our parents facing increased racism post-9/11, there have been many sources of trauma that have been passed down generations. But along with trauma comes impact on our emotional, mental, and physical healths! Join us in conversation with Dr. Preety Salh, a physician who you can find on popular page, Punjabi Kids Health, who speaks to us about developmental pediatrics and the effects of intergenerational trauma! Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

How hard is it to balance modeling with medicine while being an undergraduate student? Listen to our podcast with Ashna Gray, a model, pre med undergraduate student and an influencer on Tik Tok and Instagram to find out! We are so grateful to her for sharing her own journey of battling her insecurities to modeling and medicine. In out latest conversation, we cover everything from: 1. Conscious Living 2. Mental Health and Self Love 3. the Pressures of Being an Influencer! Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

71% of Indian girls have no knowledge about menstrual health until after their first period. And we've all seen the lack of dialogue surrounding periods due to taboos. Join Ameek & Ishani on a thorough interview with Kaman (@KamanMPH), where we talk about everything menstruation from stigmas in India, language surrounding periods, the lack of research, and how to explain periods to kids and even men. Check out more of Kaman's work on Instagram @KamanMPH. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Bollywood is consumed by millions of people globally and the effects of the Hindi Film Industry are huge. Join us for a conversation between two huge Bollywood fans, Ameek Bindra & Tanya Marwaha, where we go through our favorite Bollywood films and talk how mental health has been treated in this industry. At the end, we have a fun rapid fire round inspired by the renown Karan Johar! Check out more of Mental health | Championing Youth Minds. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

There is a lack of knowledge around eating disorders and stigma within the South Asian community. The misinformation and stigma contributes to many barriers for South Asians seeking help when it comes to eating disorders. In addition to all of this, psychiatrists fear that the past year (lockdown) has caused a rapid rise in the number of people experiencing anorexia and bulimia. For many South Asian people suffering from an eating disorder and spending more time with family has had a negative effect. Listen to our podcast with Vaidehi Gajjar, a contributor and editor for Brown Girl Magazine, an advisor for Circuit Sehat PR Director for @wearesaath & @thecovidconversation, and an amazing author. We are so grateful to her for sharing her own journey with an eating disorder and her recovery. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Can cancer survivors have children? How can survivors and current patients seeking treatment be more aware about family planning? What are some of the most important factors to look at? There are four subspecialties of Ob/Gyn, where one is the sub-field of Oncofertility. Listen to our chat with Dr. Vaidehi Mujumdar, MD, where we answer the above questions and more. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, PCOS, is commonly under-diagnosed in women and is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are usually present in women in small amounts. Are South Asian Women more likely to have PCOS? How can you reverse the symptoms of PCOS? Listen to our chat with PCOS Coach Nush, Anushree Mahajan, where we cover literally *all* things PCOS. Anushree is a certified Health and Life Coach focused on addressing PCOS in a natural and holistic manner through sustainable diet and lifestyle change. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Join us in conversation with Mental Health advocate, Mrinal Gokhale, author of Saaya Unveiled: South Asian Mental Health Spotlighted. Saaya Unveiled: South Asian Mental Health Spotlighted shares the true stories of second-generation Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi immigrants who navigate mental health in the West- the U.S. U.K., and Canada. Each featured interviewee discusses how destigmatizing mental health became their fight, and how they're bridging the gap of access, education, and acceptance between generations. From topics like identity, culture, socialization, academia, love, loss, and trauma, each unique story unveils a part of the shadow (saaya) of mental health in South Asian diaspora. We talk to Mrinal about her own mental health journey, the inspiration for her book, and listen to an exclusive snippet of the book at the end of the podcast! You can get the book here. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Whether it's during a global pandemic or not, brown girls oftentimes have to face the obstacles of setting boundaries within our families. How can we say no to our parents? How can we tell our siblings to stop performing certain actions? All in all, boundaries plays a huge role in our mental health. Join us for a very inspiring and relatable conversation with Manvir Bhangu, founder of Laadliyan, where we discuss these different topics, the amazing work Laadliyan is doing, the importance of mentorship, and more. Follow Brown Women Health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Virtue Mental is an international mental health nonprofit founded in May 2020. The mission of Virtue Mental is to provide free mental health resources to underprivileged communities including those who have recently immigrated to the United States. Listen to our chat with the Founder & CEO, Poonam Rahman! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Listen to our chat with NYC-based singer-songwriter Amsi, also known as #SpiceQueen on body image this Garam Girl Summer (play on Hot Girl Summer)! Also check out our Garam Girl Summer Playlist for some hype songs for working out or just jamming this season! Check out the full conversation we had with Amsi here: IGTV Series YouTube Playlist --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Ableism is discrimination in favor of able-bodied people. But what does ableism look like in the Desi Community? Tune into a great conversation with Ameek Bindra, Ishani Ray, and Sukhjeen Kaur, founder of Chronically Brown, where they discuss the different ways they see Ableism as South Asians in the US and the UK. We also ask Sukhjeen about her new campaign #Desiabled - something in honor of July being Disability Pride Month. Learn more about Chronically Brown at ChronicallyBrown.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Listen to our chat with Raaga Rambhatla, a returning guest on our podcast and current Medical Student at New Jersey Medical School. We ask her all about her first year in Medical School, get tips to survive, and the realities of being a medical student - especially during the pandemic. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

The Balance Chaos is all about creating balance in the wellness chaos. The face behind this initiative is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Neha Shah. Join us in conversation with Neha regarding what constitutes a healthy gut, prebiotics vs probiotics, and the healthiest way to make mango lassi. Don't want to miss out on this one! Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Interested in pursuing dentistry? Wonder how the process works? Join anchors Prisha & Ameek for a chat with Harvard Dental School student, Nithika Sivakumar (at the time a pre-dental student at the University of Pittsburgh). Nikki reflects on her pre-dental experience, as well as shares some tips & tricks with students who are interested in pursuing the field. Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Join Ameek as she chats with Dr. Simran Malhotra, internist and Palliative Medicine specialist, about her journey as a BRCA previvor. After having a conversation regarding cancer and its stigmas in the South Asian community, listen to Simran's personal story with cancer and going through different surgeries in the midst of a pandemic. Additionally, we chat about lifestyle changes and Simran's shift to a plant-based diet. Lastly, we discuss some of the key life lessons Simran has gathered from being an end-of-life physician. Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

All in an instant, Sukhjeen Kaur's life completely changed when she was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis while studying at University. Join Ameek as she chats with Sukhjeen across the pond about her journey from the diagnosis to now and the creation of her community through @ChronicallyBrown. Learn how Chronic Illness is perceived in the South Asian community and how to best support those who may be chronically ill. Learn more about Sukhjeen's initiative, Chronically Brown, on her site: chronicallybrown.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Domestic Violence number have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only is Domestic Violence unacceptable, but it has a huge toll on the physical, mental, behavioral, and sexual health in women. Join Ameek as she chats with Sonya Mital, Community Engagement Lead at Narika, regarding the Fremont, California-based organization that aids Domestic Violence survivors. We discuss how Narika's different services promote women's independence, economic empowerment and well-being by helping with advocacy, support and education. In addition, we talk about how to identify red flags for potential survivors and addressing them. We also touch base on the need for South Asian-specific resources for women in abusive situations. For those interested in learning more about Narika, check out www.narika.org Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Adulting is hard. But when you're thrown into it in a middle of a pandemic, it's just confusing! Join Ameek as she chats with one her her university friends about the transition into adulthood while still living at home. We chat about integrative wellness and how independence can really affect it, as well as some key life lessons we've learned about during the pandemic. Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth How have you grown during this pandemic? Let us know on our Instagram! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

Join Ameek as she chats with Dr. Mansi Vira, a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine based in New Jersey. In this episode, we cover what is Naturopathic Medicine, how to get certified, and the differences between an ND and an MD. Afterwards, we chat about how Dr. Vira treats anxiety with her clients. And then, we discuss the validity of ayurvedic medicine. Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

What is your definition of success? What's the difference between perfectionism & excellence? In this episode, Ameek is joined by Shibani (@shibani_joshi), an experienced journalist who covered at multiple global media outlets including ABC, Fox, Yahoo!, And Huffington Post. The discussion included a lot of talk about what success actually is after getting a degree from a prestigious college, getting the dream job, and starting a family. Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support

We spend about SIX years of our life eating food. In fact, food is so ingrained in our culture that it is one of the fundamental bases of our health. But what even is healthy eating? How can we develop a good relationship with food? In today's episode, Ameek talks to Dr. Nisha Patel (@drplantel) and Dr. Disha Narang (@dishanarangmd) about Culinary Medicine and healthy eating habits to develop as college or medical students and just as South Asian women. Check out our socials for podcast updates, additional health tips, & more! Instagram: https://instagram.com/brownwomenhealth Twitter: https://twitter.com/brownwomenhlth Facebook: https://facebook.com/brownwomenhealth --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/brownwomenhealth/support