The Paower Pod

PMDD Diaries, Part 2 — The Crash (aka Bathroom Floors & Black Holes)

This is Part 2 of a 3-part series chronicling one of the hardest PMDD episodes I’ve had in a while. In Part 1, I thought I had beat it—cheering myself on for "feeling follows action" and riding the high of showing up for a single call (which, yes, I know sounds ridiculous... but also, no, it doesn’t). This episode was recorded just two days later—and it’s where everything unraveled. I talk about what it’s like when the “awareness” that helped earlier in the week stops creating space. When the descent happens anyway. When the dark cloud swallows you whole and even knowing it’s PMDD doesn’t save you from how real it feels. There are laughs in here. There’s a metaphor I drew. But there’s also despair, bathroom floor moments, and that hollow, dangerous silence that can creep in when you’re going through it alone. A third, lighter episode is coming—one where the sun comes back out. But this one? This is the crash. Thank you for listening. You are not alone.

PMDD Diaries, Part 1 — The (Naive) Triumph Before the Crash

Welcome to Part 1 of a 3-part series recorded during a particularly rough PMDD week. I recorded this episode thinking I had cracked the code—two days in, feeling surprisingly okay, and fully convinced that this time... I was different. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t. The days that followed got darker, harder, and far more intense than I expected—but I’m still glad I captured this early “I’m doing great!!” moment. It’s a reminder that progress is real even when it doesn’t last, and that documenting the whole arc matters. In this episode, I reflect on: * The illusion of having "figured it out" * The awkwardness of creating while not fully myself * Fidgeting, grammar errors, and my war with the word “like” * The strange shame of having only two meetings in a day when you’re your own boss * And what it means to show up just for yourself I almost didn’t post this because it’s rambly and imperfect—but that’s exactly why I am posting it. I’m learning to release things that don’t feel fully “ready,” to not tie my worth to polish or productivity, and to let mistakes live out loud instead of haunt me in silence. This is the beginning of a week that really rocked me—but it’s also part of a story arc I needed to tell. Thank you for listening. Part 2 and 3 are on their way.

Stress, Swans, and Size Ups — Notes from the Hormonal & Menopausal Frontlines

This week, I reflect on my experience at the Power of X Summit (a Women's Health conference) and finally open up about a medication called Lupron (which medically induces a temporary menopause). I share how it impacted me, what I wish I knew, and the surprising connection it gave me to women navigating menopause. I also talk about reframing stress and self-talk, resisting inner spirals (hello, Black Swan vs. White Swan), and the power of calling a friend. Plus, a small-but-big shift: I bought bigger pants—and stopped body-shaming myself—so I could focus on the actual bigger issues at hand: like moving women’s health toward a more equitable future. And finally, I start a new ritual: one affirmation card to guide the week. 💛

Surgery Prep & Recovery – The Things I Wish I Knew

In this episode, I give a high-level rundown of the surgeries I’ve had over the years—from my first ablation with cauterization to my most recent (and real deal) excision surgery three years ago, featuring some fun bonus add-ons like a neurectomy, appendectomy, and myomectomy (because, why stop at one?). But really—I breeze through those because what I really wanted to focus on is how to prepare for surgery: ✨ The day before, the day of, and the days/weeks that follow ✨ Lewks: What to wear to the hospital (comfort is king) ✨ How to make your home feel cozy and healing-ready ✨ A little TMI bathroom talk (because let’s be real, you need to know) This episode is lighthearted because why not bring a little levity to the game? I’m a very expressive person (hi, hyperbole), but this is just my story—every body is different. My goal isn’t to scare anyone away from surgery but to share what I wish I had known, because one of the hardest parts of my last surgery was not expecting it to be so hard—before or after! But in the end? It was the best thing I ever did. Hope these little nuggets help, and best of luck to anyone preparing for surgery. Sending you all the well wishes! 💛 and P.S. - a reminder to honor your scars - visible or non. You're stronger and better because of them!

The Bright Side

This week marks three years since my surgery—the last time I really want to acknowledge it. Endometriosis has been both the greatest challenge and the greatest gift of my life. That surgery was one of the most painful and dark periods I’ve ever endured, but today, I reflect on all the good that has come from moments that felt BaaAAaaad. In this episode, I realize it’s less about my pain and more about: 💛 A love letter to my mother, whose presence has been everything 💛 A love letter to my friendships, which have carried me through and teach me that magic is everywhere 💛 A love letter to pain itself, for bringing me closer to a version of myself that feels more whole. For teaching me that death and decay clear space for sunshine. This is a nighttime, cozy episode—because it felt right to honor what has happened. But after tonight, I just want to look forward, armored with the lessons I’ve learned and new ways of embracing the world around me. Thank you so much for being here. 💛