The YMyHealth Podcast | Wellness and Healthcare Insights for Millennials

Surrogacy and Healing: Alexandra French’s Journey from Cancer to Family

What happens when a life-changing diagnosis completely rewrites the plan for building your family? In this inspiring episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with Alexandra French, who shares her personal journey through breast cancer, surrogacy, and her mission to support others. Now the Co-Founder of The Surrogacy Foundation, Alexandra opens up about her deeply emotional journey to have her daughter through surrogacy. From the hard conversations and  "expecting the unexpected" to the hope, resilience, and support that carried her through, Alexandra shares the real side of what surrogacy looks like behind the scenes. The conversation highlights how Alexandra's journey inspired her mission to help others facing similar paths, breaking down the emotional, legal, and relational realities of surrogacy while showing how her foundation is creating meaningful support for families along the way. 🎧Tune in now to learn the biggest misconception about surrogacy and how it can be a beautiful path to building your family.  Highlights: * (00:00) Introduction to Women's Health and Surrogacy * (01:21) Alexandra's Cancer Journey and Surrogacy Decision * (05:14) Navigating Surrogacy Concerns and Relationships * (09:51) Mental Health Challenges in Surrogacy * (13:49) Communicating Surrogacy to Family and Friends * (17:58) Unexpected Challenges in the Surrogacy Process * (20:52) Dispelling Myths About Surrogacy * (22:50) The Birth of the Surrogacy Foundation * (29:13) Empowerment Through Surrogacy Links: Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ [https://www.ymyhealth.com/] and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/ [https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/] *Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!* Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey. It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXiBLRml1Mw7AL1ggtayxeMRIj2uI-aVHlwtfzUqT54dlzZA/viewform].  Learn more about the work of this episode's guest, Alexandra French, Co-Founder of The Surrogacy Foundation here: https://alexandrafrenchatlanta.com/ [https://alexandrafrenchatlanta.com/] and learn about The Surrogacy Foundation here [https://www.thesurrogacyfoundation.org/].  *Follow The Surrogacy Foundation on Instagram @thesurrogacyfoundation [https://www.instagram.com/thesurrogacyfoundation/] and on their LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-surrogacy-foundation/posts] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/thesurrogacyfoundation] pages.    [https://www.instagram.com/poweredbychocolatemilkco/]Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com [ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com] for sponsorship opportunities. Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman] Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com [https://dysautonomiaexpert.com/]

100 Episodes of Millennial Health Stories

What happens when a podcast built on real stories, hard conversations, and health empowerment hits 100 episodes? 🎙️ Join us as we celebrate the 100th episode of the YMyHealth Podcast!!! In this special milestone episode, YMyHealth Podcast Co-Hosts Julie Woon and Melissa Schenkman share behind-the-scenes insights, as they reflect on the moments that inspired and surprised them, the impactful stories YMyHealth Contributors have shared, what's connected  listeners as they navigate their healthcare, and the YMyHealth Podcast's future plans to empower your health journey. 🎧Tune in now to here details on some of our most favorite episodes and on what's coming for Season 2 of 2026  this fall. Highlights: * (00:00) Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Milestone Reflection * (02:46) The Journey of YMyHealth Podcast * (05:51) Themes of Openness and Personal Stories * (08:40) Caregiving: The Unsung Heroes * (11:24) Invisible Struggles: Mental Health and Chronic Illness * (13:55) Prevention and Health Literacy * (16:48) Research and Its Importance in Healthcare * (19:48) Men's and Women's Health: Unique Challenges * (22:22) The Role of Policy and Advocacy * (25:23) Entrepreneurship in Healthcare * (28:20) Future Directions: Navigating the Healthcare System * (31:04) Community Engagement and Support * (33:49) Looking Ahead: Season Two Plans Links: Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ [https://www.ymyhealth.com/] and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/ [https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/] *Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!* Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey. It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXiBLRml1Mw7AL1ggtayxeMRIj2uI-aVHlwtfzUqT54dlzZA/viewform].  We are SO grateful for those whose skill sets and financial support helped bring the YMyHealth Podcast to life!! A big thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com [https://dysautonomiaexpert.com/] Sarah Jane Ponce, Founder and COO at Digital Lumad and Podcast Director/ProducerBrand Strategist- (*You can get in touch here [https://calendly.com/sarah-hanyang/call-with-sarah-jane].)   Kendall Hackett and Jasmine Duncan of Kendall Media Co - Learn more about there company and social media content creation by visiting here. [https://www.kendallmediaco.com/] *Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com [ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com] for sponsorship opportunities. Learn about  YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Hosts: Founder, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman] Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon]

From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Janae Finley's Breast Cancer Journey

What would you do if a symptom you almost ignored changed your life forever? That's exactly what happened to Janae Finley, PT, DPT. In this episode, YMyHealth Podcast Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with early onset breast cancer survivor and physical therapist Janaye Finley, who shares her deeply personal journey through diagnosis, treatment decisions, recovery, and survivorship. You’ll also learn how Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (*formerly TurningPoint) helps people navigate the physical and emotional challenges that can come with breast cancer through specialized rehabilitation and vital support services all in one place. Plus, you'll hear the incredible story of how Janae went from a breast cancer patient at  Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation to now its Assistant Clinical Director! From recognizing early warning signs of breast cancer to finding ways to cope emotionally during uncertain moments, this conversation offers insight, hope, and practical information for anyone in their 20s, 30s, and 40s impacted by breast cancer—whether personally or through someone they love. 🎧Tune in now to learn about the early sign and symptom of breast cancer most people do not know to watch for! Share this episode with your friends and family. Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Its Mission (00:59) Early Onset Breast Cancer: A Personal Journey (03:47) Understanding Diagnosis and Initial Reactions (07:53) Navigating Treatment Options and Decisions (10:29) Physical and Emotional Challenges During Treatment (13:32) Coping Strategies and Resources for Survivors (16:31) The Role of Healthcare Teams in Patient Care (18:19) Turning Point: A Lifeline for Survivors (21:19) Unique Services Offered at Turning Point (24:06) Advocacy and Empowerment for Young Survivors (28:07) Misconceptions About Breast Cancer (30:49) Navigating Healthcare and Self-Advocacy (32:45) Reflections and Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients (33:49) Conclusion and Upcoming Events Links: Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ [https://www.ymyhealth.com/] and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/ [https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/] *Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!* Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey. It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXiBLRml1Mw7AL1ggtayxeMRIj2uI-aVHlwtfzUqT54dlzZA/viewform].  Learn more about this episode's guest, Janae Finley, PT, DPT, CLT, CES, under the clinical team section here [https://irisbcr.org/about/meet-the-team]. **Check out Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation (formerly TurningPoint) at: irisbcr.org [https://irisbcr.org/] Follow them on Instagram @irisbcr [https://www.instagram.com/irisbcr/]and on the Iris LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/iris-bcr/]and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/irisbreastcancerrehabilitation/] pages as well as the Iris Breast Cancer Rehabilitation YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@irisbcr] ** Rutgers University Research Study of the Genetics of Breast Cancer- Join the fight against breast cancer by submitting your sample easily today. Learn more about the study here: https://join.rugcc.org/r?ngxff7 [https://join.rugcc.org/r?ngxff7]   [https://www.instagram.com/poweredbychocolatemilkco/]Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com [ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com] for sponsorship opportunities. Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman] Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com [https://dysautonomiaexpert.com/]

Understanding Birth Doulas: Support and Advocacy

What's a birth doula and how do you know if one is right for you? In this episode of the YMyHealth podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman sits down with birth doula and mom of four, Zakela Mickens, to explore the vital role of birth doulas in supporting women through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They discuss how having a doula at your side during your pregnancy journey helps women feel informed, empowered, and cared for throughout. The episode also highlights the positive impact of birth doulas on birth outcomes and addressing racial disparities in maternal health. While birth doulas are beneficial for pregnant women of all races and ethnicities, they are particularly helpful in the Black community,  where women are still facing alarming disparities in maternal healthcare outcomes. That's why more women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s are turning to birth doulas for the support, advocacy, and reassurance they deserve during pregnancy and birth. 🎧Tune in now to learn about the research-backed health benefits a birth doula provides and Zakela's questions to ask prospective doulas to find the right person for you. Share this episode today with a friend who is in the family planning process or already on their pregnancy journey! Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Guest (01:00) What is a Birth Doula? (02:06) Differences Between Doulas, Nurses, and Midwives (04:01) Personal Journey to Becoming a Doula (13:59) Benefits of Having a Doula During Birth (16:28) Supporting Birth Plans and Medical Team Collaboration (20:46) Different Birth Scenarios and Doula Support (21:23) Postpartum Support and Early Parenting (23:49) The Fourth Trimester and Postpartum Care (30:58) Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Health (35:39) The Role of Doulas in Promoting Health Equity (41:42) Key Takeaways About Birth Doulas Links: Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ [https://www.ymyhealth.com/] and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/ [https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/] *Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!* Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey. It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXiBLRml1Mw7AL1ggtayxeMRIj2uI-aVHlwtfzUqT54dlzZA/viewform].  Learn more about this episode's guest, Zakela Mickens, by subscribing to her YouTube Channel, @TheCinchonLynch [https://www.youtube.com/@TheCinchOnLynch] and follow her on Instagram @poweredbychocolatemilkco   [https://www.instagram.com/poweredbychocolatemilkco/]*Donate to help Zakela financially support families in need of genetic screening for cancer by donating here: https://www.paypal.me/ZMickens [https://www.paypal.me/ZMickens] *Birth Doula Resources Zakela Recommends Checking Out* * DONA International [https://www.dona.org/] (the world's leading doula certification organization  * Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Association [https://www.cappa.net/] * Healthy Start Program- Maternal & Child Health  [https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/healthy-start] * Sunshine Health Medicaid Program [https://www.sunshinehealth.com/] Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com [ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com] for sponsorship opportunities. Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman] Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com [https://dysautonomiaexpert.com/]

From Research to Revolution: Dr. Erica Barnell's Female Health Entrepreneurship Story

Are you a person who is a problem solver and has an entrepreneurial spirit for making the world a better place? In this episode, YMyHealth podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman, talks with Dr. Erica Barnell, the Co-Founder and Chief Medical & Science Officer of Genescopy, a health diagnostics company that produced the first FDA-approved, RNA-based noninvasive colorectal screening test. Dr. Barnell, a fellow millennial, who co-founded the company at 24 years old, shares her journey from scientific research to healthcare entrepreneurship to prevent colorectal cancer and save lives. Our conversation highlights how she has navigated uncertainty, broken through barriers as a female founder, and is redefining success on her own terms. Plus, she talks about key milestones in entrepreneurship, challenges she has faced as a female founder, and shares valuable advice for aspiring health entrepreneurs.  If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something bigger (or different), her story is a reminder that the leap is rarely linear—but it can be worth it! 🎧Listen now to this inspiring episode to hear Dr. Erica Barnell's valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs! Highlights:  * (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast and Its Mission * (02:50) The Journey from Academia to Entrepreneurship * (05:56) Challenges in Healthcare Entrepreneurship * (08:37) Navigating Funding and Investment * (11:26) Building a Strong Team * (14:12) Key Milestones in the Entrepreneurial Journey * (17:10) Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs * (19:57) The Importance of Representation in Healthcare * (22:45) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Future Entrepreneurs Links: Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ [https://www.ymyhealth.com/] and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/ [https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/] *Hey listener, we’ve got a favor to ask!* Your thoughts matter. Tell us what episodes, guests, and topics you want more of by taking our short survey. It’s quick, easy, and helps us better serve you. Take the survey HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXiBLRml1Mw7AL1ggtayxeMRIj2uI-aVHlwtfzUqT54dlzZA/viewform].  Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com [ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com] for sponsorship opportunities. Learn more about this episode's guest, Dr. Erica Barnell and her company, Genoscopy here: https://www.geneoscopy.com/about-us/our-leadership/ [https://www.geneoscopy.com/about-us/our-leadership/] *Check out the work Genoscopy is doing in RNA-based technology and the ColoSense test here: https://www.geneoscopy.com/gastrointestinal-health/colorectal-cancer-screening/ [https://www.geneoscopy.com/gastrointestinal-health/colorectal-cancer-screening/]  https://www.geneoscopy.com/geneoscopys-new-fda-approved-stool-collection-method-simplifies-at-home-colorectal-cancer-screening/ [https://www.geneoscopy.com/geneoscopys-new-fda-approved-stool-collection-method-simplifies-at-home-colorectal-cancer-screening/] Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host, Melissa Schenkman here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman [https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/melissa-schenkman] Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com [https://dysautonomiaexpert.com/]