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In this episode, host Grace Vinton welcomes Naseem Sayani, founder and CEO of GCWC and Director of WHAM’s Innovators Circle. They dive deep into a critical question: why does it matter who allocates capital, not just who raises it? Naseem shares her journey from incubators to founding her own fund, revealing the collaborative and abundance-driven style that sets women investors apart. She debunks persistent myths—like the idea that women-led funds are "sweet" or that women are bad with money—and offers invaluable advice for founders: lead with the market opportunity, not just the pain point. The conversation explores the need to bridge the social capital gap, the coordinated approach behind WHAM's Innovators Circle, and her vision for redesigning venture capital from the ground up. Tune in to hear how Naseem is building a new kind of pipeline and learn how you can be part of the change. What You'll Learn: Why having more women as decision-makers changes what gets funded and the behaviors that technology creates. The collaborative, "abundance" style of investing that is reshaping GP-founder relationships. The truth behind the top myths about women investors (spoiler: we're great with money). Why building social capital across the gender divide is crucial for getting startups through Series A and B rounds. How WHAM's Innovators Circle is coordinating capital to prevent losing critical innovations in women's health. Practical advice for founders: lead your pitch with the money and the market, not just the problem. Naseem’s thoughts on the future of health tech, biotech, and why a more integrated approach to "the health of women" is needed. Resources & Links: Naseem’s Substack: gcwccapital.substack.com Naseem’s Podcast: The Capital Flex  Connect on LinkedIn: Naseem Sayani Chapters: 00:00 | Welcome and Intro 00:20 | The Case for Women Allocating Capital 01:52 | A Collaborative Investing Style 03:03 | Debunking Myths About Women-Led Funds 05:15 | Early Investing Lessons & Diligence 07:09 | Is Venture Capital's "Game" Changing? 08:54 | WHIM's Innovators Circle: A Pipeline Engine 11:13 | GCWC's Media Platform & New Fund 13:24 | The Stigma & Semantics of Women's Health 15:33 | Pitching "The Health of Women" 17:12 | Opportunities & Structural Shifts for Investors 19:43 | Advice to Younger Self & Where to Find Naseem

Is your money working for you, or are you just working for your money? Dr. Nkem Ezeamama, CEO of Pheenyx Capital Investment, is an ER physician who discovered that the business of medicine was changing faster than the practice of it. When a private equity firm took over her hospital and began slashing physician hours, she realized relying solely on her clinical income was a risk she couldn't afford. In this episode of HIT Like a Girl pod, Nkem shares her journey with host Joy Rios from treating patients to building Pheenyx Capital, a firm that helps healthcare professionals break free from the "golden handcuffs" of their salaries. Tune in to hear: The Trigger: How the shift to "corporate medicine" forced Dr. Ezeamama to pivot from burnout to building wealth. The Results: How she and 150 investors (90% in healthcare!) have acquired over $153 million in assets. The "Scarcity" Trap: Why so many high-earning professionals suffer from imposter syndrome and how she helps them shift to an abundance mindset. The Mission: Why she is focused on pulling up other women in a historically male-dominated industry and what it takes to get started. If you are a busy professional looking to diversify your income and build a legacy, this is the roadmap you’ve been waiting for. Key Points with Timestamps 01:00 | From Burnout to Building Wealth: Dr. Nkem Ezeamama, an ER physician, was forced to rethink her career when a private equity firm took over her hospital, cut physician hours, and shifted focus to the "business of medicine" over patient care. This led her to seek alternative income sources. 02:10 | The Genesis of Phoenix Capital: Recognizing that few healthcare professionals and women were investing in real estate, Dr. Ezeamama built a company to help others build passive income and grow wealth outside their daily practice. 03:45 | The Biggest Win: A Mindset Shift: The most significant impact she's made is helping healthcare professionals overcome the limiting belief that they can only do medicine, shifting their mindset from being a "worker" to becoming an "owner" of income-producing assets. 04:45 | The Reality Check on the Housing Market: While the market is daunting, she emphasizes that the first step is education, and the second is partnering with the right operator who understands market analysis, population growth, and landlord-friendly terms. 06:10 | The Numbers So Far: In just 3.5 years, Pheenyx Capital has grown to 150 investors (90% healthcare professionals), acquired $153 million in assets across the Southeast, and provided housing for nearly 800 families. 07:45 | Women as Investors: In a historically male-dominated field, Dr. Ezeamama is proud that she has a higher percentage of women investors than men. Her goal is to create more seats at the table for women and pull others up as she grows. 09:30 | The Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset: She openly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and emphasizes that there is "plenty for all of us." She encourages women to link arms and go far together, rather than competing from a place of scarcity. 12:15 | Small Steps Lead to Financial Freedom: She stresses that financial freedom is not achieved overnight but through consistency and taking tiny steps every day. She lives by the motto, "Tiny drops fill an ocean." 13:00 | Leading with Gratitude: Dr. Ezeamama credits gratitude for helping her appreciate how far she has come, which is essential for maintaining the mindset to continue moving forward. 14:45 | The Magic Number to Start Investing: To invest in Pheenyx Capital's deals, SEC rules require a $200,000 annual income (or $300,000 with a spouse) or a $1 million net worth (excluding primary residence). However, she notes that other real estate avenues (like duplexes or single-family homes) require much less capital to start. 17:45 | The Goal: 10,000 Healthcare Professionals: Her big-picture mission for Pheenyx Capital is to help 10,000 healthcare professionals start building wealth and understanding that financial freedom is possible. 19:00 | Group Investing: You Don't Have to Do It Alone: She emphasizes that investors don't need to manage properties themselves—they can pool capital while she and her team handle the day-to-day operations, allowing them to continue doing what they love.

When a routine physical uncovered a giant kidney tumor, Mariya Filipova’s life and career trajectory were irrevocably changed. Faced with the daunting "standard" medical path of a nephrectomy, she chose to take a weekend to think differently. That single decision sparked an 18-month journey as her own healthcare quarterback, coordinating care across oncology, nephrology, genetics, and computational science—and ultimately preserving both her kidneys and her quality of life. Today, as the founding partner of Marram Ventures and CEO of Proclaim Health, Mariya is on a mission to fix the systemic fragmentation she experienced firsthand. Her powerful investment thesis—"Convergent Care"—seeks to break down the professional and financial silos that have separated oral health from overall health for nearly 100 years. In this compelling episode, she discusses the startling lack of women in venture capital decision-making roles, the connection between gum disease and chronic conditions like diabetes and preterm labor, and why the solution lies in understanding healthcare's complex incentive structures. Join host Rebecca Love for a conversation that exposes the absurdity of a fractured system and offers a clear, actionable blueprint for how patients, employers, and investors can drive the change toward a truly integrated healthcare future. Why Women Investors Matter: The absence of women in venture capital decision-making roles isn't just a diversity issue—it's a market failure. By investing in what matters to the 51% of the population that makes the majority of healthcare decisions, we can build a smarter, more effective system. The Power of a Frustrated Patient: Mariya’s personal health scare taught her that a successful outcome isn't just surviving surgery; it's returning to a full, vibrant life. This patient-centered definition of success is the north star for her investment and leadership philosophy. The Healthcare "Black Box": As an executive at a major health plan, Mariya discovered the system's shocking inability to aggregate simple data, like total employer spending across medical, dental, and vision benefits. The same silos that frustrate patients are embedded in the business of healthcare. A 100-Year Divide: The separation of medicine and dentistry is a historical accident, not a biological reality. The scientific consensus is clear: inflammation in the mouth directly impacts the heart, brain, and pregnancy outcomes, yet the system refuses to connect the dots. Speaking the Language of Incentives: True change won’t come from disruption alone. It requires speaking the language of employers, health plans, and benefit administrators—showing how convergent care can reduce costs and improve quality by lowering high-cost claims (like NICU stays) through better oral health. Key TakeawaysKey Points with Timestamps 00:00 | Welcome & Guest Intro Host Rebecca Love introduces Mariya Filipova, a woman she describes as one of the most incredible people in her decade-long career. 01:30 | The Thesis & The Disconnect Mariya defines "Convergent Care" and explains the investment thesis behind Marram Ventures. She discusses the shocking statistic that only 10-17% of VC decision-making roles are held by women. 05:47 | A Life-Changing Diagnosis Mariya shares the pivotal story of her "accidental find" of a giant kidney tumor, revealing how a routine physical turned her from a jet-setting executive into a scared patient in 72 hours. 08:19 | The 18-Month Journey She details her decision to reject a "convenient" nephrectomy and coordinate her own care. This section reveals her inspiring fight to preserve her kidney and her life, and how she defines success as "full recovery." 15:39 | Fragmentation from the Inside Mariya exposes the "shocking" reality of the business side of healthcare. A simple request to an employer's total spend across medical and dental took a six-week project to complete. 18:09 | The Oral-Systemic Link Mariya connects the dots between gum disease and chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and preterm labor, calling out the scientific absurdity of treating the mouth as separate from the body. 21:20 | The Role of Incentives Mariya explains how to drive change by speaking the language of benefit managers. She details how a single preterm labor claim can cost up to $1 million, and how preventative dental care can prevent it. 24:00 | The Power of the Employer She makes the case for why self-insured employers are the key to unlocking convergence, acting as the "buyer" who has the power to demand integrated dashboards and better benefits. 27:09 | Actionable Steps & The Call to Invest Mariya provides a powerful, three-part call to action for patients, employers, and women. She encourages female executives to start seeing themselves as investors, building wealth while supporting mission-aligned companies. 33:35 | Closing & Thanks Rebecca and Mariya wrap up with final thoughts on the future of healthcare and the power of women in investment.

What if we told you that investing in women's health isn't just the right thing to do—it's the smart thing to do? Marissa Fayer has spent 22 years turning that argument into action. She's the CEO and founder of the global nonprofit HerHealthEQ (deploying women's health equipment across 12 countries, serving 150,000 women) and the for-profit DeepLook Medical (imaging software that sees inside dense tissue). And now, she's the author of the new book Undervalued to Unavoidable:  Women's Health as Infrastructure. In this episode of HIT Like a Girl podcast, Marissa joins Joy Rios to make the case that women's health isn't a niche issue—it's the foundation of a functioning society. Tune in to hear: 🔥 The Economic Argument: Why framing equity as an economic imperative moves money faster than moral arguments ever will. 💰 Move Money, Move the Needle: How consumers, investors, and philanthropists can redirect capital toward women-led companies and solutions. 📊 The Stats That Shocked a Banker: Why a top executive told Marissa, "I literally cannot unhear this." 🧠 From Data to Action: We have the data. Now what? Marissa breaks down small, actionable steps anyone can take—whether you're in a boardroom, at a clinic, or at your kitchen table. ⚠️ The 35-Minute Gap: Why it takes 35 minutes longer to diagnose a woman having a heart attack than a man—and what that means for women's health outcomes. If you've ever wondered why we keep studying the problem without fixing it, this episode is your wake-up call. Key Points with Timestamps [02:45] The Multipreneur Mission: Marissa Fayer, CEO of HerHealthEQ (nonprofit) and DeepLook Medical (for-profit), and author of Undervalued to Unavoidable, explains that her daily drive comes from impacting women's health globally through better screening, technology, and access. [05:30] The Numbers Don't Lie: We have the data on the massive disparities in women's health, but talking about the problem isn't enough. It’s time to move from conversation to action. [06:50] The New Economic Argument: To get traction, frame women's health as an economic issue, not just an equity one. Companies with women in leadership and on boards are better investments and more effective with capital, making it a smarter business decision. [09:20] How to "Move Money": Action includes moving capital toward women-owned brands, asking financial advisors to invest in women-led funds, and supporting healthcare companies that prioritize women. [13:00] What Anyone Can Do Today: You don't have to be a CEO to make a difference. Small steps include asking why there are no women in a meeting, advocating for menopause and elder care policies in the workplace, or sending a form letter to a congressperson. [15:00] The "I Can't Unhear It" Moment: A top bank executive told Marissa he couldn't stop thinking about how women are systematically left out of infrastructure decisions, which was the catalyst for changing his perspective. [16:20] The 35-Minute Gap: It takes 35 minutes longer to diagnose a woman having a heart attack than a man, leading to irreparable harm. This is because symptoms in women (like back pain and stomach issues) are often dismissed or mistaken for other conditions. [18:30] The High Cost of Exclusion: Women were excluded from clinical trials until 1993, and enrollment is still only at 40%. Marissa argues that it is far more costly to retrofit products than to design them with women in mind from the start. [22:00] Women's Health is Infrastructure: Just as we invest in repairing roads and bridges, we must invest in the health of women—because they are the foundation of a functioning society. [24:00] Beyond Conversation: While we still need to share the facts, the priority is action. This means voting with your money, time, and resources to support women's health and leadership.

Less than 1% of healthcare venture capital goes to women's health. This isn't just a funding gap—it's a health crisis that affects 51% of the population. In this powerful kickoff to the "Invest Like a Girl" series, hosts Rebecca Love, Joy Rios, and Grace Vinton pull back the curtain on a system where men (who make up 85% of VC general partners) are making the vast majority of decisions about which health solutions get funded and brought to market. The hosts dive deep into the startling statistics: women make 80% of healthcare decisions, yet conditions like menopause, endometriosis (which takes seven years to diagnose), and cardiovascular disease—the number one killer of women—remain chronically underfunded. They unpack the systemic biases, from male-based symptom models that delay cardiac care for women by an average of 35 minutes, to the social dynamics of "golf course" deal-making that exclude women investors. But this episode isn't just about the problem. It's a rallying cry for action. With the largest wealth transfer in history moving to women over the next decade, the hosts explore how women can harness their financial power to reshape the future of healthcare, build generational wealth, and finally demand the innovations they deserve. Key Takeaways The Funding Gap is a Health Gap: Less than 1% of healthcare VC goes to women's health. This directly correlates with delayed diagnoses, inferior treatments, and poorer health outcomes for women across the board. The 80% Rule: Women make 80% of healthcare decisions for their families but are almost entirely absent from the rooms where health solutions are funded. This disconnect is a massive market failure. The "35-Minute" Disparity: Because cardiac symptoms are modeled on male patients, women experiencing heart attacks face an average 35-minute delay in diagnosis—a delay that can mean the difference between life and death. The Trust and Bias Problem: Women investors face unique hurdles, from being told to "pitch like a man" to being excluded from informal networking and "male bonding" that often seals deals. This is compounded by a trust gap where founders and colleagues often default to male counterparts. The Wealth Transfer is a Tipping Point: The largest intergenerational transfer of wealth in history is heading to women. How women choose to invest—and whether they prioritize mission-aligned, women's health solutions—will reshape the economy and healthcare for generations. Convergent Care is Key: The hosts highlight the need for a "convergence" approach, breaking down historical silos (like the 100-year separation of dentistry and medicine) to treat the whole person. Chapters & Key Moments 00:00 | Series Kickoff The hosts introduce a multi-part series on investing, fundraising, and the women's health funding gap, explaining why this conversation is critical right now. 00:30 | Why Investing Now Rebecca sets the stage by highlighting the shocking statistic that women represent only 10-17% of the investor market. 00:43 | Women Missing in VC The hosts expand on the lack of women in General Partner roles (less than 15%), pointing out that the same people are making decisions about products for a population they don't fully understand. 01:46 | Health Funding Gap Grace reveals that less than 1% of healthcare VC goes to women's health. This section breaks down the "90% problem"—where the tiny women's health pie is itself dominated by reproductive health, fertility, and women's cancers, leaving everything else behind. 04:15 | Underfunded Conditions The conversation turns to the "least attention" areas: menopause, endometriosis (and its seven-year diagnosis delay), PCOS, and cardiovascular disease—the number one killer of women that remains vastly underfunded. 05:37 | Data to Action Joy recounts a powerful conversation with investor Marissa Fayer, who highlights the "35-minute delay" in diagnosing women's cardiac events and issues a call to action: "We don't need to talk about the statistics anymore. It's time to take some action." 07:56 | Diversity in Dealflow & Bias in Fundraising The hosts discuss how the lack of diversity leads to blind spots. Rebecca shares a personal story of being told to "pitch like a man," illustrating the double-bind women founders face. 10:38 | The "Golf Course" Problem The conversation explores how informal male networking spaces can exclude women investors, forcing them to work twice as hard to build trust and perform due diligence, often lengthening the investment timeline. 12:04 | Women as Investors Joy shares her awakening about the existence of women's health-focused funds and real estate investing for passive income. She challenges the narrative that investing is "complicated" and only for men. 13:58 | Wealth Transfer Moment Rebecca highlights the JPMorgan study on the largest transfer of wealth in history moving to women. She poses the critical question: "What will women do when they control the assets of that large amount of dollars?" 14:53  | Financial Independence Joy shares her personal pride in being the first woman in her family to buy a house on her own, illustrating the liberating power of financial independence and the need to empower other women to do the same. 18:20 | Convergence Health Lens The hosts connect the conversation back to themes of "convergent care" showing how breaking down health silos is a critical part of solving the women's health funding puzzle. 20:46 | Impact Beyond Returns & Allies Wrap Up The hosts close by emphasizing that investment returns are important, but so are health outcomes and community impact. They end with a shout-out to male allies who are pulling women up through the ranks.

Healthcare is complicated. But the math behind value-based care? It doesn't have to be. In this episode, Joy Rios sits down with Rachael Jones, CEO of the Sintax division of Lightbeam Health Solutions, for a conversation that weaves together data, dollars, and the deeply human side of healthcare transformation. Rachael pulls back the curtain on what population health actually means and why the "perfect triangle" of clinical, operational, and financial insights is the key to making value-based care work for everyone. They tackle the tough questions: How do providers and payers actually speak the same language? What happens when funding disappears and rural hospitals close? Why is the "webbing effect"—the intersection of government, commercial, community, and individual responsibility—the only path forward? They also address the elephant in the room: trust. From shifting policies and DEI backlash to the challenges of accessing complex programs like Rural Health Transformation funding, they get real about what it takes to sustain the gains we've made. And yes, they go there. Breaking taboos around menopause. The power of sisterhood as "built-in besties." Why self-advocacy (and maybe a little magnesium oil spray) can change everything. Rachael shares why she remains hopeful because providers in community health centers are still showing up every day. Because data can surface the right interventions at the right time. Because when women speak up, the world listens. If you've ever wondered how value-based care actually works, or why it sometimes feels like it doesn't, this episode is your guide. Listen. Then ask: Who's in your web?

What happens when patients become the product—and no one asked for consent? In this episode of HIT Like a Girl Pod, Grace Vinton sits down with Andrea Downing, a security researcher and co-founder of The Light Collective. Andrea's journey into patient advocacy began in 2005, when she tested positive for the BRCA1/2 gene mutation at age 30. That moment transformed her from a tech professional into what she calls an "accidental hacker"—someone who started asking hard questions about who owns patient data, who profits from it, and who gets left behind. Andrea and her team at The Light Collective are advancing a simple but radical idea: "No aggregation without representation." It means patients deserve a seat at the table—not just as research subjects, but as decision-makers in how their data is used, shared, and protected. Together, Grace and Andrea explore: How Anthropic's Claude Mythos and Project Glasswing are exposing vulnerabilities in healthcare systems Why hospitals are facing ransomware shutdowns—and what that means for patients The rise of "vibe coding" and what happens when patients build their own tools without privacy guardrails The hidden dangers of ad tracking (Meta Pixel) inside patient communities How misinformation and privacy gaps are putting patients at risk This is a conversation about power, data, and who gets to shape the future of healthcare technology. If you are a patient, a caregiver, or anyone who believes patients should have a voice in how their data is used—this one is for you. Listen. Then ask: Who speaks for you?

This episode is a call to action—and we have until July 13th. Rebecca Love sits down with Elizabeth Ginexi, PhD—a former NIH scientific program official of 22 years who took early retirement after DOGE restructured the agency. She is now speaking out about a proposed OMB rule that she believes threatens the future of federal funding across every community in America. The rule rewrites the Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R. 200), quietly shifting it from "guidance" to "regulation." Elizabeth argues this is designed to bypass Congress's power of the purse—giving political appointees unilateral authority to block, steer, or cancel grants at will. That means $48 billion in NIH funding. Plus Head Start. Plus Title I schools. Plus Meals on Wheels. Plus infrastructure projects. Plus every discretionary grant program that communities rely on. This is not just about science. This is about every community in America. *But there is a 45-day window to oppose it—and it closes July 13th.* Elizabeth walks us through the mechanics of the rule, what is at stake, and—most importantly—exactly what we can do to fight back. She has written easy-to-follow guides and will provide links to submit a comment to the Federal Register and contact your elected officials. We have until July 13th. Your voice matters. Listen. Then act. 00:00 The Stakes: Why This Matters Right Now 04:04 What OMB Does and Why It Matters 06:43 From "Guidance" to "Regulation": The Shift Nobody Is Talking About 07:51 Congress vs. OMB: A Power Grab 11:10 How NIH Funding Works—and How This Rule Could Break It 13:00 Political Control of Grants: What That Looks Like in Practice 15:51 NIH's ROI: $48 Billion and Why It Matters 18:57 Beyond Science: Head Start, Infrastructure, and Every Community 23:03 How to Fight Back: The Two Actions You Can Take Today 26:44 Writing Effective Comments (No Expertise Required) 29:31 Use Your Voice: Why Silence Is Complicity 31:10 Final Thoughts & Where to Find Resources

After a much-needed pause, HIT Like a Girl Pod is back—and this time, Joy isn't doing it alone. Joy Rios reunites with Grace Vinton and Rebecca Love to relaunch the show as a trio: built on joy, fueled by love, and led with grace. In this first conversation, they catch up on where life has taken them—Joy's broken ankle and move to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Rebecca's deep dive into healthcare AI as a chief nursing and clinical officer; and Grace's work as a healthcare storyteller and patient advocate. Together, they explore the leadership vacuum in healthcare, the isolation women are feeling, and the need for authentic conversations without burnout. They also introduce their new format: themed mini-series with three distinct lenses—patient, nursing, and policy & tech. Plus: a first look at their upcoming November retreat in Puerto Vallarta for women leaders in healthcare and health IT. Welcome back. Something new is coming. 00:00 Reunion And Welcome 04:27 Why The Show Is Back 05:01 Leadership Vacuum And Trust 07:34 Women Finding Voices Again 11:19 Authenticity Without Burnout 15:08 Grief Community And Tagline 18:48 Building The Future Together

In a digital-first healthcare world, who gets left behind? The answer is often the same communities that have always been marginalized. But what if the solution wasn't just to build better apps, but to empower the very people from these communities to become the navigators, the mentors, and the doctors of tomorrow? In this inspiring and urgent episode of HIT Like a Girl, recorded at HLTH 2025, Joy Rios sits down with Dr. Jhaimy Fernandez and Dr. Yimdriuska (Gigi) Magan, the powerhouse founders of the nonprofit Alma First. They pull back the curtain on the silent crises in healthcare: the dangerous gap for Spanish-speaking patients, the systemic barriers for Latino students, and the chilling reality for patients facing immigration threats. This isn't just a conversation about mentorship; it's a blueprint for building a more equitable and culturally competent, and safe healthcare system from the ground up. Drs. Fernandez and Magan reveal: When the Clinic is No Longer a Sanctuary: The emergency protocols they've enacted to protect patients during ICE raids. The Digital Divide is a Care Divide: Why translating an app isn't enough and the critical need for "digital navigators." Telehealth as a Shield: How digital access becomes a lifeline when patients are too afraid to visit a clinic. The Alma First Model: Training Latino pre-health students in digital health literacy to bridge the gap between their communities and the healthcare system. AI's Invisible Bias: The urgent need for diverse clinicians to help build unbiased AI models and prevent perpetuating healthcare disparities. This conversation is a powerful antidote to healthcare despair and a living example of how to code compassion directly into the future of medicine. Listen now to meet the leaders who are not just dreaming of a more inclusive future—they are building it, one student at a time. Episode Chapters:00:00 | The Alma First Mission02:30 | Personal Journeys05:39 | Student Success Stories08:34 | Digital Navigators11:25 | AI, Bias, and Diverse Clinicians14:05 | Protecting Patients17:03 | The Future of Alma First 👉 Learn, Partner, and Donate: Visit their website: Alma First Follow Dr. Fernandez’ journey on Instagram | LinkedIn  Follow Dr. Magan’s journey on Instagram | LinkedIn 🎧 This episode was recorded at the HLTH 2025. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok

In a world where healthcare is simultaneously global and deeply local, how do we build technology that truly serves humanity? From the conference floors of HLTH 2025 to the cobblestone streets of Paris, Dr. Aditi Joshi has been on the front lines of this question for over a decade. A pioneer who helped architect the very framework of American telemedicine, she now reveals why the biggest innovations require us to first unlearn what we think we know. In this expansive and forward-thinking episode of HIT Like a Girl, host Joy Rios sits down with Dr. Joshi for a live recording at HLTH 2025. They dive into her bold move to France and the launch of her new AI startup, exploring the cultural shocks and profound insights that are shaping the next generation of global health tech. Dr. Joshi argues that the future of medicine isn't just about smarter algorithms, but about building "cognitive off-ramps" for clinicians and creating immersive training worlds where doctors can gain a lifetime of experience without risking a single patient. Dr. Aditi Joshi shares: The "Unlearning" Curve: Why her biggest professional challenge wasn't learning European medicine, but actively unlearning the U.S. system's obsession with billing codes and prior authorizations to focus purely on patient need. AI as the Ultimate Intern: The critical shift from seeing AI as a replacement for doctors to viewing it as a tireless, hyper-literate co-pilot that handles the cognitive grunt work. The XR Training Ground: How Extended Reality is creating a "time machine" for medical education, allowing a surgeon to practice a complex, rare procedure dozens of times before ever touching a scalpel. Chaos as a Catalyst: Instead of being overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change, how providers and leaders can see this moment as a unique opportunity to rebuild healthcare from the ground up. A Global Prescription: Her frank diagnosis of what the American system can learn from Europe's focus on access, and what Europe can learn from America's culture of innovation. This conversation is a powerful reminder that the best technology doesn't replace us—it makes us better. Dr. Joshi gives us a hopeful, practical vision for a future where tech actually serves the people on the front lines, instead of just adding to their burden. Listen now to learn how to turn global insights into local impact and build a more resilient, human-centered healthcare system. 00:00 | From Chicago to Paris: A Pioneer's Pivot Introducing Dr. Aditi Joshi and her journey from building US telemedicine to launching an AI startup in Europe. 00:46 | Architecting Access: The Telemedicine Blueprint The real story of scaling telemedicine: less about tech, more about battling policy and redefining "the visit." 03:03 | The Art of Unlearning: Healthcare Culture Shock "The first question in France is 'What does the patient need?' not 'Is it covered?'" – Dr. Joshi on shedding the US healthcare mindset. 07:10 | Beyond the Hype: Building AI That Clinicians Actually Trust Why the next breakthrough won't be a flashy demo, but AI that seamlessly integrates into the clinical workflow as a trusted assistant. 09:44 | The Time Machine for Surgeons: XR in Medical Education How Virtual and Augmented Reality are creating risk-free simulation worlds to build true procedural muscle memory. 13:48 | Conclusion: The Infrastructure of Hope Dr. Joshi's final take on balancing relentless innovation with compassionate, practical implementation. Stay Connected & Dive Deeper: 👉 Learn more about Dr. Joshi’s work at ardexia.io 👉 Follow Aditi: LinkedIn or Instagram  🎧 This episode was recorded live at HLTH 2025. Learn about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok

What does it really take to rebuild a life after addiction? For Hilary Phelps, the journey wasn't a linear path to a happy ending — it was a daily practice of peeling back layers, navigating severe depression, and redefining self-care as a single mother. In a world quick to judge and glamorize, she argues that the heart of recovery lies in the messy middle. In this deeply personal episode of HIT Like A Girl, guest host Dana Trampas, MPH, sits down with Hilary Phelps — speaker, wellness coach, and woman in long-term recovery — recorded live at the Power and Women in Medicine Summit. Hilary pulls back the curtain on what happens after the initial victory, sharing the hard-won wisdom from her 18-year journey. Hilary reveals: The myth of the "perfect" recovery: Why the real work begins years after getting sober, and how she faced a diagnosis of severe depression with a recovery toolkit already in hand. Motherhood in the messy middle: How becoming a single mom forced her to reframe "self-care" as "self-respect" — and why putting her own oxygen mask on first is the only way she can show up for her son. The stigma that silences women: The unique challenges women face in addiction and recovery, a topic she’s exploring in her upcoming book with Dr. Lipi Roy, which combines raw personal narrative with scientific insight. Building "The Right Room": How her platform creates a vital space for women navigating life’s transitions, moving beyond "cheerleaders" to find the "mirrors" we truly need. A simple, powerful grounding practice: The one question she asks herself with her hand on her heart to find calm on the toughest days. This conversation is a testament to the power of vulnerability, the importance of community, and the ongoing courage required to choose recovery every single day. It’s a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt "not good enough," struggled with their mental health, or is supporting a loved one on their own path. Listen now for a raw and hopeful look at how we heal, one day at a time. 00:00 Introducing Hilary Phelps: From Hopelessness to 18 Years Sober 02:45 The Messy Middle: Why Recovery is a Lifelong Unpacking 04:30 Motherhood, Self-Care, and Breaking Generational Cycles 09:39 The Right Room: Why Women Need Mirrors, Not Just Cheerleaders 12:42 Lightning Round: Treatment Access, Debunking Myths, and Mood-Lifting Songs 15:46 Finding Hope in Humanity and a Call to Listen Stay Connected: 👉 Learn more about Hilary and her work at HilaryPhelps.com (remember: it's one "L" in Hillary) 👉 Follow her on Instagram for daily insights on recovery and wellness 👉 Explore supportive communities for women at The Right Room (or wherever you listen to her podcast) 👉 Connect with Guest Host, Dana Trampas on Instagram TikTok 🎧 This episode was recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit and brought to you by Chirpy Bird Health IT. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok

What if we’ve been missing a fundamental piece of human biology? Dr. Leigh Vinocur, one of the first physicians with a master’s in Cannabis Science, pulls back the curtain on the endocannabinoid system — the "bliss molecule" network that regulates everything from pain to stress. She reveals why this science is ignored in medical schools, how it could have helped her own mother, and why "stress triage" is the key to survival in healthcare. In this eye-opening episode of HIT Like A Girl, guest host Dana Trampas, MPH, sits down with Dr. Leigh Vinocur, an emergency physician, author, and a pioneer in medical cannabis. Recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit, Dr. Vinocur dismantles decades of stigma, explaining how plant-based medicine interacts with our bodies on a cellular level and offers a revolutionary approach to managing chronic conditions. Dr. Vinocur shares: The Science We Weren't Taught: The surprising discovery of the endocannabinoid system—a network of receptors found in all animals with nerves—and why it’s crucial for homeostasis. From "Gateway Drug" to Life-Changing Medicine: Her personal journey from a traditional ER doctor to a cannabis expert, fueled by the regret of not having this knowledge when her mother was dying from cancer. The Federal Paradox: How a synthetic THC pill is Schedule III, while the natural plant remains Schedule I, and the immense opportunity this discrepancy blocks for treating conditions like seizure disorders and autism. "Stress Triage" for Survival: How to apply an ER room prioritization method to your daily life, letting go of what you can’t control and focusing your energy on the "actionable middle." Science-Backed Micro-Resets: Simple, powerful tools from her book Never Let Them See You Sweat—like box breathing and the healing power of a bath—that can calm the nervous system in minutes, even on a chaotic shift. This conversation is a masterclass in challenging outdated dogma and embracing a more holistic, compassionate view of health. It’s essential listening for anyone curious about the future of medicine, struggling with chronic stress, or supporting a loved one through illness. Listen now to understand the biology behind the buzz and learn how to triage your stress like a pro. 00:00 | Introducing a Cannabis Pioneer: Dr. Leigh Vinocur’s Journey 02:53 | Medical Cannabis 101: It’s About Your Body’s "Bliss Molecules" 06:56 | The Research Gap & A Mother’s Regret: The Case for Clinical Education 12:58 | Stress Isn’t the Enemy: The ER Doctor’s Guide to "Stress Triage" 22:16 | Quick Takes: Nicknames for Cannabis, Medical Ed Reform, and the Power of a Bath 25:40 | Call to Action: Find Your Micro-Moments of Joy Stay Connected: 👉 Learn more and read her "Ask Dr. Leigh" columns at DrLeigh.com 👉 Connect with Dr. Leigh LinkedIn   Instagram 👉 Get her book, Never Let Them See You Sweat, on Amazon or Barnes & Noble 👉 Connect with Guest Host, Dana Trampas on Instagram  TikTok 🎧 This episode was recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit and brought to you by Chirpy Bird Health IT. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok

We celebrate athletes as superheroes, but what happens when the pressure to perform ignores their basic humanity? From social media noise to the dangerous myth of the "normal" missing period, Dr. Marcia “Marcy” Faustin reveals the systemic gaps in sports care — and how a "Fuel Your Soul" model could revolutionize athlete health. In this compelling episode of HIT Like A Girl, guest host Dana Trampas, MPH, sits down with Dr. Marcy Faustin — a former Division I track star turned family and sports medicine physician for the US Women’s Gymnastics team. Recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit, Dr. Marcy challenges the "gladiator" mentality, arguing that true performance comes from treating the whole human, not just the injury. Dr. Marcy shares: The "Biospychosocial" Playbook: Why treating an athlete’s mental health and social environment (like food insecurity) is as critical as treating a sprained ankle. The Social Media Sideline Hazard: Her strategy for helping athletes set boundaries — including a crucial 15-minute rule after competition — to protect their mental space from the noise of public opinion. Busting a Dangerous Health Myth: Why losing your period as a female athlete is a major red flag, not a badge of honor, and why birth control pills are often a misguided "solution." Body Image Off the Field: How to shift the conversation from "what you look like" to "what your amazing body can do," and why men must be part of this conversation. A Vision for 2050: How equity, diverse leadership, and a "Fuel Your Soul" center at the Olympic Village can create a future where every athlete sees themselves in the system. Whether you’re a coach, a parent, a weekend warrior, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of the people we put on pedestals, this conversation is an urgent call to see the person behind the performance. Listen now to learn how we can champion a healthier, more humane sports culture. 00:00 | Introducing Dr. Marcia “Marcy” Faustin: From Track Star to Team Physician 01:05 | The Holistic Approach: Treating the Whole Athlete, Not Just the Injury 03:40 | The Unseen Struggles: Athletes are Human, Not Superheroes 05:25 | Managing the Noise: Social Media Boundaries for Athletes 09:11 | Redefining Body Image: From Aesthetics to Performance 11:04 | The Future of Sports Medicine: Equity and "Fuel Your Soul" 12:26 | Lightning Round: Warm-Up Anthems, Health Myths, and Dream Mentors 15:47 | Call to Action: Put Your Health First & Get Checked Stay Connected: 👉🏾 Follow Dr. Faustin on Twitter: @FaustinMarcia 👉🏾 Learn more about her work on the UC Davis Health website 👉🏾 Follow USA Women’s Gymnastics for 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles 👉🏾 Connect with Guest Host, Dana Trampas on Instagram TikTok 🎧 This episode was recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit and brought to you by Chirpy Bird Health IT. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok

In a post-Roe America, the attacks on reproductive healthcare are becoming more insidious. Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson reveals how a recent "big, beautiful" bill contains a provision designed to bankrupt providers — and why she sees this moment not as a defeat, but as a call to build an "infrastructure of hope." In this powerful and essential episode of HIT Like a Girl, guest host Dana Trampas, MPH, sits down with Alexis McGill Johnson, the President and CEO of Planned Parenthood, recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit. Amidst what she calls a "betrayal of unimaginable cruelty," Alexis pulls back the curtain on the deliberate strategy of chaos aimed at destabilizing providers and patients. She explains why separating abortion from other healthcare is a dangerous mistake and makes a compelling case for why hope is not a feeling, but a form of active, defiant resistance. Alexis McGill Johnson shares: The "Big Betrayal" Bill: How a recently passed provision is a targeted, backdoor abortion ban designed to strip Medicaid funding from providers like Planned Parenthood, devastating low-income communities. Chaos as a Strategy: Why the constant whiplash of policy and litigation is a deliberate tactic to confuse patients and overwhelm the healthcare system. The Truth About Planned Parenthood: Beyond the headlines, she reveals why these health centers are often the first point of entry into the healthcare system for millions, providing everything from contraception to gender-affirming care with dignity. Leading with Compassion in Crisis: How the courage of providers walking past protesters every day fuels her leadership — and why "hopelessness is a luxury" we can't afford. A Generational Reckoning: Her frank assessment of how her generation (Gen X) "dropped the ball" and the critical role millennials and Gen Z must play in the long-game fight for codified rights. A Call to Action: The one thing anyone can do right now to join the movement and help build a future where reproductive freedom is a reality for all. This conversation is a masterclass in resilient leadership and a vital roadmap for anyone who believes in bodily autonomy. It’s a reminder that rights are never guaranteed — they are won and protected through relentless, compassionate action. Listen now for an unflinching look at the current battle for reproductive justice and learn how to turn hope into a strategy. 00:00 | Introducing Alexis McGill Johnson: On the Frontlines of Reproductive Justice 00:44 | The "Backdoor Abortion Ban": Decoding the Policy Designed to Defund Care 05:10 | Planned Parenthood's True Role: More Than Abortion, It's a Lifeline 07:00 | Leading Through Whiplash: Why Compassion is a Strategic Asset 11:16 | A Generational Fight: From "Dropping the Ball" to Building the Future 12:52 | Lightning Round: Myths, Micro-Joys, and the Victory Playlist 15:21 | How to Build an Infrastructure of Hope: Your Call to Action Stay Connected & Take Action: 👉🏾 Join the movement and get involved at IAmForPP.org 👉🏾 Follow Planned Parenthood on Instagram TikTok and  👉🏾 Follow Alexis McGill Johnson on Instagram 👉🏾 Connect with Guest Host, Dana Trampas on Instagram TikTok 🎧 This episode was recorded live at the Power of Women in Medicine Summit and brought to you by Chirpy Bird Health IT. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Stay connected with HIT Like a Girl Pod: HITLikeaGirlPod.com LinkedIn    Instagram    TikTok