Beyond Biology: Why Menstruation Is Political | Maria Carmen Punzi, PhD

Is menstruation a private issue or a public matter? Most people assume it's the former - but the reality is far more complex.In this episode, I host Dr. Maria Carmen Punzi, researcher, advisor, and advocate who has spent nearly a decade working at the intersection of menstrual health, gender equality, and public policy. From advising businesses and organizations to presenting research at the European Parliament, Maria Carmen is on a mission to break the silence around menstruation and reframe it as the systemic issue it truly is.We cover a lot of ground in this conversation:🩸 Body literacy — what it means to truly understand the language of your own body, and why most of us were never taught it🩸 The workplace, gender equality, and who our systems were built for — and what needs to change🩸 The "weaker body" myth — how we see as the male body as the default standard, and what that has cost women for decades🩸 Period poverty in Europe — shocking findings from research presented at the EU Parliament, and why period poverty affects far more people than national poverty rates suggest🩸 AI and period tracking apps — the hidden risks of free apps, data privacy, and what responsible design should actually look likeWhether you menstruate or not, this conversation will change how you think about our society healthcare, and equality.00:00 Introduction01:32 How Maria Carmen got into menstrual health research09:59 What is body literacy?14:43 The strengths of the menstrual cycle19:20 Red flags you shouldn't ignore23:31 Self-advocacy in the healthcare system28:54 The menstruation taboo is everywhere35:10 Free period products in public spaces38:14 Menstruation as a gender equality issue47:37 Period poverty in Europe57:53 AI and period tracking apps1:03:41 Key takeaways