Monika Kozub, Artist, Founder of Berlin Boudoir, Endo Patient

Episode FOUR is with Monika Kozub, a Polish-born, Berlin-based artist, and the founder of Berlin Boudoir, a project exploring what it means to be a woman today including through the themes of body, beauty, sexuality and sensuality. She says: "I create art that celebrates the raw, the sensual, the erotic, and the beautiful. For me, it’s about challenging norms and sparking deeper connections — with ourselves, our bodies, each other and the natural world.”In this conversation, Monika shares the story of how Berlin Boudoir came to be. As a photographer, she wanted to show people they didn’t need to change anything to be beautiful or worthy. As a woman who struggled with body image issues and self-acceptance until her late twenties, she understood those feelings all too well. What began as a way to explore beauty and identity grew into something bigger—a space for art, stories, and connection.We talk about some of Monika's projects, including a song and music video she created that celebrates menstruation and draws attention to period poverty. Monika shares some of her own story living with endo, her views on the role of art in translating the experience of endo, and her advice to those wanting to create art or improve their relationship with their body. This is a special conversation between friends. If you enjoy it, please add a rating or review to help it reach others who might need it. Oh and make sure you hang around at the end for a treat!Many thanks to Astrid for supporting Season One of the podcast. You can learn more about Western Sydney University's 'EndoCann' clinical trials here. And be sure to check out Astrid's excellent Endo Resource Hub.Check out Berlin Boudoir here and follow here.Watch Monika's music video P.E.R.I.O.D here.   Learn more about endokind here and follow along on Instagram.Artwork by Lynn Bremner, Music by Coda Chroma, Photography by Gang of Babes.TRIGGER WARNING: Mentions of body image issues. If this is a sensitive topic for you right now, please take care while listening. DISCLAIMER: The content you hear on this podcast is of a general, educational nature and should never be interpreted as medical or mental health advice. Information and opinions shared may not suit your body or situation or resonate with you personally. Everyone is different. Take what resonates, leave the rest. Always consult a medical or mental health professional to assess what’s right for you and your situation. Individualised healthcare for the win!                                    If you require immediate mental health support, please contact your local crisis support service. In Australia, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Please know that there is hope and help is available.