Welcome back to The Monthly Truth - the conversation no one is having, but everyone needs to hear.

In this episode, we’re joined by Emilė Radytė - neuroscientist, founder of Samphire Neuroscience, and the woman behind the brain-stimulation headband designed to support Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and other cycle-related mood symptoms. From Harvard and Oxford to becoming her own 'test subject zero', Emilė shares how recognising her own cycle-linked symptoms led her to explore the neuroscience behind PMDD.

We unpack what’s really happening in the luteal phase, why PMDD isn’t simply a hormone imbalance, and how brain sensitivity plays a central role. We also talk misdiagnosis, why so many women are still overlooked, and the very real impact PMDD can have on work, relationships and self-trust.

Tune in to hear about:

💬 Why your hormone levels can be 'normal' but symptoms still feel intense

💬 The brain mechanisms behind luteal phase mood changes

💬 How brain stimulation supports emotional regulation

💬 Why tracking your cycle can be empowering

💬 What needs to change in women’s health research

This episode is validating, hopeful and science-backed. If you’ve ever questioned yourself in the days before your period, this conversation will help you understand why - and remind you that you’re not 'dramatic', you’re navigating something real.

📣 Help us spread the truth. Share, subscribe, and be part of the change.

Where to find Emilė:

https://www.instagram.com/radytee/

https://www.instagram.com/samphireneuro/

https://www.samphireneuro.com/

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Follow The PMDD Project for more support and resources:

🌎 Website: https://thepmddproject.org/

📸 Instagram: @thepmddproject

📹 Tiktok: @thepmddproject

💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-pmdd-project/

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:05 From Harvard to Women’s Brain Health

04:10 Studying Depression - Then Noticing Her Own Cycle

06:00 “Test Subject Zero” & The Birth of Nettle

08:45 It’s Not a Hormone Imbalance

11:30 How Brain Sensitivity Impacts Mood

15:30 Does It Actually Work? The Data

17:30 Track Your Symptoms. Change Everything.

21:00 PMDD in Real Life: Work, Relationships & Breaking Points

23:45 Misdiagnosis & Falling Through the Cracks

26:10 What Needs to Change in Women’s Health

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Disclaimer:

At The Monthly Truth, we share stories, experiences, and information to support and empower those affected by PMDD. However, the content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Everyone’s journey with PMDD is unique, and we encourage you to seek care from qualified healthcare providers for your individual needs. Please know you’re not alone - and we’re so glad you're here.

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