What happens when a woman refuses to take no for an answer—from the FDA, from society, from stigma? In this episode, Danielle + Cindy Eckert, the billion-dollar entrepreneur and founder of Sprout Pharmaceuticals, who fought the U.S. government to bring the first FDA-approved drug for women's sexual desire to market. Together, they unpack how women's health, equality, and pleasure became a battleground and why the future of feminism might start in your doctor's office. Cindy shares:
The "lightning bolt" moment she realized women's desire is rooted in brain chemistry, not emotion
How Viagra was approved in 6 months while her drug took 6 years + what that says about systemic bias
The truth about medical gaslighting and why women are still understudied and undervalued in healthcare
Why she bought back her billion-dollar company to finish what she started
How to know when your idea is worth fighting for (and when to walk away)
The power of curiosity, candor, and crying in business
Her advice for women who want impact, not just success
The childhood disruption that made her fearless and independent
Why women deserve pleasure, not permission
Follow Cindy on Instagram @cindypinkceoBook recommendation: The Five Temptations of a CEO by Patrick Lencioni Learn more about her mission and work at The Pink Ceiling and Sprout Pharmaceuticals
Disclaimer for ADDYI: ADDYI is for premenopausal women with acquired, generalized hypoactive (low) sexual desire disorder who have not had problems with low sexual desire in the past, and who have low sexual desire no matter the type of sexual activity, the situation or the sexual partner. The low sexual desire is troubling to them and is not due to a medical or mental health problem, problems in the relationship or medicine or other drug use. ADDYI is not for use in men or to enhance sexual performance. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is increased if you drink 1-2 standard alcoholic drinks close in time to your ADDYI dose. Wait at least 2 hours after drinking before taking ADDYI at bedtime. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is also increased if you take certain prescription, over the counter or herbal medications, or have liver problems. Low blood pressure and fainting can happen when you take ADDYI even if you don't drink alcohol or take other medicines. Do not take if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in ADDYI. Allergic reactions may include hives, itching or trouble breathing. Sleepiness, sometimes serious, can occur. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and dry mouth. See full PI and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning at addyi.com/pi or call 844-PINK-PILL.
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