The first thing I learned how to cook was a microwaved egg.

Not too exciting, I know. And kind of gross. But I was 3 years old, and it felt great to do something on my own. I could stand on a chair, crack an egg, and press a button, all by myself. I couldn’t really talk, walk, or wipe my own face. But I could cook an egg. On my own. All the adults would ooh and aah in amazement.

(In case you were wondering, no, I wasn’t a child prodigy. Nor any kind of prodigy, really. I’m also a terrible cook.)

This autonomy early on paved my way for the next three decades to come, and I’ve spent the main bulk of my life working to enable others, specifically women, to also feel independent and in control. Whether it be writing about pregnancy, menstrual health, or public policy against street harassment, I’m passionate about using words and designing tools that connect humans, especially women, to the best version of themselves.