Hi, it's Marissa Lee here and welcome to A Voice and Beyond.

Thank you for joining us on this journey.

You see, A Voice and Beyond isn't just a podcast, it's a movement.

It's a celebration of every voice.

In each episode, we honor the challenges, the triumphs and the stories that shape who we are.

Through heartfelt conversations and inspiring voices from all around the world, we take you on a

journey of connection, growth and empowerment. Whether you're a performing artist, a creative soul,

or simply someone seeking inspiration,

this space is for you.

So if you're ready to step out of the wings

and take center stage in your life,

let your journey to empowerment begin

right here, right now, on A Voice and Beyond.

Welcome back to A Voice and Beyond, the podcast where we break through the noise, bust myths wide open and get real about

what's holding us back from living our best lives. In today's episode, this is the perfect

lead-up to Christmas because we're talking about something that affects millions of people,

but is still wildly misunderstood, and that is irritable bowel syndrome.

According to the research, approximately 11% of the population suffers from IBS globally, with prevalence

rates varying by region and other factors. And there is a gender bias with IBS being

more common in women in many Western countries. And guess what? I am one of them.

And for you, the person listening to this show, this is a diagnosis you may have heard

or received or maybe even questioned yourself. Or you may be supporting someone

...