Riding the Waves of PMDD—
Stronger, Together.
Wave Rider was born from real experience with PMDD, and we’re here to help others navigate it, too.
About Us
We're Caitlyn and Julia, co-founders of Wave Rider. Our story begins with Caitlyn's personal struggle—a fight to save a relationship on the brink, and ultimately, to save a life.
Caitlyn spent years dealing with the unpredictable waves of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) without knowing why. The emotional highs and lows felt random, overwhelming, and isolating—until her partner noticed a pattern. That moment of awareness changed everything, leading them to explore ways to better navigate PMDD together. Their experience sparked the idea for Wave Rider—a way to help others find clarity and support, just like Caitlyn and her partner did.
To bring the vision to life, Caitlyn teamed up with Julia, a clinical leader in mental health with a background in women’s health. Together, they combined personal experience and clinical expertise to create Wave Rider. Navigating PMDD isn’t easy—but we believe no one should have to do it alone.
About Us
About Us
We're Caitlyn and Julia, co-founders of Wave Rider. Our story begins with Caitlyn's personal struggle—a fight to save a relationship on the brink, and ultimately, to save a life. Caitlyn spent years dealing with the unpredictable waves of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) without knowing why. The emotional highs and lows felt random, overwhelming, and isolating—until her partner noticed a pattern. That moment of awareness changed everything, leading them to explore ways to better navigate PMDD together. Their experience sparked the idea for Wave Rider—a way to help others find clarity and support, just like Caitlyn and her partner did. To bring the vision to life, Caitlyn teamed up with Julia, a clinical leader in mental health with a background in women’s health. Together, they combined personal experience and clinical expertise to create Wave Rider. Navigating PMDD isn’t easy—but we believe no one should have to do it alone.
Caitlyn spent years dealing with the unpredictable waves of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) without knowing why. The emotional highs and lows felt random, overwhelming, and isolating—until her partner noticed a pattern. That moment of awareness changed everything, leading them to explore ways to better navigate PMDD together. Their experience sparked the idea for Wave Rider—a way to help others find clarity and support, just like Caitlyn and her partner did.
About Us
We're Caitlyn and Julia, co-founders of Wave Rider. Our story begins with Caitlyn's personal struggle—a fight to save a relationship on the brink, and ultimately, to save a life.
Caitlyn spent years dealing with the unpredictable waves of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) without knowing why. The emotional highs and lows felt random, overwhelming, and isolating—until her partner noticed a pattern. That moment of awareness changed everything, leading them to explore ways to better navigate PMDD together. Their experience sparked the idea for Wave Rider—a way to help others find clarity and support, just like Caitlyn and her partner did.
To bring the vision to life, Caitlyn teamed up with Julia, a clinical leader in mental health with a background in women’s health. Together, they combined personal experience and clinical expertise to create Wave Rider. Navigating PMDD isn’t easy—but we believe no one should have to do it alone.
We’re on a mission to help individuals and couples understand PMDD, strengthen their relationships, and reclaim control. Through personalized insights and tailored communication tools, we’re building a future where PMDD doesn’t define your life – you do.
About Us
We're Caitlyn and Julia, co-founders of Wave Rider. Our story begins with Caitlyn's personal struggle—a fight to save a relationship on the brink, and ultimately, to save a life.
Caitlyn spent years dealing with the unpredictable waves of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) without knowing why. The emotional highs and lows felt random, overwhelming, and isolating—until her partner noticed a pattern. That moment of awareness changed everything, leading them to explore ways to better navigate PMDD together. Their experience sparked the idea for Wave Rider—a way to help others find clarity and support, just like Caitlyn and her partner did.
To bring the vision to life, Caitlyn teamed up with Julia, a clinical leader in mental health with a background in women’s health. Together, they combined personal experience and clinical expertise to create Wave Rider. Navigating PMDD isn’t easy—but we believe no one should have to do it alone.
The Story Behind
Wave Rider
Want to know how Wave Rider began? Learn how a revelation launched into a mission to help others navigate menstrual health and relationships. Swipe right to discover the full story.
Why We Started
For years, PMDD had taken Caitlyn to the edge, pulling her into a darkness so deep that she had thoughts of ending her own life. She wasn’t alone–countless others with PMDD face the same life-threatening despair. But realizing her symptoms were cyclical gave her a lifeline. It was the first step toward understanding, healing, and reclaiming control.
From Insight to Action
Determined to break free from the cycle of conflict and confusion, Caitlyn and her partner started tracking, learning, and having the hard conversations PMDD so often silences. They quickly realized that they weren’t alone–many couples were struggling in isolation, searching for answers. That’s when the idea for Wave Rider was born.
A Spark in the Waves
For Caitlyn, surfing has always been a source of freedom and clarity. One day, deep in her luteal phase–when the pull to withdraw was strongest–she did something unexpected: she paddled up to another surfer and started a conversation. Something drew her out. That moment sparked a connection that would set things in motion.
Turning an Idea into a Movement
That surfer was Julia, a mental health clinician. The more they talked, the more they saw the same gaps in care, the same struggles faced by so many. They knew something had to change. Now, Caitlyn and Julia have joined forces to transform insight into action. Together, they are building Wave Rider–a tool designed to turn cycles of isolation and conflict into a journey of connection and hope.
Building Together
It takes a village to create something truly valuable. One step at a time, we’re building a tool alongside you to help you not just survive PMDD, but thrive–together.
The Story Behind Wave Rider
Want to know how Wave Rider began? Learn how a revelation launched into a mission to help others navigate menstrual health and relationships. Swipe right to discover the full story.
Why We Started
For years, PMDD had taken Caitlyn to the edge, pulling her into a darkness so deep that she had thoughts of ending her own life. She wasn’t alone–countless others with PMDD face the same life-threatening despair. But realizing her symptoms were cyclical gave her a lifeline. It was the first step toward understanding, healing, and reclaiming control.
From Insight to Action
Determined to break free from the cycle of conflict and confusion, Caitlyn and her partner started tracking, learning, and having the hard conversations PMDD so often silences. They quickly realized that they weren’t alone–many couples were struggling in isolation, searching for answers. That’s when the idea for Wave Rider was born.
A Spark in the Waves
For Caitlyn, surfing has always been a source of freedom and clarity. One day, deep in her luteal phase–when the pull to withdraw was strongest–she did something unexpected: she paddled up to another surfer and started a conversation. Something drew her out. That moment sparked a connection that would set things in motion.
Turning an Idea into a Movement
That surfer was Julia, a mental health clinician. The more they talked, the more they saw the same gaps in care, the same struggles faced by so many. They knew something had to change. Now, Caitlyn and Julia have joined forces to transform insight into action. Together, they are building Wave Rider–a tool designed to turn cycles of isolation and conflict into a journey of connection and hope.
Building Together
It takes a village to create something truly valuable. One step at a time, we’re building a tool alongside you to help you not just survive PMDD, but thrive–together.
Our Commitment
Help Bring PMDD into Focus
We’re breaking the silence and making PMDD visible, so no one has to struggle in the dark. Everyone deserves to feel seen.
Empower Through Understanding
Understanding your cycle is a game-changer. We provide the insights to help you navigate PMDD with confidence.
Support Your Relationships
PMDD doesn’t just affect individuals–it impacts relationships. We’re building tools that foster understanding and connection.
Take a Trauma-Informed Approach
PMDD can be deeply distressing. We design our tools and resources with care, recognizing the impact of trauma and prioritizing emotional safety.
Protect Your Security and Privacy
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. We are committed to transparency. Your data is yours, and we don’t sell it.
Build Towards a Brighter Future
Starting with couples, but our vision extends to all relationships, including support networks
and providers.
The Story Behind Wave Rider
Why We Started
Wave Rider began as a fight–to save a relationship on the brink, and to save a life. One of our co-founders, Caitlyn, has PMDD–though she didn’t realize it at first. The emotional turbulence felt random, overwhelming, and out of control. But her partner saw a pattern. That discovery changed everything.
For years, PMDD had taken Caitlyn to the edge, pulling her into a darkness so deep that she had thoughts of ending her own life. She wasn’t alone–countless others with PMDD face the same life-threatening despair. But realizing her symptoms were cyclical gave her a lifeline. It was the first step toward understanding, healing, and reclaiming control.
From Insight to Action
Determined to break free from the cycle of conflict and confusion, Caitlyn and her partner started tracking, learning, and having the hard conversations PMDD so often silences. They quickly realized that they weren’t alone–many couples were struggling in isolation, searching for answers. That’s when the idea for Wave Rider was born.
For Caitlyn, surfing has always been a source of freedom and clarity. One day, deep in her luteal phase–when the pull to withdraw was strongest–she did something unexpected: she paddled up to another surfer and started a conversation. Something drew her out. That moment sparked a connection that would set things in motion.
Turning an Idea Into a Movement
That surfer was Julia, a mental health clinician. The more they talked, the more they saw the same gaps in care, the same struggles faced by so many. They knew something had to change. Now, Caitlyn and Julia have joined forces to transform insight into action. Together, they are building Wave Rider–a tool designed to turn cycles of isolation and conflict into a journey of connection and hope.
Shaped by Community
It takes a village to create something truly valuable. One step at a time, we’re building a tool alongside you to help you not just survive PMDD, but thrive–together.
Why We Care
PMDD is more than mood swings–it disrupts lives, strains relationships, and leaves even the strongest feeling lost at sea. We believe no one should have to navigate PMDD alone.
Our Commitment
Bring PMDD Into Focus
We’re breaking the silence and making PMDD visible, so no one has to struggle in the dark.
Empower Through Understanding
Understanding your cycle is a game-changer. We provide the insights to help you navigate PMDD with confidence.
Support Relationships
Through PMDD
PMDD doesn’t just affect individuals–it impacts relationships. We’re building tools that foster understanding and connection.
Build Towards
a Brighter Future
Starting with couples, but our vision extends to all relationships, including support networks and providers.
Take a Trauma-Informed Approach
PMDD can be deeply distressing. We design our tools and resources with care, recognizing the impact of trauma and prioritizing emotional safety.
Protect Your Privacy
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. We are committed to transparency. Your data is yours, and we don’t sell it.
Our Commitment
Bring PMDD
into Focus
We’re breaking the silence and making PMDD visible, so no one has to struggle in the dark.
Empower thru understanding
Understanding your cycle is a game-changer. We provide the insights to help you navigate PMDD with confidence.
Support relationships
thru PMDD
PMDD doesn’t just affect individuals–it impacts relationships. We’re building tools that foster understanding and connection.
Build Towards
a Brighter Future
Starting with couples, but our vision extends to all relationships, including support networks and providers.
Take a trauma-informed approach
PMDD can be deeply distressing. We design our tools and resources with care, recognizing the impact of trauma and prioritizing emotional safety.
Protect your
privacy
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. We are committed to transparency. Your data is yours, and we don’t sell it.
Our Commitment
Help Bring PMDD into Focus
We’re breaking the silence and making PMDD visible, so no one has to struggle in the dark. Everyone deserves to feel seen.
Empower Through Understanding
Understanding your cycle is a game-changer. We provide the insights to help you navigate PMDD with confidence.
Support Your Relationships
PMDD doesn’t just affect individuals–it impacts relationships. We’re building tools that foster understanding and connection.
Take a Trauma-Informed Approach
PMDD can be deeply distressing. We design our tools and resources with care, recognizing the impact of trauma and prioritizing emotional safety.
Protect Your Security and Privacy
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. We are committed to transparency. Your data is yours, and we don’t sell it.
Build Towards a Brighter Future
Starting with couples, but our vision extends to all relationships, including support networks
and providers.
Our Commitment
Help Bring PMDD Into Focus
We’re breaking the silence and making PMDD visible, so no one has to struggle in the dark.
Empower Through Understanding
Understanding your cycle is a game-changer. We provide the insights to help you navigate PMDD with confidence.
Support Relationships
PMDD doesn’t just affect individuals–it impacts relationships. We’re building tools that foster understanding and connection.
Build Towards a Brighter Future
Starting with couples, but our vision extends to all relationships, including support networks
and providers.
Take a Trauma-Informed Approach
PMDD can be deeply distressing. We design our tools and resources with care, recognizing the impact of trauma and prioritizing emotional safety.
Protect Your Security & Privacy
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. We are committed to transparency. Your data is yours, and we don’t sell it.
Meet Our Founders
Caitlyn Giff-Marko
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
Caitlyn sparked the vision for Wave Rider, shaped by her own experience with PMDD and the challenges it brought to her relationship. With a background in education, psychology, and design, she blends personal insight with creative problem-solving. Fueled by a passion for education and empathy, she’s dedicated to building tools that help couples understand, navigate, and grow through the cycle—together.
Julia Hunt, LCSW
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
Julia, a mental health clinician and co-founder of Wave Rider, turns ideas into action. With a background in social work, psychotherapy, research, thought leadership and product design, she’s led mental health initiatives from the ground up. Passionate about innovation, inclusivity, and real-world impact, she’s here to help change the way we navigate the menstrual health cycle.
Meet Our Founders
Caitlyn Giff-Marko
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
Caitlyn sparked the vision behind Wave Rider, shaped by her personal experience with PMDD and its impact on her relationship. With a background in education, psychology, and Graphic/UX design, she blends personal insight with creative problem-solving to build intuitive, human-centered solutions. A natural connector, she excels at forging partnerships that drive meaningful change. Her empathy and unwavering dedication inspire our tools that empower couples to successfully navigate PMDD—together.
Julia Hunt, LCSW
Co-Founder & Co-CEO
Julia brings deep clinical expertise, strategic vision, and a drive for innovation to Wave Rider. A mental health clinician with a background in social work, psychotherapy, and research, she has led development from the ground up of mental health initiatives across hospitals, startups, and communities. Passionate about whole-person health and inclusivity, she leverages her expertise in product design and thought leadership to create impactful solutions that redefine how we understand and integrate mental well-being.
The People Behind the Journey
Wave Rider wouldn't exist without the voices, experiences, and support of so many who have walked this path with us.
To everyone who shared their story, tested early versions, or provided feedback: We see you and we thank you! Your insights have been invaluable and continue to shape what we do.
Our Advisory Network
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a group of mentors, experts, and advocates who have offered indispensable guidance and support along the way.
Elan Marko
Entrepreneurial coach, strategic leader, PMDD partner, and Caitlyn's husband
Elan helped shape the foundation of Wave Rider, refining core design concepts and addressing pain points to ensure accessibility and impact. He continues to be a thought partner, offering insight and support as Wave Rider grows.
Rebecca Fox
Health and wellness expert; mindfulness advocate
With expertise in law, health & wellness, and a deep commitment to yoga and meditation, Rebecca’s guidance has been key in balancing educational integrity with holistic well-being. Her support in our early days helped establish a compassionate foundation for Wave Rider’s solutions.
Jonathan Ginter
Start-up mentor and product development strategist
With over 25 years of experience in the start-up and product development realms, Jonathan’s guidance, belief in us, and connections to vital resources help shape our path. We’re deeply grateful for his expertise and unwavering support.
Terry Stuart
Strategy and innovation leader
Terry’s expertise in business strategy, product innovation and thoughtful connections helped initiate Wave Rider’s vision.
The People Behind
the Journey
Wave Rider wouldn’t exist without the voices, experiences, and support of so many who have walked this path with us.
Early Testers & Community
To everyone who shared their story, tested early versions, or provided feedback. We see you and we thank you! Your insights have been invaluable and continue to shape what we do.
Advisory Network
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a group of mentors, experts, and advocates who have offered indispensable guidance and support along the way.
Elan Marko
Entrepreneurial coach, strategic leader, PMDD partner, & Caitlyn’s husband
Elan helped shape the foundation of Wave Rider, refining core design concepts and addressing pain points to ensure accessibility and impact. He continues to be a thought partner, offering insight and support as Wave Rider grows.
Rebecca Rox
Health and wellness expert, mindfulness advocate
With expertise in law, health & wellness, and a deep commitment to yoga and meditation, Rebecca’s guidance has been key in balancing educational integrity with holistic well-being. Her support in our early days helped establish a compassionate foundation for Wave Rider’s solutions.
Jonathan Ginter
Start-up mentor and product development strategist
With over 25 years of experience in the start-up and product development realms, Jonathan’s guidance, belief in us, and connections to vital resources help shape our path. We’re deeply grateful for his expertise and unwavering support.
Terry Stuart
Strategy and innovation leader
Terry’s expertise in business strategy, product innovation and thoughtful connections helped initiate Wave Rider’s vision.
The People Behind the Journey
Wave Rider wouldn’t exist without the voices, experiences, and support of so many who have walked this path with us.
Our Early Testers & Community
To everyone who shared their story, tested early versions, or provided feedback. We see you and we thank you! Your insights have been invaluable and continue to shape what we do.
Our Advisory Network
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a group of mentors, experts, and advocates who have offered indispensable guidance and support along the way.
Elan Marko
Entrepreneurial coach, strategic leader, PMDD partner, & Caitlyn’s husband
Elan helped shape the foundation of Wave Rider, refining core design concepts and addressing pain points to ensure accessibility and impact. He continues to be a thought partner, offering insight and support as Wave Rider grows.
Rebecca Rox
Health and wellness expert, mindfulness advocate
With expertise in law, health & wellness, and a deep commitment to yoga and meditation, Rebecca’s guidance has been key in balancing educational integrity with holistic well-being. Her support in our early days helped establish a compassionate foundation for Wave Rider’s solutions.
Jonathan Ginter
Start-up mentor and product development strategist
With over 25 years of experience in the start-up and product development realms, Jonathan’s guidance, belief in us, and connections to vital resources help shape our path. We’re deeply grateful for his expertise and unwavering support.
Terry Stuart
Strategy and innovation leader
Terry’s expertise in business strategy, product innovation and thoughtful connections helped initiate Wave Rider’s vision.
The People Behind the Journey
Wave Rider wouldn’t exist without the voices, experiences, and support of so many who have walked this path with us.
Wave Rider wouldn’t exist without the voices, experiences, and support of so many who have walked this path with us.
Our Early Testers & Community
To everyone who shared their story, tested early versions, or provided feedback. We see you and we thank you! Your insights have been invaluable and continue to shape what we do.
Our Advisory Network
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a group of mentors, experts, and advocates who have offered indispensable guidance and support along the way.
Elan Marko
Entrepreneurial coach, strategic leader, PMDD partner, and Caitlyn's husband
Elan helped shape the foundation of Wave Rider, refining core design concepts and addressing pain points to ensure accessibility and impact. He continues to be a thought partner, offering insight and support as Wave Rider grows.
Rebecca Fox
Health and wellness expert, mindfulness advocate
With expertise in law, health & wellness, and a deep commitment to yoga and meditation, Rebecca’s guidance has been key in balancing educational integrity with holistic well-being. Her support in our early days helped establish a compassionate foundation for Wave Rider’s solutions.
Jonathan Ginter
Start-up mentor and product development strategist
With over 25 years of experience in the start-up and product development realms, Jonathan’s guidance, belief in us, and connections to vital resources help shape our path. We’re deeply grateful for his expertise and unwavering support.
Our Values
What Guides Us
Empower
The product aims to empower PMDD couples by providing them with tools and resources to navigate their challenges effectively
1
Communicate
Facilitating open and constructive communication between partners is a key value, ensuring that both individuals feel heard and valued
3
Educate
Prioritizes educating both partners about PMDD and its impact on relationships, fostering understanding and empathy
2
Hope & Reassurance
Providing hope and reassurance through education and awareness is a secondary value, offering support during difficult times
4
What Guides Us
Our Values
Empower
The product aims to empower PMDD couples by providing them with tools and resources to navigate their challenges effectively
Educate
Prioritizes educating both partners about PMDD and its impact on relationships, fostering understanding and empathy
Communicate
Facilitating open and constructive communication between partners is a key value, ensuring that both individuals feel heard and valued
Hope & Reassurance
Providing hope and reassurance through education and awareness is a secondary value, offering support during difficult times