From Struggle to Strength: How Menopause Jen Transformed Negative Workplace Experience into Empowerment

If you’ve ever felt like your workplace was unsupportive when it comes to the menopause, then this episode is for you. This week’s guest is Jen Francis, known on TikTok as Menopause Jen Official, who walked away from her role as a digital marketing manager when a lack of menopause support and outdated attitudes from her employer made it impossible to stay.  Since then, Jen has created a growing community where women share hacks, tips and real-life experiences to support each other through midlife and menopause, proving that there's strength in numbers. We talk about why she left her job, the menopause-related challenges she faced at work, and how she's using her platform to empower others. Jen Discusses The lack of understanding and support in the workplace The feelings of isolation and frustration that can result from this. How symptoms such as migraines, palpitations, and fatigue can severely affect a woman's ability to perform at work.  The lack of acknowledgment and support from employers and how they can exacerbate health issues, leading to a decline in mental health and job satisfaction How flexible working options can be crucial for women dealing with menopause symptoms. The pressing need for menopause policies and education within organisations How managers may dismiss symptoms or fail to provide necessary support, which can lead to negative workplace experiences for affected employees. How building communities can empower women to share their experiences and support one another BEST MOMENTS "I thought, oh, God, they're not going to be good about it. But they actually were."  "I was surprised, you know, someone in her 40s, I thought she must be in perimenopause.”  "I had to keep pestering doctors to get fit notes."  "I think it's given me a chance to focus on me and decide what I want to do at 52."  "If you support your staff, you're gonna be more productive." Jen’s Links TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@menopausejenofficial HOST BIO Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops.  A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag Website www.panaceapause.co.uk