HR to Menopause Coach: Alison Allen on Menopause Talks & Building Support Groups

In this episode of the Women of a Certain Stage Podcast, host Lauren Chiren sits down with Alison Allen, founder of Sparks HR Consultancy and a Women of a Certain Stage and CPD certified menopause coach, to explore how organisations can embed effective menopause training, menopause talks, and workplace strategy. Drawing on 25 years in HR and L&D, Alison shares how a 2003 TV segment first ignited her passion for supporting menopausal women on the job, and how during the pandemic she championed policy, support groups, and menopause toolkits in her corporate role.Since launching her own practice in 2023 and completing the Women of a Certain Stage Certified Menopause Coach Diploma, Alison now blends one-to-one and group menopause coaching with bespoke workplace strategy workshops.Discover how she’s setting up corporate menopause champion networks, coaching leaders through the “Menopause Plan” framework, and gearing up to launch menopause wellness days, journals, and even her own podcast. Key TakeawaysEmbed Menopause Talks & Training into HR StrategyDesign “safe space” sessions for leaders and colleagues—cover symptoms, reasonable adjustments, and inclusive policy updates.Leverage Coaching FrameworksUse a structured coaching model (like the Menopause Plan) to turn awareness into action, empower clients with self-coaching tools, and track outcomes.Set Up Support Groups & ChampionsLaunch on-site or virtual menopause champion networks; train local advocates to keep conversations alive and drive cultural change.Blend One-to-One & Group CoachingOffer bespoke individual coaching for deep dives, and cost-effective group coaching for peer support and shared accountability.Continual Learning & Resource LibraryKeep your menopause toolkits and training materials up-to-date with the latest research, expert interviews, and downloadable guides.[00:01:39] Supporting menopausal women in workplaces.[00:06:04] Menopause coaching training journey.[00:09:05] Enhanced knowledge in coaching.[00:14:57] Menopause and coaching effectiveness.[00:18:16] Menopause support in business.[00:19:36] Menopause support in workplaces.[00:23:44] Menopause coach program benefits.[00:29:15] Future of menopause support.[00:30:27] Building a personal menopause plan. Ready to Take Action? Visit https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/ today to: Enrol in our Accredited Menopause Coach Diploma certification Book workplace strategy workshops & keynote menopause talks Download turnkey menopause toolkits & resource bundlesBuild your own Menopause Champion networkBook a free strategy call with our expert team 👉 https://bookme.name/womenofacertainstage/podEmpower your organisation and start delivering life-changing menopause support now!