The Simple Menopause Conversation That Changed My Workplace

In this episode, I sit down with Emma Trueman for a candid and deeply personal conversation about navigating perimenopause while maintaining a senior career in the technology and professional services sector. Together, we unpack the confusion and frustration that often accompany symptoms like extreme sleep deprivation and debilitating brain fog—and why Emma decided to move from being a mental health advocate to a certified menopause coach.We explore how Emma integrated menopause awareness into her corporate role, including a successful workplace panel that reached over 400 people. We discuss the importance of formal education and "chemistry checks" in coaching, and how lifestyle choices like movement and nutrition remain key pillars of her wellbeing.Importantly, we shine a light on the power of community—how connecting with others, even at 1:00 AM from Australia, can empower women to navigate this stage with confidence. We also talk about the cultural and lifestyle differences between the UK and Australia and how they impact the menopause experience.Episode Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and Reflections on Sydney 01:15 – Creating Workplace Awareness and Symptom Tracking 02:26 – Emma’s Background: Tech Career and Mental Health Advocacy 03:36 – Personal Experience: Navigating Sleep, Hot Flushes, and HRT 05:50 – Overcoming Hesitation: Starting Testosterone and Managing Brain Fog 06:52 – Career Evolution: From E-commerce to AI Solutions 08:56 – The Future: How AI Can Support Menopause Health 10:56 – Why Formal Coaching Credentials and "Chemistry Checks" Matter 12:52 – Global Community: Attending 1:00 AM Classes from Australia 15:19 – Key Program Takeaways: Experts, Tapping, and Business Building 19:18 – Advocacy in Action: Gym Talks and the 400-Person Workplace Panel 22:42 – Cultural Perspectives: Lifestyle Differences Between the UK and Australia 24:54 – Future Projects and Closing Thoughts Meet your host Lauren ChirenLauren Chiren is a leading voice in menopause awareness and workplace inclusion, dedicated to ensuring no one navigates menopause alone. As the Founder and CEO of Women of a Certain Stage, she works with organisations worldwide to create menopause-savvy and supportive environments. With a background in psychology, sports therapy, and nutrition, and an extensive suite of coaching certifications, Lauren is on a mission to train 20,000 Menopause Coaches and Champions, equipping them with the tools to support individuals and workplaces through this transformative life stage. Join her as she breaks the silence, challenges the stigma, and empowers people to thrive at midlife and beyond.About Women of a Certain StageWe are committed to transforming the menopause experience—both for individuals and the organisations that support them. Our mission is to empower people through education, advocacy, and expert-led training, ensuring menopause is no longer a barrier to confidence, health, or career success. Join us and our global network of professionals dedicated to breaking the stigma, improving workplace culture, and ensuring no one navigates menopause alone.Find out more here: https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/ Connect with LaurenLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenchiren/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themenopausecoach/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenOfACertainStage YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@womenofacertainstage Twitter/X: https://x.com/LaurenChiren