What happens when cultural norms and stigmas surrounding sex meet innovation and entrepreneurship? Join Dr. Rica Cruz as she explores the intersection of sex, relationships, and technology.

In this insightful episode, Dr. Rica Cruz, founder of Unprude, shares her personal journey of overcoming struggles with sex and creating a revolutionary platform for sexual health and education in the Philippines. Tune in as we delve into the cultural stigma surrounding sex, the challenges of navigating the sex tech industry, and the transformative power of community-driven education in promoting sexual wellness. Dr. Rica offers expert insights on:

- User engagement strategies for health and wellness apps

- Demographic trends in sexual health and education

- The future of sex tech and its potential for social impact

Plus, gain valuable advice on entrepreneurship, mental health, and resilience in the face of industry challenges.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• Discover how Unprude is challenging cultural norms and stigmas surrounding sex and relationships
• Learn how societal expectations and cultural taboos affect our understanding and discussion of sex and relationships
• Get inspired by Dr. Ricas' story of turning her passion into a career, and the lessons she's learned along the way
• Explore the features and benefits of the Unprude app and how it's creating a safe space for individuals to explore their sexual health
• Gain valuable insights into the demographics and engagement patterns of Unprude's users and how this information improves the platform's development
• Learn about the unique challenges Dr. Rica has faced as a sex tech entrepreneur and how she's overcome them
• Discover why education and training are crucial in promoting healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships
• Get to know Dr. Rica on a personal level and learn what motivates her to continue pushing boundaries in the sex tech industry
• Explore Unprude's ambitious plans for creating a community of sexologists and promoting a culture of sexual wellness
• Learn valuable tips and strategies for maintaining mental health and well-being as an entrepreneur, from Dr. Rica’s personal experience
• Gain inspiration and guidance from Dr. Rica’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, and learn how to apply her lessons to your journey

Resources:

Dr. Rica Cruz: LinkedIn

Unprude: LinkedIn

Unprude: https://unprude.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Ready to Break Free from Cultural Stigmas and Unlock a Healthier Relationship with Sex?

Join the movement with Unprude and Dr. Rica Cruz! Download the Unprude app now and start your journey towards empowered sexual health and wellness.

Do you love this conversation? Let's keep the momentum going by helping us spread the word about the FemTech at Work podcast.

Like this episode and leave a review - your feedback matters! Share this podcast with friends, family, and colleagues who care about innovation, equality, and empowerment. Thank you, and see you on our next episode!

Ever feel like motherhood comes with a whole new level of mental load? This week, we're having a real talk about it with Kate Delos Reyes, the big-hearted founder of Beacon Care, a FemTech startup in the Philippines that is all about supporting mom’s mental health.

Why isn't "mom mental health" always a priority? Kate asked that same question and created Beacon Care to make a difference. Join us to hear about her motivation, the inspiring work they did, and the realities of trying to tackle such an important issue. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who cares about families!

Key Takeaways:

• How a real need for mom mental health support sparked the creation of Beacon Care
• Discover the practical ways Beacon Care reached out to mothers and the community they built
• Get a clear picture of the challenges faced in making maternal mental health a priority and breaking down the stigma around it
• Understand the human side of entrepreneurship as Kate shares the tough reasons behind closing Beacon and the emotions involved
• Explore the key lessons Kate took away from her experience – insights about startups, resilience, and personal growth that can resonate with anyone
• Find out what Kate hopes to see next in the world of maternal mental health and the vital role community plays in supporting each other

Resources:

Kate Delos Reyes : LinkedIn

Kate Delos Reyes: https://katedelosreyes.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Kate's journey is a powerful reminder that supporting moms isn't just a nice idea—it's essential. If her story has moved you and you want to build a world that truly cares for parents, we encourage you to connect with resources in your community. And hey, if you found this conversation valuable, please like and share! Your support helps us bring you more stories that matter. We've got so many more insightful discussions lined up that you won't want to miss, so stay tuned, keep listening, and let's keep these conversations going together!

Ever wondered what happens when a fintech whiz-kid has a lightbulb moment about women's health? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Maria Gaitanidou, the co-founder of Hati Health, a platform dedicated to empowering women's well-being in the Philippines.

In this episode, Maria takes us on her journey, sharing the pivotal moments that led her to swap the world of finance for the vital mission of improving healthcare access for Filipinas. We dive deep into the real challenges women face, particularly when it comes to understanding and managing conditions like PCOS and navigating the crucial stages of maternal care. Discover how Hati Health is tackling these issues head-on with innovative solutions like the HatiBot, their very own AI wellness assistant designed to provide affordable and reliable guidance.

This is more than just a business story; it's a human story about passion, purpose, and the unwavering commitment to making a real difference in women's lives. Tune in to be inspired!

Key Takeaways:

• Maria's inspiring leap from the finance world to founding Hati Health
• Discover how Hati Health makes healthcare accessible and reliable for Filipinas through their unique approach
• Learn how their AI assistant is empowering women with personalized health support and information
• Insights into the challenges women face with PCOS and how Hati Health is providing crucial support
• Hear how Hati Health is working to simplify access to care
• Explore the exciting growth and future plans of Hati Health for this innovative women's health platform
• Maria’s journey and the lessons learned in switching industries for a powerful cause
• Behind-the-scenes look at the hurdles and triumphs of creating a sustainable healthcare company
• Understand why a supportive community is vital for advancing women's health
• Gain valuable insights into the cultural nuances surrounding women's health in the region
• Explore the growing opportunities and trends in the FemTech investment landscape
• Get inspired by Maria's vision for a comprehensive and empowering future of FemTech

Resources:

Maria Gaitanidou : LinkedIn

Hati Health: LinkedIn

Hati Health: https://hati.health/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Maria's inspiring journey and the innovative work of Hati Health? If you're passionate about women's health, tech for good, or just a good story of impact, make sure you hit that like and share button! We've got more incredible conversations lined up with changemakers and innovators, diving into topics you care about. Trust us, you won't want to miss what's coming next – let's keep learning and growing together! Thank you and see you on our next episode!

Imagine living in a world where periods are a source of shame and sanitary pads are a luxury not everyone can afford.

In this powerful episode of Fem Tech at Work, we talk to Julia Zhu, the founder of FreePeriod, who's on a mission to change that. Julia shares her personal story of struggle and determination, and how it sparked her passion to provide low-cost sanitary pads to women in need across China. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, social impact, and women's health, and discover the inspiring work being done to break down period stigma and create a more equitable future for all!

Key Takeaways:

• Discover Julia's firsthand experience with period stigma and the lack of access to essential sanitary products in China that fueled her entrepreneurial drive
• Understand the core objectives of FreePeriod
• Gain valuable insights into the initial hurdles Julia faced, from securing sponsors and navigating bureaucratic complexities to directly confronting deeply ingrained period stigma
• Learn crucial lessons about identifying your strengths, building a supportive team, and the surprising power of engaging male allies in a traditionally female-centric space
• Explore the creativity behind FreePeriod's vending machine prototype, featuring a free dispensing mechanism integrated with a WeChat public account
• Get a glimpse into FreePeriod's ambitious plans, including local manufacturing, expanding their reach to schools and public spaces, and incorporating cutting-edge technology
• Hear about Julia's strategic approach to securing funding through Hong Kong-based incubation programs
• Discover the innovative solar-powered vending machine developed by FreePeriod, designed for outdoor use and even equipped with USB charging capabilities
• Learn about Julia's connections within the growing Chinese and global Fem tech ecosystem and the supportive network driving innovation in women's health
• Understand Julia's perspective on the increasing interest in women's health innovation in China and her vision for leveraging international support to advocate for greater prioritization of women's well-being
• Receive advice from Julia for entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in the women's health space
• Understand Julia's powerful vision of her work as a catalyst for building future women leaders and empowering them to create meaningful change

Resources:

Julia Zhu: LinkedIn

FreePeriod: LinkedIn

FreePeriod: https://free-period-website.vercel.app/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Ready to be part of the movement?

Connect with Julia and Free Period. Help us break the silence around menstruation by sharing this insightful conversation with your network. Don't miss out our future episodes exploring the cutting edge of Femtech! Like and share FemTech at Work today!

Thank you, and see you on our next episode!

Hey, FemTech at Work listeners! Get ready for an inspiring conversation with multi-hatter Chan Meng, CTO of the innovative FemTech company, FreePeriod, and AI and Machine Learning engineer at Sanicle. In this episode, we dive deep into Chan's incredible journey, from her early days as a mathematics teacher to becoming a senior AI and machine learning engineer – a truly unique path!

Chan shares the fascinating story of how she worked her way to the intersection of technology and women's health. We explore exciting innovations and unpack how AI is being used to empower women in managing their health and well-being. Chan also gets real about the critical importance of data privacy in the FemTech space and highlights the urgent need for more comprehensive, female-centric health data to truly unlock the potential of AI applications.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a FemTech founder, or simply curious about the future of women's health, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in and be inspired!

Key Takeaways:

• Get to know Chan Meng and hear about her fascinating path into the world of FemTech
• Discover Chan's unique and inspiring journey as she transitioned from teaching mathematics to becoming a leading figure in tech – proof that you can follow your passions
• Learn about the exciting innovations in women's health technology
• Explore how Artificial Intelligence is being used to understand and improve women's health in new and powerful ways
• What are the exciting possibilities and important considerations (like data privacy) when using AI in women's health
• Gain a unique perspective on the specific challenges and triumphs of discussing and addressing women's health in the Chinese cultural context
• Hear Chan's valuable and down-to-earth advice if you're thinking about starting your own venture in the women's health space

Resources:

Chan Meng: LinkedIn

Chan Meng: https://chanmeng.live/

Sanicle : https://sanicle.us/

FreePeriod: https://free-period-website.vercel.app/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Wow, what an inspiring conversation with Chan! We hope her journey and insights into the world of FemTech, AI, and women's health in China have sparked something in you. If you're passionate about innovation and women's well-being or simply love hearing from incredible people making a real difference, then you're in the right place! Don't go anywhere, because we've got more amazing stories and conversations with the brightest minds in FemTech coming your way.

Hit that like button and share this episode with your friends and family! Thank you, and see you next week!

Ever wondered what it takes to bring groundbreaking medical devices to life, especially for women? We've got you covered! This week, we sit down with the brilliant Harry Chen, co-founder and CFO of E3A, a start-up that seriously shaking things up in women's health. Yes, we do have male founders in femtech as well!

Join us as he reveals how E3A tackles critical issues with groundbreaking tech. We're talking about devices that are changing how we approach maternal health and chronic conditions. Discover the inventive rental model making vital tools accessible, and hear the inside scoop on the fight to fund innovations that truly matter. This episode is for anyone who believes in the power of solutions. This isn't just about technology; it's about creating a future where women's health is prioritized!

Tune in and be inspired by this meaningful conversation!

Key Takeaways:

• Harry Chen's background and how he started his journey towards inventions of medical devices that are helpful to women
• The innovative technology E3A is developing for maternal care, including their non-ultrasound fetal monitor and jaundice meter and a new treatment for endometriosis
• The challenges and triumphs of bringing medical devices to market.
• Harry's unique perspective on the intersection of finance, public health, and women's health.
• The importance of addressing conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis.
• How E3A's rental model is improving accessibility to critical health tools.
• The dynamics of gender in the women's health market and the need for persistence in overcoming funding challenges.
• E3A's future aspirations and their commitment to creating impactful health solutions

Resources:

Harry Chen: LinkedIn

E3A Healthcare: LinkedIn

E3A Healthcare: https://www.e3ahealth.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

We hope Harry's journey with E3A has sparked your curiosity and passion for innovation in women's health. If you're ready to be part of a community that's driving real change, make sure to like and share this episode with anyone who believes in a future where women's health is prioritized!

Ever wondered what's happening in the world of women's health innovation in China?

Forget the surface-level searches! In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with the incredible Yihan Zhu, founder of FemTech Weekend, straight from China. Yihan pulls back the curtain on the emerging FemTech landscape, revealing this massive market's unique challenges and exciting opportunities. Discover the truth behind period-tracking apps, the surprising booming area of "medical surgery," and how social media is becoming a powerful tool for breaking taboos around women's health. Get ready for a fascinating deep dive into the Chinese FemTech ecosystem you won't hear elsewhere!

Key Takeaways:

• China's approach to women's health innovation
• Learn the challenges of the Chinese Market
• How social media empowers Chinese women to break the silence around menopause and egg freezing, and fueling a culture of awareness and education
• How did the powerful tech infrastructure of China help them to present a significant opportunity for rapid development and deployment of FemTech solutions
• Why community is important for FemTech growth
• How collaborations and partnerships are vital for bridging the gap between the Chinese and global FemTech ecosystem
• Discover why the connection between China and the rest of the world is crucial for the future of women's health technology

Resources:

Yihan Zhu: LinkedIn

FemTech Weekend: LinkedIn

FemTech Weekend: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/jLMysLnXJXANdOPuUeyqYA

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Inspired by the Potential of FemTech in China? Share this episode with a friend or colleague who's passionate about women's health, technology, or global innovation.

Let's amplify these important conversations! Thank you, and see you on our next episode.

Are you navigating your health journey and wondering how insurance truly fits in?

Join us for an insightful episode of Femtech at Work as we dive deep with Sally Wan, the dynamic CEO of AXA Greater China, to unravel the current landscape and exciting future of women's health support within the insurance industry.

Get a glimpse into the personalized future of insurance, where individual needs and precision medicine could converge. Sally shares insights into China's unique healthcare system, the rise of medical tourism, and exciting partnership opportunities for health tech innovators. Understand why prevention is becoming a central pillar for insurers and get Sally's expert, actionable advice for women making critical healthcare choices today.

Ready to gain a deeper understanding of how insurance is evolving to support women's health better?

Tune in now to this insightful conversation.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover how insurance plays a surprisingly broad and vital role in women's health journeys
• Hear Sally's personal journey into the insurance industry and her realization of its profound social impact on individuals and the economy.
• Learn how AXA is embracing digital transformation and leveraging the power of AI to enhance customer experiences and drive efficiency in the insurance sector
• Understand the significant advancements in medical technology and how they are revolutionizing early detection, treatment, and ultimately improving outcomes for women's health.
• Get insights into AXA's dedicated initiatives specifically targeting menopause, aiming to raise awareness, provide crucial education, and encourage proactive health management.
• Explore the unique cultural factors in Asia that can influence how women approach their health and the importance of tailored solutions.
• Understand the critical role of employers in fostering supportive work environments and the growing trend of incorporating women's health benefits into corporate programs.
• Explore the growing trend of medical tourism and how AXA is adapting by expanding its medical network in regions like Shenzhen and Guangzhou to meet customer needs for specialized or more affordable treatments.
• For biotech, medtech, and femtech innovators, learn how they can potentially collaborate with AXA, emphasizing the importance of scalable technology that can integrate with existing platforms.
• Understand why preventative health solutions, from regular checkups to DNA testing, are becoming increasingly important for insurers
• Practical advice for women's healthcare choices

Resources:

Sally Wan: LinkedIn: LInkedIn

AXA Greater China: LinkedIn

AXA Greater China: https://www.axa.com.hk/en

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Curious about the future of health and insurance? Tune in to the full episode to hear Sally's expert insights!

Don't miss this empowering discussion with a leading voice in the insurance industry!

Thank you and see you on our next episode!

From rocket scientist to hypnotherapist? Yeah, you heard that right.

This week, we uncover the mind-bending journey of Christine Deschemin. She is the founder of Evercalm. She shares her unique journey. We're talking about how she made that leap from rocket science to the world of hypnotherapy – and trust me, it’s not as wild as it sounds when you hear her explain it!

We'll be unpacking the nitty-gritty of hypnotherapy: what it actually is, how it works, and its surprisingly powerful applications, especially when it comes to managing those tricky menopause symptoms. Christine's passion for empowering women shines through as she discusses how Evercalm's self-management programs are changing lives.

But it's not all smooth sailing. We'll also tackle the cultural perceptions surrounding hypnotherapy and how Christine is working to break down those stigmas. Plus, we'll explore the exciting potential of integrating hypnotherapy into workplace wellness programs – imagine the possibilities!

Of course, building a women's health company comes with its own set of challenges, and Christine doesn't shy away from sharing her experiences. She'll also give us a glimpse into her vision for the future of Evercalm and offer some seriously valuable advice for anyone out there dreaming of starting their own business in the women's health space.

Key Takeaways:

• Christine's incredible career pivot from rocket scientist to hypnotherapist
• The fundamental principles of hypnotherapy and its practical applications
• How hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for managing menopause symptoms
• Evercalm's mission to empower women through self-management programs
• The cultural perceptions of hypnotherapy and how to overcome them
• The potential for hypnotherapy in workplace wellness
• The challenges and rewards of building a women's health company
• Christine's vision for the future of Evercalm
• Actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the women's health field

Resources:

Christine Deschemin: LinkedIn

UpNow Health Limited: LinkedIn

Evercalm: https://www.evercalmmenopause.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Curious to learn more about how hypnotherapy can transform your life? Check out the show notes for links to Evercalm and other resources. If you’re curious about hypnotherapy, passionate about women's health, or just love a good inspiring story, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in and get ready to be amazed! Your journey to empowerment starts here.

Thank you and stay tuned for our next episode.

Have you ever thought about how old traditions could help us with the health challenges women face today? You won't want to miss this episode of FemTech at Work, where we sit down with Annie Ho, the inspiring co-founder of AnteVorta Labs. AnteVorta is changing the game in women's intimate care, using the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Annie shares her journey, from studying psychology to building this unique brand. She explains how AnteVorta's products are designed to create deeper connections with customers. They explore the world of TCM, looking at how it's viewed in the US versus China. Annie opens up about the challenges of marketing intimate care products and how they're tackling cultural taboos.

Is there something we can learn from ancient traditions about women's health today? Tune in to this episode of FemTech at Work to find out!

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the inspiring story behind Annie Ho and her company, AnteVorta Labs, and their mission to revolutionize women's intimate care
• Follow Annie's inspiring journey as she explores the power of TCM to improve women's health
• Understand the philosophy that drives AnteVorta Labs' products and how they're designed to foster deeper connections with customers
• Learn about the product development process at AnteVorta, including market testing and bringing innovative ideas to life
• Explore the cultural differences in how TCM is accepted and embraced in the US versus China.
• Hear about the challenges of marketing intimate care products and how AnteVorta is building brand awareness with sensitivity and authenticity
• Discover how AnteVorta leverages social media and influencer relationships to connect with its audience and build a supportive community
• Discussing the taboos and censorship that often surround intimate care conversations and how to create open dialogue
• Get insights from AnteVorta's social media strategies and their exciting plans for expanding their reach
• Explore platforms like YouTube and other social media strategies for sharing information and building community
• Learn about the regulatory landscape for TCM-based businesses and how to stay compliant while making a difference
• Discover the crucial role of education in engaging consumers and building trust in the women's health space
• Discover how AI is being used to create better customer experiences and drive exciting new product development in the field of women's health and intimate care
• Gain valuable advice from Annie Ho for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in women's health

Resources:

Annie Ho : LinkedIn

AnteVorta Laboratories : LinkedIn

AnteVorta Laboratories : https://antevortalabs.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

Website Femtech Future https://www.femtechfuture.com

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Inspired by Annie's journey? Take the first step towards your own FemTech dream! Listen to this episode, share it with a friend, and let's build a healthier future together. Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations like this one! Thank you, and stay tuned for our next episode.