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.

Feeling like gender equality is stuck in neutral? Discover how the Women's Foundation is igniting change and breaking down barriers. Join us for an eye-opening chat with Fiona Nott, CEO of the Women's Foundation Hong Kong, as we tackle gender equality and women's health. We dive into breaking down stigmas around menopause, the importance of data, and why engaging men as allies is crucial. Get ready for real talk and actionable insights.

If you've ever felt that things need to change for women's health, if you're ready to be part of something bigger, this episode is for you. We're sharing real stories, facing challenges, and finding real solutions—together. Join the conversation. Let's make a difference!

Key Takeaways:

• Get to know the incredible story behind Fiona Nott and what drives her passion for women's equality
• Discover the core mission of the Women's Foundation and how they're making a real difference
• Understand the everyday hurdles to gender equality and how we can work to overcome them
• Learn about the unique health challenges women face in the workplace and why they matter
• Find out why it's crucial to address menopause openly and how to create a supportive workplace
• Why data is so important for advancing women's health research and driving change
• How open conversations can break stigmas and improve women's well-being
• Explore the powerful research and advocacy efforts of the Women's Foundation
• Discover how men can be powerful allies in the fight for gender equality
• Gain valuable leadership insights from Fiona's experiences in navigating change and building resilience
• Get inspired about the future of women's health advocacy and how you can be part of it

Resources:

Fiona Nott: LinkedIn

The Women’s Foundation: LinkedIn

The Women’s Foundation: https://twfhk.org/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

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

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Are you ready to step up? The Women’s Foundation’s vision is challenging all of us. Don't just listen; act! Share this episode, ignite those crucial dialogues, and be part of the solution.

Get ready for a wild ride because we've got some exciting episodes coming your way.

Stay tuned, and let's create a future we can all be proud of. Thank you, and see you on our next episode.

Ever wondered about the power of ancient healing traditions combined with modern science? In this conversation with Steph Tan, the inspiring founder of Nooci - a game-changing plant-based supplement brand, we dive deep into Stephanie's personal journey with TCM, exploring how it has shaped her life and her vision. She candidly shares the hurdles she faced bridging the gap between TCM and Western medicine and offers valuable insights for anyone interested in integrative health.

Stephanie walks us through the development process of Nooci's unique supplements, from concept to creation.This conversation isn't just about products. We also tackle the nitty-gritty of the health and wellness industry, discussing the complex regulatory landscape and the challenges of effective marketing in this space.

And that's not all! Prepare to be intrigued by Stephanie's innovative concept of "Techno Tai Chi," a fascinating blend of traditional practices and modern technology. She explains how this unique approach can benefit everyone, regardless of their background in Tai Chi.

Tune in! And let’s discover the innovative way of healing!

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the inspiring story behind Nooci, the plant-based supplement brand bringing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) into the modern world
• The core principles of TCM and its holistic approach to wellness
• Behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous R&D process behind Nooci's unique supplement formulations
• How Nooci ensures quality and compliance
• Learn about the challenges and victories of building a health-focused business from the ground up
• A sneak peek into the company's exciting plans and innovative product development
• A fascinating blend of ancient practice and modern technology (Techno Tai-Chi)
• Stephanie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the health and wellness industry

Resources:

Stephanie Joyce Tan : LinkedIn

Nooci : LinkedIn

Nooci : https://mynooci.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

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

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Ready to discover the secrets of ancient wellness in the modern world? Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Stephanie Tan, the visionary founder of Nooci! From TCM insights to entrepreneurial wisdom and the fascinating world of Techno Tai Chi, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone passionate about health, wellness, or building a business with heart. Hit play now and join us on this journey to discover the power of plant-based TCM! Thank you and see you on our next episode.

Are you or someone you know struggling with fertility? This episode of FemTech at Work is a must-listen. We sit down with Jennifer Sossna-McGrath, founder of Ovul Concierge, to discuss her own personal journey through fertility challenges and the systemic gaps in care. Jennifer opens up about the emotional toll and practical hurdles many face and highlights the increasing prevalence of fertility issues. We explore the critical need for emotional and practical support during this sensitive time and how Ovul Concierge is working to bridge that gap. Jennifer offers expert advice on when to seek professional help, sheds light on the often-misunderstood role of male fertility, and discusses the importance of destigmatizing conversations around fertility. This episode also delves into how technology revolutionizes fertility support services and the unique challenges of launching a healthcare company. Don't miss this insightful conversation about navigating the fertility journey.

Key Takeaways

• Jennifer's own fertility journey, and the challenges faced by many couples
• How fertility issues affect individuals and families
• Ovul Concierge Services
• When to seek professional fertility assistance
• The crucial role of male fertility and why it needs more attention
• Cultural stigma surrounding fertility and how to create a more supportive environment
• Importance of male involvement and support throughout the fertility process
• How Ovul Concierge guides and supports their clients on their unique paths to parenthood
• Exciting ways technology is being used to improve fertility
• Realities and challenges of building a healthcare startup from the ground up
• Importance of building trust in the healthcare space
• Advice for anyone dreaming of launching their own healthcare venture

Resources:

Jennifer Sossna - McGrath : LinkedIn

Ovul Concierge : LinkedIn

Ovul Concierge : https://www.ovulconcierge.com/

Maaike Steinebach : LinkedIn

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

Instagram Femtech Future: @femtech_future

Ready to learn more about navigating the fertility journey?

Jennifer's story and insights are truly inspiring, and Ovul Concierge is doing incredible work to support families. If you're struggling with fertility, know you're not alone. Tune in to this episode of FemTech at Work for valuable advice, hope, and resources. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss future conversations about women's health and innovation! Thank you and see you on our next episode.