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 Timestamps

1. 00:00 – Introduction and Reflections on Sydney
2. 01:15 – Creating Workplace Awareness and Symptom Tracking
3. 02:26 – Emma’s Background: Tech Career and Mental Health Advocacy
4. 03:36 – Personal Experience: Navigating Sleep, Hot Flushes, and HRT
5. 05:50 – Overcoming Hesitation: Starting Testosterone and Managing Brain Fog
6. 06:52 – Career Evolution: From E-commerce to AI Solutions
7. 08:56 – The Future: How AI Can Support Menopause Health
8. 10:56 – Why Formal Coaching Credentials and "Chemistry Checks" Matter
9. 12:52 – Global Community: Attending 1:00 AM Classes from Australia
10. 15:19 – Key Program Takeaways: Experts, Tapping, and Business Building
11. 19:18 – Advocacy in Action: Gym Talks and the 400-Person Workplace Panel
12. 22:42 – Cultural Perspectives: Lifestyle Differences Between the UK and Australia
13. 24:54 – Future Projects and Closing Thoughts

Meet your host Lauren Chiren

Lauren 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 Stage

We 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.

1. Find out more here: https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/

Connect with Lauren

1. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenchiren/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themenopausecoach/
3. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenOfACertainStage
4. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@womenofacertainstage
5. Twitter/X: https://x.com/LaurenChiren