Women at Work

If you haven't been under a rock, you've likely noticed that an issue that used to be considered taboo - menopause - is suddenly EVERYWHERE. Despite the fact it happens to 51% of the population (if they're lucky enough to live that long), until recently, menopause was not spoken about or even acknowledged. Thanks to a growing number of advocates and a series of stars willing to speak up, this seems to be shifting. Progress! One such menopause advocate, Tamsen Fadal, joined It Gets Late Early last year to discuss an aspect routinely overlooked: menopause in the workplace. Menopause isn't just a personal health issue - it's a significant workplace challenge affecting millions of women and companies alike.

Did you know menopause symptoms can last up to 20 years? And for many women, these symptoms - ranging from hot flashes and insomnia to cognitive fog - can significantly impact their productivity, career growth, and overall well-being. Yet, workplaces remain largely silent, leaving women unsupported and companies unaware of the very real economic costs.

Tamsen shared her own harrowing experience of collapsing in the newsroom, a dramatic moment that propelled her new career as a menopause advocate. Now she's authored a book, "How To Menopause" as well as helped produce a documentary, "The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause," to elevate awareness and ignite much-needed conversations.

Here's what every company—and every woman—should know:

• Education Matters: Clear information about menopause, perimenopause, and related symptoms helps everyone navigate these changes more effectively.

• Economic Impact is Real: Companies lose billions in productivity each year because menopause remains stigmatized and unaddressed.

• Corporate Responsibility: Businesses that proactively support menopausal women retain valuable talent and foster inclusive, high-performing workplaces.

• Open Dialogue Helps Everyone: Creating a culture where menopause is openly discussed reduces stigma, boosts employee engagement, and encourages women to seek the support they need.
  

As Tamsen wisely stated on my show, "as long as we know what to expect, and we're not surprised or sideswiped, it makes things a little easier - even if the symptoms aren't."

Here's the bottom line: addressing menopause isn't just compassionate or ethically sound - it's just straight up smart business. Let's end the silence and start meaningful conversations that support women at every stage of their careers. The best part? We'll all win! For more on this topic, hit the full-length episode here. It's a great crash course on why we need to tackle women's health at work!