In our latest episode of Eventful Encounters, hosted by the Tanita and Leanne, we tackled a topic that’s often overlooked yet profoundly impactful: menopause in the events industry. Our guests, Jo Fuller from The Merry Menopause and Jill Hawkins from Aniseed PR, shared their personal and professional experiences, offering invaluable insights into navigating this natural phase of life.
From the start, Tanita and Leanne admitted their limited knowledge about menopause. Tanita, with bits of information from her mum and colleagues, and Leanne, who has self-educated through social media and a keen interest in health (particularly of the gut), both acknowledged the need for more awareness and understanding. Their eagerness to learn from Jo and Jill set the tone for a rich and enlightening conversation.
Jo Fuller, a menopause and menstruation expert, brought to light the importance of early education and preparation. She emphasised a proactive approach, suggesting that women in their 40s start planning early for menopause. Jo’s journey from the bewildering symptoms in her early 40s to managing her perimenopause in her late 40s underscored the critical need for information and support. Her advocacy for early awareness can help prevent years of confusion and unnecessary suffering.
Jill Hawkins shared a parallel experience, initially mistaking her symptoms for other health issues. It was only through conversations with friends and reading that she realised menopause was the underlying cause. Jill’s narrative highlighted the psychological impacts of menopause, such as anxiety and brain fog, which can be just as debilitating as the physical symptoms. Her story resonated deeply, illustrating the often-unseen challenges many women face.
The conversation soon turned to the workplace. Jo and Jill reflected on the need for open dialogue and education within organisations. Creating a menopause-friendly environment, they argued, goes beyond superficial measures like desk fans. It requires addressing deeper, often invisible challenges. Jo pointed out that many workplaces fail to recognise the psychological toll of menopause, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate support.
In the events industry, known for its demanding schedules and high-pressure environment, the impact can be even more pronounced. Jill noted that these conditions can exacerbate menopausal symptoms, leading many women to leave their jobs prematurely. She advocated for flexible working arrangements, such as job sharing and part-time roles, to help retain this valuable talent pool.
They both went on to expand on the cultural aspects of menopause, noting how older women are revered in many cultures for their wisdom and experience, whereas in Western societies, they are often marginalised. By adopting a more inclusive and supportive approach, the events industry can harness the strengths of its older employees and foster a more diverse and dynamic workforce.
