‘Relevant’, ‘Welcoming’, and ‘Insightful’: That’s how guests described the recent Take on Board online event with Sarah Gray.
In this interactive and engaging session, our guest speaker, Sarah Gray, answered questions from participants that had arisen from Take on Board podcast episode 365: (Peri)menopause and the boardroom: what you need to know with Sarah Gray.
At the event we learned:
- Why perimenopause and menopause belong on the boardroom agenda – and the role boards and Chairs can play in starting the conversation
- How greater awareness and education can help create more supportive workplaces for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause
- Why organisations shouldn’t assume everyone has the same level of understanding – and how policies, education and advocacy can make a difference
Watch Sarah on YouTube:
Key insights from the session:
- Put perimenopause and menopause on the agenda. Boards have a role in building awareness, providing education and considering how menopause may impact women’s careers. Menopause Friendly Australia provides workplace resources and policy support.
- Women shouldn’t simply be expected to “get on with the job”. Experiencing symptoms and asking for support can feel vulnerable. Advocacy starts with education and creating a workplace where women feel comfortable speaking up.
- Seek support for symptoms. Brain fog and other symptoms can be temporary and treatable. Seek appropriate medical support rather than assuming changes in cognition or confidence are permanent.
- Are workplaces supporting women to lead—or pushing them out? Some women step back from leadership or retire early, often quietly. Women’s Health Week 7 to 11 September 2026 and World Menopause Day on 18 October 2026 are opportunities to start workplace conversations.
- Practical changes can make a difference. Consider room temperature, fresh air, breaks, water and providing board papers earlier. Create confidential pathways for support and be mindful of inappropriate language such as, “I think she is menopausal,” particularly when discussing performance.
- You don’t need to be the Chair to start the conversation. Anyone can advocate for change. Workplace menopause champions are one way to build awareness and support. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood – Support the Pause
- Seek feedback rather than assuming you’re underperforming. A trusted colleague, board buddy or supportive community can help rebuild confidence and provide perspective. If symptoms arise during a meeting, ask for a comfort break and treat yourself with kindness.
- Nutrition matters too. Protein, fibre, gut health, healthy fats and good hydration can support wellbeing. Consider eating a nutritious snack before a board meeting rather than fasting. Dietitians Australia – Mediterranean diet
Sarah also shared:
- Impact of Perimenopause and Menopause on Work
- Sarah’s book, It’s Not You, It’s Perimenopause
- Sarah’s healthy recipes: Easy Nourish Bowl and Apple and Blueberry Overnight Oats
Listen to an edited version of the event:
What did the attendees like about this event?
“Great idea to have the breakout groups at the start to feel comfortable with those we met for the first time”.
“Slido worked well to reprioritise questions”.
“Practical!”.
