The 2024 Menopause Show - A day just for us

SO much to say about the first annual Menopause Show! First – BRAVO! Women finally had a space to seek answers and receive education and information all in one day! And there was no shortage of either education or answers with the incredible speaker line up. I planted myself in the Menopause Chicks booth whith my pal, Shirley Weir and spoke to more women in one day then I have in my entire life combined. And guess what? Everyone was gracious, in great humour and eager for info. It proved there was a gap, and it was finally filled.

Now, I thought I would lean casually against the booth and chit chat, but it turned in to a full operation! I finally had to explain that NO – George Clooney is not signing autographs. Turns out no one cared. They were there to receive their Vichy Neovadiol day cream, a free copy of Menopause Chicks digital e-book and access to Shirley’s masterclass. Can you blame them?

We were all in great company and the information flowed freely. Women were lined up and piled up to hear from experts and speakers who were enthusiastic to share their wisdom. In my opinion, women left with more questions than answers and that is a good thing. Curiosity! That will lead us all to seek information, resources and the care we deserve. And let’s not leave out the biggest take away – advocacy! We must advocate for our health and that was heard loud and clear throughout the day.

The place was packed – wall to wall. Thank God I layered up. I was ready for a bikini by noon with all the body heat! Some might say they don’t like crowds, but this was a dynamic audience who came with their A-game and list of questions. I was happy to strip down to my tank top just to talk to them. I’m sure attendees were amazed to see just how many brands have been working hard to create products and services to support them in their menopause journey. I bet most of them didn’t even know brands were thinking about them. They didn’t realize that BTS, research IS being conducted and the results are finally being put into action.

Then over to Catherine Brennan’s Lattes &Learning Center where everyone got to listen to more great speakers like Gina Livy, Angela Johnson, Jean Marmoreo and

Béatrice Séguin who shared their stuff.

As I cruised the room, I met with so many brands that I want to learn more about. As you know, She2.0 curates’ content and brings expert advice and information to women on this journey. As I walked through the aisles, I met with other women with the same mission. I learned that we share a similar mindset – we are NOT competitors, we are collaborators. The more women we have talking about this, sharing their resources and inspiring women, the more women realize they are truly in good hands. My new favourite podcast? This is Perimenopause. They are doing everything in their power to explain this critical runway to post-menopause so please tune in!

As someone who works in this space, the theme for me was ‘collaboration and support’. I love working with women on a mission! And our mission is your health and wellness.

When I say it was a ‘full day’ I mean both literally and figuratively. The organizers of this show pulled off an event that will leave women wanting more. We were heard, seen and cared for. Now it’s up to us to take this information and advocate, push on our healthcare providers and employers to provide us with the support we deserve. In the past (and by past, I mean BEFORE the Menopause Show), many of us weren’t sure how to do that or if we were even able to. I think women quickly realized by the line up to get in, that they are truly not alone in the struggle. I hope every attendee walked out of that show realizing they have the power to make change and now it’s time to use it.

I’m already looking forward to next year’s show! For more on what you might have missed - visit The Menopause Show.