Menopause and Women's Wisdom: Redefining a Life Stage

Menopause often arrives with mixed emotions, but what if we viewed it as a period of empowerment rather than a decline? This natural stage, often undervalued in modern societies, holds deep connections to neuroscience, culture, and even evolution, revealing insights that could inspire a shift in perception.

In this episode of the Menopause Mastery Podcast, Dr. Betty Murray and Ellen Petrey-Leanse, a neuroscience educator and Silicon Valley innovator, explore menopause’s deep connections with neuroscience, societal roles, and evolutionary benefits.

When we look at the female natural systems, we see a way of sustaining and thriving in life that is not available in any other way I’ve seen
Ellen Petrey-Leanse

Breaking Free From Stereotypes

In many Western societies, aging females are often defined by their appearance or reproductive status. This narrow focus sidelines the vast wisdom and life experience that older women bring to the table. However, traditional cultures paint a different picture—postmenopausal women are seen as life sustainers and vital contributors to their communities. By challenging outdated stereotypes, we can begin to honor the invaluable roles older women play in shaping society.

The Evolutionary Advantage of Menopause

Menopause is more than just a biological milestone—it’s an evolutionary advantage. In nature, certain species, like orcas, demonstrate how post-reproductive females contribute to survival. Female orcas, for instance, lead their pods, teach hunting strategies, and guide their communities through challenges. Similarly, human grandmothers historically passed on survival skills and knowledge, ensuring the longevity of their families and communities.

This stage of life isn’t about stepping back; it’s about stepping into a role of leadership and guidance.

Intuition: A Superpower for Women

Postmenopausal women often report feeling more in tune with their instincts and insights. Ellen Petrey-Leanse highlights this as a time when our right-brain capabilities—linked to intuition and strategic thinking—take center stage. The ability to see the bigger picture and make balanced decisions becomes a superpower, driving personal and professional success.

Leadership That Outperforms Normal Limits

Data supports the strength of female leadership, with businesses and governments led by women often outperforming their male counterparts over time. Postmenopausal women are uniquely equipped to lead, drawing from decades of experience and a deep understanding of collaborative and strategic thinking. It’s time to recognize these strengths as invaluable assets to society.

Reclaiming Visibility and Value

In today’s world, the contributions of older women often go unnoticed. But the wisdom carried through this life stage is nothing short of transformative. By shifting societal perspectives and embracing this chapter, we create space for postmenopausal women to lead, inspire, and make meaningful impacts.