Prominent healthcare and business leaders gathered in Phoenix on February 24, 2026, for a special screening of the documentary *The M Factor 2.0 – Before the Pause*. This film focuses on perimenopause, a hormonal transition that can begin as early as a woman’s late 30s or early 40s, lasting up to a decade. Despite affecting millions during their peak earning years, this phase of women’s health is often overlooked.
Research indicates that approximately 80–90% of women experience symptoms such as sleep disruption, anxiety, and cognitive changes during perimenopause. In the United States, menopause-related symptoms contribute to an estimated loss of $1.8 billion annually in work productivity, with overall workplace and healthcare costs exceeding $26 billion each year, as highlighted in findings published in *Mayo Clinic Proceedings*. These alarming statistics emphasize that midlife women’s health is not merely a clinical issue; it is also an economic and workforce imperative.
The screening event brought together healthcare executives, physicians, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, who participated in a panel discussion on the intersection of medicine, technology, workplace policy, and women’s health innovation. Sponsored by organizations including HonorHealth, the City of Phoenix, and Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, the event aimed to foster dialogue and awareness about the challenges women face during this critical period.
Among the speakers was Kim Post, DNP and Chief Operating Officer at HonorHealth. She remarked, “Throughout my life, I have taken on many roles—mom, nurse, and healthcare executive. I’ve seen firsthand how women’s midlife health is often overlooked, especially during menopause transitions.” She expressed pride in supporting *The M Factor 2* to encourage women to understand their bodies and advocate for their health.
The event also featured insights from Judith Karshmer, PhD, Dean at Arizona State University, who stated, “Menopause has been treated as something women should simply endure. By sponsoring this film, we reinforce our commitment to women’s health.”
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized the role of innovative companies in the region, highlighting The Pause Technologies, a Phoenix-based firm focused on revolutionizing women’s health. “Thanks to pioneering companies like The Pause, Phoenix is shining bright on the international stage for advancements in biosciences and healthcare,” she said.
The documentary features Susan Sly, Founder and CEO of The Pause Technologies, who is recognized as a leading voice in AI ethics. She addressed the importance of creating trustworthy AI systems in women’s healthcare. “Advancing women’s health through AI isn’t just a technical challenge; it is my life’s mission to ensure these systems are accurate, inclusive, and built to serve women at every stage of life,” Sly noted.
The film highlights innovations such as The Pause app, which employs clinically informed AI to help women interpret symptom patterns and engage in informed discussions with healthcare providers. Dr. Mia Chorney, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of The Pause Technologies, emphasized the need for better recognition and treatment of perimenopause and menopause in clinical practice. “Supporting *The M Factor 2* is about translating what I see in the exam room into broader awareness and more effective care for women,” she stated.
The screening and subsequent discussions aimed to address the systemic gaps in research, funding, and education surrounding women’s health. As women navigate one of the most biologically complex and professionally demanding stages of life, the collaboration of healthcare systems, employers, and policymakers is essential.
As Megan Stuff, Chief Operating Officer of Southwest Medical Imaging (SMIL), remarked, “So many women navigate this stage without enough education or support. I’m proud to stand behind a film that moves this conversation forward.”
This gathering of influential voices underscores a growing recognition that understanding and supporting women’s health during perimenopause is crucial for both individual well-being and broader economic health.
