our story
Let's Start a New Conversation About Menopause
We’re on a mission to help women share their stories and raise their voices. Join the community and be seen, be heard and be understood.
I'm So Glad You're Here
Let me introduce myself. My name is Holly Osterman and I’m the founder of Empart.
If you’re reading this, I suppose you’re navigating the complex journey of menopause. Believe me, I know how challenging and isolating it can be. That’s why I started Menopause ChitChat back in 2009 – I was desperate for a space where I could connect with other women who understood what I was going through.
What began as a simple question – “What’s Your Story?” – blossomed into an incredible community of over 10,000 women supporting and learning from each other. I’ve been amazed and humbled by the wisdom, resilience, and generosity I’ve witnessed over the years.
The Journey to Empart
As the community grew, so did my vision for what it could become. I wanted to create a platform that not only provided support and understanding, but also empowered women with knowledge and resources to navigate this stage of life with confidence.
In 2023, I took a (kinda scary) leap of faith and launched Empart. It was a bittersweet moment, saying goodbye to Menopause ChitChat, but also exciting to expand our reach and impact. With Empart, we’re not just changing the conversation around menopause – we’re rewriting the script entirely.
Putting Stories to Paper
One of the most powerful aspects of our community has been how we’ve shared our personal stories. These stories have been a lifeline for so many women, myself included. That’s why I felt compelled to bring them together in a book, “Empart: Real Stories. Real Wisdom. Real Menopause.”
Publishing this book was a labor of love and a true collaborative effort. Each chapter is inspired by the real experiences and insights of our community members. My hope is that it serves as a reminder that no woman is alone in her menopause journey.
Advocating for Change
As Empart has grown, I’ve found myself increasingly passionate about advocating for women in midlife. It’s a role I never expected to take on, but one that feels deeply important to me.
Through my writing, speaking, and consulting work, I hope to bridge the gap between how we actually experience menopause and the resources and support available to us. It’s not about having all the answers – it’s about asking the right questions and amplifying the voices of this incredible community.
I believe that by sharing our stories and raising our voices, we can create real change in how society and the healthcare industry approach menopause. It’s time for us to be part of the conversation and advocate for the care, understanding, and respect we deserve.
But I can’t do this alone. It takes a village, and I’m so grateful to be part of this one.
Together, we have the power to make a difference.
Your Story Matters
If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that every woman’s story is unique and valuable. Your experiences, your insights, your questions – they all matter. And they all have a place here at Empart.
So, whether you’re just starting to notice changes in your body, you’re in the thick of hot flashes and sleepless nights, or you’re navigating life post-menopause, I invite you to join us. Share your story, lend an ear to others, and know that you’re part of a community that sees, hears, and values you.
Together, we’re changing the conversation and rewriting the script on menopause. I’m so glad you’re here.
With gratitude,
