Denise Pines, 59: An Exuberant One

See a problem, make a solution. This is how Denise gets it done, most recently collaborating with Tamsen Fadal on the record-smashing documentary The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause. She has founded WisePause Lifestyle Summit and FemAging, and, through pitch competitions, the FemAging Project has given away $250,000 in cash and prizes to innovators focusing specifically on health tech solutions for women ages 40+. 

Denise is more cautious now with her own health but less cautious with the boldness of her initiatives, as time has given her the confidence to do what used to seem utterly impossible. Meeting Denise is to be greeted with a radiant, welcoming smile and a huge hug. She is vibrantly leaning into the future, despite being unsure where it will take her. No matter where she ends up, she will be there with gusto. Her North Star: When this is all other, she’ll have nothing left on the table.

How old are you?
Dare I say, 59.

Do you feel like there was a defining shift between your early and late 50s?
Absolutely! In my early 50s, I had an energy level I’m still trying to recapture. I was upbeat, my muscles were toned, and I was a lot more inclined to say “yes” to things. Now, as I approach my 60s, I’m more mindful of my body—no more lugging six bags of groceries at once, because I know one slip could mean trouble! And if I really don’t want to do something, I just say “no”—not even “no thanks”—because I’m clear on the preciousness of my time and exactly how and with whom I want to spend it. I feel my wisdom now. I was in tune with it in my early 40s, but it’s deepened since then. I see things are really solvable, and I know how now. I’m not sure I saw that 15 years ago.

If you could assign one word to encapsulate your 50s so far, what would it be and why?
“Elevated”! My 50s have been about reaching a new level of perspective, purpose, and presence, all while finding deeper meaning in my work and connections. I’ve learned to just go with the flow—like a river. Sometimes calm and smooth sailing; other times rough waters, and I’m okay with it. I remind myself the learning is in the rough waters.

We’ve had the pleasure of speaking with you several times since 2020. Since then, what’s one stride that’s been made in the women’s health space that you’re excited about?
Women are talking! One of the biggest strides I’m excited about is the way we’re finally talking openly about menopause—especially with public figures and celebrities leading the conversation. Women are sharing their real experiences and challenges, breaking down the stigma that’s kept this part of life in the shadows. This shift is paving the way for better healthcare options, workplace support, and resources that treat menopause as the important health issue it is. It’s inspiring to see this cultural change, knowing it’s helping millions of women feel seen and supported.

Conversely, what’s an unresolved issue in the women’s health space that worries you?
One unresolved issue in women’s health that’s concerning is the structural gap in healthcare that continually sidelines women’s needs. Women’s health—and especially menopause—has long been under-researched, with funding and attention lagging behind other areas. This gap leaves millions of women navigating crucial health transitions with limited guidance and resources. The lack of prioritization means that even today, healthcare systems don’t consistently address women’s unique health needs with the attention and urgency they deserve. This structural neglect limits advancements and keeps us far from a truly inclusive, responsive healthcare system.

In your 2022 profile, you were quoted saying, “Menopause is really more than a gender issue.” What did you mean by that?
When I say “menopause is more than a gender issue”, I mean that when women receive the support and care they need through this stage, everyone benefits—families, workplaces, and communities. Menopause affects women’s health, but it also impacts productivity, relationships, and economic stability. When women thrive during menopause, they’re able to bring their full energy, experience, and creativity into their work and home lives. Addressing menopause openly isn’t just about supporting women; it’s about strengthening the whole fabric of society.

What are some actionable steps those who love the women in their life can take to ensure they are advocating for themselves and their health?
Support their health decisions and offer to accompany them to doctor appointments when appropriate, as having a trusted companion can provide both comfort and help retain key information. Consider joining them in healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management practices. These shared actions not only promote well-being but also demonstrate solidarity and reinforce the importance of prioritizing their health.

You’ve been described as a serial entrepreneur. You’re the head of several boards and founded WisePause Lifestyle Summit and FemAging. Since their inception, has the mission of either of these endeavors evolved in response to your life experience, as someone deeply involved and invested in women’s health?
Yes, so much. WisePause Wellness is launching a 365 days to wellness journal and accompanying webinars; what I’ve learned since starting in 2019 is that some women need guidance with a sort of step-by-step approach, so we will launch this in April 2025. Through pitch competitions, the FemAging Project has given away $250,000 is cash and prizes to innovators focusing specifically on health-tech solutions for women ages 40+. We just launched Femalytics, which features cutting-edge original research and analysis, a private innovators social network, and an AI-powered innovation assistant called Femmaya, which delivers personalized market and company intelligence. The FemAging Project is a global initiative that has partnered with organizations like Keiretsu Forum Southern California Forum, AARP, and Women of Wearables to accelerate women’s health innovation since 2019.

You worked with Tamsen Fadal—who we recently interviewed—on The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause. What was the most rewarding part of that experience for you? 
Seeing how women have made “The M Factor” their champion or rally cry. Women coming together and feeling empowered to say, “How can we fix this problem, how do I get this film in front of my employer, my friends my family?”

What were some of the challenges of getting that film made?
First, getting the film production funded. We went to many of the brands that sell menopause solutions and all passed on supporting the film. Most gave little to no reason, now they are regretting those decisions. Second, knowing when to end interviewing experts. We had so many incredible doctors doing groundbreaking work who wanted to be part of the project, and with many of them as friends, it made the selection process tough. But, ultimately, we had to make decisions that best served the film’s purpose. 

One of the highlights was the teamwork between the two production companies involved: Women in the Room Productions—my company in partnership with Jacoba Atlas, who was also the director and writer on the film and women led—and Take Flight Productions, Tamsen’s company. Each of us brought unique strengths. My focus was on navigating the complexities of the healthcare structure and getting the film to become a continuing medical education credit, known as a CME, while Tamsen leveraged her community to help amplify our message around the world. This collaborative effort was key to bringing everything together.

Were there things you learned from the experts you interviewed for the film that surprised you? 
Yes; neuroscientist Lisa Mosconi shared her research on the brain changes that occur before, during, and after menopause. She showed that while most women’s brains return to normal—and sometimes even improve—after menopause, some women experience a significant decline that persists. This highlights why we urgently need more research to understand and support those who face lasting challenges.

What is one of the biggest misconceptions people have about menopause?
The top five common misconceptions are: 1) You have to endure symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. No, you don’t; there’s plenty of treatment solutions that are FDA-approved, including non-hormonal treatments. 2) Menopause starts late in life. Perimenopause symptoms can begin as early as 40 but definitely by 45; it may appear as night sweats, lack of sleep, and joint pain or heart palpitations. 3) The menopause experience is the same for everyone. Few people experience menopause the same way. Not everyone has the same symptoms or the same level of severity. 4) Menopause only lasts a short while. It can last up to 10 years, and we see this with women of color. 5) Menopause kills your sex drive. Menopause doesn’t automatically end your sex drive. Lower hormone levels in perimenopause and menopause can impact your sex drive, but that’s not the case for everyone.

Any advice about how to talk to a health care provider about menopause symptoms?
You have to bring it up to your provider by say, “Doctor, I believe I’m in perimenopause, I’m experiencing these symptoms [give 3 examples], and my research on The Menopause Society’s website describes these as early menopausal symptoms. Here’s some printed information. Can we talk about a management plan?” This is a collaboration between the doctor and the patient, and if you feel this isn’t happening, and you have access to other doctors: move on. If you don’t, self educate and come back to the doctor with some options you’d like to consider.

Tell us about your exuberance. Have you always been like this?
Yes, absolutely! Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved bringing people together. I actually started a girls’ club when I was seven. My Dad let us use his man cave, and the membership fee was a penny! The whole point was to play games and buy penny candy (definitely dating myself here!). So, creating spaces where women can come together and see what kind of magic we can make has been something I’ve done for years. The funny part? I don’t even know exactly what’s next—but I do know there’s something exciting ahead. I decided a long time ago to exhaust everything out of my lifetime, leave nothing on the table.

Who are you hoping to collaborate with next and why?
My next film, Stressolence, dives into adolescent mental health and explores how we, as a community, can better support and invest in our young people. I’d love to collaborate with Michelle Obama on this—her authenticity and dedication to young people are inspiring, and I think she’d bring something truly special to this project. I hope she reads this.

What are three non-negotiables in your life?
My three nonnegotiables are my morning rituals, movement, and connection. My day has to start with my routine: a run, prayer, and a good breakfast. It grounds me and fuels my energy. Movement is essential; I’ll keep running as long as I can! And connection—I love to travel, host gatherings, and spend time with friends and family. These are the things that keep me inspired and balanced.  

Connect with Denise:
LinkedIn
The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause