What a morning! We had the best time at the beautiful newly opened Collectors Hall in Glasgow.
We were joined by the incredible Dr Punam Krishan. A GP, author, broadcaster and all-round inspiration. Who reminded us that looking after ourselves isn’t a luxury, it’s essential.
From juggling life as a doctor, entrepreneur and mum. Punam shared her story with warmth and humour. We chatted about everything from resilience to menopause, with Punam giving us some brilliant, down-to-earth advice on how to protect our health and thrive, even when life feels full-on.
Dr. Punam began by sharing the fear and vulnerability that comes with putting yourself out there, especially online. It’s something every woman in the room could relate to. She spoke candidly about overcoming trauma and postnatal depression, and how remembering what she’s survived helps her face new challenges. Whether it’s stepping into a new space or stepping onto a stage, the fear never really disappears. We just learn to move with it.
From GP to Glitterball
Balancing her day job as a GP with the glitz and grind of Strictly Come Dancing was, as she put it, “beautiful chaos.” Between early morning clinics and late-night rehearsals, she relied on adrenaline and her husband’s support to keep going.
Performing in front of millions each week, she described the experience as surreal and exhilarating. But it also highlighted the juggling act that so many women know too well. Doing it all, while trying to stay well.
Menopause: Real Talk
When the conversation turned to menopause, the room leaned in.
Dr. Punam spoke openly about her own journey, from the fog and fatigue to the hot flushes and mood swings and why no two experiences are ever the same. She stressed the importance of individualised care, not one-size-fits-all solutions, and urged women to speak up and seek help.
She also busted some common myths that menopause is something to “just get on with”, reminding us that support, understanding, and lifestyle changes can make all the difference.
“Everyone experiences perimenopause differently… I think that when we appreciate that, everyone’s journeys are different, everyone’s symptoms are different, and that’s what makes menopause so hard to diagnose and manage, but not impossible.” – Dr Punam Krishan
Support Starts at Home (and at Work)
Family, friends, and colleagues all play a part in supporting women through menopause. Dr. Punam shared how she’s opened up these conversations at home even with her kids, because the more we talk, the less taboo it becomes.
No woman should have to suffer in silence or push through at the cost of her wellbeing.
Another GP in the audience, with a special interest in occupational medicine, echoed this pointing to resources from the Society of Occupational Medicine and ACAS that can help shape more supportive environments.
As always, our Women on Top conversations remind us of the power of women coming together to learn, to listen, and to lift each other up.
Thank you to the Ecosystem Fund, backed by the Scottish Government for supporting this event.
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