About me - the short version
The story of how I became the feminist entrepreneur that I am today, coaching online, speaking about hormones, and designing impactful interventions.
From burnout to
digital nomad
After finishing my studies, I found myself burned out before even landing my first job. I ended up working in a clothing store—a nod to my lifelong love for fashion—while hosting free online women’s circles (which I LOVED). These gatherings were a space for sharing, support, and fun.
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I soon became a freelance facilitator, and three months later, I gave up my home, hopped on my motorcycle, and traveled Europe for two years, working with international clients.
My period was in the way
But my period was holding me back. I needed a deeper focus and found it in menstrual health. My personal struggles led to a business dedicated to breaking the taboo around hormones in the workplace.
Coaching terrifierd me!
While public speaking was always my comfort zone, I was nervous about one-on-one coaching. Now, with 100+ hours of coaching and 35 clients, it’s one of my favorite parts of the job. I’ve supported people through burnout, menstrual challenges, career shifts, and personal growth.
3 Questions
01
Why the link between hormones and work?
Hormones affect our daily lives, from our concentration to our energy and creativity.
Since working takes so much of our time, it only makes sense to discuss it in this context! To understand how hormones influence this on a personal and systemic level, we can better manage symptoms, reduce negative impacts, and even use the positive effects of hormones to improve the quality of our work life!
02
Is it Pleun or Elsa?
Both! I mostly grew up with the name Pleun, but in all the other countries where I've lived, many people know me as Elsa because it's easier to pronounce.
03
What is a concept developer for social impact?
I work for clients who want to develop a new process, discuss difficult topics, or change the behavior of their target audience to promote equality. I develop concepts in various forms, such as games (both analog and online), toolkits, workshops, interventions, and e-learnings. In this work, I get to use my creativity, my academic- and analytical skills.