Changing lives and changing the world together
That’s not a slogan. It is a journey I experienced firsthand.
At the age of 47, I had the delight, honor, and privilege of being part of a women’s group mentoring program at the University of Canberra. It was during this time that I truly understood the power of women supporting women and believing in one another. For the first time, I recognized that there was a path for personal and professional development that could lead me to the places I wanted to go. This realization was a big eye-opener.
Over the next ten years, as I took on various management roles, I discovered that my skills and passion lay in helping others excel. I loved working with my team members to help them become the best versions of themselves in their roles, whether that meant enhancing their strengths or reshaping their positions to better suit their needs. I wanted them to take pride in their work and contribute to the world in ways that fulfilled them.
However, like many people, I faced a major health crisis that forced me to step away from my management role. I turned down lucrative contracts because I needed to focus on my health and reflect on what I truly wanted to do next. In that vulnerable state, I realized I wanted to work with women.
Working with Women
Thus, the first iteration of my business was born, aptly named “Working with Women.” During this time, I served on the National Board of UN Women Australia, where I had the opportunity to engage with young women at leadership conferences, facilitate workshops, and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Through public speaking, political activism, and coaching, I provided, not only hope, but practical pathways to help them realize those dreams.
This was when I truly embraced the magic of coaching and mentorship. I witnessed the profound impact it could have.
I worked with incredibly capable young women who went on to earn prestigious positions and awards. Yet, every one of them faced moments of self-doubt and the need for support.
I remember one exceptionally high-achieving woman who, after having her first two children, came to me terrified about returning to work after maternity leave. My role was to rebuild her confidence and help her navigate her unique challenges.
This experience highlights one systemic issue: stepping back into the professional realm can be extremely difficult for women, particularly after pregnancy, childbirth or with career responsibilities. It’s not a reflection on their capabilities but rather a commentary on the barriers we face as women.
Some of us do have built-in support systems through workplace mentors or strong friendships. I’ve heard of one Mentoring group where each year they shine the light on a different woman, and all the women for that year worked. Together for the benefit of that particular woman’s major thing. They also supported each other in the interim, but that was her year to really shine and fly and things like that, I think are brilliant. And if that happened all over the world, and women had access to that, I’d be like “Amen.” If such initiatives were widespread, I would happily find myself out of a job!
But many women lack the support, making it essential to create nurturing environments where they can thrive.
Often, despite having positive inner narratives and abundant capabilities, systemic barriers continue to cause frustration and hinder our progress. These barriers can come in many forms—whether it’s being overlooked for promotions, experiencing workplace harassment, or facing punitive attitudes from bosses who feel threatened by talented women. Having to tools to understand and address the barriers we face is essential for vitality, personal and professional fulfillment.
Femtor: Supporting Women to Flourish
What ignites my passion and gives me purpose is providing the opportunity for women to embrace the growth they need for the changes they desire. Fulfillment comes in different ways for each of us. Not all aspire to grow into tall poppies. But for those who do, we benefit from standing together, sharing resources and supporting each other.
Rather than cutting down tall poppies, encourage them to grow and flourish together! Let’s demonstrate an abundance mindset!
Coaching, mentoring or guidance is something we all benefit from and it can look different for each woman. As a Femtor, women come to me for a variety of reasons. They might say, “I don’t want to waste your time, but I’m feeling a little anxious about this situation.” I assure them that nothing is a waste of time. If our conversation can nourish and empower them to feel better, then I’ve accomplished my goal.
Ultimately, my aim as a Femtor is to make myself redundant. I do not envision working with one woman for the rest of her life; rather, I hope to empower them to thrive independently. However, I cherish the relationships I build with my clients, many of whom return at various points in their lives, saying, “I wonder if you’re still coaching. I’d love to chat.”
Accessibility and affordability no matter what your circumstances is one of my core values, which is why I have deliberately created a sliding fee scale. And why I provide services online.
Working with Ruth
I understand that we are all different. I bring compassion, care and insight into each conversation and all the work I do. What that work will include:
Building trust so you feel comfortable and confident working with me.
Co-creating a space for growth and change at your pace.
Tailored tools and strategies for motivation, mindset, and lifestyle.
Providing a confidential sounding board.
Finding ways that work for you to turn opportunities into options.
Your next adventure should be exciting. Approach the
unknown with confidence.
About the Femtor
Hi. I’m Ruth,
I am passionate about empowering women, working collaboratively and building community. These are some of the crucial building blocks of future-steading.
I live on Tanglewood Farm with my husband, our dog and cat, and a lively bunch of chooks and ducks. We’re nestled in an environment where Australian wildlife wanders through our lives intermittently, and we embrace a future-steading mindset rooted in permaculture and biodynamic living.
My experiences living in a variety of cultures has grounded me in the challenges for women globally. This allows me to connect, reflect, and understand women from diverse cultural paradigms.
In addition to my work with women, I’m an ADHD advocate and co-host of the podcast ADHD: Women Exploring the Neuroverse, where I connect with fellow neurodivergent women and share insights on navigating life with ADHD.
In addition, I am passionate about re-dressing the negative stereotype of age bias through pro-aging activism.
On a different note, music is another important part of my life. Trained as a classical violinist, I now play alternative viola and have explored styles from Ragtime to Brazilian music. Fun fact: I met my husband when we shared a music stand!
Curiosity and a joy for life keep me flourishing as I continue learning, growing and sharing the journey—whether it’s in the garden, on the podcast, or through mentoring.
