Feeling the Heat

Susan Davis (she/her)

Professor Susan R Davis AO, MBBS, FRACP, PhD, FAHMS is Director of Monash University Women’s Health Research Program, Head of the Women’s Endocrine Clinic, Alfred Hospital Melbourne and consultant Endocrinologist Cabrini Medical Centre. 

She is an internationally recognised expert on sex hormones and ageing, including menopause and its health sequelae. Her epidemiological research across the adult female lifespan focuses on determinants of physical, psychological and sexual wellbeing. Her clinical trials program has led to paradigm shifts in the understanding of testosterone in women, with current trials examining the role of hormones on cardiometabolic health, cognition, musculoskeletal health and sexual function. She has received numerous prestigious research awards, most recently the Elizabeth Blackburn Award of the NHMRC, Ross Hohnen Award of the Australian Heart Foundation and the RACP College Medal.  Professor Davis is a past President of the International Menopause and the Australasian Menopause Societies and is an Executive Council Member of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences. 

Dr Fatima Khan (she/her)

Dr Fatima Khan is a highly skilled perimenopause and menopause specialist with a holistic approach to women’s physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. She completed her medical training in the United Kingdom from Imperial College London in 2007 achieving a Bachelor in Medicine and Bachelor in Surgery. She also achieved a Bachelor in Science in Pharmacology and Therapeutics with publication of her research. Dr Fatima has an Advanced Menopause Certification accredited from the British Menopausal Society and Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive and Healthcare of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This was achieved after training extensively at Kings College London, which is a tertiary referral centre for menopausal women with complex medical backgrounds. She has also undertaken further training in the USA on optimising hormonal health for longevity.

Grace Molloy (she/her)

Grace holds a Masters of Nursing, is an ex-Big4 accountant and has two decades of experience working in corporate strategy and partnerships. She is a member of the Australasian Menopause and International Menopause societies and has worked alongside Australia's pre-eminent medical researchers and biotechnology innovators to advance medical breakthroughs through clinical trials.  

Seeing Australian businesses lose experienced leaders early due to menopause symptoms, Grace co-founded Menopause Friendly Australia to ensure employers have access to the support they need to help people thrive through this inevitable life stage. 

Em Rusciano (she/her)

Em Rusciano is an Australian comedian, singer, writer and media personality celebrated for her vibrant energy, sharp wit, and unfiltered approach to storytelling. Em is a writer, singer, stand-up comedian and podcaster.

Rusciano first rose to prominence in 2004 as a finalist on the second season of Australian Idol, showcasing her powerful voice and stage presence. This experience catapulted her into the spotlight, leading to successful stints in radio, where she co-hosted high-profile breakfast shows on Perth's 92.9FM and Sydney's 2DayFM. 

A prolific creator, Rusciano has become a prominent voice in podcasting with Emsolation, a wildly popular show co-hosted with her best friend, Michael Lucas. The podcast combines sharp social commentary, pop culture deep dives and personal anecdotes, offering listeners a mix of humor, insight and heartfelt connection. Additionally, Rusciano hosts Anomalous, a podcast exploring the experiences of neurodivergent individuals, drawing on her own diagnosis and advocacy for inclusivity. 

Rusciano's live shows have also earned critical acclaim, with her most recent production, Outgrown, captivating audiences with its raw and hilarious reflections on life's transitions, motherhood and self-discovery. Known for blending comedy, music and storytelling, her performances are a testament to her unique creative vision and ability to connect deeply with her audience. 

She is also a published author, with her memoir Try Hard: Tales from the Life of a Needy Overachiever, offering a candid and humorous look at her life and career. As a mother of three, Rusciano often weaves her parenting experiences into her work, resonating with audiences who appreciate her honesty and relatability. 

A passionate advocate for mental health, neurodiversity and inclusivity, Rusciano uses her platform to challenge societal norms and foster meaningful conversations. Her authenticity and versatility continue to make her a beloved figure in Australian entertainment. 

Gabrielle Jackson (she/her)

moderator

Gabrielle Jackson is the Deputy Editor of Guardian Australia, where she has worked since 2014. She is the author of Pain and Prejudice: How the Medical System Ignores Women and What We Can Do About It, which has been published in Australia, NZ, UK, Ireland, USA, Canada and China. She won the 2016 National Medicinewise Award for her reporting on endometriosis and is a member of the Walkleys Judging Board.