The Flex Company was started by Lauren Schulte after she wanted to find another alternative to pads, tampons and menstrual cups. She believed that if we used a period product that was designed to solve our major problems (leaking, cramping, bloating, smell, frequent changes, infections), we wouldn’t dread our periods. Lauren and her team then created the menstrual disc called FLEX. FLEX is a body-safe tampon alternative that lasts up to 12 hours, and that’s designed to mould to your body shape and is said to have reduced cramps in 70% of users.
She Society had the chance to ask Lauren a few questions about what she’s learnt throughout her startup journey and what’s next for The Flex Company.
What has been the biggest lesson you have learnt (in life or business)?
The greatest lesson I’ve learned is to live life by my values, which means to be clear about what I believe and what I want in life, and then to take an intentional path in a way that is true to me. The path won’t always be easy; it requires fearlessness and tenacity. But as long as I am living my values and fulfilling my greater purpose, I know I’m on the right track.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given and by whom?
The greatest piece of business advice I received as an early stage founder was by a very successful, multi-time entrepreneur who sold one of their companies for $1B. I told him about my idea for FLEX and he was extremely supportive, which was a surprise to me because so many people pitch him their ideas and I’ve never seen him so excited. He told me 1) tell everyone you meet about your idea and 2) to hire people smarter than you.
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of creating a new category of period product, the menstrual disc, which is the most substantial innovation in period care since the applicator tampon and menstrual cups were introduced in the 1930s.
Quote to live by?
You are what you love, not what loves you.
What’s next for The Flex Company?
We are focused on creating awareness of the menstrual disc, educating the market about the fact that so many period problems (leaking, smell, bloating, cramps) are worsened by traditional period products, and educating all people about women’s sexual and reproductive health.
Find out more information about The Flex Company here.
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
Leave a Reply