Brenda Braxton, a force of nature who graced Broadway stages for over three decades, is now channeling her incredible energy into empowering women through her brand, Pause by BBraxton. After an illustrious career that garnered a Tony nomination and a Grammy Award, Brenda is redefining what it means to navigate midlife with joy, grace, and an abundance of self-care.
I interviewed Brenda to discuss her pivot from the bright lights of Broadway to becoming a "Menopause Maven," the unique origins of Pause, and her mission to transform the cultural narrative around menopause.
Q&A with Brenda Braxton
Q: You’ve had an extraordinary career on Broadway. What inspired your pivot from the stage to creating Pause by BBraxton?
Brenda Braxton: Well, I do consider myself extraordinarily lucky to have stepped out of high school onto the Broadway stage in my first show, Guys and Dolls. That led to fantastic experiences as a performer for over 30 years on Broadway, such as being in the original cast of Dreamgirls, Jelly's Last Jam, Chicago as Velma Kelly and as Mama Morton, Smokey Joe's Cafe – for which I am thrilled to have received a Tony nomination and a Grammy Award.
I’ve also been a lucky girl to be in TV shows such as The Good Fight, for five years in the role of Madeline Gilford, as well as in Nurse Jackie, Smash, and a few more.
Some may ask, why would you switch gears with an active career as an actress/dancer/singer? And I still do some of that, don’t get me wrong. I was recently the voice announcing the nominees for the 2025 Drama Desk Awards; I was in a play, Mystic Conversations, on Theater Row; and I have an act I do sometimes at the cabaret, 54 Below.
A few things inspired my “pivot.” Actually, I’m always pivoting! I’ve initiated a couple of entrepreneurial businesses such as BBraxton Exceptional Grooming for Men, which was a gentlemen’s grooming parlor in Harlem. I developed a mentoring group for teens called Leading Ladies Just for Teens, while I was in Smokey Joe’s Café on Broadway. They would come to the theater on Sundays, and we helped in setting goals, and dreams, and then they would see the show.
In 2015, I launched Act 2…Now What? I began Act 2… to help women over 50 discover what their Act 2 can be, and how to redefine their lives. That journey began with two seminars I led in New York and South Africa called “An Afternoon of Possibilities.”
But starting Pause has a different motivation. It’s really an extension of my work on Act2…Now What? but it’s bigger.
First, I turned 50. Then my agent told me they were going younger on a role I had already played on Broadway. That really stung. It’s hard to accept that you’re looked at differently in the entertainment business after a certain age. Being considered for fewer roles by some casting people is a harsh reality for me – and that is what motivated what I consider to be the biggest pivot in my life, and that is Pause by BBraxton.
I had also gone through a very hard divorce, had to sell my home and close my men’s grooming business. It was a very difficult time. I was waiting for a new pivot.
Q: The story of Pause beginning on a cruise ship is such a unique origin. Can you take us back to that moment when you knew you had to create something new for women in menopause?
Brenda Braxton: Just as I was at my lowest –I got a great phone call! A friend let me know I was in the mix to star in a production of, After Midnight, which was a hit Broadway show, to be produced for the maiden voyage of a new ship from Norwegian Cruise Lines, The Norwegian Escape. I was blessed with beginning my three-year contract as a performer with my own cabaret act - with a full band, and held shows every night in The Supper Club, a private nightclub on the ship.
Just about then, I realized I was having symptoms of menopause. So I was on the ship, away from friends and family, and didn’t know who I could talk to about what I was going through. Being on the ship gave me time to research menopause online. I discovered many myths associated with it, and an overall gloom-and-doom perspective. And at first, I was angry and disgusted at the attitudes of our society towards women in menopause. A lot of it was outdated, and misogynistic, from long ago, when most doctors were men.
I remember reading a quote that really hit me. It was by Dr. David Reuben, author of the 1969 book, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (pub. Bantam Books, 1969).
He wrote, “Once the ovaries stop, the very essence of being a woman stops. The post-menopausal woman comes as close as she can to being a man. Or rather, not really a man but no longer a functioning woman.”
This kind of thing is laughable now, but it was very disturbing to me when I first read things like this – and it wasn’t just one doctor who said this, it was a universal perspective on older women.
That’s what women dealt with. A misogynistic piece of you-know-what. A man’s determination of what women in menopause are – completely infuriating and wrong. This is why these myths have to be thrown out. They are nonexistent and untrue. There are many crazy myths about going through menopause, but saying a woman was no longer a woman, is completely rejected today.
I knew I needed to do something and started reading and researching what current options might be to help with the physical symptoms – such as bloating, depression, hot flashes, and even with intimacy.
While on the ship, I didn’t exactly know at first where I was going with all the information I was gathering about menopause. All I knew was women were not speaking openly about it. It’s only been within the last two years that it’s become a hot topic that’s being taken seriously, and more openly.
Q: When you started researching solutions, what surprised you the most about the way menopause is portrayed and how did that influence your brand voice and product curation?
Brenda Braxton: Menopause has always been portrayed as this secretive woman’s issue. Menopause has been such a hushed situation. Women did not talk about it in the past. Sometimes they just suffered through it.
It’s nice to see everyone finally addressing it and getting rid of the myths. I remember my mother telling me that my great grandmother was hospitalized with symptoms that seemed to sound a lot like menopause. This made sense to me since women have been demonized on so many levels. Not to mention the myths were so crazy! But it took so long for menopause – simply a women’s health issue, of course -- to be taken seriously.
All I had to go on were my own symptoms, which were mild in comparison to other women. I began researching mine and what I could do to relieve them. As women talking, I interviewed my friends about their symptoms, and what they were trying and that led to finding other products to bring to Pause. Menopause is different for each woman and should be addressed for each individual. It’s in our hands and can be controlled in different ways.
Q: Pause by BBraxton offers a mix of wellness products, from teas and beauty items to more intimate solutions. How do you decide what makes the cut?
Brenda Braxton: Right now, Pause includes my self-curated selection of what I consider to be amazing self-care products to support women navigating midlife changes. I choose only products that are natural and hormone-free, including herbal teas, chocolates - yes, there are chocolates for menopausal moments! – beauty products, and other holistic and meditative remedies, along with information which some women may not have access to otherwise.
I found a few products that seemed to work for my symptoms and my first thought was it would be great to have them all in one place to sample and experience and try. So I first developed Pause as a monthly subscription box filled with a sampling of the latest products that would change every three months. That changed, because some products you need to take or try for at least three months – so now the Pause Giftbox is a quarterly subscription box, which enables women to comfortably have a full experience of my suggestions for Pause. You can also buy each product separately on my website.
I also go by word of mouth. Women are more open than ever to talk about their experience and what has worked for them. I listen to recommendations for what products my friends have found, so Pause products are sometimes found by word-of-mouth. I also choose products after a lot of research to find something relevant to a specific symptom I may be going through – that other women also might have.
I found all these teas available for menopause and hot flashes. Those are easy to take, and make you feel cozy.
I was already using a magnesium oil, and it gets messy, so I looked for another format and came up with a lotion. I had read that magnesium was very good for muscle cramps that usually accompany menopause and good at helping with sleep. A major issue for most menopausal women – your sleep pattern changes, it’s horrible.
Sometimes I didn’t get to sleep until 7a.m. – then I lay down again down and got up at 10 a.m., and felt refreshed as ever.
Many women feel their body is changing and still may not want to have sex. People think a vibrator, especially for a woman, is taboo. But if you can get a Pause box at home with your own personal vibrator, no one has to know! And it’s cute. I knew my Pause by BBraxton subscription box was special and allowed women to address their menopause concerns in the privacy of their own home.
Q: “We’re older, not dead.” That line really encapsulates the spirit of Pause. How do you hope to shift the cultural narrative around menopause?
Brenda Braxton: I have two quotes I like to use, that one and “Pause… Because Life Doesn’t Stop.” After speaking with so many women, I realized every woman’s menopause journey is different. While women are now more open about sharing their symptoms, there are a few of us who are managing a bit better and still find life enjoyable. It just takes patience and doing your homework.
I have actually found joy in the midst of menopause. I would like to remove the idea that this is a terrible part of your life. It can offer wonderful new options for women – you don’t have to worry about birth control, for one. And you won’t get your period. Think of all the time lost on those things and now you can spend it on discovering yourself.
Q: As a performer, you’re used to connecting with audiences. How has that skill translated into guiding women through menopause?
Brenda Braxton: I have been used to connecting with people as a performer for over 30 years. I’m a communicator. So transferring that skill has made it easy for me to share my story and encourage other women to share theirs. I have a great sense of humor, which helps in connecting with people. Sometimes, knowing other women are experiencing the same issues, makes it a bit easier to share. Just being seen, heard and acknowledged makes all the difference. Identifying my symptoms and learning how to accept them and move through them has allowed me to find and keep peace in my spirit. And that is what I try to help women discover, with the collection of Pause by BBraxton.
Q: You’ve mentioned this is your “Act 2.” What does that mean to you, personally, and how do you want women over 50 to embrace their own Act 2?
Brenda Braxton: My Act 2 means I have to once again “pivot” and continue living a full vibrant life, in and out of the theater. My entire life has been theater in its many forms. With Pause by BBraxton, it’s my opportunity to produce my own second act, and it appears to be growing. Women have a challenge as soon as they turn a certain age. Nowadays, no matter how good you look, a simple Google search tells the truth. When I turned 50, I had to ask myself, now what?
ACT 2...Now What? is about setting goals and reaching your dreams when you thought there was nothing left. Women of a seasoned age still have so much to dream of doing, and live for. Women over 50 navigating the many issues of menopause might have given up on their own dreams and goals to have a family and/or raise children. Some have had careers but now find they’re missing something. It’s a time to put yourself first without guilt!
Q: Pause is now moving into airport retail, a major milestone. What does it feel like to have your products stocked in such high-traffic spaces, and why do you think airports are the right fit?
Brenda Braxton: I’m sooo excited! This is just in the beginning phases, but the opportunity for growth is promising. I presented Pause by BBraxton to a consultant in the airline industry, and she led me on the road to become a certified vendor to sell in major airport shops. Then the TSA-approved my Pause Travel Cases for carry-on luggage. That means that the Small and the Large Pause Travel Cases are TSA-compliant with airline regulations. So you can cool down and relax with Pause products in the air or away from home! It means a larger audience is about to come on board for Pause.
Traveling can be stressful, especially for women who may be going through menopause or perimenopause. Menopause doesn’t go away when you go on a trip. A few items in the Travel Cases include a Cooling Cucumber Mist, self-heating eye mask, calming teas, rechargeable fan and even delicious herbal chocolate that has actual benefits in each bar!
Q: Let’s talk about community. How have celebrity fans and everyday women responded to Pause? What’s one piece of feedback that’s really stuck with you?
Brenda Braxton: The one universal feedback I get is “It’s about time!!”
I have an amazing community of celebrity friends and everyday women of a seasoned age. Pause by BBraxton has fans such as Fran Drescher, Lachanze, Jenifer Lewis, S. Epatha Merkerson, Tamsen Fadal (author, How to Menopause), and more. You can see them online “unboxing” – opening a Pause box and exploring all the goodies within. That was my first VIP Subscription box!
https://pausebybbraxton.com/join-our-community
Women are looking for natural solutions, that are hormone-free and may not be traditional medicine. And Pause by BBraxton is here to share a better way to embrace this new phase of life.
Q: What’s next for Pause by BBraxton? Any new launches, partnerships, or goals you’re especially excited about?
Brenda Braxton: At the end of June, I’m traveling to New Orleans as a certified vendor to the Annual Airport Business Conference to meet retailers, network, and do my thing for Pause! The goal is to sell-in Pause to spas, gift shops, and anywhere women may browse while in the airport.
I have a few new concepts in development. Over 50 million women in the U.S. are experiencing menopause, yet there are a lack of spaces dedicated to their unique needs. Social spaces often cater to younger demographics, leaving mature women without tailored environments.
I am developing a Pause Lounge concept for airports. Airports are high-stress environments. Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue are exacerbated by travel stress. Pause lounges could offer an oasis for relaxation, temperature-controlled comfort, hydration, aromatherapy, health consultations, curated products, and private rest zones.
Bonus Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give a woman entering perimenopause today who might be feeling lost or overwhelmed?
Brenda Braxton: Many women feel underserved, isolated, or stigmatized during this life transition. First, give yourself grace. Do what is needed to understand YOUR menopause journey to make it as comfortable as possible.
Next, knowledge is power. Visit our website pausebybbraxton.com
Research the best way to handle your specific symptoms. While I’ve heard heartbreaking stories, my journey has not been as challenging as most. Luckily, there are many products, and information, that can help.
Lastly, find your tribe! Women are becoming more and more open about their menopause experiences and are ready and willing to share.
My mission has always been to provide women with the tools they need to embrace life’s changes confidently and joyfully. This Pause doesn’t mean life stops – and I am proving it every day.
Brand Highlights
Brenda Braxton’s Pause by BBraxton is a pioneering brand dedicated to supporting women through menopause and perimenopause with natural, hormone-free self-care solutions. Born from Brenda's personal journey and a desire to dismantle outdated societal views on menopause, Pause offers a curated selection of products designed to address a range of symptoms. With a mission to empower women to embrace this new phase of life with confidence and joy, Pause by BBraxton is shifting the cultural narrative around menopause, proving that life doesn't stop – it simply pauses for a moment of self-discovery and renewed vibrancy. The brand is now expanding its reach to airport retail, making essential menopause relief accessible to traveling women.
Pause by BBraxton Product Showcase
Pause by BBraxton travel kits offer a curated selection of Brenda’s favorite self-care products for those menopausal moments away from home. Each kit includes products that are TSA-compliant, adhering to airline regulations for carry-on luggage regarding liquid restrictions, packaging requirements, and safety protocols. Rely on holistic and meditative finds, such as skin care, relaxing remedies, herbal teas targeting menopause symptoms, even chocolates...and toys! These are surprising gifts for women navigating midlife changes who cannot stop everything for a hot flash in the air or on the road!
Pause Large Travel Case: $65.00
Inside a blonde, waterproof zippered case, to fit into a carry-on bag, the collection includes:
Magnum Solace: Magnesium lotion with shea and aloe. Women may benefit from magnesium during menopause to help relax, which can uplift your mood. Shea and aloe help butter up for a soft skin sensation. Unscented. 4 fl. oz.
Lavender Face Cream: Calming lavender to put you in another realm. You can use it on your entire body! ½ oz., 15mil.
Calming Cucumber Mist Spray (Because life doesn’t stop for a hot flash!): Refresh and hydrate your skin with this delicate and lightweight cucumber scented spray. You’ll feel fresh, cool and revived. 3.4 oz/100 mil.
Rechargeable Personal Size Mini Fan: A must-have for your backpack, for the car, for you!
Personal Facecloth
Device wipe, Handwipe, surface wipe
Find it here: Pause Large Travel Case
Pause Small Travel Case, $40.00
Also inside the Pause zippered case with see-through window, includes:
Lavender Face Cream: Calming lavender to put you in another realm. You can use it on your entire body! ½ oz., 15mil.
Rechargeable personal size mini-fan
Calming Cucumber Mist Spray (Because life doesn’t stop for a hot flash!): Refresh and hydrate your skin with this delicate and lightweight cucumber scented spray. You’ll feel fresh, cool and revived. 3.4 oz/100 mil.
Take a Pause Calming Menopause Tea
Personal Face Cloth
Device wipe, Handwipe, surface wipe
Small lavender potpourri sachet
Find it here: Pause Small Travel Case
Pause Lavender Face Cream, $15.00
Calming lavender to put you in another realm. You can use it on your entire body! Lightweight and long-lasting, absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores. For daily use. ½ oz./15mil.
Find it here: Pause Lavender Face Cream
Pause Calming Cucumber Mist Spray, $20.00
Made for those sudden “private summer” moments. A cooling mist with the gentle scent of fresh cucumber, in a lightweight formula. Keep it in your bag or on your desk. 3.4 oz/100mil
Find it here: Pause Calming Cucumber Mist Spray
LIMITED EDITION -- Your Premier Pause by BBraxton Large VIP Gift Box, $220.00
New Products Come in Each Quarterly Subscription Box:
A grand collection of Pause finds from the unstoppable Brenda Braxton, who would not accept the doom and gloom-sayers of the peri-menopause and menopause chapter of a woman’s life. Instead, Brenda experienced her own joy in finding great options available to women navigating this part of their lives, to turn around the way the world of mothers, aunts and naysayers, looked at menopause. In this special collection, your favorite women will discover how to relax, indulge and luxuriate in this new part of our lives:
Find it here: Your Premier Pause by BBraxton Large VIP Gift Box
Small Quarterly Pause Box, $75.00
The perfect combination for women of a seasoned age. A quarterly subscription box that allows you to sample the newest products that help relieve menopause symptoms.
A Playful Toy – 10 powerful vibration modes
Cucumber Mist - for those private summer moments. A cooling mist with a gentle scent of fresh cucumber, 3.4 oz
Lavendar Face Cream with calming lavender to put you in another realm. ½ oz.
Modestmix Tea – Modestmix Tea isn’t just for laughs. Every blend is handcrafted using organic ingredients, sourced from Fair Trade farms worldwide.
Personal rechargeable fan – its compact design ensures cooling comfort anywhere, any time.
Potpourri – a calming lavender scented sachet
Aurora Eyes – a self-heating eye mask designed to help you sleep soundly and awake feeling refreshed for the dawn of a new day.
Find it here: Small Quarterly Pause Box
Don’t forget to follow Brenda Braxton on Instagram and join the community
