Meet Carleeka Basnight-Menendez

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carleeka Basnight-Menendez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carleeka, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I want my legacy to be that I was a woman who showed up boldly, authentically, and unapologetically—especially in spaces where silence and shame tried to take center stage. I want people to remember that I was a voice for women navigating menopause, not just as a biological transition, but as a life shift that deserves awareness, compassion, and conversation—especially in the workplace.

I want to be remembered as someone who gave women permission to be real, to prioritize their wellness, and to walk fully in their God-given purpose—even in the middle of hot flashes, mood swings, or uncertainty.

If people say, “Because of Carleeka, I didn’t give up on myself,” or “She made me feel seen and powerful during one of the hardest seasons of my life,”—that’s the legacy I want to leave.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is rooted in empowering women— to stop suffering in silence and start living boldly during menopause and beyond. Through INSO Inc. (Inside-Out), I lead workshops, speak on global platforms, and develop tools and training that bridge the gap between menopause, workplace wellness, and faith.

What sets me apart is that I don’t just talk about menopause—I live it out loud. I blend science, faith, and real-life experience to create a safe space for women to feel seen, heard, and valued. I bring the conversations that many avoid into boardrooms, churches, and communities—with humor, honesty, and a no-nonsense approach.

I’m most proud of turning what once felt like a lonely, confusing experience into a mission-driven movement. The fact that women now stop me and say, “Because of you, I spoke up at work” or “I finally feel like I’m not crazy”—that’s what fuels me.

But this journey wasn’t easy.

I had to navigate my own menopause journey alone. I dealt with being dismissed, overlooked, and even misunderstood in both personal and professional spaces. There were moments I wanted to shrink back. But instead, I turned pain into purpose. I prayed. I persisted. And I kept showing up—even when it was uncomfortable.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned?

Your voice has power—use it.

There’s purpose in the pause.

And you don’t have to wait for permission to walk in your calling.

What I want the world to know is this: I’m not just building a brand—I’m building a legacy.
One where women feel confident, informed, and free to show up as their full selves in every room they walk into.

INSO Inc. is more than an organization—it’s a movement. And we’re just getting started.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, we’d be doing it big—a full Southern experience with soul, sunshine, and a little sparkle! I’d take my best friend on a week-long adventure between Jacksonville, Florida and Savannah, Georgia, two places that have great vibes.

Day 1–3: Jacksonville, FL
We’d kick off in Jacksonville with a relaxed beach day at Atlantic Beach or Neptune Beach—just soaking up sun, sipping something refreshing, and having some real girlfriend talk.

For food? Oh, we’re hitting: The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro – because nothing says welcome like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread.

Black Sheep Restaurant in Five Points for upscale Southern eats and a rooftop view.

Sweet Pete’s for a sugar rush and to explore their fun candy-making experience.

In the evenings, we’d explore downtown—live music at Breezy Jazz House or grab some mocktails and chill vibes at Blue Jay Listening Room, a classy speakeasy.

And of course, we’d carve out time for spa self-care—probably at One Ocean Resort & Spa to unwind and prepare for the second half of the trip!

Day 4–7: Savannah, GA
Then we’d roll on up to Savannah—one of the most charming and soulful cities in the South.

We’d take a slow walk through Forsyth Park, snap some pics under the Spanish moss, and do a historic trolley tour (with lots of laughs and storytelling along the way).

You already know we’re eating GOOD:

The Grey – elevated Southern cuisine in a restored Greyhound station.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room – a must for family-style traditional Southern food (get there early!).

Leopold’s Ice Cream – because it’s iconic, and we deserve it.

We’d hit up River Street for some local shopping, live music, and scenic views. And if we’re feeling a little spooky (and brave), a Savannah ghost tour at night is always a memorable time!

What I love most about both cities is the energy—the mix of tradition, resilience, and creative expression. You meet people from all walks of life, and there’s a story around every corner. Whether it’s through food, art, history, or just the beauty of being still near the water—Jacksonville and Savannah have a way of feeding your soul.

And with the right people around? It’s a whole experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be where I am today without my family and close friends—those who pray for me, push me, and pour into me even when I can’t always see the vision clearly myself. They’ve stood beside me through the transitions, the tears, the tough decisions, and the triumphs.

My shoutout is dedicated to that circle—the ones who see me beyond the titles and platforms, who hold me accountable to the calling on my life, and who never let me forget that what I do matters. Their prayers have covered me. Their encouragement has fueled me. And their love reminds me that I never walk alone.

This journey is personal, but it’s also deeply communal. I’m grateful for every soul that has spoken life into mine.

Website: https://www.insoinc.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carleeka.basnightmenendez

Linkedin: https://bit.ly/carleekaLN

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carleeka.basnightmenendez

Youtube: bit,ly/Youtubeckbm