Meet Claire Coder, Founder and CEO of Aunt Flow | September 2023 Equity Connection

Tell us about your organization.   

After getting my period at an event without the supplies I needed, I thought to myself, “Toilet paper is offered for free, why aren’t tampons and pads?” At that moment, bloody underwear and all, I knew that I wanted to dedicate my life to ensuring everyone has access to period products. Now, thousands of organizations have joined the menstrual movement with Aunt Flow, providing free-vend dispensers stocked with tampons and pads made from organic cotton in locations like Princeton University, Google, Netflix, and more! For every 10 tampons and pads purchased, we happily donate 1 to a menstruator in need. We call this people helping people. PERIOD.^Ⓡ

How does your business contribute to equity and inclusion in the business community?  

While most public restrooms offer complimentary paper towels, soap, and toilet paper, they usually write off other basic amenities like tampons or pads and baby-changing tables as luxury items. But having access to period products or a place to change a diaper isn’t a luxury – it’s a NECESSITY. Another necessity? Period inclusivity. At Aunt Flow, we refer to “feminine hygiene products” as “menstrual products” to be inclusive to all menstruators regardless of gender. The only way to make meaningful change is to include everyone in the conversation.  

What’s the most common challenge in this space?  

Industry: One of the challenges we face in our industry is the stigma around periods. While times are absolutely changing, we still find ourselves up against a very traditional notion that periods shouldn’t be discussed in public. In order to normalize the topic of menstruation, we have to TALK about it! The more people have access to quality menstrual health education and period products, the more we can work towards ending the period taboo. I’m extremely passionate about this because periods are not something to be ashamed of, and having access to high-quality period products shouldn’t be something we have to fight for. But that’s exactly why Aunt Flow exists — to change the world, one CYCLE at a time. 

What advice do you have for women who own businesses?  

Be risky, because it’s often where the magic happens. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the risks I’ve taken. Aunt Flow itself was a massive risk. Each product launch has been risky. I’ve truly gone all in,  and I’m cheering on all the other female founders out there to be risk-takers as well. 

Sherrice Thomas 
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Access
SherriceThomas@columbus.org