This Is Perimenopause: Women's Menopause Journey in Midlife where Suffering is Optional

We learned so much in Season 2 from so many incredible experts, here are just a few of the mic drop moments that every woman deserves to know:Giving your body what it needs to function optimally and lose weight with Gina Livy.You DO NOT need testing to be prescribed MHT with Dr. Jen Zelovitzky.Understanding the increased risks we all need to manage in perimenopause with Dr. Sarah Shaw.Skidding into menopause with Dr. Kirsten Smith, ND and what it takes to stop the skid.The clip we needed to hear 10 years ago: It’s not burnout, it’s perimenopause with Janet Ko, Co-founder of The Menopause Foundation of Canada.Perimenopause is not a synonym for suffering with ‘the’ Menopause Chick, Shirley Weir.Learn what a shame bomb is and how to diffuse it with Dr. Justine Corry.Thank you for listening and letting us be part of your journey.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulvas and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook Links for this episodeGina Livy InstagramThe Livy MethodDr. Jen Zelovitzsky InstagramMedcan Women’s HealthLume on InstagramLume Women + Health ClinicDr. Kirsten Smith, ND InstagramWork with Dr. Kirsten Smith, NDMenopause Foundation of Canada InstagramMenopause Foundation of Canada WebsiteShirley Weir InstagramMenopause Chicks WebsiteDr. Justine Corry InstagramDr. Justine Corry Website

 What Would Dr. Premji Do?Before menopause was having a moment, before celebrities were talking about it, before it was cool - Dr. Shafeena Premji was already deep in the trenches helping women navigate perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause.As one of Canada's earliest certified menopause practitioners (2015) and a board member of the Canadian Menopause Society, she's seen it all. Thousands of patients. Every symptom combination. Every misconception. Every treatment - success and failure. This isn't theoretical knowledge - this is a decade of real women, real problems, and real solutions.In This Episode The biggest misconceptions she's debunked after seeing thousands of patients How her approach has evolved from 2015 to now - and what she wishes she'd known earlierWhat your mother’s perimenopause and menopause experience might help you predictWhy "biology beats chronology" when it comes to hormone therapy decisionsHer personal strength training transformation and how it changed how she counsels patientsPlus, a sneak peak into the revolutionary women’s clinic she's buildingThis podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulva and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Shafeena Premji Dr. Shafeena Premji is a nationally recognized family physician and menopause care leader dedicated to advancing women's health through compassionate, evidence-based, and individualized care. With over a decade of experience, she has built an impactful career as the Founder and Medical Director of three women’s health–focused clinics, including her most recent one, "Milestone – Menopause Centre of Southern Alberta", a visionary center created to provide comprehensive, community-based menopause care rooted in validation, education, and empowerment.A Certified Menopause Society Practitioner since 2015 and a Board Member of the Canadian Menopause Society since 2020, Dr. Premji is committed to reshaping how menopause is understood, treated, and experienced in Canada. She also serves on the Medical Advisory Board of the Menopause Foundation of Canada, where she contributes to national advocacy, policy development, and public education.Links for this episodeMahogany Medical ClinicDr. Shafeena Premji on InstagramDr. Shafeena Premji on LinkedInCanadian Menopause Society

We refuse to play by rules written by an industry that sees dollar signs in our self-doubt. We're breaking up with the lie that our worth diminishes with each birthday candle, and we're here for the rebellion. In today's episode we're flipping the script on society's ridiculous beauty standards.Meet Andrea Claire, makeup artist and licensed hairstylist with 35+ years in the beauty industry. She's our beauty industry insider turned rebel, boldly declaring what we've all been thinking: the beauty "rules" for women over 40 are complete bullshit.Through her bold podcast "The F*ck You 50s," Andrea's dismantling the beauty myths that have kept us small, challenging society's bullshit beauty standards, and empowering women to age unapologetically.In This Episode Why beauty "rules" for women over 40 are designed to keep us insecure and spendingThe double standard that crowns men "distinguished" while women are "letting themselves go"How to trust your instincts and stop following beauty trends that don't serve youWhy anti-aging makeup is a scamThe one moisturizer she swears by for mature skinWhy most influencer beauty advice is "full of shit"Why she's sharing her age (54!) as an act of rebellionWhether you're rocking your gray hair, white-knuckling your youth, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you redefine what it means to age powerfully and beautifully - on YOUR terms.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulva and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookAndrea Claire BioAndrea Claire is a hair and makeup artist who has recently said FxCK this… being exhausted by the constant sexism and patriarchy drivel; the OMG - how are YOU in your 50s - you don’t look it! (because how the FxCK does one look in their 50s?!) - the pushing upstream against the ageism downstream while walking to and from set - uphill both ways in the snow… enough she says! Thus the birth of  her podcast The FxCK YOU 50s! Aside from getting a little feisty…  Andrea’s talent and hard work has presented her with opportunities to work in Toronto, L.A., Paris, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore and New York. Andrea has many years of experience both on-camera and behind the scenes in television. She has also co-starred on seven seasons of the makeover shows Canada’s Stylin’ Gypsies and So Chic and has led hair teams for Canadian Idol where she was featured on-air as the Idols’ hairstylist. She has also been seen on Asia's Next Top Model [cycle one] and Cash Cab Asia [celebrity episode]. Andrea has extensive advertising, beauty and editorial portfolios which include campaigns for L’Oreal Paris, Revlon, Lancôme, Neutrogena, Unilever, P & G and editorials in Solstice, Shape, Bazaar, ELLE, L’Officiel, Lucy’s, HUF, Beauty Archive and more.Her celebrity clients include Liv Lo Golding, Henry Golding, Romee Strijd, The Bond Quartet, Sarah Slean, Alanis Morissette, Bill Nighy, Jon Lovitz, Patrick J Adams, Russell Peters, Victoria Loke and Seal to name a few. Andrea’s drive for success and lively, easy-going nature is what makes her so popular among top clientele. Links for this episodeAndrea on InstagramAndrea on TiktokAndrea Claire BeautyThe Fxck You 50s PodcastFxck You 50s on Instagram

Ever wonder why you keep repeating the same relationship patterns? Why you apologize for everything, even when it's not your fault? Or why you logically understand what needs to change but emotionally can't get there?Dr. Justine Corry, trauma-informed relationship coach and former clinical psychologist, explains why this happens - and how to break free from these patterns for good.In this powerful conversation, Dr. Corry introduces schema therapy, a game-changing approach that looks at patterns rather than symptoms. She explains how childhood experiences create mental frameworks (schemas) that influence how we show up in relationships, and why perimenopause triggers these patterns in overwhelming ways.Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.In this episodeWhat schema therapy is and why understanding patterns is more powerful than managing symptomsThe six common schemas plaguing high-achieving women: abandonment, emotional deprivation, defectiveness, self-sacrifice, subjugation, and unrelenting standardsWhy perimenopause acts as a schema trigger, making it harder to power through life while ignoring your needsHow to recognize when you're having a "schema trigger" vs. a rational responseWhy self-trust and self-respect are the best antidepressants you've never triedThe difference between being "self-led" vs. constantly seeking external validationHow long real pattern change takes (spoiler: it's not quick, but it's worth it)Practical tools like the SIFT exercise to understand your emotional responses in real timeThere's always a "why" behind your emotions, even when you can't see it. Let Dr. Corry help you uncover yours.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulvas and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Justine CorryDr. Justine Corry is a trauma-informed relationship coach and former clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience guiding women through deep emotional healing. Her superpower? Helping high-achieving, deeply giving women break the patterns that keep them small, silent, and stuck in relationships that no longer fit. Through a powerful blend of schema therapy, nervous system wisdom, and sharp emotional insight, Dr. Corry helps women rebuild self-trust, reclaim their voice, and step into lives where they no longer have to shrink to belong.Her signature 5-step Relationship Reinvention Method guides women to understand their self-sabotaging patterns, prioritise their emotional needs, and create relationships that feel balanced, respectful, and real. What sets Justine apart is her ability to help smart, self-aware women who’ve already done the work bridge the gap between knowing what’s wrong and finally doing something different. Whether they’re navigating the aftermath of divorce or separation or leading in business and life while secretly battling patterns like over-functioning, perfectionism, and people-pleasing, Justine helps women unravel the emotional blueprints that kept them stuck, so they can thrive in love, leadership, and self-trust from the inside out.Dr. Corry’s Signature Program: Your Relationship Reinvention is a 6-month group experience for women navigating life after divorce, separation, or a significant breakup. It’s designed to help you break the patterns that no longer serve you (like people-pleasing, poor boundaries, and over-functioning) so you can rebuild self-trust and create a life that feels grounded, honest, and fully yours. Because the version of you that was in that relationship isn’t the one who’s going to create what comes next, and this next chapter can be your best one yet. Links for this episodeDr. Justine CorryYour Relationship ReinventionInner Success Leadership CoachingDr. Justine Corry on InstagramDr. Justine Corry’s BlogsResource Dr. Corry mentioned in episode: Reinventing Your Life: the bestselling breakthrough program to end negative behaviour and feel great

The OG menopause trailblazer is back on The TIP Podcast to share what she’s been up to. And she’s been busy. In the last year Shirley Weir has launched a new platform called The Nest, a soft place for Menopause Chicks to land and her Facebook group hit 59,0000 members. Shirley worked with the Women’s Health Research Network in BC to support the HER-BC study, investigating the health experiences of midlife women and the impacts of menopause. She created Speak Menopause, to help us focus on the agency we each have when it comes to decisions about our own health. And never one to rest on her laurels, on her birthday she crafted a list of the 58 things she wants to see change in women’s health in the next 42 years, before she turns 100. Today she’s giving us a sneak peek and inspiring us to help make her list a reality.In This Episode Less than 7% of all health research dollars are allocated to women’s research, and that number has not changed in 13 yearsWhy our medical providers need at least as much information, direction, and input as we provide to our hairdressersWhy Shirley is done with the pervasive gatekeeping in women’s healthWhy we all need to take recurring UTIs more seriously, andThe alarming numbers involved in Pad Math: incontinence pads are meant to be temporary, not a solution.We all deserve to feel amazing. Thank you, Shirley, for your dedication to helping us figure out how to make that happen.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookShirley Weir BioShirley Weir is a women's health advocate, author, and the founder of MenopauseChicks.com. With over a decade of experience in menopause education, Shirley has become a trusted voice in the field, empowering women to take charge of their midlife health journey.Launched in 2012, MenopauseChicks.com has grown into a thriving online community with over 300,000 members, providing evidence-based information and support for women navigating perimenopause and beyond. Shirley's work addresses critical gaps in women's health education, particularly in areas like vaginal health, where her research shows 77% of women have questions but struggle to find reliable answers.A three-time author and TEDx speaker, Shirley has been featured in various media outlets and has even tweeted for Oprah. She hosts a popular podcast and regularly speaks at conferences and corporate events, advocating for menopause-inclusive workplaces.Shirley's mission extends beyond education to developing thoroughly-researched products that address common menopausal concerns. Her ultimate goal? To ensure that every woman has the resources and support to feel amazing during this transformative life stage.Links for this episodeMenopause Chicks WebsiteShirley Weir on InstagramShirley Weir on FacebookThe HER-BC Report

Sex used to be fun. Now it's either painful, non-existent, or something you do because you feel like you should. Your body doesn't feel like yours anymore, and you're honestly starting to wonder if this is just what happens when you hit midlife.Dr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich hears this exact story all the time in her Toronto practice. She's a clinical psychologist who specializes in sex and couples therapy, and women show up to her office feeling broken, ashamed, and pretty convinced that their sexual life is basically over. But after years of working with women going through perimenopause and menopause, she's got a totally different take on things.Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.In This Episode Why most women experience decreased libido during menopause (and why that's totally normal)How hormones, stress, and body changes create the perfect storm for sexual challengesThe psychosocial approach to understanding your sexual health - it's not just physical!Why "good enough sex" might be exactly what you need right nowThe biggest sexual myths that are sabotaging your intimacy Treatment options beyond just "use more lube" - from pelvic floor therapy to hormone therapyHow to navigate mismatched libidos without destroying your relationshipPlus, Dr. Arielle gives us the inside scoop on:Anna & Solomon - Toronto's first comprehensive sexual health clinic Why multidisciplinary care is the future of sexual wellnessThe changes you're experiencing? They're real, but they don't have to be permanent. And the solutions are way more comprehensive than most people realize.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulvas and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich Dr. Arielle Buch-Frohlich is a Clinical Psychologist licensed with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and Quebec. She studied psychology in Montreal, where she completed a doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D) from the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). Additionally, she completed clinical training at the Sex and Couple Therapy Service at the Allen Memorial Institute.She is the Founder Clinical Director of Anna & Salomon: Sex and Couples Health, a comprehensive care clinic for individuals and couples navigating the complexities of sexual and relational health.In her practice, she provides inclusive Sex and Couples Therapy using a combination of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She offers specialized services to address communication challenges, infidelity, and transitions into parenthood, from fertility to perinatal and postpartum care. Additionally, she offers dedicated support for those experiencing intimacy-related challenges during or after oncology treatments. She strives to foster connection, healing, and resilience for every stage of life.Her virtual practice services clients located across Ontario and Quebec, including Toronto (GTA), Montreal and Ottawa. Therapy can be provided in English and in French.  Links for this episodeDr. Arielle Buch-FrohlichAnna & Salomon: Sex and Couples HealthDr. Arielle on Instagram

Today’s question for Dr. Sarah Shaw is:Are there other reasons to take hormone therapy besides the approved list?In this episode, you'll discover:Hormone therapy is not a panacea and requires a nuanced approachThe appropriate off-label uses for hormone therapyWhat is the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of MenopauseThe importance of HT when menopause happens before the age of 40Lume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Episode LinksDr. Sarah Shaw BioLume Women + HealthConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.**Correction**  Dr. Jen mentions a breast cancer risk of 8/1,000 in this episode; she meant 8/10,000. "Vaginal estrogen should just be over the counter at this point," says Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky. This is just one of the many facts she shares that'll change how you think about menopause care. As the clinical director of women's health at MedCan Toronto, Dr. Jen isn't just pushing back against outdated medical beliefs—she's showing us how women are suffering needlessly because doctors are treating menopause based on fear instead of facts.With incredible clarity and genuine compassion, Dr. Jen connects the dots between your hot flashes, middle-of-the-night wake-ups, and anxiety attacks, giving you the evidence-based insights to get better care from a medical system that has let women down. "Hormone therapy is held to a higher standard than literally any other treatment out there," she points out, and her breakdown of the double standards will leave you nodding along and ready to take action.In This Episode Why most doctors miss perimenopause symptoms and how to get them to listenThe truth about hormone therapy safety that wasn't covered in your doctor's half-day of menopause trainingHow micronized progesterone is different from the progestins used in the WHI studyWhy guidelines are called "guidelines" not "rules," and why this matters for your careThe truth about vaginal estrogen safety and why warning labels are misleadingThe connection between estrogen and serotonin that explains your shifting mental healthHow to stand your ground when your family doctor tries to take you off hormone therapy that's workingWhat makes the MedCan six-month program different from standard menopause careA preview of Dr. Jen's new educational course that puts expert knowledge within everyone's reachWhether you're just starting to notice changes or you've achieved menopause, Dr. Jen's holistic approach and straight-talk will help you advocate for the care you deserve. Because as she puts it, "Menopause is inevitable, but suffering is completely optional."This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulva and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover nextSign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Jennifer ZelovitzkyDr. Jennifer Zelovitzky is a certified Menopause Specialist and the Clinical Director of Women’s Health at Medcan Toronto. She is helping women better understand their bodies and advocate for their needs in the Canadian Healthcare system.  She is also the mom of 2 amazing daughters and 3 fur babies. Links for this episodeJennifer Zelovitzky InstagramMedcan Women’s HealthProfessor Susan Davis  InstagramSinai Health Menopause ClinicBetter with Bria

Today’s question for Dr. Amy Louis Bayliss is: I have heard about testosterone replacement for women. What is it for?In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:The truth about testosterone researchTestosterone's role in libidoWhy female desire is complexCurrent prescription optionsKey safety considerationsThe need for more research Lume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Episode LinksDr. Amy Louis-BaylissLume Women + HealthConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. Today we’re talking about something we all do but rarely discuss: pooping. In this episode, pelvic floor physiotherapist Aliya Dhalla helps us unclench and get real about bowel health.From constipation confessions to hemorrhoid horror stories, we're flushing away the taboos and getting down to business. Got insufferable hemorrhoids? Are you a twice-a-day pooper, or someone who struggles to go more than once a week? Or are you just wondering if your pooping habits are normal. This episode has all the bowel health insights you need. In this episode:The ideal pooping frequency How to establish a morning poop routine that worksWhy your poop should resemble a "ripe banana" in consistencyWhat a squatty potty is and why everyone needs oneThe truth about hemorrhoids, and how to manage flare-ups and reduce discomfortThe connection between constipation and bladder leaksWhy you should pay attention to your pelvic floor healthEven a breathing technique to help you poopSo, stop holding it in and join us for a conversation about bathroom anxiety, hemorrhoids, squatty potties, and optimizing your output. Because everybody poops. And with Aliya's practical advice, you'll learn how to work with your body's natural rhythms for smoother, more satisfying bathroom visits.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulva and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookAliya Dhalla (B.Sc, MPT) BioAliya Dhalla (B.Sc, MPT) is a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist and the host of The Not Your Mother's Pelvic Floor Podcast. She has a clinical practice in Toronto, Canada and spends her non-clinical time educating women, both on and offline, about the changes that occur in their bodies throughout their lifetimes. From puberty, pregnancy, postpartum + perimenopause, Aliya loves talking about the things we don't talk about, but should - like our sexual, bowel, bladder, and reproductive health. You can learn from her on Instagram @boxwellnessco, through her podcast, at community events, or through her online courses + programs.When not changing the face of women’s health one pelvic floor at a time, you can find her lifting heavy things in the gym, running, cooking up her favourite high-protein + high-fibre recipes, reading a book, building LEGO with her son, or eating popcorn. Links for this episodeAliya on InstagramNot Your Mother’s Pelvic Floor PodcastBox Wellness CoBox Wellness Online Courses

Today’s question for Dr. Woganee Filate from one of our listeners is, why can't I sleep anymore? Why don't I sleep through the night? Why am I waking at 3 a.m. all the time?In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:The variety of symptomsTracking and rating symptomsMQ6 ToolMenopause Foundation of Canada symptom trackerHave a goal for your appointment with your medical providerLume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Episode LinksDr Woganee Filate BioLume Women + Health Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. "It's not just about HRT or not...it's about realizing that the landscape has changed, and the playbook has changed. Full stop." Powerful words from Dr. Kirsten Smith set the stage for an enlightening conversation about what women really need during the menopause transition. Drawing on her extensive 15+ years of experience as a naturopathic doctor specializing in women's hormonal health, Dr. Smith challenges the simplistic narratives around hormone therapy and offers insights you likely won't hear in a standard medical appointment.In This Episode: The true role of hormone therapy—valuable but just one tool in your health toolkit The shocking connection between hormonal changes and mental health, including increased suicide risk in women aged 45-55 Why conventional antidepressants might fail during perimenopause The art and science of hormone dosing, and why your perfect dose might be completely different from your friend's Red flags that your hormone dose might need adjustment The critical gaps in medical training around women's health How to find healthcare providers who understand the complexities of menopause Practical strategies for building a complete approach to lasting health during menopause and beyondDr. Smith expands the conversation beyond hormones to address the complete picture of women's health during this transition, acknowledging that midlife health "does require more work.” But she also offers the reassurance that perfection isn't required—just consistent attention to the foundations of health. Whether you're currently on hormone therapy, considering it, or seeking alternatives, this conversation provides important information to help you advocate for yourself and make informed decisions about your health.This podcast is brought to you by IRIS. Daily care products made with clean ingredients for hydrated vulva and vaginas. Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com. Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Kirsten Smith, ND | MSCP (cand.) | Visionary Women’s Health Expert | Integrative Hormone SpecialistFor over 16 years, Dr. Kirsten Smith has redefined care for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, blending cutting-edge evidence-informed science with the wisdom of naturopathic medicine. Her pioneering work bridges the gap between conventional diagnostics and holistic healing, offering women a third path - one where bioidentical hormones (HRT), targeted nutrition, and evidence-backed botanicals work in harmony to restore vitality.Based between Ontario’s forests and Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Dr. Smith aims for the balance she teaches: mornings analyzing menopause research and doing patient consults, afternoons surfing with her son. This synergy of science and nature fuels her mission to reclaim midlife as a launchpad for women - not an expiration date. Dr. Smith's mission goes beyond treating patients; her legacy is cultivating a movement where women approach menopause with knowledge and agency, not fear. By mentoring practitioners and advocating for systemic change, she hopes future generations will inherit a healthcare model that honours hormonal transitions as important times in a woman's life that deserve, research, training and care. ️Links for this episodeWork with Dr. Kirsten SmithDr. Kirsten Smith on Instagram

Today’s question for Dr. Sarah Shaw is:What are the Health Canada approved indications for hormone therapy?In this episode, you'll discover:The approved indications for hormone therapy in Canada are limited to three main areasOff-label prescribing allows for hormone therapy use beyond approved indicationsYellow light indications where hormone therapy may be beneficialThe timing of hormone therapy initiation is crucial for maximizing benefitsLume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Have a question? Send us a message at hello@thisisperimenopause.com and we’ll get you an answer.Episode LinksDr. Sarah Shaw BioLume Women + HealthMQ6 ToolMenopause Foundation of Canada symptom trackerConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. Imagine a menopause practitioner who says hormone change can actually be fun. Meet Dr. Kara Dionisio, a naturopathic doctor who describes her work as "helping hormone change not suck."In this candid and refreshing conversation, Dr. Kara unpacks what she calls "the art of clinical practice" – where medical guidelines meet real women's lives. With humor and depth, Dr. Kara explains why your perimenopause experience deserves personalized care rather than one-size-fits-all solutions, and offers practical strategies you can implement right away.In This Episode: Why most healthcare providers receive little to no training in menopause careThe importance of finding a Menopause Society certified practitioner (MSCP)How to build your own "menopause support team" beyond just your doctorThe art of clinical practice: merging evidence, clinical judgment, and patient valuesThe truth about hormone therapy for mood and cardiovascular healthWhy consistency beats perfection when it comes to perimenopause health habitsHow to take agency over your health while navigating this transitionWhether you're just noticing the first signs of change or deep in the hormone hurricane, this episode reminds us that while perimenopause can be challenging, it's also an opportunity to reclaim your health and reimagine your future.Because as Dr. Kara emphasizes, "Suffering is not an option."Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr Kara Dionysio BioDr. Kara Dionisio, ND, MSCP, is a Naturopathic Doctor and menopause nerd who brings evidence-based care, strategic education, and fierce advocacy to midlife health. Menopause is her magic—and she believes midlife is a time to rise.As founder of Dr. Kara & Associates in Owen Sound, Ontario, Kara has supported thousands through the menopause transition with personalized, evidence-informed care—continually redefining the art of comprehensive support (no one-trick ponies here), where each woman gains the agency to be the author of her own menopause story.A trailblazer in her field, Kara holds a BSc and MSc in Nutrition & Metabolism, and was among the first Naturopathic Doctors in North America to earn the Menopause Society Certified Practitioner designation, inspiring many to follow. She teaches clinical menopause education in academic and professional settings and leads the Confident Clinician Menopause Fellowship, now in its third year.She lives in Owen Sound with her two feisty kids, a red-bearded Irish dude, and a beagle with main-character energy. Kara believes thriving midlife women can (and should) rule the world—and she’s here for it. Links for this episodeDr Kara Dionisio PracticeDr Kara’s Geeky BioFollow Dr Kara on InstagramThe Menopause Society - Find a Healthcare Practitioner 

Today’s question for Dr. Amy Louis Bayliss is:Which supplements are best for me to prioritize and for what?In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:Supplement safety considerationsDr Amy Louis-Bayliss’ recommended supplements:Vitamin D Iron Calcium CreatineMagnesium B12Lume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Episode LinksDr. Amy Louis-BaylissLume Women + HealthMQ6 ToolMenopause Foundation of Canada symptom trackerConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. Is perimenopause threatening to derail your career just when you're hitting your stride? Time to flip that script. Today's guests, Lauren Glazer and Salima Valji, are executive coaches who discovered a troubling pattern: successful women at their career peak were being derailed by perimenopause and menopause symptoms, often suffering in silence and leaving the workforce as a result of their symptoms. Their response? Creating M Power, a revolutionary platform helping women thrive through "the change" while staying at the top of their game.Whether you're navigating hot flashes during presentations or dealing with brain fog in the boardroom, their insights will help you reclaim your confidence and power.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to maintain your executive presence while managing symptomsWhy silence is NOT the best strategy (and what to do instead)The "FLIP" method for having difficult conversations at workTools for advocating for yourself and others in the workplaceThe four-phase approach to becoming "uninterrupted" in your careerPlus, Lauren and Salima share their vision for creating menopause-friendly workplaces and why this life stage can actually be a period of renewed energy and growth.Links for this episodeMPower Resource GuideMenopositivity KeynoteMPower Coaching ProgramMPower for Businesses Connect with them on Social MediaFacebook GroupLauren Glazer LinkedInSalima Valji LinkedInConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookLauren Glazer Bio Lauren Glazer is a leadership coach who helps emerging and experienced leaders become even more thoughtful, intentional and resilient—prepared to take on new roles and business challenges, capable of deftly navigating uncharted waters and poised to guide and empower their own people to do the same. Leveraging over two decades of experience in team and brand building, she helps individuals, teams and organizations with a multidisciplinary perspective, deep sensitivity and voracious curiosity. Having experienced surgical menopause in her mid-40s, Lauren has firsthand knowledge of this roller coaster journey. She created MPower to help women take charge of “the change” so they can continue to share their considerable skills and expertise while experiencing fulfillment and joy.Salima Valji BioSalima Valji is an internationally sought-after speaker, thought- leader and certified executive coach on leadership topics related to advancing women and people of color. Salima was recently awarded the 2023 recipient of The World of Difference award by The International Alliance for Women (TIAW) recognizing her impact to women’s economic empowerment. Additional awards include Top 100 Speakers 2023 by Women in Tech, and Global Women Power Leaders 2024 by White Page International. Salima experienced menopause unexpectedly and realized there was a serious gap in resources and community support for executives navigating this life phase. She created MPower to fill that void, empowering leaders to thrive through menopause and beyond.

Today’s question for Dr. Woganee Filate is: Is there a way to manage weight gain related to menopause?In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:Why menopausal weight gain occursHow protein can helpSleep's impact on weightThe impact of diabetes or insulin sensitivityExercise essentialsThe truth about HRT and weightFiber's important roleLume Women + Health will be opening soon! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Episode LinksDr Woganee Filate BioLume Women + HealthMQ6 ToolMenopause Foundation of Canada symptom trackerConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. This episode was recorded as part of Podcasthon 2025, a global initiative raising awareness for charities worldwide and inspiring millions of listeners to care, act, and make a difference.For our contribution, we are dedicating this episode to The Menopause Foundation of Canada and are grateful to its President and Co-Founder, Janet Ko for sharing her story with us.Like many women, Janet Ko was blindsided by perimenopause. Despite assurances from multiple medical professionals that she was quite healthy, she felt quite ill. So much so that her unmanaged symptoms negatively impacted her career trajectory and her quality of life. The injustice of this all-too-common experience is what prompted Janet to co-found The Menopause Foundation of Canada, sparking a national conversation and leading the charge with research and facts that society can no longer afford to ignore.In This Episode:Women should not accept poor health during menopause.Menopause should be viewed as a health transition, not just an end to reproductive life.Awareness and education about menopause are crucial for women and healthcare providers.Creating menopause-inclusive workplaces can help retain talented women.Access to menopause care is a human right, and yet women are still struggling with menopause.Learn more about the Menopause Foundation of Canada:Website InstagramFacebookLinkedInJoin the movement and help to make a difference in improving the menopause journey for generations of women!Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookJanet Ko BioJanet Ko is the President and Co-Founder of the Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of menopause and its impact on women and society. A passionate advocate for women’s health, she is committed to closing the menopause knowledge gap and improving access to care and treatment.Janet is on a mission to redefine menopause-shifting the narrative from stigma to renewal, strength, and wisdom. She sees menopause as a crucial health transition that demands better support from the medical community, government, workplaces and society. Like many women, she was unprepared for menopause and knows firsthand how unmanaged symptoms can hold women back. Determined to drive change, she cofounded the Menopause Foundation of Canada, launching landmark research and advocacy campaigns that ignited a national conversation and spurred meaningful action.An award-winning leader in strategic communications, Janet has spearheaded innovative thought leadership initiatives on ageism, intergenerational learning, and menopause in the workplace. She has held senior executive roles across diverse health-related sectors, bringing a depth of expertise to her advocacy. A compelling speaker and champion for change, she was recognized as one of the Top 25 Women of Influence in 2023 for her impact and leadership.

Today’s question for Dr. Sarah Shaw is:A family member had breast cancer. Can I take hormone therapy?In this episode, you'll discover:Hormone therapy is still an option if a family member had breast cancerConsiderations like genetic counselling and screeningIt’s recommended to have an annual mammogram starting at age 40There are more and more options available to treat symptomsHaving risk/benefit discussions with your doctor about the available options is importantLume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.Every week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.Have a question? Send us a message at hello@thisisperimenopause.com and we’ll get you an answer.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey. In this conversation, Angela Johnson, CEO and co-founder of sanoLiving, shares how her menopausal journey prompted her to come out of retirement to create a comprehensive menopause care platform. She discusses the importance of holistic care, the role of health coaches, and the integration of AI in providing accessible support for women navigating perimenopause and beyond.And while Sano, the company's AI powered chat tool and their recently announced partnership with Oura ring highlight the role of technology in improving women’s health, Angela emphasizes that the sanoMidLife offering is not just digital. There’s also a large component of care that needs to be in person, which is facilitated by their coaches. A true one-stop place for everything a woman needs for a successful second chapter of life. We talk about menopause inclusive workplaces and the unintended consequences of providing workplace accommodations without access to menopausal care. And why every company should adapt their employee benefits packages to provide the unique healthcare support that women need.Angela also shares that sanoLiving is working on a tool to help all clinicians provide better menopausal care. The discussion also touches on empowering young women with knowledge about their bodies, and the importance of trusting one's instincts during perimenopause.In This EpisodesanoMidLife - the menopause solution where women are fully supportedHow a sanoMidLife coach enables holistic, evidenced-based careCelebrating longevity instead of dreading menopauseIntroducing Sano - the free AI tool that’s like having a conversation with a real personHow workplace accommodations without solutions can backfireThe importance of proactive healthcare in menopause managementWomen often face higher health claims due to lack of supportHow supporting women in the workplace can reduce turnover and improve moraleWomen deserve better education about their bodies from an early ageConnect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseGet our free guide, 10 Step for Better Menopause CareEmail us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.Sign up for our weekly newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookAngela Johnson BioAngela Johnson is the CEO and Co-Founder of sanoLiving, Canada’s first comprehensive women's midlife health platform, available nationwide in French and English, designed to bridge the long-overlooked gaps in women’s healthcare. sanoLiving doesn’t just empower women; it helps them access their inpower—their inner strength—to navigate midlife transitions and focus on their whole selves—body, mind, and soul. Angela’s own journey, shaped by her personal experience with perimenopausal and post-menopausal symptoms, has fueled her mission to revolutionize women’s health. Links for this episodesanoLivingsanoMidLifeChat with SanoDISCOUNT CODE: Want to try sanoMidLife? Use code THISISPERI10 for 10% off at sanomidlife.com/join/