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ABOUT THE EPISODE
If you have been feeling "off" in your late 30s, 40s, or 50s and you cannot quite explain it, I can't wait for you to here this conversation.
In this episode, I'm joined by Michelle White, a nutritional therapy practitioner and host of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, for a clear and compassionate breakdown of what perimenopause actually is, why so many women (and doctors) miss it, and how to stop ignoring yourself when your body is waving red flags.
What is perimenopause? Michelle explains the hormonal shifts that drive the symptoms so many women are experiencing, including why progesterone often declines first, why estrogen can feel like a rollercoaster, and how stress and cortisol can amplify everything from mood to sleep to cravings. We also talk about why "normal labs" do not always match how you feel, and why symptom tracking and the right support matter.
One of the most helpful parts of this episode is Michelle's framework of the four stages of perimenopause. Instead of thinking of it as one long miserable stretch, you will start to recognize patterns and understand why your experience may feel cyclical, inconsistent, and unpredictable.
We also get into the lesser-known symptoms that can blindside women, like joint pain, frozen shoulder, histamine reactions, heart palpitations, itchy skin or ears, burning tongue, and even changes in pelvic floor health. If you have ever said, "I used to tolerate this just fine, what is happening to me?" you are going to feel very seen.
Finally, we talk about what actually helps. Michelle shares simple, actionable strategies to support blood sugar stability, reduce cortisol overload, and regulate your nervous system without requiring you to overhaul your life overnight. This is the season to shift the goal from "being skinny" to being strong, steady, and well, for the decades ahead.
In this episode, we cover:
What perimenopause is (and why menopause is technically one day)
Why symptoms can be real even when labs look "normal"
The four stages of perimenopause and what they can feel like
The surprising symptoms women are not warned about
How cortisol, sleep, and blood sugar connect to cravings and mood
Why the "old rulebook" for dieting and exercise stops working in midlife
Nervous system regulation ideas that are realistic for busy women
A powerful mindset shift: listen to your body and build your future strong self
About Michelle
Michelle White is a Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and the host of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, where she helps women—especially those navigating perimenopause and menopause—understand what's happening in their bodies and how to support hormonal balance, energy, and long-term health.
Michelle specializes in a whole-body, root-cause approach to wellness, with a strong focus on blood sugar regulation, nervous system support, gut health, and sustainable lifestyle shifts for midlife women. Her work centers on helping women stop blaming themselves for symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes—and instead feel informed, empowered, and supported through this transition.
Through her podcast, one-on-one client work, and educational content, Michelle is passionate about normalizing conversations around perimenopause and giving women practical tools to feel better in their bodies at every stage of life.
Connect with Michelle
Website: https://theinspiredwellnesscoach.com
Podcast: Inspired Wellness Podcast (Apple & Spotify)
Instagram: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach
Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach
Connect with Kim:
Emotional Eats Podcast: Emotional Eats Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emotional-eats-podcast-end-emotional-eating-weight/id1686639038
Website: https://wellspringcounselingandhealth.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimhynesmidlife/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kimhynesmidlife
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kimhynesmidlife
Want to improve your midlife focus or sleep? Check out Brain.fm. This app has help me be more productive, get the best afternoon powernaps and bring down my nervous system….fast. Get 30 days for free here.
https://www.brain.fm/kimhyneshealth
Get my favorite healthy Hot Chocolate (Organifi Chocolate Gold) here:
https://www.organifishop.com/
Use code: KIMH for 20 % off
This dark chocolate tumeric tea helps promote relaxation and calm. It's the perfect substitute for dessert and a great way to help promote sleep.
Other links Kim receives commission on some of these products which are used to continue providing free content and produce the Emotional Eats Podcast.
LMNT
http://elementallabs.refr.cc/kimhynes
Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult with your medical practitioner before changing habits. This podcast is not to take the place of medical or mental health professionals.
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Ireland