Perimenopause Power: Navigating the Change with Dr. Stacy Sims

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, the show where we empower women everywhere to take charge of their health journeys. I’m your host, and today we’re tackling a topic that affects millions, but rarely gets the spotlight it deserves: perimenopause. If you or someone you love is navigating unexplained mood shifts, irregular cycles, unpredictable energy, or just that sense that something is changing, you are not alone. Perimenopause isn’t just a prelude to menopause—it’s a unique and powerful phase that deserves our attention, understanding, and respect. Let’s jump right in. Perimenopause usually begins in a woman's 40s but can start even earlier. It brings a wave of hormonal shifts that can lead to hot flashes, sleep disturbances, forgetfulness, anxiety, and changes in metabolism. According to Dr. Stacy Sims, an internationally recognized exercise physiologist, women often experience frustration because their bodies just aren’t responding the way they used to. Dr. Sims points out that what worked at thirty might fall flat at fifty, especially when male-centered health advice doesn’t account for our hormone uniqueness. That’s why I’m so excited for today’s expert interview with Dr. Stacy Sims, author of Roar and The Next Level. Here are some key questions I have lined up for her: How can women distinguish perimenopause symptoms from other life stressors or health challenges? What do research and real-world data reveal about the best ways to support our changing hormones through nutrition and movement? What are the most common myths about perimenopause, and what does current science tell us instead? And, how can women advocate for themselves when so many doctors are still unfamiliar with the full perimenopause spectrum? Dr. Sims’ research has shown, for example, that strength training and protein intake become even more critical during perimenopause. It’s not a moment to exercise ‘harder’ but smarter—aligning with our body’s new needs. She emphasizes the power of tracking symptoms and being proactive; no woman should have to white-knuckle her way through sleepless nights or unexplained irritability without support or information. Along this journey, I also want to ask Dr. Sims what steps women can take to normalize the conversation in workplaces, families, and health settings. Why is it that we still feel shame or embarrassment around natural transitions? And how can collective advocacy change the health landscape for the next generation? Before we wrap up, here are a few key takeaways. Perimenopause is a normal, natural stage—one that comes with plenty of challenges but also real opportunities for ownership and power. The more we talk openly about it, the more we can reduce stigma and improve care for everyone. Women are not small men, to quote Dr. Sims. Our health strategies should reflect that beautiful uniqueness. And always, if you’re going through changes, reach out. There’s a community her This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.