There’s a Pregame to Menopause?! episode artwork

EPISODE · May 29, 2026 · 32 MIN

There’s a Pregame to Menopause?!

from Spill the Real Podcast · host Amanda Owen & Kristi Hayden

Episode DescriptionIf you've ever found yourself wondering why you're suddenly exhausted, anxious, forgetting simple things, waking up at 3 a.m., or feeling like your body is playing a game you never agreed to—this episode is for you.This week, we're spilling the real on perimenopause, the phase before menopause that somehow affects nearly every woman but isn't talked about nearly enough.Many of us thought menopause was something that happened in our 50s and started with hot flashes. What we didn't know is that the "pregame" can begin years earlier and bring a long list of symptoms that leave women questioning their sanity, their health, and sometimes their entire identity.We're diving into the symptoms no one warned us about, sharing personal experiences, and discussing how to navigate this season with more knowledge, support, and a little less panic.Because maybe you're not losing your mind... maybe your hormones are just trying to get your attention.Real Talk Question:What is the craziest symptom that you have experienced or heard of that you had no idea was related to perimenopause?Episode HighlightsSymptoms Nobody Prepared Us ForWe discuss some of the most surprising and frustrating symptoms women experience, including:Heavy or irregular periodsBrain fog and forgetfulnessAnxiety and mood changesHeart palpitationsHot flashes and cold flashesInsomnia and disrupted sleepThinning hair and brittle nailsWeight gainRage and irritabilityDizziness and nauseaChanges in body odorAllergies that suddenly appearItchy earsMetallic taste in your mouthFeeling unlike yourselfWhy so many women think they're "just stressed"The frustration of being told everything is "normal"Learning to trust your body and advocate for yourselfPractical ways to support yourself through this transition:Tracking symptoms and recognizing patternsPrioritizing sleep and recoveryIncreasing protein and strength trainingManaging stress and protecting your energyKnowing when to seek medical supportFinding providers who understand women's hormonal healthGiving yourself grace during a season of changeOur Biggest TakeawayPerimenopause isn't something that's happening to you—it's something your body is moving through.The more we understand what's happening, the more empowered we become to support ourselves, ask better questions, and stop assuming we're just supposed to suffer through it.Spill The Real Reflection QuestionAfter listening, we'd love to hear from you:What symptom made you realize your hormones might be playing a bigger role in your life than you thought?Come join the conversation and share your experience. Because if there's one thing we've learned, it's that women need more honest conversations about this season of life and a lot more reassurance that we're not alone.#SpillTheRealPodcast #Perimenopause #WomenOver40 #MidlifeUnfiltered #Hormones #MenopauseAwareness #RealLifeConversations #WomensHealth #MidlifeWomen #SpillTheRealThe Emotional Side of PerimenopauseWhat Do We Do From Here?

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published May 29, 2026

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There’s a Pregame to Menopause?!

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