Perimenopause: A Chat with Two Brilliant Women & One Ignorant Dude

Today, we talk to Michelle Stainton and Mikelle Ethier, two longtime friends and founders of the This is Perimenopause podcast. Half the population will spend nearly a third of their life dealing with this.  It’s messy, confusing and riddled with stigma - and they’re on a mission to fix that.

Michelle and Mikelle share their emotional and sometimes hilarious journeys through perimenopause.  We explore the systemic failures that have left women vulnerable to misinformation - from the patriarchy and sexism to a lack of research and medical education - and how people can take back control of their bodies and launch the best season of their life.

So whether you’re in it, coming up to it, supporting a partner through it, or just love weird conversations with powerful, inspiring women - I guarantee there is something here for you.  

Please enjoy Michelle and Mikelle.

Key Takeaways:

• What Perimenopause Actually Is: Perimenopause refers to the years leading up to menopause when fluctuating hormones can cause symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and more. Menopause itself is just one day—the one-year anniversary of your final period.
• The Knowledge Gap: Most women aren’t prepared for perimenopause, and even many doctors lack the training to provide appropriate care. The stigma around menopause and outdated medical practices have left millions of women to figure it out on their own.
• The Economic Impact: Symptoms of unmanaged menopause cost the Canadian economy an estimated $3.5 billion annually. Women are leaving jobs, turning down promotions, and struggling to maintain productivity because they lack support and solutions.
• Finding Purpose in the Chaos: Michelle and Mikelle believe perimenopause can be a gateway to a powerful new phase of life. They describe how it’s helped them shed old expectations, embrace their confidence, and step into a “no more f***s to give” mindset.
• The Importance of Advocacy: Doctors can only help if you give them the information they need. Track your symptoms, research treatment options, and come prepared to advocate for the care you deserve.
• A Glimmer of Hope: Menopause is finally “having a moment.” From grassroots advocacy to collaborations like This is Perimenopause’s work with Lume Women’s Health, the conversation is starting to change. But it’s still a long road to systemic improvements.
• Advice for Partners: Understanding that perimenopause is real, chaotic, and often overwhelming is key. Partners don’t need to “fix” things—just listen, support, and educate themselves.
• It’s Not Over—It’s Just Beginning: Michelle and Mikelle emphasize that perimenopause is a chance to start fresh. With better tools, knowledge, and confidence, this stage of life can be full of growth, purpose, and new possibilities.

Links & Resources 

• This is Perimenopause Podcast  - Available on all major podcast platforms.
• This Is Perimenopause Website
• Lume Women’s Health
• The Menopause Foundation of Canada
• The North American Menopa

Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.

Connect with Bob Mathers
Website
LinkedIn