Inspired Wellness
Inspired Wellness
Michelle White
Episode 50: Perimenopause Explained — Symptoms, Hormone Changes & Why Women Feel “Off” in Their 40s
47 minutes Posted Mar 18, 2026 at 10:50 am.
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 If you’ve been feeling “off” in your late 30s, 40s, or early 50s and can’t quite explain why… this episode will help you understand what may really be happening.

In this special Episode 50 of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle shares an interview from the Emotional Eats podcast with host Kim Hynes — and it’s a conversation every midlife woman needs to hear.

Perimenopause is one of the most misunderstood stages of a woman’s life, and many women experience symptoms for years before realizing hormones may be the root cause. Even more confusing? Many women are told their lab results are “normal,” despite experiencing anxiety, fatigue, weight gain, sleep issues, and mood changes.

In this episode, Michelle breaks down what perimenopause actually is, what hormonal shifts are happening in the body, and why so many women feel like the strategies that used to work for their health suddenly stop working.

You’ll also learn about the four stages of perimenopause, surprising symptoms that are rarely discussed, and simple ways to support your body through this transition.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking:

“I used to tolerate this just fine… what is happening to me?” — this conversation will help you feel informed, supported, and less alone.


In This Episode, We Cover:

• What perimenopause actually is (and why menopause is technically just one day)

• Why progesterone declines first and estrogen can start to fluctuate

• Why many women experience symptoms even when lab tests look normal

• The four stages of perimenopause and what they can feel like

• Surprising symptoms women aren’t warned about — including joint pain, frozen shoulder, heart palpitations, histamine reactions, itchy skin, and burning tongue

• How cortisol, blood sugar, and sleep influence cravings, mood, and energy

• Why the old rules for dieting and exercise stop working in midlife

• Simple ways to support your body with blood sugar balance and nervous system regulation

• A powerful mindset shift: focusing on building your strong, future self

  

 Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!

Email: [email protected]

 

Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.com

Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach

 

Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!

[email protected]

 

Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.