This Is Perimenopause: Menopause, Perimenopause and Women's Health in Midlife

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.

Is perimenopause threatening to derail your career just when you're hitting your stride? Time to flip that script. Today's guests, Lauren Glazer and Salima Valji, are executive coaches who discovered a troubling pattern: successful women at their career peak were being derailed by perimenopause and menopause symptoms, often suffering in silence and leaving the workforce as a result of their symptoms. 

Their response? Creating M Power, a revolutionary platform helping women thrive through "the change" while staying at the top of their game.

Whether you're navigating hot flashes during presentations or dealing with brain fog in the boardroom, their insights will help you reclaim your confidence and power.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to maintain your executive presence while managing symptoms
• Why silence is NOT the best strategy (and what to do instead)
• The "FLIP" method for having difficult conversations at work
• Tools for advocating for yourself and others in the workplace
• The four-phase approach to becoming "uninterrupted" in your career
• Plus, Lauren and Salima share their vision for creating menopause-friendly workplaces and why this life stage can actually be a period of renewed energy and growth.

Links for this episode

MPower Resource Guide

Menopositivity Keynote

MPower Coaching Program

MPower for Businesses

Connect with them on Social Media

Facebook Group

Lauren Glazer LinkedIn

Salima Valji LinkedIn

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Lauren Glazer Bio 

Lauren Glazer is a leadership coach who helps emerging and experienced leaders become even more thoughtful, intentional and resilient—prepared to take on new roles and business challenges, capable of deftly navigating uncharted waters and poised to guide and empower their own people to do the same. Leveraging over two decades of experience in team and brand building, she helps individuals, teams and organizations with a multidisciplinary perspective, deep sensitivity and voracious curiosity. Having experienced surgical menopause in her mid-40s, Lauren has firsthand knowledge of this roller coaster journey. She created MPower to help women take charge of “the change” so they can continue to share their considerable skills and expertise while experiencing fulfillment and joy.

Salima Valji Bio

Salima Valji is an internationally sought-after speaker, thought- leader and certified executive coach on leadership topics related to advancing women and people of color. Salima was recently awarded the 2023 recipient of The World of Difference award by The International Alliance for Women (TIAW) recognizing her impact to women’s economic empowerment. Additional awards include Top 100 Speakers 2023 by Women in Tech, and Global Women Power Leaders 2024 by White Page International. Salima experienced menopause unexpectedly and realized there was a serious gap in resources and community support for executives navigating this life phase. She created MPower to fill that void, empowering leaders to thrive through menopause and beyond.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s question for Dr. Woganee Filate is: Is there a way to manage weight gain related to menopause?

In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:

• Why menopausal weight gain occurs
• How protein can help
• Sleep's impact on weight
• The impact of diabetes or insulin sensitivity
• Exercise essentials
• The truth about HRT and weight
• Fiber's important role

Lume Women + Health will be opening soon! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.

Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.

Episode Links

• Dr Woganee Filate Bio
• Lume Women + Health
• MQ6 Tool
• Menopause Foundation of Canada symptom tracker

Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is Perimenopause

• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Instagram
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.

This episode was recorded as part of Podcasthon 2025, a global initiative raising awareness for charities worldwide and inspiring millions of listeners to care, act, and make a difference.

For our contribution, we are dedicating this episode to The Menopause Foundation of Canada and are grateful to its President and Co-Founder, Janet Ko for sharing her story with us.

Like many women, Janet Ko was blindsided by perimenopause. Despite assurances from multiple medical professionals that she was quite healthy, she felt quite ill. So much so that her unmanaged symptoms negatively impacted her career trajectory and her quality of life. The injustice of this all-too-common experience is what prompted Janet to co-found The Menopause Foundation of Canada, sparking a national conversation and leading the charge with research and facts that society can no longer afford to ignore.

In This Episode:

• Women should not accept poor health during menopause.
• Menopause should be viewed as a health transition, not just an end to reproductive life.
• Awareness and education about menopause are crucial for women and healthcare providers.
• Creating menopause-inclusive workplaces can help retain talented women.
• Access to menopause care is a human right, and yet women are still struggling with menopause.

Learn more about the Menopause Foundation of Canada:

Website 

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Join the movement and help to make a difference in improving the menopause journey for generations of women!

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Janet Ko Bio

Janet Ko is the President and Co-Founder of the Menopause Foundation of Canada, a national nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of menopause and its impact on women and society. A passionate advocate for women’s health, she is committed to closing the menopause knowledge gap and improving access to care and treatment.

Janet is on a mission to redefine menopause-shifting the narrative from stigma to renewal, strength, and wisdom. She sees menopause as a crucial health transition that demands better support from the medical community, government, workplaces and society. Like many women, she was unprepared for menopause and knows firsthand how unmanaged symptoms can hold women back. Determined to drive change, she cofounded the Menopause Foundation of Canada, launching landmark research and advocacy campaigns that ignited a national conversation and spurred meaningful action.

An award-winning leader in strategic communications, Janet has spearheaded innovative thought leadership initiatives on ageism, intergenerational learning, and menopause in the workplace. She has held senior executive roles across diverse health-related sectors, bringing a depth of expertise to her advocacy. A compelling speaker and champion for change, she was recognized as one of the Top 25 Women of Influence in 2023 for her impact and leadership.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s question for Dr. Sarah Shaw is:

A family member had breast cancer. Can I take hormone therapy?

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Hormone therapy is still an option if a family member had breast cancer
• Considerations like genetic counselling and screening
• It’s recommended to have an annual mammogram starting at age 40
• There are more and more options available to treat symptoms
• Having risk/benefit discussions with your doctor about the available options is important

Lume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.

Every week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.

Have a question? Send us a message at [email protected] and we’ll get you an answer.

• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Instagram
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.

In this conversation, Angela Johnson, CEO and co-founder of sanoLiving, shares how her menopausal journey prompted her to come out of retirement to create a comprehensive menopause care platform. She discusses the importance of holistic care, the role of health coaches, and the integration of AI in providing accessible support for women navigating perimenopause and beyond.

And while Sano, the company's AI powered chat tool and their recently announced partnership with Oura ring highlight the role of technology in improving women’s health, Angela emphasizes that the sanoMidLife offering is not just digital. There’s also a large component of care that needs to be in person, which is facilitated by their coaches. A true one-stop place for everything a woman needs for a successful second chapter of life. 

We talk about menopause inclusive workplaces and the unintended consequences of providing workplace accommodations without access to menopausal care. And why every company should adapt their employee benefits packages to provide the unique healthcare support that women need.

Angela also shares that sanoLiving is working on a tool to help all clinicians provide better menopausal care. The discussion also touches on empowering young women with knowledge about their bodies, and the importance of trusting one's instincts during perimenopause.

In This Episode

• sanoMidLife - the menopause solution where women are fully supported
• How a sanoMidLife coach enables holistic, evidenced-based care
• Celebrating longevity instead of dreading menopause
• Introducing Sano - the free AI tool that’s like having a conversation with a real person
• How workplace accommodations without solutions can backfire
• The importance of proactive healthcare in menopause management
• Women often face higher health claims due to lack of support
• How supporting women in the workplace can reduce turnover and improve morale
• Women deserve better education about their bodies from an early age

• Get our free guide, 10 Step for Better Menopause Care
• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
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Angela Johnson is the CEO and Co-Founder of sanoLiving, Canada’s first comprehensive women's midlife health platform, available nationwide in French and English, designed to bridge the long-overlooked gaps in women’s healthcare. sanoLiving doesn’t just empower women; it helps them access their inpower—their inner strength—to navigate midlife transitions and focus on their whole selves—body, mind, and soul. Angela’s own journey, shaped by her personal experience with perimenopausal and post-menopausal symptoms, has fueled her mission to revolutionize women’s health. 

Links for this episode

sanoLiving

sanoMidLife

Chat with Sano

DISCOUNT CODE: Want to try sanoMidLife? Use code THISISPERI10 for 10% off at sanomidlife.com/join/

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Lume Minute: Bioidentical Hormones for Perimenopause

Today’s question for Dr. Amy Louis Bayliss is: Are bioidentical hormones better?

In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:

• What the term bioidentical hormones means
• The difference between bioidentical versus compounded hormones
• Safety and efficacy concerns with compounding
• Why Health Canada products matter

They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.

Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.

• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Instagram
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook



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Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.

Ever felt like your world turned upside down overnight? When Dwania Peele, entrepreneur and founder of Canadian Small Business Women, received a breast cancer diagnosis during the pandemic, she found herself navigating not just cancer treatment, but severe menopausal symptoms. In this powerful conversation, Dwania shares her journey through cancer-induced menopause while running a successful business, and how it sparked her mission to advocate for better, culturally-competent healthcare. As both an author of "Tomorrow Is Another Day" and a vocal champion for women's health, she's breaking down cultural barriers and changing the conversation so that all women can learn to expect, and get, better care.

In This Episode 

• How Dwania's breast cancer diagnosis led her to write "Tomorrow Is Another Day" and break cultural stigmas around health discussions
• The unique challenges Black women face during cancer-induced menopause and the importance of culturally competent healthcare
• Why quality of life conversations matter as much as treatment protocols
• Practical strategies for managing your wellbeing while running a successful business
• The power of compartmentalization and setting boundaries when facing multiple challenges
• Why we need to challenge the 'strong Black woman' stereotype and normalize asking for help

Plus, Dwania shares her vision for a more inclusive healthcare system and offers candid advice for women feeling overwhelmed by health and business challenges. Let Dwania's story inspire you to advocate for yourself, and others, and find strength in community support.

• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
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Dwania Peele is the Founder of Canadian Small Business Women and a multifaceted force in the entrepreneurial world. Alongside her roles as an Author, Public Speaker, Business Strategist, and Entrepreneur, Dwania has recently unveiled her latest literary endeavor, "Tomorrow Is Another Day," chronicling her courageous journey through breast cancer.

With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Dwania has left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape. Her influence extends far and wide, as she has graced numerous stages across North America as both a keynote speaker and panelist, captivating audiences with her insights and experiences.

Through her workshops, conferences, and seminars, Dwania has been instrumental in propelling the success of tens of thousands of entrepreneurs. Her dedication to fostering entrepreneurship has not gone unnoticed, earning her prestigious accolades such as The Alumni Ambassador Award from the University of Windsor, the Top 40 under 40 Award from the Brampton Board of Trade, the IWAA Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the Top 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada Award, among others.

In addition to her latest release, "Tomorrow Is Another Day," Dwania has authored empowering works like "The Power Within: Inspiring Stories of Female Immigrant Entrepreneurs" and "Voices of Strength: Inspiring Stories of Female Entrepreneurs." Through her books and her actions, Dwania Peele continues to champion the success and resilience of entrepreneurs everywhere.

Links for this episode

Tomorrow is Another Day

Canadian Small Business Women Website

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Is the DUTCH Test a reliable screening method?

In this Lume Minute, you'll discover:

• What the Dutch is
• Why it's not reliable for determining menopause status
• The test's popularity versus its clinical value
• Why tracking symptoms is more valuable than expensive testing

Lume Women + Health will be opening soon! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.

Every other week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.

Have a question? Send us a message at [email protected] and we’ll get you an answer.

Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is Perimenopause

• Get our free guide, 10 Step for Better Menopause Care
• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Instagram
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

What did you think of today's episode? We want to hear from you!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each episode will share life stories and expert insight into women's health and your perimenopause and menopause journey.

DISCOUNT CODE: Want to try IRIS products? Use code TIP20 for 20% off at lovemyIRIS.com

Experiencing painful sex? Dealing with recurring UTIs and unexpected dryness? Burning or itching ‘down there’ that's driving you crazy? Feeling confused about changes in your vulva or vagina? Wondering if what you're experiencing is normal? This episode is your roadmap to better vulvar and vaginal health.

Join us for an honest, educational and super fun conversation with Dolores Fernandez, Naturopathic Doctor and founder of IRIS. She's transforming how we talk about, understand, and care for our bodies. Learn why knowing our anatomy matters and how to advocate for better care during perimenopause and beyond.

In This Episode:

• Why you need to know your anatomy -  it's not all ‘vagina’
• The truth about genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and why it’s important to deal with these symptoms because they won’t just go away, they will get worse.
• How to choose between moisturizers and lubricants (and what ingredients to avoid)
• The truth about vaginal estrogen safety (even for breast cancer survivors)
• How to advocate for yourself with healthcare providers and start the conversation
• Simple ways to monitor changes in your vulvar health

Plus, Dolores shares the science behind her products and explains why conversations about vulvar health shouldn't wait until menopause.

Links for this episode

IRIS

Personal Lubricant

Vulva Moisturizer

Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is Perimenopause

• Get our free guide, 10 Step for Better Menopause Care
• Email us and let us know what you think of the podcast and what topic you want us to cover next.
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Instagram
• Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook

Dr Dolores Fernandez Bio

Dr. Dolores Fernandez is a naturopathic doctor dedicated to transforming the way we talk about menopause, vulvovaginal health, and overall wellness. As a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, a Naturopathic Doctor, and the founder of IRIS, Dolores combines clinical expertise with a mission to make vulvovaginal care a natural and stigma-free part of self-care routines.

In her clinical practice, Dolores focuses on supporting individuals with a range of vulvovaginal concerns, including menopause-related changes, vaginal dryness, vulvodynia, recurrent infections, and other intimate health challenges. Her approach integrates evidence-based treatments and compassionate care, empowering patients to take charge of their health.

IRIS was born out of Dolores’ recognition of a significant gap in intimate health care—too often, these topics are not talked about, leaving many underserved. She’s working to change that narrative with the belief that “skin is skin.” The skin on our vulvas deserves the same care as any other part of our bodies, and IRIS provides science-backed solutions focused on hydration, pH balance, and osmolarity to make intimate care accessible, effective, and empowering for everyone.

What did you think of today's episode? We want to hear from you!

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Today’s question for Dr. Sarah Shaw is:

What Can I Expect from a Menopause Appointment with My Doctor?

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What a good review of symptoms looks like
• The importance of your medical history
• That blood work is not always necessary
• You should expect a variety of treatment options, shared decision making and personalized treatment options

Lume Women + Health is now open! They understand the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and beyond. Be sure to check out their dedicated menopause program that provides personalized support, medical guidance, and lifestyle optimization education to help you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and thrive during this life stage.

Every week, the team at Lume Women + Health will be dropping into our podcast to answer one of your questions. Be sure to follow our podcast so that you never miss these Lume Minutes. Find ‘This Is Perimenopause, the podcast’ wherever you listen to your favorites.

Have a question? Send us a message at [email protected] and we’ll get you an answer.

What did you think of today's episode? We want to hear from you!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.