Episodes

  • How Menopausal Care Should Be with Dr. Michelle Jacobson: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    How Menopausal Care Should Be with Dr. Michelle Jacobson: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Apr 1 2026
    Ever felt dismissed, confused, or just plain abandoned by the healthcare system when it comes to perimenopause? Then this episode is for you.Meet Dr. Michelle Jacobson, gynecologist, menopause oncology specialist, and co-founder of the virtual clinic Coven Women's Health. She's the doctor other doctors call on complex women’s health issues — and today, she's here for you.In this episode:Why perimenopausal women are the hardest and most underserved group in women's healthcare; and why even great doctors struggle to help themThe truth about the WHI study. What the headlines got wrong, and what the data actually saysWhy women with a history of cancer don't have to miss out on quality of life and new non-hormonal options available to themThe story behind Coven Women's Health and why every patient gets Dr. Jacobson's eyes on their careHow you can thrive through perimenopause Why Dr. Jacobson thinks the most important thing you can do right now has nothing to do with hormonesPlus — the meaning behind the names Coven and Hysterical Women (her podcast), and why we all want to be witches now.This one is packed with the kind of honest, evidence-based, no-BS information that every woman in midlife deserves. We left feeling smarter, more empowered, and honestly a little fired up.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseSubscribe to our SubstackEmail 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 newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr. Michelle Jacobson Dr. Michelle Jacobson is working to redefine the standard of care for women in Canada by scaling access to her expertise in Menopause, Menopause Oncology, and Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome.She's been referred to as "the doctor that other doctors call" when they need to consult on complex women's gynaecological health issues. They call her because of her curiosity, education, research, and clinical experience with conditions and symptoms that impact women, from first period to last. They become her respected colleagues and friends because of her reputation as a physician who is incredibly collaborative, caring, and loyal.Dr. Jacobson is especially passionate about perimenopause and the menopause transition — through her research and clinical practice, she sees how many women unnecessarily experience a decline in quality of life during midlife. She funnels that passion and advocacy into educating other physicians, policymakers, and the general public on the urgency for changes to medical protocols and for greater support for menopausal women.As a BRCA gene carrier herself, she is equally passionate about assessing and managing hereditary cancer risk. Committed to advancing early detection, treatment, and patient support, her research in this area has led to the development of a national community of practice in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer that she created and chairs.At the intersection of both of her passions, she has used her research and clinical experience in menopause — particularly premature menopause due to oncologic therapies, hereditary cancer syndromes, and Turner's Syndrome — to provide a niche contribution to the global literature.Bottom line: she cares deeply for women and their wellbeing, and she is committed to making patient-centric changes to our standard of care.Links for this episodeFollow Coven Women’s Health on InstagramFollow the Hysterical Women PodcastCoven Women’s Health
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    47 mins
  • Sleep to Improve Your Healthspan with Dr. Woganee Filate: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Sleep to Improve Your Healthspan with Dr. Woganee Filate: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Mar 18 2026

    In this episode, Dr. Woganee Filate, sleep specialist and co-founder of Lume Women + Health, is back on the show to break down the science of sleep and why it may be the single most powerful thing you can do for your long-term health. From protecting your brain to keeping your heart healthy, Dr. Woganee explains what's actually happening while you sleep — and what's at stake when you don't.


    In this episode:

    • Why both sleep quality and quantity matter for our health and healthspan
    • What’s happening in our brains as we sleep
    • The different stages of sleep explained
    • Why deep sleep is your best defense against dementia
    • The link between inconsistent sleep and heart disease risk
    • How poor sleep affects your metabolism, blood pressure, and inflammation
    • How poor sleep may be accelerating your biological aging at a cellular level
    • How to recognize and address sleep disruption during perimenopause
    • Plus, a sneak peek at Dr. Woganee's upcoming book, a science-backed guide to sleeping through perimenopause and beyond


    You don't have to accept poor sleep. There's so much within your control, and this episode with Dr. Woganee will show you where to start.


    This episode is part of our Endy Reclaim Your Rest Sleep Series - helping you wake up rested, focused, and ready to take on whatever the day brings.


    Endy is Canada’s leading online mattress brand, trusted by over 1 million sleepers. Endy’s mattresses are designed to keep you cool and supported all night long, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day. With three comfort options—plush, medium-firm, and firm—you can find the perfect fit for your body and sleep style. And the best part? Endy delivers straight to your door, so upgrading your sleep is simpler than ever. Check them out at endy.com.


    Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is Perimenopause

    • Subscribe to our Substack
    • 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. Woganee Filate Bio

    Dr. Woganee Filate is a passionate and dedicated adult respirologist and sleep medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based and patient-centered care. She has a wealth of experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory and sleep disorders. Her interests include educating patients on the changes in sleep during the menopause transition and what can be done to optimize sleep during this key life stage. In addition to her medical degree, Dr. Filate holds a Master of Health Science, with a focus on Community Health & Epidemiology, from the University of Toronto.


    Links for this episode

    • Lume Women + Health
    • Follow Dr. Woganee on Instagram
    • Follow Lume Women + Health on Instagram
    • Subscribe to Lume Women + Health Substack
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    32 mins
  • Better Sex in Perimenopause with Dr. Lori Brotto and Elayne Wandler: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Better Sex in Perimenopause with Dr. Lori Brotto and Elayne Wandler: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Mar 4 2026
    More pleasurable and satisfying sex is all in your mind. If you’ve been struggling with low libido or sexual anxiety then this episode’s for you. Dr. Lori Brotto, renowned psychologist, sex researcher, and author of "Better Sex Through Mindfulness," and Elayne Wandler, CEO of eSense Health are on a mission to transform our sexual health. They’re sharing insights on how mindfulness can help women tune into their bodies to have more fulfilling intimate experiences.In this episode:The science behind mindfulness and its impact on sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction How to overcome common roadblocks like distraction, self-judgment, and sexual pain The difference between responsive and spontaneous desire, and why it matters for your sex life Why "neutral to arousal to desire" is common and perfectly normalPractical tips and mindfulness exercises to enhance your sex life and relationshipsA sneak peak into eSense, a digital platform that’s going to revolutionize our sexual health landscape Whether you're single, partnered, or anywhere in between, this episode will arm you with the insights and strategies you need to develop a more present, connected, and pleasurable approach to sex and intimacy.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseSubscribe to our SubstackEmail 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 newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDr Lori Brotto Dr. Lori Brotto is a renowned figure in women's sexual health. A Professor in the UBC Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, she holds a Canada Research Chair focused on developing safe, accessible treatments for sexual concerns in women. Committed to equity, she champions digital health technologies to broaden access to care.Dr. Brotto also serves as Executive Director for the Women's Health Research Institute, supporting nearly 700 members across BC in advancing all aspects of women's health research.She has appeared in the media, including Netflix's "The Principles of Pleasure," CBC Gem's "The Big Sex Talk," and a Masterclass on the Magic of Menopause. She has authored two mindfulness-focused books: "Better Sex Through Mindfulness" (2018) and "The Better Sex Through Mindfulness Workbook" (2022), and the 2018 book appears in the New York Times top 8 sexual health books (2024). She has received a UBC Public Education Through Media award (2023).As a Registered Psychologist in BC, Dr. Brotto works with individuals seeking to enhance their sexual well-being and believes in the power of lived experiences to shape science. An advocate for women's leadership, she encourages young women to pursue careers in STEM and engages with the public via social media (@DrLoriBrotto and @ubcshr).Elayne WandlerElayne is a seasoned life sciences executive with over two decades of experience bringing medical innovations to market. As CEO of eSense Health, she leads the company's mission to close the gap in women's sexual health through evidence-based, accessible digital care.Her career began at Abbott Laboratories (now AbbVie), followed by commercial and communications roles at QLT Inc., where she helped launch Visudyne—the first treatment for age-related macular degeneration. She later served as Director of Corporate Development and Marketing at Sonic Incytes, and in a leadership role at Accel-Rx, supporting early-stage Canadian ventures.Combining strategic insight with a strong track record across life sciences, Elayne is passionate about challenging stigma, unlocking access, and driving impact through science and storytelling. Under her leadership, eSense is now entering commercialization following successful clinical validation and growing recognition. Links for this episodeFollow Dr. Brotto on Instagram Follow eSense on InstagramLearn more about eSenseBuy the book - Better Sex Through Mindfulness
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    40 mins
  • Get Back To Sleep in Perimenopause with CBT-I and Dominique Williams: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Get Back To Sleep in Perimenopause with CBT-I and Dominique Williams: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Feb 18 2026
    Lying awake at 2 a.m., staring at the ceiling, mentally catastrophizing about tomorrow? We've all been there, especially in perimenopause. You've probably tried everything: magnesium, weighted blankets, meditation apps, lavender spray. But have you heard of CBT-I?In this episode, we're talking with Dominique Williams, a Registered Social Worker at Coven Women's Health who specializes in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia). Dominique breaks down why you're waking up at 2-3 a.m., what's keeping you awake, and the science-backed strategies that can actually help.In this episode:What CBT-I is and why it's the gold standard treatment for insomniaWhy you're waking up at 2-3 a.m.Why getting OUT of bed when you can't sleep actually helps you sleep betterSleep restriction vs. sleep compression for perimenopausal womenHow your brain has learned insomnia (and can unlearn it too)Simple tools like cognitive shuffling, breathwork, and stimulus controlWhat to look for when finding a CBT-I practitionerFree CBT-I apps you can try on your ownThis is part of our Endy Reclaim Your Rest Sleep Series - helping you wake up rested, focused, and ready to take on whatever the day brings. Endy is Canada’s leading online mattress brand, trusted by over 1 million sleepers. Endy’s mattresses are designed to keep you cool and supported all night long, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day. With three comfort options—plush, medium-firm, and firm—you can find the perfect fit for your body and sleep style. And the best part? Endy delivers straight to your door, so upgrading your sleep is simpler than ever. Check them out at endy.com.Connect with Mikelle & Michelle at This is PerimenopauseEmail 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 newsletterFollow This Is Perimenopause on InstagramFollow This Is Perimenopause on FacebookDominique WilliamsDominique Williams is a Registered Social Worker (MSW) with over 15 years of experience supporting women through some of life’s most complex transitions. Her clinical work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and a deeply client-centred framework, with a particular focus on CBT-I for sleep disruption during perimenopause.Dominique specializes in working with women navigating perimenopause, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, poor body image, and chronic health conditions. Her approach is inclusive, compassionate, and firmly evidence-based—helping clients build healthier, more sustainable relationships with their bodies, minds, and sleep.In 2021, Dominique completed her own breast cancer journey, only to find herself facing the often-unexpected challenges of treatment-induced perimenopause. Years of research, reflection, night sweats, and lived experience shaped her passion for supporting women who feel dismissed, exhausted, or stuck when it comes to sleep and hormonal change. She brings both clinical expertise and real-world understanding to conversations about insomnia, nervous system regulation, and reclaiming rest during midlife.Outside the therapy room, Dominique is a certified yoga instructor, competitive dragon boater, and lifelong learner. Originally from Australia and now based in Canada, she can often be found chasing sunshine, sipping good coffee on a patio, and reading for hours—when she’s not helping women finally get the sleep they deserve.Links for this episodeDominique Williams on InstagramCBT-i Coach AppCoven Women’s HealthCoven Women’s Health on Instagram
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    43 mins
  • Iron Deficiency, Anemia, and Iron Infusions with NDs Nic + Nat: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Iron Deficiency, Anemia, and Iron Infusions with NDs Nic + Nat: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Feb 4 2026

    Feeling tired all the time? Struggling with brain fog and irritability? Before you chalk it up to just another annoying perimenopause symptom, listen up. There may be more to the story.


    In this conversation with Naturopathic Doctors Nic and Nat, we are diving deep into iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia, revealing just how pervasive this issue is among perimenopausal women. You’ll learn how Doctors Nic and Nat treat their patients with low iron levels so they can get back to feeling their best.


    In This Episode:

    • What iron deficiency is and how it differs from iron deficiency anemia
    • The surprising symptoms of low iron that often mimic perimenopause symptoms
    • When iron IV infusions may be necessary and how the treatment process works
    • The pros and cons of oral iron supplements for treating deficiency
    • Why proper testing and follow-up are crucial for effective iron deficiency treatment
    • Why iron supplementation must always be done under the guidance of a qualified medical professional


    So, grab your favorite iron-rich snack (spinach smoothie, anyone?) and let's dive in.


    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
    • Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook


    About Dr. Nic + Nat

    Dr. Nic and Dr. Nat—twin sisters, naturopathic doctors, and menopause society certified practitioners. They're also the founders of Durham Natural Health Center, the creators of the Empowered Midlife Hub and the Perimenopause Playbook.


    Over their 15 years of clinical practice experience, they've helped thousands of women navigate perimenopause and menopause, guiding them from feeling tired, irritable, and depleted to feeling energized, confident, and thriving. They know how challenging this time of life can be because they're living it and have seen it firsthand with so many women.


    That's why they've developed their Empowered Midlife framework that includes menopause hormone therapy, personalized nutrition, and lifestyle strategies to help women regain their vitality and take control of their health. They love educating about the menopause transitions and you might catch them sharing insights on Rogers TV, podcasts, or speaking to organizations like TD Bank and the Ministry of Finance. It's their mission to help women in their 40s and 50s feel empowered and supported as they embrace this stage of life.


    When they're not in clinic, you will find them hanging out with their kiddos and families. Dr. Nic is the boy mom with 3 boys under 9 and Dr. Nat the girl mom with 2 little girls aged 5 and 7. They love to stay active and you will also find them at the gym or training for their newest fitness love – HYROX racing. They're passionate about helping women like you rediscover your energy, confidence, and sense of self—because you deserve to feel amazing, no matter what chapter you're in.

    

    Links for this episode

    Durham Natural Health Centre

    Follow Dr. Nic and Nat on Instagram

    Follow Durham Natural Health Centre on Instagram
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    32 mins
  • How to Tackle Sleep Problems with Dr. Jen Zelovitzky : Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    How to Tackle Sleep Problems with Dr. Jen Zelovitzky : Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Jan 21 2026

    If you're ready to stop surviving on coffee and cat naps, this episode is a must-listen.


    In the first episode of our Reclaim Your Rest with Endy series, we sit down with Dr. Jen Zelovitzky, the Clinical Director of Women's Health and Vitality at Medcan and a specialist in women's health and midlife transitions. Our goal? To unpack the complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, and lifestyle factors that can sabotage your sleep during perimenopause and beyond.


    Dr. Jen shares her expert insights on how to identify the root causes of your sleep challenges and how to tackle them. Because to paraphrase Dr. Jen, if you're not sleeping, nothing else is working.

    In this episode:


    • Why addressing sleep disturbances should be a top priority in perimenopause care
    • How hormonal shifts can hijack your sleep
    • How to identify the root cause of your sleep disturbances so you can find the right remedy to help you get back to sleep
    • The role of key neurotransmitters like orexin and serotonin in regulating sleep
    • Medications to target sleep disruptors, like hormone therapy, sleep medicines, antidepressants, and other pharmaceutical options
    • The power of CBT-I and other non-drug approaches for improving sleep


    You're not doomed to be a sleep-deprived zombie for the rest of your life. With the right knowledge, support, and maybe a new mattress, you too can reclaim your rest.


    This episode is brought to you by Endy, Canada’s leading online mattress brand, trusted by over 1 million sleepers. Endy’s mattresses are designed to keep you cool and supported all night long, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day. With three comfort options—plush, medium-firm, and firm—you can find the perfect fit for your body and sleep style. And the best part? Endy delivers straight to your door, so upgrading your sleep is simpler than ever. Check them out at endy.com.


    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
    • Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook


    Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky


    Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky is a certified Menopause Specialist and the Clinical Director of Women’s Health at Medcan Toronto. Follow her on socials @DrJenZelo where she helps women better understand their bodies and advocate for their needs in the Canadian Healthcare system. She is also the mom of 2 amazing daughters and 3 fur babies.


    Links for this episode

    • Dr. Jen Zelovitzky on Instagram
    • Medcan Women’s Health
    • www.drjenzelo.ca
    • Read Dr. Jen’s Blogs
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    40 mins
  • Meet Mikelle’s Pull-up Coach, David Caixeiro: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Meet Mikelle’s Pull-up Coach, David Caixeiro: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Jan 7 2026

    New year, new goals… same confusion about what to actually do in the gym? Meet David Caixeiro, the fitness and lifestyle coach who’s training Mikelle to do an unassisted pull-up. From busting workout myths to rethinking New Year’s resolutions, David shares why lifting weights is one of the best things women can do for their health, and how to do it. And no, you will not get “bulky”!


    In This Episode You’ll Learn:

    • Why New Year’s resolutions can work—if they’re value-based and realistic
    • The five key movement patterns everyone should train
    • The power of consistency, behavior-based goals, and small wins
    • Why the scale doesn’t tell the full story (hello, non-scale victories)
    • Common mistakes people make in the gym—and how to avoid them
    • Why getting “bulky” isn’t a real concern
    • Why mobility, walking, rest, sleep, and meditation are underrated game-changers
    • How to find a trainer who actually knows what they’re doing
    • Practical advice for beginners who don’t know where to start


    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
    • Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook


    David Caixeiro, Fitness and Lifestyle Coach

    David is a Personal Trainer, Lifestyle Coach, and former Team Canada Bobsleigh athlete. With nearly 10 years of experience helping people build stronger, fitter, and more capable bodies, his mission is to help others live healthier and more fulfilling lives through functional fitness, mindfulness, and sustainable lifestyle change.


    He holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and has completed advanced training in Strength & Conditioning, Nutrition, Health Coaching, Fascial Stretch Therapy, Functional Movement, Corrective Exercise, Neurolinguistic Programming, behavior-change psychology, and sleep, stress management, and recovery.


    Links for this episode

    David Caixeiro Instagram
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    35 mins
  • Say The Thing - “I love you…and I want to kill you.”: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey

    Say The Thing - “I love you…and I want to kill you.”: Women’s Health, Perimenopause and Menopause Journey
    Dec 28 2025

    “I love you… and I want to kill you.”


    If that sentence makes you feel seen, this episode is for you.


    Mikelle and Michelle are joined by Béatrice Séguin, PhD, for a candid - ‘Say The Thing’ conversation about rage, resentment, desire, and changing roles in long-term relationships—especially through motherhood and perimenopause.

    

    They unpack why two things can be true at once, how hormones and mental load collide, why mothering your partner kills libido, and what it actually takes to set boundaries, share the load, and communicate honestly without guilt. From responsive desire to dropping unrealistic expectations, this episode offers relief, validation, and real-world strategies for evolving alongside your partner instead of burning out.

    If you’ve ever wondered, Why does everything annoy me now?—you’re not alone.


    This podcast is brought to you by Coral, a virtual clinic designed for women in midlife. They provide personalized, evidence-based care that supports every woman’s unique journey—whether you’re in perimenopause, menopause, or the years beyond. Use code TIP5 for 5% off at coral.ca.


    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
    • Follow This Is Perimenopause on Facebook



    About Béatrice Séguin, PhD


    I'm Dr. Béatrice Séguin, and like many of you, I've been blindsided by (peri)menopause. This journey pushed me into self-advocacy, armed with my PhD and a relentless drive to uncover the science behind midlife. TTOM is your go-to resource for expert advice on fashion, lifestyle, health, and nutrition—all delivered with a vibe that says, "We're in this together."

    In a world full of confusing and conflicting information, TTOM cuts through the noise. I'm here to provide evidence-based answers and a good dose of girlfriend fun along the way. This community is about more than just surviving midlife—it's about owning it with science-backed confidence and style.

    Let’s celebrate the power and beauty of aging by rewriting the narrative together.


    Links for this episode

    This Time of The Month Website

    This Time of The Month Instagram

    This Time of The Month Podcast
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    32 mins