The Perimenopause & Midlife Podcast

Terri Batsakis

Dry vagina. Rage. Belly fat. Welcome to The Perimenopause & Midlife Podcast — a space for the conversations women are living, but rarely talking about openly. In this podcast, we talk honestly about symptoms, mental health, identity shifts, confidence, boundaries, and the deep personal changes that often arrive in midlife. I’ll be sitting down with leading health and mental health experts, women navigating perimenopause right now, and organisations working to better support women in the workplace. This isn’t just about hormones — it’s about culture, mindset, self-trust, and how we stop shrinking ourselves in a stage of life where we deserve to be flourishing. Perimenopause doesn’t stay at home. It shows up at work, in leadership, and in every part of a woman’s life. It’s time we talked about it — out loud and proud – without shame. Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual needs.

  1. 5d ago

    Rebirthing Yourself: The Midlife Shift Women Must Embrace - Briony Montgomery

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I am speaking with Briony Montgomery, a psychotherapist and somatic practitioner, about the nervous system, survival mode, emotional overwhelm, rage, grief, people pleasing and the deep identity shift that can happen during perimenopause and midlife. Briony shares how stress and trauma live in the body, why old coping patterns can stop working in this season of life, and how somatic therapy can help women reconnect with safety, power, pleasure and purpose. We also explore why midlife can feel like a rebirth, how rage can become a source of clarity and boundary-setting, and simple ways to begin calming the body when you feel anxious, overwhelmed, shut down or emotionally reactive. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: What nervous system dysregulation can look like in midlifeWhy trauma and stress are stored in the bodyHow perimenopause can bring old patterns to the surfaceWhy rage, grief and emotional reactivity are not “bad”The connection between people pleasing, fawning and nervous system safetyHow somatic therapy helps create space between reaction and responseSimple tools to support your nervous system, including breath, movement, grounding, music, writing and presenceWhy midlife can be a powerful time of reinvention, self-trust and coming home to yourself ABOUT BRIONY MONTGOMERY: Briony Montgomery is a psychotherapist and somatic practitioner helping people get out of survival mode and feel safe in their bodies again. If you’re overwhelmed, anxious, shut down, or stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break, this is where it changes. Her work goes beyond talking. She works with the nervous system, where stress and trauma actually live. Through somatic therapy, Briony helps people move from burnout and emotional chaos into feeling calm, clear, steady, and in control. Not just insight - real change you can feel. This is where patterns break, capacity grows, and you reconnect to your power, pleasure, and purpose and finally feel at home in yourself. CONNECT WITH BRIONY MONTGOMERY: Web: www.thesomatherapycollective.com Instagram: @brionymontgomery YouTube: @nervoussystemsupport TikTok: @brionymontgomery Podcast: The Unfuckwithable Woman Podcast Email: briony@thesomatherapycollective.com CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Rebirthing Yourself: The Midlife Shift Women Must Embrace - Briony Montgomery

  2. Jul 12

    Is Your Body Built for the Plan You’re Following? DNA, Epigenetics & Midlife Weight Gain

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I am speaking with Michele Scherr, a former Defence Nursing Officer turned precision health practitioner, about why so many high-functioning women in midlife feel like their body has stopped responding the way it used to. We explore the connection between DNA, epigenetics, body type, stress load, hormones and midlife weight gain, and why generic advice around food, exercise and routines may not work for every woman in perimenopause. Michele shares how your environment, daily rhythms, nervous system, body design and capacity can influence symptoms like fatigue, poor sleep, stubborn weight, bloating and burnout. This episode is a powerful reminder that your body is not failing you. It is communicating with you. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why your body may stop responding in perimenopause, even when you are doing everything “right”How DNA, epigenetics and your environment can shape the way your body functionsWhy different body types may need different nutrition, movement and lifestyle strategiesHow stress, responsibility and emotional load can contribute to fatigue, weight changes and burnoutWhy your symptoms are messages from your body, not signs that you are failingHow learning to “speak body” can help you work with your biology instead of fighting against it ABOUT MICHELE SCHERR: Michele Scherr is a former Defence Nursing Officer turned precision health practitioner who works with high-functioning women in midlife who feel like their body has stopped responding the way it used to. Her work focuses on helping women understand the biological shifts behind persistent symptoms like fatigue, poor sleep, and weight changes, moving them away from generic advice and toward precise, personalised and sustainable strategies that align with how their body actually works. CONNECT WITH MICHELE SCHERR: Website: https://personalisedhealthandwellbeingsolutions.com.au/ Email: michele@personalisedhealthandwellbeingsolutions.com.au Facebook: @pers.health.wellbeing.solutions Instagram: @michele.scherr LinkedIn: @michele-scherr YouTube: @michele.scherr Free Resource: HealthTypes for Beginners https://personalisedhealthandwellbeingsolutions.com.au/personalised-health-andwellbeing-solutions-health-type/ CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Is Your Body Built for the Plan You’re Following? DNA, Epigenetics & Midlife Weight Gain

  3. Jul 5

    It Might Not Be Your Hormones: A Deeper Look At Perimenopause & Midlife Health - Sonia Savage

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I’m speaking with Sonia Savage, Functional Nutritionist and owner of Balanced Life Nutrition, about why perimenopause symptoms may not always be purely hormonal. Sonia shares how root cause healing looks at the bigger picture, including gut health, nutrient status, methylation, genetics, stress, environmental factors and a woman’s full health timeline. We also discuss why many women are told their blood tests are “normal” despite still feeling exhausted, foggy, inflamed, anxious, or unlike themselves. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why symptoms may not be “just hormones” What root cause healing means Why “normal” blood tests may not be optimal How methylation, gut health and nutrients impact wellbeing What functional testing may reveal Why fasting and keto may not suit every woman How whole foods support long-term health How to advocate for yourself and trust your instincts ABOUT SONIA SAVAGE: Sonia is a degree qualified Nutritionist and owner of Balanced Life Nutrition in Sydney. She has extensive clinical experience, with a specialist interest in hormones, fertility, gut health and autoimmune conditions. She is particularly passionate about supporting women through perimenopause and menopause. Her mission is to help her clients remain mentally sharp, physically strong and waking up ready to take on the day. As a functional practitioner, Sonia takes a whole-body, evidence-based approach to health. She believes in true “root cause” healing, often working to carefully unravel chronic conditions. Sonia also has specialist knowledge in methylation, longevity and epigenetics, allowing her to personalise care at a deeper biochemical level. CONNECT WITH SONIA SAVAGE: Sonia Savage | 0407 546 032 | sonia@balancedlifenutrition.com.au Website: https://www.balancedlifenutrition.com.au/ Instagram: @balanced_life_nutrition Facebook: @findyourbalancedlife LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-savage-0942731/ RESOURCES: Book a free 15min health chat with Sonia: https://www.balancedlifenutrition.com.au/bookings Journal article: https://www.balancedlifenutrition.com.au/single-post/how-a-functionalnutritionist-can-help-with-perimenopause-and-hormonal-changes Free Low Carb Anti-Inflammatory Diet: https://www.balancedlifenutrition.com.au/contact CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    It Might Not Be Your Hormones: A Deeper Look At Perimenopause & Midlife Health - Sonia Savage

  4. Jun 28

    Habits Of High Performers You Can Implement In Real Life - Dr Jo Lukins

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What can women in midlife learn from elite athletes, CEOs, and Australia's top defence personnel? In this episode, I'm joined by high-performance psychologist Dr Jo Lukins to explore the habits, mindset shifts, and simple daily practices that help people perform at their best, regardless of whether they're competing on a sporting field, leading an organisation, or simply navigating the demands of everyday life. We discuss why success is built on small habits done consistently, how to stop letting perfectionism get in the way of progress, and practical strategies to help you create lasting change without overwhelm. If you've ever struggled to stay consistent, felt stuck in the cycle of starting over, or wondered why some people seem to achieve their goals while others fall off track, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom you can apply immediately. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why high performance isn't just for elite athletesThe five foundations of success and wellbeingHow fuel, sleep and movement impact mindset and performanceWhy success leaves clues and setbacks contain lessonsThe power of curiosity over self-judgementHow to build habits that actually stickWhy small habits create massive results over timeThe difference between goals and habitsHow to navigate life's unpredictability without losing momentumWhy you look like your habits, not your goals ABOUT DR JO LUKINS: Dr Jo Lukins spends her day inside the heads of individuals, teams, and organisations, seeking to understand what makes them tick and assisting them in reaching their potential. A psychological Indiana Jones, she describes it as a truly fascinating career that she is grateful for every day. She holds a PhD in Psychology, has over 30 years of experience, and a breadth of knowledge in the sport, organizational and educational domains. Dr Lukins is an Associate Professor at James Cook University (Awarded Outstanding Alumni, 2015). She delivers programs in high-performance psychology for the Australian Defence Force. Dr Lukins has worked with elite athletes and outstanding professionals throughout her career, giving her a unique insight into the world of success. Some of her clients include: Queensland Women's State of Origin Team (2020, 2025) Dolphins (NRL 2024-present) Tonga Women’s Rugby League (2025-present) Australian Defence Force (2014-present) CONNECT WITH DR JO LUKINS: Website: www.drjolukins.com Download your free Elite Habits Guide and discover how small daily habits can create lasting change: https://dr-jo-lukins.kit.com/pmp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJoLukins/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_jo_lukins/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjolukins/ CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Habits Of High Performers You Can Implement In Real Life - Dr Jo Lukins

  5. Jun 21

    The Midlife Reset: Creating A Home That Supports You - Jane Langof

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: Could the layout, energy and clutter in your home be influencing your sleep, stress levels, mood and even your libido? In this fascinating episode, I'm speaking with Feng Shui Master Jane Langof about how our environment can impact the way we feel physically, mentally and emotionally. We explore the principles of Feng Shui in a practical and modern way and discuss simple changes women can make to create more calm, harmony and wellbeing in their homes. From bedroom layouts and sleep quality to clutter, energy flow and creating a space that supports the woman you're becoming, this conversation is packed with practical tips that can be implemented immediately. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: What Feng Shui really is and how it differs from common misconceptionsHow the energy of your home can influence mood, mindset and wellbeingWhy clutter may be affecting stress, sleep and even libidoThe importance of your home's entrance and energy flowBedroom Feng Shui tips to support better sleep and relaxationHow mirrors, colours and furniture placement impact energySimple and affordable Feng Shui changes anyone can makeWhy your environment should reflect the future you're creating, not the past you're holding ontoThe connection between your home, your habits and your overall wellbeing ABOUT JANE LANGOF: Jane Langof is an award-winning Feng Shui Master, author and speaker, and the founder of Feng Shui Concepts. Internationally accredited and working in the field since 2008, Jane brings a modern, practical approach to Feng Shui, integrating traditional principles with contemporary design. She works across residential, commercial and community spaces, specialising in beautiful homes, new builds and renovations. Her work focuses on how the energy of our surroundings influences mood, mindset and the way we show up each day — and how small, intentional shifts can lead to greater harmony, wellbeing and abundance. Jane shares her insights through the media and as a speaker at property, design and wellness events. She is the author of Feng Shui: A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance, which brings traditional Feng Shui into the modern world in an accessible and inspiring way. CONNECT WITH JANE LANGOF: Website: https://www.fengshuiconcepts.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fengshuiconcepts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelangof/ Email: jane@fengshuiconcepts.com.au Book: Feng Shui: A Homeowner’s Guide to Abundance CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    The Midlife Reset: Creating A Home That Supports You - Jane Langof

  6. Jun 14

    Under-Fuelling, The Hidden Cause Of Weight Gain - Annie Barry

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I’m speaking with Accredited Practising Dietitian Annie Barry about why so many women in perimenopause struggle with weight, cravings, overeating, and feeling constantly hungry, despite trying so hard to “eat less.” We unpack the connection between under-fuelling, blood sugar balance, stress, sleep, hormones, meal structure, and the unrealistic dieting advice many women have followed for decades. This conversation is incredibly practical, reassuring, and refreshing for women who feel frustrated by midlife weight changes and overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice. If you’ve ever found yourself skipping meals, surviving on coffee, raiding the kids’ lunchboxes at 3pm, or feeling like your willpower is the problem, this episode will resonate deeply. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: Why under-fuelling often leads to overeating later in the dayThe connection between blood sugar balance, cravings, and energy crashesWhy many women struggle with afternoon and evening snackingHow decades of dieting impact women’s relationship with foodWhy protein and fibre matter during perimenopauseSimple meal structure strategies that support hormones and energyPractical snack ideas for busy womenHow to nourish your body without restrictive dietingWhy sustainable nutrition is about systems, not perfectionHow to create healthier meals without cooking separate meals for the family ABOUT ANNIE BARRY: Annie Barry is an Accredited Practising Dietitian with over 20 years of experience, a food and wine lover, and someone who genuinely believes that willpower is not the reason most women over 40 struggle with their weight. Annie runs All Round Wellness, where she helps women in perimenopause lose weight, manage symptoms and feel like themselves again, without giving up their favourite foods or cooking separate meals for the family. Her approach is built on practical systems rather than restriction, because she knows the strategies that worked in your 20s or 30s simply don't cut it anymore. Annie is passionate about giving women the tools and confidence to take back control of their health for good. CONNECT WITH ANNIE BARRY: Website: https://www.allroundwellness.com.au/ Instagram: @healthy.habits.dietitian CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Under-Fuelling, The Hidden Cause Of Weight Gain - Annie Barry

  7. Jun 7

    Understanding Your Hormones & Feeling More In Control Again - Terri Batsakis

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this solo episode, I unpack 9 key hormones and brain chemicals that can significantly influence women during perimenopause and menopause, including oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, insulin, serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and melatonin. I explain how hormonal shifts may impact mood, energy, sleep, cravings, stress, motivation, confidence, weight changes, and overall wellbeing during midlife. We also discuss why perimenopause is a natural life transition, much like puberty, and the practical lifestyle strategies that may help women feel more supported, informed, and in control again. This episode is educational, empowering, and designed to help women better understand what may be happening inside their bodies during this stage of life. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: The role oestrogen plays in metabolism, mood, and body compositionWhy progesterone changes can increase anxiety and poor sleepHow testosterone impacts motivation, confidence, and muscle massThe connection between cortisol, stress, and belly fatHow insulin resistance may contribute to cravings and fatigueWhy serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin influence mood and emotional wellbeingHow melatonin disruptions impact sleep during midlifeWhy hormones work together rather than in isolationPractical ways to support your hormones naturally through lifestyle habitsThe importance of nutrition, movement, hydration, sleep, and stress management during perimenopause and menopause CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Understanding Your Hormones & Feeling More In Control Again - Terri Batsakis

  8. Jun 7

    Midlife Fashion Style, That Has You Feeling & Looking Confident & Amazing Again – Lorna Woodcock

    🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I’m speaking with Personal Stylist and Colour Analyst Lorna Woodcock about midlife fashion, confidence, body shape changes, and learning how to dress for the woman you are today. We discuss how perimenopause and aging can impact the way women feel in their clothes, why so many women lose confidence in midlife, and how understanding your body shape, proportions, personal style, and colour palette can completely change the way you shop and dress. This conversation is about so much more than fashion trends. It’s about confidence, self-expression, reducing overwhelm, and creating a wardrobe that actually works for your changing body and lifestyle. If you’ve ever looked in your wardrobe and felt frustrated, uncomfortable, outdated, or unsure what suits you anymore, this episode is packed with practical insights and empowering advice. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: How perimenopause and midlife can impact body confidenceWhy clothing proportions matter more than women realiseHow to dress for your changing body shapeThe importance of understanding your colour paletteWhy personal style evolves during midlifeHow to reduce shopping overwhelmTips for creating a wardrobe that actually works togetherWhy midlife is the perfect time for a style resetThe emotional connection between confidence and clothing ABOUT LORNA WOODCOCK: Lorna is a 52-year-old, married, working mum of 2 girls. A few years ago, while enduring both Covid lockdowns and peri-menopause, she made the decision to change both her own personal style, and her entire career path in midlife! Now, after extensive training and several years of practical styling experience she is a Personal Stylist and Colour Analyst specialising in supporting women in midlife. She is passionate about helping women 40+ find confidence and joy in getting dressed every day. With a previous background in psychology, and a long career in teaching, Lorna combine's colour science, body-shape expertise and practical wardrobe strategies to help clients feel confident and effortless. She creates wardrobes that flatter changing midlife body shapes, fit busy lifestyles and support evolving careers, using clear, teachable methods so every piece works harder and getting dressed becomes simple, and aligned with each client's own personal style. CONNECT WITH LORNA: Website: https://www.styledforlife.com.au/ Email: lorna@styledforlife.com.au Instagram/Facebook: @styledforlife LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/lorna-woodcock-a0ab13323 🎁 FREE RESOURCE: Lorna’s Perimenopause Shopping Bible is available via her website and social platforms. CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis

    Midlife Fashion Style, That Has You Feeling & Looking Confident & Amazing Again – Lorna Woodcock
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About

Dry vagina. Rage. Belly fat. Welcome to The Perimenopause & Midlife Podcast — a space for the conversations women are living, but rarely talking about openly. In this podcast, we talk honestly about symptoms, mental health, identity shifts, confidence, boundaries, and the deep personal changes that often arrive in midlife. I’ll be sitting down with leading health and mental health experts, women navigating perimenopause right now, and organisations working to better support women in the workplace. This isn’t just about hormones — it’s about culture, mindset, self-trust, and how we stop shrinking ourselves in a stage of life where we deserve to be flourishing. Perimenopause doesn’t stay at home. It shows up at work, in leadership, and in every part of a woman’s life. It’s time we talked about it — out loud and proud – without shame. Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual needs.

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