Ep 10 - Perimenopause Isn’t in Your Head: The Hormone Conversation with Dr. Austin Dennard

Ep 10 - Perimenopause Isn’t in Your Head: The Hormone Conversation with Dr. Austin Dennard

From Embracing The Shift by Erin Hall & Stacy Hillstead

January 5, 2026 · 51 min

About this episode

Erin and Stacy discuss perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Austin Dennard, focusing on the hormonal changes women experience and the importance of individualized care.

In this episode of Embracing the Shift, Erin and Stacy sit down with Dr. Austin Dennard, a board certified OB-GYN and longtime friend, for an honest and validating conversation about perimenopause, menopause, and why so many women feel unlike themselves in midlife. From brain fog, anxiety, sleep struggles, heavy or irregular periods, weight changes, and emotional shifts, Austin explains what is actually happening in women’s bodies and why these symptoms have so often been dismissed or misunderstood. The conversation breaks down why hormone labs can be misleading, how perimenopause can last for years, and why so many women are told it is “just stress,” while also offering clarity around hormone replacement therapy, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and why individualized care matters. Through personal stories, humor, and real talk, Erin, Stacy, and Austin emphasize that these changes are common, support is essential, and women do not have to suffer in silence during this season of life. Follow Dr. Austin Dennard: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/draustindennard/ Follow the show on Instagram: - https://www.instagram.com/embracingtheshift.podcast/ Follow Erin…

People in this episode

Hosts: Erin, Stacy

Guest: Dr Austin Dennard

Topics covered

  • perimenopause
  • menopause
  • hormones
  • women's health
  • individualized care

Keywords

  • brain fog
  • anxiety
  • sleep struggles
  • hormone replacement therapy

Mentioned in this episode

Products: estrogen, progesterone, testosterone

Books & works: Embracing the Shift

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