Why Perimenopause Leaves So Many Women EXHAUSTED
In today’s episode of The Becca Holland Show, I’m joined by Zora Benhamou – a gerontologist, menopause coach, and host of the Hack My Age podcast. Together, we discuss what actually changes during perimenopause and postmenopause and why so many women feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or “off” despite doing everything they’ve been told should work.
Drawing on ageing science, longevity research, and real-world experience, Zora explains the physiological, psychological, and sociological shifts that occur in midlife, including the early decline in progesterone, changing stress resilience, and why symptoms often begin in the mid-30s rather than at menopause itself.
We discuss why traditional health strategies often fail women during this transition, the importance of nervous system regulation, and why foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, movement, environment, and self-compassion matter more than quick fixes, supplements, or biohacks.
We also talk about the cultural silence and stigma surrounding menopause, global perspectives on ageing, and the nuanced, highly individual decision-making process around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Zora shares why menopause is not a decline, but a transition – and why clarity, confidence, and empowerment often emerge on the other side.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
[00:00] Introduction: why midlife feels different
[00:15] Guest introduction: Zora Benhamou, gerontologist
[00:19] What perimenopause and postmenopause actually mean
[00:34] Hormones, health, and why symptoms are misunderstood
[00:57] Common symptoms and persistent misconceptions
[01:50] What gerontology teaches us about ageing
[02:43] Hormonal changes beginning in the mid-30s
[03:33] Why this phase is a critical window for health
[03:59] Foundations of health, longevity, and resilience
[04:28] Why “doing everything right” still doesn’t work
[09:12] The biohacking pyramid explained
[14:40] Environment, stress, and nervous system load
[14:58] How habits are built and why they fail
[15:27] Self-compassion, regulation, and identity shifts
[21:50] Hormone fluctuations and behavioural change
[22:35] Changing the menopause narrative
[23:31] Global perspectives on menopause
[23:53] Shame, stigma, and silence
[24:48] Cultural differences in menopause attitudes
[30:41] Hormone therapy: benefits, limits, and controversy
[32:31] Personalised treatment and individual responses
[37:45] Hormone testing and understanding patterns
[43:00] Empowerment, clarity, and life after menopause
[44:15] Resources and where to find Zora
CONNECT & LEARN MORE:
You can connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube – @healthwithholland, where I share practical education on nervous system regulation, women’s health, and sustainable behaviour change.
If you enjoyed this episode, I’d really appreciate you subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing it with someone who might find it helpful.
You’ll also find courses, resources, and more podcast episodes at: healthwithholland.com
You can connect with Zora Benhamou on Instagram at @hackmyage, where she shares evidence-based insights on healthy ageing, menopause, strength training, and longevity for women in midlife and beyond.
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