Menopause Isn’t a Moment—It’s a Journey

Summary:
In this episode of Beyond the Checkup, host Pete Waggoner is joined by three Stellis Health experts—Dr. Lindsey Latteman, Dr. Amanda Zehrer, and Dr. Danielle Schirm—for an open, honest discussion about menopause and perimenopause.

The team breaks down what these phases really are, how symptoms vary, and what treatments can help women feel their best.

What You’ll Learn:

• The difference between perimenopause and menopause
  
• Common symptoms and surprising myths
  
• When to seek help—and why hormone therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all
  

Episode Highlights (Timestamps):

• 00:00 – Meet the Providers
  
• 00:38 – What Menopause Really Means
  
• 01:30 – Why It’s a Tunnel, Not a Doorway
  
• 02:09 – How Long Symptoms Can Last
  
• 03:41 – Top Symptoms: Hot Flashes, Brain Fog, and More
  
• 06:37 – Hormone Therapy: What It Is and Isn’t
  
• 08:42 – Support from Loved Ones
  
• 10:00 – Bioidentical Hormones Explained
  
• 12:00 – Why Hormone Testing Doesn’t Work
  
• 14:20 – Common Misconceptions & Cultural Attitudes
  
• 17:45 – The Importance of Pelvic Exams Post-Menopause
  
• 19:00 – Most Common Symptom Combinations
  
• 21:00 – Lifestyle Changes that Help
  
• 22:45 – The Menopause Society & Red Flags to Avoid
  
• 24:14 – Final Thoughts from Each Provider
  

Resources Mentioned:

• The Menopause Society
  
• Stellis Health Appointment Scheduling
  

Provider Bios:

• Dr. Lindsey Latteman
• Dr. Amanda Zehrer
• Dr. Danielle Schirm, DO

Memorable Quotes:

“Menopause is a tunnel, not a doorway—you don’t just wake up one day and know you’re there.” – Dr. Lindsey Latteman

“This isn’t something you just have to live with. There are real solutions.” – Dr. Danielle Schirm

“It’s not about reversing age—it’s about feeling better today.” – Dr. Amanda Zehrer