We invited Dr.  LaKeischa McMillan for this episode to discuss hormone health, perimenopause, menopause, and everything in between!   Research indicates that perimenopause (the pre-menopause stage) is starting earlier for many women, with Black women transitioning even earlier than other races with symptoms starting as soon as the early 30s.  This impacts our mental and physical health, as well as our relationships and work experience. Dr. LaKeischa provides a master class in the episode, breaking down the physiology of what’s happening in our bodies, symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, and gives tips on when we may need to reach out for additional medical support when going through this natural transition.   She also provides insights into Black women’s particular experience, and shares wisdom on how we can move beyond a deficit-based understanding of menopause and be empowered to thrive in this transition phase of life.     About Dr. LaKeischa Dr. LaKeischa Webb McMillan was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology (cum laude) from Oakwood College, now Oakwood University, and continued her studies at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. In addition to her academic degrees, Dr. LaKeischa is certified in the use of the DiVinci Robotic System for Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery. Her ability to reach and teach women has expanded through her Best Seller, The Other PMS TM : Your Survival Guide for Perimenopause and Menopause. Her passion for helping women in perimenopause and menopause included her contribution to being on the advisory board of the only FDA Approved physician designed vaginal lube line, Momentum Intimacy. A gifted speaker, Integrative OB-GYN, hormone specialist, and Amazon Best-Selling Author; Dr. LaKeischa helps women in perimenopause and menopause who are struggling with depleting hormones get their hormones balanced, regain mental sharpness, and have energy to last the entire day. Connect with Dr. LaKeischa Website: https://www.drlakeischamd.com IG: @drlakeischamd LinkedIn Hormone Quiz: https://www.hormonequiz.co/   Resources: Programs: We are now enrolling for the January 2024 sessions of our Mid-Career and Early Career leadership development programs.  Learn more at https://blackwomanleading.com/programs-overview/ Event: Join us for the Black Woman Leading LIVE! Conference +Retreat, May 13-16, 2024 in Virginia Beach! Learn more at bwlretreat.com   Credits: Learn more about our consulting work with organizations at https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/ Email Laura: [email protected] Connect with Laura on LinkedIn Follow BWL on LinkedIn Instagram: @blackwomanleading Facebook: @blackwomanleading Podcast Music & Production: Marshall Knights  Graphics: Téa Campbell Listen and follow the podcast on all major platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher iHeartRadio Audible Podbay