Ep. 488 How Perimenopause Changes the Brain with Dr. Caroline Leaf | Menopause & Mental Health

I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Caroline Leaf today. She is a cognitive neuroscientist, a bestselling author, and an internationally recognized expert in mind management and neuroplasticity. In our discussion, we explore perimenopause and menopause as brain-based events rather than hormonal changes and discuss the distinctions between the brain, body, and mind. Dr. Leaf shares key insights from her latest book, Help in a Hurry, which offers a workable solution for self-regulation, acquiring knowledge, and navigating crises. We also delve into mental health management and building coping skills, and explore the importance of self-regulation, the impact of people-pleasing, and why labeling can be problematic. Tune in for today’s powerful and insightful conversation with Dr. Caroline Leaf. I strongly recommend her new book, Help in a Hurry, for clear and actionable strategies to steady your mind as you navigate life. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The changes that occur in women's brains during the perimenopause to menopause transition Why stress can become toxic when we fail to manage it How managing the mind, body, and nutrition helps to prevent cognitive issues during perimenopause and menopause Dr. Leaf explains the difference between the mind and the brain The benefits of self-regulation for managing stress and preventing cognitive decline How to shift your mindset in just 60 seconds Dr. Leaf introduces Neurocycle, her five-step process for rewiring habits over 63 days How people-pleasing is driven by societal expectations and personal narratives How recognizing and addressing your people-pleasing patterns will allow you to regain your identity and self-worth Why labeling offers temporary comfort but worsens stigmas and reduces the effects of mental health solutions Bio: Dr. Caroline Leaf Leading the Future of Mind-Management and Mental Health Transformation Dr. Caroline Leaf is a cognitive neuroscientist, bestselling author, and global expert in mind management and neuroplasticity. For over 30 years, she has pioneered groundbreaking research on how thoughts shape the brain—and how we can harness this power to transform mental, emotional, and physical health. Creator of the proven 5-Step Neurocycle® method, Dr. Leaf equips people worldwide with science-backed tools to break toxic thought patterns, build resilience, and create lasting change. Through her books, courses, and media appearances—including TEDx, The Doctors, and Mindvalley—she has empowered millions to take control of their mental well-being. Her bestselling books, like Switch On Your Brain and Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess, continue to inspire transformation, offering practical strategies to rewire the brain, overcome anxiety and burnout, and unlock true potential. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Caroline Leaf On her website On all social media: @drcarolineleaf The Dr. Leaf Show (On YouTube) Dr. Leaf’s Neurocycle App is also available on iTunes or Google Play Pre-order a copy of Dr. Leaf’s new book, Help in a Hurry, to receive many free bonuses