“This is some bull.” That was our working title for this conversation about perimenopause. And honestly? It still fits.

In Episode 4 of Dude, Tengo Chisme, we’re getting personal about brain fog, sleepless nights, mood swings, hot flashes, and the moment we each realized that something was changing in our bodies.

We grew up hearing about “the change,” but there was a whole lot missing from that conversation. Nobody told us how disorienting it could feel to lose our train of thought at work, wake up in the middle of the night unable to sleep, or feel furious while knowing the person in front of us hadn’t actually done anything wrong.

As two Latina best friends navigating this phase of life, we compare our very different experiences, reflect on what our mothers and tías shared, and talk about what it takes to feel supported at home, at work, and in the doctor’s office.

We get into:
• The symptoms that first caught our attention—and how they’ve changed
• Talking openly about perimenopause without apologizing for it
• Bringing our husbands into the conversation
• Our experiences with symptom management and seeking care
• Learning to give ourselves grace
• The relief of having a friend you can ask, “Did this happen to you, too?”

We’ve talked more about our bodies in the last five years than in the preceding 25 years of our friendship. Some of those conversations are frustrating. Some are vulnerable. And some are funny enough that all we can do is laugh.

Our biggest takeaway? Find your people. Build a table where no topic is off limits.

Send this episode to someone who belongs at yours.

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dudetengochisme/

Dude, Tengo Chisme with Maribel & Aimée. Chisme since ’96.

A note: This episode shares our personal experiences, not medical advice or treatment recommendations. Please discuss symptoms and treatment decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.