Redefining Intimacy & Identity: Turning Midlife Into a Masterclass

Welcome to Season Three of Soma Says! In this powerful episode, Dr. Soma Mandal sits down with Briana Bass, founder of The Wellness Institute in Dallas and board-certified clinical sexologist, to explore how midlife can become a masterclass in health, connection, and self-discovery. Brianna shares her journey from corporate burnout to mental health advocate, offering evidence-based, practical strategies for navigating perimenopause, menopause, and the pressures facing high-achieving women. Together, they break down the myths of sex therapy, discuss the “pie of life” approach to wellness, and reveal the eight forms of intimacy that sustain relationships beyond the bedroom. Key topics include: How to reclaim your sense of self during life transitions The truth about intimacy, body image, and emotional connection Red flags and green flags in modern relationships Overcoming loneliness and building community Dating app fatigue and authentic connection in the digital age Why therapy is for everyone—not just for crisis Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical advice, or a fresh perspective on relationships and wellness, this episode will leave you empowered to make meaningful changes—one conversation at a time. 00:00 – Disclaimer & Introduction Dr. Soma Mandal opens the episode with a medical disclaimer and welcomes listeners to Season Three of Soma Says. 00:53 – Meet the Guest: Briana Bass Introduction to Briana Bass, founder of The Wellness Institute, and her unique approach to mental health and sexology. 02:24 – Briana’s Journey: From Corporate Burnout to Therapy Brianna shares her transition from the corporate world to becoming a clinical sexologist and mental health advocate. 04:22 – Redefining Intimacy & Identity in Midlife Discussion on intimacy, trauma, and helping clients reconnect with themselves, especially during perimenopause and menopause. 06:01 – The “Pie of Life” Approach to Wellness Brianna explains her holistic framework for lifestyle, community, and self-care, and how it impacts mental and sexual health. 10:27 – Body Image, Shame, and Self-Worth Addressing body changes, societal messaging, and how to break the cycle of shame and guilt. 13:10 – Debunking Myths About Sex Therapy Brianna clarifies what sex therapy really is, common misconceptions, and the importance of emotional safety in relationships. 16:30 – Taboos and Communication Barriers Why sex is still taboo, even in intimate relationships, and how to foster open communication. 19:30 – Red Flags, Green Flags, and Relationship Patterns How to spot healthy and unhealthy relationship dynamics, with advice for both singles and couples. 24:00 – Dating App Fatigue & Authentic Connection Exploring the impact of dating apps, self-worth, and how to seek meaningful relationships in the digital age. 27:00 – The Eight Forms of Intimacy Brianna introduces the eight forms of intimacy that sustain relationships beyond the bedroom. 29:30 – Therapy as Prevention, Not Just Crisis Why therapy is valuable for everyone, not just those in crisis. 31:00 – Connect with Briana Bass Where to find Brianna online, her preference for in-person therapy, and closing thoughts. 32:57 – Outro & Call to Action Dr. Soma wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to like, share, and review the podcast. Connect with Brianna Bass: Website: brianabass.org Instagram: @brianabasstherapy If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and review Soma Says. Remember, it’s always ladies first—let’s make a difference together!   📖 Get Dr. Soma’s Book: Midlife Masala Available wherever books are sold: 🌐 Amazon 📚 Barnes & Noble 📱 Kobo ⭐ BookBub Or download the Thinkific companion resource directly from my website: www.somamandalmd.com 📸 Instagram: @drsomamandalmd 👥 LinkedIn: Dr. Soma Mandal ▶️ YouTube: Soma Says Podcast 🙌 Support the Show & the Book Subscribe to Soma Says wherever you listen to podcasts. Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review to help more women discover these important conversations. After reading Midlife Masala, please leave a review on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Goodreads — your feedback makes a huge difference!