Soma Says

Pelvic Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Power of Your Core

In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma sits down with Dr. Krystal Couture, DPT, LAc., a holistic physical therapist and acupuncturist, to shine light on an often-overlooked topic: pelvic floor health.
Krystal explains what pelvic floor dysfunction really is, the common symptoms women (and men) experience, and the surprising emotional and physical causes behind it. Together, they explore how holistic practices—like acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, and breathwork—can be combined with traditional physical therapy for a deeper, more integrative approach.
Listeners will learn practical tools like pelvic breathing exercises, hear myths about pelvic floor health get debunked, and discover why open conversations and proper education are essential to breaking the taboo around this vital part of our health.
Whether you’re navigating postpartum changes, perimenopause, or simply curious about strengthening your pelvic health, this episode will leave you with both knowledge and empowerment.
Timeline
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:52 Meet Dr. Krystal Couture
02:02 Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
03:04 Pelvic Floor Symptoms and Causes
06:38 Pelvic Floor Breathing Exercise
11:26 Combining Acupuncture and Physical Therapy
15:01 Breaking the Taboo Around Pelvic Health
20:46 Holistic Treatment Approaches
34:20 Men’s Pelvic Health and Other Specialties
36:18 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Resources & Links
🌐 Learn more about Dr. Krystal Couture: www.krystal-couture.com📲 Follow Krystal on social media:
Instagram: @krystalcouture
Facebook: Krystal Couture
🌐 Connect with Dr. Soma: www.somamandalmd.com📚 Dr. Soma’s book Midlife Masala — available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and BookBub
Support the Podcast
If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review for Soma Says on Apple Podcasts. Reviews also help more women discover these important conversations. And after you read Midlife Masala, don’t forget to leave a review for the book too!

Hormones, Health and Hope

In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma sits down with Carolyn Zaumeyer, founder of LowTE Florida and a nationally recognized Nurse Practitioner who has spent over 20 years transforming lives through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
Carolyn shares her personal journey into hormone therapy and the patient-first philosophy that defines her practice. Together, they unpack common hormone-related challenges—low energy, mood swings, weight gain, and sleep issues—while clarifying the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones.
This conversation dives into the myths and misinformation surrounding hormone therapy, the importance of individualized dosing, and Carolyn’s success stories with patients from across the globe. They also explore how hormone therapy can alleviate menopause symptoms, improve quality of life, and empower women to embrace midlife as a season of strength and renewal.
If you’ve ever wondered whether hormone therapy could be right for you—or if you’re simply curious about how to feel more energized, focused, and vibrant—this episode will leave you informed and inspired.
Episode Timeline
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:52 Meet Carolyn Zaumeyer: Hormone Therapy Expert
02:11 Carolyn's Journey into Hormone Therapy
05:33 The Rise of LowTE Florida
06:42 Understanding Hormone Pellets
07:26 Patient Consultation Process
09:36 Global Reach and Patient Success Stories
17:05 Bioidentical vs. Synthetic Hormones
17:43 Addressing Myths and Misinformation
22:58 Open Access to Hormone Therapy
23:20 Testosterone Therapy Success Stories
23:48 Challenges in Patient-Doctor Communication
25:16 Choosing the Right Hormone Practitioner
26:39 Debunking Hormone Therapy Myths
28:32 Additional Services Offered by the Clinic
31:02 Addressing Sleep Issues in Midlife
35:19 Rapid Fire Questions on Menopause Myths
38:32 Importance of Cardiovascular Screening
41:02 Conclusion and Contact Information
Resources & Links
🌐 Learn more about Carolyn’s work: LowTE Florida📖 Explore Carolyn’s book and additional resources on hormone therapy🌐 Connect with Dr. Soma: www.somamandalmd.com📚 Dr. Soma’s book Midlife Masala — available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and BookBub
Support the Podcast
If this conversation resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review for Soma Says on Apple Podcasts.  You can also watch the Youtube version. And after you read Midlife Masala, don’t forget to leave a review for the book, too—your words help more women discover the tools they need to thrive in midlife and beyond.

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 & IntroductionDr. Soma Mandal opens the episode with a medical disclaimer and welcomes listeners to Season Three of Soma Says.
00:53 – Meet the Guest: Briana BassIntroduction 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 TherapyBrianna shares her transition from the corporate world to becoming a clinical sexologist and mental health advocate.
04:22 – Redefining Intimacy & Identity in MidlifeDiscussion on intimacy, trauma, and helping clients reconnect with themselves, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
06:01 – The “Pie of Life” Approach to WellnessBrianna 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-WorthAddressing body changes, societal messaging, and how to break the cycle of shame and guilt.
13:10 – Debunking Myths About Sex TherapyBrianna clarifies what sex therapy really is, common misconceptions, and the importance of emotional safety in relationships.
16:30 – Taboos and Communication BarriersWhy sex is still taboo, even in intimate relationships, and how to foster open communication.
19:30 – Red Flags, Green Flags, and Relationship PatternsHow to spot healthy and unhealthy relationship dynamics, with advice for both singles and couples.
24:00 – Dating App Fatigue & Authentic ConnectionExploring the impact of dating apps, self-worth, and how to seek meaningful relationships in the digital age.
27:00 – The Eight Forms of IntimacyBrianna introduces the eight forms of intimacy that sustain relationships beyond the bedroom.
29:30 – Therapy as Prevention, Not Just CrisisWhy therapy is valuable for everyone, not just those in crisis.
31:00 – Connect with Briana BassWhere to find Brianna online, her preference for in-person therapy, and closing thoughts.
32:57 – Outro & Call to ActionDr. Soma wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to like, share, and review the podcast.
Connect with Brianna Bass:Website: brianabass.orgInstagram: @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 MasalaAvailable wherever books are sold:
🌐 Amazon
📚 Barnes & Noble
📱 Kobo
⭐ BookBub
Or download the Thinkific companion resource directly from my website: www.somamandalmd.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal🌐 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!

Heart to Heart: Exposing the Risks South Asian Women Can’t Afford to Ignore

Episode Description:In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma Mandal takes an in-depth look at the significant yet under-recognized threat of heart disease in South Asian women. She explains the genetic predispositions, metabolic risk factors, and cultural influences that make this demographic particularly vulnerable.
Along with uncovering why symptoms are often dismissed, Dr. Soma shares actionable prevention strategies and outlines the key health screenings every South Asian woman should consider.
Tune in to gain knowledge that could save your life—or the life of a woman you love. And don’t forget to download the special Thinkific resource on heart health and explore Dr. Soma’s new book, Midlife Masala, for more empowering insights.
Episode Timeline:
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:52 Welcome to Soma Says
01:01 The Silent Threat of Heart Disease in South Asian Women
02:23 Understanding the Genetic and Cultural Factors
06:41 The Importance of Early Detection and Screening
10:11 Cultural Barriers and Stigma
13:05 Advocating for Your Health: Essential Tests
16:57 Effective Prevention Strategies
19:53 A Patient’s Story: The Power of Advocacy
21:03 Conclusion and Resources
📖 Get Dr. Soma’s Book: Midlife MasalaAvailable wherever books are sold:
🌐 Amazon
📚 Barnes & Noble
📱 Kobo
⭐ BookBub
Or download the Thinkific companion resource directly from my website: www.somamandalmd.com
🔗 Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal🌐 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!

Navigating the Storm: Women’s Health and Menopause Demystified

In this powerful episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma sits down with Stormy Quinn, author of The Menopause Decoder: The Ultimate Men’s Guide to Understanding and Supporting His Partner Through Change. Through a raw and personal journey, Stormy shares her struggles, revelations, and the passion that led her to write a book that supports both women and their partners during perimenopause and menopause.
Together, they dive into the real-life impact of hormonal shifts on sleep, nutrition, mood, and relationships—and what women can actually do about it. This conversation is filled with relatable insights, practical wellness tips, and a refreshing dose of humor and honesty.
Key Takeaways:
What Stormy wishes every woman knew about perimenopause
The role of weight training and protein during midlife
How to build open communication with partners and friends
The importance of persistence when seeking medical help
Simple mindset shifts that can change your wellness journey
⏱️ Episode Timeline:
00:00 — Introduction and Disclaimer01:08 — Meet Stormy Quinn: Author of The Menopause Decoder02:05 — Stormy's Personal Journey and Motivation for the Book04:13 — Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause: The Missing Info06:31 — Common Challenges and Misconceptions Women Face09:19 — The Importance of Communication and Partner Support19:08 — Midlife Wellness: Mindset, Movement, and Nutrition24:39 — How Sleep and Hormones Interact in Perimenopause27:29 — Breaking the Silence: Open Conversations and Generational Gaps35:32 — Final Thoughts and Resources for Women and Their Support Circles
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this conversation in their life!
📘 Get Stormy’s Book: The Menopause Decoder on Amazon
🔗 More from Dr. Soma: somamandalmd.com📘 Grab your copy of Midlife Masala – available now on her website and Amazon!

The Vein Game: Navigating Unseen Complexities in Women’s Health

In this inspiring episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma welcomes Dr. Tonie Reincke—a board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist and the founder of Reincke Vein Center in Sugar Land, Texas. With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Reincke shares her extraordinary journey from ICU nurse to leading vein specialist, highlighting the power of perseverance, compassion, and patient-centered care.
Together, they discuss the emotional challenges of medical training, the hidden impact of vein disease on women’s health, and the most effective treatments for varicose and spider veins. Dr. Reincke also dives into her community outreach efforts and how education is transforming lives, one patient at a time.
Whether you're a provider, patient, or simply curious about the future of vein health, this episode is full of insight and heart.
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Tonie Reincke: https://reinckeveincenter.com📩 Contact Dr. Soma: www.somamandalmd.com | info@somamandalmd.com
⏱ Episode Timeline:00:00 – Introduction and Disclaimer00:52 – Meet Dr. Tonie Reincke01:03 – Dr. Reincke's Background and Journey03:02 – Personal Reflections and Family Background04:04 – Challenges and Emotional Growth in Medical Training07:09 – Midlife Women’s Health and Vein Issues09:16 – Understanding Varicose Veins and Treatment Options14:08 – Dr. Reincke's Career Path and Specialization16:08 – Founding the Reincke Vein Center17:39 – Patient Education and Community Outreach21:37 – The Importance of Staying Connected to Humble Beginnings22:12 – When to Take Vein Health Seriously22:49 – Consultations and Seeking Specialist Advice24:19 – Impact of Vein Health on Lifestyle27:29 – Treatment Options and Recovery Times29:17 – Understanding Varithena and Other Procedures33:34 – Contraindications and Patient Selection37:21 – Future Plans and Educational Outreach38:56 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Breaking Barriers and Sowing Seeds of Change: A Conversation About Surrogacy

In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma welcomes Eloise Drane, the founder and CEO of Family Inceptions, the first Black woman-owned surrogacy and egg donation agency in the U.S. With extensive personal experience as both an egg donor and gestational surrogate, Eloise shares her inspiring journey and discusses the challenges and joys of helping families build their futures. The discussion highlights key topics, including the need for insurance coverage in fertility care, addressing the lack of accessibility and information in reproductive health—especially for women of color—and the importance of patient advocacy. Eloise also takes us through the rigorous screening process for surrogates and the importance of trust and relationships in the surrogacy process. This episode serves as a call for better education in reproductive health and patient advocacy across the healthcare system.
Timeline for Apple Podcasts:
00:00 - Introduction and DisclaimerDr. Soma sets the stage for the episode, introducing Eloise Drane and the impactful conversation about fertility and surrogacy.
00:52 - Meet Eloise Drane: A Trailblazer in FertilityLearn about Eloise’s background as the founder of Family Inceptions and her groundbreaking work in the surrogacy and egg donation space.
01:49 - Challenges in Fertility Care AccessEloise discusses the ongoing challenges in accessing fertility care, especially for underrepresented communities.
03:04 - Eloise's Journey: From Kidney Donor to Surrogacy AdvocateA deep dive into Eloise’s personal experiences as both a kidney and egg donor, and how these shaped her advocacy work in surrogacy.
04:24 - Starting Family InceptionsEloise shares her motivation behind starting Family Inceptions and the importance of creating an inclusive, supportive environment for families and surrogates.
05:23 - The Evolution of Surrogacy and Egg DonationExplore how the surrogacy and egg donation industries have changed over the years and the role Family Inceptions plays in that transformation.
07:54 - Educating Women on Reproductive HealthThe conversation highlights the need for greater education on reproductive health and fertility options, especially for women of color.
10:54 - The Importance of Self-Advocacy in HealthcareEloise emphasizes how critical it is for individuals to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system, particularly in fertility and surrogacy.
12:49 - Addressing Systemic Issues in Fertility CareEloise addresses the systemic barriers in fertility care, including disparities in care and access to necessary resources for marginalized groups.
20:32 - Eloise's Personal Inspiration and MissionEloise shares the personal experiences and motivations that drive her passion for changing the fertility landscape.
22:55 - Navigating the Industry as a Person of ColorEloise opens up about her unique experiences navigating the surrogacy industry as a Black woman, highlighting the need for representation.
26:41 - Outdated Medical TrainingAn insightful conversation about how outdated medical training can impact fertility care and how new approaches are needed.
29:19 - Advocating for YourselfEloise stresses the importance of patient advocacy in every aspect of healthcare, especially in reproductive health.
31:48 - Understanding SurrogacyA detailed explanation of the surrogacy process and what prospective parents and surrogates should know.
37:08 - Surrogacy Screening ProcessEloise walks us through the rigorous and essential process of screening surrogates to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved.
44:08 - Educational Events and ResourcesLearn about the educational events and resources available through Family Inceptions to empower and educate prospective parents and surrogates.
46:38 - Final Thoughts and Contact InformationEloise offers her final thoughts on the future of surrogacy and fertility care, sharing how listeners can connect with Family Inceptions and get involved.
Connect with Eloise Drane:Website: https://familyinceptions.com/Instagram: @familyinceptionsFacebook: Family Inceptions
Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal (Host):Website: https://www.somamandalmd.com/Instagram: @drsomamandalmdFacebook: Dr. Soma MandalTwitter: @SomaMd1YouTube: Soma Says Podcast

Beyond Talk: Unlocking Your Trauma’s Hidden Power with Critical Memory Integration

Episode Description:In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma speaks with Estefana Johnson, Executive Director of Arise Alliance, about her transformative work in trauma counseling and the creation of the Critical Memory Integration (CMI) method.
Estefana shares her personal journey, including the challenges she faced as a Latina navigating the mental health field, and the deep impact of cultural and early-life experiences on emotional well-being. Together, they explore how CMI differs from traditional therapies—focusing on integrating rather than desensitizing memories—and how this powerful approach is changing lives.
You'll hear:
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:52 Personal Journey into Mental Health
01:55 Guest Introduction: Estefani Johnson
03:21 Critical Memory Integration (CMI) Overview
03:58 Cultural Influences on Mental Health
05:44 Understanding Critical Memories
08:24 CMI in Practice: Techniques and Benefits
17:04 Personal Transformation Stories
18:49 The Impact of CMI on Patients
21:47 Personal Reflections and Experiences
24:44 Recognizing Signs of Trauma
26:10 Understanding Trauma and Integration
27:51 The Role of Caregiving and Personal Boundaries
29:31 The Importance of Self-Care and Authenticity
32:27 Desensitization vs. Integration
34:46 The Continuous Journey of Healing
37:07 Training and Expanding CMI
43:18 Connecting with the Community
45:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Guest Links – Estefana Johnson🔗 Website: https://arisealliance.org
Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal🌐 Website: www.somamandalmd.com📸 Instagram: @drsomamandalmd▶️ YouTube: Soma Says Podcast
🎧 If this episode moved you, please leave a review, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and subscribe to Soma Says for more life-changing conversations.

Rewrite Your Diagnosis: What This Therapist Wants Every Woman to Know

In this inspiring episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma Mandal interviews Virginia “Gin” Oman — a transformational expert, licensed clinical mental health counselor, certified life coach, personal trainer, and harp therapist. Diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis in the late 1980s and told she’d never walk again, Gin rebuked expectations. She used the healing power of the mind-body connection, movement, music, and intuition to reclaim her life — going from wheelchair-bound to cycling and eventually serving as the MS Association’s National Ambassador.
 
🌟 Topics Covered
Resilience and defying the odds
Mind-body healing, intuition, and small daily steps
Sound and movement therapy for trauma and chronic illness
Building a life of purpose and inspiring hope
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – Intro & Disclaimer00:53 – Meet Virginia "Gin" Oman01:19 – Gin's Journey with MS04:35 – Intuition & Overcoming Adversity09:39 – Crafting a Unique Therapeutic Practice11:21 – Music & Movement as Medicine18:10 – Therapy’s Triumphs & Trials22:29 – Learning to Ride Again26:05 – Becoming a Voice for Hope26:40 – Inner Voice & Small Shifts28:49 – From Ashes to Flight29:27 – Writing for Healing30:48 – The Joy of Helping Others34:26 – Daily Rituals for Balance35:52 – Gratitude & Nature’s Role41:42 – Engaging the Audience42:10 – Final Thoughts + Contact Info
👥 Connect & Learn More
Virginia “Gin” Oman
Instagram: @virginiaomanofficial 
Website: virginiaoman.com
Dr. Soma Mandal aka "Dr. Soma"
Instagram: @drsomamandalmd 
Website: somamandalmd.com

Vagus Nerve Secrets: The Egg Device Every Woman Show Know About

🧠 Episode Summary:In this powerful episode, Dr. Soma interviews Celine Vignal, founder of Seesaw Health, about her personal journey with chronic migraines and how it inspired the creation of a cutting-edge women’s health tech company. Celine shares how her debilitating symptoms led to the development of Seesaw Health’s patented egg biosensor and breathwork app, which combine neuroscience-backed 0.1 Hz breathing techniques and real-time data to activate the vagus nerve and reduce inflammation.
Together, they explore how consistent breathwork can help regulate hormonal fluctuations, migraines, and menopausal symptoms—and why personalized, holistic tools are the future of women's health.
🕰️ Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction and Disclaimer00:52 – Meet Celine Vignal and Seesaw Health03:07 – Personal Journey with Chronic Migraines05:35 – The Science Behind Seesaw Health16:19 – Daily Use and Benefits of the Device29:49 – Broader Applications and Future Plans31:59 – Privacy and Data Security36:03 – Conclusion and Contact Information
🌐 Learn More About Seesaw Health:Website: https://www.seesaw.healthInstagram: @seesaw.health
🔗 Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal:Website: www.somamandalmd.comInstagram: @drsomamandalYouTube Channel: Soma SaysApple Podcasts: Soma Says Podcast