Episode Overview

Join Kristen Parise as she sits down with Cassandra Redding and Leah, the powerhouse founders of Intimate Wellbeing, who are revolutionizing how midlife women approach sexual health and pleasure. From a shame-filled first vibrator purchase at 47 to building a thriving business that empowers women across Canada, their journey is both inspiring and educational. This conversation breaks down barriers, busts myths, and provides practical guidance on everything from lubrication to pelvic floor health.

What You'll Learn

• The transformative power of the "hydrate, lubricate, vibrate" trifecta for sexual health
• Why everyone needs lube (yes, everyone!) and how to use it properly
• The difference between vaginal lubricant and vaginal moisturizer
• How 2-3 orgasms per week can optimize your pelvic floor function
• The importance of accessibility in sexual wellness products
• Why sexual health is essential with or without a partner
• How to overcome shame and start important conversations about pleasure

Episode Highlights From Shame to Empowerment: The Birth of Intimate Wellbeing

Leah shares her vulnerable story of buying her first vibrator at 47 - from driving by the store multiple times to parking far away out of embarrassment. This experience sparked the idea for creating a non-intimidating online platform for sexual wellness. What started as a "pretty website" quickly evolved into something much more meaningful when they realized women needed expert guidance, not just products.

Building a Community of Experts

Learn how a chance meeting with Dr. Carolyn Klein from the West Coast Center for Sex Therapy transformed their business model. From that initial connection grew a community of 40+ sexual health experts, including renowned professionals like Dr. Lori Mintz and Dr. Lori Brotto, creating a trusted resource for evidence-based sexual health information.

The "Hydrate, Lubricate, Vibrate" Philosophy

Discover why this simple trifecta is revolutionary for women's sexual health:

• Hydrate: Daily vaginal moisturizer keeps tissues supple and healthy
• Lubricate: Essential for comfort and pleasure, regardless of natural lubrication
• Vibrate: Promotes blood flow, helps with self-discovery, and maintains pelvic floor health

Breaking Down Lube Myths and Shame

Cass and Leah tackle the most common questions they receive: "How do I use lube?" and "Where does it go?" They address the harmful narrative of "I don't need it, I'm still wet" and explain why lube is for everyone, emphasizing that it's about enhancement, not deficiency.

Accessibility and Inclusivity in Sexual Wellness

Explore their commitment to making sexual wellness accessible to all, including products for people with disabilities, joint issues, and mobility challenges. From ergonomic toys to supportive pillows, they discuss how 22% of Canadians have some type of disability and deserve pleasure too.

The Pelvic Floor Connection

Learn why women should see a pelvic floor physiotherapist and how proper Kegel technique can transform your health. Discover the shocking statistic that women need 2-3 orgasms per week for optimal pelvic floor function and long-term health.

Expanding Beyond Online: Brick and Mortar and Hospitality

Hear about their exciting expansion into a physical boutique in Vernon, BC, and their upcoming venture into hospitality with intimacy kits for hotels. Plus, learn about their Healthcare Provider program that's helping clinics across Canada better serve their patients.

Episode Chapters

00:00-05:34: The Birth of Intimate Wellbeing – From personal journey to business idea 05:35-10:43: Building a Community of Experts – How they curated their trusted network 10:44-16:06: The Importance of Lubrication – Breaking down myths and providing education 16:07-19:42: The Hydrate, Lubricate, Vibrate Formula – Why this trifecta matters 19:43-24:30: Accessibility in Pleasure – Making wellness inclusive for everyone 24:31-31:10: Expanding the Business – From online to brick and mortar and beyond 31:11-34:44: Final Thoughts and Empowerment – Finding your joy with or without a partner

Connect with Intimate Wellbeing

Website: intimatewellbeing.com

Instagram: @intimate.wellbeing

Location: Vernon, BC (boutique location)

Connect with The Hole Shebang

Website: Blueberry Therapy Pelvic Health and Pediatrics

Instagram: @blueberytherapypelvichealth

Upcoming Event: The Pleasure Principle Conference - May 8, 2026

Cass and Leah's Theme Song

"Flowers" by Miley Cyrus – "It's about taking ownership of your own happiness... We can buy ourselves flowers. We can buy ourselves vibrators."

Key Takeaways

• Sexual health is as important as physical and mental health
• Pleasure is a necessity, not a luxury
• Education and open conversation can transform shame into empowerment
• "Find your joy" - whether with or without a partner
• No question about sexual health is too silly to ask
• Everyone deserves access to pleasure and sexual wellness