Welcome to the SPFPP Herpes Podcast
Season 1: Herpes Stigma, Disclosure, and Emotional Support
Welcome to Season 1 of the Something Positive for Positive People (SPFPP) podcast. This season began with one mission: to support people navigating life after a herpes diagnosis through real, stigma-free conversations.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your journey, this archive exists to remind you—you’re not alone, and your story matters.
What You’ll Hear in Season 1:
Personal Stories: Guests share their experiences navigating herpes, dating, disclosure, and identity.
Herpes Disclosure Tips: Learn how to talk about your status with confidence and compassion.
Mental Health & Self-Worth: Explore how a diagnosis impacts your emotional health—and how to rebuild it.
Stigma-Free Language: Hear conversations that model compassionate, affirming ways to talk about STIs.
Expert Insights: Professionals in sexual health and mental health join the conversation to provide context and support.
Topics Covered:
First outbreak and diagnosis stories
Navigating relationships and dating with herpes
Finding identity beyond the stigma
Supporting others with STIs
Yoga therapy, emotional wellness, and herpes
Building community and breaking isolation
This season reflects years of lived experience, listener conversations, and lessons gathered from hundreds of interviews and peer support calls. The goal: to reduce the emotional weight of stigma, one conversation at a time.
Why This Archive Still Matters
While SPFPP is now expanding into broader conversations about emotional wellness and minimizing all forms of stigma, Season 1 will always be the foundation. These stories continue to support thousands of people every year seeking reassurance, healing, and connection.
If you’re here for herpes-specific support, you’re in the right place.
Want more tools and support?
Explore our Herpes Support Call and Yoga Therapy pages for more resources to help you navigate stigma and emotional wellness.
How to Use Our Search Bar
Looking for specific topics? Use our search bar to find episodes that cover the subjects most relevant to you. Simply type in keywords like "disclosure," "self-care," "mental health," or "relationship advice" to access episodes that offer the insights and support you need.
Join Our Community
Our podcast isn't just about listening—it's about connecting. Join our community of listeners who are navigating similar experiences. Share your stories, ask questions, and find the support you need. Join our newsletter below in order to stay up to date for virtual events and in person hangouts to meet others in the SPFPP community.
SPFPP 353: Something Pleasure Positive for Vanilla People
Sol opens up about how growing up in a religious household and navigating herpes stigma led her to vanilla, one-sided sex experiences. This episode uncovers how stepping into the sex-positive community transformed her relationship with consent and pleasure, and how these lessons are relevant for anyone curious about exploring new ways to connect sexually.
SPFPP 324: Overcoming Herpes Stigma in the Black Community
In "Overcoming Herpes Stigma in the Black Community," Belize Spivey sheds light on the unique challenges faced within the community. This episode delves into the roots of stigma, its impact on relationships, and how education and communication can dismantle misconceptions, offering a powerful narrative of empowerment and change. Join us to gain a deeper understanding and to support the journey toward a stigma-free dialogue in the Black community.
SPFPP Episode 190: Identity Validation is Suicide Prevention - Stigma in Blackness
In Episode 190 of the SPFPP Podcast, we delve into the intersection of overlapping identities and their impact on trauma and stigma, with a focus on the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. Leigh, an intersex black trans woman and primary health care provider, shares her experiences since 2019, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those with multiple marginalized identities. Learn how identity validation is vital for suicide prevention and mental health support.
SPFPP Episode 171: Black Minds Matter Part 1
In Part 1 of this two-part SPFPP episode, 27-year-old Bliss, a Black woman, shares her experience being diagnosed with trichomoniasis and herpes simplex virus type 1 while in a relationship. She initially thought she only had oral herpes due to unclear language from her healthcare provider. We also touch on her mental health struggles, including battling depression and suicidal ideation.
Episode 49: Overcoming - Herpes Support Group for Women
This episode features a recording of an online Black women's Herpes support group led by Belize Spivey, who inspires women to overcome life's obstacles, including living with herpes. The group discusses topics from Belize's book, "Overcoming What Can't be Cured: Living Beyond Herpes."