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 358: The Power of Disclosing to a Friend
Courtney Brame Courtney Brame

SPFPP 358: The Power of Disclosing to a Friend

Talking about your status with someone close is powerful—sharing this vulnerability can bring a deep sense of relief and connection. In SPFPP 358, we explore how trusted friends can help validate who we are, beyond our diagnosis.

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SPFPP 353: Something Pleasure Positive for Vanilla People
Courtney Brame Courtney Brame

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.

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SPFPP 342: Herpes identity crisis
Courtney Brame Courtney Brame

SPFPP 342: Herpes identity crisis

As a Black man living with herpes, Courtney Brame has navigated the complexities of stigma, dating, and self-acceptance. Through his nonprofit, Something Positive for Positive People, he’s created a platform to support others facing similar challenges. Dive into his story and learn how he’s using his voice to fight herpes stigma and promote mental health awareness.

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Episode 120: The Emotions Vampire
Courtney Brame Courtney Brame

Episode 120: The Emotions Vampire

In this episode, I reflect on the profound insights gained from Michelle Cassandra Johnson's workshop and her book, "Skill in Action." A meditation on the question "Where am I from?" transported me back to my childhood, revealing how past experiences shape our present emotions. This journey underscores the importance of centering and connecting with oneself, as emphasized in my yoga teacher training.

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