Welcome to the SPFPP Herpes Podcast
Something Positive for Positive People Podcast: Now Live Monthly!
The Something Positive for Positive People podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the stigma associated with STDs/STIs, including herpes, HIV, and HPV. We believe in the power of open conversations, real stories, and expert insights to build a supportive community for everyone affected by these conditions.
Starting in November, the podcast is going live! Join us on the last Tuesday of every month at 8pm Eastern Time for an interactive experience where you can engage with the stories, topics, and experts that matter most to you.
What You'll Find Here
Real Stories: Hear personal experiences from individuals who’ve navigated life with an STD. Their raw, authentic journeys offer valuable lessons and inspiration.
Expert Insights: Learn from healthcare professionals, therapists, and relationship experts who share actionable advice on managing your health, relationships, and mental well-being.
Supportive Community: Connect with others who understand your experiences. Whether listening live or catching the replay, you’ll feel seen, heard, and supported.
Key Topics Covered
Dating with Herpes: Practical tips for disclosing your status and building healthy, honest relationships.
Mental Health: Strategies to cope with the emotional challenges of an STD diagnosis.
Self-Care: Insights on nurturing your physical and emotional health.
Breaking the Stigma: Empowering conversations that challenge societal norms and encourage acceptance.us for the live show on the last Tuesday of every month at
Be part of the conversation that’s changing how we talk about STDs. Don’t miss your chance to connect, learn, and grow with the SPFPP community. Join our monthly newsletter and check the events page to learn how to attend live!
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.
If you would like to be a guest on the podcast to share your dating, relationship, and experience navigating stigma, please fill out the intake form below.
SPFPP 360: Something Positive for People In a Relationship or Seeking One
In SPFPP 360, we shift focus from dating with herpes to thriving in relationships. Explore personal growth, shifting priorities, and the evolution of the podcast as Courtney shares his journey and invites your feedback.
SPFPP 359: 23 Years of Grief
In Episode 359, "23 Years of Grief," Courtney Brame opens up about a deeply personal journey of loss, healing, and self-discovery. Through raw vulnerability, he shares his connection to grief, his grandmother's role in his life, and how yoga, therapy, and self-reflection have helped him process these emotions. This powerful episode challenges listeners to explore their own grief and the impact of suppressed emotions.
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.
SPFPP 357: Asexual Insights - De-centering Sex with Pleasure
In this episode, I connect with Aubri Lancaster of Ace Sex Education to discuss the lessons that the herpes community can take from the asexual community. We dive into how expanding our view of pleasure beyond intercourse can open up new ways to experience connection and satisfaction. Aubri helps us understand key concepts like graysexuality, the spectrum of attraction, and how de-centering sex can lead to a more present and fulfilling experience in relationships. Whether or not you're ace, there are valuable insights in this conversation that apply to everyone exploring sexuality.
SPFPP 356: Yoga Therapy for People With Herpes: Navigating Stigma and Emotional Wellness
Yoga Therapy offers an empowering way to address the emotional challenges of living with herpes. By focusing on the mind-body connection, we can reduce emotional stress—one of the primary triggers for outbreaks—and work toward healing through breathwork, mindful movement, and emotional reflection. As someone who's openly shared my herpes diagnosis, I offer a safe, judgment-free space to explore your emotional wellness, with personalized, donation-based sessions. Learn more and schedule a session today at www.spfpp.org/yoga-therapy.
SPFPP 355: Herpes stigma abroad with a high values man - Jason lebeck
In this episode, Jason LeBeck shares his story of contracting herpes in Taiwan and the stigma he faced from his church and community. We talk about the challenges of navigating casual dating, how his diagnosis reshaped his views on intimacy, and why he's now waiting for a relationship that values emotional connection over just physical attraction.
SPFPP 354: Herpes and Suicide - Sexual Health is Mental Health
In this episode, Dr. Drew Rabidoux and I unpack the emotional toll a herpes diagnosis can take, especially when it comes to mental health and suicidality. We explore how the power of choice and strong support systems can help ground those struggling with these heavy emotions.
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 352: Something Positive for Black Men with Herpes
In episode 352 of SPFPP, Aaron Thomas shares his journey of living with herpes as a Black man. We discuss the impact of hypermasculinity, his struggles with mental health, and how he’s reclaiming his identity in a culture that often silences these conversations.
SPFPP 351: pleasure positivity - harm reduction at the intersection of safety and pleasure
In this episode of SPFPP, Mel Moseley opens up about her journey with HSV2 and how it led her to redefine sex positivity. We explore how the conversation around sex positivity often misses the mark by focusing too much on intercourse and not enough on communication and emotional safety. Mel shares how polyamory and intentional communication helped her heal from past trauma and find true connection.
SPFPP 350: Nonmonogamous Conversations Monogamous People need to have - part 2
In SPFPP episode 350, our guest shares how her journey through nonmonogamy challenged her understanding of being single and taught her valuable lessons in communication and intentionality. These experiences reshaped her approach to monogamous relationships, highlighting the power of being upfront, emotionally available, and aligned in values. Join us as we discuss how nonmonogamy can provide tools for healthier monogamous relationships
SPFPP 349: Nonmonogamous conversations monogamous people need to have - Part 1
Join us as we explore the hard conversations monogamous people need to have—often taken for granted in non-monogamous relationships. From the fear of disclosure to the impact of stigma on our self-esteem, this episode is all about asking the tough questions and improving communication in our relationships.
spfpp 348: can you sue someone for giving you herpes?
In this episode, we dive into the legal and emotional aspects of suing someone for knowingly transmitting herpes. Author Destiny Maria shares her personal journey from diagnosis to legal battle, discussing the impact of stigma, the importance of informed consent, and her growth as a new mother.
SPFPP 347: Who’s Rejecting You?
Join us in Episode 347 of SPFPP as we explore the emotional journey of a woman navigating life after a divorce, sexual freedom, and a herpes diagnosis. We discuss the challenges of dating with herpes, the importance of communication, and the need to maintain high standards, even when facing rejection.
SPFPP 346: Herpes Support is the Foundation Toward a Cure
In Episode 346 of the SPFPP podcast, Lauren and I delve into the intricacies of herpes advocacy, highlighting both our challenges and triumphs. We discuss the societal tendency to value paid resources over free, volunteer-driven support, and how this affects our work. We also explore the necessary steps toward achieving a cure for herpes, emphasizing the importance of general acceptance and the reduction of stigma. Join us as we navigate these critical topics and learn more about the ongoing research for a herpes cure at www.spfpp.org/herpes-cure-research. Support our mission at www.spfpp.org/donate.
spfpp 345: I have herpes and you probably have it too
Sex educator Tara Ransleben (@TR_Sexuality) discusses the value of comprehensive sexual education versus abstinence-based education. She shares her personal experience with oral HSV 1, dealing with online trolls, and navigating stigma. Tara also explores the differences and benefits of in-person versus online advocacy, emphasizing the importance of accurate information to combat misinformation and stigma.
Episode 344: Beyond Herpes - On a Mission to tradition
Allie, founder of Beyond Herpes, joins Courtney to discuss their organizations' missions to empower those diagnosed with herpes. They explore the challenges of running small nonprofits, Allie's personal journey with genital HSV, and the differences in how men and women handle STI diagnoses. The conversation also delves into self-exploration, values, discipline, and alignment in both romantic and platonic relationships.
SPFPP 343: Get real about rejection with dakota
Self-rejection often creeps into the lives of people with herpes, leading them to settle for less in relationships or avoid dating altogether. This article delves into the patterns of self-rejection, the impact it has on personal relationships and self-worth, and offers insights into overcoming these challenges. Whether you're staying in an unhealthy relationship or choosing to remain single out of fear of rejection, this article explores the emotional journey and provides guidance on embracing self-worth and positive change.
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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.
SPFPP 341: Nurture your nature
In this heartwarming episode of SPFPP, Lindsey revisits her journey from disclosing her herpes status to finding lasting love and marriage. Explore valuable lessons on relationship dynamics, stepping into new family roles, and the joys of pregnancy despite the challenges of living with herpes. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire and inform.