Welcome to our Podcast
SOMETHING POSITIVE FOR POSITIVE PEOPLE
Since 2017, the SPFPP podcast has been a free resource for people navigating the emotional, relational, and social impacts of a herpes diagnosis. Through candid conversations, guests share what life looks like after testing positive—how they date, disclose, manage shame, and build relationships. You’ll hear experiences from others that reflect your own or reveal new options for moving forward.
What we talk about
Dating with Herpes
From casual sex to long-term commitment, guests share how they communicate their status and build relationships that work for them.Stigma & Identity
How people reclaim their sense of self after diagnosis and rebuild confidence on their own terms.Sexual Health
Tools for navigating safer sex, honest communication, and deeper relational alignment.Alternative Relationship Styles
Non-monogamy, queerness, and connecting beyond traditional relationship norms.Emotional Healing
Stories of grief, growth, and self-acceptance. Often, herpes is the distraction—not the root. These episodes explore the deeper patterns that diagnosis reveals.
If you’re ready to share your experience (anonymously or publicly), please fill out the podcast guest intake form below, and we’ll reach out to interview you!
Looking for something in particular?
Search below for anything you’re curious about, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
I began consuming your podcast like it was water after walking through the desert for days. I was practically catatonic from the blow of my diagnosis, and I didn't know where to turn. I was in those initial stages of grief—somewhere between shock, denial, and anger. I won't say I was suicidal, but I did have the thought that if I died, it wouldn't really matter because my life was practically over anyway. Some months later, I learned about your SPFPP Herpes Stigma Conference in May 2024 and registered for it. I can now say I've survived one of the most difficult periods of my life—and now I'm thriving.
—J.
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 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 212: Raising the Standards
In this episode, Suzanne discusses how her herpes diagnosis led her to elevate her standards in relationships, embracing her self-worth while navigating the dating world. Learn how she combats stigma, advocates for sexual health, and highlights the importance of setting and maintaining high standards despite the challenges of living with herpes. This conversation underscores the critical connection between sexual health and mental health.
Episode 86: Dear Activists, Take Care of Yourselves
In this episode of Something Positive for Positive People, Ella Dawson discusses her powerful herpes activism, including her TEDx Talk, "STIs aren’t a consequence. They’re inevitable." We dive into the challenges and emotional labor of activism, and explore the stereotypes and erasure faced by bisexual individuals. Listen in for a candid conversation on self-care for activists.
Episode 31: Who Will Love Me?
In Episode 31 of SPFPP, Emily Depasse, a 25-year-old MSW/MEd Human Sexuality graduate student living with genital HSV-2, shares her journey from diagnosis to self-acceptance. Emily discusses her initial struggles, including turning to alcohol and unhealthy friendships, and emphasizes the importance of support and challenging the stigma surrounding herpes. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience and finding love and purpose despite a herpes diagnosis.
Episode 30: Rich Mancuso - Author of Asking for a Friend
In Episode 30 of SPFPP, 49-year-old Rich Mancuso, author of "Asking for a Friend," shares his journey with HSV-2, including participating in a clinical trial for a vaccine. Rich discusses his diagnosis, the impact of stress on outbreaks, and the importance of shedding light on herpes to reduce stigma. The episode also touches on the relationship between shame and testing new treatments in the US.