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 227: Hanging Herpes Over my Head
In Episode 227 of the SPFPP Podcast, titled "Hanging Herpes Over My Head," our guest Tammy bravely shares her experiences with herpes, abuse, and new insights she gained during our conversation. This episode contains sensitive content, including discussions of abuse and sexual assault. Tammy's story highlights the various forms abuse can take and provides identifiers for potential abuse situations.
Additionally, we delve into the role of sexuality education in mitigating abuse by emphasizing non-sexual aspects such as consent, boundaries, the skills to say and hear "no," seeking support for any harm done, and understanding accountability. We encourage listeners to take care of themselves while listening and to skip this episode if the content may be too challenging.
SPFPP 210: Delayed Rejection - It’s Fine Til it isn’t
In Episode 210 of the SPFPP Podcast, Kelsy shares her experience of navigating herpes stigma and delayed rejection. After being diagnosed at 19, she became vocal about her status on social media and in her personal life. We discuss the importance of setting boundaries, managing emotional labor, and the reality of people's changing comfort levels with herpes. Kelsy highlights how empowerment and self-worth play crucial roles in handling rejections and maintaining healthy relationships. Tune in to learn how effective communication and allyship can help end stigma on an individual level.