In Episode 29, Part 1 of SPFPP, Lauren shares her experience of contracting HSV after her first penetrative sexual encounter. Despite the stigma, Lauren found support quickly and maintains a positive perspective on her diagnosis. This episode challenges the misconception that herpes is only contracted through promiscuity.

In Episode 28 of SPFPP, Fleur from Australia shares her journey of contracting HSV-2 and taking two years off from sex to find herself. Her story highlights the value of self-acceptance, open communication, and polyamory. Through "mirroring," Fleur conveys confidence and honesty, allowing her partners to accept her despite the risk of herpes. Her experience demonstrates that self-love and responsibility are crucial for healthy relationships.

In Episode 27 of SPFPP, Reese shares her profound story of survival and self-discovery after a near-fatal car accident redirected her from a plan to end her life. Her experience underscores the importance of trusting one's intuition and addressing red flags in relationships. Reese's journey emphasizes that an STD diagnosis doesn't define one's life; rather, it's a call to explore deeper self-acceptance and growth. Listen to her brave story and find encouragement in her resilience.

In Episode 26 of SPFPP, Alexandra Harbushka, host of the "Life With Herpes" podcast, shares her inspiring journey of living with HSV-1 and HSV-2. She discusses breaking the stigma, reshaping self-image, and the importance of education and communication. Alexandra's story encourages listeners to embrace their identity beyond herpes and highlights her role as an educator and active voice in the herpes community.

In Episode 25 Part 2 of SPFPP, Dale shares their personal experiences as a non-binary, non-monogamous individual exploring various anatomies and the importance of open-mindedness. Dale discusses the concept of "negotiations" in intimate encounters, emphasizing the value of clear communication to eliminate assumptions and ensure consent. Follow Dale on Instagram @I_have_herpes for more sex education and herpes destigmatization content.

In Episode 25 Part 1 of SPFPP, titled "Eliminating Assumptions - Better Support," Dale shares their experience with contracting HSV after being with a partner who had HSV-1. The conversation delves into whether non-H partners truly understand the risks, and the importance of self-care and education to better support oneself and others. Dale's insights emphasize the need to challenge preconceived notions about herpes and focus on experience-based understanding.

In Episode 23 of SPFPP, "This is NOT Your Stigma," we hear from a local semi-celebrity who shares her journey with herpes. She emphasizes that the stigma associated with herpes belongs to the uninformed and uneducated, not those who have it. The episode discusses the transition from believing societal myths to understanding one's own experience, and the importance of educating others to dismantle the stigma.

In Episode 22 of SPFPP, "Sex Positive Families: Preparation Over Prevention," Melissa, host of the Sex Positive Families podcast, discusses how to have sexual health conversations with youth. Emphasizing preparation over prevention, Melissa shares insights on educating children about consent and sexual health. An important takeaway is how childhood experiences like tickling relate to understanding consent in adulthood.

In Episode 21 of SPFPP, "No Limits," 61-year-old Theresa, a retired nurse, shares her journey after being diagnosed with HSV-1 and HSV-2 following her husband's infidelity. She chose to be open about her status, focusing on activities she enjoyed and dating both within and outside the herpes community. Theresa's story emphasizes the importance of not letting the stigma define you and maintaining a positive outlook to find happiness.

In Episode 20 of SPFPP, "Blessed by Herpes," 26-year-old Katie shares her experience contracting HSV-2 from a sexual assault three years ago. Despite this traumatic event, Katie maintains a 100% successful disclosure rate, including with her current boyfriend. This episode includes a detailed account of her assault and her journey of overcoming the stigma associated with her diagnosis.

In Bonus Episode 04 Part 1 of SPFPP, Angela Johnson of ProjectAccept shares her lifelong experience with non-sexually transmitted herpes (cold sores), which she has had since age 10. Now 51, Angela educates others about cold sores whenever she has an outbreak, combating the stigma, especially for those who contracted it non-sexually. Her story inspires listeners to shift their perspective on herpes and become educators and supporters.

Cassie, a 29-year-old St. Louis resident, shares her journey of living with HSV-2 since her diagnosis at 17. Comparing herpes stigma to the fear in "IT," Cassie emphasizes the power of community in overcoming stigma. She discusses her experiences with disclosure, the misconceptions about condoms, and how she decided not to let herpes stop her from having children. Her story highlights the importance of finding a safe space to talk about herpes and reducing the stigma through support and education.

Tim shares his journey of successful disclosure in this episode, highlighting the emotional process and positive outcome. Despite initial shyness, Tim opens up about meeting an amazing person and how their conversation about herpes went smoothly. His story is a testament to the power of vulnerability and honesty in building strong relationships. Tim's experience provides hope and practical insights for anyone facing the challenge of disclosing their STI status.

This episode highlights River, who is living with HSV and had a rough time getting the medical guidance she needed after her diagnosis. Being diagnosed with herpes is one thing, but not having an idea of the 'next steps' can make for a more horrific experience. Fortunately for River, she had a strong support system, her fiancé (I mean boyfriend) was there for her the entire way. (Inside joke about the fiancé part) lol. Gotta listen to get that joke.

In this episode, 28-year-old Luna, an herbalist, blogger, ethical slut, intersectional feminist, and spoonie, shares her journey of being open about herpes and setting "sexpectations." Luna’s bravery inspired me to share my story with those close to me and be open about my condition. We discuss having conversations about STDs with potential partners and how sex is portrayed in media, using Wonder Woman as an example. Tune in to hear her insights and experience.

In episode 15 of Something Positive for Positive People, Christine Seyk, also known as RunnerGirl, shares her story as an advocate for HSV and HPV. Her motto, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, except herpes, that happens everywhere," emphasizes the importance of openness about sexual health. Christine's story is a testament to overcoming the emotional harm of shaming oneself into loneliness and highlights the impact of self-acceptance and advocacy.

In episode 14 of Something Positive for Positive People, Kimberly M. Knight shares her experience of a brief marriage with a man who had lived with HIV for over eight years, only to discover his diagnosis when he was on his deathbed. Kim's story highlights the dangers of relying on non-medical advice for serious health conditions and emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from qualified medical professionals. Kim's journey through silent shame and self-punishment offers crucial insights into the emotional struggles faced by those living with or affected by HIV.

In this episode, 49-year-old Soiesette, who is HSV-2 positive, discusses her unwavering commitment to her marriage despite her husband's HIV diagnosis. Learn how they faced the emotional and medical complexities together and the mindset that led to their eventual separation. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the power of love, faith, and resilience in the face of life's toughest challenges.

In episode 12 of Something Positive for Positive People, 31-year-old Chrissy shares her journey of being diagnosed with cancerous HPV at age 16, following a series of sexual assaults. Growing up in foster care, Chrissy had to redefine her understanding of love. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-love and confidence, which she now promotes through her initiative, Love Out Loud. Viewer discretion is advised due to the sensitive nature of the content discussed.