Welcome to the SPFPP
Stigma Minimization Podcast
Storytelling, Stigma Healing, and Presence Practice
Since 2017, Something Positive for Positive People has used storytelling to help people feel less alone in the emotional weight of stigma. What began as a herpes support podcast is now a space where anyone navigating identity-based stigma—around mental health, sexuality, race, relationships, or simply being human—can come to feel seen.
If you’ve ever felt disqualified from connection because of how the world responds to who you are, this podcast is for you.
We don’t give quick fixes. We hold space. Every episode is a reminder that your existence is not a problem to solve—but a presence to be witnessed.
What You’ll Hear:
Real Stories: People share what it’s like to live, date, and love while navigating stigma.
Identity and Presence: We explore how presence helps people reclaim their identity beyond what the world expects.
Practical Tools: Guidance for disclosure, emotional regulation, and navigating relationships in ways that honor your truth.
Guest Conversations: We bring in experts and everyday people to talk about healing through herpes, heartbreak, queerness, shame, spirituality, sex, masculinity, and more.
Yoga-Informed Insights: Reflections on how the koshas (layers of being), nervous system regulation, and atomic alignment show up in the healing process.
Why This Podcast Still Supports People with Herpes
Herpes might’ve been what brought you here—but stigma probably isn’t new to you. Whether it’s been around your sexuality, mental health, masculinity, queerness, race, or just feeling like you don’t fit, stigma tends to stack.
This podcast still holds space for people navigating herpes. We’ve got hundreds of episodes about disclosure, dating, and identity. But over time, it became clear—herpes stigma is often the doorway to deeper healing.
If you’re here for herpes support, you’re in the right place. And if you’re starting to realize there’s more beneath the surface, you’re still in the right place.
We’re here to help you live with stigma—but not be defined by it.
Use the Search Bar
Looking for something specific? Use keywords like “herpes disclosure,” “dating,” “mental health,” or “nonmonogamy” to pull up relevant episodes.
Want More Support?
Explore our Herpes Support Call and Stigma Support Call offerings, or check out our Yoga Therapy offerings for more presence-based care.
Stay Connected
Join our newsletter below to hear about new podcast episodes, virtual events, support groups, and meetups.
SPFPP 218: Belonging Series - An Outcast Longing to Belong
In Episode 218 of the SPFPP Podcast, part of the Belonging Series, I delve into my journey of self-discovery as a Black, masculine-presenting, and Heterosexual-Queer person. This episode explores how intersecting identities challenge societal expectations and the process of unlearning systemic labels to find true belonging. Tune in to hear about my experiences with fetishization, dating outside my race, and finding community among outcasts who choose healing and authenticity.
SPFPP 217: Belonging Series - Performative Blackness
In Episode 217 of the SPFPP Podcast, part of the Belonging Series, Dr. Rob and I delve into performative Blackness and the complexities of identity. We discuss the clinical aspects of identity, the intersection of Queerness and Blackness, and the nuances of navigating societal expectations. Tune in to explore how code-switching, dating outside one's race, and maintaining connections with family shape our experiences. This episode encourages healthy dialogue around identities and aims to connect with others who share similar experiences.
SPFPP 216: Belonging Series - Is Everybody Queer?
In Episode 216 of the SPFPP Podcast, part of the Belonging Series, Patric and I, two straight Black men, delve into the complexities of queerness, Blackness, and manliness. We discuss our unique experiences navigating these intersecting identities and explore how queer spaces embrace diverse expressions of identity. This episode serves as a bat signal for those who feel they don't fit traditional molds, encouraging open dialogue and self-discovery.
SPFPP 215: Belonging Series - Identifiers
In Episode 215 of the SPFPP Podcast, part of the Belonging Series, I explore the complex intersections of my Blackness, masculinity, and queerness. This episode delves into how societal expectations challenge these identities and the journey to embrace and integrate them. I share insights on confronting internalized phobias, challenging stereotypes, and finding self-acceptance. Tune in to learn how to navigate conflicting identities and discover the core of who you truly are.
SPFPP 214: Time Doesn't Heal Wounds, It Mends Them
In Episode 214 of the SPFPP Podcast, Katie Lange from Strong Mind Counseling joins us to discuss the importance of community and mental health resources for navigating the stigma of a herpes diagnosis. Katie, a partner of SPFPP, shares insights into what people can expect from therapy and the importance of addressing trauma directly. Discover how therapy can help mend emotional wounds and foster healing, rather than simply letting time pass. Tune in to understand the bigger picture of SPFPP's mission and the impact of consistent support and discipline in overcoming stigma.
SPFPP 213: Inspiring Advocacy Through Social Support
In Episode 213 of the SPFPP Podcast, Kim, an admin for alternative social support groups, discusses her role in community building and event planning. She shares her self-care practices to prevent burnout and highlights the importance of having support networks. This episode emphasizes the vital work of behind-the-scenes volunteers who hold the community together and inspire advocacy through social support. Tune in to learn about the impact of these groups and how they contribute to reducing herpes stigma.
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.
SPFPP 211: Delayed Disclosure & Self-Punishment
In Episode 211 of the SPFPP Podcast, Katelyn (KLongFit) opens up about her HSV1 diagnosis at 19, the impact of her religious upbringing on her sexual shame, and the challenges of delayed disclosure. After being outed by a family member, Katelyn was forced to confront her fears and disclose her status to her partner of two years. Her journey through self-reflection, journaling, and finding support in Shoshanna Raven’s Living Brave community highlights the importance of allyship and empathy. Tune in to understand the complexities of navigating herpes stigma and the power of community support.
Read her story on Elephant Journal: www.elephantjournal.com/?p=2548654.
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.
SPFPP 209: Stigma is a Barrier to Wholeness
In Episode 209 of the SPFPP Podcast, Adrial Dale, founder of H Opportunity, shares his journey of overcoming herpes stigma and finding self-worth. Diagnosed after being cheated on, Adrial sought information to maintain a healthy sex life post-diagnosis. We discuss how stigma can hinder wholeness, the importance of support groups, and the power of embracing your entire self. Discover how courage, connection, and challenging outdated information can fuel personal growth and deeper connections. Tune in to hear Adrial's insights and experiences in navigating herpes stigma.
SPFPP 208: Therapy Exit Interviews 7 - Mental Health Resources for People with Herpes
In Episode 208 of the SPFPP Podcast, Bekka from St. Louis discusses her experience with 12 sessions of therapy, learning to disclose her herpes status, and navigating a new relationship post-diagnosis. As someone who tested positive during a period of celibacy, Bekka highlights the challenges of limited support and the benefits of mental health resources. Support our cause to connect people facing herpes stigma to therapy by donating today. Follow CourtneyBrame on Instagram. Donations via Cash App and Venmo @CourtneyBrame or PayPal at paypal.com/spfpp.
SPFPP 207: It's Not Bravery, It's Privilege
In Episode 207 of the SPFPP Podcast, I reflect on the privilege of openly discussing my herpes status and its impact on the success of Something Positive for Positive People. Joined by Emily, we explore the challenges faced by educators who must navigate stigma cautiously. This episode highlights the importance of embracing our identities, being consistent in our advocacy, and making a lasting impact despite societal barriers. Tune in to hear how I'm committed to expanding SPFPP's reach and supporting those affected by herpes stigma.
SPFPP 206: Finishing the Job - Break Through the Breakup with Erin E. Davidson
In Episode 206 of the SPFPP Podcast, Erin E. Davidson, author of "Break Through the Breakup," shares insights on managing breakups and maintaining healthy relationships. We discuss the importance of grieving not just the person, but also the memories and future envisioned. Erin emphasizes the need to maintain your support network, find closure on your terms, and differentiate between being loved and familiarity. Tune in to learn how to navigate relationship endings and embrace the healing process.
SPFPP 205: Something Positively Positive for Positive People Managing Rejection
In Episode 205 of the SPFPP Podcast, Sarah, creator of the Positively Positive Podcast, joins us to share her journey of building an authentic resource for those facing herpes stigma. We discuss the importance of empathy, resilience, and vulnerability in overcoming rejection and mental health challenges. Sarah's insights on maintaining confidence, the role of a strong support system, and the impact of sharing secrets offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating similar experiences. Tune in to discover how vulnerability can uncover confidence and foster self-acceptance.
SPFPP 203: Identity Care is Checking In VS Checking Out
In Episode 203 of the SPFPP Podcast, Nina, a sex worker and therapist, joins us to discuss identity care, chronic pain, and challenging gender binaries. We start with a discussion on daily antivirals but quickly dive into broader conversations about gender and existence. Tune in to hear Nina's insights and share your thoughts on Instagram @CourtneyBrame or leave a review.
SPFPP 202: Avoiding Our Triggers and Identity Invalidation
In Episode 202 of the SPFPP Podcast, we delve into how our triggers guide us toward healing and the impact of identity invalidation. By leaning into our intense emotions and recognizing patterns, we can avoid unconscious expressions of suffering. Tune in to learn how to navigate your emotional moments and embrace healing.
SPFPP 201: Sexual Health is Mental Health - Identity Validation as Self Care
In Episode 201 of the SPFPP Podcast, we explore the connection between sexual health and mental health, focusing on identity validation as a form of self-care. After a hiatus, I discuss how prioritizing money over being led to burnout and the importance of validating our identities. Tune in to hear about the future of SPFPP and the wisdom of Audre Lorde: “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
SPFPP Episode 200: How to End Herpes Stigma
In Episode 200 of the SPFPP Podcast, we explore how to end herpes stigma by reclaiming the power it takes from us. This episode emphasizes practical applications for internal transformation and empowerment. It's not goodbye, it's a good transition. Come, get what you need, then leave and move on with confidence.
SPFPP Episode 199: Integrating Mental Health Resources and STD Prevention Efforts
In Episode 199 of the SPFPP Podcast, we explore the integration of mental health resources with STD prevention efforts. Presented at the 2021 State of Michigan HIV and STI conference, this episode highlights the need for transparency and inclusivity in prevention efforts. Tune in to hear how SPFPP is advocating for change and creating supportive spaces for those impacted by STIs.
SPFPP Episode 198: Therapy Exit Interviews 6 - The Luxury of Healing
In Episode 198 of the SPFPP Podcast, Malia shares her journey through 12 group therapy sessions funded by our generous donors. This episode highlights how healing, often perceived as a luxury, is a vital necessity. Learn how SPFPP is expanding to provide support and make healing more accessible for those positive and optimistic about their journey.