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 291: This New Generation is Something Special
In this eye-opening episode, Grace shares her journey of initiating a group chat on TikTok to foster open discussions on sexual health among her peers. We explore the critical role universities play in shaping or breaking the stigma around STDs and discuss the upcoming SPFPP college tours aimed at educating youth on effective communication about sexual health and relationships. Tune in to see how the new generation is taking bold steps to transform sexual health education.

SPFPP 290: Playful Disclosures
Join Savannah and Courtney in Episode 290 of Something Positive for Positive People as they engage in a playful mock disclosure using the STARS Talk method. Discover how embracing aspects of identity post-diagnosis can enhance communication and confidence in discussing herpes with potential partners.

SPFPP 289: Are You Triggered or Challenged?
In episode 289, "Are You Triggered or Challenged?" of Something Positive for Positive People, delve into the deep psychological exploration of self-image and the impacts of trauma on personal health. This episode invites listeners to confront their triggers and engage in meaningful self-evaluation to enhance their understanding and actions towards health and herpes stigma. Join us as we discuss how turning intense emotional responses into opportunities for healing can empower individuals and inform broader STD prevention strategies.

SPFPP 288: Healing Herpes with The Alkaline Traveler
In this enlightening episode, The Alkaline Traveler shares her journey and expertise in using holistic methods to manage herpes. From dietary changes to lifestyle adjustments, learn how you can embrace a holistic approach to health and potentially reduce herpes symptoms naturally. Whether you're newly diagnosed or looking for alternative therapies, this episode offers valuable knowledge and inspiration for anyone on the path to better health.

SPFPP 287: I Lost My Labia
Jaclyn's powerful story on "I Lost My Labia" highlights the intersection of sexual health and mental well-being through her battle with Lichen Sclerosus. This episode sheds light on the struggles and triumphs in seeking treatment, the impact on intimate relationships, and the broader implications for those dealing with similar health issues. Gain valuable insights into managing sexual health conditions, enhancing communication with partners, and advocating for personal health with confidence. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that extends beyond herpes stigma to embrace broader sexual health challenges.

SPFPP 286: Use What You Got to Get What You Want
In "Use What You Got to Get What You Want," Courtney Brame tackles the sensitive issue of herpes disclosure, emphasizing how integrity and vulnerability are crucial for fostering genuine intimacy. This episode offers guidance on embracing vulnerability in conversations about herpes, illustrating how honesty enhances emotional availability and deepens connections. Join us as we discuss the long-term benefits of transparent communication and how to practice vulnerability effectively.

SPFPP 285: Some Positive Dating Experience
In "Some Positive Dating Experience," Courtney Brame shares a candid look at the challenges and successes in negotiating positive relationships, especially when dealing with herpes disclosure. This episode veers into a discussion about the nuances of effective communication, both in personal relationships and larger organizational efforts to address herpes stigma. Tune in for a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights on creating meaningful connections.

SPFPP 284: Managing Expectations
Episode 284 of Something Positive for Positive People dives into the nuances of managing expectations and recognizing personal value. Courtney discusses the importance of distinguishing between identifying your value and enhancing it to align with personal integrity. This episode offers insightful reflections on self-worth and how to effectively market your unique attributes in various aspects of life, especially in forming and maintaining relationships

SPFPP 283: Married Celibacy & Government Herpes Funding Goals
Episode 283 of Something Positive for Positive People features Kim, a 51-year-old woman newly diagnosed with herpes, who shares her remarkable story of celibacy during her marriage. The discussion shifts to an open forum about recent public health funding for herpes prevention, exploring potential outcomes and solutions informed by the herpes community. This episode provides insightful reflections on personal journeys and public health strategies.

SPFPP 282: Be the Best Option
Episode 282 of Something Positive for Positive People features Courtney Brame reflecting on his South African safari experience and how observing animal behaviors can inform human dating practices. He explores the concept of being the best option in your environment and discusses how these insights apply to modern relationships. Tune in for a unique perspective on dating, along with updates on upcoming interviews and resources for at-home STI testing.

SPFPP 281: The Crossroads of Sexual Health Care
In Episode 281 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame interviews his friend Emily about advocating for sex-positive, identity-validating health care. Emily shares insights from years of advocacy work, and Courtney discusses his business idea to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients. This episode explores the importance of creating confidence in sexual health care and integrating post-diagnosis experiences into early STD prevention efforts.

SPFPP 280: Living - 10 Years with Herpes
In Episode 280 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame celebrates his 10-year herpes anniversary. Broadcasting from South Africa, he shares his origin story, current perspective, and the importance of living fully despite a herpes diagnosis. Courtney also discusses useful resources and reflects on his journey with analogies like Venom/Eddie Brock and Tony Stark/Iron Man. Tune in for a blend of personal insights and practical advice.

SPFPP 279: Shameless Care
In Episode 279 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame interviews Robert Johnson, founder of Shameless Care. They discuss how Robert's experience with an STI led him to create a company offering judgment-free healthcare and at-home STI testing kits tailored for the consensual non-monogamy community. Learn about their services, including medication for erectile dysfunction, and how Shameless Care aims to serve and support its community. Use code ‘SPFPP’ for purchases at www.shamelesscare.com/spfpp.

SPFPP 278: Unorthodox Inspiration
In Episode 278 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame delves into an unorthodox and preachy style of inspiration. Sharing a personal and introspective take on self-reflection, Courtney provides motivational insights that resonate deeply. Whether you're seeking a boost of encouragement or a moment of self-examination, this episode offers a unique perspective that may just inspire you. Tune in and let the message flow through you!

SPFPP 277: Something Positive for Men Part 1
In Episode 277 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame reflects on his journey of vulnerability and personal growth. Despite being praised for his openness, Courtney reveals the mask he has hidden behind and the realization that true connection comes from sharing his genuine experiences. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to men, encouraging them to step into a space that desperately needs masculine presence and authenticity. Join Courtney as he navigates the complexities of vulnerability and the importance of male voices in the SPFPP community.

SPFPP 276: Sex Education is Intersectional Health Education
In Episode 276 of Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame and Justine Fonte dive into the importance of intersectional health education. Despite attempting to steer away from herpes, the conversation naturally touches on its relevance within broader health topics. Justine, a math teacher turned sex educator, shares how students' learning is influenced by their understanding of their bodies and relationships. This episode sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding sex education and emphasizes the need for medically accurate information to empower youth. Listen to this insightful discussion to understand why sex education is vital for creating healthy, informed communities.

SPFPP 275: Trust Yourself to Trust Others
In Episode 275 of Something Positive for Positive People, our guest, a 34-year-old Puerto Rican woman, opens up about how her herpes diagnosis became a powerful tool for building deeper intimacy in her relationships. Initially shy, she reveals how sharing her status with supportive friends validated her self-worth and reinforced her self-trust. This episode, paired with insights from Episode 274, highlights the impact of cultural upbringing on responses to a herpes diagnosis and the importance of trusting oneself to trust others. Listen to gain valuable perspectives on navigating relationships and intimacy through vulnerability and self-trust.

SPFPP 274: Disclosing is an Invitation for Intimacy
Invitations for intimacy require vulnerability

SPFPP 273: Stop the Bleeding First
In Episode 273 of Something Positive for Positive People, Nina returns to dive into the unexpected connection between herpes disclosure and intimacy. While originally planning to discuss grief, the conversation evolves into an enlightening discussion on how initiating a sexual health conversation is an attempt to foster closeness and combat commitment phobia. This episode also redefines the term "relationship," highlighting how vulnerability can strengthen emotional connections. Nina and I explore the ways we relate to others, the impact of hookup culture on intimacy, and the transformative power of honest communication in relationships. Listen now to gain a fresh perspective on intimacy and disclosure.

SPFPP 272: What to do When You're Re-triggered
In Episode 272 of Something Positive for Positive People, I delve into handling re-triggered emotions by sharing my personal experiences with recent disappointments and relationship transitions. Sponsored by The Love in Action Fund, this episode focuses on identifying the emotion linked to your triggered situation, recognizing the most recent and first instances of feeling that emotion, and understanding the pattern these experiences form. I discuss how to redirect, rather than break, these patterns using insights from my own mommy and daddy issues. Tune in for practical advice on managing re-triggered emotions and improving your emotional responses in relationships.