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 351: pleasure positivity - harm reduction at the intersection of safety and pleasure
In this episode of SPFPP, Mel Moseley opens up about her journey with HSV2 and how it led her to redefine sex positivity. We explore how the conversation around sex positivity often misses the mark by focusing too much on intercourse and not enough on communication and emotional safety. Mel shares how polyamory and intentional communication helped her heal from past trauma and find true connection.
SPFPP 350: Nonmonogamous Conversations Monogamous People need to have - part 2
In SPFPP episode 350, our guest shares how her journey through nonmonogamy challenged her understanding of being single and taught her valuable lessons in communication and intentionality. These experiences reshaped her approach to monogamous relationships, highlighting the power of being upfront, emotionally available, and aligned in values. Join us as we discuss how nonmonogamy can provide tools for healthier monogamous relationships
SPFPP 349: Nonmonogamous conversations monogamous people need to have - Part 1
Join us as we explore the hard conversations monogamous people need to have—often taken for granted in non-monogamous relationships. From the fear of disclosure to the impact of stigma on our self-esteem, this episode is all about asking the tough questions and improving communication in our relationships.
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 347: Who’s Rejecting You?
Join us in Episode 347 of SPFPP as we explore the emotional journey of a woman navigating life after a divorce, sexual freedom, and a herpes diagnosis. We discuss the challenges of dating with herpes, the importance of communication, and the need to maintain high standards, even when facing rejection.
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 343: Get real about rejection with dakota
Self-rejection often creeps into the lives of people with herpes, leading them to settle for less in relationships or avoid dating altogether. This article delves into the patterns of self-rejection, the impact it has on personal relationships and self-worth, and offers insights into overcoming these challenges. Whether you're staying in an unhealthy relationship or choosing to remain single out of fear of rejection, this article explores the emotional journey and provides guidance on embracing self-worth and positive change.
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SPFPP 342: Herpes identity crisis
As a Black man living with herpes, Courtney Brame has navigated the complexities of stigma, dating, and self-acceptance. Through his nonprofit, Something Positive for Positive People, he’s created a platform to support others facing similar challenges. Dive into his story and learn how he’s using his voice to fight herpes stigma and promote mental health awareness.
SPFPP 341: Nurture your nature
In this heartwarming episode of SPFPP, Lindsey revisits her journey from disclosing her herpes status to finding lasting love and marriage. Explore valuable lessons on relationship dynamics, stepping into new family roles, and the joys of pregnancy despite the challenges of living with herpes. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire and inform.
SPFPP 340: Prioritizing Pleasure with Dr. Naz
In Episode 340, we're joined by Dr. Nazanin Moali, who sheds light on the mental health implications of herpes and how to maintain a fulfilling love life. This insightful discussion covers practical advice for those affected by STI stigma, aiming to enhance emotional well-being and self-understanding.
SPFPP 339: SPFPP Men's Wellness Symposium
In Episode 339, Courtney Brame sets the stage for the upcoming Men's Wellness Symposium, dissecting the vital topics that will shape this transformative event. Dive into a preview of the discussions that aim to enhance men’s emotional and mental wellness.
SPFPP 338: Disclosing in nonmonogamy
In this insightful episode of Something Positive for Positive People, dive into the challenges of disclosing in nonmonogamous settings, especially when one partner has herpes. This episode offers a deep dive into the ethics of disclosure, the fear of outing a partner, and strategies to handle potential stigma effectively. Join host Courtney Brame as he explores real-life scenarios, backed by community experiences and expert advice, to provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of navigating these delicate conversations. Whether you're involved in a nonmonogamous relationship or just curious about the dynamics, this episode offers valuable perspectives on maintaining integrity, respect, and openness in discussions about sexual health.
SPFPP 337: Inside the SPFPP Herpes Stigma Conference - Recap & Insights
Join us for the SPFPP Virtual Conference recording, where experts discuss healthcare stigma, the psychological impact of herpes, and strategies for stigma minimization in education. Get exclusive access to data from the 2023-2024 herpes stigma survey and learn how to better support those affected. Purchase the recording today and bring SPFPP workshops to your organization.
SPFPP 336: Disclosing for a lover
Navigating disclosure in non-monogamous relationships can be particularly challenging when it involves sensitive health information like a herpes diagnosis. Episode 336 of Something Positive for Positive People, "Disclosing for a Lover," offers a deep dive into how individuals can approach these conversations ethically. Learn from the shared experiences and practical tips on how to maintain confidentiality and integrity while fostering honest and open relationships.
SPFPP 335: Who Gave me herpes?
In Episode 335, Courtney Warren Brame tackles the often asked but challenging question, "Who gave me herpes?" This episode provides a deep dive into the psychological journey of finding answers, the inherent risks in relationships, and the pursuit of emotional well-being. Courtney offers a compassionate look at the stigma, encouraging listeners to focus on self-awareness and emotional processing rather than blame.
SPFPP 334: Common Unity is the goal
In Episode 334, Courtney Brame delves into the essence of creating community through shared experiences with herpes. He candidly shares his vision for Something Positive for Positive People, emphasizing the importance of real-world connections and community-driven events that go beyond just social media interaction and podcast discussions. Tune in to understand how unity and support can transform the herpes living experience.
SPFPP 333: Help Me Help us
Episode 333 of Something Positive for Positive People features Courtney Brame making a compelling call to action: help us help you by facilitating connections between health educators and SPFPP's extensive resources. This episode emphasizes the transformative potential of informed, stigma-minimizing communication and education provided by those who know the reality of living with herpes. Listen as Courtney discusses how equipping professionals with real experiences and proven strategies can drastically improve how they engage with and support their patients.
SPFPP 332: Letting Go of Fear of Success
In Episode 332, Courtney Brame confronts his fear of success, sharing the emotional barriers that hinder progress. As he seeks funding for SPFPP, he relates his fears to the herpes stigma, emphasizing the importance of emotional release for personal growth. Join Courtney as he reveals how maintaining his connection to the community shapes his leadership and advocacy, providing insights that encourage listeners to embrace their fears and transform them into stepping stones for success.