In this heartfelt episode, we address the serious emotional impact of a herpes diagnosis, including depression and suicide ideation. With 6% of our listeners reporting attempted suicide, this episode is a reminder that you are essential and valued. We discuss the importance of community support and our goal to present SPFPP at STD Engage to further spread awareness and provide resources.

Trigger warning: this episode covers domestic abuse. We focus on self-image and body positivity. Check your self-talk and challenge negative thoughts with loving actions. Help us by taking a survey to support SPFPP’s goal of making support easier to find for those diagnosed with herpes. Special guest Emily "Keanunani" Arnstein shares her journey from struggling with self-image to empowering others through body positivity and Hawaiian hula.

How does the masculine deal with a herpes diagnosis?

One of my favorite people I've yet to meet in real life, Christie Federico, Sexuality & Soul Alignment Coach joins SPFPP for a very lighthearted, fun conversation about self-worth. Applied to dating, it is important to know who you are, what's important to you, and have ways to identify if what's important to you is also important to prospective partners. Get this dating advice from a dating coach and if you're someone who'd like support in your dating life, don't hesitate to reach out to Christie about coaching! About Christie: Christie Federico, M.Ed., is a Relationship + Sexual Empowerment Coach. She works with individuals and groups, helping them feel confident and fully expressed in their bodies, sexualities, and entire lives. Christie empowers her clients to align all aspects of their lives with their authentic selves so they can lead a life of meaning, deep connection, pleasure, and fulfillment. Visit www.christiefederico.com and follow her on Instagram @christiefederico. If you have the means and want to support what we're doing at SPFPP, visit www.spfpp.org and consider donating what you can to help us continue to expand. Stay Sex Positive!

In this episode, we delve into the valuable lessons learned from past relationships. By examining experiences with anxiety and emotional expression, we explore how these insights can fuel personal growth and expansion of perspective. Tune in to discover what your exes might teach you about yourself and your journey.

In this episode, Soraia Papaya (she/they) joins SPFPP to discuss bisexuality, stereotypes, and the push toward pansexuality. We delve into topics like hyper promiscuity, inherent nonmonogamy, and transphobia, offering insights into how these misconceptions affect bisexual individuals. Tune in to challenge your assumptions and foster deeper, more evolved connections.

In Episode 85 of Something Positive for Positive People, Veronica Yanhs, a multi-passionate Kink & BDSM Educator, explores the complexities of kink, from disclosure of herpes status in kink scenes to differentiating between dominance and abuse. Veronica's insights challenge personal beliefs about kink, helping listeners begin their own journey of self-discovery.

In Episode 82 of Something Positive for Positive People, Dr. Stephanie K. Webb explores the intricacies of non-monogamous relationships. She defines cheating in non-monogamy, discusses the difference between love and commitment, and explains the concepts of compulsory monogamy and ethical monogamy. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone curious about or interested in opening their relationship.

In Episode 80 of Something Positive for Positive People, Johana Dominguez shares insights from her 8-year journey living with genital HSV. Key takeaways include the power of positive self-talk, the importance of supportive relationships, and the value of sharing your status. Johana emphasizes that while things can always be worse, they can also always be better, and encourages listeners to adopt a proactive and positive mindset.

In Episode 79 of Something Positive for Positive People, we address the rising rates of syphilis in St. Louis, MO, exploring contributing factors such as stigma and political influence on medical treatment availability. Planned Parenthood's extensive services, including cancer screenings, are highlighted. We also discuss the internal condom and share an exclusive announcement about a new service from Planned Parenthood.

In Episode 78 of Something Positive for Positive People, we feature Texas Wears Condoms, a San Antonio-based organization offering 25 free condoms per month to Texas residents. Ambie, the Community Outreach Specialist, shares insights about the organization's mission to destigmatize STIs and promote sexual health. Learn how to access these resources and support their efforts through volunteering.

In Episode 77 of Something Positive for Positive People, Rashard and I discuss breaking HIV stigma within the black community. We highlight the importance of normalizing conversations around HIV/AIDS and the detrimental effects of stigma on health. Listen to our in-depth conversation on race, pride, and prioritizing physical health.

Experiencing rejection is always emotionally challenging. It helps to reframe "being rejected" as the other person acknowledging they can't sustain being the kind of person needed for a relationship with us. In Episode 76 of Something Positive for Positive People, we reflect on why rejecting others can seem easier and explore the deeper meanings behind rejection.

The ideation of Something Positive for Positive People had multiple catalysts, including uplifting nonprofits like St. Louis Effort for AIDS, now Vivent Health. This organization offers vital services, including sex education, free condoms, STD testing, and affordable treatment. By creating shame-free environments, we can normalize regular STI testing and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

A woman who believes in the power of knowing and loving yourself, Erica sees beauty in ordinary things & has an artsy, creative side. In this episode, she shares her chlamydia horror story and the challenge of disclosing an STD to two partners. Learn how Erica's experiences teach us to move forward with informed decision-making and better communication in sexual relationships.

In this episode, Heather, founder of the support group HSV in the City, shares her journey of creating a support network in the absence of local resources. Inspired by Positive.Results.ATX, Heather discusses her accidental diagnosis and how it became a positive turning point in her life. Connect with Heather on Instagram @hsvinthecity if you're in the Washington D.C. area seeking support.