Welcome to the SPFPP Herpes Podcast
Season 1: Herpes Stigma, Disclosure, and Emotional Support
Welcome to Season 1 of the Something Positive for Positive People (SPFPP) podcast. This season began with one mission: to support people navigating life after a herpes diagnosis through real, stigma-free conversations.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your journey, this archive exists to remind you—you’re not alone, and your story matters.
What You’ll Hear in Season 1:
Personal Stories: Guests share their experiences navigating herpes, dating, disclosure, and identity.
Herpes Disclosure Tips: Learn how to talk about your status with confidence and compassion.
Mental Health & Self-Worth: Explore how a diagnosis impacts your emotional health—and how to rebuild it.
Stigma-Free Language: Hear conversations that model compassionate, affirming ways to talk about STIs.
Expert Insights: Professionals in sexual health and mental health join the conversation to provide context and support.
Topics Covered:
First outbreak and diagnosis stories
Navigating relationships and dating with herpes
Finding identity beyond the stigma
Supporting others with STIs
Yoga therapy, emotional wellness, and herpes
Building community and breaking isolation
This season reflects years of lived experience, listener conversations, and lessons gathered from hundreds of interviews and peer support calls. The goal: to reduce the emotional weight of stigma, one conversation at a time.
Why This Archive Still Matters
While SPFPP is now expanding into broader conversations about emotional wellness and minimizing all forms of stigma, Season 1 will always be the foundation. These stories continue to support thousands of people every year seeking reassurance, healing, and connection.
If you’re here for herpes-specific support, you’re in the right place.
Want more tools and support?
Explore our Herpes Support Call and Yoga Therapy pages for more resources to help you navigate stigma and emotional wellness.
How to Use Our Search Bar
Looking for specific topics? Use our search bar to find episodes that cover the subjects most relevant to you. Simply type in keywords like "disclosure," "self-care," "mental health," or "relationship advice" to access episodes that offer the insights and support you need.
Join Our Community
Our podcast isn't just about listening—it's about connecting. Join our community of listeners who are navigating similar experiences. Share your stories, ask questions, and find the support you need. Join our newsletter below in order to stay up to date for virtual events and in person hangouts to meet others in the SPFPP community.

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.

SPFPP 331: Moving on up to the east side
In Episode 331, Courtney Brame discusses his temporary departure from regular podcasting to explore funding avenues for SPFPP, and his subsequent realization of what truly matters to the community and himself. As he prepares to move to the East Coast, Courtney reaffirms his dedication to the podcast as a crucial spiritual and truth-seeking practice. Join him as he shares insights from this period of reflection and his renewed commitment to moving forward with intention.

SPFPP 330: Support Calls, Yoga, Conferences, Workshops, Podcasts, Newsletter, Research, & More OH MY
In this special edition of the SPFPP podcast, we explore the extensive range of services provided by Something Positive for Positive People. Delve into our tailored support calls, therapeutic yoga sessions, educational conferences, engaging workshops, and insightful podcasts. This episode invites you to understand the depth of resources available for individuals affected by herpes and STIs, highlighting how SPFPP fosters healing, education, and community empowerment. Join us to learn how each aspect of SPFPP supports a journey toward greater understanding and stigma reduction in sexual health.

SPFPP 329: Welcome to Something Positive for positive people
In this transformative episode of Something Positive for Positive People, we explore the core of our nonprofit organization, showcasing the evolution from focusing on suicide prevention within the herpes community to a broader scope of mental and sexual wellness. Episode 329, "Welcome to Something Positive for Positive People," offers a detailed look at the diverse initiatives and programs that have shaped our mission. We invite listeners and potential sponsors to understand our influence in the herpes and broader sexual health community, highlighting our commitment to enhancing mental health, promoting sexual wellness, and fostering meaningful community engagement. Join us as we discuss the opportunities for collaboration with sponsors and partners in sectors like yoga, mental health, and sexual wellness, aiming to further our reach and impact.