Something Positive for Positive People

In this episode of Something Positive for Positive People (SPFPP), Lauren and I dive into the multifaceted world of herpes support and advocacy. As we share our experiences, we highlight the unique challenges we face, including the disparity in perceived value between paid and free resources. Many people, unfortunately, take out their frustrations on volunteers who provide free support, not realizing the immense dedication and effort involved. We also discuss the crucial steps needed to move closer to a herpes cure from both an advocacy and support perspective. In a society that prioritizes convenience and instant results, we emphasize the need for ongoing internal work and widespread acceptance of the virus and its stigma. Only through these efforts can we pave the way for a genuine cure. Lauren, diagnosed with oral and genital HSV-1 at 19, shares her journey and the lack of resources available when she was first diagnosed. Her advocacy work on platforms like TikTok (Bubblieinblu) aims to ensure that no one else feels as lost and alone as she once did. For those interested in the latest research on herpes cure efforts, visit www.spfpp.org/herpes-cure-research. To support the continuation of our resources, please consider donating at www.spfpp.org/donate. Learn more about Lauren: Hi, I’m Lauren! Diagnosed with both oral and genital HSV-1 at 19 years old, I have spent my entire adult dating life navigating the complexities of herpes. In 2013, there were very few resources or advocates to help with dating and living with herpes, so I had to overcome many challenges on my own. I never want anyone to feel as isolated as I did, so I dedicate my free time to being a herpes advocate on TikTok (Bubblieinblu). Reddit is mylovelyladylumps69

Sex education vs intercourse education AKA abstinence based sexual education vs. Comprehensive sexual education:What is the real purpose and value of comprehensive sexual education?How does the lack of understanding and access to information aid in the spread of misinformation and stigmatization seen on social media in response to sex/ STI positive content?Sex educator Tara Ransleben (@TR_Sexuality) shares her experience of growing up with oral HSV 1 and learning about it in her adult years. She discusses how she deals with online trolls and the challenges of censorship, navigating internal and external stigma while also managing romantic relationships.Also discusses the differences between in person and online engagement/advocacy and the benefits of both experiences. Follow me on social media @CourtneyBrame

Allie runs an organization called Beyond Herpes dedicated to empowering women through the herpes stigma. Allie and Courtney connect and discuss what it’s like to run organizations dedicated to educating, advocating and empowering those diagnosed with herpes and the struggles small organization face trying to bridge large gaps.Allie shares her story of contracting genital HSV during the first month of being sexually active and how that affected her mental and spiritually.Allie and Courtney have an in depth discussion about the difference between men and women when it comes to relationships, engaging in sexual activity and when dealing with an STI diagnosis. They also discuss the benefits of self exploration, values, discipline and alignment when it comes to life and romantic and platonic relationships. About Allie: Allie's Bio: Allie Mazur is the founder of Beyond Herpes, a company with a mission to bring hope, healing, and confidence to those suffering with a Herpes diagnosis. She is a coach who empowers people to overcome the fear and shame often associated with herpes.  As a world traveler, surfer, and nature enthusiast, she inspires others to embrace their one extraordinary life! To inquire about her 1:1 support sessions and group programs, you can reach out to her via her website at www.livebeyondherpes.com.  You can connect with Allie the following ways: Website: https://www.livebeyondherpes.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allie_beyond/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyondherpes_with_allie

Ya’ll know how much we value consistency at Something Positive for Positive People. My previously recorded podcast for this week want able to be edited in time so Dakota and I, (@getrealwithdakota on Instagram) had a lil’ impromptu recording on the drive to my first beach trip on the East Coast! Something she and I have overlap on in our work is rejection. Her coaching clients deal with a lot of similar experiences the people I support through herpes stigma do, so with our experiences combined, we decided to co-facilitate a virtual workshop on the art of rejection handling. I’ll get that link active by 7/12 and you can register at Spfpp.org/events. If you’re an Spfpp member, remember all virtual events are included with your membership. To become a member visit Spfpp.org/membership. I look forward to putting this together and supporting you all on navigating rejection in a healthy way. In this podcast we share some various expressions of rejection and learn a new word, spurn, which is the type of rejection people with herpes more commonly fear. If you wanna learn how to healthily handle rejection, check back on the events tab and join us for this virtual workshop. Check out Dakota’s website as well…. Www.getrealwithdakota.com

I often tell people how important it is that we not identify with our herpes diagnosis ONLY for me to look up and realize I've been doing this very thing myself. On today's episode, I speak to changing this, and what it looks like for you to change it as well. If you struggle with herpes stigma and want different for yourself, check out Something Positive for Positive People for resources to help you through the emotional and psychological impacts that come with a diagnosis.

This is such a beautiful full-circle moment. I interview Lindsey, who I met early on after starting the podcast and we talked about an upcoming disclosure she had with someone she liked. We lost contact and then a few years later, I opened my Facebook and saw this person I recognized but wasn't exactly sure how, had just gotten married. I went to our messages and saw our last correspondence was about a disclosure so I asked "Hey is this the guy?" and that turned into the discussion we're having here today. Hear our guest Lindsey talk about staying in relationships too long, finding marriage despite having herpes, the importance of aligning in relationships, being willing to walk away, step-parenting, and pregnancy. I was thrilled to be able to have this conversation with our guest and hope you get something useful out of it as we have from the conversation!

Join us in this enlightening episode of "Something Positive for Positive People," where we sit down with Dr. Nazanin Moali, renowned clinical psychologist and host of the Sexology Podcast. Dr. Moali brings her deep insights into the mental health challenges and dating dynamics faced by individuals living with herpes. Through her expert lens, we explore the profound effects of STI stigma, offering both understanding and evidence-based strategies to navigate these complex emotional landscapes. Whether you're dealing with herpes personally or supporting someone who is, this episode promises valuable perspectives to help reduce stigma and enhance emotional well-being.

We had a great time! Be on the lookout for upcoming events regarding men's emotional wellness at www.getselfed.org.

Here we answer the question about disclosing in nonmonogamy.

If you missed the conference, you’ll be able to view the recordings for purchase here: https://spfpp.org/conferences but here’s a podcast recapping the conference and going a little into what you may have missed. If you attend, please come back to the conference feedback form to give us feedback on how we can continue to improve not only this conference but also future data and events moving forward as we strive to minimize stigma!