Herp A Derp Podcast

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Bek Antonucci is an empowerment coach and host of the Raw, Real, and Vulnerable Podcast, empowering women to live fearlessly and expressively.

In this episode, join in on a conversation with them as they share their spiritual insights on overcoming the stigma associated with herpes. It's a friendly and open discussion that you don't want to miss!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

In this episode, Erin welcomes a new season with updates and introduces a new segment: Herpes Community. She talks about the upcoming ⁠"Sexual Health is Mental Health" virtual conference she plans to attend on May 23, 2024, and you should too! She also shares and reflects on how we will celebrate Herp A Derp Podcast's 5th birthday!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

In this episode, Erin shares a life lesson about dating with herpes. She discovers that despite how open, peaceful, and loving you attempt to be, people can only meet you as deeply as they've met themselves. An insightful life update with sneak peeks into celebrating Herp A Derp Podcast's 5th birthday!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Sarah, the host of the award-winning podcast, famously known as the Positively Positive, chats with Herp A Derp!

In this episode, Sarah and Erin talk about all things herpes, vulnerability, and what it's like to date a podcast host. All this and much more!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Chris Pickering is a fitness coach with HSV-2 who isn't letting his diagnosis stop him from anything. 

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Chris and Erin talk about herpes through self-development, health and philosophy. If you're ready to become your best self and break free from HSV, this episode is for you!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

There are 6 billion people globally living with herpes (HSV).

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Herpes Cure Advocacy and Erin discuss the evolution of STIs and what herpes research studies have found that's influencing major scientific organizations to revisit one of the most prevalent infectious diseases with no cure or prevention strategy, until now.

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Zia Oshun is an incredible abstract artist who is the creator of the Gallery For Positive People. A platform for STI positive individuals to express themselves and build awareness of our lived experiences through creating and sharing art.

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Zia and Erin share their stories about their feelings and emotions that have led them to find perspective and artistic ways to express themselves about herpes. 

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Carrie Pullaro is an empowerment coach, well-being yogi and herpes advocate. She helps others tap into their feminine energy by finding balance and structure in the mind, body, and soul. Learn the ways to live your life with herpes by simply living. 

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Carrie and Erin share their stories about becoming whole again. We know this conversation will empower and inspire you to do the same. 

TW: mentions sexual assault, abortion and addiction. 

Share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at hexarpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. It's super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Carrie Pullaro

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Are you familiar with the phrase "Joie de hooha'? FemiClear's iconic tagline celebrates the joy of a "hooha" that has been quickly remedied into an all-natural and organic treatment for yeast infections and genital herpes relief. 

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Tricia Wise aka the Safe Slut is a holistic esthetician, herbalist, reiki practitioner, and sexual health and advocate. Tricia created her Instagram account @safe.slut to help end shaming towards those with STIs, and the stigma surrounding slut-shaming.

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Tricia shares tips for reclaiming your power when you have herpes.

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at hexarpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. It's super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Ashley Manta is an award-winning sexuality professional coach and is known for her CannaSexual® brand as a result of her passion and expert knowledge about sex and cannabis.

In this episode of Herp A Derp, Ashley shares how she lives her best life with herpes by simply living it!

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at hexarpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. It's super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

2020 has been a year of waiting and uncertainty. Even though the end of 2020 does not mean the end of hardships we are going through, but we also use this time to let go and find something to be grateful for in this difficult year. 

In this episode of Herp A Derp, we share how we navigated the waves of emotion and find the power to change how we respond to 2020 and the years to come.

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at hexarpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. It's super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Your voice, your choice. Are you ready to vote in the 2020 election? The day before the election, Herp A Derp dives into the importance of thinking about sexual health rights, abortion, Planned Parenthood, and reflects on a recent conversation with a young girl from the next generation. Make a plan, listen to this episode as you wait at your polling station to go vote. 

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at herpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. It's super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey Herp A Derpers!

Sometimes you have to unlearn to learn. In this week's episode, Herp A Derp dives into topics about what we can unlearn from "abstinence-based sex-ed class" and learning how to better communicate in relationships about consent, our bodies, and healthy boundaries. “Perhaps understanding sexual health as an aspect of overall health and seeing its connection to mental health would put this at ease,” - TMRW x TODAY.

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at herpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. Its super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

A new CDC report shows that testing for STIs and STDs went down during the pandemic. Rates of sexually transmitted diseases were already at record highs. In this episode, we talk about our recent testing experiences visiting Planned Parenthood during COVID-19 and the importance of sexual health. Also, it's Sexual Health Awareness Month! Go get yourself tested to protect your health and your partner(s).

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or email at herpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. Its super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Hey Herp A Derpers!

Happy birthday to our latest Herp A Derp guest, Devin Wilson! She is a model, storyteller, and herpes advocate based in NYC. Devin recently wrote a pilot of a TV show called, “Duck, I Have Heroes!” AND is a Moth Stories Moth Grand Slam of the East Coast finalist! Listen to be inspired by our conversation, lift your confidence, and simply live your best life.

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or email at herpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. Its super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.

Show Notes:

Devin Elise Wilson’s Website:

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

It's been a while since Herp A Derp had a new episode. Host, Erin Devost, gives sympathy and understanding of why there was such a long delay and wisdom on what she has learned from her life experiences over the past few months.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Well, I've been afraid of changin'
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Herp A Derp gets older
and I'm getting older, too!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Herp A Derp Podcast! Thank you, everyone, for supporting and believing in Herp A Derp since the very beginning! From all the dating advice, herpes health tips, and positive energy, this is what keeps Herp A Derp going, YOU! Listen to this week's episode for a birthday message and what Herp A Derp will be before turning three!

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Our doors may be closed but our hearts remain open. As we navigate the new norm of social distancing, don't forget about the value of your relationships and feeling connected. 

"All over the world, people are being quarantined and are being compelled to practice social distancing. We are trying desperately to remain sane in a world that seems bordering on the insane. So, the time is just right for us to ponder, reflect, meditate, and discover the world within our own minds." ― Avijeet Das

"Social distancing is staying away from people not from your purpose." ― Amit Kalantri

Redefine and make the time for what's important to you. Be happy, stay healthy and keep safe during the uncertainty of COVID-19. 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

There are conversations that change your life forever. The talk with your doctor on the day he or she told that you had contracted genital herpes is likely one of them. More moments and feelings like this happen ever since you were diagnosed. You are more aware of herpes jokes. You are aware of the chances of being accepted or rejected for having herpes.

Recently I experienced a subtle rejection around the herpes stigma. I was not sure how to respond because I wasn’t sure how to feel about being rejected.

Then it hit me to see rejection as a redirection. You are never rejected, only redirected. In this episode, we talk about the path on how to redirect yourself when you don't feel worthy and advice on how to bring yourself to a higher love.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

A new year and we are already looking for fresh starts. Whether it be new relationships or new ways of finding yourself through life, we can always tell how far we have grown. 

2020 has a vision this year; grow. Grow to become more understanding and universal with new people you meet. Grow to be a better person. Grow with your love for yourself and appreciate who you are more. 

One of the most common questions I have been asked me is how to tell the difference between ingrown hairs and herpes. In this episode, we dive into the key differences and how to identify symptoms. 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

Above anything, I want to apologize for the Herp A Derp absence. Moving again into a new space took longer for me to settle that my previous shift. This episode is my thought process of everything that has been going on in my head. I feel the episode is important to listen to and understand how hard we can be on ourselves with life's curveballs altering perceptions of ourselves versus reality.

Seasons change and I'm finding ruts in a time of transition. As if I am jogging in circles - from all different angles. This year allowed me to work and recognize in full circle the lessons that were meant to be learned and what to leave behind in 2019. There came to a point of pause that made me wonder what was missing. I ended up finding out I had to listen to the voices inside me to bring back the peace of mind and who I was

Thank you for checking-in and having patience during this time. Your love and support in the community are grateful, always. 

Herp A Derp podcast can't wait to bring you the first episode in the new year and decade with updates, guests and 2020 vision! 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

More than a feeling, more than hearing an old song that used to play, more than a dream. The song “More Than a Feeling” by Boston sings feelings we cannot pinpoint. It's the Nostalgic November; the feeling of missing something that you are longing for.

What is my "more than a feeling"? I haven’t felt a herpes outbreak since my first one and admitting that I am falling for someone. In this episode, we dive into the silent outbreak symptoms and rooting for a love I hope turns into something more while seeking self-fulfillment. Lots of feelings that are connected to explaining how life can be in a time of transition.  

Nostalgic November Challenge:

What is something you have been missing about yourself this time of year? The happy memories, holiday food, being around the people who lift you up? We challenge you to bring your Herp A Derp Moments and bring out the best parts about yourself you feel you have been missing. Every Wednesday in November, we will be taking a moment to shoutout the nostalgic feelings we have been missing about ourselves. Share your thoughts through a voice message through Anchor, through DMs on social media or email us! You will be featured if you'd like to share through the hashtags: #nostalgicnovember #herpaderppodcast

Show Notes

What are the symptoms of herpes?

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find a link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey, Herp A Derpers!

November kicks off the season of giving and counting our blessings. The season also brings nostalgic feelings. Feelings of longing for long-gone moments that are now memories we hold so tightly it becomes overwhelming to think about. We overthink and desire the feelings in the hope it would make us feel that great again and want to bring with us into the present moment.

We always have so many great things to be thankful for this time of year. Our loved ones, dear friends, pets, health and all the above. Something that I am especially grateful for this year is experiencing a chance to start over again. Moving away from all the above is what made me realize how much I was searching for and what I knew worked for me and I tried to find in when I was meeting new people who I just met. The little things in my life that I didn’t realize I needed until I moved away from my home. Close bonds and relationships I wanted to start failed because I wasn’t feeling close to myself. I kept distracting myself from my own problem of being lonely. Not saying I am a desperate person; I am a person who values quality time.

Nostalgic November Challenge:

What is something you have been missing about yourself this time of year? The happy memories, holiday food, being around the people who lift you up? We challenge you to bring our your Herp A Derp Moments and bring out the best parts about yourself you feel you have been missing. Every Wednesday in November, we will be taking a moment to shoutout the nostalgic feelings we have been missing about ourselves. Share your thoughts through a voice message through Anchor, through DMs on social media or email us! You will be featured if you'd like to share through the hashtags: #nostalgicnovember #herpaderppodcast

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

Feeling love and support are the greatest sense of feeling like you really belong and can be yourself. Herp A Derp explains the changes she is going through in the seasons of life and emphasizing how important support groups are to feel connected.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

When we are at a growing point in our lives, it is our choice to learn, change or accept. Courtney and I discuss how we accept ourselves for who we are by not letting herpes define who we are and how he started a non-profit based off his podcast Something Positive for Positive People.

Herp A Derp. A podcast about breaking the stigma on herpes and empowering the community. I'm your host, Erin Devost

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

Wanted to share a quick few special happenings coming up in October for Herp A Derp! October is a big month because it is momentous to Herp A Derp and myself on so many levels. It’s my herp-anniversary (the month I was diagnosed) and Herpes Awareness Day is October 13th. We will be dedicated the month to awareness and loving yourself. I’ll be working with Herpes Awareness Philippines and Health Heroes for a collaboration on loving our herpes as Love Bumps.

September can be a stressful month. It feels like so much has been changing, not just the seasons, but levels of happiness and stress. No matter what stress that comes unexpectedly through work and life, we can always prepare remedies to help calm our outbreaks.

September Stresses are a real thing. Life and work can weigh in as much as we can find ways out.

Managing stress in healthy ways may help reduce how often you have a genital herpes outbreak. Ongoing stress -- that lasting more than a week -- seems to trigger outbreaks more than any other lifestyle factor.

1. Get some sleep
2. Balance your diet and exercise
3. Reach out and talk about it
4. Relax and take care of you

How do you manage your upcoming outbreak? Do you feel it coming and how to you stress relieve from it?

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

“HANDS Stands with Marginalized Communities & Inclusive Companies, Orgs, and Educators”

There recently was a post on a popular meme Instagram account that caused an uproar of attention and correction to factual information about herpes. While HANDS took immediate action, there was little response from account who published the posts only to find out they had blocked herpes activists from the account. The individuals were simply trying to educate the account holder, so the followers do not mislead with the stigma around herpes. I must admit some of them I was baffled by the head of the Instagram account to be a nurse working with patients with STIs and yet they were being hurtful to vulnerable people who are in new stages of the herpes diagnosis.

It’s important to educate everyone around us. We can’t continue to laugh about herpes jokes that make no sense when there is sensitivity to our emotions plus physical response from a herpes diagnosis. Listen to this week’s biweekly episode to find out the details of what happened and the continuous reminder on how far we have to go as a society to eliminate stigma on social media.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Recently I came across the Kinsey scale. 

Fact #1 about it: The Kinsey Scale is not an actual test. However, all are professionally-designed personality tests (or inventories) meant for measuring heterosexual and homosexual behavior in relation to gender roles in the Western world. 

The Kinsey scale, also called the Heterosexual–Homosexual Rating Scale, is used in research to describe a person's sexual orientation based on one’s experience or response at a given time. The scale typically ranges from 0, meaning exclusively heterosexual, to a 6, meaning exclusively homosexual — based on hours of interviews.

The Kinsey Scale does not address all possible sexual identities and does not purport to accommodate respondents who identify as non-binary. Contrary to popular belief, Kinsey was not a behaviorist, but granted that sexuality is much broader than simply lived behavior.

You aren't meant to come away from this guide thinking that the Kinsey is the only option for self-definition; if anything, questioning it is a pretty valid way of determining how you feel about sexual identity, fluidity, attraction, and experience. But it's been one of the basics of queer identity since the '50s. So, if nothing else, consider this an important history lesson in early history of sexology. Here are six main takeaways from the Kinsey scale:

1. Alfred Kinsey created the scale in 1948 to study sexual behavior and open up about people’s sex lives and fantasies when it comes to sex.

2. May convince people it is seen as a scale more than a spectrum. 

3. Six categories of the Kinsey Scale:

4. The Kinsey Scale is, fundamentally, based on how many times in your life you feel or act in a sexual way towards one gender or another. But, how to define bisexuality on the Kinsey Scale? 

5. There are other more complex scales out there. The Klein Sexual Orientation Grid for example takes how you define yourself and how you've felt about your orientation over time — in the past, present, and future.

6. Sexuality is fluid; numbers on the scale can change over time.

Herpes and past experiences with people made me consider which gender I’m attracted to. It made me think that if men continue to hurt me, that must mean I am real into women, right? It may not necessarily be the case. Life is all about experiences. It is up to up to explore our bodies, who we are and when we are comfortable to take sexual experiences with someone who is the same or opposite sex. Herpes diagnosis can make us question our worth. No one is as worth it as you to be free in expressing yourself and the one you are into. 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

The fear that comes after a positive herpes diagnosis is often centered around rejection, self-acceptance and love we have for others and ourselves. Then the question if someone will always love us again still arises and causes us to over think about herpes and our own means to have a love of our own. 

So, when someone who comes along and accepts you for having herpes, we get off guard. We lift ourselves up knowing there is more hope in the word and less worries about herpes. I certainly did in the last few dates I went on since moving. They weren’t herpes positive, but it allowed me to be more at ease. Why is that? Because it made me think for the moment, I was worthy of their love and acceptance. That if they accept my herpes diagnosis, one of them can be the one for me. The stigma can lead us to believe that love is a fairytale and that only princes and princesses deserve the purest and un affected people; the worthy. We romanticize the fact that once we are accepted, we can be ourselves again. Relationships should stand more than just between they accept you for having herpes. Why? Because you deserve to stand more than for your herpes status too. Know that self-respect and other respecting you go hand in hand. 

The stigma takes us to this state of mind that falls into the lines of depression and desperation of wanting to be more than herpes. That it’s a wall we cannot get around because no one will love us if we don’t like herpes. It teaches us that we are unworthy of physical or emotional affection.

Herpes may be bound within your body, but it shouldn’t be what binds your relationship. 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Let’s talk about… sexual health and the means to be sexually healthy. Being sexually healthy can mean many things. It’s the means of wanting to love your body, have positive relationships, pleasurable sex life and harmony in your life.

I recently stumbled upon a website that gives five great and strong action items of advice and having “the talk” starters. 

1. “Value who you are and decide what’s right for you”

2. “Get smart about your body and protect it”

3. “Treat your partners well and expect them to treat you well”

4. “Build positive relationships”

5. “Make sexual health part of your health care routine”

These amazing tips can be a guide into having new, old, existing partners or relationships. It’s never dull to be into sexual health. In fact, I find it really attractive and sure your sexual companion will too.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Little on the late side for this episode. Better late than never!

The reason why I am late producing this episode is because I am currently in the process of moving from Vermont to Virginia and have had a whirl wind of emotions and sentiments about leaving the place, I call my forever home. Change is a good thing mind you it brings up a lot of things in the unknown. Moving to a new city and having herpes plus starting over in the dating scene seems terrifying to me. We know how common herpes is but the fear of rejection in a new place can bring the unnecessary baggage of anxiety. 

Moving to a new state means moving forward in life. We love to deeply hold onto our comfort zones and sometimes avoid the growing pains but then how can we go to the next level without growing gains? Remember that those who love you will stay and touch and be there for you. Moving on and moving forward is a big difference. Moving forward means its more positive than moving on. 

Moving forward and staying positive in your life will have you much more prepared for what is to come next. I can’t wait to find a herpes support group to join and connect. I look forward to a new beginning in my career and love life. Its time for this shift in my life and I can’t wait to continue to share with you what’s next in this herp a derpin’ journey. 

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Happy Pride month! Now that’s officially the start of summer, I wanted to kick off this episode with information about LBGTQ+ community and STDs. Obviously, the herpes virus doesn't care what sort of sexual activity is creating the right conditions for infection, but different sexual practices create different risks. Being proactive about your sexual health is the best thing you can do for yourself and your partner. Knowledge is power!

The good news is that there is less stigma attached to all STIs in the gay and herpes community, that safer sex practices are widely accepted, and that there is a range of sexual health services specifically aimed at gay men and women. Gay and bisexual men are known to have higher risks of catching an STD, but lesbian and bisexual women aren’t free from risk. 

The only way to avoid STDs is by getting tested frequently and use protection every time.  No one is immune to STDs, start summer by getting tested today!

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Empower: make (someone) stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights.

In other words, empowerment means to be seen, be heard and be understood.

I had the privilege of interviewing a women’s empowerment coach who is confident, encouraging, a herpes activist and leader of her Accountability Coaching tribe. Clarice supports women who are frustrated on where their life is going and are wanting to make a positive change. She is passionate about her life coaching, has her own Heart Empowered Women podcast and explains how herpes was a big moment in her life by finding healing, acceptance and the power of support groups.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Herp A Derp celebrates its first year of foundation in May. Coincidently, my birthday is in May and my favorite number is 22! Just like this episode. Amazing how the universe lines us up. I’ve always wanted to create a podcast. Sharing stories has always been something I’ve felt connected to. By having the ability to listen to those who wanted to share their thoughts, opinions and experiences in life. Sprinkling in advice to those willing to receive it or want encouragement to keep going on their pursuit of happiness. These thoughts lead me to my internal struggle and self-conscious belief that needed to be talked about and addressed in society, herpes. And so, it goes! The ideas that sparked and flew into creating Herp A Derp Podcast.

I also can’t thank one thing enough, herpes. Yes, without herpes I would not be as wise, not as safe and not as informed if I have not been diagnosed. Without you herpes, I would not have met dear friends and influencers whom I have met and get to be more myself around.

I’m not afraid of rejection anymore. I’m not afraid to speak up in a relationship anymore. I’m not afraid to be myself anymore. I’m free and am open. Thank U, Herpes.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

What does it mean to be vibrant? To be dull or feel alive? I had the honor of interviewing the spiritual, fearless, herpes activist and leader of her V-for-Vibrant community KellyAnne on self-worth and personal growth that arises within ourselves to make a change in our lives. Herpes and the universe go hand in hand in our dialogue that makes us all feel connected and have purpose in what we do for HANDS, Herpes Activists Networking to Dismantle Stigma.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Break the Stigma Day aims to reduce stigma's impact by promoting awareness of herpes statistics and education about transmission and stigma, while promoting acceptance for those who are living with herpes through anonymous and public storytelling.

Awareness, Education and Acceptance

Self-acceptance can be hard to digest at times but know you will overcome so much by destigmatizing yourself from the herpes stigma. 

Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing a few videos about overcoming the social stigma of herpes. We invite you to share your experiences and stories too. Plus, sharing a special message from HANDS on Break the Stigma Day. This Day celebrates and embraces how much we can overcome in accepting who we are as individuals and being more than herpes.

Let’s empower each other by letting society know the need to break the stigma.

Follow, like, share, and comment on HANDS members’ posts by following our hashtags on social media: #btsd #breakthestigma #whatstigma #herpesstigma #HANDS #HandsStands #AgainstStigma #StandWithHands

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!    

Hey Herp A Derpers!     

Grow and laugh what you go through.

The herpes stigma should not stop us from taking in the hilariousness of what a show or someone to  encourage everyone to talk and mention herpes without offending anyone. We have a strong belief that before you can make jokes about something that is deeply stigmatized, you have to destigmatize herpes and know when it is ok to. 

Still be sensitive to those who aren’t as open but know that it is worth a laugh to when knowing that herpes is so common enough and there is no cure that of course it is the virus that ends the world. Future Man is a surprisingly hilarious take on what would happen if the cure for herpes caused the end of the world. I highly encourage you to watch it and explore different wants humor can heal you and break the herpes stigma.

Feel free to share or comment on this podcast episode, through YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or email at herpaderppodcast@gmail.com. Anchor listeners can now leave voice messages after listening to the podcast. Its super fun to do and share your thoughts. Life is all about confidence.         

Show Notes:

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Cheers to the start of March! March is one of my favorite transitional seasonal months because its filled with reasons to celebrate. Mardi Gras, Saint Patrick’s Day and springing forward into spring equinox. Time for festivities and setting our warmer weather intentions.

One of my intentions in the midst of transition is to speak truth into existence. I’d like to share with you parts of my mantra that centers around the core themes and meaning of the truth:

Keep promises to myself that will benefit my lifestyle and wellbeing. 

Say what you need to say, stop lying about how I really feel.

Keep relationships that are valuable to you who are like-minded people.

My mantra reveals something I want to work onl telling the truth to myself, others and not believing in the lies I tell myself or what others say about me. By saying my mantra each and every morning, it brings me to a deep understanding of more ways we can tell ourselves and the ones we love and care about how much we mean to them by always telling them what we mean and need to say. 

To exposé this episode’s main theme, it’s speaking our truth on disclosing our herpes diagnosis to our intimate and sexually active partners. With spring fever in the air and the warmth encouraging us to break free from the cold depths of self-deflecting thoughts and winter, we want to be safe, healthy, happy and walk the earth with ease. Disclosing our herpes diagnosis can be intimidating and overwhelming in terms of what to say or even how to start the conversation. Truth is, it doesn’t have to be. You can make it easier, informative, sexier and make it happen all at once. 

HANDS (Herpes Activists Networking to Dismantle Stigma) launched a recent campaign highlighting tips and different ways to share your status in a loving compassionate way on communicating responsibly about sexual health status towards yourself and your partner. 

Check out the show notes for the story behind the “Make Disclosure Happen” campaign and the awareness infographics to save and keep them on your phone as helpful tips when you are ready to tell your partner. May it be easy, informative, sexy and make it happen. Your truth is yours to speak.

 *As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers! 

Love is in the air, my dear listeners. And you know what else is in the air? Valentine’s Day dinner dates and boxes of heart shaped chocolates that are 50% off the next day! 

No matter your spectrum of Valentine’s Day, we always find ourselves reflecting on love. Ever since I was diagnosed, I always knew I have a lot to share and give but am living with herpes and thought that I was damaged. After all, I have never had a true Valentine’s Day date.

How did I rise above the self-stigma? 

Love myself unconditionally.

All the parts of me…the good and the bad and the imperfectly perfect me. 

Embrace love this Valentine’s Day.

Share herpes the herpes valentines on this episode to help heal and have a smile on Valentine’s Day too.

*As always, you can review my episodes on YouTube, Anchor or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find link to the channel on the podcast Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page @herpaderppodcast Thanks!

Hey Herp A Derpers!

After listening to the interview on Something Positive for Positive People, I reflected on how confident I was in confronting the “just a friend” in that moment but also building the courage to say what needed to be said. Beyond that, we have to stop stigmatizing ourselves. We hurt ourselves more when we don’t see our own worth. Herpes does not define us nor any bad things that have happened to us. We are capable of love and loving ourselves more.

Yes, we all have flaws but you must love yourself in order to take care of your mind and well-being. It will release you to become a better version of yourself. The kind, loving, caring self you can then give to others. 

Positive self-talk is something I am personally working on. Part of the process is to let go and listen to my heart for the good of my being. 

I choose to be single most of my life because I know I love myself more than anyone can give to myself at this moment. Yes, I have dated and do not regret anyone who I was with, but I learned to grow more into myself in what I am looking for in a relationship. I hope the man I love does the same for me.

Also, because you have never been in a relationship doesn’t mean you’re unsuccessful in loving someone else. It means you made the right choice in always putting yourself first. 

A quote from my favorite self-love poet R.H. Sin, “I hope you find someone who always chooses you. If you don’t, I hope you always choose yourself”.

Letting go is always hard but it will provide you the space to breathe, free up a ton of psychological space for new, good things to come into your life and flow through you. 

Now is the time to love yourself the most. Give yourself the positive self-talk you deserve. 

Every morning since the start of the new year, I would say my mantra, look myself in the mirror and say three amazing things I love about myself. 

Today, I said how beautiful of a person I am, inside and out, I will finish the video and course materials for my Google Analytics certification and kick my big booty to do abs and cardio at the gym after work today. By doing this, I encourage myself to believe them and not break these underlying promises to myself. 

This year I will no longer lie, and break my own promises. If you really want to motivate and get yourself to the next level, I inspire you to do the same thing. Promise to not go back to anyone who has ever hurt you. Promise to stay on your diet, workout and drink more water. Promise to love yourself more and lift others up around you.

Promise me that you will keep your promises. I promise, will you? I will always admit the truth and my faults as we are only human. But being human also goes with being a person and treating others the same way. 

Remember the golden rule? Treat others the way you want to be treated. So, it goes… If someone is not treating you the way you treat yourself, it is time to let them go.