Herpes is one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized STIs, yet in Australia, 1 in 8 sexually active adults has genital herpes— and the actual number is likely much higher. But why does the stigma persist when it’s so common? And how can people navigate a diagnosis in a way that feels empowering rather than shameful? This week on The StickyBeak , I sit down with Allie, a herpes coach and founder of Beyond Herpes , to talk about her journey—from receiving her own diagnosis to becoming an advocate for education, empowerment, and destigmatisation. Allie shares: 🔹 Her personal story —how she got herpes and why she decided to help others 🔹 The reality of living with herpes —why every experience is different, and why treatment is a personal choice 🔹 Common misconceptions —what people get wrong about herpes and what the stats really say 🔹 The role of faith in healing —how Allie, as a Christian, reconciles her beliefs with sex, sexuality, and stigma 🔹 How to take back control —practical tips for managing herpes, dating with confidence, and breaking the shame cycle This episode is insightful, uplifting, and packed with useful information , whether you have herpes, know someone who does, or just want to understand it better. A HUGE thank you to Allie for coming on the pod. To get in touch or keep up with her, follow the links below 👇 WEBSITE: livebeyondherpes.com INSTAGRAM: @allie_beyond Got an Idea for the Podcast? I’d love to hear from you! If there’s a topic you’d like me to explore or someone you think would make a great guest, flick me a message. INSTAGRAM : @thestickybeakpodcast TIKTOK: @thestickybeakpodcast FACEBOOK : https://www.facebook.com/listen.with.mon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
