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The HIV Podcast
The HIV Podcast episodes
- HIV, STIs and Language
This week, Sarah and Jess get wordy and we’re unpacking language! What helps, what harms, and what probably needs retiring, and dig into the origins of some STI names that honestly sound like history was having a bad day.
And because even podcasts need a lie-down, this episode is our final one of 2025. We’re taking a well-earned three-week break, then coming back in the new year refreshed, recharged, and ready to keep challenging stigma! Back soon, don’t miss us too much!
Sources
language evolution - When did 'venereal disease' become STI? - English Language & Usage Stack Exchange
George House Trust
The Clap and other STI names through the ages
What's in a name: using person-centred language in HIV research | aidsmap
Trends in HIV Terminology: Text Mining and Data Visualization Assessment of International AIDS Conference Abstracts Over 25 Years - PMC
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
27 min - HIV Peer Support with Garry Brough
This week Sarah sits down with the brilliant Garry Brough, HIV advocate and Programme Manager for Fast-Track Cities London. Together they unpack what peer support actually is and why it's such a game-changer: empowering, grounding...a reminder that sometimes what we really need is a conversation with someone who gets it.
From Isolation to Empowerment: The Power of Peer Support in HIV Care - Fast-Track Cities London
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34 min - History of STIs
This week Sarah and Jess are diving into the history of STIs! We take you on a whistle-stop tour of humanity’s long, complicated, and occasionally ridiculous relationship with sexually transmitted infections. Expect myths, medicine, and a few moments that will make you grateful for antibiotics.
Sources
‘Groundbreaking’ HIV prevention programme aims to end transmissions by 2030 | The Independent
STIs through the centuries – UK Health Security Agency
The History of STIs - Broadgate GP
Sexually transmitted infection - Wikipedia
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
24 min - World AIDS Day Special!
This week, Sarah and Jess celebrate World AIDS Day by talking about the need, and break down why support still matters, bust a few myths, and remind everyone that HIV isn’t “sorted” just because the meds are brilliant.
Donate now Donate — TVPS
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
28 min - Origins of Contact Tracing
This week, Sarah and Jess go back to where it all began, uncovering the story of Nora Wattie, the woman who pioneered the foundations of modern contact tracing. They explore how her work shaped public health and also take a diversion into 'period chat'.....enjoy!
Sources
Nora Wattie - Wikipedia
First doses of HIV prevention drug lenacapavir delivered to Zambia, Eswatini | Reuters
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29 min - Cabotegravir
This week Chantelle joins Jess to talk about cabotegravir, the long-acting injectable PrEP that’s changing how people can protect themselves from HIV! And there is also come 'C' word chat, so avoid this episode if it's too soon for festive cheer!
Sources
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2025/10/nhs-to-roll-out-first-long-acting-injection-to-prevent-hiv/
https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/first-hiv-prevention-injection-for-people-unable-to-have-daily-prep-recommended
https://www.who.int/news/item/14-07-2025-who-recommends-injectable-lenacapavir-for-hiv-prevention
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/sep/24/hiv-prevention-jab-pre-exposure-prophylaxis-prep-lenacapavir-120-poorer-countries-2027
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lenacapavir
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
20 min - Contact Tracing
This week, Sarah and Jess get into the fascinating world of contact tracing, how it works, why it matters, and what really happens. Oh, and since it’s Halloween, there’s also a quick detour into scary movies and a bit of hot air balloon chat!
Sources
What is partner notification or contact tracing? • SHL.UK
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
28 min - History of STI Clinics
This week, Sarah and Jess take a curious wander through the origins of sexual health clinics, from the hush-hush beginnings to the open, empowering spaces we know today. Expect all the usual side-chat like why Jess hates collecting prescriptions and what happens when Sarah takes her husband to weddings. Never a dull moment when you're learning about sexual health history with these two!
Sources
The history of sexual health | ADPH
Chancroid - Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
Our Story - MSI Reproductive Choices
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
42 min - PEP, PrEP & DoxyPEP Part 2
In part 2, Sarah and Jess slip into their metaphorical lab coats (don’t worry, no Bunsen burners involved) to find out exactly how PrEP works in the body. Spoiler: it’s less “magic pill” and more “tiny molecular bodyguard” that blocks HIV from setting up shop. Expect easy science, bad analogies, and at least one “ohhhh, that’s clever” moment. If you’ve ever wondered what PrEP actually does after you swallow it, this is the episode that finally explains it, minus the biology degree.
Sources
What’s the difference between PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention? | aidsmap
About Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHS
How and when to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHS
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
23 min - PEP, PrEP & DoxyPEP Part 1
In the first of two episodes, Sarah and Jess are diving into the world of HIV prevention, and trust us, it’s not as confusing as it sounds once you know your PEP from your PrEP! We’ll be breaking down what each one does, when they’re used, and why DoxyPEP is the newest buzzword in sexual health circles.
Sources
Dick Donato - Wikipedia
What’s the difference between PrEP and PEP for HIV prevention? | aidsmap
DoxyPEP — QueerHealth
About Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHS
How and when to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) - NHS
First clinical guidelines published on the use of DoxyPEP | Terrence Higgins Trust
DoxyPEP & Bexsero - 56 Dean Street - Sexual Health Clinic London
Doxy-PEP | CNWL Sexual Health Services
Syphilis cases at highest level for 75 years in England last year | Sexual health | The Guardian
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
28 min
About The HIV Podcast
From the publisher's feed
Award nominated podcast, listened to in an incredible 183 countries, The HIV Podcast is fast becoming a global gamechanger for tackling HIV stigma!
The HIV Podcast separates…
fact from fiction and tackles HIV myths and misconceptions. We cover all things HIV related from people to historical events, law, health, taboo topics and pop-culture moments - basically everything you need to know about HIV! Join hosts Sarah Macadam and Jessica Harding, who have worked at an HIV charity for a combined 40 years, every Friday where they will take you on a journey that's surprising, shocking, educational and sometimes hilarious - this podcast will make you laugh as much as it will make you gasp!
Shortlisted for the Audio & Radio Industry Awards in the category of Impact Award, for making a difference to society.
Finalist in two categories of the 2023 Independent Podcast Award
Follow us on instagram & tiktok
Don't just take our word that it's great, here's what our listeners are saying...
“I think all of America would benefit from hearing you talk about sexual health in a fun and vibrant way, because here we are so rigid when it comes to sex and sexual education. You ladies make it fun and engaging and lighthearted and common- as common as talking about what are you doing this weekend or what you have for breakfast kind of common and that is precisely how people should be talking about their sexual health choices.”
“Since diagnosis in March 2020 some, not all, HIV service providers and PLWHIV have been quite ‘lecturey’ (that’s clearly a made up word) about HIV. You both educate us about HIV in a fun and informal way and that’s the hook. It appeals to those not living with HIV“
“I promise not to girl fan you all the time( even though I am ) I just wanted to let you know your education is spreading ! We have a big family holiday planned to Jamaica and my sister whose baby will be 5 months when we fly out was worried about HIV Being spread from a mosquito bite. I told her to listen to your episode sex and she would understand how HIV is transmitted. Safe to say she is now fully aware of how HIV can be transmitted. Just want to say again how much I love your podcast”
The HIV Podcast is produced by TVPS
Written & hosted by Sarah Macadam
Produced, edited & hosted by Jessica Harding
Research and sound support from Zoe Coates
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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