The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health

By Sexologist Melissa Hadley BarrettMedicine Health & Fitness Sexuality

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The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health episodes

January 27213: Swinging, Connection & Consent (with “George & Mildred” + Guest Host Kira)
In this candid and surprising episode, Melissa is joined by guest host Kira and anonymous guests “George and Mildred” for a deep dive into their relationship story, how menopause and erectile dysfunction impacted their marriage, and how a journey into the swinging lifestyle ultimately strengthened communication, intimacy, and connection.
This conversation explores the real relationship work behind non-monogamy, including boundaries, ground rules, consent culture at clubs, the importance of emotional safety, and how past breaches of consent can shape future intimacy.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
How they met (army posting, friendship-first, and a hilariously blunt pickup line)
Menopause, libido changes, and the ripple effects inside a long-term relationship
What ED did to confidence, connection, and communication — and why many men withdraw silently
Their first visit to Restorative Health Clinic, and the moment treatment helped restore intimacy
The relationship rupture: online searching for connection, betrayal, and rebuilding trust
The turning point: honest conversations that revealed the issue wasn’t “just sex” — it was the relationship
How and why, they entered swinging (slowly), why it wasn’t instant confidence, and what helped
Attraction, compatibility, and why “the whole package” matters more than perfection
Sexual identity and exploration (bisexuality, comfort, and removing shame)
The “unicorn” dynamic: what it means, how it works, and why friendship matters as much as sex
Clubs explained for beginners:
what swinging clubs are like
what “play areas” are
how different venues have different vibes (more social vs more kink-friendly)
The Dom/Sub dynamic: how it developed, how they practised safely, and why education matters
Consent and confidentiality: what “yes” must look like, and why assumptions can be harmful
A powerful consent story: what happens when boundaries are crossed, and how recovery can take time
Jealousy (teased at the end): acknowledging it exists and setting up the next part of the conversation
Key Takeaways
ED and libido changes don’t just affect sex — they affect identity, confidence, and emotional connection
Silence and embarrassment can create distance in long-term relationships
Non-monogamy isn’t a “quick fix” — it often requires more communication, not less
Healthy swinging relies on boundaries, consent, and emotional safety
Consent isn’t a one-time checkbox — it’s ongoing, clear, and must be re-established
Intimacy can be rebuilt, but breaches of trust (or consent) can take months to heal

Listener Note
This episode includes frank discussion of sex, non-monogamy, and consent experiences. Please listen with care.

Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
https://breathworkforsurfers.com.au/ Mentioned in the podcast Ryan did this program with tom Carroll
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
1 hr 1 min
January 13212: Never Mind My Bollocks: Talking Vasectomy, Masculinity & Myths
Let’s talk bollocks — literally. In this candid and funny episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa chats with Kurt Brookes and James McConnell, co-hosts of the bold new podcast Never Mind My Bollocks, produced by Made in Manchester. Together, they’re breaking the silence around vasectomy — a topic often buried in myths, awkwardness, and outdated notions of masculinity.
Kurt, a comedy creator, and James, an NHS scientist and geneticist, bring their lived experience and friendship to the mic. What started as a casual post-comedy-night confession (“You’ve had one too?!”) became a mission to normalise the conversation about vasectomy — with honesty, humour, and zero shame.
From misconceptions about “losing your manhood” to the truth about recovery, ejaculation, and “blue balls,” this episode goes where most won’t — cutting through the misinformation with science, storytelling, and a laugh or two.
In This Episode, We Cover:
How Never Mind My Bollocks began and why the world needs to talk about vasectomy
Myths that persist: masculinity, testosterone, and “dry orgasms”
What really happens before, during, and after the snip
Why vasectomy doesn’t make you “less of a man”
Lived experience vs. medical expertise — and why both matter
Common misconceptions around reversibility, chronic pain, and recovery
How humour helps break taboo around men’s sexual health
Kurt Brookes is Deputy Creative Director at Made in Manchester. James McConnell is a geneticist and allied health professional working within the NHS. Together, they created Never Mind My Bollocks to make vasectomy conversations real, relatable, and stigma-free — sharing stories from men and experts alike to help others make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Listen to Never Mind My Bollocks on all major podcast platforms.

Key Takeaway:
Talking about vasectomy shouldn’t be taboo. Kurt and James remind us that openness — not silence — is the real sign of strength.
Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
49 min
December 30, 2025211 - Talking About Sex Shouldn’t Be Taboo – A Global Perspective with Sangeeth Sebastian
In this special episode of The Penis Project Podcast, the tables are turned — and Melissa Hadley Barrett is the one being interviewed!
Joining her is Sangeeth Sebastian, a journalist and sexuality writer from Kerala, India, and the founder of VVOX — a groundbreaking platform with a mission to make accurate, science-based sexual and mental health knowledge accessible to everyone and end sexual shame.
With nearly two decades in journalism, Sangeeth brings empathy and investigative depth to the conversation as he and Melissa explore everything from erectile dysfunction and Peyronies disease to libido, body image, and the silence surrounding sexual pain. Together they unpack why shame remains one of the biggest barriers to intimacy, how open communication can transform relationships, and what it means to create a culture of curiosity over judgment.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Sangeeth’s journey from award-winning journalist in Kerala to sexuality educator and founder of VVOX
Why he launched VVOX and how its helping people unlearn sexual shame
Melissa’s insights into men’s sexual health — erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, Peyronie’s disease, and post-cancer recovery
The social and cultural roots of shame around sex
How misinformation affects both men’s and women’s confidence and pleasure
The importance of empathy, language, and education in sexual healing
What it takes to build a healthier, shame-free global conversation around sex
Key Takeaways:
Shame is cultural — but it can be unlearned through education and open dialogue.
Science and compassion together heal more than medicine alone.
Sexual health is human health: it affects confidence, connection, and quality of life.
True intimacy grows from honesty, curiosity, and mutual respect.
Access to accurate information is the foundation of sexual freedom.
About Sangeeth Sebastian:
Hailing from Kerala, India, Sangeeth Sebastian is the founder of VVOX (pronounced we-vox), a platform dedicated to ending sexual shame by making reliable, evidence-based education about sexuality and mental health available to everyone.
With nearly 20 years of experience as a journalist, he has worked with major Indian media houses including The Hindu, Hindustan Times, and India Today Group. An award-winning sexuality writer and DAAD researcher, his work has been recognised internationally and featured in outlets such as BBC, The Guardian, AFP, Channel 4 UK, and The Daily Mail.
Sangeeth also received the Likho Award for Excellence from the Humsafar Trust for fair and inclusive LGBTQ+ representation in media.
Learn more about VVOX:
https://www.youtube.com/@vvoxIndia
www.vvox.in
Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
1 hr 23 min
December 16, 2025210: Merry Christmas and wrap up for 2025
In this special Christmas edition of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa is joined by members of the Restorative Health Clinic team for a candid, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt look back at the year that was.
From awkward inbox messages and clinic mishaps to deeply meaningful patient moments, the team reflects on what it’s really like working in men’s sexual health — a space where humour, vulnerability, trust, and life-changing conversations collide every day.
This episode is part thank-you, part behind-the-scenes, and part reminder that sexual health work is serious — but laughter matters too.
Key Takeaways
Men’s sexual health is about much more than erections — it’s about confidence, connection, and quality of life
Trust takes time, but once it’s built, men open up in powerful ways
Porn has skewed expectations — most penises are completely normal
You don’t need to have a penis to understand men’s sexual health — listening matters more
A good clinic culture blends professionalism, compassion… and humour
Clinic Updates & Announcements
New clinic location: Icon Cancer Centre, Midland
Expanded support for men post-radiation (prostate, bladder, colorectal cancer)
Telehealth services now supporting rural, remote, interstate, and overseas patients
Upcoming training & conferences:
International Society of Sexual Medicine (Porto, Portugal)
Advanced Botox training for penile health applications
Christmas closure:
19th December- 12th January

Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
23 min
December 02, 2025209: Unhooked - Mindfulness, Porn Addiction & Reclaiming Intimacy with Jeremy Lipkowitz
In this deeply insightful episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa Hadley Barrett sits down with Jeremy Lipkowitz — a former Buddhist monk turned mindfulness teacher and men’s recovery coach — to explore how compulsive behaviours like porn addiction can quietly undermine men’s sexual health, relationships, and sense of self.
Jeremy shares his personal journey from genetics research at Duke University to living as a monk, and how mindfulness, neuroscience, and self-compassion became the tools that helped him (and now others) break free from addiction. Together, Melissa and Jeremy unpack the neuroscience of porn use, its impact on intimacy and erectile function, and how men can rewire their brains to rediscover genuine connection and confidence.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Jeremy’s unique path from scientist to monk to men’s recovery coach
How porn addiction develops — and why it’s often hard to recognise early
The neuroscience of addiction: dopamine, neuroplasticity, and “amygdala hijack”
How compulsive porn use impacts erectile function, libido, and intimacy
The truth about porn, body image, and unrealistic sexual expectations
The role of mindfulness and meditation in rewiring the brain and regaining control
How to “urge surf” — using 90 seconds of awareness instead of autopilot
The power of community and accountability in creating lasting change
How mindfulness helps men face emotions rather than escape them
Key Takeaways:
Addiction isn’t about weakness — it’s about avoiding uncomfortable emotions.
Porn rewires the brain to crave novelty, dulling connection and satisfaction in real life.
Mindfulness builds awareness and self-control, allowing men to choose consciously rather than react automatically.
Healing comes through connection, compassion, and understanding — not shame.
You don’t have to be perfect to make progress; awareness is the first step to change.
About Jeremy Lipkowitz:
Jeremy is a certified mindfulness and emotional intelligence teacher, former Buddhist monk, and founder of Unhooked Academy — a global community helping men break free from compulsive behaviours and build discipline, purpose, and fulfilling relationships. He also hosts the Unhooked Podcast, where he interviews experts and shares practical tools for self-mastery and recovery.
Learn more: www.UnhookedAcademy.com
Follow Jeremy: @jeremylipkowitz
Listen to his podcast: Search “Unhooked” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyLipkowitz

Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
49 min
November 25, 2025208: Ryan Girdler: The Conduit – Masculinity, Breathwork & Redefining the Modern Man
In this deeply human episode of The Penis Project podcast, Melissa sits down with former NRL legend and now men's mentor Ryan Girdler, whose life after professional football has taken an unexpected and transformative turn.
Ryan talks candidly about growing up in a blue-collar household in the 70s, the pressures of masculinity, and how being driven hard as a child shaped his identity. He reflects on his footy career, the unspoken expectations to “be tough,” and how those patterns carried over into life after retirement—leading him to overwork, burnout, and eventually, a total personal reset.
Through meditation, breathwork, and support from his wife, Ryan found a new path. Today, he mentors men through profound emotional, physical, and spiritual work, helping them reconnect with themselves, develop healthier expressions of masculinity, and live with more balance, softness, and purpose.
This conversation goes far beyond sport. Ryan opens up about parenting, vulnerability, inner dialogue, relationships, and why so many men feel lost in today’s world. He also explores his work with Reconnected Men, breathwork retreats, and his partnership with the enigmatic healer, Imrah, known to many as “the alchemist.”
This Episode, We Cover:
Ryan’s early life & sporting beginnings
Growing up under pressure in a hardworking family and feeling driven to please others
How internal and external expectations pushed him into rugby league
The emotional impact of a “boys don’t cry” upbringing
Masculinity, identity & the struggles men face today
Why modern masculinity feels confusing—and why “toxic masculinity” breaks Ryan’s heart
The lack of healthy male role models
Balancing discipline with vulnerability
Why many men feel they must fix everything rather than be present
Life after professional sport
Losing identity and purpose at 30
Overworking to fill a void—“trying to beat yoga at yoga”
How breathwork and meditation became lifesaving tools
The profound influence of his wife in redirecting his path
Breathwork, nervous system regulation & healing
Ryan’s introduction to meditation through a big wave surfer
Using pranayama as the “cheat code” to stillness
How breathwork helped him “wield the mind” rather than be controlled by it
Why he believes every man should experience nervous-system regulation
Reconnected Men & the work he does now
One-day and three-day men’s retreats in Queensland and Sydney
Holotropic/transformational breathwork sessions
Corporate breathwork and team integration sessions
His mentoring program combining discipline, stillness, personal story, and emotional growth
The story of Imrah – “the alchemist”
How Ryan reconnected with Imrah after 25 years
Imrah’s unusual upbringing in the Pilbara and his unique abilities
Their partnership in retreats and breathwork events
Why I have named Ryan “the conduit”
Parenting, relationships & emotional presence
Raising daughters with boundaries, connection, and regulated technology use
Letting go of control in relationships
How softness, listening, and heart-led responses change family dynamics
Ryan’s message to men
"You don’t always have to be in control. And you don't have to do it on your own."
Key Takeaways:
Masculinity isn’t the problem—disconnection is.
Men thrive when they learn discipline and vulnerability.
Breathwork, meditation, and nervous system tools can fundamentally shift a man’s internal world.
Healing begins with self-awareness, not fixing others.
You can be strong and gentle at the same time—and your family will feel the difference.
Sometimes your partner sees your path before you do.
Life after high-performance sport requires finding new meaning, not new metrics to “win.”
Connect with Ryan Girdler & Reconnected Men
Reconnected Men (retreats & programs): https://www.reconnectedmen.com
Instagram: @ryangirdler
Transformational Breathwork & Retreats
Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
https://breathworkforsurfers.com.au/ Mentioned in the podcast Ryan did this program with tom Carroll
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch. Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
1 hr 4 min
November 04, 2025207: Finding Neville and Raising the Flag – David & Denise’s Journey Through Prostate Cancer
In this heartfelt and humorous episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa Hadley Barrett is joined by husband-and-wife duo David and Denise Price — a couple who’ve faced prostate cancer together with courage, curiosity, and a lot of laughter.
David, a professional speaking coach and keynote presenter, and Denise, a writer and storyteller, open up about how prostate cancer changed (and strengthened) their relationship — from navigating continence and erectile recovery to rediscovering pleasure, communication, and connection in new ways.
They share how pelvic floor exercises became a “couples’ activity,” why David calls his penis “Neville,” and how humour, love, and teamwork helped them through the challenges of treatment and recovery.
This episode is equal parts informative, real, and uplifting — a reminder that intimacy isn’t just about sex, and that open communication can transform even the toughest times into opportunities for growth and connection.
Episode Highlights
The importance of humour and resilience in prostate cancer recovery
“Erection parties” and finding levity in hard (and not-so-hard) times
David’s flagpole story — and what it taught him about raising more than flags
How exercise and pelvic floor rehab changed his life
Rediscovering intimacy through outercourse, toys, and open communication
Denise’s journey from sexual repression to pleasure and confidence
The emotional impact of “dry orgasms” and how couples can adapt together
Why men should talk openly about prostate health — and get tested

Key Takeaways:
Communication is everything — before, during, and after prostate cancer treatment.
Pelvic floor exercises are for life (and for both partners!).
Intimacy after surgery is possible — it just might look a little different.
Pleasure and connection go far beyond penetration.
Being informed, asking questions, and involving your partner make the journey smoother for everyone.
Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.
Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett

TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/

TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
59 min
October 21, 2025206: Mike & Shirley: Hope, Healing and Intimacy After Prostate Cancer
In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa reconnects with Mike and Shirley from the USA, who first joined us back in 2023. Now celebrating an incredible 48 years of marriage, they share how life, love, and sex have evolved nearly four years after Mike’s prostate cancer surgery.
Together, they open up about recovery, resilience, and rediscovering intimacy after cancer — proving that sexual function and emotional connection can keep improving long past the two-year mark many men are told is the “limit”. Their journey is one of teamwork, trust, and trying everything from pumps to performance rings to injections — the famous “four Ps” as coined by Mike: Pills, Pump, Puncture, and Performance Ring.
Key Takeaways:
Recovery doesn’t stop at two years. Erections and sensation can continue to improve with regular therapy and effort.
Devices aren’t kinky — they’re medical tools. Pumps, rings, and injections all have a role in penile rehabilitation.
Partner support changes everything. Involving both people in the journey helps reduce shame and increases success.
Hope is powerful. With the right approach, couples can enjoy a “new normal” that’s deeply satisfying and connected.
Sex is more than orgasm. Connection, laughter, and closeness are what really matter.
Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett
“Just like you wouldn’t skip physio after a hip replacement, penile rehabilitation after prostate surgery takes consistent effort.
Devices like vacuum pumps, injections, and rings aren’t gimmicks — they’re proven ways to restore blood flow, preserve function, and build confidence. Mike and Shirley’s story shows what’s possible when couples stay curious, keep communicating, and don’t give up.”

Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.
Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
1 hr 2 min
October 08, 2025205: It’s In Your Hands: Building Emotional Resilience with Dr Jane Foster
In this powerful and uplifting episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa Hadley Barrett is joined by Dr Jane Foster, an educator and author who’s spent more than 40 years helping people understand and manage their emotions.
Jane’s groundbreaking “steering-wheel” metaphor teaches us that while we can’t control life’s bumpy roads, we can control how we steer through them. Her simple, evidence-based approach to emotional resilience encourages us to replace judgment and blame with choice and responsibility.
Together, Melissa and Jane explore how our emotions, stress responses, and everyday habits shape mental and physical well-being — from coping with anxiety and overwhelm to managing relationship challenges and recovering from life’s rough patches.
In This Episode, We Cover:
How emotional resilience begins with understanding your “steering wheel” — you choose how you respond.
Why rough roads (stress, setbacks, grief) are vital for personal growth.
The importance of shifting language: swapping “good and bad” for “rough and smooth” to remove self-judgment.
Jane’s research on how simple daily SMS reminders transformed emotional well-being — and even saved lives.
The concept of TEPS and PETS: identifying everyday triggers (TEPS) and creating healthy coping strategies (PETS).
How partners can use this model to communicate better and manage intimacy challenges after illness or surgery.
Practical tools for dealing with overwhelm, from mindful breathing to setting boundaries and creating space for recovery.

Key Takeaways:
You can’t control the road, but you can control your steering.
Emotional resilience is a skill — built by practicing calm responses on life’s rough roads.
Reframing our language reduces guilt and self-criticism, improving relationships and mental health.
Stress, anger, and anxiety aren’t “bad” — they’re part of a healthy pulse of life.
Small daily actions (your PETS) can prevent emotional overload and support long-term well-being.
Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett
Melissa reflects on how Jane’s approach can be applied in men’s health — especially for those recovering from prostate cancer or experiencing sexual dysfunction.
Learning to recognize emotional “rough roads” and respond with awareness can make a huge difference to physical recovery, relationship harmony, and confidence.

Resources & Links:
Dr Jane Foster
Website: emotionalresiliencetraining.com.au
Book: It’s In Your Hands – Your Steering Wheel, Your Choice (available via website & Audible)
Follow Jane on Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
LinkedIn: Melissa Hadley Barrett
Connect With Us

We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
53 min
September 23, 2025204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)
In this Episode which marks the 5th anniversary of the Penis Project Podcast, Kate and Melissa, practitioners from Restorative Health Clinic talk to Kirk (59), who shares his very recent journey with prostate cancer — from vigilant PSA screening due to a strong family history, through biopsy and robotic prostatectomy(Gleason 9), to an unusually swift return of continence and erections (yes, really… at 5 weeks!). We chat about why a good GP relationship matters, common myths (no, PSA screening is not a finger-up-the-bum), and practical rehab steps that set you up for the best outcome. We also touch on the challenges recent Medicare telehealth changes pose for rural men and why community conversations save lives.
Key Takeaways:
PSA screening saves lives: It’s a blood test. Many men still believe screening means a rectal exam — that misconception stops blokes from testing.
Early and regular checks matter, especially with family history. Kirk and his GP were “on it,” which likely changed his trajectory.
Rehab starts before surgery: Pre-op pelvic floor coaching and early, structured penile rehab support faster continence and sexual recovery.
Expectations matter: Being clear about how important sex is to you helps the team tailor a plan (medications, devices, or injections) so intimacy continues post-treatment.
Modern prostate cancer care is not what it was 20 years ago — minimally invasive surgery, targeted radiation, and better side-effect profiles.
Episode Highlights
Family history matters: Kirk, a 59-year-old anaesthetist, always knew prostate cancer was a “when, not if.” Vigilant PSA screening caught it early.
PSA test = blood test: Many men still mistakenly think screening means a rectal exam — this myth stops blokes from testing.
Gleason upgrade: Biopsy showed 7, but post-surgery pathology was 9 — reinforcing why early surgery was lifesaving.
GPs are gold: A trusted GP relationship ensures timely checks and continuity of care.
Rehab starts before surgery: Pelvic floor exercises and penile rehab education gave Kirk the best start.
Fast recovery: At 5 weeks post-op, Kirk is dry, pad-free, and already regaining erectile function with support strategies.
Community conversations: Kirk shared his diagnosis with ice-hockey teammates — most had no idea PSA was just a blood test.
Rural barriers: Medicare telehealth changes risk limiting access for country men as of November 1st 2025 — highlighting the importance of policy that supports remote care.
Positive outlook: Kirk’s story proves recovery can be quicker than many expect, and modern treatments offer far better outcomes than in the past.
Take-home message: Don’t wait for symptoms — get your PSA blood test done and talk to your mates about it.
Shareable quotes
“Good news — PSA screening is a blood test. That’s it.”
“Pre-hab matters: start pelvic floor and penile rehab before surgery.”
“Sex after prostate cancer is absolutely possible — the toolkit is bigger and better than ever.”
“Men will talk footy all day — let’s talk our health the same way.”

Resources & Links:
Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic
For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com
Listen & Subscribe
If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.
Connect With Us
We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

Websites:
https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders
https://makehardeasy.com.au
https://melissahadleybarrett.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/
https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissahadleybarrett
TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/
TEDX
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA
30 min

About The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health

From the publisher's feed

With over 219,000 streams and nearly 200 episodes, The Penis Project Podcast—hosted by Australian Nurse Practitioner and Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett —offers groundbreaking conversations about…