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

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

By: Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett
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 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 men’s sexual health. Launched in 2020 by Melissa and physiotherapist Jo Milios, the podcast combines expert knowledge, scientific insights, and interviews with her patients and their partners to address sensitive topics men often struggle to discuss, including erectile dysfunction, prostate and bladder cancer recovery, Peyronie’s disease, premature ejaculation and intimacy in relationships. Melissa, who refers to herself as the ”Unexpected Sexologist,” brings decades of clinical experience and compassion to every episode, highlighting that sexual wellbeing involves both physical and emotional health. Join this global community in breaking down stigma, finding support, and accessing practical solutions to common yet overlooked men’s health issues. Available on all major podcast platforms, with new episodes every fortnight—start listening today.Copyright 2020 All rights reserved. Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease
Episodes
  • 203: Peyronie’s Disease, Restorex & New Frontiers: A Conversation with Dr Landon Trost

    203: Peyronie’s Disease, Restorex & New Frontiers: A Conversation with Dr Landon Trost
    Sep 9 2025
    In this episode of The Penis Project podcast, Melissa sits down with world-leading urologist Dr Landon Trost to unpack Peyronie’s disease, traction therapy, and what’s next in men’s sexual health. Dr Trost shares his journey from training under Professor Wayne Hellstrom to leading research and innovation in Peyronie’s management, fertility, and penile rehabilitation. Together they explore the Restorex device, emerging treatments, and the vital role of early intervention. Episode Overview: What Peyronie’s disease is and how common it really isHow to tell the difference between a natural curve and a problem curveThe new classification system for penile curvatureThe psychological impact of Peyronie’s, including anxiety and dysmorphic disorderRestorex traction therapy – why it works when others don’tThe importance of early treatment vs “waiting until stable”What options exist when surgery is (or isn’t) the right answerPartner perspectives and how relationships are affectedEmerging therapies, from nutraceuticals to genetic testingWhere treatment might head over the next decade Key Takeaways: Peyronie’s is often under-diagnosed and misunderstood.Not all curves are Peyronie’s – some are congenital or age-related and not necessarily a problem.Restorex is unique in its ability to generate therapeutic force and counter-bend effectively.Early intervention with traction, PDE5 inhibitors (like sildenafil), and anti-inflammatories may prevent progression.Surgery is effective but comes with risks and regret can be high – conservative options should be maximised first.The psychological toll is often greater than the physical curve – reassurance, partner involvement, and counselling are vital.Future treatments may include new collagenase drugs, natural compounds, and even gene-based therapies. Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett: At Restorative Health Clinic, we see many men early in their Peyronie’s journey. This conversation reinforced the importance of not dismissing early symptoms. Doing “something” – whether traction, PDE5 therapy, or anti-inflammatories – can help men feel in control, protect their erections, and preserve penile length. Just as you wouldn’t ignore a broken bone, Peyronie’s deserves timely care. Resources & Links: Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health ClinicFor more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.comDr Landon Trost https://malefertilityandpeyroniesclinic.com/about/To access references that were mentioned by Dr Trost in this episode please go to https://malefertilityandpeyroniesclinic.com/about/ and scroll to the bottom of the page. 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: admin@rshealth.com.au 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
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    58 mins
  • 202: Premature Ejaculation: Mitch’s Story – Courage, Connection & Control

    202: Premature Ejaculation: Mitch’s Story – Courage, Connection & Control
    Aug 26 2025
    In this raw and refreshingly honest episode of The Penis Project podcast, Melissa chats with Mitch—a 21-year-old who opens up about his journey with primary premature ejaculation (PE). From rural farm life and open family chats to medication mishaps and sexual self-esteem struggles, Mitch shares his experience with warmth and humour. Mitch talks about: Growing up with PE and its emotional toll Navigating sexual intimacy and relationships as a young man His experience with online men’s health services like Pilot The turning point that led him to seek help at Restorative Health Clinic Finding the right treatment—and relief—through personalised care This episode is a must-listen for any man who's felt alone with PE, and for partners or parents who want to better understand the experience from a younger male’s perspective. In This Episode, We Cover: What it’s like living with lifelong (primary) premature ejaculation How a father’s prostate cancer treatment led to a cheeky encounter with penile injections—and eventually helped Mitch seek help The cost, pros and cons of online health platforms like Pilot Why in-person or telehealth consults with a practitioner can make all the difference The emotional impact of PE: shame, self-doubt, and how it affects confidence in and out of the bedroom The power of humour and honesty in breaking sexual health stigma Key Takeaways: PE can affect men of all ages—including young blokes—and it’s more common than you think. Medication isn’t one-size-fits-all. Finding the right dose and drug with a skilled clinician can be life-changing. Open conversations with family, partners, and mates can reduce shame and build resilience. Telehealth can be a more accessible, cost-effective way to get specialist support—especially in rural areas. Tackling PE early builds long-term sexual confidence and can improve relationships. Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett: Premature ejaculation can feel devastating for men, but it’s both common and treatable. We see men every day at Restorative Health Clinic who’ve been told to “just relax” or “it’ll go away with age,” but that doesn’t always happen. Treatment is individual and may include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) Behavioural therapy Mindfulness and arousal control strategies Support for partners to reduce pressure and enhance intimacy Every man deserves to enjoy sex without anxiety—and we’re here to help you do just that. 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.au 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: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com Websites: https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders https://makehardeasy.com.au https://melissahadleybarrett.com http://prost.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
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    27 mins
  • 201: From Diagnosis to Data: One Man’s Journey Through Prostate Cancer Recovery

    201: From Diagnosis to Data: One Man’s Journey Through Prostate Cancer Recovery
    Aug 12 2025

    In this episode, Melissa chats with David, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023 and underwent a prostatectomy. David candidly shares his journey—how a routine PSA test led to a life-saving diagnosis, what recovery was really like, and how he’s taken a scientific, data-driven approach to his penile rehabilitation.

    With warmth, wit and wisdom, David opens up about his experience with erectile dysfunction (ED), continence concerns, vacuum pump rehab, and using the FirmTech ring to monitor nocturnal erections—describing it as a “FitBit for your dick.” He also talks about the importance of talking openly about men's health and encouraging others, including his sons and mates, to get checked early.

    In This Episode, We Cover:

    • Why tracking PSA trends—not just the number—can save lives
    • David’s experience with no symptoms and the surprise diagnosis
    • The emotional toll and stigma around ED and incontinence post-surgery
    • Why using a penile pump isn’t weird—it’s essential rehab
    • Real-world side effects of tablets vs low-dose daily Tadalafil
    • Monitoring erections with FirmTech and what the data can reveal
    • The surprising link between erectile function, heart health, and alcohol
    • The power of talking: How David's openness has led others to get tested
    • Tips for men navigating life post-prostatectomy
    • Why your penis might be the first clue your heart’s in trouble

    Key Takeaways:

    • Prostate cancer is often silent—many men have no symptoms at all.
    • Early detection matters. David’s long-term PSA monitoring saved his life.
    • Erectile rehab works best when started early. Pumps, Tadalafil, and data help.
    • Talking saves lives. One conversation might be what pushes someone to get checked.
    • Nocturnal erections are a sign of good health—and you can measure them.
    • FirmTech isn’t just about sex—it's a window into your cardiovascular system.

    Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett:

    “As a sexologist and nurse practitioner, I see too many men suffer in silence after prostate cancer. David’s story shows that recovery is possible—with data, determination and a bit of humour. Erectile function is not just about sex—it’s a vital sign of your overall health. So yes, monitoring your function might just save your life.”

    Listen & Subscribe:

    If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review! Your feedback helps us spread the word about men’s health and break down stigma. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite app by searching “The Penis Project Podcast.”

    Resources & Links:

    • Book a telehealth consult with our experienced sexual health team at Restorative Health Clinic

    Websites:

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

    https://makehardeasy.com.au

    https://melissahadleybarrett.com

    http://prost.com.au/

    Facebook:

    https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/

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

    TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett

    YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett

    Linkedin:

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

    TEDX

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA

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    40 mins
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