Award nominated podcast, listened to in an incredible 180 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.
Award nominated podcast, listened to in an incredible 180 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
This week Sarah and Jess are exploring what it means to grow older with HIV. From the insights of Sarah’s surprise client survey to discovering who holds the title of the oldest person living with HIV! We would also like to dedicate this episode to Dr Steve Dawson, a remarkable HIV consultant and an even more remarkable person. His work and kindness touched countless lives and he will be missed.
HIV The Naked Truth - About
Sources
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgmzn8802d7o
HIV charity hosts nude photography exhibit for World AIDS Day - Attitude
A 100-year-old man living with HIV shares his secret to a long life
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week Sarah and Jess take a look at a news story that broke last week, the case of Jonathan Carl, sentenced to 17 years for rape and reckless HIV transmission. Police believe he may have had contact with hundreds of men and are urging potential victims to come forward.
Anyone who may have had contact with Jonathan Carl is urged to contact detectives directly on 0207175273, you can also email, survivors@met.police.uk.
To contact police, you can dial 101 or via our online reporting system and state reference CAD2972/19Sept25.
You can also seek confidential support through NHS sexual health services or charities by following these links: NHS, SHL, Galop, Positive East, NAT, The Havens or SARCs.
Sources
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Jess and Sarah are talking about the brilliant Ian Charleson, yes, the Chariots of Fire star with the unforgettable grin. Behind the Hollywood buzz, Ian quietly made history by being open about his HIV status at a time when hardly anyone dared. And if that wasn't enough, the segment nobody asked for is back! Condiment Corner makes a continental return...
Sources
Chariots of Fire' star Charleson dies of AIDS - UPI Archives
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Jess and Sarah swap test tubes for tech talk as they explore the world of Artificial Intelligence. From chatbots that could answer your HIV questions to the ethical dilemmas of letting machines into healthcare, we’re asking: is AI the future of HIV support, or just another shiny distraction?
Sources
Can AI Spark New Progress Against HIV?
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Jess and Sarah are back from their summer break and diving straight into the future. Sarah shares her slightly wacky idea that virtual reality might just hold the key to helping us reach the 2030 HIV goal...yes, you heard that right! Could VR goggles really make a difference in the fight against HIV? We’ll let you be the judge. Strap in, this one’s a bit bonkers.
Support The HIV Podcast & people affected by HIV - Donate
Sources
How Virtual Reality is changing gaming and intimacy
VR Can Trick the Brain to Feel Sexual Touch | Psychology Today United Kingdom
Augmented Reality: The Future Of Interactive Sex ‹ Onya Magazine
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Jess and Sarah take a stroll down memory lane as they dust off two of TVPS’s vintage newsletters, because what better way to mark our 40th anniversary than with a peek into our own archives? From animal adoption to Sarah's editorial input, we’re uncovering what was making headlines (and raising eyebrows) back then. Expect a few giggles, a touch of history, and a whole lot of appreciation for how far we’ve come.
We’re also pressing pause for a summer break, but don’t worry, we’ll be back in September, refreshed and ready to bring you even more untold stories from the HIV community!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As part of our 40th anniversary series, Sarah and Jess are joined by James Kirkland, who’s shining a light on one of the many unsung heroes of the HIV response, a nurse named Josephine.
James shares the moving stories he uncovered while writing his dissertation, which centres on Josephine’s work on the frontlines of HIV care during the 1980s and 90s. Her memories bring to life the compassion, courage, and grit it took to care for people living with HIV during some of the darkest days, and the stigma she herself faced for doing so.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the nurses, carers, and quiet warriors whose stories rarely make the headlines, but who helped shape the heart of our community’s response.
The World AIDS Day RED RUN in London
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we continue our month-long celebration of 40 years of TVPS, Sarah and Jess are joined by someone who’s made history and written it, Les K. Wright! A trailblazing queer historian, writer, photographer, and fierce AIDS activist, Les has spent decades capturing the stories, struggles, and spirit of our community.
Since hanging up his chalk as a professor of English and German, Les has devoted himself full-time to preserving queer history and amplifying voices that too often go unheard. Les talks to us about The Children of Lazarus: Voices Out of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic, a powerful and moving anthology that gives voice to the lived experiences of those affected by HIV and AIDS, documenting survival, grief, resistance, and love.
TVPS Archive - 1985 - 2025 — TVPS
Beyond HIV: The Narratives of 'Children of Lazarus' Tickets, Wed 6 Aug 2025 at 18:00 | Eventbrite
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the first of a month of very special episodes, Sarah and Jess kick off the celebrations of 40 years of TVPS (the charity that produces The HIV Podcast that Sarah and Jess work for)! And who better to start with than Jim Hoggart, someone who was literally there at the very beginning.
Jim takes us back to the 80s (shoulder pads and stigma galore) to share how TVPS sprang into action during the height of the HIV crisis, what awareness-raising looked like back then, and why community mattered more than ever.
TVPS Archive - 1985 - 2025 — TVPS
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Sarah and Jess dive into the sticky subject of HIV and shame, where it comes from and most importantly, how we can start to shake it off.
Sources
How to cope with shame | Psyche Guides
Almost half of people living with HIV in the UK feel ashamed | aidsmap
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week Sarah and Jess take a look over some news stories from the last couple of weeks, as well as coming up with some inventive fundraising initiatives - strawberry laces as HIV awareness ribbons anyone?!
Sources
Famous Aids quilt put on display in London for first time in 30 years
Call for tribute to Terrence Higgins in Haverfordwest | Western Telegraph
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A few months ago, Allan started being more open about his HIV status. A huge and courageous step. In this follow-up episode, we catch up to hear what’s happened since, how life has shifted, and what being visible means to him now. Oh, and no big deal… he also just painted a mural for our 40th anniversary (we’re not crying, you’re crying).
Still wise, still hilarious, and still not running a cult (but give it time), Allan returns to the mic for more real talk about HIV, creativity, and living out loud!
News
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Sarah and Jess are joined by Eugene Lynch, Director of Delivery at Terrence Higgins Trust, HIV activist and TikTok truth-teller. Eugene gets real about their journey through addiction, stigma, and the wild world of HIV advocacy, all while fostering dogs and fighting misinformation one reel at a time. It’s heartfelt, it’s hilarious, and yes, there are dogs. Don’t miss this one!
Eugene's Tiktok - TikTok - Make Your Day
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, Jess takes us behind the scenes at the launch of HIV Outcomes UK's latest report, "HIV Services at the Crossroads." With a mic in one hand and a croissant in the other, she chats with Grant Sugden, CEO of Waverley Care, and Angelina Namiba from the 4M Network. Expect candid conversations about funding, the power of peer support, and why community voices are more crucial than ever.
HIV services at the crossroads - National AIDS Trust
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The HIV Podcast, we’re joined by James Cole from National AIDS Trust to talk crossroads, community, and the future of HIV services. With the launch of HIV Outcomes UK latest report, we dig into the vital role of the voluntary sector and what communities really need right now. Policy, purpose, and a healthy dose of passion, it's all in here.
*HIV Outcomes UK is a coalition of HIV experts working to secure changes to improve the health-related quality of life for people living with HIV in the UK. The National AIDS Trust provides the secretariat for HIV Outcomes UK and it is funded by Gilead Sciences and ViiV Healthcare.
National AIDS Trust - We're the UK's HIV rights charity
HIV Outcomes - National AIDS Trust
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode Sarah and Jess are talking treatment interruptions, what happens when your ART hits an unexpected pause. In today's political climate, some countries are already suffering from a shortage of HIV medication. From med shortages to clinic closures, we unpack the risks, the realities, and how to ride it out safely. A dose of science, a splash of strategy, and zero panic.
Sources
Help us end AIDS - Donate now | UNAIDS
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
