150: Making Every Day Count: Malcolm’s Road to Recovery

150: Making Every Day Count: Malcolm’s Road to Recovery

Author: Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett October 11, 2023 Duration: 35:37
In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, I have a chat with Malcolm, a 60 year old scientist who was diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago. Malcolm candidly shares his post prostatectomy experience, elevated Gleason scores and the need for ongoing radiation therapy post-surgery.  He also reflects on his lifelong role as being the one standing strong when everyone else falls down, and the significant adjustment it was to allow himself the rest and care he truly needed. While his journey hasn’t been all sunshine and sometimes plunged him into low moments, he reflects on the necessity of surrendering the constant need for total control. Instead, he learned to trust his medical team and take action where he could. Malcolm shared some wisdom that resonated with me during our chat. He said something that I think many can take to heart if faced with the challenges of cancer and fears for the future: "Don't let cancer make your decisions for you".   Summary (Outline Only)   The topics discussed in today's podcast include:  Exercise as medicine Starting antidepressants Preparing for radiation A shift in mindset Turning off the scientist brain Drug trials and hormone treatment The impact on family and friends The importance of a good support network Revaluating life after a cancer diagnosis ---------- Websites: https://melissahadleybarrett.com   Men’s health only https://rshealth.com.au/  All genders http://www.menshealthphysiotherapy.com.au/ 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 BarrettLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/  

For anyone who’s ever felt alone or confused about a sexual health issue, The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health provides a rare and essential space for honest dialogue. Hosted by Australian Nurse Practitioner and Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett, this podcast emerged in 2020 from a collaboration with physiotherapist Jo Milios, born from a shared frustration with the silence and stigma surrounding men's bodies. The show has since grown into a substantial resource, with nearly 200 episodes and over 219,000 streams, reflecting its vital role. What you’ll hear here isn’t just theoretical; Melissa blends her clinical expertise with direct, anonymized conversations from her practice, often including the perspectives of patients and their partners. This approach transforms each episode into a nuanced exploration of real-life concerns-from erectile function and pelvic pain to intimacy and communication-topics that are routinely avoided yet universally impactful. The discussions are grounded in science but delivered with a relatable, compassionate tone that makes complex information accessible. Tuning into this podcast means joining a community where awkward questions are welcomed, evidence replaces myth, and personal stories illuminate the path to better health. It’s a practical guide for men and those who care about them, dismantling embarrassment one conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health
Podcast Episodes
178: Emily Duncan - That's Orgasmic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:58
Today we speak with Emily, a sexologist with a psychology background. Emily has a great podcast, “That’s Orgasmic” of which I am a keen listener. Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed on Emily’s podcast and th…
176: Hypertonic Pelvic Floor with Archie [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:15
So, we have talked a lot about the pelvic floor on this podcast, but usually it is about strengthening it to maintain/ improve continence post prostate cancer treatment. But what happens if your pelvic floor is too tight…
175: Frank’s Prostate cancer Journey - Team work/support is the key [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:27
Today we speak with Frank, who was 49 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He is now 16 months post-op and has had an unremarkable healing journey. He has no incontinence, and his erectile function has returned. I…
173: Happy Fanny, Happy Willy - a woman’s story [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:00
You the listeners asked for it, so you got it. Many requests come through that the listeners of The Penis Project podcast want to know more about women, so this week we talk to a Michelle who will discuss how Kate helped…
172: Pelvic Health and Continence Physiotherapy with Louise Hug [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:48
Today on The Penis Project Project podcast I speak with Louise Hug. I work closely with Louise as she sees many of the men that I see pre-prostatectomy and she does women’s pelvic health too, so we cross paths quite a bi…
171: Cool Beans [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:00
Today we speak to Saara Jamieson, a scientist with a very cool invention. Cool Beans is an innovative, cooling underwear designed to boost sperm health and improve the likelihood of conception for couples, but as you wil…