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
148: Prostate Cancer - The Silver Lining/Fit, Fabulous Before 50 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:22
On this episode of The Penis Project I chat with Brook, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the young age of 47. Having experienced zero symptoms, Brook’s decision to get tested was prompted by his brother's own di…
147. Reece’s Accident at Work, at 17 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:42
Injury and Penile Health What would you do if, at 17, you had an accident that affected your sexual function? Today, Reece will answer that question and share with us his story. At 17 years old, Reece had a work accident…
146. Your Partner’s Solution to Painful Sex [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:47
Hear it from Sarah and her THERMIVa experience If your partner is experiencing painful sex even while using a lubricant, THERMIva might be the answer. Our guest today, Sarah, was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. P…
145. Ryan’s story with HIV; The good, the beautiful, the lemonade [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:07
How far has science progressed with treating HIV? Quite far and Ryan will share all the details. Today’s episode will give you a peak into Ryan’s life - from his HIV diagnosis, to breaking the news to his family, to reco…
144. Going Beyond the Dad Bod; Meet Liam [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:04
Today, we speak with Liam Sorrell, the founder/director of Grit and Gratitude, and also the chair of Australian Dad’s Network. Both of these organisations have one goal in common, mental health and community. Grit and Gr…
143. Bone Cancer at Age 34 - Recovery, Effects, and 4cms less [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:07:49
Jason was diagnosed with bone cancer in November last year, at the age of 34. First thought to be caused by baby hernia, the massive pain in Jason’s groin was actually due to a large lump over his pelvic bone that was pr…
141. Mike the Determinator and Samantha the Bewitcher [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:40
Meet Mike and Samantha, they contacted The Penis Project as they were keen to share their story, which is one of love, connection and romance. Samantha and Mike had been married for 45 years. And through it all, have enj…
140. Valentines Day in June - Meet Harry and Meghan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:11
We’re celebrating Valentines Day this June with our guests Harry and Meghan, a couple with a 37-year marriage and counting. Harry, who had previously battled testicular cancer 20 years ago, now faced a new obstacle at th…