207: Finding Neville and Raising the Flag – David & Denise’s Journey Through Prostate Cancer

207: Finding Neville and Raising the Flag – David & Denise’s Journey Through Prostate Cancer

Author: Sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett November 5, 2025 Duration: 58:52
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: admin@rshealth.com.au   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 

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
187: Let’s Talk About Painful Sex: Vulvas and Vaginas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:47
This episode gets real as Melissa and Kate talk to Shannon who opens up about her personal experience with painful sex and vulvodynia and vaginismus. She shares how these challenges have shaped her live, relationships, a…
184: Prostate cancer and testosterone levels – a lived experience. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:43
In this episode, Melissa and Shane dive deep into health topics encountered by Shane, including personal experiences with prostate cancer, low testosterone, and hormone replacement therapy. They cover: Health Management…
183: A gay man’s journey through prostate cancer. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:30
In this episode, Melissa welcomes Richard, a 71-year-old gay man, who shares his journey through prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, offering an honest look into the physical, emotional, and relational ch…
180: Mr David Dangerfield – You can rewire your penis! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:28
This is another exciting episode which came highly requested by you, The Penis Project audience. We have interviewed David previously on the podcast in episode 46, and two patients who have undergone this procedure (epis…