Were you or your child born with the urological birth defect hypospaidas? It is so common that one in 200 male babies are born with it—yet no one talks about it. Why? Because of the shame and stigma associated with its physical effects. It is time to end that stigma now! Learn how to you can live an emotionally positive life with hypospadias, whether you/your child has had repair surgery or not. Hear from advocates, parents and men about how they're living with hypospadias. Hosted by an adult man and a mom of a son born with the condition.
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John continues his discussion with Kiera Talley discussing Energy Healing that can be a benefit to anyone, even those living with hypospadias. Energy Healing utilizes such alternative modalities like Reiki, Crystal Healing and others.
11 Oct 2026
Energy Healing with guest Kiera Talley – part 1
John sits down with Kiera Talley to discuss Energy Healing that can be a benefit to anyone, even those living with hypospadias. Energy Healing utilizes such alternative modalities like Reiki, Crystal Healing and others.
29 May 2026
Third Part of a Three Part Series with Four Leading Psychologists Talking About Hypospadias and Emotions
This episode of Hypospadias Conversations is the conclusion of the discussion that co-hosts John and Bonnie had with Lillian Hayes, Ph.D., Jackie L. Papadakis, Ph.D., Jennifer Hansen Moore, Ph.D. and Jeffrey S. Garofano, Ph.D.—all four are psychologists from leading children’s hospitals. The episode topics centered on the what parents can do to normalize the medical experience their sons will face throughout their lives and help him independently address his medical care as he grows into a young man. The psychologists emphasize that helping young boys feel confident and in control during discussions and doctor visits are key.
Helping Young Men Overcome Medical Anxiety and Shame Around Hypospadias Care
Overview
A panel of four pediatric psychologists discuss practical strategies for parents to help children and teens with hypospadias navigate doctor appointments without shame, while gradually building their autonomy and self-advocacy skills.
Key Points
· Normalize the medical experience — Frame urology visits as routine care, not something shameful or secret. Use calm, simple language about why exams matter for healthy growth.
· Give control to reduce anxiety — Let patients choose appointment times, which parent attends, who stays in the room, and even small preferences like "no talking during the exam." Anxiety stems from perceived lack of control.
· Prepare and predict — Explain what will happen days ahead: Will there be a physical exam? Blood draws? What order will things happen? Demystifying reduces fear.
· Gradual independence — Center even young children in conversations with doctors. By middle school, kids can lead parts of visits. Parents should explicitly state the goal: you will eventually own your medical care.
· Reinforce brave behavior — Pair difficult appointments with rewards (favorite meal, treat). This builds positive associations and motivation.
· Let the child lead disclosure — Offer information when asked, but don't force conversations. Focus on cultivating their whole identity so hypospadias doesn't dominate their self-concept.
Action Items for Parents:
· Ask your child's urology team if a pediatric psychologist is available; advocate for one if not
· Practice "exposure" by talking through what appointments entail before they happen
· Create a brief, age-appropriate script for explaining hypospadias to your child
· Identify one small choice your child can make about their next appointment
· Step out of the room for 5 minutes during teen visits to give private doctor time
Resources Mentioned:
· Society of Pediatric Psychology urology special interest group (33 members and growing)
· Hypospadias and Epispadias Association
· Hypospadias UK Trust
· MyHypeLife.org (http://MyHypeLife.org) — video stories by and for the community
· Sex therapists and medical-institution psychologists for adult support
Who has been a guest on Hypospadias Conversations
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Vinaya Bhatia
Lauren Corona
Pankaj Dangle
Christopher Long
Hadley Wood
Contact Hypospadias Conversations
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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Hypospadias Conversations
Who hosts Hypospadias Conversations?
Bonnie and John host the show. Published by John and Bonnie.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Hypospadias Conversations take guests?
The show does not typically feature guests, based on episode analyses.
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