204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)

204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)

In this Episode which marks the 5th anniversary of the Penis Project Podcast, Kate and Melissa, practitioners from Restorative Health Clinic talk to Kirk (59), who shares his very recent journey with prostate cancer — from vigilant PSA screening due to a strong family history, through biopsy and robotic prostatectomy(Gleason 9), to an unusually swift return of continence and erections (yes, really… at 5 weeks!). We chat about why a good GP relationship matters, common myths (no, PSA screening is not a finger-up-the-bum), and practical rehab steps that set you up for the best outcome. We also touch on the challenges recent Medicare telehealth changes pose for rural men and why community conversations save lives.

Key Takeaways:

  • PSA screening saves lives: It’s a blood test. Many men still believe screening means a rectal exam — that misconception stops blokes from testing.
  • Early and regular checks matter, especially with family history. Kirk and his GP were “on it,” which likely changed his trajectory.
  • Rehab starts before surgery: Pre-op pelvic floor coaching and early, structured penile rehab support faster continence and sexual recovery.
  • Expectations matter: Being clear about how important sex is to you helps the team tailor a plan (medications, devices, or injections) so intimacy continues post-treatment.
  • Modern prostate cancer care is not what it was 20 years ago — minimally invasive surgery, targeted radiation, and better side-effect profiles.

Episode Highlights

  • Family history matters: Kirk, a 59-year-old anaesthetist, always knew prostate cancer was a “when, not if.” Vigilant PSA screening caught it early.
  • PSA test = blood test: Many men still mistakenly think screening means a rectal exam — this myth stops blokes from testing.
  • Gleason upgrade: Biopsy showed 7, but post-surgery pathology was 9 — reinforcing why early surgery was lifesaving.
  • GPs are gold: A trusted GP relationship ensures timely checks and continuity of care.
  • Rehab starts before surgery: Pelvic floor exercises and penile rehab education gave Kirk the best start.
  • Fast recovery: At 5 weeks post-op, Kirk is dry, pad-free, and already regaining erectile function with support strategies.
  • Community conversations: Kirk shared his diagnosis with ice-hockey teammates — most had no idea PSA was just a blood test.
  • Rural barriers: Medicare telehealth changes risk limiting access for country men as of November 1st 2025 — highlighting the importance of policy that supports remote care.
  • Positive outlook: Kirk’s story proves recovery can be quicker than many expect, and modern treatments offer far better outcomes than in the past.
  • Take-home message: Don’t wait for symptoms — get your PSA blood test done and talk to your mates about it.

Shareable quotes

  • “Good news — PSA screening is a blood test. That’s it.”
  • “Pre-hab matters: start pelvic floor and penile rehab before surgery.”
  • “Sex after prostate cancer is absolutely possible — the toolkit is bigger and better than ever.”
  • “Men will talk footy all day — let’s talk our health the same way.”

Resources & Links:

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

https://melissahadleybarrett.com

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

Jaksot(206)

46. Nerve grafting to help with Erectile Dysfunction after Radical Prostatectomy with Urologist “Dr David Dangerfield”

46. Nerve grafting to help with Erectile Dysfunction after Radical Prostatectomy with Urologist “Dr David Dangerfield”

For this week’s episode, Dr. David Dangerfield will discuss nerve grafting as a new procedure to help with improve erectile dysfunction.   He will discuss what nerve grafting is, who is it for, what makes one the perfect candidate, the expectations for this procedure, the costs, and what are the results.   Don’t forget to share in the comments what you think after listening!  ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

10 Elo 202146min

45. Debunking the Mysteries of Continence with “Dr Jo”: Pads, Penile Clamps…pee and pooping problems!

45. Debunking the Mysteries of Continence with “Dr Jo”: Pads, Penile Clamps…pee and pooping problems!

Following on from last week’s podcast with Melissa about debunking the mysteries of Erectile Dysfunction, Dr. Jo will be debunking similar mysteries about continence issues that affect men! This includes both peeing and pooping problems, the use of continence pads and how to wean off them, and how to incorporate penile clamps for improved management of urinary leakage. Garnered from working with 1000’s of men in the same predicament clinically, Dr. Jo has protocols that will help any man gradually reduce continence pad use – including size, number, and the need for pads PLUS, a penile clamp protocol that will immediately improve the quality of life for heavy urinary leakage. Placed on the penis as a simple clamping device, the urinary flow stops, and the bladder re-trains, enabling a man to move, walk, exercise, and socialize without leakage! For some this has been a life-saver and for most men, restores dignity and confidence during a time of distress.  In addition, this episode also includes information about pelvic floor muscle training, bladder irritants including caffeine and alcohol, and how they affect continence and confidence! Updates on bowel continence management and the Bins 4 Blokes campaign are also addressed in this jam-packed episode of tips from the physiotherapy clinic and Dr. Jo!  ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

3 Elo 202138min

44. Debunking the Mysteries of Erectile Dysfunction with “Melissa”

44. Debunking the Mysteries of Erectile Dysfunction with “Melissa”

For this week’s episode, Melissa will be debunking the mysteries of erectile dysfunction.   If you have ever done a Google search about erectile dysfunction, then perhaps you can relate to that feeling of getting more confused rather than finding answers. Why? Because there’s just too much information!   This is the reason why Melissa will be talking about this topic, today.   This episode covers penis pills (and how they weren’t originally invented not really for the penis), injections, pumps, and implants.   Just click the PLAY button below to have a listen now. 😉  ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

27 Heinä 202115min

43. The Penis Project Podcast . Top 5 with “Melissa & Dr Jo”

43. The Penis Project Podcast . Top 5 with “Melissa & Dr Jo”

For this week's episode, we have put together snippets from the Top 5 most listened to episodes.  It's a mix of topics ranging from circumcision, erections to continence, and implants. It also has the penile and pelvic floor anatomy for dummies.    Enjoy!  ------ Thanks for listening. Please subscribe for further episodes either where you listen to your podcasts or on the website www.thepenisproject.org and we would love your feedback. ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://player.whooshkaa.com/shows/the-sota-process https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

20 Heinä 202144min

42. Meet ‘’Sharon’’, Continence Nurse & Queen of Pipes from Scotland!

42. Meet ‘’Sharon’’, Continence Nurse & Queen of Pipes from Scotland!

For today’s episode, we will have a talk with Sharon, a nurse practitioner (NP) focusing on Urology and Continence. She’s also an NP practicing at RSHC.    She will talk about what made her decide to focus on Urology, her story, what she does, and why Men’s health is a passion for her, too.    In case you’re really curious (for those who have not experienced it), Sharon talks about Catheterisation, why you only need to breathe in and out for the catheter to be gone, and why it’s SO important to remove it properly!    Listen to the trio as they talk about urology, men’s health, as well as touch up on women’s health because yes, the partners of penises need care, too. ;)    Just click the button below to know more about Sharon and why she’s the queen of pipes!   ------ Thanks for listening. Please subscribe for further episodes either where you listen to your podcasts or on the website www.thepenisproject.org and we would love your feedback. ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://player.whooshkaa.com/shows/the-sota-process https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

13 Heinä 202133min

41. “Marty’’. Young soul from Uni with a mental health message

41. “Marty’’. Young soul from Uni with a mental health message

For Today’s episode, we will talk to Marty.  Marty is fresh from Uni, after some setbacks, who would love to become a sports journalist.  He has a story of his own - from battling suicidal thoughts to finding his own solutions to cope up with his thoughts and depression.  And… one of the things that Marty said that you’ll definitely hear first here at the Penis Project Podcast, that Tinder is great for mental health!  Listen along to this young soul’s story and discover his Top 5 tips to beat depression. Just click the button below to start listening!  ------ Thanks for listening. Please subscribe for further episodes either where you listen to your podcasts or on the website www.thepenisproject.org and we would love your feedback. ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://player.whooshkaa.com/shows/the-sota-process https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

6 Heinä 202135min

40. Cock-watching anyone? A frank chat with ‘’Dr Stephen Adams’’

40. Cock-watching anyone? A frank chat with ‘’Dr Stephen Adams’’

For today’s episode, we will talk with Dr. Stephen Adams, the man behind the term ‘cock watching’.  Is cock watching the same as bird watching - in ‘pun’ny ways - it is. ;)  But more than that, Dr. Stephen and the lady gang will discuss ‘cock watching’ and what it really is.  Have a listen to get a new understanding of how your penis works, as it is affected not only by ailments but also by mood, positive reinforcements, and a ton more.    For the ladies listening, Dr. Stephen shares this tip in helping your man:  “Men are like children and dogs - trained by positive reinforcements” 😂   Just click the button below to start and enjoy listening!  ------ Thanks for listening. Please subscribe for further episodes either where you listen to your podcasts or on the website www.thepenisproject.org and we would love your feedback. ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://player.whooshkaa.com/shows/the-sota-process https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

29 Kesä 202138min

39. ‘’Penile Rehabilitation Program’’ - Introducing ‘’Melissa’s’’ new DIY course for every man

39. ‘’Penile Rehabilitation Program’’ - Introducing ‘’Melissa’s’’ new DIY course for every man

Ever wondered what Melissa does in her spare time? Well, for the past 6 months, she has been developing a Penile Rehab Course online.   Today, Dr. Jo interviews Melissa on this exciting new program for men and their partners who are overseas, in the country, or too busy or too shy to attend face-to-face appointments.   We also cover what actually is a Nurse Practitioner and a Sexologist!    Have a listen, NOW. ;)    To access the course, feel free to check the link below:  https://www.prostaterehabilitation.com/get-access-to-introduction   ------   Thanks for listening. Please subscribe for further episodes either where you listen to your podcasts or on the website www.thepenisproject.org and we would love your feedback. ---------- 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 Barrett Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/   Music David Mercy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1HbvnltKu4XbWTmk0kpVB9?si=D1xP5dDVQK-zzNU3rViRWg   Producer Thomas Evans: The SOTA Process https://www.instagram.com/thesotaprocess/ https://player.whooshkaa.com/shows/the-sota-process https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jf2IYXRlgfsiqNARsY8fi

22 Kesä 202123min

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