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

Avsnitt(206)

70. Your Weight Loss Guide - Kendall Gow - RSHealth Clinic’s newest NP

70. Your Weight Loss Guide - Kendall Gow - RSHealth Clinic’s newest NP

Today, we talk with Kendall Gow.     Kendall is RS Health's newest nurse practitioner - who not only specialises in all things related to Prostate Cancer, Diabetes, and Erectile Dysfunction but also an expert in Medical Weight Loss Management.    For this episode, Kendall discusses and explains the importance of weight management, how weight affects the pelvic floor, and a few more information regarding weight (and sandwiches) that you'll surely want to remember.    Kendall has worked in general and surgical nursing with a primary focus on Urology and Gynaecology. She has also been working as a Credentialled Diabetes Educator since 2017. She has continued to study over the years and currently holds a Bachelor of Health Science degree in Nutrition (Edith Cowan University), Post Graduate qualification in Nutrition, Post Graduate qualification in Diabetes Education, and a Master of Nursing.    Enjoy listening!     To book an appointment with Kendall, just click here or send an email to admin@rshealth.com.au. Feel free to also head to this link to read Kendall’s article on obesity and ED.   If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

26 Jan 202214min

69. Father of Men’s Health Physiotherapy: Meet “Peter Dornan”- talking Pudendal Neuralgia & Prostate Cancer

69. Father of Men’s Health Physiotherapy: Meet “Peter Dornan”- talking Pudendal Neuralgia & Prostate Cancer

In today’s podcast, we interview the ‘’Father of Men’s Health Physiotherapy ‘’– Peter Dornan AM from Brisbane, Australia. Recently confirmed as the ‘’Champion of Prostate Cancer’’, Peter shares his very personal story - 25 years in the making. He reveals his battle with a prostate cancer diagnosis as a 52 year old fit, healthy, health professional and the impacts it had on him physically and psychologically at a time when there was minimal support. Now 77, Peter continues to challenge the status quo and is a world leader in pelvic health issues in men, including pudendal neuralgia and pelvic pain. Not only does Peter continue to work full time, but Peter is also an author, sculptor, saxophonist, and teacher, as well as being Dr Jo’s long-term men’s health mentor. A softly spoken man – Peter’s dedication to the men’s health field is both inspirational and humbling. Listen, then look him up and share him widely. An Order of Australia Medallist and Queenslander of the Year 2020… no finer man has graced our podcast series… And he’s even on Twitter! Links: www.peterdornanphysiotherapy.com.au Article: https://www.thesenior.com.au/story/6490631/its-time-to-drop-our-ivory-tower-of-manhood-says-qlds-senior-of-the-year/ Twitter: @DornanPeter   ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

18 Jan 202231min

68. ’’How To Shame the Devil”, by “Ros Thomas”. A book with a voice for men in #metoo

68. ’’How To Shame the Devil”, by “Ros Thomas”. A book with a voice for men in #metoo

Today, we talk with Ros Thomas.   Ros is a Perth-based author and former journalist of 25 years who has written a long-running weekend column for The West Australian Newspaper.   Together with Dr Jo and Melissa, Ros will talk about the inspiration of her very 1st novella 'How to Shame the Devil', what moved her to start writing ~ again ~ and to remind us all that 'it's never too late to become who we want to be or to start again'.   Themes of the book relate to sexual consent, and the #metoo movement in the context of yesteryear vs the 2021… the aging process and life reflections from the viewpoint of a nursing home…   Are you wondering how this book relates to men? Just click the button below to know and start listening!     To check out Ros's book and buy your copy, feel free to visit here: https://www.nightparrotpress.com/product/how-to-shame-the-devil/?moderation-hash=c719b3e95e0405f977270fcd96dcfc89%23comment-11448&unapproved=11448   ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

12 Jan 202254min

67. Foreskin Restoration following Circumcision with “Tim’’

67. Foreskin Restoration following Circumcision with “Tim’’

Our first episode of the new year will be about restoration - foreskin restoration. For this topic, we talk with Tim. Tim will talk about his experience, the reason why he reached out to us, and few 101s about foreskin restoration, namely; devices, groups, and orgs. Plus a few more interesting topics you'll surely enjoy! Few resources for you: hhttps://15square.org.uk/   ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

7 Jan 202247min

66. Ball pain, vasectomy, fertility and more with “Dr Trenton Barrett”

66. Ball pain, vasectomy, fertility and more with “Dr Trenton Barrett”

And botox in your penis and bladder?   Today, we talk with Dr. Trenton Barrett. Dr. Barrett is a urologist, with specialty on male genito-urinary complaints as well as sexual health. And his subspecialty interest is in female urology, andrology, and male infertility. Dr Barrett talks about Azoospermia, which is a medical term used when there are no sperm in the ejaculate, as well as its causes, what can be done for this type of cases, procedures, and more. He also talks about Oligospermia, which is a term for low sperm count and how it's different from Azoospermia. Dr Barrett also answers the question of whether procedures relating to the scrotum/testes (ie vasectomy) can cause erectile dysfunction or not, and whether varicoceles are the possible reason for pain during sex/orgasm (for those experiencing it). He also brushes upon testicle pains, diagnosis, and its possible treatments (ie botox). Yes, you heard it right, botox can also be injected to the bladder (has been done since the 80's) for overactive bladders! Further, Dr Barrett and Melissa discuss vasectomies (and even reversals), what's true and what’s not. Spoiler alert - there shouldn't be a crippling pain. A few more topics discussed are penile implants and injections. This is a fully-loaded episode with tons of golden nuggets that not only talk about the penis but also the bells around! Have a listen as we believe you will enjoy and learn a lot about these topics!   ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

21 Dec 202131min

65. From hard conversations to a Clear Mind: Meet “Craig Aird”

65. From hard conversations to a Clear Mind: Meet “Craig Aird”

Today's episode is something for everyone especially FIFO workers and their partners.   Meet Craig.   Craig will share his story of how at 16-years old, he was diagnosed with cancer and how this experience helped him be the person and coach that he is today. Together with his wife, they own Clear Mind Studio – a health space for everyone but in particular FIFO couples. Listen as he shares his inspiring story – he was diagnosed with cancer at 16 years old, saved his sperm for his future. He has radically changed his career path to help others drawing from his own experiences to do so.   Craig's wisdom is: Hard conversation, easy life Easy conversation, hard life We hope you enjoy this inspiring story.   Helpful links: https://www.clearmindstudio.com/ ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

14 Dec 202147min

64. Meet “Russell” and his implant – for continence and a dripping penis. (Artificial Urinary Sphincter)

64. Meet “Russell” and his implant – for continence and a dripping penis. (Artificial Urinary Sphincter)

For today's episode, we have a celebrity podcaster – RSHCs’ very own Sharon Stephen. Our guest is Russell - who according to Melissa sounds like Elvis. Russell suffered incontinence( continuous leakage) after his radical prostatectomy - even after obedient adherence to pelvic floor exercises. After trying everything - Russell met Dr. Jessica. To know what caused Russell's incontinence and the solution that was provided, have a listen to the podcast!  --- ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

7 Dec 20211h

63. Meet “Proctor””- Pelvic Pain, Prostate Cancer, wild-type erections & suppositories!

63. Meet “Proctor””- Pelvic Pain, Prostate Cancer, wild-type erections & suppositories!

Today, we talk to Proctor.   Proctor's story also started when he was 18-19 years old. Much like the same with Pierre, Proctor also experienced pain in his perineum... and in his testicles.   He also went to different doctors, was prescribed with pain medications, and still no explanation with how the pain is occurring. Then he had robotic radical prostatectomy after his Prostate Cancer was picked up by a diligent GP.   All of these brought Proctor to Dr. Jo and Melissa - and the rest is history. :)   This episode will not only share Proctor's journey, discuss 'wild type erections' but will also show you the importance of having a very diligent GP.   Enjoy listening!    ---------- If you feel The Penis Project is valuable to you then, please review and subscribe as this will ensure more people get to hear what we have to say. ---------- 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

2 Dec 202143min

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