Karl Schmid: Living with HIV, U=U, and Why Stories Matter

In this episode of Queer Talker, Ben Cicchetti sits down with Emmy and GLAAD Award-winning creator, HIV activist, and Plus Life Media founder Karl Schmid for a deeply honest conversation about identity, stigma, survival, and hope.  Karl opens up about growing up between Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and the UK, his early experiences in the entertainment world through his brother’s fame on Neighbours, and how those experiences shaped the person he is today.  The conversation then turns deeply personal as Karl reflects on discovering his sexuality, internalised shame growing up during the AIDS crisis, and the lasting impact of being diagnosed HIV positive at 27 years old. He shares the fear, stigma, and silence he carried for years, including why he kept his diagnosis private for nearly a decade.  Karl also explains the life-changing impact of the U=U message (Undetectable = Untransmittable), why HIV stigma still exists in 2026, and how creating Plus Life Media became part of his healing journey.  The episode also explores:* Why storytelling matters in LGBTQ+ communities* The importance of HIV education and visibility* Internalised stigma and rebuilding self-worth* HIV Unwrapped and bringing HIV conversations to New York Fashion Week* Why hope is essential for survivalThis is a powerful, vulnerable, and deeply human conversation about survival, visibility, and creating spaces where people feel seen.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Carl Schmid and His Work02:57 Exploring Carl's International Upbringing05:56 The Impact of Celebrity and Family on Carl's Career08:55 Navigating Early Awareness of LGBTQ+ Identity12:07 Personal Journey of Self-Discovery and Authenticity18:13 Coming Out as HIV Positive and Its Impact24:05 The Importance of Storytelling in HIV Awareness27:02 Understanding the 'You Equals You' Message28:58 Trust Issues in the Medical System29:53 The Impact of U=U on Personal Health31:21 Overcoming Internalized Stigma35:38 Building Healthy Relationships36:45 The Mission of Plus Life Media39:31 Changing the Narrative Around HIV42:20 The Importance of Education and Visibility46:03 HIV Unwrapped: Fashion Meets Science50:12 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth54:54 Advice for the Younger Self and the Newly DiagnosedConnect with Ben Cicchetti:Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchettiTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti