The Many Faces of Cancer

Today's guest is Michele Reynolds, a passionate speaker, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping women rediscover their authentic voice and inner strength. 

When her husband was diagnosed with plasmacytoma in 2018 and then with multiple myeloma in 2020, Michele became his primary caregiver. Because it was when Covid-19 was happening and she couldn't go to his treatments with him, she had a lot of time on her hands, s...

Today's guest is Tara Garst, personal trainer, flexologist, and breast cancer previvor. With a long history of breast cancer in her immediate family, Tara got genetic testing and tested positive for BRAC1 genetic mutation. Armed with this knowledge, she was able to make many decisions that were best for her due to her circumstances.

We talk all about genetic testing, the power of knowledge, lifestyle choices to mitigate further...

Today's guest is Kandy Salby, two years into remission for Stage 4 Colon Cancer, a disease that has only a 15% 5 year survival rate. She spent her time listening to and reading cancer survival stories, working with integrative practitioners as well as her oncology team, and learning as much as she could about healing.

We talk about hope and the power of attitude, being a partner in your care and questioning your medical team, t...

Today's guest is two-time male breast cancer survivor Ron Rappaport. He's also a lymphedema thriver due to a lymph node transplant, and Global Lead Advocate for Male Breast Cancer Happens.org. Ron hosts his own podcast titled It's A Wrap with Rap, where he interviews people who have overcome all types of challenges.

Male breast cancer is something that is not talked about nearly enough. 1% of all breast cancers are ma...

Today's guest is Rebecca Thomas, also known as "Giddy Up" within her cancer community, due to her love of horses and her inspiring journey. Rebecca was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at age 18 and has been a survivor for 33 years now, including a breast cancer diagnosis in 2019. She embodies living a meaningful, vibrant life as a long term survivor.

We talk about how diagnosis as a young adult shapes the rest ...

Today's guest is Sandy Duarte, an award-winning actress and Stage 4 Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor, who is dedicated to inspiring others through her experiences. 

While undergoing her battle with cancer, Sandy authored the poignant book Cancer Ramblings: From Why to Why Not?, offering hope and guidance to those facing similar challenges. There are so many wonderful nuggets in this book. I have a list that I add to every time I ...

Today's guest is Dr. Renee Exelbert, psychologist and certified elite personal trainer. She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor, diagnosed young at age 37. She founded the Metamorphosis Center for Psychological and Physical Change, where she integrates psychotherapy and exercise, with a unique focus on the mind/body connection through use of visual imagery and cognitions.

We talk all about the mind/body connection and how...

Today's guest is Janna "Starshine" Jones, a survivor of Stage IIb Melanoma, leading her to become a volunteer for several organizations and a member of the Board of Directors for Epic Experience. Starshine is Janna's Epic Experience Camp name, and it fits her so perfectly. She shines as bright as the stars and radiates joy and love.

We talk about the power of community, rediscovering play in our lives, connecting...

Today's guest is Lauren Huffmaster, certified cancer coach, founder of Adventure Therapy Foundation, podcast host, author, and inspiration. She has been in treatment for breast cancer since 2015, diagnosed at age 35. She is now living each day to the fullest with metastatic breast cancer. 

We talk all about the emotional side effects of cancer, especially fear, isolation, and broken identity, the importance of grieving and &quo...

Today's guest is Becky Bosley, an oncology nurse, leader of myeloma support groups since 2018, and both a breast and ovarian cancer survivor. She is passionate about empowering the myeloma coMMunity with research, education, advocacy and support. 

We talk about the uniqueness of myeloma, the importance of support groups in the healing journey, the reach of a cancer patient beyond themselves, and so much more. We even delve into...

Today's guest is Dr. Rachel Orgel, a passionate educator with a lifelong commitment to student success. Diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer at age 13, Rachel would endure two recurrences and several surgeries in her teens and early 20s before an experimental procedure changed the game.

We talk about childhood cancer, spending weeks or months in the hospital at a time, PTSD that still affects her today, the importanc...

You are in for such a treat today!! I had the privilege of interviewing the Ninja Moms, Debbie Feinberg and Brandi Lebsack. Their sons, Max Feinberg and Kaden Lebsack, have been competing on American Ninja Warrior for several years now and always do very well, with Kaden being last man standing two years in a row! They are also breast cancer survivors and fierce friends.

We talk about the Ninja Mom community, supporting each other d...

Today's guest is Dr. Cindy Howard, board certified chiropractic internist and nutritionist, incredible public speaker, award-winning author, and Hodgkin's Lymphoma survivor. Dr. Cindy loves to inspire with humor, wisdom, and finding joy in adversity.

We talk so much about joy, especially in the little things, reframing negativity while acknowledging the reality of our situations, bad moments vs. a bad life, finding the qui...

Today's guest is Courtney Lockwood, realtor, fitness instructor, and breast cancer survivor. Going through treatment at the height of the pandemic, Courtney's story is rooted in resilience, growth and purpose.

We talk about genetic testing, taking care of yourself first, having a positive mindset, empowering yourself with choices, healing through exercise, and so much more! What a fun conversation and I know you will love ...

Today's guest is Beth Lehman and her story is a powerful one. She was diagnosed with alcohol related cirrhosis of the liver in 2019 and, while waiting for a transplant, was also diagnosed with liver cancer in 2020. Beth received her liver transplant in 2021 and has used her second chance to share her story, working with national organizations and speaking with current patients about the path they are walking.

We talk about the ...

Today's guest is LaTina Starling, diagnosed with Stage III Breast Cancer at age 29 while serving in the U.S. Navy. After her treatment, she transitioned from military to civilian life and found a way to help others with advocacy.

Starting as a volunteer advocate and then given the opportunity to work full-time at the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), LaTina works with volunteers to share their stories and...

Today's guest is Steve Hentzen, chairman and co-founder of the Prostate Network and 15 year prostate cancer survivor. Steve is a passionate advocate for cancer patients and serves on many advisory boards and other roles.

We talk about the prevalence of prostate cancer, the importance of men's health and getting regular check-ups, the formation of the Prostate Network and all the good work they do, how lifestyle changes mak...

Today's guest is Charles Wroten III, an inspiring young man. He's studying social work at East Carolina University, an accomplished collegiate rugby player, and a resilient testicular cancer survivor. 

Diagnosed at age 15, he has become an advocate for men's health awareness, especially among young people. He's a public speaker and social media creator, bringing attention to the importance of early detection and ...

Today's guest is Julia Olsson, a proud mom and SAG-AFTRA member, and breast cancer survivor. She loves storytelling as a singer/songwriter and performer, and has a deep belief in authenticity, creativity, and connection.

We talk about the importance of communication, especially with family, self-image and mental health, setting boundaries and self-care, transitioning from treatment to normalcy, and so much more! This is a great...