Out of Patients with Matthew Zachary

Tricia Brouk isn’t just a storyteller—she’s a story architect, crafting narratives that connect humanity. A former ballet dancer turned award-winning director, choreographer, and transformational speaker coach, Tricia brings her unique journey to the mic in this captivating conversation. From dancing in iconic opera houses to choreographing Hollywood blockbusters, she has mastered the art of turning moments into movements.In this episode, Tricia and I dive deep into the magic of storytelling as a service, the difference between telling a story and truly captivating an audience, and how vulnerability can transform lives. Whether you’re looking to step into the spotlight or just understand how to leave a meaningful legacy, Tricia’s insights will challenge and inspire. Plus, don’t miss her tales of collaborating with icons like James Gandolfini and Susan Sarandon, and her hilarious take on 80s nostalgia.Hit play and discover why Tricia Brouk is the influential voice you didn’t know you needed.RELATED LINKS:Tricia Brouk’s WebsiteTricia’s Book: The Influential VoiceLinkedIn ProfileThe Big Talk PodcastFEEDBACK:Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get ready for a wild ride with Matt Lewis, the Tony Stark-meets-Jerry Seinfeld of the mental health AI world. As a multi-degreed polymath, Matt has been ahead of the curve on AI since MySpace was a thing. In this episode, we dive into everything from neuroethics and AI-powered mental health solutions to existential fears of Skynet ruining your day. Matt shares the real scoop on how AI can revolutionize diagnosis, therapy, and even the very definition of sanity—while hilariously lamenting the difficulty of spelling “rhythm.” If you’ve ever wondered whether AI is here to save the world or just mess with your playlist, this episode is for you. Join us as we balance hope, skepticism, and an unhealthy number of 80s references in this thought-provoking, laugh-out-loud conversation.RELATED LINKSMatt Lewis on LinkedInLLMental Official WebsiteMatt’s Feature on MM+M OnlineFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected].  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when you give a 14-year-old the mic and let her fly solo without her twin brother? Magic, that’s what. This episode of Out of Patients features my daughter, Hannah, on her seventh (yes, seventh) appearance on the show, but this time she’s stealing the spotlight solo. From reminiscing about slushy Christmas Eves and rare baby illnesses to deep dives into the hexagonal perfection of honeycombs, this mini-episode is packed with wit, banter, and a healthy dose of dad jokes. We touch on everything from gaming nostalgia to family quirks, proving once again that sometimes the best conversations happen when you just press record. Whether you’re a longtime listener of the Zachary family chronicles or new to the Out of Patients universe, this one’s got laughs, lessons, and a little love for everyone.FeedbackLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Prepare for a whirlwind of brilliance with Dr. Natanya Wachtel—a self-proclaimed "failed therapist" turned media maven, behavioral strategist, and all-around badass. In this episode, we dive into her transformative journey from navigating personal loss to spearheading innovative mental health initiatives and reimagining her own identity in a world that loves labels. From her esoteric love of theater and eclectic career in Big Pharma to candid insights about obesity, Ozempic, and the not-so-great healthcare system, Natanya delivers an unfiltered look at life’s complexities with humor and heart.Expect laughs, life lessons, and a few "did-they-really-just-say-that" moments as we explore why it’s okay to be a hot mess—and how embracing it can lead to your most authentic self.This is not just an episode; it’s an experience. Buckle up.RELATED LINKS:Dr. Natanya Wachtel’s WebsiteDr. Natanya Wachtel on LinkedInDr. Natanya Wachtel on Marquis Who's WhoDr. Natanya Wachtel on World’s LeadersFEEDBACK:Like this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Back for Round 2 and wielding her wit like a machete, Jen Singer returns to Out of Patients with Matthew Zachary. Cancer survivor, heart failure "graduate," and creator of the 'Just Diagnosed Guides,' Jen has seen it all — and she's here to help YOU see it all more clearly. From dismantling medical jargon to calling BS on "Stay Strong" toxic positivity, this conversation is a masterclass in how to survive, thrive, and laugh in the face of life's curveballs. Need a guide on what to do the day sh*t hits the fan? Jen wrote it. Need permission to be pissed off? She grants it. From 'elegant tumors' to 'unremarkable tests' (the best kind), this episode is a hilarious, human, and wholly unfiltered look at the realities of being sick in America. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll definitely Google 'heart boo-boo.'RELATED LINKS:Jen Singer’s WebsiteAbout Jen Singer - Just Diagnosed GuidesJust Diagnosed GuidesJen’s LinkedInJust Diagnosed Guide on National Breast Cancer FoundationEpisode 269: Jen Singer on Out of Patients (2022)FEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Prepare to be inspired and entertained as Sean Wachter returns to Out of Patients! Sean, aka "The Cancer Fighter," is a two-time melanoma survivor, professional wrestler, coffee shop entrepreneur, and self-proclaimed 'f**ked up Forrest Gump.' With a resume that includes Madison Square Garden, WWE dreams, and a 'We Got This' People's Champion belt, Sean's journey of triumph over cancer (and doctors who didn’t believe him) is nothing short of extraordinary. This episode dives into Sean’s fight against misdiagnosis, his wrestling odyssey, and his hilarious philosophy of not having “time for why.” Get ready for a rollercoaster of grit, humor, and inspiration, capped with a dose of 80s nostalgia and a no-holds-barred approach to life.RELATED LINKSSean Wachter's Instagram: @thecancerfighterseanwachterSean Wachter on LinkedIn: Sean WachterOvercoming Brain Mets and LMD: Sean’s Melanoma Journey: Cure Melanoma Blog"Live and Live Fully" Story: V FoundationFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this lively and insightful episode of Out of Patients, host Matthew Zachary sits down with Mariana Arnaut, Founder and CEO of The After Cancer, a groundbreaking platform helping cancer survivors navigate the uncharted waters of life post-treatment. Joined by his sharp and witty Chief of Staff, Jen Ramprasad, the trio dives into the gaps in survivorship care, the rise of "cancer retail," and the moral dilemmas of monetizing support services for the cancer community. Mariana also shares the story behind Cards Against Cancer, a clever spin on the popular party game that has sparked meaningful—and sometimes hilarious—conversations within the cancer survivor community. From the challenges of living in Portugal to the wild world of U.S. healthcare, this episode is a mix of humor, humanity, and hard truths.RELATED LINKSThe After CancerCancerConAmerican Cancer Society's Report on Survivorship CostsConnect with Mariana ArnautFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when two fresh-faced Gen Zers—Matthew Zachary Worldwide Chief of Staff Jenisa Ramprasad and Marketing Intern Lauren Woodring—sit down with a cranky, nostalgia-fueled Gen Xer (ahem, Matthew Zachary)? Chaos, hilarity, and surprisingly deep insights.This is not your typical Out of Patients episode.What started as a casual, unscripted chat turned into a generational therapy session touching on everything from floppy disks, cassette tapes, and AOL chat rooms to TikTok-induced existential crises and frenetic media consumption with no "ohio baby gronk rizz" or "skibidi toilets". (Whatever that means)Why are Gen Zs so quick to cut off friends? Can you really form deep bonds with someone you've never met in person? And what was the deal with Blu-rays anyway? (Thank you, Producer Kyle Moore, for your added insights) We tackled all the questions, shared plenty of laughs (awkward and intentional), and even found common ground in our shared love for real, human connection. If you've ever felt caught between the "back in my day" crowd and the "why does everything move so slow?" generation, this episode is for you. Prepare to channel your inner dope/phat/fresh inner teenager while cringing to pop culture mansplaining, and maybe even feel inspired to unplug for a minute (but only after you finish listening, of course).RELATED LINKSJenisa Ramprasad on LinkedInLauren Woodring on LinkedInSUNY Binghamton UniversityFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s the annual Out of Patients tradition you didn’t know you needed—Matthew’s miracle IVF twins, Koby and Hannah, are back on the mic for their 5th appearance! These famous 14.5-year-old personalities are here to make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even sing the alphabet incorrectly (spoiler: they hate the new version). Dive into a delightful blend of sibling banter, high school stories, Broadway show recaps, and unexpected eyebrow-shaving anecdotes. Whether it's Koby’s law class revelations or Hannah’s set design dreams, this episode captures the chaos, charm, and brilliance of two teens navigating life—and making their dad immensely proud. Prepare for laughter, nostalgia, and some genuine moments of gratitude that will leave you smiling. So, tune in for the podcast episode, which is as much a gift to listeners as it is to the proudest dad in podcasting!FEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When life hands you a cancer diagnosis, you grab a camera. Anna and Jordan Rathkopf turned their battle with HER2-positive breast cancer into a groundbreaking photojournalistic journey. Join Matthew Zachary as he chats with the Rathkopfs about their book, HER2: The Diagnosed, The Caregiver, and Their Son, their nonprofit work, and the absurdity of pink-washed cancer campaigns. It's a raw, funny, and heartfelt discussion about navigating illness, caregiving, and the power of authenticity in art and life.RELATED LINKSAnna Rathkopf on LinkedInJordan Rathkopf on LinkedInDaylight BooksUpcoming Exhibitions: Check out their nonprofit work at PCAC.ngo.FEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this full-circle conversation, Matthew Zachary sits down with Amy Sutton, Executive Director of Crossroads4Hope, to dive deep into the evolution of cancer support and the profound legacy of organizations like the Wellness Community. From reminiscing about pre-internet cancer advocacy to envisioning a future rooted in public health and equity, this episode explores the human side of care in ways only Matthew can deliver—with wit, humor, and an unfiltered lens.Amy shares her journey from working at Rand McNally (yes, the map company) to becoming a torchbearer for cancer patients, caregivers, and survivors. They tackle everything from the challenges of sustaining local cancer support services in a digital-first world to how the healthcare system neglects the psychosocial needs of both patients and caregivers. Together, they unpack the crucial role of social workers, the necessity of caregiver inclusion, and why navigating life post-cancer diagnosis demands more than just clinical solutions.Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, or just someone trying to make sense of this messy world, this episode promises insights, laughs, and plenty of Gen X nostalgia. Plus, find out why Matthew thinks we should stock up on Rand McNally maps for the apocalypse.Be sure to check out Crossroads4Hope’s groundbreaking Professional Development Conference in March 2025, where Matthew will be the keynote speaker. More details at MatthewZachary.com/C4H.RELATED LINKSCrossroads4Hope WebsiteAbout Amy SuttonFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this highly anticipated follow-up, we welcome back Jon Nelson, the man who went from battling relentless, treatment-resistant depression to becoming a pioneering advocate for mental health. Jon’s journey with deep brain stimulation (DBS) wasn’t just a breakthrough; it was a total game-changer. Now, with “robots in his head” pumping 23 million pulses a day, Jon’s mission has evolved from mere survival to a full-throttle campaign to ‘Pulverize the Stigma.’ We delve into the shocking realities of stigma, outdated treatments, the price of mental illness on families, and how a bold middle finger to societal norms is long overdue.RELATED LINKSJon's First Episode: "Robots In My Head: Deep Brain Stimulation"Jon's Website"Jon Nelson: Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I Was First Diagnosed With Mental Illness""Today’s Depression Treatments Don’t Help Everyone""#37: Jon Nelson – DBS for Depression Saved My Life: Defying Stigma in Mental Health"FEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this hilariously heartfelt episode, Matthew Zachary sits down with his long-time friend and cancer warrior, Jonny Imerman, the trailblazing founder of Imerman Angels. With candor and camaraderie, they explore the raw truths of cancer survival, sharing stories about the “two bald Jews” throwing wild Young Adult Cancer Happy Hours, and the life-changing impact of Jonny's peer mentorship organization. From organ-holding contraptions in surgeries to the myths around “losing the cancer battle,” the two dive deep into what it really means to live, survive, and thrive. Don’t miss this legendary chat, packed with laughs, life lessons, and a healthy dose of 90s nostalgia.RELATED LINKSImerman AngelsClozTalkStupid CancerCancer BuddyFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review Out of Patients on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, host Matthew Zachary dives into the history and mission of Cancer Hope Network (CHN) with Executive Director Beth Blakey and Program Officer Marielle McLeod, a young adult cancer survivor. Founded in 1981, Cancer Hope Network is a vital peer support organization that connects cancer patients and caregivers with mentors who’ve been through similar journeys. Beth and Marielle share insights on the unique value CHN offers, including the impact of one-on-one mentorship and the importance of culturally relevant support for underrepresented communities. Join us for an honest, thoughtful, and occasionally humorous look at how CHN supports patients and caregivers across the cancer journey.RELATED LINKS- Cancer Hope Network- Connect with Beth Blakey- Connect with Marielle McLeodFEEDBACKLike this episode? Rate and review *Out of Patients* on your favorite podcast platform. For guest suggestions or sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today: Lisa Simms Booth is Executive Director at The Smith Center for the Healing Arts and former Senior Director for Patient and Public Engagement at The Biden Cancer Initiative. She is such an extraordinary human being who've I've wanted her on my show for such a long time and, well, here she is. Lisa has this extraordinary way to define and extoll the virtues of cancer survivorship, how far we've come in the last half-century, lessons learned from the pandemic for Nonprofit Leadership, cancer screenings, prevention, and more.FUN FACT: The Smith Center occupies a unique place in my life as they hosted one of the very first Stupid Cancer Happy Hour events in DC in 2007. It's a great place, so if you live in the DC area, be sure to check them out.SIDENOTE: For the cheap seats in the back, many of you may recognize The Smith Center from Episode 81 with my guest, Dr. Julia Rowland, who serves as their Senior Strategic Advisor. (Julia is also the Founding Director of The National Cancer Institute's Office of Cancer Survivorship. You can hear her share her story as one of the contributors to The Cancer Mavericks, our eight-part docu-series about the history of cancer survivorship.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today I talk to Kara Goldin — health product entrepreneur, breast cancer advocate, and the Founder and CEO of HINT Inc. Kara calls herself an accidental entrepreneur because she invented a product that she wanted but couldn’t find: unsweetened, fruit-infused water. Now HINT is available everywhere as a healthy and natural alternative to diet drinks. Kara honed her chops working at AOL and Time magazine, and she even interned for John McCain way back when. Today Kara is expanding HINT to include a line of natural sunscreen and is out with a new book, Undaunted: Overcoming Doubts and Doubters. Kara Goldin talks about overcoming her diet soda addiction, disrupting the beverage industry, and the importance of knowing what we put in and on our bodies.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For most healthcare geeks, Andy Slavitt may be best known as the Former Acting Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). For millions more, he is the podcast hero we didn't know we needed and the one we so clearly deserved as the host of Lemonada Media's award-winning podcast, "In The Bubble with Andy Slavitt."Launched just before the world went to shit in early 2020, In The Bubble became a literal voice of reason while we were sanitizing our Amazon boxes and fighting for toilet paper at Costco as if they were Cabbage Patch Kids in the 1980s. A weekly vocal elixir of sorts, Andy and his storied dry wit blended healthcare policy, layman's breakdowns, and human vulnerability with a healthy splash of entertainment thanks to such early guests as Tina Fey, Al Franken, and Matthew McConaughey. Each episode brought — and still brings —a little structure and sanity to an otherwise chaotic world. Today, Andy is currently USofCare Co-Founder and Board Chair Emeritus and still fighting the system for the benefit of all Americans to get less screwed by our broken healthcare system.In the Bubble has been on my Mount Rushmore of podcasts since day one. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Sudhir Gadh is a board-certified psychiatrist and Commander in the US Navy Reserve. He is also Medical Director for the Center for Recovery and Wellness, with a core focus on low-dose Lithium, as a comprehensive approach for patients to improve brain function. Joining Matthew live in-studio, they talk about our nation is failing to address the mental health crisis, empathy in medicine, physician burnout, ongoing stigma, and, most interestingly, the history of 7-Up. You heard that right. In his words, “Psychiatry is about understanding and adjusting your life story towards progress.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Returning champion to Out of Patients, advocacy badass Carly Flumer flips the script on Matthew Zachary as she takes the reins for an AMA (Ask Matt Anything) reverse interview. Hilarity ensues as we take a trip down memory lane as to how the sausage was made, the very origins of Stupid Cancer and the young adult cancer movement, and how we've arrived at today's "better problems to have."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, I speak with Dr. Ashani Weeraratna. She's a leading cancer researcher at Johns Hopkins, and President Biden appointed Ashani to the National Cancer Advisory Board. She's also a researcher at the National Cancer Institute AND the author of a new book called Is Cancer Inevitable? Her book takes us inside her research lab and reveals how new insights are leading to breakthroughs, even for patients with Stage IV cancer. We talk about those breakthroughs, what it was like growing up in South Africa, and seeing Van Gogh in virtual reality, among other things. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today, my brother from another mother — Steve Friedman, is the Senior Advisor of Operations for SEER at the National Cancer Institute. (We'll get into all the acronyms later in the show because I know you're looking forward to that.) Steve was diagnosed back in the 1990s with testicular cancer while in his 20s. So he brings with him a profound perspective of progress, not just for young adult cancer, but for cancer policy, research, and institutional growth at the Federal level. While all those free AOL CDs back then drove us crazy, Steve put them to good use and found a community of his peers using what we decided to call "dial-up support." His storied career as a public servant, nonprofit leader, and cancer advocate isn't just inspiring; it's a perfect example of how we can make the most of the time that has been given to us.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today, I welcome 'First mover in Audio & Podcasts" Sarah Cotenoff, Former co-founder of Podsights — and, more importantly — my former intern at The Stupid Cancer Show. Losing your father to cancer as a teenager is never a good thing. But the forced maturity it gives you can ultimately come in handy if and when more crap you didn't expect happens upon you. In Sarah's case, it was — after a comedic series of misdiagnoses — Psoriatic arthritis, a condition she has had to manage and learn to live with for over a decade. Our origin story as Intern/Boss is one for the ages because it involves a combination of Zach Efron, Perez Hilton, and an inherent inquisitive moxie that gave every life to the up-and-coming Stupid Cancer broadcast footprint. Among other "Wayback Machine" things we talk about, there's a more severe narrative about addiction, self-awareness, resiliency, managing mental health issues, and taking control of your life when it seems no one has their hands on the wheel. So, without further ado, enjoy The Chutzpah Show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Mark Lewis is the Director of GI Oncology at Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City. He is also a young adult survivor of pancreatic cancer, a thought leader on #MEDTwitter, and one of the funniest and down-to-earth physicians you're likely to meet. Motivated by losing his father to cancer, coupled with a genetic predisposition for empathy, his story of "when the doctor gets cancer" preaches the virtues of data and truth. Prepare to find out what happens when Sid the Science Kid meets Dexter's Lab meets Pickle Rick. Follow Mark on Twitter at @DrMarkLewisSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today, I'm so thrilled to welcome live in-studio Alison Silberman, CEO at Stupid Cancer (my old job, as you may know), and Shannon Wyant, a fellow AYA cancer survivor and sitting committee member of the Stupid Cancer Board of Directors (also my old job as you may know.) The best conversations are those without an agenda that manifest from their own chemistry and organic magic. And what you're about to hear is no exception. So prepare your Wayback machine and your magic eight ball for a "wikipedic" throwback to how the sausage was — and continues to be made — for the largest young adult support community in the world. This one's for Annie Goodman, Jason Mlot, Chad Whitman, Ali Powers, Emily Morrison, Erica Paul, and Lauren Scott.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the show, we talk to powerhouse couple David and Robin Dubin, who founded Alive and Kickn to advocate for those with the Lynch gene. At age 29, Dave was diagnosed with colon cancer and Lynch Syndrome. Few have heard of it, but Dave and Robin are trying to change that. Because Lynch is a genetic pre-condition to cancer that affects 1 out of every 279 people, and most people don’t even know they have it. Dave and Robin talk about survivorship, pre-vivorship, and the importance of genetic testing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today, I'm thrilled to welcome – LIVE IN STUDIO — Liz Cormier-May, CEO of Mammogen, and Marty Keiser, CEO at IV Bioholdings. It's hard to blend funny, entertaining wit with healthcare jargon like diagnostics, market access, go-to-market strategy, etc. And yet, somehow, we did it. The process is gnarly and ridiculous, but now more than ever, it's actually possible to NOT GET CANCER because of much more accessible and affordable diagnostics. Some of them are free; some are even over the counter. But getting into the hands of doctors or retail consumers is a whole other story, let alone issues with the FDA and safety. Well, we cut through all that crap and get to the brass taxes of how the only real thing moving the needle is consumers who vote with their wallets.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's show, we welcome one of the most influential human beings of my career: Dan Pallotta, champion of charity and the entire nonprofit business sector. Dan's take on how we as a culture think about charity the wrong way planted a bedrock philosophy in my head for how I was going to grow and lead Stupid Cancer to scalable success without the pitfalls of donors complaining about "Overhead." "I'll give you money but don't spend it on electricity. Only programs." Dan's much-ballyhooed book "Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential" has a new, more digestible School House Rock version called "The Everyday Philanthropist" that I encourage every single nonprofit Board member, staff member, and donor to read immediately. My favorite quote from Dan is this: "Human. Kind. Be Both." Dan's Latest Book: The Everyday Philanthropist. Dan's TED Talk: The Way We Talk About Charity is Dead WrongSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today's show is not a "very special episode" of Different Strokes, Facts of Life, Family Ties, Webster, or Blossom, BUT it is a "very special episode" nonetheless. Jane Sarasohn-Kahn has been a friend, a teacher, a mentor, a sherpa, a conscience, and a big sister to me for over 15 years. I mean it when I say she is as close to her biological family as you can get without the Jerry Springer sibling DNA test. My origin story of becoming a cancer advocate diverged in 2004 between the nonprofit and the nascent and emerging digital health startup sectors. And Jane was right there to welcome me — the freshman newcomer and token "pre-advocate" cancer patient — equipped with the inflatable swimmies I needed to incubate in that space. Did I mention she is one of the world's foremost health economists with Nostradamus-level power for trend forecasting? She's also an award-winning author, blogger, speaker, thought-leader, and creator of "Health Populi", one of — if not THE most — notable blogs covering the health/care ecosystem as well as the author of her new book, "From Health Consumer to Health Citizen: Health Consuming.” Learn more at https://www.janesarasohnkahn.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Throughout the history of cancer advocacy, there are the advocates who made us and the organizations who made us. And one such organization is the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, which is — for all intents and purposes — the “Good Housekeeping meets Consumer Reports” of all cancer standards of care, best practices, guidelines, and credibility consensus. Joining me on today’s show to speak to all that is my friend Marcie Reeder, Executive Director of the NCCN Foundation, which is their patient-friendly arm that collaborates with scores of nonprofits to make sure their information is trickled down to the patient and caregiver community as a vital support resource. Marcie lost her father to esophageal cancer when she was young. Her public service to advance the narrative and the imperative of access, awareness, and survivorship is a testimony to her passion, character, and the very definition of cancer advocacy. NCCN is an incredible organization that does outstanding work on behalf of millions of people, and I hope this episode shines a light on their impact on the cancer community. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today, the legendary Julie Larson, speaker, educator, psychotherapist, and luminary, legacy young adult cancer advocate. As one of the few people who have been consistently working in the same career profession they went to school for, Julie may consider herself a midwestern gal transplant to the big city but, after more than 15 years in the space, she has more than earned her credibility as one of the early progenitors of the young adult cancer movement. Her first “not so shabby” big stint was to essentially create from scratch the first adolescent and young adult cancer program for CancerCare to give you some perspective. Now, if you don’t know what CancerCare is, we get into it during the show but just know this was a huge deal in the annals of patient advocacy and AYA survivorship programming. I was privileged enough to work with her as that effort was getting built out, and I have watched her rise to literal superstardom in our community. As someone who was “there” before social media became the best thing, then the worst thing, and now a “somewhat tolerable in small doses thing,” “she has a vantage and perspective on how far we’ve come and yet how far we still need to go. From the days of MySpace to today’s shitstorm of COVID, telehealth, and mental health calamity, Julie Larson is the voice you want on the other end of the phone call to help make some sense of the madness. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Elizabeth Woolfe is a veteran nonprofit consultant and unmatched sherpa guide in the business, management, and organizational culture of charity. Full disclosure: Liz also one of my best friends in the world and saved my ass more than a few times serving as strategic counsel to Stupid Cancer during the latter half of my tenure. As of this recording, we pay tribute to the late Cloris Leachman by preparing you for today's "Roll, Roll, Roll in Ze Hay." See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the show today —> The venerable Craig Lipset, a storied luminary in the annals of clinical trial innovation — and I mean innovation with a Capital I. (None of that lower case crap happening here on my watch) Craig is the Founder of Clinical Innovation Partners and the Co-Founder of Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance (DTRA), and a proud expatriated Long Islander who pronounces Rutgers the proper way and has a penchant for Wegmans. He ticks every box. He's also been at the literal forefront of clinical trial research and development for over 30 years. Warning that the following episode may contain explicit acronyms and an overdose of syllables.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today I talk to LGBT cancer advocate Liz Margolies. For over 30 years, Liz has worked as a psychotherapist with a specialty in cancer, trauma, and sexuality. She’s an OG LGBT rights activist, and when four of her lesbian friends died of ovarian cancer within months of each other, Liz launched the National LGBT Cancer Network. Because the LGBT community not only has a harder time getting treatment but sexual and gender minorities are also at a much higher risk of getting cancer than the general population. Liz explains why. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the show, I welcome an extraordinary young woman —> Grace Wethor is a living unicorn of talent and intelligence. Guitarist. Pianist, Trapeze Artist, Figure Skater, Model, Author, TED Speaker — and 6-year survivor of an inoperable brain stem glioma that she was diagnosed with at 13 years old in 2015. Grace is the author of "You're So Lucky" and a new docu-series called "You're So Lucky: The Next Chapter." She joins me to talk about what it's like to have your whole life interrupted at such a young age, and we compare notes against her experiences in the 2010s vs. my eerily similar experiences in the 1990s. Spoiler Alert: We've come pretty far, but we've got a ways to go. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today on the show, I welcome Vikram Bhaskaran and Dr. Rohan Ramakrishna (Chief of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine) live in studio to talk about Roon, their intriguing new cancer navigation platform for patients and caregivers. Roon is personal to Vikram as his whole career shifted from Pinterest executive to caring for his Father when he was diagnosed with ALS. Roon claims to be "the most supportive place online for people navigating complex health conditions, starting with Glioblastoma." so we power-test how that holds up against unmet patient needs. Rohan is only the second neurosurgeon I've had on the show, so, as a brain cancer survivor, I naturally asked him all sorts of pointed questions like, "What's it like to touch someone's brain?" These guys are the real deal with core compassion for empathy in medicine and helping patients in need access what they never knew they needed. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's quirky show, I welcome Jen "Jay" Palumbo, an epic human Energizer Bunny who takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Jen is a freelance writer, Forbes contributor, and women's health advocate, specifically for reproductive rights. In a spirited coincidence, it turns out we both went to the same college at the same time, were both Theater people, and have dozens of friends in common. We are ships in the night for sure. As fellow parents of IVF children, we bonded over the current state of the state. And as fellow Binghamton graduates, we bonded over Wegmans, being Theater nerds, and 1990s dorm life in the southern tier. Jen is a true Long Island: loud and proud. Let the hilarity, dark humor, and GenX Therapy begin. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, I proudly welcome my cancer survivor comrade at arms, Jen Singer. Jen's got the trifecta of "shit happens," having survived cancer, heart failure, and "COVID Classic" back in February of 2020 when no one had any idea what the hell was going on. She is the creator of "How To Be Sick," patient-friendly ebooks called "The Just Diagnosed Guides" to provide the newly diagnosed with the information they really need to know now. Because who actually knows what they need to know when they never knew they needed to know it? She's an outspoken professional despiser of Dr. Google, which I think we could all agree is the worst place to go when bad things happen. And as fellow cancer survivors, we bonded over how the hell we're both still alive all these years later through humor, empathy, and virtual cocktails. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jonah Comstock is the Editor in Chief of pharmaphorum and a veteran healthcare journalist and reporter. He's been covering this topic even before this topic was a thing to be covered. Throughout his career, he has helped to shape significant narratives about the sector, what matters today, and where he sees progress in the future. Learning from his grandmother, who worked in the printing industry, Jonah's trajectory from Copy Editing Intern to today is an inspiring human time capsule into how the sausage is made. Enjoy the show.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's special bonus episode, Matthew welcomes fellow podcaster and leading Women's Health physician Dr. Mitzi Krockover to the hot seat. Mitzi is the Founding Medical Director of the Iris Cantor UCLA Women's Health Center, a storied entrepreneur, and a thought leader in her sector.She has created a community—nee, a movement—called Beyond The Paper Gown, which includes her acclaimed eponymous podcast, available here on the OffScrip Health Podcast Network. In the wake of the repeal of Roe, we focus on a recent webinar she hosted entitled, "Aftershocks: Unexpected Consequences of the Roe v Wade Decision."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 53 million Americans act as family caregivers who often fall below the radar sacrificing everything in the name of compassion, empathy, and love. Caregiver Lifehacks amplifies the voices of those impacted by the diagnosis of a loved one. Hungry to connect and share information, these authentically candid interviews give us a peek into the vulnerable spaces of what it means to provide care for a loved one. Host Elura Nanos uses her no-BS conversational style to provide a home for the often unspoken thoughts and feelings of the caregiver experience. As a fiercely intelligent and radically compassionate lawyer and media professional, she knows the caregiver path all too well.In our final episode, we continue to expand upon what caregiving looks like through the eyes of two women who have very different, non-traditional experiences for their parents. We examine the emotional side, the mental load, and the educational advocacy needed to sort through the deluge of information that comes with a cancer diagnosis. We are so quick to turn to Google for all of our answers to our medical questions. When Mari Hoffman’s dad was diagnosed with CLL, she found comfort in getting educated. She bonded with her dad through research, and they spent a lot of time together googling the latest CLL information. Mari went on to study genetics and genomics in college at UC Davis, where she is a recent graduate. Our other guest Michelle Stonis, a mom of three and a university professor from California, found the “google rabbit hole” very stressful. She made a conscious choice to stay away from googling until a few days before her mom’s battle with CLL came to an end. Join us for this inspiring conversation from two women in different phases of their lives as they share their very different approaches to caregiving.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 53 million Americans act as family caregivers who often fall below the radar sacrificing everything in the name of compassion, empathy, and love. Caregiver Lifehacks amplifies the voices of those impacted by the diagnosis of a loved one. Hungry to connect and share information, these authentically candid interviews give us a peek into the vulnerable spaces of what it means to provide care for a loved one. Host Elura Nanos uses her no-BS conversational style to provide a home for the often unspoken thoughts and feelings of the caregiver experience. As a fiercely intelligent and radically compassionate lawyer and media professional, she knows the caregiver path all too well.In a frank and candid conversation, two devoted husbands share the challenges and rewards of caring for their wives in different stages of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or CLL. Relationships are tough on their best days, but it can add a whole new range of challenges when the person you love is battling cancer. Meet Scott Fuller and Ted Walsh, who talk candidly about their failures and successes as caregivers to their wives who have CLL. Ted Walsh lives in the Raleigh, Durham area of North Carolina and works in the biomedical industry. Ted found out that his wife Laura had CLL just three months before their wedding date. Laura is currently in what's known in the CLL world as the "watch and wait" phase -- often known to folks on the inside as "watch and worry." Our other guest is Scott Fuller from Trophy Club, Texas, where he's the director of golf course maintenance at a country club. Scott has been married for 32 years to his wife Christina, who was diagnosed with CLL in 2018. Christina has recently begun treatment and is participating in a clinical trial at UT Southwestern. Both Scott and Ted are two extraordinary men who are partners in their wives' CLL journey.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than 53 million Americans act as family caregivers who often fall below the radar sacrificing everything in the name of compassion, empathy, and love. Caregiver Lifehacks amplifies the voices of those impacted by the diagnosis of a loved one. Hungry to connect and share information, these authentically candid interviews give us a peek into the vulnerable spaces of what it means to provide care for a loved one. Host Elura Nanos uses her no-BS conversational style to provide a home for the often unspoken thoughts and feelings of the caregiver experience. As a fiercely intelligent and radically compassionate lawyer and media professional, she knows the caregiver path all too well.This episode discusses the moment of hearing about a loved one’s CLL diagnosis, the daunting task of navigating insurance and the healthcare system, and the necessity of finding and building your support network. Our host, Elura Nanos, talks with Lisa Ferguson, a communications director and mother of two from Huntsville, Alabama, and Erin O’Brien, a project manager from Cincinnati, Ohio. Lisa’s husband and Erin’s mom have CLL. In sharing their stories, they discuss their struggles and challenges and the importance of building your support network. Lisa and Erin begin our conversation as strangers, but they become each other’s “people by the end.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) can affect many areas, including daily life, and some of the effects can be lifelong. More so, SCD impacts the quality of life for many patients in the form of depression, anxiety, executive function, and more. In partnership with The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Matthew Zachary Worldwide presents “The Sickle,” a three-part limited series for patients and caregivers. In each episode, you’ll hear from the people living with SCD and experts who work every day to improve their lives. We’ll learn about the lifelong care, interpersonal relationships, and medical disparities people with SCD live with and what we can do to improve them.EPISODE THREESickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common blood disorder worldwide. About 7 million people have been diagnosed with SCD, and about 100 million people have sickle cell trait. Around 300,000 babies are born with SCD each year. For a rare disease, SCD is quite common, yet patients with SCD are still facing discrimination from funders, researchers, and medical professionals. Still, today, medical professionals are not thoroughly educated on how painful living with SCD can be. In this episode, Joel Helle, vice president of physician services at CVS Health, explains how medical professionals are still behind on SCD awareness. Ahmar Zaidi, SCD advocate and medical director at Agios Pharmaceuticals, talks about his experience as a medical professional working with SCD patients. Our previous guests, Dr. Lewis Hsu, Justina Williams, Dr. Carolyn Rowley, and Andre Harris, talk about the discrimination SCD patients face and how we can help end it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) can affect many areas, including daily life, and some of the effects can be lifelong. More so, SCD impacts the quality of life for many patients in the form of depression, anxiety, executive function, and more. In partnership with The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Matthew Zachary Worldwide presents “The Sickle,” a three-part limited series for patients and caregivers. In each episode, you’ll hear from the people living with SCD and experts who work every day to improve their lives. We’ll learn about the lifelong care, interpersonal relationships, and medical disparities people with SCD live with and what we can do to improve them.EPISODE TWOSickle Cell Disease (SCD) is often called an invisible illness; people can't see the excruciating pain. When living with SCD, advocacy becomes crucial as patients inform teachers, employers, medical doctors, and friends of their condition. A pain crisis can put an SCD patient out of work or school or land them in the hospital, where medical professionals are unaware of the severity of their pain. Moving through the world with an invisible illness is a trying task for an already exhausted patient. This is why having a solid support system, either with family or through an organization, is crucial. In this episode, we meet Justina Williams, Patient Engagement Coordinator with Piedmont Health Services and Sickle Cell Agency. She shares her story about how living with SCD has led her to her current role. We also meet Dr. Carolyn Rowley, executive director and founder of Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation. Cayenne Wellness is a non-profit organization that allocates resources to SCD patients in California. Patients can receive housing and transportation and even have an advocate for them when going to emergency rooms. Dr. Rowley tells the story of her early life with SCD in the 60's and what led her to found the non-profit.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) can affect many areas, including daily life, and some of the effects can be lifelong. More so, SCD impacts the quality of life for many patients in the form of depression, anxiety, executive function, and more. In partnership with The Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Matthew Zachary Worldwide presents “The Sickle,” a three-part limited series for patients and caregivers. In each episode, you’ll hear from the people living with SCD and experts who work every day to improve their lives. We’ll learn about the lifelong care, interpersonal relationships, and medical disparities people with SCD live with and what we can do to improve them.EPISODE ONEAndre Harris is a 32-year-old Ph.D. student residing in Houston, Texas. He’s currently working on a doctorate in social work. Andre is the first graduate student in his family to make this academic achievement, but his road to higher education was not a smooth one. Andre has lived with chronic pain since he was a child. From strokes to pain crises, he has lived with a disease that can interrupt the flow of life. These symptoms are due to sickle cell disease (SCD), a group of genetic blood conditions that affect about 100,000 people in the U.S. In this episode, Andre talks about his earliest memories of living with SCD and the needs of the most vulnerable SCD patients. Dr. Lewis Hsu, a pediatric hematologist at the University Of Illinois Chicago and the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, explains what SCD is and how it works. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As an epilogue to the pilot episode of Not Expecting, Matthew welcomes Ann Scalia (Director, Clinical Education for Alliance RX Walgreens Pharmacy) and Ashley McClure-Wolfson (Manager or Clinical Program Development Walgreens) for an in-person roundtable conversation and recap discussion. What is "Right to Parenthood in 2024?" What's new in the world of oncofertility? How does our understanding of gender identity factor into policies and programs? All this and more are coming up.Thank you, Walgreens, for sponsoring this episodeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that nearly one in every eight couples struggles to conceive. Even today, infertility remains a societal taboo to the extent that more than 60% of prospective mothers said they hid their infertility from family and friends, and nearly half didn't even tell their mothers. All people challenged in their family-building journey should be empowered by knowledge, supported by the community, and offered an equitable and affordable path to biological parenthood.Not Expecting is a single-episode pilot audio series about the invisible heroes who—united by advocacy and inspired to act— have fought for better treatment, forced the medical establishment to evolve, destigmatized cultural perceptions, and pressured lawmakers across the country to guarantee rights to treat the illness preventing parenthood.Thank you Walgreens for sponsoring this miniseries.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Testing Our Patients is a limited discussion series about how the sausage is made when bringing life-saving diagnostic tests and breakthrough medicines to cancer patients in desperate need of hope. In this episode, we welcome Dr.Rafael Fonseca (Chief Innovation Officer at Mayo Clinic in Arizona) and Dr.Ola Landgren (Chief of the Myeloma Program and the Experimental Therapeutics Program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami) in an examination of the role that doctors have advocating for MRD testing and expanding the role of diagnostics in cancer treatments.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Testing Our Patients is a limited discussion series about how the sausage is made when bringing life-saving diagnostic tests and breakthrough medicines to cancer patients in desperate need of hope. In this episode, we welcome Allison Silverman, CEO of Stupid Cancer, and Lizette Figueroa, Senior Director of Education & Support at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, to discuss their work as patient advocates to get MRD testing the patients who need most. Diverse schools of thought often collide between the risk/reward of rushing approvals too soon vs. the patient advocates who decry, "What's taking so long? We just want to live."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Finding your voice while navigating a cancer diagnosis is not always easy, but self-advocacy can be a game changer. Advocating for education, research, and funding can drastically change outcomes, and often, it is the voices of those who have experienced health disparities first-hand that impact institutional change. Follow the stories of Montessa Lee, Rayanne Lehman, and Maida Mangiameli as they share moments of strength, wisdom, and advocacy from their journeys with Small Cell Lung Cancer. While there is still no cure for SCLC, there are new screenings and treatments and new reasons to be hopeful.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.