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Real Cancer Talk

Real Cancer Talk

Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center

61 episodesEN

Show overview

Real Cancer Talk launched in 2025 and has put out 61 episodes in the time since. That works out to roughly 30 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence, with the show now in its 2026th season.

Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 25 min and 34 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Health & Fitness show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 1 weeks ago, with 17 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 44 episodes published. Published by Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Episodes
61
Running
2025–2026 · 1y
Median length
28 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

Welcome to Real Cancer Talk, a podcast dedicated to addressing the real issues impacting cancer patients, health care providers, researchers, survivors, and their communities. We're committed to ensuring that the miracle medicines reach every community, and helping ensure that every person touched by cancer knows we are in this together. One team, one fight.Brought to you by VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and hosted by Dr. Rob Winn.Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts from the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and beyond, who share their insights on the latest research, innovative treatments, and community-driven initiatives. We also highlight personal stories and experiences from those affected by cancer, providing a platform for voices that need to be heard.Understanding and addressing the root causes of cancer disparities.Promoting awareness and prevention strategies to reduce cancer incidence.Highlighting the importance of community engagement and support in the fight against cancer.Join us in our mission to bridge the gap in cancer care. Subscribe to our podcast, share episodes with your network, and get involved in local cancer awareness and prevention programs. Together, we can make a difference—one team, one fight.

Latest Episodes

View all 61 episodes

Let’s Talk Lymphedema - A Team Approach to Improve Quality of Life after Breast Cancer

May 5, 202621 min

Special Episode: Real Cancer Talk @ AACR: Sparking Ideas for New Science

Apr 21, 202627 min

The North Star of Cancer Care: A Conversation with Dr. Reshma Jagsi

Apr 20, 202626 min

Understanding Myeloma & United in the Fight for Brain Health

Apr 16, 202641 min

S2026 Ep 13The Appointment You Can't Afford to Skip: Colorectal Cancer, Advocacy, and Survival

"It’s easy to say 'I'll do it later'...until later becomes too late. Here is why the time for your colorectal screening is right now."Join Dr. Robert Winn (Director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and Community Clovia as they sit down with survivor and advocate Julianne Duvall, executive director of CancerLINC, a Richmond non-profit that links cancer patients and their families to legal, financial, and community resources to solve the non-medical obstacles that arise with a cancer diagnosis. Julianne shares her personal journey from diagnosis to activism, while also highlighting the tools and resources provided by CancerLINC to patients and their families. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or someone looking to learn the facts about colorectal cancer, this episode offers the insight and encouragement you need to prioritize your wellness.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Mar 27, 202626 min

S2026 Ep 12One Team, One Fight: Leadership, Basketball and the Mission to Crush Cancer

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with VCU men’s basketball head coach Phil Martelli Jr. to discuss leadership, teamwork and the shared fight against cancer. Coach Odom reflects on building a culture of excellence at VCU and shares his personal connection and experience with cancer through the Coaches vs. Cancer initiative. From lessons learned on the court to inspiration from patients and families, this conversation highlights the power of resilience, unity and purpose.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America’s cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care.Working across all types of cancer, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000+ researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective ways to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer.For more information, visit masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY.

Mar 13, 202627 min

S2026 Ep 11Bridging the Gap Between Faith, Facts, and Healthcare

In this impactful episode of Real Cancer Talk, host Dr. Rob Winn and the Facts and Faith Fridays team welcome Dr. B. Cameron Webb for a deep dive into the intersection of public health, policy, and community trust.The discussion centers on the vital role of faith-based leadership in addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that medical advancements reach the most vulnerable populations. Dr. Webb shares insights from his experience in health policy and clinical practice, highlighting why "meeting people where they are" is more than just a catchphrase—it’s a necessary strategy for saving lives.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxYtCxUnAcc&t=2284sFacts & Faith Fridays Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/Massey Website: masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterTwitter: /vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Mar 6, 202650 min

S2026 Ep 10Beyond the Myths: What Modern Radiation Oncology Really Looks Like

In this special Black History Month episode, Dr. Todd Adams joins Dr. Rob Winn and Community Clovia to bridge the gap between historical medical distrust in clinical trials and the life-saving "good news" of modern radiation oncology. Dr. Adams breaks down how radiation therapy has evolved from a blunt tool into a precise, targeted treatment, and why understanding your options is the first step toward resilience.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Mar 3, 202626 min

S2026 Ep 9Strengthening the Oncology Workforce: A Conversation with Dr. Joni Nelson

In this powerful closing episode of our special collaborative series between The Cancer Letter and Real Cancer Talk celebrating Black History Month, we sit down with Dr. Joni Nelson, the Assistant Director for the Office of Workforce Development at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Reflecting on a month of honoring history and looking toward the future, Dr. Nelson shares her expertise on the critical intersection of education, workforce representation, and community outreach. We dive into her role in shaping the SC CADRE initiative and how MUSC is leading the way in training a more inclusive generation of oncology professionals to better serve all patient populations.More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 27, 202631 min

S2026 Ep 8From Rhodes Scholar to Thoracic Surgeon: A Conversation with Dr. Malcolm Brock

What does it take to become a "superhero" in the field of cancer research? In a collaboration with The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn interviews a true pioneer, Dr. Malcolm Brock.In this episode, Dr. Brock opens up about the "forks in the road" that defined his career. He discusses the influence of early mentors, his time as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, and his fascinating detour into Japanese biotechnology research, where he even authored a book in Japanese. Dr. Brock explains how he balances the rigors of thoracic surgery with a passion for ensuring cutting-edge research is accessible for everyone. He emphasized that "it's not about getting a seat at the table because of your race... it's because you are excellent in what you do."Key highlights include:Dr. Brock’s transition from Japanese studies to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.The role of "love" and human connection in modern oncology.Insights into developing molecular biomarkers for earlier cancer diagnosis.A celebration of Black excellence in the history of medicine.More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 23, 202642 min

S2026 Ep 7The Arc of Impact: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade on Breast Cancer and Global Genetics

"I didn't come here to just be another doctor. I came here to ask the questions that nobody else was asking, because if we don't look at the genetics of everyone, we aren't practicing medicine; we’re just practicing a subset of it."In this powerful episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with a true giant in the field of oncology: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade.As the Director of the Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health at the University of Chicago and a 2025 MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient, Dr. Olopade has dedicated her career to unraveling the complexities of breast cancer and championing health equity on a global scale.In this conversation, we explore:The "Genius" Journey: Dr. Olopade’s reflections on being in the top 1% of the 1% and how her background shaped her mission.Advancing the Field: How her work in clinical genetics is changing the way we understand and treat cancer for diverse populations.The Mission of Equity: Why global health and local impact must go hand-in-hand to improve outcomes for all patients.Join us for an intimate look at the life and legacy of a researcher whose work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care.More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 18, 202639 min

S2026 Ep 6Beyond the White Coat: Dr. Otis Brawley on the Science of Justice and the Art of Medicine

“The idea that I would not go to college was just not acceptable.”In this episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with the legendary Dr. Otis Brawley, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins and former Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Brawley shares a deeply personal look into his upbringing in Detroit, discussing how his parents, who did not finish high school, instilled in him an unshakable expectation of excellence and higher education. He reflects on the "giants" of the oncology field and provides a poignant critique of the systemic barriers that historically discouraged minority students from pursuing careers in science and medicine. This conversation serves as both a history lesson and a call to action for the next generation of medical leaders.The Power of Expectations: How Dr. Brawley’s parents and teachers fostered a mindset of "thinking and expressing oneself" despite socioeconomic challenges.A Detroit Legacy: Memories of growing up in a household where the pursuit of science was normalized, even when society suggested otherwise.Breaking Barriers: Insights into the historical context of Black professionals in medicine and the importance of mentorship.Reflections on Giants: A look at the impact of Black leaders in oncology during Black History Month.Whether you are a medical professional, a student, or someone interested in the intersection of social justice and healthcare, Dr. Brawley’s story offers a masterclass in resilience and the pursuit of scientific truth.More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 13, 202643 min

S2026 Ep 5Community Conversations: Cancer Policy & Health Equity with Delegate Delores McQuinn

"We’ve made progress, but we’ve got to remember that there’s just more to do."In this latest installment of our Community Conversations series, Delegate Delores McQuinn joins Dr. Robert Winn and Clovia Lawrence to discuss the intersection of policy and the fight against cancer. Delegate McQuinn reflects on her years of service in the Virginia General Assembly, what the Virginia Cancer Caucus is and why she remains "full throttle" when it comes to advocating for her constituents' health and well-being.From the halls of the State Capitol to the neighborhoods of Richmond, this episode explores how we can bridge the gap between policy and the people it serves. Tune in to hear why community-led discussions are the heartbeat of progress in the fight against cancer.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 10, 202624 min

S2026 Ep 4Real Cancer Talk: Stopping Cervical Cancer - Prevention, Screening, and the Science Saving Lives

In this bonus episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn is joined by Dr. Katherine Tossas, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center Director of Catchment Area Data Analytics (CADA), and Dr. Chelsea Salyer, a gynecologic oncologist and lead for the gynecologic oncology clinical trial program at VCU Health, for a discussion focused on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the latest updates in cervical cancer screenings.Dr. Salyer discusses some of the misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer worldwide, important symptoms or signs and why cervical cancer is actually "eradicable". Dr. Tossas then shares her personal story with cervical cancer and what the experience taught her about the disease and prevention. LAter the three discuss the latest updates in cervical cancer screening and what the process is like for patients. Finally, Dr. Winn asks what men can do to help prevent cervical cancer.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Feb 3, 202630 min

S2026 Ep 3Facts and Faith Fridays: HPV & Cervical Cancer

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk Massey leads an important conversation on protecting our health together by addressing HPV and cervical cancer prevention. OB-GYN specialist Dr. Tashima Lambert Giles shares powerful patient stories and explains how cervical cancer develops, who is most at risk, and why routine screening such as Pap tests and HPV testing remains one of the most effective tools for early detection and prevention. Pediatric nurse practitioner Janice McGirt highlights the critical role of the HPV vaccine, breaking down who should receive it, when to start, and why vaccination is essential for both girls and boys to prevent multiple HPV-related cancers. Together, the panel dispels common myths, answers audience questions, and emphasizes how education, access to care, and proactive prevention can save lives and reduce health disparities.FFF Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/Massey Website: masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: / vcumasseycancercenterTwitter: / vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Jan 27, 202632 min

S2026 Ep 2Real Cancer Talk: Motorsports Partnerships Expand Cancer Care Access in Rural Communities - An Interview with SMART Modified Tour's Chris Williams

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk from VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Chris Williams, owner and CEO of the SMART Modified Tour (Southern Modified Auto Racing Teams Tour), to explore an unexpected but powerful idea: motorsports can help bring cancer education and care awareness to rural communities.From the deep roots of modified racing to the tight-knit “family” culture of local tracks, Williams explains why racing is more than entertainment—it’s a community hub that reaches people where they are, especially in areas with fewer resources and fewer healthcare touchpoints. Dr. Winn connects that community-first mindset to a shared mission in cancer care: one team, one fight—and making sure people in rural regions know they have real options, real progress, and real science on their side.The conversation even moves onto the track at North Wilkesboro Speedway, as Williams gives a behind-the-scenes tour—covering racing history, safety, speed, and why partnerships between healthcare and grassroots communities can change outcomes.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Jan 20, 202625 min

S2026 Ep 1Community Conversations: Dr. Kim Rhoads Discusses Pancreatic Cancer Following the Tragic Passing of Richmond Music Legend D'Angelo

In this episode adapted from the Community Conversations podcast with Community Clovia, we welcome Dr. Kim Rhoads, the associate director of community outreach and engagement at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Rhoads provides insight on pancreatic cancer following the tragic passing of Richmond legend D'Angelo, why pancreatic cancer is more common in certain populations and what people in the community can do to be proactive in their healthcare. Later Dr. Rhoads shares about the purpose behind community engagement and why she chose to come to VCU Massey.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Jan 14, 202624 min

S2025 Ep 24Community Conversations: Beating the Holiday Blues at Home and in the Community

In this Community Conversations: The Black Health Wins episode, Miss Community Clovia Lawrence welcomes Dr. Robert Winn (VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and clinical social worker Freda Wilkins to talk about the holiday season’s emotional highs and lows when cancer is in the picture—whether someone is newly diagnosed, in treatment, surviving, or caregiving. They unpack why the holidays can amplify stress: disrupted routines, pressure to “show up,” fatigue from treatment, grief around empty seats at the table, and the painful spotlight of well-meaning comments (“you look different this year”). Freda offers practical language that helps—shifting from “Call me if you need anything” to specific, low-effort support like “I’m at the pharmacy—what can I pick up for you?” and asking “How are you feeling today?” to let the person guide the moment.The episode then introduces Dr. Kim Rhoads, Associate Director of Community Outreach and Engagement at VCU Massey, who explains what an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center is—and why community engagement is not “extra,” but a required, scored part of how cancer centers are evaluated. Dr. Rhoads emphasizes humility in care, equity and justice for Black and brown communities, and the need for a two-way relationship (“reach out” that expects people to “reach back”). She also speaks candidly about the limits of the current healthcare system (15–30 minute visits) and why community engagement teams can become the “hand to reach for” when people have questions or need connection. The conversation closes with ways to connect with Massey’s community outreach efforts.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Dec 22, 202524 min

S2025 Ep 23Real Cancer Talk: How Science, Collaboration, and Early Detection Are Changing Cancer with Dr. Julian Adams

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with Dr. Julian Adams—President and CEO of Stand Up To Cancer and one of the world’s leading oncology researchers—for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of cancer science.Dr. Adams reflects on his journey from a childhood fascination with invention to decades of drug development in HIV and cancer, and how that path ultimately led him to Stand Up To Cancer. Together, he and Dr. Winn explore why curiosity is the DNA of science, why collaboration—not competition—drives real breakthroughs, and how Stand Up To Cancer’s “Dream Team” model is reshaping research by breaking down silos between institutions.The conversation also dives into a bold shift in strategy: focusing on early detection and cancer interception rather than late-stage disease. Dr. Adams shares how high-risk, high-reward research funded by Stand Up To Cancer has helped transform treatments—highlighting groundbreaking work in rectal cancer that has achieved 100% tumor regression in select patients.Grounded in transparency, trust, and real-world impact, this episode reminds listeners that science is not at odds with communities—it’s working on their behalf. From rural America to global cancer care, this is a conversation about hope, teamwork, and why investing in science means more people living long enough to show up for graduations, weddings, and everyday life.Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: /vcumasseycancercenterInstagram: @vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Dec 15, 202529 min

S2025 Ep 22Facts & Faith Friday: Media Literacy and the Power of AI

Lisa Manganello has been a librarian at South Brunswick High School for the past seventeen years, where she was recognized as Educator of the Year in 2015. An active member of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, Lisa presents regularly on information literacy. Recent presentations include Now What?: Information Literacy Lessons for the High School Library, Diverse Readers, Diverse Books: New Titles to Build a Culture of Reading, and Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Information Literacy with your Librarian. In January 2024, she published an article titled “Information Literacy begins in your school library” in NJEA Review Magazine. Partnering with Dr. Joyce Valenza, Professor of Information Science at Rutgers University, Lisa helped to develop the New Jersey Open Library Tour (NJOLT) to give pre-service and practicing librarians opportunities to visit and learn from their colleagues throughout the state. She is passionate about sharing her information literacy lessons with other educators and spotlighting the value of school librarians. She has also served as a part-time lecturer at Rutgers University, where she helped to develop a course on school library climate and culture. Lisa’s work with media literacy has been featured in reports on NBC and CNN. She lives in Monmouth Junction, NJ with her husband, Matt and their two children, Andrew and Nicholas.FFF Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/Massey Website: masseycancercenter.orgFacebook: / vcumasseycancercenterTwitter: / vcumasseyVCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Dec 8, 202549 min
Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center 2026