The Research Evangelist (Dave Bjork)

On today's episode, meet Dr. Tanyanika Phillips. Dr. Phillips is a medical oncologist and Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research at City of Hope in Antelope Valley and Lancaster California. Dr. Phillips received her medical degree from University of Rochester, followed by Residency at Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans and a geriatric fellowship and a Master in Public Health from Vanderbilt University. She continued her training with a medical oncology fellowship at Johns Hopkins University. Originally headed toward a career in research and public health policy, Dr. Phillips pivoted to focus on patient care, where her prodigious gifts of empathy and compassion came to the surface.

Mellisa Wheeler has over 20 years of experience in health care with a specialized focus in oncology. Mellisa is the Director of the Disparities & Outreach program at Levine Cancer Institute, a department dedicated to eradicating the burden of cancer in underserved communities through prevention education, screening and early detection. She has designed and launched several community outreach initiatives, including authoring a grant proposal that resulted in $1.6 million funding for the nation’s first mobile lung cancer screening bus as part of the Lung B.A.S.E.S. 4 Life program. Mellisa received her undergrad degree from University of South Florida and her Masters in Health Administration from Ohio University.

Meet Brenda Lormil-Raymond—a compassionate, and multi-faceted leader committed to elevating healthcare education for Haitian-American communities in Massachusetts. Raised by Haitian immigrant parents, Brenda's cultural background served as the driving force behind the establishment of the Haitian American Medical Assocation (HAMA).

She is the founder and Lead Consultant at VDI Consulting, a company dedicated to offering comprehensive healthcare solutions and guidance, with a focus on advancing diversity, delivery, and accessibility within the healthcare industry.

Brenda serves as the Equity Nurse Practitioner for Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center in Boston, MA. She provides patient-centered care to phase I clinical trial participants in the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies.

She is an alumna of Regis College in Weston, MA, where she earned both of her degrees (Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing.)

On today's episode, meet Jasmine Greenamyer. Jasmine is Vice President, Global Strategic Partnerships at EMD Serono. Her experience spans work driving national and community public health interventions, advocating for health equity, and increasing access to the early detection and treatment of cancer. In her current role she oversees global initiatives including Healthy Women, Healthy Economies, and Embracing Carers. Jasmine received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Michigan State University and Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Dara Aisner, MD, PhD. Dr. Aisner is Associate Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Director of the Colorado Molecular Correlates Laboratory. After her undergraduate work at Vanderbilt, Dr. Aisner completed her MD/PHD combined degree program at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. She pursued training in Anatomic Pathology at the National Institutes of Health, and went on to two fellowships in Surgical Pathology and Molecular Genetic Pathology at the University of Pennsylvania.

On today's episode, meet Eugene Manley, Jr., PhD, Director, Scientific Programs at the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. He received his BS in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan Technological University, a masters in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, and PhD in Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology and Biochemstry from Boston University. He's also a Diversity and STEM advocate.

Dr. Sarah Goldberg, MD, MPH is an Associate Professor of Medicine in the division of Medical Oncology at the Yale School of Medicine and Yale Cancer Center. She specializes in the treatment of thoracic malignancies. Her research interests include personalized medicine and immunotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer and identification of biomarkers that predict response to treatment. For her, it's all about the patients.

Dave Bjork is a lung cancer survivor and patient advocate known for his passionate views on the need to support biomedical research. During 20 years of nonprofit advocacy and research fundraising, he became known as the Cancer Research Evangelist for his life mission to connect individuals, biopharma companies, patient groups, academic institutions and other key influencers to forge strong partnerships to focus on research.

Now Dave is bringing his voice to public broadcasting with the Research Evangelist, a podcast to serve up stories about the good people in life sciences who are doing amazing work in research. He calls them “brilliant but not famous” - but all of them well known and respected in their field.

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Dr. Narjust Duma is a faculty member in the Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She is a medical oncologist at the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center with clinical and research focus on thoracic malignancies.  Her clinical interests include the care of women with lung cancer including their unique aspects of cancer survivorship. She is also a champion for empowering gender and racial equity in medicine. Dr. Duma is a co-founder of Latinas in Medicine, Inc., a nonprofit inspiring, supporting, and empowering Latinas who choose careers in medicine.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Eric Grogan, thoracic surgeon and early detection researcher. Dr. Grogan is Associate Professor of Thoracic Surgery, Vice Chairman of Research, Associate Professor of Medicine, and Section Chief of Thoracic Surgery and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He's also part of an innovative team developing and validating biomarkers to improve the ability to diagnose lung cancer early, accurately, and in a less invasive way.

Pamela Gardner is the Founder and CEO of Biotech Vendor Services, Inc., which helps companies & organizations in life sciences streamline their vendor management through customized on-site and virtual scientific events. She is also on a mission to help others tackle the tough equity issues of female empowerment and systemic racism to break through the barriers that exist within the system.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Lecia Sequist. Dr. Sequist received her MD from Harvard Medical School and trained in internal medicine at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and in hematology/oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where she also received an MPH from the Harvard School of Public Health. She joined the faculty at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center in 2005 and has an active clinical and translational research career, as well as a busy practice caring for patients with lung cancer. She is currently the Director of the Center for Innovation in Early Cancer Detection at MGH. Dr. Sequist is also helping firefighters get screened for lung cancer as a principal investigator of the MGH Fire Health Study.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Isabel Preeshagul. Dr. Preeshagul is a Thoracic Medical Oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. She received her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and her Master of Business & Science degree from Rutgers University School of Biomedical Sciences. She did her residency at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai-Mount Sinai Beth Israel, and her fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at North Shore University Hospital-Long Island Jewish Medical Center-Northwell Health. She is an amazing oncologist who also loves the performing arts and travel.

On today’s episode, meet Dean Wetherbee. Dean is the Managing Director of Creative for Ten Bridge Communications in Boston, MA, which bills itself as Biotech’s Communications Partner, an agency guiding biotechs through all stages of growth. Dean has deep experience in strategic and creative marketing. He’s worked in a global agency working with large pharma, emerging biotech, nonprofits and medical device and diagnostics companies. He’s been involved in life sciences for over 20 years and he is passionate about getting treatments to patients.

On today's episode, I get to catch up with my friend Dr. Brendon Stiles. Brendon is a thoracic surgeon at New York-Presbyterian Hospital and an Associate Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine. Brendon also serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, a national nonprofit focused on lung cancer research and advocacy. He's active on Twitter (@BrendonStilesMD) and the lung cancer community adores him. To me, he's just an all-around nice guy who happens to be brilliant.

On today's episode we're talking about precision medicine in lung cancer. Meet Priti Hegde, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Foundation Medicine, Inc., a life science company that offers a portfolio of comprehensive genomic profiling products that help physicians make more informed care decisions. She is passionate about innovation in cancer research and translating innovations to precision medicine tools to advance care for patients. Dr. Hegde explains the current science of genomic testing and what the future holds. She also talks about building long term relationships with patients and helping young women scientists get a seat at the right table. 

On today's episode, I speak with Francesco G. Salituro, Ph.D., Founder of Salituro MedChem Solutions who has been a scientific leader in the pharmaceutical industry for over 34 years, including stints at Sage Therapeutics, Agios Pharmaceuticals and Vertex. He has successfully driven drug discovery programs across multiple therapeutic areas and has over 60 scientific publications and over 80 issued US Patents. He also serves on the board of directors at the Epilepsy Foundation of New England. Oh, and he plays guitar in a rock and roll band.

On today's episode, meet Lauren Machos. Lauren is the U.S. Oncology Opinion Leader Liaison for Renal Cancer, Lung Cancer and Immuno-Oncology at Pfizer She studied Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology at University of New Hampshire and also got her Master's Degree in Public Health from UNH. She is a connector of people and champion advocate for the lung cancer community. She's also a professional big band swing and jazz vocalist!

On today's episode, meet Kendalle Burlin O'Connell, President and Chief Operating Officer at Massachusetts Biotech Council (MassBio). Hear about her rise to become the first woman to lead the largest life sciences trade association in the world. Prior to joining MassBio in 2008, Kendalle practiced law in the areas of Estate and Medicaid Planning.  She is committed to making sure the Greater Boston area remains one of the world's top biotech hubs by helping companies have the best environment to research, develop, and commercialize breakthrough therapies and cures for people around the world who need and deserve them.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Christian Rolfo. Dr. Rolfo is a Professor of Oncology at Icahn School of Medicine and the Associate Director of Clinical Research in the Center of Excellence in Thoracic Oncology at the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai in New York. Previous to his current position, Dr. Rolfo was Director of Thoracic Medical Oncology and the Early Clinical Trials at the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC) in Baltimore. Among other professional roles Christian is Vice President of The International Society of Liquid Biopsy.

On today's episode, meet Alice Berger, PhD. Dr. Berger is Assistant Professor, Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (Fred Hutch) in Seattle and Assistant Professor, Herbold Computational Biology Program at the Public Health Sciences Division at Fred Hutch. She received her PhD from Cornell University, Weill Graduate School of Medical Sciences, and her BS in Chemistry from the University of Virginia. Alice is an expert in discovering how changes to our genetic code lead to cancer. She works to translate these insights into new drug targets and biomarkers to benefit patients.

On today's episode, meet Aileen Fernandez, PhD. Aileen is a postdoctoral associate at Yale School of Medicine. She received her PhD from Georgetown University in Tumor Biology after receiving her Masters from the University of the District of Columbia in Cancer biology, prevention, and control. Aileen works in the lab of Dr. David Rimm, and her research focuses on identifying and developing biomarkers to better identify which patients with cancer will respond to different cancer treatments. She also co-founded the Yale School of Medicine Black Postdoctoral Association (YPA) and has joined the YPA's Working Group for Black Lives and Professional Development committees, as well as the pathology department's Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee.

Kimberly Richardson created a unique program at the University of Illinois - Chicago (UIC) Cancer Center called Survivors Advising Scientists Education Program. Tova Bergsten is a 4th year MD/PhD Candidate at UIC College of Medicine working on ovarian cancer research in the lab of Joanna Burdette. Kimberly's goal is to create true collaborations between those researching cancer and those who are surviving it. They are intent on keeping the learning bidirectional – where patients can learn from the scientists, but also for scientists to be able to learn from the patients.

On today's episode, meet Rita Ribeiro. Rita is a bi-lingual leader with broad multi-cultural and health equity experience. She is currently the Product Director, Lung at The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson (JNJ). Before joining JNJ, Rita held multiple roles in Sales and marketing at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Abbott Diagnostics and Bristol Myers Squibb company. Rita has a bachelor’s degree in Management from Pace University, a Master’s in Business Administration in Marketing Management from Pace Lubin School of Business and a Strategic Marketing Certificate from Columbia University in New York.

She holds leadership roles with community not-for profit organizations including president of the board of directors of the United Way of greater Mercer County, the first Latina to hold the position. Her non-profit work is focused on community health, economic development, and gender parity.

On today's episode, meet John Connolly, PhD. John is the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) at the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI), where he designs and executes PICI’s overall research strategy in close collaboration with the institute’s leadership team, center directors and scientific steering committee. Dr. Connolly previously served as CSO of Tessa Therapeutics, a clinical stage cell therapy company focused on solid tumor immunotherapy, and one of PICI’s strategic partners. He is an associate professor at National University of Singapore and an adjunct associate professor of immunology at Baylor University. Dr. Connolly received his PhD in Immunology from Dartmouth Medical School and studied human dendritic cell biology under Dr. Michael Fanger.

On today's episode, we catch up with thoracic oncologist Dr. Narjust Florez. Since the last time we spoke to her she has moved to Boston to assume the role of Associate Director, Cancer Care Equity Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Apart from her clinical interests in lung cancer, she is also a leading researcher in cancer health disparities, gender and racial discrimination in medical education and medicine. Listen to our previous conversation with Dr. Florez here.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Jasleen Pannu. Dr. Pannu is an Interventional Pulmonologist. She is Director of Interventional Pulmonology Translational Research at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She received her medical degree from Goa Medical College, in Panaji India. Dr. Pannu did her residency at Western Reserve Care System in Youngstown, OH and did fellowships at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, Bridgeport Hospital in Bridgeport, CT and Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Sami Diab. Dr. Diab is a Medical Oncologist and Medical Director of Lone Tree Oncology, part of the University of Colorado Health System. He attended medical school at Damascus University, in Damascus, Syria followed by residency at Wayne State University, in Detroit, MI. He did his fellowship in Medical Oncology at the University of Texas, MD Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute, in Houston and a fellowship in Integrative Medicine, at the University of Arizona.  Dr. Ross Camidge calls him "arguably one of the most informed general oncologists I know."

On today's episode, meet Dr. Douglas Mathisen. Dr. Mathisen is a thoracic surgeon and visiting surgeon at Mass General, and distinguished Hermes Grillo professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School. He received his MD from University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1974. He was a general surgery resident and cardiothoracic resident at the Mass General from July 1974 to December 1982. He spent two years in the surgery branch of the National Cancer Institute of Health (NIH). He joined the Mass General Department of Surgery in 1984, and was chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery from 1994-2019, the chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery from 2007-2011 and the program director of cardiothoracic surgery from 1995-2017.

On today's episode, meet Patrick Lilley, CEO of Liquid Biosciences. He has spent the last 25 years driving growth and innovation in software, healthcare, big data, and wireless. Patrick is inventor of over 75 patents and trade secrets in bioinformatics, diagnostic biomarkers, signal processing, artificial intelligence, and specialized algorithms. Today he discusses how his company is using mathematics to accelerate prediction in precision medicine in lung cancer and other diseases.

On today's episode, meet Melinda Aldrich, PhD. Melinda is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Genetic Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She holds additional appointments in the Department of Thoracic Surgery and in the Department of Biomedical Informatics.  Her research is focused on understanding why there are differences in lung cancer risk and survival among different racial/ethnic populations. She received her M.P.H. and PhD from the University of California, Berkeley.

On today’s episode meet Dr. Robert Merritt. Dr. Merritt is a general thoracic surgeon with expertise in minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of lung and esophageal cancers. He also serves as professor and director of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at The Ohio State University, as well as director of inpatient services at The James Cancer Center. He went to medical school at Cornell University Medical College, Internship and Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital and Fellowships in Cardio Thoracic Surgery and Research at Massachusetts General Hospital. He’s also a champion for improving navigation and screening for lung cancer patients.

On today's episode I catch up with my friend Johnathan Whetstine from the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. He is a distinguished professor, Program Leader of the Cancer Epigenetics Program, and Jack Schultz endowed Chair in Basic Science at Fox Chase. Johnathan's passion for science, and for his family is palpable.

On today's episode, meet Laurie Myers. She is Director of Global Health Literacy and Oncology Health Equity at Merck. Laurie got her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Yale, and her MBA in Health Care Management at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Laurie is a Medical Marketing & Media (MM&M) Top 40 Healthcare Transformer, and she’s a passionate leader of Merck global health literacy efforts.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Selin Kurnaz, Co-founder and CEO of Massive Bio. She is a hard-core engineer who started Massive Bio after a family situation in cancer because she is obsessed with enabling access to clinical trials to cancer patients around the globe. She believes all people should have equal access to leading edge therapies and new-emerging clinical trials, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay. Massive Bio is on a mission to build and lead the Amazonization of the patient enrollment value chain in oncology.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Sumita Bhatta. Sumita Bhatta, M.D., is a board-certified oncologist and the Vice President, Global Medical Affairs Head of Oncology at Amgen. She has over 9 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry and has held multiple roles in research and development. Sumita received her undergraduate degree from UCLA and received both a M.A. in Applied Physiology as well as a M.D. from the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago, IL. She completed her internal medicine residency, hematology/oncology fellowship, and a clinical pharmacology/pharmacogenomics fellowship at the University of Chicago. She is dual boarded in medical oncology and clinical pharmacology. 

On today's episode, meet Dr. Chi-Fu Jeffrey Yang. Dr. Yang is a thoracic surgeon and researcher at Massachusetts General Hospital. He received his bachelor's degree in biochemistry from Harvard College and his medical degree at Harvard Medical School. He completed his general surgery residency at Duke University and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at Stanford University Medical Center. Dr. Yang is also focused on raising awareness of lung cancer screening. He started the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, which has worked with communities across 50 states to highlight the importance of lung cancer screening.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Michael Gieske. Dr. Gieske is a primary care physician at St. Elizabeth Physicians in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, and Director of Lung Cancer Screening at community-based St. Elizabeth Hospital. Mike received his Medical Degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Louisville, KY and did his Family Medicine Residency at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, KY. He is a champion for early lung cancer screening and supporter of the White Ribbon Project. An avid hiker, he took a white ribbon on a 9,000-foot elevation climb to Mt. Everest Base Camp to raise awareness that anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.

On today's episode, meet Chyke Doubeni, MD, MPH. Dr. Doubeni is Chief Health Equity Officer at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Doubeni also serves as Associate Director for Diversity Equity and Inclusion in The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. He is tasked with leading Ohio State’s continued efforts to address the underlying drivers of disparities in health care that adversely impact marginalized groups and foster more equitable care and health outcomes. Dr. Doubeni is nationally recognized for his work in cancer prevention and public health. Dr. Doubeni received his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in Nigeria. After completing additional training in the United Kingdom, he completed a family medicine residency at Duke University and a preventive medicine residency at the University of Massachusetts, where he also earned a Master of Public Health degree.

I want to thank the 65 amazing humans who I've had the honor of having on my show so far. I am humbled by the work that you do every day to support patients in research and care, and just so grateful that you took the time to share your stories with me and my listeners. And I'm proud to call you friends! - Dave Bjork

On today's episode, meet Dr. Leora Horn. Dr. Horn is the Global Clinical Head for Lung Cancer and Lung Cancer Strategy at AstraZeneca. She leads the company’s global research and development in lung cancer. In her role, she partners with lung cancer teams from across AstraZeneca Oncology to rapidly progress their research and deliver on their commitment to cure more patients with the disease. Before coming to AstraZeneca, Dr. Horn was the Ingram Associate Professor of Cancer Research and Director of the Clinical Research Section of the Thoracic Oncology Program at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Misako Nagasaka. Dr. Nagasaka is a board-certified thoracic oncologist at the University of California - Irvine who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of lung and thyroid cancer. Her clinical interests also include early-phase clinical trials, medical ethics and survivorship care for patients. She received her medical degree as well as a PhD from St. Marianna University School of Medicine in Kawasaki, Japan. She completed a residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in New York City, followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology at Wayne State University School of Medicine's Karmanos Cancer Institute.

On today's episode, meet Dr. David Tom Cooke. Dr. Cooke is the Section Head of General Thoracic Surgery at UC Davis Health System, Task-Force Chair Comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening Program, Vice Chair for Faculty Development & Wellness, and Associate Director Cardiothoracic Robotics Program. He is a graduate of UC Berkeley and Harvard Medical School, he did his residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and Fellowships at Stanford University and University of Michigan. He trained with the some of the best, and now he's one of the best!.

On today's episode meet Dr. Jeffrey Velotta. Dr. Velotta is a thoracic surgeon at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center. A Bay area native, he completed medical school at the George Washington University School of Medicine, and then traveled back west to complete his general surgery residency at the UCLA Medical Center, and 2-year postdoctoral research fellowship in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. He completed fellowship training in cardiothoracic surgery at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, then returned to the Bay area to bring his world-class experience to the community setting.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Charu Aggarwal. Dr. Aggarwal is the Leslye Heisler Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Hematology-Oncology Division at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. She is an active member of the Abramson Cancer Center (ACC) where she serves as Physician Leader for the clinical research program for Airways Malignancies.

Dr. Aggarwal specializes in the management of patients with lung and head and neck cancer, with a specific and clinical research focus on the development of novel immunotherapeutic approaches, and the discovery and application of biomarkers to guide therapy and monitor treatment. She serves as the local and national principle investigator for multiple clinical trials focusing on the development of “targeted” immunotherapeutic approaches including cellular therapy and CAR-T for solid tumors.

On today's episode, meet Renee Iacona. Renee is Vice President, Oncology Biometrics, Oncology R&D at AstraZeneca. In her current role, Renee oversees biometrics for the entire Oncology portfolio, across early and late development stages, encompassing statistics, programming, statistical innovation, data science, and information science teams. Another amazing human.

On today's episode, meet Josh Bergren. Josh is Director of Advocacy and Professional Relations at Pfizer Oncology. He has been with Pfizer for 15 years and is passionate about advocacy, precision medicine, health literacy, cancer finances and biomarkers. He is one of the good guys in pharma whose approach to his work is aligned with his core values. Josh received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and Marketing from the University of Rhode Island. 

On today's episode, meet Mahesh Karande. Mahesh is President and CEO of Omega Therapeutics, a clinical stage biotechnology company in Cambridge, Mass. Mahesh is deeply experienced in running biopharma businesses across discovery, preclinical and clinical development, and commercialization.  Earlier, Mr. Karande spent several years at Novartis in senior leadership roles: VP and Head of US Oncology for solid tumors, President of Novartis Africa and President of Novartis Egypt. Mr. Karande has an M.B.A. from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, an M.S. in engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology, and undergrad degree in engineering from the University of Bombay. Leading a company with an overarching ethos to be ambitious, yet humble.

On today's episode, meet Stacey Bledsoe. Stacey Bledsoe RN, MSN has over 19 years experience in the pharmaceutical industry across multiple disciplines including Research & Development, Global Health Outcomes, Medical and Six Sigma. Stacey is currently Head of Global Clinical Trial Diversity and Inclusion at Gilead Sciences. Previously Stacey has served as Senior Director for Diversity in Clinical Trials at Eli Lilly. She also held a Registered Nurse role on the Level III Newborn Intensive Care Unit at Riley Hospital for Children. Stacey earned her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Stacey’s goal is to help influence and ensure that all patients have access to clinical research and life changing medications that will ultimately improve their lives.

On today's episode, meet Lisa Cruz, Associate Director, Takeda Oncology. She is responsible for Global and US Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Patient Advocacy and Engagements. She has many years of previous experience in HIV advocacy at Bristol Myers Squibb and Janssen. Lisa has degrees from St. Michael’s College and Masters in Public Administration from Suffolk University. She lost her father to lung cancer and is passionate about helping patients and caregivers.

On today's episode meet Lee Schwartzberg, MD, FACP. Dr. Schwartzberg is a medical oncologist and the Medical Director of West Cancer Center. He is also the Chief Medical Officer at OneOncology, an organization that invests in and collaborates with practices to deliver comprehensive cancer care in communities. A renowned expert in the study and treatment of breast cancer, precision medicine and supportive care, Dr. Schwartzberg served on the Board of Directors for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and is the founding editor-in-chief of the journal Community Oncology. Today we are talking about bringing precision medicine to community oncology practices.

Adam Marcus, PhD, is Winship 5K Research Professor in the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Marcus serves as Associate Director of Basic Research and Shared Resources for Winship Cancer Institute. He is also passionate about keeping middle school kids in Georgia enthusiastic about science.

On today's episode, meet Jun Zhang, MD, PhD. Dr. Zhang is a physician scientist at the University of Kansas Cancer Center – the only NCI Designated Cancer Center in the state of Kansas. He went to medical school at Hunan Medical University and has done fellowships at Emory University, Harvard Medical School-Dana Farber Cancer Institute and UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center. His clinical interest is lung cancer and his research includes the role of the human microbiome in the immune system and lung cancer treatment.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Justin Gainor. Dr. Gainor is the Director of the Center for Thoracic Cancers at the Massachusetts General Hospital. He is also Director of Targeted Immunotherapy in the Henri and Belinda Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies. Justin received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, did his Residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and his Fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital. His major research interests have centered around two themes: targeted therapy and immunotherapy. He's also an advocate for patients and supporter of The White Ribbon Project.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Henning Willers. He is the Director of the Thoracic Radiation Oncology Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Associate Professor, Harvard Medical School. Dr. Willers has a busy clinical practice focusing on the care of patients with thoracic cancers of various types while also spending time in the laboratory. He is active in clinical, physics, and biology research with the overarching goal of advancing precision radiation medicine.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Ross Camidge. Dr. Camidge has been the Director of the Thoracic Oncology Clinical and Clinical Research Programs at the University of Colorado since 2007. He earned his medical degree from University of Oxford, and his PhD from University of Cambridge after receiving his undergraduate degree at Oxford University. Beyond the medicine, Dr. Camidge and all members of his team also believe they should look after every patient, and their friends and family, as they would want their own friends and family to be looked after.

On today's episode, meet Lori Hall. Lori is Senior Director of Global Health Literacy at Eli Lilly in Indianapolis, though she would describe herself as a patient whisperer, social intrapreneur and quiet revolutionary. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and practiced as a Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse before embarking on her journey in the pharmaceutical industry. She calls health literacy "empathy in action."

On today's episode, meet Dr. Nasser Hanna. Dr. Hanna is the Tom and Julie Wood Family Foundation Professor of Lung Cancer Clinical Research at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He is a medical oncologist at the IU Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis. He is the thoracic program leader and also a thoracic oncology researcher. He also leads an initiative called End Lung Cancer Now. Dr. Hanna received his medical degree from the University of Missouri, did his residency at the University of Iowa and his fellowship at Indiana University Medical Center.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Elaine Shum. Dr. Shum is a thoracic medical oncologist at the Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU in New York City, and an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She did her fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center in hematology and oncology and her residency at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center. She received her medical degree from SUNY Stony Brook.

Angie Caton is a Registered Nurse and Assistant Nursing Manager for Oncology Services at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. She also oversees the tumor registry, community outreach, education and inclusion, and is the navigator for the lung cancer screening program. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Aspen University, as well as nursing degrees from Louisiana State and Clayton State universities.

On today's episode, meet Dr. David Spigel. Dr. Spigel is the Chief Scientific Officer at Sarah Cannon Research Institute. He also cares for patients as a medical oncologist at Tennessee Oncology. David got his medical degree from University of Tennessee Heath Science Center School of Medicine in Memphis, did his residency at Indiana University School of Medicine and his Fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Spigel oversees all scientific aspects of Sarah Cannon's clinical trial program, working with the research physician leaders to ensure the best new agents and studies are available to their patients.

On today's episode, meet Heidi and Dr. Pierre Onda. Heidi holds a master's degree in Health Education and has been a fitness trainer for 16 years. She is also a stage 3 lung cancer survivor. Pierre is a primary care physician at Kaiser Permanente Colorado and also holds a master's degree in Public Health. Together they started a grassroots movement of lung cancer patients, caregivers, advocates, clinicians and researchers called The White Ribbon Project. The mission is to change the public perception of lung cancer by raising awareness that anyone with lungs can get the disease. It's a great story.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Misty Shields. Dr. Shields is a translational thoracic oncologist and assistant professor at Indiana University. As a translational physician scientist, in collaboration with basic scientists and clinicians, she seeks to help shape prospective efforts and guide funding to areas of unmet clinical need, such as small cell lung cancer. Dr. Shields earned her medical degree at the University of Texas Health, Houston McGovern medical school. She then completed a residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and fellowships at the University of South Florida Moffitt Cancer Center and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Sanjay Popat. Dr. Popat has both a private and an NHS practice at The Royal Marsden. He is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden, Professor of Thoracic Oncology at the Institute of Cancer Research and is an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of lung cancer. Sanjay qualified from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals in 1994, completed general medical training at the Royal Brompton, and the Hammersmith Hospital, and medical oncology training at the Royal Marsden Hospital. He was awarded a PhD in Molecular Genetics in 2002. He’s a strong advocate for patient education and support and is passionate about precision medicine.

On today's episode meet Rebecca Heist, MD, MPH, a Medical Oncologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Her research focuses on clinical trials of novel agents. As part of the Termeer Center at MGH, she leads first-in-human studies of targeted agents across a broad range of tumor types, with a particular focus in lung. Her commitment to her patients is very clear.

On today's episode, meet medical oncologist David Carbone, MD, PhD. Dr. Carbone serves as a professor of internal medicine at The Ohio State University and co-leader of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James, where he also directs the Thoracic Oncology Center. In addition, he holds the Barbara J. Bonner Chair in Lung Cancer Research. Among his many other talents, he is a woodworker who has made and distributed many white ribbons to patients and others at his cancer center on behalf of the White Ribbon Project.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Ana Velázquez Mañana. Dr. Velázquez is a medical oncology fellow at UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Prior to moving to the Bay Area, Dr. Velázquez completed her Internal Medicine residency at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City, where she also was a former Chief Resident. She received her Masters Degree in Biomedical Sciences at the Mayo Clinic Center for Clinical and Translational Science, and her Medical Degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. She has a long-standing commitment to serving vulnerable, underserved, and minority populations.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Leah Backhus. Dr. Backhus trained in general surgery at the University of Southern California (USC) and cardiothoracic surgery at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). She practices at Stanford Hospital and is Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the VA Palo Alto.  She is also Co-Director of the Thoracic Surgery Clinical Research Program, and has grant funding through the Veterans Affairs Administration and NIH. Her current research interests are in imaging surveillance following treatment for lung cancer and cancer survivorship.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Amy Cummings. Dr. Cummings is a thoracic oncologist and research scientist who practices in Santa Monica and Torrance California. In Santa Monica, she sees lung cancer patients, runs clinical trials, and is part of the virtual multidisciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program. Her clinical interests include immunotherapy, precision medicine, and providing equitable care to all patients regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity. At the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center she also serves as the Director for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI).
Dr. Cummings received her medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and completed both her internal medicine residency and her hematology and oncology fellowship at UCLA.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Coral Olazagasti. Dr. Olazagasti is a medical oncologist and Assistant Professor at the Sylvester Cancer Center at the University of Miami. She specializes in thoracic oncology, as well as head and neck oncology. She is passionate about reducing health disparities and is a proud member of the Duma Lab. She received her medical degree from Universidad Central del Caribe, did her residency at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital and her Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health. She also loves to go horseback riding with her dad in Puerto Rico.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Inga Lennes. Dr. Lennes is a medical oncologist in the Center for Thoracic Cancers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and specializes in seeing all lung cancers and esophageal cancer. She is also the founder and director of the Pulmonary Nodule Clinic at MGH and works closely with colleagues to study and implement lung cancer screening and improve nodule management.  She talks about how her patients keep her grounded in everything she does.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH. Dr. Basu Roy is the Executive Director at LUNGevity Research where he spearheads LUNGevity’s Translational Research Programs and Patient-Focused Research Center (Patient FoRCe). He has implemented and manages LUNGevity’s patient-focused research including Project Transform, a multi-year, multi-stakeholder patient preference study that LUNGevity is conducting with Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health. Dr. Basu Roy also has extensive experience in community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodology in health sciences research, specifically in projects involving immigrants and minority populations.

Dr. Basu Roy has a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Arizona, and an MPH in Global Health Policy and Management from New York University.

On today's episode meet Dr. Chad Pecot. Dr. Pecot is a Thoracic Medical Oncologist and Associate Professor at the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, where he specializes in solid tumor malignancies. Since August 2013 he has been an independent investigator at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Chad has a degree in Biomedical Engineering. He got his medical degree from the University of Miami, did his residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Hematology and Oncology and Chief Fellowship in Thoracic Medical Oncology. He is a self-described lung cancer slayer.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Danny Nguyen. Dr. Nguyen is a Medical Oncologist and Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research at City of Hope in California. He is passionate about treating patients in the community setting close to where they live. Danny completed fellowship training in oncology and hematology at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, his residency in internal medicine at Emory University and medical school at the University of South Florida. He aims to reduce disparities in cancer care by improving access to innovative therapies through clinical trials for the Orange County community.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Michael A. Caligiuri. Dr. Caligiuri is President of City of Hope National Medical Center and the Deana and Steve Campbell Physician-in-Chief Distinguished Chair, a world-renowned physician, scientist, builder, innovator, leader and visionary at City of Hope.

A leading researcher in immunology, lymphoma and leukemia, Dr. Caligiuri dedicates himself to developing the next generation of cancer therapies, rapidly delivering them to patients and curing their disease. His research team is currently focused on bringing natural killer cellular therapies to patients with any form of cancer. He also gives back to the communities he serves.

On today's episode, meet Portia Thomas, PhD. Portia is a Meharry Medical College MD/PhD candidate who recently finished her thesis working in the Christine Lovly Research Lab at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. She presented her work in small cell lung cancer at The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) Targeted Therapies of Lung Cancer Meeting in 2021. She is an aspiring pediatric oncologist who loves to collect guitars!

On today's episode, meet Dr. Christopher Lathan. Dr. Lathan is Chief Clinical Access and Equity Officer at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), a new institutional leadership position that also adds him to Dana-Farber’s Executive Leadership Team. Chris has been a member of the Dana-Farber staff since joining the Thoracic Oncology Program in 2005. He was appointed the first Faculty Director of Cancer Care Equity at Dana-Farber in 2010 and directs Dana Farber’s clinical service at Whittier Street Health Center. Chris also serves as Medical Director for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Brighton and Associate Medical Director for the Dana-Farber Network. He is leading the effort to combat structural racism and improve health care outcomes for all patients and communities served by Dana-Farber.

On today's episode, meet Magnolia Contreras, MSW, MBA. Magnolia is Vice President of Community Health at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. In this role, she is charged with helping the Institute carry out its community benefits mission through the delivery of evidence-based cancer prevention, screening and early detection programs. Prior to joining Dana-Farber, Ms. Contreras was employed by AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts where she served in senior executive roles as the Director of External Affairs and Director of Public Policy and Community Relations. In her work, she partners with local community organizations to increase access to services and create the conditions that promote health for everyone.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Estela Rodriguez, a triple board-certified hematologist and oncologist at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami. At Sylvester, Dr. Rodriguez works as part of a multidisciplinary team of cancer experts and researchers. Dr. Rodriguez has a special interest in the early detection and treatment of lung cancer and how cancer affects women. Listen to her describe her journey from Puerto Rico to high achievement in her field, and how she believes in the power of mentorship. She is a talented oncologist who is passionate about empowering women to take charge of their own healthcare.

On today's episode, meet Rodney Gillespie. Rodney is a Global executive with broad leadership experience. He is currently the Vice President, Oncology Sales & Marketing, Solid Tumor at The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson (JNJ). Before joining JNJ, Rodney had a thirteen-year tenure with AstraZeneca, including stints in the UK and in South Africa. Rodney has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Commerce & Engineering from Drexel University in Philadelphia and a Masters of Business Administration from University of Washington in Seattle. He has a passion for participating in activities and organizations that allow him to give back to disadvantaged communities and kids.

On today's episode, meet Cathy Traz and Dave Craig. Cathy is Executive Director, Patient Advocacy at Bristol Myers Squibb. In this role, Cathy leads patient advocacy at BMS, developing and advocating company positions on priority issues to maximize patient access and promoting a strong climate of innovation and the value of innovative medicines, working with advocacy organizations and other key stakeholders. Dave is two-time testicular cancer survivor and co-founder and CEO of GRYT Health. GRYT Health is a digital oncology company that empowers people to be in charge of their own health. GRYT Health’s mission is to improve quality of life and increase survival for people facing cancer through the relentless focus on patient experience. These 2 leaders came together last year to create the COVID Advocacy Exchange, an innovative and bold virtual platform that convenes advocacy groups, patients, and industry to synchronize efforts, facilitate resource sharing and provide an opportunity for increased connection and collaboration..

On today's episode, meet Dr. Nathan Pennell. Dr. Pennell is a medical oncologist, and Director of Thoracic Oncology at the Cleveland Clinic. He is also Vice Chair of Clinical Research for the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute. He's a proud dad and Steelers fan, and a really nice guy. I'm proud to have him on my show.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Robert Van Haren. Dr. Van Haren is a thoracic surgeon at the University of Cincinnati UC Health. He received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Michigan and his Medical Degree from Michigan State. He completed his surgical training at the University of Miami Jackson Memorial, followed by a thoracic surgery fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center. His training was focused on minimally invasive techniques such as robotic surgery and comprehensive multidisciplinary care for complex cancers, and while in training he completed a clinical research fellowship and obtained a Master's Degree in public health at the University of Miami. His current clinical and research efforts focus on improving outcomes after surgery for lung and esophageal diseases.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Anne-Marie Baird. Dr. Baird is a lung cancer researcher at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Her research interests are in inflammation, the metastatic cascade, drug resistance and disease biomarkers. Dr. Baird is the President of Lung Cancer Europe, a European platform for lung cancer advocacy. She is active in lung cancer advocacy, and an avid supporter of The White Ribbon Project. The White Ribbon Project promotes awareness about lung cancer by changing public perception of the disease. Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Ronny Bell, the Fred Eshelman Professor and Chair of the Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy at the Eshelman School of Pharmacy at UNC Chapel Hill.

Dr. Bell received his undergraduate degree in Public Health Nutrition from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health and his Master’s and Doctorate in Foods and Nutrition from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Dr. Bell completed a post-doctoral fellowship in Gerontology and completed a Master’s in Epidemiology from the Wake Forest School of Medicine. From 1996 – 2016, Dr. Bell was a member of the faculty in the Department of Epidemiology at Wake Forest, and from 2006 – 2016, he served as Director of the Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity. From 2016 – 2020, Dr. Bell served as Chair of the Department of Public Health in the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University.

Dr. Bell is an enrolled member of the Lumbee tribe of eastern North Carolina, and currently serves a Chair of the North Carolina American Indian Health Board. He also serves as co-lead the Southeastern American Indian Cancer Health Equity Partnership (SAICEP).

Among his awards and honors, Dr. Bell was most recently appointed to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee on Minority Health (2024).

On today's episode, meet Dr. Martin F. Dietrich, medical oncologist at Cancer Care Centers of Brevard. In his clinical practice, he addresses all aspects of hematologic and oncologic care, with a special research interest in the treatment of lung and breast cancer, and genetic evaluation and counseling of somatic and hereditary syndromes. He also holds a faculty appointment at the University of Central Florida in Orlando as an assistant professor of internal medicine.

He also holds doctorates in cancer biology from the German Cancer Research Center and in molecular genetics from the University of Texas Southwestern Graduate School. He completed his fellowships in Hematology/Oncology in the physician-scientist training track at the University of Texas Southwestern Track as a T32 scholar of the National Cancer Institute. As a fellow of the American College of Physicians (FACP) and a Board-certified internist, Dr. Dietrich believes in a comprehensive approach to his patients’ medical care.

On today's episode, meet Drew Moghanaki, MD, MPH. Dr. Moghanaki is a Professor and Chief of Thoracic Oncology at the UCLA Department of Radiation Oncology. He holds a joint appointment at the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center where he directs patient care and research for Veterans with lung cancer. Dr. Moghanaki is a graduate of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, completed an internship in general surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, residency in radiation oncology at the University of Pennsylvania, and master’s degree in Epidemiology at the UCLA School of Public Health. He's a big champion for expanded lung cancer screening.

On today's program, meet Dr. Marc Matrana, Director of the Precision Cancer Therapies (Phase I) Research Program, Endowed Professor of Experimental Therapeutics & Associate Director of Clinical Cancer Research, at the Ochsner Cancer Institute. Marc is a ninth-generation native of the New Orleans region. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in human genetics from Tulane University, and his medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. Marc completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Ochsner Medical Center and completed training in hematology and medical oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He believes every cancer patient should be screened.

On today's episode, meet Tyrone Brewer. Tyrone is the President of US Oncology at The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. He is inspired by Janssen's collective mission to re-imagine care, so people with cancer can redefine living. Tyrone is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from The College of New Jersey.

On today's episode, meet Hong Tang. Hong is Co- Lead of the PAN Asian Network Health Equity Initiative Team, and Executive Product Specialist in Immuno-Oncology at Bristol Myers Squibb. Hong got her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and has won many awards during her 24 years at BMS. Hear her amazing story of her family leaving Vietnam just before the fall of Saigon and why her work in diversity, equity and inclusion in oncology is personal.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Jonathan Spicer. Dr. Spicer is Medical Director of the McGill Thoracic Oncology Program at Montreal General Hospital. He earned his medical degree from McGill University, after which he moved to Vancouver and completed his surgical internship at the University of British Columbia. Dr. Spicer completed his training in Cardiothoracic Surgery at the world’s largest cancer center – University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. His clinical interests focus on minimally invasive approaches to lung cancer as well as complex resections for advanced thoracic malignancies.

On today's episode meet Missi Bjork. She is an RN in the Patty Ribakoff Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children in Boston. She has a Nursing degree from Niagara University and has been practicing nursing at MGH for 35 years in pediatrics and the NICU. She was also a caregiver to a lung cancer patient (me) so we are going to ask her about her experience and the important role of caregivers.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Richard O’Hara. Richard is Medical Director for Oncology, U.S. Medical Affairs at EMD Serono. An experienced leader in pharma and biotech Immunology research, he has an academic research background. Dr. O’Hara received his PhD from UT Southwestern Medical Center and postdoctoral work at Harvard Medical School. He also believes the voice of every patient matters.

On today's episode, meet Dr. Ella Kazerooni. She is Professor of Radiology and Internal Medicine, and serves as the Associate Chief Clinical Officer for the Diagnostic and Clinical Information Oversight Team within the University of Michigan Medical Group (UMMG). She received her medical degree and completed her diagnostic radiology residency at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School before joining the faculty at the University of Michigan.