Believe in Progress: an American Association for Cancer Research Foundation Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode, we hear the remarkable story of how personal loss and friendship became the foundation for a 25-year mission to ensure no young adult faces cancer alone. When Brock Yetso was 23, his mother was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. She passed away in just weeks. At the same time, his best friend, Doug Ulman, was fighting cancer for the third time as a college student at Brown University. Rather than walk away from the pain, Brock chose to fight alongside Doug and his family. What started as a single fundraiser and a nonprofit with a single employee and a $100,000 budget has grown into a $3 million operation with a staff of 25 reaching patients in more than 250 communities nationwide. The Ulman Foundation has raised more than $25 million over 22 years to support patients aged 15 to 39 facing cancer. Brock describes the foundation's two signature programs: patient navigation, where trained navigators are embedded in cancer centers across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area to meet patients and families at the bedside, and Ulman House, a free housing facility in Baltimore located steps from the city's world-renowned hospitals, which has housed more than 583 patients and families from 29 states, saving more than $2.4 million in lodging and travel costs. He also discusses the foundation's work on fertility preservation protocols that have helped young cancer survivors start families after treatment. The episode touches on the 20th anniversary of the Closing the Gap report (a landmark collaboration between the National Cancer Institute and the Livestrong Foundation), why colorectal cancer screening matters, what it means to run a nonprofit like a team sport, and why Brock believes the crisis he first saw at 23 is only accelerating. Featured Guest: Brock Yetso, President and CEO, Ulman Foundation Brock is a University of Virginia graduate and former Division I soccer player who has led the Ulman Foundation for 25 years. He also coaches women's soccer at Towson University and runs youth soccer programs in Maryland. Key Topics: • Brock losing his mother to stage 4 colorectal cancer in weeks • Doug Ulman's three cancer diagnoses and Ulman Foundation’s founding mission • Growing from a $100,000 budget to a $3 million, 25-person operation • The cancer gap: for patients aged 15 to 39 • Patient navigation across seven to eight cancer centers in the DC/MD/VA area • Fertility preservation protocols for young cancer patients • Ulman House: free housing for young adults near life-saving treatment • The $10 million Beyond Cancer capital campaign • 20th anniversary of the Closing the Gap report • Running a nonprofit like a team sport • What "believe in progress" means to Brock Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:16 Welcome to Believe in Progress 02:37 Meet Brock Yetso 06:29 Losing his mom: Valentine's Day to St. Patrick's Day 08:47 Colorectal cancer prevention and screening 10:00 The young adult cancer gap 13:01 Doug Ulman: three-time cancer survivor 15:25 Building the Ulman Foundation 16:58 The first fundraiser 18:25 From passion project to lifelong mission 19:07 Doug, Lance Armstrong, and a crossroads 20:45 Becoming executive director 24:12 Closing the Gap: 20 years later 24:22 Patient navigation explained 28:07 Fertility preservation 29:54 Ulman House: a home away from home 32:15 The Beyond Cancer expansion 33:50 Athletics and nonprofit leadership 37:20 Where Ulman Foundation is headed 38:18 What "believe in progress" means 39:26 Closing Take Action: • Donate to the AACR: https://donate.aacr.org/BelieveinProgress/Donate • Support the Ulman Foundation: https://ulmanfoundation.org • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: o Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4rLQyB5 o Spotify: https://sptfy.in/o700 o YouTube: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Brock Yetso, President and CEO, Ulman Foundation Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Producer: Mitch Stoller Producer: Heather Holland Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC for the AACR Foundation. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

In this episode, we hear the remarkable story of how a son, an elder brother, and a family dealt with a devastating cancer diagnosis with love and determination. When George John "GJ" Gerner III was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) at the age of 27 in 2017, he and his close-knit family came together. Inspired by GJ's grit, his younger brother, Colin Gerner, founded and now leads StacheStrong: a foundation that has become one of the most dynamic forces in brain cancer research. Eight years in, Colin shares his family's deeply personal journey behind StacheStrong. GJ fought his disease with extraordinary resilience, humor, and a signature mustache that he shaved down before brain surgery to keep the mood light for his family. That simple gesture became the symbol of a movement none of them could have imagined. Colin describes his brother as someone who never let the disease define him, running a sub-eight-minute mile 5K a year into treatment, going back to work, and focusing on others’ feelings. In 25 months, GJ showed his family and community what it meant to live with this disease. What started as a personal outlet for Colin to process his brother’s illness quickly grew into a foundation that has now funded more than $7 million in brain cancer research across more than 65 grants and 40 institutions. Colin describes StacheStrong's innovative collaborative funding strategy, partnering with organizations like the American Association for Cancer Research® (AACR) and the V Foundation to co-fund high-quality research grants, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar raised. He also discusses his current effort to become a top global fundraiser at the 2026 Boston Marathon, where he and three teammates are raising more than $200,000 to support a five-year, $1 million grant to accelerate glioblastoma research. Colin reflects on what "StacheStrong is a lifestyle" really means, why he rejects the term "caregiver," and what it will feel like to cross a marathon finish line for the first time without his brother by his side. Featured Guest: Colin Gerner, Founder, President, and CEO, StacheStrong Colin is also a Manager and Tax Consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where he has spent his entire career, and leads the humanitarian portfolio for the PwC Foundation. He holds an accounting degree and a master's in taxation. He has provided marathon running opportunities to hundreds of StacheStrong supporters across events in New York, Chicago, Dublin, Rome, Copenhagen, Sydney, and Berlin. Key Topics: • Remembering GJ: The person behind the mission • GJ's glioblastoma diagnosis and 25-month struggle against the disease • The origin of the StacheStrong mustache and brand • Building a nonprofit with no prior experience • StacheStrong's collaborative research funding model • Partnering with the AACR and V Foundation on grant giving • The 2026 Boston Marathon campaign and $1M grant • 50 charity bibs at the 2026 New York City Marathon • "StacheStrong is a lifestyle": What it means to the community • Why Colin rejects the word "caregiver" • The hidden GJ in the StacheStrong logo • What GJ would think about the foundation today Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:55 Meet Colin Gerner 03:21 Who was GJ? 06:22 Growing up together 10:39 The origin of the mustache 12:06 GJ's glioblastoma diagnosis 16:58 How cancer affects the whole family 20:55 "I hate the term caregiver" 21:49 What stays with you? "Strength." 23:04 The birth of StacheStrong 27:22 Why start a new foundation? 32:42 The Vestal 5K and GJ's sub-8:00 mile 35:00 Learning the nonprofit world 39:10 Collaborative funding with AACR and V Foundation 40:23 The 2026 Boston Marathon campaign 46:58 "StacheStrong is a lifestyle" 53:02 What would GJ think? 56:15 Crossing the finish line without his brother 58:10 Closing Take Action: • Donate to the AACR: https://donate.aacr.org/BelieveinProgress/Donate • Support StacheStrong: https://stachestrong.org • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: • Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4rLQyB5 • Spotify: https://sptfy.in/o700 • YouTube: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Colin Gerner, Founder, President, and CEO, StacheStrong Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Producer: Mitch Stoller Producer: Heather Holland Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC for the AACR Foundation. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

What does it take to lead one of the world’s largest gatherings of cancer researchers and to deliver cancer care on the front lines of a war zone? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, we sit down with two extraordinary individuals shaping efforts to drive progress in cancer science and medicine. Part One features Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden, Cochair of the AACR Annual Meeting, Director of the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, and practicing oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Vander Heiden offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a scientific meeting of this scale, why interdisciplinarity matters, and how today’s trainees will become tomorrow’s leaders. He also reflects on his work in cancer metabolism and how caring for patients shapes his scientific mission. Part Two features Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk, surgical oncologist at the Kyiv Regional Oncological Center and Executive Director of the Global Medical Knowledge Alliance (GMKA) in Ukraine. Dr. Huivaniuk shares what it’s like to perform surgery during missile attacks, support displaced patients, and maintain cancer care amid war. Her work highlights resilience, innovation, and the global collaboration required to ensure every patient receives care, even in wartime crisis. Together, these conversations capture the spirit of the AACR Annual Meeting: uniting every discipline, every discovery, and every person behind progress against cancer. This special episode of Believe in Progress was recorded live at the AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago. It’s part of a series that features dynamic conversations with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and student scholars contributing to the effort to defeat cancer. From breakthrough diagnostics to trailblazing health services research, our guests in this series share their stories of science, innovation, and hope. Featured Guests Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden - Cochair, AACR Annual Meeting; Director, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT A global leader in cancer metabolism and scientific strategy, Dr. Vander Heiden discusses how the Annual Meeting is built, why collaboration across disciplines matters, and how supporting future scientists remains central to the AACR’s mission. Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - Surgical Oncologist, Kyiv Regional Oncological Center; Executive Director, GMKA Ukraine From operating during missile strikes to restoring cancer services in a war zone, Dr. Huivaniuk speaks to the courage and innovation required to care for patients under extraordinary circumstances. Key Topics: Part One – Dr. Vander Heiden - How the AACR Annual Meeting, with its more than 22,000 attendees, is planned - How the conference ensures representation across basic science, clinical trials, population science, and policy - How it spotlights emerging researchers and first-time presenters - Insights into cancer metabolism and nutrient pathways in tumor growth - Balancing leadership, research, and clinical practice - How the AACR supported his early career and why he’s committed to mentoring the next generation Part Two – Dr. Huivaniuk - Delivering cancer care in a war zone: disruption, courage, and adaptation - Providing care to both cancer patients and injured soldiers - Barriers to medication access, radiation supplies, and medical infrastructure - Supporting physicians who cannot travel to meetings for education and collaboration opportunities - Using technology and international partnerships to maintain continuity of care - Personal experiences operating under missile fire and her refusal to abandon patients - How her mother’s medical journey inspired her to pursue medicine Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Matthew G. Vander Heiden, MD, PhD; Inesa Huivaniuk, MD, MPA Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

What does it take to face cancer head-on, twice, and still find the strength to run toward progress? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, Rhett Austell shares his deeply personal journey through stage 4 appendix cancer, fatherhood, advocacy, and the fight for his life. Rhett’s story is one of resilience. From the sudden onset of cancer in his late 30s to undergoing major surgery, chemotherapy, and still lacing up to run the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia, he embodies what it means to keep going, no matter the odds. His passion for funding cancer research is fueled by both the personal loss of his father and by hope: through his father-in-law’s survival, thanks to a clinical trial. This special extended episode includes a heartfelt epilogue recorded after Rhett’s recent cancer recurrence, where he speaks openly about the realities of a second diagnosis, his continued treatment, and what drives him to keep fighting—not just for himself, his wife, and his four daughters, but for all cancer patients and their families. Key Topics: - The shocking discovery of stage 4 appendix cancer at age 38 - The emotional rollercoaster of becoming a father again amid diagnosis - Lessons learned from his father’s and father-in-law’s cancer journeys - Running the Broad Street Run after major surgery and raising more than $9,000 - Facing a cancer recurrence and embracing advocacy with renewed urgency - The importance of time, clinical trials, and fully funding cancer research - What it means to believe in progress, even in the face of setbacks Episode Chapter Markers (Timestamps): 00:00 – Introduction to Believe in Progress 00:53 – Rhett's Story Begins 03:09 – A Surprise Diagnosis and a New Baby on the Way 08:12 – Treatment, Surgery, and Finding Strength Through Family 09:28 – Cancer in the Family: Stories of Loss and Survival 14:48 – Why Cancer Research Matters Now More Than Ever 16:55 – Running Again: From the Hospital to the Finish Line 20:23 – Fundraising, Broad Street Run, and Victory 21:49 – Epilogue: Facing Recurrence with Purpose 27:34 – Rhett’s Second Round of Treatment 32:29 – Continued Advocacy in the Face of Uncertainty 36:04 – Looking Ahead: Hope, Family, and Next Goals If this episode moves you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Send it to inspire others in your network - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Rhett Austell Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Your support matters. Help accelerate progress against cancer: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give. - Share this episode: Amplify Patty’s and Vicki’s messages of early detection, advocacy, and hope. - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen. What does it look like to face breast cancer with courage, clarity, and community? In this episode, we talk with Patty Guthrie and Vicki Courlang about the moments that changed everything in their lives and the choices that carried them forward. Patty describes retiring after 25 years of teaching, staying on top of her annual mammograms, and catching her cancer early—at Stage 1 in 2020—as well as navigating treatment during COVID-19. She credits her care team at Memorial Sloan Kettering, daily gratitude, and walking five to six days per week as pillars of her recovery. Vicki brings a clinician’s insight to a patient’s journey. A former oncology nurse, she recognized something was “off” long before her diagnosis with Paget’s disease of the breast. Paget’s is a rare condition that, for Vicki, didn’t appear on standard mammograms. She emphasizes listening to your body, seeking prompt evaluation for changes, and advocating for screening access at younger ages. Both guests underscore the lifesaving importance of early detection, the reality of vulnerable moments, and the power of family, friends, and compassionate care. Their message is clear: education, advocacy, and cancer research save lives, and hope grows from science and facing our challenges of cancer together. Episode Highlights: - Early Detection Saves Lives: Patty’s annual screening caught a small, hard-to-feel tumor, and Vicki’s Paget's symptoms appeared externally and did not show on standard mammograms. This is where self-awareness and follow-up mattered. - Treatment in a Pandemic: Chemotherapy and radiation during COVID-19 meant isolation at appointments. However, nurses, techs, and loved ones created a safety net. - Caregiver and Patient Dual Lens: Vicki’s oncology background helped her understand next steps; Patty learned fast and stayed positive through her cancer journey. - Support Systems: Spouses, children, and close friends (shoutouts included) made a big difference. They helped with rides to appointments, meals, calls, and presence. - Survivorship Milestones: From frequent follow-ups to annual imaging and bone-density checks, survivorship is a structured path, which includes daily movement and gratitude. - Mindset Shifts: Cancer doesn’t define who you are; it’s part of what you are. Boundaries, positivity, and purpose take center stage. - Practical Advice: Stay informed. Get your screenings. Seek second opinions. Choose a team and a care plan you feel confident in and move forward. How You Can Help - Donate to the AACR: Support world-class cancer research at AACR.org/Give - Subscribe & Share: Help this episode reach patients, caregivers, and clinicians who need it - Leave a Review: Ratings and reviews help others discover the show Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Patty Guthrie and Vicki Courlang Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Your support matters! Take action to propel progress in cancer science and medicine: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify Justin’s story and advance research for the benefit of caregivers, survivors, and all those impacted by cancer - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen Episode Summary: How far would you go to protect the person you love most in the world? In this emotional and inspiring episode, Justin Wineburgh, President and CEO of Alkemy X, sits down with host Mitch Stoller to share the extraordinary story of his mother Iris: a single mom of three, a “force of nature,” and a woman whose love defined his world. Justin reflects on the moment everything changed: Iris’s ovarian cancer diagnosis on December 30, 1999. From that day forward, he became not just her son, but her advocate, her caregiver, and her anchor. Together, they navigated hospital rooms, treatment plans, and the emotional landmines of uncertainty, while holding tightly to moments of laughter, love, and connection. Faced with heartbreak after hearing about his mother's diagnosis, Justin found purpose: immersing himself in cancer research, standing fiercely by his mother’s side, and eventually becoming a father himself just weeks after her death in 2024. Today, he carries her legacy forward through storytelling, empathy, and relentless hope. Episode Highlights: - Meeting Iris: A single mom of three boys and a fierce, vibrant woman remembered as “a force of nature” - The Diagnosis: How a flip phone call from a young resident changed their lives forever - The Cancer Journey: Chemotherapy, second opinions, and choosing to get care close to home in Philadelphia - Caregiver Realities: Rage, love, exhaustion, and learning that “no one knows nothing” - Life After Loss: Navigating grief, becoming a father, and wearing Iris’s belt as a daily reminder of love - Why Research Matters: The drug that helped in her final year didn’t exist when she was first diagnosed - A Son’s Message: “If you can get one extra day with your loved one because of research, it’s worth everything” Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Justin Wineburgh Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC

Your support matters. Help us take action in the fight against cancer: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify Larry’s story and inspire action to advance cancer research - Listen and subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts How can strategic thinking transform not only companies but also cancer research? In this episode, Larry Kanarek, a retired senior partner from McKinsey & Company, joins Mitch Stoller to reflect on his high-stakes corporate work—most notably the transformation of Tyco—and the lessons he now brings to supporting lifesaving cancer research and advocacy. Larry talks with Mitch about his personal journey with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), including how pioneering cancer research and clinical trials gave him hope, time, and perspective. With insights from both the boardroom and the hospital room, Larry reminds us that progress happens when compassion and strategy work hand in hand. Episode Highlights: - Introduction to Strategic Thinking in Cancer Research - Larry Kanarek’s Journey to Consulting - The Tyco Transformation Story - Larry’s Personal Cancer Journey - Choosing Ibrutinib and a New Oncologist - Starting Ibrutinib and Clinical Trials - Achieving MRD Undetectable Status - Family Reactions and Support - Reflections on Cancer Research - Personal Stories and Family Influence - Impact of AI on Cancer Research - Closing Remarks and Gratitude Take Action: Support Cancer Research & Survivors - Donate to the AACR: Help advance the research that saves lives at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Someone in your network needs to hear Karlie’s story, so help us tell it by sharing it with them - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Never miss a story that could inspire hope and action, you can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Larry Kanarek Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC

Take Action: Help Accelerate Progress in Cancer Science and Medicine - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Inspire others by amplifying Karlie’s story of resilience and recovery in the face of cancer - Listen and subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, and follow so you never miss an episode What does it take to survive cancer and still make it to the Olympics in a single year? In this inspiring episode of Believe in Progress, we sit down with Karlie Kisha: Olympian, papillary thyroid cancer survivor, and an assistant coach for the Villanova University field hockey team. Karlie takes us inside her incredible journey, from her cancer diagnosis just months before the Paris Olympic Games to representing the U.S. on the world stage. Her story is a masterclass in the power of determination, mindset, and belief in cancer research. Whether you're an athlete, a survivor, or someone in the midst of your own personal challenge, Karlie’s voice will remind you of what’s possible when you face adversity with courage and grace. Episode Highlights: Segment 1: Falling in Love with the Game Karlie shares her early passion for field hockey, her collegiate journey at the University of Connecticut, and how she set her sights on the Olympics. Segment 2: Diagnosis, Disruption, and Determination Just months before the Olympics, Karlie was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. She discusses the whirlwind of emotions and the grit it took to keep her Olympic dreams alive. Segment 3: Recovery and Resilience From surgery to healing to elite-level competition, Karlie reflects on the physical and mental strength required to bounce back and perform on the sport’s biggest stage. Segment 4: Coaching, Mentorship, and the Next Chapter Now an assistant coach at Villanova, Karlie speaks about finding purpose beyond competition and why giving back means everything. Segment 5: Purpose, Gratitude, and Mental Toughness Karlie closes with reflections on gratitude, mental health, and how surviving cancer reframed her entire view on life and purpose. Take Action: Support Cancer Research & Survivors - Donate to the AACR: Help advance the research that saves lives at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Someone in your network needs to hear Karlie’s story, so help us tell it by sharing it with them - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Never miss a story that could inspire hope and action, you can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Karlie Kisha Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Want to know how you can take action in the fight against cancer? Help the AACR accelerate progress: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at www.AACR.org/Give. - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that strategic investments and scientific breakthroughs can change the future of cancer care. - Listen and subscribe: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, and follow so you never miss an episode! In this episode of Believe in Progress, recorded live at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting, we spotlight powerful stories of purpose, partnership, and personal experiences that propel action against cancer. Rodney and Erika McLeod, co-founders of Change Our Future, reflect on their personal cancer journeys and why they’re championing education, youth leadership, and cancer research through their growing partnership with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). NFL veteran and former Philadelphia Eagles safety Rodney McLeod shares how the loss of his grandmother to pancreatic cancer shaped his mission, while Erika opens up about her mother’s survivorship and their deep dedication to uplifting the next generation. We’re also joined by Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation and longtime supporter of cancer research. Stephen discusses how personal loss became a catalyst for his advocacy and shares key insights about strategic giving, leadership, and the importance of funding early-stage research. Episode Highlights: Segment 1: Turning Loss into Purpose Rodney and Erika McLeod share how their personal connections to cancer inspired the founding of Change Our Future and their commitment to investing in the next generation. Segment 2: Partnering with the AACR to Inspire Young Scientists The McLeods speak about their involvement with the AACR’s high school program, empowering students to explore STEM and medical research as pathways to impact. Segment 3: Building Confidence Beyond the Classroom Through mentorship, leadership summits, and real-world skills, Change Our Future is equipping underserved youth with tools to succeed in life and career, including in cancer advocacy. Segment 4: Legacy, Strategy, and the Power of Philanthropy Stephen Ryan, President and Chairman of the AACR Foundation, discusses how cancer shaped his family’s legacy and how financial stewardship plays a key role in advancing cancer research. Segment 5: Broadening the Reach of Research Stephen reflects on the AACR’s reputation, the critical need to fund early-career scientists, and why the cancer research ecosystem must expand to reach more communities and have more potential. Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Rodney McLeod, Erika McLeod, Stephen Ryan Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, John Matthews, founder of Ride Hard Breathe Easy, and Jack Owens, a University of Notre Dame student, share their deeply personal journeys to fight lung cancer through action, advocacy, and cycling. Segment 1: A Promise Becomes a Mission John shares how a promise to his mother led to Ride Hard Breathe Easy and its first cross-country fundraising ride. Segment 2: A New Generation Joins the Ride Jack Owens talks about his current 3,600-mile solo ride across the U.S., honoring his grandmother and expanding the organization’s impact. Segment 3: Meeting Patients Where They Are They discuss how funding helps lung cancer patients with transportation and essential needs, making treatment possible. Segment 4: Breaking the Stigma John addresses the stigma around lung cancer and the importance of educating the public about its realities. Segment 5: The Power of Family and Community Reflections on the role of family, community, and support networks in sustaining the mission. Segment 6: Training, Dedication, and Lessons Learned Jack shares his physical and emotional preparation for the ride, and what keeps him going on the toughest days. Segment 7: What’s Next for Ride Hard Breathe Easy If you enjoyed this episode, here is how you can take action to advance cancer research: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation by supporting cutting-edge cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give • Visit https://www.rhbe.org to learn more about Ride Hard Breathe Easy or to make a donation • Share this episode to raise awareness for cancer patients or with someone you know who might benefit from hearing it • Subscribe to Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts Production Credits Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: John Matthews and Jack Owens Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.