Explore every episode of the podcast Patient from Hell
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Living Six Years with Stage 4 Lung Cancer | In Memory of Natalie Brown | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:31:58 | |
This episode is dedicated to Natalie's memory and to every patient navigating life with cancer. Natalie Brown's answer to "How are you?" was always simple: "I'm here." Diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer at just 33 years old, despite never smoking and having no family history of lung cancer, Natalie spent six years challenging assumptions about what lung cancer looks like. In this unforgettable conversation with host Samira Daswani, Natalie shares her journey through multiple rounds of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, failed clinical trials, and one of the rarest procedures in cancer medicine a bilateral double lung transplant. She also opens up about recurrence, chronic pain, advocacy, mental health, and why she believed every patient deserves to know all of their treatment options. Natalie has passed away. We are honored to share her story again in celebration of the courage, honesty, humor, and determination that defined her life. Her voice continues to educate, inspire, and advocate for patients everywhere. Whether you're living with cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand the realities of serious illness, Natalie's message is one everyone should hear. In this episode you'll learn:
Natalie's story reminds us that resilience isn't about pretending things aren't difficult—it's about continuing to move forward anyway. 00:00 Introduction: Remembering Natalie Brown 01:00 "I'm Here" — The phrase that defined Natalie 02:00 Diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer at 33 04:00 Four Chemotherapies & Failed Clinical Trials 05:30 Discovering a Rare Double Lung Transplant 10:40 Returning Home After Transplant 11:45 Cancer Recurrence & New Treatment Options 13:00 The Husband Who Helped Her Keep Fighting 16:00 Facing Mortality with Honesty 18:00 Making the Most of Time 20:00 Living with Chronic Pain 21:00 Becoming a Lung Cancer Advocate 24:00 Learning to Ask for Help 26:45 Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients 28:40 "Anyone With Lungs Can Get Lung Cancer" 29:45 Why Patients Should Always Ask Questions 31:00 Final Reflections About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed or too afraid to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. 🔔 Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| A Rare Liver Transplant Cured His Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer | 08 Jul 2026 | 00:36:36 | |
Tim McDonald was sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner in 2020 when the pain started. A few days later, a doctor handed him a single sheet of paper and said three words nobody wants to hear: "You have cancer." Stage 4 colorectal cancer. Liver covered in tumors. A second oncologist told him he had three years to live and she'd focus on "quality of life." His response? "That's your story. Not mine." In this episode, Tim shares how over a decade of mindfulness practice shaped the way he faced one of the hardest diagnoses a person can receive and how he went from following doctors' orders to becoming the general manager of his own care team, ultimately pursuing a liver transplant at a time when fewer than 20 people in the US had received one for colorectal cancer. This conversation goes deep on: → What it actually feels like to hear "you have cancer" and stay calm → Why getting a second (and third, and tenth) opinion saved his life → The player → quarterback → general manager framework for owning your treatment → Men, vulnerability, and why cancer support groups changed everything → The dark thought he had toward the end of chemo — and what pulled him back → Why survivorship was mentally harder than treatment itself → How advocacy work became part of his healingIf you or someone you love is navigating a cancer diagnosis, this episode is essential listening. ─────────────────────────── 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations with patients, advocates, and caregivers navigating the healthcare system. ─────────────────────────── CHAPTERS 00:00 – The mindset that got him through 00:29 – Meet Tim McDonald 01:17 – Thanksgiving diagnosis 02:44 – Hearing "you have cancer" — and staying calm 04:51 – Life before cancer: HuffPost, Arianna Huffington, and mindfulness 06:04 – What mindfulness actually gave him during treatment 07:14 – Starting standard treatment and meeting a new oncologist 09:38 – "That's your story. Not mine." 10:20 – Switching to Moffitt Cancer Center 11:53 – Discovering the liver transplant option 13:22 – Stage 4 colorectal cancer explained 17:49 – Going from patient to general manager of your care team 21:26 – The proctologist nobody thought to send him to 23:21 – Why you should always get a second opinion 24:46 – Men and cancer: processing emotions differently 26:18 – Vulnerability and who to open up to 29:02 – The dark thought: wanting to stop treatment entirely 30:52 – What pulled him back from the edge 31:39 – Survivorship: why after treatment can be harder 34:11 – 10 doctors after, 3 before: the survivorship reality ─────────────────────────── GUEST Tim McDonald: Stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor, liver transplant recipient, patient advocate, and community builder. Former Director of Community at HuffPost. ─────────────────────────── ABOUT THE PATIENT FROM HELL Patient From Hell is a podcast about navigating the healthcare system with confidence, curiosity, and zero apologies. Hosted by Samira Daswani, CEO and founder of Manta Cares. #CancerSurvivor #ColorectalCancer #PatientAdvocacy #Stagefour #LiverTransplant #CancerMindset #ChemoSideEffects #PatientFromHell #MantaCares #CancerPodcast | |||
| AI in Cancer Care: Hype, Hope, & Reality (2026 Update) | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:30:19 | |
Is Artificial Intelligence actually helping cancer patients, or is it just noise? In this episode of The Patient From Hell, Samira sits down with Dr. Shadi Nabhan to separate the Hype from the Reality in 2026. We discuss the massive evolution in oncology—from the "library days" of 1995 to the AI-driven diagnostics of today. Dr. Shadi shares his "Airport Analogy" for navigating a cancer diagnosis, offers a life-changing reframe on how we view advanced disease (it’s not just "curable" vs. "terminal"—it can be "controllable"), and gives his #1 piece of advice for selecting a medical team that will actually show up for you when things get hard. Key Topics Discussed: AI in 2026: How doctors use AI to simplify complex terms like CAR T-cell therapy and why patients need to "trust but verify" AI-generated medical advice. The "Controllable" Reframe: Why treating metastatic cancer like diabetes or hypertension changes the patient experience. Navigating the "Airport": Why the healthcare system feels like being dropped in a foreign airport without a map. Advice for the Industry: What Healthcare Systems and Pharma companies need to change right now regarding clinical trials and drug pricing. About Today’s Guest Dr. Chadi Nabhan: Dr. Chadi Nabhan is a board-certified hematologist, oncologist, and the Chief Medical Officer at Ryght, Inc., where he leads the integration of Generative AI into clinical research to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving therapies. With a career spanning leadership roles at Caris Life Sciences and the University of Chicago, Dr. Nabhan is a prolific researcher with over 300 publications and a prominent author whose work focuses on the intersection of medicine, justice, and technology. AI Visionary: Leading the charge in using AI to optimize clinical trials and patient outcomes. Expert Clinician: Trained at Northwestern and Harvard, with decades of experience in malignant hematology. Renowned Author: Published three books with Johns Hopkins University Press, including The Cancer Journey and the forthcoming AI and Cancer Care (2026). Podcast Host: Voice of the popular weekly series Healthcare Unfiltered. Quotes from the Episode: "We cure more patients than we have ever dreamt of... Women who are affected by breast cancer today are more likely to be completely cured." "Availability is key. Are they going to really pick up the phone and talk to you when you need them?" 00:00 - The reality of the cancer journey (It’s not smooth sailing)01:00 - Intro: Dr. Shadi Nabhan & The Fun Factor 01:25 - AI in Healthcare: Hype, Hope, and Reality 04:15 - How doctors use AI to explain complex therapies 06:38 - Warning for patients using AI: "Garbage in, Garbage out" 08:45 - The Evolution of Medicine: 1995 vs. 2026 13:00 - The "Airport Analogy": Why patients feel lost 17:30 - MUST WATCH: Reframing "Terminal" cancer as "Controllable" 21:30 - Advice for Healthcare Leaders: Agility & Patient Involvement 23:50 - Advice for Pharma: Drug Pricing & Accelerating Innovation 26:00 - The #1 criteria for picking your medical team 28:18 - The importance of Second Opinions 28:50 - What to expect in late 2026: AI in Cancer Care Book 🔗 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Episode 20: Navigating Uncertainty, Making Decisions in the Absence of Data, Advocating & Caregiving with Jane Gutkovich of the EHE Foundation | 04 Feb 2023 | 00:39:16 | |
Our guest is Jane Gutkovich who was thrust into the land of patient advocacy and navigation after her son was diagnosed with Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma (EHE), a rare type of sarcoma cancer. Given the rare nature of EHE and after four different treatment plans from the four of the top cancer centers in the US, Jane had to turn to other patients to help determine her son’s path. Jane talks with Samira about the decision process for rare cancer patients with small amounts of available data, the role of the family caregiver, the power of patient advocacy and the evolution of patient communities. Visit the Manta Cares website & sign up for the access list for our digital platform coming soon! Key highlights:
About our guest: Jane Gutkovich is one of the founding members of the EHE Foundation, and has served on the Board of Directors. Her responsibilities as Vice President of the Foundation included: furthering the foundation’s impact by securing strategic partnerships with relevant organizations, institutions, and individuals; raising funds to support key initiatives; and growing EHE awareness in the medical and research communities. She maintains a deep engagement with the EHE community and active member of our EHE Facebook support group, as well as through personal communications and meetings. Key moments: 4 minutes 58 seconds: I remember driving in a car to the fourth doctor, and I look at my husband and I said, you want to bet that because there’s only one combination left that this guy will say yes to surgery and no chemo. Sure enough, that's what happened. The best sarcoma specialists in the country gave us totally opposite recommendations. What do you do? Well, you learn and you have to make your own decision. 8 minutes 26 seconds: One of my friends had this brilliant idea to launch an EHE Facebook group. It was launched in September of 2013 and was 7 or eight of us on in this group in the beginning. And I remember checking every day five times a day to see if anyone else joined. And every new person who joined was like, “Yes, we have another person!” And when we had 20 patients in the group, I thought, “We're not rare!” And by the way, today we have more than 2400 members in our EHE Facebook group from almost 80 different countries. 22 minutes 27 seconds: We were all in it, me and my husband and my older son. I think he saw that there was a team to cover him. We were not always on the same page. Don't get me wrong, there were fights. But I think my son kind of decided that he cannot do better than I will do, than we will do, than this team will do. He took the position of: I'll trust what you're saying, but it has to make sense to me. He was never like, “okay, whatever you say.” I had to present him with my rationale. But that's the kind of relationship that we developed after he was diagnosed. USE CODE EHE23 for 10% discount on Manta products and services. We will donate 10% to the EHE Foundation. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 19: Cancer Financial Toxicity & Health Inequities with Rosie Cunningham of Family Reach | 21 Jan 2023 | 00:33:58 | |
When we think of a cancer diagnosis, we focus on the physical ramifications of the disease. But a cancer diagnosis also leads to major financial costs. Today we are speaking with Rosie Cunningham, COO of Family Reach, about financial toxicity, health inequities and tips for patients and caregivers on how to navigate the financial landscape of a cancer diagnosis. Key highlights: 1. Financial toxicity is driven by lack of transparency in the healthcare system as well as the complicated nature of cancer care 2. Health inequities drive financial toxicity and are deeply rooted in the healthcare system 3. Tips for patients and caregivers on navigating financial challenges during the cancer experience About our guest: As COO at Family Reach, Rosie plays a pivotal role in the progression of the organization’s services, research, and collaborations. She launched the inaugural strategic planning process in 2019, and works closely with the team to ensure that all internal and external activity is aligned to push the mission forwards. She also oversees the organization’s content, programs, and impact teams, driving awareness of Family Reach as a data-driven thought leader and solution provider on financial toxicity. A strong believer that no one deserves the turmoil caused by a cancer diagnosis, Rosie applies her sales, marketing, and partnership expertise to guide Family Reach toward ensuring no family has to choose between their health and their home. Key Moments: 6 minutes 30 seconds: 2/3 of people living with cancer are unable to work full time after a diagnosis. Of the families we serve 65% of them have lost over half of their household income. So before you even get into the web of healthcare costs, you’re already in crisis, unable to make ends meet. 9 minutes 30 seconds: People with cancer are more likely to file for bankruptcy, but beyond that, people who do file for bankruptcy are 79% more likely to die from their disease. So financial toxicity is not just a financial problem it is literally a life or death problem. 16 minutes 40 seconds: Our mission at Family Reach, which is to alleviate the financial barriers that stand between a patient and their treatment, is rooted in health inequities. For 25 years we've served patients from across the spectrum who are unable to get to treatment because they can't afford it one way or another. Over the last decade, we as a cancer community have done a better job looking more closely at these inequities and charging ourselves to really challenge and understand the root causes and do better to close the gaps. At Family Reach what that has meant for us is to really hone in on low-income Black and low-income Hispanic Latinx patients because these two communities are most adversely affected by the financial burden of cancer. Visit the Manta Cares website | Subscribe to our newsletter | Free resources | Nutrition Program | Cancer Coaching | Stay organized with the Manta Planner Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 18: The future of patient data with cancer survivor and healthcare entrepreneur Jennifer Hinkel | 08 Jan 2023 | 00:29:53 | |
We are kicking off 2023 with the fabulous cancer survivor, healthcare entrepreneur and thought leader, Jennifer Hinkel. As a survivor of Stage III Hodgkin Lymphoma, Jennifer has a special interest in oncology innovation as a cancer survivor. She is passionate about using data to improve the lives of cancer patients, and also making sure that patients are aware and compensated for the use of their data. Key highlights: 1. What advice would adult Jennifer give to her 17-year-old self about being diagnosed with cancer? 2. The importance and value of patient data 3. Building the bank for patient data 4. Henrietta Lacks’ cell line and its incredible impact on science relate to digital patient data today About our guest: Jennifer Hinkel is an oncology market access and health economics leader with experience in consulting, global pharma and biotech, health policy, and health care startups. She has held management and executive roles at companies including National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Roche UK, Roche Argentina, Genentech, and Caris Life Sciences. She is a Managing Director of The Data Economics Company where she leads commercialization of the Lydion Engine in life sciences and healthcare applications and is a Founding Partner at Sigla Sciences, a market access firm. Key Moments: 7 mins 22 secs: Walking through a portal. One of the things I recall most strongly is this feeling that I walked through a door, a portal to a different world. No one around me had seen that world. They didn't even know that that world existed. And it is not a super pleasant world, it's a world full of a lot of scary things. Although it's also a world full of like a lot of really smart people and people who are out there trying to be helpful and to make the experience better for people. I think that the most important thing to say would be: you might feel like you're the only one that's gone through this, but there are actually other people out there going through the same thing. 18 minutes 37 seconds: Getting compensated of your data I philosophically believe that this is data that is generated by you, a patient. Yes, you plus an X-ray machine or you plus a doctor. Most of us don't walk around just spouting genetic sequences out of the air, but there has to be some science applied. But really that data is yours. It's pretty unique to you, and that should belong to you. And if other people are using it, especially if they're using it for a business purpose, I think you should get to share in that. 27 minutes 27 seconds: Story of Henrietta Lacks. This woman Henrietta Lacks, who had cells taken. And her cell line has become a mainstay of biotech research for decades and decades. Only recently it was recognized, that this woman was never really compensated for the contribution that her genetic material made to science. I think that we will start to have that same idea on the digital data. Just because it's in a digitized format, I think doesn't make it any less personal or unique to us really. This data is just the output of your medical procedure or what your body produced. Subscribe to our newsletter | Free resources | Nutrition Program | Cancer Coaching | Stay organized with the Manta Planner | Visit the Manta Cares website Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 17: Tumor boards, team-based care, and the business of healthcare with medical oncologist Dr. Gabriel A. Brooks | 08 Dec 2022 | 00:53:21 | |
Key highlights:
About our guest: Dr. Gabriel A. Brooks is an oncologist in Lebanon, New Hampshire and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and White River Junction Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He received his medical degree from Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and has been in practice for 11-20 years. Key Moments: At 16 mins and 0 seconds: About team-based care in cancer. “Nothing I do for my patients happens in a vaccum. There are questions about radiation, radiology or pathology…the cases we bring to tumor board are the cases where we have questions. It maybe for a patient with a new diagnosis or a patient I’ve had for years and the situation has changed and there is a new question. I could send the patient to another specialist but it’s not the same as four specialists in one room looking at a single case.” At 30 mins and 05 seconds: Tumor board vis-a-vis guidelines. “The NCCN guidelines are very influential documents that say what the evidence is in that cancer type. They are not proscriptive. There are lots of areas that are highly subjective in patient care. It’s also true that they are a US organization and refer to drugs available in the US. Tumor board addresses the issues where guidelines are not detailed enough, or where more subjective discrimination is required.” At 32 mins and 50 seconds: Guidelines drive most situations. “95% of the time, or rather 99% of the time…most of the things that I do are consistent with the NCCN guidelines. Once is a while there is situations where the guidelines don’t apply.” At 39 mins and 12 seconds: Decision making in cancer. “The idea that you can make this decision today that is going to specify every step along the way for the rest of the year for most of our patients is not realistic.” At 41 mins and 13 seconds: Honesty in difficult conversations. “I think it is very important for me to be truthful to my patients and tell them that my goal is to help you live longer and help you, but maybe not to cure you. …It’s not my job to tell my patients what the future holds, because we really don’t know.” Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 16: Navigating sex, dating, and stigma during the cancer experience with Sanjay Deshpande | 29 Nov 2022 | 00:43:21 | |
In this episode, we cover:
About the guest: Sanjay is a Learning Designer who currently leads L&D at Pride Circle. He has previously worked as a part of the Founding Team of Harappa Education and the skilling team of NASSCOM Foundation. He is passionate about mental health, queer rights and cancer advocacy. He got diagnosed with incurable brain cancer at the age of 29 the day he landed on Harvard University's campus to start his Master’s program in September 2021. He's currently leading an effort to write & publish a first-of-its-kind book on Adulting with Cancer called ‘Don’t Ask Me How I’m Doing: Life, Death and Everything in Between’ -- to chronicle the experiences, raise awareness and create a resource for Indian and South Asian young adult cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. He is an incoming graduate student at Harvard University, a postgraduate of the Young India Fellowship program at Ashoka University, and a Valedictorian and Student of the Year from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Key Moments: 2 mins and 3 seconds So my understanding of privilege was very different. Because even if I identified myself as a queer person, it came with many safety nets around me. That went away when I got diagnosed with cancer. Now not only was I disadvantaged because of my sexuality, but I was at a disadvantage because of my cancer experience. 6 mins and 23 seconds So there is this generation of queer people who have just realized that they can be themselves. They are in that phase where they're trying to explore things. They're trying to be openly themselves. There's that frog in the pond syndrome. There are so many fish in the sea, why do you want to settle for one, so everyone's trying to experiment and like, you know, like, find their own feet. 25 mins and 32 seconds The worst thing is when you reveal in a public sort of space, and that public, I don't even mean like a huge stage or like in like a large audience, even when it's just five people together, and you just say that. No, I'm sorry, I can't do this because I'm a cancer survivor. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 15: Living life with an incurable brain tumor as a young South Asian with Sanjay Deshpande | 13 Nov 2022 | 00:54:36 | |
In this podcast we cover -
About Sanjay Deshpande: Sanjay is a Learning Designer who currently leads L&D at Pride Circle. He has previously worked as a part of the Founding Team of Harappa Education and the skilling team of NASSCOM Foundation. He is passionate about mental health, queer rights and cancer advocacy. He got diagnosed with incurable brain cancer at the age of 29 the day he landed on Harvard University's campus to start his Master’s program in September 2021. He's currently leading an effort to write & publish a first-of-its-kind book on Adulting with Cancer called ‘Don’t Ask Me How I’m Doing: Life, Death and Everything in Between’ -- to chronicle the experiences, raise awareness and create a resource for Indian and South Asian young adult cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. He is an incoming graduate student at Harvard University, a postgraduate of the Young India Fellowship program at Ashoka University, and a Valedictorian and Student of the Year from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Key Moments: 4 mins and 1 second: In response to the question “how are you?” When you ask that to a cancer patient or survivor, the expectation is that you're likely wanting to hear the truth. But in my experience, most people aren't ready to hear the truth. They don't want to know that you're struggling, they don't want to know that you're having a mental breakdown. They don't want to know that you are in pain. 18 mins and 23 seconds: Living life with cancer Earlier before cancer, the way I used to usually socialize with my friends was over drinks or over a smoke or going out dancing or to a party. Almost all of them I'm not allowed to do. I can't drink because they tried to trigger my seizures. I can't smoke because, hello cancer. I can't go dancing because my skull hasn't healed from my surgery. I can't stay up late at night because it triggers my cancer and triggers my seizures. So how do you then re-enter this world that you were once a part of, and still live a life right? 30 mins and 3 seconds: About that moment post-treatment. It's kind of like you've you're like running really fast to get to this destination and then you realize the destination is actually a cliff and you're jumping off and you're like ‘oh god I am falling.' Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 14: Impact of sexual health, barriers in cancer care for the LGBTQ community and the evolving role of the oncologist-sherpa with Dr. Don Dizon. | 30 Oct 2022 | 00:31:43 | |
Key takeaways:
About Dr. Don Dizon: Don S. Dizon, MD, FACP, FASCO, is an oncologist who specializes in women's cancers. He is the director of women's cancers at Lifespan Cancer Institute and director of medical oncology at Rhode Island Hospital. He is also a professor of medicine at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. His research interests are in novel treatments of women’s cancers and issues related to survivorship, particularly as they relate to sexual health after cancer for both men and women. He is a prolific researcher and writer, and he has authored hundreds of publications, including peer-reviewed articles, books and book chapters. He is an active member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, SWOG cancer research network, and the National Consortium of Breast Cancers, of which he has served as both vice president and president. Key moments: 12 minutes 27 seconds That person may be more interested in symptom control, in which case they would find more affinity in a metastatic brain tumor group. But they also may want to see people that look like them, that are like them who are going through this experience because of the threats metastatic brain cancer has on people’s sexual health. 14 minutes 35 seconds It’s what makes cancer care so multifaceted today. There’s no one person who can really manage all the aspects of cancer care. By that, I mean whole-person cancer care. It really brings in the importance of having a team approach. 21 minutes 8 seconds There’s a relationship between medical oncologists and their patients that is very difficult to walk away from for a lot of people. It almost feels like severing a relationship and it’s quite an unsettling thing. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 13: Leveraging the power of social media for cancer awareness and support with survivor and influencer Jessica | 17 Oct 2022 | 00:37:15 | |
In this podcast, we cover -
Jessica Fisherman is the Founder of a Non-Profit called, Soulful Sunflower. Jessica was 34 when she was diagnosed with TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer). She was overwhelmed researching products that could have potential reactions due to chemotherapy. She began researching companies that made "good" products for cancer patients. She started getting products and giving them away for free to others. Soulful Sunflower provides products for free to the cancer community. They go directly to companies to make sure that their product is safe, but can not predict everyone’s allergies or sensitivities and do not take responsibility and accept no liabilities. This is a completely free box that is sent directly to people that have either been nominated by friends or family members or they nominate themselves through social media. Key Moments: At 18 minutes and 41 seconds: I have such little energy, and I need to focus that energy on the good parts (of life). At 25 minutes: It is okay to be vulnerable. People understand, even if they have never gone through..they give us the space to make mistakes. References: Jessica’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_soulfulsunflower_/?hl=en Soulful Sunflower: https://www.soulfulsunflowerinc.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 11: Advocating for yourself as an AYA cancer patient and paying it forward with Bay Area Young Survivors (BAYS) board member, Yvonne Tou | 03 Oct 2022 | 00:51:43 | |
Insights from this podcast episode:
Yvonne had been working in healthcare for over 9 years when she felt a tightness in her left chest. At first she thought it was from doing too many push ups or a pulled muscle. When she examined it closely, she discovered a lump. Yvonne waited 2 weeks to see her OB/Gyn. She ended up getting her first (of many) mammograms the day after Christmas, followed by a biopsy. She received the fated cancer call the Monday before New Year's Eve in 2019. Diagnosed at 37, Yvonne started treatment in 2020. She (along with the podcast host, Samira Daswani) experience the new healthcare environment with the introduction of Covid-19 to the world. Navigating cancer is one thing, navigating cancer during a pandemic is a whole other world. Both Yvonne and Samira share their experiences in this episode on what it was like to manage both C's -- Cancer & Covid. When face masks became the norm, and 6-feet apart the slogan, as an immunocompromised person, it was a terrifying time. Going to the hospital for appointments, treatments, and sadly, being admitted, had a whole new isolation to it. The healing promise became all the more challenging. Yvonne had amazing support from her family and close friends in spite of these social distancing protocols. Yvonne finished her last chemo infusion in July 2020 when she ventured into UCSF’s gift shop. There she saw a book with a title that made her smile under her hospital given mask. “Agony and Absurdity: Adventures in Cancer-land. Young Women and Breast Cancer An Anthology.” This is how Yvonne found BAYS. Yvonne has been a member of BAYS after her “active” treatment ended. She is currently on the committee for the 4th Anthology. Yvonne looks forward to helping the fellow members as BAYS has helped her with her survivorship journey. Key Moments: 11 minutes and 26 seconds: “I think the biggest learning from the tribe is self care and acknowledging that is it is okay to slow down and it is okay to not do the 5 million things you were doing before you were diagnosed with breast cancer.” 32 minutes and 41 seconds: “I would like to see a world in which patients and caregivers are comfortable in looking at their data, feel comfortable balancing risk vis-a-vis their quality of life, vis-a-vis their context of life “ 35 minutes and 43 seconds: “Not everyone can grasp the concept of clinical trial...if you understand what your options are, it is super helpful to feel that you are not just a thing in a petri dish for them to look at, you are more than that." Show Notes: Learn more about BAYS on their website: https://bayareayoungsurvivors.org/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 10: Understanding the Science, Symptoms and Community around Ovarian Cancer with Karen Young from the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition | 19 Sep 2022 | 00:35:50 | |
Key Takeaways: 1. Overview of ovarian cancer. 2. Karen’s journey and experience of building the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) and the power of the community 3. The science and symptoms of ovarian cancer; building awareness and education resources for women About Karen Young and the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition Karen Young has been working in the nonprofit sector for more than 35 years and has been the Midwest Regional Manager for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition for more than a decade. Located in Chicago, she oversees six states in the Midwest including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Ms. Young is passionate about the work she does with survivors. Ovarian cancer is one of the leading gynecologic cancers for women and is very often diagnosed in the latter stages. There is no early detection test for this cancer and the programs and services that the NOCC provides are crucial for that reason. She enjoys community collaboration to find the most meaningful partnerships to support her teal community. The Midwest region has quite an array of programs and services available to its survivors and serves over 700 women in the region. Ms. Young has a large corps of volunteers helping to execute programs and services in her area including free meals, free counseling, and financial assistance as well as educational programs and support groups. The chapter offers a variety of opportunities for survivors to meet each other and support one another especially through events like their annual Midwest Together in Teal walk to be held October 15th. Quotes At 2min and 10 seconds “Being one of her primary caregivers, and going through that experience, just really gravitated towards wanting to work with a cancer organization. And I knew nothing about ovarian cancer. But it was because of my mom that it interested me.” At 5min and 20 seconds “The pandemic pushed a lot of nonprofits, including us, you know, out of our comfort zone to reinvent ourselves to go virtual with everything and everything that we do. And the simple fact is, we were starting to identify some of the most basic needs.” At 14 mins and 07 seconds “In fact, the reason why the rate is so high for late stage diagnosis is because there is no reliable early detection test at all, hasn't been in years, they're still working on trying to find one. And even though there are tests that you can get if you suspect like let's say you have symptoms and you go and talk to your general doctor or even your gynecologist and you suspect that maybe you have ovarian cancer, there are some things that they can do to verify whether you do or not, but they are not reliable enough to become an early detection test that they would recommend for us annually every year.” At 23mins and 47 seconds “We talk about the trust and the relationship that we have with our medical professional, you know whether or not you can really feel comfortable that you're getting the best care and they are going to guide you and tell you what you need to know. And if it's really not important at this time, then don't bother me with those details. I can sleep better at night, if I don't know.” Resources An Animated Patient’s Guide to Ovarian Cancer - https://nocc.ovarian.org/animated-patient-guide Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Rebuilding Life After Cancer: Viktor Frankl, Resilience, and the “Power of AND” (Harriet Cabelly) | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:45:08 | |
Cancer survivorship isn’t about “going back to normal.” It’s about rebuilding—on purpose. In this episode of Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Harriet Cabelly, LCSW, a grief therapist and cancer thriver, for a grounded, surprisingly funny, deeply useful conversation on what happens during treatment and in the long tail of survivorship—including fear of recurrence (“scanxiety”), meaning-making, resilience, and the emotional support patients don’t get nearly enough of. Harriet shares the moment she was told she had a mass on multiple organs—and her first response: “Put me in hospice.” From there, we unpack how hope returned, why Viktor Frankl’s work matters in cancer care, and practical mindset tools that help patients and caregivers survive the day-to-day without spiraling into the “20-year forecast. If you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone you love, or treating patients clinically, this episode delivers real coping skills—without toxic positivity. Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 — “If you have to go through hell, don’t come out empty-handed” 01:09 — Harriet’s diagnosis: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (large B-cell) and the ER moment 02:45 — “Put me in hospice”: the shock + numbness after the scan 04:41 — How hope returned (faith, timing, and a “flipped verdict”) 07:44 — Why faith and religion can matter in the patient experience 09:03 — “Miracles” during treatment: staying ahead of nausea + the “Vomit Miracle” 11:25 — “Miracle of tolerance”: handling meds when you’ve always had a sensitive system 12:55 — Life before diagnosis: ballroom dancing, family, hiking, private practice 14:56 — Viktor Frankl + Man’s Search for Meaning: choosing attitude, choosing response 18:44 — Positive psychology: building strengths, not denying reality 19:50 — Resilience as a muscle (and how to train it) 20:33 — Gratitude, “WWW: What’s Working Well,” and the donut-hole metaphor 23:05 — The “Power of AND”: holding darkness + light at the same time 26:50 — Shrinking time: one hour, one day, one cycle at a time 29:59 — Fear of recurrence + “scanxiety”: what helps, what gets easier with time 33:51 — Rebuilding after cancer: nutrition, fasting windows, exercise, sugar reduction, circadian walks 35:35 — Mind-body connection + journaling (without pretending it’s all “in your head”) 37:13 — Rapid-fire advice: newly diagnosed, survivorship, long-term treatment, clinicians, pharma 43:10 — Favorite quotes + choosing to “make the best of what happens” 44:00 — Medical disclaimer About the Guest Harriet Cabelly, LCSW is a grief counselor, therapist, speaker, and author dedicated to helping people navigate loss, life transitions, and rebuilding meaning after trauma. A cancer thriver herself, Harriet blends clinical tools with lived experience to help patients and caregivers reclaim purpose, joy, and resilience. Book: Light Through Darkness: Miracles Along My Cancer Journey Referenced: Viktor Frankl — Man’s Search for Meaning Manta Cares: mantacares.com Subscribe to Patient From Hell for evidence-based cancer-care insight, survivorship tools, and the conversations patients wish they’d had sooner. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider. | |||
| Episode 9: Insights on using private capital to address cancer with Investor Mark Mendel | 05 Sep 2022 | 00:49:02 | |
In this podcast we cover: 1. Personal experience and reflections from being a caregiver 2. Understanding the survival early-stage oncology investing ecosystem 3. Emerging themes and trends in oncology innovation and patient care About our guest: Mark Mendel is the Managing Director of Mendel Consulting LLC. They advise fund managers and scientific and technical founders, and guide company-building and fundraising activities at multiple start-ups. Prior to this, he was a Venture Partner at Artio Medical and Director at Intellectual Ventures. Mark served as managing director of RiverVest Venture Partners, which he co-founded. Before RiverVest, Mark was a vice president with ARCH Venture Partners. During his four-year tenure there, he established the firm's New York City operations, co-led the seed financing at Optobionics and served as board observer at Optobionics and GenVec. He has also been a Kauffman Fellow. Mark holds PhD. in Bioengineering from University of Pennsylvania. Key Insights: At 9 minutes and 5 seconds I would say to the listeners, just substitute the person's judgement - the one who's struggling - and do what they want. Doesn't matter, whatever it is you think. At 24 minutes and 30 seconds But you can break that balkanization that there's your family, caregivers, people in your life previously who are caregivers. At 29 minutes and 32 seconds I think one of the rules that makes it a safe place for investment has been, that if you ultimately can develop a therapeutic benefit for patients, it's going to be a winner, and the details that don't matter very much. At 47 minutes at 50 seconds There's a lot of interest in seeing how to use nutrition to help with cancer therapy. There's hints of efficacy that are very promising. Now how you go from there to developing a therapy thing is a really important question that I find very interesting. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 8: Caring for caregivers with Senior Scholar at Stanford University’s Clinical Excellence Research Center Nirav Shah | 22 Aug 2022 | 00:36:50 | |
In this podcast we cover - 1. Nuances of understanding value-based care and the invisible care-giver economy 2. The importance of caring for caregivers 3. Insights on who the caregivers are and their experience with COVID Nirav R. Shah, MD, MPH, is Senior Scholar at Stanford University’s Clinical Excellence Research Center. He is a leader in patient safety and quality, innovation and digital health, and the strategies required to transition to lower-cost, patient-centered health care. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Dr. Shah is a graduate of Harvard College and Yale School of Medicine, and is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine. He serves as an independent director for STERIS plc, as trustee for The John A. Hartford Foundation, as Senior Fellow of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), and as a member of the HHS Secretary's Advisory Committee on National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Objectives for 2030. Previously, he served as senior vice president and Chief Operating Officer for clinical operations for Kaiser Permanente in Southern California, and as Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health. Quotes At 3mins 27 seconds “I learned from the AARP, the American Association of Retired Persons, that unpaid family caregivers are responsible for about $500 billion, that's Billion with a B, dollars of care every year that they're not paid for. So fully 2% 2.5% of our GDP in America is silent, it's invisible.” At 5mins 18 seconds For the last few decades in America, we've been talking about this thing called value based care. And what value based care means is that we're not going to be paying for things one at a time, we're going to be paying for improvement in outcomes and overall care. At 13mins 09 seconds I'm making a story about how important it is to move care into the home. Well, I think that's what we used to call house calls a few decades ago, right? It used to be normal that the doctor came to you in your home, and actually outside of America, that is still the norm in many other countries. So what we're finding is that we're reinventing and rediscovering what used to work, it made a lot of sense. At 16mins 22 seconds The research we've done at Stanford so far has shown that this cost and burden can last decades in terms of psychological impact, in terms of total cost of care in terms of your own health burdens, in terms of having heart attacks, in terms of dying young, as a caregiver, that kind of impact can be averted. And that's the lesson here is take care of yourself. So you can better take care of your loved one as well. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 7: Understanding Community, Collaboration and Caregiving with the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Translating Research Across Communities (TRAC) Paula Kim - PART II | 08 Aug 2022 | 00:18:53 | |
In this podcast, we cover - 1. Taking PanCan global and multicultural insights on cancer 2. The art of translating a movement into a sustainable organization 3. Importance of doing the hard and obvious things As the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Translating Research Across Communities (TRAC), Paula Kim brings more than 30 years of executive and entrepreneurial leadership in business and not-for-profit ventures. Paula is recognized on the grassroots, national, and international levels for her consumer-focused leadership and innovation in communication and outreach for business, healthcare and advocacy strategies. Paula Kim's commitment to advocacy, advancing research, and helping patients and families came from personal reasons – her dad’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 1998 and untimely death only seventy-five days later. Despite no prior experience in national advocacy, patient programs, or public policy, she jumped headfirst into a major transition from building homes to leading volunteers and building hope and programs for patients and researchers. In 1999, Paula co-founded the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) with Pam Acosta Marqhardt and Terry Lierman, the first national patient advocacy organisation for pancreatic cancer; and served as President, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer. In 2004, she resigned from the organisation and moved forward to establish Paula Kim, Inc-TRAC. Paula Kim’s vision and team-building style led PanCAN’s growth from a handful of online chat volunteers into a national resource for the pancreatic cancer research and patient communities, with pioneering programs for clinical trials matching, PALS-patient services, patient education symposia,survivor-caregiver networks, grassroots development, research mapping, and career development research grant funding. She also led PanCAN’s policy efforts, which yielded then, an unprecedented increase of over 350% in federal government investments in pancreatic cancer research. Quotes At 2 minutes Back in the early 2000s, I had a number of advocates from other countries that would reach out to me. And so I had a group of fabulous advocates from Japan, for example, that came over and shadowed me for days on end, and wanted to learn about building programs similar in their country. They wanted to learn about how to talk to policymakers. And so I created my consulting practice track translating research across communities, for that purpose to help globally. At 10 minutes “To an extent that's why I want to congratulate you on the Manta Planner, because on one level, it seems very basic and very simple. And you say, well, why has nobody done this before? For this, I have a theory that sometimes people just don't want to put in the effort that it takes to do something. At 18 minutes “There were so many people involved in the growth of pain in PanCan. Our very first staff members and the people that we hired, and the people who were willing to give their time and their resources to a little startup group that had no track record. And the many, many volunteers who poured their heart and soul into everything that we did.” References
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 6: Understanding Community, Collaboration and Caregiving with the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Translating Research Across Communities (TRAC) Paula Kim - PART I | 25 Jul 2022 | 00:42:13 | |
In this podcast we cover - 1. Learnings and insights from the early days of setting up PanCan 2. Art and science of community building 3. Nuances of interdisciplinary collaboration and personal learning and upskilling in the face of complexity As the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Translating Research Across Communities (TRAC), Paula Kim brings more than 30 years of executive and entrepreneurial leadership in business and not-for-profit ventures. Paula is recognized on the grassroots, national, and international levels for her consumer-focused leadership and innovation in communication and outreach for business, healthcare and advocacy strategies. Paula Kim's commitment to advocacy, advancing research, and helping patients and families came from personal reasons – her dad’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 1998 and untimely death only seventy-five days later. Despite no prior experience in national advocacy, patient programs, or public policy, she jumped headfirst into a major transition from building homes to leading volunteers and building hope and programs for patients and researchers. In 1999, Paula co-founded the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) with Pam Acosta Marqhardt and Terry Lierman, the first national patient advocacy organisation for pancreatic cancer; and served as President, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer. In 2004, she resigned from the organisation and moved forward to establish Paula Kim, Inc-TRAC. Paula Kim’s vision and team-building style led PanCAN’s growth from a handful of online chat volunteers into a national resource for the pancreatic cancer research and patient communities, with pioneering programs for clinical trials matching, PALS-patient services, patient education symposia,survivor-caregiver networks, grassroots development, research mapping, and career development research grant funding. She also led PanCAN’s policy efforts, which yielded then, an unprecedented increase of over 350% in federal government investments in pancreatic cancer research. Quotes 6 minutes “It was Pam and I, and some debt on our credit cards. And that's how we open the door. And then from that grew, many, many things. And I think most important were things such as bringing together a community of people who cared. Helping them establish a community and a voice. A voice that we then channelled into public policy to try and help policymakers and legislators understand the need for the disease, a community that we developed into volunteers that were all across the country that wanted to raise awareness in their own communities.” 17 minutes “So by building a community of caregivers and family members, we were able to raise our voice on Capitol Hill. A little bit like a Trojan horse, because we weren't as big perhaps, but we tried to make our voices loud. And then we joined together with other cancer advocacy groups and coalition's which again, was a different type of a community, right. 28 minutes “The reality is it was disproportionate because those other cancers that I named, had more advocacy and more people in Washington, DC knocking on the doors. And I said to NCI, whether we're here or not, it's your responsibility to take care of this population as all of them.” Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 5: Exploring the importance of guidelines for cancer treatment with the Executive Director of the NCCN Foundation Patrick K. Delaney | 11 Jul 2022 | 00:38:33 | |
In this podcast, we cover - 1. Insights on the evolution of medical science, public policy and funding for cancer care in the US 2. The importance supportive care, guidelines and resources, and the role of NCCN and the NCCN Foundation 3. Framework for understanding life-span and quality of life for patients and caregivers Patrick Delaney is the Executive Director of the NCCN Foundation. Pat joined the NCCN team in 2021 and is a well-rounded professional with over 30 years of experience in management, strategic planning, sales, change management, government relations, fundraising and constituent care. Quotes 4 minutes and 38 seconds “My brother was diagnosed with liver cancer and unfortunately it was a terminal diagnosis and we've since lost him. But it reminded me of my not only passion for, but my commitment to getting back into the cause, which just took me a while to get back here. So [I] started looking for my next opportunity specifically in the cancer space, and found the NCCN.” 11 minutes “Our focus with NCCN is to bring together some of the brightest and best in oncology care to develop our core product known as our NCCN clinical practice guidelines. And these are the guidelines for clinicians that give the, the, the best care recommendations based upon one's cancer diagnosis. What we do here at the foundation is philanthropic.” 15 minutes “If I may I'll use breast cancer as an example, there's one clinical practice guideline it's quite large for, for breast cancer. We've, adapted that into three breast cancer patient guidelines to bring it a little bit to your question, more focused for the, for the retrospective patient population. Um, and we just got funding, very excited. We're gonna have our first ever patient guideline for breast cancer screening coming out later this summer.” 20 minutes “In the cancer community from a research standpoint, we've created the NCCN foundation’s Young Investigator Rewards Program. These are two year grants to early career investigators within our NCCN member institutions. And again, our member institutions represent 32 of the top academic centers across the US.” 26 minutes “Just looking at the quality of life from date of diagnosis, uh, through end of life, whether it was cancer related death or not in my own family members has been phenomenal just looking at, you know, my, my dad was diagnosed in 1998 with, with lung cancer and just watching the quality of his life. Uh, he made, he survived almost six years post-surgery um, versus several years after that with my mom had her stomach cancer versus several years after that with my sister, with her breast cancer, just quality of life addressing the treatment options, the nausea and vomiting impact of the various, you know, treatment object. It's just nice to see such attention.” References
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 4: Is fighting cancer like playing chess? with Samira and Raghav | 27 Jun 2022 | 00:24:13 | |
In this podcast, we discuss - 1. Is a chess analogy really appropriate for cancer 2. Pros and cons of thinking of cancer in the form of infinite games 3. Nurturing ambiguity and taking high stake decisions Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Epidsode 3: The art and science of making cancer treatment decision(s) with Samira Daswani | 13 Jun 2022 | 00:42:36 | |
In this podcast, you will learn about - 1. Are metaphors like “infinite games” valid for approaching cancer care? 2. How to develop your strategy when everything seems uncertain and unclear 3. The importance of rethinking assumptions Show notes:
Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 2: Understanding the Cancer Caregiver Ecosystem with Samira and Raghav | 23 May 2022 | 00:49:02 | |
In this episode, you’ll hear about - 1. What does the caregiver ecosystem really mean 2. Second order effects of being diagnosed with cancer 3. Exploring different strategies to grapple with the crisis Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Episode 1: Being Diagnosed with Cancer - Reflections by Samira Daswani | 26 Apr 2022 | 00:38:39 | |
Meet Samira, founder of Manta Cares and here about her breast cancer story. In this episode you will learn - 1. Emotional, psychological and financial cost of being diagnosed with cancer 2. Principles of building a community of cancer survivors and caregivers 3. Processing suffering and becoming anti-fragile Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Exercise Is Cancer Side-Effect Medicine (Backed by New Survival Data) | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:44:46 | |
Exercise isn’t just “nice to have” during cancer, it can function like treatment for the side effects: fatigue, muscle loss (sarcopenia), joint pain, neuropathy, weakness, and even lymphedema risk reduction. In this episode of Patient from Hell, host + cancer survivor Samira Daswani sits down with Sami (exercise + cancer specialist focused on implementation) to break down what the research is finally confirming and what patients can do today, even with low energy, limited time, or zero equipment.We also unpack the headline-grabbing findings from the CHALLENGE Trial in colorectal cancer: a structured, coached exercise program was associated with a 28% lower risk of recurrence or new primary cancer and raises the bigger question: why isn’t exercise prescribed like medicine? Key takeaways you’ll learn: - Why strength training is the #1 lever for cancer-related fatigue + muscle loss - How to reduce joint pain (including hormone-therapy related joint pain)Simple “wake the nerves up” tactics for neuropathy- Lymphedema: prevention vs management + why early assessment matters - Chemo brain: why “automation” (classes + follow-alongs) can be the hack - The starter protocol: 10–15 minutes, every other day Chapter Codes 00:00 Exercise as “treatment” for cancer side effects (fatigue, sarcopenia, function) 00:30 Meet Sami: implementation theory (how she got into exercise + cancer) 02:37 “How I f***ed up into this” — origin story + early patient experiences 05:20 The headline research: what the CHALLENGE Trial showed 07:19 The big number: 28% lower recurrence/new primary (structured group) 08:40 Trial design: education vs coached/supervised exercise 11:03 Symptom playbook begins: what exercise helps most 11:35 Fatigue: why strength training rebuilds your “engine” 14:09 What counts as strength training (real-world examples) 15:46 Joint pain: lubrication, range of motion, yoga/Tai Chi basics 17:22 Hormone therapy joint pain: why feet + shoulders show up big 20:06 Plantar fasciitis: barefoot time + ball rolling + lifestyle traps 21:47 Neuropathy: “wake the nerves up” + balance + sensation tools 24:29 Lymphedema: prevention vs management + catch it early 28:04 Weakness: mitochondria, estradiol, and fast-twitch strength loss 30:34 Chemo brain: automate workouts so you don’t have to think 33:59 Safety fear: “If chemo didn’t kill you, a squat won’t” (starting smart) 38:33 Where to start: 10–15 minutes every other day 40:17 Two starter moves: sit-to-stands + countertop pushups 41:14 Just diagnosed? Keep routine—lower intensity + prioritize strength 42:25 Wrap + the bigger message: independence, quality of life, green light About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed—or too afraid—to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. Subscribe for episodes that blend science, compassion, and clarity—without the medical jargon. Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| Cancer's Impact on Intimacy: A Doctor Explains | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:38:10 | |
Up to 90% of breast cancer survivors experience sexual health changes, yet almost no one is talking about it. Today on Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Dr. Laila Agrawal, a leading clinician in oncology sexual health, to break the silence around libido loss, vaginal dryness, pain, body-image shifts, dating after cancer, orgasm changes, pelvic floor dysfunction, and how treatment impacts intimacy. This episode answers the questions patients wish they could ask, but rarely get time for in an oncology appointment. If you've ever wondered: “Is sex safe during treatment?” “Will my desire ever come back?” “Should I use vaginal estrogen?” “What’s normal to feel?” — you’re in the right place. Sexual health concerns in breast cancer are common, treatable, and deeply misunderstood. Dr. Agrawal explains: - Why oncologists often avoid sexual health conversations - The real reason libido drops during and after treatment - The truth about vaginal estrogen and hormone-positive breast cancer - How to talk to a partner when desire shifts - How single women can navigate dating after cancer 🧠 Guest: Dr. Laila Agrawal is a nationally recognized expert in sexual health for oncology patients. She specializes in survivorship care, menopausal symptoms, pelvic health, pain management, and evidence-based approaches to sexual wellness throughout cancer treatment. She is passionate about removing stigma and giving patients the tools, language, and confidence to advocate for their sexual well-being. Chapter Codes 00:00 – Why sexual health is overlooked in oncology 01:45 – How many breast cancer patients struggle with sexual health 03:15 – Why oncologists avoid the sex conversation 05:02 – Biggest myths about sex during/after treatment 06:07 – Low libido: what’s actually happening 08:20 – Responsive desire vs spontaneous desire 09:50 – Vaginal dryness: causes, range, and treatment 12:34 – Moisturizers, hyaluronic acid & home remedies 13:45 – Vaginal estrogen: safety, controversy & guidelines 15:41 – Menopause, hormone shifts & severity of symptoms 17:30 – Pain during intercourse & pelvic floor dysfunction 19:27 – What to do if your cancer center lacks specialists 20:58 – Body image & sexuality after mastectomy 22:57 – Body image vs desire — how they interact 24:42 – When to see a sex therapist vs medical provider 26:29 – Partner communication and relationship impacts 28:10 – How to set boundaries without losing intimacy 29:55 – Dating during or after treatment 31:19 – How treatment affects ability to orgasm 33:28 – Is sexual recovery tied to treatment timing? 34:58 – Should you feel guilty for wanting sex after cancer? 35:40 – Myth busting: sugar, condoms, recurrence risk & more 36:37 – Is sex safe with a chemo port? 37:10 – Best sexual health resources for cancer survivors About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed, or too afraid, to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. Subscribe for episodes that blend science, compassion, and clarity without the medical jargon. 🔔 Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com | |||
| Why Your Mammogram Might Be Lying to You: Leslie Ferris Yerger’s Fight | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:40:53 | |
We're joined by women’s health advocate and author Leslie Ferris Yerger, founder & CEO of My Density Matters. Diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer just two months after a “clear” mammogram and ultrasound, Leslie uncovers how dense breast tissue can hide cancer, why current screening standards fail many women, and what you can do to protect yourself.Leslie’s mission: make sure her story doesn’t become someone else’s. Her nonprofit empowers women to check their breast density, ask the right questions, and push for additional screening when needed. ✅ Listen to learn: What breast density is — and why it matters How dense tissue affects mammogram accuracy When to ask for MRI or advanced imaging Patient advocacy: how and when to push your doctor Real steps you can take today Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & background 01:17 – Clear mammogram → diagnosis journey 05:13 – Why dense breast tissue matters 12:58 – Understanding density categories & reports 18:47 – What to ask your doctor next 22:15 – Insurance, screening access & advocacy 26:54 – Leslie’s takeaways & how to take action Guest Bio: Leslie Ferris Yerger is a Tedx speaker, author of Probably Benign, and a women’s advocate with a laser focused mission. Leslie was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer in November 2017 after an ‘all clear’ mammogram and ultrasound, experiencing firsthand the failings of our current breast cancer screening standards. As Founder and CEO of the not-for-profit My Density Matters, Leslie is determined to empower women to find out their breast density, learn their options, and advocate for themselves to get the additional breast cancer screening they need, so that her story doesn’t become their story. Leslie lives in Hawthorn Woods, IL with her husband John. She has 3 grown children: Evan, Julia, and Megan. Resources: My Density Matters → https://mydensitymatters.org/Purchase her book “Probably Benign” → https://probablybenign.com/ Trigger warning: This episode covers breast cancer and screening challenges. If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe, and share this with the women in your life. Your next mammogram might just end up different. #BreastCancer #BreastDensity #WomenHealth #PatientAdvocacy #ScreeningFailure Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Breast Cancer | Surgeon Dr. Liz O'Riordan | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:46:32 | |
Dr. Liz O’Riordan — a former breast surgeon turned patient, author and speaker — about what really happens behind the scenes of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. We unpack the full spectrum: from surgery to recurrence, from myths to survival, and the long-term “new” life that follows. Dr O’Riordan brings the rare perspective of having been the doctor and the patient. If you or someone you know is navigating this journey, this conversation provides insight, clarity and hope. Guest Links • Website: http://liz.oriordan.co.uk •Podcast “So Now I’ve Got Breast Cancer” Book: Under The Knife, The Cancer Roadmap, The Complete Guide to Cancer, and more ⏱ Chapter Codes 00:00 – Introduction: Turning surgeon into survivor 02:12 – Why she chose breast surgery & what it taught her 04:17 – My diagnosis: stage 3, mastectomy, radiotherapy & hormone blockers 07:28 – Life after treatment: coping, identity loss & “new” normal 10:53 – Side-effects deep dive: chemo brain, fatigue, mental health 14:39 – Sexual health, body image & life after breast cancer 20:19 – Bone health, exercise & recurrence risk 24:53 – Shared decision making: lumpectomy vs mastectomy 32:37 – Diet myths, sugar & cancer: evidence-based truth 35:10 – Fasting, alternative medicine & what the research really says 42:57 – Life after cancer: “It’s not normal—it’s new” 44:47 – What matters now: strength, confidence & joy 📌 Why You Should WatchDr O’Riordan breaks down complex medical topics into relatable, actionable insights — from fatigue to sexuality, from diet myths to bone health, and from fear of recurrence to finding joy again. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about the patient experience — this episode offers clarity, authenticity and real talk. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Janice Cowden's Metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer Story | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:53:43 | |
Janice Cowden, retired nurse and patient advocate, shares her remarkable triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) story. Five years following successful treatment for stage one breast cancer in 2011, Janice was diagnosed with a stage 4 metastatic TNBC recurrence. As of today she has 8 years of no evidence of disease (NED) under her belt. She shares how she stumbled upon the cancer community that inspired her to become the advocate she is today and the uncertainty that comes with NED. She also shares how she copes with losing friends in the cancer community through her patient advocacy work. We also have a rapid fire Q&A where she answers questions surrounding various medical terminologies, diagnoses, and more to keep you in the loop. NOTE: There is one clarification from the rapid fire Q&A session. The definition of disease free survival (DFS) is the time from random assignment (used in clinical trials and research studies to assign participants to different groups) to cancer recurrence or death from any cause (Gutman SI, Piper M, Grant MD, et al. 2013).Key Highlights:1. Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is stage four breast cancer that has spread to distant sites in the body.2. Finding events and communities centered around cancer not only supports cancer patients emotionally and socially, but can also serve as informational hubs. Being proactive in learning about your diagnosis, whether it’s through community and/or research on your own time, can help you feel confident with the choices you make. 3. While finding a community of other cancer patients can help, unfortunately this disease means that you will lose friends you make in these settings. It doesn’t necessarily get easier, but finding an outlet to cope with such losses is vital to your wellbeing.About our guest:Diagnosed with Stage IV triple negative breast cancer in 2016, five years after an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis, Janice launched into patient advocacy following training through Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s (LBBC) Hear My Voice Outreach program in 2017. As a peer-to-peer support and research patient advocate, Janice is passionate about supporting others with metastatic breast cancer, in addition to continually furthering her scientific knowledge base of this disease, treatments, and clinical trials, which she acquires through attending scientific breast cancer conferences and webinars. Janice is involved with several patient-founded and led organizations including PCDI, GRASP, and Project Life MBC. As a trained peer support volunteer, she is founder of an international online peer support group for patients newly diagnosed with MBC. She serves on the Board of Directors for METAvivor Research and Support Inc., and is an Advisory Board member for Project Life MBC. She is an individual member of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance. When she’s not busy with advocacy work, Janice enjoys traveling, reading, outdoor activities, and spending time with family, including her husband, two adult children and three grandchildren.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. | |||
| My Secret Battle With Breast Cancer | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:24:43 | |
Author and motivational speaker Susan Svoboda shares her raw, scientific, and deeply personal journey through breast-cancer diagnosis and recovery. Discover what she learned about modern cancer science, the hidden truths about lymph-node surgery, and why self-advocacy might be the most powerful form of medicine. 00:00 — Why she told no one about her breast cancer 01:30 — The story behind “I Hate the Color Pink” 02:45 — The mammogram that changed everything 04:20 — How her husband handled the diagnosis 06:00 — Finding the right surgeon through one bold question 07:45 — A tough conversation about body image and loss 10:00 — Running as a path to healing 13:00 — Post-surgery recovery and rebuilding strength 14:50 — What science says about lymph nodes and lymphedema 16:30 — How journaling became a lifeline during treatment 18:30 — Writing as therapy and empowerment 19:35 — Becoming your own best health advocate 21:10 — Her top advice for patients and caregivers 22:15 — Was she the “patient from hell”? 23:00 — The biggest lesson: learning to let go 23:50 — Finding purpose and helping others through her book 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| 10 Years as a Cancer Caregiver: The Hard Truths Nobody Tells You | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:38:13 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira engages with Charlotte Bayala, a caregiver who shares her journey through the challenges of supporting a loved one with cancer. The conversation explores the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving, the lack of agency often felt by caregivers, and the importance of self-care amidst the demands of the role. Charlotte reflects on her experiences, the lessons learned, and the strategies she developed to navigate the complexities of caregiving while maintaining her own well-being. Chapter Codes 00:00 Introduction to Caregiving and Its Impact 05:37 The Shift: Diagnosis and Role of Caregiver 10:30 Agency in Caregiving: The Unasked Role 14:15 Survival Mode: Caregiver's Protective Instincts 18:19 The Caregiver's Learning Curve 25:44 Trial and Error: Navigating the Caregiving Journey 32:24 Rapid Fire: Insights and Reflections Takeaways Caregiving often comes without a clear role definition. The transition to caregiver can be overwhelming and unexpected. Mindfulness practices from yoga can help caregivers stay present.Caregivers often operate in survival mode, balancing protection and care. Agency in caregiving is often unacknowledged, leading to stress. The caregiver's role is strategic, requiring foresight and planning. Caregivers need to prioritize their own health and well-being. Trial and error is a significant part of the caregiving journey. Communication with healthcare providers is crucial for effective care. Caregivers should be recognized as integral members of the care team. Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| The Truth About Health Insurance: TedX Speaker Neal Shah on Caregiving, AI & Beating the System | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:45:15 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with Neal K. Shah — TEDx speaker, former hedge fund manager, and now social entrepreneur reshaping the caregiving economy. After building a multi-billion-dollar hedge fund in his 20s, Neal’s life changed dramatically when cancer struck his wife. As her primary caregiver, he experienced firsthand the crushing financial toxicity, social isolation, and emotional toll caregivers face. Today, Neal runs social enterprises tackling the caregiving crisis, has authored Insured to Death, and is exposing how AI is being weaponized by insurance companies to deny life-saving care. This conversation covers: The untold burden on family caregivers Why health insurance often fails in catastrophic illness How financial toxicity devastates households The rise of AI-driven claim denials Neal’s mission to “arm the resistance” with AI tools for patients If you’ve ever wondered why healthcare feels broken — or how we can fix it — this episode will leave you informed and inspired. 🧑💼 Guest Bio Neal K. Shah is a TEDx speaker, investor-turned-social entrepreneur, and caregiver advocate. Formerly a hedge fund partner by his late 20s, Neal left finance after his wife’s cancer battle to focus on fixing the broken caregiving system. He is the founder of multiple social enterprises, a national leader in the caregiving movement, and author of Insured to Death: How Health Insurance Screws Over Americans and How We Take It Back. ⏱️ Chapter Timecodes 00:00 – Introduction & Neal’s background 02:00 – From hedge funds to caregiving 05:00 – The hidden burden on family caregivers 08:00 – Why caregiving is isolating and overlooked 10:20 – ICU, coma, and decision-making as caregiver 14:00 – How caregiving changes your personality 16:20 – The financial toxicity of illness 19:00 – Writing Insured to Death 23:30 – Weaponization of AI by insurers 28:40 – Medical bankruptcy and broken insurance 31:15 – Singapore vs. U.S. healthcare models 34:30 – Positive uses of AI for patient advocacy 37:30 – Rapid fire: rights, myths, and advice 44:00 – Closing thoughts Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Outperforming Cancer: Stacking Evidence-Based Strategies on Top of Standard Care | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:37:48 | |
When Marybeth Gilliam was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, she did what her years as a healthcare researcher had trained her to do: she went looking for the evidence. What she found was a gap between a growing body of peer-reviewed research pointing to strategies that can improve outcomes, and the fact that most of it never reached patients because it hadn't yet become standard of care.In this episode of Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Marybeth, founder of Outperform Cancer, to talk about how she is working to close that gap. She translates overlooked, peer-reviewed findings into steps patients can actually take, always paired with standard treatment rather than in place of it. Exercise, nutrition, and sleep are part of it, and so is asking sharper questions about biomarker testing, weighing well-supported off-label options, and refusing to take no for an answer when the data is strong.She shares her own story, the research that reshaped her thinking, and a practical case for taking an active role in your care when the first treatment decisions matter most.In this episode:Why she founded Outperform Cancer to close the gap between research and the clinicHow she pairs evidence-based strategies with standard treatment, not instead of itBiomarker testing and advocating for off-label options backed by solid trials (PATINA, MA.32)What being your own advocate actually looks like in the exam roomThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The opinions of the speakers are their own. CHAPTERS 00:00 The overlooked risk factor after childbirth 00:39 Meet Marybeth Gilliam 00:53 Why she founded Outperform Cancer 02:15 The cancer care information gap 02:20 The exercise discovery that changed everything 04:14 Her metastatic breast cancer diagnosis 06:11 Looking back at her 2007 Stage 0 diagnosis 07:16 Postpartum breast cancer and recurrence risk10:36 Building an anti-cancer strategy 13:58 From metastatic diagnosis to NED 15:48 Exercise, sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle changes18:24 Creating an anti-cancer environment20:03 The PATINA trial explained 23:24 Accessing promising therapies before standard of care 25:46 How patients can advocate for themselves 27:51 The 15-year research-to-practice gap 28:45 Precision medicine and biomarker testing 30:42 The ATM gene and metformin research 32:08 Stacking interventions: what does the evidence say? 33:08 Balancing risk, reward, and patient choice 35:24 Lessons from cancer innovators and patient-led research 37:00 Final thoughts and takeaways Follow Patient From Hell for more conversations on cancer, survivorship, patient advocacy, research breakthroughs, and navigating healthcare with confidence. Understanding postpartum breast cancer risks is critical. Learn why a diagnosis within 10 years of childbirth changes prognosis. Many patients do not realize that postpartum breast cancer is defined as a diagnosis within 10 years of having children. This video explains the medical reasoning behind why these patients face a significantly higher likelihood of recurrence compared to other groups. We specifically look at the data showing that even stage one patients are three times more prone to metastasis during this specific window. | |||
| How to Process Grief: Tools for Cancer Patients, Caregivers & Clinicians | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:38:29 | |
Grief is not one-size-fits-all. In this episode of The Patient From Hell, grief coach Holly Gainsboro breaks down anticipatory grief after a cancer diagnosis (incl. glioblastoma/GBM), the harm of “be strong,” and simple daily practices that actually help patients, caregivers, and clinicians. We cover how to talk to kids after diagnosis, caregiver exhaustion, why grief isn’t linear, and what to ask when seeking a therapist with real grief training. About Our Guest: Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a Grief Coach/Support Specialist & Grief Educator. Holly’s late husband, Steven, died in December 2010, from glioblastoma. Holly began her work in the grief field more than a decade ago, earning her first certification as a Grief Recovery Specialist. She continued her studies and received her certification as a Grief Educator with world renowned grief expert, David Kessler, as well as being certified as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. Holly believes that learning never stops and recently completed another training and certification as a Grief & Loss Provider with Claire Bidwell Smith. Holly recognizes that grievers don’t need to be fixed, they need to be heard, seen, and supported. Holly’s passion/purpose is to be present for those who have experienced losses by guiding them through the feelings of grief and leading them to a place of peace and hope while honoring their relationships/experiences. Holly says," I normalize grief and invite growth and learning throughout the journey using a heart centered, and holistic approach.” Holly works 1:1 with women who have lost a loved one to a brain tumor or are caring for a loved one diagnosed with a brain tumor, facilitates grief support groups, and leads grief education workshops for various organizations. She is the co-host of the podcast Creating Space for Grief & Hope. What you’ll learn:What anticipatory grief is (and why it’s not just anticipating death)How to support a spouse/partner & children after a GBM diagnosisThe difference between platitudes and evidence-informed supportPractical tools: movement, journaling, nature, hydration, restWhy feeling your feelings = real strength Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.
All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Tags: grief, anticipatory grief, glioblastoma, GBM, brain tumor, cancer caregiving, caregiver support, oncology, oncology support, patient advocacy, grief coach, grief educator, grief myths, grief practices, palliative care, bereavement, grief tools, cancer diagnosis, mental health in medicine, The Patient From Hell, Manta Cares | |||
| Navigating Cancer, Insurance & the Healthcare System: What Every Patient Should Know | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:42:39 | |
Samira is joined by legal expert, patient advocate, and author Rebecca — a powerhouse voice in the cancer and healthcare world. Rebecca shares her unique journey from big law to breast cancer advocacy, and offers practical, game-changing advice for patients navigating diagnosis, treatment, insurance, and employment. Whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand your rights, this conversation is a masterclass in layered patient advocacy. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. About Our Guest: Rebecca Bloom is a Yale College and New York University School of Law educated patient and workplace advocate. A former workplace and benefits attorney, Rebecca’s longest and proudest affiliation is with Bay Area Cancer Connections, where she has served as a patient advocate and healthcare, insurance and workplace advisor for women fighting breast and ovarian cancer for 25 years. Rebecca was a contributing writer and editor for Breast Cancer in the Workplace, published by the Northern California Cancer Center in the early 2000s. The book has recently been updated, expanded and reissued by the Cancer Prevention Institute of California and is now titled Working with Cancer.Rebecca serves as a listener, learner, supporter and advocate for the clients of Bay Area Cancer Connections, primarily one at a time but also in groups that she’s led and conferences where she’s presented. When she worked as a lawyer, her clients were companies, and she brings that perspective to her interactions with BACC clients and other people on whose behalf she advocates. Her knowledge of the complex rules that employers, insurers and medical providers follow, as well as the dynamics and incentives that exist between stakeholders helps her give the women she supports a constructive and comprehensive foundation so that they can integrate all available information with comfort and confidence and focus on recovery and wellness. Rebecca is also a professional storytelling coach, helping her clients get their stories told and shared.⏱️ CHAPTERS / TIMECODES 00:00 – Cancer Bills, Greed & the Broken System 01:00 – Meet Rebecca: Legal Ninja-Turned-Advocate 03:50 – What Changed in 26 Years of Oncology Work 06:45 – Why the Maze Is More Complex Today 09:50 – The Rise of the Medical Industrial Complex 11:40 – How Tech Complicates Cancer Care 13:00 – The Story Behind Her New Book 16:00 – Advocacy Success Story: Karen’s Journey 20:00 – How to Talk to Insurers & Employers (Magic Words) 23:30 – Legal Advice: Your Benefits Are Yours — Take Them 26:00 – Drafting Your Support Team (Like a Startup CEO) 28:40 – The Hidden Risk of Insurance Plan Changes 31:15 – Rapid Fire: Insurance, FMLA, Disability, COBRA Explained 38:55 – Other Hidden Workplace Benefits Most Patients Miss 40:35 – If You Could Fix One Thing About Healthcare... 41:30 – What Being a "Patient from Hell" Really Means 42:00 – Closing Thoughts and One Thing to Remember Takeaways: Rebecca Bloom's diverse background includes law, advocacy, and storytelling. Stories of hope can empower patients and provide valuable insights. Understanding your rights as a patient is essential for effective advocacy. Insurance complexities can create barriers to care that patients must navigate. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| When Cancer Hits Your Family: Navigating Grief and Taking Action | Chris Schuler Part 2 | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:48:49 | |
Samira and guest Chris Schuler delve into the emotional and practical challenges faced during the cancer diagnosis and treatment process. Chris shares his personal experiences as a caregiver for his father diagnosed with glioblastoma, highlighting the confusion and fear that accompany such news. The conversation explores the importance of understanding treatment options, the role of family in caregiving, and the complex emotions of grief that arise during this journey. Chris emphasizes the need for clear communication and advocacy in healthcare, as well as the disconnect between the information provided and the emotional realities faced by families. About our Guest: Chris is a staunch brain cancer awareness advocate. He was the primary caregiver to his late Dad, Donald Schuler, who was diagnosed with GBM in July 2021. He works closely with organizations across the globe, amplifying their critical work and building key relationships to further improve outcomes for patients. His career has spanned almost two decades through philanthropic roles in a variety of industries including non-profit, public and private higher education, and healthcare. He's currently working with Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, an Australian non-profit dedicated to improving outcomes in brain cancer. He's a Venture Partner with Varia Ventures, working to raise awareness for emerging venture funds dedicated to uncovering and funding innovative discoveries to improve brain health. He also works closely with SageMedic, a precision oncology start-up supporting patients looking for the most effective treatment for cancer. Takeaways Chris felt a sense of responsibility to support his parents after the diagnosis. The emotional impact of a terminal diagnosis can be overwhelming. Understanding treatment options is crucial for caregivers. Grief can manifest differently in family members during a health crisis. Clear communication from healthcare providers is essential. Many caregivers feel lost in the healthcare system. The binder provided by the hospital was not helpful for Chris or his mom. Caregiving involves navigating complex emotions and responsibilities. Patients and families need to advocate for themselves in medical settings. The experience of receiving a terminal diagnosis is traumatic and disorienting. The feeling of helplessness is a common struggle for caregivers. Chris's mother chose not to Google her husband's condition, living in the moment instead. Chris believes there are hidden joys in caregiving, despite the challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Caregiving 02:54 Navigating the Diagnosis Process 05:54 The Emotional Impact of a Terminal Diagnosis 08:50 Understanding Treatment Options and Next Steps 11:53 The Role of Family in Caregiving 15:07 Grief and Its Manifestations in Caregiving 17:56 The Disconnect Between Information and Understanding 25:00 Navigating Cancer: A Personal Journey 31:48 The Search for Answers: Clinical Trials and Second Opinions 39:51 The Emotional Toll: Grief, Faith, and Resilience 46:49 The Caregiver's Perspective: Finding Joy Amidst Sorrow Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.
All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Why Cancer Patients Need Strength Training: The Untold Benefits of Movement in Recovery | 25 Jun 2025 | 00:44:21 | |
Vicki McGrath, an exercise physiologist specializing in breast cancer recovery. They discuss Vicki's journey into creating exercise programs for breast cancer patients, the importance of movement and setting achievable goals during recovery, and personal stories of patients who have benefited from her programs. The conversation also covers the challenges of lymphedema, advice for newly diagnosed and metastatic patients, and the significance of functional fitness in enhancing quality of life post-treatment. About Our Guest: Vicki McGrath's career is a testament to her dedication to both fitness and cancer care, as well as her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by health challenges. With over 30 years of experience in fitness and wellness, Vicki has developed a deep expertise that spans a variety of populations, from individuals with special health needs to those recovering from cancer. Her extensive qualifications, including certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine (Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer, Health Fitness Director, Exercise Physiologist, and Exercise is Medicine) and her specialization in cancer exercise, position her as a highly skilled professional in the wellness community. In 2024, Vicki's passion for cancer advocacy deepened when she joined the Board of Directors at Bay Area Cancer Connections, solidifying her leadership in the cancer support community. Her recent graduation from the Project Lead Institute through the National Breast Cancer Coalition further highlights her commitment to health promotion and cancer advocacy. This combination of experience and education allows Vicki to make a lasting impact, advocating for both cancer prevention and support while empowering individuals through her work and leadership. Vicki's dedication to bridging fitness and cancer care continues to make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals, demonstrating her as both a health expert and a passionate advocate for cancer support and prevention. Takeaways: Vicki McGrath transitioned from personal training to focus on wellness for breast cancer patients. She created exercise programs due to a lack of resources for athletes recovering from breast cancer. The program has helped over 215 women since its inception in 2011. Personal stories highlight the emotional and physical impact of exercise on recovery. Setting realistic goals is crucial for patients at different stages of treatment. Functional fitness focuses on flexibility, strength, and balance for daily activities. Movement is essential for improving energy levels during treatment. Lymphedema management includes breathing techniques and gentle exercises. Post-treatment exercise is vital for maintaining lean body mass and overall health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:08 The Journey into Breast Cancer Exercise Programs 06:09 Impact on Patients: Personal Stories 08:55 Setting Goals in Recovery11:57 Functional Fitness Explained 14:57 The Importance of Movement and Exercise 17:48 Navigating Post-Treatment Fitness20:58 Lymphedema: Understanding and Management 23:50 Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients 27:07 Advice for Metastatic Patients 30:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Healing Through Community & Prayer: A Cancer Survivor’s Story | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:19:31 | |
Alyssa Wachley shares her journey as a stage three breast cancer survivor and the founder of Warriors That Pray, a jewelry line that supports cancer warriors. She discusses the emotional and spiritual challenges faced during her diagnosis, the importance of community and prayer, and how her faith evolved through adversity. Alyssa emphasizes the significance of connection and support for those battling cancer, and shares inspiring stories of how her organization has made a difference in people's lives. Warriors That Pray website: https://www.warriorsthatpray.com/ Warriors That Pray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorsthatpray/ About Our Guest:Alyssa Wakeley | Founder of Warriors That PrayAlyssa Wakeley, with a heart for serving others, founded Warriors That Pray on the belief that every person is uniquely created with a purpose to fulfill. As a wife, mother, and devoted dog-lover, she strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her, offering encouragement and hope to those facing difficult times. In 2020, at just 27 years old, Alyssa was diagnosed with breast cancer—a life-altering moment that could have defined her. Instead, she chose to walk through the journey with unwavering faith and a positive spirit. Refusing to let cancer steal her joy, she became a source of strength and inspiration to those around her, from family and friends to her medical team. Her resilience and deep-rooted faith carried her through the toughest moments, reminding her that she was never alone. Now cancer-free, Alyssa is living life to the fullest and using her experience to uplift others. Out of her journey, Warriors That Pray was born—a movement designed to encourage and support those navigating their own battles. Through prayer bracelets, she offers a tangible reminder that even in the valley, God is with you… and PRAYER CHANGES THINGS. Alyssa’s mission is clear: to spread hope, faith, and love, reminding others that no matter the challenge, they are seen, valued, and never alone. Through WTP, she continues to make a lasting impact, trusting in God's plan and using her story to bring light to those in need. Takeaways: You're allowed to feel that way when diagnosed with cancer. Community support was crucial during Alyssa's treatment. Warriors That Pray was founded to give back to cancer warriors. Jewelry serves as a tangible reminder of support and encouragement. Prayer played a significant role in Alyssa's healing journey. Everyone's faith journey is unique and valid. It's important to advocate for yourself in medical settings. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Connection is vital for those going through tough times. Alyssa's organization aims to bless others and foster community. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Faith and Cancer Diagnosis 03:04 The Birth of Warriors That Pray 05:55 The Role of Prayer in Healing 08:59 Personal Growth Through Adversity 11:59 Creating Community and Connection 15:03 Rapid Fire Insights and Advice Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Tags: faith, cancer, prayer, community, support, healing, Warriors That Pray, personal growth, adversity, connection | |||
| 3-Time Cancer Survivor Valerie David on Empowerment, Advocacy & The Pink Hulk | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:50:28 | |
Valerie David, also known as The Pink Hulk, is a three-time cancer survivor (non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, stage 2 breast cancer, and stage 4 metastatic breast cancer) who turned her journey of resilience into an award-winning one-woman show. Through humor, raw honesty, and advocacy, she inspires audiences worldwide—proving that even cancer won’t stop her from taking center stage. Check out Valerie’s show, The Pink Hulk here: https://pinkhulkplay.com Key Highlights: - Valerie trusted her inner voice when symptoms appeared, even when doctors initially dismissed them. If you are able to get second opinions, advocate for yourself, and listen to your gut, you’ll find this to be useful in other parts of your own life. - Balancing intuition with fear over symptoms can be tricky, but Valerie advises: don’t panic over nothing, don’t choose to live in fear. Instead, stay proactive by communicating with your care team about any arising symptoms. About our guest: Valerie David is an actor, playwright, writer and editor. Her greatest accomplishment in life is being a three-time cancer survivor. She was diagnosed and treated for Stage III Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1999, Stage II Breast Cancer in 2014 and 2015, and Stage IV Breast Cancer in 2018. As of April 2019, she has beaten cancer again! Valerie reactivated her superhero within, and exactly 5 months after receiving hormone treatment only in pill form–no surgery, no radiation, no chemotherapy, Valerie no longer has active disease. She has since kept up a full schedule of performances–nothing has stopped her. Valerie’s inspirational solo show, The Pink Hulk, has been accepted into almost 50 different play festivals worldwide since its 2016 debut, won multiple awards and has been touring since its very first performance, impacting audiences with the show’s universal message of hope and empowerment. She has performed in over 25 different cities and globally, including in England, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. A graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, her credits include the Off-Broadway production of A Stoop on Orchard Street, Cookie in Rumors and Claudia Shear’s Blown Sideways Through Life. Films: How I Became that Jewish Guy, which premiered at a November 2015 NYC Film Festival, and Bridges and Tunnels. Valerie volunteers as a motivational speaker at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training events and Make-A-Wish Foundation. As a marathon cyclist, she co-founded Cycle of Hope, which raises money for national and international cancer organizations through bike marathons. Her most recent biking event raised almost $5,000 for the American Cancer Society and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Key Moments: At 7 minutes 28 seconds “What is my choice? Is my choice going to live in fear every single day? Is it going to be well, we'll deal with it when it happens. So I think what I've learned from cancer is don't worry until there's something to worry about.” Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| ASCO Conference Live: Revolutionizing Cancer Care w/ SERDs, Exercise & A.I. | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:35:02 | |
Samira, a breast cancer survivor and CEO of Manta Cares, discusses the latest advancements in cancer treatment with Dr. Doug Blayney at the ASCO conference. They explore the significant impact of exercise on cancer treatment tolerance and survival, the de-escalation of chemotherapy, the introduction of new therapies like SERDs and antibody drug conjugates, and the role of circulating tumor DNA in monitoring cancer recurrence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient convenience and self-advocacy in cancer care. About Our Guest: Douglas W. Blayney, MD is a Professor of Medicine (Oncology), Emeritus, former Medical Director of Stanford Cancer Center, and specializes in the treatment of breast cancer. He has a special interest in the quality and value of cancer care. Dr. Blayney is a past president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), a founder of the ASCO Quality Symposium, a co-author of the ASCO value framework descriptions, and instigated the ASCO clinical "big data" effort, which is now CancerLinQ. He received the inaugural Ellen Stovall Award for Leadership in Patient Centered Care from the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship in 2016. He was previously a Professor of Internal Medicine and Medical Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Michigan, and prior to that practiced and led Wilshire Oncology Medical Group, Inc. a physician owned multidisciplinary oncology practice in southern California. He has expertise on clinical trial development, use of oncology drugs in clinical practice, reimbursement and marketing strategies and information technology use. Chapter Codes 00:00 The Impact of Exercise on Cancer Treatment 02:00 Interview at ASCO Starts 06:00 Advancements in Cancer Treatment: De-escalation and AI 11:52 Emerging Therapies: SERDs and Antibody Drug Conjugates 18:11 Circulating Tumor DNA: A New Frontier in Monitoring 24:01 Convenience in Cancer Care: A Patient-Centric Approach Takeaways - Regular exercise can increase tolerance to cancer treatments. - Data shows exercise has tangible benefits on survival rates. - De-escalation of chemotherapy is a key focus in cancer treatment. - AI is being integrated into cancer treatment guidelines. - Patients can take proactive steps to improve their health. - Oral SIRDs are emerging as a more convenient treatment option.- Antibody drug conjugates target cancer cells with fewer side effects. - Circulating tumor DNA can help detect cancer recurrence earlier. - Convenience in treatment is becoming a priority for patients. - Competition among treatments may help reduce costs for patients. Tags & Keywords: cancer treatment, ASCO, exercise, AI, SIRDs, antibody drug conjugates, circulating tumor DNA, patient care, chemotherapy, cancer survival, health technology Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://youtu.be/UjsAtpbedA8 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7HwhjXHZU0ZWWVkXrCSV7V?si=d5e986f0885a4bbb Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cervical-cancer-and-hpv-what-you-need-to-know/id1622669098?i=1000710235401 Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. | |||
| Cervical Cancer and HPV: What You Need to Know | 28 May 2025 | 00:44:17 | |
Dr. Barbara Moscicki discusses the critical role of HPV in women's health, particularly its association with various cancers, including cervical cancer. She explains the dual nature of HPV as both a commensal organism and a pathogen, emphasizing the importance of understanding its oncogenic potential. The conversation also covers the significance of screening methods, such as Pap smears, in detecting precancerous changes and the complexities surrounding the treatment of different cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) stages. This conversation delves into the complexities of cancer screening methods, particularly focusing on cervical and anal cancer. Dr. Barbara Moscicki discusses the importance of understanding various screening guidelines, the role of HPV vaccination in preventing cancers, and the need for clear communication between clinicians and patients regarding these topics. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of cancer screening practices and the importance of patient education in navigating these changes. About Our Guest: Dr. Moscicki is a Pediatrician, Board Certified in Adolescent Medicine. She is the current Division Chief of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine with clinical expertise in reproductive health care for menstrual irregularities, sexual health, and sexually transmitted diseases. Dr. Moscicki has expertise in HPV -related disease including diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and treatment. She also offers medical care for women with eating disorders. Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33632649/ ‘Effect of 2 Interventions on Cervical Cancer Screening Guideline Adherence’Chapter Codes 00:00 Introduction to HPV and Women's Health 03:00 Understanding HPV's Role in Cancer 06:01 The Dual Nature of HPV: Commensal vs Pathogenic 08:57 Oncogenes and Their Impact on Cellular Regulation 12:09 The Intersection of HPV and Screening Methods 14:58 Cervical Cancer Screening and Pap Smears 20:30 Understanding Cancer Screening Methods 23:17 Guidelines for Cervical and Anal Cancer Screening 31:02 The Importance of HPV Vaccination 39:35 Key Messages for Clinicians and Patients Takeaways - Dr. Moscicki specializes in adolescent and young adult medicine. - HPV is linked to multiple cancers beyond cervical cancer. - The understanding of HPV's role in cancer has evolved significantly. - E6 and E7 proteins from HPV disrupt normal cell regulation. - CIN3 is considered a true pre-cancer that requires treatment. - Liquid cytology has improved the accuracy of Pap smears. - CIN1 is often self-resolving and does not require treatment. - CIN2 presents a diagnostic dilemma due to variability in interpretation. - Women have options regarding the management of CIN2 lesions. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1lFLtf6em5YyKtlWy2L?si=6ma-9g_w Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-cervical-cancer-screening-surger Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| The Vital Role of Oncology Pharmacists | 21 May 2025 | 00:41:03 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with oncology pharmacist Megan Hartranft about the critical role of oncology pharmacists in cancer care. They discuss the unique responsibilities of oncology pharmacists, the importance of patient education, and the growing field of oral chemotherapy. Megan shares insights on medication adherence, the use of mobile health technologies, and the significance of symptom management in improving patient outcomes. The conversation highlights the need for better integration within healthcare systems and offers practical tips for patients navigating their treatment journey.About Our Guest:Dr. Megan Hartranft is a Clinical Lead with the Clinical and Digital Solutions team, advising on precision oncology products.Prior to joining Labcorp, Dr. Hartranft was a Field Medical Scientific Associate Director at Sanofi, in charge of training for the hematology-oncology medical science liaison team. Earlier as a practicing clinician, she established an oral chemotherapy education program and participated in interprofessional clinics at Rush University Cancer Center. She has also spent time in academia as the oncology faculty member at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Health Sciences, where she maintains an adjunct appointment. Dr. Hartranft is active in several professional organizations, including her roles on the Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association's Public Policy & Advocacy Committee as well as the American Society of Health System Pharmacy Section of Pharmacy Informatics and Technology Clinical Decision Support and Analytics Advisory Group.
Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964... ‘Integrating Advance Care Planning Videos into Surgical Oncologic Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial’00:00 Introduction to Oncology Pharmacy02:49 The Role of Oncology Pharmacists in Patient Care06:03 Patient Interaction and Education09:09 Exploring Oral Chemotherapy11:45 Adherence to Oral Anti-Cancer Medications15:01 Mobile Health Technologies in Oncology17:58 Symptom Management and Patient Support21:11 The Future of Oncology Pharmacy24:09 Final Thoughts and Tips for PatientsConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?... YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| Personalized Oncology: General Surgeon Discusses Modern Breast Cancer Treatment | 15 May 2025 | 00:40:11 | |
Dr. Anita Srinivasan, a surgical oncologist, discusses her journey in oncology, the challenges faced in safety net hospitals, and the importance of patient-centered care in surgical oncology. The discussion covers the pain comparison between mammograms and cosmetic treatments, the impact of fear on surgical choices, and the significance of advanced care planning and patient education in making informed decisions about breast cancer treatment. About Our Guest: Surgeon, Health Executive, Healthcare Operational Excellence and Profitability Leader | 20+ years as a surgeon, health executive, thought leader, innovator, and advocate for health equity and access Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964385/ ‘Integrating Advance Care Planning Videos into Surgical Oncologic Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial’ Chapter Codes 00:00 The Pain of Mammograms vs. Cosmetic Treatments 02:55 Dr. Anita Srinivasan's Journey in Oncology 05:51 Understanding Safety Net Hospitals 09:08 Challenges in Treating Advanced Breast Cancer 12:02 Surgical Oncology: Approaches and Techniques 15:08 The Importance of Patient-Centered Care 17:56 Advanced Care Planning in Surgical Oncology 21:07 The Role of Patient Education in Decision Making 24:01 The Impact of Fear on Surgical Choices 26:53 Future Directions in Surgical Oncology Connect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Listen Elsewhere: YouTube: https://youtu.be/2SxvTqJht34?si=2U_98RfJJeWkTaT3 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1lFLtf6em5YyKtlWy2L?si=6ma-9g_wTIWTCLmHiHF_Aw Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. Tags & Keywords: oncology, breast cancer, surgical oncology, patient care, mammograms, safety net hospitals, advanced care planning, patient education, mastectomy, lumpectomy | |||
| The Biggest Trends from ASCO 2026 | Cancer Research Update | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:07:19 | |
Welcome to the Patient from Hell podcast! Live from ASCO 2026, we explore breakthroughs in clinical oncology, cancer research, AI healthcare tools, and targeted therapy for advanced cancer. Samira Daswani, Founder and CEO of Manta Cares and host of The Patient From Hell, sits down with Dr. Doug Blayney, Chief Medical Officer of Manta Cares and former ASCO President, for a candid debrief in between sessions at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago. With 45,000 oncology professionals in attendance, ASCO is the largest gathering of cancer researchers and clinicians in the world. In this episode, Samira and Dr. Blayney break down what actually mattered: the clinical findings, the shifting treatment landscape, and what the research trends mean for patients navigating cancer today. This episode is for oncologists, cancer researchers, and anyone who wants to understand where the field is heading. Topics covered, with more to come in our next episode:
CHAPTERS:0:00 - ASCO 2026 Annual Meeting Live from Chicago0:27 - Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oncology & Patient Experience1:19 - Healthcare AI Challenges: Misinformation & Clinician Deskilling2:03 - Pancreatic Cancer Breakthrough: New RAS/KRAS Targeted Therapy2:30 - Lung Cancer Advancements: ALK Mutations & PD-L1 Data3:01 - Breast Cancer Innovation: Oral SERDs & ESR1 Biomarkers3:41 - Next Episode Preview & Wrap Up Subscribe for frequent breakdowns of cancer research, treatment news, patient stories, and guidance and support for people in treatment for cancer. Drop a comment with the topics or trials you want us to cover next! | |||
| Navigating Cervical Cancer: Screening, Surgery, and Shared Decision-Making in Women’s Oncology | 07 May 2025 | 00:59:10 | |
Dr. Shannon McLaughlin-David discusses the complexities of cervical cancer, HPV, and the role of gynecologic oncology. The dialogue explores the emotional and clinical challenges faced by both patients and clinicians, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and empathy in patient care. The discussion also highlights the various types of gynecologic cancers, surgical interventions, and the difficult decisions patients must make regarding their treatment options. This conversation delves into the complexities of patient autonomy, the emotional challenges faced by oncologists, and the systemic incentives within healthcare that can impact patient care. The discussion also covers the evolution of cervical cancer screening guidelines, the role of HPV in cervical cancer, and the importance of patient advocacy and education regarding vaccination. About Our Guest: Shannon MacLaughlan David, MD, MS is a board-certified gynecologic oncologist and Founder of SMacDavidMD, LLC, a Coaching and Consulting firm. Following her residency in Ob/Gyn, Dr. MacLaughlan David went on to complete fellowship training in Gynecologic and Breast Oncology at Alpert Medical School of Brown University and spent her career in academic medicine at Stanford University's School of Medicine and the University of Illinois - Chicago. She also holds a master's degree in integrative medicine, which she used to build innovative clinical practice models for gynecologic cancer survivors as Director of the Gynecologic Oncology Integrative Practice Unit at the University of Illinois Cancer Center. Shannon, or "SMac," is a fierce advocate for women's health, cancer prevention and survivorship, and health equity. Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33632649/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1746483503903350&usg=AOvVaw0SNo_jk-rzoVp85P5E3s6F ‘Effect of 2 Interventions on Cervical Cancer Screening Guideline Adherence’ Chapter Codes 00:00 Introduction to Cervical Cancer and HPV 02:49 The Journey to Gynecologic Oncology 05:57 Understanding Gynecologic Cancers 09:05 Surgical Interventions in Gynecologic Oncology 11:59 The Complexity of Patient Decisions 15:07 Patient-Clinician Communication Challenges 17:45 The Role of Empathy in Oncology 21:05 Navigating Hormonal Treatments and Patient Reactions 27:30 Navigating Patient Autonomy and Medical Ethics 29:47 The Emotional Toll of Oncology 33:00 Understanding the Healthcare System's Incentives 35:58 The Role of Patient Advocacy 39:05 The Evolution of Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines 51:46 HPV and Its Impact on Cervical Cancer 54:48 Current Screening Protocols and HPV Vaccination Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| The Microbiome’s Impact on Colorectal Cancer Development + Survivorship Cancer Survivorship | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:50:10 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with Dr. Sara Char about her journey into oncology, the evolution of cancer biology, and the significant role of the microbiome in colon cancer. They discuss the complexities of cancer survivorship, the effectiveness of different methods of delivering survivorship care plans, and the importance of colonoscopy in monitoring colorectal cancer. The conversation also delves into the impact of diet on cancer risk, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of dietary patterns rather than focusing solely on individual foods. In this conversation, Dr. Sara Char discusses various aspects of survivorship care for colorectal cancer patients, focusing on dietary recommendations, exercise, and the emotional challenges faced during the transition from active treatment to survivorship. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of balancing nutrition, understanding the role of GLP-1 agonists, and the need for a supportive care team. Additionally, the conversation highlights the unique mental health needs of survivors and the significance of providing patients with a roadmap for their cancer journey. About Our Guest: Dr. Sara Char is a hematology and oncology fellow at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She specializes in the care of patients with gastrointestinal cancers with a specific interest in young-onset colorectal cancer. Her research explores the molecular underpinnings of diet and lifestyle factors implicated in colorectal cancer development and progression. Dr. Char received her M.D. from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her residency training in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she also served as chief resident. Outside of work, she is a self-identified foodie and devoted dog-mom. Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34302474/ - ‘Simplifying Survivorship Care Planning: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing 3 Care Plan Delivery Approaches’ Chapter Codes 00:00 Exploring the Microbiome and Colon Cancer 05:59 The Transition to Survivorship Care 11:57 Understanding Adherence in Survivorship Plans 17:49 The Role of Colonoscopy in Survivorship 24:06 Dietary Patterns and Cancer Risk 25:04 Inflammatory Diet and Health Outcomes 28:11 Dietary Recommendations for Cancer Survivors 30:34 Exercise and Body Composition in Cancer Care 31:59 Managing GI Issues with GLP-1 Agonists 34:43 Navigating Multidisciplinary Care 35:50 The Transition from Active Treatment to Survivorship 38:08 Mental Health Challenges Post-Treatment 41:41 The Need for Psycho-Oncology Support 46:47 The Importance of Patient Education and Resources Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| The Rise of Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer: Environmental Factors and Screening Strategies | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:43:03 | |
In this episode, Dr. Tejas Jayakrishnan discusses the rising incidence of young onset colorectal cancer (CRC) and the potential environmental factors contributing to this trend. The conversation delves into the importance of screening protocols, the challenges faced in early detection, and the role of education in increasing awareness and understanding of cancer risks. Dr. Jayakrishnan emphasizes the need for tailored approaches in patient care, particularly for younger patients, and highlights ongoing research efforts aimed at improving outcomes in this demographic. About Our Guest: Dr. Thejus Jayakrishnan is a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Originally from India, he completed his medical training in New Delhi and continued his journey through residency in Pittsburgh and oncology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Jayakrishnan's research explores why some people develop cancers like colorectal cancers at a younger age. He studies how metabolism, gut bacteria, and genetics contribute to these patterns, with the goal of developing better tools for screening and treatment. In the clinic, he treats patients with all types of gastrointestinal cancers and works closely with Dana-Farber’s Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center. His focus is on translating scientific discoveries into meaningful improvements in care through clinical trials. Outside of work, he’s an avid cyclist, outdoor enthusiast, and lover of books and movies. Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30578103/ - ‘Impact of including quantitative information in a decision aid for colorectal cancer screening: A randomized controlled trial’ Chapter Codes: 00:00 - Understanding Young Onset Colorectal Cancer 10:03 - Screening Protocols and Challenges 19:50 - The Role of Education in Cancer Awareness 30:04 - Future Directions in Colorectal Cancer Research Connect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| She Saved Me from Cancer — A Conversation with My Oncologist Episode 87 | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:39:54 | |
Join us as we welcome Dr. Fauzia Riaz, Samira’s oncologist, who believes in treating the whole person—not just the cancer. In this episode, we explore survivorship care: What does it truly mean? What insights does a thousand-person study reveal about different cancer survivorship care models? How can oncologists optimize treatment plans to improve quality of life for survivors? And what gaps must care providers address to ensure lasting, meaningful impact? This episode features the following PCORI study: Quality of life among cancer survivors by model of cancer survivorship care by Holly Mead. Your Cancer GPS is here! Step-by-step breast cancer maps based on what others have gone through and what oncologists recommend: https://mantacares.com/pages/new-see-how-it-works Sound Bites
Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Cancer Care 09:59 Understanding Survivorship 19:50 The Impact of Treatment Models 30:08 Research and Future Directions in Oncology Key Highlights: - Being attentive as a physician involves more than just careful monitoring during each step of treatment; it also requires providing support and compassion to the whole person you’re treating. - The goal of survivorship is more than just surviving; it is to thrive and lead a high-quality life moving forward. There are two main survivorship care models from the study we reviewed, post-survivorship treatment and oncology-embedded survivorship. Each survivorship care model has their role. 👤 Guest Bio: Dr. Riaz is dedicated to advancing breast cancer treatment through an innovative clinical trial program that focuses on cutting-edge therapeutics and biomarkers. Dr. Riaz is studying circulating tumor (ct) DNA-minimal residual disease (MRD) as a pivotal biomarker for early-stage breast cancer. She aims to enhance its use in surveillance and early detection while guiding personalized treatment strategies through novel clinical trials. Furthermore, she is committed to improving immunotherapy efficacy by modifying the tumor microenvironment. Her research involves developing early-phase trials that integrate novel therapeutic approaches, combining immunotherapy and radiotherapy. As a Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, Dr. Riaz is also committed to improving the accessibility of cutting edge therapies to all patients. She is leading a collaborative effort with multiple institutions to develop databases that track patient outcomes and inform treatment practices. Dr. Riaz’s overarching goal is to expand early-phase clinical trials and foster academic-industry partnerships to advance the field of breast oncology and improve patient care. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Manta Cares, cancer survivorship, survivorship care, cancer treatment, oncology care models, cancer survivor care, cancer treatment optimization, effective cancer care, personalized cancer treatment This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) | |||
| What Most People Get Wrong About Cancer Pain Episode 86 | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:29:31 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with oncology nurse Joshua Carter about his path into cancer care, shaped by personal experiences with family illness. They explore the differences between palliative and hospice care, the complexities of pain management, and the vital role nurses play as advocates. Josh also discusses misconceptions around pain medication, the promise and challenges of e-health tools, and the often-invisible workflows nurses navigate daily. He shares practical advice for patients, caregivers, and fellow clinicians, emphasizing the importance of early palliative care and being a bold advocate within the healthcare system. About Our Guest Josh Carter is an Oncology Nurse at Stanford Women's Cancer Center. His entire 17-year nursing career has been in oncology, with inpatient, industry, and outpatient experiences in Cleveland, Chicago, San Diego, and San Francisco. Josh holds undergraduate degrees from Kent State University and Ohio University and is currently on track to complete his Master's at the University of Michigan School of Nursing this Fall. He is a certified Oncology and Breast Care Nurse. His interests include Nursing Innovation, Digital Health, Patient Advocacy, Patient Education, Patient-Centered Design, Healthcare Improvement, Quality, and Implementation Science. With his interests in Healthcare Quality, Josh is currently a Site Assessor for the Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium. Josh has spoken at the National Oncology Nursing Society Congress and Authored Chapters of Oncology Nursing Society Text Books. Josh has been involved with research for caregivers of Cancer patients and has helped in the launch of newly approved cancer treatments. Josh has experience working on a cancer care delivery team at ASCO and has been awarded the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Resources & Links: This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI study “A Stepped-Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial: Effects of eHealth Interventions for Pain Control Among Adults With Cancer in Hospice” Sections 00:00 - Journey into Oncology Nursing 03:22 - Understanding Palliative vs. Hospice Care 07:04 - Pain Management in Cancer Care 10:23 - Pain Management Strategies and Misconceptions 20:32 - E-Health Interventions in Pain Management 23:19 - The Complex Workflow of Oncology Nursing 27:48 - Quick Tips for Patients and Caregivers Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on instagram, facebook, or linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Listen Across Platform: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6gM1GxDBUgXrHwlO0Zvnzs?si=9edb8680461d4eaa Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/patient-from-hell/id1622669098 Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| Episode 85: Exploring Identity and Storytelling with Dr. Samantha Siegel | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:56:21 | |
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Patient from Hell, we sit down with Samira and Dr. Samantha, two storytellers who delve into the power of personal narratives, cultural identity, and representation. They share their experiences navigating different spaces, finding their voices, and embracing authenticity. Whether you’re interested in storytelling, personal growth, or the intersections of culture and identity, this episode offers deep insights and inspiration. About Our Guest: Dr. Samantha Siegel is an onco-pcp and survivorship physician at Kaiser Permanente. She has survived relapsed/refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about integrative oncology, AYA survivorship, longterm toxicities, returning to work after cancer and more. Dr. Siegel is the cofounder of PCP-ONC CARES program, a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model beginning at diagnosis and she serves as the current director of Cancer Survivorship for Kaiser San Francisco. She is the host of AIM at Melanoma’s supportive cancer care podcast, “Beyond the Clinic.” Dr. Siegel is focused on elevating cancer survivorship to a distinct board certification status. She lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. They enjoy outdoor activities and plant-based living. Key Highlights:
Key Moments:
Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates. Resources & Links:
Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||
| Episode 84: Managing Insomnia and Mental Health in Cancer Care with Dr. Cara Bohon | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:41:13 | |
In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Dr. Cara Bohon, a clinical psychologist and researcher, to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by cancer patients and survivors. They discuss the role of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in cancer care, the complexities of treating cancer-related insomnia, and the shortage of mental health professionals trained in oncology. Dr. Bohon and Samira also review a PCORI-funded study led by Dr. Jun J. Mao, comparing the effectiveness of CBT-I (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia) versus acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia. Dr. Bohon breaks down step-by-step sleep strategies for cancer patients, offering practical tools to improve sleep, emotional well-being, and cancer-related anxiety—even for those without access to therapy. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Jun J Mao, MD. Check out the free mental health resources mentioned in this episode from Veterans of America here. -- Your Cancer GPS is here! Step-by-step breast cancer maps based on what others have gone through and what oncologists recommend. Key Highlights:
Dr. Cara Bohon is a clinical psychologist and researcher from Stanford University with experience scaling delivery of evidence-based mental health treatments to meet the huge needs of patients across the United States. She led clinical programs and research at Equip Health, which addressed the demand for effective eating disorder treatment by providing training and virtual delivery of evidence-based eating disorder treatment across the country and is passionate about expanding her work in oncology in the future. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. | |||