Guest Hosts: Leah Philips, M.Ed. and Bianca Bye, LCSW – founders of the Young Lung Cancer Initiative  Summary:   This conversation features Leah and Bianca, both advocates for young lung cancer patients, sharing their personal stories and the formation of the Young Lung Cancer Initiative. They discuss the challenges faced by younger patients, the stigma surrounding lung cancer, and the importance of […]

Guest Hosts: Kelly Hendershot, LGSW, LMSW – Cancer Support Community Summary: In this conversation, Kelly Hendershot, Vice President of Network and Healthcare Partnerships at Cancer Support Community, discusses her role in connecting families and clinicians to vital resources for cancer support. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about cancer, providing support across the entire spectrum […]

In this conversation, Julie interviews the founders of Perky, Courtney and Crystal, who are both registered nurses and specialize in nipple tattooing for breast cancer survivors. They discuss their personal motivations for starting Perky, the importance of creating a safe and inviting space for clients, and the unique approach they take as nurse tattooists. The conversation also touches on the impact of their work on the community, the challenges of insurance coverage, and their innovative campaigns like the Third Nipple Campaign. They emphasize the importance of holistic health and community support for survivors, encouraging listeners to advocate for accessible resources.

In this conversation, Taryn Schuelke shares her journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer, navigating treatment, and the impact on her family. She discusses her background in the medical field, the challenges of being a working mother during treatment, and the importance of community support. Taryn also reflects on her experiences with hair loss, body image, and how she has supported her children through this process. The conversation highlights the emotional and practical aspects of dealing with cancer while maintaining a sense of normalcy in family life. 

In this conversation, filmmaker Madison VanDerLinde discusses her documentary 'Children of Disease,' which explores the impact of parental illness on children. She shares her personal journey into death work, the challenges faced during the filmmaking process, and the importance of community support for families dealing with illness. Madison emphasizes the need for open communication within families and the role of art in healing. She also reflects on her future aspirations in filmmaking and advocacy for children affected by parental illness. 

Guest Hosts: Wonders & Worries Teen Council Representatives – Angie, Nash and Arya; Suzi Simmons, Wonders & Worries Central Texas Event Coordinator and Teens Giving Back Program Lead Summary:   For the entirety of my profession as a Child Life Specialist, it has been our teen populations that continue to inspire and touch my heart in […]

Guest Hosts: Dr. Nichelle Haynes, DO   Co-Owner of Reproductive Psychiatry and Counseling based in Austin, Texas  Podcast Host of “More than Mom with Dr. Nichelle Haynes”  Summary:   In this conversation, Dr. Nichelle Haynes, a perinatal and reproductive psychiatrist, discusses her journey in the field of mental health, particularly focusing on the unique challenges faced […]

Guest Hosts: Dr. Caroline Leek BSc MSc PhD RSA CF, Director of Fruit Fly Collective   Summary:   In this conversation, Dr. Caroline Leek discusses her journey from personal loss to creating impactful resources for families affected by cancer. She shares insights on the work of the Fruitfly Collective and the importance of educating children about cancer. […]

In this conversation, David Smith shares his inspiring journey as a wellness coach and blind athlete who faced a sudden diagnosis of stage 3B testicular cancer. In this conversation, David Smith shares his personal journey through testicular cancer, highlighting the importance of finding the right medical professionals, the challenges of recovery, and the emotional toll of the experience. He emphasizes the need for patient advocacy, the impact of community support, and the lessons learned about prioritizing family and personal well-being over career and external validation. David's story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, encouraging them to seek support and remain resilient in the face of adversity. 

Guest Hosts: Joshua Williams (Program Coordinator, Fatherhood EFFECT) and Ernie Agbobock (Parent Educator, Fatherhood EFFECT) with DePelchin Children’s Center in Houston, Texas.   Summary:   In this episode we visit Ernie and Joshua to discuss their work as parent educators and fatherhood specialists at DePelchin Children’s Center, a nonprofit organization that provides counseling services and parenting education […]

Guest Hosts: Sarah Paul, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C; Senior Director of Social Work  Summary:   In this conversation, Julie and Sarah discuss the vital role of Cancer Care, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. Sarah shares her background as a licensed clinical oncology social worker and the various services offered by […]

Guest Hosts: Laura Townsend, Co-Founder and President, Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation and Dr. Charles Holshouser, MD, FACOG  Summary:   This conversation delves into the critical issue of patient safety, highlighting personal stories and the formation of the Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation. Laura Townsend shares her journey following her mother’s tragic experience with […]