PODCAST · health
The Bottom Line Podcast
by Bowel Cancer Australia
Bowel Cancer Australia's award winning podcast hosted by bowel cancer survivor, Stephanie, is a monthly chat sharing stories and lived-experiences. Hearing from those living with or beyond bowel cancer, as well as health professionals involved in bowel cancer treatment and care, can be a valuable resource that can encourage and inspire others. Please note, podcasts may occasionally contain content that some listeners may find distressing.
Episodes
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'After Rory passed, I felt frustrated, sadness and grief and I needed to let it out.' ~ Olivia
The world at their feet, Rory and Olivia were building a life together when Rory was diagnosed with an aggressive mutation of bowel cancer and passed away soon after, aged just 34. Oliva chats about how she felt lost, angry and isolated after Rory's death and how she took up running as a way to...
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'My research is grounded in the view that contemporary early-onset bowel cancer is a new type of disease ...' ~ A/Prof Dan Buchanan
A/Prof Dan Buchanan, recently announced Director of the Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) ARTEMIS, discusses the upcoming five-year research program that will investigate the aetiology, risk factors, tumourigenesis, exposures, microbiome and immune susceptibilities that are underlying…
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'I need my life to be as normal as possible ….' ~ Sarah
Misdiagnosis, symptom dismissal and age bias dominated Sarah’s health for over five years until she was eventually diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer aged 29. Learn of Sarah’s persistence, vulnerability and resilience as she delves into the challenges of being heard as a young woman. Sarah...
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'It will be nice to get to a stage where we don’t have to fight to be heard ...' ~ Natalie
This episode delves into the power of the collective voice as Natalie and Andrew discuss attending Bowel Cancer Australia’s preeminent advocacy event, Call on Canberra. "Call on Canberra is very special. . . Our voice together is incredibly powerful, and the change is really being seen now.” ~...
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'The impact of losing a loved one is profound – this is why we Dry July'
It’s Dry July and Megan and Kayla join Stephanie to talk about how bowel cancer impacted their families lives and why they are raising funds for Bowel Cancer Australia’s in-person specialist Bowel Care Nurses through the Dry July challenge, in memory of their husband and brother. Brendan and Brad...
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'The connection Nat had with her palliative care doctor was so important to her positivity.' ~ Willis
Losing his wife recently to bowel cancer, Willis opens up to Stephanie about the challenges of life as a widower and being a single parent, but how the purpose of family and making memories together has helped them move forward. Willis talks honestly about making a conscious choice to be...
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'I wanted to do something unique to get people talking and raise awareness' ~ Matt
Sharing his empowering lived experience to raise awareness of early-onset bowel cancer, Matt Duggan is running 550km across Tasmania (for the second time!) in May 2026. Matt chats openly with Stephanie about the challenges of telling friends and family about his diagnosis and why he now wants...
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'We really need genetics and genomics to be brought into the mainstream of healthcare.'
Highly regarded Geneticist, Professor Ingrid Winship AO discusses the dynamic world of genomics and how a genetic test may impact you and your family. Drawing on her decades of experience Professor Winship provides practical information to help unpack the complexities of genetics that empowers...
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'Without this treatment I would not be here ...' ~ Taylor
Aged just 27 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, Taylor chats to Stephanie about the challenges of losing her identity to cancer, the pressure it put on her loved ones, and how accessing a clinical trial was literally "life-saving"! “Without this treatment I would not be here....
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'Women have complex body systems that deserve careful attention ...' ~ Kristin
Navigating a bowel cancer diagnosis as a woman can be particularly complex. Issues like perimenopause and menopause can have overlapping symptoms, making it challenging to identify what’s truly going on. "Bowel cancer buddies", Kat and Kristin, sit down with Stephanie to dive into a candid...
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'Let people with experience walk with you ...' ~ Hannah
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bowel cancer, we're here for you. This informative chat with Bowel Care Nurse, Fiona, and Psychosocial Support, Hannah, discusses the importance of supportive care and provides a snapshot of the pivotal role Bowel Cancer Australia’s Specialist...
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'Being able to exercise gave me a sense of control back ...'
This New Year make exercise a priority. The benefits of exercise are well documented. Bowel Care Exercise Physiologist, Kailey, provides tips to help keep you motivated before, during and after treatment. Joining Kailey on this episode is bowel cancer advocate, Jon, who shares his lived…
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'I trusted Jo’s expertise and advice ... and the results started to show immediately.'
Stephanie chats with Bowel Care Nutritionist, Jo and advocate, Jemima to help demystify nutrition throughout treatment, living with a stoma, and life beyond bowel cancer. Jemima shares her lived experience and explains how Jo empowered her to implement some small changes that have enabled her to...
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'Better to have an awkward conversation with your GP than a tragic conversation with your family.' - Ant
Josh and Ant chat with Stephanie around the importance of raising bowel cancer awareness and the difficulty and pain of losing their loved ones far too young - Josh’s brother Mitch and Ant’s friend Dean. Both long-time supporters of Bowel Cancer Australia’s Decembeard campaign, Josh and Ant…
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'It’s a pretty special thing that we have be asked to do.'
Bowel Cancer Australia advocates, Jenny and Peter join Stephanie to share their Call on Canberra 2025 experience and discussions with policy makers about the living with early-onset bowel cancer. Impacted heavily in the rush-hour of their lives, Jenny and Peter are both deeply passionate about...
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'As young women, the Never2Young campaign really resonates with us'
Fundraising in honour of loved ones is hugely rewarding but event planning can also be incredibly time consuming. In this episode Stephanie chats with childhood friends Sara and Amy, co-founders of Time is Precious, about the impact of losing a loved one to bowel cancer and how they have leant…
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'The increase of early-onset bowel cancer is a major problem'
Melbourne University’s Professor Mark Jenkins discusses his team’s latest research which highlights excess deaths due to the rise in early-onset bowel cancer between 1990 and 2020, as well as the disparity of bowel cancer research funding in Australia. Mark also discusses the burden early-onset...
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'Putting back into an organisation that supports people going through what we did ~ this is Why We Dry July'
It's Dry July and Stephanie chats with two passionate fundraisers Justin and Conor who are raising funds for Bowel Cancer Australia in memory of their Dad and Mum, respectively. Funds raised through Dry July help support the Charity's specialist in-person Bowel Care Nurse Program, which aims to...
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'Don’t let fears of tomorrow ruin your today.'
Walkley Award-winning author, investigative journalist and author, Lucie Morris-Marr chats to Stephanie about her lived experience. From her initial stage 4 bowel cancer diagnosis to undergoing a groundbreaking liver transplant, Lucie discusses her roller coaster ride. “I am lucky to be here. I’m...
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"Living in the country we call the wait and lack of services, 'the regional health tax'"
Danae shares her “good news” cancer story, highlighting her proactive GP who ultimately saved her life. “I became the good luck story of 2022. Instead of dismissing my symptoms due to perimenopause my GP wanted to be thorough and sent me for a CT scan that ultimately revealed stage 2 bowel…
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'Even as a little girl I would try to find a glimmer – something that was really positive that day!'
Flamboyant and infectiously positive, Sooz has always tried to find a “glimmer” in every day since she was a little girl. Not even a stage 4 bowel cancer diagnosis has extinguished her bubbly personality. That doesn’t mean there are not moments that are hard, but as she explains, she chooses to...
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'In my lifetime we can do something to prevent it (bowel cancer)'
We know bowel cancer is the deadliest cancer for people 25-44 and Australia has the highest rates of early-onset bowel cancer in the world, but we don’t know why. On this episode Associate Professor Daniel Buchanan discusses the importance of funding bowel cancer research, his Angel Study and why...
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'I hit the jackpot with Beth ... it's only now she's gone I realise how much I relied on her.'
On this episode, celebrity chef and author Justine Schofield opens up about the death of her best friend Beth to bowel cancer aged just 38. Justine talks about the joy of female friendship, her shared love of food with Beth and how the loss of her lifelong friend at such a young age has impacted...
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'Being able to exercise gave me a sense a sense of control back ..." - Jon
This New Year make exercise a priority, no matter how big or small. The benefits of exercise are well documented when going through a cancer diagnosis and in this episode of The Bottom Line Podcast, Bowel Care Exercise Physiologist Kailey provides tips and tricks to help keep you motivated...
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'I looked well and people were assessing the outside of me ...'
A long-time bowel cancer advocate, Jodie’s delayed diagnosis was 'explained away' as female related issues, pregnancy and being a young Mum. It wasn’t until she advocated for herself that she finally got the answer to her ongoing symptoms – Stage 3 bowel cancer. 'Self-advocacy is my big message -...
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'After my surgery I just wanted to run ... So, I decided to train for a half marathon!'
For avid runner, Brendan, looking after his mental health and body through running was a daily routine. But when he was struggling to complete his normal running regime and feeling tired and exhausted, he decided to see a GP. After being turned away twice and told it was nothing to be concerned...
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'GP's should not use age to dismiss the possibility of bowel cancer.'
Diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer and HER2 gene mutation at 35, Pei, (a GP registrar) chats with Stephanie regarding the importance of GP’s treating the patient in front of them without age bias. Pei talks about her realistic and pragmatic approach to living her life with a terminal illness and...
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'After surgery, the proximity of a toilet was my highest priority'
TV writer and director, Darren Ashton, discusses with Stephanie how his stage 3 bowel cancer diagnosis informed the tone of the hit ABC show, 'Austin'. 'When you're knocking on deaths door, you think about the important things. I wanted to put something joyous into the world and this is why...
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'The last part of living is so precious and you don’t want to get it wrong.'
Palliative Care doctor and author of, 'With the End in Mind', Kathryn Mannix demystifies the often uncomfortable topic of death and dying. Chatting with Stephanie, Kathryn reminds us that we often fear death because of the unknown; that death is not what is portrayed in Hollywood movies and that…
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'We want a patient’s health span to match their life span with the best quality of life.'
On this episode, Dr Sarah Chu and early-onset bowel cancer survivor Vanessa Mendico discuss the importance of age not being a barrier to a bowel cancer diagnosis. To address perceived age bias as outlined in recent research, Bowel Cancer Australia has launched a new resource, the Never2Young CPD...
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'You didn't want vanilla. You wanted something provocative that would cut through ...' - Nina
Stephanie chats with Ogilvy Group Creative Director, Nina East, Director, Eddy Bell and bowel cancer survivor, Kin Leong about the creation of Bowel Cancer Australia's latest awareness campaign, "Australia's Deadliest". They discuss the brief, the process, and the final result in developing an...
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'I now enjoy spending time with the ones I love. Doing the things that I love,' says Jake.
Jake talks to Stephanie about how his life was tipped on its head after his stage 4 diagnosis at 31 and how he had to re-frame his dreams and life plan, including starting a family. Upbeat and one to always try and find a silver lining, Jake discusses the importance of letting go of the things…
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"We are always thinking about who else is with us, even if they are not in the room," explains genetic counsellor Alisha.
On this episode Stephanie talks to Genetic Counsellor, Alisha, who demystifies the dynamic world of genetics and the implications for cancer patients. Alisha discusses the importance of knowing your family health history, how to access genetic testing, and the relevant questions to ask when faced...
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Gabrielle says, 'I’d much rather take a poo test than a mammogram...'
Gabrielle talks to Stephanie about the importance of participating in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, which she credits with saving her life. As a regional patient, Gabrielle discusses the barriers she faced in receiving support with her initial diagnosis, the importance of exercise…
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Angus rejoins his Mum, Stephanie, this time as the interviewee
When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer it is hard enough for an adult to comprehend, but for a child it’s even more difficult. In this episode, Angus rejoins his Mum, Stephanie, this time as the interviewee. He talks through his experience dealing with her diagnosis. In this heartwarming...
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'A well-stocked kitchen makes it so much easier to make nutritious choices and a weekly plan means you are more likely to stick to it,' Teresa explains.
Overindulged during the festive period? Are you feeling blah? Bowel Care Nutritionist, Teresa talks to Stephanie about starting the new year with a fresh approach and getting back to a healthy lifestyle. 'I don’t mind the odd cheat day, but it’s important to get back on track.' Teresa discusses...
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'We had a great relationship and she loved speaking to me about footy every time we caught up,' says Chad.
NRL player, Chad Townsend has been a passionate supporter of Bowel Cancer Australia since his mother-in-law, Gail was diagnosed in 2012. Sadly she passed away from the disease in 2020, but Chad talks with Stephanie about Gail's tenacity and never-give-up attitude that continues to inspire him to...
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'Racing saved my life,' explains Michael
A routine medical for his annual licence led to a stage 3 bowel cancer diagnosis for racing driver, Michael Sheargold. A check he credits with saving his life. Michael chats with Stephanie about the importance of understanding your body and acting on symptoms. Bowel cancer was never on Michael’s...
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'I miss the way she would hold us. I could feel her heart and her warmth.'
Mehroz and Seemab chat with Stephanie about the loss of their sister Afroz, to bowel cancer at age 33. Diagnosed shortly after the birth of her son, Afroz, like many bowel cancer patients, put her symptoms down to being a new mum. Bowel cancer was not something she even considered. Remarkably…
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'I outsource the more difficult areas to ensure I don’t burden my husband and family...', says Nina
Stage 4 bowel cancer patient and advocate, Nina and her husband, Aaron chat with Stephanie about how bowel cancer has impacted their life, from both a patient and carer perspective. Mid-October marks National Carers Week and Nina highlights the importance of recognising your support network and...
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'I’d jump on the board and all the cancer stuff would leave me . . .' says Kieren
Kieren has sadly passed away since the time of this recording. It is an important part of Kieren's legacy that his lived-experience continues to be shared to raise much needed awareness and support to others. Bowel Cancer Australia thanks and acknowledges Kieren's contribution in creating a...
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'You’re already grieving for that person, long before they pass away,' says Lauren.
Lauren is passionate about raising much needed awareness for bowel cancer and again is fundraising for Bowel Cancer Australia this Dry July in honour of her late father. In this emotionally raw discussion with Stephanie, Lauren shares her harrowing five years, first losing her mother after a...
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Adam explains, 'I went away from Canberra with a happy heart!'
Bowel cancer advocates Nina, Adam and Jacob chat with Stephanie about Bowel Cancer Australia’s inaugural 'Call on Canberra' event held in June. All deeply passionate about driving meaningful change, Nina, Adam and Jacob share their experiences, their conversations with policymakers regarding...
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'Being gifted Lily reminded me to never give up, that anything is possible and miracles do happen,' says Hollie.
Hollie was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer at just 24. Faced with a terminal diagnosis and the prospect of never being able to bear children, Hollie decided to approach her 'shit show' through a positive lens. 'I had to get up every day or I was afraid I may not get up the next day,' said...
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Stephanie says 'I was very scared history would repeat itself and that I may die from bowel cancer and leave you without a Mum.'
In a special Mother’s Day episode, 14-year old Angus reverses roles and steps in as guest host to interview his Mum, Stephanie. Only two when Stephanie was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer, Angus delves into how his Mum’s diagnosis impacted their family. In a frank and honest conversation,...
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Dr Pachter explains, 'If you have Lynch syndrome don't be discharged (from your medical team)...'
Clinical Geneticist & Professor Dr Nicholas (Nick) Pachter chats with Stephanie about Lynch syndrome, prevalence in the community, ongoing surveillance as well as treatment options. Lynch syndrome is caused by a change in a gene that normally functions to protect a person from getting cancer. A...
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Dr Penelope De Lacavalerie says, 'Time to break the taboo around talking POO!'
Colorectal surgeon, Dr Penelope De Lacavalerie explains why we all need to be aware of bowel cancer symptoms, but it's particularly important for young women not to have their symptoms dismissed as 'female issues' or due to pregnancy. Passionate about human-centric care, Dr De Lacavalerie…
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Fiona explains, 'Bowel cancer can be life changing . . . there can be a real lack of support following surgery.'
Bowel Care Nurse Fiona chats with Stephanie about some of the common questions she is asked across the care continuum, including nutritional advice, side effects of treatment, and support that may be required as patients adjust to a 'new normal'. With expertise in intensive care, oncology and...
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'My face didn’t look like anything I would see or the conversations I would hear so I didn’t even think bowel cancer was a possibility,' says Emily.
A positive attitude helped Emily navigate her stage 3 bowel cancer diagnosis at just 37. Emily and Stephanie discuss fertility after a cancer diagnosis, navigating cancer when you are young and single, as well as how family and friends were integral in supporting her through her bowel cancer...
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Abbey explains, 'My job, and my family and friends (job), is to keep Marcus alive (for our girls) by talking about him.'
Losing a partner is challenging at any point in your life, but to be a widow with two young children in your early 30’s is particularly difficult. Abbey shines through as she discusses with Stephanie her husband, Marcus’ shock bowel cancer diagnosis aged just 34 and how they navigated the next 12...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Bowel Cancer Australia's award winning podcast hosted by bowel cancer survivor, Stephanie, is a monthly chat sharing stories and lived-experiences. Hearing from those living with or beyond bowel cancer, as well as health professionals involved in bowel cancer treatment and care, can be a valuable resource that can encourage and inspire others. Please note, podcasts may occasionally contain content that some listeners may find distressing.
HOSTED BY
Bowel Cancer Australia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Bottom Line Podcast have?
The Bottom Line Podcast currently has 77 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Bottom Line Podcast about?
Bowel Cancer Australia's award winning podcast hosted by bowel cancer survivor, Stephanie, is a monthly chat sharing stories and lived-experiences. Hearing from those living with or beyond bowel cancer, as well as health professionals involved in bowel cancer treatment and care, can be a valuable...
How often does The Bottom Line Podcast release new episodes?
The Bottom Line Podcast has 77 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Bottom Line Podcast?
You can listen to The Bottom Line Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Bottom Line Podcast?
The Bottom Line Podcast is created and hosted by Bowel Cancer Australia.
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