Boobalicious: Breast Cancer and Beyond

Mae Part 2: Moving, Healing & Living Well After Breast Cancer Your body changed — your fitness approach should too. In this must-listen follow-up, PT and Pilates expert Mae joins Chris and Jenni to break down how to stay strong, mobile, and pain-free after breast cancer and through menopause. Forget “no pain, no gain.” This episode dives into smarter strength training, safe exercise after cancer treatment, frozen shoulder recovery, and how hormonal shifts impact your body. Learn why consistency beats intensity, how to adapt workouts without losing progress, and what actually helps with bone density, posture, and pelvic health. Plus: Pilates myths (reformer vs. mat), red light therapy truths, and simple, PT-approved tips you can start today. If you’re navigating survivorship, menopause, or feeling disconnected from your body — this episode gives you real answers and a better way forward. Follow the pod! @boobaliciouspod WeAreBoobalicious.com Take virtual pilates with Mae! Shop Mae's bag! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fifteen years after her breast cancer diagnosis, host Chris gets a gut-punch wake-up call: abnormal tumor markers and a doctor recommending scans. In this raw, unfiltered episode, Chris takes us inside the panic — the frozen-in-time feeling of sitting in that office again, the stress-cleaning, the last-minute trip to Hawaii, and the unexpected encounter that quietly shifted everything. Co-host Jenni joins her to unpack "scanxiety," what it means to wait for results, and why helping someone else might just be the best medicine for fear. Part one of a story still unfolding. Follow the pod! @boobaliciouspod WeAreBoobalidiouspod.com Listen to@MyGuruCancer's Scanxiety Meditation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel like your body suddenly speaks a foreign language? In this episode of Boobalicious, Chris and Jenni sit down with Dr. Mae Murakami, PT and pelvic floor specialist, to break down what’s really happening during perimenopause and menopause — and why no one talks about it. They connect the dots between symptoms like frozen shoulder, joint pain, bladder urgency, bowel changes, and painful sex (spoiler: estrogen affects everything). Plus: the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause, why Kegels can backfire, and non-hormonal options that actually help. Candid, eye-opening, and the conversation your doctor probably never had with you. Part 1 of 2 — subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. Follow the pod! @boobaliciouspod History of Breast Cancer? You can take Mae's virtual pilates classes here! https://www.towercancer.org/magnolia-house/ Questions about menopause? https://menopause.org/ Vaginal moisturizers: Revaree Hyalogyn Mae's cute purse! Tres Gelee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris and Jenni continue the conversation on anxiety—this time getting into what actually helps in the moment and how they’re navigating it day to day. They talk about using movement (yoga, workouts) to take the edge off—even if it doesn’t always last—and simple grounding tools that can bring you back when things start to spiral. From breathwork to reminding yourself “I’m safe,” it’s about calming the nervous system, not fighting it. They also get honest about doom scrolling, menopause brain, and how hormones can pour gasoline on anxiety—especially after cancer. There’s a real conversation around communicating with your partner (sometimes it’s as simple as a heads up: “this isn’t about you”), and finding healthier coping tools—from creative projects to CBD and edibles instead of that nightly glass of wine. And as always, it comes back to connection—having people you can be real with makes all the difference. Plus, a preview of what’s coming next: nutrition, supplements, and feeling good in your body again. Follow us! @Boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris and Jenni get real about anxiety—how it shows up, why midlife can feel like a rollercoaster, and how a history of breast cancer adds another layer to all of it. Jenni shares her long-standing experience with anxiety, from her early twenties to what feels like a whole new wave during perimenopause. Chris, who’s always been the calm, laid-back one, opens up about experiencing anxiety for the first time after a cancer diagnosis—and how unsettling that shift can be. They talk through the different ways anxiety can look (it’s not always what you expect), the hormonal chaos of perimenopause, and why some of the typical “solutions” aren’t so simple—or even safe—for breast cancer survivors. There’s also an honest conversation about things they’ve tried (including what didn’t work). This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation—so if this hits home, stay tuned for next week. Follow the show! @boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Boobalicious, certified lymphedema therapist Jenni explains what lymphedema is, why breast cancer patients are at risk, and how to manage it. They cover how lymph node removal and radiation can disrupt the lymphatic system, practical tips for reducing risk (exercise, deep breathing, skin care), and updated guidance on compression sleeves for travel. Follow the pod! @Boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Boobalicious, Chris and Jenni dig into a question many survivors never think to ask: why do you still have pain years after a mastectomy or reconstruction? Jenni breaks down the science behind post-surgical pain — scar tissue, rib mobility, shallow breathing, and the brain's struggle to remap a changed body — while Chris shares her own experience. They also walk listeners through a rib mobility exercise and remind everyone: be your own health advocate. Follow us! @boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris and Jenni sit down with Paige Woodward, NP, a Yale-trained nurse practitioner with over 20 years of oncology experience (Dana-Farber, Cedars-Sinai), to break down everything breast cancer patients and survivors need to know about GLP-1 medications — the class of drugs behind Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Topics covered: How GLP-1s work and why weight loss matters for estrogen-positive breast cancer San Antonio Breast Cancer Conference data: women on GLP-1s during chemo had fewer side effects (less neuropathy, nausea, neutropenia, and fatigue) Emerging evidence linking GLP-1s to reduced tumor recurrence and lower colorectal cancer risk Safety, proper dosing, and the importance of nutrition and exercise GLP-1s and reduced alcohol cravings — a bonus for cancer risk reduction Guest: Paige Woodward, NP — @FunctionalCancerCare on Instagram | Vibrant Integrative Health | Licensed in CA, MA & NH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 2 of our conversation with TV icon and breast cancer survivor Jillian Barberie, we get into the moments that don't always make the highlight reel — the fear when treatment ends, the financial crisis that hit at the same time as her diagnosis, and how she rebuilt her life from the ground up. Follow our Guest: @AskJillian Follow the show: @boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Boobalicious, former Good Day LA favorite Jillian Barberie shares her raw, unfiltered breast cancer journey—from finding out she had cancer during a "Mammograms & Mimosas" party, to her battle through stage 3 diagnosis, chemo, radiation, and multiple reconstructive surgeries. Hear how Jillian discovered her diagnosis, underwent a double mastectomy in just two weeks, survived a brutal 10.5-hour DIE flap reconstruction surgery alone, and learned to live in the moment despite financial loss and ongoing health scares. This isn't your typical cancer story—it's real, it's brave, and it's filled with hope. 🎧 Part 1 drops NOW. Part 2 next week covers hormone therapy, the financial crisis of cancer, and so much more. Follow our Guest! @AskJillian Follow the show: @boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when two women meet through the breast cancer community and forge a friendship stronger than anything they could've imagined? In Part 2 of our interview with besties Brittany and Bethany, they get raw about: ✨ The healing power of social media communities (and the wild unsolicited advice) ✨ Why letting someone feel their emotions is the greatest gift ✨ How they show up for each other through progression, hospital stays, and 3am sobbing sessions ✨ Their mindset around treatment (spoiler: it's all about love, not battle) ✨ Why twerking in the chemo chair is a legit coping mechanism This is what unconditional support looks like—and we're all here for it. Make sure you listen to Part 1 first to hear their origin story! Learn more about: Bethany Adair (@mygurucancer) Bethany's Book Brittney Beadle (@BrittneyBeadle) Brittney's Book Follow the pod @boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bethany and Brittney are two women living with stage 4 breast cancer — and yes, they’re genuinely best friends. What started with a connection on social media turned into a friendship that’s been widely followed (and loved) online. But beyond the posts and videos is a real story about living with metastatic disease. In Part 1 of this two-episode series, we talk about: • How their friendship actually began• What “HER2-low” means — and why it’s changing treatment conversations• The shock of being diagnosed young• Why there is not enough mindfulness training in the world to prepare you for a cancer diagnosis This conversation is honest, informative, and refreshingly unfiltered. It’s about friendship, modern treatment realities, and what it looks like to build a full life while carrying a stage 4 diagnosis. Make sure and follow ⁠⁠@BoobaliciousPod⁠⁠ so you don't miss Part 2 of Bethany and Brittney! Today's guests: ⁠⁠Bethany Adair⁠⁠ Buy her book! ⁠⁠My Guru Cancer: You Don't Have to Fight to Find True Freedom From the C Word.⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Brittney Beadle⁠⁠ Buy her book! ⁠⁠A Peace of Hope: Finding Inner Peace and Healing Through Stave IV Cancer⁠⁠ Follow Jenni and Chris! ⁠⁠@BoobaliciousPod⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Breastie to Boobalicious.  In this episode, Chris and Jenni share why reclaiming language, growing beyond diagnosis, and creating a space that feels lighter, bolder, and more them. It’s about health, menopause and the real-life layers in between. Plus: New segment. What’s In My Bag?! New name. Same honesty. More edge. Welcome to Boobalicious. 💛 Follow us on Socials: @BoobaliciousPod Chris @ChrisKushner Jenni @MyBreastieSays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’ve grown. And so has this podcast. What started as My Breastie Says was two friends navigating breast cancer from lived experience and medical expertise. But we’ve realized something important:Breast cancer is part of this conversation — but womanhood is so much bigger. So we’re evolving. ✨ Welcome to Boobalicious. Same honest conversations.Same evidence-based guidance.Same real talk.Just a name that reflects our full lives — humor, hormones, healing, and all. Follow us on socials @Boobaliciouspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before chemo begins, there’s a lot no one prepares you for. This episode is your calm, trustworthy place to land. Oncologist Nurse Practitioner Paige Woodward walks you through what actually matters before your first infusion—what to expect, what to ask, and how to set yourself up for the smoothest experience possible. We cover: the questions you deserve to ask your oncology team (and the ones people forget) side effects vs. myths (and what’s normal) how to prepare your body, your home, and your support system practical tips that can make chemo more tolerable physically and emotionally If chemo is on your horizon—or you love someone who’s about to start—this episode is empowering, grounding, and full of information every patient should have before day one.  Thank you to friend of the Pod, Paige Woodward: Paige Woodward, NP @Functionalcancercare Follow us on Socials! The pod: @GritandGracePod Chris: @ChrisKushner Jenni: @MyBreastieSays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now—but are they actually safe after cancer? In this episode of My Breastie Says, Jenni and Chris sit down with Paige Woodward, NP, to cut through the noise and dig into what the science actually says. Paige breaks down the latest research on GLP-1s, cancer risk, recurrence concerns, and who should (and shouldn’t) be considering these medications after treatment. If you’ve seen the headlines, heard the hot takes, or wondered whether weight-loss meds are being responsibly prescribed to survivors, this conversation brings clarity, nuance, and evidence—without fear-mongering or fluff. An essential listen for survivors navigating wellness trends with their health front and center. More info about our Guest: Paige Woodward, NP @functionalcancercare Substack: https://substack.com/@functionalcancercare Stay in touch with My Breastie Says! On instagram: @MyBreastieSaysPod On Substack: @MyBreastieSaysPod Chris: @ChrisKushner Jenni: @MyBreastieSays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when women tell each other the things they usually whisper? Actor Jessica St. Clair & Nurse Practitioner Paige Woodward join Jenni & Chris for an honest, funny, and deeply relatable conversation about life after breast cancer treatment. Together, they share real-world tips for navigating survivorship, menopause, and all the unexpected changes that come with this next chapter…the stuff no one prepares you for…with plenty of laughter, truth, & zero sugarcoating! Follow our guests! Jessica St. Clair: @stclairjessica (IG) Podcast: The Deep Dive with Jessica St Clair and June Diane Raphael Paige Woodward, NP @functionalcancercare (IG) ⁠www.functionalcancercare.com⁠ Follow our Hosts! Chris @chriskushner Jenni @Mybreastiesays and the pod: @Mybreastiesayspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Just living life…with cancer in my body.” That line stopped us cold. Jaclyn Johnson joins us—an accomplished, driven woman used to building, leading, and powering through. Then cancer entered her body and upended everything. In this conversation, she shares what it was like to keep doing life as usual while carrying a diagnosis she didn’t choose—and how cancer forced her to reckon with uncertainty, fear, and a loss of control she couldn’t outwork or outmaneuver. We talk about:- the mental weight of carrying cancer while still showing up- the statistic that still shocks us: 1 in 8 women- the moment she realized, “I can do hard things.” This episode is real. It’s raw. It’s empowering.And it might be exactly what you needed today. Have an episode idea? DM us on instagram @mybreastiesayspod Find our guest: @jaclynrjohnson Find us: Chris @chriskushner Jenni @MyBreastieSays We now have a substack!!! Subscribe for FREE here: https://substack.com/@mybreastiesayspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Just living life…with cancer in my body.” That line stopped us cold. Jaclyn Johnson joins us—an accomplished, driven woman used to building, leading, and powering through. Then cancer entered her body and upended everything. In this conversation, she shares what it was like to keep doing life as usual while carrying a diagnosis she didn’t choose—and how cancer forced her to reckon with uncertainty, fear, and a loss of control she couldn’t outwork or outmaneuver. We talk about:- the mental weight of carrying cancer while still showing up- the statistic that still shocks us: 1 in 8 women- the moment she realized, “I can do hard things.” This episode is real. It’s raw. It’s empowering.And it might be exactly what you needed today. Have an episode idea? DM us on instagram ⁠@mybreastiesayspod⁠ Find our guest: ⁠@jaclynrjohnson⁠ Find us: Chris ⁠@chriskushner⁠ Jenni⁠ @MyBreastieSays⁠ ⁠We now have a substack!!!⁠ ⁠Subscribe for FREE here: https://substack.com/@mybreastiesayspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breast cancer treatment can push you into menopause fast — and one of the most overlooked side effects is what it does to your vagina. In this episode, we talk honestly about vaginal dryness, pain, burning, UTIs, and intimacy changes after treatment — and what survivors can safely do about it. Our guest, breast cancer survivor, powerlifter, and Pelvic Health Physical Therapist Dr. Erin Michael, shares practical, evidence-based strategies, clears up common fears, and helps you understand your options, from pelvic health PT to non-hormonal support and care-team conversations. No shame, no scare tactics — just real information to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your body again. Follow our guest! On instagram: Dr Erin Michael @befempowered Never miss an episode update! Recommend a topic! @mybreastiesayspod Chris: @ChrisKushner Jenni: @MyBreastieSays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breast cancer treatment can push you into menopause fast — and one of the most overlooked side effects is what it does to your vagina. In this episode, we talk honestly about vaginal dryness, pain, burning, UTIs, and intimacy changes after treatment — and what survivors can safely do about it. Our guest, breast cancer survivor, powerlifter, and Pelvic Health Physical Therapist Dr. Erin Michael, shares practical, evidence-based strategies, clears up common fears, and helps you understand your options, from pelvic health PT to non-hormonal support and care-team conversations. No shame, no scare tactics — just real information to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your body again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Why do I STILL have pain after my mastectomy?!" It’s the #1 question Jenni gets as a PT—and the answer might surprise you. Post-mastectomy pain is incredibly common and doesn’t mean your surgery failed. From scar tissue and radiation effects to altered movement patterns and even how you breathe, there are real, fixable reasons this pain sticks around. In this episode, Jenni breaks it all down and shares simple, practical steps you can start using today to feel better. We're on Instagram! Have a question or idea for an episode? DM us @mybreastiesayspod Chris: @chriskushner Jenni: @mybreastiesays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Why do I STILL have pain after my mastectomy?!" It’s the #1 question Jenni gets as a PT—and the answer might surprise you. Post-mastectomy pain is incredibly common and doesn’t mean your surgery failed. From scar tissue and radiation effects to altered movement patterns and even how you breathe, there are real, fixable reasons this pain sticks around. In this episode, Jenni breaks it all down and shares simple, practical steps you can start using today to feel better. We're on Instagram! Have a question or idea for an episode? DM us @mybreastiesayspod Chris: @chriskushner Jenni: @mybreastiesays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris and Jenni are joined by Elissa Kalver, founder of WeGotThis.org—a genius, heart-filled platform that works like a gift registry, but for people navigating cancer (because no one actually needs 30 blankets). Elissa shares how and why she created We Got This: it takes the guesswork out of support— for patients who are overwhelmed and loved ones who want to help but don’t know how. The conversation also goes deeper, as Elissa opens up about living fully with stage 4 cancer, redefining support, and finding meaning, connection, and joy even in the hardest seasons. This episode is equal parts practical, inspiring, and a powerful reminder that none of us have to do this alone. Learn more about our guest! www.elissakalver.com www.wegotthis.org Follow the pod! DM us thoughts, questions, episode suggestions on IG @MyBreastieSaysPod Follow Chris and Jenni! IG: @chriskushner, @MyBreastieSays Tiktok: @MyBreastieSays Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when women tell each other the things they usually whisper? Actor Jessica St. Clair & Nurse Practitioner Paige Woodward join Jenni & Chris for an honest, funny, and deeply relatable conversation about life after breast cancer treatment. Together, they share real-world tips for navigating survivorship, menopause, and all the unexpected changes that come with this next chapter…the stuff no one prepares you for…with plenty of laughter, truth, & zero sugarcoating! Follow our guests! Jessica St. Clair: @stclairjessica (IG) Podcast: The Deep Dive with Jessica St Clair and June Diane Raphael Paige Woodward, NP @functionalcancercare (IG) www.functionalcancercare.com Follow our Hosts! Chris @chriskushner Jenni @Mybreastiesays and the pod: @Mybreastiesayspod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Chris and Jenni sit down with Alexis Lamontagna, a meditation guide who specializes in simple, accessible practices for self-healing. Alexis breaks down why meditation doesn’t have to be complicated, overwhelming, or time-consuming—and how small, consistent moments of stillness can create real change. She also shares a calming, holiday-friendly meditation designed to help you reset, release stress, and return to yourself during a season that often feels chaotic. Whether you’re brand-new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, this episode offers grounded, practical tools you can use right away! Find us! Chris @Chriskushner Jenni @MyBreastieSays And be sure and follow our special guest! Alexis Lamontange @Alexislamontagna Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breast cancer treatment can change how you look—and how you feel about the person in the mirror. In this episode, Chris and Jenni sit down with Michal Cohen of Beverly Hills Ink, a permanent makeup artist who specializes in working with breast cancer survivors. Michal explains the different permanent makeup techniques available—far beyond just brows—and how they can support women during and after treatment. If you’ve ever considered permanent makeup but still have questions, this episode is a must-listen. Find Michal Cohen at https://beverlyhillsink.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris and Jenni are joined by their friend Karen—the person who first introduced them! Together, they dig into how friendships evolve during treatment—some deepening, others disappearing—and the surprising life long skill that came out of it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A quick, practical guide to easing back into exercise after cancer treatment. Chris and Jenni share simple strategies to rebuild strength, listen to your body, and return to movement with confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Getting ready for a mastectomy can feel overwhelming. Chrisand Jenni share practical tips to help you prepare, feel more incontrol, and make recovery a little smoothe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The emotional side of a mastectomy is real. Chris and Jennivalidate the feelings that come with it and share ways to processand heal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis and what those early days were really like. She and Jenni share strategies to help make that overwhelming time a little easier to navigate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A survivor and a medical expert walk into breast cancer land—then start a podcast. In this episode, Chris and Jenni share how their paths crossed and what inspired them to create My Breastie Says—a show for anyone navigating life during and after breast cancer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MBS is the podcast for women navigating life during and after breast cancer treatment. Hosted by breast cancer recovery expert Jenni Rai and survivor Chris Kushner, it’s where medical insight meets real-life experience. Together, they tackle the questions you’ve spent hours googling — from recovery and side effects to rediscovering your strength, confidence, and joy beyond cancer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices