F-U Cancer Podcast

Dr. Arthur L. “Bud” Burnett II, M.D., MBA, FACS, is a trail-blazing and globally recognized urologist, educator, and researcher at Johns Hopkins University, where he has worked for more than 40 years. He serves as the Patrick C. Walsh Professor of Urology, Director of the Male Consultation Clinic.As a barrier-breaking leader, he is recognized as the first Black person to have achieved milestones in the urology profession as professor of urology at Johns Hopkins University, President of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA), and Board Member of the American Urological Association.  Please note that Dr. Burnett is speaking on the podcast as an individual and not on behalf of Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Burnett has devoted his professional life to advancing patient care, performing thousands of prostate and urologic surgeries and pioneering minimally invasive, nerve-sparing techniques that help patients recover faster and maintain quality of life. His groundbreaking research on erectile function helped make oral therapies like Viagra possible, and he continues to innovate treatments that improve outcomes for men and women alike.A passionate educator and champion of men’s and boys’ health and wellness, Dr. Burnett has published more than 500 scientific articles and three books, sharing his insights with the medical community and the public. His works include Johns Hopkins Patient’s Guide to Prostate Cancer (2010), an authoritative resource that walks patients and their families through diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery; Prostate Cancer Survivors Speak Their Minds (2010), co-written with CBS News producer Norman S. Morris, which shares the voices and experiences of men who have faced prostate cancer alongside Dr. Burnett’s expert commentary; and The Manhood Rx: Every Man’s Guide to Improving Sexual Health and Overall Wellness (2022), a comprehensive guide that distills decades of research and clinical insight into accessible advice for maintaining sexual health and vitality. His next book is expected in 2026.As founder of UroMissionsWorks, a nonprofit bringing critical urologic care to communities in need worldwide, Dr. Burnett’s work has earned him numerous honors, including the American Urological Association Distinguished Contribution Award and the Hugh Hampton Young Award. These recognitions reflect his lifelong commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassionate care.He is also a proud military veteran. A distinguished military graduate of Princeton University’s ROTC program, Dr. Burnett was commissioned in May 1984 and served as an active U.S. Army reservist from 1984 to 1994, when he was honorably retired with the rank of Major.Whether through his groundbreaking achievements, research, compassionate patient care, and service to community and country, Dr. Burnett continues to help shape the future of men’s health worldwide.Learn more about Dr. Burnett here: https://drarthurburnett.com/

Mallory Storrs is a Licensed Clinical Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition with extensive experience supporting patients across the cancer care continuum. In addition to her clinical expertise, Mallory also holds an MBA, bringing a uniquely holistic perspective to patient care, education, and systems-level support in healthcare.Mallory works closely with cancer patients, caregivers, and survivors to help them navigate one of the most important — and often overwhelming — aspects of treatment and recovery: nutrition. Today, she’ll be sharing practical, real-life strategies for staying nourished while living life on the go — from preparing for busy weeks, to properly fueling during travel days, to nourishing your body well wherever life takes you. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-storrs-mba-rd-ld-cso-27a22829/Instagram: @malpal_213

In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Dr. Steven Chen to discuss lymphedema, learn about early detection screening options, and to unpack the importance of SOZO®. Steven Chen, MD, MBA is a surgical oncologist in private practice in San Diego, CA. His clinical practice focuses on breastcancer, melanoma, and endocrine diseases. Dr. Chen did his medical education, general surgery and critical care training at the University of Michigan where he also received an MBA. After that he went to the John Wayne Cancer Institute for surgical oncology fellowship.  After time in academics, as Chief of Breast Surgery at UC Davis and then at City of Hope as the associate Program Director of the Surgical Oncology Fellowship, he started his own practice in San Diego.  He has been very active in organized medicine including as a past President of the American Society of Breast Surgeons and committee positions within the American College of Surgeons, Society for Surgical Oncology, and the American Medical Association. His research focuses on quality, cost-effectiveness, and outcomes in cancer care, and the greater health care system.  In addition, he is the Chief Medical Officer of ImpediMed, a medical device company focused on measuring fluid and body composition in the body for a variety of purposes including detecting lymphedema early in cancer patients.ImpediMed: https://www.impedimed.com/steven-chen/

Welcome to the F-U Cancer Podcast, where our mission is to empower individuals touched by cancer with low-cost, accessible digital health tools, education, and community support to improve overall well-being through evidence-based nutrition, physical activity and mental health resources.  Visit fucancer.health to learn more, and be sure to like and follow us where you listen to your favorite podcast.

This episode explores the science and practice of exercise oncology — how targeted physical activity can support cancer treatment, recovery, and long-term health. We discuss the role of aerobic endurance, strength training, and personalized exercise prescriptions in improving treatment tolerance, enhancing quality of life, and supporting long-term survivorship.Dr. Rudolfs Cešeiko is an exercise oncology expert and the founder of the Exercise Oncology Clinic in Riga, Latvia. Dr Cešeiko has developed both clinical and community-based protocols in the field of exercise oncology, integrating scientific evidence with real-world clinical practice. His work spans clinical trials, personalized exercise planning, and translating research into accessible programs for people living with and beyond cancer.In addition to his clinic leadership, Dr. Cešeiko collaborates on European-level initiatives — including partnerships with organizations such as Outdoor Against Cancer — while maintaining his primary focus on advancing clinical exercise oncology in Latvia and internationally.Through his research, clinical expertise, and commitment to patient-centered practice, Dr Cešeiko is helping shape the future of exercise oncology from both medical and community perspectives.Link to Dr.Cešeiko's clinic in Latvia: https://www.aktivitasuklinika.lv/ Dr. Cešeiko's social media accounts, where you can find more of his educational content related to physical activity in clinical populations: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rudolfs_ceseiko/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/r%C5%ABdolfs-ce%C5%A1eiko-ph-d-3bb07a178/

Joe Faratzis joins us today not as a headline or as a statistic. He’s here as a man living through stage IV colon cancer — navigating scans, side effects, decisions, fears, clinical trials and the quiet moments in between. This is no polished narrative. It’s just honesty about what it means to have your body change the rules on you. It’s a conversation about vulnerability, resilience and the parts of cancer people don’t always see. This is Joe’s voice — unfiltered, unscripted, and happening in real time. You can find Joe @RADIANT14 on TikTok for more!Joe is one of our F-U Cancer Patient Champions. At F-U Cancer, our Patient and Caregiver Champion Program puts the voices of those living with cancer at the center of everything we build. By partnering with people who know the journey firsthand, we ensure our resources are credible, relevant and grounded in what truly matters most.

Dr. Jennifer Vencill is a board certified clinical health psychologist, AASECT-certified sex therapist, co-author of the newly published book named Desire: An Inclusive Guide to Navigating Libido Differences in Relationships, and she is an educator at Mayo Clinic. Please note that she is speaking on the podcast as an individual and not on behalf of Mayo Clinic. Dr. Vencill teaches medical professionals how to approach sexual health with skill, sensitivity, and inclusivity. She works with all patient populations and more specifically, with cancer patients, caregivers and survivors, bringing deep expertise to a field of medicine that remains underserved and in need of more trained specialists. In this episode, we will be focusing on whole-person care, specifically speaking to those medical professionals who weren’t provided training on sexual health in the setting of a cancer diagnosis. Our goal is to close important gaps, build comfort around challenging conversations and better meet patients where they need us most.IG: @drjennifervencillDr. Jennifer Vencill's Trusted Sexual Health Resources for Clinicians: The Scientific Network on Female Sexual Health and CancerThe International Society for Sexual MedicineISSWSHAAESCTDr. Jennifer Vencill's Tool for Clinicians to Address Sexual Health in Cancer Care: “Many people going through cancer treatment have sexual health concerns. What concerns do you have?” 

We are thrilled to welcome Juliette Jorgenson, a Registered Dietitian and passionate advocate for cancer supportive care, who is extending the mission and vision of the F-U Cancer podcast. Juliette brings experience supporting patients and caregivers across nutrition, symptom management, and wellness, and now she’s creating a space to share practical guidance, expert insights, and inspiration for the cancer community.

Jasmine Westbrooks is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Jasmine is a true powerhouse in nutrition and wellness, blending clinical expertise with lived experience to help people build sustainable, realistic relationships with food.Her path into nutrition was deeply personal—shaped by seeing preventable health conditions affect her own family—which fueled a career rooted in prevention, empowerment, and cultural relevance. Jasmine holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Dietetics from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a Master’s in Nutrition Education from Rosalind Franklin University. She’s also the co-founder of EatWell Exchange, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing diabetes prevention, culinary education, and hands-on nutrition programming to underserved communities—while honoring cultural food traditions rather than erasing them.In addition to her community work, Jasmine is the CEO of Nourish Through Nutrition and a nationally recognized media dietitian, with features across television, print, and digital platforms. At the heart of it all is her commitment to helping people move away from fear, confusion, and food guilt—and toward confidence, longevity, and a better quality of life.

Diagnosed with incurable breast cancer in 2024, Shaunna Burke continues to live with extraordinary purpose. From running the Everest Marathon to climbing mountains for charity, Shaunna’s journey is now being captured in an upcoming documentary airing on the Discovery Channel, a powerful testament to resilience, meaning, and the will to keep climbing.Shaunna is a PhD and Associate Professor at the University of Leeds, where her groundbreaking research explores physical activity, prehabilitation, and resilience in people living with cancer. With more than 30 peer reviewed publications, she is a leading voice in improving quality of life, motivation, and psychological strength across the cancer journey.In this episode, Shaunna sits down with host Christina Rollins to reflect on her cancer journey, explore how her lived experiences impact her professional work, and share lessons that can help us all thrive regardless of the mountain we are climbing. 💕Learn More:  http://fucancer.health🏔️Support Shaunna: https://www.dyingtoclimb.com/

How does exercise support cancer treatment—and why does nutrition matter for rehab success? On this episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, host Christina Rollins talks with Scott Capozza, PT, a board-certified oncology physical therapist at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale Cancer Center. Scott shares how exercise and nutrition work together to help patients manage treatment side effects, improve quality of life, and rebuild strength during and after cancer care.We discuss the challenges patients face when starting or maintaining movement, insights from the CHALLENGE trial, common supplement misconceptions, and how to find oncology-trained rehab professionals. Check out our new digital health tool now available at fucancer.health.

Pelvic health is deeply personal—and for many cancer survivors, deeply affected by treatment. In this episode, Dr. Amanda Olson explains how radiation, chemo, and surgery impact the pelvic floor, what symptoms to watch for, how pelvic floor therapy works, and how tools like dilators and wands can support healing.We cover:• Bowel, bladder, and sexual changes after cancer• When to seek a pelvic floor PT• What tight pelvic floor symptoms feel like• What a rehab session looks like• Sexual health + intimacy for all genders• Real patient stories and recoveryIf you’re on a healing journey, this conversation is a must-listen. Learn more at fucancer.health.

What happens after the words “you’re cancer-free”?  In this powerful new episode, we sit down with Lisandra Cruz, RD, LDN, a Hodgkin lymphoma survivor, autologous bone marrow transplant recipient, and registered dietitian whose personal journey reshaped her entire approach to care. Lisandra opens up about the emotional and physical challenges that begin after treatment ends, from rebuilding trust with your body to navigating the uncertainty of a “new normal.” She shares how survivorship transformed her private practice, her philosophy on compassionate, accessible nutrition care, and her mission to create honest conversations through her own podcast. Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode shines a light on what it truly means to heal beyond survival, and how community, nourishment, and empathy play a critical role.

Join host Christina Rollins as she talks with Rebecca Perkins, a UK-based writer, coach, founder, and guide who helps women navigate life after cancer with compassion, courage, and connection. In this epsiode, we explore a truly unique approach to healing — one that invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the world around us. We’re talking about forest bathing — or as it’s known in Japan, Shinrin-yoku — and how immersing ourselves in nature can support healing and wellbeing after cancer.To learn more about Rebecca’s work, visit womenbeyondcancer.co and forest-connections.com. You can also find her free “Awakening the Senses” guided meditation on the Insight Timer app.  Join our community at fucancer.health. 

Balance, coordination, and strength can all be affected during cancer treatment — but falls don’t have to be an inevitable part of the journey. In this episode, host Christina Rollins talks with Elana Feldman, an advanced cancer exercise specialist who focuses on oncology rehabilitation and functional mobility. Together, they explore practical ways to stay safe, strong, and independent — from identifying fall risks and adapting your environment to using movement as medicine.🎧 Tune in to learn:Why fall risk increases during treatmentSmall changes that make a big difference in safety and mobilityHow to rebuild confidence after a fallContinue learning at fucancer.health.

At 19, Krista Anderson lost a kidney to cancer. By 21, she was facing Stage 4 cancer and given just three months to live. Against all odds, she survived — and transformed her pain into purpose. Through her journey, Krista discovered a gap in the world of food access for patients and caregivers: the lack of clean, nutritious grab-and-go options. That realization sparked Healthy on the Go, a mission-driven company now bringing better food choices to hospitals, airports, universities, and corporate campuses across the country.In this episode, Krista shares how resilience, faith, and determination fueled her fight — and how she built a business that empowers others to live well.✨ Members of our F-U Cancer community also joined Krista for an exclusive post-recording Q&A, where she answered personal questions and shared even more behind-the-scenes insight. To be part of future Q&A sessions, visit fucancer.health and become a member.

Cancer isn’t just a physical diagnosis — it’s an emotional journey that touches every part of life. In this episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, host Christina Rollins sits down with Saba Harouni, licensed marriage and family therapist and board-certified art therapist, to explore how creativity can become a powerful tool for healing.From reducing stress and anxiety to helping patients and caregivers process emotions they can’t always put into words, art therapy offers a unique pathway to resilience, hope, and self-discovery. Saba shares how this evidence-based approach can be integrated into cancer care — at any stage of the journey — and why it’s truly for everyone, regardless of artistic skill.Whether you’re a patient seeking new ways to cope, a caregiver navigating your own emotional landscape, or a healthcare provider looking to offer more holistic support, this conversation will open your eyes to the transformative power of creativity in healing. Continue learning at fucancer.health.

Muscle loss — known as cachexia — is one of the toughest challenges people face during cancer treatment. It can sap strength, slow recovery, and affect daily life. But the good news? Nutrition and lifestyle changes can make a real difference.In this powerful episode, host Christina Rollins, RDN sits down with Hannah Manella, MS, RDN, CES, an oncology dietitian and clinical exercise physiologist at Northwestern’s Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center. Together, they unpack:✅ What cachexia really is — and why it matters✅ How nutrition and movement protect strength and improve outcomes✅ Practical strategies to boost protein and calories, even with appetite loss✅ Tips for caregivers and when to involve a dietitian✅ Real-world tools to support muscle health during treatment💡 Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or clinician, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help fight muscle wasting and improve quality of life during cancer care.Continue learning at fucancer.health.

The end of treatment isn’t always the end of worry. Many survivors live with the ongoing fear that cancer might return — but you’re not alone, and there are ways to take back control. In this powerful episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, licensed clinical psychologist Adrian Pogacian joins us to break down why fear of recurrence happens, how it impacts daily life and relationships, and what you can do to manage anxiety and build emotional resilience. We’ll talk about practical coping tools, communication strategies, and even how fear can become a pathway to personal growth.💡 Want to dive deeper? For those who want to learn more about Adrian’s work, visit incka.org or explore his Beyond the Cancer Diagnosis interview series at OncoDaily.com.✨ Learn more and access additional resources at fucancer.health.

Pediatric leukemia treatment is a marathon and, for many families, the maintenance phase is where recovery truly begins. After a year of intense chemotherapy, how do we help kids rebuild their strength, improve nutrition, and restore their joy?🎙️ In this episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, we talk with Rachel Hill, RD, CSO, LD, CNSC about how to support children in the maintenance phase of leukemia treatment through:✅ Rebuilding healthy eating habits✅ Reintroducing safe, age-appropriate movement✅ Reducing long-term risks like low muscle mass, poor diet quality, and bone health issues✅ Supporting emotional and physical recovery in the home environmentRachel specializes in pediatric oncology nutrition and brings compassionate, real-world advice for families navigating this critical stage of healing.Learn more at fucancer.health.

Today we’re exploring functional nutrition—a personalized, food-first approach to healing and resilience—featuring Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, CSO, an integrative dietitian, board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition, and the founder of Ginger Hultin Nutrition.From anti-inflammatory foods to personalized plans, supplements, and everyday meals that support healing, Ginger shares science-backed strategies to help you fuel your fight—whether you’re in treatment or thriving in survivorship.✨ Don’t miss this empowering conversation that proves food can be more than fuel—it can be a tool for healing, strength, and joy.Learn more at fucancer.health.

This week on the F-U Cancer Podcast, we welcome David Page, creator of  Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and author of Food Americana, to talk about the emotional power of food in the cancer journey. From the comfort of a favorite dish to the stories that connect us to who we are—David shares how meals can nourish far more than the body. Tune in as we explore how food, flavor, and storytelling can uplift us in even the darkest times.🥘Check out David's Podcast here: https://link.chtbl.com/9wkka9U8?sid=fucancer👩‍⚕️Visit our website at fucancer.health.

What if your diet could not only support your body during chemo—but also make your treatment work better?Join me and LJ Amaral, MS, RD, CSO as we explore how clinical trials are unlocking the power of nutrition in glioblastoma and CNS cancers. LJ shares how her work at Cedars-Sinai’s CIRCL program is shaping the future of cancer care through research that combines science, food, and hope.

Caregivers are often the quiet strength behind every cancer journey — but what happens when that strength is stretched to the edge? In this powerful episode, podcast host and caregiver Charlotte Bayala opens up about the emotional toll of caregiving, the paralyzing fear of scanxiety, and the truths she wishes her loved one had understood during treatment.We discuss:💬 What scanxiety feels like from the caregiver’s seat💬 The pressure to stay positive — even when you're falling apart💬 Coping strategies that actually help💬 The emotional truths caregivers often keep to themselvesIf you're a caregiver, a patient, or someone who supports either — this one’s a must-listen.🔗 More at: www.fucancer.health

Cancer doesn't end when treatment does. Survivorship brings its own set of physical, emotional, and mental challenges—and it takes real resilience to rebuild life after cancer.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Meghan Laszlo, a cancer advocate, to talk about what it means to heal, to cope, and to grow beyond diagnosis. From the fear of recurrence to finding new purpose, Meghan shares the raw, real experience of life after cancer.💬 We cover:✔️ What no one tells you about cancer survivorship✔️ How to navigate the “new normal” after treatment✔️ Strategies for building emotional resilience✔️ Advice for survivors, caregivers, and support networksWhether you're a survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, or someone looking for inspiration, this conversation is for you.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Julianna Corraro, a remarkable young adult turned social worker who was diagnosed with cancer at just 16 years old. From navigating high school while undergoing treatment to confronting the emotional toll of survivorship, their journey sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health struggles young patients face. Now on the other side of treatment, they’re turning pain into purpose—using their experience to support and inspire others walking a similar path.Tune in for a raw, honest, and hopeful conversation about resilience, identity, and the healing power of giving back.

Meet Lauren Huffmaster — metastatic breast cancer survivor, founder of the Adventure Therapy Foundation, author, speaker, and host of the Adventures With Scars podcast. In this inspiring episode, Lauren shares how her diagnosis led her to redefine purpose, foster healing through storytelling, and help others feel seen—not “fixed.” From parenting with cancer to building joy into heavy moments, Lauren’s honesty and strength shine through.💥 Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or ally — this one’s for you. Learn more at our website - fucancer.health.

Cancer caregivers are the ultimate multitaskers—managing meds, appointments, meals, and emotions. But in the midst of it all, who’s caring for them? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Alison Meagher, a registered dietitain, clinical exercise physiologist and oncology-certified dietitian, to talk about the real challenges caregivers face—and how nutrition and movement can be powerful tools for resilience, energy, and emotional well-being.We cover:🧠 How nutrition supports mental health💪 Creative ways to build movement into a busy day🥗 Quick, stress-free meal ideas🚩 Red flags of burnout and how to respond❤️ A 3-step self-care routine any caregiver can start todayWhether you're a caregiver, patient, or part of the support team, this episode is a must-listen. Because taking care of yourself is taking care of your loved one.Join Now: Join our community at fucancer.health

In this episode, we’re talking cancer recovery, nutrition tips for survivors, and how to manage lymphedema through diet with registered dietitian and cancer survivor Jean LaMantia. Jean is the author of The Complete Lymphedema Management and Nutrition Guide and creator of Lymphedema Nutrition School. She shares practical advice on anti-inflammatory foods, intermittent fasting after cancer, and nutritional strategies to reduce swelling, support healing, and improve quality of life.Join our cancer community today at fucancer.health.

Patients, caregivers, and clinicans are gearing up for the The Oley Foundation's annual conference on June 17 - 20, 2025 in Charleston, SC, and F-U Cancer was fortunate enough to snag a few minutes with Andrea Taylor, Manager of National Advocacy, to discuss how this incredible organization supports patients and caregivers navigating life with parenteral or enteral nutrition.🔍 We cover:✔️ The origins and mission of The Oley Foundation✔️ Challenges cancer patients face with home nutrition✔️ Real-life success stories from the community✔️ How you can connect or get involvedWhether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation is a must-listen.

Lymphedema is a common—yet often overlooked—side effect of cancer treatments like surgery and radiation. In our latest episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, we’re joined by physical therapist and certified lymphedema specialist Hari Vennelakanti, who shares practical strategies for recognizing, treating, and living with cancer-related lymphedema. Whether you’re a cancer survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode offers vital information to improve quality of life and support long-term recovery.

Loss of appetite during cancer treatment is one of the most common and frustrating challenges patients face. In this powerful episode, oncology dietitian Elizabeth Miracle shares expert tips for managing nutrition when you don't feel like eating—including high-protein snack ideas, small meal strategies, and practical ways to nourish your body even on the hardest days. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this episode is packed with real-life solutions for eating during chemo, boosting appetite, and supporting healing through personalized oncology nutrition.

Talking about end-of-life care doesn’t mean giving up—it means taking control. In this powerful episode, award-winning hospice nurse and end-of-life educator Barbara Karnes, RN shares expert guidance on how to navigate serious illness with dignity, purpose, and compassion.🎁 Barbara also offers listeners a free resource:“10 Things You Need to Know About Approaching Death”📥 Download it at bkbooks.com/pages/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-approaching-deathThis is a must-listen for cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals who want to ensure that end-of-life care aligns with personal values and medical goals.

How does alcohol really impact cancer risk? Is any amount safe? And what about the red wine myth? In this must-hear episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, host Christina Rollins sits down with oncology nutrition expert Wendy Kaplan, RDN, to tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in cancer prevention: alcohol. With over 20 years of experience and credentials that include board certifications in oncology nutrition and diabetes care, Wendy brings clarity to the science and offers practical, compassionate advice for those looking to make informed choices.

On the latest F-U Cancer Podcast, we're joined by Melinda Bachini, Director of Advocacy at the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, to talk about the critical role foundations play in cancer care.From finding the right support to getting involved in advocacy, this episode is packed with insight for patients, caregivers, and professionals alike.💡 Learn how foundations like CCF provide connection, resources, and hope when it’s needed most.

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in cancer treatment, especially for patients undergoing a bone marrow transplant (BMT). In this episode, we sit down with Katie Harper, RDN, a clinical dietitian with 19+ years of experience in oncology nutrition, including 13 years focused on BMT at the University of Colorado Hospital.Katie dives into:✅ How BMT nutrition differs from standard cancer care✅ Common nutritional deficiencies in BMT patients✅ Evidence-based dietary strategies to support healing and recovery✅ Her experience as Nutrition Support Team Lead and BMT chapter co-author in Oncology Nutrition for Clinical PracticeWhether you're a healthcare professional, caregiver, or patient, this episode offers expert insights on the critical role of personalized nutrition in BMT and cancer care.

In this epsiode, we’re diving into a critical conversation on nutrition and survivorship for breast cancer—how food can play a role in recovery, long-term health, and overall well-being.Joining us is Tamar Rothenberg, MS, RDN, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in nutrition for breast and ovarian cancer thrivers in her Los Angeles-based private practice. She’s the author of Cancer Diet for the Newly Diagnosed: An Integrative Guide and Cookbook for Treatment and Recovery and has specialized training in vegetarian nutrition and herbal formulations for cancer care from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Tamar also co-facilitated the Coping with Cancer in the Kitchen study at Cancer Support Community, which was published in Nutrients in 2020.

This week, we’re joined by Los Angeles–based Registered Dietitian Anna Abel, who brings serious flavor to the table—literally and figuratively. With a background in oncology and chronic illness nutrition, Anna fuses clinical expertise with culinary skills through Stronger With Every Bite, F-U Cancer’s newest cooking series now streaming on Spotify and YouTube.Armed with a Master’s in Nutrition and training from UCLA and Vanderbilt, Anna knows her stuff—but what sets her apart is her down-to-earth, no-BS style. She gets that food is emotional, especially during cancer treatment, and she’s on a mission to help people reconnect with their bodies and their plates, one practical, nourishing bite at a time.In this episode, we dive into:🥄 How quick, nutrient-dense meals support energy, immunity, and digestion🥄 The power of simple recipes to reduce stress for both patients and caregivers🥄 Real talk about food, fatigue, and finding joy in cooking againWhether you’re in treatment, recovery, or caring for someone who is, this episode is packed with compassionate advice, relatable insights, and some laugh-out-loud moments. Anna keeps it real—and keeps it tasty.Listen now and learn how to feel Stronger With Every Bite. 💪🍽️

Welcome to the F-U Cancer Podcast! Today, we’re honored to be joined by Laura Kerns, MPH, RDN, LDN, FAND — a highly respected Registered Dietitian and expert in oncology nutrition. With a deep passion for both clinical care and public education, Laura has spent her career helping cancer patients improve their quality of life through evidence-based, compassionate nutritional support.From building a thriving integrative oncology practice to expanding her work into areas like weight management, diabetes, women’s health, and gut health, Laura brings a wealth of experience and insight. She’s also a dynamic speaker who makes complex nutrition topics accessible for everyone — whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional.In this episode, Laura dives into how nutrition can help manage treatment side effects like nausea and fatigue, the role of complementary therapies like meditation or acupuncture, immune-boosting foods during chemo and radiation, and how caregivers can support loved ones through nutrition.

This week, we’re diving into the emotional side of cancer care with Kathleen Ringel, hospice social worker and adjunct professor at Fordham University. Kathleen brings deep experience and compassion to her work, supporting adult and pediatric patients—and their families—through some of life’s most difficult moments.From navigating tough conversations with your healthcare team to setting boundaries with loved ones, Kathleen shares practical, empowering strategies for maintaining your voice and protecting your energy during cancer treatment. We talk about managing guilt, asking for what you need, and finding that tricky balance between accepting help and staying in control.Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this episode is full of honest insights and actionable advice to help you feel more grounded and supported throughout your care journey.💛 Listen now, and don’t forget to like and follow the F-U Cancer Podcast. To learn more, visit fucancer.health.

On this episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, host Christina Rollins sits down with Karen Pettengill, RDN, CSO, a board-certified oncology dietitian, to break it all down!From boosting overall health to supporting the body during and after cancer treatment, we’ll explore:✅ What a plant-based diet really means 🍎🥦✅ How it supports cancer prevention & recovery 🏥✅ The truth about protein & plant-based sources 💪✅ Antioxidants, fiber, and their impact on health 🔬

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you may be wondering: What are my treatment options? One therapy plays a key role in nearly 50% of cancer treatments—radiation therapy.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ann Raldow, Associate Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at UCLA, to break down how radiation therapy works, who it benefits, and what patients can expect.

On this episode of the F-U Cancer Podcast, we're joined by bestselling author and cancer survivor, Gina Mulligan. Gina is the author of two historical novels and the bestselling non-fiction book, Dear Friend: Letters of Encouragement, Humor & Love for Women with Breast Cancer. She’s been featured on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, The Steve Harvey Show, People.com, Today.com, O, The Oprah Magazine, and Woman’s Day Magazine.But Gina’s impact goes beyond the written page. As the founder of Girls Love Mail, a national charity that has delivered over 270,000 handwritten letters to women with breast cancer, she’s proving that a simple note can bring hope, strength, and connection.In this episode, we discuss the power of personal letters, Gina’s journey as an author and survivor, and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Plus, I’ll share my own experience with Girls Love Mail and how a community came together—one letter at a time.Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves words have the power to heal. 💌✨

Exercise rehabilitation is important in cancer care because it helps improve physical function, reduce treatment-related side effects, and enhance overall quality of life. Join us as we talk with board certified oncology clinical specialist, Dr. Andrew Congaway, PT, DPT about how to safety and effectively align physical movement with cancer recovery.

We are so fortunate to welcome the official dietitian/nutritionist of the Tulsa Ballet in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Amanda Settle, RD, LD, CDE, to the F-U Cancer Podcast. Amanda manages a private practice where she focus on helping clients achieve the healthiest version of themselves. Listen in as she shares advice for healthy eating before and after physical activity, including managing cancer treatment-related side effects.

According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, there is strong evidence to link increased fiber intake with a decreased risk of cancer. But how much fiber is needed to yield positive health benefits?  And are certain fiber containing foods more beneficial than others?  Joining us today to answer these important questions is registered dietitian nutritionist, Tuesday Hoelscher. 

Grief is a common emotion felt by individuals touched by cancer.  It’s a complex response to significant loss, often involving sadness, shock, anger, denial and other feelings as a person attempts to cope with a cancer diagnosis, news of disease progression, an unwelcomed treatment side effect, or I think even the anticipation of missing milestones like graduations or weddings that are far in the future but already close to ones’ heart.  Joining us today is licensed clinical social worker and cancer care expert, Paige Soleimani, here to talk with us about cancer related grief, how to cope and when to seek professional help. 

Research show 70% of cancer survivors take dietary supplements, and nearly half of individuals do so without first consulting with their healthcare provider. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Krystle Zuniga, PhD, RD, CSO, LD, to breakdown the regulations surrounding dietary supplements and answer the big question -- are they safe??

Colon cancer screening saves lives. Listen in as we talk wth Dr. Seper Dezfoli, gastroenterologist and physican nutrition specialist, about current testing options available, what to expect when undergoing a colonoscopy, and next steps when abnormalities are identified.

Palliative care is a type of medical care that helps people with serious illnesses such as cancer manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. Join us as we chat with Stephanie Dobak, RDN, about palliative care as she breaks down this valuable resource for our members. This episode is hosted by Christina Rollins, RDN, and was recorded on 1/20/25.Stephanie Dobak discloses she is the recipient of an honorarium from Functional Formularies as well as grant support from Dietitians in Nutrition Support Dietitian Practice Group and the ALS Association.