Shows
The Cracking Cancer PodcastCancer and the Military Mindset. Episode 17.With over 1.3 million U.S. citizens alone being in the military, it is without a doubt a number of them will inevitably be faced with a cancer diagnosis during their active status. Today, we speak with Commander Bill Phillips, a retired military aviator, and co-host Samantha, a military spouse, to disucss the unique challenges faced by cancer patients in the military.
The discussion focuses on how a military mindset can help in preparing and proceeding through cancer treatment. Learn about the emotional and logistical hurdles, the value of peer support, and practical advice for military personnel and their families dealing wi...2025-07-241h 16The Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Is Prostate Cancer? Episode 16.Joined by prostate cancer patient Tim Fitzgerald and medical oncologist Dr. Justin Lebenthal, Dr. Kyle Concannon discusses the complexities of prostate cancer and dives into the general community perception that prostate cancer is not a "big deal".
Dr. Lebenthal explains the basics of prostate cancer, the function of the prostate, and the importance of PSA screening. Tim Fitzgerald shares his personal journey, from diagnosis to treatment and ongoing management, including the impact on his daily life and mental health. They discuss the challenges of living with prostate cancer, the pros and cons of various treatments, and the importance of maintaining q...2025-07-171h 19The Cracking Cancer PodcastHow Men Cope with Cancer. Episode 15Dr. Kyle Concannon engages in an insightful conversation with cancer patients JJ Singleton and Bill Phillips about how men uniquely experience cancer. Covering topics such as personal identity, coping mechanisms, and the impact on masculinity, this discussion delves into the emotional and psychological challenges faced by men during their cancer journey.
The episode also highlights the transformative work being done by the KFG Project, a nonprofit founded by Bill Phillips, aimed at providing professional support to patients and caregivers. Tune in to hear real stories, practical advice, and life-changing perspectives.
Want to learn more about Bill's KFG project? Home | KFG Pr...2025-07-101h 29The Cracking Cancer PodcastAm I In Remission? Episode 14.In this episode, we delve into the complex topic of cancer remission. What does 'remission' really mean? How does it differ across different stages of cancer? Dr. Concannon and Samantha discuss their experiences and provide insights into the terminologies like complete response, partial response, stable disease, and no evidence of disease (NED).
We also tackle the emotional rollercoaster that comes with scans and tumor monitoring, while debunking common misconceptions around alternative therapies. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or curious learner, this episode aims to bring clarity and hope in navigating the fight against cancer. For more information, visit crackingcancer.org.
Ch...2025-07-031h 02The Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Are Pulmonary Nodules? Episode 13.Dr. Kyle Concannon dives into the intricate world of pulmonary nodules with real patient Ashley Holt and pulmonologist Dr. Alex Dragnich. They talk about the essential questions to ask after a nodule is detected, the diagnostic processes involved, and the emotional journey of discovering and treating potential lung cancer.
Ashley shares her personal experience from an incidental finding to undergoing a lobectomy, while Dr. Dragnich explains what a pulmonary nodule is, the likelihood of it being cancerous, and the importance of monitoring and second opinions. This episode offers invaluable insights into empowering oneself with information and advocating for better care i...2025-06-261h 07The Cracking Cancer PodcastCoping With A Cancer Diagnosis. Episode 12Today's episode features JJ Singleton, a resilient cancer survivor and member of the Cracking Cancer team, sharing his emotional journey from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. JJ discusses the mental and physical struggles he faced, the significance of milestones, the impact of community and mental health support, and his dedication to advocacy. Learn about the complexities of coping with a cancer diagnosis, the evolution of JJ's mindset, and the importance of finding purpose in the fight against cancer. Perhaps the most important lesson JJ has learned: needing support and community doesn't equal weakness.
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(01:10) The Initial Diag...2025-06-191h 03The Cracking Cancer PodcastAdvocacy Research with Yvonne Diaz. Episode 11In this episode of Cracking Cancer we are talking with Yvonne Diaz, a stage four ALK positive lung cancer patient and a dedicated advocate. She discusses the importance of patient advocacy in the cancer community, how patients can drive positive change, and the integration of patient perspectives into cancer research.
Yvonne shares her journey into advocacy, the challenges she faced, and how she contributes to advancing cancer research and patient empowerment through organizations like ALK Positive Inc. and Oncogene Cancer Research. Tune in to learn how patient involvement is crucial in shaping the future of c...2025-06-121h 04The Cracking Cancer PodcastSupporting Loved Ones with Cancer. Episode 10Dr. Kyle Concannon and Co-Host Samantha delve into the crucial topic of how best to support loved ones who have cancer. Supporting loved ones with cancer is an obvious thing to do, and yet subtly complicated. They discuss the subtle dynamics of offering meaningful support. From understanding the importance of asking 'How can I help you?' to practical suggestions like setting up a meal train, joining patients at appointments, and providing thoughtful care packages. They also explore the emotional challenges both patients and their supporters face, and emphasize the significance of continuous support beyond initial diagnosis. Tune in...2025-06-051h 00The Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Is Immunotherapy? Episode 09Demystifying Immunotherapy: Hope and Reality in Cancer Treatment
In this episode Dr. Kyle Concannon sits down with Dr. Natalie Vokes, a thoracic oncologist and immunotherapy expert, and JJ Singleton, a 10 year colorectal cancer patient. They dive deep into "What is Immunotherapy?", exploring its mechanisms, benefits, and challenges directly from patients and world experts.
Learn how immunotherapy differs from traditional chemotherapy, what to expect from treatment, and why it offers unprecedented hope for many.
The Cracking Cancer Podcast's main focus is to further education about cancer and its effects on people and c...2025-05-291h 04The Cracking Cancer PodcastCancer and Social Media Trends. Episode 08Dr. Concannon and co-host Samantha are diving into the often confusing and difficult world of cancer and oncology treatments within social media. They discuss the credibility of various cancer-related reels, the emotional toll of conflicting information, and the importance of evidence-based treatment. Samantha shares her personal experiences with social media recommendations and alternative therapies, stressing the need for reliable guidance. Dr. Concannon offers insights into interpreting medical studies and the challenges in distinguishing credible information from misleading claims. Join us as we explore the intersection of cancer treatment, patient advocacy, and social media.
The Cracking C...2025-05-2259 minThe Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Is Colon Cancer? Episode 07
What Is Colon Cancer? A Deep Dive with Experts & Patients
Colon cancer is often misunderstood—but we're here to change that. In this episode of Cracking Cancer, Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by Dr. Mark Lewis, an oncologist and cancer survivor, along with patient advocate JJ Singleton, who shares his powerful journey. Together, they break down what colon cancer is, how it forms, and the latest advancements in treatment. From personal insights to cutting-edge medical knowledge, this episode is packed with real talk, expert advice, and hope.
Hit play to learn what you ne...2025-05-2151 minThe Cracking Cancer PodcastCommunity Vs. Academic Oncology. Episode 06In this episode, Dr. Kyle Concannon and co-host Samantha Murrell are joined by oncologist Dr. Ben Fangman to discuss the differences between community and academic oncology, or in simpler terms, research hospitals vs. the traditional hospitals most people are accustomed to. Discover the unique challenges and benefits of each, and learn how to navigate your cancer care journey effectively. Whether you're a patient seeking clarity or a supporter wanting to understand more, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.
The Cracking Cancer Podcast's main focus is to further education about cancer and its effects on p...2025-05-081h 02The Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Not To Say To A Cancer Patient. Episode 05Today, the Cracking Cancer team is discussing the critical topic of what not to say to someone diagnosed with cancer. Obviously, a hard diagnosis for any patient, friends, families, and strangers alike can also find it hard to know what to say and when to say it for patients going through these troubling journeys. Dr. Concannon and Samantha explore common yet potentially harmful statements, why they can be hurtful, and how to navigate these delicate conversations. Whether you're a patient, a supporter, or simply here to learn, this episode aims to provide clarity, hope, and actionable guidance in the...2025-05-011h 00The Cracking Cancer PodcastThe 1st Oncology Visit. Episode 04Your First Oncology Visit: What to Expect and How to Prepare
In this episode of Cracking Cancer, Dr. Concannon and Samantha Murrell, a patient advocate with stage four non-small cell lung cancer, discuss the essential aspects of the first oncology visit.
They tackle critical topics such as the emotional and logistical preparation, the importance of bringing medical records and support systems, understanding the diagnosis, and managing the waiting period before treatment begins.
Samantha shares her personal experiences and anxieties, while Dr. Concannon provides valuable insights into what patients can expect during this crucial first step in cancer care. Tune in to...2025-04-2454 minThe Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat is Cancer Metastasis? Episode 03In this episode, Dr. Kyle Concannon, and Co-Host Samantha Murrell are taking a deeper dive into the complexities of metastasis, discussing what metastatic disease means, its implications for treatment, and how it varies across different types of cancer.
Samantha shares her personal journey, shedding light on common misconceptions and the emotional toll of living with stage four cancer. Tune in to understand the biological processes behind metastasis, the importance of staging, and why stability in cancer treatment is worth celebrating!
The Cracking Cancer Podcast's main focus is to further education about cancer and i...2025-04-101h 00The Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat Is Chemotherapy? Episode 02Dr. Kyle Concannon and Co-Host Samantha Murrell talk all things chemotherapy in this episode of Cracking Cancer. They tackle common myths and misconceptions in the public sphere regarding chemo, and dive into Samantha's first-hand experiences battling Stage 4 Lung Cancer and receiving continuous chemotherapy infusions.
The Cracking Cancer Podcast's main focus is to further education about cancer and its effects on people and communities through continued discussion and to raise funds for the continued research of cancer treatments and positive outcomes. All raised proceeds go directly to the continued upkeep of this podcast and cancer research. T...2025-04-0359 minThe Cracking Cancer PodcastWhat is Cancer? Episode 01Understanding Cancer: From Diagnosis to Treatment and Support
In this very first episode of the Cracking Cancer podcast, Dr. Kyle Concannon, MD and patient advocate Samantha Murrell, focus on answering the fundamental question: 'What is cancer?'
Dr. Concannon explains the basic biological ways that cancer works, including mutations and cell regulation, while Samantha shares her personal journey with stage four non-small cell lung cancer. The discussion covers the complexity and variability of cancer, the impact of lifestyle factors, the significance of molecular profiling, and the importance of early diagnosis and staging.
2025-02-1457 min