The Cancer Pod: Integrative Medicine Talk

Cancer-free doesn’t mean back to normal. Filmmaker, author, and 14-year non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivor Edward Miskie talks about what no one tells you once treatment ends: grieving the person you were before diagnosis, missing the hospital, the panic over every ache, and why he says being cancer-free can be harder than going through treatment.

Edward is the founder of the Remission Film Festival, author of Cancer, Musical Theater, and Other Chronic Illnesses, and creator of the short film Back to Normal: A Cancer Survivor Documentary. We cover cancer survivorship, young adult (AYA) cancer, grief after cancer, and th...

Support cancer education, advocacy, and research this November by skipping the razor! Fight CRC’s Ben White joins Leah to talk about No Shave November (no-shave.org) and the Fight Colorectal Cancer initiatives it supports.

Ben walks through Fight CRC’s work:

Ben’s own story is why he does this work. He was diagnosed with stage 3 colon...

When treatment ends and the world moves on, cancer survivors are often left alone with a flood of unprocessed emotions. Author and survivorship mentor Kia Lee sits down with Leah to explore the hidden emotional weight of life after cancer—and why healing isn’t about returning to the past.

In this conversation, Kia shares:

• Her diagnosis with stage III breast cancer at 38 and how it became a portal to a new way of living

• Why she wrote Lighthouse: The Path Through Cancer while undergoing chemo and how it started as a private reckonin...

When faced with a Stage IV terminal cancer diagnosis at age 37, how do you keep living, surfing big waves, and raising a child?

In this powerful episode, author and big-wave surfer Melanie Ezell joins Leah to share her unfiltered story of surviving Stage IV ovarian cancer, navigating recurrences, and finding profound joy despite an incurable diagnosis.

Melanie, author of the memoir Inherited: A Life Without a Cure and writer behind the popular Substack An Incurable Life, opens up about using big-wave surfing to mirror her mental health, taking ownership of her healing, and building a...

What happens when a graphic designer decides to document his own cancer diagnosis in a comic, panel by panel?

Georgia-based artist and prostate cancer education advocate James Burns joins Leah to talk about his autobiographical medical graphic novels “The Death of Me” and “The Half-Life,” which chronicle his stage 4A prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and life after.

James shares why he posted his diagnosis publicly on Instagram and how he pushes back on the expectation that men need to stay stoic through illness. He talks about his earlier comics that documented the time he had t...

Can working out actually change what's happening inside your body during cancer treatment? 

Dr. Leah Sherman sits down with certified clinical exercise physiologist JC Rodriguez to unpack the real science behind exercise and cancer—including how movement may redirect blood flow away from tumors, alter tumor metabolism, and boost immune surveillance.

JC breaks down what this looks like in practice: how to move through severe fatigue with “mentally small” wins like a 5-minute walk or in-bed stretches, why consistency matters more than intensity, and general targets for cardio and strength training (individualized to each person). He also...

What if sound could help you heal?

Sandy Duarte is an award-winning actress, author,  Stage IV non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivor, registered yoga instructor, and one of OncoDaily's 2026 Top 100 Most Influential Cancer Survivors. While undergoing aggressive chemotherapy, she turned to crystal singing bowls to calm her nervous system. Her practice has expanded into sound baths, women’s retreats, and community healing, bringing the singing bowls to hospitals, corporate settings, and museum installations. In this interview, Sandy describes her personal experience using Peter Hess® therapy singing bowls, which are placed on the body specifically for Sound Massage. Sandy also talks abou...

Death is a topic most of us avoid...until we can’t.

But what if talking about it early actually gave us more peace, not less? In this episode, Leah sits down with Dr. Susan Abernethy, founder of Mudança Healing, whose path from naturopathic medicine and nonprofit leadership (including Make-A-Wish) led her to become an end-of-life doula.

Susan shares how having honest conversations early, especially after a cancer or dementia diagnosis, can ease the pressure of rapid-fire medical decisions, bring clarity to what really matters, and offer real comfort to both patients and the fam...

What does it actually mean to advocate for yourself in the medical system?

Dr. Holly Lucille, ND, RN, ONC sat down with Dr. Tina Kaczor for a candid conversation about helping patients access the best possible care through self-advocacy and shared decision-making.

Navigating a cancer diagnosis is incredibly overwhelming. Between well-intentioned opinions from loved ones and rushed informed consent, it’s easy to feel lost. Dr. Lucille brings compassion and pragmatism to the table, explaining why we need to slow down, understand the true risks and side effects, and look at the whole pi...

Survivor’s guilt is a common and not often talked about emotional experience after cancer. Dr. Leah Sherman sits down with returning guest Natasha Ewa, licensed clinical social worker and founder of I Thrive Therapy and Wellness, for an honest conversation about what survivor’s guilt actually looks like, why body image after cancer is so personal, and what healing can feel like on the other side.

The conversation widens to cover grief over pre-cancer identity, hypervigilance, reconstruction decisions, and Natasha’s documentation of her own DIEP flap experience and complications.

Whethe...

Cancer Hope Network CEO Beth Blakey on Peer Mentorship, Caregiver Support, and Connection in Cancer Care

Beth Blakey, CEO of Cancer Hope Network, discusses the organization’s 46-year mission to ensure no one faces cancer alone. The unique model of free, confidential, one-on-one peer mentorship connecting patients and caregivers with trained cancer survivors or caregivers continues to touch lives. Blakey shares her personal story that led her to join the organization in 2019, and how she rose to become the CEO. She explains how, even in the midst of rapid technological advances, one thing has not changed: the ne...

What happens to desire after a cancer diagnosis? In this episode, Dr. Leah Sherman speaks with intimacy coach and cancer survivor Claire Rumore about the often-overlooked intimacy challenges that come with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Claire shares how cancer may reshape desire, body image, and relationship dynamics—and why clinical care frequently misses these impacts. They explore practical approaches like redefining intimacy beyond intercourse, using nervous system regulation and consent-based touch to rebuild safety, and the Erotic Blueprints framework for understanding desire. Claire also introduces resources from her site cancerandintimacy.com designed to support patients, survivors, and their partners th...

Dr. Kaczor speaks with Dr. Chad Levitt, a board-certified radiation oncologist with over 25 years of experience and founder of ONCARE MD. Levitt discusses how patients are, in effect, consumers of a product called "medical care." As consumers, they are in charge and must navigate the often fragmented healthcare landscape. He talks about the need to have your questions answered fully, to seek second opinions, and to ensure that your care team communicates clearly. The discussion covers what fully informed consent looks like, the limits of the NCCN guidelines, and the need for integrative oncology (including nutrition, stress, and supportive...

In this episode, we dive deep into surgical support for cancer patients and share all the insider intel you might be missing out on. From what not to take before surgery (blood clotting is essential!) to the importance of inflammation in the healing process (yes, inflammation is actually your friend after surgery!), we cover it all. 

Discover key nutrients, physical and occupational therapy recommendations, and even some mind-body strategies to boost your recovery. We’re talking macronutrients, micronutrients, supplements, and the best foods to eat before and after surgery. Also, we reveal a common supplement that we’re to...

Writer, humorist, previvor, survivor, and breast cancer prevention advocate Gila Pfeffer joins Leah for a thoughtful, funny, and deeply honest conversation about loss, resilience, and finding humor in the most unlikely situations.

Gila talks about her memoir, Nearly Departed: Adventures in Loss, Cancer, and Other Inconveniences, how humor can be a survival tool during cancer treatment, and her cheeky Feel It on the First campaign that raises awareness of breast cancer screenings and risk reduction. Gila shares her experiences from undergoing a risk-reducing double mastectomy as a BRCA+ previvor to becoming a cancer survivor who is a...

Dr. Tina Kaczor and Dr. Leah Sherman discuss new diagnostic tools that can tell benign tumors from cancer in the pancreas, highlight the growing concerns over microplastics, and explore the link between ultra-processed foods and early colorectal cancer. They also highlight some amazing inventions by teenagers, like a melanoma-detection app and a skin-cancer-reducing soap. Last, they cover the benefits of hypnosis before breast cancer surgery and the health impact of commonly used chemicals in dry cleaning. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and overall wellness.

Soap for skin cancers invented...

In this special November episode, we are swapping podcasts with Charlotte Bayala of the Cancer Caregiver Podcast. Charlotte explores the complexities of meeting expectations of gratitude during the holidays when you or your loved one is dealing with cancer. Listeners will hear an honest, grounded discussion of the mixed emotions that arise, and a breathing tool to help you deal with them in real time. By the end, listeners will have strategies for expressing gratitude authentically in difficult times. 

Links to Charlotte's bio and social media

https://www.cancercaregiverpodcast.com/

Leave a message w...

In 2022, Jeff Stewart was preparing to donate a kidney when his life took a completely different turn. Unknown to him at the time, he was harboring two separate cancers—kidney and stomach. As a former Jeopardy champ, long-time molecular biologist, and inventor, it’s no surprise that Jeff instinctively framed his relationship with cancer as a complex puzzle that needed solving. In this heartfelt interview with Dr. Sherman, Jeff shares the insights he has gained over the years. He also discusses his published memoir, Living: Inspiration from a Father with Cancer. Written with his seven children in mind, Living offe...

Maria Montoya shares her personal experience as a two-time AYA breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed first at 30 and later at 37, she discusses dealing with Li Fraumeni Syndrome—a rare genetic predisposition to various cancers. Maria also talks about the systemic gaps she encountered in the healthcare system, such as limited genetic testing and inadequate fertility counseling, and what can be done to fix this. She also shares how getting treatment during the isolating early months of the COVID-19 pandemic fueled her passion for cancer care advocacy and systemic change. Now pursuing a Master’s in Social Work, Maria aims to addr...

Charlotte Bayala, host of the award-winning Cancer Caregiver Podcast, joins Dr. Leah Sherman to discuss the unique challenges caregivers face. Charlotte shares her journey of becoming a caregiver for her husband with cancer and how she developed practical, emotional, and self-care strategies for caregivers. The conversation covers how to ask for help, integrating meditation and breathwork into daily routines, and the unexpected benefits of self-compassion for caregivers. Listeners can also learn about Charlotte’s Scanxiety Toolkit, a resource designed to help manage the anxiety leading up to medical appointments.

Leave a message with your thoughts about the ep...

Dr. Natalie Godbee, gynecologic oncologist at City of Hope in Atlanta, Georgia, talks with Dr. Leah Sherman in a wide-ranging interview on gynecologic cancers. The conversation covers the pros and cons of the HPV vaccine, the symptoms and risk factors for ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers, and the benefits of integrative medicine in cancer care. Listeners will gain valuable information on early detection, treatment options, and preventive measures for these complex cancers.

Dr. Godbee's bio and links to her social media

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) review by the National Cancer Institute

Concerns about the...

In this episode of the Cancer Pod, Dr. Leah Sherman sits down with Dr. David Grew, a board-certified radiation oncologist and founder of Primr, a free digital video resource. They also go into details about prostate cancer, from early detection and PSA testing to the latest advancements in treatment options, including when active surveillance is possible vs. surgery and radiation therapy.  Dr. Grew shares how Primr evolved from his inclination to use images to understand and explain medicine. His digitally crafted visual explanations are helping patients understand and navigate their diagnosis and treatment options. Tune in to learn about s...

What if something as simple as a morning versus an afternoon infusion determined whether your immune treatment works? A recent study of over 1600 patients shows that time of day can profoundly affect whether you derive benefit (ie, “respond to treatment”)!  This episode also explores how time-restricted eating can affect your fatigue (called “chrono-nutrition”) during and after treatment. Join Drs. Tina Kaczor and Leah Sherman as they bring you the latest evidence and tell you how you can use your own circadian rhythm to your advantage.

The study of over 1600 patients receiving immune therapy, response and time of day

Belle Gibson (Apple Cider Vinegar), Amanda Riley (Scamanda), and Elizabeth Finch (Anatomy of Lies). Each one created elaborate schemes that often duped even their loved ones. 

In this episode, Tina and Leah examine the psychological aspects behind such behavior, revealing how these individuals exploited vulnerable people’s emotions and trust. They also discuss distinguishing between factual integrative cancer care (Hello! That’s us!) and harmful misinformation (like the fakers here, for example). 

The episode emphasizes the need for critical evaluation of health claims, especially in the age of social media.

Leave a message with y...

The diagnosis of cancer is rising in young adults (under 45 years old). This episode of The Cancer Pod delves into potential reasons behind this trend, including epigenetics, environmental exposures, microbiome differences, and lifestyle factors. Tina and Leah discuss the types of cancers most commonly seen in younger adults, symptoms to watch for, and the significance of advocating for timely and accurate diagnoses. And, get ready for the next episode on cancer fakes and frauds! 

Links we mention in this episode:

Cancer rates are 2-3 times higher today than two generations ago

H...

In 2024, a study sparked debate among wellness influencers, raising concerns about seed oils and their potential link to rising colorectal cancer rates in young adults. But is there any truth to these claims? In this episode, we break down the research and uncover the real health effects of seed oils. What are seed oils, and do they contain harmful compounds? Are some types better than others? Plus, we explore the role of ultra-processed foods in overall health—did you know there’s a key difference between processed and ultra-processed foods? Tune in for a science-backed discussion on seed oils, canc...

Did you know it takes an Act of Congress to change the warning label on alcohol? It’s true! But even more crucial: how much alcohol does it take to increase your cancer risk? In this episode, Tina and Leah dive into the connection between alcohol and cancer, exploring why the Surgeon General is pushing for updated warning labels. Whether you’re sticking with your current habits or considering a mindful approach to drinking, this episode delivers eye-opening insights that might make you think twice before your next sip. Tune in to learn more!

Prior episode: Good for...

Did you know frankincense is from the Boswellia plant? Tina and Leah delve into frankincense's history, uses, and benefits, especially in integrative cancer care. They discuss how to test the purity of essential oils, the various therapeutic applications of frankincense, including its anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties, and the intricacies of using it safely.

ASCO Update on Boswellia
Aromatase Inhibitor induced arthritic pain - Boswellia, Lipoic acid, and MSM
Boswellia alongside radiotherapy for brain tumors
Boswellia for nerve pain
The role of Boswellia in post-radiation therapy for brain metastasis

...

‘Tis the Season! Join Tina and Leah for a fascinating exploration of myrrh, the ancient resin with powerful medicinal properties. Discover how this biblical gift continues to prove its worth in modern medicine, from supporting oral health to promoting wound healing. The doctors examine the scientific evidence behind myrrh’s antiseptic properties and discuss emerging research on its potential anti-cancer effects.

Whether you're interested in natural medicine, science, or the intersection of traditional and modern healthcare, this episode offers valuable insights.

Maud Grieve's book, A Modern Herbal (published 1931)
Interaction with the medication Warfarin/Coumadin
...

Gratitude is good for you, but we know it can sometimes be challenging too. Leah discusses the wide variety of responses from our community to a survey asking,  “Do you practice gratitude? If so, how?" Then, we look at the science, which shows exactly what improves by practicing gratitude. Spoiler: Some studies have proven measurable physical benefits, including living longer! So, thank you for reading this far. Now, please hit that play button!

Gratitude Defined and more... (from The Greater Good Science Center)
Gratitude studies show, at the very least, sleep improves
Gratitude has positive effe...

Sara Olsher, author of over 12 books and creator of Mighty and Bright, discusses  her experiences as a cancer survivor and a single mother. Her books help adults and children understand each other better during difficult times. The episode offers insights into the importance of honest communication with children about serious illnesses. The hosts also delve into Sara’s  products, which are designed to help implement some of the communication tools she has found useful with her own daughter. KOIN 6 News in Portland, Oregon, awarded Sara the Remarkable Woman Award for 2023, and Tina and Leah are happy to bring you the...

Dr. Amy Rothenberg, a respected naturopathic physician and three-time cancer survivor, shares her story of multiple cancer diagnoses and treatments. Her most recent treatment was a stem cell transplant in 2024 for acute leukemia. Dr. Rothenberg gives valuable insights into integrative cancer care, the importance of gut health, and practical tips for caregivers. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking open-minded, collaborative healthcare providers. Tune in for an informative and inspiring discussion on navigating cancer care holistically.

Link to Dr. Rothenberg's social media and website
Be The Match Program - Becoming...

There are many cancer-relevant headlines, and Tina and Leah cherry-picked a few you need to hear. Is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help you determine a treatment plan a good idea? You can get answers from ChatGPT, but are they reliable?  There are a few considerations, like source verification, addressing ethical considerations, and who you should (and should not trust to handle your medical information. Tina and Leah also discuss a recent study that found benzene in a third of available acne creams! Benzene is a well-known carcinogen. They also talk about the possible link between oral bacteria and h...

Move over "sitting" there's a "new smoking" in town. In this episode, Tina and Leah discuss the latest data on pesticides and cancer risk. One recent study showed the numbers look just as bad (and yes, society's denial of them just as strong) as the data on smoking and cancer risk from decades ago. The doctors share practical tips for minimizing exposure and suggest ways to minimize the effects of pesticide exposures that are nearly inevitable. Hey, we know this topic can be a bummer and a major inconvenience. That said, it's best to know the data to make...

The news cycle is buzzing with how Elle MacPherson refused conventional treatment and cured herself of breast cancer naturally. While the media spins and influencers speculate, Tina and Leah talk about what they gleaned from a recent interview with Elle MacPherson on 60 Minutes Australia. They delve into the controversies surrounding natural versus conventional cancer treatments, including her decisions for self-care. The doctors also discuss the specifics of her diagnosis and the standard of care for her stage and type of cancer. There are many lessons from her story, so tune in for insights and opinions from two naturopathic docs...

Dr. Wendy Garvin Mayo, distinguished nurse practitioner and healthcare leader, sits down with Tina and Leah to discuss how addressing stress can change your life. With over two decades of experience, Wendy shares her journey from an oncology nurse caring directly for patients to becoming a scientist with a large pharmaceutical company. Now, using the same techniques she teaches, she's found her place is helping people recognize and deal with stress. She founded Collaborative Cancer Care and The Stress Blueprint to help patients, their loved ones, and fellow healthcare professionals.

In this interview, we discuss stress management...

Join us to explore the benefits and myths surrounding chia and flax seeds. Learn how these seeds can be integrated into your diet, their historical origins, and their role in digestive health, blood sugar control, and cancer care. Tina and Leah also address common misconceptions about flax seeds and breast cancer, and flax and thyroid issues. The Moment of Woo is revived! Tina and Leah explore of the Budwig protocol and its claims about cancer treatment.

The origins and distribution of the flax plant
Memorial Sloan Kettering Monograph on Flaxseed
Flaxseed study that showed it...

Dr. Janet Abrahm, a distinguished professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and an expert in palliative care at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, sits down with Tina and Leah to discuss palliative or supportive care. Palliative does NOT mean "end-of-life" care! This misconception is just one myth dispelled during their conversation. Dr. Abrahm clarifies other misconceptions around palliative care, emphasizing its role from cancer diagnosis through treatment. Did you know that palliative care may help you stay on track when receiving curative treatment? Dr. Abrahm also discusses integrating non-pharmacologic pain management techniques, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment...

Tina and Leah take on some TikTok misconceptions, including influencers' anti-sunscreen rants, head-on (wearing a wide-brimmed hat, of course).  The sun is good. The sun is bad. The sun will give you cancer, no wait, it will protect you from cancers. As is often the case, the truth is somewhere in the middle. Tune in for a factual discussion about sun exposure, tanning, and the difference between UVA and UVB rays on your skin. We talk sunscreens, sun blockers, and why there is so much darn skin cancer down under! (Not THAT down under! We mean Australia/New Zealand).

Dr. Katie Deming was a practicing radiation oncologist who now practices "conscious oncology." She talks about the six pillars of health in her whole-person program for deep healing. Dr. Deming shares why she walked away from a successful career to pursue her path as a conscious oncologist, including the impact of her near-death experience. The discussion also touches on the usage of language around cancer, the significance of emotional health, and how caregivers can better communicate with their loved ones. Dr. Deming advocates balancing nourishment with detoxifying the body, always keeping whole-person health in mind. Join Tina and Leah...