The Cracking Cancer Podcast

Does Stress Cause Cancer with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Erin Baurle. Episode 36.

In this essential episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon, a medical oncologist, is joined by patient advocate Ashley Holt and Dr. Erin Baurle, a Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in oncology. They tackle the emotionally charged question: Does stress or trauma cause cancer?
 
Ashley, who was diagnosed with lung cancer shortly after a difficult divorce, shares her personal spiral of guilt and the psychological need to find a reason—even a self-blaming one—for her diagnosis. Dr. Baurle firmly states the scientific consensus: Stress and trauma, in and of themselves, do not cause cancer. However, they do stress the necessity of managing the distress that inevitably accompanies a diagnosis, as well-managed stress leads to better treatment outcomes and quality of life.
 
The discussion also provides practical coping tools, including the benefits of anti-anxiety medication, the Stoplight Meditation technique, and the power of "sitting in the discomfort" of fear to diminish its long-term power. Finally, they advocate for making mental health resources, like an oncology psychiatrist, an automatic part of the patient's care pathway, rather than an added burden for the patient to seek out.
 
Key Takeaways
Stress Does NOT Cause Cancer
Manage Distress for Better Outcomes
Anxiety is Normal, Medication is a Tool
Practice "Sitting in the Discomfort"
Advocate for Automatic Mental Health Care
 
Chapters:
(00:00) The Impact of Stress on Cancer
(07:52) Debunking Myths: Stress and Cancer
(18:09) The Role of Social Support
(23:00) Coping Strategies and Personal Insights
(30:43) Living with Cancer: The Emotional Toll
(41:19) The Role of Mental Health in Cancer Treatment
(51:12) The Reality of Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
(56:08) The Importance of Mental Health Support
(58:15) Final Thoughts and Takeaways
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

Metastatic Consolidative Surgery with Dr. Allie Mungo & Patient Samantha Murrell. Episode 35 Part 02

In the conclusion of this vital two-part series, host Dr. Kyle Concannon, Dr. Allie Mungo (Thoracic Surgeon), and post-operative patient advocate Samantha Murrell delve into the risks, recovery, and long-term rationale for surgical resections in Stage IV cancer patients.
Dr. Mungo details the different lung surgeries (wedge, segmentectomy, lobectomy, pneumonectomy) and the critical surgical complexities, including the "stickiness" caused by pre-surgical systemic therapies and the danger of operating close to major heart vessels. Samantha shares her candid, non-trivial recovery experience, highlighting the challenge of managing post-operative nerve pain and the emotional "slap in the face" of being reminded of her Stage IV diagnosis.
The discussion reinforces that for highly selected, medically fit patients with tumors responsive to modern targeted therapies, the goal of surgery is not a cure, but rather a powerful step in transforming cancer into a chronic, manageable disease. This episode provides indispensable guidance on patient selection, recovery expectations, and the importance of multidisciplinary care at high-volume centers.
Key Takeaways
Size of Surgery Matters for Quality of Life
The Surgical Risks are Real
Recovery Requires Pushing and Patience
Targeted Therapy is the Game Changer
Go to the Experts
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Surgical Procedures for Stage Four Cancer
(06:12) Travel Considerations for Surgery
(13:35) Second Opinions and Surgery Decisions
(20:42) Air Leak Incident
(27:16) Surgical Complications
(36:19) Future of Cancer Treatment
(38:32) Conclusion and Resources
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

Metastatic Consolidative Surgery with Dr. Allie Mungo & Patient Samantha Murrell. Episode 34 Part 01

In this riveting first part of a two-episode series, host Dr. Kyle Concannon, a medical oncologist, is joined in person by Dr. Allie Mungo, a thoracic surgeon, and patient advocate Samantha Murrell, who is just two weeks post-surgery for her Stage IV HER2-mutated lung cancer. They dive into the controversial topic of consolidative surgery—surgically removing residual tumor in patients with metastatic (Stage IV) cancer.
Samantha shares her personal journey, explaining how a remarkable response to targeted therapy—which rendered her PET scan active only at the primary tumor site—compelled her to "hunt down" a surgeon willing to take her case. Dr. Mungo outlines the factors that have rapidly changed the medical community's opinion on these once-taboo procedures. The discussion centers on the critical criteria for candidacy: having limited, actionable residual disease; the ability to safely remove the tumor without compromising quality of life (e.g., avoiding a full pneumonectomy); and the necessity of being in optimal physical condition to survive the recovery. This episode offers profound insight into the evolving, highly individualized decisions being made at the cutting edge of cancer care.
 
Key Takeaways:
The Goal of Consolidative Surgery is Changing
The Procedure is Not Considered Curative
Candidacy is Highly Individualized
Surgeries are Easier with Targeted Pills
The Emotional Drive to Remove the "Mothership"
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Samantha's Cancer Journey
(06:08) Surgical Considerations and Challenges
(15:24) Evolving Surgical Practices
(22:50) Surgical Outcomes and Reflections
(26:02) Targeted Therapy and Its Impact
(31:26) Post-Surgery Recovery and Challenges
(38:31) Criteria for Surgical Candidates
(43:57) Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

Life with Chronic Cancer. Episode 33.

In this powerful episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon sits down with co-host JJ Singleton, a colorectal cancer patient who has been undergoing continuous treatment for almost 10 years. JJ provides a raw, unfiltered look at the reality of treating cancer as a chronic disease, sharing his journey from a localized Stage II diagnosis to the devastating discovery of metastatic disease that required a decade of ongoing systemic therapy.
JJ recounts the most challenging chapters of his life, including the initial despair of endless chemotherapy, the 14 months he spent confined to bed and reliant on TPN (total parenteral nutrition), and the internal struggle to find hope when all his treatment options were failing. He discusses the emotional hurdles of survivor's guilt, the challenges of invisible side effects (like neuropathy and skin pain), and the difficulty of maintaining a sense of self-worth when life deviates dramatically from expectations. JJ's story is a testament to human resilience and the transformative power of advocacy, revealing how he leveraged his suffering to create a meaningful life and become a vital voice for others.
Key Takeaways
Chronic Cancer is a Long Battle
Chronic Disease is Not Always Stable
The Emotional Burden of the "Hidden Curriculum"
Advocacy as a Source of Purpose
Don't Give Up Quality of Life
 
Chapters:
(00:00) JJ Singleton's Cancer Journey Begins
(04:51) Facing the Challenges of Chemotherapy
(16:06) The Turning Point: Clinical Trials and Surgery
(25:13) Rediscovering Life After Treatment
(33:04) The Impact of Immunotherapy
(42:48) Advocacy and Personal Growth
(57:40) The Future of Cancer Treatment
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

What Is The Pharmaceutical Industry? Episode 32.

In this revealing episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon and co-host Samantha Murrell are joined by Kerry Wentworth, Chief Regulatory Officer at Nuvation Bio, to pull back the curtain on the pharmaceutical and biotech industry. Kerry, a veteran in the field, addresses the common perception that pharmaceutical companies are driven purely by financial metrics, stating that the primary mission is, in fact, patient-centered—to bring healthier, longer living to people.
The conversation dives deep into the high-risk reality of drug development. Kerry explains why drugs cost billions: the price must account for the staggering 90% failure rate of investigational new drugs, extensive animal and human trials, and complex manufacturing. They demystify the clinical trial process, clarifying the phases, the rigorous site selection process, and dispelling the myth that physicians receive financial kickbacks for enrolling patients. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants an honest, science-driven understanding of the dedication, cost, and high-stakes nature of the work required to bring a new cancer therapy to market.
Key Takeaways
Mission is Patient-Driven, Not Just Financial
Why Drugs Cost Billions
The Clinical Trial Timeline
Dispelling the Kickback Myth
The Future is Chronic Care
 
Chapters
(00:00) Understanding the Pharmaceutical Industry
(08:08) The Role of a Chief Regulatory Officer
(11:55) The Drug Development Process
(17:19) Clinical Trials: Design and Execution
(26:10) Phase One Trials and FDA Approval
(35:15) Understanding Investigator Payments
(42:16) Challenges in Cancer Vaccine Development
(49:41) Mistrust in Pharmaceutical Companies
(59:08) New Developments at Nueva Bio
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos
 

What Is Testicular Cancer? Episode 31.

Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men aged 15-35, but nobody is talking about it! Until today that is.
In this crucial episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by Dr. Andrew Johns, a GU Cancer specialist from MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Jon Fox, a testicular cancer survivor. They tackle the vital topic of testicular cancer, shedding light on its biology, treatment, and remarkably high survival rates.
Dr. Johns explains that the majority of cases are germ cell tumors and breaks down the staging and risk stratification (favorable, intermediate, and unfavorable), emphasizing that even with metastatic disease, long-term survival can be over 90% for favorable-risk cases. Guest Jon provides a raw, first-hand account of his fast-paced diagnosis—from noticing subtle pain to dealing with the ambiguity of his aggressive tumor subtype (Embryonal Carcinoma) and the resulting discrepancy in treatment recommendations (3 vs. 4 cycles of BEP chemotherapy). They discuss the standard workup, the significance of tumor markers, and the rigorous recovery required after major surgeries like the RPLND. This is essential listening for young men, their families, and anyone seeking clarity on a highly treatable yet highly aggressive disease.
Key Takeaways
Testicular Cancer is a Young Man's Disease
Early Symptoms & Workup
High Cure Rates, Even When Metastatic
Complex Treatment Decisions
Screening and Long-Term Monitoring
 
Chapters
(00:00) Understanding Testicular Cancer
(02:30) Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
(04:07) John's Personal Experience with Testicular Cancer
(07:22) Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
(17:49) The Role of Tumor Markers
(35:20) Understanding Testicular Cancer Survival Rates
(43:31) The Importance of Accurate Staging
(49:14) Chemotherapy Experience and Side Effects
(53:43) Post-Chemotherapy Treatments and Surgery
(01:10:50) Advice for Testicular Cancer Patients
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos
 

What Are Antibody Drug Conjugates? Episode 30.

In this crucial episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon and patient advocate Samantha Murrell delve into Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), a revolutionary class of targeted therapy. Samantha, who was treated with an ADC for her HER2 non-small cell lung cancer, shares her real-time experience with the drug's potent effects and cumulative side effects.
Dr. Concannon explains the sophisticated engineering behind ADCs: an antibody (the "key") is chemically linked to a highly toxic chemotherapy payload (the "bomb"). The goal is to specifically target cancer cells, providing the power of chemotherapy with fewer systemic side effects. The discussion covers the mechanism of action, the risks of "on-target, off-tumor" effects (hitting healthy cells with the same target), and drug "leakage" into the bloodstream, which is responsible for common side effects like nausea, fatigue, and hair loss. 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone starting an ADC regimen, offering candid advice on managing side effects, the importance of open communication with your care team, and the power of patient support groups.
 
Key Takeaways:
What is an ADC?
Antibodies are the key to specificity.
Side effects are still a reality.
Cumulative toxicity may require a break.
ADCs are pioneering new treatments.
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Understanding Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
(05:19) Antibodies and Their Specificity
(12:21) Challenges and Side Effects of ADCs
(17:06) Managing Side Effects and Treatment Breaks
(31:16) Understanding Drug Half-Life
(39:02) Managing Side Effects and Toxicities
(48:35) Future of ADCs in Cancer Treatment
(55:55) Advice for Patients Starting ADCs
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos
 

What Is A Medical Oncologist. Episode 29.

In this essential episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon, a physician scientist and medical oncologist, sits down with patient advocate Samantha Murrell to demystify the role of the medical oncologist and how they fit into a patient's care journey. They clarify the distinct but collaborative roles of medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists.
Dr. Concannon provides an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes world of oncology, from the personal preparation required for a first patient meeting to the emotional toll of difficult end-of-treatment conversations. He discusses the inner workings of the Tumor Board, the realities of clinical trials (including the inherent biases), and the challenges providers face when patients pursue alternative therapies. This episode is crucial for any patient seeking clarity on who their providers are, what they do, and how to best advocate for their personalized care plan.
 
Key Takeaways:
The Three Primary Oncology Roles
The Medical Oncologist is not a Gatekeeper
The Purpose of a Tumor Board
Second Opinions are Encouraged
The Ethical Challenge of Alternative Therapies
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(03:43) Training Pathways for Oncology Specialists
(08:09) Patient Care and Oncologist Collaboration
(19:31) The Importance of Second Opinions
(27:31) Alternative Therapies and Supplements
(33:38) Understanding Tumor Boards
(39:26) The Role of Clinical Trials in Oncology
(53:23) Emotional Impact on Oncologists
 
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. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

What Is A Radiologist? Episode 28.

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Groner, a Cardiothoracic Radiologist and Health Services Researcher, demystifies the field of radiology and its critical, often unseen, role in oncology. Dr. Groner breaks down the differences between Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologists, explaining how the former interprets complex images (CT, MRI, PET, X-rays) to diagnose and stage disease, while the latter performs minimally invasive, image-guided treatments.
Dr. Groner offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of a diagnostic radiologist, detailing their extensive medical training and the highly specialized nature of their work. She explains how radiologists act as "little detectives," synthesizing imaging findings with a patient’s full clinical history to narrow down a diagnosis and guide treatment. The discussion also explores the future of the field, highlighting exciting advances in AI, rapid imaging technology, and opportunistic screening that are transforming patient care. 
 
Key Takeaways:
Diagnostic vs. Interventional Radiologists
Radiologists are Physicians
A Report is a Detective Story
The Power of Opportunistic Screening
Communicate with Your Radiologist
 
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Radiology
(04:40) Radiology Reports and Clinical Decision Making
(11:26) Radiology in the Post-COVID Era
(20:49) Interacting with Patients and Providers
(44:26) Challenges and Responsibilities in Radiology
(54:33) The Importance of Radiologists
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

The Challenges with New Cancer Technology. Episode 27.

In this timely episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon, a physician scientist, speaks with patient advocate Ashley Holt about the challenges of navigating new, aggressive cancer surveillance technologies. Ashley, a survivor of Stage I non-small cell lung cancer with a ROS1 mutation, chose to go beyond the standard of care by incorporating the Signatera circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) blood test into her post-lobectomy monitoring.
Ashley shares her intense, real-time experience after her third ctDNA test came back positive despite all her conventional CT scans and a follow-up PET scan being normal. This outcome catapulted her into an "evidence-free zone," a state of profound anxiety and confusion where she must make critical treatment decisions—such as whether to start a lifelong targeted therapy—without clear medical consensus or established guidelines.
The conversation explores the ethical and emotional trade-offs of aggressive surveillance: the benefit of detecting potential recurrence earlier versus the harm of provoking intense anxiety and forcing patients to choose a path with no definitive right answer. This is essential listening for any patient considering advanced monitoring or struggling to reconcile standard medical guidelines with the flood of new, but unvalidated, technologies.
 
Key Takeaways
The Unintended Consequences of Aggressive Surveillance
The ctDNA Challenge
Shared Decision-Making is Imperfect
"Standard of Care" is Often the Best Care
Ask the Right Questions Upfront
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Navigating Post-Surgery Surveillance
(05:23) The Emotional Impact of Positive Test Results
(13:08) The Role of Clinical Trials and Guidelines
(20:41) Balancing Surveillance and Quality of Life
(30:29) Navigating Mental Health Amidst Cancer Uncertainty
(36:10) The Importance of Genetic Testing
(47:30) Empowering Patients in Their Cancer Journey
(59:25) Final Thoughts and Advocacy
 
Attributions
The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License
 
X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X
IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos