The Cracking Cancer Podcast

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

The Intersection of Faith and Cancer. Episode 26.

In this deeply personal episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon and guest Sara Sandoval, a stage four metastatic breast cancer patient, explore the rarely discussed intersection of faith and a cancer diagnosis. Sara shares her journey of turning to her Catholic faith after her diagnosis, finding solace, strength, and a sense of control in an otherwise chaotic and frightening reality.
This conversation is not about religious doctrine but about the human experience of grappling with a life-altering illness. Sarah and Dr. Concannon discuss the difficult question of "why me?" and the emotional struggle of facing a disease that feels outside of one's control. 
This episode is a raw, honest, and moving exploration of how spirituality and faith can provide a powerful source of comfort and purpose, helping people not just survive, but truly live during their cancer journey.
 
Key Takeaways:
Faith as a Source of Control
The Power of Prayer
Spirituality Beyond the Church
Mindset is a Choice
Leveraging Suffering for Good
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Meet Sara Sandoval: A Stage Four Cancer Patient
(03:38) The Power of Prayer in Coping with Cancer
(25:59) Signs and Symbols: Finding Comfort in Faith
(30:23) Community Support in Religious Groups
(36:33) Faith and Coping with Cancer
(51:46) Belief in the Afterlife
(01:05:14) Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
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

Making Sense of Scan Results with Dr. Lauren Groner and Heidi Onda. Episode 25.

Navigating a cancer diagnosis often means a barrage of medical terms and images that can be confusing and frightening. In this powerful episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon sits down with guests Heidi Onda, a lung cancer survivor and founder of the White Ribbon Project, and Dr. Lauren Groner, a cardiothoracic radiologist, to demystify the world of medical scans.
Heidi shares her personal experience with "scanxiety"—the intense emotional toll of waiting for scan results—and offers practical coping mechanisms. Dr. Groner provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look into the radiologist's process, breaking down the different types of scans (CT, PET, MRI), explaining the terminology in a patient-friendly way, and revealing the human judgment behind every report. The discussion reveals why a patient's self-advocacy and a trusting relationship with their care team are crucial for navigating a healthcare system that, despite its best intentions, can be slow and overwhelming. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to regain a sense of control and hope during their cancer journey by better understanding the tests that guide their care.
 
Key Takeaways
Understanding "Scanxiety"
Radiology is more than just a picture
The terminology in a report has meaning
Advocate for yourself
You're on the same team
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(02:37) The Importance of Scans in Oncology
(15:55) The Radiologist's Perspective
(20:26) Reading and Understanding Your Scan Report
(28:13) Common Terminology and Misconceptions
(37:49) Heidi's Personal Experience with Scans
(43:51) Understanding Radiology Reports
(01:04:18) The White Ribbon Project
(01:06:07) Lung Cancer Screening 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

What Are Taxane Chemotherapies? Episode 24.

In this episode of "Cracking Cancer,"  Sara Sandoval, a stage four triple-positive metastatic breast cancer patient, and Whitney Lewis, an oncology pharmacist, provide an intimate and transparent look at taxane chemotherapies, a class of drugs commonly used in many cancer treatments.
Sarah shares her personal experience, offering a patient's perspective on the physical and emotional realities of treatment, from the initial shock of diagnosis to her unique experience of feeling better almost immediately after starting chemotherapy. Whitney provides her expert insight, explaining the science behind how taxanes work, why they're so widely used, and the differences between various formulations like paclitaxel and docetaxel.
The conversation addresses common side effects like hair loss and neuropathy, and both guests offer invaluable advice on managing these challenges, from practical tips for finding wigs and using cold caps to the crucial importance of open communication with your care team. This episode is a powerful and empowering guide for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis, providing clarity and hope by revealing that with the right knowledge and mindset, you can live a full life, even during treatment.
 
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(04:33) Pharmacist's Perspective on Taxanes
(14:14) Dosing Regimens and Side Effects
(20:11) Sarah's Journey and Hair Loss
(34:19) Navigating Wig Options
(44:21) Medications to Manage Side Effects
(01:00:40) Managing Neuropathy
(01:08:56) Final Advice and Encouragement
 
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 Lung Cancer Screening? Episode 23.

Lung Cancer Screening: Why You Should Get Checked and the Hope That Follows In this episode of "Cracking Cancer," Dr. Kyle Concannon, and guests, Dr. Lauren Groner, and seven-year lung cancer survivor Heidi Onda, tackle a critical public health issue: lung cancer screening. They explore the current guidelines for who should be screened, the science behind the low-dose lung CT, and the significant barriers—from patient anxiety to provider education—that prevent more people from getting this life-saving test. Dr. Groner, a cardiothoracic radiologist, demystifies the screening process, addressing common fears about radiation and false positives. Heidi Onda, founder of the White Ribbon Project, shares her powerful personal story as a non-smoker diagnosed with late-stage lung cancer, highlighting the urgent need to change public perception and eliminate the stigma associated with the disease. The discussion reveals the dramatic progress in lung cancer treatment and how early detection is the single greatest tool for improving outcomes and achieving cures. This episode is an essential listen for anyone who has ever wondered about lung cancer risk, the importance of screening, and the powerful role of patient advocacy in driving medical change.   Key Takeaways Who is eligible for lung cancer screening? The low-dose lung CT is safe and effective. Changing the narrative is critical. Screening rates are alarmingly low. Don't be afraid not to get screened.   Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer (00:22) Meet the Guests (03:05) Understanding Low Dose Lung CT Screening (07:23) Eligibility Criteria for Lung Cancer Screening (14:33) Barriers to Screening Adoption (30:06) Understanding Screening Statistics and Impact (40:46) Insurance Coverage and Cost Considerations (48:23) Future of Lung Cancer Screening (57:54) Final Advice and Closing 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

What Is Cancer Research? Episode 22.

Welcome to a powerful new episode of "Cracking Cancer," where hosts Dr. Kyle Concannon and patient advocate Samantha Murrell pull back the curtain on the complex world of cancer research. In this candid discussion, they tackle the fundamental questions you've always wanted to ask:
Who are the key players in cancer research?
How is it funded, and why does it feel like progress is so slow?
From the "bench" in the lab to the "bedside" in the clinic, this episode explores the often-misunderstood journey of a potential cancer treatment. They demystify everything from government and pharmaceutical funding to the difference between basic science and clinical trials.
 
👨‍⚕️Dr. Concannon provides a rare, inside look into the day-to-day realities of a physician-scientist's lab, revealing the immense costs, endless hours, and high-stakes decisions that shape the future of oncology.
🎗️Samantha offers her invaluable perspective as a patient, highlighting the emotional and systemic barriers that the community faces.
 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the inner workings of the cancer industry, the real reason behind a drug's long development, and how patient advocacy is a critical driver of hope and progress.
 
Key Takeaways:
Who funds cancer research?
The biggest barrier to progress is cost.
A "promising" idea is a big risk.
The difference between mice and humans.
Patient advocacy is crucial.
 
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(02:16) Major Players in Cancer Research
(08:23) The Role of Funding in Cancer Research
(13:54) Challenges and Costs in Cancer Research
(23:21) Evaluating Promising Cancer Therapies
(30:00) The Complexity of Cancer Research Trials
(40:30) Challenges in Clinical Trials
(50:10) The Role of Mice in Cancer Research
(58:38) Funding and Financial Risks in Cancer Research
(01:10:27) Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions
 
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 Lung Cancer? Episode 21.

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Concannon and patient advocate Samantha Murrell dive deep into lung cancer. They discuss the basics of lung cancer, how it forms, common misconceptions, and the differences between small cell and non-small cell lung cancers. They also cover the symptoms and signs of lung cancer, how it is diagnosed, the importance of molecular testing, and various treatment options, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and more. This comprehensive discussion aims to bring clarity, hope, and practical information to anyone affected by lung cancer.
 
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(01:42) How Lung Cancer Forms and Spreads
(04:40) Lung Nodules: What They Mean and When to Worry
(07:17) Primary Tumors in the Lungs: Size and Spread
(11:33) Types of Lung Cancer: Small Cell vs. Non-Small Cell
(23:04) Symptoms and Signs of Lung Cancer
(34:40) Diagnosing Lung Cancer: Scans and Biopsies
(58:13) Exploring Treatment Options
(01:08:44) Conclusion and Next Steps
 
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

Turning Anger into Action - The White Ribbon Project. Episode 20.

In this episode of Cracking Cancer, host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by Heidi Onda, a lung cancer survivor and founder of The White Ribbon Project. After going to the doctor with concerns of ovarian cancer, Heidi's world was rocked when they instead found Stage 3 Lung Cancer. Looking for support in the Lung Cancer community, Heidi was shocked to find the community lacked key representation, and a symbol to flock around within the medical community.
 
Today, they discuss Heidi's journey from diagnosis to advocacy, the creation and growth of The White Ribbon Project, and how it aims to provide support and raise awareness for lung cancer patients. Heidi shares her personal story, the challenges of battling lung cancer stigma, and the importance of community, collaboration, and advocacy in improving outcomes for all affected by the disease. Hear about the impact of grassroots movements and learn how to get involved in creating positive change in the cancer community.
 
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(01:32) The Shocking Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
(08:55) The Birth of the White Ribbon Project
(12:43) Challenges and Triumphs in Advocacy
(20:54) Building a Supportive Community
(26:27) Personal Reflections and Future Hopes
(34:02) Pharmaceutical Donations and Stigma
(38:40) The Role of Celebrities and Media
(42:02) Fundraising and 501(c)(3) Status
(53:21) The White Ribbon Project's Mission
(01:02:11) 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

Male Fertility in Cancer. Episode 19.

Dr. Kyle Concannon, joined by co-host JJ Singleton, dives deep into the sensitive topic of male fertility affected by cancer treatments. Joined by Dr. Cathy Ang, a medical oncologist from Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, and colorectal cancer survivor JJ Singleton, they discuss the often-overlooked issue of fertility planning for cancer patients. JJ shares his personal journey and the emotional and financial barriers he faced, while Dr. Ang provides insights into the clinical side of male fertility preservation. Tune in for an honest and informative discussion aimed at empowering cancer patients and breaking stigmas around male fertility.
 
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Cracking Cancer
(01:44) The Importance of Discussing Male Fertility
(05:47) The Emotional Impact of Fertility Issues
(09:48) Medical Perspectives on Fertility and Cancer Treatment
(17:38) Challenges in Addressing Male Fertility
(21:59) Mental Health and Coping Strategies
(27:48) Challenges in Discussing Sperm Banking
(38:19) Financial and Emotional Hurdles
(43:22) Barriers and Solutions in Oncology Clinics
(48:51) Final Thoughts and Advice
 
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