Welcome to another powerful episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, hosted by Talaya Dendy.

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on prostate cancer awareness, the critical issue of health disparities, and the vital importance of open conversations within the Black and African American community. Talaya is joined by a remarkable guest, Christopher Shaddock, a veteran and prostate cancer survivor who shares his powerful personal journey. From his unique experience living in Iceland to his candid discussion about the emotional and physical impacts of his diagnosis, Christopher's story is one of determination, advocacy, and hope.

This episode is a must-listen for men, caregivers, and advocates who want to understand the unique challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis and the power of sharing one's story and creating a domino effect.

✨Highlights from the show:

3:12 Christopher shares his unique experience living in Iceland

9:49 Christopher’s prostate cancer diagnosis story

10:55 The emotional impact of diagnosis and treatment

16:39 Side effects of prostate cancer treatment: what men should know

24:34 Addressing health disparities and barriers for African American men

30:25 The importance of support groups and advocacy

32:23 The “domino effect” of sharing your story and inspiring others

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript171

Resources

The Silent Killer - https://www.silentkillerdoc.com

The Ties That Bind - https://www.bluechildentertainment.com/the-ties-that-bind-crowdfunding

Zero Prostate Cancer - https://zerocancer.org/black-men
Respond Study - https://www.respondstudy.org

💜Share this episode with the men in your life!

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

🍵Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. To keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying me a cup of green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast.

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.
Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever had a health concern that felt minor, but your gut told you to speak up anyway?

In this episode, host Talaya Dendy shares a personal and timely story about the power of trusting your instincts, especially when it comes to your health. Drawing from her experience, she reveals how self-advocacy can be a life-saving tool, and why it's never a "false alarm" to speak up about your concerns.

You'll discover how to:

• Recognize and honor your body’s signals, even when they seem minor.

• Manage anxiety and build confidence in medical settings.

• Take charge of your health by transforming fear and uncertainty into empowered action.

• Turn your medical history into a powerful tool for better care.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or navigating life after cancer, this episode offers a powerful reminder that your voice matters. Talaya's story will help you feel more confident, informed, and supported on your health journey.

✨Highlights from the show:

08:59 A New Personal Story: My "False Alarm" Journey

12:23 How to Advocate: Collaborating with Your Healthcare Team

15:56 The Surprising Reason for My Pain

17:21 Four Internal Self-Advocacy Strategies

21:35 Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Survivor Series Preview

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript170

Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/trusting-your-gut-why-it-s-never-a-false-alarm-in-self-advocacy

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

💜Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to trust their gut and advocate for their health!

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.
Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this micro-episode, join Talaya Dendy as she redefines what it means to be calm, especially while navigating the challenges of living with cancer. Talaya shares powerful insights on stress management and the importance of being intentional with your energy and healing. She debunks common misconceptions about being calm and offers advice on how to find peace of mind by focusing on what you can control. Learn how to pause, assess, and make conscious choices about where you invest your energy. Whether you're a cancer survivor, caregiver, or simply looking to manage stress better, this episode provides actionable strategies for maintaining calm in challenging situations.

Engage with Talaya and share your lessons from cancer by following her on Instagram at @cancerdoula_ontheotherside, LinkedIn at Talaya Dendy, and X at @NCTpodcastfan.

✨Highlights from the show:

00:00 Introduction: The Misconceptions of Being Calm

00:38 The Power of Choosing Where You Focus Your Energy

00:52 How to Find Peace of Mind Through Mindfulness

01:27 Lessons on Healing and Resilience from Cancer

02:00 Reflection and Community Engagement

Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/the-quiet-strength-finding-calm-amidst-life-s-storms

Talaya is a seasoned cancer thriver who has navigated the many twists and turns of a cancer diagnosis and beyond.

Whether you're a patient seeking encouragement or a caregiver looking for guidance, you'll find tips to help you manage energy, cultivate a sense of calm, and feel less alone. Tune in to find calm and community in the face of adversity.

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript_calm

Follow NCT: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-cancer-together

📣Call to Action: 💜If you loved this episode, support the show and tell someone else about it. 🗣️Word of mouth goes a long way! It truly helps more people impacted by cancer find our show.

This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side, your resource for expert cancer guidance and support. Get the support you deserve from someone who has firsthand experience and can help you through your journey. Learn more at https://www.ontheotherside.life.

Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, host Talaya Dendy sits down with Katharine Giovanni, an award-winning author, speaker, and transformation mentor. As a stage three breast cancer survivor, Katharine knows firsthand that everyone tells you to forgive, but no one teaches you how. Katharine shares her journey of survival and demystifies the practice of forgiveness. The conversation explores how to navigate difficult emotions, enhance quality of life, and find peace after a life-altering event like cancer. Listeners will learn how forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing, self-compassion, and emotional resolution, not just for cancer survivors, but for anyone facing life's toughest challenges.

📣Call to Action 1: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

✨Highlights from the show:

02:43 Katharine's Cancer Journey and Intuition

06:48 The Power of Positivity and Mindset in Healing

12:51 A Clear Definition of Forgiveness

15:01 How to Forgive

29:07 The real Impact of Anger and Resentment

32:20 A Guide to Forgiving Yourself

38:52 The Power of the "Pause"

50:30 What "Navigating Cancer Together" means to Katharine

Transcript: bit.ly/podscript169

Connect & Engage with Katharine:

Website: https://katharinegiovanni.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanni/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanni

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.

📣Call to Action 2: Share your thoughts on this episode. https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more survivors find our show.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, hosted by Talaya Dendy. In this inspiring bonus micro-episode, Talaya shares her personal journey as a cancer survivor, offering hope and encouragement to anyone recently diagnosed with cancer or supporting a loved one through their cancer journey.

Discover how hope can be a guiding light through the darkest times, providing strength, comfort, and resilience. Talaya discusses the importance of self-care, surrounding yourself with love, and believing in a brighter future. She emphasizes that you are not alone, many have overcome cancer and emerged stronger, and you can too!

✨Key Takeaways:

• The power of hope in cancer recovery

• Practical self-care tips for cancer patients

• The importance of support and community

• Inspirational stories of overcoming adversity

• How to cherish each day and focus on healing

Talaya is a seasoned cancer thriver who knows a lot about the various twists and turns one can experience while facing cancer and beyond.

Whether you are facing a cancer diagnosis or supporting someone who is, this micro-episode offers valuable lessons, encouragement, and actionable advice. Tune in to find hope, strength, and a sense of community on your cancer journey.

Listen now and let the light of hope guide you through!

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript_hope

Follow NCT: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-cancer-together

📣Call to Action: Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. Help keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying Talaya a cup of 🍵green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Sponsor: On the Other Side, providing expert cancer guidance and support from someone who has been there. https://www.ontheotherside.life

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more people impacted by cancer find our show. Another way to support the show is by telling someone else about the show. 🗣️Word of mouth goes a long way!

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join host Talaya Dendy on this special episode of 'Navigating Cancer TOGETHER.' Recorded in honor of National Cancer Survivor Month, this episode features an engaging and heartfelt panel discussion with five incredible cancer survivors: Annamaria Scaccia, Mary Wells, Russ Hedge, Terry Tucker, and Tom Reoach.

They candidly reflect on their cancer journeys, the emotional and ongoing nature of survivorship, and the importance of connection, authenticity, and resilience. Tune in for powerful stories, shared wisdom, and practical advice for emotional well-being and rebuilding life that highlights the human side of cancer survivorship. This episode offers hope and insight for newly diagnosed patients, fellow survivors, caregivers, and those offering support.

Don't miss these powerful stories. Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your preferred podcast platform.

📣Call to Action 1: Share this episode with someone who can benefit from it.

✨Highlights from the show:

01:54 The Reality of Cancer Survivorship

09:28 Annamaria's Reflections on Trauma

14:33 Russ Hedge on Endurance and Positivity

19:05 Mary Wells on Victory

21:35 Terry Tucker on Finding Meaning

25:40 Tom Reoach on Connection and Ongoing Survivorship

31:09 The Ongoing Journey of Survivorship

32:19 Living with a Positive Mindset

36:34 Advice for the Recently Diagnosed

Transcript & Bios: https://bit.ly/podscript168

This episode is a follow-up to What's at the Heart of Survivorship?

https://podcast.ausha.co/navigatingcancertogether/national-cancer-survivor-month-what-s-at-the-heart-of-survivorship

Blog: https://bit.ly/nctsurvblog

📣Call to Action 2: Share your word to describe survivorship. Ask a question, or leave fan mail at https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast.

Follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on social media!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-cancer-together

Learn about On the Other Side Cancer Doula Support: https://www.ontheotherside.life

Support Navigating Cancer TOGETHER. https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more survivors find our show.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Has cancer ever made you feel like you're losing a piece of yourself, especially your identity? Imagine facing hair loss from treatment, only to find the wig options available don't reflect who you are. This isn't just about hair; it's about dignity, self-esteem, and seeing yourself truly represented.

In this powerful rebroadcast, join your host, Talaya Dendy, on Navigating Cancer TOGETHER as she welcomes the incredible Dianne Austin. A breast cancer survivor herself, Dianne co-founded Coils to Locs, a groundbreaking initiative born out of a deeply personal struggle. Prepare to be inspired by her journey to transform the wig industry and support women of color facing hair loss due to cancer and other medical conditions.

📣Call to Action 1: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

✨Highlights from the show:

2:36 Meet Dianne Austin & The Coils to Locs Story

3:56 The Unseen Disparity

6:24 Coils to Locs Takes Off

14:17 Dianne's Unfiltered Journey

20:20 The Power of Seeing Yourself

26:20 Words of Wisdom

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript167

Connect & Engage with Dianne:

Website: https://coilstolocsstore.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coils-to-locs
Fundraiser: https://wefunder.com/coilstolocs

Sponsor: On the Other Side, providing expert cancer guidance and support from someone who has been there. https://www.ontheotherside.life
📣Call to Action 2: Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. To keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying me a cup of 🍵green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more survivors find our show.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this special episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy honors National Cancer Survivor Month by sharing deeply personal stories from eight incredible cancer survivors, including herself. The guests (Grisel Scarantino, Russ Hedge, Mary Wells, Tom Reaoch, Annamaria Scaccia, Terry Tucker, and Zoraida Morales) share deeply personal stories about their unique cancer journeys, revealing how their experiences transformed their perspectives on life, purpose, and personal growth. Each survivor discusses the challenges they faced after treatment, including physical side effects, emotional struggles, and the process of redefining their identity beyond their cancer diagnosis.

Dive deeper into the themes of this episode in our companion blog post: https://www.ontheotherside.life/national-cancer-survivor-month-unpacking-the-dynamic-discoveries-of-life-after-cancer
Learn more about National Cancer Survivor Month. https://cancercontrol.cancer.gov/ocs/about/survivorship-month

📣Call to Action 1: Share this episode with someone who can benefit from it.

✨Highlights from the show:

00:35 Significance of National Cancer Survivor Month

00:56 Exploring the Meaning of Survivorship

03:33 Personal Journey: Talaya Dendy

11:02 Grisel Scarantino's Story

17:17 Russ Hedge's Experience

19:12 Mary Wells on Overcoming Chemo Brain

22:00 Tom Reaoch's Journey with Male Breast Cancer

27:57 Annamaria's Double Cancer Journey

41:58 Terry's Story: From Death Sentence to Life Sentence

47:02 Zoraida's Transformation: From Finance to Cancer Coach

51:24 Conclusion: The Heart of Survivorship

Transcript & Bios: https://bit.ly/podscriptandbios166

📣Call to Action 2: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

Follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on social media!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-cancer-together

Fanlist: https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast

Support Navigating Cancer TOGETHER. https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more survivors find our show.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.