All Talk Oncology Cancer Podcast

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins, AKA Your Cancer Guy, speaks with Michelle Hobgood about her breast cancer journey, caregiving, resilience, and life after diagnosis. Michelle shares how becoming a mother at 19 shaped her life and career, her 20 years as a personal trainer, and her experience caring for her son, who has autism and cerebral palsy. She also discusses the health changes she experienced during perimenopause before ultimately being diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in 2024. Michelle talks about having dense breasts, undergoing regular mammograms and ultrasounds, and the shock of discovering her cancer diagnosis through her medical portal. She shares her experience with a lumpectomy, radiation, endocrine therapy, and ongoing treatment. In this episode, Michelle Hobgood discusses: Her journey from young mother to entrepreneur and cancer survivor. Building a 20-year career in personal training. Perimenopause and changes in her health. Living with dense breasts and regular breast screening. Her invasive ductal carcinoma diagnosis. Navigating surgery, radiation, and ongoing treatment. Caring for her son while going through cancer treatment. The importance of support, resilience, and self-care. Her work with The Tidy Trainer Co. and Healed at Home. Why cancer patients should not blame themselves for their diagnosis. The importance of self-advocacy and giving yourself grace. Michelle leaves listeners with an important message: “It’s not your fault.” She encourages people facing cancer to give themselves grace, advocate for themselves, and focus on what they need throughout their treatment and recovery. 🎧 Listen now to this episode of All Talk Oncology and hear how patient-centered innovation is helping reshape the conversation around surgical preparation. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com     You are not alone in this. We're in this together.

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins, AKA Your Cancer Guy, speaks with Carly and Dr. Saahil Mehta about Carly’s breast cancer journey, the challenges of mastectomy and reconstruction, and the research that inspired Bloom43, an innovation designed to support breast surgery recovery. Carly shares how she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at age 37 in December 2019. She discusses her BRCA1 mutation, family history, treatment experience, and decision-making around breast surgery and DIEP flap reconstruction. Her story highlights the emotional and physical challenges patients may face while navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and planning treatment. Dr. Mehta explains the clinical problem that inspired his research: mastectomy skin can sometimes lose its blood supply and develop skin necrosis, creating complications during recovery and reconstruction. He discusses his work investigating whether controlled heat applied to the skin before surgery could help prepare the tissue and improve its response to the surgical process. In this episode, Carly and Dr. Saahil Mehta discuss: Carly’s triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis at age 37. The role of BRCA1 and family history in her cancer journey. Navigating breast cancer treatment and surgical decisions. Carly’s experience with mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction. The challenges of mastectomy skin necrosis. Dr. Mehta’s research into preparing skin before breast surgery. How controlled heat may support blood flow and the skin’s response. The clinical thinking behind the development of Bloom43. The importance of patient education and informed decision-making. How personal experiences and medical research can inspire innovation in cancer care. Carly and Dr. Mehta’s conversation highlights the importance of research, patient advocacy, and exploring ways to improve the surgical experience for people undergoing breast cancer treatment.   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com Hashtags: #AllTalkOncology #YourCancerGuy #BreastCancer #TripleNegativeBreastCancer #BRCA1 #BreastReconstruction #Mastectomy #CancerResearch #PatientAdvocacy #PatientEmpowerment #CancerEducation #Bloom43

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins (Your Cancer Guy) welcomes Dr. Asal Rahimi, radiation oncologist, professor, and researcher at UT Southwestern Medical Center.   Dr. Rahimi shares exciting breakthroughs in breast cancer radiation therapy that are changing how early-stage breast cancer may be treated in the future. She explains how her team is leading innovative clinical trials exploring single-dose radiation treatments that may allow certain patients to receive just one radiation session before surgery while achieving outstanding outcomes. The conversation also explores how advances in imaging, radiation planning, and precision medicine are making treatment more convenient while reducing exposure to healthy tissue, minimizing side effects, and improving quality of life. This episode offers hope and insight for patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in the future of breast cancer treatment. In this episode, Dr. Rahimi discusses the following: Her journey at UT Southwestern and passion for breast cancer research How radiation therapy has evolved over the past two decades The groundbreaking single-dose radiation clinical trial Why treating the tumor before surgery may improve outcomes How precision radiation reduces exposure to healthy tissue The role of hormone therapy alongside radiation treatment Advances in non-operative lymph node evaluation The Fast Forward five-treatment radiation approach New technology that allows patients to begin treatment sooner Why clinical trials are essential for improving cancer care Dr. Rahimi also reminds patients that early detection saves lives. Regular mammograms, timely diagnosis, and participation in research continue to improve treatment options and provide hope for future generations.   Podcast Website: alltalkoncology.com Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com   Hashtags: #BreastCancer #RadiationTherapy #ClinicalTrials #BreastCancerResearch #CancerInnovation #RadiationOncology #AllTalkOncology #YourCancerGuy #BreastCancerAwareness

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins, AKA Your Cancer Guy, speaks with hematologist oncologist Tiffany Pompa about her journey from patient to physician, her compassionate approach to cancer care, and the future of circulating tumor DNA testing.   Dr. Pompa explains how surviving a severe asthma attack and experiencing the vulnerability of being critically ill influenced the way she cares for people with cancer. She also shares the story of a stage four melanoma patient whose final wish helped guide her toward oncology and taught her the importance of protecting quality of life.   The conversation explores ctDNA, a blood-based technology that may help physicians identify cancer-related DNA, personalize treatment decisions, and monitor for signs of recurrence in certain patients. Dr. Pompa discusses its potential role in stage II colon cancer and explains why patients should feel empowered to ask their physicians about emerging technologies and treatment options. Highlights: Dr. Pompa’s journey from patient to hematologist oncologist. How a life-threatening asthma attack shaped her bedside manner. The patient experience that inspired her to enter oncology. What ctDNA, or circulating tumor DNA, means. How ctDNA may support personalized cancer treatment. The potential use of ctDNA in stage II colon cancer. Monitoring cancer recurrence through blood-based testing. The importance of early detection and informed patients. Building a collaborative relationship with your care team. Exercise, movement, balance, and patient-centered cancer care.   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help spread cancer education and empower patients, caregivers, and families with information about compassionate oncology care.   Hashtags: #ctDNA #CirculatingTumorDNA #CancerCare #HematologyOncology #CancerEducation #CancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #PersonalizedCancerCare #ColonCancer #PatientEmpowerment #AllTalkOncology #YourCancerGuy

SHOWNOTES Apple Podcast Description: Episode Title: In this episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins (Your Cancer Guy) talks with Dr. Jeffrey Velotta, a thoracic surgeon practicing in Northern California, to discuss a growing and often misunderstood health crisis—lung cancer in people who have never smoked. While many people associate lung cancer primarily with smoking, Dr. Velotta explains that an alarming trend is emerging, particularly among Asian women who have never smoked. Despite California having one of the lowest smoking rates in the United States, the state continues to see some of the highest lung cancer incidence and mortality rates. Dr. Velotta breaks down the surprising risk factors behind this phenomenon, why many patients are being diagnosed at Stage IV, and what individuals can do to advocate for themselves when symptoms appear. This conversation is an essential listen for patients, caregivers, and anyone concerned about lung health—especially those who believe they are not at risk. In this episode, Dr. Castro discusses: Why lung cancer is increasing among non-smokers The alarming rise of lung cancer in Asian women Why many patients are diagnosed at Stage IV Key risk factors beyond smoking The importance of early detection and recognizing symptoms Why persistent cough should never be ignored When to request a chest X-ray or CT scan Why getting a second opinion is critical for cancer care How patients can find clinical trials and new treatment options Dr. Velotta also encourages patients to become active participants in their healthcare by asking tough questions, advocating for themselves, and seeking the best possible care. This episode provides vital insight into a growing public health issue and empowers patients with the knowledge needed to take action early. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help spread awareness about lung cancer and empower patients with life-saving information. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com Hashtags:  #LungCancerAwareness #LungCancerInNonSmokers #ThoracicSurgery #CancerScreening #AllTalkOncology #YourCancerGuy #CancerEducation #CancerAdvocacy

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins (Your Cancer Guy) speaks with Dr. Nadia Nocera Zachariah, a breast surgical oncologist at Miami Cancer Institute, about what patients should know after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. Dr. Zachariah walks through the role of a breast surgeon and explains how treatment decisions are made, including whether surgery or chemotherapy should happen first. She also addresses one of the most common misconceptions among patients—that the entire breast must always be removed. In reality, many patients can safely undergo breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) combined with radiation, which often provides survival outcomes comparable to mastectomy. Dr. Zachariah also shares how her personal journey as a first-generation physician shaped her patient-centered approach to care. She emphasizes the importance of education, compassion, and empowering patients to fully understand their diagnosis and treatment options. Additionally, the conversation explores high-risk breast cancer screening, genetic testing, and the treatment of complex benign breast diseases that are often misdiagnosed. This episode provides valuable insight for patients, caregivers, and anyone seeking to better understand breast cancer treatment and surgical options. Highlights: What breast surgeons actually do after a cancer diagnosis Lumpectomy vs. mastectomy explained Why many patients request full breast removal The science behind breast-conserving surgery outcomes The importance of patient education in cancer care Genetic testing and high-risk breast cancer screening Treating rare inflammatory breast conditions Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help spread awareness about lung cancer and empower patients with life-saving information. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com Hashtags: #BreastCancer #BreastCancerSurgery #Lumpectomy #Mastectomy #CancerEducation #AllTalkOncology #YourCancerGuy #CancerAwareness

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins (Your Cancer Guy) sits down with legendary R&B artist Montell Jordan for an honest and deeply personal conversation about his battle with prostate cancer. Known worldwide for the iconic hit “This Is How We Do It,” Montell opens up about life beyond music and shares what it was like receiving a cancer diagnosis after a routine annual physical. Initially diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, Montell discusses the difficult decisions surrounding treatment, the emotional toll of recurrence, and how his unwavering faith helped him navigate one of the hardest battles of his life. Montell candidly speaks about the realities many men don’t openly discuss—fear, masculinity, intimacy after treatment, mental resilience, and the impact cancer has on relationships and family dynamics. He also highlights the vital role caregivers play and how his wife helped sustain him through treatment and recovery. Most importantly, Montell emphasizes the life-saving importance of early detection and PSA screening, especially for African American men who are at higher risk for prostate cancer. This powerful episode is filled with encouragement, practical insight, and hope for patients, caregivers, survivors, and families navigating cancer. In this episode, Montell Jordan discusses the following: His life and career before cancer Receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis after a routine physical Why annual screenings and PSA testing matter Understanding Gleason scores and prostate cancer staging The treatment decision process: watch, treat, radiate, or remove Undergoing a radical prostatectomy Facing cancer recurrence and navigating proton therapy How faith shaped his mindset during treatment The emotional impact of cancer on spouses and caregivers Why empathy, not sympathy is critical during cancer care Intimacy and relationships after prostate cancer treatment Advocacy for men’s health and prostate cancer awareness His documentary Sustain, chronicling his cancer journey The importance of early detection for saving lives Montell also reminds listeners that a cancer diagnosis does not have to define the rest of your story. With faith, medical care, family support, and early intervention, there is hope—and there is life after cancer. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com  

In this episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins speaks with Dr. Shruti Patel, a GI medical oncologist from Stanford University, about the rising rates of early-onset colorectal and GI cancers and what they mean for patients today. Dr. Patel explains why more younger patients are being diagnosed, explores possible contributing factors like lifestyle and environmental changes, and emphasizes that there is no single cause of cancer. She also breaks down how clinical trials work, why patient advocacy matters, and how resources like clinicaltrials.gov can help guide treatment decisions. The conversation also dives into survivorship care and why life after cancer should be viewed as “life with a cancer history,” highlighting the ongoing physical, emotional, and financial challenges patients may face. In this episode, Dr. Patel discusses: The rising rates of early-onset colorectal and GI cancers Why younger patients are increasingly being diagnosed Possible contributing factors (diet, lifestyle, environmental influences) Why no single “smoking gun” explains cancer development How clinical trials work (Phase I, II, and III differences) Why patients should use clinicaltrials.gov and advocate for themselves The importance of second opinions in cancer care Why survivorship should be viewed as “life with a cancer history” Physical, emotional, and financial challenges after treatment The problem of patient guilt and blaming lifestyle choices Dr. Patel’s insights offer a clear, compassionate, and empowering look into modern cancer care helping patients, caregivers, and clinicians better understand both the science and the human experience behind a diagnosis.   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

In this deeply moving episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins sits down with Dr. Karla Castro, a general and oncology surgeon from Costa Rica whose life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with Stage IV head and neck cancer. As a physician who spent years treating cancer patients, Dr. Castro suddenly found herself on the other side of the diagnosis—becoming the patient. In this emotional and inspiring conversation, she shares the moment she received the life-altering phone call, the shock of hearing the words “you have cancer,” and the powerful journey that followed. But beyond the medical treatments, Dr. Castro reveals the deeper transformation that came from her experience—one rooted in faith, surrender, resilience, and purpose.   In this episode, Dr. Castro discusses: The moment she discovered something was wrong and pursued a biopsy. Navigating major surgery, complications, and a Stage IV cancer diagnosis. Undergoing 35 radiation treatments and chemotherapy while losing significant weight. The emotional challenges of going through treatment as a mother of a young child. How faith and surrender became her greatest sources of strength. Returning to the hospital not as a patient—but again as a surgeon helping others. Why she now connects more deeply with her cancer patients than ever before. Her powerful advice to patients: focus your energy on healing and finishing the race.   Dr. Castro’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the incredible strength of the human spirit. This episode is a must-listen for cancer patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking a story of courage and inspiration. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

Breast Cancer Awareness Month may spotlight October but breast health is a year-round commitment. In this empowering episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins (Your Cancer Guy) welcomes Chicago-based breast radiologist Dr. Sonya Bhole for a candid, evidence-based conversation about mammograms, breast density, MRI screening, and why fear should never stop you from getting checked. Dr. Bhole breaks down updated screening recommendations supported by the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging, including why all women should receive a breast cancer risk assessment by age 25 and begin annual screening mammograms at age 40 (or earlier if high risk). With breast cancer incidence increasing approximately 1% per year—and even higher in women under 50—this episode challenges listeners to replace anxiety with empowerment through knowledge. In this episode, Dr. Bhole discusses: What a breast cancer risk assessment at age 25 actually means (and how to get one) Why screening mammograms begin at 40—and how they save lives What happens during a mammogram and why compression is necessary The difference between screening vs. diagnostic imaging What “dense breast tissue” means and why 50% of women have it Why dense breasts can make cancer harder to detect When supplemental screening like MRI or ultrasound may be needed Why breast awareness is more important than fear Why men should help advocate for the women in their lives Dr. Bhole also addresses the anxiety surrounding mammograms, reminding listeners that the vast majority of screenings are normal and even call-backs for additional imaging are often benign. Her message is clear: Know your breast density. Know your risk. Advocate for yourself. Because early detection doesn’t just change outcomes.. it saves lives. Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com Hashtags:  #BreastCancerScreening #KnowYourDensity #Mammogram #WomensHealth #AllTalkOncology #EarlyDetection