Cancer Uncovered: Recent Episodes
Cancer Uncovered
This is a monthly podcast for learners of all ages with a desire to know more about cancer and careers in healthcare. We are a growing collection of interviews, talks and experiences that aim to empower and inspire. Please reach out with your questions by email at livestrongcancerinstitutes@dellmed.utexas.edu You can find out more about the Livestrong Cancer Institutes UT Health Austin Clinic at https://uthealthaustin.org/clinics/cancer You can find out more about the Livestrong Cancer Institutes at Dell Medical School by visiting https://dellmed.utexas.edu/units/livestrong-cancer-institutes
Cancer Uncovered creator and host Kristen Wynn is excited to discuss the Cancer Uncovered Podcast at the 2024 South by Southwest Conference in Austin, Texas. She is part of a panel discussion called Scientific Storytelling: the Audio Advantage, on March 11, 2024. This preview of part 2 of Episode 35 with Oncology Physician Assistant Lindsay Kozicz (and her cat) […]
In Part 1 of this episode, we prepare to shadow Livestrong Cancer Institutes Clinic Physician Assistant Lindsay Kozicz, by learning about the basics of a PA’s role in a cancer clinic, the history of the position and Lindsay’s personal journey towards this path.
Dr. Ozbakken returns for part 2 of her discussion with “Cancerland”. She discusses Generation Z’s power to demystify cancer with the power of social media, she also brings up how cancer changes generationally amongst populations, and she ends the episodes with how students themselves can make a difference within cancer.
This summer the University of Texas at Austin together with the Livestrong Cancer Institute hosted a group of select undergraduate students for the opportunity to work with the institute and do yearlong cancer research on any topic of their choosing. Livestrong had the pleasure to work alongside these special students and put together their research. We saw many of their ambitions turn into […]
Cancer’s role in our society is oftentimes not looked at from a sociological standpoint. Rather, we approach cancer through a research and biological lens, however, there is much more to it than it meets the eye. In our latest podcast episode professor and sociologist at the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Stephanie Osbakken dives deeper into our topic thanks to her class “Cancerland”, she gives her own experience with a cancer diagnosis, and gives advice on what students themselves can do to make an impact.
Clinical research manager within the department of oncology here at the Dell Medical School, Monae Carpenter, guides us through her career in research while also giving her perspective on how clinical research trials can better be understood and demystified.
As Mental Health Awareness Month closes, the Livestrong Cancer Institutes provides a playlist of past Cancer Uncovered episodes that feature mental health themes, and provide important information and resources for listeners. Your Mental Health Awareness Month Playlist: Episode 28: Mental Health Care and the Flatwater Foundation Episode 16: The Young Adult Advisory Board at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes Episode 9: Chemo Brain Fact and Fiction Episode 3: A Research Pep Talk Episode 2: Race and Medical Education Episode 1: The Clinical Team US Based Resources if you or someone you know needs mental health support: Crisis Life Line, text or call 988, or call SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Current UT Austin Dell Medical School Students Rachel Gorham and Brooke Upchurch “pull back the curtain” and give us the basics of Medical School – what the process is like and what their experiences have been thus far.
Current UT Austin Dell Medical School Students Rachel Gorham and Brooke Upchurch “pull back the curtain” and give us the basics of Medical School – what the process is like and what their experiences have been thus far.
Jeanne Kowalski-Muegge https://dellmed.utexas.edu/directory/jeanne-kowalski-muegge and Lynda Gonzales https://cns.utexas.edu/directory/lynda-gonzales inform about the upcoming Cancer Genomics SPRINT. A first event of its kind hosted by the Livestrong Cancer Institutes.
In this continuation of Episode 28, UT Austin Grad Student Eugenio Sobrevilla and LCI’s Kristen Wynn sit down with Mark Garza, Founder of the Flatwater Foundation, an organization based in Austin, Texas that exists to erase the financial burden of mental health care for those facing cancer, as well as their extended family.
In this Episode, UT Austin Grad Student Eugenio Sobrevilla and LCI’s Kristen Wynn sit down with Mark Garza, Founder of the Flatwater Foundation, an organization based in Austin, Texas that exists to erase the financial burden of mental health care for those facing cancer, as well as their extended family.
In this continuation of Episode 27, we’ll hear from the five 2022 recipients of the UT Austin American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grant, which was created to foster the careers of new cancer researchers. Although some of their work might be challenging to understand, listen closely for all of the different kinds of research and how it gets done.
In this two part episode, we’ll hear from the five 2022 recipients of the UT Austin American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grant, which was created to foster the careers of new cancer researchers. Although some of their work might be challenging to understand, listen closely for all of the different kinds of research and how it gets done.
The LCI’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows have a moderated conversation with Dr. S. Gail Eckhardt, Chair of the Department of Oncology at UT Austin’s Dell Medical School and the Director of the Livestrong Cancer Institutes, and Dr. Anna Capasso, Assistant Professor of Oncology at UT Austin, Dell Medical School, about their relationship as a mentor (an experienced and trusted advisor) and mentee (someone who is receiving counseling from a mentor).
In this episode, Kristen Wynn talks with four different cancer researchers: Olivia Lu, now at UCSF, Brittney Fernandez, Benjamin Umlauf and David Hormuth at UT Austin, about their work and careers, showcasing the breadth and depth of work in the field of cancer research, and what a career in research really looks like.
For more information about the Livestrong at School Program for high school and middle school students, also mentioned in this episode, visit https://dellmed.utexas.edu/education/academics/programs-for-youth-and-undergrads/livestrong-at-school.
In this episode we meet Nagaharini Venkoba Rao, one of ten undergraduate students to take part in the LCI’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2022, and her Preceptor, Dr. Stephen Yi, Director of Bioinfomatics at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes.
Thank you for listening and learning with us for two seasons! Let’s celebrate what we’ve learned and look ahead to season three with a preview of our next episode, featuring an undergraduate student conducting cancer research with LCI this summer.
Bethany and Rachel describe, dissect, and define the many layers of Diversity. Their discussion provides a broader perspective on diversity, access, and how we all benefit from having additional insights into how we can all proceed as a door opener or door slammer.
This episode was mixed and mastered by Alejandra Arrazola
What is a “First-Generation College Student?” According to The University of Texas at Austin’s First-Generation Resource Page, it’s defined as students that derive from backgrounds that do not have parents or guardians with a four-year or higher degree from a college or university. This may also be inclusive of foreign nationals and families who have degrees outside of the United States. There are varying definitions, competing identities and sometimes familial demands. All these complexities require resources. Binta Brown and Tatiana Calliham discuss their experiences and what campus resources are available.
Dr. Jas Ahluwalia, Professor of Behavioral and Social Science and Professor of Medicine at Brown University, comes on to tell us about his research and work in tobacco use, addiction and cancer prevention in vulnerable populations.
This month’s podcast episode reflects on the benefits of personal and professional vulnerability.
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, and in this short episode we talk with Dr. Laura Chow at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes, about the basics of Head and Neck Cancers.
Summary: “If we don’t use what we’ve been through then what was it for?” – Dr. Laura Cannon, The University of Texas at Austin.
Kristen Wynn talks with Dr. Laura Cannon, who moderated our Young Adult Advisory Board discussions, Episode 16 Part 1 and 2, and takes the time to tell her own story of her work as an Oncology Pharmacist as well as caregiver for her husband, who was diagnosed with cancer in his early 30s.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Oscar Kitmanyen.
Dr. Jeanne Kowalski-Muegge with the Livestrong Cancer Institutes, discusses her work in cancer genomics and its important role in discovering the best course of treatment for each person facing cancer.
In this short episode, Dr. Anna Capasso with the Livestrong Cancer Institutes talks about the basics of Colon Cancer for Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and she also reminds us of the importance of supporting the unique needs of each patient, beyond just treating the cancer itself, with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians.
This month’s podcast explores how to serve others with integrity and humility.
Victor B. Sáenz, Ph.D. is the W. K. Kellogg Professor in Community College Leadership and the Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy at University of Texas at Austin. He holds courtesy appointments with the LBJ School of Public Affairs, the Center for Mexican American Studies, and various other research centers across the University. His current work advances research-informed best practices and policy solutions that improve educational outcomes for underserved students in education, with a special emphasis on boys and young men of color. Dr. Sáenz earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education and Organizational Change in 2005 from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He also earned a Master's degree in Public Affairs (1999) and a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics (1996) from the University of Texas at Austin.
Dr. Luis Ponjuán is an Associate Professor in the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University. His research agenda focuses on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity for marginalized groups in public and private institutions. He has spoken at the White House for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, the United States Congress, and Institutional Boards of Regents across the nation. He earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Michigan, and degrees from Florida State University and the University of New Orleans. He is a Cuban immigrant, naturalized U.S. citizen, and first-generation college graduate.
Genetic Counseling is an exciting and nuanced field in healthcare that is expanding rapidly. Kalisi Logan, Certified Genetic Counselor in the oncology clinic at UT Health Austin, helps us uncover the day-to-day reality of the work as well as the typical path to becoming a genetic counselor. We also discuss the new Clinical Undergraduate Shadowing Program at the LCI, known as CUSP.
In this episode, LCI’s Kristen Wynn interviews Kaela Momtselitdze with the American Cancer Society about her work in Cancer Control and Prevention and the importance of cancer screening, as well as ways that all of us can work to prevent cancer in our lives now. Kristen also talks with Dr. Valerie Galvan-Turner of UT Health Austin’s Livestrong Cancer Institutes Clinic about cervical cancer for Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was edited, mixed, and mastered by Will Shute and Morgan Honaker.
Everyone experiences imposter syndrome at some point in their life. Feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, or incompetence can easily crowd our minds. What can we do about it? How do we face these fears? Texas Lead Directors Bethany Wendler and Rachel Cohen-Ford outline strategies of how we can approach imposter syndrome head on.
Palliative care is an important part of a cancer care plan that is often overlooked. Two experts on palliative care join us on this episode to help us understand this specialized medical treatment. Dr. Elizabeth Kvale is the director of the Supportive Care and Survivorship Program and medical director of the cancer treatment program at Livestrong Cancer Institutes. Emily McLeod is a clinical nurse specialist at the Livestrong Cancer Institute’s clinic.
Young adults face unique challenges when faced with a cancer diagnosis and treatment. On this two part episode, we welcome Ryan Becerra, Rebecca Munoz, MPH, and Ajit Sharma, PhD, who share their experience with cancer and also serve on the Young Adult Advisory Board at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes. Laura Cannon PharmD, MPH, pharmacist at the LCI, hosts this important discussion.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Ean Herrera.
Young adults face unique challenges when faced with a cancer diagnosis and treatment. On this two part episode, we welcome Ryan Becerra, Rebecca Munoz, MPH, and Ajit Sharma, PhD, who share their experience with cancer and also serve on the Young Adult Advisory Board at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes. Laura Cannon PharmD, MPH, and pharmacist at the LCI hosts this important discussion.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Morgan Honaker.
Today we uncover the topic of population health within the field of oncology. Our guest for this episode is Dr. Navkiran Shokar, Chair and Professor for the Department of Population Health at Dell Medical School here at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Shokar discusses important measures for researching cancer screening and prevention as well as treating cancer as a primary care physician.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Morgan Honaker and Ean Herrera.
Oncofertility is a specialty for those about to receive a treatment that will likely be destructive to their ovaries, or testicles with an impact to fertility.
In today’s episode, we hear from Advanced Practice Provider and Nurse Practitioner Sarah Felderhoff and Adolescent and Young Adult and Survivor Anmol Desai.
At the one year anniversary of the podcast, Nick Smith-Stanley, MBA interviews William Matsui, MD and Summer Undergraduate Research Fellow Kennedy Price about their work in multiple myeloma research and discusses why representation in cancer care and cancer research matters.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Harris Codini and Morgan Honaker.
Join Texas Exes Dr. Latoya Smith and Dr. Richard Reddick as they invite listeners to navigate effective mentorship. Dr. Smith is the Vice President for Diversity and Community Engagement and an Assistant Professor of Practice at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Reddick is a professor of education, leadership and policy and associate Dean for equity, community engagement and outreach in the college of education at UT Austin. He also holds courtesy appointments in the African and African diaspora studies department, as well as Plan II honors. Not only are they UT Austin alumni, they also have shared experiences as Latin scholars with military backgrounds and steering multiple leadership roles at UT Austin.
LCI Student Associate Brittney Fernandez discusses the use of exercise and physical therapy to better prepare cancer patients for treatment with Surgical Oncologist Declan Fleming, MD, FACS. Brittney also talks to Baylor Scott & White Institute of Rehab Center Manager Brittany Chesser, PT, DPT, CLT about her work and career in Physical Therapy, and specifically her work with cancer patients.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Harris Codini and Morgan Honaker.
In this episode, Patty Prado invites listeners to focus on the impact of their stories when interviewing with prospective employers. Patty is an Assistant Director of Leadership Development and Coaching in the Department of Medical Education at The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School.
This episode of Cancer Uncovered was mixed and mastered by Morgan Honaker.
Every two years, the Texas State Legislature convenes to address topics such as education, civil rights, and health and human services. This month, Nick Smith-Stanley, MBA with the Livestrong Cancer Institutes, interviews Lisa Kirsch, MPAff, Senior Policy Director at UT Austin’s Dell Medical School, to discuss the important role health policy plays in providing access to healthcare and in supporting people with cancer.
In this month’s Mini Episode, Farya Phillips, PhD, CCLS, at UT Austin Dell Medical School’s Department of Health Social Work, will break down the sections of a scholarly or peer-reviewed research article and how best to read them, so that you can read the latest scientific research with confidence!
Today we uncover the topic of Chemo Brain, the cognitive changes that often occur with cancer treatment. Our guest for this episode is Dr. Shelli Kesler, cognitive neuroscientist and associate professor in both the School of Nursing and the Department of Diagnostic Medicine at Dell Medical School here at the University of Texas at Austin.
In our final part of Episode 7, featuring discussions on health disparities and cancer, Kristen Wynn sits down with Lailea Noel, PhD, to hear more about her career path in social work, cancer and community research as well as words of wisdom and encouragement for our listening learners.
The third mid-month mini episode with Patty Prado, Assistant Director of Leadership Development and Coaching in the Department of Medical Education at The University of Texas at Austin’s Dell Medical School, challenges listeners to really examine what is to be present and understanding what it means to have a “beginner’s mind.”
In late 2020, two COVID 19 vaccines were approved by the FDA and were released to the public shortly thereafter. In episode 8, Nick Smith-Stanley, MBA talks with Elizabeth Matsui, MD, MHS, Professor of Internal Medicine and Population Health and Director of Clinical and Translational Research to learn about the state of COVID-19 in Texas as well as the fundamentals of vaccines. Also joining the conversation, is Assistant Professor and Division Chief of Surgical Oncology Declan Fleming, MD, FACS to discuss how the pandemic and vaccine has impacted patients with cancer.
In part 2 of Episode 7, after a discussion about health disparities and cancer in part 1, Kristen Wynn at LCI sits down with Dr. Sanford Jeames, DHA to hear about his fascinating career journey, his work in cancer research, and his insights for our listeners.
Welcome to our second Mid-Month Mini Episode! These shorter episodes, featured every other month, focus on professional and personal tools learners can use as they begin their careers. This month focuses on tools for communicating confidently, which includes working to understand and communicate your core values and authentic voice, with Patty Prado.
In Part 1 of our seventh episode, Kristen Wynn at LCI sits down with Dr. Lailea Noel, Ph.D. and Dr. Sanford Jeames, DHA, to discuss their work in community-based cancer research, how health disparities impact cancer research and cancer care, and their recommendations for what we can do to close the gaps.
The Oncology Clinic at UT Health Austin opened its doors two years ago today. Senior Clinical Social Worker Angela Luna, LCSW, has been here from the very beginning. In this episode, we learn more about the fascinating and rewarding career of medical social work in the context of a new and growing cancer center.
Welcome to our first Mini Episode! These shorter episodes, featured every other month, focus on professional and personal tools learners can use as they begin their careers. As we near Thanksgiving in the USA, we will spend a few moments with Dell Medical School Leadership Coach Patty Prado, focusing on the benefits and science behind the practice of gratitude.
In the second part of this episode, we hear from Krystle Zuniga, Ph.D., R.D., and Alejandra De Angulo, Ph.D. about their career paths and insight they have for those interested in pursuing medicine, cancer, and nutrition.
In Part 1 of this two-part episode, we discuss the importance of nutrition in cancer prevention, but also the important role that nutrition plays in cancer care. We address and discuss the lack of diversity in the field of nutrition and access to dietetic care for cancer patients. We’re joined by Krystle Zuniga, Ph.D., R.D. and Alejandra De Angulo, Ph.D. at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes.
In the second part of Episode 4, Nick Smith-Stanley sits down with Dr. Anna Capasso, Medical Oncologist, to talk about her work in cancer research as well as her personal story.
Dr. Anna Capasso is a Surgical Oncology Specialist in Austin, Texas. She graduated with honors in 2009. Having more than 11 years of diverse experiences, especially in surgical oncology, Dr. Anna Capasso affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Board Of Regents Of The University Of Texas System.
Join us on this first of a two-part episode as we shadow Dr. Anna Capasso, medical oncologist and cancer researcher at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes. In this episode you’ll join Dr. Capasso as she meets with patients, discusses care plans with other physicians and navigates a typical day.
Dr. Anna Capasso is a Surgical Oncology Specialist in Austin, Texas. She graduated with honors in 2009. Having more than 11 years of diverse experiences, especially in surgical oncology, Dr. Anna Capasso affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Board Of Regents Of The University Of Texas System.
Join the Livestrong Cancer Institutes’ Translational Research Manager Jennifer McKinney, PhD, for a closer look into the world of cancer research. This uplifting episode covers resilience, career and life balance, setting boundaries, and why we need YOUR bright mind in the field of cancer research right now.
For more information about the closing keynote address at the Association of Community Cancer Centers National Conference by our Associate Director of Administration and Strategic Planning Nick Smith-Stanley on September 18, 2020, please visit accc-cancer.org.
In Part 2 of our second episode, we continue the conversation with UT Austin Dell Medical School students, Ciaura Brown, Deonna White, and Dekoiya Burton, moderated by Dr. Brandon Allport-Altillo, Clinical Educator and Assistant Professor of Medicine and Population Health at Dell Medical School, about their personal and professional experiences with race in medical education. We extend our gratitude to Brandon, Ciaura, Deonna, and Dekoiya for their bravery and willingness to share their stories.
In our second episode, we were grateful for the opportunity to speak with three black medical students at UT Austin’s Dell Medical School, Ciaura Brown, Deonna White, and Dekoiya Burton, moderated by Dr. Brandon Allport-Altillo, Clinical Educator and Assistant Professor of Medicine and Population Health at Dell Medical School, about their personal and professional experiences with race in medical education.
Welcome to Cancer Uncovered! In our very first episode, we’ll talk with some of the clinicians at the Livestrong Cancer Institutes UT Health Austin Clinic, and hear about how they’re adjusting daily practices to care for those facing cancer during COVID-19 and their advice for those interested in pursuing a career in cancer.