Backstage @ Upstage : Recent Episodes
Upstage Lung Cancer
This podcast is an interview format with guests to talk about Entertainment, Medicine, Thrivers and Survivors of lung cancer.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan RichGUESTS: Joan H. Schiller, MD and Francine Jacobson, MD, MPHIn 2021, the World Health Organization issued a stark warning: climate change is the single biggest health threat facing humanity. And yet, the public often perceives climate change as an abstract concept or a political debate, not a health problem. It’s time to change this perception.Alarmingly, lung cancer deaths have surged by nearly 30% since 2007. Every year we experience accelerating heat waves, wildfires, droughts, and extreme weather events. Moreover, all these changes impact cancer occurrence and care. Our guests probe deeply into this serious problem, looking at causes and possible solutions. Dr. Schiller explains how her global group, OUCH (Oncologists United for Climate and Health) fights back using education and advocating for policy change to protect cancer patients and us all from the dangers of climate change. Meanwhile, Dr. Jacobson supports increasing access to life-saving lung cancer screenings for underserved, high-risk communities. She suggests steps to accomplish this by expanding criteria for screenings.Are we ready to treat climate change and air pollution like the medical emergency it is? Tune in to uncover the link between our environment and cancer - and how we can fight back.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Kyle Concannon, MD, Samantha Murrell, Bianca Bye and Leah Phillips
The face of lung cancer is changing. No longer viewed simply as a “smoker’s disease” that only impacts older adults, there is a rising and concerning trend of younger adults and non-smokers being diagnosed with advanced disease.
Our guests today have so much light to shine on this issue. In this powerhouse episode, we hear from Samantha Murrell, diagnosed with Stage 4 with a HER2 biomarker at age 37. She notes that her way of coping with her diagnosis was to learn everything possible about her disease. She tells how hope comes with new, cutting-edge drugs targeting HER2 because they allow her to live a full and active life.
Our guest, Leah Phillips, a mother of three young children, also was shocked by her diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer at 43. She tells how she joined Bianca Bye, who faced the advanced diagnosis and tragic loss of both parents, within months of each other, to lung cancer. Leah and Bianca joined forces to create the Young Lung Cancer Initiative. Oncologist, Dr. Kyle Concannon notes how these three resilient women are finding meaning in advocacy as they work to transform suffering into meaning by helping others. This is an unforgettable, action-driven look at hope, survival, and taking control.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Lecia Sequist, MD and Allison Chang, MD, Ph.D.
We are building on our previous "All in the Family" episode, with Jaclyn Lo Piccolo,
MD, Ph.D., Pasi Janne, MD, Ph.D., of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Jill
Feldman from EGFR Resisters. To look deeper into how a family history of lung
cancer might increase the risk for other members, we invited Drs. Lecia Sequist
and Allison Chang from Mass General Hospital to discuss their latest research on
risk factors and the role of family history in lung cancer. We examine the current
array of diagnostic tools—from CT scans to germline genetic testing—and the
mystery of why some family members are more vulnerable to environmental
pollutants than others. Tune in to see how Drs. Sequist and Chang are using AI-
driven CT analysis to identify risk in those with a family history of lung cancer and
learn if you qualify to participate in their
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST, Jordan Rich
Guests: Sachi Badola and Lauren Coye
Think you’re too young for lung cancer? Think again! This week, we’re joined by
two incredible young women who are highlighting the realities and breaking the
stigma. Our first guest, Lauren Coye, shares her grueling journey to finally being
diagnosed with lung cancer. After being told she had recurring upper respiratory
infections, starting at age 14, Lauren’s persistence led to the discovery 10 years
later that saved her life. Her story is a testament to the life-saving power of self-
advocacy. Our next guest, Sachi Badola, is a pre-med student at Dartmouth
College in New Hampshire. On top of that, she is taking over the reins to become
the producer of Upstage Lung Cancer’s 10th annual Sing Out! concert on April
4, 2026. Bringing together eight a cappella groups to sing out about lung cancer,
the concert will also be live-streamed and afterwards be available on YouTube
and on our website. Both young women continue to raise awareness of lung
cancer as Board Members of Upstage Lung Cancer. From the doctor’s office to the
center stage, we’re exploring how the next generation can raise their voices to
fund research and demand better care. It’s time to listen.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Sumati Ram-Mohan, Vice President of Upstage Lung Cancer
Why did singer and cabaret performer Hildy Grossman launch Upstage Lung Cancer 18
years ago? In this episode, Hildy describes how a fluke accident resulted in early detection of
her lung cancer and put her on a life-changing path. When faced with an early diagnosis, Hildy
didn’t just ask "Why me?"—she asked, "What now?" She realized that while anyone with lungs
can get lung cancer, not everyone has a stage to fight it. Thus, Upstage Lung Cancer was created
as the only lung cancer organization to exclusively produce concerts and the performing arts to
raise awareness, reduce stigma and fund cutting edge medical research.
In a meeting of Art & Science, our guest, Sumati Ram-Mohan, a scientist and dancer, shares her
story of how and why she reached out to Hildy. Now the Vice President of Upstage Lung
Cancer, Sumati discusses how her experience in lung research and her passion for the stage help
move this organization forward. Among other things, this podcast series, now ranked in the top
5 out of 40 lung cancer podcasts, was created to be both engaging, enjoyable and
informative. They discuss almost two decades of outreach and impact, ending with a look ahead
to this year's Fall Concert – an evening of joy aimed at this difficult disease.
We thank our sponsors Lilly, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Revolution Medicines, Boehringer
Ingelheim, and Takeda for their generous support of our podcast series Backstage @ Upstage.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST, Jordan Rich
Guests: Justin Gainor, MD, Director of Targeted Immunotherapy at the Massachusetts General Hospital and David Barbie, MD, Director of the Barbie Lab at Dana Farber Cancer Institute Targeting Innate Immunity in Cancer
Lung cancer has long been one of the most complex and difficult cancers to treat. But what if we could outsmart it—not just with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, but by training the immune system itself? This episode explores a revolutionary question: Could a vaccine change the future of lung cancer? To shed light on answers to this question are Dr.Justin Gainor, whose interest is in vaccine development, and Dr.David Barbie, who returns to Backstage @ Upstage to explain how the immune system responds to cancer. Our renowned guests describe the challenges of creating a therapeutic vaccine and why a preventative vaccine is less likely to succeed. They detail how the immune system’s delicate operations need to be understood to successfully develop a vaccine to treat lung cancer. Moreover, you’ll want to hear about the groundbreaking promise of “personalized vaccines” tailored to an individual’s unique genomic markers, and how these cutting-edge vaccines will change the future of oncology forever.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jessica Lin, MD., Sarah Craig, Frank Marotta
Hearing the diagnosis of Stage 4 can be devastating, but today, it is no longer the final word. More people are living with Stage 4 lung cancer than ever before, thanks to a revolution in innovative treatments, immunotherapy and precision medicine.
Join us for a profoundly moving and informative episode. Sarah Craig, 31 years old with a cough and Frank Marotta, reporting to his geriatrician concerns about memory loss, share the terrifying moment they heard their diagnosis of advanced lung cancer. They graciously share their personal lung cancer journeys and where they found hope.
Renowned medical oncologist Dr. Jessica Lin answers the difficult questions: How does lung cancer metastasize, and how does a doctor compassionately deliver a life-altering diagnosis? She shares her approach to guiding patients through their darkest moments. Dr. Lin also describes how cutting-edge tools like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and PD-L1 testing are now standard biomarker evaluations, fundamentally shifting care from generalized chemo to truly personalized targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Learn how this new era of evaluation and treatment is bringing tangible hope to those who need it most.
How a silent killer invades our homes and our genes
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jackie Nixon, Citizens for Radon Reduction; Jane Malone, National Policy Director Indoor Environments Association; Khadijah Mitchell, Ph.D., Temple University, School of Public Health
Your DNA is not a fixed blueprint. Dr. Khadijah Mitchell elucidates epigenetics, showing that our environment and behaviors can “flip switches” on our genes, turning them on or off.
But what happens when that environment is toxic?
Enter a silent, invisible threat: radon. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer and seeps into 1 in 15 homes. For lung cancer survivor and activist, Jackie Nixon, this statistic is deeply personal. She shares her powerful story and her fight to educate others.
This podcast isn’t just a science lesson; it’s a story of survival and a crucial public health warning. Hear from environmental advocate Jane Malone on why simple testing is vital and the need for life-saving regulations that are still missing in many high-risk states.
This episode is a powerful mix of cutting-edge science and real-world action. Discover how to protect your home with a simple, inexpensive kit and how you can help.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Chi Fu Jeffrey Yang. MD, Thoracic surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, Professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School
For any cancer patient facing surgery, there are always questions and worries. Hildy interviews an outstanding thoracic surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, Chi Fu Jeffrey yang, MD. They discuss the current trends in lung cancer surgery, particularly the movement from taking as much tissue as possible to taking as little lung tissue as possible. This trend has not been without conflict and disagreement. Recent studies show that, for earlier stages, taking a wedge is preferable to taking an entire lobe. Dr. Yang delves into why and explains the different ways surgery is conducted. The goal of this, and all our podcasts, is to provide accurate and current information for patients, providers and caregivers. Please listen and share with anyone you know facing surgical treatment for their cancer.
From Lung Cancer Patient to Full Time Advocate
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Dusty Donaldson, Lung Cancer Patient Advocate, LiveLung Founder
At fifty-one, Dusty’s life was a whirlwind. A mother of three, she was also juggling a full-time career and graduate school when a lung cancer diagnosis stopped everything in its tracks. Her treatment included the surgical removal of two lobes of her lung and adjuvant chemotherapy. Now, twenty years later, with no recurrence, Dusty has gone from patient to full-time advocate. Her determination has led her to establish a national lung cancer organization dedicated to creating patient and caregiver groups, offering vital education and providing community for those facing this disease. In September 2025, to celebrate survival, she’ll take off for a road trip around the US in her “Skan Van” to raise awareness about early detection and the urgent need for research funding. She’ll join Hildy in Boston for Upstage Lung Cancer’s concert in October. How did she do all this? Listen to this inspiring story.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Jacy Dawn Valeras, Award-winning Television Host, Producer, Podcaster and Music Business Executive
Hildy welcomes Jacy Dawn Valeras—television host, producer, music business executive, and podcaster with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Jacy shares her life-long dream of becoming a country music singer. With her father’s encouragement, family’s support, and her own determination and talent, she succeeded in sharing the stage with some of country music’s biggest names.
But just as her star was rising, a vocal cord injury forced her to stop singing—for at least a year. Overcome and unsure of her future, Jacy faced a turning point. By refusing to give up, she found a new way to channel her love for country music: writing songs and helping other artists shine. She also mastered digital marketing, launched her own successful business, and began guiding performers at every stage of their careers.
Her journey didn’t stop there. Jacy now hosts a popular podcast where she interviews high-profile guests about their paths to success. What’s more, in honor of her father who ultimately lost his life to lung cancer, she works tirelessly as a passionate advocate for Upstage Lung Cancer to raise awareness and inspire hope.
Tune in to hear the powerful story of a woman with true grit, resilience, and a deep love for music that never quit—even when life tried to stop her.
Voicing New Reasons for Optimism
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Maida Mangiameli, Dusty Donaldson, Misty Shields, MD, Ph.D., and Ann Steagall
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive form of lung cancer with a 5-year survival rate of just 7%, a disheartening statistic. Despite this, survivors, researchers, and the medical community are actively working to create a more hopeful future. In this powerful podcast episode, we bring together a diverse team of guests to discuss stories of survival, groundbreaking treatments, and renewed reasons for hope. You’ll hear from:
• Maida Mangiameli, an inspiring SCLC survivor who’s been in remission for 8 years, so far.
• Dr. Misty Shields, a physician-scientist specializing in SCLC within her oncology practice who also shares a personal story.
• Dusty Donaldson, a lung cancer survivor and patient-advocate whose organization provides crucial support groups for SCLC patients.
• Ann Steagall, a dedicated nurse navigator who guides patients through their diagnosis and treatment journey.
Join us for a lively discussion that sheds light on the progress being made and the hope that exists for those facing small cell lung cancer.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jaclyn LoPiccolo, MD, Ph.D., Pasi Janne, MD, Ph.D., Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Jill Feldman, EGFR Resisters
Hildy opens with a powerful anecdote about an early Upstage Lung Cancer Board member whose mother, grandmother, and aunt all had lung cancer. She endured months of allergy and antibiotic treatments for a persistent cough, only for a CT scan a year later to reveal Stage 3 lung cancer. Our guest, Jill Feldman, brings a unique perspective as a third-generation lung cancer patient, with the disease present on both sides of her family. Oncologists and researchers Dr. Pasi Janne and Dr. Jaclyn LoPiccolo join in to discuss their “Inherit” study www.Inheritstudy.org, which aims to clarify the genetic risk for lung cancer, especially when there’s a family history. This vital conversation tackles the complex question of inheritance and environment in understanding lung cancer development. This vital conversation tackles the intricate interplay between inheritance and environment in understanding lung cancer development – a compelling question often raised by family members after a loved one’s diagnosis.
A Biomarker Dialogue Between Patient and Scientist
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Marc Muskavitch, PhD, ALK+ & Zachary Rogers, PhD, Research Fellow, Koch Institute at MIT
This episode features a powerful conversation between two scientists, one now navigating life as a Stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer patient. Most lung cancer patients only learn the significance of biomarkers like ALK+, soon after their diagnosis. Our guest Marc Muskavitch, however, arrived at this knowledge with a distinct advantage: he is a scientist himself. With a background spanning drug development, biochemistry, and genetics, and holding seventeen patents, Marc’s understanding shaped his emotional and strategic response to his diagnosis and ongoing journey. His compelling conversation with scientist Zach Rogers, a previous podcast guest who addressed recurrence and drug response in lung cancer, gains even greater meaning in this context. Marc also sheds light on the significant community brought together by the ALK Positive patient organization that is now collaborating with the scientific research organization, Break Through Cancer. Our guests discuss their vision for hopeful future advancements in cancer treatment.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Zachary Rogers, Ph.D. Postdoc at MIT | American Cancer Society Fellow
Lung cancer treatment is undergoing a revolution. In the last 15 years, we’ve transitioned from broad chemotherapy to precision medicine, targeting the specific genetic drivers of each patient’s cancer. This shift, along with the rise of immunotherapy, offers unprecedented hope. Today, we speak with Dr. Zachary Rogers, a post-doctoral researcher at MIT’s Koch Institute, whose work on ALK mutations illuminates these advancements. He’ll explain how targeted therapies and immunotherapies combat cancer, and delve into crucial questions: why do some patients respond while others don’t, and why does recurrence occur even after apparent remission? Dr. Rogers will also share insights into groundbreaking research on new cancer markers. Join us for a critical discussion on the future of lung cancer treatment – a conversation that provides a vital look at the forefront of cancer research.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: James Hiter, Streak for A Cure
James and Hildy had a similar experience in having their lung cancer found by accident. James, a “streaker” who runs daily, epitomized health. So, a lung cancer diagnosis—discovered accidentally during a bout of the flu—came as a devastating shock. A routine X-ray revealed a tumor of the size of a tennis ball. This unexpected twist led James to uncover a family history of the disease: his grandmother and great-uncle both succumbed to lung cancer. Driven by this knowledge, he joined a research study exploring the genetic links to lung cancer. James’s story is one of resilience. He shares the profound impact of lung cancer on his life, offering an “optimistic realist’s” perspective on daily life and the challenges he and his wife face. Initially declared “cured” after surgery, James’s world was rocked a year later by the cancer’s return. This time, he learned he had the KRAS biomarker, a discovery that proved crucial in guiding his treatment. He details his treatment journey, the setbacks, and the hope that came with targeted therapies. James’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of medical research. From accidental diagnosis to recurrence, he’s facing the ups and downs with resolute positivity. Hear how he’s using his experience to inspire others through “Streak for A Cure.” Don’t miss this powerful podcast!”
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: Zofia Piotrowska, MD, MHS, Massachusetts General Hospital
This podcast delves deeper into the evolving understanding of the HER2 biomarker in lung cancer, twenty years after its discovery. We’re joined by Dr. Zofia Piotrowska, renowned oncologist and researcher at Massachusetts General Hospital, to build on our previous discussion, “HER2 Isn’t Just About Her!” Dr. Piotrowska explores the intricate nuances of HER2 in lung cancer, explaining how subtle genetic variations can significantly impact treatment outcomes. While HER2 biomarkers are more frequently observed in non-smokers, women, and younger patients, it’s crucial to remember that anyone with lungs can develop lung cancer. Of critical importance in diagnosis and treatment decisions is comprehensive biomarker testing. This valuable information empowers clinicians to tailor treatment plans with precision. This episode highlights the remarkable progress made in precision medicine in combating HER2-positive lung cancer, offering renewed hope for patients, their loved ones, and the entire medical community.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUEST: TERRI CONNERAN, Founder of KRAS Kickers
Imagine facing five recurrences of cancer in seven years. Terri Conneran did, and she turned her adversity into a powerful force for change. Terri embodies the strength of the will to defy the odds of a cancer diagnosis and emerges as a beacon of hope for lung cancer patients. Despite multiple recurrences and navigating a challenging diagnostic journey, she remains resilient and determined to gather information, learn about research and advocate for others who have a KRAS biomarker. Terri founded KRAS Kickers to create a community for patients and families to have a place for support and gathering knowledge during diagnosis and treatment for cancer with a KRAS mutation, the most common biomarker responsible for the three deadliest cancers: lung, pancreatic and colon. Terri’s story is deeply personal, yet her fight is inspirational. She travels the world to meet with KRAS Kicker groups, researchers and providers to help revolutionize treatments. This episode is a testament to the power of hope and the power of the human spirit to kick cancer. Be sure to listen and share this podcast.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Carl Gay, MD, MD Anderson, Misty Shields, MD, Ph.D., Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Hildy shares her experience of losing a friend who was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal system. Knowing that neuroendocrine cells are present in the lungs prompted Hildy to wonder if lung cancer drugs would possibly be viable in treating her friend’s condition. This podcast looks at small cell lung cancer which is a kind of aggressive neuroendocrine tumor and less aggressive, carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors. Experts Dr. Carl Gay and Dr. Misty Shields discuss how little is known about the neuroendocrine system, even among oncologists. Neuroendocrine small cell tumors in the lungs and other areas of the body are associated with tobacco use and vaping. The less aggressive, low grade, carcinoid tumors have unclear causes. The discussion includes how these tumors are diagnosed, challenges for treatment, drug resistance and recurrence. Our guests also highlight the importance of research, and new therapies that give hope to these patients.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jaime Cheah, Ph.D., Director of Collaborative Screening in the Center for the Development of Therapeutics at the Broad Institute and Jane Wilkinson, co-founder and president of CANCollaborate
Our guests, Jane Wilkinson and Jaime Cheah join the conversation to tell us about some incredible work to expand the use of a drug beyond its original treatment target. Jane Wilkinson discusses why this is not only important for lung cancer, but particularly in rare cancers for which the time and cost of developing new drugs is prohibitive. Repurposing drugs is a powerful approach to developing new therapies, because they have already been approved by the FDA and been shown to be safe and effective for at least one indication. Jaime Cheah discusses the work at the Broad Institute at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in terms of how drugs are repurposed and the scale of this remarkable process. You won’t want to miss how thinking so creatively leads to the beginning of a new drug discovery path.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Geoff Oxnard, MD, VP Clinical Development, Global Head Thoracic Cancer | Thoracic Oncologist, Boston Medical Center
With so many misunderstandings about clinical trials, this podcast aims to clarify what a clinical trial is, how they have changed over time, why it is important to inform patients about them and how to increase access. With only about 7% participation in clinical trials by patients, the question is how to make trials more available to patients. Dr. Geoffrey Oxnard is our guest. He is both a treating oncologist as well as a scientist helping to develop new drugs to treat cancer. He discusses different phases in clinical trials, how to partner with his patients in making decisions about whether to join a new trial, and how to expand access to trials to diverse populations. Listen now and learn more.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: David Barbie, MD and Elliott Brea MD, Ph.D.
As Albert Einstein said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” That said, our guests on this podcast share groundbreaking research that investigates new ways of using one’s own immune system to fight cancer. Understanding how immunotherapy works is a complicated topic. Our guests, David Barbie, MD and Elliott Brea, MD, PhD of Dana Farber Cancer Institute, do a masterful job in managing to simplify concepts, and in the most enjoyable way. They discuss the workings of immunotherapy and groundbreaking directions within this form of treatment, simplifying terms even the best educated strain to understand. Take a listen now.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Francine Jacobson, MD, MPH, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston
The process of being diagnosed and treated for lung cancer is often an arduous one. Hildy discusses her own winding road – how slipping on the stairs while wearing new shoes ultimately led to diagnosis and successful treatment. The accidental discovery of her tumor highlights the value of persistence by patients.
With our guest, thoracic radiologist, Francine Jacobson, MD, we discuss various ways patients and their families can prepare for diagnosis and treatments. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and minimize risks that patients will avoid or postpone procedures. Dr. Jacobson offers insights into preparing for CT scans, other diagnostics, and radiology treatments. Equally important is preparing family members or other caregivers to support and join the patient on their journey. Additional issues are considered, such as disparities in access to treatment, educational, racial, and financial backgrounds.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jacob Sands, MD and Julia Rotow, MD, Dana Farber Cancer Institute
Do you worry about cancer? Do you, or does someone you love, have cancer? Our guests today explore the often-worrisome journey from screening and diagnosis to treatment. This podcast features a thoughtful conversation among oncologists who share various options for diagnosis and treatment for their patients. They address what’s necessary to screen for lung cancer, what are the limits for screening, concerns about the presence of microscopic disease, how surgery and radiation can be curative, when drug treatment can be used along with surgery to improve outcomes, what pharmaceutical treatments are available, when to escalate treatment, or not and more. This valuable and hopeful conversation addresses current cancer care, as well as possibilities in future care, including the development of new technologies. You’ll want to listen and share this information with someone you know who is facing and managing cancer.
HOST: Hildy Grossman CO-HOST: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Cheryl Davis, of Red Thred Solutions; Lauren Coye, Patient and Patient Advocate
What often goes unheard in medical situations is the patient’s voice. Our guests have a lot to say about this matter.
Cheryl Davis has extensive experience in patient advocacy in the pharmaceutical industry. Now she aids biopharma, biotech and patient advocacy organizations in improving their practices, communications, and partnerships for better healthcare outcomes. She discusses how listening to patients’ voices shows three general types of patients and their behaviors in medical circumstances.
What does it mean to have a voice? Lauren Coye describes her experience of having been diagnosed with lung cancer at age twenty-four after years of symptoms. Her resilience and determination are an inspiration.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Chi Fu Jeffrey Yang, MD with Alexandra Potter and Deepti Srinivasan
Our podcasts have focused on disparities in healthcare, particularly in Hispanic, Asian, and rural communities. This podcast considers the Black community in the US, and in particular, black women. What do we know about lung cancer differences in the black community vs the white community? Well, we know that both black men and women are less likely to be diagnosed at an early stage where lung cancer is most treatable. So, survival rates in the black community are lower than in the white community. Our guests today are working hard on a research project to address this disparity by bringing information and improving access to CT scans for the community of black women. This group is often ineligible for this diagnostic tool because they don’t meet the guidelines based on the National Lung Cancer Screening Trials. Learn more and why this project is so important.
Our guests today, Dr. Chi Fu Jeffrey Yang, Alexandra Potter and Deepti Srinivasan of Mass General Hospital are working hard on research into the community of Black Women and how to facilitate their participation in low dose lung cancer screening.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Jacqueline Nixon and Gloria Linnertz
Radon is a radioactive gas released in rocks and soil, possibly in your home or where you work. It’s odorless, tasteless, and invisible and can seep up through the ground and circulate into the air. As a result, Radon can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, or foundations, and collect inside of homes and other buildings. Unfortunately, Radon is a major cause of lung cancer. Scientists estimate that there are 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths in the United States each year related to radon.
Both Jacqueline Nixon and Gloria Linnertz represent an organization, Citizens For Radioactive Radon Reduction. Gloria discusses how learning that her husband, Joe, had late-stage lung cancer attributable to the skyrocketing measure of radon in her home changed her life. Although Joe lost his life to lung cancer, Gloria was tireless in demanding that politicians create bills addressing the safest amount of radon for homes on a local and state level.
Jacqueline’s story is one of a survivor whose lung cancer was attributed to unacceptable levels of radon in her apartment. She too took action and created a campaign of awareness.
You’ll find answers to questions about acceptable levels of radon, how to test for radon, and how to get rid of it if necessary. This podcast is so important and could save a life.
What Women Need to Know About Lung Cancer
Host: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich, co-host
Guest: Narjust Duma Flores, MD
Lung Cancer has a reputation of being a man’s disease. Today this notion couldn’t be further than the truth. Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of women as well as men, taking more women’s lives than breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers combined. It’s our privilege is to have international lecturer, researcher and oncologist, Dr. Narjust Flores, as our guest to help us learn more about how women and men differ in the incidence and expression of lung cancer. She’ll discuss the significant finding that there is an increase in lung cancer diagnoses in women, while at the same time a decline in men. We’ll discuss the emerging data demonstrating sex-specific susceptibility, prognosis, and treatment of lung cancer. Dr. Flors will also speculate on why the steepest increase in incidence of lung cancer is among non-smoking women. This is a fascinating and vital conversation.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Pasi Janne, MD, Ph.D., Director, Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and the Scientific Director of the Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Research
Gabrielle Goodman, HER2 patient
Bill Brand, HER2 patient
Caren Suesserman, Exon 20 Group Virtual Meeting Leader and Patient Advocate
Most people are familiar with HER2 presence in breast cancer. In this podcast we discuss the rare but significant presence of HER2 in lung cancer. We’re honored to have one of the original investigators in the discovery of the EGFR mutation. Dr. Pasi Janne has also led the development of strategies for treating patients with HER2 and other biomarkers. He discusses the importance of finding HER2 in lung cancer and how this knowledge impacts treatment choices.
Bill Brand and Gabrielle Goodman share their own, unique stories and of learning of their HER2 biomarker helps direct their treatment. They also agree that having found the organization, EXON20 has helped them gain support and not feel alone. Finally, Caren Susserman describes how she leads weekly Zoom meetings for the EXON20 group for those with HER2. The broad range of services help to ease living with this rare disease.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: Anthony Sireci, MD, and Hilary Hammell, MD
In this podcast, we ask the question, “Along with an accurate cancer diagnosis, why is comprehensive biomarker testing so important? Our guest, Dr. Anthony Sireci, vice president of clinical biomarker and diagnostics development at Loxo@Lilly, has devoted his career to biomarker testing and development. He shares his interest in precision medicine and talks about what inspired him to get involved in this field. He helps us understand why comprehensive biomarker testing is so important when considering treatment options for cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our other guest, Hilary Hammell, is a physician herself, and has been diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer. She shares her own experience about learning she has the RET positive biomarker. She adds that knowing her own biomarker guided her to a treatment that helped to “save her life.” This episode is important for understanding how precision medicine works, how it’s different from other current treatments, and how patients and their families can address comprehensive biomarker testing with their physician. With this fascinating and informative conversation, the question remains how to increase patient’s access to biomarker testing.
Immunotherapy is a cutting-edge treatment for lung cancer. Learn all about it.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich
GUESTS: David Barbie, MD, Oncologist, Dana Farber Cancer Institute
We often hear about our immune system, but outside of science class, few of us understand how it works. Whether your last brush with science was high school biology or you are a career scientist, there is much to learn from Dr. David Barbie. He discusses the role our immune system plays as a protector against infection, and how understanding the immune system’s mechanisms of action has led researchers to develop immunotherapies to treat cancer. He also answers how advanced lung cancer patients and their treatment team choose among chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. This is a podcast you will want to be sure to listen to.
HOST: HILDY GROSSMAN CO-HOST: JORDAN RICH
GUEST: RAYMOND OSAROGIAGBON, MD, FACP, Director of the Multidisciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program at Baptist Cancer Center in Memphis, Tennessee.
Many of us living in urban areas have some awareness and experience of barriers to healthcare, but we seldom consider the obstacles that face people living in rural areas. This is especially true where lung cancer is involved. Our guest, Dr. Osarogiagbon began his career in lung cancer in the 1990s, and at that time, a lot of folks questioned his decision to focus on a disease where life expectancy was so poor. He shares with us what inspired him to work with overlooked poor, rural and black communities. He also discusses the importance of research, what his research is currently focused on and where it continues to develop. Dr. Osarogiagbon talks about the impact of geography on a person’s health. For example, his practice is in Memphis, Tennessee, in the heart of the Southeastern US, where the lung cancer burden is the greatest and where outcomes tend to be the worst. The complexities in identifying and treating people with cancer in rural areas can have a substantial impact on health outcomes. Dr. Osarogiagbon also discusses some of the similar issues experienced by black communities in rural and urban areas. This is an important conversation you won’t want to miss.
HOST: Hildy Grossman, Co-Host: Jordan Rich GUESTS: Jacob Sands, MD, Oncologist, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Andrea McKee, MD, Chair of Radiation Oncology, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center (LHMC) In previous Backstage @ Upstage podcasts, we’ve discussed the importance of low dose CT scans to detect lung cancer early. Both of today’s guests are dedicated … Continue reading Changing Failing Grades for Lung Cancer Screening Removing Barriers to Screening Can Save Lives →
Host: Hildy Grossman Co-Host Jordan Rich
Guest: Francine Jacobson, MD, MPH
Dr. Francine Jacobson discusses the value of screening for early detection of lung cancer. From the perspective of patients and care givers, facing radiation can be concerning. Dr. Jacobson discusses the lowering doses of radiation to help find lung cancer early, with the benefit of identifying and treating the disease at the earliest possible time.
What’s new? There is more understanding of early lung cancer and how to approach it for treatment. Artificial Intelligence is in the news, and now has the potential to predict the presence of lung cancer. New technologies and scanning abilities will help to make lung cancer a chronic disease.
This podcast helps to demystify the process of scanning and treating lung cancer with radiation. This includes addressing fears and scanxiety associated with scans and treatment. The questions and answers raised in this episode focus on the concerns of patients, family members and caregivers.
HOST: HILDY GROSSMAN CO-HOST: JORDAN RICH
GUEST: GLORIA ZHANG, Executive Director of Strategic Alliances at New Tang Dynasty
The Asian and Pacific Islander population represents over 30 countries and
contains ethnic groups that speak more than 100 different languages! Chinese-
Americans represent over 24% of the Asian-American population and are the
focus audience for our guest, Gloria Zhang. She is the executive director of
strategic alliances at New Tang Dynasty, an independent, nonprofit television
network that provides a wide range of programs for the Chinese-American
community and around the world. The network aims to educate its audience
about the higher incidence of lung cancer among Southeast Asian Americans
compared to White Americans. In fact, the group with the greatest increase in
lung cancer is with non-smoking women. Be sure to listen to this important
discussion. podcast.
HOST: HILDY GROSSMAN CO-HOST: JORDAN RICH
GUESTS: KEVIN SALINAS, MD AND FRACINE JACOBSON, MD, MPH
By 2060, the Census Bureau projects that the Hispanic/Latino population will make up almost one third of the US population. In addition, the Hispanic population is a diverse group who trace their heritage to more than 20 Spanish-speaking countries, regardless of race.
Kevin Salinas, MD is a Harvard Medical School student in his final year. His family immigrated from Mexico and they continue to live in a small town in the US. He describes his family background and his focus on issues that face Hispanics in access to health care as well as considerations in receiving care.
Thoracic radiologist, Francine Jacobson, MD, MPH joins the discussion regarding poverty and lack of health insurance, language barriers, cultural barriers and limited access to standard care. For undocumented individuals, there is anxiety about deportation if they access medical treatment.
In our country of diversity, we all grow in understanding how cultures within the general population view lung cancer and treatment. This is a discussion you won’t want to miss.
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host
Guests: Susan Smedley, Founder, Resilient Souls
Anyone receiving a cancer diagnosis wonders what else they can be doing to cope that isn’t dependent on a physical protocol. Too often medical treatment overlooks the emotional component of diagnosis and treatment in facing lung cancer. Patients undergo the emotional and psychological impact of feeling walloped by their illness, often by experiencing insomnia, anxiety and depression. Our guest, Susan Smedley, was diagnosed with lung cancer when she was 32 years old. She discusses her process of transitioning from the shock of learning she had lung cancer at such an early age, with an 11-month-old child, to looking for healthy ways to cope using mindfulness, joining advocacy efforts and now creating her own organization to focus on wellness while facing trauma and challenging medical circumstances. This uplifting podcast is for everyone to help show how gravitating toward wellness efforts can significantly improve the quality of life.
Lung Cancer detected early saves lives.
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host
Guests: Francine Jacobson, MD, MPH; Dusty Donaldson; Dan Cardigan, MD
Three exceptional guests join the conversation about the importance of lung cancer screening from a medical and personal point of view. Dr. Francine Jacobson is a founding director of the lung cancer program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Health Care in Boston. As a thoracic radiologist, she describes CT scans, what patients need to know about the process of having a scan and what can be learned from them. Dan Cardigan, MD continues the discussion as a primary care physician and also as someone diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. In addition, patient advocate and lung cancer survivor Dusty Donaldson shares her experience of learning that she had lung cancer at an early stage. She tells how that experience has fueled her commitment to spending her life advocating for patients with lung cancer. This is a dynamic, encouraging and convivial discussion you won’t want to miss.
Host: Hildy Grossman Co-Host: Jordan Rich Guest: Bill Shields, Journalist and TV Field Reporter Bill Shields has had a celebrated career as a Boston area broadcaster for over forty years. Originally from Texas, Bill began his career at a local TV station before moving to Boston for a job at WBZ-TV where he happily spent … Continue reading A Journalist Journals His Own Journey: TV reporter, Bill Shields’ Own Lung Cancer Story →
Host: Hildy Grossman Co-Host: Jordan Rich Guest: Bill Shields, Journalist and TV Field Reporter Bill Shields has had a celebrated career as a Boston area broadcaster for over forty years. Originally from Texas, Bill began his career at a local TV station before moving to Boston for a job at WBZ-TV where he happily spent … Continue reading A Journalist Journals His Own Journey: TV reporter, Bill Shields’ Own Lung Cancer Story →
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host Guests: Francisco J. Sánchez-Rivera, Ph.D. and Jane Wilkinson Our prior podcast, “What Did the Human Genome Project Ever Do For Us?” was so exciting and enjoyable that we all felt there was no stopping the conversation with just one podcast. We just had to go on. Our guest, … Continue reading GENETIC ENGINEERING AND LUNG CANCER, This Isn’t Science Fiction →
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host Guests: Francisco J. Sánchez-Rivera, Ph.D. and Jane Wilkinson Our prior podcast, “What Did the Human Genome Project Ever Do For Us?” was so exciting and enjoyable that we all felt there was no stopping the conversation with just one podcast. We just had to go on. Our guest, … Continue reading GENETIC ENGINEERING AND LUNG CANCER, This Isn’t Science Fiction →
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host Guests: Jane Wilkinson and Francisco J. Sánchez-Rivera, Ph.D. In this podcast, we do our utmost to help make a complicated topic something we can all understand. Many of us have heard about the Human Genome Project (HGP), but few of us could explain it to someone else. There … Continue reading WHAT DID THE HUMAN GENOME PROJECT EVER DO FOR US? Genetics of Lung Cancer Made Simple →
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host Guests: Jane Wilkinson and Francisco J. Sánchez-Rivera, Ph.D. In this podcast, we do our utmost to help make a complicated topic something we can all understand. Many of us have heard about the Human Genome Project (HGP), but few of us could explain it to someone else. There … Continue reading WHAT DID THE HUMAN GENOME PROJECT EVER DO FOR US? Genetics of Lung Cancer Made Simple →
Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich co-host Guests: Heather Smith Heather Smith was only 34 when she was diagnosed, simply by accident, with lung cancer. It had already spread to other areas of her body. After experiencing this frightening curve ball, she was grateful that biomarker testing revealed that she was ALK+. Knowing this genetic … Continue reading She Refuses To Be Knocked Down! One woman’s strategy for thriving with lung cancer →
Co-Hosts: Hildy Grossman and Jordan Rich Good friends, Hildy Grossman and Jordan Rich put their heads together to talk about the importance of creativity when initiating innovative new research. They compare this experience in the lab to one of a songwriter and composer looking at a blank sheet of paper to come up with a … Continue reading Creativity at the Heart of Research and Music →
Listen to caregivers for spouses diagnosed with rare biomarkers HOST: HILDY GROSSMAN CO-HOST: JORDAN RICH Guests: Marcia Horn, JD. President and CEO at ICAN, International Cancer Advocacy Network and Executive Director, Exon 20 Group; Caren Suesserman, Care Partner, Spouse, and Patient Advocate, Exon 20 Group; Sandy Kitchner, Care Partner, Spouse and Patient Advocate, Exon 20 … Continue reading What is Exon 20 in Lung Cancer? →
How a positive attitude and biomarkers can guide your journey Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich Guests: Jill Feldman and Ivy Elkins with Dann Wonser, EGFR survivors Two of our other Podcasts have emphasized how important it is to get your tumor tested for biomarkers. We focused on one specific biomarker, EGFR, with two outstanding … Continue reading FROM THE PATIENT’S EYE VIEW →
Jill Feldman and Ivy Elkins Hosts: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich Guests: Jill Feldman and Ivy Elkins Two outstanding and determined women share how their lung cancer diagnosis, along with the ability to detect a particular biomarker, EGFR, has had a significant effect on the course of their lives. Biomarkers indicate alterations in your DNA … Continue reading Biomarkers Benefit Lung Cancer Resisters →
HOST: HILDY GROSSMAN CO-HOST: JORDAN RICH GUESTS: Jacob Sands, MD, and Catherine Meador, MD, Ph.D. Small cell lung Cancer (SCLC) is often called the smoker’s lung cancer, since it is most often diagnosed in heavy smokers. While this type of lung cancer is less prevalent than non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), it’s more aggressive. Two … Continue reading SMALL CELL: BIG PROBLEM →
Host: Hildy Grossman Co-Host: Jordan Rich Guests: Jane Wilkinson, Tarek Fadel, Jesse Kirkpatrick, Christina Cabana Imagine the scene of a murder. Detectives are called in to figure out how to solve the case. Sherlock Holmes was created by Sir Arthur Canon Doyle. Holmes was the most famous mastermind detective, whose powers of observation led him … Continue reading What if Sherlock Holmes Had Cancer? Innovations in Detecting Lung Cancer →
Conversation with Survivors/Advocates, Physician and Researchers. Clinical trials are research studies aimed at evaluating a medical, surgical, or behavioral interventions. They are the primary way researchers find out if a new treatment, such as a new drug, is safe, effective and works best in certain groups of people. Our outstanding guests discuss the information and misinformation … Continue reading Clinical Trials and Tribulations →
Survivors, Advocates, Performers & Scientists Talk Lung Cancer Host: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich, co-host and guest Guests: Bonnie Addario, cofounder and board chair of GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer; Jacob Sands, MD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Nian X. Sun, Ph.D., Northeastern University; John Berman, musician, Sao Paulo, Brazil Our podcast is a tête-à-tête that took … Continue reading LOOK WHO’S TALKING →
Facing Curve Balls in Times of Illness Emcee: Hildy Grossman Co-Host: Jordan Rich Guests: Ilyse Robbins, Director, Choreographer, Actor, Associate Artistic Director for Greater Boston Stage Company; John King, Deputy Manager–Hudson Theater, NYC, Actor; Leigh Barrett, Actor, Singer, Director Upstage Lung Cancer is unique in that we are the only lung cancer advocacy organization that … Continue reading “WHILE THE THEATER WAS DARK” →
What are biomarkers, and why are they important? Host: Hildy Grossman with Jordan Rich, co-host Guests: Jill Feldman, Lung Cancer Patient and Activist and Jo Ellen Murphy, PhD, Medical Science Liaison, Foundation Medicine This podcast suggests that listening to our guests could save your life. Our first guest, Jill Feldman, discusses how, when she was … Continue reading “THIS PODCAST COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE” →
The focus of this episode is to raise awareness and inform the public that young people get lung cancer, too. It’s not just a disease of old people. It’s not a disease tied specifically to smokers. Corey Wood, a college student, marathon runner, and successful mountain climber was diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer at … Continue reading Too Young to Get Lung Cancer? →
This podcast celebrates the lives of musicians, composers, lyricists and actors who faced lung cancer. Ron Della Chiesa is our distinguished guest. He’s a member of the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame, the voice of the Boston Symphony Orchestra broadcasts, host of the popular radio show, Simply Sinatra and author of “Radio My Way”. Both … Continue reading Celebrities: Ah Yes, We Remember Them Well →
On today’s episode of “Backstage@Upstage,” Hildy talks about the impact of big pharma on lung cancer treatment and health care in general, and the misconceptions that many have about the industry. Joining her are Cheryl Davis, founder of Red Thread Solutions, helping patients better navigate their way through the medical system, caregiver Christie Leonard, mother … Continue reading Big Pharma – Friend or Foe? →
Hildy welcomes former NFL star and longtime Upstage Lung Cancer supporter Chris Draft to the podcast. The Chris Draft Family Foundation, empowering families to lead healthy lifestyles, is inspired by Chris’s late wife Keasha who creatively faced lung cancer, showing us all that with every breath we need to hold onto life. Hildy and Chris … Continue reading Fighting the Stigma →
Upstage Lung Cancer uses the performing arts to raise awareness and funding for lung cancer research. In this premier “Backstage@Upstage” podcast episode, host Hildy Grossman welcomes three friends from the world of media and entertainment who have teamed up with her to help raise much needed money for cancer research. Nationally renowned film and theatre … Continue reading Finding Joy! →
This podcast is an interview format with guests to talk about Entertainment, Medicine, Thrivers and Survivors of lung cancer. Broader topics include how to cope with adversity, strategies to optimize life, lung cancer in the family, misconceptions about big pharma, how to help when you feel helpless, stigma, why research is important, and personal rewards … Continue reading Backstage @ Upstage Trailer →