Believe in Progress: an American Association for Cancer Research Foundation Podcast

American Association for Cancer Research Foundation and CollegeCast LLC
  • 5.0 (12)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Believe in Progress, the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation's podcast. Join us as we share stories of hope and inspiration that will lift your spirits and remind you that no matter how difficult your cancer journey may be, there's always hope. On this podcast, we'll explore the latest breakthroughs in cancer research and hear from leading experts who are working tirelessly to find new treatments and cures in the fight against cancer. Believe in Progress isn't just about the science of cancer; it's about the human side of this disease. We'll hear from cancer survivors who have overcome incredible odds to beat cancer., thanks to the groundbreaking research and innovative treatments that are changing the landscape of cancer treatment. These stories of resilience and progress will inspire and motivate you to keep pushing forward no matter what challenges you may be facing. We'll speak with caregivers who have provided unwavering support to their loved ones through their cancer journey. Their selflessness and dedication remind you the power of love and the importance of having a strong support system. Join us on this journey of hope and progress. Subscribe to Believe in Progress, the AACR Foundation's podcast, today, and be inspired by the incredible stories of those who have faced cancer with strength and resilience, and the medical professionals who are working to find new treatments and ultimately a cure. Please do not forget to visit www.aacr.org to make a donation or to find helpful information and resources. Together we can make progress in the fight against cancer and bring hope to those who need it most. Please don't forget, cancer research saves lives. For more information visit the AACR and our podcast here: https://www.aacr.org/get-involved/believe-in-progress-an-aacr-foundation-podcast/ This podcast was produced by the awesome people at CollegeCast LLC. Visit www.collegecastpodcasts.com for more information, or to check out our amazing podcasts.

  1. 1D AGO

    065: Behind the Breakthroughs: How AACR Funds Cancer Research

    Behind every breakthrough in cancer science and medicine is a complex ecosystem of funding, peer review, and strategic support that allows innovative investigators to thrive. On this episode of Believe in Progress, we meet two of the key players in that ecosystem at the American Association for Cancer Research® (AACR). Dr. Yixian (John) Zhang is the Vice President of Research and Grants Administration at the AACR. With decades of experience in the nonprofit sector and industry, Dr. Zhang oversees AACR’s grant giving in the most promising science through a rigorous peer review process. He manages a diverse grant portfolio that supports researchers from postdoctoral fellows to independent investigators, balancing high-risk, high-reward research projects with implementation science that makes a difference for patients. Dr. Frédéric Biemar is the Vice President and Head of the Education Division at the AACR. A former assistant professor and researcher in developmental biology, he ensures that the global community of AACR’s more than 61,000 members in 143 countries and territories stays connected and supported throughout each stage of their careers. Dr. Biemar is also pioneering new educational approaches to meet the needs of millennials and Gen Z scientists entering the field. Together, Dr. Zhang and Dr. Biemar represent the fuel and the workforce behind the progress the AACR nurtures. In this episode, they discuss why the cancer mortality rate is dropping, how immunotherapy is transforming treatment, and why we're at a critical juncture where continued investment in research and education will accelerate the pace of breakthroughs in cancer science and medicine. This conversation reveals the infrastructure that makes cancer progress possible and the strategic decisions that shape which research gets funded and how the next generation of scientists gets trained. Featured Guests: Dr. Yixian (John) Zhang - Vice President of Research and Grants Administration, American Association for Cancer Research A strategic leader in cancer research funding, Dr. Zhang discusses the AACR's rigorous peer review process, how the organization balances high-risk innovation with implementation science, and why early career scientists are the "fresh soldiers" we cannot afford to lose as we seek breakthroughs in cancer research. He shares compelling data showing cancer mortality rates dropping and survivor numbers increasing every year. Dr. Frédéric Biemar - Vice President and Head of the Education Division, American Association for Cancer Research Leading educational innovation for a global research community, Dr. Biemar explains how the AACR serves its tens of thousands of members worldwide, why professional development must adapt to new technologies and career paths beyond academia, and how the organization is launching programs from high school summer research to AI training to ensure the next generation has the tools they need to succeed. Key Topics: · AACR's Global Research Community · The State of Progress in Cancer Research · AACR's Grant Portfolio and Peer Review Process · Serving the Global Cancer Research Community · Industry Partnerships and Collaboration · The Workforce Challenge: Keeping Scientists in the Field · AI and the Future of Cancer Research · Educational Innovation at the AACR · The Honest Broker Mission · Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond Take Action to Advance Cancer Research: - Donate to the AACR: https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that strategic funding and education drive breakthroughs - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts - Learn about AACR programs: Explore grants and educational opportunities offered by the AACR at https://AACR.org Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Dr. Yixian (John) Zhang, Vice President of Research and Grants Administration, AACR; Dr. Frédéric Biemar, Vice President and Head of the Education Division, AACR Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Producer: Mitch Stoller Producer: Heather Holland Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

    32 min

  2. FEB 4

    064: How High School Students Raised More Than $500,000 for Cancer Research

    What does it take for high school students to raise more than $500,000 for cancer research? In this episode of Believe in Progress, we meet Suhani Makwana, who turned her teacher's cancer diagnosis into a movement that's funding breakthrough research in blood cancers. You will hear from two extraordinary individuals whose relationship exemplifies the ripple effect of mentorship, resilience, and purpose-driven education. Jena Brodhead was a teacher at Easton Area School District in Easton, Pennsylvania when she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013. She made a courageous choice: to turn her diagnosis into an educational opportunity for her students. Working through chemotherapy, she welcomed honest conversations about cancer, easing fear and stigma about the subject. Her transparency laid the foundation for what would become Brodhead's Heroes, a student advocacy team that has raised more than $500,000 for blood cancer research over six years. Suhani Makwana was just a sixth grader when she first met Mrs. Brodhead. Now an undergraduate biology major and Razor's Edge Research Scholar at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Suhani's path from middle school student to emerging pre-medical student was shaped profoundly by her teacher's cancer journey and the advocacy work it inspired. As a high school junior, Suhani led her team to raise more than $50,000 in a single campaign, earning a research grant for aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Today, she's pursuing studies in biology with minors in pre-health, research studies, and bioinformatics, while working with organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Kellen Foundation to advance lifesaving cancer science and medicine. Together, Jena’s and Suhani's stories capture the transformative power of mentorship, the critical role of early exposure to science and research, and how personal experiences with cancer can inspire future careers. Our conversation with them reminds us that advocacy isn't just about raising money; it's about raising voices, building community, and advancing science to benefit real people. Featured Guests: Jena Brodhead - Teacher, Easton Area School District; Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivor; Inspiration for Brodhead's Heroes Suhani Makwana - Undergraduate Student, Nova Southeastern University; Razor's Edge Research Scholar; Student Visionaries of the Year Candidate Key Topics: • How Jena shared her cancer diagnosis openly with students while teaching through chemotherapy • Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign: Brodhead's Heroes raised $500,000+ over six years • Creative fundraising: emails to businesses nationwide, blood drives, bake sales, and the 50 States Challenge • How every contact became an opportunity to educate about cancer research • From Advocacy to Academic Pursuits - Suhani's journey: biology major with minors in pre-health, research studies, and bioinformatics at Nova Southeastern University • Internship with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: community health fairs and patient advocacy • Work with the Kellen Foundation on lifestyle medicine and cancer prevention • Future aspirations in hematology-oncology and evidence-informed care • Translating science for patients: explaining complex concepts without sacrificing accuracy • Treating cancer patients as whole people, not just clinical cases • Lifestyle medicine and holistic cancer care approaches • How ketogenic, plant-based, and other diets may impact cancer treatment • Patient stories of dramatic health improvements through dietary changes • The Patient Perspective: Jena's Reflections on living with cancer's long-term effects and choosing doctors who treat the whole person • Mentorship and Early Research Exposure: Why early exposure to advocacy matters and you don't have to wait to make a difference • Community-Centered Progress: How advocacy fuels funding, which drives research, which improves care Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here's how you can help: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give • Share this episode: Help amplify the message that mentorship, early exposure to research, and community advocacy can transform lives • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts • Learn about student programs: Visit https://AACR.org to explore high school and undergraduate research opportunities Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Suhani Makwana; Jena Brodhead Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Producer: Mitch Stoller Producer: Heather Holland Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / DP: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

    36 min

  3. JAN 21

    063: The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is Back: Eric M. Robbins and Carlos Rogers Share the Revival Story

    What does it take to revive a beloved Philadelphia tradition after a decade-long hiatus? In this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, we sit down with two men who are bringing professional cycling back to the streets of Philadelphia. Part One introduces the grassroots origins of the revival. We meet Carlos Rogers, a local hairstylist and cycling enthusiast who spent three years pitching a vision to bring the race back, and Eric M. Robbins, the business leader who joined forces to turn that vision into reality—the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. They discuss the pivotal moment former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter joined the team and the emotional weight of earning community trust. Part Two dives into the details of the race itself, scheduled for August 30, 2026. Carlos and Eric walk us through the iconic 14-mile circuit, including the grueling "Manayunk Wall" with its steep grade. They discuss the projected economic impact of more than 100,000 spectators and the race’s identity as "The People’s Race." And then the conversation turns to the heart of the mission: the collaboration with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) as the charity partner for the race to raise critical funds for lifesaving cancer science and medicine. The AACR Riders for Research participants will cycle the 14-mile course before the professional race begins. Eric also shares the personal story of losing his mother to ovarian cancer in 2004, highlighting how resilience is the driving force behind this Philadelphia comeback story. Featured Guests: Carlos Rogers - Co-Founder, Philadelphia Cycling Classic A Philadelphia native, professional hairstylist, and lifelong cyclist, Carlos is the visionary "spark" behind the initiative. His three-year grassroots campaign and refusal to let the tradition die led to the revival of one of the city's cherished sporting events. Eric M. Robbins - Co-Founder, Philadelphia Cycling Classic Bringing decades of financial and operational leadership, Eric is the strategist ensuring the race's success. Deeply connected to the Philadelphia community, he is driven by a desire to give back to the city and a personal commitment to cancer awareness following the loss of his mother. Key Topics: · The Origin Story: How a hairstylist’s passion project evolved into a major international sporting event · Building the Team: The critical involvement of former Mayor Michael Nutter and the emotional moment he told Carlos, "I believe in you" · The Course: A breakdown of the 14-mile loop, including the Ben Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and the infamous Manayunk Wall · Economic and Community Impact: Projecting more than 100,000 spectators and millions of dollars in economic impact for Philadelphia · Strategic Partnerships: The role of the AACR as the event’s official charity partner · Resilience and Loss: Eric’s personal reflection on his mother’s battle with ovarian cancer and how it shapes his work ethic · The 2026 Vision: Why the race was moved to August 30 and the plans for a multi-day fan festival Take Action to Propel Progress in Cancer Research: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: · Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give · Share This Episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care · Team Up with AACR Riders for Research at the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic – AACR Charity Ride: https://AACR.org/PCC · Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts · Learn More About the Philadelphia Cycling Classic at https://www.philadelphiacyclingclassic.com/ Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Eric M. Robbins; Carlos Rogers Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

    34 min

  4. JAN 7

    062: Resilience, Faith, and Football - The Macri Family’s Journey with Pediatric Brain Cancer

    What happens when a healthy 8-year-old boy begins tripping, falling, and experiencing double vision? For Katie and Nick Macri, and grandparents Tim and Maggie McNiff, these early warning signs led to every family’s worst nightmare: a diagnosis of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive tumor located in the brainstem. In this emotional episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, we sit down with the family of John Paul (JP) to discuss their journey through diagnosis and treatment. Part One introduces us to JP and his family. Katie and Nick recount the heartbreaking timeline from subtle symptoms to the harrowing moments of receiving the diagnosis. They discuss the devastating nature of a tumor located in the pons region of the brainstem and the "state of unknowing" that follows such news. We also hear from JP’s grandparents, Tim and Maggie, on dropping everything to support their grandchildren, and how the family navigated difficult conversations with JP’s older brother, Luke. Part Two focuses on the incredible resilience that defines JP’s journey. The family discusses their decision to pursue a clinical trial involving CAR T-cell therapy at Seattle Children’s Hospital to preserve JP's quality of life. The conversation shifts to the power of community—from a neighborhood Nerf war to the James Madison University football team adopting JP as an honorary captain. Finally, Nick and Tim discuss their initiative to accelerate research through the "M3 database," an AI-driven project designed to speed up data sharing for pediatric brain cancer. This is a story about cancer science and a little boy who refuses to let a dire diagnosis define his spirit. Featured Guests Katie and Nick Macri – John Paul’s parents Katie and Nick share their raw and honest experience navigating pediatric cancer, balancing full-time work with cross-country travel for treatment, and relying on their deep faith to carry the burden of the unknown. Tim and Maggie McNiff – John Paul’s grandparents Tim and Maggie offer the perspective of the extended family "village." They discuss the role of grandparents in a crisis and their work to support logistical and scientific initiatives to help their grandson. Key Topics: Part One – The Diagnosis and The Family Unit • Early Warning Signs: Identifying subtle symptoms like redness in eyes, head tilting, and loss of balance • The Diagnosis: Understanding DIPG and the initial prognosis • Sibling Impact: How JP’s older brother Luke is processing the illness and the attention surrounding it • The Power of Vulnerability: Why Nick and Katie chose to be open on CaringBridge rather than keeping the diagnosis private Part Two – Innovation, Community and The "Green Bracelet" Army • CAR T-Cell Therapy: Choosing an innovative clinical trial over traditional chemotherapy to maintain quality of life • The JMU Connection: How the James Madison University football team embraced JP, from the weight room to the coin toss • The M3 Database: Nick and Tim’s effort to use AI and data centralization to help researchers share MRI and genomic data faster • Community Support: How neighbors, colleagues, and strangers lift the family up daily Take Action to Advance Cancer Science and Medicine: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to support families like the Macris: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give • Check out the inaugural AACR Pediatric Cancer Progress Report, which highlights the advances and challenges in the field, at https://PediatricCancerProgressReport.org • Support additional organizations that advocate for pediatric cancer research, including Tough2gether Foundation • Follow along with JP’s story at CaringBridge • Share this Episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Katie Macri, Nick Macri, Tim McNiff, and Maggie McNiff Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

    40 min

  5. 12/17/2025

    061: Competing Against Cancer - Pickleball Pro Steve Dawson’s Journey of Resilience

    What happens when an elite athlete, known for his focus and discipline, faces a life-changing diagnosis? In this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, we sit down with Steve Dawson, a titan in the world of pickleball, to discuss his experiences with prostate cancer. Part One: We explore Steve’s initial diagnosis, which came as a shock following a routine physical with no prior symptoms. Steve discusses his decision-making process regarding surgery versus radiation and the "state of unknowing" that accompanies a cancer journey. He discusses how his athletic background prepared him to tackle treatment head-on and the importance of men overcoming the stigma of discussing their health. Part Two: We dive into the intersection of passion and recovery. Steve shares how a cancer recurrence became the catalyst for launching his own paddle company, Aura, and reflects on the unique, supportive nature of the pickleball community. He shares candid, humorous, and vulnerable stories, including winning a bronze medal at the US Open while recovering from surgery, and discusses his "expiration date" philosophy that makes every sunset better and every glass of wine taste a little sweeter. This conversation highlights the importance of early detection, the power of an active lifestyle, and the refusal to let a diagnosis define one’s limits. Featured Guest Steve Dawson - Professional Pickleball Player, Coach, and Entrepreneur A legend in the sport with 18 majors to his name, Steve Dawson is the owner of the Bobby Riggs Racket and Paddle Club and the founder of Aura. He uses his platform to advocate for prostate cancer awareness and emphasizes the critical need for PSA screenings. Key Topics: Part One – The Diagnosis & Mindset - The silent nature of prostate cancer: How a routine physical that found a spike in PSA levels led to Steve’s diagnosis. - Navigating treatment options: The choice between surgery and radiation. - The "state of unknowing": Managing the anxiety of diagnosis and recurrence. - Breaking the silence: Why Steve feels men should talk more openly about cancer and "Man Up to Cancer." - How physical fitness and an athlete’s mentality aided Steve’s recovery from surgery. Part Two – Community, Innovation & Resilience - The pickleball melting pot: How the sport builds a diverse, supportive network for patients. - Turning adversity into action: How a cancer recurrence motivated the founding of his company, Aura. - The bronze medal story: A humorous and gritty look at competing in the US Open immediately post-surgery. - Integrative approaches: Combining Western medicine with Eastern holistic practices (diet, herbs, and stretching). - Reframing the narrative: Viewing cancer survivorship as a tool to appreciate the vibrancy of life. Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Get screened: If you are eligible, talk to your doctor about a PSA test. It could save your life. - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that early detection and community support can change outcomes. - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Steve Dawson Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

    31 min

  6. 12/03/2025

    060: Reimagining Cancer Survivorship and Leading with Heart - Suzanne Stone

    What happens when a life in media, advocacy, and leadership converges on a mission to transform the way we support people with cancer? On this episode of Believe in Progress, the AACR Foundation’s podcast, we hear from Suzanne Stone, an Emmy-winning storyteller, nonprofit champion, and the President and CEO of Livestrong. From television studios to basketball courts to cancer care nonprofits, Suzanne’s career has always centered on lifting others up. In a special full-circle moment, host Mitch Stoller, who served as Livestrong’s President and CEO from 2003 to 2007, talks with Suzanne to discuss the organization's legacy and its future. Suzanne shares the career path that brought her to Livestrong, including how coaching women’s basketball taught her vital lessons about empathy and listening that now inform her leadership style. She explores the organization's evolution, from the decision to bring back the iconic yellow and black branding to the launch of Ellis, a groundbreaking AI companion designed to help cancer survivors navigate their journey. This conversation dives deep into the philosophy of "saving all the starfish," moving beyond individual aid to creating systemic impact at scale. Suzanne outlines how Livestrong is building self-sustaining micro-businesses to ensure that no one faces cancer alone, today or years from now. Featured Guest Suzanne Stone - President and CEO, Livestrong: Leading one of the most recognized names in cancer advocacy, Suzanne is focused on patient-centered solutions, equity, and enduring hope. She discusses how her background in media and coaching prepared her to lead Livestrong into its next chapter, emphasizing the power of community, physical movement, and innovative technology in cancer recovery. Key Topics: • A Legacy of Bravery: How Livestrong has evolved over 28 years while maintaining its core mission to ensure no one faces cancer alone. • From Storytelling to Service: Suzanne’s non-linear career path from TV production to coaching basketball and leading nonprofits like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Susan G. Komen. • Impact at Scale: Reinterpreting the "Starfish Parable" to focus on solving root causes rather than just individual cases. • Innovation in Care: The development of Ellis, an AI-powered guidebook that acts as a closed-loop conversation partner for survivors seeking resources. • The Power of Yellow: The strategic decision to bring back the iconic yellow and black brand identity as a symbol of hope and resilience. • Exercise Oncology: The evolution of Livestrong at the Y into Cancer Fit, an accessible, on-demand digital training platform for survivors and trainers. • Leadership Lessons: How coaching a community college basketball team taught Suzanne the difference between hearing and truly listening with empathy. • Future Sustainability: Building self-sustaining micro-businesses to fuel Livestrong’s mission independent of external economic factors. Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give • Support Survivorship: Learn more about Livestrong’s resources at https://Livestrong.org • Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Suzanne Stone Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress

    42 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    059: Leading the Future of Cancer Science with Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden and Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - from the AACR Annual Meeting 2025:

    What does it take to lead one of the world’s largest gatherings of cancer researchers and to deliver cancer care on the front lines of a war zone? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, we sit down with two extraordinary individuals shaping efforts to drive progress in cancer science and medicine. Part One features Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden, Cochair of the AACR Annual Meeting, Director of the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, and practicing oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Vander Heiden offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a scientific meeting of this scale, why interdisciplinarity matters, and how today’s trainees will become tomorrow’s leaders. He also reflects on his work in cancer metabolism and how caring for patients shapes his scientific mission. Part Two features Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk, surgical oncologist at the Kyiv Regional Oncological Center and Executive Director of the Global Medical Knowledge Alliance (GMKA) in Ukraine. Dr. Huivaniuk shares what it’s like to perform surgery during missile attacks, support displaced patients, and maintain cancer care amid war. Her work highlights resilience, innovation, and the global collaboration required to ensure every patient receives care, even in wartime crisis. Together, these conversations capture the spirit of the AACR Annual Meeting: uniting every discipline, every discovery, and every person behind progress against cancer. This special episode of Believe in Progress was recorded live at the AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago. It’s part of a series that features dynamic conversations with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and student scholars contributing to the effort to defeat cancer. From breakthrough diagnostics to trailblazing health services research, our guests in this series share their stories of science, innovation, and hope. Featured Guests Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden - Cochair, AACR Annual Meeting; Director, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT A global leader in cancer metabolism and scientific strategy, Dr. Vander Heiden discusses how the Annual Meeting is built, why collaboration across disciplines matters, and how supporting future scientists remains central to the AACR’s mission. Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - Surgical Oncologist, Kyiv Regional Oncological Center; Executive Director, GMKA Ukraine From operating during missile strikes to restoring cancer services in a war zone, Dr. Huivaniuk speaks to the courage and innovation required to care for patients under extraordinary circumstances. Key Topics: Part One – Dr. Vander Heiden - How the AACR Annual Meeting, with its more than 22,000 attendees, is planned - How the conference ensures representation across basic science, clinical trials, population science, and policy - How it spotlights emerging researchers and first-time presenters - Insights into cancer metabolism and nutrient pathways in tumor growth - Balancing leadership, research, and clinical practice - How the AACR supported his early career and why he’s committed to mentoring the next generation Part Two – Dr. Huivaniuk - Delivering cancer care in a war zone: disruption, courage, and adaptation - Providing care to both cancer patients and injured soldiers - Barriers to medication access, radiation supplies, and medical infrastructure - Supporting physicians who cannot travel to meetings for education and collaboration opportunities - Using technology and international partnerships to maintain continuity of care - Personal experiences operating under missile fire and her refusal to abandon patients - How her mother’s medical journey inspired her to pursue medicine Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Matthew G. Vander Heiden, MD, PhD; Inesa Huivaniuk, MD, MPA Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

    44 min

  8. 11/05/2025

    058: Running Toward Hope - Rhett Austell’s Race Against Cancer

    What does it take to face cancer head-on, twice, and still find the strength to run toward progress? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, Rhett Austell shares his deeply personal journey through stage 4 appendix cancer, fatherhood, advocacy, and the fight for his life. Rhett’s story is one of resilience. From the sudden onset of cancer in his late 30s to undergoing major surgery, chemotherapy, and still lacing up to run the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia, he embodies what it means to keep going, no matter the odds. His passion for funding cancer research is fueled by both the personal loss of his father and by hope: through his father-in-law’s survival, thanks to a clinical trial. This special extended episode includes a heartfelt epilogue recorded after Rhett’s recent cancer recurrence, where he speaks openly about the realities of a second diagnosis, his continued treatment, and what drives him to keep fighting—not just for himself, his wife, and his four daughters, but for all cancer patients and their families. Key Topics: - The shocking discovery of stage 4 appendix cancer at age 38 - The emotional rollercoaster of becoming a father again amid diagnosis - Lessons learned from his father’s and father-in-law’s cancer journeys - Running the Broad Street Run after major surgery and raising more than $9,000 - Facing a cancer recurrence and embracing advocacy with renewed urgency - The importance of time, clinical trials, and fully funding cancer research - What it means to believe in progress, even in the face of setbacks Episode Chapter Markers (Timestamps): 00:00 – Introduction to Believe in Progress 00:53 – Rhett's Story Begins 03:09 – A Surprise Diagnosis and a New Baby on the Way 08:12 – Treatment, Surgery, and Finding Strength Through Family 09:28 – Cancer in the Family: Stories of Loss and Survival 14:48 – Why Cancer Research Matters Now More Than Ever 16:55 – Running Again: From the Hospital to the Finish Line 20:23 – Fundraising, Broad Street Run, and Victory 21:49 – Epilogue: Facing Recurrence with Purpose 27:34 – Rhett’s Second Round of Treatment 32:29 – Continued Advocacy in the Face of Uncertainty 36:04 – Looking Ahead: Hope, Family, and Next Goals If this episode moves you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Send it to inspire others in your network - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Rhett Austell Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

    38 min
See All (66)

Trailer

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to Believe in Progress, the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation's podcast. Join us as we share stories of hope and inspiration that will lift your spirits and remind you that no matter how difficult your cancer journey may be, there's always hope. On this podcast, we'll explore the latest breakthroughs in cancer research and hear from leading experts who are working tirelessly to find new treatments and cures in the fight against cancer. Believe in Progress isn't just about the science of cancer; it's about the human side of this disease. We'll hear from cancer survivors who have overcome incredible odds to beat cancer., thanks to the groundbreaking research and innovative treatments that are changing the landscape of cancer treatment. These stories of resilience and progress will inspire and motivate you to keep pushing forward no matter what challenges you may be facing. We'll speak with caregivers who have provided unwavering support to their loved ones through their cancer journey. Their selflessness and dedication remind you the power of love and the importance of having a strong support system. Join us on this journey of hope and progress. Subscribe to Believe in Progress, the AACR Foundation's podcast, today, and be inspired by the incredible stories of those who have faced cancer with strength and resilience, and the medical professionals who are working to find new treatments and ultimately a cure. Please do not forget to visit www.aacr.org to make a donation or to find helpful information and resources. Together we can make progress in the fight against cancer and bring hope to those who need it most. Please don't forget, cancer research saves lives. For more information visit the AACR and our podcast here: https://www.aacr.org/get-involved/believe-in-progress-an-aacr-foundation-podcast/ This podcast was produced by the awesome people at CollegeCast LLC. Visit www.collegecastpodcasts.com for more information, or to check out our amazing podcasts.

Information