Real Cancer Talk

Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MEDICINE

Welcome to Real Cancer Talk, a podcast dedicated to addressing the real issues impacting cancer patients, health care providers, researchers, survivors, and their communities. We're committed to ensuring that the miracle medicines reach every community, and helping ensure that every person touched by cancer knows we are in this together. One team, one fight. Brought to you by VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and hosted by Dr. Rob Winn. Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts from the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and beyond, who share their insights on the latest research, innovative treatments, and community-driven initiatives. We also highlight personal stories and experiences from those affected by cancer, providing a platform for voices that need to be heard. Understanding and addressing the root causes of cancer disparities.Promoting awareness and prevention strategies to reduce cancer incidence.Highlighting the importance of community engagement and support in the fight against cancer.Join us in our mission to bridge the gap in cancer care. Subscribe to our podcast, share episodes with your network, and get involved in local cancer awareness and prevention programs. Together, we can make a difference—one team, one fight.

  1. The Appointment You Can't Afford to Skip: Colorectal Cancer, Advocacy, and Survival

    MAR 27

    The Appointment You Can't Afford to Skip: Colorectal Cancer, Advocacy, and Survival

    "It’s easy to say 'I'll do it later'...until later becomes too late. Here is why the time for your colorectal screening is right now." Join Dr. Robert Winn (Director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and Community Clovia as they sit down with survivor and advocate Julianne Duvall, executive director of CancerLINC, a Richmond non-profit that links cancer patients and their families to legal, financial, and community resources to solve the non-medical obstacles that arise with a cancer diagnosis. Julianne shares her personal journey from diagnosis to activism, while also highlighting the tools and resources provided by CancerLINC to patients and their families. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or someone looking to learn the facts about colorectal cancer, this episode offers the insight and encouragement you need to prioritize your wellness. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    27 min
  2. One Team, One Fight: Leadership, Basketball and the Mission to Crush Cancer

    MAR 13

    One Team, One Fight: Leadership, Basketball and the Mission to Crush Cancer

    In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with VCU men’s basketball head coach Phil Martelli Jr. to discuss leadership, teamwork and the shared fight against cancer. Coach Odom reflects on building a culture of excellence at VCU and shares his personal connection and experience with cancer through the Coaches vs. Cancer initiative. From lessons learned on the court to inspiration from patients and families, this conversation highlights the power of resilience, unity and purpose. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America’s cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working across all types of cancer, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000+ researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective ways to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. For more information, visit masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY.

    28 min
  3. Bridging the Gap Between Faith, Facts, and Healthcare

    MAR 6

    Bridging the Gap Between Faith, Facts, and Healthcare

    In this impactful episode of Real Cancer Talk, host Dr. Rob Winn and the Facts and Faith Fridays team welcome Dr. B. Cameron Webb for a deep dive into the intersection of public health, policy, and community trust. The discussion centers on the vital role of faith-based leadership in addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that medical advancements reach the most vulnerable populations. Dr. Webb shares insights from his experience in health policy and clinical practice, highlighting why "meeting people where they are" is more than just a catchphrase—it’s a necessary strategy for saving lives. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxYtCxUnAcc&t=2284s Facts & Faith Fridays Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/ Massey Website: masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Twitter: /vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    50 min
  4. Beyond the Myths: What Modern Radiation Oncology Really Looks Like

    MAR 3

    Beyond the Myths: What Modern Radiation Oncology Really Looks Like

    In this special Black History Month episode, Dr. Todd Adams joins Dr. Rob Winn and Community Clovia to bridge the gap between historical medical distrust in clinical trials and the life-saving "good news" of modern radiation oncology. Dr. Adams breaks down how radiation therapy has evolved from a blunt tool into a precise, targeted treatment, and why understanding your options is the first step toward resilience. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    26 min
  5. Strengthening the Oncology Workforce: A Conversation with Dr. Joni Nelson

    FEB 27

    Strengthening the Oncology Workforce: A Conversation with Dr. Joni Nelson

    In this powerful closing episode of our special collaborative series between The Cancer Letter and Real Cancer Talk celebrating Black History Month, we sit down with Dr. Joni Nelson, the Assistant Director for the Office of Workforce Development at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Reflecting on a month of honoring history and looking toward the future, Dr. Nelson shares her expertise on the critical intersection of education, workforce representation, and community outreach. We dive into her role in shaping the SC CADRE initiative and how MUSC is leading the way in training a more inclusive generation of oncology professionals to better serve all patient populations. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    32 min
  6. From Rhodes Scholar to Thoracic Surgeon: A Conversation with Dr. Malcolm Brock

    FEB 23

    From Rhodes Scholar to Thoracic Surgeon: A Conversation with Dr. Malcolm Brock

    What does it take to become a "superhero" in the field of cancer research? In a collaboration with The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn interviews a true pioneer, Dr. Malcolm Brock. In this episode, Dr. Brock opens up about the "forks in the road" that defined his career. He discusses the influence of early mentors, his time as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, and his fascinating detour into Japanese biotechnology research, where he even authored a book in Japanese. Dr. Brock explains how he balances the rigors of thoracic surgery with a passion for ensuring cutting-edge research is accessible for everyone. He emphasized that "it's not about getting a seat at the table because of your race... it's because you are excellent in what you do." Key highlights include: Dr. Brock’s transition from Japanese studies to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.The role of "love" and human connection in modern oncology.Insights into developing molecular biomarkers for earlier cancer diagnosis.A celebration of Black excellence in the history of medicine.More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    43 min
  7. The Arc of Impact: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade on Breast Cancer and Global Genetics

    FEB 18

    The Arc of Impact: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade on Breast Cancer and Global Genetics

    "I didn't come here to just be another doctor. I came here to ask the questions that nobody else was asking, because if we don't look at the genetics of everyone, we aren't practicing medicine; we’re just practicing a subset of it." In this powerful episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with a true giant in the field of oncology: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade. As the Director of the Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health at the University of Chicago and a 2025 MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient, Dr. Olopade has dedicated her career to unraveling the complexities of breast cancer and championing health equity on a global scale. In this conversation, we explore: The "Genius" Journey: Dr. Olopade’s reflections on being in the top 1% of the 1% and how her background shaped her mission.Advancing the Field: How her work in clinical genetics is changing the way we understand and treat cancer for diverse populations.The Mission of Equity: Why global health and local impact must go hand-in-hand to improve outcomes for all patients.Join us for an intimate look at the life and legacy of a researcher whose work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    39 min
  8. Beyond the White Coat: Dr. Otis Brawley on the Science of Justice and the Art of Medicine

    FEB 13

    Beyond the White Coat: Dr. Otis Brawley on the Science of Justice and the Art of Medicine

    “The idea that I would not go to college was just not acceptable.” In this episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with the legendary Dr. Otis Brawley, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins and former Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Brawley shares a deeply personal look into his upbringing in Detroit, discussing how his parents, who did not finish high school, instilled in him an unshakable expectation of excellence and higher education. He reflects on the "giants" of the oncology field and provides a poignant critique of the systemic barriers that historically discouraged minority students from pursuing careers in science and medicine. This conversation serves as both a history lesson and a call to action for the next generation of medical leaders. The Power of Expectations: How Dr. Brawley’s parents and teachers fostered a mindset of "thinking and expressing oneself" despite socioeconomic challenges.A Detroit Legacy: Memories of growing up in a household where the pursuit of science was normalized, even when society suggested otherwise.Breaking Barriers: Insights into the historical context of Black professionals in medicine and the importance of mentorship.Reflections on Giants: A look at the impact of Black leaders in oncology during Black History Month.Whether you are a medical professional, a student, or someone interested in the intersection of social justice and healthcare, Dr. Brawley’s story offers a masterclass in resilience and the pursuit of scientific truth. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

    43 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Real Cancer Talk, a podcast dedicated to addressing the real issues impacting cancer patients, health care providers, researchers, survivors, and their communities. We're committed to ensuring that the miracle medicines reach every community, and helping ensure that every person touched by cancer knows we are in this together. One team, one fight. Brought to you by VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and hosted by Dr. Rob Winn. Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts from the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and beyond, who share their insights on the latest research, innovative treatments, and community-driven initiatives. We also highlight personal stories and experiences from those affected by cancer, providing a platform for voices that need to be heard. Understanding and addressing the root causes of cancer disparities.Promoting awareness and prevention strategies to reduce cancer incidence.Highlighting the importance of community engagement and support in the fight against cancer.Join us in our mission to bridge the gap in cancer care. Subscribe to our podcast, share episodes with your network, and get involved in local cancer awareness and prevention programs. Together, we can make a difference—one team, one fight.

Information

  • Creator
    Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center 2026
  • Show Website
    Real Cancer Talk