Real Cancer Talk

Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center

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. Let’s Talk Lymphedema - A Team Approach to Improve Quality of Life after Breast Cancer

    May 5

    Let’s Talk Lymphedema - A Team Approach to Improve Quality of Life after Breast Cancer

    When it comes to breast cancer, the journey isn't just about removing the "C-word"—it's about healing the whole person. In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn and Community Clovia host a conversation about the strides being made in breast cancer care at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. We’re stripping away the medical jargon to explore how surgical oncology and plastic surgery work hand-in-hand from the very first day of a diagnosis to ensure patients don't just survive, but thrive. Joining the conversation is Dr. Kandace McGuire, the Chief of Breast Surgery and Surgical Leader of the Multidisciplinary Breast Health Center at VCU Massey. Dr. McGuire also serves as the Interim Senior Vice President of the Cancer Service Line at VCU Health. As a past president of the Association of Women Surgeons, she is a renowned expert in oncoplastic breast surgery and a tireless advocate for reducing health disparities and improving surgical outcomes for all patients. Also sharing her expertise is Dr. Paschalia Mountziaris, an Associate Professor of Surgery and the Residency Program Director for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the VCU School of Medicine. With an MD/PhD background and specialized training from MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dr. Mountziaris focuses on complex reconstructive microsurgery. Her work is dedicated to the physical and social recovery of her patients, helping them regain their confidence and quality of life through innovative aesthetic and reconstructive techniques. Together, these experts discuss the importance of patient-informed choices, the evolution of reconstruction, and how VCU Massey is bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and compassionate community care. Tune in for an empowering look at the strides being made in breast cancer treatment and the team-based approach that is saving lives. 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.

    22 min
  2. Special Episode: Real Cancer Talk @ AACR: Sparking Ideas for New Science

    Apr 21

    Special Episode: Real Cancer Talk @ AACR: Sparking Ideas for New Science

    In this special episode of Real Cancer Talk, recorded live from the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in San Diego, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Dr. Monica Baskin to discuss the intersection of cutting-edge science and community impact. Dr. Baskin shares the impact of conferences like the AACR Annual Meeting and others have impacted her career. Against the backdrop of the meeting's theme, "Precision, Partnership, Purpose," they explore how the latest global breakthroughs in cancer research are being brought home to the communities served by the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. About Dr. Monica Baskin Monica L. Baskin, Ph.D., is the interim director of the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, a role she assumed in the spring of 2026. A renowned expert in community outreach and engagement, Dr. Baskin also serves as the deputy director of research at Massey and associate dean for cancer innovation in the VCU School of Medicine. Her research focuses on community-engaged approaches to cancer prevention, specifically addressing lifestyle factors like healthy eating and physical activity to reduce cancer disparities. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for ensuring that the benefits of scientific discovery reach all populations, particularly those in underserved rural and urban areas. 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. The North Star of Cancer Care: A Conversation with Dr. Reshma Jagsi

    Apr 20

    The North Star of Cancer Care: A Conversation with Dr. Reshma Jagsi

    In this episode, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with Dr. Reshma Jagsi, a world-renowned leader in radiation oncology and a fierce advocate for equity in medicine. The conversation delves into the "North Star" of cancer care, maintaining humanity in an era of digital misinformation. Dr. Jagsi shares her insights on why the fight against cancer must be a global, unified effort and explores the critical importance of trust between patients and the scientific community. 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.

    27 min
  4. Understanding Myeloma & United in the Fight for Brain Health

    Apr 16

    Understanding Myeloma & United in the Fight for Brain Health

    Science, Soul, and Survival: Navigating Myeloma and Brain Health In this episode of Facts and Faith Fridays series, Dr. Rob Winn, Dr. Jessica Young Brown and community faith leaders are joined by Dr. Joseph Mikhael and Sharon Napper to discuss the latest insights into myeloma and brain health. Dr. Joseph Mikhael is a Professor in the Clinical Genomics and Therapeutics Division at the Translational Genomics Research Institute, an affiliate of City of Hope Cancer Center. He is also the Chief Medical Officer of the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) and Director of Myeloma research at the HonorHealth Research Institute. Dr. Mikhael specializes clinically in plasma cell disorders, namely multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, and Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia. Sharon Napper has been a resident of Virginia since 1999. She has served her community as a special education teacher assistant, pediatric nurse, cardiac acute care nurse, orthopedic step-down nurse, and a medical surgery clinical nurse for 21 years in the central Virginia area. Over recent years she has seen the need for more education and outreach in the community dealing with our great struggles with food insecurity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and Alzheimer's and as a whole healthcare inequality in the commonwealth of Virginia. 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.

    42 min
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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

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.