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

    3D AGO

    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 one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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
  2. 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 one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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
  3. Community Conversations: Cancer Policy & Health Equity with Delegate Delores McQuinn

    FEB 10

    Community Conversations: Cancer Policy & Health Equity with Delegate Delores McQuinn

    "We’ve made progress, but we’ve got to remember that there’s just more to do." In this latest installment of our Community Conversations series, Delegate Delores McQuinn joins Dr. Robert Winn and Clovia Lawrence to discuss the intersection of policy and the fight against cancer. Delegate McQuinn reflects on her years of service in the Virginia General Assembly, what the Virginia Cancer Caucus is and why she remains "full throttle" when it comes to advocating for her constituents' health and well-being. From the halls of the State Capitol to the neighborhoods of Richmond, this episode explores how we can bridge the gap between policy and the people it serves. Tune in to hear why community-led discussions are the heartbeat of progress in the fight against cancer. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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.

    25 min
  4. Real Cancer Talk: Stopping Cervical Cancer - Prevention, Screening, and the Science Saving Lives

    FEB 3

    Real Cancer Talk: Stopping Cervical Cancer - Prevention, Screening, and the Science Saving Lives

    In this bonus episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn is joined by Dr. Katherine Tossas, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center Director of Catchment Area Data Analytics (CADA), and Dr. Chelsea Salyer, a gynecologic oncologist and lead for the gynecologic oncology clinical trial program at VCU Health, for a discussion focused on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the latest updates in cervical cancer screenings. Dr. Salyer discusses some of the misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer worldwide, important symptoms or signs and why cervical cancer is actually "eradicable". Dr. Tossas then shares her personal story with cervical cancer and what the experience taught her about the disease and prevention. LAter the three discuss the latest updates in cervical cancer screening and what the process is like for patients. Finally, Dr. Winn asks what men can do to help prevent cervical cancer. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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.

    31 min
  5. Community Conversations: Dr. Kim Rhoads Discusses Pancreatic Cancer Following the Tragic Passing of Richmond Music Legend D'Angelo

    JAN 14

    Community Conversations: Dr. Kim Rhoads Discusses Pancreatic Cancer Following the Tragic Passing of Richmond Music Legend D'Angelo

    In this episode adapted from the Community Conversations podcast with Community Clovia, we welcome Dr. Kim Rhoads, the associate director of community outreach and engagement at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Rhoads provides insight on pancreatic cancer following the tragic passing of Richmond legend D'Angelo, why pancreatic cancer is more common in certain populations and what people in the community can do to be proactive in their healthcare. Later Dr. Rhoads shares about the purpose behind community engagement and why she chose to come to VCU Massey. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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.

    25 min
  6. Community Conversations: Beating the Holiday Blues at Home and in the Community

    12/22/2025

    Community Conversations: Beating the Holiday Blues at Home and in the Community

    In this Community Conversations: The Black Health Wins episode, Miss Community Clovia Lawrence welcomes Dr. Robert Winn (VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and clinical social worker Freda Wilkins to talk about the holiday season’s emotional highs and lows when cancer is in the picture—whether someone is newly diagnosed, in treatment, surviving, or caregiving. They unpack why the holidays can amplify stress: disrupted routines, pressure to “show up,” fatigue from treatment, grief around empty seats at the table, and the painful spotlight of well-meaning comments (“you look different this year”). Freda offers practical language that helps—shifting from “Call me if you need anything” to specific, low-effort support like “I’m at the pharmacy—what can I pick up for you?” and asking “How are you feeling today?” to let the person guide the moment. The episode then introduces Dr. Kim Rhoads, Associate Director of Community Outreach and Engagement at VCU Massey, who explains what an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center is—and why community engagement is not “extra,” but a required, scored part of how cancer centers are evaluated. Dr. Rhoads emphasizes humility in care, equity and justice for Black and brown communities, and the need for a two-way relationship (“reach out” that expects people to “reach back”). She also speaks candidly about the limits of the current healthcare system (15–30 minute visits) and why community engagement teams can become the “hand to reach for” when people have questions or need connection. The conversation closes with ways to connect with Massey’s community outreach efforts. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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.

    25 min
  7. Real Cancer Talk in Albuquerque: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholars Dr. Maliha Nusrat and Dr. Blessie E. Nelson

    11/24/2025

    Real Cancer Talk in Albuquerque: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholars Dr. Maliha Nusrat and Dr. Blessie E. Nelson

    In this episode of Real Cancer Talk recorded at the annual convening of the Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials program, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with Winn CDA Cohort 3 scholars Maliha Nusrat, M.D., M.S., from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Blessie E. Nelson, M.M.B.B.S., D.M.R.T., from MD Anderson Cancer Center, about what they see as the most pressing issue in the realm of clinical trials and cancer research today. Dr. Nusrat and Dr. Nelson also go in-depth on their research into pearheading new decentralized trial designs at their institutions. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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.

    30 min
  8. Real Cancer Talk: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholar Dr. Oluwadamilola T. Oladeru

    11/17/2025

    Real Cancer Talk: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholar Dr. Oluwadamilola T. Oladeru

    In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with Dr. Oluwadamilola "Lola" T. Oladeru, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at Mayo Clinic and 2024 Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Leadership Award winner, about the impact she is making in breast cancer and health equity as part of the first class on Winn Career Development Award scholars. Dr. Oladeru discusses her work in engaging historically marginalized communities like incarcerated patients, who she believes mirror what is happening in the local community. Later Later Dr. Winn and Dr. Oladeru talk about the rapidly changing landscape in cancer research and care and the inspirations in Lola's journey as a cancer researcher. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. 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
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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
    51
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center 2025
  • Show Website
    Real Cancer Talk