The If You Are My Brothers Podcast

Straight Street Media
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If You Are My Brothers podcast is a companion piece to the documentary and outreach project that follows the journey of two African-American men with prostate cancer. Ralph Franklin is a real estate lawyer with a PSA of 100 and a prognosis of death. While chronicling Ralph’s story, Reggie Hicks, the producer of the documentary, is also diagnosed with the disease. Now, this one story evolves into two intricately intertwined stories: two men with their own challenges and two men with a common bond of brotherhood and hope.

  1. 4d ago

    From Awareness to Action: Turning Prostate Cancer Advocacy Into Policy

    What happens when prostate cancer advocacy moves from the community into state capitols and the halls of Congress? In this episode of If You Are My Brothers, Reggie Hicks talks with Ali Manson, Vice President of Government Relations and Advocacy at ZERO Prostate Cancer, about the policies that influence whether men are screened early, can afford care, benefit from new treatments, and have access to the discoveries being developed through prostate cancer research. Ali explains that advocacy isn't simply about raising awareness. Public policy can affect virtually every step of a man's prostate cancer journey—from whether PSA screening is recommended and covered by insurance to whether researchers have the resources to develop tomorrow's treatments. 204 The conversation comes home to Georgia, where advocates have been working to remove out-of-pocket costs for PSA screening. Ali explains why legislation often requires several attempts before becoming law and discusses plans for another effort during the 2027 Georgia legislative session. 204 Reggie and Ali also examine the federal landscape, including screening policy, healthcare access, prostate cancer care for veterans, and the challenges facing federally supported research. Ali explains the unique role of the Department of Defense's Prostate Cancer Research Program, which focuses on high-risk, high-reward research with potential clinical applications. ZERO identifies protecting and restoring PCRP funding as a major advocacy priority. ZERO Cancer Perhaps most importantly, Ali explains how ordinary people can participate. Sending an advocacy message may take only a few minutes, while sharing a personal story directly with a policymaker can help put a human face on decisions involving screening, care and research. She also invites members of the prostate cancer community to learn more about ZERO's annual Advocacy Summit in Washington. Resources Mentioned in This Episode ZERO Prostate Cancer ZERO Advocacy Center — Take Action ZERO Policy Priorities and Action Alerts Prostate Cancer Research Program — PCRP POPCaP Authorization Act and Veterans' Prostate Cancer Care ZERO360 Patient Support Helpline ZERO Patient Navigation Blitz the Barriers ZERO Prostate Cancer Events — including the Atlanta Empowerment Summit 2027 ZERO Prostate Cancer Advocacy Summit If You Are My Brothers Atlanta Brand Central Bork House Productions Contact Reggie Hicks: Reggie@ifyouaremybrothers.org If You Are My Brothers is dedicated to turning prostate cancer awareness into health action through real stories, trusted voices, and community engagement. Medical disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about screening, diagnosis, and treatment decisions.

  2. Sep 23

    The Accidental Advocate: The Case for Active Surveillance

    What if a prostate cancer diagnosis doesn’t always mean you need immediate treatment? Veteran medical journalist Howard Wolinsky joins Reggie Hicks to share how a recommendation for surgery led him to ask more questions, seek another opinion, and ultimately choose active surveillance. That decision changed the course of his life—and turned him into what he calls an “accidental advocate” for patient choice, second opinions, and informed decision-making. In this third installment of our Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Advocacy Series, Howard explains why men with low-risk prostate cancer should understand all of their options before deciding what comes next. What happens when a prostate cancer diagnosis turns a journalist into an advocate? In this third installment of our Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Advocacy Series, Reggie Hicks talks with veteran medical journalist and prostate cancer advocate Howard Wolinsky, who has lived with low-risk prostate cancer on active surveillance since 2010. Howard shares how an initial recommendation for surgery led him to seek a second opinion—and ultimately choose active surveillance. That experience launched an unexpected advocacy journey that would include writing A Patient’s Journey, co-founding Active Surveillance Patients International, educating thousands of men, and becoming what he calls an “accidental advocate.” In this conversation, Reggie and Howard discuss: Why men with low-risk prostate cancer may have more than one option • The difference between active surveillance and “doing nothing” • Why getting a second—and sometimes third—opinion matters • The fear that comes with hearing the word “cancer” • Overtreatment and quality-of-life considerations • The importance of patients having a voice in their care • Prostate biopsies and changing approaches to monitoring • Howard’s mission of “Saving Prostates Daily” • Why advocacy sometimes begins by simply helping one man at a time Howard’s message is simple: Take a deep breath. Get educated. Ask questions. Understand your options—and make the decision that is right for you. Learn more about Howard’s work: The Active Surveillor: Saving Prostates Daily TheActiveSurveillor.com Active Surveillance Patients International ASPatients.org https://www.medpagetoday.com/hematologyoncology/prostatecancer/63251 https://howardwolinsky.substack.com/ Learn more about If You Are My Brothers, our documentary, podcast, and prostate cancer outreach work:  IfYouAreMyBrothers.org Please LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to help us get this information to another man. If You Are My Brothers is dedicated to turning prostate cancer awareness into health action. Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always discuss your individual diagnosis and treatment options with your healthcare provider.

  3. Sep 16

    From Survivor to Advocate: David Moffett’s Mission

    Special Encore — Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Advocacy Series What turns a prostate cancer survivor into an advocate? For David Moffett, his diagnosis became something larger than his own health journey. It became an opportunity to encourage other men, provide support, and challenge the silence that too often surrounds prostate cancer. In this special Advocacy Spotlight, we revisit Reggie Hicks’ conversation with David about his journey from diagnosis to advocacy—and why telling our stories can help other men take action. Share this episode with a man you care about and encourage him to know his PSA number. If You Are My Brothers uses real stories, trusted voices, and community engagement to turn prostate cancer awareness into action. Guest Bio — David Moffett David Moffett is a U.S. Marine veteran, prostate cancer survivor, and men’s health advocate based in Georgia. After his own diagnosis and treatment journey, David committed himself to breaking the silence that keeps many men from seeking help. He founded Courage and Strength to Fight, Inc., a nonprofit focused on creating safe spaces for men and families to discuss prostate cancer, treatment realities, side effects, mental health, and survivorship. He also leads the DMOF Prostate Cancer Support Group, bringing together a growing brotherhood (and supportive caregivers) to replace isolation with community, faith, and practical resources. Books, tools, and websites mentioned: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/ https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate Atlanta Brand Central https://abcatl.com/ Borkhouse Productions https://www.borkhouse.com/ https://www.cecilbernardgallery.com/

  4. Sep 9

    Men Saving Men: The Power of Grassroots Prostate Cancer Advocacy

    Awareness is important—but awareness without action isn't enough. For the first installment of the If You Are My Brothers Prostate Cancer Awareness Month series, Reggie Hicks welcomes grassroots advocates Ricky Gilley, David Moffett, and Wendell “Limitless” Hollins for an honest conversation about reaching men where they are. David and Wendell share how their own prostate cancer journeys led them into advocacy, including the emotional impact of experiencing prostate cancer more than once. Ricky explains why he got involved despite never being diagnosed and what he learned after asking men in his community whether they knew their PSA numbers. The conversation examines some of the barriers that keep men from taking action—fear, mistrust, concerns about sexual function and treatment side effects, and the belief that feeling healthy means everything must be fine. David discusses the importance of creating safe spaces where men can speak honestly and support one another. Wendell explains why he is building a “Get Checked” movement and expanding his advocacy through digital platforms. Ricky emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the people and communities we care about. Ultimately, this episode is about the power of personal advocacy: one man talking to another man, sharing his experience, asking a question, and encouraging him to take his health seriously. Featured Guests Ricky Gilley David Moffett Wendell “Limitless” Hollins Episode Takeaway Know your number. Get checked. Stay connected. And help another man do the same. Learn more about If You Are My Brothers and our work to turn prostate cancer awareness into health action at IfYouAreMyBrothers.org. LINKS & RESOURCES If You Are My Brothers Documentary, podcast, community engagement, newsletter, and ways to support the project: www.IfYouAreMyBrothers.org Race for P.A.C.E.S. — September 12, 2026. As discussed during the episode, this Atlanta prostate cancer awareness initiative focuses on early detection, education, screenings, and access to follow-up care. Race for P.A.C.E.S. 5K/10K Information & Registration CONNECT WITH IYAMB Learn more about the If You Are My Brothers documentary, podcast, and community engagement work at IfYouAreMyBrothers.org. Subscribe to our newsletter, join our community, and support our efforts to turn prostate cancer awareness into health action. CONNECT WITH OUR PARTNERS Atlanta Brand Central https://abcatl.com/ Borkhouse Productions https://www.borkhouse.com/ Know your number. Get checked. Stay connected. And share the message with another man. This podcast is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss your individual health and screening decisions with your healthcare provider.

  5. Jun 24

    Working It Out: Why Exercise Could Save Your Life

    What if one of the most powerful medicines available didn't require a prescription? In this final installment of our Men's Health Month series, host Reggie Hicks sits down with exercise physiologist Paige Jones to discuss why movement may be one of the most effective tools for preventing disease, improving quality of life, and helping us age well. Paige explains why exercise impacts everything from heart health and diabetes prevention to cancer survivorship, bone strength, sleep, mood, and longevity. He also tackles some of the biggest fitness myths, including whether you can "outwork" a poor diet, the truth about belly fat, and what older adults need to know about strength training. Whether you're just getting started or looking to get back on track, this conversation offers practical advice you can put into action today. In This Episode: ✅ Why exercise is often more powerful than medication ✅ The biggest fitness mistakes men make ✅ Why you can't out-exercise a poor diet ✅ The truth about belly fat and weight loss ✅ Strength training after 50, 60, and beyond ✅ Exercise during and after cancer treatment ✅ The pros and cons of GLP-1 weight loss medications ✅ How much exercise do you really need ✅ Why "muscles don't know age—they know use and disuse" ✅ How to find a fitness routine you'll actually stick with Memorable Quote: "Muscles don't know age. They know use and disuse." — Paige Jones Resources Mentioned in This Episode American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) https://www.acsm.org National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) https://www.nsca.com American Council on Exercise (ACE) https://www.acefitness.org CDC Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity YouTube Fitness and Exercise Resources https://www.youtube.com Piedmont Atlanta Fitness Center https://www.piedmont.org Recommended Goal • 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week • Strength training at least 2 days per week • Regular stretching and mobility work About Our Guest Paige Jones is Assistant Manager of the Piedmont Atlanta Fitness Center and an Exercise Physiologist with more than 20 years of experience helping people improve their health through movement. He specializes in helping individuals prevent and manage chronic disease, improve strength and mobility, and lead healthier lives through practical, sustainable fitness strategies. Learn More https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org Support Our Work If You Are My Brothers is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to turning health awareness into health action, particularly around prostate cancer and men's health. Donate: https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate Subscribe Subscribe for more conversations about prostate cancer, men's health, wellness, survivorship, and healthy living.

  6. Jun 17

    How's Your Heart

    Heart disease remains the #1 killer of men, yet many men don't know they're at risk until it's too late. In this Men's Health Month special, Reggie Hicks sits down with board-certified cardiologist Dr. David Montgomery, founder of PREventClinic in Atlanta, to discuss what every man should know about heart health, prevention, family history, and taking control of his future. Topics include: ✔ Why heart disease is still the leading cause of death ✔ Why many men avoid doctors and health screenings ✔ The warning signs of cardiovascular disease ✔ Family history and genetic risk ✔ Blood pressure, cholesterol, and the numbers every man should know ✔ The connection between heart health and prostate cancer ✔ Erectile dysfunction as a possible warning sign of vascular disease ✔ Stroke prevention ✔ The truth about GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy ✔ What tests every man should consider after age 40 ✔ Practical steps to improve your heart health today Key Takeaways "Be afraid and do it anyway." "Find a doctor you trust." "If you don't test, you don't know." " Your family history is not your destiny—it is your roadmap. Recommended Heart Health Checklist According to Dr. Montgomery, men over 40 should discuss: • Stress testing • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) • Coronary calcium/plaque score CT scan • Lipoprotein(a) blood testing • Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar screening Quote: Learn more about If You Are My Brothers: 🌐 https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org Support our mission: Your tax-deductible contribution helps us turn prostate cancer awareness into health action through documentary storytelling, podcasting, and community engagement. Learn more about Dr. Montgomery: https://www.preventatl.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHealth MasteryCafe Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-health-mastery-caf%C3%A9-with-dr-dave/id448654344 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5GjIfUHkFoHyjlIY8gizof

  7. Jun 10

    Whole Man Wellness – Natural Remedies for Men's Health

    What if some of the most powerful medicine in your life isn't found in a prescription bottle, but in the choices you make every day? In this special Men's Health Month episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks sits down with physician, public health professional, and wellness advocate Dr. Marvin Randall for a thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to pursue health and healing. Dr. Randall explains why health begins long before a visit to the doctor's office and how daily lifestyle choices—including nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, and faith—play a critical role in preventing disease and improving overall well-being. The conversation explores the differences among holistic, naturopathic, and homeopathic approaches to health; the growing popularity of supplements and GLP-1 weight-loss medications; and how chronic inflammation may contribute to many of today's most common health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. For prostate cancer survivors and men concerned about prostate health, Dr. Randall shares practical insights on nutrition, weight management, inflammation, and lifestyle habits that may support long-term prostate wellness. Perhaps most importantly, he challenges men to stop viewing health as something controlled solely by doctors and medications and instead embrace their personal responsibility for wellness—while recognizing the important connection between physical, emotional, and spiritual health. In This Episode: • Why health begins at home—not in the doctor's office • The difference between holistic, naturopathic, and homeopathic medicine • The truth about supplements and how to use them wisely • Dr. Randall's perspective on GLP-1 weight-loss medications • How chronic inflammation affects the body • Foods that may increase or decrease inflammation • The connection between gut health and overall wellness • Lifestyle approaches to supporting prostate health • The role of faith, purpose, and mindset in healing • Small changes that can create significant health improvements Memorable Quote: "Health begins at home. You go to the doctor's office because you don't have health. Health starts with the choices we make every day." Resources Mentioned: • Healthy Encounters • Uchee Pines Health Institute • Lifestyle Medicine Resources • Natural approaches to nutrition and wellness Learn more at: https://www.ucheepines.org/counseling-sheets/prostate-disease-1 https://www.ucheepines.org/counseling-sheets/prostate-disease-2 Dr. Randall can be contacted via: www.healthyencounters.org Take Action: Dr. Randall challenges listeners to spend the next 30 days focusing not only on physical health but also on their spiritual well-being. Begin with one healthy habit, seek help when you need it, and remember that lasting wellness is built one decision at a time. If You Are My Brothers is dedicated to turning prostate cancer awareness into health action through conversations that educate, inspire, and empower men and their families. Learn more about the If My Brothers Project at: www.ifyouaremybrothers.org

  8. Jun 3

    When Was Your Last Physical?... Let’s Talk About the Checkup Men Avoid

    What if one doctor's visit could save your life? In this first installment of our Men's Health Month series, host Reggie Hicks sits down with his own physician, Dr. Adrian Douglass, to discuss one of the most overlooked tools in men's health: the annual physical. Too many men wait until something feels wrong before seeing a doctor. But conditions like prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and sleep apnea often develop silently, with few or no symptoms in the early stages. Dr. Douglass explains why establishing a relationship with a primary care physician may be one of the most important health decisions a man can make. During this conversation, you'll learn: ✅ Why every man needs a primary care physician ✅ What actually happens during an annual physical ✅ The health numbers every man should know: PSA A1C LDL Cholesterol Blood Pressure Kidney Function Liver Function BMI ✅ Why Black men face higher risks for prostate cancer ✅ The truth about PSA testing and Digital Rectal Exams (DRE) ✅ How family history influences screening recommendations ✅ The dangers of delaying preventive care ✅ The connection between sleep apnea, heart disease, diabetes, and hormone health ✅ Why early detection saves lives Reggie also shares his personal prostate cancer journey and how a routine exam helped identify cancer before symptoms appeared. His story serves as a powerful reminder that prevention isn't just about living longer—it's about being present for the people who depend on you. Key Takeaway: "Health awareness only matters when it leads to health action." If you haven't had an annual physical in the last year, make the appointment today. About Dr. Adrian Douglass Dr. Douglass is a board-certified internal medicine physician with more than 30 years of experience in preventive and primary care medicine. An MDVIP-affiliated physician and Fellow of the American College of Physicians, he is recognized for his patient-centered approach to wellness, prevention, and chronic disease management. Learn More About Dr. Douglass                                                                      Visit: https://www.mdvip.com/doctors/adriandouglassmd Learn More about the If You Are My Brothers Prostate Cancer Project    Visit: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/ Support the mission to turn prostate cancer awareness into health action. Visit: https://ifyouaremybrothers.org/donate Visit our supporters Atlanta Brand Central https://abcatl.com/ Borkhouse Productions https://www.borkhouse.com/ Cecil Bernard https://www.cecilbernardgallery.com/

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About

If You Are My Brothers podcast is a companion piece to the documentary and outreach project that follows the journey of two African-American men with prostate cancer. Ralph Franklin is a real estate lawyer with a PSA of 100 and a prognosis of death. While chronicling Ralph’s story, Reggie Hicks, the producer of the documentary, is also diagnosed with the disease. Now, this one story evolves into two intricately intertwined stories: two men with their own challenges and two men with a common bond of brotherhood and hope.

Information

  • Creator
    Straight Street Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The If You Are My Brothers Podcast