New MN Breasties

MN Breasties
  • 5.0 (14)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Biweekly

Three working mamas talking cancer, survivorship, and the raw & real truth of having cancer in your 30's.

  1. 3d ago

    Episode 16: What is Pelvic Floor Therapy? Why Should We Care? with Molly Koch - Cancer Edition

    Discover how pelvic floor therapy can transform your health. Welcome to the latest issue of the New Minnesota Breasties Podcast, where we dive deep into topics that resonate with young moms and survivors navigating their health journeys. In this episode, we welcomed Molly Koch, a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in pelvic floor therapy. If this is a new term for you, don’t worry: you’re not alone. Molly introduced us to the often-overlooked pelvic floor, a crucial muscle group that supports a host of bodily functions, from bowel movements to sexual health. "The pelvic floor is an internal muscle group that sits like a hammock at the bottom of your pelvis," she explained. This muscle group plays a vital role not only in basic functions but also in maintaining overall pelvic health. Pelvic floor therapy is particularly important for those who have experienced significant bodily changes, such as during and after pregnancy. Molly highlighted that many women unknowingly suffer from conditions like stress incontinence or pelvic dysfunction, thinking it's just a part of motherhood. Molly broke down three major concerns that pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate: Urinary Incontinence: This can manifest as leakage during physical activities like sneezing or coughing. Molly explained the importance of building strength and managing pressure to combat this issue.Constipation: Many don’t realize that pelvic floor therapy can also assist with digestive issues, helping to optimize function in this area.Pain with Sex: This is a sensitive topic, but one that Molly assured us can be addressed through pelvic floor therapy, improving the quality of life for many.An essential point raised during our conversation was the connection between breast cancer treatments and pelvic health. As Molly discussed, treatments can lead to significant changes in the pelvic region, making it crucial for breast cancer patients to consider pelvic floor therapy as part of their post-treatment care. Molly's insights serve as a reminder that there’s help available and that no one should have to live with the discomfort or dysfunction that can arise from pelvic floor issues. As Abby and Stephani emphasized, this knowledge should be more widely shared among new mothers and cancer survivors alike. If you or someone you know has experienced these challenges, consider seeking out a pelvic floor therapist. It could make a world of difference. To hear more from Molly and explore the full depth of this conversation, check out the episode linked below.

  2. Sep 14

    Episode 15: Martha's Story - Stage IV story of Hope

    In this episode, Martha shares her inspiring journey as a young woman diagnosed with stage four HER2 positive breast cancer at 33. She discusses her diagnosis, treatment, the importance of support systems, and how her perspective on life has evolved through her experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Martha’s story and diagnosis 02:14 Martha’s life before cancer and initial diagnosis 05:09 How Martha found the podcast and her connection to the community 07:51 Details of Martha’s diagnosis and treatment plan 11:55 Reactions to chemo and managing side effects 20:09 The emotional impact of diagnosis and scans 29:54 The significance of support systems and loved ones 39:59 Reflections on life changes and career decisions 50:00 Living with ongoing treatment and scanxiety 57:51 Advice for newly diagnosed stage four patients Key Topics: Martha’s diagnosis at age 33 with stage four HER2 positive breast cancer Her treatment journey including chemo reactions and scans The importance of mental health and support systems during cancer The impact of diagnosis on her family and career Her perspective on life and future after cancer Keywords: breast cancer, stage four, HER2 positive, cancer survivor, hope, treatment, mental health, support system, young women, medical journey

  3. Aug 9

    Episode 14: Cancer Trauma, Survivorship, & Learning to feel safe again with Corinne

    Trauma, survivorship, and learning to feel safe again. The Minnesota Breasties welcome licensed therapist and breast cancer survivor Corinne Nechalova for a candid conversation about what happens after treatment ends. They dig into trauma, fear of recurrence, people pleasing, guilt, identity shifts, and the body-based tools that can help survivors feel regulated again. This episode matters because it names the part of cancer survivorship that often goes unspoken: the emotional and nervous system aftermath. Corinne shares from both professional expertise and lived experience, offering language and practical support for survivors, caregivers, and anyone trying to rebuild life after diagnosis. Key topics: In this episode, Corinne shares why she sees breast cancer as a whole person event, not just a medical one, because it affects the body, relationships, identity, and mental health.Corinne explains her background in therapy, somatic work, body work, and energy medicine, and how her own breast cancer experience shaped the way she supports survivors.The conversation centers on the “now what” after treatment ends, including the loneliness, uncertainty, and fear of recurrence that can show up when active treatment is over.Corinne describes common trauma responses after cancer, including hypervigilance, obsessive symptom scanning, panic, sleep disruption, dissociation, and feeling unable to relax or feel safe.Abby and Emilee reflect on how cancer changed their relationship with exercise, sleep, guilt, and time, especially as young moms trying to balance recovery with parenting.The episode highlights how survivorship can intensify boundaries and change patterns of people pleasing, overextending, and ignoring bodily signals.Corinne talks about caregiver strain and why spouses and family members often need support too, even when the focus is understandably on the patient.A major theme is identity reconstruction after cancer, including body image, invisible grief, post traumatic growth, and learning who you are now.The episode closes with a message of connection: survivors do not need to handle this alone, and there are many ways to seek support and community.

  4. Jul 22

    Episode 13: Triple Negative Survivors + their powerful stories

    TNBC Warriors + their unique stories

  5. Jul 21

    Episode 13: Triple Negative Survivors + their powerful stories!

    Get to know two of our incredible guests - sharing the ins and outs of their experience with triple negative breast cancer.

  6. Jun 10

    Episode 12: The Untold Truths of Breast Reconstruction: Breaking Myths & Embracing Our Reality.

    The Untold Truths of Breast Reconstruction: Breaking Myths & Embracing Our Reality. This episode is a raw, honest bounce between three fierce young moms navigating the chaos, the pain, and the unspoken truths of breast reconstruction after cancer. If you’re questioning, struggling, or just need to hear real stories, this is for you. In this episode: The stark reality and emotional toll of reconstruction surgeryBusting myths: free boob jobs, feeling your breasts, and the misconceptions about optionsThe deep dive into different types of reconstruction — implants, flat, deep flap, and fat graftingThe physical and mental complications of radiation and surgeriesHow post-surgery mom guilt and invisible mental tolls affect us dailyThe ongoing journey of survivorship — what no one tells you about the years after treatmentThe importance of mental health support and breaking societal taboosBreast Reconstruction Options - American Cancer SocietyDeep Flap Reconstruction - Johns Hopkins MedicineFat Grafting for Breast Reconstruction - Mayo ClinicBook: "The Breast Cancer Survivor's Guide" by Allison M. KesslerSupport for Young Moms Facing Cancer Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The raw truth behind breast reconstructive journeys 02:22 - The emotional weight of being the youngest in cancer treatment spaces 08:29 - Choosing implants: why it’s more complex than you think 11:50 - Steph’s story: opting for deep flap reconstruction for medical reasons 16:36 - The realities of recovery, restrictions, and the physical pain 20:13 - Busting myths: it’s not a free boob job - the real costs and risks 23:00 - Unique incisions, variations, and the misconception of "easy" cosmetic surgery 28:10 - The potential of fat grafting and its limitations 30:52 - The physical toll: nerve pain, sensations, and cosmetic fears 34:46 - The emotional spiral: anxiety, health worries, and the invisible mental load 39:56 - The ongoing need for support: mental health, family, and systemic barriers 46:17 - The terrifying thoughts about the future and survivorship myths 52:39 - Money, work, and the hidden costs of recovery and caretaking 57:39 - The emotional impacts on motherhood, identity, and body image 61:00 - The hope on the horizon: creating communities, survivors’ stories, and breaking the stigma

  7. May 18

    Episode 11: Photon and Proton Radiation - What to Expect

    This episode explores the ins and outs of radiation therapy for breast cancer, sharing personal experiences, side effects, and tips for managing treatment. Hosts Stephani and Abby discuss different types of radiation, the physical and emotional impacts, and the importance of informed decision-making.Chapters: 00:00 Intro to Radiation 10:53 The Emotional and Physical Toll of Radiation 15:37 Proton Radiation: A Different Approach 19:04 Symptoms and Side Effects of Radiation 24:46 Lingering Effects and Emotional Challenges 35:54 The Support System During Treatment 43:18 Making Informed Decisions About Treatment

  8. May 7

    Episode 10: Essential Role of Rehab in Breast Cancer Recovery

    Summary: In this insightful episode, we explore the vital role of physical therapy/OT and specialized care in breast cancer recovery. Our guest, Ingrid, a certified oncology and lymphedema therapist, shares her expertise on managing side effects, preventing lymphedema, and the importance of personalized, holistic treatment approaches. Keywords: breast cancer, physical therapy, lymphedema, oncology rehabilitation, scar management, patient education, cancer recovery, lymphatic system, radiation effects, breast health program Key Topics: The importance of early physical therapy interventionManaging side effects like lymphedema and scar tissueThe impact of radiation on tissue and lymphatic health

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5
out of 5
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About

Three working mamas talking cancer, survivorship, and the raw & real truth of having cancer in your 30's.

Information

  • Creator
    MN Breasties
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © MN Breasties
  • Show Website
    New MN Breasties