Beatson Talks

Beatson Cancer Charity

A podcast designed to inform, support, and provide a platform for patients to share their stories, while also allowing staff to discuss the support available to cancer patients and their families. Hosted by Laura Boyd  

  1. We’re With You: The Importance of Checking Your Neck

    Mar 10

    We’re With You: The Importance of Checking Your Neck

    Host Laura Boyd is joined by Paul Leonard, who became seriously ill with COVID in 2021. While being treated for pneumonia, doctors noticed his windpipe appeared displaced. Further tests revealed a large mass in his neck, leading to a diagnosis of thyroid cancer.  Paul shares how he underwent two surgeries and radioactive iodine treatment at The Beatson, and how the diagnosis changed his outlook on life. He also discusses raising awareness through his “check your neck” message, taking on fundraising challenges, and why speaking up and seeking support matters.

    24 min
  2. We’re With You: Sisters and Strength

    Mar 3

    We’re With You: Sisters and Strength

    Host Laura Boyd speaks with sisters Alison and Michelle about Michelle’s diagnosis after initially mistaking her symptoms for menopause.  Michelle reflects on the shock of discovering a tumour, the fear of walking into The Beatson for the first time, and the tailored clinical and psychological support that guided her through treatment. Together, the sisters discuss the role of family, the compassion of staff, and how the experience strengthened their bond.  Now clear and attending regular check-ups, Michelle also shares the importance of trusting your instincts, seeking GP follow-up, and marking her recovery by raising £13,000 with her team at Strictly Beatson.

    28 min
  3. We’re With You: Mike Smith – Four Decades of Giving Back and Yellow Yogis

    Feb 24

    We’re With You: Mike Smith – Four Decades of Giving Back and Yellow Yogis

    Host Laura Boyd speaks with Beatson Business Ambassador Mike Smith about four decades of supporting Beatson, a commitment that began with his father’s cancer diagnosis.  He reflects on the ambassador network, the relationships built through fundraising, and his most ambitious venture yet: Yellow Yogis - set to be Britain’s largest indoor yoga class, hosted by Finlay Wilson, known as The Kilted Yogi and TV and radio personality, Jenny Powell all in support of Beatson Cancer Charity’s Wellbeing Centre.

    20 min
  4. We’re With You: Giles Blair - Timing, Treatment and a New Perspective

    Feb 17

    We’re With You: Giles Blair - Timing, Treatment and a New Perspective

    Host Laura Boyd is joined by journalist, Giles Blair, who discusses his diagnosis of a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma, discovered during an ENT procedure. He reflects on the narrow window that made urgent treatment possible, the intensity of combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy at The Beatson, and the moments he feared he might not survive.  With honesty and humour, Giles shares the vital role of family, faith and community support, the comfort he found in writing his Substack blog Lymphoma Basket Case, and how his diagnosis reshaped his priorities and appreciation for life.

    35 min
  5. We’re With You: Vikki Ridler on Cervical Screening, Diagnosis and Life After Cancer

    Feb 10

    We’re With You: Vikki Ridler on Cervical Screening, Diagnosis and Life After Cancer

    Host Laura Boyd is joined by Vikki Ridler, who shares her story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer at the age of 27 - just days before her birthday. Vikki talks openly about routine smear tests, early cell changes, the shock of diagnosis, and the reality of surgery and recovery as a young mum. She also reflects on life after cancer, advocating for cervical screening, finding new purpose in work, and the support she found at The Beatson.

    27 min
  6. We’re With You: The McKie's Story

    10/21/2025

    We’re With You: The McKie's Story

    In the final episode of Season Five, Laura Boyd speaks with Rachel and Don McKie, a remarkable couple who have turned personal heartbreak into purpose. After losing their son Graham to glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour, they have dedicated themselves to supporting Beatson Cancer Charity and Brain Tumour Research, helping to raise awareness and vital funds for this underrepresented area of cancer research.  From volunteering in the Beatson café to organising community fundraisers, the McKies share how their love for Graham continues to inspire everything they do, proving that even in loss, hope and kindness can create a powerful legacy.

    40 min
  7. We’re With You: Finding Comfort and Care at The Beatson

    10/14/2025

    We’re With You: Finding Comfort and Care at The Beatson

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Sheena Wright, who shares how she’s doing “remarkably well” nearly a year after completing treatment. Sheena opens up about the first signs that led to her diagnosis, the support of her family, and the comfort she found in the warmth and care of The Beatson.  From learning to play the bagpipes in retirement to planning a dream trip to New Zealand, Sheena’s story is full of strength, gratitude and a renewed love for life. She also offers thoughtful advice for anyone beginning treatment, reminding us of the power of connection, hope and positivity.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    24 min
  8. We’re With You: Five Years On

    10/07/2025

    We’re With You: Five Years On

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Audrey Sykes, who recently took part in Off the Beatson Track to mark five years since her breast cancer diagnosis. Audrey shares her journey from diagnosis during lockdown, through treatment, to the emotional moment of ringing the bell.  She reflects on life after treatment, the support of her family, and how connecting with others has opened doors for sharing stories and reassurance. From tackling hills she’d never climbed before to the unforgettable sense of community at the walk, Audrey’s story is full of resilience, gratitude, and hope.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    15 min
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About

A podcast designed to inform, support, and provide a platform for patients to share their stories, while also allowing staff to discuss the support available to cancer patients and their families. Hosted by Laura Boyd  

Information

  • Creator
    Beatson Cancer Charity
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Beatson Talks
  • Show Website
    Beatson Talks