Cancer and Comedy: Helping Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor

Dr. Brad Miller
  • 5.0 (3)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Cancer and Comedy Podcast is for Cancer Impacted People Who are Not Done Living and Are Passionate About Facing the Grim with a Grin. My name is Dr. Brad Miller and The Cancer and Comedy Podcast became my Passion Project At Christmas time 2022 when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer just after retiring from a 43 year career as a pastor. My response was to laugh to keep from crying. I decided after a Christmas visit with my pre-school granddaughters that God wasn't done with me yet and I was going to fully live my life in such a way as to see those granddaughters grow up. I decided to combine my experience as a pastor with my Doctoral Degree in Transformational Leadership with my love of comedy to create the Cancer and Comedy Podcast as place for Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor. I like to say the Cancer and Comedy Podcast is a Place to Turn the Grim into a Grin. Along with my co-host Deb Krier from TryingNotToDie.Live, who is a cancer warrior in her own right, we are dedicated to produce a weekly podcast which brings education, inspiration and entertainment to our audience with practical stories, interviews, funny stories and bad jokes which are designed to help cancer impacted people cope with hope. We will also have faith-based segments in the episodes. Moreover, we love to feature uplifting stories of how people kicked cancer in the butt and won at life. So if you are a cancer impacted person please join me right here on the Cancer and Comedy Podcast where we are all set to lift you up. Dr. Brad Miller, January 2025

  1. Navigating Sex and Intimacy After Cancer With Humor and Honesty

    2D AGO

    Navigating Sex and Intimacy After Cancer With Humor and Honesty

    On this episode of the Cancer and Comedy Podcast, Dr. Brad Miller and Deb Krier open up about a topic that almost never makes it into the exam room—but lives in the bedroom, the bathroom, and the mirror: What happens to sex, intimacy, and feeling “like a man” or “like a woman” after cancer? Speaking from their own stories—Brad as a prostate cancer survivor and Deb as a breast cancer survivor—they have a candid, funny, and deeply compassionate conversation about living in a changed body, navigating desire, and redefining closeness when spontaneity, sensation, and confidence all get shaken. In this honest, tender, and laugh‑out‑loud real conversation, Brad and Deb share: Walking through prostate cancer and its impact on masculinity, erections, continence, and self-worth Choosing a double mastectomy with no reconstruction—and what everyday life is like living “flat” Grieving the loss of sensation, spontaneity, and the familiar body you once knew Navigating pumps, injections, and implants as real—but far from glamorous—options for intimacy Managing prosthetics and “knitted knockers” and the awkward logistics of putting boobs on (and taking them off) Shifting roles from patient and caregiver back to partners and lovers Facing unspoken fears about identity, attractiveness, and whether sex is really “over” Reclaiming closeness through cuddling, hand-holding, and non-sexual touch Starting honest conversations with doctors about sex, even when they avoid the topic Deciding when and how to talk about scars in the world of dating and new relationships Finding moments of humor in the most uncomfortable situations—because sometimes if you don’t laugh, you cry This episode isn’t a how‑to manual for “perfect sex after cancer.” It’s a real-world guide to: Talking about the hard stuff instead of pretending it’s fine Redefining intimacy when your body has been cut, stitched, and rearranged Giving yourself and your partner grace, patience, and permission to laugh If cancer has changed your body, your sex life, or the way you see yourself in the mirror, this conversation will help you: Feel less alone in the awkward and the unspoken, Start the conversations you’ve been avoiding—with your partner and your doctors, and Find hope, humor, and new ways to be close in a “new normal” you didn’t choose. Together, we can keep turning the grim realities of cancer into the grin of a life still full of love, touch, and connection.

    54 min
  2. Positive Intelligence and Servant Leadership: Tools for Overcoming Cancer and Career Setbacks with Kevin Gazzara

    APR 17

    Positive Intelligence and Servant Leadership: Tools for Overcoming Cancer and Career Setbacks with Kevin Gazzara

    Kevin Gazzara is Dr. Brad Miller’s guest on this episode of “The Beyond Adversity Podcast.” Kevin is the co-founder of Magna Leadership Solutions and a certified Positive Intelligence (PQ) mental fitness coach. He brings over 30 years of corporate experience, including 18 years at Intel, where he worked in leadership development and organizational performance. Today, Kevin helps leaders build resilience, improve emotional intelligence, and overcome limiting mindsets through his coaching and consulting work. In this episode, Kevin shares how his life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, something that runs in his family. Rather than seeing it as a setback, he approached it as an opportunity to apply the same mental fitness principles he teaches others. He explains how mindset plays a critical role in navigating adversity. Kevin introduces the concept of “saboteurs” vs. the “sage brain,” showing how negative thought patterns can limit performance and how awareness can help you shift toward more productive thinking. Kevin also talks about the importance of emotional intelligence not just understanding logic, but managing emotions first before making decisions. He emphasizes simple practices like breathing exercises and mindfulness to regain focus during stressful moments. As a leadership coach, Kevin highlights how servant leadership creates long-term impact. He shares how giving value without expecting immediate returns builds stronger relationships and better outcomes in both business and life. He also shares a real client story, where applying these principles improved leadership behavior, communication, and even personal relationships proving that mental fitness affects every area of life. Kevin is also the co-author of books including “The Leader of Oz” and “Ready, Set, Get Hired,” where he combines practical leadership strategies with storytelling to make complex ideas easy to apply. Kevin Gazzara’s story is a practical and insightful example of how mindset, emotional intelligence, and resilience can help you navigate adversity from career challenges to serious health diagnoses and come out stronger on the other side. This episode of The Beyond Adversity Podcast is a must-listen for leaders, professionals, and anyone facing difficult situations who wants to build mental strength, improve decision-making, and grow through life’s challenges. “The Beyond Adversity Podcast with Dr. Brad Miller is published weekly with the mission of helping people ‘Grow Through What They Go Through’ as they navigate adversity and discover a life of peace, purpose, and prosperity.” Website: https://magnaleadership.com Email: Kevin@magnaleadership.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingazzara/

    1h 9m
  3. Restored by the Storm: Bill Derrick on Faith, Leadership, and Surviving Cancer

    APR 9

    Restored by the Storm: Bill Derrick on Faith, Leadership, and Surviving Cancer

    Bill is an entrepreneur, executive coach, and business strategist who has led companies through financial crises, built leadership frameworks, and now helps others navigate adversity with resilience, discipline, and faith. He is also the author of Restored by the Storm, where he shares his journey of overcoming life-threatening illness and business challenges. In this episode, Bill shares how he grew up working in his family’s construction business, eventually taking on major responsibilities in land development and large-scale projects. He explains how navigating the Great Recession forced him to make high-stakes decisions under pressure, shaping his mindset around leadership, risk, and long-term thinking. Bill opens up about one of the most defining moments of his life his diagnosis with multiple myeloma. This experience tested every area of his life, from his health to his role as a leader. Rather than stepping back, he leaned into a mindset he calls “quitting is not an option,” using faith, discipline, and perspective to keep moving forward. Throughout the conversation, Bill and Dr. Brad discuss how adversity reshapes leadership. Bill explains that real leadership is not just about strategy, but about people understanding them, supporting them, and leading with empathy. He highlights how difficult seasons forced him to shift from task-driven leadership to people-centered leadership. Bill also shares how gratitude and attitude became critical tools during his recovery and ongoing journey. He explains that while you cannot always control circumstances, you can control how you respond. That shift in perspective helped him stay grounded and focused, even during uncertainty. As an author of Restored by the Storm, Bill talks about why he chose to document his story. His goal is to help others who are facing adversity whether in business, health, or life by giving them a clear example of resilience in action. Today, he uses speaking, coaching, and mentorship to guide leaders through their own challenges. Bill Derrick’s story is practical, direct, and grounded in real experience. It shows how adversity can refine your mindset, strengthen your leadership, and deepen your purpose when you choose to face it head-on. Episode 124 of The Beyond Adversity Podcast is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone working through challenges who wants clear, actionable insight on how to move forward. Website: https://billderrick.com Book: https://share.google/lIjDPKTdIDK8K60qv LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billderrick/

    55 min
  4. Navigating Cancer’s Plot Twists: Humor, Hope, and Resilience with Author Cara Lockwood

    APR 4

    Navigating Cancer’s Plot Twists: Humor, Hope, and Resilience with Author Cara Lockwood

    Cara Lockwood is the guest on Episode 103 of “Cancer and Comedy,” hosted by Dr. Brad Miller with co-host Deb Krier. Cara Lockwood is a bestselling romance novelist whose work has been adapted into Lifetime movies. She helps people navigate the cancer journey by blending humor, joy, and practical insights to reclaim strength and perspective. Her approach empowers patients not only to endure treatment but to live fully and intentionally despite life’s unexpected challenges. In this episode, Cara shares how her stage II breast cancer diagnosis became the ultimate plot twist in her life. During a routine mammogram in 2023, she discovered she had cancer, and her world shifted from releasing her latest rom-com to facing a double mastectomy, reconstruction surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Today, Cara is in remission and uses her experience to help others navigate the emotional and practical challenges of cancer. Cara explains how she reframed her diagnosis as a chapter, not her whole story, and emphasizes the power of humor, community, and pep talks—both giving and receiving—to regain control and build resilience. She highlights the importance of asking for specific support from friends and family and taking intentional actions to lift others. Her book, There’s No Good Book for This, provides an irreverent and heartfelt guide for cancer patients and their families. It combines humor, real-life stories, and practical advice to help readers regain confidence and perspective during a difficult time. Cara donates half of her book proceeds to breast cancer research and provides free books to patients through the Twisted Pink Carrot Boxes, demonstrating how giving back can be part of the healing process. Episode 103 of Cancer and Comedy is a must-listen for anyone facing cancer or personal crisis who seeks inspiration, practical guidance, and a reminder that even in adversity, laughter and connection are powerful allies. Website: karatheauthor.com Book: There’s No Good Book for This Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karatheauthor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karatheauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karatheauthor

    52 min
  5. Turning Misfortune Into Strength: How Dr. Josh Caraballo Embraced Hope and Healing

    MAR 27

    Turning Misfortune Into Strength: How Dr. Josh Caraballo Embraced Hope and Healing

    From Stage 4 Cancer to Purpose: A Story of Identity, Addiction, and Healing On this episode of the Cancer and Comedy Podcast, Dr. Brad Miller sits down with Dr. Joshua Carabello, an industrial organizational psychologist and author of I’m Not Dead Yet, to explore a deeply personal journey that began with a life-altering diagnosis at just 18 years old: What happens when surviving cancer is only the beginning of the battle? Drawing from his experience with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Joshua opens up about the emotional and spiritual struggles that followed his diagnosis—wrestling with identity, faith, and the belief that his illness was somehow a punishment. Through honesty and reflection, he shares how those internal battles shaped his path toward healing and self-acceptance. In this powerful, vulnerable, and hope-filled conversation, Brad and Joshua share: What it felt like to be diagnosed with stage 4 cancer at 18 The internal struggle between faith, identity, and self-worth Believing illness was punishment—and how that mindset shifted Finding unexpected comfort through humor and cartoons Life after remission and the hidden struggle with addiction The turning point from victim mindset to purpose-driven living The PERMA framework and what it means to truly flourish Breaking destructive cycles and rebuilding a meaningful life Using personal pain as a platform to help others This episode isn’t just about surviving cancer—it’s about what comes after. It’s a story of falling, rebuilding, and ultimately choosing purpose over pain. If you’ve ever faced a life-altering challenge or struggled to find meaning after hardship, this conversation will remind you: You are more than what happened to you, Healing is possible even after the darkest seasons, and Your story can become someone else’s hope.

    1h 3m
  6. Turning Pain Into Play: Laughter Yoga and Healing with Cathy Nesbitt

    MAR 20

    Turning Pain Into Play: Laughter Yoga and Healing with Cathy Nesbitt

    On this episode of Cancer and Comedy, Dr. Brad Miller talks with Cathy Nesbitt, a health and wellness advocate and laughter yoga teacher from CathysClub.com, about how intentional laughter, energy techniques, and even worms can help people move from stress into joy—especially when facing cancer and other major life challenges. Cathy shares the deeply personal story of losing her beloved stepfather Mike to brain cancer when she was just 21, and how that loss shaped her vow never to stay in a job that didn’t serve her, ultimately leading her from a worm composting business into the world of laughter yoga and therapeutic joy. Brad Miller and Cathy unpack what laughter yoga actually is—not jokes or stand-up comedy, and not stretching on a yoga mat—but a guided practice of simulated laughter, deep diaphragmatic breathing, and simple movements that flood the body with “happy hormones” like dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins (Cathy’s playful “DOSE”) while lowering stress chemicals like cortisol. Cathy explains how she weaves in modalities like tapping, Brain Gym, and qigong in her free weekly online Laughter Club, which attracts seniors, people with special needs, and those coping with depression, cancer, and other health issues. She shares powerful stories, including daily laughter calls with a woman facing ovarian cancer and training a wheelchair-using disability advocate, Adam, to become a laughter yoga leader—examples of how laughter can restore dignity, connection, and resilience. Throughout the conversation, Cathy and Brad Miller return to the core themes of hope, intention, and permission to play. Cathy talks about her bold goal to live vibrantly to age 111, and how that long-term vision drives her to care for her body, mind, and spirit right now. For listeners going through a hard season—cancer, grief, job loss, or simply feeling overwhelmed—Cathy offers practical ways to begin, start with a smile, add a small giggle, move your body, tap the thymus to support immune function, and practice gratitude for even the smallest things. “Cancer and Comedy” with Dr. Brad Miller. Miller exists to help people navigate cancer and profound adversity with honesty, faith, and humor, without minimizing the seriousness of what they’re facing. To explore more conversations and resources on coping with hope and laughter, visit cancerandcomedy.com/follow. Website: https://www.kevincrispin.com/experiencehttps://cathysclub.com/ | www.cathyscomposters.com | www.cathyssprouters.com Email: cathy@cathysclub.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathynesbittsteinofficial/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

    57 min
  7. Responding When a Friend Texts I Have Cancer: Practical Advice and Real Human Connection

    MAR 13

    Responding When a Friend Texts I Have Cancer: Practical Advice and Real Human Connection

    On this episode of the Cancer and Comedy Podcast, Dr. Brad Miller and Deb Krier take on a tender, real-life moment so many of us eventually face: What do you do when someone you care about sends the message, “I have cancer”? Drawing from their own journeys—Deb with breast cancer and Brad with prostate cancer—as well as years of walking alongside others, they unpack how to respond with compassion, presence, and appropriate lightness without being intrusive or “making it weird.” In this honest, practical, and hope-filled conversation, Brad and Deb share: Why you should never ignore the message How to let the person with cancer lead the conversation What not to say—and what to say instead Respecting privacy and not overstepping Being present without being intrusive Faith, prayer, and spiritual support (without pushing) Avoiding the trap of Dr. Google and over-Googling Using humor in a grounded, respectful way Leaving the door open for what comes next This episode isn’t a script—it’s a guide to being a real friend in one of life’s hardest moments. If someone in your life has been impacted by cancer, or you want to be ready when that text comes, this conversation will help you: Respond instead of freezing, Listen instead of fixing, and Walk with them instead of disappearing. Together, we can truly help “turn the grim of cancer into the grin of a fulfilled life.”

    34 min
  8. Man Up to Cancer: Tim McDonald on Breaking the Silence for Men.

    MAR 6

    Man Up to Cancer: Tim McDonald on Breaking the Silence for Men.

    Tim McDonald is Dr. Brad Miller’s guest on an episode of “The Beyond Adversity Podcast.” Tim is a speaker, community builder, and advocate who uses his story to encourage others facing serious health challenges and personal adversity. He is known for openly sharing his journey with cancer and for helping people understand the importance of connection, vulnerability, and support during difficult moments in life. In this episode Tim shared the moment his life changed when a doctor walked into the room with a single sheet of paper and said three words: “You have cancer.” Instead of reacting with panic, Tim focused on the next step and asked the doctor what needed to happen moving forward. He talks about how the hardest part of his diagnosis was not hearing the news itself, but walking home and telling his wife that he had cancer. Tim reflects on the emotional weight of that moment and the determination he felt to face the challenge together as a family. Tim also shares how his experience revealed an important issue among men dealing with illness. He noticed that support groups often had equal numbers of men and women, but most of the conversation came from women while many men stayed silent and isolated. Through his own journey, Tim realized that isolation can be one of the most dangerous responses to adversity. He explains how opening up, sharing experiences, and talking honestly about fear and uncertainty can save lives and create meaningful connections. Tim also discusses the role humor played during his treatment and recovery. Even in the hospital and during surgery preparation, he used humor to lighten difficult moments and remind himself that maintaining perspective was important. Beyond his personal battle with cancer, Tim shares how telling his story publicly helped others who were struggling. He recounts a powerful moment when someone told him that a conversation they had helped pull them away from a very dark place in their life. Tim McDonald’s story is a powerful reminder that adversity can lead to deeper connection, purpose, and impact. His journey shows that vulnerability, honesty, and community can help people navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. This episode of The Beyond Adversity Podcast is an inspiring conversation for anyone facing illness, hardship, or moments when life suddenly changes direction. It highlights how resilience, humor, and support from others can help people grow through what they go through. “The Beyond Adversity Podcast with Dr. Brad Miller” is published weekly with the mission of helping people “Grow Through What They Go Through” as they navigate adversity and discover a life of peace, prosperity, and purpose. https://sharemyliver.com https://linktr.ee/tim.m LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timamcdonald Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timamcdonald Twitter / X: https://twitter.com/tamcdonald

    55 min
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About

The Cancer and Comedy Podcast is for Cancer Impacted People Who are Not Done Living and Are Passionate About Facing the Grim with a Grin. My name is Dr. Brad Miller and The Cancer and Comedy Podcast became my Passion Project At Christmas time 2022 when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer just after retiring from a 43 year career as a pastor. My response was to laugh to keep from crying. I decided after a Christmas visit with my pre-school granddaughters that God wasn't done with me yet and I was going to fully live my life in such a way as to see those granddaughters grow up. I decided to combine my experience as a pastor with my Doctoral Degree in Transformational Leadership with my love of comedy to create the Cancer and Comedy Podcast as place for Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor. I like to say the Cancer and Comedy Podcast is a Place to Turn the Grim into a Grin. Along with my co-host Deb Krier from TryingNotToDie.Live, who is a cancer warrior in her own right, we are dedicated to produce a weekly podcast which brings education, inspiration and entertainment to our audience with practical stories, interviews, funny stories and bad jokes which are designed to help cancer impacted people cope with hope. We will also have faith-based segments in the episodes. Moreover, we love to feature uplifting stories of how people kicked cancer in the butt and won at life. So if you are a cancer impacted person please join me right here on the Cancer and Comedy Podcast where we are all set to lift you up. Dr. Brad Miller, January 2025

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