It Takes Balls

Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation

It Takes Balls is a podcast for testicular cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and families. Through conversations with survivors, oncologists, urologists, and medical experts, we discuss testicular cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, chemotherapy, fertility, mental health, survivorship, and recovery. Our mission is to raise awareness, support men’s health, reduce stigma, and help people feel less alone during and after a testicular cancer journey. Early detection and self-exams save lives.

  1. Jack Didn't Think His Symptoms Were Serious at First

    1d ago

    Jack Didn't Think His Symptoms Were Serious at First

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, recent law-grad Jack Bekos shares how a symptom many men might dismiss led to a life-changing testicular cancer diagnosis. Ironically, Jack describes himself as a lifelong "hypochondriac," someone who routinely worried about his health. Yet when this symptom first appeared, even he wasn't convinced it was anything serious. Living alone in New York City while attending law school, Jack eventually trusted his instincts and went to the emergency room, where an ultrasound revealed a suspicious mass. What followed was a whirlwind of sleepless nights, frantic Google searches, and rapidly learning about orchiectomies, surveillance, sperm banking, and treatment possibilities. Determined to find the best care available, he connected with the team at Memorial Sloan Kettering and underwent surgery under the care of Dr. Rich Matulewicz. Jack opens up about navigating cancer largely on his own, with family hundreds of miles away in Wisconsin (visiting after surgery) and friends helping him through recovery in New York. He shares the emotional moment when the reality of being a cancer survivor finally hit him—days after surgery, alone in a friend's apartment, when weeks of fear, uncertainty, and stress came pouring out all at once. The conversation also explores survivorship, scanxiety, and what it's like to return to normal life while still living with uncertainty. As someone who loves data and analysis, Jack explains how understanding recurrence statistics helps him cope with follow-up scans, even as enlarged lymph nodes required additional monitoring after surgery. More than anything, Jack's story is a reminder that testicular cancer symptoms don't always include a lump. Sometimes the warning signs are subtle. His message to listeners is simple: trust your body, advocate for yourself, and get checked when something feels off. Early detection saves lives. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Connect with Jack: https://www.instagram.com/jackbekos Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    34 min
  2. Tony Opted for Robotic RPLND After New TC Blood Tests Spiked

    Jun 8

    Tony Opted for Robotic RPLND After New TC Blood Tests Spiked

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, testicular cancer survivor Tony Salas shares how his cancer journey led him into one of the newest and most rapidly evolving areas of cancer surveillance: MicroRNA-371 testing and Signatera ctDNA monitoring. Tony opens up about the symptoms and diagnosis that changed his life, including the whirlwind of appointments, surgery, and learning how quickly testicular cancer treatment decisions have to be made. But what makes his story especially unique is what came after treatment—navigating surveillance while trying to avoid chemotherapy and gain greater confidence in whether his cancer was truly gone. Throughout the episode, Tony discusses using MicroRNA 371, an emerging blood test showing major promise in detecting active germ cell tumors, along with Signatera, a personalized circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) test designed to monitor for residual disease and recurrence. He shares what it was like balancing traditional surveillance methods like CT scans and tumor markers with these newer technologies, and how the uncertainty of recurrence can weigh heavily on survivors mentally and emotionally. The conversation also explores the emotional side of survivorship, including scannxiety, the fear of recurrence, and the challenge of moving forward after treatment while still feeling tied to constant monitoring. Tony speaks candidly about the importance of self-advocacy, staying informed about evolving cancer research, and finding ways to regain a sense of control during survivorship. This episode is not only a powerful survivor story, but also an insightful look at the future of testicular cancer surveillance and personalized cancer monitoring. Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, currently in surveillance, or interested in the latest advances in testicular cancer treatment and recurrence detection, Tony’s experience offers both hope and perspective. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Connect with Tony: https://www.instagram.com/tone_loc17/ https://www.facebook.com/coachtony05 Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    43 min
  3. Renee Calhoun, LMFT - Talking to Partners & Kids About Your Cancer

    Jun 1

    Renee Calhoun, LMFT - Talking to Partners & Kids About Your Cancer

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, licensed marriage and family therapist Renee Calhoun joins the podcast to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of a testicular cancer diagnosis: the emotional and relational impact it can have on patients, partners, children, and families. Drawing from her professional experience as an LMFT, Renee explains how cancer affects far more than physical health. The conversation explores the fear, uncertainty, anxiety, and identity shifts that often follow a diagnosis, especially for men who may feel pressure to stay strong or avoid emotional vulnerability. She also shares practical insight into how couples can communicate more effectively during treatment and recovery, even when both partners are struggling in different ways. Renee also offers guidance for parents trying to explain cancer to children, emphasizing the importance of honest, age-appropriate conversations and emotional openness within the family. Throughout the discussion, Renee highlights why mental health support should be viewed as an important part of the cancer journey not just for patients, but for caregivers and loved ones as well. Her perspective brings a compassionate and practical voice to conversations that many families struggle to navigate alone. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Have a question for a future expert guest? Submit here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-question-submission Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.twitter.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Connect with Renee https://www.reneecalhounlmft.com Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    40 min
  4. Dylan's TC Journey Took a Wild Turn (Gangrene + Sepsis)

    May 15

    Dylan's TC Journey Took a Wild Turn (Gangrene + Sepsis)

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Dylan Bolton shares a testicular cancer journey that quickly turned into a fight for his life. In his early 30s, with a wife and two young daughters, Dylan noticed swelling in his testicle that continued to grow until he finally sought medical attention. Within days, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent an orchiectomy. Dylan began treatment for a non-seminoma germ cell tumor with EP chemotherapy, but midway through, his condition took a devastating turn. What started as standard cancer treatment escalated into severe complications, including sepsis and gangrene, leaving him hospitalized in critical condition. At one point, his family was called in to say goodbye. After the road blocks were resolved, despite only completing part of his chemotherapy, follow-up testing showed no evidence of active cancer. Dylan later underwent a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. Now in recovery, Dylan is navigating the physical and emotional aftermath—including significant weight loss and the challenge of redefining what survivorship means after such a traumatic experience. This episode highlights the importance of recognizing testicular cancer symptoms, the realities of chemotherapy complications, and the unpredictable nature of cancer journeys. Dylan’s story is a powerful reminder that survivorship isn’t always linear—and sometimes the hardest battles go far beyond cancer itself. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Connect with Dylan: Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    44 min
  5. It Takes Balls Live from Tee Off for Testicular Cancer 2026

    May 8

    It Takes Balls Live from Tee Off for Testicular Cancer 2026

    In this special episode of It Takes Balls, the podcast heads to the golf course for the second annual Tee Off for Testicular Cancer tournament in Norfolk, Virginia. Recorded from a golf cart, this episode captures the energy of a day dedicated to testicular cancer awareness, fundraising, and community. Joined by returning guest BJ Lange, TCAF founder Kim Jones, and some event sponsor representatives, the conversation highlights how the event brings together survivors, supporters, and advocates from across the country. From prize drawings and contests to creative fundraising efforts, more than $24,000 had already been raised by the start of the tournament. After the tournament, the goal of raising $30,000 has been surpassed! Beyond the event itself, the episode reinforces the mission: raising awareness and promoting early detection. Listeners are reminded of the importance of monthly testicular self-exams, common symptoms, and how early diagnosis can lead to high cure rates, especially when detected early. More than anything, this episode is about community and turning awareness into action to provide meaningful support to those affected by testicular cancer. Join us at the 2026 Testicular Cancer Conference: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/tcc-indianapolis-2026 Information about Signatera: https://www.natera.com/resource-library/signatera/understanding-signatera-for-testicular-cancer/ Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.twitter.com/stevencrocker https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    34 min
  6. Luke's Testicle Felt Heavy Before His Diagnosis

    May 1

    Luke's Testicle Felt Heavy Before His Diagnosis

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Luke Jillson shares how a subtle symptom—heaviness in his testicle—led to a testicular cancer diagnosis. With no pain, it would have been easy to ignore, but mentioning it during a routine physical set off a chain of events that led to early detection and immediate action. Initially diagnosed with early-stage embryonal carcinoma, Luke underwent an orchiectomy (testicle removal surgery) and later chose RPLND, removing nearly 30 lymph nodes that all came back clear. At that point, everything pointed to a best-case scenario—until follow-up testing revealed the cancer had spread to his lungs, forcing a sudden shift to BEP chemotherapy. Luke opens up about the physical toll of treatment, including fatigue and side effects, as well as the mental challenges that came with such an unexpected turn. From scan anxiety to continuing therapy during treatment, he shares how he navigated both the data-driven decisions and the emotional weight of cancer. This episode is a powerful reminder that testicular cancer symptoms don’t always include pain, and that even early-stage diagnoses can change quickly. Luke’s story highlights the importance of self-advocacy, staying vigilant during follow-up care, and addressing both the physical and mental sides of survivorship. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Connect with Luke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-j-5505b6119/ https://facebook.com/luke.jillson Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    37 min
  7. Jeff's Faith Grew During Testicular Cancer Treatment

    Apr 15

    Jeff's Faith Grew During Testicular Cancer Treatment

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Jeff Pilachowski shares his journey through testicular cancer, shaped by his identity as a veteran, father of boys, business owner, and man of faith. Self-employed and responsible not just for his health, but for his livelihood, he talks about having to postpone work for a new client. That reality added another layer of pressure to an already life-altering diagnosis. What makes Jeff’s story especially powerful is how he approached the mental and emotional side of cancer. At the center of it all was Jeff’s faith, which became a foundation during the most difficult moments. He shares how belief, perspective, and purpose helped him process fear, uncertainty, and the reality of a cancer diagnosis—offering a different lens on what strength can look like during survivorship. Jeff also shares his experience navigating the PACT Act, having been exposed to burn pits while deployed overseas. This episode highlights the importance of recognizing testicular cancer symptoms, advocating for your health, and understanding that survivorship is about more than just treatment—it’s about rebuilding physically, mentally, and spiritually.Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, supporting someone through cancer, or learning more about testicular cancer awareness and recovery, Jeff’s story is a reminder that strength comes in many forms—and that no one has to face this journey alone. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Join The Ball Room: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/theballroom Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Connect with Jeff: https://www.instagram.com/tetelestai_carpentry/ Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: https://www.testescancer.org ⁠⁠https://www.x.com/testescancer ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    43 min
  8. Dr. Sia Daneshmand - Extraperitoneal RPLND & MicroRNA 371

    Apr 8

    Dr. Sia Daneshmand - Extraperitoneal RPLND & MicroRNA 371

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Dr. Sia Daneshmand, a leading urologic oncologist at USC, joins the conversation to break down the realities of testicular cancer treatment, surgery, and long-term outcomes. Known for his expertise in complex cases and extraperitoneal RPLNDs, Dr. Daneshmand shares how advances in surgery and a personalized approach to care are improving survival while reducing unnecessary treatment. The discussion dives into critical decisions patients face after diagnosis, including when surveillance vs. treatment is appropriate and how factors like tumor type, staging, and risk influence the path forward. Dr. Daneshmand explains the role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND), when it’s necessary, and how surgical expertise can dramatically impact outcomes and quality of life. Beyond treatment, this episode explores the importance of being treated at high-volume centers, avoiding overtreatment, and understanding the long-term effects of both surgery and chemotherapy. Dr. Daneshmand also discusses the status and future of MicroRNA 371 biomarker testing. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, considering surgery, or learning more about testicular cancer treatment options, this episode provides trusted insight from one of the leading experts in the field helping patients make informed decisions with confidence. Provide your feedback on the podcast: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/itbsurvey Have a question for a future expert guest? Submit here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-question-submission Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/it-takes-balls-submissions Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.twitter.com/testescancer⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.org Dr. Daneshmand: https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/siamak-daneshmand/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sia-daneshmand-m-d-569166b/ https://x.com/siadaneshmand Follow Steven Crocker: https://www.twitter.com/stevencrocker https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    41 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

It Takes Balls is a podcast for testicular cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and families. Through conversations with survivors, oncologists, urologists, and medical experts, we discuss testicular cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, chemotherapy, fertility, mental health, survivorship, and recovery. Our mission is to raise awareness, support men’s health, reduce stigma, and help people feel less alone during and after a testicular cancer journey. Early detection and self-exams save lives.

Information

  • Creator
    Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    124
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation
  • Show Website
    It Takes Balls

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